WHEREAS, Nearly eighty-six hundred men and women of the Washington National Guard 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 nearly every legislative district throughout Washington, volunteer their time and put personal lives aside when the needs of the people of Washington state arise; and
     WHEREAS, The Guard always answers the state's call in response to all emergency efforts and to protect lives and property; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington Army and Air National Guard continue to provide critical mission support to Operation Enduring Freedom around the world to include Afghanistan, Kuwait, the Philippines, and the Horn of Africa, as well as supporting Federal mission requirements throughout the continental United States; and
     WHEREAS, The Guard continues to train and prepare for both natural disasters and threats to our national security; and
     WHEREAS, The Guard continues to promote positive lifestyles and activities for Washington's youth through involvement in and support of highly effective drug prevention programs with school-aged children and community-based organizations and the continued success and ongoing work of the invaluable Washington Youth Academy; and
     WHEREAS, The Guard continues to actively participate in the state's counterdrug efforts by providing soldiers, airmen, and specialized equipment to over thirty-four local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and community-based and other organizations; and
     WHEREAS, The Guard adds value to communities by opening its Readiness Centers for public and other community and youth activities use. The Guard continues to build upon these Readiness Centers and Armories throughout the state to enhance education, add to quality of life, and increase economic vitality;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate express its thanks and appreciation to the devoted families and dedicated employers of our Washington National Guard soldiers and airmen for their support, without whom the Guard's missions could not be successful; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the value and dedication of a strong Washington National Guard 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, well-equipped, and trained Guard units and the readiness centers and armories that house them; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to The Adjutant General of the Washington National Guard, the Governor of the State of Washington, the Secretaries of the United States Army and Air Force, and the President of the United States.