The Washington National Guard at Camp Murray rolled out the red carpet last Saturday in hosting a Heritage Day. The day's events celebrated the service of Guard personnel from the past and present.

"This is my first time here," said Richard Jones, a retired Indiana Guardsman and former Marine who served in Vietnam. "There should be more events like this; it is good to know what there is out there for those of us who served, those who are serving, and those who will serve."

The day included a services and benefits briefing for retirees, a Medal of Honor exhibit dedication at the camp's museum, a classic car show, live music, a magic show, military exhibits, and food vendors.

The Medal of Honor recipients who attended the dedication ceremony were Wilburn Ross (World War II) and Bruce Crandall (Vietnam).

For those members of the public who attended, the day made an impact.

"It's really neat to see some of the gear these guys use," commented Kolbe Fisher, a boy scout with Troop 361, as he looked over some of the telecommunications equipment Special Forces soldiers assigned to 19th Group use. "I think serving in the Guard would be a good thing to do."

For one soldier serving in the Guard, it is all about continuing to serve after leaving active duty.

"I am doing this for the state and for my family," commented Staff Sgt. Paul Griswold, 10th Civil Support Team.  "I simply wanted to continue to serve and earn some of the benefits available."

Nearby, 6-year-old Hunter Stewart climbed into the driver's hatch of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle as Pfc. Russyl Neumann, B Troop, 303rd Cavalry, kept an eye on him.

"He likes to think he's driving," commented Neumann.

That wasn't all that Hunter had in mind.

Spying Neumann's body armor and Kevlar, Hunter began to put the equipment on.  With Neumann's help, the little boy was ready to go.

"He's all set to go," said his mother, Staff Sgt. Sam Stewart, who serves in the Washington Air National Guard. "Events like this Heritage Day let the public know that we are a great way to serve."