Maj. W. Todd Miller

October 9, 2007

The global war on terrorism is a job for Americans at all levels, says Maj. Todd Miller, Director of the State Partnership Program for West Virginia.

Miller told Putnam Rotarians today that the National Guard is in a unique position to make a difference in international cooperation and development.

Why the Guard?

The Guard is an organization of "citizen soldiers" with a strong tradition of civilian command of the military. It demonstrates democratic control while fostering international relations.

The partnership link seeks to address mutual interests and build long-term relationships at all levels of society.

Fifty-six of these partnerships include a multitude of activities such as disaster response, distance learning networks, military and civilian leader exchanges, search and rescue, and economic development programs.

State partnerships for Central and South America began in 1996 with a link between Panama and Missouri.

West Virginia is paired with Peru in South America.

Partnerships in this part of the world have since grown to number twenty countries paired with US states and territories.