STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Republican State Representative Walt Blackman, a U.S. Army combat veteran and Chairman of the House Government Committee, joined colleagues Wednesday in honoring Major General Kerry L. Muehlenbeck on the floor of the Arizona House of Representatives. The bipartisan tribute marked her retirement after more than 30 years of distinguished service as the Commanding General of the Arizona National Guard and Director of the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs.

“Major General Muehlenbeck embodies everything we strive for in public service—courage, integrity, and a relentless commitment to those she leads,” said Representative Blackman. “We thank her for her service and the legacy she’s leaving behind—a Guard that’s more prepared and more capable than ever.”

A written tribute signed by Republican and Democrat members of the Arizona House recognized Major General Muehlenbeck as the first woman to command the Arizona National Guard. members praised her leadership through border security operations, wildfire suppression, and pandemic response, and highlighted her parallel career in legal service and education.

House members also presented her with a large shipment of donated snacks and care items collected for Arizona Guard members serving overseas. The donation drive was led by Representative Teresa Martinez, who coordinated the effort and rallied House members and staff in support.

“We’re grateful to Representative Martinez for organizing this drive to support our men and women in uniform,” Representative Blackman added. “The Guard follows leaders like General Muehlenbeck into some of the toughest assignments. This is one small way for us to send a piece of home to those currently serving abroad.”

The recognition was signed by Representatives Walt Blackman, Teresa Martinez, Nick Kupper, Dave Marshall, John Gillette, Stacey Travers, Aaron Márquez, and Mae Peshlakai.

A copy of the tribute and photo of members, Major General Muehlenbeck, and the donated care items are attached and available here.

Representative Walt Blackman is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 7 and is Chairman of the House Government Committee. Follow him on X at @BlackmanForAZ.