CONCORD, N.H. –
To the Soldiers, Airmen, and Civilian Employees of the NHNG,
As our support of COVID-19 relief efforts tapers, I want you to know how much your actions over the past 100 days have been appreciated. Our governor, congressional delegation, town and city leaders, police and fire chiefs, first responders and fellow citizens have a newfound, and deeper, respect for the New Hampshire National Guard.
Last week, Gov. Sununu signed Emergency Order #53 that ensures NH guardsmen and first responders called to active service are eligible for worker’s compensation coverage. “These men and women have been there every step of the way during COVID-19, and we can’t thank them enough,” our commander-in-chief said.
The magnitude of your accomplishments, coupled with the long hours and daily risk of being exposed to the virus, is impossible to quantify. Equally immeasurable is the number of citizens you reassured directly or indirectly through your actions or mere presence. Suffice it to say, it’s in the tens of thousands.
At the same time, we have been tested and challenged as a force. The global outrage triggered by George Floyd’s death has caused all of us to reflect on what it means to be an American and a member of the U.S. military.
Discrimination is a national issue that impacts all facets of American life. However, in keeping with the founding principles of our Constitution - the very essence of what our oath of service obligates us to defend - we must ensure equitable treatment for every soldier and airman in our formation. Treating each other with dignity and respect is the foundation of our culture.
The New Hampshire National Guard is the sum of what each of us brings to work when we don our nation’s uniform. We are not perfect, but as your adjutant general I take great comfort in knowing that we are always striving to do the right thing for the right reasons. And we hold accountable those who break that oath.
Looking back at the enormity of what we have been able to accomplish throughout the pandemic and two weeks of mostly peaceful demonstrations across the state, I can truly say that we have become a better version of ourselves. It continues to be my honor to serve for you and beside you.
Sincerely,
Major General David Mikolaities
Adjutant General
New Hampshire National Guard