By Governor Earl Ray Tomblin
As the holiday season quickly approaches, many of us across the country and throughout the Mountain State shift our thoughts to the traditions we will share in the coming weeks – cherished moments with family, friends and those we love most. Whether catching up with family and friends over a home-cooked meal or stopping by for a quick visit, many of us will have the opportunity to gather together with family this holiday season. Many West Virginia families will miss out on these cherished moments, however, because of the military service of their loved ones.
This month, I’m proud to join governors across the country to honor and recognize the continued sacrifices made by our nation’s military families by proclaiming November “Military Family Appreciation Month.” The First Lady and I have witnessed firsthand the dedication, courage and sacrifice of our military men and women – and their families. Whether serving half way around the globe or here at home, it is the families of our military members who love and support them through deployments, reassignments and moves across state lines. This annual celebration marks the perfect opportunity to recognize our military families, their commitment and the sacrifices they make every day.
With the highest per capita percentage of residents in the military, we all know someone – a mother, father, brother, sister or friend – who has served or is serving. This holiday season, I encourage all West Virginians to take time to thank those who have given so much to ensure our safety and freedoms. Regardless of the branch in which they serve, our military members continually give of themselves for the greater good of our state and our country, as their families patiently wait at home for their return.
During my time as governor, Joanne and I have made it a top priority to work hand-in-hand with the West Virginia National Guard as advocates for our state’s military and their families. In April, following recommendations from my Commission on Military Spousal Licensure and with the help of the First Lady and Amy Hoyer, wife of Adjutant General James Hoyer, I signed House Bill 4151. The bill provides military spouses with professional licensure options so they are able to begin working in West Virginia within a month of applying for a professional license or certification – easing one of the greatest burdens often faced by military spouses when relocating to the Mountain State.
Each holiday season, Joanne and I are honored to pay tribute to these men and women and their families with a special recognition tree located in the Governor’s Reception Room at the State Capitol Complex. The military recognition tree celebrates our service men and women, veterans and Gold Star Families, and has become an important part of our family’s holiday tradition. This celebration gives us the opportunity to showcase the brave men and women who serve our country, honor their selfless service and show support for their families.
West Virginia shines brightest when we open our hearts to help our neighbors. This holiday season, as you spend time with loved ones and give thanks for all of your blessings, I encourage you to share those blessings with others, especially the military families in your community and across the Mountain State.
To submit a photo for the holiday recognition trees, send a copy of the photo, along with a submission form and tag, to West Virginia Governor’s Mansion, ATTN: Tina Amburgey, 1716 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston WV 25305. All photos must be received by November 14. Submitted photos will not be returned. Photo submission forms can be downloaded here.
