Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
"The Plymouth and Elkhart armories virtually are unstaffed," said Jim Merritt this week, speaking about the lack of Indiana Guard Reserve members. "There are a few officers there, we need enlisted personnel."
The South Bend office and Angola are short of staff, too.
"The Warsaw armory is the only one up to strength."
An enlisted member of Armory Support Team #14, 1st Brigade 3rd Battalion, Sgt. 1st Class (E-7) Merritt serves with other volunteers at the Warsaw armory while the Army National Guard is deployed.
"We assume custody and supervision of the armories and provide assistance in the event of natural disasters. We do not leave the state. We do not carry weapons."
The IGR prefers folks between the ages of 18 and 65 with prior military service. They should be physically fit with no felony convictions.
Currently, there is a need for former enlisted personnel who are generally assigned the same rank they received when discharged.
Merritt spent six years in the Marine Corps and another half dozen in the National Guard. He is currently attending officer candidate school. Upon completion he will receive a commission in June.
"Individuals with prior service will receive refresher courses in various skills. People without prior military service will be paired up with a senior enlisted person who will familiarize them with basic military knowledge and nomenclature."
They also would be sent to Camp Atterbury for schooling, "maybe two days a month for nine months."
The course includes foundation classes like military drills, ceremonies, courtesy and history and are taught along with regular Army rank structure and uniform recognition. These are the lessons learned in boot camp.
Currently, the IGR is involved with family counseling and assistance for individuals who have been mobilized or activateded.
"We also assume any other responsibilities the governor or president may dictate," Merritt said.
The governor or President also decides whether or not IGR members are paid. Right now they are not. Members also provide their own uniforms and equipment.
The average individual is expected to contribute to training four to six hours per month at the local armory and three days at summer camp at Camp Atterbury.
Merritt said there is a great need for women with prior service and anyone with medical, legal and administrative backgrounds.
For more information, contact Merritt at 267-6740 or via e-mail jamesmerritt11@hotmail.com or Greg Smith at 834-4356
