Story and photo by Spc. Cesar Salazar Jr., 200th Public Affairs Detachment
SANTA FE, N.M. – Lt. Gov. Howie Morales and New Mexico Sen. David Gallegos visited with New Mexico Army National Guard Soldiers at the state capitol here Mar. 17.
New Mexico, like many other states, called on the National Guard to enhance security at the capitol after the events of Jan. 6 in Washington, D.C.
“It was a high-profile mission that went off without a hitch,” said Maj. Christopher Silva, executive officer for the 515th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion and officer-in-charge of the mission.
“It was a great experience to mentor these young troops.”
Morales visited the Guard members to express his gratitude for their continued support of New Mexicans and for safeguarding the capitol.
Gallegos also stopped by to thank Guard members for their support and presented some of them with a pin for their hard work and dedication.
“I just wanted to thank you all for everything you guys do,” said Gallegos. “It’s incredible to have you guys here at the capitol. We support you guys in everything you do.”
Spc. Anthony Zambrano, a horizontal construction engineer with the 920th Engineer Company, received a pin from Gallegos. Zambrano has been on the mission for more than a month.
“It was nice to work with the state police and learn new things,” said Zambrano. “I’m grateful that we were put on this mission.”
After the visit, the Soldiers quickly returned to duty and staying prepared for potential taskings.