MDDF Completes Fourth Initial Entry Training Program

By 2LT (MDDF) Anthony Granado
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
27 October 2013

Fourteen Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel completed the fourth installment of the Initial Entry Training (IET) program at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation in Reisterstown, Maryland on October 27, 2013. The graduation ceremony capped off an MDDF specific basic training program that was held over two weekends. The training curriculum included various modules including leadership development, MDDF history, basic first aid, drill and ceremony and military customs and courtesies.

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF served as the keynote speaker for the graduation ceremony. He told the graduates that “servant leadership is the strongest level of leadership” they could provide. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm also reminded the graduates that it was militia like them who defended the City of Baltimore from British attack during the War of 1812 nearly 200 years ago. He added that the new graduates would be carrying forward this tradition of service.

Capt. (MDDF) Dominic Pompa, the IET superintendent stated that it was an excellent session of IET. He added that over the course of two weeks, he saw a team develop “who were able to adapt and overcome problems both in the classroom and out in the field.” The class honor graduate was Capt. (MDDF) Steven Andrews who was honored for his performance and display of exceptional leadership during the training program.

In addition, 1st. Lt. (MDDF) Nancy Kelly who formerly served in the U.S. Air Force remarked about how proud she was “to be a part of the MDDF” and that “IET was a rewarding experience.” “Being a part of the MDDF,” 1st. Lt. (MDDF) Kelly stated, provides her with “the ability to fulfill my wish to perform community service and support my son who has served tours of duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan.”
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.