KINGWOOD, W.Va. (AP) — Fifty-four colorful flags line a long, bright corridor at the Robert C. Byrd Regional Training Institute — one for every state and U.S. territory.
Maj. Gen. Allen Tackett had them raised to make a point: Within a few years, he expects each to have sent soldiers to train at his new $22 million National Guard complex.
On Wednesday, he and Byrd dedicated the new $22 million National Guard training complex in the mountains at Camp Dawson.
The 147,000-square-foot facility actually opened in June, with 14 high-tech classrooms and several computer labs.
Soldiers who come for annual two-week training check into one of the 183 hotel-style guest rooms, with queen-size bed, microwave, refrigerator, TV and DVD player. They are encouraged to bring spouses.
"This is how soldiers should be treated," Tackett said, showing off the 213-seat auditorium, swimming pool and fitness room. "If they're willing to sign on the dotted line and give their lives, then this is what they deserve."