Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Just last week, Americans across the country recognized Independence Day – a time to gather with family and friends and celebrate our nation’s freedom. But beyond the cook-outs, parades, concerts and fireworks, this holiday is always a time to honor our military veterans.
We often take for granted the liberties that our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines fought for. These men and women came from different family backgrounds, had different stories to tell and all had different reasons for joining the military. But regardless of who they were or where they were from, one thing remained the same: they were all part of something bigger than themselves.
In 2012, I chose to be a part of that “something,” too, by volunteering to become an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. I had always felt compelled to serve our great nation, and as the father of three young daughters, I especially wanted my girls to grow up in a free country with every opportunity ahead of them.
Like any member of the military, I knew the day could come when I would be called upon to serve my country overseas. Now, that time has come. I recently received word that I have been called to active military duty in September, deploying to Afghanistan sometime in the fall.
My service to the U.S. Navy will regrettably take me from my duties as a state senator for several months. This will include the General Assembly’s next legislative session, pending my reelection. It was always my hope that I wouldn’t have to miss any of the session, but I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve alongside our brave men and women in Afghanistan. The Indiana Senate has been truly supportive throughout my military service, and I’m grateful for my fellow legislators’ help and understanding.
While it’s not required, I have chosen, upon my reelection, to pursue a process outlined in state law for filling my Senate seat with a temporary replacement while I’m gone. This is important to me to ensure the people of Senate District 17 are fully represented during my absence.
I want to sincerely thank everyone for their support, both inside and outside of the Statehouse. It’s been humbling to hear so many kind words, and I cannot overstate how important that is to me.
Above all, I want to thank my wife, Amanda, and our daughters – Lilly, Betsy and Annie – for their love and encouragement. It will be incredibly difficult to be away from them for such a long time, and I look forward to coming home soon.
If you have any questions about my service, please contact me at Senator.Banks@iga.in.gov.
Thank you again, and God bless America.
