Oct. 19, marked the 50th anniversary of the Virgin Islands National Guard; to honor this important milestone, Congresswoman Plaskett introduced a resolution celebrating the service and sacrifice of all those who have served our territory.
“Since Oct. 19, 1973, the National Guard has been instrumental in the U.S. Virgin Islands by assisting with response to natural disasters, national defense, and most recently providing much-needed support as we battled a global pandemic,” said Congresswoman Plaskett, “Local units of the National Guard are in every state and territory, but we know in the Virgin Islands we ask for so much more from our men and women in uniform, and they never fail to answer the call.”
Beresford Edwards, Virgin Islands veteran and president of the National Guard Association said, “The Virgin Islands National Guard has protected the home front throughout its 50-year history. From Hurricanes David and Frederick to Hugo, to Marilyn, to Irma and Maria, the Virgin Islands National Guard assured the people of the Virgin Islands that they were not alone. When they were down, you helped lift them. You gave hope to the hopeless. You comfort the comfortless! Always Ready, Always There.”
Virgin Islands National Guard Adjutant General Kodjo Knox-Limbacker saidd, “We are truly honored by this milestone and recognition of our 50 years journey of service to our nation and our territory. The guardians of the eastern front will continue to deploy in support of warfighting requirements globally, while providing civil support assistance in our territory locally.”
Congresswoman Plaskett also said, “The founders of our territory’s guard were veterans of foreign wars and former members of the United States Army Reserve who believed that the territory of the Virgin Islands was vulnerable and in a general state of unreadiness following the incorporation of the Virgin Islands as a territory of the United States. Their ingenuity and bravery paved the way for the excellence and support that we receive through our VING members today. It is a privilege to recognize and pay homage to the service men and women of the VI National Guard and to the institution itself on its 50th anniversary.”
The resolution can be found here.
