Honoring African-American Servicemembers - 2015 by GDW Designs inK

A LOOK BACK 555th Parachute Infantry “Triple Nickles” 320th VLA Barrage Balloon Battalion WWII Aviation Engineers MAKING HISTORY Naming of USS Gravely Michelle Howard Promoted to 4-Star Admiral Colin Powell Honored with Statue

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U.S. Navy Utilitiesman 3rd Class Kelan Scott, with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5, holds a miniature American flag given to him by his fellow Sailors after he officially became an American citizen at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Jan. 25, 2012. Scott immigrated from St. Lucia and took the oath of allegiance to the United States in front of fellow Sailors during a naturalization ceremony held at a camp recreation facility. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Senior Airman Damon Kasberg, USAF

Staff Sgt. Cameron Riley looks out the side door of a C-130J Super Hercules during Carpathian Spring 2014, above Campia Turzii, Romania. Riley, along with other jumpmasters, ensured the safety of service members as they exited the aircraft. Riley is a 435th Contingency Response Group jumpmaster.

10 From the Editor 12 Origin of Black History Month 16 African-American Military Contributions By Randy Saunders, 50th Space Wing

20 DoD Promotes Diversity By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr. 22 Lieutenant General Thomas P. Bostick

Commanding General and Chief of Engineers

Dr. Jonathan Woodson Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs)

26 Lieutenant General Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr. Director, DISA

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Pratt & Whitney Recognizes the Value of Veterans

General Vincent K. Brooks Commanding General, USARPAC

32 General Roscoe Robinson, Jr. Army’s First Four-Star General

34 General Colin Powell

Recognized in Leavenworth Ceremony By Scott Gibson

36 Monument Honors “Triple Nickles” 40 Henry Ossian Flipper Battled Prejudice with Honor By Ben Sherman

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The 96th Test Wing honor guard stands ready to present the colors at the 29th annual Gate-to-Gate Run May 24, 2014, at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. More than 1,200 people participated in the 4.4-mile race. Many of the runners paid their respects by dropping off flowers in front of the All Veterans Memorial as they raced by.

43 The 320

56 2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies

46 Annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards 48 In the Army Now 50 First Lt. Dina Elosiebo

62 African-Americans and the U.S. Navy 64 United States Navy Promotes

VLA Served with Distinction on D-Day By Ben Sherman th

DC National Guard’s First African-American Female Pilot By Staff Sgt. Monette Wesolek

54 4

Original Tuskegee Airman Recalls Early Days of Historic Program By Deveney Wall

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NC National Guard Female Soldier is First in Flight / By Staff Sgt. Mary Junell

Michelle Howard to 4-Star Admiral

68 Navy Ship Named for African-American Pioneer By Lance Cpl. Damany Coleman

Black Aviation Engineer Units of World War II By Dr. Ronald B. Hartzer, AFCEC Historian

72 Chief Master Sergeant Cameron B. Kirksey U.S. Air Force Reserve

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U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Nana Sefa, 455th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle management analysis craftsman, is deployed to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan from Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

74 Airman Returns from

Front Lines of Ebola Fight

76 Lt. Col. Michael P. Anderson

Space Shuttle Columbia Astronaut

78 Air Force Leaders Mentor Students By Staff Sgt. David Salanitri

82 Marines Teach Leadership at 100 Black Men Event By Sgt. Dwight Henderson

90 Vice Adm. Manson Brown

Retires After 36 Years of Service

92 Thurgood Marshall College Fund 94 Active-Duty Military Education Benefits 98

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84 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Welcomes

102 Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC)

88 Lt. Jeanine Menze USCG First African

106 Post-9/11 GI Bill: Eligible Training Programs

Sgt. Maj. Lanette Wright By Cpl. Joshua W. Grant

American Female Aviator By Petty Officer 3rd Class Diana Honings

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104 DOE Stands Up For Military Students 112 Dependents Education Assistance Program

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H O N O R I N G

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John D. Kerin PRESIDENT

Gabrielle D. Wood EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Karry Thomas

Sailors hold photos of civil rights activists, armed service veterans during a Black History Month celebration in the forecastle aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES William Ferguson Chris McCormick | Anthony Oliver Catherine Richmond | Mike Zinn ON THE COVER: Master Sgt. Andre Moore clutches an American Flag to his chest during a studio portrait Oct. 28, 2014, at Aviano Air base, Italy. Moore served with the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard for more than four years and uses his knowledge to develop Airmen at the base honor guard level. Moor is the Aviano Base Honor Guard superintendent. Photo: Airman 1st Class Ryan Conroy, USAF 8

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USAF – Senior Airman Damon Kasberg; Staff Sgt. Andrew Caya; Samuel King Jr.; Staff Sgt. Evelyn Chavez; Master Sgt. Cohen A. Young; Tech. Sgt. Lou Burton; Scott M. Ash; Tech. Sgt. Prentice L. Colter; Lance Cheung; Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Wilson; Staff Sgt. Robert Hicks. USA – Dana M. Clark; Staff Sgt. Teddy Wade; Sgt. John Carkeet IV; C. Todd Lopez; Amanda Rominiecki; Kelley Lane-Sivley; Sgt. Teddy Wade. ANG – Staff Sgt. Monette Wesolek; Staff Sgt. Mitch Miller; Spc. Melanie Avery; 2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies. USMC – Sgt. Dwight A. Henderson; Cpl. Joshua W. Grant; Cpl. Michael Petersheim; Sgt. Scott Schmidt; Lance Cpl. Stanley Cao; Lance Cpl. Brandon Thomas. USN – Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Giovanni Squadrito; Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Ryan Harper; Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor; Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Mitchell; Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Dana Howe. USCG – Petty Officer 3rd Class Jonathan Klingenberg; PA2 Jennifer Johnson; PA2 Andrew Kendrick; Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley. Colin Powell story: Heath Steele; Henry Flipper: Ben Sherman, Fort Sill PAO; 320th VLA: Army Signal Corps; Ezra Hill: Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Dietrick; National Archives: Triple Nickels; Roscoe Robinson; DoD; Library of Congress; The National Archives; NASA; Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo and G.D. Wood. Salute to Freedom® is a registered trademark of LaFayette Marketing Group, Inc., and is registered in the United States and abroad. The trademarks and names of other companies and products mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners. Copyright © 2015 LaFayette Marketing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or images in whole or part is strictly prohibited without written permission from publisher. LaFayette Marketing Group, Inc., assumes no responsibility for advertisements or claims made therein. The publisher expressly disclaims any liability for inaccuracies or omissions of information contained herein whether occurring during the publication of such information for publication or otherwise. All trademarks, service marks, logos and registered trademarks are the sole property of respective owners. Disclaimer: Neither the Department of Defense or any other component of the Department of Defense, nor any other government or military bodies have approved, endorsed or authorized this product or promotion, service or activity.

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A LEGACY OF SERVICE

L-3 honors the dedicated African American servicemen and women who have safeguarded our freedoms and those who continue to defend our nation. L-3com.com

From the

• • • • 10

Never give up. Believe in yourself. Always do your best. Follow your heart. F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

Photo: Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Ryan Harper, USN

would like to say what an honor it was to put together this publication. I am in awe of the level of determination demonstrated by each and every person within the pages of this publication; as well, the acts of heroism and selflessness should be an inspiration to all. While this periodical in no way can shine a light on the lives of all the men and women whose dedication made it possible for we American’s to enjoy our freedoms, we have made our best efforts to spotlight as many interesting and history-making individuals as would fit into a magazine of this size. From each major branch of the military there have been men and women who would not allow them selves to be held back because of race or the policies of the military or government. In their own way each played a part in making it possible for others to follow their paths to success as well as enabling the creation of new roads to achievement and barrier breaking. The legacy of past African-American Servicemembers will be that they have forever changed the course of history for those American’s who would have otherwise been denied certain rights and freedoms because of the color of their skin or their gender. Parallel to this – the legacy of current African-American Servicemembers, is that they too will continue to change the landscape and course of our history through their efforts and perseverance. Each person in this publication stood before obstacles in which others had yet to overcome. There are great lessons to be learned here, for each of us.

Editor

A U.S. Sailor assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 embraces his daughter for the first time after an 8-month deployment.

It is my hope that the future of my beautiful nieces and nephews and future generations will be open to possibility. That their efforts and energy, hard work and determination will be put toward fulfilling their hopes and dreams, their passions in life and their happiness. That the obstacles they encounter will not be those

Great men and women have paved the way, each making it a little easier to move down the path just a bit further. While in life we are often encouraged to take the road less traveled, it is sometimes necessary to make your way down the beaten path in order to find the fork from which to create our own road.

of pointless discrimination or adversity based upon their race or gender. That they will meet a future of acceptance, love and encouragement for all they can be and achieve without being challenged about how they look or who they are.

G.D. Wood Editor-in-Chief

Saluting our

SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS. Verizon is honored to connect service members at home and abroad. www.verizonenterprise.com/federal/ Service availability varies by country. ÂŠ 2015 Verizon. All Rights Reserved.

Origin of Black History Month We proudly and joyously recognize and celebrate the accomplishments, contributions, and history of African-Americans during Black History Month, also known as African-American History Month, an annual observance in remembrance of important people and events in the history of African-Americans in the United States.

hroughout the United State’s history, men and women of color fought to form and preserve our Union and to promote the ideals of freedom, justice, and security. The origin of African-American History Month extends as far back as 1915, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson traveled from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in the late summer to participate in a national observance of the 50th anniversary of emancipation sponsored by the state of Illinois. Woodson was so moved by the event that he and several other intellectuals formed the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History to promote the scientific study of African-American life and history. When Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week in February 1926, he realized the importance of providing a theme to help focus the attention of the public. The intention has never been to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but, rather, to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis. The theme for February 2015 is ‘A Century of Black Life, History and Culture.’ What began as a weeklong event was officially expanded into a month-long celebration in 1976 as part of our nation’s Bicentennial celebration. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history. Credit for the evolving awareness of the true place of blacks in history can, in large part be bestowed upon, Carter G. Woodson. His 12

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brainchild, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Inc. is continuing his tradition of disseminating information about black life, history and culture to the global community. When

Carter Woodson biographical cartoon by Charles Alston, 1943

Photo: Frank Gatteri, U.S. Army Signal Corps

he founded the Association, he labored under the belief that historical truth would crush falsehoods and usher in a new era of equality, opportunity, and racial democracy, and it has been its charge for a century. INTEGRATING THE MILITARY The integration of African-Americans in the armed forces became grave questions for both the military and the black community during World War II. While segments of black America demanded integration and full opportunity for its soldiers, War Department officials and politicians insisted that the military would not be used as a “sociological laboratory” for effecting social change. Although this attitude reflected the overall policies of the War Department, the Army underwent some noteworthy shifts during the war. African-American soldiers played a significant role in World War II as more than half a million served in Europe. Despite the numbers, they faced racial discrimination: prior to the war the military maintained a racially segregated force. That changed in 1941, when pressure from AfricanHarry S. Truman, 33rd president who championed civil rights. American civil rights leaders convinced the government to set up all-black combat units, as experiments. They were designed Ball Express” and the “Black Panthers” of the 761st Tank Battalion to see if African-American soldiers could perform military tasks on the same level as white soldiers. ensured that U.S. forces prevailed. The patriotism, bravery, and ability exhibited by AfricanIf African-Americans can excel on the battlefield, then one Americans serving in the armed forces was evidence that they could could reasonably expect them to do as well or better in this perform with valor under the physical and psychological stresses nation’s communities and industries. Despite the many storied that affected white and African-American soldiers alike. accomplishments of African-Americans defending this country’s The accomplishments of the “Triple Nickels,” the “Red Tail freedoms abroad, stateside sentiment regarding equal civil rights Angels” of the 99th Pursuit Squadron, the brave drivers of the “Red was still negative. President Harry S. Truman, who served and retired from the

Negro History Week originated in February 1926 and was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976.

Army Reserve, played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. After the end of World War II, Truman placed civil rights high on his political agenda. Truman signed Executive Order 9981 on July 26, 1948, which forbade discriminating against military personnel because of race, color, religion, or national origin. Read more: www.dvidshub.net/news/120222/armed-forces-pavedway-civil-rights-america#.VDW5jihy_FI#ixzz3FaxawGKR HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

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February Calls to Mind

African-American Military

Contributions

By Randy Saunders, 50th Space Wing

February is Black History Month and is a good time to recall the vast contributions African-Americans have made throughout the nation’s military history.

ost are aware of the Tuskegee Airmen and their heroic contributions during World War II. Some may be familiar with the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry Regiments (later consolidated and renamed 24th and 25th Infantry) that fought during the Indian Wars and performed a primary role in America’s western expansion following the Civil War. But there are many more examples of African-American military contributions in the defense of this nation. African-Americans have served in every conflict in American history. In 1689, black militia members fought against French imperialism in the American colonies. Black militia members also served in Queen Anne’s War, from 1702 to 1713, and the French and Indian War, from 1754 to 1763. Barzilai Lew fought as a member of the Massachusetts militia during this conflict and later saw action in the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution. By 1770, African-Americans were vital elements of several Northern colonial militias. On March 5, 1770, Crispus Attucks, a 16

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runaway slave turned sailor, and four other colonists were killed in the Boston Massacre. In Boston, Mr. Attucks was the first man killed by the British Guard, as colonists protested against what were called “British crimes” for being a colonist. He became the first casualty of the American Revolution. African-Americans took part in the battles of Concord and Lexington, Mass., in April 1775, and in May, AfricanAmericans helped Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys capture Fort Ticonderoga in New York. More than 5,000 African-Americans served in the Continental Army and nearly 5,000 more served with state militias during the Revolutionary War. African-Americans also served as spies and undercover agents, for which several were recognized by Congress for their bravery. As the 18th century drew to a close, Congress enacted legislation restricting enlistments in the militia to white male citizens. This restriction would be short-lived, as African-Americans continued to serve in the naval forces in the War of 1812. During the conflict, African-Americans served with distinction during important battles, including the Battle of Lake Erie, in which 10 to 25 percent

Sgt. Major Christian Fleetwood received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the American Civil War.

Courtesy: Library of Congress

of Admiral Oliver H. Perry’s men were black, and the Battle of New Orleans, two weeks after the signing of the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war. Following the war, restrictions on African-American enlistments returned, as Congress set manpower limits on the size of the Army. Free blacks, meanwhile, moved west, seeking opportunity, and in the 1830s fought alongside Texans seeking independence from Mexico. Despite facing many obstacles, African-Americans continued to serve during the Civil War. This provided the impetus for the permanent presence of blacks in the peacetime military. Twenty-five African-Americans received the Medal of Honor for their actions in combat. These twenty-five men included seven sailors, fifteen soldiers assigned to the “United States Colored Troops,” and three assigned to other Army units. In 1866, the U.S. Army established the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry Regiments and stationed them in the growing western territories. These Buffalo Soldiers, a name given to them by Cherokee tribes, provided invaluable service during the Indian Wars and the Spanish American War in 1898. During these two conflicts, twenty-four AfricanAmerican servicemen received the Medal of Honor.

Buffalo Soldiers of the 25th Infantry Regiment in 1890. 18

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In fewer than 20 years, America was again at war, fighting for the first time on European soil. As in the past, AfricanAmericans had to overcome bigotry within military leadership to participate fully. Eugene Jacques Bullard, a highly decorated African-American serving with the French Air Service, summed up this issue with his famous quote, “Tout le sang qui coule rouge; all blood is red.” Despite his and the accomplishments of many like him, acceptance of blacks as equals in the military was slow. On April 6, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany. During the course of the conflict, 367,000 AfricanAmerican soldiers served, 1,400 of those

Stowers was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1991.

as commissioned officers. On September 28, 1918, Cpl. Freddie Stowers, of the 371st Infantry Regiment, led his squad to destroy a group of enemy soldiers. He was leading his troops in an attack when he fell to enemy fire. Although he was mortally wounded he continued to motivate his squad until he passed away. Inspired by his bravery and leadership, Corporal Stowers’ squad continued to fight and took over their enemy target. Corporal Stowers received the Medal of Honor for his heroism. He was the only African-American to receive the country’s highest military award during World War I. On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman issued Executive Order 9981, mandating the desegregation of the United States Armed Forces. Efforts to improve the treatment of AfricanAmericans and other minorities in the military services came to the forefront of personnel policy. Despite remnants of discrimination, AfricanAmericans continued to serve with distinction. In the second half of the 20th Benjamin O. Davis, Sr. in France, August 8, 1944.

Source: Schriever.af.mil

HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Courtesy U.S. Signal Corps

Photo: Courtesy U.S. Air Force

Eugene Jacques Bullard exhibit at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

Century, African-Americans broke barriers in all services. Benjamin O. Davis, Sr. became the first African-American flag officer when he was promoted to brigadier general, temporarily, on October 25, 1940. He retired on July 31, 1941 and was recalled to active duty and promoted to brigadier general on August 1, 1941. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. became the Air Force’s first African-American general officer when he was promoted to brigadier general, temporarily, October 27, 1954. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. became the U.S. Navy’s first African-American to achieve flag rank when he was promoted to rear admiral in July 1971. On February 23, 1979, the United States Marine Corps promoted Frank E. Peterson to brigadier general, making him the Corps’ first African-American flag officer. Of America’s astronauts, sixteen are African-American and four AfricanAmerican women. From Barzilai Lew of the Massachusetts militia to President Barack Obama, and countless thousands of others, AfricanAmericans have been instrumental to the development of and service to this nation.

DoD Continues to Promote

Diversity

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr., American Forces Press Service

uring February, as the Defense Department honors African-Americans for their service and contributions to the U.S. military, a senior DOD official reaffirmed the department’s commitment to promoting diversity. “Civil rights in America enabled our great nation to fully realize and fully capitalize on the human … potential that resides in this great tapestry called America,” said Clarence A. Johnson, director of DOD’s diversity management and equal opportunity office. Over the last 50 years, Johnson said, the nation and the Defense Department have benefitted from the contributions of women, minorities, persons with disabilities and the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law. “[Some] predicted that the nation’s allvolunteer force would have eroded,” he said. “We’ve been at war for over a decade, but I’m happy to report that the all-volunteer force remains strong. “I will submit to you that a highquality force makes us stronger,” Johnson continued. “I will further submit that a highquality diverse force makes us stronger.” Throughout U.S. history, Johnson said, the nation has benefitted from the

service of African-Americans in the national defense mission. “These great pioneers have played a myriad of pivotal roles in the making of our country and the sustainment of our mission,” he said. “In fact, African-Americans have participated in every war that our country has faced, beginning with the Revolutionary War, where Crispus Attucks is widely considered the first casualty of the American Revolutionary War.” Since then, Johnson said, AfricanAmericans have demonstrated their bravery and steadfast commitment to the nation. Johnson noted the nation is “inspired by and pays great homage to their countless sacrifices made and burdens carried to uphold the promise of freedom, equality, justice for all citizens and future generations.” “Even 50 years later, the Civil Rights Act continues to resonate today,” he said. “It is important for us all to take a stand to promote diversity and inclusiveness. It is why we are here today.” Johnson said his office continues to work with each military service to lead the nation in building and maintaining a diverse, integrated workforce. “We recognize that diversity goes well

“Diversity is a key to our strength in the department, and indeed, a key to the strength of our nation.” – CHUCK HAGEL, former U.S. Secretary of Defense beyond race and gender, because we rely on diverse backgrounds, perspectives and the expertise of all our people to successfully respond to the many complex challenges of the 21st century national security landscape,” he said. “DOD is committed to removing barriers that prevent service members and civilians from rising to their highest potential. I am proud to say that African Americans make tremendous contributions in roles critical to national defense.” Source: diversity.defense.gov

CLARENCE A. JOHNSON Clarence A. Johnson entered active duty service as a C141 navigator. In addition to global airlift and contingency operations, his tours of duty included the Military Airlift Command Plans staff and Air Staff Training (ASTRA). He was a squadron commander three times and a group commander twice. Additionally, he held increasingly responsible positions at the headquarters and installation level. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal (with three oak leaf clusters). Before serving the Department of Defense as a civil servant, Mr. Johnson was an active duty Air Force colonel serving in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Equal Opportunity as Director, Military Equal Opportunity. Mr. Johnson holds a master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Webster University, Missouri, and a Bachelors Degree in Biology from Tuskegee Institute, Alabama. Mr. Johnson is also a graduate of Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College, Alabama, and the National Security Management Course, National Defense University. 20

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HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Lieutenant General Thomas P. Bostick

Commanding General and Chief of Engineers Lt. Gen. Bostick is responsible for more than 33,000 Civilian employees and 700 Military personnel who provide project management, construction support and engineering expertise in more than 130 countries around the world.

U . S . A R M Y

F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

Photo: Dana M. Clark

n May 22, 2012, Lieutenant General Thomas P. Bostick became the 53rd U.S. Army Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Lieutenant General Bostick serves as the senior military officer overseeing most of the Nation’s civil works infrastructure and military construction. USACE has a key role in support to Overseas Contingency Operations, with thousands of Civilians and Soldiers having deployed to support reconstruction in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lieutenant General Bostick is also responsible for USACE’s diverse missions such as hundreds of environmental protection projects; regulatory permit program to protect, restore and enhance thousands of acres of wetlands; and emergency response mission to support FEMA in restoration and repair after a disaster, whether natural or manmade. As the Chief of Engineers, Army Staff Principal, the Chief advises the Army on engineering matters and serves as the Army’s topographer and the proponent for real estate and other related engineering programs. Prior to USACE, Bostick served as Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, Personnel, United States Army, responsible for developing, managing, and executing manpower and personnel plans, programs, and policies for more than 1 million Soldiers and 300,000 Civilians in the Army. Command and staff assignments of Lieutenant General Bostick’s career include Commander, Gulf Region Division, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq; Assistant Division Commander (Maneuver), later Assistant Division Commander (Support), 1st Cavalry Division, Operation Iraqi Freedom; Commander, Engineer Lt. Gen. Bostick, (center), stands with his wife, Renee (left), Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Operation and Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, U.S. Army vice chief of staff (right), Joint Forge, Bosnia-Herzegovina; and after officially assuming duties as the U.S. Army Corps of Commander, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Engineers commanding general and chief of engineers Infantry Division (Mechanized). As well, during a ceremony at Fort Lesley J. McNair, May 22, 2012.

he serve as Executive Officer to the Chief of Engineers, Executive Officer to the Army Chief of Staff, and Deputy Director of Operations for the National Military Command Center, J-3, the Joint Staff in the Pentagon from May 2001 to August 2002, including the events of September 11, 2001. Lieutenant General Bostick graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He holds a master’s degree in both Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, and is a graduate of the U.S. Army War College. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Virginia. The Lieutenant General was also an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at West Point and was a White House Fellow, serving as a special assistant to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Source: USACE.army.mil

BECAUSE YOU FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOM AND LIBERTY From the Buffalo Soldiers to the Tuskegee Airmen to the brave soldiers serving around the world today, you’ve answered the call to defend freedom for all. And, you’ve helped change the course of history. Thank you for your service and sacrifice to ensure liberty and justice for all.

Dr. Jonathan Woodson

Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs)

Photo: Master Sgt. Cohen A. Young, USAF

r. Jonathan Woodson is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs. In this role, he administers the more than $50 billion Military Health System (MHS) budget and serves as principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense for health issues. The MHS comprises over 133,000 military and civilian doctors, nurses, medical educators, researchers, healthcare providers, allied health professionals, and health administration personnel worldwide, providing our nation with an unequalled integrated healthcare delivery, expeditionary medical, educational, and research capability. Dr. Woodson ensures the effective execution of the Department of Defense (DoD) medical mission. He oversees the development of medical policies, analyses, and recommendations to the Secretary of Defense and the Undersecretary for Personnel and Readiness, and issues guidance to DoD components on medical matters. He also serves as the principal advisor to the Undersecretary for Personnel and Readiness on matters of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) medical defense programs and deployment matters pertaining to force health. Dr. Woodson co-chairs the Armed Services Biomedical Research Evaluation and Management Committee, which, facilitates oversight of DoD biomedical research. In addition, Dr. Woodson exercises authority, direction, and control over the Defense Health Agency (DHA); the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS); the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI); the Defense Center of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE); the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology; and the Armed Services Blood Program Office. Prior to his appointment by President Obama, Dr. Woodson served as Associate Dean for Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and Professor of Surgery at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), and senior attending vascular surgeon at Boston Medical Center (BMC). Dr. Woodson holds the rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Army Reserve, and served as Assistant Surgeon General for Reserve Affairs, Force Structure and Mobilization in the Office of the Surgeon General, and as Deputy Commander of the Army Reserve Medical Command.

Dr. Woodson listens to a brief during his visit to the 455th Expeditionary Medical Group at the Craig Joint Theater Hospital, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan May 8, 2014. 24

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Dr. Woodson is a graduate of the City College of New York and the New York University School of Medicine. He received his postgraduate medical education at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School and completed residency training in internal medicine, and general and vascular surgery. He is board certified in internal medicine, general surgery, vascular surgery and critical care surgery. He also holds a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Strategic Studies (concentration in strategic leadership) from the U.S. Army War College. In 1992, he was awarded a research fellowship at the Association of American Medical Colleges Health Services Research Institute. He has authored/coauthored a number of publications and book chapters on vascular trauma and outcomes in vascular limb salvage surgery. His prior military assignments include deployments to Saudi Arabia (Operation Desert Storm), Kosovo, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He has also served as a Senior Medical Officer with the National Disaster Management System, where he responded to the September 11th attack in New York City. Dr. Woodsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s military awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal (with oak leaf cluster). In 2007, he was named one of the top Vascular Surgeons in Boston and in 2008 was listed as one of the Top Surgeons in the U.S. He is the recipient of the 2009 Gold Humanism in Medicine Award from the Association of American Medical Colleges.

United ConcordiaÂŽ Dental Honors our African-American Service Members United Concordia Dental has administered dental benefits for military members and their families for more than 18 years. We are proud to support our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s African-American military service members, veterans and retirees. We salute your courage and honor.

Lieutenant General Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr. Director, DISA

U . S .

A I R

t Gen Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr., is Director, Defense Information Systems Agency, Fort Meade, Maryland. He leads a global organization of military and civilian personnel who plan, develop, deliver, and operate joint, interoperable, command and control capabilities and a global enterprise infrastructure in direct support of the President, Secretary of Defense, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Combatant Commanders, Department of Defense components, and other mission partners across the full spectrum of operations.

F O R C E

ABOUT DISA DISA is a combat support agency of the Department of Defense (DoD). The agency is composed of nearly 6,000 civilian employees; more than 1,500 active duty military personnel from the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps; and approximately 7,500 defense contractors. The agency provides, operates, and assures command and control and informationsharing capabilities and a globally accessible enterprise information infrastructure in direct support to joint war fighters, national level leaders, and other mission and coalition partners across the full spectrum of military operations. JOINT INFORMATION ENVIRONMENT As DISA evolves the Joint Information Environment (JIE), the lines between components will blur. The matrixed organization evolving the JIE illustrates the department’s technological way ahead. The current organization includes the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), Office of the Deputy Chief Management Officer (DCMO), DoD CIO, Joint Staff J6, CYBERCOM, military services, intelligence community, and National Guard. The JCS chairman and each of the service chiefs have endorsed JIE as a military imperative. The Deputy Management Action Group, a part of DCMO that considers department-wide management and business issues, has endorsed the JIE’s viability to efficiently address budget issues, the threat vector, and the need to be dominant in the information operations. The management of JIE is conducted through the JIE Executive Committee, which is tri-chaired by the DoD CIO, Teri Takai; Joint Staff J6, 26

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Army LTG Mark Bowman; and CYBERCOM commander, Navy ADM Michael Rogers, who also serves as the initiative’s operational sponsor. In execution, there are three lines of operation: governance, operations, and technical synchronization. DISA has been given responsibility for the technical aspects of JIE and leads the JIE Technical Synchronization Office (JTSO), which includes agency staff, as well as representation from the military services, intelligence community, and National Guard. Since 1960, DISA has provided IT services and support to our nation’s war fighters. As a force enabler, DISA remains committed to ensure our nation’s forces can see with clarity, network with assurance, communicate with certainty, navigate with accuracy, and strike with precision. Source: DISA.mil

centurylink.com/gov

Pratt & Whitney Recognizes the Value of Veterans

Chris McDavid

rom an early age, Chris McDavid knew he wanted to be a soldier. “I had an early connection and attraction to the discipline and sacrifice that service requires,” he explained. “You’re in a privileged position when you’re given the chance to serve your country.” His father, an Army veteran, and his grandfather a veteran of the Navy, McDavid graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy and served as a systems acquisition officer in the Air Force. Now vice president and counsel for Pratt & Whitney’s Military Engines business, McDavid credits much of his success in industry to preparation he received during his days in the military. “At Pratt & Whitney, we know that veterans bring a unique perspective,” he said. “Having, in many cases, been the end users of our products, in some ways, their perspective is the customer’s perspective.” “In my experience, most service members who get out still long for some sort of attachment 28

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to the mission,” McDavid said. “As someone who also feels that way, I can say that Pratt & Whitney is an outstanding place for vets to work; I still wake up every day feeling like I am serving as part of the defense of this country.” Providing power for F-15 and F-16, the C-17 transport aircraft, and the world’s only 5th generation fighter aircraft – the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II – amongst many others, Pratt & Whitney engines represent the most advanced military propulsion technology on the planet. And when it comes to people, “We look for those who rush to a challenge, pull people together, give them a vision and get results,” McDavid explained. “Those are values that are honed and prized on the military side, but at Pratt, they are equally valued.”

Pratt & Whitney’s African American Forum and UTC4Vets groups further contribute to this culture by placing a focus on building community, strengthening employee networks, and developing incoming leaders. “When it comes to serving the mission,” says McDavid, “We are committed to making sure the warfighters have the very best… and our very best.” Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, provides high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries. To learn more about UTC or available job opportunities, visit its website at www.utc.com, or follow the company on Twitter: @UTCJobs.

Technology

Answering the call with confidence. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in our power.â&#x201E;˘

Readiness

Reliability

Dependability

There are powerful reasons why 29 armed services across the globe employ 8,500 of our engines to deliver when it really counts. Learn more at www.pw.utc.com. Military Engines

General Vincent K. Brooks

Photo: Staff Sgt. Teddy Wade, USA

Commanding General, USARPAC

U . S

. A R M Y

eneral Vincent K. Brooks is the Commanding General of US Army Pacific (USARPAC), the Army service component of the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM). The command exercises administrative control over all US Army forces in the PACOM area of responsibility (AOR), provides trained and ready, combat enabling forces, and performs theater security programs Vincent Brooks stands at attention during his promotion ceremony to the rank of General at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. with 36 countries from the Asia-Pacific Regions of Alaska, Japan and Korea. In a ceremony hosted by Chief of Staff of the Army, General Raymond T. Ordierno, at Palm Circle in Fort Shafter, where he rose to the rank of Cadet First Captain, the highest position Hawaii, Brooks was promoted to the rank of General. Among those in (Cadet Brigade Commander), a cadet can hold. He has the distinction of being the first African-American cadet to hold this prestigious position. attendance were his wife, Dr. Carol Brooks, his mother, Naomi, and his Brooks graduated from West Point in 1980. father, retired Army Major General Leo A. Brooks, Sr. General Brooks is married to Dr. Carol P. Brooks, an educator and The ceremony also marked Brooksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; taking command of US physical therapist. Both the general and his wife are from career military Army Pacific. The command is home-based at Fort Shafter, Hawaii families. with portions of the command-forward deployed throughout the Asia-Pacific Region. Previously the General served as commanding general of the Third Army; was the United States Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deputy Director of Operations during the War in Iraq, and frequently briefed the media. He also served as the Chief of Army Public Affairs at the Pentagon. He was later commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division. General Brooks holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Military Academy; a Master of Military Art and Science from the School of Advanced Military Studies at the United States Army Command and General Staff College; and an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the New England School of Law in Boston. He also served as a National Security Fellow at the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government. He attended the United States Military Academy

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USARPAC US Army, Pacific traces its history back to 1898, when the United States first became a Pacific power and American soldiers first arrived in Hawaii. Hawaii soon became a power-projection platform for military operations in the Asia-Pacific region. Fort Shafter was built in 1905-07 and in 1921 became the headquarters for the Hawaiian Department. Since September 11, 2001, USARPAC soldiers have played a vital role in homeland defense for Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and Japan, as well as in support of operations with our allies elsewhere in the region. In years to come, USARPAC will remain vital to our national security strategy in this dynamic region. Source: USARPAC.army.mil

hool

Yell ow Ribb on S c

HAWAI‘I PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

We’re Hawai‘i’s most military friendly choice. #GoFurther WWW.HPU.EDU/MILITARY | 808-544-1179

General Roscoe Robinson, Jr. Army’s

First

Four-Star General

R U . S . A R M Y

oscoe Robinson, Jr. was the first African American to become a four-star general in the United States Army. He attended St. Louis University for only a year and then transferred to the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1947. Robinson graduated with a degree in military engineering in 1951. After graduating he served in the Korean War in 1952 as a platoon leader and rifle company commander. For his actions he received the Bronze Star. Sent back to the United States a year later he became an instructor in the Airborne Department of the United States Army Infantry School. Robinson then went on to graduate from the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in 1963. The following year he received his master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in international affairs. In 1967 he served as battalion commander in Vietnam. For his achievements there he received the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, 11 Air Medals, and two Silver Stars. After Vietnam he served at the National War College for three years as the executive officer to the Chief of Staff. He was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1975 became Commanding General of the United States Army Garrison, Okinawa. In 1976 he was promoted to major general and assigned to command the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. General Robinson was the first AfricanAmerican to command 82nd Airborne Division. His final assignment was as U.S. Military Representative to the

General Roscoe Robinson, Jr. Auditorium at Thayer Hall, West Point. 32

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NATO Military Committee from 1982-1985. After he had completed 34 years of service to the U.S. military he retired in 1985. He was then awarded with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal and two Distinguished Service Medals. After his retirement, he served on the board of Northwest Airlines. After a battle with leukemia, Roscoe Robinson, Jr. died on July 22, 1993 at the age of 64, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Considered one of its most distinguished alumni, the late General Roscoe Robinson Jr. (MPIA ’64), was honored by the University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) in March 2009 with an official commemorative room naming ceremony and lecture series launch. In a standing-room only crowd, students, faculty, friends and family of General Robinson gathered to honor his legacy by naming Wesley W. Posvar Hall, room 3800 – the Robinson Room. The classroom features photos, plaques, and other memorabilia highlighting Roscoe Robinson’s accomplishments. In April 2000, Thayer Hall at West Point was the site of the dedication ceremony for the new “General Roscoe Robinson, Jr. Auditorium” in his honor. The Roscoe Robinson Health Clinic at Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg is also named in his honor.

We salute our African American servicemen and women and in particular Roscoe Robinson Jr., the first African American four-star army general.

Leader in Education Pioneer in Research Partner in Regional Development

Gen. Colin Powell in

Recognized Leavenworth Ceremony

By Scott Gibson, Combined Arms Center Public Affairs 34

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Photo Credit: Heath Steele

Former U.S. Secretary of State and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, retired Gen. Colin Powell received a place of honor on Fort Leavenworth’s Circle of Firsts at the Buffalo Soldier Monument as his bust was unveiled Sep. 5, 2014.

ort Leavenworth takes great pride in being the home of the Buffalo Soldiers. The Memorial Park consists of the Buffalo Soldier Monument, Circle of Firsts and Walkway of Units, which commemorate the significant ‘firsts’ in the history of African-American Soldiers and units in the U.S. Army. In 1866, the U.S. Congress authorized the formation of several black regiments. One of these, the 10th Cavalry Regiment, was formed at Fort Leavenworth under the command of Col. Benjamin H. Grierson. On July 25, 1992, the Buffalo Soldier Monument was dedicated by General Colin L. Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who was the first African-American to serve in that capacity.  In September 2014, Powell was honored in a ceremony in which a bronze bust of him was unveiled. The statue is the newest addition to the monument’s ‘Circle of Firsts’. Circle of Firsts is located next to the Buffalo Soldier Commemorative Area, which honors members of all-black Army units. While stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Gen. Powell was not satisfied with having two gravel roads named for the 9th and 10th Cavalry. Recognizing that these historic Black troops originated at Fort Leavenworth, he originated and became the driving force behind the July 1992 dedication of the iconic Buffalo Soldier

Monument, including its 13-foot horse and rider statue, which stood as the backdrop for this ceremony. Buffalo Soldiers were all-black units that served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War. They included the 10th Cavalry, formed at Fort Leavenworth in 1866. While in the Army, Powell attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, graduating in 1968. He later served at the fort as the deputy-commanding general of the Combined Arms Combat Development Activity. As a former U.S. Secretary of State, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and four-star Army general, Powell’s reputation as a leader and manager has been recognized not only by our own leaders, but also by leaders worldwide. During his military career, Powell received two Presidential Medals of Freedom; one Congressional Gold Medal; five Distinguished Service Medals; and the Bronze Star. His Foreign awards include the Honorary British Knighthood, KCB, the French Legion D’Honneur Grand Cross; and the Order of Jamaica. Congratulations, Col. Powell, your legacy as one of America’s greatest leaders will be remembered for many generations to come. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Monument Honors

“Triple Nickles”

The Soldiers of the 555th Parachute Infantry “Triple Nickles” were special. They passed rigorous training in 1944 to become members of the first all-black paratrooper unit in the Army, stationed out of Camp Mackall, N.C. It started out as a platoon, with 17 enlisted soldiers and six officers, and later expanded to a company, then a battalion.   36

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Photo courtesy of National Archives and Records Administration.

Members of the 555th are briefed before takeoff from Ft. Dix, New Jersey in 1947. The Triple Nickel was an all black airborne unit in World War II and the end of the war became on of the first smoke jumping units in U. S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.

ctive during World War II, the unit was never deployed into combat overseas. However, they served an equally important mission.   They were tasked with helping fight forest fires caused by incendiary bombs sent on the jet stream by the Japanese. These men used their parachute skills to participate in vital firefighting missions on the West Coast of the United States, which earned them the nickname, “Smoke Jumpers.”   “They were attached to the United States Forestry Service out in Chico, Calif., to fight forest fires,” said 555th Parachute Infantry Association member Sidney Brown, a retired command sergeant major. “They did that from the first part of 1945 until the end of the war.”

For Jordan J. Corbett, a 555th Soldier, paratrooper training was a whole new experience.   “The first day I ever jumped that was my first time I’d been up in a plane, and I had to jump out,” he remembered. “… That was quite exciting. Of course the first jump for me was not the best. I think I was so excited I forgot the position I was supposed to be in. That chute opened and I was yanked so hard, I thought I saw confetti all around me. That’s the honest truth. My position was so bad, but the next four were perfect.”   All-in-all, the 555th is “an outfit I’ll never forget,” Corbett said during a telephone interview from his Bartow, Fla., home.   “They were tough, they seemed to be well-educated, and they wanted to make sure that we were well-informed, well-trained HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

and that we followed the regulations of the Army,” he said, of the unit’s officers.   Thomas McFadden, 92, joined the 555th Parachute Infantry in summer 1944. He remembers the standards were exceedingly high for those hoping to join the unit, but the 555th Parachute Infantry Soldiers were up for the challenge.   “My own impression is that initially, it was set up so that it was intentional for those of that group to eventually fail,” McFadden said. “One of the questions … was whether or not they had the intelligence to be able to be successful as a paratrooper.   “It was my opinion that actually the Army at that time was not really interested initially in a successful, black unit.”   In December 1947, the battalion was deactivated and then reactivated as the 3rd Battalion, 505th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.   This marked the first time for an all-black unit to officially join a U.S. Army combat division.   From this regiment, Soldiers went on to the 503rd Airborne Anti-Aircraft Battalion and the 80th Airborne Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 38

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and then spread out across the Army, including the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell.   It is believed that the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, and the subsequent units birthed from it, helped to promote integration within the U.S. Armed Forces. Because of this unique place in history, members of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion formed the 555th Parachute Infantry Association to preserve the unit’s legacy.   “As you know, the news is full of still apparent uneven distribution of rights and so forth and so on, so that the victory is not won yet,” McFadden said. “We have to be vigilant, and along with all of our other professions, we have to kind of do some things [that are] going to contribute to the greater good of all persons, regardless of what their pigmentation is and so forth. I think many of us are trying to do that.”   This legacy remains strong at Fort Campbell, where the 3rd Battalion, 188th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, integrated the installation in the early 1950s. As a nod the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion’s role in the Army’s integration, the 555th Association will be dedicating a monument at Fort Campbell

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Photo

Soldiers of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion stand at ease prior to a firefighting mission.

in honor of the first black paratroopers. The monument cost $10,000, and it was donated to Fort Campbell by the 555th Association.   “The legacy – these … paratroopers that paved the way for the younger guys and gals that came along – it is significant,” said Gregory Griffin, a 555th Association member with 31 years of Army service. “It is also significant that … Fort Campbell is a part of that legacy.”   As Griffin and fellow members of the 555th Association see it, the on-post monument that memorializes the original Soldiers of the Triple Nickles test platoon will serve as a way to preserve both the unit’s history and the other black Soldiers that followed in their footsteps.

“That’s just the way it was,” Brown said.   “They now have a point of reference to come to on this installation and “That time I don’t think can be visit and bring their children and their forgotten, because these guys went grandchildren,” Griffin said.   through a very tough time in the Army. I The monument dedication ceremony caught a little bit of that here in 1950 when was held at Aug. 28 in front of Fort I came here. So I can imagine what they Campbell’s Don F. Pratt Museum. Attendees went through in 1944 and 1945 during heard remarks from Garrison Commander World War II.”   Col. David “Buck” Dellinger, as well as In the days before integration, Fort 555th Association National President Joe Campbell’s black Soldiers had their own Murchison.   PX and club, and were only allowed to This monument is not the first. The stay from 11th Street and south. The white 555th Association has worked diligently Soldiers stayed on 12th Street and north, to dedicate similar monuments on Brown recalled.   installations across the country, including “A lot of people don’t want to talk Fort Bragg, N.C., and Fort Benning, about things like this, because it brings Ga., among others. The purpose of the back I guess some hurts for some people, monument is to maintain the legacy of the but that’s the truth,” Brown explained. “We 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion Soldiers, are trying to maintain this legacy. A lot of and the change they fostered throughout people don’t want to do that anymore. But the Army.   the Army was segregated in those days. We “What this monument represents are had two Armies. We had the black Army and those black Soldiers, black paratroopers, the white Army – no doubt about it.   who were in the United States Army from “That’s why guys like me, who came 1943 to 1944 – when the first black guy in a little bit later on, we all clung to the went to jump school – until 1952, when the Triple Nickle …”   Army integrated,” Brown said.   Brown came to what was then Camp Campbell in September 1950. He first served with Company I, 188th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 11th Abn. Div., then joined Company K, 511th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 11th Abn. Div. He experienced the integration of troops at Fort Monument installed at Ft. Campbell to memorialize the original Soldiers of Campbell in the Triple Nickles was donated by the 555th Parachute Infantry Association. September 1952. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Henry Ossian Flipper Battled Prejudice with By Ben Sherman, PAO

Honor

Henry Flipper graduated as the first black officer from the U.S. Military Academy in 1877. As a second lieutenant, he influenced the history of the Army, and America, as much as anyone else.

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Photo Credit: Courtesy photo

lipper was born into slavery in 1856 in Thomasville, Ga. He was taught to read when he was 8 by an educated slave. After the Civil War, Flipperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family moved to Atlanta where he attended a missionary school, and then studied at Atlanta University. But his true desire was to serve in the Army and attend West Point. Blacks had fought with distinction in the Civil War and afterward the Army wanted to train black officers to lead all-black Army units. But the academy vigorously fought admission of black cadets. A white Republican congressman from Georgia appointed Flipper to West Point in 1873. Flipper was the fifth black candidate to apply to the academy and the third to be accepted. White cadets avoided talking to him. Flipper endured four years of persecution and isolation in the face of harsh racism. In spite of hostilities from cadets, the officers and instructors encouraged him to stay when he often wanted to quit. In 1877 Flipper was commissioned as a second lieutenant, becoming the first black commissioned officer in the Army and was assigned to the 10th Cavalry, the famed Buffalo Soldiers. The 10th Cavalry had been formed only 10 years earlier at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. under the command of Col. Benjamin Grierson and his adjutant Capt. Nicholas Nolan. Nolan commanded Troop A, and served with the Buffalo Soldiers for the next 15 years. When Gen. Philip Sheridan established Fort Sill in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in 1869, Grierson became the postâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first commander and brought Nolan and the Buffalo Soldiers to help construct the new fort.

Picture of 2nd Lt. Henry Flipper, the first black graduate from West Point, in 1877. At Fort Sill, he commanded the Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry. Prior to his taking command, all-black Army units were commanded by white officers.

The Buffalo Soldier regiments rode with other units from Fort Sill to protect wagon trains and cattle herds that traveled along the nearby Chisholm Trail in Indian Territory and north Texas. In early 1878 Flipper was posted to Fort Sill as the first black commander of Troop A, 10th Cavalry, under commander Nolan. Prior to Flipper taking the command, all-black units were led by white officers. At Fort Sill, Flipper applied the engineering training he received at West Point. The area where troops set up camps became swampy after it rained and a breeding ground for mosquitoes that carried malaria. Flipper designed an effective drainage system that eliminated the stagnant water and the malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Still known as “Flipper’s Ditch,” it became a national landmark in 1977. Flipper also surveyed the post and led the Buffalo Soldiers to build new roads and telegraph lines. The young black officer became close friends with commander Nolan, who began training Flipper to be a good cavalry officer. He

invited Flipper to dinner in his quarters on several occasions, which caused other white officers to try and censure Nolan. But Fort Sill commander Grierson dismissed the accusations, because he knew the basis of this discrimination. Nolan defended his actions by stating that Flipper was an “officer and a gentleman, just like any other officer at Fort Sill.” Flipper would usually decline invitations to social events on post, choosing to spend much of his leisure time riding with Nolan’s sister-in-law, Mollie Dwyer. Flipper received high marks from his commanders but was the subject of jealous rumors and letters that hinted of impropriety between Flipper, a black man, and Dwyer, a white woman. This began a smear campaign against Flipper that would later cost him dearly. In 1881 Flipper and the Buffalo Soldiers were transferred to Fort Davis, Texas, and soon fell under the command of Col. William Shafter. Shafter disliked blacks in general and the Buffalo Soldiers in particular. Shortly after the colonel’s arrival, Flipper was accused of stealing commissary funds. Flipper stated at his court martial, to keep the money safe from thieves, he hid the funds in his personal trunk. He did this because there was no secure place to keep the commissary funds and that Shafter was fully aware of this. Despite the fact that Shafter found $2,800 in commissary checks in the possession of Flipper’s white housekeeper and cook, this fact was never mentioned at the trial. The local town merchants, who highly admired Flipper, took up a collection and replaced all the missing funds. The nine-man court martial panel (that included three of Schafter’s officers) could not convict Flipper of embezzlement, but were able to convict him of “conduct unbecoming an officer and gentleman,” based solely on personal letters from Dwyer that were taken from Flipper’s quarters when they were searched. Although the Army’s judge advocate general concluded that the conviction was racially motivated, President Chester Arthur refused to reverse his conviction, and Flipper was dishonorably discharged from the Army June 30, 1882. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo Credit: Ben Sherman, Fort Sill PAO

Malaria was a great health threat at Fort Sill in the 19th century. In 1878, 2nd Lt. Henry Flipper used his engineering skills to create an effective system to drain swampy areas, thus eliminating the malaria-carrying mosquitoes. The drainage system, known as “Flipper’s Ditch,” is still in use today. It is now a national landmark, located just west of the Fort Sill Patriot Club.

Disgraced, Flipper sold his horses and went to El Paso, Texas. There, he used his West Point education to establish a distinguished career as a civil and mining engineer along the Mexican border. He had become fluent in Spanish and translated many court documents and land appraisals. He also wrote many books and articles that were widely recognized. Flipper would rise to prominent positions of leadership with the U.S. Justice Department and Senate foreign relations committee as an expert on Mexican political relations. Later, he became the assistant secretary of the Interior, where he was chief engineer for the planning and construction of the Alaska Railway system. From the moment he was dismissed from the Army, Flipper fought to clear his name and have the charges reversed. He tried to return to the Army during the Spanish-American War and again during World War I. Both times his application for reinstatement was denied. Only when his health declined did he give up his fight to clear his name. He moved back to Atlanta and lived with his brother until his death in 1940. Flipper never married. But the campaign to clear his name did not die with his passing. Several individuals renewed the effort in the 1970s and on Dec.13, 1976, the Army granted a full pardon to Flipper after an extensive review of his record, and of the testimonies and proceedings of the court-martial. And, in 1999 President Bill Clinton pardoned Flipper posthumously, thus restoring his rank and the achievements of his military career. Today the Henry O. Flipper Memorial award is given to the most outstanding cadet at West Point who best demonstrates leadership, self-discipline, and perseverance. 42

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Despite Flipper being the first black academy graduate in the Army, it remained difficult for other black cadets to make it through West Point. Between 1870 and 1889 only 22 blacks received appointments to the academy. Twelve applicants were admitted but only three graduated despite four years of discrimination and social isolation. In addition to Flipper, only two other black cadets would graduate in the 19th century John Alexander, in 1887 and Charles Young, in 1889. A fourth black wouldn’t graduate from West Point for another 46 years. The passing of time has changed America, and the Army. The legacy of Henry Flipper lives on in the careers of distinguished black Soldiers and officers who have served their country despite difficult obstacles. Today, there are more than 300 black cadets at West Point, preparing to be the officers and leaders of the future Army.

The

320th VLA Served

with By Ben Sherman, Fort Sill

Distinction D-Day

There were many heroes and heroic sagas during World War II, many documented in military history books and retold over the decades. But, many other equally heroic actions received little or no recognition because the American Army was segregated; and the Soldiers and their units were black. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo Credit: Army Signal Corps

Soldiers of the 320th Very Low Altitude Battalion prepare a barrage balloon for launch on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, during D-Day, June 6, 1944.

The 320th Barrage Balloon Bn. was unique at Normandy for two reasons. First, it was the first barrage balloon unit in France and second, it was the first black unit in the segregated American Army to come ashore on D-Day.

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ne such all-black unit was the 320th Very Low Altitude (VLA) barrage balloon battalion. The battalion was raised up in 1942 just a year after the Coastal Artillery Corps took over responsibility for barrage balloons from the Army Air Corps. “The 320th VLA was the only black combat unit to take part in the D-Day landings and was the only barrage balloon battalion to land on the beaches. Units from the 320th landed on both Omaha and Utah beaches and, if you look at pictures of the D-Day beachhead and you see barrage balloons there, they were manned by three to five black troops from the 320th,” said Jonathan Bernstein, Army Air Defense Artillery Museum director here. “The first Soldiers from the battalion landed on Omaha Beach at 9 a.m., two hours after the invasion began. The first balloon was floated at 11:15 p.m. that night, and by the next day all of their balloons were knocked out by German artillery fire. But, they were resupplied and were able to quickly float new balloons.” Bernstein said the 320th VLA Battalion had five batteries and a headquarters battery, with around 700 Soldiers. The reason it took them so long to deploy their balloons was because of intense fighting on the beaches. As infantry units solidified their lines, the 320th Soldiers established their positions. “But if you put up a balloon on the beach, that gave German artillery observers something to sight-in on. So they didn’t float balloons until the night of June 6,” he said. Soldiers of the 320th VLA came up with an ingenious solution to one problem they had during the landing. The normal winch for the balloons was an M-1 motorized unit which weighed half a ton; many feared they would sink to the bottom of the channel as they were brought ashore from the landing crafts. So the Soldiers refitted RL-31 Signal Corps field cable winches with barrage balloon reels. The RL-31 only weighed 35 pounds and was mounted in the back of a jeep to deploy and control balloons on D-Day. They flew at an altitude of around 200 feet to defend Soldiers landing on the beaches against strafing attacks by German aircraft. “Once deployed the balloons had steel cables hanging down from them, which would neatly slice off an airplane’s wing if it hit the cables at 300 or 400 miles per hour. The 320th battalion did actually score a confirmed “kill” by cutting off the wing of a Junkers Ju-88 over Omaha Beach on D-Day,” Bernstein said. The 320th stayed on Omaha and Utah beaches providing low altitude defense. Omaha Beach was one of the major points

Photo Credit: Army Signal Corps file photo

The barrage balloons in this D-Day invasion photo were a vital part of protecting Allied forces from strafing German aircraft.

where supplies continued to come onto the European continent until other ports were secured. By September 1944, Antwerp, Belgium, was secured and Omaha was too far behind the lines. Barrage balloons became a liability as Allied forces pushed inland and took control of the countryside. VLA units were slow and cumbersome, and to deploy them, units had to have hydrogen generating trucks, tank trucks and all sorts of equipment to maintain the balloons. By the end of October 1944, the 320th VLA Battalion was on its way back to Camp Stewart, Ga., to train for service in the Pacific Theater. They eventually made it as far as Hawaii before the war ended. There were 39 black anti-aircraft battalions deployed during WWII. Many of them manned mobile and semi-mobile automatic weapons and were detailed to defend various units. But the 320th holds the distinction of being the only all-black balloon battalion. The newly reopened Army ADA Museum has a display of some of the 320th VLA barrage balloon battalion’s equipment, including an M1 winch, an RL-31 cable winch, a jeep with “1st Army 320th VLA” markings and several mannequins in WWII uniforms. The museum is at 1506 Bateman Road and is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 580-442-0424.

The balloons were manned by Soldiers of the 320th Very Low Altitude (VLA) barrage balloon battalion. Steel cables hung down from the balloons, and one of them actually cut the wing off a Junkers Ju-88 aircraft over Omaha Beach, giving the battalion a confirmed “kill” on D-Day. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Annual Black Engineer of the Year

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with STEM educations. He said in the United States, the percentage of engineering graduates is below five percent. China, he said, graduates STEM professionals at about 31 percent.   “Add to this that only five percent of our engineers are AfricanAmerican or Hispanic, and the talent pool that merits our focus at events like this becomes even more clear,” Campbell said.   But Campbell told attendees that the Army is a competitive employer for STEM professionals. The service offers scholarships, is on the cutting edge of technology, and “can guarantee a job for any hardworking individual, and potential for advancement.”   “STEM expertise is fundamental to our ability to defend our nation,” he said. “BEYA provides a forum where leaders in the public

Photo: C. Todd Lopez

he Annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Global Competitiveness Conference is the largest gathering of STEM professionals and leaders who are committed to increasing the percentage of people from historically underrepresented communities in the technology workforce. STEM refers to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Advancements in medical and weapons technology, developed by science, technology, engineering, and mathematics professionals, help the Army win wars and save lives. The BEYA STEM Conference recognizes technology leaders for their professional achievements, but also identifies individuals who have worked to inspire young students of color to pursue careers in STEM areas. At the 2014 Conference, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. John F. Campbell served as the keynote speaker and presenter for two awards to both uniformed and Senior Executive Service AfricanAmerican engineers. In his speech, Campbell shared the legacy of Gen. Roscoe Robinson, a 1951 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., who served in the Army from 1951 through 1985. Not only was he an engineer, but also an Army officer who broke boundaries. Campbell went on to highlight the difficulty the Army has in attracting minorities, and minorities with STEM educations. He said in the United States, the percentage of engineering graduates is below five percent. China, he said, graduates STEM professionals at about 31 percent. “For 35 years, during one of the most important eras for race relations in our country’s history – General Robinson, fought in Korea and he fought in Vietnam. As a lieutenant, he served as a platoon leader in a segregated, all-black unit, in a time when black men could not serve in positions of authority over white men,” Campbell said. “Through perseverance, determination, and a strong educational foundation, he went on to become the Army’s first African-American four-star general.”   Campbell used Robinson as a launching point to highlight the difficulty the Army has in attracting minorities, and minorities

Awards

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III (right) presented the 2014 NonCommissioned Officer award to Sgt. 1st Class Milvia Mae Kendrick, who appeared on stage with her daughter, Andria.

Photo: Amanda Rominiecki, RDECOM CERDEC Public Affairs

Donald and Courtney Coulter were both recognized for engineering excellence from the Black Engineer of the Year Awards STEM Conference, 2014.

Photo Credit: C. Todd Lopez

and private sector come together to inspire and develop current and future generation STEM professionals.”   Campbell said the Army has several avenues to reach out to youth, including an emphasis on minority youth, to inspire them to pursue STEM career fields. The Army’s Reserve Officer Training Corps program is also among leading sponsors of college education in the United States. The Army provides $240 million in scholarships to about 13,000 students at over 1,000 schools, including 23 historically black schools.   And the Army Educational Outreach program works across the country to provide STEM education opportunities to schools representing all social and economic backgrounds.

AWARD RECIPIENTS Donald and Courtney Coulter, scientists for the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command’s communicationselectronics center, known as CERDEC, received special recognition awards for their accomplishments. They are the first husband and wife pair to receive individual awards concurrently from BEYA. Donald received his award for his work developing advanced mission command computer technologies for the Army while working for CERDEC’s Command Power and Integration Directorate. Gen. Campbell (right) presented Brig. Gen. C. David Turner with a recognition award as he shared the stage with Courtney, a project manager for wife, Marsha. CERDEC’s Intelligence and Information Warfare Directorate, develops biometric and forensic analytic tools to help the Army logistics power projection, and sustainment – to the total force, across catch criminals linked to roadside bombs that injure U.S. Soldiers. CERDEC is part of the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command, which has the mission to develop

the spectrum of joint military operations. If a Soldier shoots it, drives it, flies it, wears it, eats it or communicates with it, AMC delivers it.

technology and engineering solutions for America’s Soldiers.   RDECOM is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army

The 29th Annual BEYA/STEM Global Competiveness Conference will be

Materiel Command. AMC is the Army’s premier provider of materiel

held February 5 – 7, 2015 at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park in

readiness – technology, acquisition support, materiel development,

Washington, D.C. For more information call 1-888-236-2427. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

In the

Army

Now

1990-1991: PERSIAN GULF WAR The Persian Gulf War developed out of the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait on Aug. 2, 1990. The international armed intervention followed in January 1991. Black Soldiers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; making up about 22 percent of the total Army â&#x20AC;&#x201C; followed a rich tradition of honorably serving in the U.S. Forces. 2001-PRESENT: GLOBAL WAR ON TERROR Since the Armed Forces were integrated in 1948, the Army has been committed to racial diversity and equal opportunity to all Soldiers. In the past several years, the Army has become even more proactive to recruit and train a diverse force since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Senior leadership established the Diversity Task Force in 2007 to review diversity programs. The Equal Opportunity program, under Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, Human Resources, creates opportunities and programs to ensure fair treatment for all. In 2003, there were approximately 254,000 blacks serving the Army as an Active-Duty, Reserves or National Guard Soldier, or as an Army Civilian, according to the U.S. Office of Army Demographics. This was 20.3 percent of the total Army. In the general U.S. population, 12.7 percent of 18 to 55-year-olds are black. This continued the trend of the late 20th Century, when 48

F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

the percentage of black Americans serving the Army was higher than the percentage of blacks in the general U.S. population. This demographic trend continues today. 2009-PRESENT: PRESENT DAY As of 2013, black Soldiers made up 20.6% of the Active Duty Army, 13.8% of the National Guard and 22.1% of the Army Reserve. Blacks

Photo: Sgt. John Carkeet IV

serve in the Army, therefore, at a higher proportion than their

Iraq, Kuwait, South Korea and many other nations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in Overseas

representation in the general U.S. population.

Operations. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s black Soldiers follow in the footsteps of those

On Jan. 20, 2013, Barack Obama was sworn in to a second term as the 44th president of the United States. As President, Obama is

who have served the U.S. with distinction and honor for hundreds of years.

also Commander in Chief of the Army and all U.S. Forces. Every day, black Soldiers serve the U.S. in Afghanistan,

Source: Army.mil HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

DC National Guardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s African-American Female Pilot

First

By Staff Sgt. Monette Wesolek

U . S . A R M Y 1st Lt. Elosiebo conducts pre-flight checks on a Black Hawk helicopter on March 15, 2014.

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Photo: Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Mitch Miller

First Lt. Dina Elosiebo

Photo: Army National Guard Spc. Melanie Avery

1st Lt. Elosiebo is currently a platoon leader with D Company (Air Ambulance), 1-224th Aviation Regiment at Davison Army Airfield, VA.

career, she previously earned her FAA commercial pilots license and became a certified flight instructor. Women pilots during WWII – the Women’s Air Force Service Pilots, or WASPs – also inspired Elosiebo. More than 1,000 WASPs flew during the war. Their primary mission was to ferry military aircraft from factories to bases around the country.   Elosiebo also has a strong connection to the Tuskegee Airmen. She received one of her many scholarships from one of their association chapters, and they supported her when she began pursuing her private pilot’s license at age 19. In addition, she has worked with, and been mentored by these living legends, including Herbert Jones, who formed the first African-Americanowned airline in the U.S.   “When I think about the trailblazers who went before me and the adversity they continuously faced, be it gender, ethnicity, or simply doing what had not been done, it makes me realize I wouldn’t have a story if it wasn’t for them,” Elosiebo said.   Elosiebo is now assigned as a platoon leader with D Company, (Air Ambulance)

1-224th Aviation (Security and Support), at Davison Army Airfield, Va.

Photo: Staff Sgt. Monette Wesolek

he District of Columbia National Guard celebrated the graduation of its first African-American female pilot.   First Lt. Dina Elosiebo earned her Army aviator wings in February after completing Initial Entry Rotary Wing Flight School at Fort Rucker, Ala.   “This is an extraordinary, historical event for us,” said Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz, commanding general of the D.C. National Guard. “We’re extremely proud of Lt. Elosiebo. She’s a fine officer, and now, an Army aviator.”   Schwartz said every pilot who graduates from Fort Rucker’s rigorous aviator training course – male or female, regardless of their race or ethnicity – has accomplished something special.   He added that the military has moved well past the days when such accomplishments were unusual.   “The diversity of our armed forces is what makes us strong,” Schwartz said.   While completing the course is no cakewalk, Elosiebo had a leg up on most other students at Fort Rucker. In her civilian

1st. Lt Elosiebo inspects a UH-60 Black Hawk tail rotor during a pre-flight check.

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Original Tuskegee Airman Recalls Early Days of Program

Historic

By Deveney Wall

assignment.    During the same period, about 150 black pilots lost their lives while in training accidents or on combat flights, according to the National Museum of the United States Air Force’s website.   “The pilots had to fight the war – they were in the military, but they didn’t have to integrate,’ said Hill.   Mr. Hill’s visit was part of a command-wide Black History Month recognition to showcase the significant contributions African-

Photo credits: Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Dietrick Joint Task Force Civil Support

ne of the original members of the Tuskegee Airmen, retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ezra Hill, a Newport News, Va., native, spoke to more than 120 members of JTF-CS about how the airmen were given an opportunity to create the first black pilot program in a segregated military. By the end of the war, 992 men graduated from Negro Air Corps pilot training at Tuskegee, Ala.; 450 were sent overseas for combat

Ezra Hill speaks to Joint Task Force Civil Support staff members during a Black History Month celebration. 54

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The Joint Task Force Civil Support Multicultural Committee poses for a group photo with Ezra Hill.

Americans have made in United States history, including the acceptance of and contributions by African Americans in the military.   Hill spoke to the group on how the black pilot program began as a test program to have black college students undergo academics referred to as the “Tuskegee Experiment,” due to the location of the training program located in Tuskegee, Ala. Tuskegee’s 99th Fighter Squadron became the first squadron of black pilots to face combat in World War II. Though the airmen were trained to fly, the “young Negroes were still not flying after Pearl Harbor,” said Hill. Meanwhile, the German Luftwaffe destroyed between “50 to 60 percent” of allied bombers daily over the skies in Europe, mostly because the bombers lacked fighter U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Elizabeth Hamilton gets a book signed by Ezra plane protection, according to Hill.   Hill during the Joint Task Force Civil Support Black History Month celebration. Until American black fighter squadrons entered the war in Europe, the German Luftwaffe “ruled the skies,” said Hill.    “Just think – of 100 bombers, 60 were coming back shot up,” said Hill. “That’s 600 pilots and crew lost in one mission.”    Initially, the Tuskegee Airmen were given a chance to prove themselves in combat over Pantelleria, an island near Sicily, Italy, June 2, 1943. Three additional black air units–the 100th, 301st and 302nd Fighter Squadrons – joined the 99th in Italy in 1944 to form the 332nd Fighter Group. The 332nd became known as the Red Tails because of the distinctive tail markings on their aircraft. The Red Tails flew bomber escort missions and engaged in air combat as far north as Berlin.    Shortly after the war, U.S. President Harry S. Truman, signed an executive order to end military segregation. This, in turn, began a footprint into civil rights movements that eventually led to the civil rights movement in the United States.    In short, Hill said African-American service members fought a “war after the war” to help turn the tide on civil rights following World War II, including the integration of black troops into the military.   “That’s what we fought for,” said Hill. “We want to be called one thing –‘American.’ We’ve been called many things; had many names, but we’re Americans first.”   Mr. Hill authored a book in 2007 entitled The Black Red Tail Angels: The Story of A Tuskegee Airman and the Aviators.

By the end of WWII, 992 men graduated from Negro Air Corps pilot training at Tuskegee, Alabama.

Read more: www.dvidshub.net/news/102610/tuskegee-airman-newport-news-nativevisits-fort-eustis-based-joint-task-force#.U5dqzijH10g#ixzz34I296vLh Source: AF.mil HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies

NC National Guard Female Soldier is in Flight

First U .

Photo: Chief Warrant Ofc 2 Leon Hammett, 1-131st Aviation Battalion, NC National Guard

By Staff Sgt. Mary Junell

S . A R M Y

Jefferies, who is the first female, African-American helicopter pilot in the North Carolina National Guard, achieved her goals through hard work and dedication.

W Army 2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies stands on her assigned helicopter, in Fort Rucker, Ala., in October 2013. 56

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hen 2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies enlisted more than eight years ago, she did not know she would one day become a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot, much less the first female African-American helicopter pilot in the North Carolina National Guard.   Jefferies, who originally enlisted as an aviation operations specialist, said it was a “no-brainer” for her to stay in the aviation field, when faced with a career change upon commissioning as an officer in May 2012. “When I enlisted in 2005, I had no idea that I would become a [Black Hawk] pilot eight years later,” Jefferies said. “Initially

Photo: Army 2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies

becoming a pilot was an idea that seemed so far out of reach and unattainable. But, after praying, putting my faith in God and seeking guidance from mentors, I made the decision to go for it, a decision forever cherished. ”Jefferies was first exposed to aviation while participating in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at Needham B. Broughton High School in Raleigh.   2nd Lt. Lindsey Jefferies holds a plaque that bears her name. The award is given to the RSP soldier who most “I had the opportunity to fly a small exemplifies leadership, selfless-service, dedication to duty and those who raise the standards by which all other RSP soldiers are to be evaluated. fixed-wing plane,” Jefferies said. “After that, the desire to fly was planted. After joining the North Carolina National Guard for warriors to do more, go further, work harder and achieve success.   the education benefits, I became further exposed to the aviation First Sgt. Robert Cook, a senior noncommissioned officer with community through my job as an aviation operations specialist. the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, 60th Troop Command, was ”Women have only been allowed to serve in the N.C. Guard part of the cadre at Jefferies’ RSP unit when she first joined the for more than 50 years. On top of that, state National Guard Guard and helped create the award named in her honor. organizations have only been desegregated for a little more than 35 “The award is simply to recognize those few individuals who years, so the fact that Jefferies is a pilot is significant. have made the RSP more successful than expected,” Cook said. “Lt. “Being African-American and female does make me a double Jefferies is the epitome of what someone who has the determination minority in the field of aviation, however I can honestly say that I am to be successful can achieve. and have been evaluated based on my performance and ability to ”When Jefferies joined the program, it was still new; serving as meet the qualification standards,” said Jefferies. the student platoon leader, Cook said her participation in that role After earning her degree in psychology from the University helped to shape the program.   of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Jeffries said she has become more “She was the first student platoon leader that embraced the aware of the role diversity plays in the workplace. role, ” Cook said. “She used it to develop her own attributes. “One of the great things about the Army is that there are ”Jefferies used the lessons and character developed in RSP to programs established and designed to increase education and shape her career and become an officer in the NCNG in order to earn promote criteria-based evaluations within the ranks,” said Jeffries. the title of “First Female African-American Helicopter Pilot,” in the Jefferies’ hard work and dedication has not only helped her North Carolina National Guard; a title she is proud of.   break through a barrier, it has also earned her recognition among “It is such an honor to be the first female African-American her peers; an award was recently named in her honor.   pilot in the North Carolina National Guard,” Jefferies said. “In every When Jefferies first enlisted in the N.C. Guard she spent her profession there has been and will continue to be firsts in some form monthly weekend training in the Recruit Sustainment Program or fashion an I am simply blessed to hold this title. (RSP), where newly enlisted soldiers become better prepared for ”Cook said it is great to see that Jefferies has accomplished such attending Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training. a historic benchmark in the NCNG.   After showing much promise and dedication to duty, the RSP “I think that Lt. Jefferies’ success serves as inspiration to unit she attended created the Lt. Lindsey Jefferies Award.   hundreds of young soldiers who are exploring their own future,” The award is given to the RSP soldier who most exemplifies Cook said. “Lt. Jefferies earned this distinction through hard work leadership, selfless-service and dedication to duty. The award plaque and dedication to her goals. I feel that her achievement proves she is also states the soldiers who receive the award have raised the simply an extraordinary soldier and officer.” standards by which all other RSP soldiers are to be evaluated. In addition, the worthy recipients also must have the Read more: www.dvidshub.net/news/120923/nc-guard-soldier-firstflight#.U5dpESjH10g#ixzz34GnFugQw characteristics to motivate and inspire the cadre and incumbent HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

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Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 2nd Class Brent Blackwell looks out over the Mediterranean Sea from the doorway of a SH-60F Seahawk. Blackwells’ unit is attached to the “Dragonslayers” of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 11. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are deployed in support of the global war on terrorism. 60

F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

61 Photo: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class McKinley Cartwright, USN

African-Americans and the

U.S. Navy

S . N A V

Courtesy: U.S. Navy

U . Y

frican-American Sailors have a legacy of honorable service since the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, African-American Sailors fought on every kind of Union warship, accounting for nearly 24 percent of each ship’s crew, and included eight Medal of Honor recipients. For every war our country has fought, there have been patriotic men and women of color willing to stand and fight. These brave individuals, while in their hearts and minds were simply doing their duty, were in reality creating change. The following stories barely scratch the surface of the history of the Navy and of those courageous enough to stand in the face of diversity, making the impossible, possible for generations to come. John Henry Turpin enlisted in the Navy on Nov. 4, 1896 at just 19 years old. He was a surviving member of USS Maine’s (ACR 1) crew when she was destroyed by an explosion in February 1898. He also survived the boiler explosion on USS Bennington in July 1905. He served on several other ships and left active duty in 1916. He was recalled in April of 1917, when John Henry Turpin the U.S. entered World War I. On June 1 of that year, aboard the USS Marblehead (C 11), Turpin became a chief gunner’s mate; one of the Navy’s first African American chief petty officers. He served actively in that rank until he transferred to the Fleet Reserve on March 8, 1919. John Henry Turpin retired as a chief gunner’s mate on Oct. 5, 1925. During World War II, the Golden Thirteen were an example of African-Americans breaking new ground in the Navy and in American society. In February 1944, 12 prior-enlisted black servicemen were commissioned as ensigns and a 13th was made a warrant officer. They were the first group of black servicemen to complete officer training in the Navy and led the way for future African-Americans. These 13 officers not only made a contribution to 62

F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

the Navy during World War II, but to society as well. By the end of the war, 64 African-Americans had become officers in the Navy. Striving for equality at home and blazing a trail for future African-American Sailors, Wesley A. Brown became the first black graduate of the United States Naval Academy in 1949, joining the Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps and retiring at the rank of lieutenant commander. He passed away May 22, 2012 after a distinguished career both in the Navy and in the civilian workforce. For Harriet Ida Pickens and Frances Wills Thorpe, Dec. 21, 1944 was one of the most exciting days of their lives. It was the day they were commissioned as officers in the United States Navy. It was also the day they stepped into history as the first African American women ever to receive such commissions. These two accomplished and welleducated women were more than qualified to serve their country as military officers in a time of war, with only their race standing in their way. However, they would help to tear that barrier down. The two were forever linked when together they were sworn into the U.S. Navy as apprentice seamen, then went on to join the last class of the Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s School at Smith College in Northampton, Mass. As part of the U.S. Navy’s underwater demolition teams, which were a precursor to the current U.S. Navy SEAL Teams, Fred “Tiz” Morrison was the first African-American Navy SEAL/Frogman. Morrison was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroics in the Korean War as part of UDT Team 12. Morrison was known as an expert in underwater demolitions. He was a veteran of the World War II and was part of UDT Team 1 in 1948. His official rank is U.S. Navy Engineman 2nd Class. Nicknamed “The Real Tarzan,” there is little information on the life of Tiz Morrison. He has since passed on, but will always be remembered as the Navy’s first African American Navy SEAL. The winning of World War II was a double victory for African Americans. It was a victory over the enemy overseas and a victory over prejudice at home. On March 8, 1945, Phyllis Mae Dailey was inducted into the United States Navy Nurse Corps, following changes in Navy recruitment and admittance procedures that had previously excluded black women from joining the Nurse Corps. The Nurse Corps was one of the last units to accept African Americans, making her selection even more notable. By August 1945, when the war ended, there were just four active duty African American nurses in the Navy Nurse Corps versus more than 6,000 that had served with the Women’s Army Corps during the war.

Courtesy: U.S. Navy

Courtesy: NASA

aviator in 1974. As a naval aviator, Scott piloted the F-14 Tomcat, F/A-18 Hornet, and the A-7 Corsair. All together he has flown more than 5,000 flight hours on 20 different aircraft. He was selected by NASA for the astronaut program and reported to the Johnson Space Center in August 1992. He served as a mission specialist on STS-72 in 1996, and STS-87 in 1997, and has logged a total Winston Scott of 24 days, 14 hours and 34 minutes in space, including three spacewalks totaling 19 hours and 26 minutes. Admiral Michelle Janine Howard has been a trailblazer throughout her entire career. At 17 years old she was accepted into the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., as part of only the third class to accept women. At the time, women made up only five percent of the Navy. In 1980, the Navy opened logistics ships to women, allowing more opportunities for women Adm. Michelle Janine Howard to serve at sea. Soon women were serving on combat ships and flying combat aircraft. In 1999 Howard fulfilled her dream when she took command of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47), becoming the first African-American woman in such a role. As of 2014, she has become a 4-star Admiral. In December 1996, Adm. J. Paul Reason became the first black naval officer to wear four stars and assumed command of the Atlantic Fleet, comprising nearly 200 warships, 1,400 aircraft, and 122,000 service men and women based at 18 major shore facilities. These outstanding examples of African-American Sailors are just a handful of those marking history with firsts and distinguishing the Navy as a force for freedom and equality. African-Americans continue to serve with distinction, now comprising more than 17 percent of our active duty Navy total force end-strength. More information on the many milestones achieved by black Sailors and the history of the African-American Navy experience can be found at the Naval History and Heritage Command at www.history. navy.mil/special%20highlights/africanAmerican/African-hist.htm. A complete educational presentation, including a downloadable educational poster on African American/Black History month, can be requested from the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) by email at deomipa@us.af.mil. Courtesy: U.S. Navy

Courtesy: U.S. Navy

Edna Young was the first black woman to enlist in the regular Navy and later the first black woman to achieve the rank of chief petty officer. Young joined the Navy after the passage of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act July 7, 1948. Ensign Jesse LeRoy Brown, the Navy’s first black aviator, wanted not only to fly, but to be of service to mankind. On Dec. 4, 1950, Ensign Jesse Brown’s aircraft was hit while making a strafing run against the enemy during the Korean War. With tremendous skill, he managed to crash land on a rough, boulder-strewn slope. He survived the crash, only to remain stuck in the cockpit as Jesse LeRoy Brown smoke began to billow from the wreckage. He risked his life to help a Marine regiment without any race considerations, knowing only that Americans were in trouble. Although his career was met from start to tragic finish with immeasurable odds, his courage and devotion live on throughout our Navy’s history. Master Chief Carl Brashear, the Navy’s first African American master diver, taught people worldwide that you can achieve your goals and can be held accountable by your characteristics as a person, and not by the color of your skin. Brashear joined the Navy in 1948. His unwavering determination to serve as a Navy diver paid off in 1954 when he was accepted and Master Chief Carl Brashear graduated from the diving program. In 1967, a year after an injury aboard the salvage ship USS Hoist (ARS 40) cost him his left leg, Brashear became the first Navy diver to be restored to full active duty as an amputee. He was the first black man to ever become a master diver in the Navy, a position he held from 1970 to 1979. Samuel Lee Gravely, Jr., enlisted in the Naval Reserve in September 1942. Gravely was called to active duty in 1949. Over the next decade Gravely served at sea and ashore, including Korean War service. In 1955, he transferred from the Reserve to the active duty, where he served aboard USS Falgout (DE 324). In 1971, while serving as commanding officer of USS Jouett (CG 29), he was promoted to rear admiral. He was the first African-American to achieve flag rank in the Navy. Capt. Winston E. Scott’s journey to the stars started in Miami. His largely segregated education provided little access to resources, but his own determination combined with the dedication of his teachers, set him on an inspiring path of achievement. Scott entered Naval Aviation Officer Candidate School in 1973 and was designated a naval

Source: Navy.mil HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

United States Navy Promotes Michelle Howard

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Photo: Chief Mass Comm Spec Peter D. Lawlor

4-Star Admiral

S . N A V Y Adm. Howard smiles following her historic promotion to the rank of admiral at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial.

Adm. Howard is the first female four-star in the 238-year history of the United States Navy. 64

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Photo: Chief Mass Comm Spec Peter D. Lawlor

Sec of the Navy Ray Mabus, left, and Wayne Cowles, husband of Adm. Michelle Howard, put four-star shoulder boards on Howard’s service white uniform during her promotion ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial.

he United States Navy promoted Michelle Janine Howard to the rank of four-star admiral on July 1, 2014, during a ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus presided over the ceremony and administered the oath of office. Adm. Howard is the first female four-star in the 238-year history of the United States Navy. “Michelle Howard’s promotion to the rank of admiral is the result of a brilliant naval career, one I fully expect to continue when she assumes her new role as vice chief of naval operations, but also it is a historic first, an event to be celebrated as she becomes the first

female to achieve this position,” said Mabus. “Her accomplishment is a direct example of a Navy that now, more than ever, reflects the nation it serves – a nation where success is not borne of race, gender or religion, but of skill and ability.” “Michelle’s many trailblazing accomplishments in her 32 years of naval service are evidence of both her fortitude and commitment to excellence and integrity,” said Adm. Jonathan Greenert, Chief of Naval Operations. “I look forward to many great things to come from the Navy’s newest 4-star Admiral!” Howard, the Deputy CNO for Operations, Plans, and Strategy, will relieve Adm. Mark Ferguson III as the 38th Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO). HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Chief Mass Comm Spec Peter D. Lawlor

U . S . N A V Y Sec Mabus and Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert applaud Adm. Howard on her promotion to the rank of admiral.

Admiral Howard has been making the once impossible, possible, throughout her entire career. She was the first AfricanAmerican woman to command a U.S. Navy warship, the first female graduate of the Naval Academy to achieve the rank of rear admiral, and the first African-American woman to command an Expeditionary Strike Group at sea. In the summer of 2012, Howard reached another milestone when she became the first African-American woman promoted to three-star rank in the U.S. Armed Forces with the assumption of her post as deputy commander, U.S. Fleet Forces. With a career highlighted by firsts, the path to Howard’s current assignment initially began with an obstacle. It is an obstacle that taught her to embrace change, find strength in the challenges she faced, and to not be afraid to lean on others. 66

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Howard said her Navy career began as a chance encounter while watching television. It was a documentary about one of the military service academies that opened Howard’s eyes to a possible future career as an officer in the military. But as she learned, not all opportunities were available to women at that time. The 12-year-old Howard went to her older brother to get his opinion on her becoming an officer. He informed her that U.S. military academies were not open to women. Undeterred, she spoke to her mother who told her that if she really wanted to join the military as an officer, she would have to wait until she was old enough. Hopefully by that time, society would change, and if it does; then she should go after it. And go for it Howard did. Four years after that discussion, the federal law concerning the acceptance of women into the nation’s service academies changed.

Photo: Chief Mass Comm Spec Peter D. Lawlor

Adm. Howard lends a hand to (SECNAV) Ray Mabus as he and Wayne Cowles, Howard’s husband, put four-star shoulder boards on Howard’s uniform.

At 17, Howard applied and was accepted into the U.S. Naval

a peacekeeping effort in the former Republic of Yugoslavia. Sixty

Academy in Annapolis, Md.

days after returning from the Mediterranean deployment, Tortuga

In 1978, Howard entered the Naval Academy as a freshman. She

departed on a West African training cruise, where the ship’s Sailors,

was in only the third class to accept women. At that time women

with embarked Marines and U.S. Coast Guard detachment, operated

made up only five percent of the Navy. With more than 200 years of

with the naval services of seven African nations.

naval history and traditions, there was some resistance to change. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1982

She took command of USS Rushmore (LSD 47) on March 12, 1999, becoming the first African American woman to command a

and from the Army’s Command and General Staff College in 1998,

ship in the U.S. Navy. Howard was the commander of Amphibious

with a Masters in Military Arts and Sciences.

Squadron Seven from May 2004 to September 2005. Deploying

Howard’s initial sea tours were aboard USS Hunley (AS 31)

with Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, operations included

and USS Lexington (AVT 16). While serving on board Lexington,

tsunami relief efforts in Indonesia and maritime security operations

she received the secretary of the Navy/Navy League Captain

in the North Arabian Gulf. She commanded Expeditionary Strike

Winifred Collins award in May 1987. This award is given to one,

Group Two from April 2009 to July 2010. In 2009, she deployed to

woman officer a year for outstanding leadership. She reported to

CENTCOM theater, where she commanded Task Force 151, Multi-

USS Mount Hood (AE 29) as chief engineer in 1990 and served in

national Counter-piracy effort, and Task Force 51, Expeditionary

Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. She assumed duties as

Forces. In 2010, she was the Maritime Task Force commander for

first lieutenant on board the USS Flint (AE 32) in July 1992. In January

BALTOPS, under 6th Fleet.

1996, she became the executive officer of USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and deployed to the Adriatic in support of Operation Joint Endeavor,

She was the 2011 USO Military Woman of the Year, and the 2013 NAACP Chairman’s Image Award recipient. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Pioneer By Lance Cpl. Damany Coleman

U . S . N A V Y The 510-foot, missile-guided Navy destroyer, USS Gravely.

housands of citizens of Wilmington, N.C., friends, family and service members from the surrounding bases and stations joined together in Wilmington, N.C. witnessed the commissioning of the guided missile destroyer, DDG 107, as the USS Gravely. The destroyer was named after the late pioneer Vice Adm. Samuel Lee Gravely Jr., who was the first African-American in the U.S. Navy to be commissioned, first to serve aboard a fighting ship as an officer, first to command a Navy ship and the first to become fleet commander and a flag officer. The ship’s motto is appropriately, ‘First to Conquer.’ Constructed in Pascagoula, Mississippi, the 510-foot-long destroyer has a full load displacement of 9,200 tons and is powered by four gas turbine engines. David Gravely, the son of Vice Adm. Gravely, said the christening of the ship in May of 2009 was an emotional event as well, but then the ship was still just a piece of iron to the family. 68

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“The ship is coming alive with the crew” said David. “I got to know some of the crew and they’re so young. They don’t want to let my family down.” David added that the nation has changed a lot since he was a child, as far as discrimination goes. He remembers not being able to enter the front door of restaurants traveling with his family, and had to come in the back door just to get a bite to eat. “Back then, you don’t understand the significance of that,” said David. “But now I do. Now I see the Navy naming a ship after an African-American and you get the sense of achievement and the sense of how things are changing. I look at the crew – men, women and minorities – all kinds of people. It’s truly one nation. They’re all coming together on the ship. This ship is amazing and my family is very happy.” Vice Adm. Gravely devoted nearly 40 years of service to the Navy, spanning from 1942 to 1980. He participated in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War.

Photos: U.S. Navy

Navy Ship Named for African-American

Mrs. Gravely, widow of Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely, addresses those in attendance during the USS Gravely commissioning ceremony.

Gravely first enlisted in the Naval Reserves on September 15, 1942 and was trained as a Fireman Apprentice. In 1943, he was selected for the V-12 program, to train as a Naval officer. On December 14, 1944 Gravely successfully completed midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. His first assignment was to Camp Robert Smalls, as the Assistant Battalion Commander for new recruits. Afterwards, he began his seagoing career as a sailor aboard the USS PC-1264, a submarine chaser that was one of only two World War II ships with a largely African-American crew. In April 1946, he was released from active duty, remaining in the Naval Reserve. He returned to his hometown of Richmond to complete his bachelor’s degree in History. Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949 as part of the Navy’s response to President Harry S. Truman’s Executive Order to desegregate the Armed Services, his initial assignment was as a Navy Recruiter, recruiting African-Americans in the Washington, D.C. area. Gravely went from recruiting to building a Navy career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished accomplishments. He became the first African American to command a U.S. Navy warship (Theodore E. Chandler), the first African American to command an American warship under combat conditions (Taussig),

the first African American to command a major naval warship (Jouett), the first African American admiral, the first African American to rise to the rank of Vice Admiral, and the first African-American to command a U.S. Fleet (Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet). Admiral Gravely was assigned tours of duty aboard the PC-1264, Iowa, Toledo and Seminole. He served as Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of the Theodore E. Chandler. Additionally, he was the Commanding Officer of the Falgout, Taussig, and Jouett. His last tour of duty before his retirement in August 1980, was as Director of the Defense Communications Agency in Washington, overseeing the communications network linking Washington with American and allied bases worldwide. Admiral Gravely was also highly decorated, with decorations including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and Navy Commendation Medal. Read more: www.dvidshub.net/news/ 61114/navy-ship-named-african-americanpioneer#.U5dlZyjH10g#ixzz34GjTG3Qp

Vice Adm. Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. was the first AfricanAmerican in the U.S. Navy to be commissioned, first to serve aboard a fighting ship as an officer, first to command a Navy ship and the first to become fleet commander and a flag officer.

Sailors stand at ease on the aft gangplank of the USS Gravely, during her commissioning ceremony. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Look Back at Black Aviation Engineer Units of World War II A

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By Dr. Ronald B. Hartzer, AFCEC Historian

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lack History Month offers the opportunity to recall the important role black Americans played in providing the worldwide system of bases during World War II as members of segregated aviation engineer battalions. These 800-man units constructed airfields overseas between 1940 and 1945. They were specially trained units whose mission was to construct, conceal, maintain and defend airfields in every theater. Of the 157 separate aviation engineer battalions that saw duty during the war, 48 were segregated units designated as “Colored.” Overcoming many challenges inherent in a segregated situation, these men served proudly throughout the war and made a significant contribution to the overall base construction effort. PACIFIC THEATER The majority of black engineer units served in the Pacific or ChinaBurma-India theater. The 810th and 811th were the first black engineer units shipped out. The 810th, originally told they were headed for a cold climate, had a most uncomfortable five-week trip to Australia because they had packed their “suntans” and donned winter uniforms. After a brief stay in Australia, the unit moved to the French island of New Caledonia and began constructing Plaines des Gaiacs, which became the most important base on the island, and eventually one of the most highly developed in the entire theater. After arriving in New Caledonia, the 810th unloaded ships, often during enemy bombings, while they waited three weeks for their equipment to arrive. Once it came, they had to move it more than 100 miles over a mountainous trail to the construction site, a task that necessitated felling trees, reinforcing bridges and fording streams. They arrived in time to place the runway at Plaines des Gaiacs in service for fighter aircraft involved in the Battle of the Coral Sea. The

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unit worked 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, building an all-weather runway and expanding the facilities to accept B-17s. The major construction went on for months on this critical airfield. Meanwhile at a nearby location, the 811th not only worked on airfield development but also used its heavy equipment to transport crated planes 35 miles from the harbor to an assembly point. The 811th finished its Pacific tour at Iwo Jima. While building airstrips and quarters for bomber groups, its platoons encountered numerous Japanese holed up in caves. The 811th promptly captured the Japanese and turned them over to the infantry. CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER Black aviation engineer units were the first five to arrive in the ChinaBurma-India theater. However, they did almost no airfield work. The units fell under the command of the Corps of Engineers to participate in building the Ledo Road that stretched from India to Burma to carry supplies on to China. From 1942 to 1945 they hauled rocks, dug ditches, laid culverts, rolled roadbeds, erected bridges, dozed out bamboo jungles and fought erosion on mountain slopes where the road should be. The challenges presented by monsoon rains and alternating heat and cold, as they worked in jungles and on mountains, only served to relieve the otherwise monotonous road-building work. The work of the 823rd Aviation Engineer Battalion was hampered by the fact that its six bulldozers, had arrived without blades. The engineers borrowed a blade from a nearby British unit until theirs were delivered five months later. Finally, the road was complete in January 1945, sending the units on the thousand-mile trip over the road to China to begin constructing airfields. Making repairs in the road as they progressed, the black engineers occasionally rescued men and machines that

Photos: U.S. Air Force

Members of an aviation engineer battalion construct a heavy bomber airfield near Eye, England, in 1943.

had slipped off the road on sharp curves. Upon their arrival in China, the engineers were welcomed by cheering crowds and triggerhappy Chinese soldiers looking for a ride. After only a few months of work, the war was over and their long trip home began. MEDITERRANEAN, EUROPEAN THEATERS Only a handful of black aviation engineer units were sent to Europe. Of the 48 battalions organized during World War II, only seven were in Europe when the war ended there in May 1945. In addition to problems such as equipment shortages, long hours and difficult work, aviation engineer leaders were concerned with the long-term presence of blacks in England. Special efforts were made to ensure problems did not arise between black and white troops and with the English people. General Dwight D. Eisenhower established a firm policy for the troops under his command by stressing, “Troops must train together, work together and live together in order to attain successful teamwork in campaign. The sharing of work opportunities and recreational facilities must be willingly accepted and utilized to unite more closely the troops of our several commands.” Most black engineers found the English much more accepting than the Americans at their training base. The black aviation engineer units usually faced the same difficulties as all engineering battalions. For example, the 812th shipped out of Charleston in May 1942 to build bases in southcentral Africa and help maintain the southern aircraft ferry route. After constructing airfields in Kenya, they were shipped to Egypt, followed by a 900-mile truck ride across the desert to Benghazi, Libya. Once there, the unit established water points, constructed Nissen huts, devised camouflage and deception devices such as decoy fires, dummy runways and dummy aircraft. They continued to improve and stabilize the base for Ninth Air Force’s B-24s that bombed the Ploesti oil fields in Rumania. In addition, they built a pipeline from the sea to keep the airfield sprinkled. The unit then moved to the islands of Sicily and Corsica where they built bases at more than a dozen sites until the end of the war. In spite of the difficulties encountered, the black aviation engineer units acquired a wide variety of technical experience. Men who otherwise may have had little opportunity to work as heavy equipment operators or electricians, built airfields out of jungles, constructed roads over mountains and completed aircraft hangars on Pacific islands. At the end of the war, aviation engineers had built or improved more than 1,000 airfields around the world. Black engineers were a major part of that success. Sadly, a board of officers meeting in 1946 to evaluate the aviation engineer experience discussed the future of black engineer units. Their recommendation reflected the times: “It follows that, because technical skills are relatively seldom attained by individuals of the colored race, Aviation Engineer units requiring a high proportion of technical skills would not normally be colored. On the other hand, colored personnel may be used, without comparable sacrifice of efficiency, in units wherein labor requirements are predominant.” Despite these observations, the Army and Air Force began to integrate after President Harry S. Truman issued Executive Order 9981 in 1948, and the comments were soon proved erroneous.

The 1889th Aviation Engineer Battalion operated an asphalt plant producing blacktop surface material for a taxi strip at an airfield on Guam in 1944. Crushed rock brought from the quarry flows out of the hopper on the conveyer belt to the mixing section of the plant.

TRAINING The training for these units was as uneven as their all-white counterparts. However, the units faced the additional difficulties of segregation, substandard living and recreational facilities, and suspicion or outright hostility from the white units and the local civilian population living near the training bases. Instead of training in their wartime duties, black units were frequently assigned the more tedious and labor-intensive tasks during training without being allowed the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities. The 857th, assigned to Eglin Field, Fla., for training was primarily used as labor troops at the installation and only participated in one field training problem; the completion of a heavy bar and rod runway. The 811th had only trained for slightly more than one month when it departed for the Pacific. Its limited training time was further hampered by an unusually heavy snowfall that hit Langley Field, Va. However, their presence in theater was so critical that any shortcomings in training were overlooked. On the other hand, the 810th had trained for six months by operating heavy equipment, building roads and bridges, and doing general construction work at their home station of MacDill Field, Fla. One company moved to Greenville, S.C., where it constructed camouflaged revetments for observation planes, and to Wilmington, N.Cl., repeating the job for fighter planes and building asphalt connecting taxiways. A friendly rivalry developed as the unit began working with a white Seabee engineer unit on various projects. The 811th set the island record for B-24 hangar construction. Later, the unit commander told his men they could have a day off for every day under the existing Seabee record for constructing a radio range. Despite heavy rains, the unit beat the Seabees’ time by 13 days. Read more: www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/109658/ a-look-back-at-black-aviation-engineer-units-of-world-war-ii.aspx Source: AF.mil HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Chief Master Sergeant Cameron B. Kirksey U.S. Air Force Reserve

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Photo: Tech. Sgt. Lou Burton, USAF

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hief Master Sergeant Cameron B. Kirksey is the Command Chief Master Sergeant, Air Force Reserve Command, Robins Air Force Base, Ga. He represents the highest level of enlisted leadership in the command, advising the commander on all matters concerning the health, morale, welfare and effective management of more than 55,000 active duty and reserve enlisted members at more than 66 locations. Chief Kirksey provides leadership and guidance as the commander’s representative to numerous committees, councils, boards, military and civilian functions worldwide. According to Kirksey, camaraderie and unity are key aspects to mission success as well as his own success. “Camaraderie is one of the best parts about being in the military and I dare say it’s right up there with core value number one: integrity,” he said. “If you don’t have camaraderie, if your fellow Airmen feel you don’t have their back, then you’re part of the wrong organization.” “We’re all a part of a unit,” he added. “Individually, we know how good we are. But in order for the team to succeed, individuals must work together. The best leaders foster unity and, personally, I plan to do the same.” Kirksey, who often tours from base to base giving talks and meeting face to face with those he represents, is described as personable and down to earth; a good listener who brings his people skills to the table. The Chief understands the need to be present in order to “truly be in tune with what the Airmen are going through”.

Chief Kirksey after his F-16 familiarization flight at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla.

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“They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” he added. “You have to make sure that when you look your Airmen in the eye, they can see that you’re a genuine leader. I’m all about being a servant leader.” Among Kirksey’s awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters; Air Force Commendation Medal; Air Force Achievement Medal and the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal with six oak leaf clusters. Kirksey earned his Bachelor of Science degree in finance from the University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama in 1994. Source: www.afrc.af.mil

DEDICATION. COMMITMENT. SERVICE.

The Air Force Reserve offers a variety of part-time job opportunities with full-time benefits including tuition assistance and low-cost health insurance. And, for specific part-time jobs, you may be eligible for a signing bonus of up to $20,000. The Air Force Reserve allows you to serve your country at a base close to where you live, giving you the opportunity to continue your civilian career or further your education. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ideal option for those who have never been in the military as well as for those with prior military service in any branch.

Call 800-237-8279 or go to AFReserve.com/prior

Airman returns from front lines of fight against Ebola

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Photo: Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Wilson, USAF

Maj. Francis Obuseh at the tented field hospital setup in Monrovia Liberia, with care-workers in the background. Obuseh was sent to Liberia to conduct a site survey for a field hospital to be used in the fight against the epidemic Ebola outbreak there. Major Obuseh is an epidemiologist and international health specialist with the U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa Surgeon Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Lt. Col. Michael P. Anderson

Space Shuttle Columbia Astronaut

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Photo Courtesy: NASA

t. Col. Michael P. Anderson was one of only a handful of AfricanAmerican astronauts and was one of the seven crewmembers aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia when it exploded on re-entry just 16 minutes before its scheduled touchdown Feb. 1, 2003. His accomplishments were numerous, and he showed that nothing should get in the way of a person’s goals, including their race. He was born in December 1959, in Plattsburgh, N.Y., but considered Spokane, Wash., to be his hometown. His interest in and drive for becoming an astronaut started when he was just 2 or 3 years old, according to his father. “He made model aircraft from the time he was a small boy until – well, when he was at NASA, he was still making them,” his mother said. “Science and aerospace, those were his things.” From the shows he watched on television to the classes he later took in school, Anderson always had his sights set on being an astronaut, according to his parents. “He set his sights on it, and I think everything he did after that was focusing in that direction, hoping that one day he would get it,” his mother said. “And, it worked.” He received his Bachelor of Science degree in physics/astronomy from the University of Washington in 1981, and also received his commission as a second lieutenant. He received his Master of Science degree in physics from Creighton University in 1990. After completing a year of technical training at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., he was assigned to Randolph AFB, Texas. At Randolph, he served as Chief of Communication Maintenance for the 2015th Communication Squadron and later as Director of Information System Maintenance for the 1920th Information System Group. In 1986, he was selected to attend Undergraduate Pilot Training at Vance AFB, Okla. Upon graduation he was assigned to Offutt AFB, Neb. as an EC 135 pilot, flying Strategic Air Command’s airborne command post “Looking Glass.” From January 1991 to September 1992, he served as an aircraft commander and

Astronaut Anderson, STS-107 payload commander, pictured on the aft flight deck of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia.

instructor pilot in the 920th Air Refueling Squadron at Wurtsmith AFB, Mich. From September 1992 to February 1995, he was assigned as an instructor pilot and tactics officer in the 380th Air Refueling Wing in Plattsburgh AFB, N.Y. Anderson logged more than 3,000 hours in various models of the KC-135 and the T-38A aircraft. Selected by NASA in December 1994, Anderson reported to the Johnson Space

Statue of Anderson in Riverfront Park, Spokane, WA.

Center in March 1995. He completed a year of training and evaluation, and was qualified for flight crew assignment as a mission specialist. He was initially assigned technical duties in the Flight Support Branch of the Astronaut Office. Anderson flew on STS-89 and STS-107, logging more than 593 hours in space. Numerous scholarships, as well as schools and libraries bear Anderson’s name, including Michael Anderson Elementary at Fairchild AFB, Wash. A life-size statue of Col. Anderson stands in the middle of Riverfront Park, in Spokane, in which he is outfitted in his space suit, releasing a white dove – representing peace and humility. As well, through Seattle’s Museum of Flight, children grades 6-8 can participate in the Michael Anderson Aerospace Program. They spend time learning about science, engineering, flight dynamics and navigation in hands-on, state-of-the-art labs and simulators. Mentored by aerospace professionals, including Alaska Airlines pilots, military aviators, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), Tuskegee Airmen, and Museum of Flight staff; many children are now reaching for the stars because Michael Anderson achieved his dream. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, the NASA Space Flight Medal, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and the Defense Distinguished Service Medal.

Photos: Scott M. Ash, USAF

Air Force Leaders

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Mentor Students

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By Staff Sgt. David Salanitri, Air Force Public Affairs Agency

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F O R C E Timothy K. Bridges talks with Giselle Gonzales, of Hayfield Secondary School, Alexandria, Va., during the Black Engineer of the Year Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics conference in Washington, D.C. 78

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niformed and civilian Air Force leaders volunteered to mentor black high school and college students during the 2014 Black Engineer of the Year Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics conference. During the two-hour mentoring sessions, the Airmen passed down life lessons to who are interested in pursuing professions in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. The students, who were hand-selected by their school administrators, had the opportunity to peek into the life of their mentorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Air Force service, whether that service is as a military or civilian member. Among the handful of senior executive service and general officer Airmen attending was Timothy Bridges, the deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations. For the past few years, Bridges has taken an active part in the mentorship program. He said approaching the topic of growing youth is a responsibility he feels he has. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think all senior leaders should take the opportunity when they have it to

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and former Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Lester L. Lyles congratulate Brig. Gen. Cedric D. George on his receipt of the 2014 Black Engineer of the Year Award at the Feb. 2014 Stars and Stripes dinner in Washington, D.C. George is the commander of the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, Robins Air Force Base, Ga. The dinner is held every year to honor engineers, both active and retired African American general officers and members of the senior executive service.

engage with our youth and to motivate and encourage them,” he said. “It is time well spent, part of our responsibility and provides a forum to help make a difference in some youngster’s life.” For Brig. Gen. Cedric George, the Warner Robins Air Logistic Complex commander, mentorship began at an early age. George was the son of an enlisted soldier, whose 30 years of service took place during a challenging time for black men and women, he said. “Needless to say, having a father who earned such longevity in the military provided me with a great example,“ George said. “I also had the priceless example of how a successful military man conducts himself. My dad’s time had its share of inequities and difficulties. Nevertheless, he was undeterred in his loyalty and pride. My dad’s stature … the way he carried himself, the way he walked, the way he wore his uniform … had a huge impact on me.” Children don’t always have active role models in their lives. For Bridges, being a mentor is an opportunity to change a student’s life. “There are some great kids out there who want to do well,” he said. “We need to help them, teach them and inspire them.” According to the Air Force mentoring program, mentorship is an essential ingredient in developing well-rounded, professional and competent future leaders, with the overall goal to help individuals reach their full potential. Bridges said mentorship helped established the framework of the man he is today. “I think for me, early mentors not only challenged me to do my very best, they held me accountable for my own actions and put their trust and faith in me,” he said. “I felt if they thought I could do it,

then it must be true. Most importantly though, they opened my eyes to my own potential and motivated me to go for it.” Throughout Bridges’ career, mentorship came in many forms and at many stages. “During my career mentors came at all levels, but I think I learned the most from a few key senior NCOs” he said. “They helped shape and mold me early, and I came to understand my role as a leader and as a role model. They reinforced integrity and accountability by what they did, and didn’t do.” Mentorship isn’t a one-way process for Bridges said. As a mentor, his goal is to develop students but the students always manage to teach him something. “I’ve been attending these sessions for the last few years, and I always come away rejuvenated and encouraged,” Bridges said. “It’s not just a ‘give’ for me, it’s a ‘get’ too.” Bridges said growing and developing the upcoming generation of today helps ensure a positive and successful generation of tomorrow. “If we don’t invest in our future, we will become bankrupt,” he said. “If we don’t teach them the way in which they should go, they will be lost. The world is a very confusing and scary place – a little light in the darkness is a big help to those who seek it.” Even with the tremendous success George received, he said he hopes those he has mentored see greater success. “I hope for all of the young people their experience can be as good, even better than mine,” he said. “Hopefully then, they will pass it on down the line and be that best example for the next generations.” HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Airman 1st Class Anthony Smith-Nelson, a member of the Andersen Air Force Base Honor Guard, plays taps during the Operation Linebacker II Remembrance Ceremony Dec. 18, 2014, at Andersen AFB, Guam. The ceremony commemorated the 75 Airmen that lost their lives during the operation including 33 who were lost from 15 downed B-52 Stratofortress bombers. 80

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Photo: Staff Sgt. Robert Hicks, USAF HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Lance Cpl. John-Paul Imbody, USMC

U . S .

Lt. Col. Larry Parker, Marine Corps Recruiting Command speaks to members of the 100 Black Men of America about career opportunities in the Marine Corps during the international board of directors meeting at the 100 Black Men of America national symposium.

M A R

Marines Teach Leadership at Event

I N E S

100 Black Men

By Sgt. Dwight Henderson

100 Black Men of America, Inc.’s mission is to improve the quality of life and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for African Americans, particularly young people, through mentorship.

n an October 2014 event, U.S. Marines spent a day teaching leadership to young people at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina. The event, hosted by 100 Black Men of America, Inc., welcomed Marines from the Marine Corps Recruiting Station Raleigh. “We’re pleased to have the Marines here,” said Tony Jeffers, the president of the 100 Black Men of America Triangle East Chapter. “We 82

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have a long relationship with the Marines because they realize that the young people we develop today will be our future leaders.” Nearly 100 local high school and college students attended the event, looking to learn about college preparation and Marine Corps leadership. The students made up six groups, and were led by local Marine representatives, in order to discuss a Marine Corps leadership trait and principal. This was followed by a large group discussion with all attendees.

Photo: Sgt. Dwight A. Henderson, USMC

Raleigh, NC – Sgt. Malcolm Love, a USMC recruiter leads a class on Marine Corps leadership principals during a 100 Black Men of America, Inc., event at North Carolina State University.

Today 100 Black Men of America, Inc., has grown to over 116 chapters with more than 10,000 members. The organization has more than 100,000 youth participants annually in its mentoring and youth development programs. With a mission to improve the quality of life and enhance educational opportunities for African Americans, members of the ‘100’ continue to serve as a strong force in the world by overcoming the cultural and financial obstacles that have limited the achievements of some African Americans, particularly young African American males. Members of the ‘100’ have made outstanding progress, proving that Blacks can, and do, excel as corporate leaders, community leaders and as independent business owners. For more information please visit www.100blackmen.org.

Photo by Sgt. Dwight Henderson, USMC

“What I learned was to know your capabilities and don’t be afraid to stand out,” said Jabari Sullivan, a Cary High School freshman and Cary, North Carolina, native. “I learned that you need to know what you can do in life and to pursue it.” 100 Black Men of America, Inc., strives to be a beacon of leadership to their local communities through their youth mentoring programs, education opportunities, health and wellness programs, and economic empowerment programs. The Marine Corps, similarly, looks to create young leaders and to return those leaders to their communities as productive members of society. “I love the way the Marines talk about leadership,” said Al Sullivan, the co-mentoring chair for the Triangle East Chapter. “It’s all about how you lead yourself and how you lead your community. I thought that was perfect.” 100 Black Men of America, Inc., currently has over 10,000 members who mentor more than 100,000 youth participants, ranging from elementary school to college, annually. MISSION: The mission of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is to improve the quality of life within their communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans. VISION: 100 Black Men of America, Inc. seeks to serve as a beacon of leadership by utilizing its members diverse talents to create environments where children are motivated to achieve, and to empower people to become self-sufficient shareholders in the economic and social fabric of the communities we serve.     VALUES: 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is committed to the intellectual development of youth and the economic empowerment of the African American community based on the following precepts: respect for family, spirituality, justice, and integrity.

Capt. Scott Riley, the executive officer of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Raleigh leads a class on Marine Corps leadership traits during a 100 Black Men of America, Inc., event at North Carolina State University. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

U . S . M A R I N

24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Welcomes

E S

First Female MEU Sergeant Major By Cpl. Joshua W. Grant

gt. Maj. Octaviano Gallegos, Jr. relinquished the duties of sergeant major of 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit to Sgt. Maj. Lanette Wright aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, March 14, 2014.

Wright became the first female MEU sergeant major in the

history of the Marine Corps. “Today is a chance for me to serve the Marine Corps at a higher level, I’m humbled and thankful to be able to take over this position,” 84

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said Wright. “Being a Marine leader, this is a great opportunity to be able to expand on my leadership.” Wright assumes duties for the 24th MEU after leaving the Command Inspector General office, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, as the senior enlisted advisor. Her personal decorations include two Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

Photo: Cpl. Michael Petersheim

Photo: Cpl. Joshua W. Grant, USMC

Sgt. Maj. Octaviano Gallegos Jr., center, stands in preparation to be relieved by Col. Scott F. Benedict, the commanding officer of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Sgt. Maj. Lanette N. Wright speaks to family, friends and fellow Marines after being appointed as the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit sergeant major aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Wright accepted her new duties during Women’s History Month; 71 years after the Marine Corps began accepting women into recruit training. “It’s a historic day, but I don’t want to make this about women, it’s really just about being a Marine and taking the opportunities to serve the Marine Corps,” said Wright. “I wouldn’t say I opened any

Sgt. Maj. Lanette N. Wright salutes Col. Scott F. Benedict as she prepares to assume the duties as command sergeant major for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit in front of the II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 14. Wright became the first female sergeant major of a Marine Expeditionary Unit in Marine Corps’ history.

new doors for women in the Marine Corps. There are plenty of opportunities, we just haven’t reached them due to the sheer number of women in the Marine Corps.” Wright enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1989 and deployed in support of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Unified Protector. “I’m looking forward to having Sgt. Maj. Wright come onboard to the MEU

and having another two years of fantastic leadership,” said Benedict. “She brings a great background to the unit, she has experience with expeditionary units and also experience with many of the Marine Corps major operations over the last 20 years. She brings the type of leadership we demand from our Sgt. Maj., and I think she’s going to fit in just fine.”

HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Second Lieutenant Olaolu Ogunyemi wears the iconic “Dress Blue’s” as he prepares to begin his career in the Marine Corps’ as a commissioned officer. Ogunyemi is the first Marine officer commissioned from Grambling State University in more than three decades. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems in 2012. In doing so, he joins a distinguished heritage of African-American officers started by Frederick C. Branch, the Corps’ first Black officer. 86

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Photo: Staff Sgt. Robert Hicks, USAF HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Lt. Jeanine Menze

First

USCG AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALE AVIATOR By Petty Officer 3rd Class Diana Honings

S . C O A S T G U A R D

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While earning her bachelor’s degree, Menze started taking fixed-wing flying lessons in Daytona Beach, Fla., and became hooked.

Photo: Petty Officer 3rd Class Jonathan Klingenberg, USCG

U .

t. Jeanine Menze, the first black female pilot in the Coast Guard, is a pioneer. She attended Coast Guard Officer Candidate School in 2003 and later attended flight school where she became an HC-130 Hercules airplane pilot in 2005. Menze, originally from Jamaica, is an exuberantly vibrant and outgoing woman. Usually found smiling in her olive-drab green flight suit, the pilot is tall and athletic with short, cropped black hair. Menze became enthralled with aviation as a child. “I used to think it was really funny because when I heard family was coming, I wanted to go to the airport not to see my family but to be at the airport,” said Menze. “I used to love the smell and that feeling of walking into an airport as a kid.” Menze recounts going to a rooftop room at the airport in Jamaica and watching the passengers disembarking from the airplanes and the powerful feeling of being at the same altitude as the top of the airplane. “I was fascinated.” When Menze was 10-years-old, her family moved to Canada and then to Miami when she was 16. Her love of traveling and being in an airplane resonated with her. “I knew I had to do something in an airport, with an airplane or do something flying.” Her interest in the military started during high school and combined with her fascination with aviation, she started contemplating her future. When Menze asked her high school counselor what she should do after graduation, she was told she could become a flight attendant. “I saw the requirements but I really wanted to go to college,” said Menze. A college education wasn’t required for work as a flight attendant. She also thought about going in to the Air Force and was told that even with a four-year degree, it was not a guarantee that she would be able to fly. Menze decided the Air Force wasn’t for her and instead worked her way through college at Florida International University earning a bachelor’s degree in international business. “I figured if the pilot thing didn’t work out, if I do international business, I’d have to fly a lot…as a passenger. I was committed to traveling,“ she laughed.

Lt. Jeanine Menze, an HC-130 Hercules airplane pilot, takes a moment for a photo at Air Station Kodiak in Kodiak, AK.

Photo: PA2 Jennifer Johnson, USCG

“I was just so addicted to flying,” said Menze. “I went and got my private license, my instrument rating, my commercial license and my certified flight instructor license, all because I was just addicted.” After working for a year as a flight instructor in Miami, 22-yearold Menze met two Coast Guard flight mechanics that worked part time at the airport with her. They would talk about the Coast Guard missions and opportunities. Menze became highly interested in the Coast Guard and within a year, she had applied and was picked up for OCS. In the 11 years since becoming a Coast Guard pilot, Menze has seen and experienced a lot from her time assigned in Hawaii, Florida and Alaska. Currently stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, Menze is now married to a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter pilot and has a daughter. In 2010, Menze and her crew were among the first responders to arrive in Haiti to provide aid after the catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck near Port-au-Prince affecting an estimated 3 million people and killing at least 100,000. After completing a routine mission south of the Cayman Islands, Menze and her crew overnighted in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, before heading back to the air station in Clearwater, Fla. During that night, the devastating earthquake hit Haiti and Menze and her crew were directed to respond at first light. The Hercules crew conducted overflights of the region and provided the first imagery of the damages seen by the public on CNN. One of her most recent memorable moments as a Coast Guard pilot is the Kimberly Heritage case that occurred in Alaska in 2012. On a dark, windy and bitterly cold night in January, Menze and her crew were called to action for the fishing vessel Kimberly response. The vessel was being plagued with 90-mph winds that made travel impossible, ultimately leading it to run aground. Menze’s crew was tired and the weather was treacherous during this mission. While providing on scene coordination, communications coverage and a self-rescue capability for the Jayhawk crew, another mayday call came in from the sinking fishing vessel Heritage, about 30 miles south of the Hercules crew’s position. “I’m getting chills just thinking about it right now,” Menze reminisced. “To sit there in the aircraft at altitude and hear someone on the radio saying ‘mayday, mayday, mayday. This is the Heritage. We’re going down, we’re taking on water. I’ve got two people in the water,’ It was like…this is what we do. This is what I’m trained to do. I’m trained to help this person; to coordinate a helicopter, to pick him up out of the water, this is the moment. Moments like this in my opinion make it all worth it.” Both cases concluded with all the fishermen safely rescued and brought back to Kodiak.

At Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point, Oahu, Hawaii, 2006, Lt. j.g. Jeanine Menze proudly sits at the controls of a 27 C-130’s.

While most of the daily grind is a pain and highly annoying, there are some really cool opportunities that make it all worth it according to Menze. The reward of doing the mission wipes all the pain away. Menze didn’t set out to break any barriers when she joined the Coast Guard. For her, the joys of flying and doing the missions were what were most important. “It’s a privilege to be in that position, but I didn’t do it on purpose,” said Menze. She does state however, that the privilege has its benefits. Being a woman in aviation, Menze feels the benefits and importance are the same. For her, the benefit of representing something she didn’t see as a child is most important. “When I was a kid, I would go to all these airports and always see men in uniforms walking in the airplanes or in the cockpit. Even on television or aviation-type toys, you would see two guys sitting on the flight deck – never a woman and a man flying the airplane. I think that is the coolest part of being a female aviator no matter if it’s Coast Guard or civilian – it just represents something I didn’t have when I was a kid. I have always believed in the Gandhi quote, ‘be the change that you wish to see in the world.’ We’re the change – the past, the current and the future female aviators. All the women in aviation are key because we are changing the demographics, changing the culture and industry. We’re changing history.” HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley, USCG

U . S . C O A S T

Vice Adm. Manson Brown receives a shadow box from his staff during his retirement ceremony at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., May 14, 2014.

Vice Adm. Manson Brown

G U A

Retires After

R D

36 Years

ice Adm. Manson K. Brown brought to a close his 36-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard and his pioneering role as the highest-ranking black officer in the history of the sea service. Brown became the first African-American three-star admiral in the U.S. Coast Guard in 2010. Brown, who grew up in the District’s Petworth neighborhood, joined the Coast Guard in 1978. In 1977, he became the first African American to lead the U.S. Coast Guard Academy corps of cadets, the Coast Guard’s student body. Brown is often credited for playing a crucial role in developing the careers of minorities in the Coast Guard. During his career, he assumed positions of responsibility in Florida, Hawaii and California, where he oversaw counter-narcotics trafficking missions and other operations spanning 73 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. He served as the military assistant to two U.S. secretaries of transportation and spent three months in Iraq in 2004, leading the restoration of two major ports. A civil engineer by training, he also oversaw recovery operations after Hurricane Sandy wrought $270 million in damage to Coast Guard property. In recent years, Brown led a Coast Guard effort to improve sexual assault prevention and outreach. 90

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of Service

AFRICAN AMERICAN COAST GUARDSMEN IN DEFENSE OF AMERICA The Coast Guard has served in every war from the American Revolution through the Persian Gulf conflicts. During World War I, 15 Coast Guard cutters, some 200 officers and 5,000 enlisted men went into action as part of the U. S. Navy. By World War II, the Coast Guard had 802 vessels, and its personnel manned 351 Navy and 288 Army craft. Shore stations increased from 1,096 to 1,774, and by the end of the War, Coast Guard personnel numbered 171,168. When President Franklin D. Roosevelt made clear that African Americans would be integrated into the general ranks of the Coast Guard and Navy, Secretary of the Navy Knox announced in April1942 that African Americans would be accepted in capacities other than messmen. The first group of 150 African American volunteers was recruited and sent to Manhattan Beach Training Station in New York in the spring of 1942. Here, they received instruction in seamanship, knot typing, lifesaving and small-boat handling. Classes and other official activities were integrated, with sleeping and mess facilities still segregated. African Americans who qualified for specialized training after the four-week basic course became radiomen, pharmacists, yeomen, coxswains, electricians, carpenters’ boatswains 2nd mate.

We SALUTE your service

We’re Honored To Educate America’s Heros • TA Approved College - Take advantage of military tuition assistance when enrolling at SC. • Online Six-Week Sessions - Enjoy the flexibility of going to class on your time. Live. Work. Graduate. • Over 25 Bachelor and Master Degree Programs - Choose from programs in fields such Criminal Justice, Business, Information Technology and more. • Transfer Military Credits - We accept up to 64 credits from the CCAF, DANTES, ACE-evaluated training and the Joint Service Transcript.

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PARTNER

Thurgood Marshall Fund

College

he Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is an American non-profit organization that supports and represents nearly 300,000 students attending its 47 member-schools that include public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), medical schools and law schools. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund is named for the U.S. Supreme Court’s first African-American Justice, Thurgood Marshall. The organization was established in 1987, under the leadership of Dr. N. Joyce Payne in cooperation with Miller Brewing Co., Sony Music, the NBA, Reebok and the American Association for State Colleges and Universities to create an organization that would support the public HBCUs. The organization went through a name change in 2006 from the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Over the years, TMCF has championed higher education at public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). TMCF has blossomed from a small organization providing scholarships to a powerhouse of resources for public HBCUs, raising over $200 million to date for programmatic support, capacity building support and scholarships for its member-schools and the students matriculating on the campuses. Johnny C. Taylor Jr. has been the president and chief executive officer since 2010. Johnny Parham became the first executive director in 1994. Dwayne Ashley served as president and chief executive officer from 1999 to 2010. In 2013, TMCF acquired the Opportunity Funding Corporation (OFC), merging the two organizations with TMCF becoming the parent organization. The merger was a perfect match because both organizations share a similar mission of providing service to the HBCU community, particularly in the area of talent identification. OFC, while continuing its efforts to enhance the entrepreneurship curriculum within public and private HBCUs, will now focus on identifying the most promising future entrepreneurs and introducing them to potential investors and very successful entrepreneurs. To date, TMCF has provided more than $200 million in 92

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scholarships, programmatic and capacity building support to its students and member-schools. • TMCF member-schools enroll approximately 80% of all students attending the nation’s HBCUs. • 93% of all first-time, full-time undergraduate degree/certificateseeking students who attend TMCF member-schools rely on financial aid in their pursuit of a degree.

• Over 2 million young people have graduated from TMCF member-schools. • The 2013 graduation rate was 97% for TMCF scholarship

ABOUT JUSTICE MARSHALL Thurgood Marshall (July 2, 1908 – January 24, 1993) was an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, serving from October 1967 until October 1991. Marshall was the Court’s 96th justice and its first African American justice. Before becoming a judge, Marshall was a lawyer who was best known for his high success rate in arguing before the Supreme Court and for the victory in Brown v. Board of Education, a decision that desegregated public schools. He served on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit after being appointed by President

recipients.

John F. Kennedy and then served as the Solicitor General after being

All classifications of students are invited to apply for a TMCF

appointed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965. President Johnson

scholarship. TMCF provides merit-based scholarships to students seeking financial assistance to complete their education. TMCF scholarship recipients are awarded annually to students meeting the TMCF

nominated him to the United States Supreme Court in 1967. To learn more about the Thurgood Marshall College Fund call 202-507-4851 or visit www. thurgoodmarshallfund.net.

eligibility criteria. Awards are made each semester and are based on a verification process designed to ensure that academic expectations are being met and that there is an unmet financial need. TMCF SCHOLARSHIPS: • Are merit based and applicants must have a financial need to qualify. • Are restricted for payment of tuition, on campus room and board, books and fees. • Are paid directly to the college or university on behalf of the award recipient to be credited to his or her school account. • The average award is $3,100.00 per student per semester. • Most scholarships are one-year, non-renewable unless otherwise indicated. TMCF SCHOLARSHIP CRITERIA: • Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale • Must apply for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid • Attend one of the 47 TMCF Member Schools • Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident with a valid permanent resident card or passport stamped I-551 • Demonstrate leadership qualities and service experience • Be recommended by a Faculty or Staff member of your current school

Justice Thurgood Marshall HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Active-Duty Military Education

Benefits

The military understands the value of education. The need for soldiers who can speak multiple languages, analyze technical data, and work with sophisticated equipment requires servicemembers who have earned a higher education. To help military personnel get the training they need to advance in and outside of the military, each service branch offers an array of military education benefits. TUITION ASSISTANCE: PAY FOR SCHOOL WHILE SERVING ON ACTIVE DUTY One of the most valuable benefits for active-duty soldiers is Tuition Assistance. This program is courtesy of the Department of Defense, but is administered by the individual branches of the armed forces. Tuition Assistance (TA) can be used to pay up to 100 percent of a servicemember’s tuition while taking eligible courses during off-duty hours. Tuition Assistance benefits are capped at $250 per semester credit hour, with a $4,500 yearly cap. For those who qualify for the GI Bill, the Tuition Assistance Top-Up program can help pay for costs beyond TA maximums. While traditional Tuition Assistance doesn’t impact GI Bill benefits, using the Top-Up slightly reduces one’s overall GI Bill benefits. GI BILL OPTIONS FOR ACTIVE DUTY MEMBERS Like Tuition Assistance, the GI Bill is another military-wide education benefit. The GI Bill is typically used after separation from the military, and has two main forms: the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Eligibility requirements for each are different, and choosing which one to use depends on the servicemember’s education goals. Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): One must sign up for this version of the GI Bill at the time of enlistment. To participate, $100 monthly 94

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payroll contributions are deducted from the servicemember’s paychecks for one year. Three continuous years on active duty must be served in order to be eligible for up to 36 months of MGIB benefits. The MGIB pays a fixed monthly sum directly to the servicemember for tuition and fees. Post-9/11 GI Bill: The new GI Bill offers tuition and fees (paid directly to the school), a housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. Eligibility varies depending on length of service, but military personnel who serve at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001 may be eligible. No servicemember contribution is required for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. The Army College Fund is an additional incentive that can increase the value of the GI Bill by $40,000 in exchange for a six-year enlistment into a critical skill. While the Army College Fund is not technically part of the GI Bill, it is an enlistment incentive option that must be used in conjunction with one of the GI Bills. BENEFITS TO PAY DOWN STUDENT LOANS The Student Loan Repayment Program is an enlistment incentive option for servicemembers who may already have student loans when entering the armed services. When an individual enlists for

There are many branch-specific benefits for dependents of soldiers, and schools may offer additional scholarships for military family members.

three years, he or she can opt to have up to $65,000 of existing eligible student loans repaid during the term of service. MILITARY SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DEPENDENTS Serving on active duty not only makes the servicemember eligible for a range of military education benefits, it can also make his or her family eligible. There are many branch-specific benefits for dependents of soldiers, and schools may offer additional

The Education Services Office can be a good resource for servicemembers who would like a listing of all the dependent tuition assistance programs available. Additionally, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea for servicemembers to not overlook the various service organizations as most have scholarship programs. Finally, many military friendly schools award their own scholarships or discounts. This information should be requested while servicemembers are doing school or program research, or at least during the application process.

scholarships for military family members. Photo: Dijon Rolle, USAG Wuerttemberg Public Affairs Office

Army: The State-Side Education Assistance Program (SSEAP) is an annual scholarship paying spouses and retired spouses/ widows(ers) living in the U.S. to attend school full-time Navy: The Naval Special Warfare Foundation awards scholarships to dependents/spouses of active duty SEALS on a need-based criteria Marines: The Travers Scholarship Program provides up to $2,000 scholarships to need-based active duty Marines spouses or retired Marine spouses/children Air Force: The General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Program awards $2,000 scholarships to need-based dependent spouses/children of active duty, retired, or deceased Air Force members.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Tindal, HHC V Corps, and Pvt. Ashley Sample, 30th MED, receive help from Louis Dean, education services specialist, at the Patton Barracks education center. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

Photo: Lance Cpl. Stanley Cao. USMC

Sgt. Zonell Westfield, a recruiter from Recruiting Sub Station Murfreesboro, speaks to a college student at a career exploration event at the 40th annual National Society of Black Engineers Convention in Nashville, Tenn., March 27, 2014. The National Society of Black Engineers, founded in 1971, increased the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically and positively impact the community. This is the fourth year the Marine Corps has partnered with NSBE. The United States Marine Corps also recognizes this event as a valuable opportunity to foster positive relationships with members, share the Marine story, demonstrate enthusiasm for the Corps and reinforce the idea of the armed services as a viable career option within the African American Community. There are currently 21,000 African American men and women serving in the United States Marine Corps, making up approximately 10% of the force. 96

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Transcripts

he Joint Services Transcript (JST) provides documented evidence to colleges and universities of the professional military education, training, and occupation experiences of service members and veterans. Under contract with the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), the American Council on Education (ACE) conducts and facilitates the rigorous academic review of military courses and occupations. JST is an official transcript tool that validates and documents those courses and occupations for service members and veterans. Stakeholders can create JST accounts and receive transcripts at https://jst.doded.mil. Service members and veterans can access unofficial copies of their transcripts at any time via the web. Official transcripts can be requested via the website and must come directly from the JST Operations Center. Each JST is “owned” by the service member’s or veteran’s specific service. The Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard participate in the JST; therefore, you will see each service’s seal with the ACE seal at the top. Questions that are service specific can be directed to the individual service support areas found at https://jst.doded.mil. Questions concerning technical support can be directed to jst@doded.mil. The Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard now have a synchronized transcript presenting: • • • • • • •

Personal service member data Military course completions with descriptions Military experience College-level test scores Other learning experiences A summary page, with Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) Course Category Codes An academic institution courses page (Army excluded). Supporting Service Members and Veterans by:

• • • • •

Eliminating the need for DD Form 295 (Application for the Evaluation of Learning Experiences During Military Service) Streamlining procedures for corrections and updates Providing online access to request official copies Making unofficial copies available at any time Offering timely updates or corrections with service-specific support

• • • • • •

Supporting Colleges and Universities by: Eliminating the need for DD Form 295 Providing free transcripts online, with a delivery turnaround of 24 hours Providing technical assistance for online accounts Multiple accounts available per institution Secure PDF format Creating feedback opportunities for transcript improvements; and Reporting errors via email.

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SOME HONORS AREN’T WORN

ON YOUR CHEST

And some universities aren’t the same as others. Transfer credits you earned through military training. Receive the Ashford Military Grant to save money. Use technology to keep you in class when deployed. Earn your degree online and on your schedule.

CALL 800.510.6276 OR VISIT MILITARY.ASHFORD.EDU

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8620 Spectrum Center Blvd. San Diego CA 92123

College Credit for Active Duty

Experience

Throughout a military career, service members spend months and years in classrooms and training exercises learning new ways to excel in their career fields. Wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it make perfect sense for colleges to accept and grant credit for skills learned while on active duty?

ccredited online colleges and universities are leading the way in supporting the military through education. As a part of that support, online degree programs are accepting and granting credit for service-related education, using convenient programs for evaluations. Many military skill sets translate seamlessly into college credit, and the specialized training necessary for most military career fields can be counted. The DANTES program, run by the Department of Defense, offers several options for active duty service members, including the use of the American Council on Education (ACE) Manual to evaluate military training and assign college class equivalents that can translate into credits for the service member. These credits from training can contribute to completion of an accelerated online college degree program. The DANTES program can be difficult to navigate, but each Base Education Office offers convenient testing times and locations, as well as access to the ACE manual for training evaluations. Online university degree programs with military tracks also employ counselors specifically trained to work through the DANTES system and guide each student in the best possible direction for their degree and career goals. Military members on active duty have easy access to college credits for military training. Depending on their service branch,

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Taking a nationally recognized test, such as CLEP or DSST, proves your subject mastery and allows you to be awarded additional credit toward your degree.

training records may automatically assign the college credit equivalent to the service memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training records. Computerized systems make accessing credits you have already earned a breeze. The system for accessing your military training college credits differs from service branch to service branch, but the best place to start is at the Base Education Office. There you can access the AARTS system (Army), SMART (Navy and Marines), or Community

No discussion of getting college credit for military training would be complete without mentioning the “test-out” option. During your military career, you will pick up invaluable skills outside a specialized training program. Many of those skills will be comparable to those taught in a college classroom, but without a training certificate, colleges can’t adequately judge skill mastery. This is when the test-out option becomes invaluable. Taking a nationally recognized test, such as CLEP or DSST, proves your subject mastery and gives your online university a reason to grant you more credits toward your degree without having to spend hours doing class work for a skill you already possess. Online colleges and universities led the way in creating degree programs for military and military family members. As a part of developing flexible and portable programs for service members, online degree programs accept test-out credits toward both required and elective classes. Best of all, you may qualify to have your tests partially or even completely paid for through dedicated funds at the Base Education Office. That is a benefit you don’t want to overlook because you can literally get started on your college degree at no cost. Consulting with a counselor or admissions officer at an accredited online university program is the best way to identify areas of military training that may qualify for credit. A trained counselor can tell you if you have college credit already granted through military programs and help you identify skills that translate to one of the many approved tests offered.

Photo: Sgt. Teddy Wade, USA

College of the Air Force/CCAF (Air Force). For those unable to use the computerized systems to access college transcripts, staff is available to obtain and submit hard copy forms. DSST exams are meant to represent a final exam in each offered course, with three credits possible for each test. Scores can be directly forwarded to the online university of choice. One of the biggest mistakes students make while pursuing a degree at an online university is not fully examining their military training records to locate areas that can translate into college credits. With so many pages of transcripts – often stretching back years through training programs that may no longer be offered – the prospect of mining those printouts for possible transfers to an online university can be daunting. Counselors for online degree programs will often recommend that incoming students search their training records for college credit possibilities, especially since training done prior to computerized credit assignments could have slipped through the cracks. Three or four hours reviewing your training records one weekend may save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in college tuition, fees and book costs as well as months of studying. Make an appointment to discuss your military records with the online college degree program of your choice. Online universities with programs designed for military students have evaluators who are experts in locating areas of training that can translate into credits. Something that may seem innocuous and simple to you may actually qualify to fulfill a graduation requirement Finally, re-evaluate your training records as you complete your college classes. Your military training doesn’t stop because you are enrolled in an online degree program! You may be able to gain even more credits from military training as you work through your academic classes online. Having your complete training records evaluated by your online college of choice or an organization they recommend might be just the thing that gets you on the fast track to a college degree.

Photo: Tech. Sgt. Prentice L. Colter, USAF

USN Electronics Tech 2nd Class Jasmine Driver coordinates a communications test between The Netherlands and Armenia. Her skills will earn her additional college credit.

USAF 1st Lt. Graham Auten, a civil engineer meets with Afghan construction workers. His work in the field can be translated into college credit. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

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SERVICEMEMBERS COLLEGES (SOC)

Oppor tunity

Serving on active duty is a challenge, but there are many opportunities available that make it possible to get your education and serve your country.

rmy Navy, Air Force, Marines – there is military support for your education, by all means. And if you’re active duty military or a military veteran, the choices of what to study and where to learn from are limitless. Serving on active duty is a challenge, but if you have anyplace on your base that you can access a computer, then the potential for you to attend school becomes available. Taking classes while serving in a battle zone is not for the faint of heart, it is difficult, and finding time to study is even more challenging, but with Internet delivery it IS possible. One unique option for military personnel and their families: Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC), that provide educational opportunities designed with the military family in mind. Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges is co-sponsored by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and managed for the DoD by the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). Your course work can be done on campus, at military installations and armories, and at a distance by computer or correspondence. Associates, Bachelors, and Graduate degree programs are available. Special curriculum areas include SOCAD (Army), SOCNAV (Navy), SOCMAR (Marines), and SOCGuard (Army National Guard). In addition, SOC operates ConAP (Concurrent Admissions Program) to increase college enrollment of Army enlistees (Army and Army Reserves). ConAP allows you to enlist in the Army at the same time as you apply for college. DANTES also operates its own

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Distance Learning Program. Once you find a program you want to study, the Armed Forces Tuition Assistance (TA) Program will support you by allowing active military to enroll in courses at accredited colleges, universities, junior colleges, high schools, and vocational-technical schools. TA will pay up to 100% of the cost of the course and up to 100% of the cost of obtaining a high school degree, with a limit of $250 per credit hour and an aggregate annual limit of $4,500. Even boot camp can give you certain credit toward a college education, there is a standardized program run by the Department of Defense for credit for every different type of training and active duty service. It depends what type of job and military rating that you serve in, not all jobs and training qualify for college level credit, but many types do, it all depends. Service in the Military can also offer different credit for time in service, for training. There are a lot of schools that have scrambled to offer part of their catalog on the Internet, and the amount of schools that are available with online Internet Delivery is increasing all the time. And don’t overlook US Service Academies. Each branch of the US military operates its own Service Academy as a four-year institution of higher education. Attending a US Service Academy, you receive a full scholarship with a small monthly stipend. Upon graduation, you’re commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps or as an ensign in the Navy or Coast Guard. For more information go to www.soc.aascu.org

In the Army National Guard, Pfc. Timothy Davis is protecting and defending his country. Back home, he's helping young people chart their futures and needy families keep food on the table. He volunteers with community youth mentorship programs and organized a food drive through the University of Iowa Veterans Association to collect more than 1,300 pounds of food for the local crisis center.

Diversity at Iowa Building Community Davis is among more than 600 veterans and active-duty military at Iowa. We salute their ongoing service.

• The nation’s 10th best college for

veterans (U.S. News & World Report)

• Resident undergraduate tuition for vets and dependents

• Top-notch health care, disability, and career services

• A Servicemembers Opportunity

College and Yellow Ribbon School

• A G.I. Jobs Military Friendly School

diversity.uiowa.edu/veterans

Stands Up

DOE for Military Students The Department of Education (DOE) continues to strengthen its oversight of the programs on which our nation’s service members and veterans rely.

hrough Executive Order 13607, the Principles of Excellence for Educational Institutions Serving Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Other Family Members, the DOE has worked to protect our nation’s military families by ensuring that federal military and veterans educational benefits programs are providing service members, veterans, spouses, and other family members with the information, support, and protections they deserve. To that end, DOE has established a centralized complaint system; performs new, risk-based program reviews informed by students complaints to focus enforcement efforts at the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Defense, Education and Justice, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Federal Trade Commission. AS well, it has implemented key tools and resources like the online GI Bill® Comparison Tool, which has made it easier for over 450,000 veterans, service members and their dependents to select education and training programs that provide a good value and meet their needs. Speaking of value, in the fall of 2014, the DOE put into place new rules governing for-profit colleges and their ability to receive federal funding. To protect students at career colleges from becoming burdened by student loan debt they cannot repay, the DOE has approved a new set of regulations that will go into effect on July 1, 2015 to ensure that for-profit institutions improve their outcomes for students – or risk losing access to federal student aid. These regulations will hold career-training programs accountable for putting their students on the path to success. To qualify for federal student aid, the law requires that most for-profit programs and certificate programs at private non-profit 104

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and public institutions prepare students for “gainful employment in a recognized occupation.” Under the new regulations, a program would be considered to lead to gainful employment if the estimated annual loan payment of a typical graduate does not exceed 20 percent of his or her discretionary income or 8 percent of his or her total earnings. Programs that exceed these levels would be at risk of losing their ability to participate in taxpayer-funded federal student aid programs. The situation for students at for-profit institutions is particularly troubling. On average, attending a two-year for-profit institution costs a student four times as much as attending a community college. More than 80 percent of students at for-profits borrow, while less than half of students at public institutions do. Ultimately, students at for-profit colleges represent only about 11 percent of the total higher education population but 44 percent of all federal student loan defaults. The DOE has begun helping more students manage their student debt through flexible repayment options like the Pay As You Earn plan, which caps student loan payments at 10 percent of a borrower’s discretionary income. In addition, the Administration continues targeted outreach to help borrowers who may be struggling to repay their loans, ensuring that they have the information they need to select the best repayment option for them and avoid future default. While continuing your education is an important step to take, make sure you have all the facts when choosing a program and the school. It’s vital to be informed, so ask questions, and do your own research. Knowledge is power, so empower yourself in a way that enables you to make wise choices for your future. For more information on utilizing your GI Bill benefits, go to www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

GI Bill Scholarships Available for Veterans! For more information visit www.richmond.ac.uk

Und e rg ra d uate Ma jo r s Accounting and Finance

arn our

American Studies

LONDON

Art, Design, and Media Art History and Visual Culture Business Administration : Finance Business Management : Entrepreneurship Business Management : Fashion Marketing

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Business Management : International Business Business Management : Marketing Communications Contemporary Literature with Creative Writing Development Studies Economics Film Studies Financial Economics History International and Development Economics International Journalism and Media International Relations International Sports Management

A Truly International Experience GI Bill Schol arship – Worth up to $18,000 per academic year towards the cost of undergraduate tuition. Students who are eligible for education or training benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs can apply. Please consult our current Prospectus for further details.

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Small Cl ass Size – Average class size is 15–20 students

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Dual Accreditation – Richmond degrees are accredited in the U.S. and validated in the UK

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Choice of Majors – The Richmond curriculum is modeled after the American Liberal Arts system for a well-rounded education. Richmond offers 23 undergraduate majors and 6 postgraduate degrees

MBA MA Advertising and Public Relations

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Internships – From British Parliament to CNBC to the UN – there’s something for everyone

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Post-9/11 GI Bill: ELIGIBLE TRAINING

Programs

f you have at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after Sept. 10, 2001, and are still on active duty, or if you are an honorably discharged Veteran or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days, you may be eligible

for this VA-administered program. The following assistance is approved under the Post-9/11 GI Bill: CORRESPONDENCE TRAINING Correspondence training differs from distance learning in that you receive lessons in the mail. You have a certain amount of time to complete and return the lessons for a grade. For Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients, VA reimburses the lesser of the net actual costs for in-state tuition and fees assessed by the school for the program being pursued or the maximum amount allowed by law. For all other GI Bill recipients, VA will reimburse 55 percent of the approved costs. * This assistance is not available for children training under the Dependents Educational Assistance program.

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING Are you interested in starting your own business? Would you like to learn how to get started? Or are you a current business owner who wants to learn how to boost your small business operation? As a Service member or Veteran you have an opportunity to use your education benefits to learn how to start or enhance a small business. VA only pays for programs offered by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Individual courses must be specifically approved for VA purposes to use your benefits. * This benefit is not available under the Dependents Educational Assistance program. FLIGHT TRAINING VA offers flight training benefits to those who want to advance their pilot qualifications. You must have a private pilots license and valid medical certification before you start training. Payments are issued after the training is completed and the school submits your enrollment information to VA.

Flight training is available for the following and other types of qualifications: • Rotary wing • B747-400 • Dual engine • Flight engineer Participation requirements are the same for all GI Bill programs, but the payment amount varies depending on the GI Bill program and flight school. INDEPENDENT AND DISTANCE LEARNING The GI Bill is available for independent, distance, or Internet training. This type of training is usually offered by institutions of higher learning and similar rules and rates apply. (Note: If you are utilizing your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits while taking ONLY distance-learning courses you will be paid a housing allowance based on 50 percent of the national average payable in the United States.) INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE DEGREES Most VA education and training benefits may be used at institutions of higher learning, including four-year universities, community colleges, and entities offering advanced degrees. Payments are based on the number of classes you attend. For example, a college considers: • • • •

12 hours or more full time 9–11 hours three-quarter time 6–8 hours half time Less than six hours as reimbursable at a rate not to exceed the tuition and fees charged for the course or courses

For graduate-level training, the training time is determined by the college. For example, if a two-hour class is considered full time in a graduate program at your school, VA will pay you the full-time rate. • Degree-granting institutions of higher learning participating in the Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program agree to make additional funds available for your education program without an additional charge to your GI Bill entitlement. Get more information in the Yellow Ribbon Program pamphlet or go online to the Yellow Ribbon Program page. LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION REIMBURSEMENT Open new doors to employment by getting licensed or certified as a mechanic, medical technician, attorney, or other professional. Often required for work in certain fields, these tests may be eligible for GI Bill reimbursement. • Tests that may be reimbursable by VA include licensing and/ or certification for a job as a mechanic, medical technician, therapist, computer network engineer, website developer, and other professional. There is no limit to the number of tests you may take, or number of times you may take the same test. And, VA will pay for tests even if you fail them. • VA pays only the test costs, or up to $2,000 for each test. Fees connected with obtaining a license or certification are not reimbursable. Payment is issued after you submit proof of payment to VA. VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL TRAINING, NON-COLLEGE DEGREE PROGRAMS The GI Bill is available for training at non-college-degree Institutions. This includes the training in areas such as HVAC repair, truck driving, emergency medical training, and barber / beautician school. HONORING AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS

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The payment amount varies depending on the GI Bill program you are utilizing and the type of non-college-degree school you are attending. Payments are issued monthly after the training is completed. The monthly entitlement is based on the number of clock hours you attend training during each week of the month. The Post-9/11 GI Bill Under this program, for programs offered at non-degree granting schools, the benefit pays the actual net costs for in-state tuition and fees or national Maximum, whichever is less. Monthly housing allowance (MHA) is paid based on the location of the school. Up to $83 per month is available for books and supplies. All Other GI Bill Programs VA pays a monthly rate that varies depending on which GI Bill program you are entitled to and how long your qualifying military service was. NATIONAL TESTING REIMBURSEMENT The following tests are approved for reimbursement: • • • • • • • • • 108

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) LSAT (Law School Admission Test) GRE (Graduate Record Exam) GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) AP (Advanced Placement Exam) CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) ACT (American College Testing Program) DAT (Dental Admissions Test) MAT (Miller Analogies Test) F E B R UA R Y 2 01 5

• • • • • • •

MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) OAT (Optometry Admissions Testing) PCAT (Pharmacy College Admissions Test) TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) ECE (Excelsior College Examinations) PLA (Prior Learning Assessment) testing through Learningcounts.org

Although VA will reimburse a Veteran for required test fees, some fees connected to the testing process are not covered. The following test fees may be covered: • • • • • • •

Registration fees Fees for specialized tests Administrative fees The following fees are not covered by VA: Fees to take pre-tests (such as Kaplan tests) Fees to receive scores quickly Other costs or fees for optional items which are not required to take an approved test

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING Advance your employment prospects by learning a trade or skill through participation in VA on-the-job training or apprenticeships. These programs typically involve entering into a training contract for a specific period of time with an employer or union. At the end of the training period, a job certification is issued or journeyman status achieved. Most Veterans receive a salary from the employer or union during training. As your skills increase, so may your salary. GI Bill payments are issued monthly after VA receives certification of hours worked from your employer or union.

Your Next Initiative – A College Degree Choose a college that values your military experience. • Credit awarded for military training • Academic mentoring from degree planning to completion • Online worldwide and onsite at 35 New York state locations Speak with our military advisor and receive a preliminary review of your transfer credits.

Call 888-372-3495 www.esc.edu/military

The following on-the-job and apprenticeship opportunities may be available to Veterans: • Union plumber • Hotel management • Firefighter This training is not available to active duty Service members or spouses using a transferred benefit. Employer Information. Employers can participate in this program. Contact your State Approving Agency, which governs programs at the state level and helps determine which programs Veterans should enroll in to maximize their VA educational benefits. • Although the participation requirements are the same for all GI Bill programs, the payment amount varies depending on the program. TUITION ASSISTANCE TOP-UP Using Top-Up benefits may be an option if you plan to use tuition assistance (TA) to complete a degree program while on active duty, and don’t plan to continue your education after service. Top-up can also be helpful for just taking a few courses with TA while on active duty. Then you can save most of your GI Bill benefits for after service to complete your education program. You need to consider carefully your own situations and check with your education officer or counselor before applying for Top-up. For example, if you plan to take expensive courses using Top-up, you need to consider whether you’ll take additional training after you’re discharged from active duty. If so, you need to understand the effect of using the Top-up. You can then calculate whether your remaining benefits will cover the additional training you might need. * The Top-up program is not available at this time to persons who are eligible for the MGIB Selected Reserve program. Top-up is limited to 36 months of payments. For example, if you are paid Top-up for a three-month course, you use three of the 36 months. • The amount of this benefit can be equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of Tuition Assistance that is paid by the military for the course. To be eligible for the Top-up benefit, you must be approved for federal TA by a military department and be eligible for Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty or Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. TUTORIAL ASSISTANCE Tutorial assistance is available to help you pay for tutoring necessary to advance your education. 110

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This is a supplement to your regular education benefit. Tutorial assistance is available if you are receiving VA educational assistance at the half-time or greater rate and have a deficiency in a subject, making tutoring necessary. The monthly rate of tutorial assistance may not exceed the cost of tutoring or $100. The maximum amount payable is $1,200. There is no entitlement charge for the first $600 under the Montgomery GI Bill. There is no entitlement charge under the Port9/11 GI Bill or DEA. All of the following criteria must be met for a student to be eligible for tutorial assistance: • The student must be in a postsecondary program half time or more. For the Post-9/11 GI Bill, rate of pursuit must be at least 50 percent. • The student must have a deficiency in a course that is part of his or her approved program. • The student must be enrolled in the course during the quarter, semester, or term in which the tutoring is received for the course. Tutoring may not occur between quarters or semesters. • Note that this benefit is not available under REAP. VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL TRAINING Many benefits are available to advance the education and skills of Veterans and Service members. Spouses and family members may also be eligible for education and training assistance in fact, 25 percent of those benefitting from VA’s education programs are nonVeterans. Some might find they’re eligible for more than one benefit or that one program is more suited to certain education and training goals than another. • The Post-9/11 GI Bill offers higher education and training benefits to Veterans, Servicemembers, and their families who served after Sept. 10, 2001. • The Montgomery GI Bill assists active duty and Reservists with the pursuit of higher education degrees, certificates, and other education and training. • These other VA education and training programs offer various education and training benefits or increased benefits to certain Reservists and Veterans and their survivors and dependents: – Reserve Educational Assistance Program – Veterans Educational Assistance Program – Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program – Educational Assistance Pilot Program – National Call to Service Program For more information go to www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/post911_gibill.asp

KEEP TRAINING As a soldier, you know your

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Dependents Education Program

Assistance

he Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition. Benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training. If you are a spouse, you may take a correspondence course. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Those eligible for DEA benefits may also be eligible for: Special Restorative Training VA may prescribe special restorative training where needed to overcome or lessen the effects of a physical or mental disability for the purpose of enabling an eligible person to pursue a program of education, special vocational program, or other appropriate goal. Medical care and treatment or psychiatric treatments are not included. Special Vocational Training VA may also approve these benefits for an eligible person who is not in need of special restorative training, but who requires such a program because of a mental or physical disability. You may receive up to 45 months of education benefits. Effective Oct. 1, 2013, some DEA beneficiaries may be eligible for up to 81 months of GI Bill benefits if they use the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance program in conjunction with an entitlement from other VA education programs. You must be the son, daughter, or spouse of: • A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a service-connected disability. The disability must arise out of active service in the armed forces. • A Veteran who died from any cause while such permanent and total service-connected disability was in existence. • A Servicemember missing in action or captured in line of duty by a hostile force. 112

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• A Servicemember forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power. • A Servicemember who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability. This change is effective Dec. 23, 2006.

If you are a son or daughter and wish to receive benefits for attending school or job training, you must be between the ages of 18 and 26. To pursue training after military service, your discharge must not be under dishonorable conditions. VA can extend your period of eligibility by the number of months and days equal to the time spent on active duty. If you are a spouse, benefits end 10 years from the date VA finds you eligible or from the date of death of the Veteran. If VA rated the Veteran permanently and totally disabled with an effective date of three years from discharge, a spouse will remain eligible for 20 years from the effective date of the rating. For surviving spouses of Service members who died on active duty, benefits end 20 years from the date of death. To apply, take these steps depending on your situation: • Make sure that your selected program is approved for VA training. VA can inform you and the school or company about the requirements. • To apply, obtain and complete VA Form 22-5490, Dependents Application for VA Education Benefits. Send it to the VA regional office with jurisdiction over the state where you will advance your education and training. If you are a son or daughter, under legal age, a parent or guardian must sign the application. If you have started your educational program, take your application to your school or employer. Ask them to complete VA Form 22-1999, Enrollment Certification, and send both forms to VA. (Note: Schools must contact their VA representative to receive this form.) For more information go to www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/DEA.asp

Aboard Yard Patrol Craft 698 (YP 698), Midshipman 2nd Class Samuel Robinson, from Jacksonville, Florida, plots the course of Yard Patrol Craft 698 (YP 698) on a navigational chart as the vessel makes its way to Coast Guard Station Philadelphia from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. Even though the Patrol Craft is equipped with a modern electronic navigational system, Midshipmen use these underway periods for practicing their manual navigation skills.

Photo: Photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mate 1st Class Dana Howe, USN

Plotting the Course

ENDURING ALLEGIANCE.

For more than 230 years, African Americans have served in our nation’s military with honor and distinction. It’s our privilege to join in saluting African-American servicemembers, past and present, for their commitment to our nation’s strength and security.