Gov. Walz on Monday discusses his recent trip to Kuwait, where he visited with members of the Minnesota National Guard who've been deployed there much of this year.
Details of the trip weren't revealed until Sunday, after the return of the governor, who was in the National Guard for 24 years and rose to the rank of master sergeant.
Governor Walz in Kuwait meeting with Minnesota guard membersOffice of the governor
“It was my honor to spend time with the service members serving our country in Kuwait,” said Governor Walzm according to a news release. “While many Minnesotans will gather with family and friends this holiday season, there are many others who have chosen to sacrifice time with their loved ones to protect us. As a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, I know what it’s like to be away from home and family. Thank you to the brave men and women at home and abroad who fight to defend our safety and freedom every day.”
WCCO political analyst Blois Olson knew the governor had free time on his schedule last week, but believed he was occupied with pressing issues concerning his cabinet.
"He's set to announce some commissioner candidates as soon as this week," Blois told Vineeta Sawkar on the WCCO Morning News. "I kind of thought that's what was happening behind the scenes."
Blois pointed out that this type of trip overseas isn't usually announced because of security reasons.
"Especially in the middle east," he said.
Governor Walz visiting Minnesota national guard members in KuwaitOffice of the governor
In April, the Brooklyn Park-based 347th RSG deployed more than 80 Soldiers to various locations across the Middle East, including Kuwait.
Their mission was to provide base operations support, manage facilities, administrative and logistical support to Soldier services, and ensure the security of personnel and facilities on the base.
In September, approximately 25 Soldiers from the 147th HRC deployed to the Middle East to support missions, which enable successful deployment and redeployment of units throughout the area.
