A major military celebration as the New Jersey National Guard hosted the promotion ceremony for Col. Yvonne Mays. The room was filled with family, friends, colleagues and veterans as Mays was promoted to brigadier general.

Gov. Phil Murphy presented the promotion.

"We are so proud to call Col. Mays New Jersey’s own, and we are so grateful to be soon to be able to call her, brigadier general,” said Murphy.

Murphy said in crisis and calm, Mays showed determination, honesty and valor.

In her career, she’s blazed a trail.

“She is the first Black woman to lead the New Jersey National Guard and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs," said Murphy.

It’s been over 40 years since Mays enlisted in the Air Force.

"The honor of my professional lifetime," said Mays.

For the brigadier general, the moment is surreal.

“I’ve been here for so long, and I’ve worked for so many of the adjutant generals before me, to see them out in the audience, it just feels like I'm in a dream, a great dream," said Mays.

She says she is showing that the dream can become reality.

“I'm hopeful that today will be a day many would - not remember me so much - but remember the significance,” said Mays.

Mays says she’s humbled and reminded of the great responsibility of this position.