Montana National Guard Implements 'Montana Guardian' under Direction of Governor Martz

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2001
Contact: Mary Schwarz
406-444-5523

Helena, Mont. - In continuing its readiness posture in the event of terrorist activity in the state, Montana National Guard officials here have announced operations planning for "Montana Guardian."

The planning calls for National Guard reaction team's rapid deployment to any location in the state in response to requests by law enforcement officials and the direction of Governor Judy Martz.

"Any request for National Guard support will follow existing procedures, and must be channeled through the state division of Disaster and Emergency Services," said Governor Martz.

"Montana Guardian" represents an extension of the Guard's current homeland defense mission of airport security, and its implementation will be based upon requests by local or state law enforcement agencies.

"The citizens of Montana can be assured that the Guard is trained and ready for any mission assigned," said Maj. Gen. John E. Prendergast, the Montana National Guard's commander.

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