Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 30, 2003
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke’s Statement on the Mobilization of the Washington Army National Guard's 81st Armor Brigade

Gov. Gary Locke today issued the following statement on the mobilization order placing most of the Washington Army National Guard’s 81st Armor Brigade on federal active duty to begin training for a deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom:

“This is the largest deployment of Washington service personnel since World War II.

“We are proud of those who represent the National Guard, Washington state and the country. The servicemen and women who have answered their country’s call to duty are true heroes.

“Our thoughts and prayers will be with them and their families during this time. We want all of these brave men and women to return home safely.”

The Washington Army National Guard’s 81st Brigade is comprised of more than 4,000 soldiers, of which more than 3,200 are based in Washington state. The mobilization is effective Nov. 15, 2003.

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