U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) has been selected to receive the National Guard Association of the United States' prestigious Harry S. Truman Award for Distinguished Service in Support of National Defense. Kentucky National Guard Adjutant General Edward Tonini nominated Rogers for the award. The public is invited to attend the presentation in a joint celebration of the "Color Casement Ceremony" at the Monticello National Guard Armory on Saturday, August 2, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. (EDT). The 623rd Field Artillery will encase the colors of Battery C, and unveil the unit's new colors of Battery B. 

"I am humbled and honored to receive the Truman award at the home of my enlistment, the National Guard armory in Monticello. It's equally exciting to share this momentous occasion in celebration of the unit's new designation as a Battery B," said Rogers. "I invite all of my friends and family in Wayne and surrounding counties to join us in commemorating decades of service and sacrifice of Monticello's bravest sons." 

In Major General Tonini's nomination, he noted "Congressman Rogers has distinguished himself throughout 57 years of service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Nation. His sustained contributions to the readiness and welfare of the men and women of the National Guard and the U.S. Armed Forces, and to the enhancement of the U.S. military initiatives worldwide, are of exceptional and far-reaching magnitude to the defense and security of the United States in a manner worthy of recognition at the national level." 

Tonini also recognized Rogers' selection as the 1960 Kentucky Enlisted National Guardsman of the Year for his performance with the unit during regular weekly drills and individual accomplishments.

The Truman Award is presented to civilian and military leaders of America. Past recipients include Members of Congress, Governors, Generals and past U.S. Presidents including Nixon, Reagan and George H.W. Bush. 

Congressman Rogers invites all veterans of Monticello Battery C and surrounding community members to join him in celebrating this milestone.

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visit http://halrogers.house.gov/ or follow Rogers on Twitter @RepHalRogers or on Facebook @CongressmanHalRogers.   

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