[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 13 (Wednesday, February 9, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S1194]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           THE NATIONAL GUARD

  Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the National Guard, 
to mark its 368th birthday on December 13.
  The National Guard was founded in 1636 and has answered the call to 
protect this great Nation in the face of every conflict. It was formed 
even before the birth of America and continues to serve as a safeguard 
against all enemies and oppressors.
  The Guard is now a force of more than 450,000 men and women strong, 
proudly bearing the seal of American dreams. More than 95,000 of those 
are serving overseas in Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia, protecting 
America on foreign soil. As some of the Nation's finest, they do not 
only protect us abroad but do the same here at home, dependably 
defending us against foreign threats and terrorists.
  However, protecting the American people is only part of the heroic 
contributions the Guard provides us. Those brave souls also serve as 
rescuers, reaching out to those who are victims of natural disaster, 
and supporting our people in neighborhoods and communities in times of 
desperation and need. From coast to coast and around the world, all 
humanity can count on these valiant Americans.
  Each of us owes a great debt of gratitude to every member of the 
National Guard, from the past and the present, for their sacrifice and 
dedication to protecting America's cherished freedoms and democracy. It 
is wonderful that we can honor the National Guard on its birthday and 
remember its significance to the people.

                          ____________________