Gov.-elect Susana Martinez on Tuesday nominated the former commander of the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland Air Force Base to be the state’s secretary of homeland security and emergency management.
Michael S. Duvall will “work to protect New Mexicans by spearheading comprehensive and synchronized programs that reduce risks and prevent incidents resulting in harm, while also ensuring responses to events are swift and effective,” a news release from the Martinez transition team states.
“Michael has served his nation with distinction and honor for nearly three decades,” Martinez said. “He has a deep understanding of working with personnel to achieve results when the stakes are highest. He will work to ensure New Mexico is a stronger and safer place on behalf of every person living, visiting or passing through the state.”
Duvall has also been director of exercises and training for the U.S. Pacific Command, commander of the 4th Operations Group at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, vice wing commander for the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan and a lieutenant colonel at the Air War College. He has received high honors including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star.
“It is with great honor and pride that I accept the opportunity to serve in Governor-elect Martinez’s administration,” Duvall said. “As secretary, I look forward to working with the governor and advancing her commitment to protecting all New Mexicans with well-developed and executed programs and responses.”