Major General (Retired) Earl L. Adams

United States Army

Active Duty: 1958-1960

Army National Guard: 1962-2000

Source of Commission: ROTC, University of Maine - Orono

General Adams brilliant military career started in 1957 when he was commissioned as a second lieutenant from the University of Maine ROTC program.

He served on active duty during the period of 1958 to 1960 serving as an executive officer in a unit of the 4th Infantry Division.

His Maine Army National Guard career from 1962 to 2000 culminated in his appointment as Maine’s Adjutant General and Commissioner of the Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management.

He was federally recognized as a Major General on 30 September 1997.General Adams’ Maine Army National Guard career was varied in that he served as Battalion Commander of the 152d Field Artillery Battalion, Recruiting and Retention Officer, Plans, Operations and Training Officer, and Chief of Staff prior to his appointment by the Governor to be the Adjutant General.

He was nationally recognized when he established a program with the Canadian Military Forces allowing the artillery battalion to train at the Canadian Forces Base in Gagetown New Brunswick. This saved days of travel time by the unit which previously had to train at Fort Drum New York. General Adams earned many awards including the Distinguished Service Medal.

General Adams has been a perpetual member of the General Joshua Chamberlain Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars since April 1999. During his tour as Commander he led by example by bringing in new members and encouraging others to do the same. He also increased attendance at Chapter meeting by having interesting guest speakers.

General Adams and his wife Sheila reside in Pittston, Maine.