In a year marked by both challenges and transformation, the California State Guard is charting a new course—literally and figuratively. In May 2025, leadership of the organization officially transitioned from Brigadier General (CA) Darrin Bender to Brigadier General (CA) Larry K. Adams in a Change of Command ceremony at Joint Forces Headquarters in Rancho Cordova. The event, presided over by Major General Matthew P. Beevers, Adjutant General of the California Military Department, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the State Guard.
Brigadier General Bender’s tenure was defined by sweeping structural changes. Among the most significant were the deactivation of the Emergency Response Command, the disbanding of Team Shield and Search & Rescue (SAR), and the removal of nearly a thousand certified wildland firefighters from Team Blaze, many of whom were transitioned out of the State Guard. Team Blaze was ultimately disbanded—a move seen by some that drastically reduced the State Guard’s immediate ability help fight wildfires.
These decisions had real-world consequences during the 2024–2025 wildfire season. With SAR teams gone and Team Shield no longer available to assist local law enforcement in evacuations, critical manpower was absent during the devastating Pacific Palisades fire. Many Californians questioned the dismantling of these specialized units just as climate-driven disasters continue to increase in frequency and intensity.
Another point of concern during General Bender’s leadership was the near absence of communication from the State Guard’s Public Affairs Office. Training events, missions, and internal developments were rarely, if ever, shared with the public, leaving both Californians and national observers in the dark.
That appears to be changing under Brigadier General Adams.
Bringing more than 40 years of military experience, including command assignments in the U.S. Army and extensive expertise in acquisition and contracting, BG (CA) Adams has already begun to usher in a new era of transparency and operational capability. A longtime member of the California State Guard since 2016, Adams is no stranger to the organization, having previously served as Director of Operations, Commander of multiple detachments, and most recently as Deputy Commanding General.
His arrival has already sparked a renewed sense of momentum, particularly from the State Guard’s Public Affairs teams, who have resumed posting regular updates on social media, showcasing drills, ceremonies, and operational developments.
One of the most noteworthy highlights is the recent christening of a new vessel, The Sacramento, into the State Guard’s Maritime Component. The ceremony took place on June 7, 2025, at the Vallejo Yacht Club, where officials formally welcomed the 47-foot Motor Life Boat into service. The Sacramento joins a fleet of five vessels and will be used to support maritime training operations alongside National Guard units like the 129th Rescue Wing and the 131st Pararescue Squadron.
“The christening of a vessel is more than ceremonial—it’s about recognizing the mission ahead and honoring the traditions that guide us,” said CAPT (CA) Baird, the outgoing Commander of the Maritime Support Group. The ship’s name, following the naval tradition of assigning capital city names to distinguished vessels, embodies the pride and readiness the State Guard is striving to restore.
Capable of open-ocean missions and operating in treacherous waters such as those beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, The Sacramento expands the Guard’s ability to assist the U.S. Coast Guard, State Police, and local law enforcement in maritime surveillance and coastal security. During major events like San Francisco’s Fleet Week, the Maritime Component provides critical oversight, ensuring public safety amid the chaos of crowded waterways. Their coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard has already proven essential in safeguarding these high-traffic zones.
As California continues to face evolving threats—whether on land or at sea—the revitalized leadership and increased operational focus of the State Guard is a welcome shift. From strengthening interagency cooperation to expanding training and communication, Brigadier General Adams appears committed to not only rebuilding what was lost but also expanding the organization’s impact in new and meaningful ways.
StateDefenseForce.com commends the California State Guard for increasing their social media presence, allowing us to appreciate the vital work they perform and consider replicating their accomplishments across other State Guards.
On April 30, 2025, at Joint Forces Headquarters in Rancho Cordova, Brig. Gen. Darrin Bender officially relinquished command of the California State Guard to Brig. Gen. Larry K. Adams.
The ceremony was presided over by Maj. Gen. Matthew P. Beevers, Adjutant General of the California Military Department, who expressed deep gratitude for Brig. Gen. Bender’s dedicated service and warmly welcomed Brig. Gen. Adams into his new role.
Please join us in honoring both leaders for their commitment to California and to the mission of the State Guard.
Photos courtesy of:
William A. Griffen, SSG
Public Affairs NCO, CA Army National Guard
By 2LT (CA) Nagraj Rao, Public Affairs Officer, 129th Support Group, California State Guard
VALLEJO, Calif. — June 7, 2025 — In a proud display of naval tradition and operational readiness, the California State Guard Maritime Component (Cal Guard Maritime) held a christening ceremony for the Sacramento – a 47-foot Motor Life Boat, at the scenic Vallejo Yacht Club on Saturday. The vessel is one of five currently operated by Cal Guard Maritime.
The Sacramento’s primary function is to support maritime training exercises for the 129th RQW / 131st Pararescue Squadron.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including BG (CA) Larry K. Adams, Commanding General of the California State Guard; Col (CA) Clyde T. Doheney, Commander of the Air Readiness Command; and CAPT (CA) Elizabeth Noll, who will succeed CAPT Baird as Commander of the Maritime Support Group.
“Christening a vessel is more than ceremonial—it’s about recognizing the mission ahead and honoring the traditions that guide us,” said CAPT (CA) Baird. He shared that while several names were considered, the decision to name the vessel Sacramento followed naval tradition of reserving capital city names for prominent ships. “It instills a sense of pride in the crew. They see themselves as part of something significant,” he added.
The Sacramento can operate in open-ocean missions and has navigated the challenging waters beneath the Golden Gate Bridge—a feat that requires expert seamanship due to the area’s strong currents, fog, and complex navigation. The Sacramento stands as a testament to the California State Guard Maritime Component’s commitment to readiness to serve the state of California. With its advanced capabilities, seasoned crew, and deep ties to naval heritage, the Sacramento is poised to serve with distinction in the years to come—ready to respond whenever and wherever duty calls.
Sources: California State Guard –
