By Joseph Vigil, Chief of Public Affairs, New Mexico National Guard SANTA FE, N.M. – Maj. Gen. Ken Nava, the Adjutant General of New Mexico, the New Mexico National Guard Officer and Enlisted Associations and the New Mexico Military Museum Foundation hosted a pre-holiday reception for newly elected legislative officials and members of the Legislative Finance Committee Dec. 4, 2018, at the New Mexico Military Museum. The event provided newly elected state representatives from across New Mexico the opportunity to find out more about the New Mexico National Guard and our legacy of service. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and great conversation while learning about the New Mexico National Guard, our historical legacy of service and the New Mexico Military Museum. Nava told guests about the great things the Soldiers and Airmen of their New Mexico National Guard have accomplished and how the organization is working hard to grow both the Air and the Army National Guard here in New Mexico. “Thank you for taking the time to allow me to speak to you about your New Mexico National Guard,” Nava said to the representatives. “We are here for you and happy you were able to take time away from your busy schedules to join us here.” Nava also spoke with them about the organization’s legislative priorities prior to them going into the upcoming legislative session. “There are things that are important to our National Guard,” Nava said. “As a team, we are concerned about veterans issues, the New Mexico National Guard and this museum.” While leading personal tours through the museum, Nava said that it is no coincidence that the reception was hosted at the New Mexico Military Museum. “This building is a very special place,” Nava explained. “This was the World War II Induction Center where over 60,000 New Mexicans went through this building on their way to serve in World War II – including both of my grandfathers.” “We have a new foundation and we are expanding the scope of this museum,” Nava said. “What we envision here in this building is a 21st century, interactive museum that is a must-see destination for people coming to Santa Fe which will represent all New Mexicans who have proudly served in our military. Please spend some time in our museum and see what we have to offer.” Nava also said the New Mexico Military Museum is planning to take the educational component of this museum to our schools. “You can’t tell the history of the United States without including New Mexico,” Nava said. “We want to tell that story of our proud legacy and we want everyone to know that story. We want our children to know about the price of freedom and those who have served in our military.” The Adjutant General also thanked all the veterans for their service and for everything they have done and continue to do. He cited that their ‘will to serve’ never goes away, as many of them continue to serve in many different capacities, and he looks to them for their continued support.
