Recruitment for Nevada National Guard exceeds federal mandate

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – Recruitment for Nevada’s National Guard jumped this year for the third time in a row and exceeded recruiting goals mandated by the Department of War, according to data released Thursday.

“Our state’s youth do not get enough credit for their dedication to service,” said Brig. Gen. D. Rodger Waters, Nevada Adjutant General. “Our recruitment levels continue to underscore the health of our organization and widespread support in the Silver State. With free college tuition and broad training opportunities, the Nevada National Guard provides unmatched employment benefits and unique opportunities to serve our state and nation here in Nevada.”

Data compiled from the Nevada Army and Air National Guard recruiting offices was used to show the uptick since 2023.

The Guard says that, in total, 388 soldiers enlisted in the Nevada Army National Guard in the fiscal year 2025, which ended on Sept. 30. That number exceeded the federally designated goal of 363 new recruits.

The Nevada Air National Guard saw an even larger year over year surge, with 165 incoming airmen out of a goal of 130.

“Our entire staff worked hard all year to reach our highest recruiting numbers in recent history,” said Capt. Vicenza Dall, Nevada Air Guard recruiting manager. “For instance, Technical Sergeant Victoria Baalam completed the Directors Challenge with 20 recruits in the last quarter (July-September) of the fiscal year. She also enlisted 12 people in the month of September. This highlights our community support and their willingness to serve.”

In total, the Nevada Army National Guard includes 3,318 uniformed soldiers, while the Air National Guard includes 1,158.

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