Diddams takes command of the Virginia Defense Force
RICHMOND, Va. — Col. (Va.) Richard Diddams was promoted to brigadier general and took command of the Virginia Defense Force June 1, 2024, in Richmond, Virginia. Maj. Gen. James W. Ring, the Adjutant General of Virginia, promoted Diddams, administered the oath of office and presided over the ceremony officially transferring authority and responsibility of the VDF to him.
“Col. Diddams is a tremendous leader who is not new to this organization, and I am looking forward to what he brings to your formation,” Ring said to the formation of VDF troops prior promoting Diddams and presenting him with the organizational colors to represent his assumption of command. He recognized Diddams for his decades of outstanding military service, but also acknowledged his significant leadership experience both in civilian industry and academia.
Ring announced May 28 Diddams would succeed Brig. Gen. (Va.) Justin P. Carlitti Sr. as the VDF commander, and Carlitti retired after nearly 10 years of leading the organization. Diddams previously served as the VDF deputy chief of staff for training and operations, and Ring named him interim VDF commander April 22.
When Diddams spoke to the VDF formation after Ring administered the oath of office for his new rank, he shared how he got chills similar to the first time he took the oath as Marine Corps lieutenant some 40 years earlier.
“I joined the Marine Corps because I thought this was the greatest nation on earth,” Diddams said. “The reason why this is the greatest nation on earth is because of the men and women in uniform.”
Diddams commended the VDF personnel in formation for serving for something “more important than yourselves.” He expressed his appreciation for their service, and asked everyone to thank their families for their service later when they returned home.
“My job is to earn your trust every day,” Diddams told the formation. “To lead you, to serve you, to help make sure that if Maj. Gen. Ring ever calls upon us for any kind of service, I can let him know we will accomplish that mission. That is my job and my calling to you.”
In his civilian career, Diddams is the current Vice Provost of Engineering and Technology and Professional Engagement and Interim Dean School of Business at Liberty University. He has held numerous leadership positions in industry including president and CEO of a mid-size engineering firm operating in 17 states and overseas. He served as a Marine Infantry officer for more than 20 years where he led Marines in peacetime and combat, and he also served on the Joint Staff and at the White House as a senior advisor on counterterrorism.
The VDF is authorized by Title 44 of the Code of the Virginia as the all-volunteer reserve of the Virginia National Guard, and it serves as a force multiplier integrated into all Guard domestic operations. The VDF reports to the Adjutant General of Virginia as part of the Virginia Department of Military Affairs along with the Virginia Army National Guard and Virginia Air National Guard.