TXSG Continues Growth
MAJ Michael Quinn Sullivan, PAO, TXSG
2011/06/01

KILLEEN, Texas – Texans have long felt drawn to public service, and especially by wearing the uniforms of our state and nation, so it is no surprise that the Texas State Guard continues to grow through the enlistment of civic-minded young men and women.

Volunteer TXSG recruiters around the state are eager to help bring Texans into the organization and be reached at http://www.txsg.state.tx.us/join-now.aspx

Late last year, the TXSG swore in the 2,000th Soldier. Even as the Texas State Guard grows, Commanding General Ray Peters says each new recruit brings new energy and expertise to the mission of the organization.

“It’s a pleasure to see so many new faces entering service to their fellow Texans,” said Peters. “No matter how large we grow, the Texas State Guard is a family that celebrates the achievements of people and encourages them to grow professionally. Every new recruit and enlistee is a cause for celebration.”

That commitment was on full display recently when the 2nd Civil Affairs Regiment held an enlistment ceremony at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery outside Killeen. While regiment regularly looks for opportunities to make enlistment and advancement ceremonies special for the honorees, this one took on unexpected significance.

This ceremony was to feature one enlistment, Manuel “Tony” Rodriguez. A special setting, but all expected it to be a relatively quiet affair.

Also at the cemetery on Memorial Day morning were a group of veterans, members of a motorcycle club, who had come to pay final respects to fallen comrades. Feeling there was no better way to honor the memory of the departed, they asked to be included in the ceremony.

LTC Peyton Randolph, commander of the 2nd Battalion of the 2nd Regiment, invited them to fall into formation. Afterwards, the veterans included attending TXSG personnel in a Memorial Day prayer.

Rodriguez, the son of BG Manuel Rodgriguez, commander of the TXSG Army Component, will join the 2nd Battalion, 2nd CA Regiment, for Annual Training in June. He will study Mass Care Operations, Wide Area Disaster Assessment, entering information into the Evacuee Tracking Network, working at a Point of Distribution, and learn other skills that will make him integral to supporting the citizens of Texas during times of emergency.

Freshly minted PFC Rodriguez eagerly grasped the opportunity to enlist on Memorial Day at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery. Surrounded by well-wishers and monuments to soldiers who have given their all for Texas and for the United States of America, Private First Class Tony Rodriguez joins a long tradition of service to his country, Texas, and his fellow citizens.