[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 176 (Thursday, December 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1865]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING THE U.S. NATIONAL GUARD'S 377TH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. PHIL GINGREY

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 12, 2013

  Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 
United States National Guard as they celebrate 377 years of selfless 
sacrifice to our great nation.
  The National Guard pre-dates all other active U.S. military branches. 
On December 13, 1636, what we have come to know as the National Guard 
was formed as a colonial militia, made up of ordinary citizens who 
stood to protect their communities. From their service in the 
Revolutionary War where they stood their ground during the opening 
shots at Lexington Green and Concord Bridge, to valiantly fighting in 
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Guard has 
participated in every major American conflict. All Guardsmen are 
combat-trained, and while abroad they serve in combat missions, build 
schools and hospitals, and train local peacekeepers.
  National Guard members have established a proud history and tradition 
of service in all 50 states, organized territories, Puerto Rico, and 
the District of Columbia. Today's force is comprised of both Army and 
Air Force divisions and has grown to nearly 500,000 soldiers strong.
  The National Guard in my home state of Georgia will hold a special 
celebration at Clay National Guard Center, giving special recognition 
to its retirees, Maj. Gen. Jim Butterworth, Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard, and 
displaying many of its units' specialized training.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere gratitude that I extend my deepest 
thanks and appreciation to our servicemen and women in the National 
Guard for their sacrifice and hard work to protect our way of life.

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