The following is the Jan. 19, 2018 government shutdown memo from Secretary of Defense James Mattis to Department of Defense personnel.
From the Memo:
MEMORANDUM FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
SUBJECT: Guidance on the Government Shutdown
Our government will shutdown at midnight tonight. We in the Department of Defense
will continue carrying out our fundamental responsibility to defend our Nation and the American people.
We will continue to execute daily operations around the world – ships and submarines
will remain at sea, our aircraft will continue to fly and our warfighters will continue to pursue
terrorists throughout the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. While training for reservists must
be curtailed, active forces will stay at their posts adapting their training to achieve the least
negative impact on our readiness to fight.
I recognize the consequences of a government shutdown. You have my personal commitment that the Department’s leadership will do our best to mitigate the impacts of the disruptions and any financial burdens to you and your families.
Steady as she goes – hold the line. I know our Nation can count on you.
(handwritten)
STAY ALERT
(signed)
Jim Mattis
