In its first move of the new season, The Lone Guard has expanded to the Fort Worth area with the addition of Dan Purdom, a JROTC instructor in the area. This move stretches LG's influence to another major metroplex in the state; one that had previously been untapped by the group. This may be the most important impact of the addition DFW could become a major recruiting or supportive hub for the team. In regards to this decision, we contacted Franki Alano for comment.

Franki: "When it came down to it, we didn’t choose 1SG (R) Purdom for his drill. We already have the competitive presence at WDC and NHSDTC, but we saw what benefits he could provide to not only The Lone Guard but also the community. Right now 1SG (R) Purdom serves in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area at Amon Carter-Riverside High School as a Army JROTC instructor. Having an instructor in an independent drill team is almost unheard of, so this really goes to show you’re never too old to pick up a rifle. Our expectations with 1SG Purdom are to mentor and assist him into building a successful drill team and to increase the skill level in the Dallas-Fort Worth area."

Dan Purdom: "Original reason for joining: I'm a proud Texan, and when i heard there was a team for Texas drillers, I just wanted to be part of it. What I give to the team: we're trying to expand drill both geographically and demographically. My position in North Texas and my job as a JROTC instructor give me a unique opportunity to reach young cadets, especially in DFW. I also help provide a level of adult oversight, particularly when it comes to the interactions between adults and minors. What LG provides for me: an opportunity to be part of a nationally known and reputable team. This has already paid dividends with improving my drill through video reviews and both one-on-one and group coaching."

Dan also gave us a few hints about the first upcoming event in the DFW area run by LG, so stay on the lookout on their socials and on here for more information!

Pictures are available for use with proper credit to Robin Kuduk and @robin_kuduk_photography on Instagram.