By Steve Klamkin WPRO News

Gov. Gina Raimondo Thursday named Colonel Christopher Callahan to become the state’s next Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard.

Col. Callahan, who has more than 25 years of experience with the Rhode Island National Guard will succeed Major General Kevin McBride, who retired last month.

“I am really excited about the opportunity, of course,” said Callahan, as he met with Raimondo and the head of the six-member search committee that recommended his appointment, retired Lieutenant General Reginald Centracchio, who served as Adjutant General from 1995 to 2005.

“We did a thorough vetting process and I have selected him for his leadership,” said Gov. Raimondo.

“Colonel Callahan has 25 years with the Rhode Island National Guard. He has command experience, he has a distinguished record. He is incredibly well respected by his colleagues,” she said.

“His vast experience and unique skillset make him well-qualified to lead our men and women in uniform,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed in a statement. Reed is Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

“It’s been a very exciting career and the opportunity here to transition to a larger leadership function is very enticing, and to have an ability here to progressively address our culture and keep moving us forward, it’s a great opportunity and I’m really excited about it,” Col. Callahan said.

“He’s joining my cabinet, fully a part of the team, and I have total confidence in his leadership,” said Raimondo. She said he would assume office after an installation ceremony to be schedule shortly.