U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville met with members of the Alabama National Guard deployed in Washington, D.C. earlier in December as many of the troops concluded their mission and returned home to their families ahead of Christmas.

Tuberville shared a message following the visit, saying, “Honored to meet some of the brave men and women from the Alabama National Guard who are keeping our nation’s capital safe.”

The meeting came as Governor Kay Ivey continues to reinforce Alabama’s long-term commitment to the Guard, both through active deployments and new efforts to strengthen recruitment and readiness statewide, as the National Guard marked its annual birthday this month.

Earlier this month, Ivey signed Executive Order No. 740, reviving the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program to support the Alabama State Military Department, which oversees the Army and Air National Guard.

“We call on the men and women of the Alabama National Guard often, so to ensure Alabama’s force stands ready, we have to continue increasing our support for them,” Ivey said.

The order directs the department to expand incentives for soldiers, airmen, retirees and qualified employees who assist with recruitment efforts that result in new enlistments, while also rewarding Guard recruiting and retention personnel who exceed annual goals.

Ivey has also authorized multiple deployments of Alabama National Guard troops to support the Trump Administration’s “Making D.C. Safe and Beautiful” mission. The first wave of 191 soldiers was mobilized in late September and is expected to return home by Christmas, with additional Guard members scheduled for deployment in the coming months.

“The safety of the United States begins and ends in our Nation’s Capital, and I am proud of the Alabamians serving to support that mission. I thank the men and women of the Alabama National Guard, as well as their families.”

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.