Donald Edwards, the former adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard who is credited with helping to modernize the force before being defeated in a high-profile re-election bid, has died. He was 81.
Edwards died Aug. 16 at his home in South Bristol, Maine.
His death was confirmed by Dustin Hancock, of the Strong Hancock Funeral Home in Damariscotta, Maine. Hancock did not know the cause of death.
A Vietnam veteran, Edwards attended Vermont's Norwich University. He served as adjutant general from 1981 to 1997.
Unlike most states, the Vermont Legislature elects the adjutant general. Edwards was defeated by Martha Rainville, the nation's first female National Guard chief.
Lloyd Goodrow, who served as a public affairs officer under Edwards for many years, says Edwards helped modernize the Vermont National Guard.
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