Governor Otter names new adjutant general

Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter selected Col. Michael J. Garshak to serve as Idaho’s next adjutant general.

Garshak currently serves as the Chief of Staff, Idaho Army National Guard and has been a member of the Idaho National Guard since 1993 after serving on active duty for six years.

This new appointment will take effect Nov. 1 as outgoing Adjutant General and Idaho National Guard Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Gary L. Sayler retires after serving Idaho since 1977.

“Col. Garshak is a strong leader with a proven track record of success,” said Sayler. “He’s respected by his peers and those he has led throughout his career and I am very comfortable with this selection and confident he will continue to do great things for this organization.”

In his new capacity, Garshak will command the Idaho Army and Air National Guard, and as adjutant general, will serve on the governor’s cabinet as secretary of the Idaho Military Division. In this role, Garshak will also serve as the director of Idaho’s Office of Emergency Management.

“I am truly honored and appreciate Governor Otter’s trust and confidence in my abilities,” Garshak said. “I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to serve Idaho and the nation in this capacity.”

Garshak’s awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal. In 1987 he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University and holds a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College.

Garshak will be Idaho’s 25th adjutant general upon his appointment.