Missouri National Guard members continue to serve on border in Arizona

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson joined President Trump in speaking out in support of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including two rotations of Missouri National Guard Soldiers, who first responded to the mission shortly after the President's call in April.

Currently, four Missouri National Guard soldiers are serving on the southwest border, providing aerial surveillance from their UH-72 Lakota helicopter. Since arriving in Arizona earlier this summer, the crew has executed approximately 400 flight hours in support of the federal border security mission.

“Patrolling our borders has never been an easy role, with many difficult decisions to make; but I am proud of the service of these men and women,” said Governor Parson. “By patrolling our borders, we can take a proactive stand against human trafficking, violence, terrorism, and illegal immigration from spiraling out of control. Our National Guard soldiers have done a great service to their country in their critical support role and have represented Missouri very well.”

Though Governor Parson was adamant in the enforcement and control of our borders, he spoke proudly of the importance of immigrants and the impact they have had on our society. Governor Parson said, “This will always be a nation of immigrants. It is the one common trait we all share. Immigrants have and will continue to have an important role in Missouri and the United States. However, we must work together to help control the amount of illegal activity that passes through this country while giving legal immigrants a chance to succeed in this country. The American dream will never be lost.”