The Kansas National Guard will showcase its Soldiers, Airmen and their equipment at the annual Military Appreciation Day at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka Thursday, March 21. The event will run from 8:30 a.m. -- 1:30 p.m. and will include informational booths in the Capitol rotunda and outside static equipment displays that highlight the missions and capabilities of the Kansas National Guard.

This is a great opportunity to show our Kansas legislators and the public just who we are and what we do for our state and nation, said Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general. The National Guard is the only military organization in Kansas that has the dual mission of protecting the state and answering the nations call to service here and abroad. Its a big job and one that our Soldiers and Airmen do with enthusiasm and pride.

Were your friends and neighbors, we come from all walks of life and professions, and its our honor to serve the people of Kansas.

As part of this event, Gov. Laura Kelly will meet with military leaders from Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, McConnell Air Force Base, and the Kansas National Guard, and will sign two proclamations at approximately 10:45 a.m. in recognition of Armed Forces Appreciation Day and Vietnam War Veterans Day. The Governors Military Council will also meet to discuss past, present, and potential future issues that could affect service members, their families, and the communities surrounding their installations.

Kansas National Guard units taking part in the event include the 130th Field Artillery Brigade, 69th Troop Command, 635th Regional Support Group, 235th Regiment, Recruiting and Retention Battalion, 73rd Civil Support Team, 184th Intelligence Wing and 190th Air Refueling Wing. Static equipment displays will include a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, Q53 radar unit, Armored Security Vehicle, communications vehicle, and wildland firefighting equipment which will include the Bambi bucket.