HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is marking the end of an era as Major General Mark Schindler announces his retirement, culminating nearly four decades of distinguished service with the Pennsylvania National Guard. The announcement was made Monday by General Schindler, who has served as the 54th Adjutant General of Pennsylvania since April 2023 following his Senate confirmation.
Governor Josh Shapiro expressed deep gratitude for General Schindler’s unwavering commitment: “He has led the Pennsylvania National Guard and Department of Military and Veteran Affairs with extraordinary honor and integrity. On behalf of a grateful Commonwealth, I want to thank General Schindler for his service, and I wish him and his family all the best during a well-deserved retirement.”
Overseeing a substantial budget of over $966 million, General Schindler was responsible for the strategic command of more than 18,000 National Guard members, making it the third largest in the nation. His remit extended to the management of six state-owned veteran homes and various programs aimed at supporting over 700,000 veterans residing in Pennsylvania.
General Schindler’s tenure is noted for significant advancements in veterans’ services, notably breaking ground on a $97 million long-term care facility at the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home, which will provide critical skilled nursing and memory care. He also championed the establishment of a new walk-in outreach center, funded with $1.4 million from the state budget, aimed at simplifying access to veteran benefits outside Fort Indiantown Gap.
His leadership has been instrumental in securing nearly a billion dollars in claims for Pennsylvania veterans, reflecting an 18% increase from previous years. These efforts underscore his commitment to ensuring veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve.
General Schindler’s military career is marked by a progression through key leadership roles, including Assistant Adjutant General and Chief of Staff for the Pennsylvania National Guard. His operational experience is vast, with deployments such as leading the 55th Military Engagement Team in Jordan during Operation Enduring Freedom, demonstrating his strategic acumen and dedication to national defense.
Educationally, General Schindler is well-prepared, holding a bachelor’s and two master’s degrees in communications and strategic studies, complemented by advanced military training at prestigious institutions like the U.S. Army War College and Harvard University. His service decorations, including the Legion of Merit and Meritorious Service Medal, attest to his exemplary service and dedication to duty.
As General Schindler prepares to retire on October 1, 2024, the state awaits Governor Shapiro’s nomination of a successor. His departure marks not only the conclusion of a storied career but also the beginning of a new chapter for the Pennsylvania National Guard and its ongoing mission to serve the Commonwealth and the nation. General Schindler leaves behind a profound legacy of service, commitment, and leadership that has positively shaped the present and future of military and veterans affairs in Pennsylvania.
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