Vermont State Guard Takes to the Skies and Sharpens Skills During Annual Training

The Vermont State Guard (State Defense Force – VSG) recently concluded its Annual Training, a vital period that strengthens the readiness and capability of its force. Typically lasting approximately one to two weeks, Annual Training is designed to reinforce Soldiers’ Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) skills and provide large-scale exercises simulating responses to statewide emergencies or natural disasters. These events are critical in ensuring that the VSG is ready to serve Vermont during times of crisis.

One of the key components of this year’s training was conducted by the Force Protection team, which provided instruction on how to properly inspect vehicles entering secure facilities. This type of training is instrumental in preventing the entry of explosives, weapons, or other threats into communities or high-profile events. Such procedures mirror the work recently carried out by the Louisiana State Guard during NFL Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, showcasing how State Defense Forces are increasingly contributing to homeland defense missions.

Additionally, the VSG’s Basic Entry Level Training (B.E.L.T.) Drill Sergeants introduced new recruits to a sample training day, giving them a realistic preview of what they can expect during their basic training journey. This introductory session is part of a broader and highly structured Initial Entry Training (IET) program, modeled after the U.S. Army’s Basic Training. The course equips recruits with essential military skills such as discipline, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, customs and courtesies, and first aid. These foundational elements instill a sense of structure, teamwork, and resilience—qualities necessary for success in both peacetime missions and emergency response scenarios.

Capping off the training experience, Vermont State Guard troops received hands-on instruction on how to properly enter and exit Black Hawk helicopters, thanks to support from the Maine Army National Guard’s aviation unit. These exercises are invaluable, as VSG soldiers are often deployed across the state during emergencies to support the Vermont National Guard or carry out response missions. The helicopter operations not only enhanced troop mobility readiness but also offered a scenic flight experience, showcasing Vermont’s landscapes from above.

The training ended with a morale-boosting BBQ, reinforcing camaraderie among the troops. Special recognition was given to Major General Stratton, Commanding General of the Vermont State Guard, and Brigadier General Westover, Chief of Staff, who participated in the events. Thanks were extended to the Army National Guard for coordinating the aerial support and to the Maine Army Aviation team for making the helicopter training possible.

Through robust training, community engagement, and strong partnerships, the Vermont State Guard continues to build a force ready to serve and protect the Green Mountain State.

Today was our annual training day for the VT State Guard. We covered mission essential skills for security, an awesome training led by Force Protection. After the training, our B.E.L.T. (Basic Entry Level Training) instructor met with new members of the VT State Guard to schedule a recruit training day. Afterwards we held our annual BBQ followed by blackhawk helicopter rides for VT State Guard members made possible by Maine Army National Guard / Maine Army Aviation who flew all the way down just to do this for us! (videos to follow in a separate post) also a special thanks to Fly Army VT for helping coordinate this.

If this looks like fun and you would like to serve the great State of Vermont then shoot us an email at [email protected] and let’s chat!