Life
Yvonne L. Mays becomes first Black Woman to lead New Jersey National Guard
Colonel Yvonne L. Mays has made history by becoming the first African American woman to lead the New Jersey National Guard. Her promotion to Brigadier General was officially celebrated during a ceremony at the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville.
In her new position as Adjutant General of New Jersey, Brigadier General Mays will manage the operations of the New Jersey National Guard, serving as a significant leader and an inspiring role model for service members throughout the state.
Remarkably, Mays is only the third Air Force officer to take command of the state’s National Guard.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy praised Mays for her outstanding service and leadership, stating, “After enlisting in the Air Force straight out of high school, she has spent more than four decades leading her fellow service members with strength and purpose. She will be a remarkable Brigadier General.,” in a post on X.
Honored to celebrate the promotion of Colonel Yvonne Mays to Brigadier General.
After enlisting in the Air Force straight out of high school, she has spent more than four decades leading her fellow service members with strength and purpose. She will be a remarkable Brigadier… pic.twitter.com/ncPXExurAI
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) November 25, 2024