Guard commander promoted to major general

JUNEAU (AP) -- The adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard is getting a second star.

Governor Knowles promoted Brig. Gen. Phillip Oates to major general Wednesday. Oates is also the state's commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

That department includes the Division of Emergency Services, the agency that responds to natural disasters such as avalanches and fires.

Knowles praised Oates for the emergency services team's care, concern, and complete professionalism.

Oats began his career as an Army officer in 1970 and rose to become chief of staff for the Alaskan Command.

Knowles appointed him adjutant general last year.