Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Col. Ismael Rodriguez is awarded the Oglethorpe Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally outstanding service by GSDF Deputy Commanding General Col. Tony Dill during a change of command and retirement ceremony at the Ellenwood Readiness Center in Ellenwood, Ga., May 2, 2026.
During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Timchenko assumed command of the GSDF Reserve Component from Rodriguez. Rodriguez retired following 15 years of service in the GSDF.
The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, alongside the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alexander Davidson)