2018 NGAT Winter News

Founded 1959 | Volume 58 | Number 4 | Winter 2018

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

CSM John Sampa, a Texas Guardsman has been named the 12th Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard.

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NGAT Annual Report Issue

inside

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NGAT Conference Highlights

NGAT Conference Breakout Sessions

NGAT Annual Report

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kenn White Priscilla Leger Bob Roark Albert Cardenas Randy Ransom 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

CONTENTS p5

NGAT CONFERENCE GUEST SPEAKER

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Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Theresa Billeck-Zuniga Graphic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MediaNation.net Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing NGAT NEWS 3706 Crawford Ave Austin, TX 78731 512-454-7300 1-800-252-NGAT (6428) NGAT Home Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ngat.org

CONFERENCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS

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NGAT EMAIL Executive Director — Marvin Harris . . . . . . . . . . . mharris@ngat.org Insurance Director — Kathy Gallatin . . . . . . . . . insurance@ngat.org Meeting and Marketing Director — Rob Casias . . rcasias@ngat.org Membership Director — Theresa Billeck-Zuniga . . . . . tbz@ngat.org Submit news and articles to . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ngatnews@ngat.org

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

AROUND TEXAS WITH THE GUARD

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NGAT Conference Update Letter NGAT Conference Guest Speaker Highlight NGAT Conference Information Highlights Around the World with the Guard Conference Sponsors Conference Breakout Best Warrior Golf Tournament NGAT Annual Report President’s Letter How NGAT Serves NGAT Revenues/Expenses NGAT Fundraising NGAT Membership Conference TAPS Leadership Changes Around Texas with the Guard EANGUS Conference & Scholarships Veteran ID Cards NGAUS Conference & Scholarships NGAT Life Membership Special Retirees Corner Corporate Members NGAT Planning Calendar

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

POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT News, 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, Texas 78731-6308

On the Cover: CSM John Sampa, a Texas Guardsman has been named the 12th Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard

MEMBERS MAY EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO: membership@ngat.org W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 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 |

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IATION OF TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD ASSOC Austin, TX 78731 , Ave 3706 Crawford www.ngat.org 300 512-454-7

S NATIONAL GUARD ASSDCIATID Of TEXA

February 20, 2018

CONFERENCE CALL Conference ard Association of Texas 59th Annual National Gu 23-25 March 2018

Guard Association of ference of the National you at the 59th Annual Con ing see to ard rch 2018 as we promote forw Ma k 25 loo 23We in Montgomery, TX from Spa and ort Res a rett st optional events Texas (NGAT) at La Tor breakout sessions, and mo All conference meetings, lf." rse You "Be a few days late of stay me this year's the e a few days early or ter on resort property. Com cen nce fere Aqua Park and con the the to in d roe will be hel golf course and Lake Con ort has to offer. From the res the t wha all oy enj and time. tined to have a wonderful tranquil spa, you are des the meal www.ngat.org. Check out W for the conference at NO r iste reg e take eas to -Pl n now Conference Registratio become a NGAT member hip has its privileges. So, ers mb ruary me t Feb tha 28 r see afte 'll ed packages and you A $20 late fee will be add privileges immediately.

8 can hip 201 ers rch mb Ma me 16 se r tho afte of advantage 2018. Registrations made ister online is 16 March reg to e dlin dea the and 2018 only be made onsite. this t. We cannot guarantee le/double plus tax per nigh sing 5 $12 is to rate el now s hot e your room reservation Room Reservation - The rch 2018. So please mak Ma 2 r afte de ma s tion room rate for reserva ounted rate. take advantage of the disc by enjoying Agenda Highlights: g in this year's conference lcome Party- Help us brin We 0) 210 30e, and (18 lett rch rou Ma ps, • Friday, 23 how good you are at cra e Party. Show everybody lcom We d me ss. dre -the ual ino cas the cas d. Welcome party is good music and great foo AT members are blackjack while enjoying /Annual Meeting-All NG hip ers mb Me AT NG 5) 083 45iness will be (07 • Saturday, 24 March g where Association bus ast and the annual meetin akf bre y onl hip ers mb invited to a me ss casual. and spouses are discussed. Attire is busine ll conference attendees 1130) General Session -A 45(08 rch Ma 24 ay, • Saturd ual. sion. Attire is business cas . Our keynote invited to the general ses Banquet is a formal dinner t que Ban s ard Aw 0) 210 15(19 rd Bureau, rch • Saturday, 24 Ma t Chief of the National Gua al Guardsman and curren ion Nat itary or Air as mil in Tex ss er dre form to speaker is s, and guests are asked Military personnel, spouse l. gye Len eph Jos l era Gen civilian formal attire. progress the . We are working hard to port of YOUR Association sup ed tinu con Texas National r all you on I appreciate the professional organizati ter and to ensure this is bet it ke you in Montgomery. ma see to ll tion we' ocia and Ass if you have any questions call se Plea of. t par a Guardsmen want to be FOR THE PRESIDENT:

Marvin E. Harris r NGAT Executive Directo

Want to help NGAT but can’t attend the NGAT Conference? Then donate an item to the Silent

Auction. Items can be dropped off at the NGAT Office any time before March 20, 2018. Homemade items are always welcomed.

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GUEST SPEAKER GENERAL JOSEPH L. LENGYEL CHIEF, NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU

General Joseph L. Lengyel serves as the 28th Chief of the National Guard Bureau and as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In this capacity, he serves as a military Advisor to the President, Secretary of Defense, National Security Council and is the Department of Defense’s official channel of communication to the Governors and State Adjutants General on all matter pertaining to the National Guard. He is responsible for ensuring that the more than 453,000 Army and Air National Guard personnel are accessible, capable and ready to protect the homeland and to provide combat ready resources to the Army and Air Force. Prior to his current assignment, General Lengyel served as the Vice Chief, National Guard Bureau.

General Lengyel was commissioned in 1981 through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at University of North Texas. He served in various operational and staff assignments, primarily as an F-16 Instructor Pilot and Weapons Officer. His experience in the F-16 includes tours in Air Combat Command, Pacific Air Forces, United States Air Forces in Europe and the Texas Air National Guard. He has commanded a fighter squadron, operations group, air expeditionary group and the Air National Guard Readiness Center.

General Lengyel is a command pilot with more than 3,000 flying hours primarily in the F-16. Additionally, General Lengyel served as the Senior United States Defense Official; Chief, Office of Military Cooperation; and Defense Attaché, Cairo, United States Central Command, Cairo, Egypt.

General Lengyel holds a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of North Texas in Denton and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

General Lengyel’s military service in Texas include the following:

• March, 1982-March, 1983: Student, undergraduate pilot training, Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas • S eptember, 1991-September, 1996: Instructor Pilot Flight Examiner and Weapons Officer, 182nd Fighter Squadron, Texas Air National Guard, Kelly Air Force Base, Texas • S eptember, 1996-June, 1997: Commander, 149th Operations Support Flight, 149th Operations Group, Kelly Air Force Base, Texas • June, 1997-October, 1998: Operations Officer, 182nd Fighter Squadron, Kelly Air Force Base, Texas • October, 1998-October, 1999: Commander, 182nd Fighter Squadron, Kelly Air Force Base, Texas • October, 1999-February, 2002: Commander, 149th Operations Group, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas • February, 2002-June, 2004: Vice Commander, 149th Fighter Wing, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas Lengyel’s wife, Sally, is a former Air Force officer. They have three children — Michael, who’s serving in the Air Force; Joe; and Katie. Lengyel’s brother Greg is a major general in the Air Force, serving as deputy commanding general of Joint Special Operations Command.

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H CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS H “BELIEVE IN YOURSELF” AT THE 59th ANNUAL NGAT CONFERENCE HELD MARCH 23-25, 2018 AT THE LA TORRETTA LAKE RESORT & SPA IN MONTGOMERY, TEXAS. REGISTRATION (ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES MARCH 16, 2018) Basic Registration fee is $15.00 per NGAT member/Guest, $30.00 per Non-NGAT member/Guest

MEAL PACKAGES (All meal packages include the basic registration fee) NGAT Life Member/Guest Meal Package . . . . . . . . . . . . Registration fee is $115 NGAT Annual Member/Guest Meal Package . . . . . . . . Registration fee is $140 Non-NGAT Member/Guest Meal Package . . . . . . . . . . Registration fee is $165 A $20 late fee will be added to all registrations received after 28 Feb 2018.

HOTEL • La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa, 600 La Torretta Boulevard, Montgomery, Texas 77356 • Make your reservations directly with the hotel at: 936-448-4400 • Make sure to identify yourself as a member of the National Guard Association of Texas • Attendee Hotel rate: $125 single/double plus tax per night • Exhibitor Hotel rate: $145 single/double plus tax per night (If rooms are not available contact NGAT to get on the waiting list for rooms)

St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary Tour — Visit this sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and caring for non-releasable wolves and wolfdogs while providing them with a stable loving home. During the one-hour guided walking tour of the sanctuary you will learn all about wolves and wolfdogs, observe the animals, and learn their stories.

Miniature Golf Tournament — Enjoy an 18-hole miniature golf course filled with obstacles and unusual putting challenges. Prizes will be awarded to the top golfers.

Mardi Gras Casino Nights Welcome Party — The Welcome Party will feature great food, musical entertainment, photo booth and casino games for a fun-filled event of networking and socializing with friends. Casino games include blackjack, roulette, craps, and Texas Hold’em.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Spouses Luncheon on Saturday and learn how to make some killer salsa. Group will complete for best salsa. Registration fee includes lunch, entertainment and prizes.

Saturday Dinner — This year’s dinner speaker is General Joseph Lengyel, Chief of the National Guard Bureau who will speak on “Believing in Yourself.” NGAT will also present the Minuteman and Hospitality awards. After dinner, guests will have the opportunity to visit hospitality suites.

MARCH 23-25, 2018

ATTIRE NGAT Business Session: Business Casual NGAT Dinner: Army — Class A/Service Dress/Mess Dress; Air — Mess Dress/Service Dress. Civilians — Business Suit/ Evening Formal Wear. Spouses — After-Five Attire/Cocktail Attire

CONFERENCE OPTIONAL EVENTS Golf Tournament at La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa — Shotgun, Florida scramble with low net/low gross competition. The golf tournament is open to both registered and non-registered attendees of the conference.

Registration includes green fee, cart, continental breakfast, lunch, and award plaques.

The annual 5K Fun Run/Walk at La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa — Come enjoy a leisure run/walk on Friday morning. The registration fee includes wicking t-shirt and refreshments.

15th Annual Silent Auction — Bid on over 200 auction items and take advantage of some great bargains on gift baskets, jewelry, weekend getaways, and tickets to music, sports and other entertainment venues.

Donations for the auction are always accepted at the NGAT office or on site.

Wine Tasting — Sip, savor, relax and enjoy some exquisite Texas wines at our wine tasting.

Spirits Tasting — Savor the flavor of some Texas tequilas. Come learn a little about the history and production of Texas tequila and learn about the ways to enjoy this smooth and flavorful spirit.

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Hospitality Suites will be located throughout the La Torretta Resort and units will compete for “Best Hospitality Room” award.

The Life Member Hospitality Lounge — This year NGAT is proud to offer all association life members attending the conference with an opportunity to meet and socialize in your very own NGAT Life Member Lounge. Come and enjoy daily snacks and beverages with your fellow life members. Hours of operation will be listed on the program agenda.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast, fellowship and prayer during the NGAT Prayer Breakfast on Sunday morning.

For more information visit the NGAT website at www.NGAT.org.

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NGAT MEMBERS ATTENDED THE EANGUS AREA IV MID-WINTER ANNUAL MEETING IN SPRINGDALE, AR where details concerning the upcoming EANGUS Conference was discussed.

Pictured left to right are: MSG Norman Lloyd, NGAT Board of Directors; MSG (Ret) Deena Mullins, Trident University; CSM (Ret) Donna Balderston, NGAT Board of Directors; MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga, NGAT Membership Director; and CSM (Ret) Mark Weedon, Former Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas National Guard.

SOLDIERS WITH B TROOP, 1ST SQUADRON, 124TH CAVALRY REGIMENT, along with air assault qualified OC/Ts from 1st Battalion, 360th Infantry Regiment, TF Warhawg, and a flight crew and CH47 Chinook from Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, conducted sling load training at McGregor Range, N.M., Jan. 25, 2018. The training was conducted in preparation for 1st Squadron, 124th Cavalry Regiment’s upcoming deployment to Egypt in support of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) mission.

MAJ GEN DAVID MCMINN, COMMANDER, TXANG, poses for a photo before having breakfast with the Sons of the American Revolution at the George Washington International Bridge Ceremony Breakfast in Laredo, Texas.

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COL (RET) JIM STRYKER (CENTER), Chairmen of the Texas War Memorial Foundation addresses the crowd as they unveiled “The Price of Liberty” Memorial Statue at the Texas Capitol, on December 2, 2017. The monument is to honor service members from all branches of service, and their families, who served in the Global War on Terror.

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LTC RANDAL WRIGHT PRESENTS MSG MOHAMMAD QURESHI with the Honorable Order of St. Michael during his recent retirement ceremony. MSG Qureshi retires from the National Guard with 34 plus years of military service. (Photo by CDT Sarah Nichols)

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LTC CHRISTOPHER MILLER (LEFT) AND CSM MARIUS PUSAR OF 1-124TH CAVALRY REGIMENT uncase the battalion colors during the Task Force Sinai, Transfer of Authority ceremony where they assumed command authority of the mission from the Massachusetts National Guard.

A MEMBER OF 3-144TH INF RGMT ASSIGNED TO COMBINED JOINT TASK FORCE — HORN OF AFRICA practices the Objective Bull, a task that requires the evacuation and treatment of a casualty, in preparation for an Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) evaluation at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.

(Photo by SSG Timothy Moore)

SPC CARLEY STONE (LEFT) AND PFC JOHN PARKER (FAR RIGHT), proudly stand at attention as they prepare to receive a coin for excellence from the Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel Dailey at Camp Lemonnier. Both Soldiers are members of HHC 3-144th Inf Rgmt, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa.

IN MID-FEBRUARY, NGAT MEMBERS HIT CAPITOL HILL AT THE ANNUAL EANGUS LEGISLATIVE WORKSHOP to do business for our members. Pictured left to right are: SSG Mireya Cruz; CSM (Ret) Donna Balderston; CCMSgt (Ret) Priscilla Leger, NGAT President Elect; and SMSgt (Ret) Earnest Leger.

ON FEBRUARY 8, 2018 THE CAISSON DELIVERED THE BODY OF LT GEN DANIEL JAMES III to his final resting place in Arlington National Cemetery. James was the first African-American director of the Air National Guard and former Texas National Guard adjutant general. James 71, died Aug 1. (Photo courtesy of the National Guard Bureau)

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR MILITARY STUDENTS Southern New Hampshire University is proud to be the Worldwide Education Partner of the USO, supporting U.S. military service members and families at home and abroad through affordable, transfer-friendly online education.

Here’s how SNHU can help you prepare for your future: • 200+ online degree programs, from IT to business, that position you for the career you want • Flexible online courses, so you can study whenever and wherever military life takes you • Military advisors, including veterans and military spouses, to help ease the transition from military to civilian life • Discounts of up to 30 percent for National Guard and Reserve members toward online degrees

Find your online degree program today at snhu.edu/military

NONPROFIT | ACCREDITED | 85 YEARS SERVING THE MILITARY

Thank you to our NGAT PARTNERS PLATINUM ESS, Inc. LiteFighter Systems, LLC. USAA

GOLD

CORPORATE MEMBERS

GEICO StandardAero

BeaverFit Benchmade Knife Company

SILVER ADS, Inc. AM General General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Kipper Tool Company Lista/Vidmar Otis Defense URETECK USA

BRONZE Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) American Military University BAE Systems, Inc. Danner Galls Gerber InterConnect-Wiring Lockheed Martin Navy Federal Credit Union Oakley Raytheon Robertson Fuel Systems Smartronix, Inc.

Boots to Journeys, LLC. Breezer Holding, LLC. Caylym Technologies Grand Canyon University Kimball Midwest Pond & Company Revision Military Rocky Brands SOI, Inc. Trident University International Unifire UT Dallas Center for Brain Health

Current as of Mar 1, 2018

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Breakout Sessions Bucking the Trends — Charting Your Own Financial Course

Federal Resume Writing

presented by LTC (Ret) Joseph “JJ” Montanaro

presented by Robert Newsom

Whether you’re on the fast track to financial security or stumbling to find your way, this session will provide insights on what’s happening around you and how you can use today’s trends to map out your personal plan. USAA scans the landscape of personal finance and shares the good, bad and ugly.

Creating a federal resume that brings your qualifications to life and shows that you are a perfect fit for the job can be a challenge. Let us show you how your skills, experience, training and education can match the employer’s needs.

Career Transition presented by Col (Ret) John DiPiero

This session will be focused on recommendations to consider during your transition from the military to the civilian world.

Topics will include timing, networking, resumes, understanding the corporate culture and interview tips.

Hazlewood Act presented by Yvette Gonzalez

What are the eligibility requirements and application process to apply for educational assistance under the Hazelwood Act. How do I transfer educational benefits to my children under the Hazelwood Legacy Act? Come learn how to do this.

M-Day Retirement 101 — Army presented by CPT Ramon Filoteo

Planning to retire soon? Come learn the basics of what you need to start doing to prepare for retirement. The do and don’ts of preparing for this next step in your military career.

Resiliency Seminar

Civilian Resume Writing

presented by CPT Rita Miller

presented by Annette Robinson

Come learn skills and coping mechanisms to help improve you and your family’s quality of life.

Come learn how to write a resume and tailor your military training into terms the civilian world can understand.

Texas License to Carry

Cybersecurity and You

presented by SGT (Ret) Huard B. Harral

Join us and learn how to protect yourself and your family from cyber threats.

We’ll cover the basic on everything from social media safety, common scams, and protecting yourself while travelling. Leave with easy to use techniques and tools for the whole family!

This is the Texas License to Carry a Handgun class. Class material consist of the Texas Handgun Laws, Texas Penal Code, Use of Force/Deadly Force and Non-Violent Dispute Resolution. This does not include range firing.

Cybersecurity 101: Protecting your business

presented by LTC (Ret) Joseph “JJ” Montanaro

Come and join our industry expert as we go through the basic steps your business should be taking to protect your clients and assets. Let us filter out the thousands of services and products to drill down to security at it’s most basic level.

Hiring and Managing Technical Talent

Do you work with or manage specialty talent? Does your employee speak more in binary than English? Are your company’s hiring advertisements not getting you the right field of applicants? Come joint our team of industry experts from the IT, Recruiting, and Cybersecurity Fields as we talk through the challenges of hiring and retaining technical talent.

Fed Up! Bringing a Lawsuit to Protect Your Rights presented by COL (Ret) Doug O’Connell

Lots of people threaten lawsuits, but when can you really sue someone? Can you represent yourself or do you have to hire an Attorney? How long does it take? Do you have to pay money upfront? Can I sue my employer under USERRA? Sexual harassment, whistle blower retaliation, personal injury cases and more. Learn some of the legal aspects involved in protecting your rights.

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The New Blended Military Retirement and You — To BRS or Not to BRS A new year, a new retirement system. A USAA Certified Financial Planner provides an overview of the new Blended Retirement System with a focus on special considerations important to those serving in the Guard. He will focus on how the new system compares to the High-3 system, when it could make sense to switch and answer your questions on the substantial changes.

Post 9/11 GI Bill presented by Yvette Gonzalez

What are the transfer eligibility requirements for the Post 9/11 GI Bill? How do you use milConnect to manage your benefits and records through a convenient self-service portal? How do you use the Veterans On-Line Application portal? Get a tutorial on these programs.

VA and NG Benefits presented by Jessica Brynestad

Learn from a Transition Assistance Advisors how to navigate benefits and entitlements based upon your service contributions.

AFBA and 5Star Life are proud to support NGAT and its members

The SSLI program provides a member death benefit with no combat or terrorism exclusions.

Contact the National Guard Association of Texas at www.NGAT.org or (800) 252-NGAT to learn more.

Photo by Maj. Randall Stillinger / 36th Infantry Division (TXARNG)

Member death benefits provided by AFBA are underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company (a Lincoln, NE company) with an administrative office at 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, TX 78731 This member benefit is offered only to its National Guard Association members in the state of Texas.

Policy series GNG-060103 NGATX ADR0218

2/18

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Annual Report 2016-2017

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.

NGAT Family, I am excited to introduce the NGAT Annual Report inside this issue of the magazine. I believe this format holds many advantages for our organization. In the past, we have typically provided information regarding key aspects of NGAT’s past year in the conference program. Publishing in this manner limited our distribution to only those who attended the annual conference and did not reach those members who were not able to attend the conference. By providing an annual report that is mailed out with the quarterly magazine, a greater membership audience is reached. Inside, we have shared information on NGAT’s mission and history while also summarizing our achievements in the past year to members, stakeholders, media and our community. The Annual Report will be used as a marketing tool, promoting the great work that NGAT provides to the Texas Military Forces. It will be used to provide information to existing and future corporate sponsors, potential donors for the Texas National Guard Foundation, and other stakeholders. In an effort to continue to support NGAT’s vision to become one of the Nation’s premier military Associations, a formally structured annual report will be a great tool to communicate NGAT’s impact.

As I reflect back on our progress this past year, I am proud of all that NGAT has accomplished. In 2016/17, we were able to assist Soldiers and Airmen in multiple areas. Through the newly established Texas National Guard Foundation, NGAT helped ease the burden for approximately 20 Soldiers/Airmen and their families. What a great feeling to be able to help out our own “family” in a time of need! Additionally, we continued to provide support to the families of Soldiers who have passed away by providing death benefits through our State Sponsored Life Insurance program. This is an important program that adds significant assistance in a time of great need for our members. NGAT has paid a total of $536,500 in claims to our members since April 2017. NGAT provided support to the TAG’s legislative efforts through indirect support in Washington D.C. and at our own state Capitol here in Austin. Our legislative program continues to evolve as we move in a positive direction. NGAT is providing more member programs as well. This past year, we offered a “bat tour” in Austin free for life members, with food and beverages. The event was well received by those in attendance so look for more events like this in the coming years. We are rolling out other member features as well to continue to add value to your membership.

I am excited and encouraged as I look to the upcoming year. In order to continue to grow and serve the members of the Texas Military Forces, NGAT needs your help! Recruit a friend to become an NGAT member; sign up for a committee to help the advancement of our Association; donate to the Texas National Guard Foundation to assist your fellow Soldiers and Airmen in need; and make plans to attend an Annual Conference. Together we can help our Association continue to grow and become even greater than it is today.

Best, Kenn White NGAT President

NGAT VALUES

S E R V I C E

upport

Create programs and benefits for our members and families that improve their value of life.

ngage

Address issues that affect the quality of life for Texas Military Forces service members by engaging state and national constituents.

esponsibility

Put Texas Military Forces service members and families first, through open engagements and feedback to determine their needs.

isionary

Plan for the future growth of NGAT by establishing long and near term goals to create a relevant and recognized Association.

nspire

Promote the good works of the Association to inspire members to take an active role in NGAT through a sincere desire to serve on the Board or as a committee member.

ommitment

Invest our efforts and attention toward members of the Texas Military Forces and their families by making them our number one focus in everything we do.

xcellence

Maintain high standards and professionalism that strengthen the overall appeal and prestige of the Association both internally and externally.

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

HOW NGAT SERVES...

LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY

Military personnel may not actively participate in partisan political activities, making it difficult to rally together and speak with one voice on important issues facing the Texas Military Forces. The National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) appears before various state and national legislative committees to speak on behalf of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Texas Military Forces.

STATE SPONSORED LIFE INSURANCE

For almost 60 years, NGAT has been serving Texas Air and Army Service members by providing both Group Term and Whole Life Insurance. Free life Insurance for one year is provided to new Enlistees of the Texas Army National Guard and Air National Guard and they can continue coverage after the one year free trial with a low cost allotment. Soldiers and Airmen can purchase Group Life Insurance coverage ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.

TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD FOUNDATION

Contributions to The Texas National Guard Foundation from the private and public sector provide support for events and activities in support of military service members in the State of Texas that foster professional development of members of the Texas Military Department by sponsoring conferences, forums, research, and meetings to educate the general public concerning the role and responsibilities of the Texas Military Department. The foundation can also assist service members in a time of need during natural disasters or other significant events.

NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

The NGAT Educational Foundation’s mission is to exclusively further the educational opportunities of young people and to carry on a support of education, literacy or scientific activities including the granting of educational scholarships to members of NGAT and or the children of members of NGAT. This past year the foundation gave out seven scholarships totaling $13,250. Since, the Foundation’s inception it has awarded $454,000 in scholarships to deserving men, women, and dependents of the Texas Military Department.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Each year, NGAT hosts the Annual Conference to allow Texas Military Forces service members and their spouses to come together for a time of learning, networking, and fun. NGAT hosts the conference at various cities across the great state of Texas. This year’s 59th annual conference will be held at La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa in Montgomery on March 23-25, 2018. We hope you can join us!

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

Where our revenue comes from: Interest - 1% Advertising/Misc - 2% Rental Income - 5% Membership - 7%

Conference - 15%

Insurance - 70%

Where our money goes: Human Resources 48%

Annual Conference 21%

Association Management 7%

Insurance 4%

Property Tax 4%

Facilities 3%

Communications 3%

Office Administration 3%

Legislative 2%

Military Affairs 2%

Other 2%

VISION

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

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

FUNDRAISING AND SUPPORTING EFFORTS

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 1st Annual Bat Cruise Free for Life members 54 attendees Annual Conference Professional Development Forum 701 attendees Resiliency Support 100+ participants SRP/FMR NGAT Open House 60 attendees

NGAT Educational Foundation Golf Tournament .....................................................................$1,000 Silent Auction for the NGAT Educational Foundation ..........................................$5,100 Texas National Guard Foundation supported 20 service members through donations received from the following: EANGUS donations ................................................... $14,578 NGAUS donations .........................................................$3,048 NGAT member donations ...........................................$2,441 Total Donations $20,067

518 327

6,737 5,013 56 1,724

INSURANCE PROGRAM

New applicants Lost policies

(cancellation due to turning 65, bad addresses, direct bill non-pay, out of Guard and never made a payment, declined by the insurance company, and per request.)

Total State Sponsored Life Insurance Policies Active Guard – Both Army and Air (Only 11 active Air policies) Free $1,000 program for new recruits (Only 10 active Air policies) Direct billed policies

$536,500 total for 31 claims paid since 1 April 2017

4

14

Group Term (SSLI) Only

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

Group Term (SSLI) & Active Guard Free $1,000 Policy

13

Active Guard Free $1,000 Policy Only

NGAT MEMBERSHIP The National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) appears before various state and national legislative committees to speak on behalf of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Texas Military Forces (TMF). The greater our membership numbers, the more influence NGAT can bring to the political decisionmakers and continue the fight on top issues affecting Texas Military Forces members and their families. NGAT makes a real difference in the fight for your benefits and your future as a member of the Texas Military Forces.

NGAT Membership Report

NGAT’s membership this past year has been very slow but steady, however with the recent reintroduction of the NGAT Life Membership for $100.00 our life membership has received a tremendous increase. Currently our membership stands at 31,344 but with only 5% of our membership coming from currently serving members of the Texas National Guard or Texas State Guard we really need our members help to get the word out about what NGAT does for the Texas Guard.

This past year our emphasis has been on our members. Be it a brand-new member or a seasoned veteran. Our goal has been to give back to our members a value in their membership because membership should have its privileges. This past year in October we hosted a Bat Cruise in Austin, Texas that was well attended and was offered free to Life Members. We also changed the pricing for this year’s conference to give discounts 2016-2017 New Memberships to our members attending the conference.

At the NGAT Conference we will be giving out our new life membership card to our life members in attendance as well as offering them a special life member lounge to sit back and relax in. In the coming year the membership committee will be working closely with marketing to find better way to get the word out about NGAT and what we do. We will also revisit the search for a new membership database and website.

31 NGAUS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS 7 NGAUS LIFE MEMBERSHIPS 151 EANGUS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS 18 EANGUS LIFE MEMBERSHIPS 151 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS 137 NEW LIFE MEMBERS

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

TAPS As of 2-22-18 SSG John B. Alexander Jr. Life Member #7936 Forney

SSgt Ralph V. Eckert Life Member #11927 Manor

SFC Tommy A. Hawkins Life Member #8112 Weatherford

Maj John C. LeBlanc Life Member #2519 Dallas

CMSgt Gonda E. Moncada Life Member #19524 Palacios

Mr. Donald L. Schoppe Life Member #215 Pearland

CMSgt Paul Algueseva Jr. Life Member #8104 San Antonio

Mr. David C. Espiritu Life Member #5442 San Antonio

MAJ Billy J. Hayworth Retired Amarillo

SFC Phillip E. Leeman HHC 111TH ENGR BN Abilene

Lt Col Herbert A. Mueller Life Member #20603 San Antonio

Mr. James M. Schuelke Life Member #3904 Bastrop

LTC Chester “Moody” Anderson Life Member #913 Austin

MSG Donald H. Fiero Life Member #788 Leander

Mr. Henry J. Henke Jr. Life Member #3085 Hallettsville

MSgt Kenneth C. Leu Life Member #8355 Texas City

MSgt Louis Mutina Jr. Life Member #10905 Pearland

CSM John D. Schwausch Life Member #6563 Lago Vista

COL George H. Fischer Life Member #3858 San Antonio

Mr. Henry D. Hughes Life Member #4529 Carol

SGT Allyson M. Niksich DET 2 CO B REC & RET CMD Dallas

PV2 Ikeem A. Shabazz HHC 372nd CCSB Fort Worth

1SG Clinton R. “Bob” Fitch Sr. Life Member #6146 Grand Prairie

Lt Gen Daniel James III Life Member #10897 Alexandria, VA Former Adjutant General of Texas

SFC Michael W. Lindsey Life Member #33051 HHC, 176th ENGR BN Keene

Mr. Robert “Bob” Owens Retired Granbury

MSgt Billy R. Shepard Retired Jewett

CW4 William R. Peebles Life Member #2476 Burnet

MSG Patrick H. Shirling Life Member #14855 Houston

PVT Seth L. Pfizenmaier HHB Signal Co, 36th ID Georgetown

SSG Paul E. Skillern Life Member #18690 Dallas

PFC Robert S. Prichard CO B 1-143rd INF RGMT Dallas

CMSgt Arthur C. Speer Life Member #8820 San Antonio

CSM Barney Ransberger Life Member #868 Coleman

MG Elmer Lewis Stephens Life Member #11539 Dallas Former Commander 49th Armored Division

Mr. Jose Ansiso Life Member #4508 Weslaco SGM Frank V. Ballew Life Member #10012 Lewisville SGT Douglas E. Baucum Life Member #3794 Ozark, AL MSgt Joseph E. Benavides Life Member #6119 San Antonio Mr. Ricardo Benitez Life Member #8471 Weslaco Mr. Richard A. Blaney Life Member #12411 College Station Mr. Bernard B. Botkin Jr. Life Member #3336 Gatesville Mr. Marvin C. Bowles Life Member #2054 Cleburne

Maj Gen Belisario D J. Flores Life Member #1321 San Antonio Former Assistant Adjutant General – Air SPC Shane R. Francis 712th MP GUARD CO (REAR) Freeport SPC Franko S. Franco CO E (-) 2-149th AV (REAR) Fort Worth Mr. Brent K. Golightley Life Member #18052 Grand Prairie SSG Joseph E. Goodin Life Member #12464 Jacksonville, FL

Mr. Antonio G. Castillo Life Member #4807 San Antonio

SPC Scout B. Goodwin SIG CO HHB 36ID (NONEPLRS) Omaha

MSG Joe A. Clark Life Member #802 Big Spring

MSG Christopher R. Goss 136th MEB (REAR) Benton, AR

Mr. Richard H. Clothier Life Member #2574 Fort Worth

CSM Mikeal L. Graham Life Member #4838 Sherman Former President of NGAT

CW4 George O. Conn Life Member #2100 Cedar Hill SMSgt Jesus Cruz Life Member #13658 San Antonio 1SG Braden R. Dreibrodt Life Member #17275 Odessa

MSgt Robert S. Hall Life Member #19318 Austin Mr. David B. Hartman Life Member #967 Hampton, VA

Mr. Dennis Johnson, Sr. Retired Floresville

SFC Larry J. Logan Life Member #28955 San Antonio Mr. James A. Lowry Life Member #26218 Mesquite

1SG Olan “Gene” E. Johnson Life Member #785 San Antonio

LTC Carl B. Lutrick Life Member #27322 HHC, 3-141st INF RGMT Pflugerville

SGT Randel M. Johnson Life Member #29345 Wichita Falls

CSM Themis J. Maloukis Life Member #411 San Antonio

COL Hayden E. Jones Life Member #1322 Port Neches

Mr. Ralph W. Manning Life Member #17040 Yoakum

SPC James H. Jones Retired Amarillo

Mr. Michael D. Maroney Retired San Antonio

SFC Teresa A. Jones HHC 1-141st INF RGMT Luling

SMSgt Karen S. Marshall Life Member #32562 Bulverde

Mr. Willery J. Jones Jr. Life Member #10304 Houston

SSG Susan K. Martin DET 1 CO A REC & RET CMD Kennedale

CMSgt George A. Kalinoski Life Member #2950 Saint Hedwig

SPC Stefanie Massey DET 1 CO A REC & RET CMD Kennedale

SPC Joseph D. KauntzeCockburn CO D, 3-141st INF RGMT Houston

Mr. Rodney L. McElreath Life Member #8405 Fritch

SSG William E. King Life Member #16426 Amarillo SSG Eliazar T. Leal Life Member #8014 Weslaco

Mr. Willie R. Reaux Life Member #307 Port Arthur 1SG Dan R. Reid Life Member #27649 Lubbock

CW4 Richard “Rick” M. Tanner Life Member #26787 JFHQ Wills Point

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

SMSgt Charles E. Trump Life Member #13161 Grand Prairie

SSG David Rocha Retired Meridian, ID

SPC Osvaldo J. Valenzuela C BTRY 3-133rd FA BN El Paso

Mr. Jerry F. Saffel Life Member #2499 Rule

SMSgt Marion “Bud” Wade Life Member #3834 Bedford

SFC Curtis N. Sanford Retired Jacksonville

SFC Archie W. Watley Life Member #16320 McGregor

SGT Donald P. Scallan Life Member #28987 Huntsville

SPC Sebastian J. Weiskopf Co A 1-141st INF RGMT Houston

MSgt Dominic A. Scaramozi III Life Member #20181 San Antonio

SFC Donald E. Wollek Life Member #14336 Copperas Cove

Col Walter P. Meyler Associate Life Member #99 Taylor Lake Village CMSgt Herbert K. Mitchell Life Member #8367 Houston

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.

NGAT Annual Report 2016-17

Your uniform has a lot of pockets.

OUR BANK FITS IN ONE. • Free ATM use nationwide. We refund other banks’ ATM fees.1 • Military payday a day early with direct deposit.

• Quickly pay money to others with the USAA App. 2 It’s free and easy.

Visit USAA.COM/BANKING or call 800-531-8521 No Federal endorsement of sponsor is intended. 1USAA Bank does not charge a fee for the first 10 ATM withdrawals. Subsequent withdrawals will be charged $2 each except when made at any USAA Bank-owned ATM. USAA Bank also refunds up to $15 in other banks’ ATM usage fees for transactions at ATMs in the United States. The ATM fee refund does not apply for the month in which the account is closed. The ATM fee refund does not apply to USAA Cashback Rewards Checking. A 1% foreign transaction fee applies to withdrawals outside the United States. 2Payments can only be sent to domestic bank accounts. Deposits may not be available for immediate withdrawal. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. Bank products provided by USAA Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC. © 2017 USAA. 242659-0617-G

LEADERSHIP CHANGES

BG Patrick Hamilton

BG Sean Ryan

BG Charles Aris

36th Infantry Division Deputy Commander Maneuver

Assistant Deputy Adjutant General Army

Commander 71st Troop Command

BG Greg Chaney

Col Thomas Suelzer

LTC Zebadiah Miller

T:11”

S:11”

B:11.75”

Director of the Joint Staff

Commander 136th Airlift Wing

CCMSgt Michael E. Cornitius

Senior Enlisted Advisor Texas Air National Guard

Chief Master Sergeant Michael E. Cornitius Jr. began his new role as Command Chief Master Sergeant of the Texas Air National Guard during a Change of Responsibility ceremony Feb. 10, 2018, at Camp Mabry, Texas. For the past three years, Cornitius served as Command Chief Master Sergeant of the 147th Attack Wing at Ellington Field, Texas. His role now expands as the senior enlisted advisor to the commander of the Texas Air National Guard.

“This is a great opportunity to represent all Airmen of the Texas Air National Guard by providing them with the resources they need,” said Cornitius. “I look forward to assisting our leadership in making sure we’re developing our Airmen and giving them what they need to complete their mission.”

Chief Cornitius is the second consecutive Command Chief Master Sergeant to come from the 147th Attack Wing. Chief Master Sgt. Marlon K. Nation, the previous Command Chief Master Sergeant for the Texas Air National Guard, welcomed Cornitius’ new perspectives. H

Commander 111th Engineer Battalion

CSM John Sampa

12th Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard CSM John Sampa has been selected to be the next Senior Enlisted Advisor of the Army National Guard. Since March 2017, CSM Sampa has been the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Texas Military Department — made up of the Texas Army National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard and the Texas State Guard.

Sampa started in his new position on Feb 14 where he will serve a threeyear assignment in Washington, D.C. as the Command Sergeant Major for the entire Army National Guard. He will be the twelfth person to have the assignment and the first African-American.

“I’m very appreciative of it. It’s a true honor,” Sampa said after he was hand-picked for the position by his new boss, Lt. Gen. Timothy J. Kadavy, director of the Army National Guard.

As senior enlisted advisor, he will be the “eyes and ears” for Lt. Gen. Kadavy and will keep him appraised on anything pertaining to Army National Guard enlisted troops and their families. H

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H

A R O U N D

T E X A S

Husband and Wife Get Promoted Together A pair of Gunfighter spouses, MSgt Angela and Nick Jenkins, were promoted to the rank of senior master sergeant in a joint ceremony held at the Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The pair met at the unit as airmen in 2005 and were later married in 2009. Both say their career promotions have followed similar time frames and usually wind up within a short span of one another.

2017 High Flyer of the Year Lt Col Bryan Carlson, an F-16 Fighting Falcon instructor pilot assigned to the Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing, poses with his 2017 High Flyer of the Year award (for F-16 pilots) at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Kelly Field Annex, Texas, Nov. 30, 2017. The 149th FW nominated Carlson for this annual recognition that pays tribute to those exceptional individuals or teams whose efforts produce highly qualified aircrew for the Air Force. (Photo by TSgt Mindy Bloem)

Texas State Guard Honors OCS Graduates BBQ Winners At the annual Holiday Open House held by the Texas Military Department a BBQ cook-off was conducted and we caught up with two of the winners after the awards ceremony. Pictured left is CW2 David Thompson who won 1st Place in Pork and 1st Place in Brisket and SGM Kenneth Loftin (right) who won 2nd Place in Brisket and 3rd Place in Pork. Congratulations to all the winners.

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Congratulations to the newest Officers of the Texas State Guard pictured left to right: 2LT Scott Pustejovsky, 19th Regiment, Army Component Command; Ensign Phillip Newsum, 1st Battalion, Texas Maritime Regiment; 2LT F. Daniel Crespo, 19th Regiment, Army Component Command; 2LT Stephen Coder, Headquarters, Army Component Command; and 2LT Ambrose Ayati, 4th Regiment, Army Component Command. At the Officer Candidate School Graduation ceremony 2LT Francisco Crespo was awarded the Physical Fitness Award and the Colonel Thomas Hamilton Distinguished Honor Graduate Award while Ensign Phillip Newsum, received the Academic Excellence Award and Leadership Excellence Award. (Photos by Capt Shawn James)

W I T H

T H E

G U A R D

H

Realistic Training Simulated

Texas State Guard Prepares For Annual Training The Texas State Guard Army Component conducted a Rehearsal of Concept (ROC) drill to prepare for Annual Training in April, 2018. During this tabletop exercise at Camp Mabry regimental commanders were able to visualize the mission by responding to simulated requests for shelter and emergency tracking network teams at various locations on the Texas map. Small cubes, which were identified as shelter teams, tracking network teams, and other support personnel were moved around on the map to simulate the deployment and movement of Texas State Guard teams. The ROC drill assists with the planning and execution of complex events and provide more information on the commander’s intent and guidance for the mission. (Photo by the Texas State Guard)

Fallen Soldier Remembered in Fredericksburg A memorial plaque is now permanently on displayed at the entrance to the Armory in Fredericksburg, Texas honoring SSG Christopher Staats. Staats was killed in action in 2009 in the Wardak Province, Afghanistan, while stationed in the Ghazni Province. Staats was one of 12 members of the core component of the Agribusiness Development Team. The 12 members were chosen because of their practical experience in the agriculture or animal husbandry. Staats grew up in Fredericksburg and graduated from Fredericksburg High School in 1996. He joined the Texas Army National Guard while in high school and graduated from Texas A&M University in 2002.

TSgt Ryan Erickson, 147th Attack Wing JTAC Instructor, simulates the role of an A-10 Warthog pilot during an attack on enemy vehicles directed by a JTAC in the Air National Guard Advanced Joint Terminal Attack Controller Training System (AAJTS) February 10, 2018, at Ellington Field JRB, Houston, Texas. Erickson provided the JTAC realistic effects from a simulated aircraft. (Photo by SrA Kara Additon)

Checking Aircrew Health Maj Woo Moon, a flight doctor with the 136th Medical Group, conducts a physical examination for Capt Josh Taylor, an aircraft commander with the 181st Airlift Squadron during drill weekend at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas. Moon ensures the continued health of the aircrew members. (Photo by TSgt Lynn Means) W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 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 |

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“AMU HELPED ME REACH HIGHER” AMU ALUM AND VETERAN WES O’DONNELL

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. Learn from 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 based on 2016 data from the Defense and Homeland Security departments.

PROTECT IAFTS

INSTALL TIME

SINGLE INTERNAL AUXILIARY FUEL TANK SYSTEM

10

Min.

USABLE FUEL PER TANK

193

gallons

For more than 40 years, The National Guard has trusted Robertson for helicopter fuel systems with uncompromised safety performance.

Robertson continues its long standing support and history of Extending The Reach Of Freedom.

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H Winter 2018

480.337.7050 | robertsonfuelsystems.com

SAVE THE DATE

EANGUS Conference 2018 August 11-16, 2018 | Charleston, WV EANGUS Membership — In order to become an EANGUS member you must be a member of NGAT. EANGUS membership is open to enlisted members of the Texas Army & Air National Guard. Annual membership is $11.00 per year or a life membership is $110.00. A small price to pay for a lifetime of support.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR EANGUS MEMBERS & THEIR DEPENDENTS The following scholarships opportunities are available to EANGUS members and/or their dependents. Unless otherwise stated, the application deadline is June 1, 2018. For more information go to www.eangus.org.

CSM VIRGIL R. WILLIAMS SCHOLARSHIP — A scholarship of $2,000 will be awarded to EANGUS members or dependents. Total number of scholarships will be based on contributions to We Care for America.

This scholarship is for an undergraduate degree.

PATRIOTS SCHOLARSHIP — WCFA is proud to present the newest $1,000 scholarship. This scholarship would be derived from contributions from individuals, not corporate donations. The number of scholarships will be based on contributions.

AMERICAN INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY — AIU will award up to six (6) individual scholarships throughout the 2018 calendar year to qualified EANGUS members or an immediate family member (spouse, child, or step child) of a current paid EANGUS member, immediate family, or an Auxiliary member.

AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM — APUS will provide one (1) full-academic undergraduate scholarship (tuition only) and (1) fullacademic graduate scholarship (tuition only) for the EANGUS Members, immediate family, and Auxiliary members whose application and essay best demonstrates the need for educational support through this scholarship.

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY — GCU has developed the American Hero’s Scholarship* for our military and their family. This scholarship covers your entire tuition on a course by course basis in your selected degree program.

EANGUS members, dependents, and Auxiliary members are eligible to apply.

GRANTHAM UNIVERSITY — Grantham to award a full undergraduate or graduate scholarship to the University. The Grantham Salutes EANGUS Scholarship is valued at up to $39,741, and covers tuition costs, required textbooks, software and fees. The scholarship value depends on the degree selected and credits transferred.

SONORAN DESERT INSTITUTE — The SDI scholarship provides full tuition and fees each semester for the Advanced Gunsmithing Certificate program to one recipient annually.

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX — Through this scholarship program, three (3) full-tuition scholarships will be offered. Each scholarship will allow a prospective student the opportunity to complete an undergraduate or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix. Recipients may choose to attend a University of Phoenix campus or online.

COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY — CTU will award up to two (2) individual scholarships during the 2018 calendar year to qualified EANGUS members, immediate family, and Auxiliary members. CTU will provide a fulltuition academic Undergraduate, Graduate, or Doctorate Scholarship.

W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 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 |

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H VETERAN I.D. CARDS H

VETERAN ID CARDS AVAILABLE AT VA WEBSITE Veterans can once again apply for identification cards through the Department of Veterans Affairs website, which had problems in December due to high volume when the application process began.

The cards are available at www.vets.gov/veteran-id-card/.

The purpose of the cards is to provide veterans with proof of their military service. They make it easier for veterans to receive discounts at restaurants and retail stores for good and services. They are more convenient than carrying around the DD-214 certificates, which contain personal information. This card does not replace the VA medical cards or the defense retiree cards.

The cards were approved by Congress in 2015. When they became available in December, the rush to apply for them crashed the VA’s website and the process was halted. The effort is back up and veterans will be asked to create an online account. Veterans who have already applied should begin receiving their cards in March.

Should I request a printed Veteran ID card? You do not need to request this card if you have one of these: Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC), or Department of Defense Identification Card — either a Common Access Card (CAC) or a Uniformed Services ID Card, or

State-issued ID (driver’s license) with a Veteran designation or a stateissued Veteran ID Card. Check with your state to see if they issue Veteran ID Cards.

You can use any of these cards to get the same discounts. If you already have one of them, you don’t need a VIC, but you can still apply for it if you’d like. If you don’t have one of these cards, you should request a Veteran ID Card. H

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SAVE THE DATE

NGAUS Annual Conference Aug 24-27, 2018 | New Orleans, LA ARE YOU INTERESTED IN TRANSPORTATION? If NGAT chartered a bus to New Orleans for the NGAUS Conference out of Austin would you be interested in attending? If so please send your name and phone number to MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga at tbz@ngat.org. NGAUS conference registration opens on the NGAT website in April.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR NGAUS MEMBERS & THEIR DEPENDENTS AFBA NGAUS LIFE MEMBER SCHOLARSHIP — NGAUS is pleased to announce the AFBA NGAUS Life Member Scholarship. Two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded in July to Active Life members of NGAUS or dependents of Active Life members seeking an undergraduate or graduate degree. The application period will close May 31.

GRANTHAM SCHOLARSHIP — NGAUS is partnering with Grantham University to award two full graduate scholarships. One scholarship is for an active NGAUS member and current Guardsman who is a commissioned or warrant officer ranked 0-5 and below. The second scholarship is for a spouse of an active member. Each scholarship is valued up to $14,200, and covers tuition costs, required textbooks, software and fees. The application period closes Aug. 4.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX NGAUS SCHOLARSHIP — NGAUS has teamed up with the University of Phoenix to offer three fulltuition master’s degree scholarships to association members who are current National Guardsmen in the rank of lieutenant colonel or below.

Commissioned and warrant officers only. The application period closes April 11.

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THE VAN HIPP HEROES SCHOLARSHIP FUND — Established in 2015, Van Hipp donates 100% of his proceeds from his new book, The New Terrorism: How to Fight It and Defeat It to The Van Hipp Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund which will award scholarships to Guardsmen wounded in action in the War on Terror.

The application period closes July 1.

LEONARDO DRS GUARDIAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND — Since September 11, 2001, nearly 800 Guardsmen have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terrorism. These heroes left behind more than 1,000 children. Established in 2011 and underwritten by Leonardo DRS, the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund provides college scholarships to the children of National Guardsmen who have been lost in service to our nation since 9/11. The application period closes June 30.

COL (Ret) Frank Zuniga Realtor ®/Veteran/Entrepreneur "Find out how you can use your home to build your wealth when you need to sell. Who doesn't want more money in their pocket?"

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W i n t e r 2 0 1 8 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 |

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COMMAND CHIEF NATION RETIRES

A LIFE OF SERVICE Original story by CW3 Janet Schmelzer

Recently MG Gerald R. “Jake” Betty, Commander of the Texas State Guard received a brevet promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General in honor of his retirement from military service.

Betty’s retirement was the culmination of 41 years of military service to Texas and the United States and three years as the commanding general of the Texas State Guard.

In 2006 Betty joined the Texas State Guard and served as the commander of the 8th Regiment, as a joint staff personnel and administration officer and as the commander of the Texas State Guard Army Component Command. He deployed to state active duty missions for hurricane Dean, Gustav, Dolly, Edouard and Ike. On Sept 1, 2014, he was promoted to major general and named the commanding general of the Texas State Guard.

During his tenure, Betty focused on strengthening the military doctrine, policies and procedures, training doctrine implementation and the readiness management system within the Texas State Guard. He also increased joint training between components and cooperation between the Texas State Guard and the Texas Military Department through joint training events and joint mission deployments.

During the retirement ceremony, Betty received the Texas Superior Service medal for his honorable state and federal service and superior performance in key leadership positions. H

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H Winter 2018

Maj Gen David McMinn, commander Texas Air National Guard, presents CCMSgt Marlon K. Nation, with a Certificate of Retirement at Nation’s retirement ceremony held at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. CCMSgt National has served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas Air National Guard since February 2015. During the ceremony Nation was also presented with the Legion of Merit and the Texas Superior Service Medal for his more than 40 years of military service in the U.S. Air Force and the Texas Air National Guard. H (Photo by SFC Malcolm McClendon)

A SHADOWBOX OF THANKS SMSgt Tommy Safford (right), an aircraft mechanic supervisor with the 136th Maintenance Group and MSgt Paul Meyer (center), a crew chief with the 136th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron presents SMSgt Joe Ritter, the quality assurance section chief for the 136th Maintenance Group with his new shadow box at his recent retirement ceremony at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, TX. The shadow box represented his accomplishments during his 36 years of military service. H (Photo by TSgt Lynn Means)

REMEMBERING THE PAST John Lehr, an original member of the 149th Fighter Wing from its activation in 1947 (then named the 182nd Fighter Squadron), spoke at the 149th Fighter Wing’s Gunfighter reunion dinner, and was honored as the Wing’s longest living retired member. Lehr retired in 1979 after 32 years of service. H

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H Winter 2018

PERIODICAL

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PLANNING CALENDAR (As of March 1, 2018)

2018 22

Mar

NGAT Board Meeting, Montgomery

23-25

Mar

59th Annual NGAT Conference, Montgomery

26

Mar

NGAT Conference Recovery (NGAT Office Closed)

30

Mar

Good Friday (Easter Holiday Observed)

28

May

Memorial Day (NGAT Office Closed)

14

Jun

U.S. Army Birthday/Flag Day

4

Jul

Independence Day (NGAT Office Closed)

11-16

Aug

EANGUS Conference, Charleston, WV

24-27

Aug

NGAUS Conference, New Orleans, LA

NGAT Board Meeting

(Check website for exact location/date)