Vermont Business Magazine Major General Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, delivered his final State of the Guard address Thursday to members of the Vermont Legislature, reflecting on seven years of organizational progress, reaffirming the Guard’s role as a civic institution, and expressing confidence in the future of the force and the State of Vermont.
In remarks focused on partnership, accountability, and service, Maj. Gen. Knight emphasized that the strength of the Guard is inseparable from its relationship with civilian leadership and the communities it serves.
“The Vermont National Guard is not only a military organization — it is a civic institution rooted in service, citizenship, and public trust,” said Knight. “Our readiness depends on our people, our communities, and the enduring partnership with this legislature.”
The address highlighted several key priorities and accomplishments achieved during the past seven years: including: strengthening organizational climate; accountability, and professional culture; expanding workforce and employer partnerships through the PRIME initiative; advancing mental health and prevention resources for service members and families; supporting domestic emergency response and overseas missions; deepening international partnerships that enhance resilience and cooperation; and reinforcing the Guard’s role in strengthening communities across the state
The Maj. Gen. Knight also underscored the Guard’s unique dual state and federal mission, its continued operational tempo at home and abroad, and the essential contributions of Vermont’s citizen-Soldiers and Airmen.
Currently, hundreds of members of the Vermont National Guard remain mobilized in support of national defense missions, international training operations, and domestic readiness responsibilities.
The address acknowledged the service and sacrifice of Guard members and their families, including those currently deployed, and recognized the contributions of community partners, employers, and health care providers who support the force.
As part of the transition process, the legislature will elect the next Adjutant General, a process described as a reflection of Vermont’s longstanding tradition of civilian oversight and democratic governance.
“The state of our Guard is strong,” Knight concluded. “With continued partnership, it will be stronger still, ready to serve Vermont and the nation in an increasingly complex world.”
The Adjutant General’s transition is scheduled for March 1.
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