- Historical Date: October 15, 1940
- Location:Muskegon, MI
96 Guardsmen Mobilized at Armory Here
Will Be Inducted into Federal Service Wednesday Night at Hackley Stadium.
Muskegon’s two National Guard units, along with nearly 7,400 other officers and men in Michigan, mobilized today at armories throughout the state for a year’s active service in the regular United States Army.
For Muskegon’s Company G and Headquarters detachment as well as for most of the units elsewhere in Michigan, “M-Day” meant the beginning of a week of physical examinations and special training that will precede the departure for Camp Beauregard in central Louisiana.
Ceremonies at Stadium
For the first time in history here, the Guardsmen will be inducted into federal service in Muskegon with colorful public ceremonies at Hackley stadium Wednesday evening. The oath of enlistment will be administered to almost 100 Muskegon Guardsmen by Capt. Lawrence G. Covell and an address will be delivered by Judge Joseph F. Sanford.
Muskegon’s two units spent their first day today as members of Uncle Sam’s army undergoing extensive physical examinations. After supper at the American Legion club dining room, most of the 96 officers and men will return to their homes tonight with only a skeleton sentry on guard at the Armory.
Physical examinations are expected to be completed by Thursday noon. The Guardsmen will then begin a daily program of conditioning exercises, hikes into the countryside with packs on their back, target shooting in the indoor range at the Armory, courtesy training, and packing of equipment.
By the time orders arrive for the two Muskegon units to entrain for Louisiana, their strength will be increased to about 130 officers and men by the addition of new recruits.
Results of physical examinations will not be learned until the work has been completed, with Guardsmen who do not come up to prescribed standards facing discharge.
Examinations were conducted today by a board of five medical and army men, all reserve officers from other parts of Michigan, assisted by 15 enlisted men. After completing their work here, the board will conduct examinations at Grand Haven and Holland.
Visitors Are Halted
Civilian visitors were halted at the door of the Armory today, including one parent who brought a trunk forgotten by his son. Guardsmen had instructions to ask their parents not to visit them during the rush of the first few days.
When the national guard was mobilized for service in the World war, induction of Muskegon men was held at Fort McArthur, Waco, Texas. Veterans believe that there will be no further induction ceremonies because of the altered defense system under conscription.1
In reading this article, remember that it is 1940; America had not yet joined the war. The guardsmen were mobilized “for a year’s active service.” So much would change.
It is also notable that there is a lighthearted story about a soldier who forgot his trunk at home and had it dropped off by his parents, in violation of the rules. Then a message that this is the last chance for a big sendoff. Things will be different under the draft.
- Muskegon Chronicle, Oct. 15, 1940.
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