Brigadier General Duane Tadlock, a distinguished figure from the Placerville Police Department, recently achieved a historic promotion within the California State Guard, marking a significant milestone in his extensive career dedicated to public service. His elevation to deputy commanding general not only recognizes decades of unwavering commitment but also sets a unique precedent for the organization.

What makes General Tadlock’s accomplishment particularly noteworthy is that he is the first general officer in the California State Guard’s history to attain such a high rank without prior federal military service. This extraordinary achievement underscores a career built entirely within state-level military and law enforcement frameworks, challenging traditional pathways to leadership within uniformed services.

Tadlock’s journey with the California State Guard commenced in 1984, a remarkable 41 years ago, making him the longest-serving member in the organization’s existence. Over these four decades, he systematically ascended through the ranks, starting as an enlisted member and progressing to an officer, culminating in his recent promotion to brigadier general.

To fulfill the stringent promotion requirements for his current role, General Tadlock rigorously pursued higher education, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from National University. His master’s degree in homeland security and emergency management specifically provided the academic foundation necessary to substitute for federal military training programs otherwise inaccessible to those without federal status, demonstrating his innovative approach to career progression.

Beyond his extensive military-related service, Tadlock’s public service career began as an explorer scout with the Sacramento Police Department. After attending the police academy in 1986 and becoming a sworn officer a year later, he served with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Elk Grove Unified School District Police Department, the California Horse Racing Board, and the California State Lottery, where he ultimately rose to the position of chief.

Concurrently with his full-time commitments, General Tadlock has maintained a long-standing involvement with the California State Fair Police Department for 22 years. For the past decade, he has also served as a dedicated reserve sergeant with the Placerville Police Department, demonstrating a profound, multi-faceted commitment to community safety and law enforcement.

According to the Placerville Police Department, Tadlock’s 43 years in law enforcement are characterized by significant contributions to training, youth mentorship, and faith-based community leadership. His peers and subordinates commend his leadership style, with Tadlock noting that many seek to work under his command due to his equitable treatment of colleagues.

The California State Guard itself operates as a seamless and fully integrated state military operational force. Its primary mission is to enhance both civil support and federal readiness for the California Military Department and its interagency partners, playing a critical role in statewide emergency response and support operations.

Looking ahead, General Tadlock expresses his intention to continue serving with the Placerville Police Department for as long as his physical health permits. He also holds aspirations for future leadership within the California State Guard, indicating his readiness to assume the role of commanding general when the opportunity arises, potentially marking yet another historical promotion for him.