[ST. PAUL, MN] – This week, Governor Tim Walz traveled to Kuwait to visit members of the Minnesota National Guard’s 347th Regional Support Group (RSG) and members of the RSG’s 147th Human Resources Company (HRC) serving abroad this holiday season. Governor Walz was joined by the Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke and the Guard’s Senior Enlisted Advisor, Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Whitehead.

“It was my honor to spend time with the service members serving our country in Kuwait,” said Governor Walz. “While many Minnesotans will gather with family and friends this holiday season, there are many others who have chosen to sacrifice time with their loved ones to protect us. As a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, I know what it’s like to be away from home and family. Thank you to the brave men and women at home and abroad who fight to defend our safety and freedom every day.”

"I am thankful to have had an opportunity to visit our Minnesota National Guard citizen-Soldiers from the 347th Regional Support Group and the 147th Human Resources Company who are currently serving in the Middle East," said Manke. "I am happy to report their performance should make all Minnesotans proud. Additionally, I would like to thank their families and employers for their sacrifices and continued support they provide their service members. I ask Minnesotans to keep them in their thoughts during this holiday season."

In April, the Brooklyn Park-based 347th RSG deployed more than 80 Soldiers to various locations across the Middle East, including Kuwait, to provide base operations support, manage facilities, administrative and logistical support to Soldier services, and ensure the security of personnel and facilities on the base.

In September, approximately 25 Soldiers from the 147th HRC deployed to the Middle East to support missions, which enable successful deployment and redeployment of units throughout the area.

As a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, Governor Walz is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of service members and making significant investments on behalf of Minnesota’s veterans. In May, Governor Walz signed the veterans omnibus bill, SF4233. This law provides service bonuses to post-9/11 era veterans and Gold Star families, and increases investments in reenlistment bonuses for the Minnesota National Guard. Governor Walz also signed HF3379, which expands eligibility for reenlistment bonuses Minnesota Guard members.