SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 53
(By Senators Wells, Palumbo, Jenkins, Williams, Stollings, Laird,
Oliverio, Plymale and Minard)
Recognizing the West Virginia National Guard for its service,
dedication and commitment.
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard has a long and
storied tradition as a community-based defense force dating back to
formation of the first militia company in what is now Berkeley
County; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard's 201st Field
Artillery Battalion is recognized by the United States Army
Institute of Heraldry as the oldest unit in the Army with
continuous active service since the 17th of February 1735; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard encompasses nearly
7,000 soldiers and airmen in more than 30 units throughout West
Virginia; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard is a battle-tested
organization, having deployed every unit and more than 8,000 Guard
members since September 11, 2001, to defend freedom and spread
democracy around the world; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard has been called to
state active duty for FEMA-declared disasters more than 60 times
since 1995 to help West Virginia citizens affected by natural disasters; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard plays a vital role
in defending the homeland by deploying specialized weapons of mass
destruction teams; assisting in vulnerability assessments on the
nation's critical infrastructure; and managing unique training
venues for military and civilian first responders; and
Whereas, The West Virginia National Guard is committed to the
state's economic development by creating job opportunities for
state citizens to work on national-level military programs while
raising their families right here in West Virginia; therefore, be
it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the Senate hereby recognizes the West Virginia National
Guard for its service, dedication and commitment; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward
a copy of this resolution to the West Virginia National Guard.