For the Soldiers, Airmen and Families of the Utah National Guard,

As we approach the holiday season, we reflect on another remarkable year for the Utah National Guard. For the second year in a row, the Utah National Guard has responded on a historic level to support our communities, state and nation. During this past year, approximately 400 service members from the Utah National Guard served in overseas contingency operations and over 900 service members responded to domestic emergency operations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest, and wildland firefighting. This past year's achievements are due to the efforts of each of you. Be proud of what you have accomplished.

We would also like to take a moment to acknowledge the 250 service members who are currently deployed in support of domestic and contingency operations. We are reminded of the precious time you and your families sacrifice for our state and our nation. We extend our sincere gratitude to you and your loved ones and will be thinking of you through this holiday season and until we are all reunited.

This holiday season, we ask that each of you take time to connect with and check in on your teammates and loved ones. For some, the holiday season may be filled with joy and happiness. For others, the holidays may bring anxiety, depression, and loneliness. No one knows exactly what those around us are going through, but all of us can try. Express to those around you how much you care for them, even if it is difficult. We are all in this journey together and together we are stronger. Remember, just saying "happy holidays," doesn't make it so. Ask questions and care about the answers. Be there for one another, and demonstrate the sincere goodness and compassion that is inherent in us all.

Lastly, we want to express how honored we are to serve with each of you. It is due to your commitment and dedication to serving the greater good, that the Utah National Guard's legacy endures. You continue to answer the call to be Always Ready and Always There. Thank you for all that you do. We wish you all a wonderful, healthy holiday season, and look forward to another promising new year.

Sincerely,

Spencer D. NIelsen
Command Sergeant Major
Senior Enlisted Advisor

Michael J. Turley
Major General
The Adjutant General
Commanding

For the Soldiers, Airmen and Families of the Utah National Guard,

As we approach the holiday season, we reflect on another remarkable year for the Utah National Guard. For the second year in a row, the Utah National Guard has responded on a historic level to support our communities, state and nation. During this past year, approximately 400 service members from the Utah National Guard served in overseas contingency operations and over 900 service members responded to domestic emergency operations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest, and wildland firefighting. This past year's achievements are due to the efforts of each of you. Be proud of what you have accomplished.

We would also like to take a moment to acknowledge the 250 service members who are currently deployed in support of domestic and contingency operations. We are reminded of the precious time you and your families sacrifice for our state and our nation. We extend our sincere gratitude to you and your loved ones and will be thinking of you through this holiday season and until we are all reunited.

This holiday season, we ask that each of you take time to connect with and check in on your teammates and loved ones. For some, the holiday season may be filled with joy and happiness. For others, the holidays may bring anxiety, depression, and loneliness. No one knows exactly what those around us are going through, but all of us can try. Express to those around you how much you care for them, even if it is difficult. We are all in this journey together and together we are stronger. Remember, just saying "happy holidays," doesn't make it so. Ask questions and care about the answers. Be there for one another, and demonstrate the sincere goodness and compassion that is inherent in us all.

Lastly, we want to express how honored we are to serve with each of you. It is due to your commitment and dedication to serving the greater good, that the Utah National Guard's legacy endures. You continue to answer the call to be Always Ready and Always There. Thank you for all that you do. We wish you all a wonderful, healthy holiday season, and look forward to another promising new year.

Sincerely,

Spencer D. NIelsen
Command Sergeant Major
Senior Enlisted Advisor

Michael J. Turley
Major General
The Adjutant General
Commanding