National Guard Recognizes Broadcasters
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Members of the Ohio Army National Guard visited WHIZ studios Tuesday, to recognize the efforts in which the Ohio Association of Broadcasters’ member stations play in supporting all that they do.
The National Guard fills many roles in their service to Ohio’s citizens through continuous training that ranges from maintaining combat readiness to offering specialized technical assistance and manpower during natural disasters.
“We are the Ohio Army National Guard,” Ohio Army National Guard Colonel Jon Stewart said. “We’re 10,000 plus soldiers serving in every community across the state of Ohio. We’re here first and foremost to support the Governor of Ohio and any mission he might have for us to support our citizens, you know especially in that dire time of need. Then also to fill our federal mission and support the President of the United States in any missions he might see fit, whether that be here in the United States or overseas.”
Sometimes the workforce may not be an easy fit and the National Guard offers some pretty lucrative incentives for young adults who may be interested in serving their country but in a more local capacity.
“The National Guard has the best education benefits,” Ohio Army National Guard Sergeant First Class Bonnie McGrath said. “Since we serve the State of Ohio, we can go to any Ohio public college for 100 percent tuition free. And then everything from healthcare benefits to starting a 401-K, VA home loans. If any young person who is wanting to start a career or any kind of life, so many opportunities for them.”
Ohio Army National Guard Private E2 Dakota Wright is a local recruit from Muskingum County. She enjoys competitive shooting as a hobby and saw the National Guard as a natural fit.
“I started off at Maysville. I then went to Mid-East my last two years of high school. I just graduated there from the criminal justice program. It’s always been what I wanted to do. I wanted to do law enforcement and military. And the Army National Guard gave me the ability to do both at the same time, so it was kind of perfect,” Wright said.
Public service can take many roles ranging from volunteering for community service projects to paid jobs. Today’s occasion provided the opportunity for both broadcasters and soldiers to demonstrate their appreciation for how they each serve the community.
