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Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, Saturday is the National Guard's 389th birthday. Nearly four centuries ago, the National Guard was founded in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Since then, the National Guard has exemplified the spirit of citizen soldiers. These are ordinary men and women who answer the call to serve their community and country at a moment's notice.

From the footprints that mark the snows of Valley Forge to the sandy beaches at Normandy, from the skies above Vietnam to the deserts of the Persian Gulf, the National Guard has been there for America every step of the way. For 389 years, these men and women have represented America's best.

Mr. Speaker, today we honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of the National Guard, past and present. We salute their sacrifice, their courage, and unwavering dedication to serving the American people through war and peace, disaster and recovery, and every moment in between.

Happy birthday to the National Guard.

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