Press Availability for Illinois media with the Commander of U.S. Army Europe

SPRINGFIELD, IL (11/24/2015)(readMedia)-- WHO:

• Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, Commander of U.S. Army Europe

WHAT:

• Lt. Gen. Hodges will discuss the Illinois National Guard's State Partnership Program with Poland and its contributions to the overall security of Europe as well as his assessment of current security situation in Europe and the U.S. Army's efforts to build relationships across Europe and protect U.S. interests in the region.

• Lt. Gen. Hodges will make an opening statement from Europe followed by a questions and answers with participating media via teleconference. The opening statement will be videotaped and made available to requesting media via the Defense Video & Imagery Distribution System (dvidshub.net). The questions and answers will be audio-taped and also be made available via dvidshub.net.

• Interested media should RSVP by 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 30, with the Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Office at 217-761-3569 or ng.il.ilarng.list.staff-pao@mail.mil.

• Media should then call-in Monday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. (Central Standard Time) using the following conference call information:

o Toll free: 1-866-906-7447

o Toll/International: 617-939-0999

• When prompted, dial 4637972 followed by the # sign.

WHEN:

• Monday, November 30, 10 a.m. (Central Standard Time).

WHERE:

• Lt. Gen. Hodges will be participating from U.S. Army Europe Headquarters in Germany.

WHY:

• The Illinois National Guard through its State Partnership Program with Poland and other engagements within Europe have been important to the success of U.S. Army Europe's mission.