In 2017, the EANGUS Executive Council voted to embark on a project to commission a portrait that focused on and honored the extraordinary contributions of the enlisted Soldiers and Airmen of the National Guard. The artist, Larry Selman, created this beautiful full-color painting depicting Soldiers and Airmen serving and protecting our Nation at home and abroad. The Militia Solder and early American flag reflect our roots dating back to when the first regiments of the Massachusetts Bay Colony were established. Pennsylvania National Guard Soldiers and Airmen served as models for the artist and represent the diversity, skills, and professionalism of the men and women who make up our enlisted force across all 54 States, Territories and the District of Columbia. Symbolic of the losses suffered by our force, the kneeling Airman on the right represents the eight Pararescue personnel lost in combat from the New York Air National Guard’s 106th Rescue Wing. Mr. Selman also included two National Guard C-130 aircraft on the right side of the picture which were lost in crashes; one from Puerto Rico and one from North Carolina. “Always Ready, Always There” is the motto of America’s National Guard. EANGUS is proud to introduce this portrait which we believe embodies the character and spirit of all enlisted personnel who have served in the National Guard since its founding in 1636. We have titled the portrait:
Enlisted Guardians: Our Legacy, Our Future
On November 10, 2018, Mr. Selman, EANGUS President CSM (Ret) Karen Craig, and several EANGUS Executive Council members were present when the portrait was revealed to our members for the first time. This special ceremony occurred during the Pennsylvania National Guard Associations State Conference and Banquet held in Lancaster, PA.
The oil painting has been reproduced as a Limited Edition, 25 x 14 inch, full color print. Only 2,000 prints are being produced, and each one is sequentially numbered, signed by the artist, and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. These prints are appropriate for individual use, as presentation gifts, or for State Associations to place on display at your National Guard State Headquarters. EANGUS is offering State Associations the opportunity to purchase a block of 15 prints for $300. This low price will allow each State Association to frame and/or sell the prints as a fundraiser. Individual sales are available for $40 to include shipping & handling within CONUS.