Recognizing the Tremendous Success of the National Guard

RECOGNIZING THE TREMENDOUS SUCCESS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD -- (House of Representatives - March 14, 2006)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Army National Guard recently announced it has surpassed its recruitment goals by 7 percent after enlisting 26,000 new soldiers in only 5 months.

As the Guard celebrates its best national record in 13 years, it is clear that Americans are registering in historic numbers to serve their country, States, and communities. Volunteers are showing their resolve in completing the mission for victory in the war on terrorism.

I am also pleased to announce that the South Carolina Army National Guard is now ranked seventh in the Nation for recruitment. As a 31-year veteran of this unit and the father of two Guard members, I am extremely proud of South Carolina's enormous contribution to our national security.

Guard service enables Americans to learn valuable training, meet the most competent and patriotic citizens, protect American families during national catastrophes, and win the war on terrorism.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11.

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