MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Legislature held its annual Military Appreciation Day at the State House earlier this week.
Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills) on Tuesday presented a joint resolution passed by both chambers to Major General Sheryl Gordon, the adjutant general of the Alabama National Guard.
The resolution, sponsored by Waggoner, commends Alabama active duty service members, veterans and military families for their dedicated service and sacrifice. The measure also expresses endless gratitude to all men and women in uniform who have fought, and continue to fight, to preserve our freedom.
“Our servicemembers selflessly answer the call of duty to defend our independence and protect this great nation,” stated Waggoner. “Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding important American values is what keeps us strong, and we are indebted to them for their service.”
“I was honored to present Maj. Gen. Gordon with a token of appreciation from the legislature,” the dean of the Senate continued. “Thank you to all active duty members and veterans, and your families, for your service, sacrifice, and contribution to ensure both Alabama and the United States remain safe and prosperous.”
This comes after the legislature recently passed a package of priority bills aimed at further enhancing Alabama’s military friendliness. That effort, spearheaded by Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth (R-AL), was praised this week by the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce due to its positive effect on the Maxwell Air Force Base ecosystem.
“We are committed to pursuing a prosperous, equitable and enjoyable quality of life for all of our residents, including our military families,” commented Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed. “Their contribution to our city makes us stronger and safer, and we are pleased the Alabama Legislature supported our mission to welcome these service members even more warmly to Montgomery.”
Montgomery Chamber president and CEO Anna Buckalew added, “The passage of this legislation demonstrates the partnered support of the River Region and entire state for the military families that become our neighbors and play an essential part of our local economy.”
“Thank you to Gov. Ivey and Lt. Gov. Ainsworth, and our entire delegation, as well as our partners at the Military Stability Foundation, Air University, the Public K-12 Education Partnership, Mayor Steven L. Reed, County Commission Chairman Elton Dean and the Montgomery Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ann Roy Moore for their leadership on this issue,” she concluded.
Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
