Soldiers train during special exercise here

Kyle Roden packs his gear in National Guard training here [Click to enlarge]

Members of the Arkansas Army National Guard's 39th Infantry Brigade were in Rector this weekend, working hard as part of their ongoing drills. Soldiers operating out of Walnut Ridge joined with those from the Rector Armory to take part in a 10-mile hike which began in town and included rural areas north of the city. The exercise included full packs, with soldiers carrying essential gear and weapons.

The packs, which can add as much as 45 pounds or more to the loads carried by the soldiers, help to further strengthen the troops and require each soldier to maintain excellent physical conditioning.

"I pack the lighter things on the bottom," said Specialist Robert Davis of Cave City. "By putting the heavier things on top, it gives you more balance. That way, it keeps you from feeling like your pack is pulling you back the whole time."

Davis, who is attending college on the G.I. Bill, says he maintains his fitness level by following a regular workout routine.

"I make sure I stay fit," said Davis, 20. "I want to be ready for each drill or for anything we're called to do."

As a member of the 39th, Davis often splits his drill time between Rector and Walnut Ridge.

Sergeant Kyle Roden is no stranger to Rector, having grown up in the area. A veteran soldier who received the Army Commendation Award during an encounter in Iraq in 2006, Roden understands the importance of maintaining a high level of training as a soldier.

"I don't know of anyone who looks forward to going on a 10-mile hike," Roden said. "But the fact is, this type of training is what helps you prepare for life as a soldier. Whether you're working in a combat situation or helping out a relief effort, you've got to be in shape to do your job. Your safety and that of the people around you relies on your ability to think and act quickly."

When the weekend concluded, the soldiers returned to their families, ready to go back to work or school on Monday, each aware their weekend in Rector was another step along the path of protecting America both abroad and at home.