CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 10-Dec-2010

Governor-elect Mary Fallin today (Friday, December 10) announced she will retain Major General Myles Deering as adjutant general of the Oklahoma National Guard.  General Deering was first appointed to the post in February 2009.

“I take very seriously my duty to support the Oklahoma National Guard as commander in chief. Providing continuity of leadership will offer support to our service men and women especially during a time when so much is asked of them,” Fallin said. “General Deering is an accomplished military leader who has commanded soldiers at every level from platoon to brigade. I have full confidence in his abilities and am pleased to have him serve in my cabinet.”

During his 39-year career in the military, Deering has served in a wide variety of areas including in 2008 when he commanded troops for the Multi-National Force in Iraq. Prior to being named adjutant general by Governor Brad Henry in 2009, Deering served as director of manpower and personnel at the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C.

“I am honored Governor-elect Fallin has asked me to continue leading the men and women of the Oklahoma National Guard,” Deering said. “I look forward to working with Governor-elect Fallin to ensure the Oklahoma National Guard is fully manned, equipped and trained to support our state and nation today, as well as in the future.”

Deering has been awarded numerous military honors including the Bronze Star Medal, the Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters and Legion of Merit.  In 2005, Deering lead 2,500 Oklahoma National Guard troops during Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and for his actions was given the Hero Award from the Oklahoma Red Cross.