North Carolina National Guard Reactivates Mountain Rifles
The state marks the return of an infantry battalion after two decades of inactivity.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Military
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The North Carolina National Guard has officially reactivated the 2nd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, commonly known as the Mountain Rifles. More than 650 soldiers are now assigned to the unit following its two-decade hiatus.
Why it matters
The reactivation expands the National Guard's presence in western North Carolina to enhance disaster response capabilities. The unit also serves to strengthen national defense and assist communities during local emergencies.
The battalion was reactivated on October 18, 2026, marking the end of a 20-year period of inactivity. More than 650 soldiers currently serve in the unit, which is part of the 30th Brigade's transition to a mobile combat formation.
The players
Brig. Gen. Charles Morrison
He is a veteran who has served in the North Carolina Army National Guard for 28 years.
The details
The unit's colors were officially unfurled during a ceremony in Lenoir to signify the battalion's return to active duty. This transition coincides with the 30th Brigade's organizational shift from a mechanized combat unit to a mobile combat unit.
Timeline
1994: Brig. Gen. Charles Morrison enlisted as a private.
1997: Morrison earned his commission through the North Carolina Military Academy.
October 18, 2026: The 2nd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment was reactivated.
Political Context
Opponents or budget watchdogs may express concern regarding the sustained funding requirements for maintaining a larger force in western North Carolina. Advocacy groups often push for prioritizing investment in civilian emergency management infrastructure over military personnel expansion.
Residents in western North Carolina may notice an increased presence of personnel and resources during regional disaster response efforts. This expanded unit provides a dedicated force to assist communities during state emergencies.
The takeaway
The return of the Mountain Rifles signals a strategic emphasis on local community support through reinforced National Guard personnel. Communities should prepare for the potential of increased integration of these forces into state-level emergency response protocols.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's defense initiatives in the North Carolina Military section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Goldsboro Daily News.
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