WHEREAS, since before the start of World War II, the Alaska National Guard has acted as a first line of defense for the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska National Guard serves our nation when called by federal service, but guard members train and stand ready to serve their fellow Alaskans for any and all emergencies, including natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and fires that impact the Last Frontier; and
WHEREAS, the Alaska National Guard originated as the Alaska Territorial Guard, and saw service in defending our State and Nation during World War II. It has since mobilized and deployed troops to Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror; and
WHEREAS, today, our Guardsmen and women remain poised to assist federal missions, protect the lives and property of fellow Alaskans and Americans, preserve public safety, support civil authorities, undertake search and rescue operations, and oppose illegal drug trafficking; and
WHEREAS, we observe Alaska National Guard Day on July 30th of each year in commemoration of the branch’s formal authorization in 1948, and it is fitting that we pause each year to recognize these courageous men and women who are always ready to protect and defend the people of our great state.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim July 30, 2020 as:
Alaska National Guard Day
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to honor the sacrifices and service of past and present members of the Alaska National Guard.
