The Commander in Chief of the Florida National Guard is the Governor of Florida. This designates the Governor as the highest authority over the state's military forces when they are not called into federal service.
The Governor's Authority
Under the provisions of Title 32 of the United States Code, the Governor of Florida holds the ultimate command and control over the Florida National Guard. In this crucial role, the Governor is responsible for activating and deploying the Guard for various state-level missions, including:
- Responding to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.
- Providing support during civil unrest or emergencies.
- Assisting local law enforcement in specific situations.
- Conducting training exercises to maintain readiness for state and federal missions.
This command authority highlights the dual nature of the National Guard, which serves both state and federal needs. When not under federal orders, the Florida National Guard operates under the direct authority of the Governor.
Leadership Structure of the Florida National Guard
While the Governor serves as the Commander in Chief, the daily operations, administration, and training of the Florida National Guard are managed by a dedicated professional military staff. The state's highest-ranking military officer, who reports directly to the Governor, is the Adjutant General.
Here is an overview of the key leadership roles within the Florida National Guard:
| Leadership Position | Current Appointee |
|---|---|
| Commander-in-Chief (Title 32 USC) | Governor of Florida |
| Adjutant General | Major General John D. Haas |
| Assistant Adjutant General – Army | Major General Robert G. Carruthers, III |
| Assistant Adjutant General – Air Force | Brigadier General Richard L. Coffey III |
This structure ensures effective leadership and operational readiness for the diverse responsibilities of the Florida National Guard, supporting both state defense and community assistance.
