Brian Babin: “I thank my good friend from Mississippi (Mr. Palazzo) for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize those who…”

“I thank my good friend from Mississippi (Mr. Palazzo) for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize those who have faithfully served and are serving in our National Guard units. Dating back to 1636, the Guard has a proud history and has shaped and defended our great Nation. In my home State of Texas, 199 years ago, Stephen F. Austin formed the Texas Militia, now known as the Texas Army National Guard, and 100 years later, the Texas Air National Guard was established. Since their inception, these courageous servicemembers have been first responders to many natural disasters; many in my own district where we routinely seem to have hurricanes. They have helped to maintain civil order, and they have deployed to the southern border to protect our sovereignty. But their service doesn't stop there. The Guard augments our Active- Duty military offering complete warfighting capability at only 30 percent of the cost. At a moment's notice, they respond to the call of our country. In southeast Texas, Mr. Speaker, you will find the 147th Attack Wing at Ellington Field where they fly the MQ-9 Reaper and are combat mission-capable and proven, ready to provide critical ISR and air-to- ground strike capability. Additionally, they have responded to the crisis at the border and played a vital role in storm preparation and recovery.…”