BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Brigadier General Mitchell Johnson has officially taken command of the North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) following a Change of Command Ceremony held today in Bismarck. Johnson succeeds Major General Alan Dohrmann, who retires after more than 40 years of military service. In his new role, Johnson will also serve as the Director of the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES), leading over 4,200 service members and managing NDNG operations across 13 communities.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, attended the ceremony and praised both leaders for their service. “Al has worked tirelessly for the men and women under his command and leaves a profound impact on North Dakota,” Cramer said. “We are grateful for his 40 years of dedication and leadership. I look forward to working with Brigadier General Johnson, and I am confident he will serve with distinction.”

Johnson previously commanded the Fargo-based 119th Wing of the North Dakota Air National Guard from 2021 to 2024, where he oversaw nearly 1,200 personnel. During his tenure, the 119th Wing received several prestigious awards, including the General Atomics Remotely Piloted Aircraft Trophy in 2021 and the U.S. Air Force’s Outstanding Unit of the Year award in 2022.

Dohrmann, who served as Adjutant General for nearly nine years, leaves behind a legacy of leadership, including his role as Commanding General of the Multinational Task Force East, supporting NATO operations in Kosovo. His retirement will be effective September 30.