A peaceful evening protest bonds National Guard service members and demonstrators

June 2, 2020 (SAINT PAUL, Minn.) – The Minnesota National Guard conducted more than two dozen missions across the Twin Cities last night. Capitol Complex Security was one of those missions, and guardsmen found themselves serving as allies to all peaceful protestors.

Master Sgt. Acie Matthews, Equal Opportunity Advisor for the Minnesota National Guard, was offered the opportunity to speak to the crowd of nearly 200 that had gathered. Matthews shared his hope for peace, common ground and unity between citizens of Minnesota.

“Together as Minnesotans, we’re going to get through this difficult time,” said Minnesota’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Jon Jensen. “I would like to thank the community for supporting our efforts to restore order and preserve the right to safely and peacefully protest.”

The National Guard is committed to supporting civil authorities until no longer called to do so. “Our capabilities will not diminish as we identify opportunities to return our Citizen Soldiers and Airmen to their home communities,” said Jensen.

The Minnesota National Guard remains prepared to protect life, protect property and maintain order.

For more information, contact the Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs Office at 651-282-4410 or mn.ng.web@mail.mil.

– About the Minnesota National Guard –

Established in 1856 and headquartered in St. Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 soldiers and airmen who serve in 61 communities across the state. The citizen-soldiers and airmen of the Minnesota National Guard are ‘Always Ready’ to fight the nation’s wars, protect the country, respond to state emergencies and contribute to local communities. For more information about the Minnesota National Guard, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil