Gov. Gregoire meets with citizen soldiers of 81st Brigade in Everett and Auburn

For Immediate Release: August 19, 2008

AUBURN � Gov. Chris Gregoire today met with thousands of citizen soldiers of the 81st Brigade at ceremonies in Everett and Auburn. The brigade is readying for deployment to support Operation Iraqi Freedom.

�I am touched and honored by the courage and commitment these men and women display as they prepare to deploy for Iraq,� stated Gregoire. �There is no doubt all Washingtonians must continue their steadfast support of our troops. These exemplary citizen soldiers serve as a role model to all of us and deserve our recognition.�

Under Department of Defense policy, the 81st is scheduled to be on federal active duty for 12 months. Its focus will be on convoy security and force protection operations.

�I thank the soldiers for fulfilling their pledge to serve Washington and their country and I ask all those who remain behind to support the soldiers� families, friends and loved ones during their mission,� added Maj. Gen. Timothy Lowenberg, the state�s adjutant general.

Gregoire and Lowenberg sent a letter to all members of the brigade and their families thanking them for their �personal sacrifice, courage and commitment in the service of our country.� The letter also made soldiers and their families aware of funding and programs put in place the last few years to assist veterans and their families with finances, health care and other problems.

Gregoire reminded Washingtonians that the soldiers of the Washington National Guard are our friends, neighbors and co-workers, and deserve our utmost support.

The 81st is headquartered in Seattle, but is comprised of units from around the state and a battalion from the California Army National Guard. Approximately 2,400 citizen solders from Washington and about 900 from California make up the force. The 81st also served in Iraq from March 2004 to March 2005.