Maj. Gen. Francis Vavala, adjutant general of the Delaware National Guard, was elected chairman of the board of the National Guard Association of the United States at the organization’s 132nd General Conference in Austin, Texas
NGAUS is the professional organization of National Guard officers. It provides states and its members representation before Congress and advocates for modern equipment, training, missions, and personnel benefits for the Army and Air National Guard.
“The Delaware National Guard is always there for us and he is always there for them. Gen. Vavala is not only a great leader, he is a humble servant and that combination will serve the nation well during his time as Chairman,” Gov. Jack Markell said. “The general believes strongly that service is its own reward and that honor – not honors – is what matters most, but we are still very proud of this achievement.”
This is a return to national office for Vavala, who served as the president of the Adjutants General Association of the United States from 2007 to 2009.
Vavala has served as the leader of the Delaware National Guard since 1999. He joined guard as a private in 1967, and earned his commission in the state’s Officer Candidate School in 1970.
He and wife, Jane, have been married more than 40 years and live in Pike Creek. They have three adult children.
