934 AW collaborates with Sheriff’s Office and Guard to support deployed troops

  • Published
  • By Capt. William-Joseph Mojica
  • 934th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL AIR RESERVE STATION, Minn.- --  The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office hosted a program honoring personnel who are veterans of the military at the Public Safety Facility in Minneapolis. 

With November being Military Appreciation Month at the Sheriff's office, this Holiday Gathering was held to thank all of the military veterans of the agency in addition to those who continue to serve in the military. 

"Several people in this agency wear two uniforms, they wear a Sheriff's Office uniform, and they also serve their country as a member of the Minnesota National Guard or Reserve," said Hennepin County Sheriff, Richard Stanek.  "Their military experience is a major asset to this agency."

With more than 100 military veterans currently employed with the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office, Stanek also wanted to acknowledge the family members of those individuals.

"I think it's important to recognize every loved one who stands with our service members," Stanek said.  "Thank you!"

The guest speaker for the event was Maj. Gen. Richard Nash, the Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard.

"It's not often when I stand in front of a group of civilians that I start my remarks off by saying thank you for your service," said Nash.  "On behalf of the nearly 14,000 Soldiers and Airmen I want to express our sincere appreciation for the professionalism and hard work conducted by all Sheriff's, Deputy's and county staff throughout the entire state," he said.

Following the formal portion of the event, those who attended the Holiday Gathering then gift wrapped care packages to send to deployed service members who serve in the National Guard or Reserve.

"This is a difficult time of year for deployed personnel to be away from friends and family," said Stanek.  "The care packages are full of donated gifts that will remind our personnel that we appreciate their sacrifice and service."

More than 25 care packages were assembled for service members who are deployed overseas and unable to spend the holidays with their families this year.