Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday signed Executive Order No. 740 to bolster support for the Alabama State Military Department, revitalizing a key recruitment initiative aimed at ensuring the Alabama National Guard (ALNG) remains prepared to meet both state and national missions.
The executive order reactivates the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (JEEP), a long-standing effort designed to strengthen recruitment and retention within the Army and Air National Guard. The action was taken ahead of the National Guard’s birthday on Saturday.
“We call on the men and women of the Alabama National Guard often, so to ensure Alabama’s force stands ready, we have to continue increasing our support for them,” Governor Ivey said. “As we look forward to celebrating America’s oldest fighting force Saturday, I was proud to sign this executive order to ensure the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program is allowing the Guard to maintain operational superiority.”
Under the order, the Alabama State Military Department is directed to issue regulations that encourage soldiers, airmen, qualified retirees, and other department employees to assist with recruitment efforts. Financial incentives will be offered to individuals who provide a lead to a recruiter that results in an enlistment into the ALNG. In addition, Air National Guard recruiting and retention personnel may receive bonus payments for exceeding annual recruitment goals. The department is also required to submit an annual report to the governor outlining the program’s effectiveness.
State officials say the initiative builds on Alabama’s strong military recruitment record and supports the Guard’s ongoing transformation to meet evolving challenges at home and abroad. “Alabama is already a top state for military recruitment and this only further strengthens that momentum,” Governor Ivey added.
Alabama National Guard Adjutant General David Pritchett said the order reinforces the Guard’s ability to remain mission-ready. “This year marks significant momentum for the Alabama National Guard. Governor Ivey’s Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program executive order strengthens our ability to recruit, retain and support the talented men and women who choose to serve, ensuring we remain ready to meet any mission,” Pritchett said.
He noted that Alabama Guardsmen are currently serving in a variety of roles worldwide, including support missions in the National Capital Region and along the Southern Border. “Our soldiers and airmen continue to demonstrate that readiness every day across the globe…representing Alabama with professionalism, discipline and quiet excellence,” Pritchett said. “As we celebrate the National Guard’s birthday, we honor not only 389 years of service to our communities and our nation, but also the enduring spirit of service that defines our Alabama Guardsmen.”
In recent months, the Alabama National Guard has also been deployed to support federal operations in Washington, D.C. The first group of 191 soldiers mobilized in late September is expected to return home by Christmas. An additional deployment of approximately 200 soldiers and airmen has been authorized, with those forces projected to serve in the nation’s capital for about 90 days.
“The safety of the United States begins and ends in our Nation’s Capital, and I am proud of the Alabamians serving to support that mission,” Governor Ivey said, also thanking Guard members’ families for their support.
ALNG forces are currently assisting the D.C. National Guard with planning, joint information operations, and law enforcement support, as the state continues to emphasize readiness, service, and support for those who serve.
