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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
National defense is a significant source of Utah's economic activity. With five major military installations in the state, including Hill Air Force Base, Dugway Proving Ground and Camp Williams, defense-related expenditures and payrolls circulate through the Utah economy, creating jobs and sustaining nearby communities.
Nationally, our military is one of the largest in the world. Last year the U.S. spent around $692 billion to fund our military forces. The military works to keep us safe from harm and helps with other problems that arise. These are just a few of the responsibilities of the Utah National Guard which has around 7,000 members statewide. Many Guard members are civilians who hold full-time jobs in addition to their military service.
A major part of this organization is tradition. It's not unusual to see several brothers serving at the same time or parents and their children. Sometimes you even see a father and son deploying in the same unit.
The Utah National Guard currently has 650 soldiers and airmen deployed around the globe, everywhere from Iraq and Afghanistan to the Horn of Africa or Qatar (cutter). Many of these guard members have been deployed multiple times in the last few years.
Closer to home, they respond to civil emergencies or natural disasters. They work to save lives, protect property and restore order. After a wildfire at Camp Williams blazed out of control last summer and threatened homes in Herriman, the Guard helped fight the fire and clean up after it was over. They've also been involved with identifying hazardous materials.
General Brian Tarbet, who's over the guard, has been the adjutant general for over 10 years now, serving under four governors. He has been very active in visiting troops overseas and watching out for their families here in Utah.
This week, Salt Lake's business community honored members of the Utah National Guard and other branches of the military at the Salt Lake Chamber Military Salute Banquet. These are outstanding citizens who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Utah National Guard 12953 S. Minuteman Dr. Draper, UT 84020 www.ut.ngb.army.mil
