Florida: Governor Scott appoints first black Adjutant General

calhoun

Brigadier General Michael A. Calhoun

Brigadier General Michael A. Calhoun was the first African-American general officer in the Florida National Guard. Governor Rick Scott has appointed him to be the first Afro-American Adjutant General.  BG Calhone come up through the ranks from Miami, FL and was a pharmaceutical salesman. BG Calhoun is a Medical Service Corp branch officer who has been certified as a task force combat commander.  BG Calhoun will be moving up to Tallahassee the end of February.

Governor Scott announced that Brigadier General Michael A. Calhoun will become the Adjutant General of Florida on March 29, 2015. Major General Emmett Titshaw will retire at the end of March.

Governor Scott said, “As a Navy veteran, I am incredibly thankful for the sacrifices of our military, and I am grateful to Major General Emmett Titshaw for his years of service to our state and our country. Brigadier General Calhoun has selflessly served our country for more than 30 years and has proven his commitment to his fellow military men, women and families here in Florida. I am confident he will continue to serve our National Guard well and be an effective leader during any emergency event that may affect our state as the next Adjutant General of Florida.”

Brigadier General Michael A. Calhoun said, “I’m honored to be appointed Adjutant General of Florida by Governor Scott and to have the opportunity to continue serving my state, nation and fellow men and women of the Florida National Guard. Our state is stronger because of the service of the Florida National Guard, and we will remain dedicated to supporting and safeguarding Florida’s families and communities.”

Major General Emmett Titshaw said, “Brigadier General Calhoun is an exemplary leader with many years of experience who will guide the Florida National Guard to future successes through challenging times. Mike and Sophia care deeply about our Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and families and Gretchen and I offer our best wishes to them as they lead the Florida National Guard into the future.”

ABOUT BRIGADIER GENERAL MICHAEL A. CALHOUN

Brigadier General Calhoun has served as Assistant Adjutant General – Army, and Director of Joint Staff since July 2011. He also currently serves as Joint Task Force Commander and Dual Status Commander Designee. Brigadier General Calhoun has served in a variety of leadership roles for the Florida Army National Guard, including five commanding roles since 2006. Brigadier General Calhoun is a recipient of the Legion of Merit Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Florida Distinguished Service Medal, Alabama Commendation Medal, and the Mississippi State Emergency Medal, as well as the Department of Defense African American History Month Recognition Award for his contributions to the Global War on Terrorism. He received his bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University and his master’s degree from the U.S. Army War College.

RELATED ARTICLE: New Civilian Aide, from South Florida, to the Secretary of the Army invested | Article | The United States Army