Mobile County Commission Special Recognition: EMA's Evans Promoted to Army National Guard Brigadier General
Posted on: Jun 13th, 2023 | Press Releasesfeatured news
MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. – The Mobile County Commission gave special recognition to Mobile County Emergency Management Agency Deputy Director Mike Evans at its regular meeting on Monday, June 12, for his promotion to Brigadier General of the National Guard and assignment as Commanding General of the 135th Expeditionary Sustainment Command based in Birmingham.
On June 2, Evans was sworn into his new rank of Brigadier General by Major General Sheryl Gordon, Adjutant General of the Alabama Army National Guard. Brigadier General Evans took command of the 135th Expeditionary Sustainment Command on June 4.
In her comments prior to his oath on June 2, Maj. Gen. Gordon commended Evans’ unique situation where his civilian and National Guard roles complement one another and make him “a very critical liaison behind the scenes.”
Mobile Commissioners congratulated Evans on his promotion and new command. They thanked Evans and his family for their service to our nation and to Mobile County.
In her recognition remarks, Commission President Connie Hudson said: “Rising to the rank of Brigadier General is no small feat and we are incredibly proud of you for achieving this rank and becoming the Commanding General of one of only two Expeditionary Sustainment Commands in the Army National Guard.”
“We’re pleased that the Army National Guard has recognized the capabilities and leadership we’ve seen from Mike in local emergencies, COVID-19, and through his proactive preparation efforts for our most vulnerable residents, and have promoted him to this rank and this command,” said District 1 Commissioner Merceria Ludgood.
“This is an outstanding personal accomplishment. Mike’s dual roles with EMA and the Army National Guard have proven and will continue to be of benefit to Mobile County and its residents,” said District 3 Commissioner Randall Dueitt.
In his role as Deputy Director of Mobile County EMA, Evans coordinates with county and city resources to ensure the effective employment of disaster personnel and equipment during incidents, special events, and emergencies impacting Mobile County.
Evans has more than 20 years in emergency management and more than 37 years of service in the Army National Guard. He began his National Guard service as an enlisted private (E1) as a teenager and has risen through increasingly responsible ranks and positions to become a Sustainment/Logistics Officer. Before this promotion, Evans held the rank of Colonel and served as a Brigade Commander.
“I’m fortunate that my EMA role and my National Guard role complement one another. Beginning service as a teenager, I’ve benefitted much from the Army National Guard and I look forward to giving back through service as Commanding General of the 135th Expeditionary Sustainment Command,” he said at the Mobile County Commission meeting on June 12. “I encourage young people who are looking at important life decisions to consider National Guard service,” he added.
Evans holds numerous certifications including Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) through the International Association of Emergency Managers where he is currently serving as the Region 4 Board President. He also holds a Master’s Level Emergency Manager (MLEM) certification through the Alabama Association of Emergency Managers (AAEM). He has completed many military command and staff courses. Evans holds a Master of Science degree in Management from Troy University and a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the United States Army War College.
IMAGES COURTESY OF THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD
Maj. Gen. Sheryl Gordon & Brigadier General Michael D. Evans
Evans family pinning the General’s stars.
135th photo: Change of Command Ceremony (Evans assumed command from Brigadier General Thomas Vickers).