Farewell to a Guardian: Gen. Hokanson Reflects on His Tenure
After four decades of distinguished service, Gen. Daniel Hokanson, the 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau, has retired. As a West Point graduate and seasoned combat veteran, Hokanson leaves behind a legacy of resilience and modernization. Here, he reflects on his tenure, the evolution of the Guard, recruitment achievements, and the unyielding spirit of the Guardsmen.
What was the position of the Guard when you took command?
When I assumed command in August 2020, we were in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic without a vaccine. The country was also experiencing significant civil unrest. On a single day that summer, we had 120,000 Guardsmen mobilized for COVID-19 response and civil disturbances, alongside several major deployments. We later dealt with natural disasters, the events of January 6th, and the Afghanistan withdrawal. It was a relentless period.
What did you draw from that, looking back?
The consistent theme was the Guard’s unwavering ability to meet every mission. This period underscored the invaluable role of the National Guard in providing both local and military capabilities when needed most.
How has the Guard modernized along with the active Army over these past four years?
As the former director of the Army National Guard, I prioritized restructuring to integrate the Guard into the total Army, increasing divisions from 10 to 18. We enhanced our communications, maintenance, and training to match active-duty standards. The Air National Guard now operates over 1,000 aircraft, including advanced models like the F-35, bringing significant capability and experience to our force.
The active Army has struggled with recruiting but excelled at retention. How’s the Guard doing on that front?
We’re thriving in recruitment, meeting all our goals, and are on track to meet our end-strength by the fiscal year’s end. Our appeal lies in offering service opportunities while allowing individuals to live where they choose, attracting those eager to serve their country in a unique capacity.
How have Guardsmen adapted to the ongoing pace of deployments that started after 9/11 and has continued?
Guardsmen today expect to deploy overseas, and many are eager for the opportunity. Currently, about 23,000 Guardsmen are deployed globally. They understand and value their mission, as evidenced by their resilience and readiness, even in the face of significant events like the drone strike on Al-Tanf garrison in Syria, where we had 41 Guardsmen wounded.
Gen. Hokanson’s tenure was marked by unprecedented challenges and remarkable achievements, showcasing the National Guard’s pivotal role in national and global security. His legacy will be remembered for its emphasis on modernization, readiness, and the steadfast dedication of the Guardsmen under his command.
