Joint Holiday Greetings by

Opinion-Editorial - Joint Holiday Greetings by:

Governor John Hoeven and the First Lady of North Dakota Mikey Hoeven

The Adjutant General, North Dakota National Guard
Maj. Gen David Sprynczynatyk & his wife Mrs. Connie Sprynczynatyk


This is the greatest time of the year. The holiday season is marked by
bright colored lights, joy, good food, friends, family reunions, and time for
reflection. We Americans are able to celebrate this special season in any
way we choose; anywhere we choose; and with anyone we choose. In a world
whose history is filled with episodes of the strong imposing their will on
the weak, we in the United States are extremely fortunate to be able to
choose how to live our lives in the light of freedom. During Christmas, a
season of gifts, remember one of the greatest gifts of all - freedom.

This freedom is no accident. It was originally earned and fought for by our
Citizen-Soldiers who were later joined by full-time professional active duty
armed forces. Today, working together, our Citizen-Soldiers and airman, as
well as our active duty servicemen and women perform their duties all across
the globe, all in the interest of our national security. This service
usually comes at the price of separation from all things familiar: family
and friends and the comforts of home. Their courage and dedication continue
to keep us safe and extends freedom and peace to citizens of other lands. We
are truly grateful for their service to our country, and for the support and
sacrifice of their families.

As we gather together to celebrate this holiday season with our loved ones,
please pause and remember our brave men and women in uniform who contribute
so much to make our lives comfortable and secure. Please take a moment to
reach out to the families of all of our deployed Soldiers, Marines, Sailors,
Airmen and Coast Guardsmen. Please reflect on their service, and reach out
to those that have lost loved ones. Those that have paid the ultimate
sacrifice are especially missed this time of year. We appreciate their
sacrifice, honor their memories and always remember that their service and
sacrifice helps keep us free.

Long after the memories fade from this holiday season, the service of our
fighting men and women on behalf of our nation will live on and continue to
contribute to our liberty and our security. When they leave to serve, we
pray for their safe return; when they return, we proudly welcome them home as
we celebrate with them and their families.

First Lady Mikey and Connie join us in wishing all North Dakotans a very
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. From our families to yours, may the
peace, tranquility and goodwill of the season reach out to every home and to
every heart in the upcoming year. May the true spirit of Christmas and the
holiday season extend throughout the New Year.

Governor John Hoeven - Mikey Hoeven - Maj. Gen. Sprynczynatyk - Connie
Sprynczynatyk