More than 125 members of the Oregon Army and Air National Guard gathered at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center this month to compete in the annual Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, known as the “TAG Match,” while celebrating Armed Forces Day.
The three-day event concluded May 16 and tested participants in multiple shooting disciplines designed to strengthen combat marksmanship skills, encourage teamwork, and recognize top-performing service members. Competitors took part in events including three-gun, practical rifle, speed pistol and the Cascade Cup.
Awards were presented during Armed Forces Day festivities by Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon.
“Marksmanship is a Warrior Skill. It demands discipline, patience, physical control, and mental focus,” Gronewold said while recognizing service members who competed despite challenging wind conditions throughout the event.
He noted the competition reflects the readiness and capabilities expected of Oregon’s Soldiers and Airmen.
“Whether it was in the three-gun, practical rifle, speed pistol, or Cascade Cup – our Soldiers and Airmen are trained, ready, and capable,” Gronewold said. “Those of you receiving awards this afternoon, congratulations.”
The TAG Match is open to all members of the Oregon Army and Air National Guard and provides an opportunity for participants to earn distinguished rifle and pistol badges authorized for wear on military uniforms.
The Armed Forces Day celebration also featured remarks from retired Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, who reflected on the significance of the national observance honoring active-duty military personnel across all branches of service.
“Today, we are celebrating our armed forces to demonstrate our appreciation for our men and women who serve our nation,” Rees said. “I want to take this opportunity to include my appreciation for the men and women who serve in our Oregon Army and Air National Guard.”
Rees also referenced the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary of independence on July 4 and the historical sacrifices made by U.S. service members throughout the country’s history.
The training center near Hermiston was renamed in Rees’ honor in 2022, recognizing decades of military leadership, including multiple appointments as Oregon’s Adjutant General and service as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Training, Readiness and Mobilization.
This year marked the second time the Oregon National Guard hosted an Armed Forces Day celebration at the Rees Training Center. The event included military vehicle displays, historical exhibits and community vendors, drawing both service members and civilians from across Eastern Oregon.
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