140816-Z-RJ815-07041
The Maryland National Guard's 1729th Field Support Maintenance Company established a new platoon size detachment and hosted an open house at the armory in Cheltenham, Md., on Saturday, Aug. 16. The 1729th detachment is a dual-gendered unit for nearly 40 full-time and traditional part-time members. This will give more opportunities for both men and women to serve in the Guard in Prince George's County.
“This is good for the Guard for two main reasons,” said Col. Sean Casey, the brigade commander of the 58th Troop Command. “We’re giving women in Southern Maryland more opportunities to join, which will enhanced our recruiting efforts. Also, during state emergencies, having a maintenance unit in the Southern Capital region will provide more equipment and personnel that will improve our ability to respond in this area.”
The unit has opportunities for anyone who qualifies in a variety of military occupational specialties to include; mechanics, machinists, welders, electronics, communications and many others. The readiness center is currently home to Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 158th Cavalry Regiment, an all male combat arms unit.
During a quick ceremony the detachment was presented their guidon and their Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Charles Blomquist gave them the news that they would be going to the National Training Center in two years.
“It’s quite the honor to be selected to train with the best and it’s not going to be easy, but I know that this unit is up to the task,” said Blomquist. “I have all the faith in the world in this unit; you have never let us down.”
The unit invited family and friends to the open house to see the static displays of military vehicles and equipment and play on the rock climbing wall.
For anyone interested in joining the Maryland National Guard visit our website at www.md.ngb.army.mil or call 1-800-GO-GUARD.
140816-Z-RJ815-07041
The Maryland National Guard's 1729th Field Support Maintenance Company established a new platoon size detachment and hosted an open house at the armory in Cheltenham, Md., on Saturday, Aug. 16. The 1729th detachment is a dual-gendered unit for nearly 40 full-time and traditional part-time members. This will give more opportunities for both men and women to serve in the Guard in Prince George's County.
“This is good for the Guard for two main reasons,” said Col. Sean Casey, the brigade commander of the 58th Troop Command. “We’re giving women in Southern Maryland more opportunities to join, which will enhanced our recruiting efforts. Also, during state emergencies, having a maintenance unit in the Southern Capital region will provide more equipment and personnel that will improve our ability to respond in this area.”
The unit has opportunities for anyone who qualifies in a variety of military occupational specialties to include; mechanics, machinists, welders, electronics, communications and many others. The readiness center is currently home to Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 158th Cavalry Regiment, an all male combat arms unit.
During a quick ceremony the detachment was presented their guidon and their Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Charles Blomquist gave them the news that they would be going to the National Training Center in two years.
“It’s quite the honor to be selected to train with the best and it’s not going to be easy, but I know that this unit is up to the task,” said Blomquist. “I have all the faith in the world in this unit; you have never let us down.”
The unit invited family and friends to the open house to see the static displays of military vehicles and equipment and play on the rock climbing wall.
For anyone interested in joining the Maryland National Guard visit our website at www.md.ngb.army.mil or call 1-800-GO-GUARD.