Q. What is the Mississippi State Guard?
A. We are the authorized military unit to serve as back-up to the National Guard. If the National Guard is called up, it will be our task to take their place. We can also be used for assistance to victims of floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and civil unrest. We are issued no weapons. The governor of Mississippi is our commander-in-chief and we cannot be sent out of the state for service.
Q. What are the age limits to enlist?
A. We take ages from 17 to 64
Q. Are there written tests or a physical exam?
A. No
Q. Are there any other requirements for enlistment?
A. You must be of good character and have no felony convictions.
Q. Will I get paid?
A. Not unless we are called up by the governor. Otherwise, you receive no pay.
Q. Do I have to buy my own uniforms and equipment?
A. Yes
Q. What do we do if we are called up for active duty?
A. We are obliged to take charge of the armories while the National Guard is away. We may also be used to assist victims of floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and civil unrest.
Q. How often do we drill? How long is summer camp?
A. It depends on your battalion commander as to how often you have drills. You can count on at least one drill per quarter, usually on a Saturday. Summer camp is only one weekend.
Q. What are my chances for promotion?
A. Your chances are good if you attend drills regularly and serve your unit well. You will be enlisted in a grade one stripe up from your rank on your DD 214, if you are a vet with ten years service. Vets with less than 10 years service will be given their rank on discharge. You will be considered for promotion every year.
Q. Can I get a commission as an officer?
A. Yes, if you make valuable contributions to the MSG, you can get a commission. If you are a doctor, registered nurse or a former military officer, you may qualify for a direct commission. If you're an E-7 or above with four years time in grade, you can be commissioned. Other specialties or occupations may also qualify for consideration for commissioning. Commissions are not given out lightly and you must be outstanding to get one.
Q. Am I eligible to use the PX?
A. Yes, you may use the PX/BX on any military base in the state at the pleasure of the post commander. This privilege is normally only available when holding annual training on that base and while in uniform. Of course, retired regular military MAG members have their usual base and PX privileges.
Q, Where is the HQ for the MSG? Who can I contact?
A. We have headquarters at the National Guard Complex on Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS. We are very near the VA Hospital off Woodrow Wison Drive. Contact BG Lynn McCoy, MSG Deputy Commander by email. lwmccoy@jam.rr.com
Any more questions? Email me.
