2 area students join military units

ROCKLAND — Two midcoast area students have enlisted in the Maine Army National Guard. James A. Melanson of Stockton Springs, a junior at Searsport High School, enlisted in Company B, 262nd Engineer Battalion at Belfast; and Sarah E. Schweighauser of Waldoboro, a senior at Medomak Valley High School, enlisted in Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 286th Supply and Support Battalion at Gardiner.

Melanson will attend basic training this summer at Fort Leonard, Mo., before returning to complete his senior year of high school. He will return to Fort Leonard after graduation for his advanced individual training as a combat engineer.

For his enlistment, Melanson will receive a $2,000 enlistment bonus, up to $10,000 in student loan repayment, up to $5,040 from the new G.I. Bill, as well as specialized training in his field, the National Guard announced.

Schweighauser is scheduled to receive basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C., in January 1991 before heading to Lowery AFB, Colo., for advanced individual training as an illustrator. She plans to attend college after completion of training and will receive benefits from the Army to assist with her college education.