CHARLESTON, W.Va. –
The West Virginia National Guard reconfirmed the commitment to military children and families on Nov. 12, 2024, when Brig. Gen. Michaelle Munger, special assistant to the adjutant general, joined partners in signing the West Virginia Department of Education 2024 Common Ground Compact during a ceremony at the state’s Culture Center in Charleston.
The Common Ground Partnership is a group of 24 government, community and military organizations working together to share resources, programs and initiatives that support military families.
"West Virginia National Guard looks forward to being a beacon of hope and promise and serve as just one of many opportunities for young people to obtain values, skills and an education," said Munger, addressing the crowd.
Frank Vitale, civilian aide to the 25th Secretary of the Army, the Honorable Christine E. Wormuth, offered a message on her behalf.
“It is my honor … to thank you for your commitment to the military, military families and education here in West Virginia,” Vitale said. “Since before the formation of the Continental Army, that gave birth to the United States of America, West Virginians have been serving in the defense of the United States. It is that level of commitment - that history and that legacy - that continues today with each and every one of you in this room.”
Common Ground director Robert Mellace, a retired WVNG Soldier, was also recognized and congratulated by Vitale.
“Robert is a great leader, and I think sometimes because he's so humble, he doesn't take credit for all of the great things that he does,” Vitale said. “Robert is well respected across the country for what he does here in West Virginia, so Robert, thank you for what we did (here today).”
For more information on the Common Ground program, Military Signing Week, Purple Star Schools initiative and more, visit www.wvde.us/commonground.