Wilmington, Del. — Today, U.S. Representative John Carney (D-DE) received the Charles Dick Medal of Merit awarded by the National Guard Association (NGAUS) and the Delaware National Guard. Maj. General Francis Vavala, Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard, and Maj. General Gus Hargett, President of NGAUS, presented the award to Rep. Carney during a ceremony held at the Delaware National Guard Headquarters. Governor Markell, members of the Delaware National Guard, and Rep. Carney's family and staff were in attendance.

"The Delaware National Guard plays an integral part in our national security -- both at home and abroad," said Congressman Carney. "Since 9/11, 95% of Delaware’s National Guard has been deployed at one time or another. The burden our Guard has shouldered for our country and our state is profound. That's why we owe it to them to ensure they have what they need to complete their mission safely. I'd like to thank General Vavala and the National Guard Association for honoring me with this award, and I will continue to do everything I can to support the Guard moving forward."

Congressman Carney receives a challenge coin from Colonel Don Bevis (also pictured, left to right: General Hargett, Tracey Quillen Carney, and General Vavala)

“Congressman John Carney’s leadership and support contributed immeasurably to the success and achievement of the National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, Adjutant General, Delaware National Guard.  “He has always been a strong proponent of the Guard and recently sponsored legislation that supported extending the service life of the C-130H model – an issue critical to success in Delaware.”

The Charles Dick Medal of Merit was established in 1988 by NGAUS to recognize elected officials for their contributions to the National Guard. Congressman Carney received this award in response to his efforts supporting C-130 modifications, and establishing Air Force and Army Commissions, which have secured the future of National Guard missions. He has also promoted modernization, military construction, and policy formulation that supports both the Army and Air National Guard.

###

High quality photos can be provided upon request.