CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Army National Guard has welcomed it’s newest general officer.
On Thursday in the Drill Hall at Joint Forces Headquarters in Charleston, West Virginia, Maj. Gen. Bill Crane, the Adjutant General of the state, presided over the promotion ceremony for Col. Arthur J. Garffer, who becomes a brigadier general.
Col. Garffer currently serves as the Director Joint Operations (J3 M-Day) for the JFHQ, West Virginia National Guard. He is responsible for joint force development, joint doctrine, professional development, training, exercises, and assessments. He’s also accountable to the TAG-WV for the direction and control of all WVNG Homeland Defense (HLD), Homeland Security (HLS), Theatre Security Cooperation, International Relations and Civil Support.
It’s the first promotion for Garffer since he became a Captain in 2000. Only 0.25% make it to general officer.
Maj. Gen. Crane described Col. Garffer as “an incredible leader with a huge heart.”
“Every time he’s done something for us, I’ve received emails or letters from his commanders saying how great he did,” Maj. Gen. Crane said. “I can’t thank you enough for being a part of our Guard family.”
Col. Garffer was honored and humbled by the promotion.
“Thank you Major General Crane for your steadfast support, confidence and mentorship throughout the past few years,” Col. Garffer said.
The newest general had members of his family in attendance for the ceremony along with others in uniform.