Photo By Staff Sgt. Jill Maynus | From left, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr., outgoing Ohio adjutant...... read more read more
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After 44 years of unwavering dedication, sacrifice and courage, Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr. retired from the Ohio Army National Guard and his role as Ohio’s 83rd adjutant general. On a rainy Friday spring morning at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, Harris donned the uniform for the last time as the head of an organization that includes more than 14,000 Soldiers and Airmen.
“I don’t know how to stop being a Soldier,” Harris said. “So, I may take off the uniform, but it’s always going to be inside of me.”
Harris’ career, marked by dedication and innovation, has left an irreplaceable mark on the Ohio National Guard and the broader military community. The Statehouse Atrium was filled with family, friends, colleagues and state officials, while many more joined via livestream — an impressive testament to the far-reaching impact of his leadership. The broad and diverse turnout showcased the deep respect and admiration he has earned throughout his distinguished service.
“Everything he’s done was about the benefit of others,” said Brig. Gen. Matthew S. Woodruff, Harris’ successor as Ohio adjutant general, regarding Harris’ career of service. “Everything he thinks about, every action is truly about the organization and the individuals and I’m so honored and thankful to get to follow him in this assignment.”
Harris began his military journey in 1981, enlisting in the Ohio Army National Guard. He earned his commission through Officer Candidate School in 1984. Over more than four decades, Harris has held various command and staff positions, culminating in his appointment as the state’s adjutant general in January 2019.
Although retiring from the military, Harris’ dedication to service continues. Just days after his retirement from the military, he started in his new state government role as director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, replacing retired Maj. Gen. Deborah A. Ashenhurst, who also served as Ohio adjutant general in 2011-14.
During a change of command ceremony May 30 at the Statehouse, Woodruff officially assumed authority and responsibility for the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department, Ohio National Guard, State Defense Force and the Ohio Cyber Reserve.
“We’re honored that each of these men has agreed to serve in his new capacity,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “We are very confident that our state will be in the very best of hands with each of them at the helm.”
Woodruff’s years of experience leading the Ohio Army National Guard as the Ohio assistant adjutant general for Army and other key assignments make him a strong and capable choice for his new role. His distinguished military career, marked by strategic leadership, operational excellence and a deep commitment to service, positions him well to lead the Ohio National Guard into its next chapter.
“I’ve noticed it’s raining today,” said Capt. Aysha Harris, one of Harris’ daughters and currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Air Force. “Raining is always great symbolism of grieving and also new beginnings and new growth.”
The rain that often symbolizes new growth and fresh beginnings made it a fitting backdrop for a moment of transition and renewal for the 237-year-old organization. As Harris closes a distinguished chapter of military service, he steps into a new role with the same integrity and dedication that defined his career. Simultaneously, it marks the beginning of a new chapter for Woodruff as well, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a vision for the future and how he will lead. Together, these transitions reflect a season of change, growth and continued service to the citizens of Ohio.
| Date Taken: | 06.06.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.06.2025 17:53 |
| Story ID: | 499914 |
| Location: | COLUMMBUS, OHIO, US |
| Hometown: | COLUMBUS, OHIO, US |
| Hometown: | PICKERINGTON, OHIO, US |
| Hometown: | WEST LIBERTY, OHIO, US |
| Web Views: | 29 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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