RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) - The South Dakota Army National Guard has appointed a woman to the highest ranking senior-enlisted position for the first time.

Command Sgt. Maj. Susan Shoe replaces State Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Zimmerman as the new state command sergeant major. The position is the highest ranking noncommissioned officer position for the South Dakota Army National Guard.

Shoe says the selection means a lot to her, and she is honored to be the first woman to serve in the role. Shoe assumed the role during a ceremony over the weekend.

James Welch, of Sioux Falls, also became the state's first senior enlisted leader for the South Dakota National Guard over the weekend. He will serve as an adviser to the state's adjutant general.