Thomas Burton | Support HB104

As a 100% combat-disabled veteran and proud resident of New Hampshire, I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed legislation that limits the activation of the New Hampshire National Guard to only those times when the United States Congress has passed an official action pursuant to Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution. This bill is not just about policy—it is about protecting the rights and dignity of those who have served and ensuring that the sacrifices of the National Guard are made with full constitutional justification. Having experienced firsthand the toll of military service, I know the cost of putting on the uniform and answering the call of duty. The men and women of the New Hampshire National Guard are citizen-soldiers, serving their state with pride while balancing careers, families, and lives within our communities. Their activation should be undertaken with the utmost care and only when Congress has fulfilled its constitutional duty to authorize military action. The Constitution is clear: the power to declare war lies solely with Congress under Article I, Section 8. This safeguard was established to ensure that decisions involving the lives of service members are made with full accountability and representation, not unilaterally or without due process. Aligning the activation of our National Guard with this constitutional mandate reaffirms that their sacrifices are made under proper authority and for just cause. This legislation also recognizes the unique role of the National Guard as a state-focused force. Guardsmen and women are critical to New Hampshire's ability to respond to emergencies and protect its citizens. Ensuring that their activation for federal purposes is done only when Congress has acted preserves their primary mission to serve our state and prevents unnecessary strain on these essential individuals. As someone who has already given so much in service to this nation, I urge you to support this bill. It honors the Constitution, respects the sacrifices of our National Guard members, and ensures that those who serve are called to action only under clear, lawful, and just circumstances. Thank you for your dedication to upholding the rights of service members and the principles that make our nation strong.