(Camp Pendleton, CA)–With the recent re-organization  of the California State Military Reserve (CSMR) happening across the state, and  personnel numbers  increasing at a slower rate than expected, soldiers are stepping up to fill gaps to complete missions.  One example of this effort is the joint mission on 21 October 2016, where 25 soldiers from the 79^th Support Brigade (headquartered in Kearney Mesa, CA) came together in a joint range mission to support the 1/18^th Cavalry.  This mission was led by Charlie Company Commander, CPT(CA)  Daniel Derkum, with the support of HHC/ 79^th Support brigade and it’s Alpha, Bravo and Charlie Company soldiers.  The mission operations order detailed support of 530 members of the 1/18th Cavalry, assisting them on weapons qualification on the M4, M9 and M249 weapons.

When asked about how he felt about the joint mission, Derkum said, “I think it is fantastic that Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie Companies are working together.  We’re looking for more soldiers to help the National Guard meet their missions successfully.” Prior to soldiers’ names being placed on the mission TDA, they each attended the PMI class conducted by the Charlie Company PMI instructors with soldiers from other companies in attendance.  In tandem with recruiting efforts, this trend of working jointly across units and geographical areas validates the CSMR soldiers’ commitment, capability and dedication to meeting missions successfully in support of our State Guard. Soldiers, both National Guard and CSMR, trained and worked side by side, in support of this range mission.

SPC (CA) Michael Harrison remarked, “I never thought we would get this opportunity.  This mission gives us an idea of what the other side does.”  SPC (CA) Andre Tardiff agreed, ” I enjoyed it so much, I want to do it again.  It makes me want to give and do even more.”

A command field visit was conducted by COL(CA) Joseph von Sauers, Commander of the 79^th Support Brigade, along with COL(CA) Russell Nakaishik, Chief of Staff, and CSM(CA) Richard Moriarity, Command Sergeant Major.

“CSMR soldiers continue to train to meet and exceed standards in support of whatever mission they are called to do.  This range mission in support of the 1/18th Cavalry proves that our soldiers are committed, dedicated and needed for the National Guard to succeed.  We will be supporting 1/18th Cavalry’s upcoming 2017 Annual Training (AT) next June and encourage more soldiers to participate,” said CSM(CA) Moriarity of the 79th Support Brigade.

The California State Military Reserve (CSMR) is an all-volunteer State Defense Force. Our primary mission is to support the Soldiers and Airmen of the California National Guard (CNG) in its Homeland Defense, Homeland Security missions and service to California during times of State Emergencies.

Article written by 2LT Chin.