[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 208 (Wednesday, December 9, 2020)]
[House]
[Pages H7094-H7095]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           THE FIRST MILITIA

  (Mr. LaMALFA asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. LaMALFA. Mr. Speaker, in December 1636, the first militia 
regiments in North America were organized in Massachusetts and 
recognized by Massachusetts Bay Colony's General Court. This date marks 
the founding of State militias that collectively make up the National 
Guard.
  The men and women of the National Guard make great sacrifices to 
protect our homeland and citizens from harm. Their duties encompass 
more than just mitigating violence and civil unrest or being mobilized 
overseas.
  For example, just this year, in my home State of California, two 
National Guard aircrews flew repeatedly into the raging Creek fire in 
southern California to rescue nearly trapped campers, hikers, and 
residents. Their heroic efforts saved nearly 400 lives.
  This bravery is not uncommon to National Guardsmen, and for 384 years 
they have always been, and always will be, there for us.

[[Page H7095]]

  

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