Letter of Appreciation-Minnesota ANG

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August 13, 2007
AFA Members, civic leaders, and Congressional Staffers, most of you realize how much our nation depends on the National Guard. Many of you are in the Air National Guard (ANG) or have friends or family members who are in the ANG.

Today our Guard is busier than ever - deploying overseas more often and longer than almost anytime in its history. We depend on these citizen-Airmen to help protect us and our way of life. As most of you know, the Air National Guard has the dual-mission that consists of both Federal and State roles. This dual mission means not only being part of the nation's entire military force, but also being responsible to their respective states during times of state or community emergencies. The Air Guard has been there to help their communities during such emergencies as; Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes and forest fires. During National crises, the Air National Guard is activated by the President of the United States. They have defended our national interests in a host of conflicts, including World War II, Korean and Vietnam Wars, Desert Storm/Desert Shield and in Afghanistan and Iraq today. The Air National Guard also provides top cover for the continental United States in Operation Noble Eagle.

With the Minnesota bridge collapse in the news, the entire US has been focused on Minnesota. Little noticed was the ANG and Army NG deployment to and from Balad AB, Iraq - namely the 148nd Fighter Wing from Duluth, Minnesota. The number 2 person in DOD - the Deputy SECDEF, Hon Gordon England, recently visited Iraq and expressed his gratitude for the great service of these Minnesotans in the article below. It can also be found on our website at: http://www.afa.org/EdOp/edop_7-31-07.asp

All the best and respectfully,

Mike

Michael M. Dunn

AFA President/CEO