November 2013 Edition

november 2013

teacher, leader from the classroom to the battlefield

Plus: CRTC changes command | Mail for Heroes | And so much more

CONTENTS ISSUE: November 2013

cover story

w w w. g e o r g i a g u a r d . c o m

12

Features 05| Holiday mail for heroes

The Red Cross is helping to make sure all our Guardsmen feel appreciated during the holidays.

11|suits for soldiers

Veteran’s Network partners with GE to help prepare Soldiers for the civilian workforce.

03| teacher, convoy commander

One Ga. Guardsman uses her experience as an educator to lead her convoy.

12| Assault on Kennesaw Mtn.

The Ga. Army National Guard hosts the second annual Assault on Kennesaw Mountain 5K.

13| Guard supports non-profits

Soldiers and Airmen of the Guard are given the chance to contribute to various charities via the Combined Federal Campaign.

News

16| mos Story

09| CRTC changes command

05

14| 165th ASOS conducts exercise

30SX1: Human resources specialist.

11

Newest leader brings 30 years of military experience to position.

Members of the 165th ASOS participated in a close air support joint training exercise at Avon Park bombing range in Avon Park, Fla.

09

columns

07

06| Chaplain’s Corner Veteran’s Day.

07| Historic Battle Review

Thermopylae of the South: Cleburne’s defense of Ringgold Gap.

10| Book Review

“Managing Teams,” part of the Harvard Business Review’s Pocket Mentor series.

15| NCO Notepad

Reflecting on ourselves during the holiday season.

17| Around the Guard 1 | The Georgia Guardsman

Georgia National Guard Commander-in-Chief Gov. Nathan Deal Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Jim Butterworth State Public Affairs Director Lt. Col. Thomas Lesnieski State Public Affairs Officer Capt. William Carraway Operations NCO SFC Gerard Brown Editorial Staff Managing Editor Capt. William Carraway Creative Director Steven Welch Contributors Desiree Bamba Elizabeth Blackstock SFC Gerard Brown Master Sgt. Bucky Burnsed Maj. Will Cox Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Greene Capt. Greta Jackson SFC Mary Rose Mittlesteadt Chaplain Lt. Col. Mike Summers Contributing DOD Organizations 124th Mobile Public Affairs D e t a ch m e nt , 1 1 6 t h A i r Control Wing Public Affairs O f f i c e , A r my Nat i o n a l Guard Unit Public Affairs Representatives, Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs Representatives, Georgia State Defense Force Public Affairs.

Georgia National Guard Channels

Facebook

Twitter

Flickr

Youtube

Facebook.com/GeorgiaGuard Flickr.com/GaNatlGuard

Twitter.com/GeorgiaGuard Youtube.com/ GeorgiaNationalGuard

Disclaimer The Georgia Guardsman is published monthly under the provisions of AR 360-81 and AF 6-1 by the Georgia Department of Defense Public Affairs Office. The views and opinions expressed in the Georgia Guardsman are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army, Air Force or the Adjutant General of Georgia. The Georgia Guardsman is distributed free-of-charge to members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard, State Defense Force and other interested persons upon request.

November 2013 | 2

TEACHER Convoy Commander

By Sgt. 1st Class Mary Rose Mittlesteadt Public Affairs Office | 101st Airborne Division

A

rmy National Guardsmen bring unique skill sets from their civilian lives to the frontline of operations in Afghanistan; for 1st Lt. Monicia Porter her ability to lead students in the classroom gives her an advantage as she leads her troops throughout northern Afghanistan.

Porter is a high school teacher from Thomasville, Ga., who serves in the Georgia National Guard as a platoon leader and convoy commander for the 1230th Transportation Company in support of the 524th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, Task Force Lifeliner, 1st Sustainment Command (Theater), at Camp Marmal, Afghanistan.

Her company is the tip of the spear when it comes to the sustainment of troops at remote operating bases via convoys in Northern Afghanistan. With efficiency as one of Task Force Lifeliner’s top priorities, the 1230th returns from almost every sustainment mission with a load of equipment to be retrograded.

Although being a convoy commander for an Army truck company may not be exactly the same as teaching back home in Georgia at Central Gwinnett High School, Porter does relate some similarities in her two professions.

“To teach in high school everyday is kind of like combat,” she said with a giggle. “There’s a big difference, but there’s some commonalities … the discipline that you need in the classroom is the same type of discipline you need on a convoy.”

What she has learned in the Army has become useful as she leads her classroom and positively shapes her students.

“The discipline and being organized helps. I deal with a high risk demographic, so I have to be organized, I have to be disciplined, I have to be fair and the Army values really play a huge part in how I teach in my classroom.”

3 | The Georgia Guardsman

Porter talked about the elements that come together in both the classroom and within her Army team, who are known proudly as the Pitbulls.

“You bring different types of personalities, experience and background to a convoy just like you do to a classroom, there’s just a lot that transfers over,” she said. “As a teacher you deal with so many different personalities. You have to communicate. I am not the only Soldier here who has those skills, but being a teacher helps.

I can apply those skills over to the other side.”

As the Pitbulls prep their vehicles in the darkness of the night to push commodities to a remote area, she talked about what it feels like to ensure her troops were ready for the mission.

“Personally, it is like getting your family ready to go on a big trip that’s dangerous at the same time. We have to go outside the wire on some dangerous roads, but it’s all to keep the mission going and to keep RC (Regional Command) North running and my team does it well… I trust my life to these guys.”

Porter explained what she feels a successful mission is for her team. She stated how her team lines up their trucks and rolls down the road with no incidents. They drop off their sustainment load to the customer, those troops at austere locations, then roll back without any incidents. “That’s a successful mission,” she smiled.

As these Pitbulls travel the roads throughout Northern Afghanistan they ensure they stay alert, but they are also reminded of one of the perks of being a soldier.

Spc. Michael Donaldson, a gunner for Porter’s platoon and a native of Thomasville, Ga., talked about his job as a gunner and why he does what he does. “There are dangers out there… it’s my duty to stay alert and keep the convoy safe. I have embraced the role of being a gunner… It’s pretty cool, you can see everything this place has to offer. It can be a beautiful sight to see a foreign land.”

Photos by Staff Sgt. Peter Sinclair | Public Affairs Office | 1 0 1 st Airborne Division

I have to be fair and the Army values really play a huge part in how I teach in my classroom.

The Pitbulls are stationed in a valley with high snow capped mountains surrounding them. The terrain of Afghanistan isn’t what most of the soldiers are accustomed to in their home state of Georgia. “The mountains are huge,” Porter added.

Even though the team of Pitbulls remain busy and have embraced the mountainous terrain, family keeps them going and is a part of who they are and why they travel the roads in a nation across the world.

“I have the best family ever. When I say troops, it’s troops, but they’re my family,” Porter said with emotion. “They are a great team and they are the best team and I couldn’t ask for more… we argue, we fuss, we fight and we still love each other.”

Patriotism drives both Por te r and he r te am .

Porter said she has always supported

the military in one way or the other and that she has always had extreme support from her husband, two boys, parents and the children she teaches in Georgia.

“I have always been a patriot. Being a soldier… I love it.”

Porter’s gunner Donaldson reiterated her sentiment with his personal feelings toward why he is in Afghanistan. “I do it to protect my family, to protect my friends and to serve the nation I love dearly and I hold close to my heart.”

November 2013 | 4 November 2013 | 4

holiday mail for heroes

A

By Desiree Bamba | Public Afairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense s Georgia families come together for the holidays, some families will be missing their loved ones who are away serving far from home in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Organizations across the country find ways to send love and support to the troops during this time. One of the main programs is the Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes.

The American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes program empowers people to “Give Something That Means Something” by sending a card of thanks and support to the members of the Armed Forces, veterans or their families.

“This marks the seventh year of the Red Cross national Holiday Mail for Heroes program and our goal is to raise its profile and broaden its reach,” said Terri Badour Duckett, CEO of Georgia’s Red Cross. “We are inviting all Georgians to give something that truly means something by sharing their appreciation for our military families with words of holiday cheer sent through the Red Cross.”

The kick-off and celebration of the Red Cross 7thannual Holiday Mail for Heroes Campaign was November 12th with special speakers including Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal and Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard, Commanding General of the Georgia Army National Guard.

“The cards don’t have to be expensive. They just need to come from your heart,” Mrs. Deal said. “Let them

5 | The Georgia Guardsman

know that you really care and you really appreciate their sacrifices.”

The first lady even brought her own cards to sign and send to active military members, veterans and their families.

Brigadier Gen. Jarrard mentioned that there are about 1,000 Georgia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen that are currently in Afghanistan supporting the war on terror.

“These cards make a difference,” said Jarrard. “They are very thankful to have those cards and to feel a little bit of home while they’re in such a faraway place fighting the war.”

The cards can be homemade or store-bought but cannot include glitter, letters, photos or gift cards, which will not make it through the screen and sorting process.

The cards should be addressed to “Dear Service Member, Veteran, or Military Family” so that the cards can be shared with anyone in the military community.

For those who would like to get involved with the Holiday Mail For Heroes campaign, send your cards by Dec. 6th to:

Holiday Mail For Heroes P.O. BOX 5456 Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456 Photo by Desiree Bamba | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

the Chaplain’s Corner

V

By: Chaplain Lt. Col. Michael Summers | State Chaplain | Georgia National Guard eterans Day this ye ar is mu ch different for me. A year has passed since my return from Afghanistan.

Tr y i n g t o explain my leadership experience there to potential employers has been difficult at times. I have maintained the running regimen I followed in Afghanistan. Running has made the transition easier. Writing a book has also helped. Singing and Bible study at church has kept me spiritually balanced.

My wife’s support has been phenomenal.

Veterans return from their war experiences transformed. Some are scarred; all have changed.

The Sunday before Veterans Day, I conversed briefly with an older member of the church I attend. Near the end of the service, the song director had asked military veterans to stand and the congregation then concluded the service with the song “God Bless America.” The man told me that he had been in the U.S. Army during World War II and had been a Prisoner of War for about two months in 1945 after his capture

by German forces. The horrible experience still scars him. He is not unique. While many military personnel return from combat zones reasonably healthy in mind and body, others bear scars they will never lose. We notice some quickly. They lost an arm or a leg; their faces still are scarred by burns from an explosion. Others have emotional scars. They witnessed charred remains of other Soldiers or were tortured as prisoners of war. Some may have performed acts for which they’re still ashamed. Still others returned and have had trouble finding employment. All these veterans hurt and may wonder if anyone really cares.

A disturbing number of people who laid their lives on the line for us live homeless on our streets. They need different kinds of help; they’re homeless for diverse reasons. Some need mental health or substance abuse counseling. Others need vocational training, clothing, food, and a place to stay. They all need for someone

to demonstrate compassion and to take initiative to help them. Some veterans just need an opportunity to contribute. They have real skills that the community needs.

They may have lost the connections they had prior to deployment as well as the confidence to gain appropriate employment to use those skills. They may have had some of the traumatic experiences described above.

We a l l n e e d pr aye rs , l ove, an d occasionally help in reintegrating. So on Veterans Day, express your gratitude. It

helps the veteran to hear someone say, “Thank you.” Families of veterans adjust with them. They need to hear “Thank you.”

But also search for a concrete way you can help a veteran and his family succeed in the next chapter of their story. If you’re a veteran who needs help, don’t keep your frustration inside you. Ask for help and keep asking until you get it. If a friend is struggling, offer to help him or her find the way back. On Veterans Day, honor veterans and their families in ways that make a positive difference in their lives.

November 2013 | 6

Thermopylae of the South: Cleburne’s defense of Ringgold Gap

By Capt. William Carraway Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense

November 25, 1863: Chattanooga A great cheer pierced the cold November air adding to the cacophony of missiles and artillery bursts. The cry rose from the battered ranks of Maj. Gen. Patrick Ronayne Cleburne’s Confederate Division, which had just repelled the main effort of Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s assault. Broken Union ranks could still be seen dissolving into the smoke, retreating from the Confederate lines on Missionary Ridge east of Chattanooga. The veterans of Cleburne’s Division had blunted the attack of Maj. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, Grant’s favorite and most trusted subordinate.

From Cleburne’s vantage point, Confederate victory at Chattanooga seemed certain.

The Rise of Cleburne At 35, Cleburne, a native of County Cork Ireland, was one of the most promising Confederate generals. He had served in the British Army and risen to the rank of corporal before immigrating to the United States. Settling in Arkansas, Cleburne established himself as an attorney and apothecary. When his adopted state seceded, Cleburne enlisted as a private in the 1st (later 15th) Arkansas. He quickly rose to the colonelcy of the regiment before receiving appointment as a brigadier general in March 1862 and major general the following December.

Cleburne’s Division was readily identified on the field by the unique battle flags they carried which depicted a white circle on a field of blue. By November 1863, Cleburne’s Soldiers had built a solid reputation for reliable action.

Victory Turns To Disaster As Cleburne viewed the retreating Union lines with his field glasses, a rider, silhouetted against the mid-afternoon sun approached at full gallop. Cleburne received the rider’s dispatch and read with disbelief. While his division had held against Grant’s decisive effort on the Confederate right, the Confederate left and center had been crushed by the attacks of Maj. Gen. Joe Hooker at Lookout Mountain and Maj. Gen. George Thomas at Missionary Ridge. Confederate units, broken and disorganized were streaming south. Cleburne had been ordered to deploy his division as well as two adjacent divisions into a final protective line to preserve the right wing of the Army, perhaps the entire Confederate force. a defeat that would rival Chickamauga in totality was at hand.

Retrograde Actions As virtually the only division-sized command left intact, Cleburne’s men held their positions until nearly midnight when

7 | The Georgia Guardsman

they quietly slipped away in an orderly withdrawal. Meanwhile, the scene to the south had degenerated to utter chaos. Canalized on narrow muddy roads, fleeing supply wagons and artillery caissons were moving dangerously slow. Cleburne found himself caught between a determined foe to the north and an increasingly desperate situation to the south.

Dawn of November 26 found Confederate commander Maj. Gen. Braxton Bragg grimly surveying the situation. He had lost Chattanooga and now was dangerously close to losing his entire army. Ordering Cleburne to conduct rear-guard actions Bragg put his hands in his face and wept.

At midnight of November 27, as his division prepared to cross the icy Chickamauga Creek, a dispatch rider presented Cleburne with instructions to take position in a gap adjacent to the town of Ringgold and to defend long enough for Bragg’s Army to complete its movement to Dalton, Ga. Aware of the significance of the order,

Cleburne insisted on written confirmation and, as a precaution, sent a courier of his own. The courier met with Bragg and received the instruction for Cleburne to “hold his position at all hazards, and keep back the enemy, until the artillery and transportation of the army is secure, the salvation of which depends on him.”

Thermopylae of the South As was his habit, Cleburne conducted a leader’s reconnaissance by the feeble light of a crescent moon. East of the town of Ringgold was a ridgeline that rose approximately 400 feet. A gap, wide enough for the Western Atlantic Railroad, a winding creek and a narrow road lay just east of the town of 2,000. Cleburne determined to defend the gap by placing the bulk of his forces on White Oak Hill to the north and Taylor’s Ridge to the south where timber would conceal their positions. He placed two cannons and two regiments in the gap itself. These lines were four men deep. Four more regiments were positioned in reserve to prevent a breakthrough.

To have the greatest control over the battlefield, Cleburne placed himself to the rear of the cannons, a position from which he could hurriedly call for reserves if needed.

Though these positions were strong Cleburne’s men faced the very real risk of being outflanked to the north and cut off from the rear. To prevent this, Cleburne positioned a regiment at the crest of the hill to serve as look out along with a quick reaction force in case his flank was turned. To further his defensive advantage, Cleburne ordered the cannons covered with brush and his men to lie on the ground in concealed positions.

Into the Valley of Death As Cleburne’s 4,000 men shivered against the frozen ground, the Union vanguard under Maj. Gen. Joe Hooker approached with a force of 16,000. By 8:00 a.m., Missouri regiments at the head of Hooker’s column drew within 150 feet of the brigade of Brig.

Gen. Hiram Granbury who loosed a devastating fire on them. The Missourians were staggered and more than 100 members of the 29th Missouri were captured along with the regiment’s colors.

The terrain compressed the Union formations together. The lead regiments drew within 50 yards of Cleburne’s concealed cannons before he gave the order to fire. The effect of doublecanister fired at such close range shredded the Union Soldiers of the

13th Illinois. The survivors of the 13th immediately took plunging fire from the Confederates posted on Taylor’s Ridge.

Over the next five hours the Union reformed and hit the Confederate lines repeatedly. Frontal assaults against the Confederate cannons were beaten back with horrific loss of life.

Ohio regiments managed briefly to turn the Confederate right flank but were so exhausted after the climb that Cleburne’s reserves were able to reach them and push them back without significant resistance.

The converging fields-of-fire allowed Cleburne to concentrate effects to counter further Union attempts to strike his lines. He had fire superiority but knew he could not maintain it for long. Hooker’s artillery was fast approaching. If they arrived before Bragg’s supply and artillery wagons were safe, Cleburne’s division might be surrounded and destroyed.

By 2:00 p.m., assured that the Army of Tennessee had escaped, Cleburne began a deceptive withdrawal. Cannons were silently retrograded from their concealed positions and his infantry melted away over the hills. For more than five hours, Cleburne’s men had held off an attacking force four times its size and with minimal casualties; 221 to Hooker’s 500. More importantly, he had bought Bragg’s retreating Army five hours of precious life.

Aftermath As a result of the Battle of Ringgold Gap, Grant abandoned his pursuit of the retreating Confederates and moved his army to Chattanooga for the winter. North and South alike would spend the winter rebuilding combat power in anticipation of the 1864 campaign.

For his actions, at Ringgold Gap, Cleburne received the thanks of the Confederate Congress and was heralded as “The Stonewall of the West” for his brilliance in battle.

Disgraced and lacking the confidence of his superiors and subordinates, Bragg resigned November 30th. He would be replaced by the popular Maj. Gen. Joe Johnston, hero of first Manassas.

The Chattanooga campaign was over. With Union forces staging in Chattanooga, 1864 promised to be a pivotal year in the war.

Next month: The Universe of Battle: Overview of the Georgia campaign plan for 1864 as the Civil War Series enters its third year.

november 2013 | 8

CRTC commander has seen great progress

O

By MSgt. Bucky Burnsed | CRTC | Georgia Air National Guard n Novemb er 2, 2013, t he winds of change produced the Combat Readiness Training Center’s next commander, Lt. Col. Thomas “Gasket” Grabowski, a communications world guru and air-battlefield manager with 30 years of military experience. Major Gen. Thomas Moore officiated the ceremony at the CRTC Conference Center in which Grabowski took the reins of command from Col. Todd Freesemann, who had commanded the CRTC since December 2010.

When Freesemann took command from Col. Frank Harbin, the CRTC was celebrating the opening of its newest building, a large dormitory to house hundreds of visiting airmen and an all-new airfield parking ramp designed to facilitate all military aircraft currently in the Air Force inventory to include fifth generation fighters. The Air National Guard’s premier war-fighting training facility was poised to advance well into the new millennium.

The winds of change of Col. Harbin’s command was readily harnessed by Col. Freesemann as he continued the unit’s pursuit of establishing the Theater Deployable Communications schoolhouse as a one-of-a-kind educational facility. The TDC, as it was first known, is dedicated to training the cyber warrior, America’s newest battlefield specialty Airman. This Airman and like-trained compatriots establish a complete communications apparatus in any given austere environment and provide the battlefield commander with operational awareness and critical communications links

9 | The Georgia Guardsman

in hours, not days. The TDC became known as the Cyber Training Center, completely developed on an ANG base.

Simultaneously, the Townsend Bombing Range had been awaiting two major developments; the acquisition of two joint-threat emitters and proposed range expansion which would increase the range size by a factor of seven. In 2011, Col. Freesemann, working with the National Guard Bureau, U.S. Marine Corps and private contractors, saw the first of two joint-threat emitters arrive on the range. Now fully powered, the threat emitters provide a near-real threat scenario for aerial fighters training above the range, simulating all types of land and aerial based threats fighter pilots encounter on or above the battlefield. While the electron battlefield generated by this high-tech equipment is exceptionally complex, the experience for the fighter pilot can only be matched in a wartime environment.

Colonel Freesemann shepherded the CRTC through the most exceptionally challenging exercises and deployments ever seen on a National Guard facility. In 2010, Ardent Centry claimed the base as its center of operations testing the latest in national threat defense operations. In 2012, Global Guardian, the largest international military exercise of its kind found its home at the Savannah base and is slated to return in 2014.

After thirty years of service, initiated at West Point, and continued through the US Army, the 165th Airlift Wing’s Civil Engineering Squadron and Mission Support Group, Col Freeseman retired from the CRTC with a host of accolades and significant accomplishments which will continue to pay dividends well into the future.

Photos by Capt. Greta Jackson | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

Professional Development Bookshelf: Reviews of books

that teach us about our craft

By Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense

arvard Business Review’s book, Managing Teams goes directly to the root of the challenges involved in managing teams and discusses eight obstacles leaders face while managing their teams.

The book is part of the Pocket Mentor series, which focus on direct issues and provides direct solutions to those issues.

The book provides “Expert Solutions to Everyday Challenges” - challenges that organizations face constantly and the solutions that have been known to work.

First touching base on the basics of leading your team, the book goes into evaluating your team’s processes and understanding what common obstacles may or may not exit. The book discuses several methods for evaluating your teams processes such as; benchmarking, outside observer and project debriefing sessions. After an overview on spottting obstacles or potential obstacles, the book goes into detail about common obstacles and methods to take in resolving them. The book focuses on the following obstacles that come with the management of teams; lack of team identity, low participation, poor communication, ineffective team leadership, destructive conflict, groupthink, absence of creativity and ineffective decision making.

In the chapter on poor communication, obstacle 3, the book suggests “During meetings, focus on problem solving rather than information sharing.” At times this can be easier said than done, but this focus is key when using the meeting time wisely as well as keeping all

members of the meeting engaged and focused on team goals.

For such a short read, Managing Teams provides valuable insight on team and personnel management, but also presents sections on assessing not only your team, but yourself. Once you have completed the reading on the different obstacles, there is a portion in the back of the book that provides you with the “Tools for Managing Teams.”

In this section of the book, you will find worksheets such as; team identity assessment, groupthink assessment, and resolving disagreement that help you collect the information you need to face the challenge that your team is having.

The final portion of the book titled “Test Yourself” most closely resembles the military’s “check on learning” and tests your understanding of the information that you read and whether you applying it correctly.

This book is a good read for any leader no matter their current level in the organization. Leading teams is a necessary skill that all managers must have. Whether you are managing a small team working on a project or you are a platoon leader working several projects, this book provides some pretty good guidance on how to keep the team moving.

Army and Air National Guard members of all ranks can not only use the knowledge obtained from the book in their military careers, but also in their civilian jobs.

It is a quick read, and the best part, it fits nicely in your cargo pocket for when you happen to have unexpected downtime and would like to conduct some “hip pocket” training for yourself.

H

November 2013 | 10

preparing soldiers for civilian workforce

M

By Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown| Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense any days of a Soldiers life are spent being prepared and ready for the next mission, the next assignment or next deployment. Soldiers from the 179th Military Police Company and the Georgia Training Support Team, who recently returned from deployments in Afghanistan and the country of Georgia participated in an event called Suits for Soldiers conducted by General Electric and the Veterans Network, to prepare them for the return to the civilian workforce.

“This is the beginning of a long lasting relationship with the Veterans Network,” said Col. Mark London, director of joint family services. “What these Soldiers picked up today was priceless.”

The morning started off with Veterans Workshops, in which Soldiers were given guidance in translating their Army experiences and skills in civilian terms on resumes that would be read by hiring managers in Corporate America.

Participants also received training in interview skills, mock interviews and how to dress for success. Senior General Electric managers conducted the workshops and shared with the Soldiers the kind of traits and experiences they themselves look for in prospective job candidates. The Dress for Success workshop was taught by managers of Brooks Brothers, who provided the troops with insight on proper dress for several different kinds of interviews.

“I think it is important for Soldiers to understand the proper way to dress,” said Barry Hundley, General Manager Brooks Brothers. “Once you feel and know you’re dressing

11 | The Georgia Guardsman

properly, you can then focus on selling yourself in the interview.”

The General Electric Veterans Network Atlanta Unit is partnered with the Georgia National Guard, Dignity U Wear and Brooks Brothers. Dignity U Wear’s Veterans initiative is made up of both Suits for Soldiers and the Homeless Veterans Program. Understanding economic times along with current unemployment rates that hinder veterans from starting new lives, Dignity U Wear supports nonprofit agencies working with veterans by supplying veterans with Suits.

“You see this need in Soldiers when they come back from deployment and they don’t have jobs or are underemployed, so it was great for them to have this training opportunity,” said, Lt. Col Jonathan Adams, battalion commander of the 170th MP Battalion.

The day culminated with a General Electric Veterans Day program, honoring the Georgia National Guardsmen who participated in the early morning workshops. While most graduations end with the graduates receiving certificates of training and handshakes from the instructors, this graduation had a special twist at the end. All participants received a complete wardrobe from Brooks Brothers preparing them for the next stage of their lives. Both male and female Soldiers left the ceremony with suits, shoes, shirts and socks and the knowledge obtained from hiring senior corporate managers.

“It was my first deployment and coming back and being recognized like this really showed me how much we accomplished and how much we are truly appreciated,” said, Sgt. Ashley Smith, 179th MP. “I learned a lot that I feel will make me better prepared for my next interview.”

Photo by Sgt.1 st Class Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

second annual assault on kennesaw mountain

By Capt. Will Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

I

n June, 1864, thousands of Union Soldiers charged Confederate rifle pits and trench works on Kennesaw Mountain near Marietta, Ga. It was the largest frontal assault Union Maj. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman launched during the Atlanta Campaign of the American Civil War. In Novemb er 2013, nearly 150-years later, the crisp autumn air again echoed with the sound of onrushing Soldiers as the Georgia Army National Guard hosted the second annual Assault on Kennesaw Mountain 5K. Conceived by the 122nd Regiment, Regional Training Institute, Georgia National Guard, the AOKM 5K honors members of the Georgia National Guard who have fallen since September 11, 2001, and the more than 4,000 Soldiers lost on the field of battle in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain. “ T he pu r p o s e of t he r u n to commemorate our fallen soldiers and show those who come after us our dedication to those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Command Sgt.

Major Michael Hurndon. Hurndon deployed to Afghanistan in 2009 as the Command Sgt. Major of the 48th Brigade and will return to Afghanistan at the end of the year when the brigade deploys for the 3rd time in eight years.

The 2012 AOKM 5K dre w hundreds of participants. Originally scheduled for October, due to the government shutdown, the 2013 race was rescheduled to November 23. Despite the schedule change, Hurndon said the running community maintained strong support.

“Most of the registered runners committed to run despite the rescheduling,” said Hurndon. Many of those who were unable to attend the new date chose to donate their entry fees to benefit the Family Support Foundation.”

On a cool gray morning, Soldiers, community members and runners g at h e re d at G r a c e C o m mu n i t y Church at the foot of Kennesaw Mountain for a solemn ceremony of remembrance. The names of 38 Georgia National Guardsmen lost in Iraq and Afghanistan were read by members of the 122nd Regiment. A

Photo by Capt. Will Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

bugle rendering of taps completed the dignified ceremony and then a rousing rendition of the National Anthem by 1st Sgt. Kenneth Blackstone energized the crowd.

The sound of a simulated bugle call signaled the race start and hundreds of runners began the circuitous route that would lead them past the cannons and monuments of the Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield. As they began the 800 foot climb, the runners passed the Georgia monument and strode over ground that had been defended by Georgian Soldiers 150 years ago. Continuing on, the runners passed images of Georgia’s fallen Guardsmen placed in tribute to those lost in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Rising in elevation, the runners entered a thick fog which enshrouded the mountain and lent a dreamlike almost spiritual atmosphere to the run.

The combination of memorial images, enthusiasm of the participants and the solemnity created by the fog produced an unforgettable running experience.

Alec Blenis, 19, was the overall race winner with a time of 19:45. Kate Wagner, 33, was the fastest female competitor with a run time of 24:53.

The race drew participants from ages six to 67. Benis and Wagner received trophies and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in all age categories received special commemorative medals.

In a d d it i on t o t h e r u n n e r’s awards, Command Sgt. Maj. Hurndon presented The National Park Service with the Shared Hatchet award for their unswerving dedication to the run.

“We could not have done this without our past relationship and par tnership wit h t he Kennesaw Nat iona l B att lef ield Park,” s aid Hurndon. “We have a shared interest in preserving the memory of those lost and this event provides a nexus to honor sacrifices past and present.”

November 2013 | 12

guardsmen show support

for nonprofit organizations

N

By Desiree Bamba| Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense ovember’s dedication to non-profit awareness presents the perfect chance for the Georgia National Guard to show its dedication to the support of charitable organizations. Every year, the Soldiers and Airmen of the Guard are given the chance to contribute to various charities via the Combined Federal Campaign, also known as CFC. The CFC’s mission is “to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve quality of life for all.”

During the CFC Rally on November 12th, Maj. Gen. Jim Butterworth remarked: “The Combined Federal Campaign gives the National Guard an excellent opportunity to give back to the communities that support us.”

The CFC lists more than 4,400 charities to which members of the Guard and its civilian employees can contribute. Organizations that directly support the Guard, such as the Georgia Family Support Foundation, benefit from donations made through the campaign.

The rally, hosted in the Drill Hall of Clay National Guard Center in Marietta, included speakers from several organizations that benefit from the campaign. Dr. Yvette Taylor, chairperson of the 2013 Combined Federal Campaign, spoke at the rally.

“I know that we have gone through some challenging times and have all been very close to those who were furloughed,” Dr. Taylor mentioned. “Some people were close to needing the help of the charitable organizations that we have funded in the past. Every

13 | The Georgia Guardsman

dollar makes a difference when it comes to those who need it most.”

This year’s campaign slogan is, “One reason to give.” All potential donors are encouraged to remember that phrase; everyone has at least one reason to give. Several of the CFC rally speakers shared their reasons, all of which included personal connections to the CFC’s charities.

One of the speaker’s was Max Secord, a board member with Angel Flight Southeast. Angel Flight Southeast, Inc. is a non-profit volunteer pilot organization involved in “public benefit flying.” They provide a variety of services to the community, but mostly arrange free air transportation by private aircraft to distant medical facilities when commercial service is not available, impractical or simply not affordable.

Maj. Gen. Butterworth encouraged his fellow guardsmen to contribute by concluding, “The Combined Federal Campaign also enables us to be Always Ready, Always There, and Always on Target!”

Donations can be made through payroll deduction or by credit card, debit card, eCheck, cash or check. For more information, please visit www.cfctoday.org or www.cfcatlanta.org.

Photo by Steven Welch | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

165th ASOS conducts quarterly exercise

T

By Capt. Greta Jackson | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Air National Guard hroughout the government shutdown, the G eorgia A r my Na t i o n a l G u a r d remained ready to respond to domestic emergencies and maintained unit readiness, despite losing about 130 reservations for military schools and having to delay or cancel $800,000 worth of training. Despite these cancellations, the Ga. Guard managed to continue training by seeking joint training opportunities.

Twenty members of the 165th Air Support Operations Squadron (ASOS) participated in a close air support joint training exercise at Avon Park bombing range in Avon Park, Fla., from October 27 to November 9, 2013.

The 165th ASOS’s Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) combined with members of the 93rd Fighter Wing from Homestead Air Force Base, Fla., and the 1-230 Air Calvary Squadron (ACS) of the Tennessee National Guard, performed joint live fire training. The 165th is required to conduct CAS training every quarter.

This exercise provided ASOS members the ability to obtain training and remain proficient in their skill set.

ASOS members often embed and

deploy with Army ground units to advise, assist and control CAS. Close air support requires detail integration and coordination, usually within close proximity to friendly forces. Joint live fire events like these provide the participants with a realistic environment, keeping the units missionready.

In an era of ongoing fiscal constraints, it is imperative that the services find ways to combine efforts and learn how to accomplish multiple mission sets. Joint training environments and resources provide the forum necessar y for the service branches to develop and hone their coordination efforts, making this kind of training invaluable.

L i e ute n ant C ol. R ob e r t Nore n , director of operations for the 165th ASOS is responsible for ensuring unit members are trained.

“This type of training environment consisting of multiple services and units is priceless,” said Noren. “Very few venues throughout the United States are capable of hosting such a diverse group of combat units and successfully integrating them into the joint fight.”

To provide a realistic environment, ASOS provided terminal attack control

Photo by Desiree Bamba | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

of fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, the 93rd FW provided CAS aircraft and 1-230 ACS provided both lift and fires platforms. ASOS members trained on the employment of precision bombs, non-precision bombs, live 20mm strafe, 2.75-inch rockets, 50-caliber strafe and Hellfire missiles.

JTACs also use specialized equipment to assist them in their mission. Multiple VHF/ UHF and FM radios, receivers that provide video downlink from fighter aircraft, laser range finders, laser designators, GPS and infrared pointers are all essential equipment needed to ensure a successful mission. As technology continues to evolve, equipment is constantly improved to make it lighter and faster.

165th ASOS members deploy in support of combat operations and embed with Army ground units. Their responsibilities include advising joint force commanders and assisting with planning, requesting and coordinating CAS and tactical airlift missions.

165th ASOS members embedding with Army units can be deployed for up to nine months. The JTAC career field is very high impact and high tempo and requires the individual to be in optimal physical and mental condition.

November 2013 | 14

THE

By Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Greene Senior Enlisted Advisor Georgia Air National Guard

NCO Notepad Words of wisdom from one to another

15 | The Georgia Guardsman

Holiday season is a time for ref lection, thankfulness and celebration. We reflect on all the things – good and bad – that have brought us to where we are today. We are thankful that we are able to choose our own path according to our own values. We celebrate that we have our friends and loved ones to share it.

In our prayers,we remember the Airmen and Soldiers who are currently deployed, serving to protect the rights and freedoms we so richly enjoy.

We think about the many families who will halfheartedly celebrate the holidays while a loved one is serving overseas. We think about all the kids who don’t understand why mommy or daddy won’t be here on Christmas morning to open the gifts under the tree.

We are thankful for the love and strength of our families that “carry on” at home in our absence. We are grateful for the personal sacrifices made so willingly by so many. We are thankful for the safe return of hundreds of unit members that have served with distinction and are now reunited with spouse and children.

We reflect on the many challenges that have been overcome during the past year. As 2013 draws to a close, we remember the hardwon accomplishments and are grateful for the exceptional Soldiers and Airmen that make up the Georgia Department of Defense.

The Holiday season is upon us, let us reflect on the challenges overcome, be thankful for successes earned and most importantly…let us celebrate family and friendships. In the coming year, as we look to the future, let us resolve to do better than we have done and to become better than we are.

Let us not forget to help each other along the way by reaching out our hand and offering support and encouragement when needed.

Have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year.

from navy to air guard

By Elizabeth Blackstock| Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

S

taff Sgt. Nicholas Coney, whose Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is personnel (30SX1), currently serves as a human resources specialist in the Air National Guard.

But Coney’s career didn’t begin in the Air Force.

Staff Sgt. Coney joined the Navy in 2004 because of the wide range of educational and travel opportunities that the military offered. During his years in the Navy, Coney specialized in personnel, juggling responsibilities such as handling in processing, maintaining records, processing orders, and assisting with wills.

Shortly after he left the Navy, Coney received a brochure about the Air National Guard. He decided to return to the military, but in a different branch. He was intrigued by the extensive training that the Air Force provided its members and by the change of scenery that was included in the transition from the Navy to the Air Guard. That transition was not a complete change, however.

When Coney joined the Air Guard in 2012, he decided to keep his specialty in personnel because of his prior experience.

“I love my job and see no downsides to a career in the personnel field,” Coney said. “The field provides endless benefits, which include more chances for advancing in one’s career, traveling around the country and overseas and connecting with Photo by Desiree Bamba | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

future networking contacts.”

Although he had spent several years in personnel, Coney’s naval training and qualifications had to be augmented by five weeks of Air Force technical training. According to Coney, it was all worth the effort as the training placed emphasis on the Guard’s computer systems While Coney sees many positive aspects to his specific specialty in personnel, he also sees many positive aspects of the entire Georgia National Guard. When asked what keeps him serving our nation, Coney responded: “It’s the spirit of being in uniform. This uniform means a lot to me; I can’t go too long without it.” During the few months between his Navy and Air Force enlistments, Coney felt like he was away from home and his family.

“The military is one big family,” said Coney. It is a family that he plans to be a part of for a very long time and his hope is to carry on with a career in the Air Guard.

His motivation to reach that long-term goal is simple. As Coney looks back on his years in the military and how far his career has advanced he sees no reason to not continue down the Air Force personnel path. He also is determined to set a positive example for his daughter by demonstrating what is possible, given a little devotion and passion.

November 2013 | 16

Around the Georgia Guard GA. GUARDSMEN LEAD FALCONS ONTO FIELD Soldiers from the Georgia Army National Guard prepare to lead the Falcons onto the field in front of thousands of fans at the Georgia Dome during the Veterans Day weekend game.

117TH ACS PREPARES TO DEPLOY Tech. Sgt. Michael McGrath, of the Georgia National Guard’s 117th Air Control Squadron, prepares to deploy to southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

17 | The Georgia Guardsman

848TH ENGINEER RETURNS HOME

COMPANY

The 848th Engineer Company, Ga. ARNG, return to Fort Bliss from their mission in Afghanistan.

GA ARMY GUARD COMMANDER GREETS RETURNING SOLDIERS Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard, Assistant Adjutant General, Georgia National Guard, greets Soldiers from the 201st Regional Support Group on Nov. 18, 2013 at Joint Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst as they return from a 10-month deployment to Helmand province, Afghanistan.

november 2013 | 18

Atlanta Falcons Celebrate Veterans

Georgia Guardsmen hold American flag over field

Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense 1000 Halsey Ave. Bldg. 447 Marietta, Ga. 30060