109th Regional Support Group

03/18/2026

Soldiers with the 82nd Civil Support Team (CST) recently completed an external evaluation designed to test their ability to respond to weapons of mass destruction and hazardous material incidents.

Conducted every 18 months, the evaluation places the team in a realistic training scenario involving simulated chemical or biological warfare agents. During the exercise, CST members entered a contaminated environment in full protective gear to identify unknown substances, collect samples and conduct on-site analysis.

The evaluation is led by CST Assessment Team A (CSTA), based in Texas, and measures the unit’s ability to apply chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) expertise during complex hazardous materials incidents.

The 82nd CST supports federal, state, local and tribal agencies, regularly working alongside organizations such as the FBI, local fire departments and law enforcement during emergency response situations.

At the heart of the CST mission is community partnership. The team works closely with local agencies, including the Rapid City Fire Department and Sioux Falls Fire Department, to build relationships and ensure a coordinated response when specialized capabilities are needed.

03/10/2026

Lt. Col. Ed Lapthone (right) praised Master Sgt. Sam Schaeffer (left) for his outstanding work with the 196th Regional Training Institute (RTI). Schaeffer, now the Operations NCO for the 109th Regional Support Group, received the Meritorious Service Medal for his dedication and achievement during his time at the RTI.

The medal is awarded to service members who distinguish themselves through outstanding achievement or meritorious service to the United States. Schaeffer’s commitment to the 196th RTI, a premier training unit in the South Dakota Army National Guard, reflects the highest values of the .

04/06/2025

April is the Month of the Military Child 💜

We celebrate the strength and sacrifices of military children around the world. Whether cheering their parents, making new friends in a new place, or showing courage during deployments, these young heroes serve in their own way.

04/05/2025

Master Sergeant Josh Wermers was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major during a promotion ceremony held on Camp Rapid, SD, April 4th.

Congratulations SGM Wermers and thank you for everything that you do for the South Dakota National Guard!

03/02/2025

Promotion Time!
Capt. Anthony Conklin was promoted to the rank of Major during a promotion ceremony held on Camp Rapid, SD, March 1st.

Congratulations Maj. Conklin!

10/06/2024

The 109th welcomed a new HHC commander this weekend.

Cpt. Scott Dirkes took over for Cpt. James McDonald during a ceremony held on Camp Rapid.

Welcome to the unit Cpt. Dirkes. We look forward to your leadership.

Thank you Cpt. McDonald for everything you have done over your time at the RSG.

09/08/2024

Chapel service 9/8/24

09/07/2024

On Friday we completed the annual Army Combat Fitness Test. It was a beautiful afternoon to get in some PT!

07/05/2024

Congratulations to MSG Josh Wermers on receiving the Meritorious Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

MSG Wermers served the Black Hills Veterans March since 2010, donating countless hours facilitating the event to honor past and current defenders of freedom.

Thank you MSG Wermers, you truly embody the value of selfless service.

06/24/2024

Recently, COL Kettwig and CSM Wood had the privilege of conducting the “Patching Ceremony” for four brand new Soldiers in the South Dakota National Guard.

Congratulations to our newest Soldiers!

06/23/2024

This weekend the 109th took some time to relax with family and friends during our annual family day event.

We can’t do what we do without their support.

Thank you to everyone who made this event happen!

09/18/2023