MDDF Completes Third Annual Initial Entry Training

By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
12 May 2013

Twenty-six Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel completed Initial Entry Training (IET) at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation in Reisterstown, Maryland on May 12, 2013. The graduation ceremony capped off a MDDF specific basic training program that was held over two weekends. The training curriculum included various modules to included leadership development, MDDF history, basic first aid, drill and ceremony and military customs and courtesies.

Even military veterans joining the MDDF are expected to go through the program in order to get a better understanding of the states volunteer reserve component and its critical role within the State of Maryland. Capt. (MDDF) Salvatore Simonetta, the IET superintendent stated that it was, “great to see the class come together over the course of the training and develop real esprit de corps.” “They don’t just look sharp, they also really know their stuff.”

The class honor graduate is Capt. (MDDF) Evelyn Kloos who has been assigned to the 10th Medical Regiment. Capt. (MDDF) Simonetta commented that, “She distinguished herself in each phase of the training.” “Capt. (MDDF) Kloos stood head and shoulders above a very talented class which made her selection an easy one for the cadre.”

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF served as the keynote speaker for the event. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm commented that, “This training program lays an important foundation for each MDDF volunteer.” “IET makes each volunteer better in their individual roles and collectively it makes the MDDF better equipped to serve the citizens of this wonderful state.”

The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.