Missouri’s top military officer will soon change. Gov. Mike Kehoe has chosen Brig. Gen. Charles Hausman as the next adjutant general of the National Guard.
Hausman will take over on February 1st. He will replace Maj. Gen. Levon Cumpton, who heads overseas to continue serving the Army.
Gen. Hausman told Missourinet that the National Guard is in “the people business.”
“We want to focus on making sure that we’re taking care of our people, bringing people in, both recruiting them, but also then retaining them once they’re in the force. And then also building readiness for those missions – that is what provides Governor Kehoe then an asset of trained, disciplined folks available to the governor in times of need,” said Hausman.
From severe weather, civil unrest, border security, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Missouri National Guard serves the community in a variety of ways.
“When we do go out on those state emergency duties, the outpouring from the communities certainly is, it’s incredible to see. But it really makes soldiers and airmen realize that they’re appreciated and that they’re doing something important. So we do appreciate that,” said Hausman.
As a seasoned aviation officer and combat veteran, Hausman has had several assignments abroad, including in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. He has more than 36 years of service in the Missouri National Guard, and currently serves as an Army Assistant Adjutant General.
The general explained what he brings to the table.
“You know, I’ve had a lifetime of being able to lead soldiers. And I will say that, you know, when leading soldiers, the opportunity to listen, I’d like to hear and receive input and be collaborative. And I think that’s probably one of the greatest strengths. If you want to be a good leader, you have to also be a good listener,” he said.
His military awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Master Army Aviator Badge.
Hausman is a native of St. Joseph and currently lives in Jefferson City with his family.
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