Delaware National Guard welcomes new adjutant general

Maj. Gen. Carol Timmons, Delaware National Guard’s adjutant general, relinquished command of the DNG to Brig. Gen. Michael Berry at the Army Aviation Facility in New Castle March 2, with distinguished guests and visitors from various areas of Delaware and the National Guard in attendance.

Berry assumed command from Timmons, who is retiring from the Delaware National Guard after 42 years of dedicated service.

“The strength of our force is the men and woman who serve in our ranks, whom you have led marvelously for 42 years, and it’s the contributions you have made to our nation and the example you have set for others that make our force better,” said Chief of the National Guard Bureau Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel. 

Gov. John Carney gave an overview of Berry’s military career and accomplishments, and explained why he selected Berry as the next adjutant general. 

“From the first time I met Gen. Berry, I knew he was no joke,” said Carney. “He is a soldier’s soldier. You only have to spend a minute with him to come away knowing he is straightforward, he’s hardworking and he’s completely dedicated to the DNG.”

Berry has served in the Delaware Army National Guard since 1988 and served in multiple command positions during his career. Prior to his new position as adjutant general, Berry was director of the DNG Joint Staff. He is also a recently retired Delaware State Police lieutenant, and was deputy troop commander for Troop 4 in Georgetown before ending his 28-year DSP career.

Berry addressed the crowd with encouraging words as he accepted his new position and responsibilities, saying, “I pledge to continue to uphold your values and represent our organization.”