FRANKFORT, Ky. –
For U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Brian Wertzler, Kentucky’s deputy adjutant general, nearly 36 years of service have forged a clear leadership philosophy: strip out emotion, focus on what's best for the organization, and empower your people to find the solution.
"Leading is explaining what needs to be done and why and letting them develop the how," Wertzler says, a perspective he honed moving from an enlisted Soldier to a commissioned officer.
That people-first mindset has been a guiding principle throughout his career, from pulling guard duty as a young Soldier to commanding thousands during a crisis.
He joined the Guard at 18, drawn by the opportunity to serve and pursue education while charting his future. Early mentorship within his first unit encouraged him to attend Officer Candidate School at the Kentucky Military Academy, an experience he credits with shaping his leadership foundation.
Over time, his leadership style evolved. As a young officer, he admits he was more directive, focused on proving himself and executing tasks precisely as envisioned. With experience came the pivotal shift in perspective from managing to leading. Trusting his Soldiers to innovate, he found their solutions often exceeded his own expectations, reinforcing his belief that empowering people is the key to organizational success.
Having entered the Guard as an enlisted Soldier before commissioning, he also carries a lasting appreciation for those at every level. He remembers pulling guard duty, driving vehicles and performing the routine but essential tasks that keep units running.
“I don’t ask Soldiers to do anything I wouldn’t do myself,” he said.
That principle was tested when Winter Storm Fern swept across Kentucky earlier this year. The response was swift and historic, marking the Guard’s largest mobilization since the 2009 ice storm. As more than 3,000 Soldiers and Airmen assessed damage across 120 counties, moments like these clarified the value of his approach.
“When faced with uncertainty,” said Wertzler, “I strip out emotion and ask: What’s best for the organization?”
His focus on people extends to talent management and recruiting. Through the Guard’s Kentucky Enlistment Enhancement Program (KEEP), more than 600 recruits have joined since 2023. Wertzler personally reviews packets and presents incentive checks, reinforcing both accountability and appreciation.
“We’re changing lives,” he said. “It’s more than a paycheck. It’s leadership development, education and opportunity.”
In addition to his state responsibilities, he served two years in a dual-hat assignment as deputy commanding general at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, reconnecting with his artillery roots while helping shape future force capabilities. Through natural disasters, recruiting challenges, and evolving missions, one constant remains for Wertzler: people are the Guard’s center of gravity.
“It’s not a sprint — it’s a marathon,” he said, offering advice he would give his younger self about the balance of leadership and self-reflection. “Everything isn’t always urgent.”
After decades of service, his focus is not on personal recognition, but on preparing the next generation.
“I’m proud to be part of this team,” he said. “With the right people, we can accomplish anything.”