The First Michigan Volunteers trophy will be presented annually to service members or civilians who have made a significant contribution to the Michigan National Guard and state of Michigan. An awards committee reviews the nominations, and Michigan's adjutant general makes the final selection. Hoffman will receive the award during the opening session of the organization's leadership conference, with more than 300 Army and Air National Guard leaders in attendance. Because of Sen. Hoffman's leadership, more than 1,000 guard members are working on baccalaureate and advanced degrees, as a result of the program he championed. The establishment of educational benefits for members of the armed forces continues to be a priority for all branches of the military.
Civilian education is a critical element of a service members military career.
Associate, Bachelor and Advanced degrees are required for an increasing number of assignments and promotions. Combined with their military training, members of the National Guard must continue their civilian education to be competitive in the military promotion system. Hoffman serves Michigan's 19th district representing the citizens of Jackson, Hillsdale and Branch counties. Among his assignments, Hoffman chairs the Military Affairs appropriations subcommittee and sits on the Higher Education appropriations subcommittee. Michigan Army National Guard, with units stationed in Lansing, Port Huron, Alma, Charlotte, Albion and Augusta, will travel to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calf.