Major General Allen E. Tackett and Delegate Harold K. Michael recently cut a ribbon to symbolize the official dedication of the new West Virginia National Guard. Armory east of Moorefield in the Byrd Industrial Park.
Tackett, who is adjutant general for the West Virginia National Guard, said the 152nd Military Police Detachment in Moorefield was already a great organization and now 58 strong. “They are ready, capable and able to go on active duty,” said the general.
Recruitment continues and Tackett told the audience that the WV National Guard offered an educational opportunity to any youngster wanting to go to college. “With the help of the Legislature, we offer complete tuition to any state supported school plus a monthly pay check.”
Tackett went on to say that he and Delegate Michael had 1100 kids in college. “No kid in this area should have a problem getting a college education,” said Tackett, referring to scholarships available through the National Guard.
The AG said this new facility was created through a partnership between the Legislature and Delegate Michael and the National Guard.
He finished his remarks by welcoming people to the Guard facility and inviting local organizations to use it for meetings and social activities.
Delegate Harold K. Michael talked about General Tackett and how he had improved the National Guard in West Virginia since becoming adjutant general.
He said the vision and foresight of Tackett had turned Camp Dawson in Preston County into a national training center and had brought a federal maintenance facility to Putnam County.
The Delegate thanked US Senator Robert C. Byrd for his support for the National Guard and also Governor Cecil Underwood.
Delegate Michael pointed out that the new Guard Armory was only a temporary home and that he hoped a larger facility would be built near the new Eastern Community College.
Other officers of the West Virginia National Guard who were in attendance were Brig. General John E. Barnette, assistant AG; Colonel Ramon P. Lopez, deputy STARC commander; Colonel Jacob C. Huffman, chief of staff, Col. William Raney, director of facilities and engineering; Col. Terry Melton, brigade commander; Lt. Col. Barry Barry Cox, Cox, battalion commander; Lt. Col. M. S. Musilli and Capt. Darin Willard.
Col. Cox presented appreciation medal to Sgt. Kevin Ayers of the 152nd MP detachment.
General Tackett also swore in three new members of the 152nd.
