A HOUSE RESOLUTION supporting the men and women of the national guard.
Whereas, the National Guard is the oldest component of the United States' Armed Forces; and
Whereas, each state, territory, and the District of Columbia have a National Guard; and
Whereas, the National Guard's dual mission includes assisting states with local and statewide emergencies and defending our national interests; and
Whereas, many North Carolinians serve in Air and Army units of the National Guard; and
Whereas, even in times of peace, the citizen soldiers and airmen of the National Guard are engaged in operations around the State, the nation, and the world throughout the year in addition to the training they undertake each month and in the summers; and
Whereas, the nation's defense relies more heavily now than ever on the dedication and professionalism of these men and women as the active‑duty forces have been reduced in size; and
Whereas, as the war on terrorism intensifies, these courageous men and women are being called to full‑time duty, and therefore must leave their careers and families behind to carry out their mission in defending the freedoms we hold dear; and
Whereas, the House of Representatives wishes to express its support to the many men and women in the North Carolina National Guard; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
SECTION 1.  The House of Representatives expresses its support for the men and women serving in the North Carolina National Guard.
SECTION 2.  The Principal Clerk shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the North Carolina headquarters of the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.