Col. Karin Watson was sworn in Monday by Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero as the acting adjutant general of the Guam National Guard during a brief ceremony at Adelup. Watson, a University of Guam graduate who retired from the Army after 26 years of service, returns home to assume leadership of the Guard amid questions raised about the transition process.
“It’s a special honor for me to return home to Guam and continue my service to our beautiful island and her people,” Watson said following the ceremony. “The Guam National Guard has a reputation for being the best, and I look forward to working with these incredible Citizen Soldiers, Airmen, and families.”
Watson’s swearing-in came the same day a memorandum from outgoing Adjutant General Brig. Gen. Michael Cruz dated Nov. 14 surfaced expressing concerns over what he described as procedural irregularities in the transition. Though Cruz formally submitted his intent to retire on Sept. 30, 2026, last March following the developments he resigned effective Nov. 14. He wrote that he had not been formally notified of the effective date of his replacement and warned of potential risks to command authority and federal recognition.
Krystal Paco-San Agustin communications director for the Governor’s Office acknowledged the memorandum on Monday. “I can confirm we’re in receipt of the letter and we’re looking into this,” the communications director said.
