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For Immediate Release: March 24, 2008

Contact: Kimberly Allen, (202) 226-8364; (202) 420-1524 [cell]

Congressman Rothman Thanks Members of the National Guard Associations of New Jersey, represented by First Lieutenant Frank Brogna, for their Service

(Washington, DC)—During their meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2008, Congressman Steve Rothman (D-NJ) thanked First Lieutenant Frank Brogna for his service on behalf of the United States and expressed his gratitude for the selflessness of the thousands of members of the National Guard Association of New Jersey (NGA-NJ) and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of New Jersey (EANG-NJ).

1LT Brogna, who was in D.C. representing the NGA and EANG of New Jersey, will deploy to Iraq in the coming months with the New Jersey Army National Guard in the State's largest single deployment since World War II. He joins over 3,000 National Guard soldiers and their families who will endure personal sacrifice while serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

1LT Brogna visited the Congressman's office to discuss important legislation that Congressman Rothman has co-sponsored, H.R.2689, a Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) bill introduced by Rep. Ciro Rodriguez. The measure would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to create a program that provides readjustment and mental health services to veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, with an emphasis on veterans who served while in the National Guard and reserves.

Soon, the New Jersey Army National Guard will be deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Yet, the experiences of National Guard members and Reservists differ from those of Active Duty military personnel, and transitioning from a combat environment back to civilian life presents unique challenges, according to the New Jersey National Guard Associations.

In addition to H.R.2689, 1LT Brogna discussed retirement provisions for National Guard and Reserves members, the importance of creating a 21st Century Montgomery G.I. Bill, and their mutual opposition to proposed TRICARE fee increases. At the conclusion of their meeting, 1LT Brogna, on behalf of his organizations, thanked Rep. Rothman for his tireless support of the New Jersey National Guard.

The National Guard Associations of the United States were created for the purpose of providing united National Guard representation before Congress. They are the voice not only for those Soldiers and Airmen serving on the home front, but also those fighting for freedom overseas.

For more information about the New Jersey National Guard Associations please visit http://www.eang-nj.org/ . To read more about the National Associations, visit www.memberconnections.com/eangus/ and www.ngaus.org .

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