2005 Assembly Resolution 44
ENGROSSED RESOLUTION
Relating to: honoring the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Military Police Company.
Whereas, the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Military Police Company was ordered to active duty on March 15, 2003, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and deployed to southwest Asia in early May; and
Whereas, the unit's mission was to provide security in and around Baghdad and train the new civilian Iraqi police force; and
Whereas, the 32nd Military Police Company's 158 soldiers were expected to return home in May 2004 but their service was extended beyond one year to July 2004; and
Whereas, the soldiers of the 32nd Military Police Company served our country and our state with dignity, with bravery, and with compassion evidenced by their work and support for Iraqi children at the Sisters of Charity Orphanage of Baghdad; and
Whereas, the 32nd Military Police Company suffered more injuries from hostile action than any Wisconsin National Guard unit since World War II; and
Whereas, the soldiers of the 32nd Military Police Company were awarded 19 Bronze Star Medals and 35 Purple Heart Medals during their brave and heroic service. One member of the unit, Specialist Michelle Witmer, gave her life for her unit and her country; and
Whereas, the 32nd Military Police Company was awarded the Valorous Unit Award for "extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy of the United States." The award recognizes heroism by a whole unit equal to that for which an individual would receive the prestigious Silver Star Medal; and
Whereas, the 32nd Military Police Company is the first Wisconsin Guard unit to receive the award in the history of the Wisconsin National Guard; and
Whereas, the state of Wisconsin is forever grateful to the soldiers of the 32nd Military Police Company for their service; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, That the members of the Wisconsin assembly honor the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Military Police Company for its dedication, bravery, valor, and service to our country and our state; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide copies of this joint resolution to the soldiers of the Wisconsin National Guard 32nd Military Police Company.
