Vermont National Guard hosts Open House at Camp Johnson Sept. 9

August 31, 2023  |  By Capt. Mikel Arcovitch

Air Force Senior Airman Miles Main, a munitions systems technician with the 158th Munitions Squadron, shows visitors the parts of a bomb assembly practice munition during the Vermont National Guard Open House in South Burlington, Sept. 11, 2022. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Don Branum

Pfc. Robert Popeleski, a Soldier with C Co., 186th Brigade Support Battalion (Medical), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, shows Isaac Heath around the dashboard of an M997A3 tactical Humvee ambulance during the Sept. 2022 Vermont National Guard Open House in South Burlington. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Don Branum

Army Staff Sgt. Jason Dennis, an NCO assigned to C Co. 186th Brigade Support Battalion (Medical), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), talks to third-grade student Timothy Whitehead as the young visitor explores the inside of an M997A3 tactical Humvee ambulance during the Sept. 2022 Vermont National Guard Open House in South Burlington. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Don Branum

Members of Hanaford's Volunteer Fife and Drum Corps perform at the Vermont National Guard Open House in South Burlington, Sept. 2022. Established in 1975, the corps is named after Capt. Nathaniel Hanaford, a fifer and drum major during the War of 1812 who is buried in Underhill Cemetery. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Don Branum

Army Master Sgt. Jesse Downs, a senior supply sergeant with the Vermont Army National Guard, talks about the Vermont National Guard Biathlon Program with a visitor at the Sept. 2022 open house. The guard has had a biathlon program at the Ethan Allen Firing Range since 1973. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Don Branum

The Vermont National Guard invites the public to its Second Annual Open House scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 9, at Camp Johnson in Colchester from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

This is an opportunity for the community to connect with servicemen and servicewomen and learn about the guard’s mission and operation through a variety of family-friendly activities.
Visitors will have the chance to see equipment, vehicle and unit displays that provide a tangible glimpse into the machinery and strategic tools employed by the Vermont National Guard. Entry to the event is free. There will be food trucks on site with a variety of food options available for purchase.
“Last year’s event was an outstanding community event with more than 6,000 people in attendance,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, the Vermont National Guard Adjutant General. “We wanted to host the event again this year to allow our community another opportunity to join us and learn about our organization.”
Other activities include a kids zone with bouncy houses and face painting, information booths, a simulation center, and various demonstrations throughout the day. Exhibits at the Vermont National Guard Museum will also be open for the public to view.
Demonstrations throughout the day will include the 40th Army Band, the Norwich Silent Drill Team, and the Vermont Air National Guard conducting a “jaws of life” demo. Additional interactive events include riding in a Small Unit Support Vehicle which showcases one of the many unique capabilities of the Vermont National Guard. The U.S. Air Force will also provide a simulator using virtual reality for attendees to try.
“We believe in bridging the gap between our dedicated personnel and the community we serve. This Open House is not just about showcasing our capabilities but also about fostering relationships,” Knight said. “We're excited to open our doors and welcome everyone to see their Vermont National Guard.”
Parking will be available on Camp Johnson, nearby at the Fanny Allen Medical Center, the Agency of Transportation lot, and at Essex High School with shuttle service available. Signs and dozens of personnel will assist with directions and parking.
For more information, visit the Vermont National Guard’s webpage for the event.

Capt. Mikel Arcovitch is with the Vermont National Guard Public Affairs Office. Contact him for more information at 802-338-3434 or mikel.r.arcovitch.mil@army.mil.