; Whereas members of the Virgin Islands National Guard have made the ultimate sacrifice in their valiant service to the Nation, including two servicemembers who were killed in action while serving in active duty during Operation Iraqi Freedom; Whereas in keeping with the National Guard’s motto of Always Ready, Always There! , the members of the Virgin Islands National Guard aided law enforcement in creating a secure environment for the 59th inaugural ceremonies; Whereas, throughout their deployments to the National Capital Region in early 2021, the members of the Virgin Islands National Guard were instrumental in securing the peaceful transfer of power, one of the hallmarks of our Republic; Whereas the members of the Virgin Islands National Guard completed their mission while also responding to, and working to mitigate, the effects of the COVID–19 pandemic; Whereas members of the Virgin Islands National Guard serve their country and their community on a daily basis; Whereas members of the Virgin Islands National Guard have served as ambassadors on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands and the United States throughout the world in times of peace and war; Whereas the Virgin Islands Army National Guard and Air National Guard embody the values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage; and Whereas the members of the Virgin Islands National Guard and their families deserve commendation for their sacrifices and dedication over the last 50 years: Now, therefore, be it