Fighting New Battles - Arkansas National Guard

The Arkansas Minutemancommander’s cornerFrom the Adjutant GeneralFor 43 and a half wonderful years it has been myprivilege to be a member of the Arkansas NationalGuard. From the first day of my enlistment in1963 as a private in the 217th Engineer Battalion,I knew that I was a part of something special.It has also been my privilege to serve with some incredible people,and work with some of the best troops our nation has to offer. I especiallyappreciate the noncommissioned officers and commanders who helped ayoung second lieutenant learn what it means to command and lead. Theirmentorship and leadership helped me form a true love for the the ArkansasNational Guard.I want to take this opportunity to say how proud I am of each and everySoldier and Airman, officer and NCO, and civilian employee workingfor the Guard. All of you are serving your state and nation with dedication,spirit and resolve. And to our veterans, I thank you from the bottom of myheart for having borne our nation’s defense upon your backs. To you weowe a debt of gratitude and the responsibility for never forgetting your sacrifices.And for those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we are dedicated to never forget them and to continually find ways to honortheir memories. We are also dedicated to honor those who bear the pain of having lost a loved one. My heart goes out to eachand every one of them.job.It has truly been an outstanding honor for me to have had the opportunity to work with the men and women of the Guard, andOver the years I have seen the Guard grow and transform, becoming an effective fighting force in addition to respondingquickly and effectively to our state’s needs. Not only have you served our communities, you have distinguished yourselves inbattle, proving that the National Guard is an effective fighting force and a reliable part of our nation’s defense.Since the global war on terrorism began, over 8,000 Arkansas Guard Soldiers and Airmen have answered the call to federalactive duty, taking up missions all over the globe. All Arkansans can be as proud as I am of these men and women, and of theirselfless service.One thing that has struck me as a defining aspect of the Arkansas National Guard is its family-like nature. The Guard is trulya big family, with strong bonds and friendships acting as the glue that holds us together, and making us an effective organization.To the spouses and children, and mothers and fathers of our members, I thank you for being a part of our family, and for helpingthe Arkansas Guard remain ready, relevant and reliable.It has been a very great honor to serve with the men and women of the Arkansas National Guard. Each and every one of youhave performed magnificently in every mission our state and nation has asked of you. Although I will not be in uniform, I will alwaysbe a part of the Guard, and the Guard will always be in my heart. For what you do for this great state and nation, thank you!Don C. MorrowMajor GeneralThe Adjutant GeneralPage 4 Summer 2006