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Governor Honors New Jersey National Guard

By G. Natasha Zoe, Veterans Information Officer, Photos by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA.

Gov. w/ 177th Soldiers

On July 24, Gov. James E. McGreevey joined more than 60 New Jersey Army and Air National Guardsmen for dinner. The Guardsmen were honored for their service in Homeland Security missions since Sept. 11.

Governor McGreevey with The Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth unveiled a proposed Homeland Security Medal during the dinner at the New Jersey National Guard Consolidated Headquarters at Fort Dix.

Gov. w/ SSG LacomiaGovernor McGreevey and Brig. Gen. Rieth, also presented the troops with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Certificate of Appreciation. The Certificate of Appreciation was embossed with a copy of the newly proposed New Jersey Homeland Security Medal.

The proposed medal is the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ recommendation as a tribute to the men and women of New Jersey who have provided security to our nation and New Jersey since the Sept. 11 attacks. The medal symbolizes the NJNG’s commitment to both federal and state missions.

NJ Homeland Defense MedalThe ribbon’s colors represent our national flag and the Guard’s dedication to the federal mission and the American people. The eagle is the vigilant sentry protecting New Jersey. The shield and three plows represent New Jersey’s agricultural heritage.