Minn. Nat'l Guard Going Through Special 'Vigilant Guard' Program

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Some National Guard crews are going through special training this week. It's called the "Vigilant Guard" program.

Three different Minnesota cities are hosting the training this year: Duluth, St. Paul and Camp Ripley. First responders learn how to use best utilize mobile crisis units, where incident commanders can meet or where families go to get information about loved ones.

The trainings are a good way for the National Guard to know what they need to work on and how to improve their services.

"This is our opportunity to work on those plans and processes and, again, with the civilian partners out there, too. Making sure that the people of the State of Minnesota see that we are ready to step in and help when needed," SMSgt. Kelvin McCuskey said.

The program helps give local entities the building blocks needed to strengthen communities to prepare for emergencies on all levels.

Training will continue throughout the week.