A RESOLUTION to honor Specialist Ethan M. Ward and Specialist Brandon T. Moore, 2025 National Guardsmen of the Year.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 363 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Specialist Ethan M. Ward and Specialist Brandon T. Moore of the Tennessee National Guard’s 776th Maintenance Company in Elizabethton. The resolution recognizes them as the 2025 National Guardsmen of the Year for their actions during the Hurricane Helene disaster response in Erwin on September 27, 2024.
The resolution recounts that Ward and Moore were en route to assist with high-water rescue operations at Unicoi County Hospital when their vehicle was struck by debris and overturned in floodwaters. After escaping the vehicle, they helped rescue six civilians who were being swept down the Nolichucky River, then coordinated with first responders and assisted in a helicopter evacuation. The measure is purely honorary and does not create new programs, duties, or regulatory changes.
Impact
SJR0363 does not amend Tennessee statutes or appropriate funds; it is a nonbinding legislative commendation. Its practical effect is to place the General Assembly’s official recognition into the public record and to authorize preparation of an official copy for presentation. The resolution affects no private rights or agency obligations, but it formally honors the named National Guard members and highlights the state’s response to Hurricane Helene and emergency rescue efforts.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill is overwhelmingly positive and celebratory. The floor votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with 31 yeas and 0 nays on the motion to adopt and 95 yeas and 0 nays on final passage, indicating broad bipartisan support. The resolution’s language is laudatory throughout, emphasizing bravery, service, and heroism.
Contention
There is no notable policy contention in the bill text or voting record. Because the measure is a ceremonial resolution honoring individual service members, discussion appears to have been noncontroversial. Any attention is centered on the heroic actions of Ward and Moore during Hurricane Helene and the recognition of their lifesaving conduct, rather than on disputed legal or fiscal issues.