South Dakota National Guard leader describes unit's dual role in combat and state emergencies

Maj. Gen. Mark Morrell, the adjutant general of the South Dakota National Guard, described the organization as a "citizen warrior" force that functions as both a combat reservoir and a domestic emergency responder. Morrell, a 49-year-old native of Tyndall, South Dakota, has led the Guard since August 2023. He previously spent 15 years in leadership roles at the National Guard base at Joe Foss Field in Sioux Falls.

The South Dakota National Guard comprises approximately 4,100 soldiers and airmen, supported by roughly 950 federal and state employees. Morrell stated that the primary mission of the unit is to fight and win national wars while maintaining the highest standards of combat readiness. He noted that the unit trains alongside active duty counterparts. A secondary mission, directed by the governor, involves ensuring domestic tranquility during state emergencies.

Data shared by Morrell indicates that nearly 800 members of the force were deployed out of state 10 times over the past five years. He attributed this increase to a strategic shift that occurred after the 2001 terrorist attacks. Morrell explained that the Guard is no longer viewed solely as a strategic reserve but as an operational reserve. For more than 25 years, the unit has entered active service alongside regular forces in locations around the globe.

Morrell characterized the personnel as ordinary citizens who perform extraordinary duties. He listed the members as neighbors, business owners, teachers, and first responders. He described the benefit of service as providing individuals with a sense of purpose and the opportunity to join a winning team. He also cited education benefits as a key offering for members.

The Guard is currently involved in a competition for the Department of the Air Force to determine the location of two new F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jet squadrons. Nine locations are in the running to replace the current F-16s at Joe Foss Field. Morrell said the current F-16s, which were built in 1988 and 1989, are nearing the end of their life cycle. He noted that the unit has struggled to replace aging equipment at a steady rate due to funding priorities focused on the global war on terror and counterinsurgency efforts.

Morrell, who earned a Bronze Star during his Air Force career, holds a degree from South Dakota State University. He served as a command pilot and flight instructor in Texas, Florida, Nevada, Alaska, and Korea before returning to South Dakota. The Guard continues to maintain mission readiness at Joe Foss Field while awaiting the decision on the new aircraft.

The unit remains prepared to deploy globally or respond to state needs. The competition for the F-35 squadrons is ongoing, with the Air Force expected to select two of the nine candidate sites. Morrell emphasized that the maintainers at Joe Foss Field keep the current jets in excellent condition despite their age.