(JUNEAU)-Today Sen. Charlie Huggins (R - Rural Mat-Su/Chugiak) awarded an Alaska Territorial Guard Medal and Certificate to Rep. Carl Moses (D - Unalaska) for his service to Alaska and the nation during World War II.

"The men and women who served in the Alaska Territorial Guard are genuine Alaskan heroes. Rep. Moses and his fellow ATG members deserve the honor and respect of all Alaskans for putting their lives on the line to protect the Last Frontier," said Sen. Huggins, who presented the award at a special ceremony in the State Capitol Building.

Rep. Moses entered the Alaska Territorial Guard in 1942 at age 13 and served until he joined the U.S. Army in 1951. He was an artilleryman for the next two years stationed at Fort Richardson.

The Alaska Territorial Guard was formed shortly after the Japanese invasion of Alaska. Its membership was made up primarily of Alaska Natives, who proved themselves invaluable as guides and scouts for the U.S. Army in its effort to protect our state from further Japanese attacks.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Huggins to designate every October 18 as Alaska Territorial Guard Day has passed the House and Senate and is awaiting the governor's signature to become law. Alaska Territorial Guard Day provides an opportunity for communities and civic groups to honor the ATG with special ceremonies and observances.

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