Four colonels retire from Nevada Army National Guard

The Nevada Army National Guard bid farewell to more than 130 years of experience Sunday in ceremonies accented by the blast of a 75 mm cannon.

Four of the guard's most veteran colonels - all in the military since the 1960s - officially retired.

But even as they did so, the four became three colonels as Nevada Adjutant Gen. Tony Clark elevated retiring Col. Ashley Jay Hall to the rank of brigadier general.

Hall retired from the position of State Chaplain after 35 years of military service.

In addition to Hall, Col. Miles L. Celio, Col. Dennis L. George and Col. Phillip T. Gustavson were honored at ceremonies in front of the guard headquarters building on south Carson Street.

Celio leaves the position of deputy chief of staff for information management after 31 years in the military. His experience includes command logistics officer, company command and battalion commander of 442nd Signal Battalion.

George leaves the position of chief of staff. He has also been state aviation officer and deputy chief for operations and training among other assignments during more than 34 years of military service.

Gustavson, with more than 33 years military service, leaves the position of deputy chief of staff for logistics. His previous assignments included state recruiting and retention assistance officer, deputy chief of staff for maintenance, and commander of the public affairs detachment.

The four were honored with full military ceremonies attended by more than 70 family members and invited guests including three major generals, three brigadier generals and state officials including Sen. Lawrence Jacobsen, R-Minden.

Each was also presented the U.S. Legion of Merit and the Nevada Distinguished Service Medal. In addition, Gov. Kenny Guinn proclaimed Sunday, June 4, as a day in their honor.