Gov. Thanks Troops

Governor James E. McGreevey joined with Brigadier General Glenn K. Rieth to offer support and encouragement to Air and Army National Guard personnel assigned to McGuire Air Force Base.

“As Governor, I have no greater responsibility than to provide for the safety and security of our families and communities,” McGreevey told the troops. “On behalf of citizens throughout New Jersey, I would like to express my gratitude for your commitment to the country and the distinction that you bring to the state.”

Governor McGreevey met with Army National Guard soldiers of the 5-117th Cavalry assigned to the 305th Security Forces Squadron. He also greeted members of the Air National Guard’s 108th Security Forces Squadron and the aircraft mechanics of the 108th Air Refueling Wing’s Logistics Group. Last week, Governor McGreevey visited Ft. Dix to greet soldiers of the 253rd Transportation Company, New Jersey Army National Guard, which has been federally mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

To enhance the security of communities in New Jersey and throughout the country, last week Governor McGreevey signed into law Assembly Bill No. 1651, which will enable the Attorney General to freeze the assets of people charged with or suspected in crimes of terrorism.

Assembly Bill No. 1651 authorizes the Attorney General to direct financial institutions to freeze the assets of an account holders suspected of terrorism. For the law to be applied, the suspect must be charged with the commission of a crime involving terrorism or the Attorney General must have reasonable suspicion to believe the suspect has committed or is about to commit an act of terrorism.

In addition, last week Governor McGreevey also signed an Executive Order ensuring that New Jersey state employees who are called to active duty in response to the global war on terrorism, the potential conflict in Iraq, or the heightened tensions with North Korea will have full seniority and benefits when they return to their jobs.

The Executive Order also provides that, for the duration of their activation, state employees will receive salaries equal to the difference between their state salaries and their military base pay, as well as state employees’ health benefits, life insurance and pension coverage during active duty service.

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Author: Press Release-Micah Rasmussen