STRATFORD, Conn. –
On July 25, 2026, Soldiers of the Connecticut Army National Guard joined members of Universal Fraternity Lodge No. 149, their families, friends, and members of the community during the Lodge’s 21st Annual Family Picnic at Boothe Memorial Park in Stratford, Connecticut.
While the day included food, music, games, and fellowship, the presence of Connecticut Army National Guard Soldiers added an important element of community engagement, education, and service.
Representing the Guard at the event were members of the Connecticut National Guard Counterdrug Team as well as Connecticut Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Throughout the day, the Soldiers demonstrated the professionalism, knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment to service that Connecticut’s Citizen-Soldiers bring to communities across the state.
The Connecticut National Guard Counterdrug Team brought its “Stash Away” educational trailer, designed to resemble a teenager’s bedroom. Soldiers invited parents, educators, and community members inside and explained how ordinary household and personal items can potentially be used to conceal drugs, alcohol, vaping products, or drug paraphernalia.
The trailer contained approximately 30 to 36 everyday-looking items with hidden compartments or other features that could be used to conceal substances. Soldiers carefully guided visitors through the display and emphasized that the program is intended as an awareness and prevention initiative—not as a scare tactic for parents.
Throughout the demonstration, the Counterdrug Soldiers were patient, approachable, and professional. They answered questions and helped parents and other community members understand how objects that appear completely ordinary may sometimes be used to hide substances in plain sight.
The Counterdrug Team also explained its broader mission throughout Connecticut. Team members work alongside regional behavioral-health organizations to provide substance-use prevention and awareness education while helping communities connect with mental-health, suicide-prevention, and other behavioral-health resources.
Another important part of the Soldiers' participation was Narcan, or naloxone, training. Attendees learned how to recognize possible signs of an opioid overdose and how to respond during an emergency.
The instruction emphasized calling 911 first, properly positioning the individual, administering naloxone when appropriate, monitoring the person's condition, and placing the individual on his or her side while waiting for emergency medical personnel.
The training delivered a simple but powerful message: knowledge gained in only a few minutes could someday help a Soldier, parent, friend, neighbor, or community member save a life.
The Connecticut Army National Guard recruiting team also played an important role in the day's activities. Recruiters engaged directly with attendees, particularly young people and families, and shared information about opportunities available through service in the Connecticut Army National Guard.
The recruiters discussed educational opportunities associated with Guard service and explained different paths available to individuals interested in becoming Soldiers. During conversations with attendees, recruiters discussed opportunities such as Connecticut state-school tuition benefits and options that can allow eligible students to complete portions of their military training during school breaks.
Just as importantly, their presence allowed members of the public to interact personally with Connecticut Soldiers, ask questions, and learn about the National Guard directly from the men and women who serve. The recruiters were friendly, enthusiastic, informative, and professional in representing the organization.
During the event, MWPGM George S. Gretak addressed those in attendance and recognized the Connecticut Army National Guard Soldiers present at the picnic. While reflecting on the 21-year history of Universal Fraternity Lodge No. 149, he also expressed appreciation to the Soldiers for their service and sacrifices on behalf of the United States.
For Universal Fraternity Lodge No. 149 and its guests, the Guard's participation demonstrated that military service extends beyond traditional military responsibilities. Connecticut Soldiers were serving their community that day through education, prevention, recruiting, mentorship, preparedness, and personal engagement.
Their professionalism was evident throughout the event. Whether educating parents about substance-use prevention, teaching community members how to respond to an opioid overdose, speaking with young people about opportunities in the Army National Guard, or simply interacting with families during the picnic, the Soldiers represented the Connecticut Army National Guard with pride and distinction.
The impact of their participation was clear. Attendees responded enthusiastically to the Counterdrug Team's presentation and expressed a strong desire to see the Soldiers and the Stash Away trailer return for Universal Fraternity Lodge No. 149’s 22nd Annual Family Picnic.
The Brothers of Universal Fraternity Lodge No. 149 extend their sincere appreciation to the Connecticut Army National Guard, the Counterdrug Team, the recruiting Soldiers, and every Soldier who participated in this year's event.
Their conduct reflected great credit upon themselves and the Connecticut Army National Guard. Through their professionalism, knowledge, accessibility, and commitment to service, they helped transform an enjoyable family gathering into an opportunity for education, awareness, mentorship, and community connection.
To all the Soldiers who participated: thank you for your professionalism, your dedication to the citizens of Connecticut, and your continued service to our state and nation.