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204th Infantry Battalion LTC Windle Ray Causey, Commander CSM Larry Bolden, Command Sergeant Major Clarksville, TennesseeTelephone: 931-721-2080 |
HEADQUARTERS CONTACT: or E-mail |
Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Membership in the Tennessee State Guard
Question: Who can join the Tennessee State Guard?Answer: Any residing citizen, male or female, over 18 years of age. The only restrictions are members of active or reserve components of U.S. military forces. Individuals who have been convicted of a felony would also be excluded. Question: What obligation in time would I be expected to give? Answer: Drills (meetings) are generally held monthly. These drills are used as training sessions and also to coordinate activities and usually last two hours. Your particular assignment in your unit may require a few additional "home work" hours to organize your section or staff and recruit. This additional work is done at your leisure. Question: Will I be paid for my time and out of pocket expenses? Answer: Only if you are called to duty by the governor. As to any expense being reimbursable, only if prior approval is given by your brigade commander or Tennessee State Guard commander. Question: What uniform will I wear? Answer: Under National Guard regulations you will wear standard army green or camouflaged uniforms with distinctive State insignia and name tags designating you as a member of the Tennessee State Guard. Question: Does the Tennessee State Guard furnish uniforms? Answer: No, not at this time. Officers and enlisted members are required to purchase their dress green and camouflaged uniforms and accessories. Question: How will my rank be determined? Answer: Prior service officers and enlisted personnel will be evaluated and assigned rank on a basis of prior service, education, civilian occupation and other factors. Question: Am I required to pass a physical exam? Answer: No. Individuals with medical problems or handicaps will be utilized to the extent of their ability. Question: What other obligations do I have? Answer: You will take an induction oath when you join the Tennessee State Guard. You will be expected to live up to that oath. You are expected to make your drills or if you cannot, due to personal reasons, call your commander and explain your situation. Repeated absences without permission will result in your discharge. You must wear your uniform properly and only when attending meetings of the Tennessee State Guard functions. All rules of military courtesy will be observed while in uniform. Question: Considering the fact that I'm not going to be paid, I must buy my uniform, and there is some work involved, why should I join the Tennessee State Guard? Answer: For the same reason that successful business people join civic clubs. They pay dues, contribute their time and talents for the benefit of their community. The Tennessee State Guard is a public service for the people of Tennessee and requires an obligation on the part of its members to train as soldiers for the time we will be needed. You will serve with people who are patriotic and have a knowing respect for military preparedness. You will be carrying on a tradition of volunteer military service dating back to the creation of our state. Last, but most challenging, you have an opportunity to utilize the training you have had in the military and civilian life to develop and help build the cadre of the Tennessee State Guard. |