2025 Annual Condition of the Guard: Progress, Sacrifice, and Partnerships
Good morning, everyone. I am honored to address you today and present the Annual Condition of the Guard on behalf of the Iowa National Guard. In 2025, we made significant progress and achieved meaningful milestones. We must also acknowledge the recent loss of two Iowa National Guard Soldiers in the Middle East and honor their sacrifice. The outpouring of support from the state of Iowa during this time of grief was truly remarkable. Our deployed service members continue to carry out critical missions, and their dedication is commendable. The Iowa National Guard plays a crucial role in our nation's defense, both at home and abroad, and our readiness is a testament to the commitment of our personnel and their families.
Our partnership with the Republic of Kosovo through the National Guard State Partnership Program is a shining example of cooperation and shared values. The training and exchanges we conduct with Kosovo Security Forces strengthen our capabilities and foster mutual understanding. The recent deployment of a Kosovo infantry company with our 2nd Brigade Combat Team showcased the success of this partnership. It is not just about military cooperation but also about building lasting relationships based on respect and peace.
I want to recognize some exceptional individuals within the Iowa National Guard who exemplify dedication and service. Their contributions, both in uniform and in their civilian lives, reflect the highest standards of professionalism and selflessness. Our success also depends on strong partnerships with employers who support our service members. Organizations like Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve play a vital role in ensuring that our Guardsmen can serve without compromising their civilian careers.
As we look ahead, the Iowa National Guard is undergoing a period of transformation and modernization to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing environment. Our focus is on people, technology, and agility to ensure that we remain a capable and resilient force. The modernization of our infrastructure and equipment is essential to supporting our new missions and securing our readiness for the future. Our priorities for 2026 include investing in our people, conducting realistic training, and modernizing our force structure to address emerging threats.
I want to express my gratitude to all those who support the Iowa National Guard and contribute to our readiness. Your unwavering support enables us to fulfill our missions and serve our state and nation with pride. The Iowa National Guard is strong and always ready to meet the challenges ahead. Thank you.