Mark Thomas Esper

“ Racism is real in America and we must all do our very best to recognize it to confront it and to eradicate it. I've always been proud to be a member of an institution, the United States military, that embraces diversity and inclusion and prohibits hate and discrimination in all forms. ”

“ Most importantly, I want to assure all of you and all Americans that the Department of Defense, the Armed Services, our uniformed leaders, our civilian leaders, and I take seriously our oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and to safeguard those very rights contained in that that document we cherish so dearly. This is a tough time for our great country these days, but we will get through it. ”

“ It is these rights and freedoms that make our country so special and it is these rights and freedoms that American servicemembers are willing to fight and die for at times. However, the United States military's asked, in support of governor's and law enforcement, to help maintain law and order so that other Americans can exercise their rights, free from violence against themselves or their property. That is what thousands of Guardsmen are doing today in cities across America. It is not something we seek to do, but it is our duty, and we do it with the utmost skill and professionalism. ”