In November, the Spokane and Yakima Detachments of the Washington State Guard (WSG) conducted vital Search and Rescue (SAR) training, enhancing their capabilities in land navigation. This comprehensive training included pace counts, compass use, terrain feature identification, and hip-pocket exercises, ensuring soldiers are well-prepared for deployment. The importance of SAR missions cannot be overstated, especially in Washington, a state frequently impacted by wildfires and extreme weather. Recent wildfires have underscored the critical need for rapid and effective SAR teams to locate and rescue individuals stranded in hazardous conditions. Additionally, WSG soldiers often collaborate with the National Guard on wildland firefighting missions, showcasing their versatility and dedication to protecting Washington’s communities and natural resources.
The Washington State Guard also celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of Initial Entry Training (IET) Class 01-24 at Camp Murray. This ceremony marked the culmination of six months of rigorous weekend training, equipping recruits with the foundational soldier skills needed to integrate seamlessly with their National Guard counterparts. Colonel Joe Maassen, Commander of the WSG, presented certificates of completion during the event. The ceremony included a traditional “patching ceremony,” an honored U.S. Army tradition symbolizing unit assignment. This rite of passage connects soldiers to the history of their unit and instills a profound sense of pride and purpose. The newly minted WSG soldiers were warmly welcomed into the ranks, ready to contribute to the mission of the State Guard.
The IET program, modeled after the U.S. Army’s Basic Training, is a comprehensive introduction to military life. Recruits undergo a curriculum encompassing discipline, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, and basic first aid. Training in military equipment use, map reading, and land navigation ensures operational readiness and safety in the field. The program emphasizes core values such as leadership, integrity, and teamwork, fostering a cohesive unit environment built on trust and reliability. This demanding yet rewarding course equips recruits with the resilience and skills essential for success in military service, laying a strong foundation for their future contributions to the Washington State Guard.
The Washington State Guard continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the state through rigorous training and professional development, ensuring readiness for any mission that may arise. Whether in SAR operations, wildfire response, or military integration, the WSG exemplifies excellence and dedication to service.
Spokane & Yakima Detachments of the Washington State Guard (WSG) participating in Land Navigation Training. Pace counts, Compass, Terrain Feature as well as Hip Pocket Training.
Great job Detachments!
The Washington State Guard held a graduation ceremony at Camp Murray for Initial Entry Training Class 01-24 today. These soldiers join the ranks of the WSG following 6 weekend-months of training in basic soldier skills allowing them to integrate with our National Guard partners. Shown is WSG Commander COL Joe Maassen presenting the soldiers with their certificates of completion. Also shown is the “patching ceremony”. A patching ceremony in the U.S. Army is a tradition that marks a soldier’s unit assignment and is considered an unofficial rite of passage. The ceremony connects soldiers to their division’s history and instills a sense of pride and purpose. Welcome aboard soldiers! Well done!
Sources: Washington State Guard – Washington State Guard
