While serving as Nebraska’s senior U.S. Senator, there are moments that remind me of how special Nebraskans are. Last week was one of them. On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Nebraskans packed the gymnasium at Lincoln Northwest High School to send off members of the 67th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and the 234th Brigade Signal Company as they prepared to deploy to Djibouti. It was impossible not to feel the weight and pride of the occasion.
These soldiers are now on their way to serve at Camp Lemonnier in East Africa, where they will work to counter threats, build alliances, and promote stability in one of the world’s most complex regions. This is serious, consequential work. And I’m proud that Nebraska is sending our best to do it.
Another special moment I enjoyed was honoring the members of the Nebraska National Guard deployed in support of law enforcement in Washington, D.C. I hosted them in the U.S. Capitol for lunch and thanked them personally for sacrificing their precious time with loved ones to protect our nation. Their presence in our nation’s capital is noticed and appreciated.
In addition to those men and women who wear the uniform, we cannot overlook the selfless sacrifice of their families. Their spouses are holding things together at home. Their parents are trying to stay strong at goodbye. Many of their children won’t fully understand why Mom or Dad is gone, only that they are. Their service deserves to be recognized too. Time away is never easy, especially during birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. As fellow Nebraskans, we are here to support these families as they wait for their loved ones to return home.
The Nebraska National Guard has never needed to be asked twice. Time and again, our soldiers and airmen answer the call here at home and around the world. In recent years, they’ve battled devastating wildfires across our state, supported law enforcement, and showed up wherever they were needed, often on short notice and without fanfare.
I could not be more impressed by the Nebraska National Guard’s tradition of courage, professionalism, and selfless service. They carry the pride of this state and the gratitude of our nation. Please join me in praying for them as they carry out their mission overseas and giving them a warm Nebraska welcome upon their safe return home.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.