ugural event at the Santa Fe Convention Center. The event was attended by over 1,200 New Mexicans and streamed live to viewers statewide.
Maj. Gen. Ken Nava, the Adjutant General of New Mexico, escorted Governor Lujan Grisham on stage to a standing ovation by those in attendance. Brig Gen. Miguel Aguilar, the deputy adjutant general of New Mexico, escorted Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales. NMNG’s senior leaders also served as escorts for other dignitaries.
In attendance were U.S. Sen. Tom Udall and U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján, former Governors Toney Anaya and Garrey Carruthers, the mayors of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, state Supreme Court justices, tribal leaders, the state’s Democratic lawmakers, along with celebrity author George R.R. Martin who wrote the “Game of Thrones.” Special guest Chevel Shepherd of Farmington, winner of NBC’s “The Voice,” was also present to sing her beautiful rendition of “God Bless America.”
A color guard of both New Mexico National Guard Soldiers and Airmen presented the nation’s colors.
Ruffles and Flourishes was performed by a small ceremonial team of the NMNG’s 44th Army Band while NMNG cannoneers located at Fort Marcy Park fired off a 19-gun salute in honor of their new commander-in-chief.
After the ceremony, Nava presented guests by name to Lujan Grisham and Morales as well-wishers lined up in a large receiving line to congratulate the new governor and wish her well.
“The New Mexico National Guard personnel that supported did excellent work as usual,” Nava said.
He also wished the new leadership team the best of luck as they lead the State of New Mexico.
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