Governor declares July 30 as Alaska National Guard Day

On Tuesday, July 30, Governor Mike Dunleavy issued a proclamation marking the day as Alaska National Guard Day, acknowledging that since before World War II, the Alaska National Guard has acted as a first line of defense for the United States.

The Alaska National Guard (ANG) stands at the ready to serve the country when called by federal service, and ANG members stand ready to serve their fellow Alaskans for any and all emergencies, including natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and fires.

Before statehood, the ANK was known as the Alaska Territorial Guard, and helped defend not only Alaska, but the country during World War II, and have since mobilized and deployed troops to Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror, along with other deployments around the world.

Additionally, the Guardsmen and women provide support to federal missions, protect the lives and property of fellow Alaskans and Americans, preserve public safety, support civil authorities, undertake search and rescue operations, and oppose illegal drug trafficking.

“We recognize and thank these courageous men and women for their commitment to serving the public interest…I encourage all Alaskans to honor the sacrifices and service of past and present members of the Alaska National Guard.”