Whitmer Thanks Deployed Guard Members

Honoring Michigan Service Members Spending the Holiday Abroad

As families across Michigan gather around their Thanksgiving tables, Governor Gretchen Whitmer made a point to ensure that those unable to be home this year still felt connected. On Thanksgiving Eve, the governor personally called actively deployed members of the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) and Michigan Air National Guard (MIANG) to thank them for their sacrifice and wish them a happy holiday.

In her message to the troops, Governor Whitmer emphasized that Michigan’s service members embody the best of the state. “As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we must recognize the immense sacrifices they make, so we can feel safe and gather with our loved ones,” she said. She noted that hundreds of active-duty service members are currently separated from their families, some in remote and dangerous regions, all working to protect American freedoms.

A Message of Gratitude From State Leadership

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II echoed that gratitude, urging Michiganders to take a moment during the holiday to reflect on the service and dedication of those who stand guard far from home.

“This Thanksgiving, I encourage every Michigander to take a moment to give thanks for their courage, commitment, and selfless sacrifice,” he said. “Let’s keep Standing Tall for our active-duty service members and their families.”

Both leaders highlighted the central role the Michigan National Guard plays—whether responding to domestic challenges or representing the United States in missions across the globe.

Nearly 1,000 Michigan Troops Serving Far From Home

According to U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, more than 900 Michigan National Guard members are currently deployed overseas. Their missions include supporting the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) and protecting security interests across the Middle East.

Rogers underscored their commitment, especially during the holiday season. “Their dedication and selfless service during these challenging times deserve our deepest respect,” he said. He added that the state looks forward to welcoming each service member home safely.

On the Ground in Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan & Kosovo

Governor Whitmer spoke with Soldiers and Airmen deployed to Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan, and Kosovo. These men and women are supporting U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. European Command (EUCOM) missions that require advanced skill sets and steady leadership.

Michigan troops are currently performing a wide range of critical responsibilities, including:

• Medical support and care in operational environments
• Explosive ordnance identification and disposal
• Rotary-wing and fixed-wing logistics
• Aerial security operations

Their expertise is essential to mission success, and the governor’s calls were intended to remind them that Michigan is thinking of them, especially during the holidays.

Serving With Pride: Michigan Units Deployed Abroad

The Soldiers and Airmen Governor Whitmer contacted include members of the:

• 1171st Medical Company Area Support (MCAS) of the MIARNG – Ypsilanti
• 745th Explosive Ordnance Detachment (EOD) of the MIARNG – Grayling
• 3-238th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB) of the MIARNG – Grand Ledge
• 127th Wing Expeditionary Air Base of the MIANG – Selfridge ANGB, Harrison Township

Each unit plays a vital role in supporting U.S. operations overseas and represents Michigan with pride and professionalism.

As Michiganders celebrate Thanksgiving, state leaders are reminding everyone to take a moment to honor the men and women who cannot be home this year—and the families who support them.