This week, as Americans everywhere gather to recount the blessings of freedom and prosperity we enjoy as citizens of the greatest country on earth, I want to extend my deepest thanks to you, the men and women of the Iowa National Guard, and your families.
This is a very special Thanksgiving for the Iowa National Guard. For the first time in 12 years, the Iowa National Guard does not have units currently deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. We do have individual deployers in the Central Command Theater and one unit preparing at their mobilization station for deployment to Kosovo. It is a time to pause, to reflect, and to remember those who have sacrificed so much to ensure liberty for all of us.
As we county our blessings and give thanks, I want each and every one of you to know how grateful I am for your service to our state and nation. Each of you — soldiers, airmen, civilian personnel and family members — is an integral part of the Iowa National Guard. The success we achieve as an organization comes from the collective accomplishments of each of you. As an organization, we are truly blessed with outstanding individuals committed to serving and sacrificing for the benefit of the common good.
On behalf of my family and the Iowa National Guard leadership team, we thank you for your service and dedication to our state and nation, and wish you a safe and warm Thanksgiving holiday.
God bless our military members and their families, and God bless the United States of America.