Air Force Gen. Steven Nordhaus officially assumed his new role as Chief of the National Guard Bureau during a ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, on October 15, 2024. Navy Adm. Christopher W. Grady, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, presided over the ceremony. Nordhaus, who succeeds Army Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, also became the newest member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
In his remarks, Nordhaus emphasized his commitment to serving the men and women of the National Guard, calling them an “elite and ready warfighting force” that integrates seamlessly with joint forces, allies, and local communities. He highlighted the ongoing global contributions of the 46,000 National Guardsmen, including those deployed overseas, supporting Homeland Defense and Security, and assisting with domestic operations like hurricane relief.
Nordhaus expressed pride in leading such a vital component of national defense and pledged to prioritize the welfare of all Guardsmen. He shared his leadership philosophy of “service, optimism, and passion,” underscoring the importance of serving the nation, fostering a positive outlook, and remaining dedicated to the readiness of the National Guard during his tenure.–News Desk