Col Bruce D. Kahl (Ret.) to Receive NGAUS Distinguished Service Medal

 

 

MARYLAND — August 22, 2026 — The National Guard Association of Maryland (NGAM) is proud to announce that Col. Bruce D. Kahl (Ret.), Maryland, has been selected to receive the Distinguished Service Medal from the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) during the National Conference in Indianapolis..The NGAUS Distinguished Service Medal recognizes individuals whose outstanding service, leadership and commitment have made a significant contribution to the National Guard, NGAUS and the broader Guard community.

 

Col. Kahl's selection for this prestigious national honor reflects a career and legacy of dedicated service to the men and women of the National Guard.Col. Kahl has a long and distinguished history of service to the Maryland National Guard and the National Guard Association of Maryland. He was a member of NGAM during its formation in 1980–81, serving on the organization's original Executive Council and playing an instrumental role in establishing the Association. Among his early contributions was responsibility for helping develop and write NGAM's Constitution and Bylaws, providing an organizational foundation that continues to support the Association's mission.Throughout the years, Col. Kahl has remained committed to strengthening the connection between current and former members of the National Guard, preserving the Guard's traditions and history, and supporting the professional and personal well-being of Maryland's Soldiers, Airmen, veterans and their families.

 

The Distinguished Service Medal represents national recognition of that commitment and places Col. Kahl among a distinguished group of National Guard leaders from across the United States who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Guard community.“This recognition is not only a tremendous honor for Col. Kahl, but also a proud moment for the National Guard Association of Maryland,” said BG (RET) Bob Schwietzer. “Bruce has devoted decades to strengthening our Association and supporting the National Guard family. His contributions helped build the foundation of NGAM, and his continued dedication exemplifies the values of service, leadership and commitment that this award represents.”Col. Kahl is among the 2026 NGAUS Distinguished Service Medal recipients, joining honorees representing Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Kansas, NGAUS, Vermont and Wisconsin.

 

NGAM congratulates Col. Bruce D. Kahl (Ret.) on this exceptional national recognition and thanks him for his decades of dedicated service to the Maryland National Guard, NGAM and the National Guard community.About the National Guard Association of MarylandThe National Guard Association of Maryland represents and advocates for the Soldiers and Airmen of the Maryland National Guard while promoting professional development, strengthening the Guard community and preserving the proud heritage and traditions of service in Maryland.