Governor Walz selects Brig. Gen. Shawn Manke to lead Minnesota National Guard
August 12, 2020 (ST. PAUL, Minnesota) — Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. Shawn Manke to be the 32nd Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard. Manke will succeed Lt. Gen. Jon Jensen who is now serving as the Director of the Army National Guard.
The Adjutant General is the administrative head of the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs and the leader of the Minnesota National Guard. Minnesota has the nation’s fifth largest National Guard, with more than 13,000 members operating in 58 communities throughout the state. The Minnesota National Guard is prepared for federal activations and assists local authorities during natural disasters at the direction of the Governor.
“In recent months, the Minnesota National Guard has been called to serve our state in unprecedented ways, and we are grateful for General Jensen’s service and steady leadership,” said Governor Walz. “Having served in the Minnesota National Guard for 24 years before becoming Governor, I know General Manke’s experience commanding Soldiers, concern for National Guard members’ well-being, and dedication to public service have prepared him to be an effective Adjutant General. I look forward to working with General Manke to serve the people of Minnesota.”
Brig. Gen. Manke currently serves as the Assistant Division Commander – Operations for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division.
Brig. Gen. Manke earned his commission as an aviation officer in 1991, commissioning as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the Army ROTC program at the University of North Dakota. Manke has served in numerous staff positions throughout his career and has commanded at the company, battalion and brigade levels. Manke has deployed in support of Operation Provide Comfort (Northern Iraq), Operation Joint Guardian (Kosovo), and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Brig. Gen. Manke earned a bachelor’s degree in Airway Science from the University of North Dakota and holds a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
“It is a true honor to be named as Minnesota’s next Adjutant General,” said General Manke. “The Minnesota National Guard is a tremendous organization, and I am humbled and eager to lead the great Minnesota National Guard Soldiers and Airmen in service to the State of Minnesota, and the United States of America.”
