On February 23, 2025, the Texas State Guard (State Defense Force – TXSG) witnessed a historic transition in leadership as Major General Roger O. Sheridan officially took command from Major General Anthony Woods during a Change of Command Ceremony at Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas. The event was attended by distinguished lawmakers, members of both the Sheridan and Woods families, as well as Texas State Guard service members from across the state.
This transition marks the next chapter for the Texas State Guard, a force that has seen unparalleled growth and operational success under Major General Woods’ tenure. His departure follows a storied military career that has significantly shaped the force into a more robust and capable organization.
A Legacy of Leadership: Major General Anthony Woods’ Impact on the Texas State Guard
Major General Anthony Woods, who has led the Texas State Guard since 2021, leaves behind a remarkable legacy of growth and modernization. His military career began with an impressive tenure in the U.S. Army, where he held several key command positions that influenced both national security and international operations.
One of his most notable assignments was serving as Battalion Executive Officer during Operation Noble Eagle, a mission launched in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The operation mobilized thousands of National Guard troops to assist in homeland security and counterterrorism efforts, working in close coordination with federal, state, and local agencies.
Major General Woods further distinguished himself as Deputy Commander of Operation Jump Start, a large-scale military initiative aimed at bolstering security along the U.S.-Mexico border. This mission saw thousands of National Guard troops deployed to support Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations, enhancing national security through strategic military assistance.
In addition to his homeland security contributions, Major General Woods also served in a combat leadership role in Afghanistan, where he commanded the Security Force Assistance Task Force (S-FAT), a unit responsible for training and advising Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) in counterinsurgency operations.
Transforming the Texas State Guard
During his tenure as Commanding General of the Texas State Guard, Major General Woods spearheaded significant advancements, ensuring the force became one of the most capable and well-prepared State Defense Forces in the nation.
Under his leadership:
- The force nearly doubled in size, growing to astounding 2,000 members, making it the largest State Defense Force in the United States.
- The force reached the largest contingent of Soldiers and Officers on continuous Active Duty, with numbers reaching in the hundreds.
- The Texas State Guard took a vital part in Operation Lone Star, a border protection mission which composes National Guard soldiers from multiple states.
- The Texas State Guard was activated and became an indispensable force for every state emergency, natural disaster, hurricane, etc. due to the incredible capability & professional of the force.
- Training standards were elevated to enhance preparedness for search and rescue, maritime operations, border security, and disaster response.
- The Guard expanded its capabilities in Shelter Operations, providing critical humanitarian assistance during natural disasters.
- Maritime Search and Rescue capabilities were strengthened, improving disaster response effectiveness along Texas’ extensive coastline.
- The Texas State Guard’s border security operations were reinforced, playing a key role in statewide emergency response and security efforts.
- Major General Woods’ leadership has left an enduring impact, ensuring the Texas State Guard remains a vital component of the Texas Military Department’s mission to protect and serve the citizens of Texas.
A New Era: Major General Roger O. Sheridan Takes Command
As Major General Roger Sheridan assumes leadership, he brings with him a wealth of experience, vision, and commitment to the Texas State Guard. His spent a military career with the legendary United States Marine Corps that spanned included multiple deployments to combat zones, developing key leadsership skills making him well-equipped to build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessor.
With a deep understanding of Texas’ unique security challenges and emergency response needs, Major General Sheridan is expected to continue enhancing the Guard’s training programs, operational readiness, and community engagement efforts.
The Texas State Guard, under his command, will undoubtedly remain a pillar of strength and resilience for the Lone Star State, standing ready to respond to natural disasters, homeland security missions, and other emergencies that require a well-trained and disciplined force.
The transition of command from Major General Anthony Woods to Major General Roger Sheridan marks a new chapter in the history of the Texas State Guard. Major General Woods’ leadership has transformed the force into a larger, more capable, and highly trained organization, setting a high standard for State Defense Forces across the country. As Major General Sheridan steps into his new role, the Texas State Guard stands poised for continued success in serving and protecting the people of Texas.
We at StateDefenseForce.com wishes our best to this incredible leader on his future endeavors and for his amazing contributions to The Texas State Guard.
This upcoming weekend, the Texas State Guard will be transitioning from one amazing Commander to another. As we prepare to bid farewell to Maj. Gen. Anthony Woods, let’s all take the time to thank him for all he has done as our leader.
In this video, Maj. Gen. Woods gives his final message to members of the Texas State Guard.
At a ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 23, Maj. Gen. Roger O. Sheridan officially took charge from Maj. Gen. Anthony Woods as the commanding general of the Texas State Guard. The change of command ceremony at Camp Mabry included distinguished lawmakers, members of the Sheridan and Woods families, as well as Texas State Guard leaders and service members from across the state.
Source: Texas State Guard
