Sending Greetings to Troops

Hawai`i-based soldiers from the 29th Brigade Combat Team and the 100th Battalion, 442nd Regiment spoke directly with their family members to share news from Kuwait, and families were able to update their loved ones on everything from care packages to baby announcements.

The satellite video feed brought together nearly 30 families at the Governor's Conference Room in Honolulu, as well as locations in Kaua`i and in Hilo.

"Be safe," Elizabeth Baldwin said to her son, Travis (a specialist in the 100th Battalion).

"Don't worry, I've got an entire battalion watching my back," he replied.

Governor Lingle addressed the troops and their families and shared her appreciation for their service and sacrifice on behalf of a grateful state.

"Thank you for everything you do, day-in, day-out so that we can have the freedom to live a good life here in Hawai`i," she said.

As a special treat for their families at the conclusion of the satellite video feed, the soldiers sang "Silent Night" while holding glow sticks.

• Watch a video of this satellite teleconference. 
• "Isle troops greet families via video," Honolulu Advertiser, December 25, 2008
• "Across the sea," Honolulu Star-Bulletin, December 25, 2008
• "Christmas Eve Connection; Video Hookup," KGMB-9, December 24, 2008
• "Hawai`i troops video chat with family," KHNL-8, December 24, 2008
• "National Guard Families Get Special Christmas Gift," KHON-2, December 24, 2008