Columbus general steps down as leader of Indiana National Guard

The Columbus resident who heads the Indiana National Guard is stepping down in the face of a lawsuit filed earlier this month alleging harassment, defamation and a vendetta against a former Guard military contractor.

Maj. Gen. Courtney Carr is retiring as adjutant general effective Friday upon the recommendation of Gov. Eric Holcomb, the governor’s office and the Guard announced this afternoon. Holcomb said that he received Carr’s resignation letter on Saturday.

Our news-gathering partners at The Republic reported on Saturday about the lawsuit filed in Marion County. The former contractor, Shari McLaughlin, accuses Carr of a launching a vendetta against her after she reported an affair he was allegedly having to military officials.

McLaughlin says that she had to quit her job because of harassment. When she found a job with a different contractor, McLaughlin says Carr used his power and influence to have her fired.

Carr has served as Adjutant General since 2015.

Brig. Gen. Timothy Winslow will serve as interim Adjutant General.

The Indiana National Guard announcement is below:

INDIANAPOLIS – Maj. Gen. Courtney P. Carr announced his retirement today from the U.S. Army, and tendered his resignation as the Indiana National Guard adjutant general effective August 16, 2019.

“I want thank Governor Holcomb for the distinct opportunity to serve as the adjutant general,” said Carr. “It has been my honor to lead the exceptional soldiers and airmen of the Indiana National Guard.”

Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Winslow, Director of the Joint Staff, will assume duties as interim adjutant general until Governor Holcomb appoints a new adjutant general.

“Tim brings a world of knowledge and a wealth of experience into this new leadership role,” said Carr. “His leadership style will be a steadying influence during this time of change.”

The Indiana National Guard will continue to be a ready and reliable force, and its mission will not be interrupted during this transition. The organization’s soldiers, airmen and civilians will continue their unwavering dedication to the community, state and nation.