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The military is one of the most important economic and civic institutions in Laramie County. Cheyenne is home to the 20th Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing. It is also the home of the WY Military Department’s Joint Force Headquarters and the headquarters of the Wyoming Army and Air National Guard. These organizations support thousands of jobs, strengthen our local economy, and play a critical role in our national security.
As a former Adjutant General of Wyoming, I understand what it takes to keep our military forces ready. We must ensure our units have the equipment, personnel, training, and resources they need to accomplish their missions. Just as importantly, we must prioritize each member's individual well-being and that of their families. That well-being includes items such as health care, spousal employment, and end-of-military-career transition assistance, but there are many more.
While serving as the Adjutant General, I worked on over 50 pieces of Legislation to improve the readiness of our forces and the lives of our service members and their families (both Active and Reserve). I intend to bring that knowledge and experience to bear as a State Legislature and continue to work those issues from the other side of the dais.
The Wyoming Military Department is also responsible for assisting all Veterans who call Wyoming home and operating the Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery, the hallowed ground which serves as the final resting place for many. I see these as essential elements of our Military team and will work hard to support them. It is also important to me to continue to ensure all members of the military are treated with dignity and respect and that we continue our focus on mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
Meeting these challenges will require a comprehensive and multifaceted approach, one I look forward to participating in with my fellow Legislators and with our military partners.
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