NJ’s military commander, Dr. Lisa J. Hou, was promoted to major general

In a distinguished military ceremony held at the Lawrenceville Armory in Lawrenceville, Major General Lisa J. Hou, D.O., was honored for her exemplary service and promoted to the rank of Major General.

The event marked a significant milestone in the illustrious career of New Jersey’s Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and Adjutant General.

As Commissioner, Hou leads, directs, and manages the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in the execution of federal and state missions. In addition, she manages all state veterans’ programs, commissions, and facilities in New Jersey.

Hou, a resident of Belmar who was raised in Middletown and Rumson, began her journey by joining the New Jersey National Guard in 1994 while pursuing her medical degree at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – School of Osteopathic Medicine, where she graduated in 1996.

Dr. Hou’s dedication and expertise led her to serve as a Field Surgeon in both Iraq and Afghanistan, providing critical medical care to coalition forces, contractors, foreign nationals, and civilians.

Throughout her military career, Hou has achieved numerous milestones, including serving as the Commander of Medical Command for the New Jersey National Guard and Assistant Commissioner for Operations – Deputy Adjutant General for New Jersey.

In 2020, she made history by becoming the first woman to command the New Jersey National Guard.

Currently commanding more than 8,400 Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard, Hou is a trailblazer in her field.

Her commitment to excellence is underscored by her continuous pursuit of knowledge, exemplified by her attainment of a Master of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College and a Master of Business Administration from the Rutgers School of Business – Camden.

Reflecting on her journey, the 1987 graduate of Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School remarked, “I am so grateful to work with this amazing team. To me, this day is an opportunity to recognize the incredibly important work our National Guard Soldiers and Airmen do, along with our civil servants, every day. It is a tremendous privilege to continue my service to state and nation, as part of the DMAVA family.”

Hou’s promotion to the rank of Major General not only signifies her personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration to future generations, demonstrating the limitless possibilities that dedication, perseverance, and leadership can unlock.

In her pursuit of excellence, Hou embodies the highest ideals of service and sacrifice, standing as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those who follow in her footsteps.