Local Guard unit put on alert

Shelbyville's Company G, Forward Support Company, Regimental Support Squadron of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, has been put on alert. The alert gives the unit time for readiness and training before any possible deployment. (T-G Photo by Brian Mosely) [Order this photo]

The National Guard unit which includes Shelbyville, the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, has been put on alert.

According to Sgt. John Garner of the Shelbyville armory, the alert means that the unit is capable to perform its mission and will give them time to train, check their equipment and prepare in case the unit is called for deployment.

But it does not mean they've been called up for service, Garner said.

Shelbyville's armory is the base for Company G, Forward Support Company, Regimental Support Squadron. Members were stationed in Iraq for a year ending in November 2006.

Before its Iraq service, the unit was known as the B Battery of the 115th Field Artillery Battalion, but it was reorganized as part of its activation.

The 278th Regiment has about 4,000 soldiers in a multi-county area.

Garner said the alert would give the unit time for readiness and training before any possible deployment.

"I can't speculate when or where we would be sent or for how long, if we are mobilized," Garner said. He added that the unit's monthly training would continue on schedule.

The 278th's last alert notice came in 2004, shortly before mobilization orders for duty in Iraq.