By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
May 6, 2001
PHILADELPHIA Master Sgt. Mack Alford of Philadelphia has been around the Mississippi Army National Guard his entire life.
His father, Col. Herman Alford Sr., helped establish the guard unit in Philadelphia 50 years ago. It has had several different designations and missions over the years, but today's 298th Corps Support Battalion has maintained the strength and status as a superior unit.
The 298th is currently training for a mission at Ft. Irwin in California where they will support a unit from Philadelphia. This will be the second time in three years for the 298th to train at Ft. Irwin.
The 298th also serves as battalion headquarters. Also stationed in Philadelphia is the 367th Maintenance Co., which is under the direction of the 298th. The 367th's mission is to maintain and repair equipment.
The 298th celebrated its 50th anniversary with an open house Saturday. Brigadier Gen. Leonard E. Berry, assistant adjutant general for the Mississippi National Guard, was the guest speaker for the program.
Area high school bands performed throughout the day. There was a full display of military equipment that included a tank, a half-track from the World War II era, Jeep and heavy machinery.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.