Representative Terri Lynn Weaver Completes Tennessee State Guard Initial Entry Training

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On July 19, 2015, 2nd Lieutenant Terri Lynn Weaver completed Tennessee State Guard (TNSG) Initial Entry Training (IET) at the Volunteer Training Center in Smyrna, Tennessee, achieving above and beyond expectations earning the coveted Distinguished Graduate Award. IET is the introduction to military training for those without prior military service, and this year’s IET participants were evenly divided between enlisted, noncommissioned officers, warrant officers, and officers. Training was provided by cadre from all regiments and headquarters of TNSG, and over 100 students and cadre participated in IET as well as the Officer Basic/Warrant Officer Basic Course, and Advanced Leaders Course.

More recently 2LT Weaver is known for her work in state politics. She is the member of the Tennessee House of Representatives for the 40th district, which is composed of DeKalb, Smith, and Macon counties. It was through her work in the House that 2LT Weaver became aware of the TNSG, and after inviting the TNSG to participate in recent Lancaster Independence Day celebrations 2LT Weaver became interested in serving herself.

Country and gospel music fans may know of 2LT Weaver as “Terri Lynn,” a singer-songwriter whose career began in the 1970s in Texas country bands and in solo work that is reminiscent of Emmylou Harris. Recently 2LT Weaver is known for singing the national anthem a cappella at state-wide political events, parades, and celebrations in her hometown of Lancaster and other Tennessee venues.2LT Weaver sang the national anthem once again at the commencement ceremony for her fellow graduates and cadre, a performance that expressed TNSG’s patriotism and inspired all who participated in the event.

When asked if IET was enjoyable, 2LT Weaver replied, “Absolutely, especially the marching!” 2LT Weaver notes that serving in the Guard is an extension of the kind of service she has performed throughout her life in her church, community, and local politics. “This is a new chapter in my life,” said Weaver, “and the mission of the Guard, particularly disaster preparedness, is right in line with work I have done and will continue to do in my community, church, and for the state of Tennessee.” Weaver noted that during the 2010 Tennessee flood she was actively involved in working with the Corps of Engineers to insure that Lancaster was not harmed by additional flooding that could have occurred had dam waters been released too soon. “Lancaster was cut off from all outside communications during the flood, and by driving along railroad tracks I was able to leave Lancaster and establish communications with the Corps. This is just the type of work that TNSG does, so I’m a good fit.”

The sense of community that inspires 2LT Weaver is readily seen in the mission of the TNSG: Support and Complete the Tennessee National Guard in disaster relief. 2LT Weaver personifies this mission through her work in her church, music, state politics, and now with the Tennessee State Guard. To find out more about the Tennessee State Guard go to: https://www.tn.gov/military/who-we-are/state-guard.html

2LT Weaver with Tennessee National Guard ATAG BG Tommy Baker during graduation ceremony.