TITLE: Recognizing the Special Operations Detachment-Africa (Airborne) of the Texas Army National Guard.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the Special Operations Detachment-Africa (Airborne) of the Texas Army National Guard.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Special Operations Detachment-Africa (Airborne) of the Texas Army National Guard for its exceptional service; and WHEREAS, This elite unit is composed of members of the United States Army Special Forces, or Green Berets, along with other soldiers who are expert in the fields necessary to successfully complete its mission, including intelligence, logistics, communications, medicine, and law; the detachment is commanded by Colonel Douglas K. O'Connell, who is ably supported by his senior enlisted leader, Command Sergeant Major Benjamin Bitonel Jr.; and WHEREAS, Over the last three years, the detachment has been working to aid African governments in countering the growing threat on the African continent of such violent extremist organizations as Boko Haram, Al-Qaeda, and the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria; soldiers from the unit have deployed to countries across Africa, where they have helped the military forces of our nation's partner countries enhance their counterterrorism capabilities, so that those forces are better able to deal with the threats and prevent their escalation; and WHEREAS, The dedicated men and women of the Special Operations Detachment-Africa (Airborne) have demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and determination in working to ensure the safety and security of the United States and its allies, and it is truly fitting that they receive special recognition for their efforts; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby commend the members of the Special Operations Detachment-Africa (Airborne) on their steadfast devotion to duty and extend to them best wishes for success in their vital mission; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the unit as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Watson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 27, 2015.