South Dakota National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Jeff Marlette has announced Brig. Gen. Michael Oster as the next assistant adjutant general of the South Dakota Army National Guard.
Oster, of Rapid City, is responsible to the adjutant general for strategic planning, strength management, troop readiness and mobilization support of the state’s more than 3,100 Army National Guard Soldiers.
“I could not be more excited about this opportunity, and I’m absolutely honored by the privilege to serve in such an important capacity for such an amazing organization,” Oster said.
“General Oster is an outstanding leader, a strategic thinker and extremely qualified individual to take over this position,” said Maj. Gen. Marlette. “He will do a tremendous job as the assistant adjutant general.”
Oster is looking forward to the many opportunities that come with the position.
“Knowing that you serve each and every Soldier in the Army National Guard is an amazing responsibility,” said Oster. “I am excited to take that on and work as an advocate to ensure our Soldiers, their families, and their employers have what they all need to continue the level of excellence that has become the standard in our organization.”
Oster assumed responsibilities from interim assistant adjutant, Brig. Gen. Marshall Michels.
Oster began his military service in 1986 enlisting as a combat wire installer with Battery A, 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery in Mitchell. He received his commission through the Officer Candidate School program in 1990.
He earned his Bachelors and Master of Science degrees from South Dakota State University and is a graduate of the U.S. Army War College.
Oster has served at nearly every staff level and command position throughout his career. Oster has commanded the 665th Maintenance Company, 727th Transportation Company, Recruiting and Retention Battalion the 152nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion and the 109th Regional Support Group.
Oster has also completed two tours of duty: one to Iraq in 2004-2005 with the Rapid Fielding Initiative, and his second tour to Afghanistan with the 152nd CSSB in 2013.
