New Commander For Massachusetts National Guard

The Massachusetts National Guard has a new permanent commander.  WAMC”s Paul Tuthill reports

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Credit Eric Haynes/Governor's office

Governor Deval Patrick swears in Maj. Gen. L Scott Rice as commander of the Mass. National Guard

Governor Deval Patrick Friday, swore in Major General L. Scott Rice as adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard.  Rice had been interim commander  since April when  Major General Joseph Carter was put on leave, and later resigned over a decades old rape allegation. Carter has denied the accusation.  Gov Patrick praised Rice , calling him a highly decorated and experienced leader. Rice previously served as commander of the Massachusetts Air National Guard.  There are 8500 soldiers and airmen in the Massachusetts National Guard.