Governor Locke Recognized for Outstanding Support of the Washington National Guard

Story & Photos by SGT Christopher Alexander - Posted Feb, 2005

 

 

In December, prior to leaving office, Governor Gary Locke received the prestigious Patrick Henry Award from the National Guard Association of the United States (NAGUS) and the Washington National Guard for his efforts in Homeland Security.

The Adjutant General, Timothy Lowenberg co-presented the Governor with the award on behalf of the Washington National Guard and the NAGUS, with Command Sergeant Major Mike Reynolds, along with a delegation of Air and Army National Guard soldiers and airmen. Command Sergeant Major Reynolds currently serves as the President of the National Guard Association of Washington.
Governor Locke (r) with Major General Lowenberg (l)

While presenting the award, Major General Lowenberg noted the Governors support of the Military Departments Homeland Security initiatives and his work within the National Governors Association in furtherance of state control of National Guard domestic security operations. The Governors Homeland Security initiatives were singled out as having a long-term positive impact on the readiness of the National Guard in all states, territories and the District of Columbia.

Governor Locke gave a brief speech after accepting the award where he thanked Washington National Guard members for their service in support of various state and federal missions ranging from fire fighting to the Global War on Terrorism. I am deeply touched and humbled by this award, Locke said. The men and women of our Armed Forces are the ones who should be honored. They are the ones who are sacrificing to protect our freedom. It is an honor for me to serve our National Guard troops as their commander in chief.

The Patrick Henry Award is designed to provide recognition to local officials and civic leaders, who in a position of great responsibility, distinguished themselves with outstanding and exceptional service to the readiness of the Armed Forces of the United States and the future of the Guard. One of the most important criteria for granting the award is how the Guard was affected by the individual and whether or not the results of the support remain beyond the individuals affiliation with the National Guard.
Representatives of the Washington Air and Army National Guard with Governor Locke

Governor Lockes efforts in Homeland Security, which began well before September 11th, 2001, meet and exceed the award criteria. Major General Lowenberg commended Governor Lockes creation of units like the Washington National Guards 10th Civil Support Team, which provides response to incidents involving the use or suspected use of Weapons of Mass Destruction.