2017 Spring NGAT News

Founded 1959 | Volume 58 | Number 1 | Spring 2017

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E N AT I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I AT I O N O F T E X A S

Marvin Harris

NGAT Executive Director p5

inside

p10

p14

p27

NGAT Legislative Report

NGATEF Scholarship Winners

EANGUS/NGAUS Conference Updates

We’ve got you covered in more ways than one.

Experience all the benefits USAA offers military members.

Explore them all at USAA.COM/SERVING or 800-531-8521.

USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. No Federal endorsement of sponsor is intended. Š 2016 USAA. 234986-0916-G

2017-18 Board of Directors President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

President-Elect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vice-President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Joint Forces HQs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

71st Troop Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36th ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

72nd IBCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56th IBCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56th IBCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36th Sustainment Bde . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36th CAB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

176th Engr Bde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

71st EMIB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136th MEB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HQ, TANG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149th FW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

147th RW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136th AW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TX State Guard Rep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Retired Rep – Region I . . . . . . . . . . . .

Retired Rep – Region II . . . . . . . . . . . .

Retired Rep – Region III . . . . . . . . . . .

Family Readiness Rep . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Copy Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Graphic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kenn White Priscilla Leger Bob Roark Albert Cardenas Brian Hildebrand Christopher McKeag Mikeal Crummedyo Mike Liesmann Richard Sublett Patrick Fugere Marrell Skinner Toni Savely Norman Lloyd Jimmy Leonard Charlie Weissenborn George Hurd Bruce Robison Albert Cardenas Leonor Milton Michael Wolff Richard Chamberlain Jeanne Arnold Donna Balderston Randy Ransom Shandra Sponsler Marvin Harris Theresa Billeck-Zuniga Bailey Buckingham MediaNation.net Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing

NGAT NEWS 3706 Crawford Ave Austin, TX 78731 512-454-7300 1-800-252-NGAT (6428)

CONTENTS p13

NGAT CONFERENCE PHOTOS

p16

NGAT CONFERENCE WINNERS

4

President’s Report

5

NGAT ED/Senior Enlisted Advisor

6

NGAT Board of Directors

8

Members Corner

9

Leadership Changes

10

Legislative Report

12

NGAT Minuteman Winner

13

NGAT Conference Photos

14

NGAT Scholarship Winners

16

NGAT Conference Winners

19

20

NGAT Guiding Principles/Values NGAT Corporate Sponsors

22

Conference Survey

24

Around Texas with the Guard

NGAT Home Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ngat.org

26

Membership Update

NGAT EMAIL Meeting and Marketing Director—Rob Casias . . rcasias@ngat.org Insurance Director—Kathy Gallatin . . . . . . . . . insurance@ngat.org Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . membership@ngat.org NGAT News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ngatnews@ngat.org

27

EANGUS/NGAUS Conferences

28

NGAT Benefits

NGAT News (usps 015-752) published quarterly by the National Guard Association of Texas, 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, Texas 78731-6308.

Periodicals postage paid at Austin, Texas 78710 and additional offices.

p24

30 TAPS

32

NGAT Planning Calendar

AROUND TEXAS WITH THE GUARD

POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT News, 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, Texas 78731-6308 MEMBERS MAY EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO: membership@ngat.org S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

3

PRESIDENT’S REPORT I am very proud of the work the board has done over this past year to establish purpose and direction for the National Guard Association of Texas in the years to come. One of the more

MAJ BRIAN HILDEBRAND, NGAT TREASURER AND MSGT ALBERT CARDENAS, NGAT SECRETARY, count ballots at the NGAT Conference during voting for the next NGAT President-Elect.

significant changes is the formation our guiding principles. These represent the cornerstone by which our association will operate, now and in the future. Another key philosophical change that will help future NGAT boards create meaningful and sustainable programs for our members is our development of NGAT values. The board wants to create value for our members and their families. These guiding principles and values will ensure that EVERY decision we make puts our members at the center. Creating value for our members in programs that can make a real impact to our members is fundamental to the purpose and mission of a non-profit.

With our new Executive Director on board and a strong pathway ahead, we continue to move our association forward. We will be exploring new partnerships and exploring options for our NGAT building. We need to finalize what we want to do with our building and make it happen…no more delays.

We need you to participate on a committee. The NGAT board can only do so much, but it takes involvement from the members to help make real improvements.

Not happy with the annual conference? Serve on the conference committee. Not happy with the NGAT membership? Serve on the membership committee. There are other committees to serve on as well. While I appreciate the feedback by our members from time to time, enough talking! Serve on a committee. It’s a quarterly commitment where you can make real impact. During the May board meeting, we will be establishing committee Chairs…why not consider serving.

Finally, thank you to those who participated in the annual conference survey.

Many of your comments are taken to heart and we will be making some changes based on your feedback. If you haven’t taken the survey yet, I encourage you to click the link on Facebook and participate.

Kenn White LTC, TXARNG NGAT President

LTC KENN WHITE, NGAT PRESIDENT SWEAR IN LTC MIKE LIESMANN (LEFT), MSG NORMAN LLOYD (CENTER) AND SFC CHARLIE WEISSENBORN (RIGHT) as new board members at the NGAT Conference Business Session. (Photos by MSG Daniel Griego)

4 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s

H Spring 2017

H LEADERSHIP UPDATES H LTC (RET) MARVIN HARRIS NAMED NGAT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE SELECTION OF LTC (RET) MARVIN HARRIS AS OUR NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. LTC (Ret) Marvin Harris began working at NGAT on March 28, 2017 and was introduced as our Executive Director at the NGAT Conference.

LTC (Ret) Harris was born and raised in Jacksonville, AR, graduating from Jacksonville High School in 1982. While attending the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, LTC (Ret) Harris joined the Arkansas Army National Guard in February 1986 as a Private First Class and 31M, Multichannel Communications Equipment Operator. LTC (Ret) Harris attended Basic Combat Training at Tank Hill, Fort Jackson, SC and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Gordon, GA. He was commissioned and graduated from Officer Candidate School at Arkansas Military Academy in June 1989 and soon transferred to the Texas Army National Guard in May 1990.

Primary positions held include OIC/ Executive Officer, 136th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade; Fire Support Coordinator, 36th Infantry Division (FWD), COB Basra; Battalion Commander, 4-133d FA; Force Integration and Readiness Officer (FIRO), TXARNG; Detailed Inspector General, TXARNG; and Regional Commander, TXNG Counterdrug Program (JTF-1).

LTC (Ret) Harris is a graduate of Command and General Staff College (Ft Leavenworth), Force Management Course (Camp Robinson), Inspector General Course (Ft Belvoir), Combined Arms and Services Staff School (Ft Leavenworth), Field Artillery Officer Advance Course (Ft Sill), Field Artillery Officer Basic Course (Ft Sill), and Air Defense Artillery Officer Basic Course (Ft Bliss). He also attended the Field Artillery Pre-Command Course (Ft Sill) and received training in the Global Combat Support System — Army (GCSS-Army) (Ft Gillem/Ft McPherson).

Awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3), Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal (2), Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (4), National Defense Service Medal, Iraq

Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Texas Lone Star Distinguished Medal.

LTC (Ret) Harris has served as president of four non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations, with three of them as a founder. These organization centered around academics, community service and basketball. He has experience working with Boards of Directors and understand the process and governance they must abide by in their operations. He served as a Financial Advisor for First Command Financial Services and possesses a strong background in developing long and short term financial goals. He is a licensed General Lines Insurance Agent and fully understands the life insurance arena. LTC (Ret) Harris also holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from the University of Texas, El Paso and Master of Arts in Human Resources and Development from Webster University.

LTC (Ret) Harris retired on Feb. 1, 2014 from the Texas Army National Guard with 28 years of service and has two sons, Jalen and Jaren. LTC (Ret) Harris is also a Lifetime Member of the National Guard Association of Texas. H

SAMPA SELECTED AS THE TEXAS MILITARY DEPARTMENT COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR JOHN F. SAMPA was appointed as the Texas Military Department Command Senior Enlisted Leader on 4 March 2017.

He joined the United States Army on April 30, 1987 and has served in the Texas Army National Guard and the United States Army for more than 30 years. He completed basic training as a Tank Armored Crewman at Fort Knox Army Post in Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Command Sergeant Major Sampa was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major on April 8, 2009. He has been mobilized for combat duty three times and deployed overseas for combat operations in Bosnia and twice in Iraq. On his most recent deployment to Baghdad, Iraq in 2010, Command Sergeant Major Sampa worked directly with the United States State Department, Department of Defense and the Iraqi Government with the returning of real property and equipment back

to the Iraqi Government. During Iraq’s 2010 national election recount of voter’s ballots, Command Sergeant Major Sampa worked in the Baghdad Operation Center with the Iraqi and U.S. Army in the overseeing of the election ballot convoy movements throughout the city of Baghdad. In February of 2003, Command Sergeant Major Sampa was a prominent leader for the Texas Army National Guard during the Space Shuttle Columbia Recovery Mission in east Texas.

Command Sergeant Major Sampa has been awarded numerous awards and decorations including the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4th award), Army Achievement Medal (2nd award), Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2nd award), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global

War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal w/Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and the Combat Action Badge. Command Sergeant Major Sampa has also been employed with the Texas Department of Public Safety in the Highway Patrol Division for the past twent-two years as a Commercial Vehicle Enforcement State Trooper.

He attended the University of Houston for Engineering Technology and worked as a Structural Steel Draftsman prior to becoming a Texas State Trooper. He resides in Katy, Texas with his wife, Carlette, of 25 years. They have two children, one son, a graduate of Texas A&M University and one daughter, a Senior, at the University of Houston. H

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

5

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

LTC Kenn White President

CMSgt (Ret) Priscilla Leger President-Elect

SGM Rob Roark Vice President

MAJ Brian Hildebrand Treasurer

LTC (Ret) Marvin Harris Executive Director

MSgt Albert Cardenas Secretary

INCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MAJ Patrick Fugere 56th IBCT

CSM Marrell Skinner 56th IBCT

Capt Bruce Robison HQ, TANG

MSgt Michael Wolff 136th AW

6 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s

MSG Norman Lloyd 36th CAB

CSM Mikeal Crummedyo 71st Troop Command

LTC Michael Liesmann 36th Infantry Division

SFC Charlie Weissenborn 71st EMIB

MAJ George Hurd 136th MEB

COL (Ret) Jeanne Arnold CSM (Ret) Donna Balderston Retired Rep – Region I Retired Rep – Region 2

H Winter 2017

Shandra Sponsler Family Readiness Rep

H NGAT OUTGOING DIRECTORS H THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

CSM Tony Carter Vice President

LTC Tyra Swanson TXARNG

LTC Mike Wallace 36th ID

LTC Jet Hays 56th IBCT

CSM Mark Horn 56th IBCT

MAJ Patrick Hardy 71st BfSB

MSG Daniel Griego 136th MEB

CMSgt Michael Selheim HQ, TANG

SMSgt Doug Clark 136th AW

COL Scott Kingsley Family Readiness Rep

SUPP RT

For every mission.

Oshkosh Defense is proud to support the National Guard Association of Texas and the men and women who stand at the ready to serve our communities and our country.

oshkoshdefense.com

©2017 OSHKOSH DEFENSE, LLC An Oshkosh Corporation Company Oshkosh Defense and the Oshkosh Defense logo are registered trademarks of Oshkosh Defense, LLC, Oshkosh, WI, USA

NGA-Texas_2017Yearbook-HlfPg_3.15.2017.indd 1

W i n t e r 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o 3/15/17 f T e x a s8:29| AM7

MEMBERS CORNER TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD MILITARY SPOUSE OF THE YEAR

CAMP MABRY WELCOMES IB SUPPLY BG Tracy Norris, Deputy Adjutant General for Army and Commander of the Texas Army National Guard (left) along with COL Elizabeth “Lisa” Hines, U.S. Property and Fiscal Officer for the Texas National Guard (right) join representatives from Industries for the Blind for the grand opening event of the ibSupply Ability One Base Supply Center, during a ceremony held at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas, March 16, 2017. The opening of the store provides an opportunity for the Texas National Guard to partner with Industries for the Blind, creating employment for disabled veterans and many other people with disabilities, as well as providing readily available and quality-made office, janitorial, industrial and business supplies for National Guard units. H (Photo by CPT Martha Nigrelle)

COL DICKENS NAMED DIRECTOR OF SUPPORT FOR DOMOPS Col Susan Dickens and her trusty sidekick YYork delivers a final salute to the men and women of the 149th Mission Support Group at her Change of Command Ceremony in San Antonio, Texas. Col Dickens is now headed to Austin where she will serve on the Joint Forces Headquarters staff as the Director of Support for the Domestic Operations Task Force (DOMOPS). YYork came from the DoD Military Working Dog Breeding Program and although he did not make it as a Military Working Dog he is a certified search and rescue dog. H

SSG WILLIAM SMITH RECEIVES TOP RECRUITING HONOR Congratulations to SSG William Smith who received his Directors 54 award as the Top Recruiter from the Division Chief, ARNG Recruiting & Retention, COL Monie Ulis. COL Ulis is also a former NGAT President. This award is given to the Recruiting and Retention NCO of the year as a result of superior performance in all functions as a recruiter. H

8 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s

The Texas Army National Guard appreciates and congratulates Mrs. Cassaundra MelgarC’De Baca, spouse of LTC Alba Melgar-C’De Baca, who was named Texas National Guard Military Spouse of the Year for 2017. The award sponsored by Armed Forces Insurance, honors military spouses from all branches of service and all ranks. It was created to recognize those spouses in the military community who have gone above and beyond in their service, advocacy and support of our nation’s service members and military families. Mrs. Melgar-C’De Baca also received this recognition in 2015. H

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES CSM WEEDON CSM Mark Weedon gave his final salute to friends and family at his recent retirement ceremony at Camp Mabry. After 26 years of military service and serving in the highest enlisted position in the state he has gained a reputation as a selfless mentor, a leader who succeeds through building relationships, and an advisor who strives to understand what Soldiers need. H Weedon demonstrates selfless service to Soldiers and inspires others to take care of their Soldiers, said SGT Mitch R. Guile, a medic with the Texas Medical Command, remembering how Weedon came to the aid of a Soldier who had forgotten to bring some crucial gear to a training event. “CSM Weedon took off his gloves he had — since it was about 20 degrees outside — and gave them to him,” Guile said. “When you see the top enlisted guy taking care of even the lowest ranking guy out there, you definitely have to take care of your guys, and make sure the guys below you are taking care of the guys below them.” H While Weedon led junior-enlisted Soldiers through demonstrations of selflessness, he also led senior enlisted members by encouraging them to integrate their ideas, said CSM Murphy L. McCardell, 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. “We all have a Type-A personality. He has the ability to get his agenda across while allowing other command sergeants major to have a say,” McCardell said. “He has the ability to allow other leaders to bring their insights together to collectively come up with a way ahead.”

Improving collaboration was also Weedon’s desired outcome for the Texas Military Department’s Best Warrior Competition, which he coordinated during the last month before his retirement. Weedon said the competition creates opportunities for members of both the Air National Guard and Army National Guard forces to adapt and function in joint force missions. H

H

Winter 2017

H LEADERSHIP CHANGES H

Maj Gen David McMinn Commander Texas Air National Guard Col Tim Madden (left), Commander of the 149th Fighter Wing, hands Col Megan Erickson the guidon of the 149th Mission Support Group during a recent change of command ceremony held in San Antonio, Texas.

COL Connie McNabb Commander TXSG Medical Brigade

CSM Kristopher Dyer Command Sergeant Major Texas Army National Guard MG Lester Simpson (right), Commander of the 36th Infantry Division promotes Scott Kingsley to the rank of Colonel during a recent promotion ceremony. COL Kingsley is serving as the Chief of Staff for the 36th Infantry Division.

MOBILITY FOR WHAT MATTERS

W i n t e r 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

9

NGAT Legislative Committee Report In alignment with the changes NGAT has been undergoing this year, the Legislative Committee has relied heavily on the Texas Military Department’s (TMD) Government Affairs Office to ensure that our organization, and TMD, remain informed of the political climate, as well as federal delegation and state legislative items that would impact the two organizations, both in Washington, D.C. and Austin.

FEDERAL

S TAT E

In a turbulent year that saw a change of parties in the executive branch and of leadership in the legislative branch, the need for engagement is as important as ever. The new administration has proposed a defense supplemental for FY17 that is $30 billion dollars. An additional increase in FY18 funds of $54 billion dollars, brings the additional federal defense funding to an anticipated $84 billion dollars.

Being an odd year, the state legislature is in full swing with state session lasting 140 days from January 10th to May 29th, 2017.

Due to a significant decrease in funding than was seen in the 84th legislature, the 85th legislature has had to prepare a budget that started with a 4 percent cut. The cut to the Texas Military Department when the initial budget forecasts were released by the 85th legislature were closer to 12 percent cuts in the Senate budget and 5 percent cut in the House version of the budget.

Because of the increased funding associated with the executive branch’s refocus of defense and national security, constant engagement with the legislative branch is a must. These engagements must center on a need to return to a traditional, standard appropriations cycle. The return to normal business and a predictive model will allow for these increased funds to be appropriately applied to recent shortfalls in readiness, modernization and equipment.

NGAT continues to monitor the budget process and ensure that the lean budget provided to the TMD, approximately $16 million dollars a year from the State of Texas is protected. As an agency that has shown efficient use of the state budget and leverages every opportunity to multiply this money with a federal match, our state projects of the last biennium have continued this trend. A beneficiary of a state joint committee of facilities and maintenance last session, the TMD prepared a State of Texas Armory Revitalization Project that was well received and funded.

The Texas Congressional delegation has continued to support where we have identified a need and requested support. Some specific examples of this support are: This plan laid out a 10 year plan to return our armories to a • HASC Chairman Representative Mac Thornberry and modern state of life, safety and health standards. Unfortunately the Representative Will Hurd visited the 149th AF Fighter Wing for a funding for this plan is at risk this session and is at the forefront of tour and brief of operations, with a focus on cyber.

NGAT state efforts. It is imperative that the members of the TMD • Multiple Congressional and staff visits to armories and border are trained and office out of buildings that are safe and maintain operations, culminating in a an up to code standard, at a visit by Senate Armed Services minimum. The TMD should Committee Professional Staff be rewarded for 1) showing Members with the Chief of the what they would do; 2) doing National Guard Bureau, GEN what they said would and; 3) Lengyel. reporting back at every turn.

• Representative Pete Olson Instead they are stripped of hosted a town hall event on funding and therefore our Ellington Field.

Soldiers and Airman are • Senator John Cornyn and endangered. H Representative Henry Cuellar, along with Governor Abbott, wrote a letter in support of continuing our border aviation operations supporting CBP and DPS. • Representatives Cuellar, Hurd and Lamar Smith wrote a letter TEXAS SENATOR DONNA CAMPBELL, chairwoman for the Veterans Affairs and Border to the leadership of the Air Security Committee, left, visits service members during Texas Military Department Day at Force stating their support for the Capitol, March 8, 2017. Texas Guardsmen set up informational displays for legislatives, future F-16 basing at Lackland staff and general guest of the Capitol to talk about roles and capabilities of the Texas Military Department in Texas. (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena) AFB.

10 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

LAWMAKERS LOOKING TO ATTACK HAZELWOOD AGAIN

WRITE TO CONGRESS WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT H.R. 1384, Reserve Component Benefits Parity Act of 2017 Sponsored in the House by: Rep. Tim Walz, Rep. Steven Palazzo, Rep. Carol Shea-Porter, & Rep. Trent Franks Sponsored in the Senate by: Sen. Al Franken The 2012 NDAA added to 10 USC the 12304b authority for mobilization for Guard and Reserve Components which states, “Selected Reserve: order to active duty for preplanned missions in support of the combatant commands.” This designation expanded the authority of the Department of Defense to deploy National Guard and Reserve Component forces on pre-planned active duty missions to support the combatant commands. However, when the 12304b authority was authorized, legislation failed to make corresponding changes to 5 USC, 10USC, 37 USC, and 38 USC. As such, health, education, leave, pay, and retirement benefits equal with Active Component troops serving the same functions have been denied to Guard and Reserve Component soldiers serving under the 12304b authority.

The failure to make corresponding changes has resulted in National Guard and Reserve Component service members being denied TRICARE benefits before and after deployment, earned Post 9/11 GI Bill education benefits, reduction in retirement age for Reserve Component members for service on active duty, non-reduction of federal civilian pay for service members called to active duty, and high-tempo deployment allowances. It is imperative that legislation during FY18 make changes to eligibility of service members mobilized under 12304b as subsequent FYs will see a marked increase in 12304b utilization by DoD. H

Two years after efforts failed in the Texas Legislature to pare back a program that gives free college tuition to qualified Veterans, spouses, and dependent children with up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at public universities in Texas, state lawmakers are setting the stage to take another crack at reducing benefits under the Hazelwood Act. Representative Jose Manuel Lozano filed a bill on March 9 that would lessen the number of children eligible for the Hazlewood Act. House Bill 3766 addressed the fact that the cost of the program skyrocketed after it expanded in 2009 to include children of veterans. The bill will add stipulations regarding time served in the military and add a deadline to the amount of time after a solider is discharged that the program can be used. The tuition exemption would expire 15 years after the veteran was honorably discharged — meaning children born after their parent left the military would no longer qualify.

Representative César Blanco from El Paso said he was disappointed in the proposal and intends to fight it. “I just want to say that it’s disappointing that the Republicans are going back on the promises made to veterans. We as democrats and those of us who have served in uniform here in the Texas House and Senate will make sure we push back and continue to honor our veterans,” Blanco said.

The proposed bill will add 4 new stipulations to the existing Hazlewood Act. • Limit the Hazlewood exemption for honorably discharged veterans by requiring four years of service at minimum instead of the current 180 days.

• Disallow veterans from being able to use the benefits after 15 years from the date the veteran was honorably discharged.

• Removal of the bill from the control of the Texas Veterans Commission.

• Not grandfather in any current active-duty servicemember.

How can you help? Contact your State Representative and ask them not to support the cuts to the Hazelwood Act.

G E T I N VO LV E D !

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

11

MINUTEMAN AWARD COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT WILLIAM “BILL” MAGINOT COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT WILLIAM “BILL” MAGINOT served 35 years in the Texas Air National Guard culminating his career as the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas National Guard. During his military service Chief Maginot served with great distinction and dedication always keeping the safety, security and general welfare of the Texas Military Forces as his primary mission.

Chief Maginot served as the president of the National Guard Association of Texas from 1998-1999 during which time he sought to enhance the current programs of the association while adding benefits to existing state and federal programs for all members of the Texas Military Forces.

Since his retirement in 2001 Chief Maginot has continued to contribute to our Association above and beyond any other member. For more than 20 years Chief Maginot and his wife Sharon along with his side kick CSM (Ret) Clyde Worrell and his wife Dorothy have represented NGAT at the national level at the EANGUS Conferences. For many of those years these four individuals were the only representation from NGAT or from Texas. Chief Maginot and his wife Sharon served on the committees in support of the NGAUS Conference hosted by NGAT in 2010. Chief Maginot has served on more than four different committees continuously over the past 15 years and has been active with the NGAT Education Committee and has been a avid supporter through the NGAT golf tournament that raises

CMSGT (RET) WILLIAM “BILL” MAGINOT (center) is presented with the 2017 NGAT Minuteman Award from former recipients MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga (left), COL (Ret) Frank Zuniga and CMSgt (Ret) Charles Chavers (right). Chief Maginot was unable to attend the banquet so the former recipients brought the award to him. Chief Maginot is also the first recipient to ever win the award twice. (Photo by SPC Bobby Williams) funds for the Educational Foundation. He also recently joined the NGAT Educational Foundation board of trustees.

Chief Maginot is an extraordinary individual that continues to support this Association and it’s values. Chief Maginot is a 2006 recipient of the NGAT Minuteman Award but in light of his continued service to this Association unmatched by any other it is befitting that we again select Chief William “Bill” Maginot as the 2017 NGAT Minuteman recipient. H

THE IDENTITY OF LEADERSHIP STEADMAN GRAHAM TELLS NGAT ATTENDEES TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOURSELF STEDMAN GRAHAM SPOKE TO NGAT MEMBERS and guests at the NGAT Conference awards dinner recently held in San Antonio, Texas. Graham spoke about the identity of leadership, saying it is about performance, growth and taking charge of yourself. Graham asked attendees to think about what they do each day with the 24 hours they are given. He said if you are working all the time, when do you have time to work on yourself and more importantly how can you effectively lead others if you can’t lead yourself.

As an Army veteran, he spoke about how those in the military already have the foundation of what it takes to be a leader. He says he feels it is his mission to help transform followers into leaders and help people create a bigger vision. Graham says in today’s world, it’s vital to be a leader of yourself. “The 21st century says you have to be a self-effective learner. It says I can’t tell you everything to do, 21st century says you have to do things on your own, be productive, you have to find your own way. It’s

12 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

important to be able to find out who you are, have an identity, so you can take those leadership skills and apply them to your passions, strengths and abilities,” Graham said.

Grahams visit was a refreshing change of pace for NGAT Conference attendees. Many were able to speak with Mr. Graham and take photos with him after the dinner. NGAT plans to have another guest speaker next year at the NGAT Conference awards dinner. H

58th ANNUAL NGAT CONFERENCE PHOTO ALBUM Visit NGAT.org and select “NGAT Conference” to download the NGAT Conference Program, view conference photos, and play the NGAT Taps video honoring those who have left us this past year. (Photos by MSG Daniel Griego)

Save the date for NGAT 2018! March 23-25, 2018, La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa, Montgomery, Texas.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

13

2017 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS NGAT Retirees Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,000 Nicholas Forrest Step-son of LTC Jeffery Gilmore

Len and Jean Tallas Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . $2,000 Daniel Orta Son of MSG Daniel Orta Jr.

Lewis King Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,000 Olivia Fletcher Daughter of LTC Brian Fletcher

TXNG Retirees Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Brooke Krpec Daughter of CSM Gary Krpec

CSM John Morgan Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Jackson Robinson Son of MAJ John Robinson

USAA Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Alison Wenzel Daughter of LTC Andrew Wenzel

LTC Garland Parrish Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 Allan Piri Son of CW3 Andrew Piri

American Military University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 Blake Krpec Son of CSM Gary Krpec

American Military University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 Tylynn John Daughter of SGT Gregory John

14 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

MQ-9 Reaper

REVOLUTIONIZING AIRPOWER • Multi-Mission capable

• Protects friendly forces and saves lives • Over 1.7 million flight hours with mission capability rates greater than 90% • Modular design supports multiple mission payload requirements • Proven multi-role platform ideally suited for Persistent Attack and Reconnaissance (PAR) mission sets www.ga-asi.com Leading The Situational Awareness Revolution

©2017 General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

“AMU HELPED ME REACH HIGHER” AMU ALUM AND VETERAN WES O’DONNELL (MBA 2011)

Veteran, author, and entrepreneur Wes O’Donnell gained the right tools and confidence from AMU to publish a book, start a healthcare solutions company, and launch a successful digital media group.

Join the #1 provider of education to the Armed Forces* and gain knowledge that’s relevant to what you do today and what you want to do tomorrow. Reach higher at www.AMUonline.com/NGAT *As reported by Military Times, July/August 2015

GG_NGAT-NewsMagazine_Military_QuarterPage_Ad_v1Final_2017_OL.indd 1

4/20/17 1:20 PM

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

15

CONFERENCE WINNERS GOLF 1st Place — 1SG (Ret) Henry Wood, 1SG (Ret) Jesse Garza, Ramiro Hernandez, Robert Norman 2nd Place — MG James “Red” Brown, COL (Ret) George Conwill, Garret Lewis, LTC (Ret) Chuck Spangler 3rd Place — Janet Crowley, Col (Ret) Seth Junkins, CPT Brandon Wells, Dave Stewart Women’s Long Drive Winner — CPT Amber Fullmer Men’s Long Drive Winner — Col Kurt Leslie Closest to the Pin Winner — Larry Gallogly $1,000 was raised at the golf tournament to benefit the NGAT Educational Foundation.

FUN RUN MENS DIVISION 1st Place — CPT T.J. Clifton 2nd Place — 1SG (Ret) Marty Brill 3rd Place — MSG Daniel Griego WOMENS DIVISION 1st Place — LTC Carrie Perez 2nd Place — SSG Michelle Auyer 3rd Place — LTC Stephanie Purgerson COL Michelle Bryant PASSPORT WINNER 50“ Flat Screen Color TV SSG Jake Jackson (left) SILENT AUCTION This year’s silent auction consisted of 145 items and raised over $5,100.

Thank you to everyone who participated and a special thank you to Debi Steinhauser who runs our auction each year. Funds raised go to the NGAT Educational Foundation for scholarships.

16 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

HOSPITALITY NIGHT — A BATTLE OF THEMES Our Soldiers and Airmen never cease to amaze us with what they can do to transform a hotel room into something else. This year’s competition included 9 suites competing for the best hospitality suite. It’s clear these units put a lot of effort into developing their room themes, many times keeping the theme classified until right before the conference.

And the winner is: 1st Place — Audie L. Murphy Warrant Officer Chapter — “Welcome to Cuba” — The sound of Latin music and dancers greeted you as you walked into the room filled with small cabanas, Cuban cigars and food with a Latin flavor.

2nd Place — 71st EIMB (Formally 71st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade) — “Walking Dead” — Complete with flesh-eating “walkers” and zombies along with interactive scenarios to participate in and included a buffet of body parts for visitors to try.

3rd Place — 72nd IBCT — “What if we won the Alamo” — These Soldiers let you explore Texas history with a twist in what would it be like now if we had actually won the Alamo.

This year’s hospitality room themes also included the following: Retirees Social Lounge — A memorial tribute to Angel & Bandit, CMSgt (Ret) Bill & Sharon Maginot’s adorable Shih tzu dogs that always greeted visitors coming to the retiree lounge.

56th IBCT — “Guns & Hoses” — An entertaining tribute to Firefighters and Law Enforcement personnel.

DOMOPS — “Tour of the Lone Star State” — This room took you to Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Houston and Dallas and all those other places in-between.

149th FW — “Welcome to the 80’s” — Visitors dropped by to play Rubik’s Cube, Twister, watch some MTV or walk like an Egyptian.

36th CAB — “Heart of the Pacific” — Nothing like stepping into the Hawaiian island and enjoying the site and sounds of Hawaii.

36th ID — “Karaoke Tavern” – Visitors tried their best to entertain the crowd with their best karaoke rendition and not get gonged off the stage.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

17

Proudly Supporting NGAT

PROVEN

SAFETY

s.com

bietank

b www.ro

SURVIVABLE FUEL SYSTEMS

YOUR SINGLE SOURCE FOR UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Trusted by over 1 million professionals each year

PROUD TO SERVE AMERICA’S PUBLIC SAFETY PROFESSIONALS 02SA0317ASD

18 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

H NGAT GUIDING PRINCIPLES H MISSION The purpose of the National Guard Association of Texas shall be to promote, safeguard, and advance the interests of the Texas Military Forces and the National Guard of the United States as a component of the Armed Forces of the United States.

VISION THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS WILL: • Be innovative, agile, and flexible, so that it can meet the expectations and diverse needs of our members.

• Create Strategic Alliances joint ventures through partnerships, to maximize the resources and opportunities available to our members.

• Embed continuous improvements in the planning and execution of our programs, activities and decision-making processes.

• Inspire individual and communities for public benefit, and conduct activities with transparency, integrity and accountability.

To be a premier professional association that serves and advances the interests of its membership and supports the Texas Military Department.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

19

H

N G AT

S P O N S O R S

A N D

NGAT salutes our generous sponsors and corporate members who are the key to our success.

Thank you for everything you do for NGAT. Visit www.ngat.org for links to all our sponsors and corporate members web pages.

P L ATINUM

B RON Z E

CO R P O R AT E M E MBER S

LiteFighter Systems, LLC National University

American Military University Ashford University Danner Galls Gerber LaserShot Leatherman Tool Group Lockheed Martin Northrop Grumman Corporation Otis Technology Panasonic Raytheon Rite in the Rain StandardAero Tactical Lighting Solutions The Boeing Company Wel-Fab, Inc. Zumro — Comprehensive Communication Services

BAE Systems Benchmade Bike Track, Inc. Breezer Mobile Cooling Cocoon, Inc. Columbia Southern University Envelop Protective Covers

by Shield Technologies E/T Lights & S-Cuts Grantham University McClarin Plastics/Military Division (AM Tech) Navy Federal Credit Union PacStar (Pacific Star Communications, Inc.) Pelican Products RecruitMilitary Revision Rocky SOI C4ISR Platforms Southern Career Institute Southwest Solutions Group, Inc. Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. Unifire, Inc. Veterans United Home Loans of San Antonio Waldorf University Wiley X

GO LD Airbus Big Ass Solutions Darley Defense DRS GEICO USAA

SI LVER AAR Mobility Systems ADS, Inc. AM General, LLC DOCS Defenshield, Inc. ESS General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Kipper Tool Company Oakley Oshkosh Defense Robertson Fuel Systems, LLC

20 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

C O R P O R AT E

M E M B E R S

H

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

21

CONFERENCE SURVEY 2017 Conference Survey Comments Rating out of a Possible 5.0

WORK SESSION NGAT Breakfast/Business Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.20 SOCIAL FUNCTIONS Fun Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.00 Welcome Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.46 Spouse Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.41 Awards Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.47 Professional Breakouts (average of all) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.43 Silent Auction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.33 EXHIBIT HALL Exhibit Hall rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.52 Visit the Exhibit Hall? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84.4% YES Enough personal time? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93.7% YES NGAT OPERATIONS Do you want a guest speaker at the Awards Dinner? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93.2% YES Are you proud to be a NGAT Member? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96.7% YES Would you like NGAT to host a job fair? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77.3% YES Is being able to connect to other members important? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96.7% YES I am interested in attending a military ball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.3% YES I am interested in traveling with other NGAT members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64.3% YES Conference was a good value? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87.4% YES Do you plan to attend next year? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99.4% YES WHAT WE TAKE AWAY: • NGAT App was extremely helpful and should be continued.

• Although not all guests were a fan of the guest speaker they clearly want to continue with a speaker at the awards dinner.

• Hospitality Room contest continues to be a success.

• Better site selection with exhibits and meeting spaces more centrally located to each other.

• Add Jr Enlisted professional development.

• More breakout sessions.

• Offer a meal choice at the awards dinner.

• Offer license to carry class again. * Data based on 247 responses received during/after the conference

22 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

SAVE THE DATE

59th Annual NGAT Conference March 23-25, 2018 La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa Montgomery, Texas Situated at the water’s edge, this Lake Conroe property is a relaxing retreat where you can enjoy being at the lake and visiting with friends. Plan to come early or stay late and savor the delicious cuisine, from casual to upscale dining, at eight restaurants, bars and lounges. Soothe the body and spirit with a relaxing massage at the spa.

Lounge by one of their 5 pools or play in the aqua park. Enjoy a round of golf at the Jeffery Blume designed championship 18 hole golf course. Get away for a relaxing weekend of fun with your NGAT family at La Torretta, located just one hour north of Houston, Texas. Watch the NGAT website and Facebook page for additional conference information coming soon.

Enhancing awareness.

Leading the way.

This generation of armed forces demands next-generation computing and display capabilities. Improved situational awareness (SA), greater versatility and multi-function capability are essential. With MFoCS from DRS, it’s all in the family. The Mounted Family of Computer Systems is customizable to your needs, reduces SWaP demands and is built knowing every second on the battlefield counts towards mission success.

Get to know the newest name in SA at drs.com/MFoCS

drs.com/MFoCS

H

A R O U N D T E X A S W I T H T H E G UA R D H

NEARLY 100 TEXAS GUARDSMEN were recently activated under the 1st Armored Division, “Old Ironsides — Fight or Die” unit based out of Fort Bliss, Texas. The Texas 1AD Main Command Post — Operational Detachment conducted pre mobilization training at Camp Bowie March 30-April 7, 2017. (Photos by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

TEXAS LEGISLATORS RECOGNIZES THE MEMBERS OF THE TEXAS MILITARY for their service to the state and nation, March 8, 2017 during a visit to the Capitol in Austin, Texas. During their visit, SEVERAL MEMBERS OF THE 149TH FIGHTER WING, TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD, pose with members of the Texas Military Department set up informational booths to showcase capabilities the players from the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers in front of an F-16 aircraft April 4, 2017, during a of the Texas Army National Guard, Texas Air National Guard, Texas State Guard, Domestic visit to the to the wing, which is headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. (Photo Operations Taskforce, Office of the Executive Director and the National Guard Association of

by TSgt Mindy Bloem) Texas. (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

RETIRED CMSGT ROBERT GAYLOR visits with Airmen from the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, March 30, 2017. Gaylor was the fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force serving from 1977-1979. Now at age 86, Gaylor continues to visit Airmen across the Air Force. (Photo by Malcolm McClendon) 24 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

TEXAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARDSMEN with the 536th Brigade Support Battalion, prepare afternoon chow during the Philip A. Connelly Award competition at Camp Bullis, Texas, March 25, 2017. The Guardsmen of the 536th BSB are competing for the culinary national title against three other state National Guards. (Photo by SFC Malcolm McClendon)

TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS AND AIRMEN receive a safety brief along with with Czech and Chilean service members at the M4 qualification event as part of the fifth annual Texas Military Department Best Warrior Competition, at Camp Swift near Bastrop, Texas, March 3, 2017. This year’s Best Warrior Competition was the second time Chilean soldiers participated and the first time for soldiers from the Czech Republic as part of Texas Military Department’s initiative to develop relations with foreign partners. (U.S. Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Michael Giles)

TSGT MARIE SARABIA AND SSGT NICHOLAS J. GOODENBUSTAMANTE are the 2017 U.S. Air Force Military Ambassadors for Joint Base San Antonio. (Photo by Olivia Mendoza)

THE 176TH ENGINEER BRIGADE S3 OPERATIONS OFFICER LTC ROBERT CROCKEM briefs Task Force Chaos Commander COL Charles Schoening and Senior Advisor CSM Anthony Simms during the weekly staff update brief at Camp Buerhing, Kuwait.

(Photo by CPT Maria Mengrone)

CMSGT DEL ATKINSON, SMSGT AUBREY BEAVER AND TSGT JOSHUA DARCY, all security forces members assigned to the 136th Security Forces Squadron, Texas Air National Guard, display their RAVEN tabs. The Phoenix RAVEN program is a specialized force that provides protection for aircraft in high-threat areas. (Photo by TSgt Vanessa Reed)

THE TEXAS MILITARY FORCES MUSEUM COLOR GUARD posted the colors as the Texas Historical Commission, Texas Military Forces Museum, the 36th Infantry Division and Texas State Legislators took part in a World War 1 Centennial Ceremony on the steps of the Texas Capitol on April 6, in Austin, Texas. The ceremony commemorated the 100-year anniversary of U.S. participation in “The Great War.” The 36th ID participated in the largest offensive operation in U.S. military history at Meuse-Argonne, which, in victory, brought an end to the war. (Photo by SFC Michael Leslie)

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

25

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CONTINUES TO BE STAGNANT. However our life membership has had a very good year. Currently our life membership stands at 31,290 compared to 30,273 last year which is a increase of 1.03 percent. Our life membership base is starting to age and each year we lose a considerable number due to death. So far this fiscal year we have gained 45 new life members. Our life membership special will finally come to a end on June 30, 2017. So if you have not signed up for the life membership at the special rate of $100 time is running out.

The launch of our new NGAT app will make NGAT membership even more accessible to our Soldiers and Airmen yet at the same time will serve to connect our membership of all ages to each other.

This year the membership committee will address the issue of upgrading our membership software so that we can better communicate with our members and automate our billing and conference registration processes into one central database.

This past year NGAT added a free Notary Public service for our members at the NGAT office. We also added a discount for online CLEP prep services provided by Speedy Prep and a reduced rate for NGAT members to join AAA. Staying in contact and communicating with our membership is an area we need your assistance with. How can you help?

• Provide NGAT with a current CIVILIAN email address.

• Update your mailing address with NGAT. • Ask your friends if they are NGAT members and if not encourage them to join.

• Volunteer to serve on a NGAT committee.

Professionals belong to professional associations and NGAT is the professional association of the Texas Military Forces.

NGAT has been working hard this past year to make your professional association extraordinary. The only thing that is missing is you getting involved. What are you waiting for?

This is your association so tell us what we can do for you.

If you have a suggestion to gain new members email our Executive Director at mharris@ngat.org.

26 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

FREEDOM STANDS THANKS TO ALL WHO SERVE.

Thank you for the important work that you do. We are proud to support the National Guard Association of Texas and the continued well-being of military personnel and their families.

THE ENLISTED ASSOCIATION OF THE NATIONAL GUARD OF THE UNITED STATES (EANGUS) 46th ANNUAL EANGUS CONFERENCE

MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND THE 139th ANNUAL NGAUS CONFERENCE

7-10 SEPTEMBER 2017 LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

AUGUST 26-31, 2017 RENO, NEVEDA

Make plans to attend the 46th Annual EANGUS Conference in Reno, NV. Reno is a city by the Sierra Nevada’s and Lake Tahoe.

Dubbed “The Biggest Little City in the World,” it’s known for its casinos and its proximity to many ski resorts.

More than 1000 National Guard members and families are expected to attend the EANGUS conference. The conference will discuss a wide variety of topics and identify specific legislative issues important to Association members that will be brought before Congress during the Congressional year. It also features a trade show of products and services that are beneficial to military members and their families.

Senior National Guard leaders and National Guard Bureau leaders are expected to be in attendance and speak.

To register go to www.eangus.org (IF YOU REGISTER ONLINE PLEASE LET NGAT KNOW SO THAT WE CAN INCLUDE YOU IN OUR STATE ACTIVITIES. EMAIL MEMBERSHIP@NGAT.ORG)

The conference registration fee is: 1 November 2016 - 30 June 2017: $175 1 July 2017 - 19 August 2017: $200 20 August 2016 and later: $225 Registration fee includes registration, business sessions, professional development, welcome night event, exhibit hall admission, hospitality night and the awards dinner.

Travel days: 26 August 2017 and 31 August 2017 Host Hotel: Silver Legacy Resort Casino • 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89501 The lodging rate will be $109/per night. You must book your room with NGAT in order to get the conference rate. Each state has rooms already assigned that they can get put into your name.

Come early or stay late and bring a friend there is something for everyone.

See you in Reno.

Come share the experience with the 4,000 plus guard member that attend the NGAUS Annual Conference each year. The conference is packed with keynote speakers, professional development, special events and access to the largest defense industry trade show geared toward the National Guard.

Registration is $180 per person and includes the registration fee, business sessions, professional development, governor’s reception at the Kentucky Derby, Company grade/warrant officer mixer, exhibit hall admission, hospitality night and the states dinner. Registration will open in late May on the NGAT website.

The travel dates for the conference is September 7 and September 11.

Texas has been assigned the Galt House Hotel, Louisville’s only waterfront hotel with a spectacular view of the Ohio River. The room rates will be $131 plus tax per night for single/double. The Galt House Hotel is just a shot away from Whiskey Row, where you can immerse yourself in the history of Kentucky’s native spirit. Explore world-renowned cultural encounters at nearby Museum Row, featuring icons such as Muhammad Ali and Louisville Slugger.

So make plans to join us at the Winners Circle at the Kentucky Derby.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

27

NGAT BENEFITS As an NGAT Member, take advantage of discounts from the following companies:

HOTELS

La Quinta Inn www.lq.com Use Promo Code: NGAT

RENTAL CAR Advantage Rent a Car www.advantage.com 1-800-777-5500 5% Discount

As a active NGAT member, get 15% off of your next stay with Choice Hotels — 800-258-2847 Use ID#00803238 www.choicehotels.com

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel 900 North Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-887-1600 OR 888-444-6664 Active/Retired Military Rates Available www.omnihotels.com

28 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

Alamo Rent a Car www.alamo.com 1-800-354-2372 Ask for Plan “BY” & use NGAT ID#93706

Budget Rent a Car www.budget.com Corporate Discount (BCD) # X338109.

1-800-218-7992.

Hertz www.hertz.com 1-800-654-2210 Member Saving Discounts CDP#1517714 * PC#939374

OTHER DISCOUNTS The American Automobile Association (AAA) NGAT members can join AAA for only $42.00 when you enroll in automatic renewal add one family member for no additional cost. Contact Patti Salinas (469)540-2951 or salinas.patti@aaa-texas.com American Equity NGAT Life Insurance Term & Whole Life Insurance Coverage for you & your whole Family insurance@ngat.org Army Times http://offers.armytimes.com/ngat/ $39.95 per year (Print & Digital) 1-800-368-5718 Dell NGAT Members get a discount www.dell.com/epp Member ID#DS16862915 NGAT Scholarships Apply annually to compete for scholarships Awarded by the NGAT Educational Foundation NGAT News Magazine Members enjoy the award winning quarterly NGAT News Magazine Notary Public (Free to NGAT Members) Free Notary Public service to all current NGAT members. Just stop by our office at 3706 Crawford Ave, Austin, TX 78731 and bring the documents that you need to have notarized with you.

Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Looking to streamline and simplify your personal finances? RBFCU can assist you in managing your account online and remember, as one of our Select Groups, NGAT members are already eligible to join.

Stop by one of our branches or join online today at rbfcu.org! Austin - San Antonio — 1-800-580-3300

APP Sponsored by

Sprint 15% discount on phones and plans for members Contact: Pedro Roman Pedro.Roman@sprint.com Cell:Â 321-695-2002 S p r i n g 2 0 1 7 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

29

H TAPS H As of 04/19/17

CW3 Joe Ralph Barber, Life Member #2158, Retired, Cedar Park

Mr. Robert “Bob” Owens, Retired, Granbury

Mr. Richard A. Blaney, Life Member #12411, Retired, College Station

SGT Ernest A. Roberson, Life Member #31584, Retired, Texarkana AR

MSG Joe A. Clark, Life Member #802, Retired, Big Spring

Mr. Jerry F. Saffel, Life Member #2499, Retired, Rule

1SG Braden R. Dreibrodt, Life Member #17275, Retired, Odessa

Mr. Donald L. Schoppe, Life Member #215, Retired, Pearland

*/**SGT Amon R. Gift, 442 ENG CO MAC, Alvin

CSM John D. Schwausch, Life Member #6563, Retired, Lago Vista

Mr. Brent K. Golightley, Life Member #18052, Retired, Grand Prairie

MSgt Billy R. Shepard, Retired, Jewett

SSG Joseph E. Goodin, Life Member #12464, Retired, Jacksonville FL

MSG Patrick H. Shirling, Life Member #14855, Retired, Houston

MSgt Robert S. Hall, Life Member #19318, Retired, Austin

*/**CW4 Richard “Rick” M. Tanner, JFHQ, Life Member #26787,

SFC Bradley J. Hayworth, Life Member #18113, Retired, Amarillo

Wills Point

SPC Leroy Hott, Retired, Weatherford

Mr. Lauro Zuniga, Life Member #21745, Retired, Donna

**SFC Teresa A. Jones, HHC 1-141 IN, Luling

*Had NGAT Life Insurance Policy

*SSG William E. King, Life Member #16426, Retired, Amarillo

**Had No-Cost Active Guard Policy of $1,000

Maj John C. LeBlanc, Life Member #2519, Retired, Dallas Mr. Ralph W. Manning, Life Member #17040, Retired, Yoakum Mr. Rodney L. McElreath, Life Member #8405, Retired, Fritch **MAJ Michael D. Miller, HHBN, 36th Infantry Division, Dickinson MSgt Gary Monsson, Life Member #21426, Retired, Grand Prairie

GUNFIGHTERS BID FAREWELL TO COMMAND CHIEF LONGORIA CCMSgt George B. Longoria (right) is presented a shadow box honoring his 35 years of military service by Col Michael Reid (left), vice wing commander, MSgt Albert Cardenas (second from left) and SMSgt Marvin Williams (second from right), during his retirement ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Feb. 25, 2017. Longoria retires after 35 years of service with the 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard.

(Photo by TSgt Eric L. Wilson)

IF YOU ARE AWARE OF THE PASSING OF A CURRENT OR FORMER NATIONAL GUARD MEMBER, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY PHONE, MAIL OR EMAIL NGATNEWS@NGAT.ORG.

LEGION OF MERIT AWARDED TO CSM SIEFERT During the NGAT Conference, COL Michael Adame, Commander, 36th Sustainment Brigade presents CSM Michael A. Seifert (left) with the Legion of Merit for his 39 years of military service culminating as the Command Sergeant Major of the 36th Sustainment Brigade Special Troops Battalion.

NGAT CONFERENCE RETIREES LUNCHEON BG Sean Ryan (center), Commander, 71st Troop Command poses for a photo with some of the attendees at the NGAT Conference Retirees Luncheon where he was the guest speaker. (Photo by MSG Daniel Griego) 30 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Spring 2017

PERIODICAL

National Guard Association of Texas 3706 Crawford Avenue Austin, Texas 78731-6308

ngat.org

PLANNING CALENDAR (As of 30 April 2017)

2017 29

May Memorial Day (NGAT Office Closed)

14

Jun

U.S. Army Birthday/Flag Day

4

Jul

Independence Day (NGAT Office Closed)

7

Aug

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

26-31

Aug

EANGUS Conference, Reno, NV

4

Sep

Labor Day (NGAT Office Closed)

7-10

Sep

NGAUS Conference, Louisville, KY

11

Sep

Patriot Day

9

Oct

Columbus Day (NGAT Office Closed)

23

Oct

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

10

Nov

Veteran’s Day Observed (NGAT Office Closed)