Over the weekend The Texas State Guard (State Defense Force – TXSG) posted their quarterly newsletter which highlighted the training, missions and achievements of their incredible force achieved in 2024.
The Texas State Guard has had an eventful and impactful 2024, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the citizens of Texas through rigorous training, disaster response, and operational support across the state. Each brigade has contributed to the Guard’s mission with outstanding achievements in search and rescue, medical training, disaster recovery, and community support. Below is a look at the significant accomplishments of each brigade throughout the year.
1st Brigade: Strengthening Readiness and Response
Col. Thomas L. Mitchell Jr., the newly appointed Commander of the 1st Brigade, set a strong vision for the brigade, emphasizing its CORE values—Character, Optimism, Respect, and Engagement. Under his leadership, the brigade has enhanced its readiness for rapid response missions across 113 counties in North Texas and the Panhandle. His focus on ethical decision-making, high performance expectations, and mission success has shaped the brigade’s training and operational initiatives.
One of the standout training programs this year was the TEEX Wide Area Search course, which enhanced the brigade’s search and rescue (SAR) capabilities. TXSG service members trained in large-scale disaster response, including interagency coordination and advanced GPS navigation. Soldiers engaged in realistic disaster scenarios, improving their skills in team coordination, situational awareness, and emergency response. The training prepares 1st Brigade troops to provide critical assistance in natural disasters like hurricanes and flooding.
The brigade’s 2nd Battalion conducted a grueling winter field training exercise in January, where troops braved freezing temperatures in Kerens, Texas, to refine their survival and navigation skills. The training covered GPS usage, drone operations, ATV handling, and fieldcraft, ensuring that soldiers remained adaptable in harsh conditions. This exercise tested their ability to respond to emergencies while reinforcing teamwork and resilience.
2nd Brigade: Answering the Call During Natural Disasters
Brig. Gen. Buddy Grantham, Commander of the 2nd Brigade, reflected on the year’s challenges and successes, emphasizing the brigade’s role in responding to multiple storms and hurricanes. From severe storms in Houston to the impact of Hurricane Beryl, the brigade played a crucial role in disaster recovery efforts, assisting affected communities through debris clearance, logistics, and emergency medical support.
One of the key highlights was the Norwegian Foot March, hosted by the 2nd Brigade’s 4th Battalion in Richmond, Texas. Over 155 TXSG members and civilians participated, carrying 25-pound rucksacks over an 18.6-mile course. The event not only tested participants’ endurance but also fostered camaraderie and resilience. Several participants received commendation medals, while 10 troops earned the prestigious Norwegian Foot March Badge.
Additionally, the 2nd Brigade recognized outstanding service members, including 1st Sgt. Hernan Atienza, who was named Senior Enlisted Troop of the Year and awarded the ‘1st Sgt. Christopher Skinner Award.’ His dedication and leadership exemplify the brigade’s commitment to excellence, and his recognition underscores the high standards maintained by the Texas State Guard.
3rd Brigade: Supporting Statewide Health and Disaster Relief Missions
Brig. Gen. Carl Alvarez, Commander of the 3rd Brigade, emphasized the brigade’s commitment to training and service. Covering the largest geographical area in the state, the brigade played a pivotal role in Operation Border Health Preparedness, the Oral Rabies Vaccination Program, and severe weather emergency responses. He highlighted the sacrifice of TXSG members and their families, who dedicate significant personal time to serving their communities.
Training at Palo Alto Battlefield in October honed the brigade’s tactical skills, including a two-mile ruck march and simulated casualty evacuation drills. Soldiers practiced life-saving medical skills, including wound packing and tourniquet application, reinforcing their ability to respond effectively in crisis situations.
One of the brigade’s most notable contributions was its support for the Texas Oral Rabies Vaccination Program, which involved aerial vaccine distribution along the Texas-Mexico border. Over 33,000 miles were covered in two and a half weeks, ensuring continued rabies prevention in key wildlife populations. The brigade’s role in this operation was critical in maintaining public health and wildlife safety.
6th Brigade: Training for Disaster Response and Leadership Development
Lt. Col. (P) B. Keith Graf, Acting Commander of the 6th Brigade, underscored the importance of training through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, which equips TXSG members with essential disaster response skills. His vision for the brigade focuses on readiness, coordination, and service to Texas communities.
The 3rd Battalion launched a new monthly newsletter, keeping troops informed of training events and mission updates. This initiative highlights service members and their achievements, fostering unit cohesion and morale.
Additionally, the brigade saw a change in senior leadership with the appointment of Command Sgt. Maj. David Ocasio. With nearly four decades of military experience, he steps into the role with a focus on strengthening the brigade’s operational effectiveness. His leadership is expected to further enhance the brigade’s preparedness for future missions.
Recruit Training Division: Preparing the Next Generation of TXSG Soldiers
New recruits entering the Texas State Guard undergo rigorous training to prepare for service. In January 2025, the Combined Skills Course at the TXSG Recruiting and Training Center put trainees through realistic scenarios, requiring them to locate a downed pilot, navigate challenging terrain, and provide first aid before extraction. This hands-on experience solidified their knowledge in medical care, land navigation, and teamwork.
The Texas State Guard also bid farewell to CSM John Nichols, a long-serving mentor at the Recruiting and Training Center. With 36 years of service between the U.S. Marine Corps and TXSG, his legacy of training and developing soldiers will leave a lasting impact on the Guard.
The September Basic Orientation Training (BOT) was another milestone in 2024, ensuring that new troops received foundational instruction in TXSG operations. Under the guidance of experienced cadre, recruits learned essential survival, leadership, and mission-readiness skills.
A Year of Impact: The Texas State Guard in 2024
The Texas State Guard has gone above and beyond in 2024, responding to crises, training for emergencies, and supporting statewide operations. From responding to Tropical Storm Alberto and Hurricane Beryl to playing an active role in Operation Lone Star, the Guard’s service members have upheld the highest standards of duty and readiness. Hundreds of Active Duty TXSG troops have supported border security, search and rescue, and disaster relief efforts, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to Texas.
These highlights represent only a fraction of the missions, training exercises, and community support initiatives performed by the Texas State Guard in 2024. As they continue to serve with distinction, TXSG members remain steadfast in their mission: Texans serving Texas.
To view the full PDF:
20250226-The-Guard-Post-Newsletter-Final.2Source: Texas State Guard
