Oakville Guard Soldier Competes in Family Day

Pvt. Taylor Ann Rumpsa from Oakville ran through a mud-filled obstacle course Saturday at the Missouri National Guard Family Day. 

Several hundred parents, siblings and spouses attended the annual event that gives an inside view to combat training. 

“This is a great experience,” said Colin Rumpsa, the father of Pvt. Taylor Ann Rumpsa. “I wish everyone could do this.”

Family Day is designed for fun, but also provides a sense of relief for relatives.

“We have to have the support of soldiers’ family members,” said Master Sgt. Bradley Kohler in a Guard release. Kohler is the Guard’s senior noncommissioned recruiting officer in the St. Louis area. “We have to show them what benefits military service has and how it will enhance their loved one’s lives. For some of these 17-year olds, military service can be a shock.”   

The event was held at the Festus National Guard Armory in Jefferson County.

“This gives me piece of mind because I know what (Taylor) will experience later on,” Anita Rumpsa said. “There’s no question my daughter is in good hands.”