Real-world training for real-world events.

The Washington Guard builds prepared, capable citizens through hands-on firearms instruction, tactical readiness, life-saving medical skills, and meaningful community service. Whether you're picking up a firearm for the first time or sharpening advanced tactical skills, there's a place for you here.

We operate on three pillars: Training & Readiness, Community & Service, and Leadership & Development — because a strong community requires all three.

Core Training Programs

Ongoing. Open to All Skill Levels.

These recurring programs form the backbone of Washington Guard training. Show up once or make it a lifestyle, either way, you'll leave more prepared than when you arrived.

Monthly Training Musters — Third Saturday of Every Month Our flagship training event brings together the full spectrum of real-world readiness skills in a single session. Each muster covers a rotating combination of:

• Firearms training
• Close-quarters self-defense
• Emergency communications
• Medical skills
• Intelligence and situational briefings

No experience required. Every skill level welcome.

IDPA Competition Shoots — Second Saturday of Every Month Defensive pistol competition built around real-life scenarios. With 50+ regular participants, these monthly shoots are one of the best ways to sharpen accuracy, improve movement, and learn to perform under pressure in a structured, competitive environment.

Small Circle Jujitsu — Weekly Self-Defense Training A practical, leverage-based self-defense system designed to work for all ages, sizes, and fitness levels. No martial arts background required — just the willingness to show up and learn.

Specialized Training Courses

Firearms, Tactics & Self-Defense

These courses run periodically throughout the year and are open to members and the public. From first-time shooters to experienced tacticians, this is where real skills get built.

CCW — Concealed Carry Training Comprehensive training for responsible citizens who carry or are considering it. Covers:

• Safe and legal firearm handling
• Missouri concealed carry laws and responsibilities
• Defensive mindset and real-world decision-making

CRAC Course — Scenario-Based Tactical Training High-intensity, real-world simulations designed to develop the skills that matter most under stress:

• Decision-making under pressure
• Emotional control in threat scenarios
• Survival-focused response training

Tactical Training — Run & Gun / Team-Based Advanced skills development for experienced members. Focuses on:

• Movement and communication in dynamic environments
• Team-based engagement and coordination
• Real-world tactical application

Women's Self-Defense Workshop A single-day, hands-on workshop teaching simple, effective techniques that work in real-world situations. No experience required. Taught by black belt instructor Tim Raftery.

Women's Shooting Classes Beginner-friendly firearms instruction designed specifically for women. Emphasizes safety, confidence, and capability in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Self-Defense Seminars Foundational instruction covering situational awareness, personal protection mindset, and practical techniques for everyday life.

Situational Awareness Training Learn to identify threats before they escalate. Covers early threat recognition, maintaining alertness, and making better decisions before danger unfolds.

Medical & Preparedness Training

Because the First Few Minutes Are Everything

When professional help is minutes away, a trained citizen can save a life. These courses give you the knowledge and confidence to act.

• CPR Certification — Hands-on training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Get certified and be ready to respond.
• Stop the Bleed — Critical skills for controlling severe bleeding in the first minutes of a trauma emergency.
• Trauma Medicine — Hands-on treatment of serious injuries when professional medical care isn't immediately available.
• Field Medical Training — Applied medical skills practiced in austere, real-world field conditions.
• Preparedness Training — Practical instruction on food storage, water security, and building a personal emergency plan.
• Active Killer Response Training — Threat recognition, high-pressure decision-making, and effective response to violent incidents.

Field Training & Special Events

Where Everything Gets Tested

FTX — Field Training Exercise The Guard's premier immersive training event. Scenario-based, team-driven, and designed to test everything you've built — skills, decision-making, and composure — under realistic conditions.

Joint Training with Military & First Responders Collaborative training events that bring active military personnel and first responders alongside Guard members. Real-world experience. Professional standards. Shared mission.

Patriot's Banquet — Annual A community event honoring service, sacrifice, and the values that make Washington, MO stronger. An evening of recognition and connection for Guard members, families, and supporters.

Gun & Knife Shows Public outreach events where the Guard connects with the broader community, shares its mission, and grows the network of prepared citizens across Franklin County.

Gun Show Security Operations Guard members provide a professional, visible security presence at local gun shows — gaining real-world coordination experience while serving the community.

Military Collectors Show Engaging with history and community through displays, networking, and shared interest in military heritage.

Community Service & Volunteer Programs

Serving the Community We Protect

The Washington Guard goes beyond training. We show up for the people around us — our seniors, our first responders, our fallen, and our youth.

• Wreaths Across America — Honoring fallen service members by placing wreaths at military cemeteries and preserving their memory.
• Adopt-a-Senior Program — Supporting local seniors through connection, practical assistance, and community engagement.
• First Responder Support Program — Providing meals, support, and appreciation to the law enforcement and emergency responders who protect our community.
• Funeral Processions / Fallen Officer Support — Standing in honor and respect for those who gave their lives in service.
• Washington Town & Country Fair — Parade Participation — Representing the Guard in the community while promoting unity, service, and patriotism.

Youth Leadership & Development

Building the Next Generation

Strong communities invest in their youth. The Washington Guard partners with established organizations to mentor young people and reinforce the values of discipline, preparedness, and leadership.

• Youth Leadership & Support Programs — Mentoring and supporting youth organizations to build discipline, leadership, and community values.
• Boy Scouts Support — Partnering with local troops to reinforce preparedness, skills development, and strong character.
• NJROTC Support — Washington High School — Supporting future leaders through mentorship, real-world skill exposure, and direct engagement with Guard members.

Ready to Train With Us?

The Washington Guard is Washington, MO's most comprehensive citizen readiness program.

Whether you're here for the firearms training, the medical skills, or the community — there's a place for you. Training opportunities are available for all experience levels, and most programs are open to the public.

Join the Guard. Build your skills. Serve your community.