National Guard Passes Recruitment Goals

Floor Speech

NATIONAL GUARD PASSES RECRUITMENT GOALS -- (House of Representatives - July 16, 2007)

(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. Madam Speaker, America's National Guard is taking a crucial role in the global war on terrorism. They make up a vital part of our deployed forces, serving our country to stop terrorism overseas, protecting American families. I am proud the National Guard exceeded its recruitment goals for the month of June, which reflects the new greatest generation.

Through the month of May, the National Guard has 351,400 troops. Numbers have not been this high since November 2001. As a 31-year veteran of the Army National Guard, I understand the importance of their mission as explained by Captain James Smith.

I am particularly grateful my former unit, the 218th Brigade, is serving in Afghanistan, where they're actively working to train the Afghani police and army.

As the father of four sons in the military, I am grateful for each and every American who decides to serve. Our all-volunteer Armed Forces are making the ultimate sacrifice, and today democracy is more widespread throughout the world than any time in history protecting American families.

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

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