National Guard Association of Vermont

“Guardsmen who repeatedly accept missions without predictable pay and benefits face financial strain on their families and employers,” retired Maj. Gen. Francis M. McGinn, the NGAUS president, told a congressional panel. “Over time, that strain erodes retention. Readiness is not just equipment and training; it is people willing and able to answer the call.” Full story in comments.

A ceremony was held last week to transfer authority of Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine from the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment from the Tennessee National Guard to the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) from the Vermont National Guard. Read more in comments ⬇️
Vermont National Guard Tennessee National Guard 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team - Mountain 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment

From the halls of the National Guard Memorial to conversations on Capitol Hill—NGA-VT showed up strong at NGAUS Industry Day 🇺🇸

This week in DC wasn’t just about advocacy for the Green Mountain Boys (though we did plenty of that). It was about building relationships, shaping policy, and making sure the National Guard continues to bring more to the fight—more capability, more readiness, and more value to the nation.

Industry Day reinforces what Guardsmen already know: when the Guard is resourced, connected, and heard, the entire joint force is stronger. Proud of the work NGA-VT continues to do on behalf of Vermont and the Guard nationwide.

AlwaysReady MoreToTheFight

Big impact for future leaders 🚀

The National Guard Association of Vermont proudly presented $10,000 to STARBASE Vermont to help support hands-on STEM education for our youth. With recent funding changes, NGA-VT is stepping up to ensure programs like STARBASE continue inspiring the next generation.

Huge thanks to LTC(R) Steve Lamos, TSgt Joel Daugreilh, and Shannon LeClair for making this support possible!

Compromise Fiscal 2026 NDAA Includes Guard Provisions Service members will receive a 3.8% pay raise beginning Jan. 1 under the final version of the annual defense policy bill announced by the House and Senate on Sunday night.

Today, the President of the Vermont National Guard Association, COL Doran Metzger, presented a $5,000 donation to VFW Post 1767 Commander Robert Lamore in recognition of the tremendous support the Post continues to provide to NGA-VT and the Vermont Army National Guard.

Grateful for our community partners who always stand ready to support our Soldiers and their families. 🇺🇸💚

Today, retired Maj. Gen. Francis M. McGinn, the NGAUS president, sent a letter to Senate leadership to ensure Active Guard and Reserve members and Dual Status Technicians are included in the Shutdown Fairness Act.

Roughly 46,000 troops won't be paid during the government shutdown Dual-status technicians are full-time members of the Guard and Reserve. And now many are on duty without pay.

Despite making headlines for helping after the catastrophic flooding in Texas or being politicized as President Donald Trump deploys it to police U.S. cities, the National Guard remains a mystery to both civilians and the active-duty force.

Why No One Understands National Guard Families

Shoutout to some real pioneers, !!! Thanks for coming out to support us at the 147th Annual Conference!

Phantom Lights has been a long time supporter of NGA-VT and we not surprised that you can out to see us again the 147th Annual NGAUS Conference! Thank you for taking such great care of the Green Mountain Boys!!

If you’re not wearing Darn Tough socks, you’re not taking of your feet! NGA-VT wants to tank you for coming out to Milwaukee for the 147th Annual NGAUS Conference to support the Green Mountain Boys!!