Today, Explained The National Guard is tired
Mar 29, 2022
Davis Winkie, a reporter for the Army Times and a National Guard member himself, sheds light on the unique challenges faced by the Texas National Guard. He discusses their unprecedented decision to unionize amid increasing pressures from deployments, particularly along the Texas-Mexico border. Winkie reveals the impacts of long-term missions on soldier morale, rising mental health crises, and the struggle for better support and pay. He also touches on recent leadership shifts that add another layer of complexity to their roles.
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Operation Lone Star Escalation
- Operation Lone Star began in March 2021 with a few hundred National Guard volunteers.
- It escalated in the fall of 2021, involuntarily activating thousands with little notice, sometimes only 72 hours.
Lack of Benefits for State-Controlled Troops
- National Guard troops under Operation Lone Star lack benefits given to federally deployed troops.
- State control means no GI Bill, healthcare benefits, or VA disability coverage, unlike federal deployments.
Low Morale and Mental Health Crisis
- Low morale among Texas National Guard troops at the border has led to increased non-reenlistment.
- Mental health issues, including suicidal ideation and four suicides since October 2021, are a concern.