ATLANTA (December 23, 2024) — On Friday, December 20, Sen. Chuck Payne (R–Dalton), Chairman of the Senate Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security Committee, traveled to Texas alongside Gov. Brian Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Speaker of the House Jon Burns and House member and veteran Rep. Chas Cannon. The delegation visited Georgia National Guard troops currently deployed at the southern border to express gratitude for their service during the holiday season. The group was joined by House Veterans Committee Chairman Josh Bonner, who serves in the Georgia National Guard and is currently deployed in Texas.
Sen. Payne spoke about the trip’s immense impact on him, saying: “It was a truly special experience to meet with the men and women who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our freedoms. As someone who has experienced being away from family during the holidays during my own service in the Army, I understand the challenges these brave individuals face. Their willingness to be away from home during Christmas is a testament to their dedication to the 336 million Americans whose freedoms they protect.”
Sen. Payne continued: “I want to thank Gov. Brian Kemp for the invitation to join him at our southern border. It was an honor to spend time with each service member, hear their stories and thank them for their selflessness. These young men and women are the embodiment of sacrifice and service.”
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Sen. Chuck Payne serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military and Homeland Security. He represents the 54th Senate District, which includes Whitfield and Murray County, as well as part of Gordon County. He may be reached at 404.463.5402 or by email at chuck.payne@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.