The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment will give visitors the opportunity to gain hands-on experiences with military equipment as well as see demonstrations of the National Guard’s capabilities during the “Guard for a Day” open house at the Medford Armory on Saturday.

There also will be a virtual connection with local Guard soldiers deployed to Egypt. 

The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free to attend. The Medford Armory is located at 1701 S. Pacific Highway. 

Attendees of all ages are invited to check out military vehicles, observe combat medic demonstrations, view Army mortar systems up close and more. 

“This open house is a unique opportunity for Southern Oregon residents to experience firsthand what the National Guard does and the equipment we use,” said Lt. Col. Heather Robinson, rear detachment commander. “We’re excited to welcome our community and let them get hands-on with our equipment and meet our soldiers.”

During the open house, the battalion rear detachment will host a virtual town hall meeting with 186th soldiers currently deployed to the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, providing families with updates on the mission and plans for the unit’s upcoming return in the fall. 

Oregon Army National Guard soldiers typically dedicate one weekend a month or two weeks a year to military service, enabling them to respond to emergencies while maintaining their civic careers. 

The 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment is headquartered in Ashland with units in Medford, Grants Pass and Roseburg. The battalion works with the state during emergencies and the nation during federal deployments.