Rees Training Center hosts National Guard combat marksmanship exercise
By Terry Murry on Monday, May 18th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
HERMISTON – The Oregon National Guard (ONG) observed Armed Forces Day with the annual Oregon Army and Air National Guard Training Exercise (TAG Match) that concluded Saturday at the Rees Training Center near Hermiston. More than 125 citizen-soldiers took part in the competition and received awards from Oregon National Guard Adjutant Gen. Alan Gronewald during the festivities.
Opening remarks were given by Maj. Gen. (Retired) Raymond “Fred” Rees of Helix. In addition to serving as the brigadier general of the ONG for three terms, Rees was the deputy assistant secretary of the Army for training, readiness, and mobilization from 2014-2019. Also addressing the troops was Hermiston Mayor Doug Primmer.
The TAG Match is a shooting competition open to all Oregon National Guard members. The goal is to improve marksmanship, build camaraderie, and give the top shooters a chance to earn distinguished pistol and rifle badges for their uniforms. The service members endured windy weather during the three-day event.
“Marksmanship is a warrior skill,” Gronewald told the troops. “It demands discipline, patience, physical control, and mental focus.”
Rees added a historical perspective to the event when he spoke to the service members, their families, and civilians from throughout Eastern Oregon.
“On July Fourth this year, we will celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday – 250 years since the Declaration of Independence,” he said. “That independence was achieved through the heroic action of our Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines.”
Maj. Gen. (ret.) Fred Rees of Helix delivers the opening remarks at the Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day at the training center that bears his name near Hermiston Saturday. (ONG photo by John Hughel)
