To the Soldiers, Airmen and Families of the National Guard:
For
nearly 20 years, we have served and sacrificed in Afghanistan. As the
combat reserve of the Army and Air Force, our presence was significant.
Answering our Nation’s call, we left behind families, civilian jobs,
and communities. We performed and served with honor, and never lost
sight of our duty as Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen. For all who served or
supported us in Afghanistan—we thank you.
We
remain forever grateful to those who have and continue to serve so
selflessly, and the families who make that service possible. Our
thoughts are especially with our Gold Star families and those who still
bear the wounds of war.
This
may be a difficult time for those who served, and those who supported
their loved ones in Afghanistan. It often helps to talk to battle
buddies and wingmen, and now is the time to look out for each other.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out and be there for each other. And if
you need help and don’t know where to turn, please reach out to a unit
chaplain or contact Military One Source at 800-342-9647.
The National Guard is a family. We move forward together, and together we remain Always Ready, Always There.
Sincerely,
Daniel R. Hokanson
General, U.S. Army
Chief, National Guard Bureau
Tony L. Whitehead
Senior Enlisted Advisor
National Guard Bureau
