Ex-Legislator to Replace NC Military Affairs Secretary

On Mar 29, 2024

TL/DR –

Walter Gaskin, North Carolina’s Cabinet Secretary for Military and Veterans Affairs, is retiring from his position. Grier Martin, a former state representative and currently the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, will take over the role. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, which manages state veterans’ nursing homes and cemeteries amongst other duties, has recently faced scrutiny over the closing of the State Veterans Home in Fayetteville.

North Carolina Cabinet Secretary for Military and Veterans Affairs Retires

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s Cabinet Secretary for Military and Veterans Affairs, Walter Gaskin, is retiring, with former state legislator Grier Martin poised to take his place. Gaskin, a retired three-star general, signed on as secretary in 2021 and is now retiring from state government.

Grier Martin, the current Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, will succeed Gaskin effective from Monday. A former Wake County Democrat who served the state house twice since 2005, Martin resigned in 2022 for a Pentagon role.

Gaskin, the former commanding officer of the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, has served the state with distinction, noted Governor Cooper. Gaskin’s military experience has been instrumental in strengthening support networks and services for veterans and their families. Cooper expressed confidence in Martin’s capacity to further North Carolina’s reputation as a military and veteran-friendly state.

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs manages state veterans’ nursing homes and cemeteries, supporting military installations in North Carolina and ensuring quality of life for current and retired service members.

This leadership transition coincides with recent state legislative oversight hearings examining the closure of the State Veterans Home in Fayetteville and other departmental issues.

As with other Cabinet roles, the secretary’s position requires state Senate confirmation.

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