[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 140 (Tuesday, September 10, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H5105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING MINNESOTA NATIONAL GUARD'S 1ST COMBINED ARMS BATTALION

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Minnesota (Mr. Stauber) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. STAUBER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Minnesota 
National Guard's 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, as 
they were recently awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation award, the 
Superior Unit Award, and the Presidential Unit Citation award. These 
awards are given to units for heroism and outstanding achievement under 
extraordinary circumstances.
  We all remember the harrowing images of the evacuation of 
Afghanistan, which took place just 3 years ago. Thirteen American 
heroes lost their lives, and countless allies were left behind for the 
Taliban. If not for the 194th, things could have and would have been 
much worse.
  During the evacuation of Kabul, the 1st Combined Arms Battalion 
rescued over 124,000 American citizens, government employees, and 
Afghan allies in under 15 days.
  This Brainerd, Minnesota-based unit made a difference in the world. 
Because of them, families were reunited and lives were saved.
  As the husband of the Minnesota Air National Guard 148th Fighter 
Wing's first female command chief, who deployed when she was called 
upon, I have long recognized the superiority of the Minnesota National 
Guard. I could not be more proud to represent these exemplary soldiers.
  America is blessed to have such courageous patriots in her ranks, and 
we, in Minnesota, are lucky that they call our State home.
  Madam Speaker, I thank the men and women of the 194th Armor Regiment 
for their service during this infamous time. God bless them all for 
their sacrifices, and God bless America.

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