The New Jersey National Guard held its annual Military Review at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, continuing a proud
tradition in which the Governor, serving as Commander-in-Chief, formally reviews the Soldiers and Airmen of the state’s National Guard.
In advance of the ceremony, veteran service organizations from across New Jersey were invited to a special VIP presentation and discussion featuring Vincent Solomeno, U.S. Army Veteran and Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs for the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Brigadier General Yvonne Mays, The Adjutant General of New Jersey and Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
The event followed an important development for veterans across the state. On September 11, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation creating a new cabinet-level Department of Veterans Affairs in New Jersey. The measure reorganizes the existing Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA) to better address the needs of the veteran community. Governor Murphy has nominated Vincent Solomeno to serve as the first Commissioner of the newly established department once the law takes effect.
The Military Review and the recent legislative milestone underscore New Jersey’s enduring commitment to honoring service members and strengthening support for veterans and their families.
