Gov. DeSantis presides over changing of the guard ceremony for Florida National Guard

Gov. Ron DeSantis on Saturday presided over a changing of the guard ceremony for the Florida National Guard, installing Air Force Maj. Gen. James Eifert as adjutant general.

Eifert takes over for retiring Major General Michael Calhoun barely a week after the Tampa Bay Times reported on ongoing investigations of Florida National Guard leaders over allegations of sexual misconduct and coverups.

At the ceremony in Starke on Saturday, DeSantis said Eifert "brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that includes multiple staff and command assignments at the state and national levels supporting combat operations over the skies of Iraq and state emergency response operations throughout Florida. His vast experience and aptitude for leadership will be critical to discharge the duties of the Florida National Guard.”

Earlier this week, Eifert, 59, said ongoing investigations will be a “significant priority” once he assumes command. He most recently served as Air National Guard Assistant to the Commander of Pacific Air Force at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.