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Ron Welch, Brigadier General, USA (Ret.) is a decorated combat Veteran with a distinguished career in the U.S. Army and Connecticut National Guard. After serving as an Airborne Ranger, he joined the National Guard.  During his nearly 40 years of service, he rose through the ranks from Private to Brigadier General. 

General Welch completed 37 military courses from tactical to strategic including a master’s from Army War College and a master’s from ECSU. He held 28 command and key staff assignments from platoon to Major Command Level. He deployed to Afghanistan as Senior Advisor and Team Chief and later served as Chief of Staff and Director of the Joint Staff, CTNG. In 2017, after retirement, General Welch became VP at Easterseals Veterans Rally Point, creating a one-stop center with comprehensive programs for service members, Veterans, and families. He was appointed as DVA Commissioner in May of 2023.

Joe Danao, Deputy Commissioner began his career with the Connecticut Veterans Affairs in 2015, leading operations and projects as the Executive Assistant to the Commissioner including duties as Acting Commissioner. In his current role, he serves on multiple statewide committees on behalf of the Veterans Affairs.

Deputy Commissioner Danao is a retired Lieutenant Colonel serving more than 33 years in the Connecticut Army National Guard, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Throughout his military career, he received numerous military awards and holds degrees in accounting, business, taxation, fire science, military leadership and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Healthcare Executive Leadership.