1st African American named Nevada Guard’s adjutant general

RENO, Nev. — A 32-year veteran of the National Guard who worked as assistant Reno police chief and a casino executive has been named as Nevada’s first African-American adjutant general in its 154-year history.

Gov. Steve Sisloak announced 60-year-old Brig. Gen. Ondra Berry’s appointment on Monday.

He says Berry's exemplary military experience combined with his background in senior leadership roles in law enforcement and business gives him an invaluable perspective on the qualities and skills necessary for the job.

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Berry, of Sparks, served 25 years as a Reno police officer. He retired as assistant chief in 2005 and became senior vice president for diversity and inclusion at MGM Resorts. He’s been the Nevada Air Guard’s assistant adjutant general since 2015.

Berry says he’s honored and humbled to be selected to replace retiring Brig. Gen. William Burks effective Sept. 1.

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