Medford, Oregon- The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment will open its doors to the public on Saturday, May 3, with a free, family-friendly “Guard for a Day” Open House at the Medford Armory.
Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1701 S. Pacific Hwy., the event offers a rare hands-on look at military life and equipment. Attendees can explore military vehicles, handle gear, observe combat medic demonstrations, and learn about Army scout operations and mortar systems.
“This Open House is a unique opportunity for Southern Oregon residents to experience firsthand what the National Guard does and the equipment we use,” said Lt. Col. Heather Robinson, Rear Detachment Commander. “We’re excited to welcome our community and let them get hands-on with our equipment and meet our soldiers.”
Soldiers in the Oregon Army National Guard typically serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year, allowing them to maintain civilian careers while remaining ready to respond to emergencies such as wildfires and floods. That dual role, according to Robinson, has helped the Guard build strong community ties and become the service of choice for many Oregonians.
During the Open House, the battalion’s rear detachment will also host a virtual town hall with soldiers currently deployed to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula as part of the Multinational Force and Observers mission. The meeting will offer families an update on the unit’s mission and plans for the battalion’s return this fall.
Headquartered in Ashland, the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment has units throughout Southern Oregon, including Medford, Grants Pass, and Roseburg. The battalion supports both state emergency response operations and national defense missions abroad.
The event is open to the public with no RSVP required.
Source: Oregon Army National Guard
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