ANNVILLE, PA — Major General John R. Pippy was sworn in on Friday, February 28, as Pennsylvania’s 55th adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). Governor Josh Shapiro administered the oath of office during a formal ceremony that marked a significant leadership transition for the state’s military and veterans’ services.
MG Pippy’s new role includes commanding the Pennsylvania National Guard, the third largest in the nation, with nearly 18,000 Army and Air National Guard members. He also oversees a workforce of 2,500 Commonwealth employees, the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy, and six state-owned veterans’ homes. Additionally, his department is responsible for providing vital support to more than 700,000 veterans in Pennsylvania, the fifth largest veteran population in the United States.
Unanimously confirmed by the Pennsylvania State Senate on February 4, MG Pippy brings decades of military expertise to his post. A graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, he has served in various leadership capacities, including his most recent positions as director of the Joint Staff for the Pennsylvania National Guard and deputy chief of engineers for National Guard Affairs at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Governor Shapiro praised MG Pippy’s qualifications, emphasizing his readiness to lead both the National Guard and DMVA. “Major General Pippy has the experience and readiness to lead, and I look forward to working with him to serve the people of Pennsylvania,” Shapiro stated.
During the ceremony, MG Pippy expressed his commitment to the dual mission of his new role. He emphasized that ensuring the readiness of the Pennsylvania National Guard and upholding the commitment to support veterans and their families are his top priorities.
The event also featured remarks from prominent military leaders, including General (Retired) Jessica L. Wright, who presided over MG Pippy’s promotion to his current rank. A former under secretary of defense and Pennsylvania’s 50th adjutant general, Wright praised his dedication and expertise.
MG Pippy resides in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, with his wife Kathy and their adult daughter Katelyn.
Now at the helm of one of the state’s most critical departments, MG Pippy’s leadership is expected to strengthen National Guard readiness and expand support for Pennsylvania’s veterans. His focus on strategic preparedness and veteran care sets a strong trajectory for enhancing the DMVA’s mission statewide.
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