The awesome 33 foot long, 12 foot wide, 8 foot high, 60 ton piece of armored might was moved   to the Sussex County Fairgrounds from the National Guard Armory in nearby Newton in time for the Friday night opening of the Fair.  Despite interruption by fierce winds and torrential rainfall from the most violent thunderstorm in many years, the troops managed to complete setting up their static equipment display just in time for thousands of curious fairgoers to stop, gawk at, admire, and explore one of the deadliest and most advanced weapons on any battlefield.

The Guard equipment display included a HUMM-V (a High Mobility Multi Purpose Wheeled Vehicle - the modern version of the jeep), which attracted the interest of a number of wheeled vehicle enthusiasts.  Reportedly designed to drive in the tank tracks of the M1 Abrams, the civilian version of the HUMM-V is extremely popular with “off road” recreational drivers. Several passers-by expressed disappointment that the M-1 was not entered in the tractor pull, demolition derby, or other competitive events.  

The troops from the 2-102nd began their two-weeks of annual training on Friday, provided tours, briefings on the operation, function, and combat capability of the Abrams as well as information on career opportunities and educational benefits available through membership in the National Guard.  The 2nd Battalion 102nd Armor is headquartered in West Orange, New Jersey with units in Port Murray (Washington), Newton, Hackettstown, and Somerset.

Following the terrorist attacks against the World Trade Centers and the Pentagon, in addition to performing other state and federal missions, troops from the 2-102nd and other Guard units were mobilized to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts at ground zero; to provide additional security at the Hudson River Bridges and Tunnels; Newark International, Atlantic City International, and Trenton-Mercer Airports; and to enhance existing security at the state’s nuclear power facilities.

For additional information on free college tuition, career opportunities, and other benefits in the New Jersey National Guard, please call 1-800-GO GUARD.