New year, same cold, same 0430 alarms, same “who thought it was a good idea to schedule a PT test in January” energy. Every new year brings a few new faces into the unit. Fresh boots, nervous smiles, and that wide-eyed look that says they’re still figuring out where the coffee is.

The first drill of the year always hits different. Everyone’s shaking off the holidays, pretending to be ready for whatever’s on the training calendar, and bracing for the range weekend that somehow always lands on the coldest day of the year. There’s always that one person who forgot gloves, someone who brought way too many snacks, and a new Soldier trying to look confident while praying they’re standing in the right spot.

If you’ve been around for a minute, this is your chance to show what the Guard’s really about. Be the one who helps out. Show them where to stash their gear, explain how to actually survive a twelve-hour drill day, or at least warn them who runs PT like it’s a competitive sport. Those small moments matter more than they know. That’s what turns a unit into a family.

To the new Soldiers…take a breath. You’re in it now. You’re part of something that’s equal parts chaos, pride, and inside jokes that no one outside the armory will ever understand. You’ll learn quick that the Guard is where you find your people, your rhythm, and your grit.

So, here’s to the new year and the new Soldiers ready to jump in. May your boots stay dry, your coffee stay hot, your scores keep climbing, and your range day somehow, miraculously, land on the one warm weekend of the year.

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