Michigan Troops Receive Holiday Call From Governor Whitmer

A Holiday Call Across the Miles

On the eve of Christmas, while families across the country prepared for quiet mornings and full living rooms, Governor Gretchen Whitmer picked up the phone to reach Michiganders spending the holidays somewhere far from home. Her calls went not to state offices or local leaders, but to men and women in uniform—service members of the Michigan National Guard currently deployed across the globe.

For those answering the call, the moment carried weight. Deployed service members don’t get the familiar sounds of home during the holidays. There are no last-minute grocery runs or gift exchanges around the tree. Instead, there are missions to complete, shifts to cover, and responsibilities that don’t pause for the calendar.

Gratitude in a Season of Absence

In her conversations, Governor Whitmer expressed gratitude to those serving away from Michigan during one of the most family-centered times of the year. She acknowledged the sacrifices being made and urged residents back home to pause amid their celebrations and reflect on those who are not able to be with loved ones.

Her message was simple but deliberate: the freedoms and safety many Americans enjoy during the holidays are supported by people willing to spend that time in service to others. While many gather around tables and fireplaces, these service members continue their work with professionalism and resolve.

A Statewide Message of Thanks

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that hundreds of Michiganders are currently serving far from their communities. His message reinforced that their work does not go unnoticed and that the state stands behind them during the holiday season.

Together, the governor and lieutenant governor offered a unified message: Michigan remembers its service members not only in moments of crisis, but also during quiet, personal moments like Christmas—when absence is felt most strongly.

More Than 800 Serving Away From Home

According to Paul D. Rogers, more than 800 Michigan National Guard members are currently deployed, serving away from their families and communities. Their roles vary widely, but their shared commitment does not. From operational planning to logistics, transportation, communications, and security, these service members apply their skills wherever they are needed.

Some are supporting federal law enforcement missions at the Southwest Border. Others are stationed overseas, contributing to international security efforts and regional stability. Each assignment carries its own challenges, yet all require adaptability, discipline, and perseverance—especially during the holidays.

Missions Spanning the Globe

Governor Whitmer spoke directly with Airmen deployed to Germany in support of U.S. European Command, as well as Soldiers serving in Kuwait under U.S. Central Command. She also connected with those deployed to the Southwest Border as part of Joint Interagency Task Force West.

Though their locations differ, their missions share a common thread: applying expertise to complex, real-world challenges. Whether coordinating operations, managing logistics, ensuring secure communications, or providing on-the-ground security, these Michigan-based units are contributing to efforts that extend far beyond state lines.

The Units Carrying Michigan With Them

The service members Governor Whitmer spoke with represent communities across Michigan. They include the 217th Air Operations Group of the 110th Wing based in Battle Creek; Alpha Company of the 3-126 Infantry Battalion from Detroit; Bravo Company of the same battalion from Wyoming; and the 1430th Engineer Company from Traverse City.

Each unit carries not only its mission, but also the pride of hometowns spread across the state. When they deploy, they bring Michigan with them—its values, work ethic, and sense of responsibility.

Remembering Them This Christmas

As Christmas arrives, the governor’s message serves as a reminder that holiday traditions exist alongside sacrifice. While many Americans wake up to familiar comforts, others greet the day in uniform, thousands of miles from home.

Governor Whitmer encouraged Michiganders to acknowledge those sacrifices, to express gratitude, and to keep deployed service members in their thoughts and prayers. It is a small gesture, but one that recognizes the human cost of service—and the quiet strength of those willing to answer the call, even on Christmas.