James Hill: “our Reserves make up more than half of the Armed Services. Clearly, they are a key part of our national defense. As of…”

“our Reserves make up more than half of the Armed Services. Clearly, they are a key part of our national defense. As of today, more than 175,000 National Guardsmen and Reservists from all over our country have been called to active duty. Much has been demanded of our National Guardsmen and Reservists since September of 2001, and much more will surely be demanded of them as we move forward, facing new threats, new enemies, and new challenges. These men and women are involved in military operations ranging from peacekeeping and humanitarian relief to homeland defense and active combat. Every day they work side-by-side with those on active duty around the world protecting Americans at home and abroad. It is important to remember that these men and women, in answering their call to duty, have left behind spouses, children, parents, friends and jobs. Nearly every community in every State has been affected. One such community happens to be in my district, in Dubois County, Indiana. It is the folks of Jasper who know firsthand about the commitment of these young people to our country. Therefore, I am here on the floor today to commend the service and sacrifice of the men and women of Indiana's 1st Battalion and 152nd Infantry. These National Guardsmen, known as ``Predators,'' come from not only Jasper but from many other towns in southern Indiana. This battalion has a rich 150-year history.…”