Today, Congressman Tim Holden was inducted as part of the 2009 Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Hall of Fame. Congressman Holden's election to the Hall of Fame recognizes his contributions to the Department and to the Pennsylvania National Guard. This occasion recognizes his achievements, but also the honor and prestige he has brought upon the Department, the Pennsylvania National Guard and its members. Election to the Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed by the Department.

"It truly is an honor and a privilege to be inducted into the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Hall of Fame. The greatest responsibility a Congressman has is to support the brave men and women of our Armed Forces. So to be recognized for supporting them is truly humbling," stated Holden. As home to the largest and most deployed National Guard, Holden went on to say, "Pennsylvania's citizen soldiers are the best of the best. Whether combating the enemy in Iraq or Afghanistan or saving someone's life caught in a flood, they always rise above and beyond the call of duty. To represent Fort Indiantown Gap and the so many men and women who wear the PA Guard's uniform truly is an honor."

Holden ended by saying, "I want to thank General Wright, congratulate Colonel Dennis Guise on his induction, and thank the heroic men and women of the PA National Guard for all that they do to keep us safe."

###