National Guard Bureau Chief reflects on Patriot Day

This Friday marks the eighth anniversary of terrorist attacks on American soil. We will pause and reflect in honor of those who perished on that fateful day. As we remember the events of September 11th let's also be mindful of the contributions our National Guard Citizen Soldiers and Airmen have made since then to the defense of the Nation.

Overseas, more than 476,000 Guardsmen have mobilized and deployed in support of contingency operations. Here at home, we fly 94 percent of all air defense sorties, provide critical infrastructure support, secure airports, and augment border patrol. We've also established National Guard capabilities that never existed before 9/11, such as Joint Operation Centers and National Guard Reaction Forces. As a result of our proven capabilities and expertise, the National Guard Bureau was made a joint activity of the Department of Defense. This reflects the acknowledgement that the Guard is a recognized force - trained, equipped, accessible and ready.

These efforts are significant investments in our Nation's security and contribute to the prevention of another attack on American soil.

This Patriot Day, let's not only remember the past, but also look forward to a more secure future thanks to the service of the men and women of the National Guard.

CRAIG R. MCKINLEY
General, USAF
Chief, National Guard Bureau