Alabama National Guardsmen are headed to the border with Mexico. Gov. Kay Ivey dispatched a helicopter and five troops to be used for the "observation and tracking of illegal activity in the region." The helicopter is equipped with an infrared system and a spotlight, which can be used to monitor conditions at night, and assist in pursuits. The governor's office says the troops were sent at the request of the Trump administration, which has been working to secure the border. “Alabama is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our nation. We have the greatest group of service men and women in the country,” Ivey said. “The Alabama National Guard stands ready to answer the call and we are proud to assist in the Southwest border mission.”