Refurbished gym opens at Rees Training Facility

HERMISTON – A newly renovated gym is open and ready for use for tenants at the Gen. Raymond F. Rees National Guard Training Center. Years of planning and hoping became a reality in just a few short months, as this was the culmination of a renovation that began back in November.

“We beat out mark, our mark was April 1.” said Oregon Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Francisco Sanchez.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held with representatives from the city of Boardman, Oregon State Police, Oregon Military Department Fire Service and Adjutant General Installations in attendance.

The gym facility has been in use for several decades but was beginning to fall into disrepair, while the equipment was starting to break down. Sanchez says he and several others at the training facility began asking about remodeling the gym several years ago, and were finally able to secure the $170,000 in funding.

Once funding was in place, many involved in the training facility contributed. Sanchez credited the Adjutant General Installations Division with helping construction and purchase orders. Officers with Oregon Military Department’s Fire Service helped with everything from tear down to painting to the actual moving of equipment. Columbia Fitness helped supply the new equipment, including a turf floor that can be used for training.

“We try to work hand in hand with everybody here.” said Sanchez.

Some of the old equipment that was removed before renovations has been stored away with plans to refurbish and reuse it. Much of that will go to the second floor of the gym once that section is completed. Sanchez says they’re waiting on a delayed flooring shipment so they can complete that portion but is hopeful it will arrive soon. The second floor will also include a wrestling mat for combative training.

MYCB file photo of Rees Training Facility

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