Winter 2016/2017| A1
CONTENTS ISSUE: Winter 2016/2017
Ga.Ng.Mil
Features 08| Officer Readiness Program
The ORP program is designed to help prospective officers determine areas for growth and to prepare them for the challenges of officer training.
11| 560th BCD: Small Unit, Big Mission
The 560th Battlefield Coordination Detachment is less than nine-months old, but already its Soldiers are traveling the globe and performing a vital mission.
13| Air Guard Supports Inauguration
Members of the Georgia Air National Guard showcased their culinary skills on a national scale supporting the 58th Presidential Inauguration of Donald J. Trump.
News
Cover Story 78th ATC Support AUP Training The 78th Aviation Troop Command conduct training with the 3rd Infantry Division.
05| Ga Airmen Lead National DOMOPS Exercise
Features
Guardsman and emergency first responders participated in the first Patriot South exercise in Mississippi.
110th CSSB Annual Training
Soldiers of the Tifton-based 110th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion conduct the first half of their annual training at Fort Stewart, Ga.
07| Ga National Guard First female battery commander
First Lt. Racene Basore assumed command of Battery C, 1st Bn, 118th Field Artillery Regiment.
columns 06| NCO notepad
National African American History Month.
10| The Chaplain’s Corner An acronym for HOPE.
14| Blast From the Past
WWi Series: Loaded Down with Glory.
News
First Female Artillery Battery Commander
Around The Guard Epic Moments in the Georgia National Guard
First Lt. Racene Basore assumed command Check out more epic photos of Soldiers of Battery C, 1st Bn, 118th Field Artillery and Airmen remaining always ready, alRegiment. ways there in the Georgia National Guard. 2 | The Georgia Guardsman
Georgia National Guard Commander-in-Chief Gov. Nathan Deal Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Joe Jarrard State Public Affairs Director Lt. Col. Thomas Lesnieski State Public Affairs Officer Capt. Charles Emmons Operations NCO Master Sgt. Gerard Brown Editorial Staff Managing Editor Desiree Bamba Contributors 1st Lt. Jeffrey Bezore Master Sgt. Gerard Brown Tiffany Coulibaly Capt. William Carraway Chief Master Sgt. Tonya Crayton Capt. Charlie Emmons Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirtle Sgt. Shye Wilborn Contributing DOD Organizations 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 116th Air Control Wing Public Affairs Office, Army National Guard Unit Public Affairs Representatives, Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs Representatives, Georgia State Defense Force Public Affairs.
Georgia National Guard Channels
Disclaimer The Georgia Guardsman is published quarterly 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. Winter 2016/2017| 3
78th ATC Support 3rd ID Training
Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
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viators of the Georgia Army National Guard’s 78th Aviation Troop Command provided rotary wing support to the 3rd Infantry Division’s Task Force 1-28 this month during the Lion Focus 1 field training exercise at Fort Benning. Task Force 1-28 is part of the U.S. Army’s associated unit pilot program between the 3rd Infantry Division and 48th Infantry Brigade. On February 7, 2017, four UH60 Black Hawks of the 171st General Support Aviation Battalion conducted air assault operations with infantry and scout platoons of TF 1-28. As part of the operation, Soldiers of TF 1-28 trained on loading and unloading procedures and actions to be taken once the troops reached the landing zones. After loading, the aircraft transported scouts and infantry Soldiers to landing zones from which TF 1-28 executed their evaluated missions. 4 | The Georgia Guardsman
“Training with Task Force 1-28 allowed our units to complete iterations of Department of the Army selected Mission Essential Tasks,” said Maj. Will Cox, Operations Officer, 1-171 GSAB. “The Air Assault Planning Process is the most demanding mission planning I can put my air crews through. We were glad to do it.” In addition to the air assault operations provided by the 171st GSAB, two CH-47 Chinooks of the Savannah-based 1st Battalion, 169th GSAB provided sling load and air assault support for troops and equipment of TF 1-28. The sling load air movement support demonstrated Army Aviation’s capability to provide speed and mobility by moving M1151A1 high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWVs) and M119A3 105mm Howitzers. “The aircrews integrated seamlessly into Task Force 1-28’s exercise,” said Captain Daniel Zajac, bat-
talion aviation officer for Task Force 1-28. “Together we were able to synchronize aviation support needed to conduct air-ground operations in order to support the Ground Force Commander and ensure both units’ training objectives were met.” While this is the first time Georgia Guard aviation has supported the associated unit pilot program, the 78th ATC has a long history of interoperability with the active component. For sixteen years, units of the 78th ATC have deployed to the Central Command area of operations, providing vital aviation assets to the war fight. At home, the 78th ATC has responded to domestic emergencies, most recently during response operations following Hurricanes Sandy and Matthew.
GA AIRMEN LEAD NATIONAL DOMOPS EXERCISE Story By: 1st Lt. Jeffrey Bezore | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Air National Guard
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uardsman and emergenc y f irst resp onders participated in the first Patriot South exercise in Mississippi, from Jan. 30 to Feb. 4, 2017. The exercise included 24 units from 10 states. The director for this exercise was a member of the Georgia National
Guard. Lieutenant Colonel Roger Brooks, from the 165th Air Support Operations Squadron, the exercise director, was responsible for the more than 500 participants from the U.S. Air Force, Army National Guard and Air National Guard units. “Patriot is a great opportunity for Airmen and Soldiers to practice their war time skills in the domestic operations environment,” said Brooks. “Our goals are to provide realistic training venues and scenarios for military and civilian domestic operations (DOMOPS) organizations, facilitate coordination of civilian entities and military organizations for DOMOPS and allow participants an opportunity to self-assess essential and supporting mission tasks and capabilities.” The exercise offers National Guard units the chance to work and support federal, state and local emergency management agencies, and first responders. The one-week exercise was focused at the Combat Readiness Training Center, Camp Shelby, and surrounding areas of Gulfport, Miss. The exercise scenario featured search and rescue, operational communication and situational assessment. “The biggest take away is that Airmen and Soldiers begin to establish relationships and exchange business cards in the training environment rather than at an actual incident,” said Brooks. A recent example is the 116th Security Forces Squadron. The 116th SFS exercised and developed their DOMOPS plan in July of 2016
Photo by: Senior Master Sgt. Marvin Moore | 172nd Airlift Wing | Air National Guard
and was then put on notice to execute a few months later. Once people see the plan put in action in the exercise environment, they have legitimate data to utilize for a real world response.” This was the first time the Patriot exercise has been hosted outside of Wisconsin, and was a significant event for the program. “We expanded the program to FEMA Region IV and chose the State of Mississippi to conduct our exercise. This was not only a test for our leadership but allowed the Patriot team to validate the exercise model in a different location. The team will continue its planning efforts through the year and we will conduct Patriot North this summer at Volk Field, Wis.,” said Brooks. Securing the homeland is one of the National Guard’s main focuses. It relies on its members to be the face of the military across the nation with its men and women serving in nearly 2,600 communities. Guardsmen live within and serve in nearly every ZIP code. In a domestic emergency response, less time and distance equals more lives saved. “Patriot owes its success to folks like Lt. Col. D.J. Spisso and Maj. Rosemarie Guerrero,” said Brooks. They believed in the program and gave me and our team the opportunity. Working for the NGB/ ANG has provided the Patriot team a tremendous opportunity to network and see problems solved from different perspectives. There are 54 states and territories doing the job in different ways. A typical Patriot exercise has representation from 40 states, 80 units, up to 3 services and a dozen civilian organizations. This opportunity has given Guardsmen the ability to develop relationships outside of their home state,” said Brooks. Lt. Col. Roger Brooks has been a member of the Georgia Air National Guard for 20 years.
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A Chief Master Sgt. Tonya Crayton Georgia Air National Guard
NCO Notepad Words of wisdom from one to another
s I reflect on our celebration of National African American History Month, I’m overjoyed at the opportunities that have been afforded to me during my 24-year career in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard. When I originally enlisted in 1992, I never dreamed I would make it to the top one percent of the entire Air Force as a Chief Master Sgt. I usually took each rank as I felt I was ready for it. An African American female, Chief Master Sgt. Kipp Stewart, helped me realize anything was possible and I accepted the challenge. Ironically, after she retired, I was selected to serve in the same position she held as the 116th Force Support Squadron superintendent. Early in my life, I was influenced by the military service of my grandfather who helped raise me since I was an infant. He served in the Royal Army in Jamaica. Today, I’m his only descendent who joined the military. When I joined the military, I did not see it necessarily as something what would provide me opportunities as an African American, but rather as a person. During my nearly 25 years of serving, I have been amazed by the diversity of people I have had the opportunity to work with. People from all walks of life, from across the globe, of every ethnicity, working together to achieve common goals. At the Chief level, I see for the first time how much of an anomaly I truly am. As a single mother from 20012016, I rose through the ranks from Airman 1st Class to Chief Master Sgt., while earning five degrees; including an MBA and sending my daughter off to college. I am proud of my journey and those who went before me leading the way for me to get to where I am today. I am humbled and honored to be a role model for other African American females to emulate and I do not take my position lightly. For others like myself who may be considering a career in the military, I have lived by these principles that I would recommend: treat others as you would have them treat you, never sell yourself short, stand by what you believe in, do not sacrifice who you are for who you think others may want you to be, and be a role model for others to emulate, not just African American females, but females as a whole. Opportunities in the Air Force and National Guard are endless, you are only limited by your dreams.
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Opportunities in the Air Force and National Guard are endless, you are only limited by your dreams.
6 | The Georgia Guardsman
Georgia National Guard First Female Artillery Battery Commander
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Savannah-based Georgia National Guard artillery battery welcomed a new leader and made history December 4, 2016 during a change of command ceremony. First Lieutenant Racene Basore assumed command of Battery C (Charlie), 1st Battalion, 118th Field Artillery Regiment, becoming the first female officer to hold such a distinction in the Georgia National Guard. “Being selected [to command] Charlie Battery is an honor and a privilege especially within this organization,” said Basore. Basore’s new responsibility marks another step forward in the recent Department of Defense initiative to integrate women into combat roles. The move was announced by Defense Secretary Ash Carter in 2015 when he directed all military occupations be opened to female service members. “She has the confidence of her Soldiers, peers, and leaders,” said Maj. Justin Leslie, the operations officer for 1-118th FA. “It’s all about dedication to duty and being a team player; both are traits that are clearly present in Basore’s work.” Leslie works with Basore full time where she serves full time as the battalion’s training officer. Prior to joining the Georgia Guard, Basore served in the Army Reserve and deployed to Southwest Asia with a military police company. Transferring to the Georgia Guard, she served as a fire direction officer and operations officer in the 1-118th FA before assuming battery command. “I understand the historical significance of it - being a female,” said Basore. “I can’t wait to get moving and start training.” 1-118th FA is one of the battalions that recently began training
S t o r y B y : C a p t. C h a r l i e E m m o n s | P u b l i c Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard with 3rd Infantry Division as part of the Associated Units Pilot. The structural change began earlier this year when the Georgia Guard’s 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team became the first of 27 Active Component, National Guard, and Army Reserve units to “associate” with a larger organization to strengthen readiness across the Army. First Lt. Basore’s appointment as a battery commander marks yet another significant milestone for the Georgia Department of Defense in 2016. “The Georgia National Guard has led the way this year with the Associated Unit Program transition, the National Guard’s Best Warrior, and now the [Georgia National Guard’s] first female battery commander” said Brigadier General Tom Carden, Commanding General of the Georgia Army National Guard. “I’m very excited for First Lt. Basore and this next step in her career as a commander of artillery Soldiers.” The ceremony also marked the completion of Capt. Jared Smith’s time as the commander of the battery. Smith was the unit’s first commander when it was re-activated in 2015, a decade after its deactivation. The unit’s history traces back as far as 1751 as part of the Georgia Militia in the district of Savannah. The re-activation of the battery was necessary to upgrade the battalion’s capabilities and add 155 mm. M777 Howitzers to their arsenal. Basore looks forward to leading the next chapter of the unit’s storied legacy by serving as one of 3rd ID’s firing batteries. “The next couple of years we have some very big training events both with 3rd ID and within the unit,” said Basore. “I’m very excited to get to it and to utilize the resources that 3rd ID will be able to provide for us.”
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Officer Readiness Program Prepares Tomorrow’s Leaders Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
Three Miles Up, Three Miles Down
Soldiers of the Georgia Army National Gu a rd O f f i c e r R e a d i n e s s P ro g r a m conducted their annual officer professional development at Currahee Mountain and Toccoa Military Museum on December 17, 2016. The Soldiers reported to the headquarters of the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Macon, Ga. the day prior and watched the first two episodes of Band of Brothers in which the Soldiers of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment train by running “three miles up, three miles down” Currahee. Up o n a r r i v i n g i n To c c o a t h e prospective officers had the opportunity to ask questions with the curators of the Military Museum before departing for Currahee Mountain. Before commencing the road march, the Soldiers participated in
8 | The Georgia Guardsman
a wreath laying ceremony at the Col. Robert Sink Memorial Trail Marker. Following the ceremony, the officer candidates and cadre began the long hike up Currahee Mountain carrying a 35-pound ruck sack. All 21 Candidates and cadre completed the road march in less than two hours with fastest finisher completing it in 74 minutes.
What is the ORP?
Captain Daniel Sekula, officer strength manager for the State of Georgia described the ORP as a program designed to help prospective officers determine areas for growth and to prepare them for the challenges of officer training. “We prepare pre-officer candidate school candidates for success at officer
candidate school,” said Sekula. The success of the ORP and other Soldier improvement programs such as the Recruit Sustainment Program and Platoon Leaders Course are all part of the Georgia National Guard’s strategic priority of enhancing leader development. “The Georgia National Guard is a leadership factory,” notes Brigadier General Tom Carden, commanding general of the Georgia National Guard. “The ORP is all about investing in Soldiers who aspire to be leaders and helping them reach their full potential.” The Georgia Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion initiated the ORP in 2012. The battalion found that recruiters were identifying candidates for OCS, but many of those candidates did not successfully complete the program. The
Photos by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
ORP targeted the deficiencies identified in officer candidates such as land navigation, physical training and soldier skills. In four years, the ORP has nearly doubled the OCS graduation rate. “It does a world of good for our organization to be able to evaluate aspiring leaders and to allow Soldiers to evaluate themselves and identify areas for growth, observed Carden.”
What Does an ORP Drill Look Like?
Officer Readiness Program candidates arrive Friday night of drill and begin training with a student-led 60-minute physical training session. Cadre participate in the session and provide feedback to the candidates on the program structure and effectiveness. The next morning, the
candidates take a record Army physical fitness test morning PT test. “We have a standard of 80 percent completion in every PT category to ensure that even if a candidate has a bad day, they have enough reserve to pass the test,” said Sekula. “Those who are not making 80 percent enter a directed PT program and must check in with cadre for coaching and mentoring between drills. Each candidate receives independent coaching designed to improve their PT scores.” Following the physical training test, candidates receive training in topics such as land navigation, operations orders, military writing and officer professional development. In addition, candidates learn how to write an award nomination and Soldier evaluations.
How Can I Try Out?
The ORP holds try outs in February and August each year. Soldiers are urged to inquire with their chain of command about the opportunity to pursue a commission. “If someone is interested in being an officer in this organization and if you have 90 credit hours, can pass a PT test and a 110 GT score, come out,” said Sekula. “Here’s the opportunity.” For the commander of the Georgia A r my Nat i on a l Gu ard, t h e OR P i s paramount to Georgia Guard’s success. “World class organizations have world class orientation programs. The ORP is a world class orientation program for Soldiers who aspire to be leaders in our organization.”
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training
The Chaplain’s Corner
By: Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirtle | Georgia Army National Guard
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Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 10 | The Georgia Guardsman
he Army lives by acronyms. Here’s another: READY. Rooted Especially when the Adverse is Directed at You. Regardless of our rank, grade, race, gender, or worldview, we all sometimes get taken to the mat in life. Adverse circumstances befall us all. In this world, we all have trouble. It is therefore fundamental that we be rooted in something/someone stronger than we are. We must be spiritually anchored. If we’re not anchored, life’s storms (literal or spiritual) may devastate us. We must be READY. In what/whom are we grounded? Think for a moment about how insurance companies speak to this area in ads: “You’re in good hands…” or “Like a good neighbor…” What need are they targeting? It’s our need to bounce back after the storm, to endure while in the storm, and to not succumb to life’s tragedies. We all need to be READY. Insurance companies may help us recover from losses in the material realm, but how about on deeper levels? Where do we look for aid for our deepest internal wounds? When I was in ninth grade, the principal called me out of a sixth period pep rally. He told me to go to his office. I was terrified. On the walk up, I scoured my memory to see if I’d done something I shouldn’t have, something for which I was now going to be in trouble. When I got to
his office, I was met by our town sheriff! Then I really began to panic. But here’s where the story changes. The sheriff was our neighbor, and his sons were among my closest boyhood friends. Looking down at me, he said, “Jon, y’all’s house has burned down. Let’s get in my patrol car out front. I’m taking you to see your house. Your folks are already there.” When we pulled up a few minutes later, I saw why needing to be READY is crucial. Our house had burned almost to the foundation. Firetrucks were spraying water on the smoldering ruins. Our material possessions had literally gone up in smoke. For months, we stayed with family and friends as we rebuilt. What’s the upshot? If we’re not grounded and READY, hopelessness can enter. In Scripture, Jesus contrasted two types of people—the fool vs. the wise: “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it” (Mt 7:24-27 ESV). Take a moment to ask yourself the question: Am I READY? If you are, you’re close to another powerful word: HOPE.
560th BCD: Small Unit, Big Mission
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Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard he 560th Battlefield Coordination Detachment is less than nine-months old, but already its Soldiers are traveling the globe and performing a vital mission. “We work at the strategic level, either with a joint task force or combatant command,” said Col. David Casey, commander of the 560th BCD. We are the interface between land
and air.” The mission of the 560th BCD is to serve as a liaison between the land component commander and air component commander to ensure coordination and information exchange. The BCD “speaks” the language of Army and Air Force and ensures unity of effort. Part of the role of the BCD is to evaluate the capabilities or effects needed and determine what resources can be applied to achieve them. “The ground unit requests support, we make sure they get it,” said Major Steven Kobayashi, an intelligence officer with the 560th BCD. The mission of the 560th BCD is complex and its organization reflects the multifaceted nature of its role in the joint environment. In addition to headquarters, plans and operations sections, the BCD has dedicated personnel who ensure airspace clearance, air defense, and coordination of airlift assets. The 560th BCD was formed in May, 2016 in the wake of Armywide restructuring and is assigned to the Georgia Army National Guard’s 78th Troop Command. Its commander, Col. David Casey is a veteran of 30 years’ service in the Georgia Army National Guard. He noted that the creation of the 560th BCD is beneficial for Georgia Guardsmen. “This mission offers the opportunity for Soldiers to experience annual training overseas,” said Casey. “It also provides career progression for Soldiers in field artillery and other career fields.” In February, personnel from the 560th BCD participated in Exercise Austere Challenge, a joint command post exercise, involving thousands of participants in multiple European nations.
“The BCD is a small unit with a huge mission. There only seven BCDs in all the Army components. This unit provides great developmental opportunity.” -Brig. Gen. Tom Carden Photo By: Capt. William Carraway| Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
Travelling to Germany, the Guardsmen integrated with the 19th BCD, an Active Army unit, and began to work with systems and personnel of all military branches. “When we arrived, the 19th BCD oriented us to their mission and the exercise scenario,” said Kobayashi. “We were able to see how the 19th BCD does business and learn from them.” Kobayashi also noted the exercise provided the opportunity to learn best practices, procedures and techniques that could be brought back to Georgia. Shortly after returning from Germany, the 560th BCD held its first field-grade promotion ceremony for Maj. Matthew Osucha. Following the ceremony, Major Kobayashi was presented with a coin by Brig. Gen. Tom Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard. Kobayashi was recommended for the award for his leadership during Austere Challenge. Carden congratulated Kobayashi and the 560th BCD for a successful exercise. “When I look at the talent we have in this room it is indicative of the organization that we have built in the Georgia National Guard,” said Carden. With a European overseas training mission complete and a future exercise opportunity in Korea, the 560th BCD is living up to Col. Casey’s prediction of providing challenging training in an international environment. General Carden also predicts a bright future for the unit. “The BCD is a small unit with a huge mission,” said Carden. “There only seven BCDs in all the Army components. This unit provides great developmental opportunity.”
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110th CSSB Annual Training
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Story By: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
oldiers of the Tifton-based 110th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion conducted the first half of their annual training at Fort Stewart, Ga. January 7-14, 2017. The units of the 110th conducted annual weapons qualification, soldier skills training and required training. Additionally, the 165th Quartermaster Company successfully completed two airborne operations with the Puerto Rico Air National Guard. The 110th CSSB is a modular, corps-level support organization responsible for providing multifunctional logistics support to fire and maneuver units and can also provide logistics assistance to other support organizations. The 110th is composed of transportation, and maintenance companies. In addition to the training completed at Fort Stewart, the units of the 110th will get hands-on real-world experience during Vigilant Guard 2017 this March.
12 | The Georgia Guardsman
Photos by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army Naitonal Guard
Air Guard Supports Inauguration
Story by: Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons | 116th Air Control Wing | Georgia Air National Guard
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group of mostly young first-term Airmen from the Georgia Air National Guard showcased their culinary skills on a national scale supporting the 58th Presidential Inauguration of Donald J. Trump. Ten Airmen from the 116th Air Control Wing deployed from Robins Air Force Base, Georgia to Washington D.C. with their Disaster Relief Mobile Kitchen Trailer, or DRMKT, in tow. FedEx Field, home of the Washington Redskins, became their home and base of operations where they joined five other Air National Guard units collectively feeding about 4,000 joint-forces personnel daily from three mobile kitchens. “This is my first inauguration and my first time cooking with the DRMKT,” said Senior Airman Charles Borre from the 116th Services Flight. “The training was great for our state mission so if I ever have to respond to an emergency I’ll be able to jump right in and be better prepared. It was also neat to support an inauguration, something that goes back to 1789.” According to Borre, a former Marine, the joint-force aspect of this mission held a special significance. “We all have a U.S. on our uniforms so it’s good to be able to support our brothers and sisters in the other services,” said Borre. In total, more than 7,500 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, from 44 states, three territories and the District of Columbia, served with the specially created Joint Task Force – District of Columbia. As a whole, National Guard Soldiers and Airmen augmented the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Capitol Police and D.C. Metropolitan Police forces on a range of support including traffic control, crowd management, logistics and communication. “This is my second inauguration and the first one with our Disaster Relief Mobile Kitchen Trailer,” said MSgt Patrick McMahon, Photo by: Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons | 116th Air Control Wing | Georgia Air Naitonal Guard
superintendent of the 116th Services Flight. “Serving nearly 4,000 people during extended meal periods was quite a feat especially since our team was made up of mostly younger Airmen with no previous experience at an event like this.” The freestanding mobile kitchen, similar to a concession trailer you would see at many public events, is designed for fast setup and teardown and provides Airmen the capability to feed about a 1,000 people a hot meal in less than 90 minutes. Another first for the team was joining forces with other Air National Guard services units from across the nation. “We cooked with three other units who brought two DRMKTs to the event,” shared McMahon. “At the last inauguration we were at a location by ourselves. This operation provided great experience working with our counterparts as a cohesive team.” “I learned a lot of things and made a lot of new friends,” shared Airman 1st Class Kayla Akers from the 116th Services Flight. “I’ve been to D.C. a number of times but being a part of this inauguration is a huge honor.” Accompanying the team for the first time as the officer in charge was 2nd Lt. Matthew Nama. “It’s great to see our Airmen on the front lines,” said Nama. “I’ve learned what it takes to put together a large-scale operation like this especially when you have different forces combined. It’s been a great opportunity to see what kind of equipment we have and experience it in actual use for my first time.” The 116th Services Flight is the services arm of the 116th Air Control Wing JSTARS flying operation. The world’s only E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System aircraft, solely based out of Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, performs command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance over land and water for Combatant Commanders around the globe.
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Blast from the past:
world war I
S t o ry b y: C a p t. W i l l i a m C a r r away | M i l i ta ry H i s t o r i a n | 1 6 1 s t M i l i ta ry H i s t o ry D e tac h m e n t
Robert Gober Burton
Photos courtesy of Ga. Guard History Archives
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“Loaded Down With Glory” Introducing the WWI Series This is the first in a series of research articles the Georgia Guard history office will present on the Georgia Guard’s role in World War I as witnessed by the 151st Machine Gun Battalion particularly through the eyes of Robert Gober Burton. Burton was a 17-year-old student at the University of Georgia when he enlisted in the Walton Guards, Company H, 2nd Georgia Infantry Regiment in 1916. He wrote prolifically of his experiences on the Mexican Border and in the training camps of Macon as a Soldier in the 2nd Georgia and later of his combat service in France with the 151st Machine Gun Battalion. He wrote of his friends, fellow Soldiers and comrades, some of whom would not survive the war. His words, preserved for 100 years, reveal to us not only the nature of combat service in World War I, but the timeless themes of sacrifice and valor. The 151st Machine Gun Battalion was a Georgia Guard unit organized for service during World War I. The battalion was originally composed of three companies of the Georgia National Guard’s 2nd Georgia Infantry Regiment. This regiment was designated the 121st Infantry Regiment in 1917 and serves in the Georgia Guard to this day as part of the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. The members of the 151st came from more than 150 towns across Georgia. It was the only Georgia Guard unit to deploy and remain as a unit throughout the war. In nearly 18 months, as part of the Allied Expeditionary Force, the 151st participated in ten engagements, was in contact with the enemy for nearly 170 days and established headquarters in nearly 80 locations. With an original strength of 581, the battalion suffered 443 casualties including 57 killed, mortally wounded or missing in action. Prologue: Tales of Past Glory In 1915, The United States marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the American Civil War. As the Great War raged in Europe, the American Civil War was still fresh in the consciousness of southern society. Septuagenarian Confederate veterans and former slaves were present in Georgia’s hometowns serving as living reminders of that conflict. Whereas the Civil War exists to us now as some distant memory, those reaching military age at the dawn of World War I heard tales of valor at Gettysburg, Chickamauga and the battles for Atlanta from the lips of participants in those struggles. Additionally, the Spanish American War, just a generation removed, provided even more proximate echoes of glory and triumph. The Georgia Guard in 1916 The Georgia Guard of 1916 was organized into three infantry regiments, one infantry battalion a squadron of cavalry, a field artillery battalion and a coast artillery battalion. The first, second and fifth regiments of infantry were based in Savannah, Macon and Atlanta with the 3rd Infantry Battalion in Augusta. Savannah was also home to the field and coast artillery units while the 2nd Squadron of Cavalry operated out of Atlanta. In 1916, Georgia Guard units were present in 24 cities and towns across Georgia. Many of these local units such as Augusta’s Clinch Rifles, The Gate City Guards of Atlanta The Floyd Rifles of Macon and the Walton Guards of Monroe had served in the
American Civil War. Following the Civil War and through the years of reconstruction, these units had been disbanded. But beginning in 1872, Georgia’s old Militia companies began to reform. Monroe and the Walton Guards In 1874, The Walton Guards reformed in Monroe, Ga. This unit remained on drilling status until 1899 when it disbanded for three years. Reforming in September 1902, the Walton Guards became Company D of the 3rd Georgia Infantry. The unit disbanded again in 1905 and reformed again in 1907 as Company D. On December 2, 1907, the Walton Guards became Company H of the 2nd Georgia Infantry. Commanding the Walton Guards in 1916 was Captain John Aycock, a 32-year-old merchant and graduate of what is now the University of North Georgia. Aycock enlisted in the Walton Guards as a private in 1902. He was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant in 1907 and promoted to 1st lieutenant in 1910. He had commanded the company since 1913 and by all accounts was a popular commander. Assisting Aycock was 1st Lt. Prince Albert Dickinson, a 33-year-old rural mail carrier. Dickinson had also enlisted in 1902. Rounding out the officer ranks of the Walton Guards was 2nd Lt. Dennie B. Launius, a warehouseman. Launius had enlisted as a private in 1913 and had reached the rank of sergeant before accepting a commission in June 1916. Not counting civil war service, the Walton Guards had been an established part of the Monroe community for two generations. Robert Gober Burton Robert Gober Burton was born June 29, 1898 in Monroe, Ga. to Phillip Franklin Burton and Ida T. Gober. He was the youngest of seven children, and by 1916, was the only one still living at home. Brothers John and Frank were businessmen. Frank worked for A. H. Edwards, a peanut buyer, and traveled extensively. Sister Ida lived in Atlanta with her husband Toombs Roberts. Gober grew up at 208 Boulevard, just a few doors down from 1st. Lt. Dickinson. Many of the boys Gober knew growing up would serve in the ranks with him. Boys like Tom Hensler, John Felker and Augustus Williamson. It is likely that Gober’s many friends and acquaintances in the Walton Guards influenced his decision to join the local Georgia Guard unit in the spring of 1916. Economics and boredom also may have played a role. In a June 14, 1916 letter, brother Frank counseled Gober to be patient. “I would not get discouraged over not having anything to do. This is summer time and everything is dull. You pick up enough around there to keep you in smoking material and drinks. I will send you a little money along. You have your clothes for the summer. Do not get disheartened. Keep a stiff upper lip. Everything will come out right. Write me whenever you feel like it. I am, Your Bro, Frank” The Ga. Guard mobilizes for Mexican border service Four days later, Gober’s boredom would be relieved. On June 18, 1916, Newton D. Baker, the Secretary of War, advised the governors and adjutants general of President Woodrow Wilson’s
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intention to call the National Guard to active service on the Mexican border. Gober would soon find himself a part of the largest activation of National Guard units in history. More than 110,000 Guardsmen would head to the border in the coming months in response to cross-border raids by Pancho Villa. By June 20, 1916, Gober Burton, the Walton Guards, the 2nd Georgia Infantry Regiment and the remaining units of the Georgia National Guard had been ordered to report to their armories in preparation for assembly at training camps. The 2nd Georgia assembled in Macon and went into training near Crumps Park which would come to be known as Camp Harris. The site of Camp Harris is today marked by Freedom Park. Writing home, Gober expressed his sense of adventure. June 29, 1916 Mobilization Camp Macon, Ga. My Dearest Mama, We had the physical examination this morning. I have just come back from the field hospital. I stood the examination perfectly and was vaccinated and took the typhoid inoculation. Most of the boys in our company came through O.K. All the town boys did. I am having the biggest time of my life. I always did like this kind of life and I am not disappointed in the real part. With lots of love and a kiss I am, Your Devoted Son Gober PS: Did you know today was my birthday? Burton was promoted to corporal August 4, 1916 as his regiment continued training at Camp Harris. In the ensuing months, the units were provided with uniforms, equipment, horses and ammunition as well as basic Soldier training.
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Burton’s letters reflect uncertainty. Rumors flew about possible mobilization dates and of the possibility that they would be sent home without mobilizing to the border. In the meantime, Gober enjoyed the life of a Soldier, rising early for drill and having the opportunity to take in the sites of Macon by night. Learning of Gober’s impending departure, Frank Burton wrote a brotherly letter of advice. Oct 15th 1916 Dear Gober, I note from the papers that you will go to Mexico next week. Now Gober, I have a request to make which is that you leave whiskey and bad company alone and always be square in your business dealing and truthful with everybody and be careful with yourself. Write to Mama regular and write me often and let us know if anything should happen to you at once. I trust you will have a good trip and that your conduct will be such as to command the respect of everybody. I send my best wishes and trust you will be returning soon loaded down with glory. Be sure to let us know your address at all times. Wishing you the best of good luck and God speed. I am, Your Bro Frank Remember at all times that you are a gentleman and of fine stock. One week later the 2nd Georgia Infantry Regiment began movement to the Mexican border. On October 22, 1916, Gober Burton and his fellow Soldiers were crammed into rail cars for the beginning of a five-day journey to El Paso, Texas. Next Chapter: The Mexican Border. Follow our History Blog at GeorgiaGuardHistory.com
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Around the Georgia Guard 165TH SURVIVAL TRAINING United States Air Force C-130 Airmen of the 165th Airlift Wing perform combat survival trainings and assault landings during their bi-annual readiness exercises at the Remagen Landing Zone in Ft. Stewart, Ga.
248TH MEDICAL COMPANY Brigadier General Tom Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard talks leadership and education oppportunities with Soldiers of the Marietta-based 248th Medical Company during a unit training assembly.
HOLIDAY VISIT Georgia Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Maurika Flores brings joy to a resident of Azalea Manor Assisted Living Facility. The Guardsmen visited with residents, presented gifts, played Bingo and chatted with residents.
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CHASE HOWARD: MAKE A WISH Soldiers of the Georgia National Guard give a special tour to Chase Howard for his 10th birthday and made his wish come true by making him an honorary Solider of the Georgia National Guard.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAM ‘Success Always Leaves Footprints’, a program to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout the history of time, featuring guest speaker, Junie Christian.
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Be sure to check out the Next Georgia Guardsman Magazine and it’s Special feature Story Vigilant Guard! Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense 1000 Halsey Ave. Bldg. 447 Marietta, Ga. 30060
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