WHEREAS, The men and women of the Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company continue to serve the country as Guardians of American interests at home and abroad; and
     WHEREAS, These recognized leaders in state, regional, and national preparedness, who reside in Ephrata, Washington, and elsewhere across the state, volunteer their time and personal efforts to serve the needs of the people of Washington state; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company continues to be prepared to answer the state's call in response to floods, fires, civil disturbances, and all other natural or manmade emergencies and disasters; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company has provided additional security at our state's airports, at our international borders, and at numerous locations across the globe in protection of our state and nation in answer to the war on terrorism and response to the horrific terrorist attacks on our nation on September 11, 2001; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company continues its promoting of positive lifestyles and activities for Washington's youth through involvement and support in highly effective programs with school-aged children and community-based organizations; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company continues an active participation in the state's counterdrug efforts by providing soldiers, airmen, and specialized equipment in support of many local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies; and
     WHEREAS, Select members of the Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company are now called upon to serve in critical missions supporting the nation in the war on terrorism with dedication, valor, and courage, and at great personal risk and sacrifice;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives express its thanks and appreciation to the devoted families and dedicated employers of our Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company soldiers for their support without which the 1161st Transportation Company missions could not be successful; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives specifically and particularly recognize the value and dedication of a strong Washington Army National Guard's 1161st Transportation Company to the viability, economy, safety, security, and well-being of this state, both through the outstanding performance of its state emergency and disaster relief mission, and through the continued benefit to local communities by the presence of productively employed, drug-free, and well-equipped and trained Guard units and the readiness center/armories that house them; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the Commanding officer of the 1161st Transportation Company, The Adjutant General of the Washington National Guard, the Governor of the State of Washington, the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force, and the President of the United States.