Tennessee’s largest National Guard unit is scheduled to deploy to Camp Shelby, Ms., around Dec. 5. At Camp Shelby, the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment will transition to Active Duty status and conduct pre-deployment training for approximately two months prior to their departure for Iraq.
Subject to training requirements, the Regiment plans to allow block leave for the soldiers at some time during the Christmas holidays. According to Army regulations, soldiers are responsible for their own transportation to and from destinations while on leave status.
In several areas of the state, efforts are currently underway within communities, and by media, to raise funds to provide the soldiers transportation from Camp Shelby to their home stations, should they be granted leave during the Christmas holidays.
Although units of the Tennessee National Guard are free to accept unsolicited donations from private entities and/or individuals, Joint Ethics Regulations 3-210 strictly prohibits the direct or indirect solicitation of money or services by units, and/or unit-sponsored support organizations, while within their official capacity.
Private individuals, corporations or associations who wish to provide donations of goods or services should be aware of the restrictions on solicitation set forth by the Joint Ethics Regulations.
Individuals and corporations with questions on acceptable donations may contact Lt. Col. Brett Rypma, Tennessee National Guard Staff Judge Advocate, 615 313-0659, or Maj.(Ret) Randy Harris, director of the Tennessee National Guard Joint Public Affairs Office, 615 313-0633.