Veterans Day message from the Adjutant General of Wisconsin

Madison, WI --
As our communities and nation begin planning the many holidays during this time of year, I believe one of the most important days we can commemorate is Veterans Day and the sacrifices our men and women have made to earn the prestigious name "veteran." Our veterans are men and women, sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, black and white. We need each and every one of them to keep our nation safe.

Formerly known as Armistice Day, in commemoration of the end of World War I, Veterans Day is recognized at the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month. On this Nov. 11, I ask that you take a few moments to honor those who have served and are serving this wonderful state and nation. I continue to be amazed at the sacrifice and perseverance of our 10,000 Soldiers and Airmen.

In addition, I join Wisconsin citizens in keeping everyone involved in the recent tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas in our thoughts and prayers. While there were not any Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers or Airmen involved in the terrible events of Nov. 5, we grieve with the families of the fallen. I know that the Army's strength and resilience will overcome this tragedy, and that lessons learned from this event will be applied as our nation moves forward. Our mission to protect this nation endures, and we continue to carry out that mission in the active, Reserve and National Guard components.

The Wisconsin National Guard continues to be an operational force with our presence around the world. The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Iraq, along with the 732nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion and the 115th Fighter Wing. The 951st "Sapper" Engineer Company and the Embedded Training Team in Afghanistan.

While we have more than 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen deployed, we have 60 percent of our Guard here at home to respond to state emergencies. The Wisconsin National Guard is truly Always Ready, Always There, and I am proud to be a part of such an extraordinary organization.

Deployed Wisconsin National Guard veterans share their views on Veterans Day


Sincerely,

Donald P. Dunbar
Brigadier General (WI)
Wisconsin National Guard
The Adjutant General