CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The 2017 National Boy Scout Jamboree is preparing for its retreat held every four years at Summit Bechtel Reserve in Fayette County.
The event running from July 19-28 is anticipated to bring thousands of Boy Scouts to the Reserve. In addition to the Scouts, there will also be about 1,400 military members from throughout the United States to provide support. Military branches present at the Jamboree include the U.S. Army Reserve, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and National Guard. They are collectively known as the Joint Task Force – National Scout Jamboree.
The Department of Defense along with the West Virginia National Guard have provided support to the Jamboree since its inception in 1931. The services include logistics, security, aviation and communications, according to West Virginia National Guard Public Affairs Sgt. Zoe Morris.
“It’s really important for West Virginia”, Morris said. “It really highlights the fact that our command can support these different events with our resources through using existing taxpayer dollars”.
Members of the Joint Task Force come from all over the United States. States represented include Colorado, Florida, New York, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
In addition to supporting the Jamboree, the West Virginia National Guard is leading two exercises throughout the month of July. Sentry Storm is hosted by the 167th Airlift Wing from Martinsburg July 15-19. Training includes aeromedical evacuation and support services readiness training.
By having the Jamboree overlap with this emergency training, services will be readily available in the event of an emergency, Morris said.
“Not only do you have quality training going on, but you have it at a time where if people did need to be called up for an emergency duty they’re already ready to go,” Morris explained. “We’re talking about a huge amount of logistics that the National Guard is standing by ready to support if any assistance is needed.”
Dawson Storm is the National Guard’s other training exercise slated for July 20-25 in Kanawha, Monongalia and Preston counties. The exercise’s goal is to ensure they work closely between other National Guard units as well as local first responders.
Entertainment will also be provided by the various military branches supporting the Jamboree. The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, 3rd Infantry Regiment “Old Guard” Silent Drill Team and the Marine Corps Marching Band are all scheduled to perform.