An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Home : News : Article View
NEWS | Dec. 12, 2018

National Guard Bureau chief pens holiday message

By Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel National Guard Bureau

ARLINGTON, Va. – As we enter the holiday season, let's all take a moment to reflect on our accomplishments and achievements over the past year. This year, National Guard units supported emergency relief operations at home by responding to multiple disasters while other units remained engaged in the warfight.

The success of our Nation's response continues to be the Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen of the National Guard.

To the Guardsmen who are mobilized and deployed in support of our great Nation, I thank you for your service and look forward to your safe return home. To Guard families who patiently await the return of your loved ones, I thank you for your sacrifices and enduring support to your Soldiers and Airmen.

As you enjoy your holiday season, remember to assist your fellow Guardsmen, civilian personnel, and families in staying safe. Indiscipline continues to be the leading cause in accidents, but you can make the difference. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to friends, family, or organizations who can provide support and assistance.

Thank you for your service and dedication to the National Guard. Have a safe and happy holiday season, and a successful new year!

Sincerely,

Joseph L. Lengyel

General, U.S. Air Force

Chief, National Guard Bureau

 

 

Related Articles
Airmen assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, and the 192nd Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, walk on the flight line Sept. 25, 2025, at Burlington Air National Guard Base, Vt. The units partnered to train on F-35 operations, enhancing cross-airframe, multi-capable Airmen skills and fifth-generation interoperability. The training ensures Airmen can maintain both the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, improving operational readiness and strengthening collaboration with NATO partners. Photo by Senior Master Sgt. Michael Davis.
Virginia Airmen Strengthen Interoperability Across Platforms
By Staff Sgt. Kellyann Elish, | April 8, 2026
JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. — In the high-stakes world of fifth-generation warfare, mission success can hinge on how quickly a fighter jet returns to the fight. For Airmen of the 192nd Wing, Virginia Air National Guard,...

Leaders and planners from across the National Guard gathered alongside industry partners, emergency management officials and subject-matter experts at the Emergency Response Workshop at the Higgins Hotel in New Orleans, March 31-April 2.
National Guard Leaders Strengthen Disaster Response Coordination
By Maj. Darren T. Herring Jr., | April 8, 2026
NEW ORLEANS – More than 200 National Guard leaders, planners and emergency management partners gathered in New Orleans March 31 to April 2 for the Louisiana National Guard’s Emergency Response Workshop, aimed at strengthening...

U.S. Army Staff Sgts. Tianna Wilson, Georgia National Guard, and Brianna Rodriguez-Munns, Arkansas National Guard, public affairs noncommissioned officers assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, provided immediate medical aid to a minor involved in a vehicle-versus-scooter accident in Washington on March 31. About 2,500 National Guard members support the DC Safe and Beautiful mission, assisting the Metropolitan Police Department in ensuring the safety of residents, commuters and visitors throughout the District. Photo by Sgt. Katlynn Pickle.
National Guard Soldiers Aid Injured Minor in DC Crash
By Sgt. Katlynn Pickle, | April 8, 2026
WASHINGTON – Two National Guard noncommissioned officers assigned to Joint Task Force–District of Columbia provided immediate medical aid to an injured minor following a vehicle-versus-scooter accident March 31, applying...