MDDF Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from MDNG Freestate ChalleNGe

By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
13 November 2013

On November 12, 2013 Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm received on behalf of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF), a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) Freestate ChalleNGe program. The ceremony was held at the Fifty Regiment Armory in Baltimore and it was officiated by Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins, the Adjutant General of Maryland. Also receiving lifetime achievement awards were Ernie Gonzales, director of Youth Outreach Programs in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs and retired Brig. Gen. (MD) Vernon Sevier.

The MDDF has provided manpower and administrative support to the MDNG Freestate ChalleNGe program for nearly twenty years. The Freestate ChalleNGe program manages an academy for at risk youth in Maryland. Participants are provided with educational instruction and training modules that cover skills development, teamwork enhancement and self-discipline. The aim of the program is to graduate young people that will become better citizens in their communities.

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF stated that, “This program is important to the State of Maryland and we are glad to contribute to its success. It is truly an honor for us to receive this award.” Finally, he added that “The Freestate ChalleNGe is another example of the MDDF and the MDNG working together in the interest of our fellow citizens.”

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.