The Department of Defense notified Congress on Nov. 28, 2005 that the New Jersey National Guard's Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team (WMD-CST) is now certified.

     The 21st Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team (WMD-CST) consists of 22 highly skilled, full-time members of the Army and Air National Guard who, through the state's Adjutant General come directly under the command and control of the Governor, yet are fully resourced, trained, and evaluated by the federal government.

     The Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team supports civilian authorities at a domestic CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives) incident site by identifying agents/substances, assessing current and projected consequences, advising on response measures, and assisting with appropriate requests for additional state support.

     The WMD-CST's participate in both military and civilian emergency responder specialized technical training.  Each team member required approximately 600-800 hours of initial training above and beyond his or her primary military occupational skill (MOS) qualification or professional military education requirement.  Several DOD schools, the National Fire Academy, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE) as well as other relevant agencies, provided professional instruction.

     WMD teams are each equipped with high-tech detection, analytical, monitoring, and protective equipment.  Units also possess satellite, secure digital, and secure voice communication to provide connectivity with either civilian or military forces within the operational area.

      WHAT: A media opportunity to meet the personnel of the 21 st WMD-CST along with the commander.  Also available that day will be Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth, The Adjutant General of New Jersey and Brig. Gen. Maria Falca-Dodson, Deputy Adjutant General.

     WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m.

      WHERE: 21st WMD-CST headquarters at Fort Dix, N.J.