Iowa National Guard Soldiers reflect on collective training experience at Camp Ripley

NGB Banner with White Knockout Text & Divider

In crisis? Seeking support is a sign of strength.
24/7 support is available:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988 or click here for live chat.

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1; text 838255; or click here for live chat.

NGB Warrior Resilience and Fitness (WRF) Division facilitates the Joint Suicide Prevention Program. The program
enhances suicide prevention-related policies and training, advances data collection and analysis, expands access to
community resources, and conducts strategic communication outreach aimed at reducing suicidal behavior across the
Army and Air National Guard. To learn more about WRF resources, click here.

DoD/VA RESOURCES

Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO)
DSPO Risks and Warning Signs
DSPO Lethal Means Safety Resources
DSPO Leaders Suicide Prevention Messaging Guide
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Lethal Means Safety Resources
VA Mental Health and Wellness Mobile Apps
VA Confidential Self-Check Quiz

NATIONAL PROGRAMS

Project Safeguard
NG Cares

GOVERNANCE

CNGBI
CNGB DTM 0300.00

NON-CRISIS COUNSELING AND SUPPORT

Military OneSource
Vet Center Call Center
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline
Psychological Health Resource Center Live Chat
inTransition Live Chat
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
NG Family Assistance Centers
Vet Centers
Star Behavioral Health Providers
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration FIND Treatment
More
Give an Hour
Cohen Veterans Network
Face the Fight
Avalon Action Alliance
PsychArmor
Operation Mend
Travis Manion Foundation
Directors of Psychological Health (CAC enabled)
More

Video by Sgt. Keith Allen, Sgt. 1st Class Jason Everett, Staff Sgt. Roman Gamble, Staff Sgt. Samantha Hircock, Staff Sgt. Katharine Schmidt, Spc. Armani Wilson

Iowa National Guard Soldiers reflect on collective training experience at Camp Ripley

135th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

July 24, 2024 | 2:04

Iowa Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, are midway through a three-week eXportable Combat Training Capabilities rotation at Camp Ripley, Minn. Many arrived in early July 2024, with the exercise wrapping up the first week of August. Soldiers from infantry, artillery, aviation, cavalry and many other specialties are being tested on their platoon-level proficiency as well as their ability to execute missions jointly.

Command Sgt. Maj. Josh Luck, command sergeant major of the 2/34th IBCT, 1st Lt. Zachary Zippe, platoon leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 133rd Infantry Regiment, and Spc. John Andera, an infantryman also assigned to Company C, 1-133rd Infantry, talk about how collective training events like XCTC maintain readiness, and reflect on how important it is for Iowa employers and families to support Soldiers in their military obligations. (U.S. Army National Guard video production by Staff Sgt. Keith Allen)