Dignified with ceremonial pageantry, formal remarks, and a precise flyover, the Arizona National Guard muster gave the Arizona public a unique chance to witness a historic military tradition.
More than 3,800 Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen took to the field at Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium this morning, to proudly assemble before their commanding officer, Maj. Gen. Michael T. McGuire, as their fellow citizens looked on. After the formation was dismissed, the groups converged for an expo that represented the heart of the event: community.
“I am very, very thankful to southern Arizona, Pima County, the city of Tucson, and the Kino Sports Complex for hosting us today,” said Maj. Gen. McGuire. “The last one of these was in Maricopa County at ASU stadium, and we are very proud of our partners here in Tucson, and we are proud of the patriotic spirit we have here in southern Arizona.”
The exposition featured food, entertainment, and exhibits, all of which were contributed by the military and community, alike. For community guests, getting an up-close view of the Army static equipment displays made them feel more knowledgeable and connected to their troops.
“They’re all very approachable and answer any questions you might have, and actually encourage you to ask questions,” said Alicia Karschnik, an Arizona National Guard spouse. “You can see the pride of them wanting to show off their specialty, and it’s good for the community to see.”
More than 50 community vendors participated in the event, offering information, resources and raffles to attendees. One military family said they were grateful for their participation of these groups.
“We always find something useful at events like this, and I like that they have a little bit of everything for everyone,” said Sgt. Martin Hernandez, a member of the 2220th Transportation Company. “In fact, my wife got to talk with someone about her insurance benefits, so that’s a big help to us.”
Black Horse, a Phoenix-based cover band, traveled to the southern Arizona to provide musical entertainment at the event, free of charge. For one of its members, the chance to perform was a privilege, and a tribute to a late family member.
“We’re friends with a couple of band members of the 108th [Army Band], and they asked if we could do this, and we said we’d be more than honored to do this gig,” said band leader Moe Mustafa. “My uncle served in Vietnam in the Black Horse infantry, so as an honor to him, because he passed away in Vietnam, I decided to name the band after his unit, and we’re proud to carry his name.”
For members of the muster’s formation, getting to interact with their supporters from the stands, and meeting them at the expo, was the reward for the day.
“That’s our family, our supporters,” said Hernandez. “Whether we’re here or deployed, they are the backbone, and we appreciate them.”