Lake Lanier Islands, Ga., July 29, 2006 -- Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress received a promotion to Lieutenant General, Saturday, July 29, as Gov. Sonny Perdue swapped the general's two-star shoulder board to three stars in a surprise announcement during the National Guard Association of Georgia’s annual meeting at Lake Lanier Islands.

Poythress becomes the first Adjutant General in Georgia’s 273-year history to wear three stars.

"It makes a lot of difference in terms of dealing with the U.S. Department of Defense…it means we've got more muscle at the table and that’s a good thing for Georgia,”said Poythress.

Perdue noted during the ceremony that the Guard, under Poythress’ leadership, had “taken on some historic challenges and our men and women have performed admirably. Today, it is a great honor to recognize General Poythress with his third star.”