Rep. Van Epps Honors Tennessee National Guard on House Floor

Rep. Van Epps Honors Tennessee National Guard on House Floor

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Van Epps delivered remarks honoring the Tennessee National Guard on the House Floor. 

Watch Rep. Van Epps’ speech here. 

“Mr./Madam Speaker, I stand today to honor the Tennessee National Guard—not just for their strength and readiness, but for their extraordinary volunteer spirit. I know the sacrifices they make to keep our country safe, and our nation is grateful.  

I recently had the honor of attending President Trump’s roundtable on the Memphis Safe Task Force. I am beyond impressed with the work of this task force and am grateful for the Tennessee National Guard’s role in making Memphis safe again. 

In 2024, Memphis had the highest rate of violent crime per capita, including elevated rates of murder, robbery, aggravated assault, and property crime.

As of March 20, 2026, the Memphis Safe Task Force has made 7,342 arrests, including 44 for homicide, 812 for controlled substances, 6,402 for firearms violations, and 94 for sex offenses. The task force has also returned 142 missing children and recovered 1,023 illegal firearms. 

Because of President Trump’s involvement, the crime rate in Memphis dropped drastically in 2025 compared to 2024, with a 26% decrease in murders, a 22% decrease in aggravated assaults, a 31% decrease in robberies, and a 48% decrease in carjackings. 

Federal, state, and local partners have demonstrated what is possible through strong coordination, with Memphis serving as a model of successful partnership. The results would not have been possible without the Guardsmen who have stepped up to help patrol our communities and keep Americans safe. Thank you for creating a place for families to thrive, businesses to succeed, and workers to make a good living. 

I also want to recognize the Tennessee National Guard for its actions during Winter Storm Fern. As an active member of the National Guard, I am proud of how these men and women stepped up when Tennesseans needed them most. 

Across 15 states, more than 5,300 National Guard members assisted in the aftermath of these storms. In Tennessee alone, 170 soldiers and airmen assisted stranded motorists, transported first responders, delivered critical supplies, and cleared debris. 

And their assistance was invaluable. Tennessee Guard members logged more than 10,000 man-hours across multiple mission types, demonstrating both scale and commitment.

They conducted 44 cut-and-toss missions, clearing nearly 960 miles of critical routes and infrastructure to keep roads accessible and communities connected. They completed 757 civilian assistance missions, 601 medical and personnel transport missions, and 497 health and welfare checks—ensuring that vulnerable residents were safe and that first responders could continue their lifesaving work. 

This response reflects the National Guard’s unwavering commitment to serving communities, even at great risk to themselves.

The Tennessee National Guard’s volunteer spirit reflects the very best of Tennessee: courage, resilience, and selflessness. They remind us that service means a willingness to answer the call at any time—and that’s exactly what these brave men and women do every single day. 

Lastly, I’d like to recognize the National Guard Association of Tennessee for its continued commitment to supporting National Guard members. 

For over 100 years, you have supported military preparedness and the well-being of National Guardsmen. Thank you for serving those who serve.”