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As 2023 comes to an end, the National Guard reflects back on another year in which our Soldiers and Airmen showcased steadfast dedication and an unwavering commitment to service in the midst of a diverse array of challenges. This transformative year bore witness to significant triumphs and noteworthy contributions, with our dedicated men and women in uniform providing crucial disaster response and relief efforts. Additionally, they engaged in collaborative efforts with a growing number of our global allies and partners, reinforcing the National Guard's role not only as a domestic protector but also as a vital component of international security cooperation. Executing critical training exercises further underscored their preparedness and adaptability. This year and always, the National Guard excels in its paramount mission of safeguarding our communities and holding steadfast to the core values that are essential to our nation's stability and prosperity. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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In its 68th year, the Alaska National Guard's annual community outreach program, Operation Santa Claus, continues to bring the magic of the season to the remote communities of Fort Yukon, Golovin, Koyuk and Tuluksak. In partnership with the Salvation Army, the program delivered gifts and tidings of good cheer to approximately 560 children. Video by Balinda ONeal and Dana Rosso.
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Since Dec. 13, 1636, the National Guard has stood as a symbol of resilience, service and unwavering commitment to our nation. Join us in honoring this remarkable institution, a cornerstone of our national defense and a source of inspiration for generations to come. This celebration is not just about marking another year; it's a tribute to the men and women who have stood tall, facing adversity with courage, and showcasing the true meaning of service to others. The National Guard has become an integral part of our nation's history, a living testament to the values that make our country strong. To the National Guard - thank you for 387 years of dedication, sacrifice and being the embodiment of Always Ready, Always There. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Approximately 60 members of the National Guard Bureau, District of Columbia National Guard, New York National Guard, Virginia National Guard, Maryland National Guard, Massachusetts National Guard, Task Force Echo (TFE), and D.C. National Guard Family Programs donate toys to Children's National Hospital in Washington Dec. 8. Video by Master Sgt. Arthur M. Wright
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Approximately 20 members from the 111th Attack Wing were ferried out to the USS Arizona Memorial for a private tour while they were deployed for training to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, June 21, 2023. While at the memorial, members took time to learn about the attacks on Dec. 7, 1941, and reflect on those who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation. Video by Staff Sgt. Wilfredo Acosta and Master Sgt. Tyrone Mitchell.
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Veterans Day is a time to honor the heroes who have served our nation. In every branch, from every background, they've stood together as one—united by a common oath, to defend our great nation at any cost. Service members have always answered the call, and we are endlessly grateful for that. Thank you, veterans, for your unwavering dedication. Today and every day, we salute you. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team participated in a brigade-level Best Warrior Competition in Buffalo, NY, Nov. 3-5. During the three day event, the 9 candidates completed a 12-mile ruck march, military board, 3-weapon stress shoot, land navigation course, and an Army Combat Fitness Test. The top junior enlisted Soldier and noncommissioned officer will move on to the next phase of the competition slated for early next year, where they will compete for the title of New York State's Best Warrior. Video by Alexander Rector.
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Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 1, 2023, at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, VA, to unveil the National Guard heritage room, known as “The 1636 Room.” In June, Hokanson invited each state, territory, and the District of Columbia to contribute one or more artifacts for the room, which is located on the second floor of Patton Hall. Each item helps showcase the rich history of the National Guard and adds to a unique gathering space for National Guard members and invited guests. The National Guard Bureau History Office coordinated the room's layout and design, with substantial contributions from historians Dr. Elena Friot and Dr. Richard Clark. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, presided over a ceremony to present the positional colors to Senior Enlisted Advisor Tony Whitehead at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Nov. 1, 2023. This marks the first time a senior enlisted advisor to the National Guard chief is recognized with such colors, a significant milestone in a tradition that dates back to 1636. Whitehead currently serves as the sixth Guardsman in this prestigious role. Video by Master Sgt. Brandy Fowler.
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The National Guard is a critical component of the Department of Defense’s evolution of cyber defense capabilities; cyber resiliency and mission assurance of weapons systems and critical infrastructure; and protection of critical technologies.Video by Master Sgt. Brandy Fowler.
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During World Space Week, the National Guard proudly recognizes the vital roles our servicemen and women play in safeguarding U.S. interests in space. We remain committed to supporting our allies and partners in deterring aggression and protecting our space capabilities. World Space Week, observed annually from October 4th to 10th, is a global celebration of the contributions of science and technology to human progress. These dates hold historical significance, marking the launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, on October 4, 1957, which paved the way for space exploration. On October 10, 1967, the signing of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies, further underscores our commitment to peaceful cooperation in space endeavors. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Our National Defense Strategy is clear: Mutually-beneficial alliances and partnerships—like the SPP—are an enduring strength. And they will be more critical in the years ahead. Here’s to 30 years to the State Partnership Program, as recognized by yesterday’s Senate resolution. Here’s to its future, and here’s to all who make it possible. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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After a 19-year hiatus, the Air Force’s historic William Tell Air-to-Air Weapons Meet took place September 11-15, 2023, at the Air Dominance Center in Savannah, Georgia. Hosted by Air Combat Command, the weeklong competition evaluated F-35, F-22 and F-15 Fighter Integration Teams from across the Department of the Air Force, employing Total Force combat-capable active-duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen in near-peer-like competition. Video by Airman 1st Class Kevin Martinez, Staff Sgt. Sara Kolinski, and Senior Airman Christa Ross; Edited by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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For 76 years, American Airmen have exemplified "fly, fight, and win," extending our nation’s global reach across air, space, and cyberspace. Here's to continued excellence in AirPower—anytime, anywhere. Happy birthday, U.S. Air Force! Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Senior Enlisted Advisor Tony Whitehead, SEA to the chief of the National Guard Bureau, provides a 30 second public service announcement to National Guard service members and families during September’s Suicide Prevention Month. Video Courtesy Defense Suicide Prevention Office.
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Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief, National Guard Bureau, administered the oath of enlistment to 24 members of the Army and Air National Guard and one active duty Airman in Times Square, New York, as part of the National Guard's 9/11 remembrance and commitment to service, September 11, 2023. Video by Master Sgt. Jim Greenhill; edited by Air Force Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Army Soldiers from the Michigan National Guard, in cooperation with the Mackinac County Office of Emergency Management, participated in Operation Safe Harbor 2023, a simulated exercise for the mass evacuation of civilian personnel. The exercise took place at Mackinac Island, Mich., on September 7, 2023. Video by Staff Sgt. Drake Chandler.
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Members of the Oklahoma National Guard's 63rd Civil Support Team conduct swift water training with Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Fire Service Training. CST members learned safe and effective water rescue techniques while reducing risk for first responders.Video by Staff Sergeant Daniel Garas.
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Highlights of exercise Northern Strike 2023, on Camp Grayling, Michigan, August, 2023. Video by Staff Sergeant Daniel Garas.
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More than 100 Hawaii National Guard members were mobilized Aug. 9 to assist with search and recovery efforts after several wildfires swept through the island of Maui. The Lahaina fire was the most devastating and destructive of three large wildfires which erupted on the island Tuesday causing nearly 100 fatalities, with those numbers expected to rise. The Hawaii National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosive (CBRNE) Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP) team is trained to respond to CBRNE incidents in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region IX within six hours of formal alert in order to assist local, state and federal agencies in conducting consequence management by providing capabilities to conduct casualty decontamination, medical triage and treatment, casualty search and extraction and fatality search and recovery in order to save lives and mitigate human suffering. Video by Master Sgt. Andrew Jackson, edited by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Two Hawaii Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopters were deployed Aug. 9, 2023, to help battle wildfires that have devastated the island of Maui. The air crews performed 58 total bucket drops in 5 hours totaling more than 100,000 gallons dropped on the fires. Video by Air Force Master Sgt. Andrew Jackson, edited by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Members assigned to the 153rd Airlift Wing depart to the southern Oregon on a C-130 Hercules aircraft equipped with a U.S. Forest Service Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) in Cheyenne, Wyo. on August 3, 2023. The Wyoming Air National Guard MAFFS unit is activated to support the firefighting effort in southern Oregon. Video by Senior Airman Edward Hermsen.
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Senior military, diplomatic and defense officials converged to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Department of Defense and National Guard State Partnership Program Conference at National Harbor, Maryland, July 17-18. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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The Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program has forged lasting partnerships with nations across the globe for 30 years while helping to build U.S. and partner capabilities to meet 21st-century security challenges. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Department of Defense and National Guard State Partnership Program 30th Anniversary Conference at National Harbor, Maryland, July 17, 2023. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Guard members from the Oregon National Guard’s 125th Special Tactics Squadron participated in training required to remain proficient as Special Tactics Airmen at the Portland Air National Guard Base, July 6. Members of the unit must maintain their skills as combat divers, military free fall and static line parachutists to remain proficient as combat controllers, special operations weathermen and many more support positions. Video by Sgt. 1st Class Whitney Hughes.
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A UH-72 Lakota Helicopter assigned to the 1st Battalion, 224th Aviation Battalion, Vermont National Guard, flies over flood-damaged areas of Vermont, including the capital building in Montpelier, Vermont, July 11, 2023. This unit's mission was to survey heavy rain damage and report if stranded people needed rescuing due to the recent storm that caused flooding throughout Vermont. Video by Senior Master Sgt. Michael Davis.
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owa National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 3655th Classification and Inspection Company, 734th Regional Support Group, recently conducted Combat Water Survival Training (CWST) to develop and enhance their confidence, endurance and proficiency in water-related operations. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Saluting our Nation's Freedom: The National Guard stands strong, united and proud as we honor Independence Day, upholding our commitment to protect and serve. Together, we celebrate the cherished values that make our country great. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Approximately 220 aircraft and 10,000 personnel from 25 countries, including approximately 100 U.S. Air Force aircraft from the Air National Guard participated in Air Defender 2023 (AD23) from June 12 to 23, 2023. Exercise AD23 integrated both U.S. and allied air power to defend shared values, while leveraging and strengthening vital partnerships to deter aggression around the world. Video by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Schumann.
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AU.S. Air Force members assigned to the 140th Wing, Colorado National Guard, participate in the Air Defender 23 exercise at Jagel German Air Base, June 21, 2023. AD23 integrated U.S. and allied air power to defend shared values, while leveraging and strengthening vital partnerships to deter aggression around the world. Video by Master Sgt. Amanda Geiger.
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U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont National Guard taxi and take off from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, as part of exercise Air Defender 2023 (AD23), Jun 13, 2023. Exercise AD23 is a German-led, multinational exercise focusing on operational and tactical-level field training, primarily held in Germany, with forward operating locations in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Latvia. Video by Tech. Sgt. Richard Mekkri.
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Soldiers with the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, take part in a training rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Johnson, Louisiana. The rotation allowed soldiers the ability to build greater cohesiveness and readiness as they trained on large-scale combat operations. Video by Capt. James Mason.
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Typhoon Mawar hit Guam on May 19 sending Guam National Guard Soldiers and Airmen into action to aid Guam’s approximately 160,000 residents, and help local authorities with recovery efforts. Guard members from Guam's 1224th Engineer Support Company 1-294th Infantry Regiment and 254th Air Base Group, performed traffic control route clearance and debris removal missions immediately following the typhoon Photos by Mark Scott- Video by Sgt. 1st Class Whitney Hughes.
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Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief, National Guard Bureau, testifies before the United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Defense (SAC-D), during the National Guard and Reserve hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., June 1, 2023. Video by Sgt. 1st Class Zach Sheely.
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As the combat reserve of the Army and Air Force, the National Guard will compete, and when necessary, fight and win across all domains to defend America, ensure our national interests abroad and protect our communities. Video by Jay Martinez, National Guard Bureau.
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U.S. Air National Guard Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System-equipped C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 115th Airlift Squadron and U.S. Air Force Reserve C-130 Hercules aircraft assigned to the 302nd Airlift Wing, participate in aerial wildfire suppression training with the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection in the mountains of the Angeles Forest above Santa Clarita, California, May 12, 2023.Video by Master Sgt. Nicholas Carzis.
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Pfc. Max Walls, military police officer, 324th Military Police Company, 437th Military Police Battalion, 73rd Troop Command, competes in the 2023 Region IV Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center, Newton Falls, Ohio, May 3-7, 2023. Walls graduated from Army Air Assault School days before the BWC.Video by Sgt. Thomas Moeger.
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The Mississippi Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 204th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, traveled to the Philippines to provide short-range air defense assets at Exercise Balikatan 23 from April 18-26. Balikatan 23 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. Video by Sgt. 1st Class Whitney Hughes.
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Package highlighting the impact of the Air National Guard and how it operationalizes the NDS - National Defense Strategy. Video by Master Sgt. Thomas Sobczyk.
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The Nevada Air National Guard's 152nd Airlift Wing and Wyoming Air National Guard's 153rd Airlift Wing recently completed their annual weeklong Modular Airborne Firefighting System, or MAFFS, certification training at the Channel Islands Air National Guard Station, California. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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The 152nd Airlift Wing and 153rd Airlift Wing from the Nevada and Wyoming Air National Guard, respectively, complete Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System certification training alongside the U.S. Forest Service, Channel Islands Air National Guard Station, April 16, 2023. Video by Master Sgt. Garrett Wake.
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The Texas Air National Guard's 149th Fighter Wing gunfighters deployed to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona to test unit readiness during Operation Coronet Cactus. Video by Airman 1st Class Derek Gutierrez.
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Jeni Carney-Green recalls the day she was notified of her husband’s death Aug. 27, 2007. Master Sgt. Scott Carney, of Ankeny, Iowa, was killed in a motor vehicle accident while serving in Herat, Afghanistan, under the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. The loss of our service members extends beyond the battlefield and their service to their country. They leave behind grieving wives and husbands who become members of an exclusive community no one asks to join. Gold Star Spouse Day is a day to recognize the spouses of those who have died serving their country. By Sgt. Rachel I. White.
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Since 1986, the Department of Defense has observed April as the Month of the Military Child, underscoring the important role military children play in the armed forces community. This month and always, the National Guard recognizes and applauds these young men and women. Their strength and resilience in supporting their parents’ service to our nation is essential to our success and that of the DoD.Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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California National Guardsmen talk about their experience responding to California's recent floods. Video by David Loeffler.
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Members of the Guam National Guard’s State Partnership Program visit the Southern Luzon Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines, for a Leadership Development Subject Matter Expert Exchange in Lucena City, Philippines Mar. 10, 2023. The National Guard’s State Partnership program, which turns 30 this summer, strengthens ties with our allies by building both military and whole-of-society relationships. Video by Mark Scott.
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B-roll of an LC-130 Hercules assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing lands to tactically insert U.S. Army and Canadian soldiers on an ice Skiway on frozen oceanic arctic ice near Cornwallis island, Nunavut, Canada, March 15, 2023. Additional b-roll of U.S. and Canadian soldiers practicing tactical exercises. Video by Senior Master Sgt. Michael Davis.
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National Guard members from Connecticut, Utah, New Hampshire and Vermont are training in Valcartier, Quebec, before Guerrier Nordique ’23. This year’s exercise, which translates in English to “Norse Warrior,” is focused on combat capability and lethality in an arctic environment, with Canada’s northern territory temperatures staying below zero all day during the training period. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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California National Guard Soldiers support local first responders in rescue operations due to flooding in Monterey County, California, March 10, 2023. Cal Guard Soldiers supported 56 rescues near the Pajaro river. Video by California National Guard.
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The National Guard acknowledges the pioneering women, past and present, who are important contributors to the achievements of our armed forces. Women have served in the National Guard since the American Revolution. Over time, new doors have opened to women in the Department of Defense in previously closed military specialties, combat positions, leadership roles and command positions. With each new opportunity, women have emerged as military leaders in combat operations and assumed vital command positions. Today, there are more than 86,000 women serving in the National Guard. On International Women's Day, we honor and celebrate the strength and accomplishments of women around the world. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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Approximately 50 members of the Maine and Vermont National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 172 Infantry Division (Mountain), joined more than 200 members of the armed forces of Montenegro, Austria, Italy and Macedonia for Common Challenge 2023. For two weeks in January and February, the nations came together to train in the harsh winter conditions in the mountains of Montenegro. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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U.S. Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Christina Fontaine, a doula with the Vermont Medical Detachment, decribes her experiences working in the maternity ward at the Regional Hospital in Thies, Senegal. Senegalese translator Ngordy Sow talks about the importance of the exchange program. Video by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Alvarez.
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The Minnesota National Guard and Norway signed an official agreement to make them members of the State Partnership program Feb. 15. This occurred the same month as the two militaries celebrated 50 years their annual bilateral military training event, the Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange. NOREX is the world's longest-running military exchange partnership between any two nations. Video by Sgt. 1st Class Whitney Hughes.
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We want to hear from your voice and the voice of your family to improve our National Guard. As a member of the National Guard we invite you and your family to share your feedback. By taking a short survey, you can help the CNGB better understand and focus on issues to improve our National Guard. Visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZDQK7SL. Submit your feedback by: 23 MAR 2023 Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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About 600 Army, Air Force and Marines' personnel participated in Northern Strike 23-1, the winter iteration of the semiannual exercise, across Northern Michigan’s National All-Domain Warfighting Center Jan. 20-29. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 107th Fighter Squadron at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, arrive at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center Jan. 24 to take part in Northern Strike 23-1. The winter iteration of the Northern Strike exercise serves enables units to train in conditions similar to those found above the Arctic Circle. Video by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Schumann.
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Army Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, and Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief Tony L. Whitehead hold a roundtable discussion for the news media. Courtesy Video.
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The Delaware National Guard held a deployment ceremony for more than 150 Soldiers Jan. 11 at the Delaware Army Aviation Facility in New Castle, allowing friends and family members to say farewell. The 160th Engineer Company Soldiers are deploying to Southwest Asia for one year in support of U.S. Central Command. Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.
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National Guard flight nurses are highly skilled combat medics trained to treat, stabilize, and provide inflight medical care to the critically injured or ill while being transported aboard air ambulances during peacetime and combat. U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio.