Congressman John Carney receives Charles Dick Medal of Merit Published Feb. 16, 2016 New Castle, Delaware -- Tuesday, February 16, 2016 Congressman John Carney receives Charles Dick Medal of Merit Award presented by the National Guard Association of Delaware On Thursday, February 18th, the Delaware National Guard Association will present the Charles Dick Medal of Merit to Congressman John Carney. The event begins at 1:00 p.m. at the Armed Forces Reserve Center, 250 Airport Road, New Castle, Del. The event is open to the public and media are invited to attend. The award recognizes contributions to the National Guard by elected officials at the national level. The medal is named in honor of Maj. Gen. Charles Dick, former President of the National Guard Association of the United States who served as both a U.S. Congressman and Senator. He was responsible for legislation that established the foundation of the modern National Guard. "Congressman John Carney's leadership and support contributed immeasurably to the success and achievement of the National Guard," said Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, Adjutant General, Delaware National Guard. He has always been a strong proponent of the Guard and recently sponsored legislation that supported extending the service life of the C-130H model - an issue critical to success in Delaware. "I'm honored and grateful to the National Guard Association of the United States for awarding me the Charles Dick Medal of Merit," said Congressman Carney. "The work I've done to support the National Guard is what I'm most proud of during my time in Congress, especially the C-130 modifications that are so needed for Delaware's Air National Guard. But, it pales in comparison to what these brave men and women do every day to keep us safe. I'm inspired by their courage, service, and sacrifice. I'd like to thank General Vavala and the members of the National Guard Association of Delaware for nominating me and look forward to doing everything I can to support the Guard moving forward." For more information please contact Lt. Col. Len Gratteri at 302-540-0134 (leonard.a.gratteri.mil@mail.mil ) or 2nd Lt. Wendy Callaway at 302-270-0720 (wendy.m.mcdougall.mil@mail.mil )