Guard Activation Remarks

This afternoon, I am activating more than 400 members of the Texas National Guard to allow their deployment across the state to provide additional security at Texas airports.

As part of that duty, these troops will be assigned to 27 airports across Texas.  Currently, local Guard commanders are selecting their best and brightest for this special assignment. 

The Guard personnel who will be deployed to Texas airports are members of the 49th Armored Division – highly trained, experienced troops from the same division that served in Bosnia.

FAA training of these troops will begin next week, and I expect them to be on the job and in position as soon as that training in completed. 

These Texas Guard troops are expected to be in place for up to six months, or until the federal government can enact permanent, increased security at all airports.

The Guard is being asked to support existing airport security by providing a highly visible, armed presence at security checkpoints.  The sight of the National Guard at Texas airports should be seen as a sign that every security precaution is being taken to assure the safety of air travelers.

At this time, I urge Texas employers to show their support for this country and its security needs.  Texas employers supported the Guard when called to duty in Desert Storm.  We need to do the same  with duty being asked on our own shores.

If you’ll excuse me, I must take part in a conference call regarding National Guard call-up.  Let me turn it over to Adjutant General Daniel James to help answer any questions.