Illinois National Guard Opens Reserve Center in Mount Vernon

URBANA, IL (07/10/2011)(readMedia)-- MOUNT VERNON – The Illinois Army National Guard held a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mount Vernon Reserve Center here yesterday.

The $23 million, 85,000-square-foot facility will now be home to the Illinois Army National Guard's Company F, 634th Brigade Support Battalion and Company D, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment as well as the 735th Adjutant General Company of the Army Reserves.

Both Illinois Army National Guard units are part of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which returned from Afghanistan in 2009 and has been notified by the Army that it will likely deploy again in 2013.

"This facility is designed to be state-of-the-art, environmentally efficient and able to meet the needs of today's soldiers," said Major General William L. Enyart, The Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard. "It provides the ability to train these soldiers in a modern, up-to-date facility."

The facility is meant to maximize the use of taxpayer dollars by housing more than one military component; one that is environmentally friendly, where Soldiers will be able to hone their skills in preparation for local, state and federal missions for decades to come, said Enyart.

Rick Kirkpatrick, lead designer of the project, said it was a unique project and the facility carries a number of emblematic themes.

"The eagle perched over the front stands guarding the facility and behind it are stained glass windows representing the campaign ribbons of each unit," said Kirkpatrick. "There is certainly a lot of symbolism surrounding the building; it almost makes you want to salute.

Capt. Anthony Jay Hinkle of Indianapolis, Ind., Company Commander of the Company D of the 2-130 said while moving to the new facility was an adjustment for Soldiers, it is a great new home.

"When soldiers are given the resources to help them train such as a new facility, it allows for a greater esprit de corps, personal accountability and adds training value not otherwise available," said Hinkle. "The amount of individual and supply space has been greatly improved, including an operational area for our motor pool which allows us to more successfully complete our mission."

The dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony gave thanks to the individuals and organizations involved and held an open house to the public. It included free food, games and a display of military equipment such as vehicles, weapon systems and the mechanic operation area.

The new Armed Forces Reserve Center replaced the Mt. Vernon and Salem armories and a leased facility that houses an Illinois Guard medical detachment. The center includes areas for training, storing equipment, a gymnasium and a cafeteria.