2 finalists named for Minn. National Guard leader

Two finalists have emerged to succeed Maj. Gen. Larry Shellito as leader of the Minnesota National Guard.

Shellito is retiring at the end of his seven-year term on Oct. 31. He turns 65 in August.

When Shellito announced his retirement in June, Gov. Tim Pawlenty said a search committee would screen and recommend top candidates for a successor.

The two finalists announced Monday are Maj. Gen. Richard Nash, commander of the Minnesota National Guard's 34th Infantry "Red Bull" Division, and Brig. Gen. Joseph Kelly, director of the joint staff of the Minnesota National Guard.

Pawlenty is expected to interview the two finalists soon.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.