Maryland Governor Wes Moore, selects Maj. Gen. Janeen Birckhead as his top military advisor

Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s selection of Major General Janeen Birckhead as his top military advisor makes her the only Black woman in the United States currently in the role of a National Guard Adjutant General.

Birckhead’s new job has two missions that consist of both federal and state roles.

For state missions, Moore, through Maryland’s Adjutant General, commands the force. When needed, Moore can call the National Guard for duty during local or statewide emergencies, such as storms, fires, earthquakes or civil disturbances. For national missions, and when requested by the President, the National Guard provides trained units to defend the United States and the country’s interests around the world.

“The Maryland Army National Guard challenged me mentally, physically, and spiritually in a way that no other pursuit did,” said Birckhead. “It is a dedication to push beyond what you think is possible and go beyond the boundaries of oneself.”

Aside from her military duty, Birckhead also works a full-time job as a civilian at the Department of the Interior. Still, service remains a passion.