Dear Guardsmen,

On behalf of the citizens of New Jersey let me first say thank you for your service and the sacrifices you've made throughout the course of your duty to protect us here at home.

My most important job is keeping the citizens of this state out of harm's way, and that would not be possible without the help of Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen like you. Whether our people need to be protected from terrorism, natural disaster or civil unrest the National Guard's preparedness to defend this state is second to none.

At times in order to protect our home we must face challenges that are far from home. Since September 11, 2001, more than 6,000 New Jersey Army and Air National Guard members have been deployed in the Global War on Terror. Many of you are in Iraq and Afghanistan right now, and some of you are mobilizing for deployment. As you leave our state's borders on your missions know that at home the state and the Guard will continue to meet the needs of your family and your civilian employer.

Additionally, we'll continue to work with Washington to ensure that the Guard is properly funded and that you are equipped to successfully complete your assigned mission.

Major General Rieth has assured me that you are some of the most prepared Guard members in the nation. He has faith in you, I have faith in you and the people of New Jersey have faith in you. You've made us all very proud. May God bless and protect you and our nation.

Sincerely,
Governor Jon S. Corzine