On Monday, July 6, the
New River Valley Public Health Task Force hosted a recognition ceremony for the National Guard soldiers who have been assigned to the NRV since March. Over the past three months, these soldiers have gone above and beyond helping our community respond to COVID-19. The 14 men and women assisted the New River Valley Public Health Task Force with testing over 9,000 citizens.
To thank them for their service and commitment to our community, the National Guard soldiers were recognized with certificates and patches from various NRV agencies to include: Virginia State Police; Montgomery County Sheriff's Office; Christiansburg Volunteer Fire Department; Blacksburg Police Department; Christiansburg Police Department; Virginia Tech Police; and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
"The NRV Public Health Task Force wanted to do something to thank these dedicated men and women for helping our community. These men and women have been away from their families and friends since March to help us respond effectively to COVID-19," said Emergency Services Coordinator, Michael Geary. "We are sad to see them go, but we are grateful for all they did to help us."