Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee recently met with members of the Tennessee National Guard ahead of their deployment to the southern U.S. border, following a commitment made during a visit to Texas last month. Lee, along with other Republican governors, discussed border security during their visit to Texas in February and committed to sending troops to support efforts to improve border security in the Lone Star State.
On Saturday, March 2, Lee and his wife flew to Millington-Memphis Airport to greet the soldiers who had volunteered for the deployment. Maj. Gen. Warner Ross addressed the troops, noting that he had asked for 100 volunteers but was met with about 400 soldiers willing to serve on the mission. The Tennessee National Guard members at the Armory in Millington were the first wave of troops to be deployed for “Operation Lone Star,” with another wave expected to follow in the coming months.
During his address to the troops, Governor Lee emphasized the importance of their mission in addressing the crisis of human and drug trafficking at the southern border. He commended the soldiers for their service, acknowledging the sacrifices made by both the troops and their families. Lee highlighted the impact of the border crisis on the lives of 7 million Tennesseans and praised the volunteers who stepped up to support their country.
Lawmakers, including U.S. Rep. David Kustoff and several state representatives and senators, were in attendance at the event to show their support for the troops. Following the address, they mingled with the soldiers, expressing their gratitude for their service.
As the deployment of Tennessee National Guard troops to the southern border continues, Governor Lee and other state leaders are taking action to secure the border and address the challenges of rising crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. The commitment of the National Guard members to this mission is crucial in providing critical support to safeguard the nation’s borders.