Service members and Civilians of the Alaska National Guard attended a town hall June 21, presented by the adjutant general of the AKNG, Maj. Gen. Laurie Hummel, where she discussed the current status, operations and future operations for the organization.
Hummel opened by welcoming those in attendance or watching online from other locations and wishing everyone a happy solstice.
A major benefit to conducing routine town halls is that it allows the force to stay informed on the big picture of what the Alaska National Guard is currently working on and has planned for the near and distant future directly from the organization’s leadership. Additionally, people are afforded the opportunity to ask questions or address matters for the adjutant general to personally respond to.
Topics discussed during the town hall included the budget of the Alaska National Guard and how it is being utlilized to meet the needs and demands of the organization, current missions being conducted and future operations for Alaska Guardsmen in different theaters around the world, changes to the many offices within the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and changes of key personnel on both the Air and Army sides of the Alaska National Guard.
“I wanted to talk about all of these organizations to say that together we are the DMVA,” added Hummel.
Hummel also took the opportunity to recognize nominees for the Denali Peak Performance Award for their commitment to excellence and impeccable work ethic. Each person recognized was nominated by their peers and leadership.
Changes to key personnel within the Alaska National Guard included those retiring, leaving the organization due to a new job out of state, or assuming new roles within the organization. Additionally, Hummel talked about incoming personnel through appointments into a key leadership role from within the AKNG and those transferring in from another state’s National Guard.
A major point addressed during the town hall was the importance of safety while enjoying the short Alaskan summer; not just for those who plan to camp and hike but also in and around town. Hummel expressed that it is necessary to take time to recharge while being mindful of the potential dangers associated with the Alaskan wildlife, and the need for safety near the many waterways throughout the state.
Additionally, Hummel stressed the importance of having a plan while recreating and not operating a motor vehicle or boat while under the influence of alcohol, which could result in legal repercussions or worse.
The questions and answers portion at the end of Hummel’s town hall allowed her to address additional matters ranging from her strategic priorities to running a report on the Alaska Code of Military Justice and measures being taken to ensure it is being enforced equally throughout the AKNG.
Hummel closed out the town hall by stating how proud she is of the tremendous work and professionalism of the service members and civilians of the Alaska National Guard.
“The work you do is recognized by the people throughout the State of Alaska,” added Hummel with regards to the Alaska National Guard’s reputation among citizens throughout Alaska.
Date Taken: | 06.26.2018 |
Date Posted: | 06.26.2018 20:28 |
Story ID: | 282395 |
Location: | JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, ALASKA, US |
Web Views: | 102 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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