Founded 1959 | Volume 61 | Number 4 | Winter 2021
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
Maj Gen Thomas M. Suelzer is promoted to Major General
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2021 NGAT Conference Information
MG Suetzer Promoted
Key Leadership Update
EANGUS MidWinter Update
2020-2021 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, TXANG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149th FW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147th ATKW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136th AW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retired Rep – Region I . . . . . . . . . . . . Retired Rep – Region II . . . . . . . . . . . . Retired Rep – Region III . . . . . . . . . . . Family Readiness Rep . . . . . . . . . . . . . Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Priscilla Leger Christopher McKeag Michael Wolff Bruce Robison Mireya Cruz Gerald Lorance Paul Cerniauskas Clinton Petty Rodney Kelley James Crady Jason Broyles Samantha Lewis Joshua Bain Toby Mendoza Christopher Gojanovich Vacant Lonnie Dunkin Chip Cranon Kyle Ames Nate Norton Richard Newby Guy Schultz Quentin Kimble Talia McKinnis Marvin Harris
CONTENTS p7
NGAT CONFERENCE GUEST SPEAKER
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DUTY | HONOR | TEXAS
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Submit articles and photos for the NGAT News Magazine to: ngatnews@ngat.org NGAT Home Page: www.ngat.org Executive Director: Marvin Harris – mharris@ngat.org Deputy Executive Director: Theresa Billeck-Zuniga – tbz@ngat.org Insurance Director: Kathy Gallatin – insurance@ngat.org Corporate Programs: Terri Marshall – tmarshall@ngat.org
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. POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT News, 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, Texas 78731-6308 MEMBERS MAY EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO: membership@ngat.org
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President’s Report
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Legislative Update
NGAT Conference Update 6
Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Theresa Billeck-Zuniga Graphic Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terri Sheets Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing NGAT NEWS 3607 Crawford Ave Austin, TX 78731 512-454-7300 1-800-252-NGAT (6428)
SNOW DAY! RECORD SNOW ACROSS TEXAS
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Conference Details
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Scholarships & NGAT Awards
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Suelzer Named Deputy Adjutant General — Air
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Key Leadership Update
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Snow Day
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Insurance Updates
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EANGUS Update
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Legal Update
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22 TAPS
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Holidays in the Guard Duty | Honor | Texas
NGAUS Membership NGAT Corporate Partners
NGAT Planning Calendar
ON THE COVER: MG Tracy R. Norris (left), the Adjutant General of Texas administers the Oath of Office to Maj Gen Thomas M. Suelzer (right), while is wife, Jennifer Suelzer, holds the Bible during the ceremony following his recent promotion to Major General. (Photo by MSgt Lynn M. Means)
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT NGAT MEMBERS, My two years have come and gone. These last couple years have been exciting and unexpected to say the least. This last year has been a different kind of year that’s for sure. Due to the coronavirus the whole world has and is still being turned upside down. I pray that everyone remains safe and healthy. Our in person NGAT Conference has been canceled both last year and this year. The NGAT staff and Board of Directors are busy planning our VIRTUAL CONFERENCE for March. Stay tuned for further information on our Facebook page and website. The Bylaws Committee has reviewed the bylaws over the last year and will be making recommendations on amendments that will be presented to the membership to be voted on at the virtual conference in March. The amendments are aligned with our strategic goals and amended to lead us into the future. The NGAT Educational Foundation (NGATEF) is currently accepting applications for the 2021 NGATEF Scholarship competition. Scholarships are awarded to members of NGAT or their dependents. Go to the NGAT website www.ngat.org for more information and to download the application form. Deadline to submit applications is February 12, 2021.
Are you a current or former member of the NGAT Board of Directors? We will be voting for a new President-Elect during the virtual conference. Current and former members of the NGAT Board of Directors are eligible to apply and must be able to serve on the board for the next four years. We are currently accepting applications and deadline for submission is February 28, 2021. You can download an application from our website. Our staff continues to work both from home and the office. Although the office is closed to the public, NGAT continues day-today operations and you can contact the staff via phone or email. We are still here for you. I would like to take this time to thank everyone for their support these last two years. I have been truly blessed to have such great Directors. I would like to extend an extra special thanks to Mike Wolff who has always gone above and beyond to assist NGAT and is always up to any challenges thrown at him. Stay safe and keep everyone in your prayers. H
Priscilla Leger, CCM, Retired NGAT President
THE ADJUTANT GENERAL OF TEXAS, MG Tracy R. Norris presents a retirement gift to Deputy Adjutant General – Air, Maj Gen Dawn M. Ferrell, for her dedication and selfless military service spanning more than 37 years. Maj Gen Ferrell became the first woman in the Texas Air National Guard to be promoted to brigadier general and later major general. Maj Gen Ferrell served as the principle advisor to the Adjutant General of Texas for all Texas Air National Guard issues. 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
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CMSGT (RET) DONALD R. STANTON is NGAT Life Member #7. He proudly served in the Texas Air National Guard. When he retired, he was the Ground Safety NCOIC at the 273rd EIS, and from 1982-83 he served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor — which is what we now know as the State Command Chief. He recently celebrated his 80th Birthday and we wanted to recognize him for his continued support. He still reads every issue of the NGAT News Magazine!
Happy 80th Birthday CMSgt (Ret) Stanton
NDAA INCLUDES NEW NATIONAL GUARD BENEFITS The FY21 NDAA continues to improve the quality of life for our service men and women in uniform — including the authorization for a 3.0 percent pay increase — makes key investments to military infrastructure and provides crucial support to training and sustainment activities that enhance military operations. It also created some new National Guard benefits and makes more Guardsmen and their families eligible for some existing veterans’ programs. One of the new benefits is 12 weeks of fully paid maternity leave for drill-status women in the Guard and Reserve. They will also receive retirement points. It essentially mirrors the program women on active duty have had after pregnancy and childbirth since 2016. Also included in the fiscal 2021 National Defense Authorization Act is six-months of transitional medical coverage for Guardsmen and their families after Title 32 coronavirus response missions. Guardsmen have long received transitional coverage after overseas assignments to cover any lingering medical issues but never after a domestic mission. NGAUS pushed hard for both benefits. The Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvements Act of 2020, which was signed by the president, expands some existing benefits to more Guardsmen and their families. NGAUS was also a force behind this legislation, assisting the House
and Senate Veterans’ Affairs committees with its formulation. It credits for the first-time service under Title 32 (federally funded but under state control) toward Department of Veterans Affairs home loans. The threshold for the program is 90 cumulative days on Title 32 with at least one period of 30 consecutive days. Previously Guardsmen qualified for nomoney-down, VA-guaranteed mortgage only if they had mobilized under Title 10 for 90 consecutive days or had six years of total service. Another provision expands eligibility for the Fry Scholarship for the children and spouses of troops who died on or after Sept. 11, 2001, as a result of their military service. The language removes the requirement that the death occurred while on federal active duty. This means deaths that occur on weekend drills and other training apply. So, too, do those that result from a service-connected disability.
SENATOR JOHN CORNYN visited Texas National Guard members who were in Washington, D.C. conducting security, communication, and logistical missions in support the 59th Presidential Inauguration.
The new law also provides a presumption of service-connection for military members who contract the coronavirus within 14 days of the completion of duty in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also expands counseling for military sexual trauma at VA facilities to former Guardsmen and Reservists, who previously only received such counseling if they were current members of the Guard or Reserve. The same provision also allows the VA to treat physical health conditions arising from MST, not just mental health conditions. Additional language extends federal employment protections and reemployment rights to Guardsmen who serve at least 14 days of state active duty or who are mobilized to respond to a national emergency or natural disaster. Previously, there were no federal job protections for state active duty. H
CONGRESSMAN MICHAEL MCCALL (center) visits with members of the Texas National Guard while they were in Washington, D.C. providing security for the Presidential Inauguration. In the photo a Soldier is seen handing Congressman McCall a 36th Infantry Division “T-Patch” for his support. (Photo courtesy of Congressman McCaul’s office)
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Join us for the 62nd Annual NGAT Conference — “VIRTUALLY” WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE CONFERENCE? We will have our Annual Meeting that includes the NGAT President’s Report on the state of NGAT. Because this is an election year for NGAT we will be voting on our next NGAT President-Elect. We also have some proposed bylaw changes that will be posted on the website soon. We will hear from the Texas Military Department and give out some awards to some very deserving people. WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND? You’re a member right? So why not! This year you don’t have to travel far, the cost is minimal
and it will give you some insight into what NGAT is doing for you on a daily basis. PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW THE LACK OF A “FACE TO FACE” CONFERENCE TO DETER YOU FROM PARTICIPATING IN OUR NGAT VIRTUAL CONFERENCE. Our committees are vital and establish future NGAT goals and directions. DID SOMEONE SAY PRIZES? That’s right! We will be giving away several gift cards during the conference to a few lucky registered attendees. What are you waiting for? It’s time to get involved and join us at the conference!
CIATION OF TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD ASSO Austin, TX 78731 e, Av rd 3706 Crawfo gat.org 512-454-7300 www.n January 31, 2021
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Registration is only $10.00 per person
www.ngat.org/conference.htm
CONFERENCE CALL rd Association of 62nd Annual National Gua March 27, 2021
Texas Conference
National Guard Association Board of Directors of the COVID-19 pandemic, the and that was scheduled for nt nce me fere iron Con env T t ren NGA ual Due to the cur cancel the in-person Ann to n isio The Board of Directors dec ual. the virt e all mad of Texas (NGAT) has T Conference will now be NGA ual Ann 1 202 The TX. n, tners. March 25-28, 2021 in Alle guests, and corporate par safety of our members, made this decision for the istration for the 2021 from 9am-12pm. Reg will be held on March 27, and the agenda nce ails fere det Con nce ual fere Virt T con king The 2021 Annual NGA website. We are still wor our on n ope now is and virtual conference is $10 lized. will be available once fina Agenda Highlights: • President’s Report sident-Elect • Election of new Pre icers and Directors • Election of new Off endments • Voting on Bylaws Am on tati sen • Awards Pre • Guest Speakers and to download an application r please go to our website posted for your review prio ning for President-Elect, be run will in s ed ent rest ndm inte ame are ws If you byla ed pos pro The 1. 202 ruary 28, T App. submit it no later than Feb et to download the NGA . And please do not forg to voting at the conference t times. nce during these difficul for updates on the confere ty of App safe T and NGA fare and e, wel pag the put ebook pandemic and will always Watch our website, Fac ve forward through this mo to es tinu con tion Your Associa our membership first. FOR THE PRESIDENT:
Individuals interested in running for the position of NGAT President-Elect must meet the following qualifications: • Be an NGAT Annual or Life Member in good standing. • Must have served at least one year as a member of the NGAT Board of Directors. Current and former member of the NGAT Board of Directors are eligible to apply. • Must complete a nomination application available on the NGAT website on the Board of Directors page. • Must be able to serve the next four years on the NGAT Board of Directors. (Two years as PresidentElect and two years as President.)
For additional information contact the NGAT Executive Director, Marvin Harris at mharris@ngat. org. Nomination will be accepted through February 28, 2021.
Marvin E. Harris NGAT Executive Director
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NOMINATIONS FOR NGAT PRESIDENT-ELECT NOW BEING ACCEPTED
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NGAT Conference Guest Speaker Command Sergeant Major John F. Sampa Command Sergeant Major John F. Sampa was appointed as the Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard on February 15, 2018. He will be the first enlisted speaker at the NGAT Conference. Sampa joined the United States Army on April 30, 1987 and has served in the 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. CSM Sampa was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major on April 8, 2009. Prior to becoming the Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard, CSM Sampa served as the Senior Enlisted Leader for the Texas Military Department from March 2017 to February 2018. CSM Sampa was previously the Command Sergeant Major for the 36th Infantry Division for more than three years, from December 2013 to March 2017. CSM Sampa has been mobilized for combat duty three times and deployed overseas for combat operations in Bosnia from August 1999 to October 2000, Iraq from July 2004 to August 2006, and Iraq again from July 2009 to November 2010. CSM Sampa’s military and civilian education includes all levels of the Noncommissioned Officer Education System. He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy. CSM Sampa is also a graduate of the Texas Highway Patrol Academy. Command Sergeant Major Sampa has been awarded numerous awards and decorations. He has been employed with the Texas Department of Public Safety in the Highway Patrol Division for 23 years in concurrence with his military service. CSM Sampa currently holds his position as a Commercial Vehicle Enforcement State Trooper for the Texas Highway Patrol.
NATIONAL GUARD ASS OCIATION OF TEXAS 3706 Crawford Ave, Aus tin, TX 78731 512-454-7300 www.n gat.org January 31, 2021 Dear NGAT Membership, The purpose of this lett er is to inform you that revisions to the Nation (NGAT) Bylaws have bee al Guard Association of n proposed. A copy of the Texas proposed bylaws amend the NGAT website and ments will be posted on available for download from the NGAT app no later than February 15, 2021. The NGAT Bylaws Com mittee presented the reco mm ended bylaws amendme of Directors on January nts 31, 2021. The revisions to the NGAT Board have been reviewed by and are being recommend the NGAT Board of Dire ed for adoption by the ctors NGAT membership at our held virtually on March Annual Meeting to be 27, 2021. According to our curren t bylaws, dated January 17, 2020, proposed byla presented to the memb ws amendments must ership at least 30 days be prior to the annual meetin membership at the ann g and then voted on by ual meeting in order to the be adopted. ARTICLE XVIII – AMEND MENTS Section 1. These Bylaws may be altered, amend ed, or repealed and new adopted (i) at any meetin provisions may be g of the Association, pro vided that written notice change(s) shall have bee of the proposed n given to the members at least 30 days prior to three-fourths of the ent the meeting, or (ii) by ire Board of Directors, provided that written not the Board of Directors ice shall have been give and the Advisory Council n to at least 30 days prior to such change(s) are propos the Board meeting at whi ed to be acted upon, and ch pro vided that the Board of have received written not Dire ice at least two busines ctors shall not s days prior to the Board change(s) are proposed meeting at which such to be acted upon from ten (10) or more memb that they object to the ers of the Advisory Cou proposed change(s). If ncil the Board of Directors written notice from ten shall have received suc (10) or more members h of the Advisory Council only be adopted at a me , the proposed changes eting of the Association may . Nothing herein shall pre Association from laying vent a member of the before the membership at any meeting an amend be considered at the nex me nt that thereafter may t Board of Directors me eting or meeting of the Association. The Board of Directors believe the proposed byla ws amendments will stre better support and alig ngthen our bylaws to n with NGAT strategic goa ls; reflect current busines the organizational structu s practices; and update re of the Texas Military Forces. Please take time to rev iew the proposed bylaws amendments carefully. and attention. Thank you We appreciate your tim for your support. If you e have any questions or com me at president@ngat.or ments, please contact g.
PRISCILLA LEGER, CCM, Retired NGAT President
CSM Sampa and his wife of 27 years Carlette have one son John, and one daughter Julia. He is a Life Member of the National Guard Association of Texas and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States. H
SAVE THE DATE 63rd Annual NGAT Conference March 24-27, 2022 Kalahari Resorts & Convention Center Round Rock, Texas
Don’t Miss it!
Virtual Silent Auction Coming Soon THE TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD FOUNDATION (TNGF) will have a Virtual Silent Auction in late 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many businesses are unable to support our actions as they have in the past, so we are looking at alternate auction methods to raise money for the foundation. This fundraising event is very important to us. It is our one and only fundraiser each year and it provides us with the means to support our programs and extraordinary needs during the year.. The TNGF is a 501c(3) not for profit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of National Guard Soldiers, Airmen, veterans and their families. Watch the website and the magazine for additional information concerning the virtual auction. We hope to be back in 2022 with a huge auction at the NGAT Conference. H W i n t e r 2 0 2 1 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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NGAT Educational Foundation Scholarships — Deadline is February 12 THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION (NGATEF) will accept scholarship applications through February 12, 2021. Multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 will be awarded to active and/or life members of the National Guard Association of Texas and/or their spouses, sons or daughters. High school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students will be considered for these educational scholarships.
Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded $498,000 in scholarships to deserving men, women, and dependents of the Texas Military Department. Visit www.ngat.org/education.htm to download the scholarship application. H
We encourage all eligible applicants to apply. The two scholarships that are offered have very specific requirements, so if you meet these requirements, we encourage you to apply for a NGATEF scholarships: • One scholarship is available for an NGAT member currently serving in the Texas State Guard or a spouse/child of an NGAT member currently serving in the Texas State Guard. • One scholarship is available to an NGAT Member currently serving in the Texas Army or Air National Guard
NGAT Award Nominations Now Being Accepted THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS (NGAT) AWARDS PROGRAM is designed to recognize NGAT members who have provided exceptional service and outstanding contributions to NGAT. The program also recognizes NGAT members who have been involved in acts of heroism that involved risk of life or personal safety or extreme acts of humanitarianism involving the saving of a life or the attempt to save a life. Deadline for nominations is March 6, 2021.
PROTECT
Service Awards NGAT Minuteman Award Davy Crockett Award Jose Navarro Award Spirit of Texas Award
IAFTS
Heroism Awards General K.L. Berry Award LTC James A. Spring Humanitarianism Award Visit the NGAT website for submission requirements and criteria. www.ngat.org/awards.htm
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Suelzer Named Deputy Adjutant General — Air ON JANUARY 23, 2021, MG TRACY R. NORRIS, the Adjutant General of Texas, had the privilege to promote the newly assigned Deputy Adjutant General – Air, Thomas M. Suelzer, to the rank of Major General. In this position appointed by Governor Greg Abbott, he serves as the principal advisor to the Adjutant General of Texas for all Air National Guard issues. He is responsible for formulating, developing, and coordinating all programs, policies, and plans for three Wings and more than 3,300 Air National Guard personnel throughout the State of Texas. He also coordinates activities of the Texas Military Forces with the National Guard Bureau to ensure funding compliance occurs with other federal, state, and local jurisdictions in matters relating to the mission of the Texas Air National Guard. General Suelzer graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He completed
Undergraduate Pilot Training at Williams Air Force Base, Arizona and went on to serve in various operational and staff assignments during his ten years of Active-Duty service and seven years in the Air Force Reserve. General Suelzer joined the Texas Air National Guard in 2007 where he served as Deputy Director of Operations for Domestic Operations and Director of Operations. During this time, he served in fulltime assignments as the Chief of Staff for the 71st Troop Command (JTF-71) and the 136th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (JTF-136) and served as the Commander of the 136th Airlift Wing, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas. Prior to his current position, Maj Gen Suelzer was the Director of the Joint Staff for the Texas Military Department. General Suelzer is stepping into the position of Deputy Adjutant General – Air, following the retirement of Maj Gen Dawn Ferrell. H
Outstanding Airmen of the Year
(Photo by Kara Addition)
THE OUTSTANDING AIRMEN OF THE YEAR AWARD (OAY) recognizes Guardsmen for superior leadership, job performance, community involvement and personal achievement. Each award recipients are representative of the best and brightest of the Texas Air National Guard. These Airmen embodies the characteristics of the great leaders, followers and teammates that make the Air National Guard the ready force that we have today. On January 10, 2021, a ceremony was held both in-person and virtually to honor all recipients. The Outstanding Airman of the Year winners for the State of Texas are as follows:
AIRMAN CATEGORY: SSgt Jordan Dunkerson, 147th Attack Wing COMPANY GRADE OFFICER OF THE YEAR: Capt Trevor Spiro, 147th Attack Wing (Photo by SrA Katie Schultz)
MSGT JAVIER RAMIREZ a member of the 149th Fighter Wing, recipient of the Outstanding Airman of the Year award for the Senior Noncommissioned Officer category, participates virtually during an OAY ceremony held at Camp Mabry, Texas, Jan. 10, 2021.
NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER CATEGORY: SSgt Joseph Cooksey, 147th Attack Wing
FIRST SERGEANT CATEGORY: MSgt Laken Garcia, 149th Fighter Wing
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HOLIDAYS IN THE GUARD THANKSGIVING
HALLOWEEN
EVERYONE HAS A SIGN — These signs tell us all the things we hate about 2020. Pictured left to right: Murder Hornet: Gracie Ceniceros; Joe Exotic: CW3 (Ret) Raymond Ceniceros; Corona Virus: Michelle Ceniceros; and Hurricane Karaoke Singer: Dylan Ceniceros.
THE LION SPEAKS TONIGHT — “Just” out making a nature documentary on rare lions in neighborhoods on Halloween night! Pictured left to right: Cameraman: SFC (Ret) Charles Just; Lion Tamer: Presley Just; The Lion: Jackson Just; and Boom Operator: Crystal Just.
PLENTY TO BE THANKFUL FOR — Members of Task Force Spartan welcome you into their dining facility to celebrate their Thanksgiving Day meal. Pictured left to right: MAJ Kenneth Sollano, MSG Javier Mancha and LTC Jeff Gilmore.
CHRISTMAS
ALWAYS HELPING EACH OTHER — Task Force Soldiers with the 36th Infantry Division packed stocking to send to other members of their team located throughout the CENTCOM area of operation.
HITCHIN A RIDE — Members of the 136th Airlift Wing were honored to give Santa a ride in their C130 on Christmas Eve to help him delivery all the gifts to the good girls and boys around the world. (Photo courtesy of the 136th Airlift Wing)
SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER — The Gunfighters of the 149th Fighter Wing send a message of Holiday cheer with unit members and the wings leadership.
TXSG YOUNG HEROES OF THE GUARD — The goal of the Texas State Guard was to collect 60,000 toys this year due to the pandemic. They surpassed that goal by 25,000 with hard work and dedication. Congratulations to SFC John Gately, the project coordinator, and to every member of the Texas State Guard who put their hearts and souls into collecting and delivering toys all over the State of Texas and bringing joy to thousands of Texas children. (Photo courtesy of the Texas State Guard)
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HUMM HUMM GOOD — MG Patrick Hamilton, Commander of the 36th Infantry Division serves Task Force Spartan Soldiers on Thanksgiving Day in Kuwait.
THERE IS ALWAYS TIME FOR A TURKEY TROT — Members of Task Force Spartan hit the pavement for a good old-fashioned Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day in Kuwait.
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THE CZECH REPUBLIC EMBASSY gifted Czech goulash and bread to 500 U.S. Soldiers and Airmen with the Nebraska and Texas National Guard, both of which the country shares a state partnership with, while in Washington D.C. for the Presidential Inauguration, January 20, 2021. At least 25,000 National Guard men and women were authorized to conduct security, communication and logistical missions in support of federal and District authorities leading up and through the 59th Presidential Inauguration. (Photo by SSG Herschel Talley)
WASHINGTON D.C.
SAN ANTONIO SPC SAMANTHA FLORES (LEFT) AND SPC ZOEY ORTIZ (right) both members of the 71st Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade conduct radio communications training on the importance of radio transmissions and clear communication utilizing the appropriate call signs.
FORT WORTH NORTH DAKOTA NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS from the 816th Military Police Company, Bismarck N.D., file into a C-130H2 aircraft assigned to the 136th Airlift Wing out of Fort Worth, Texas, January 15, 2021. The Citizen-Soldiers departed for Washington D.C. in support of the 59th Presidential Inauguration. (Photo by SSgt De’Jon Williams)
HUNTSVILLE
HOUSTON SOLDIERS OF THE 136TH EXPEDITIONARY SIGNAL BATTALION, stand in formation at the Deployment Ceremony November 20, 2020, at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas. The Battalion will be stationed in the CENTCOM area of responsibility. (Photo by the Texas Military Department)
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A DIVER FROM THE 2ND BRIGADE, Texas State Guard, exits Lake Raven, Huntsville State Park, after practicing his search tactics by clearing a popular swimming area of potentially hazardous debris, November 14, 2020. These skills are put to use during hurricane and floods across the brigade’s area of operations from Beaumont to College Station. (Photo by SGT Danel Emert)
ON JANUARY 24, 2021 the Texas State Guard commissioned eight officers. Pictured left to right: (Back row) 2LT Shane Chapman, 2LT Brendan Steinhauser, 2LT Peter Brandon, 2LT Christopher Witt; (Front Row) 2LT Mary Jane Moore, 2LT Frederick Swanson, 2LT Russell Albright and 2LT Melaney Russell. (Photo courtesy of the Texas State Guard)
AUSTIN
AUSTIN THE STATE PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER, LTC Rita Holton, presents a variety of honors and memorabilia to 1SG (Ret) Alfred Dietrick to commemorate his lifetime of service and in honor of his 99th birthday. 1SG (Ret) Alfred Dietrick served in the 36th Infantry Division during World War II and is one of the oldest surviving veterans of the Battle of Salerno. (Photo provided by the Texas Military Department)
EL PASO MEMBERS OF THE 36TH SUSTAINMENT BRIGADE provide aid in El Paso amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in the community. Personnel have been assisting El Pasoans fighting hunger in the area. (Photo courtesy of El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank)
AUSTIN KUWAIT MEMBERS OF THE 36TH INFANTRY DIVISION celebrated the 384th Birthday of the National Guard at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Cutting the cake from left to right is the most senior guardsman, CW4 Mark Rollings; 36th Infantry Division Deputy Commanding General – Support, BG Michael Adame; the most junior guardsman, SPC Joe Gosch; and 36th Infantry Division Senior Enlisted Advisor, CSM Mark Horn. (Photo provided by the 36th Infantry Division)
MG TRACY NORRIS (center), Adjutant General of Texas, thanks Captain Tim Caradine and Lt Virgil Verduzco of the Texas Department of Public Safety — Capitol Region for providing Field Force Training to members of the Texas National Guard and for their continued joint collaboration in providing security to the Texas State Capitol.
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Gray Eagle ER
ENABLING THE GUARD AROUND THE WORLD Gray Eagle Extended Range provides the warfighter persistent and reliable mission support in Multi-Domain Operations.
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Key Leadership Update H
COL Matthew Calton Chief of Staff 36th Infantry Division (Rear)
COL Carrie Perez Full Time Chief of the Joint Staff for the Texas Military Department
COL Tanya Trout Texas Military Department J6
LTC Karim A. Branford Commander 1-143rd Airborne Infantry Battalion
LTC Melva Perez Commander 536th Brigade Support Battalion
MAJ (P) Adam D. Brock Commander 386th Engineer Battalion
MAJ (P) Daniel P. Garrison Commander 156th Brigade Engineer Battalion
CSM Corey B. Chester Command Sergeant Major 176th Engineer Brigade
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RECORD “SNOW DAY” FOR THE LONE STAR STATE SUNDAY, JANUARY 10, 2021, will go down in history for record snowfall for Central and North Texas. This winter storm was the second in just over a week to blanket the Lone Star State with wintry weather. Camp Mabry picked up 1.5 inches, breaking the previous record of 0.3 inches set in 1973. This is the most snow received in a single day since February 2004. Waco also had a new daily record snow with 4.4 inches reported. The previous record was 1.1 inches from 1973. In Texas, having snow fall is not something you get to see on a yearly basis so we wanted to share some of our member’s photos of this exciting event. H
shall, Liberty Hill, TX Photo by CW4 (Ret) Terri Mar
Photo by MG (Ret) William A. “Bill” Hall, Bryan, TX Photo by MSG (Ret) Lot
ta Smagula, Austin, TX
Photo by MSG (Ret) Gary Cates, Leander, TX Photo by CW2 Michael Courade, Leander, TX
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Photo by CW4 (Ret) Tracey Ference, Round Rock, TX
State Sponsored Life Insurance Gets a Facelift ON JANUARY 1, 2018, NGAT changed insurance companies from American Equity to Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA)/5Star Insurance Company. However, we continued to use the American Equity antiquated database called the Automated Billing System (ABS) to manage our State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) program. On November 16, 2021, we moved away from ABS that we had used for several years. It served us well! ABS was a database driven system where the members data resided on the computer it was installed on until a file transfer could be completed. Usually this was a monthly routine, so the data was 30 days old at the Insurance Carriers Office. With the new system we welcome a cloud based National Guard Platform (NGP) which on most data elements is current when input! This intuitive user interface has been designed specifically to allow us to self-administer group insurance programs for our members. By combining a powerful, customized, cloud-based Salesforce user interface (UI) with the processing and insurance data capabilities of the LifePRO insurance platform, this system automates many tasks and processes for the end user. More importantly, it provides industry standard security for our members’ personal and insurance related data and your own financial results. It will remain compliant with the insurance industry’s increasingly complex regulatory requirements. Most features of the new system will be transparent to the members, same 24-hour payment of death claims. The biggest notice will be for members who use the direct bill option to pay their premiums will notice their billing statement will have a different look. Rest assured that all the same options for payment are available, even if your statement does not reflect how many months you normally pay. H
Life Insurance is Not “Set It and Forget It” BUYING LIFE INSURANCE gives you the peace of mind knowing that your family will be financially protected if something happened to you. But your policy isn’t a set it and forget it product and it’s important to give your life insurance policy a annual review. After all it’s not something you are thinking about on a regular basis, so it can be easy to forget. Out of sight, out of mind, right? One great reason to review your life insurance annually is to explore changes that have recently occurred and consider whether additional coverage or updates are needed. The following life events may require a change or update to your policy. • The birth or adoption of a child into your family • Getting married or divorced • Death or change of a Beneficiary • Moved since you last reviewed your policy • Changed your name • Unable to locate a copy of your policy If you have any questions concerning your policy, please contact Terri Marshall at 512-454-7300 or email her at tmarshall@ngat.org. H
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EANGUS AREA IV HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING ON JANUARY 16, 2021, the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) Area IV gathered on a virtual call to discuss the business of the association. Four of the seven states in our area were in attendance to include EANGUS President CSM (Ret) Karen Craig and EANGUS Secretary SFC Mireya Cruz.
Care for America Foundation are pleased to announce the receipt of additional funding which will provide much needed assistance to National Guard Soldiers and Airmen who have been impacted financially by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Visit the EANGUS website for submission requirements. H
The outgoing EANGUS Executive Director, SGM (Ret) Frank Yoakum’s last day was the end of November and the newly selected Executive Director, Matthew Krenz will start on the 24th of March. On January 25, 2021, Kevin Hollinger will begin working at EANGUS as the new Legislative Director. This year EANGUS will celebrate its 50th Anniversary so they are doing everything possible to plan for an in-person conference. The 50th Annual EANGUS Conference is scheduled to be held August 8-11, 2021 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Registration is now open. Watch the NGAT and EANGUS websites for updates. EANGUS recently updated their website and added an on-line store so check it out when you have some free time. EANGUS and the We
2021 EANGUS Scholarship THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE: The first is the CSM Virgil R. Williams and the Patriot Scholarships which are paid by EANGUS directly to the school the selectee is attending. The second type of scholarships are the ones presented by specific universities that EANGUS has partnered with. Specifics concerning each individual scholarship are available at the EANGUS website: https://eangus.org/scholarship-information/. H
REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY: 1. EANGUS Membership Number (required for application) 2. Transcripts (HS, College, CLEP, etc.) 3. On-line application (with transcripts uploaded) 4. Deadline to apply is 1 May 2021 (unless listed otherwise) 5. Only online application will be accepted. 6. Some scholarships are open to the immediate family of EANGUS members. (see individual scholarship for details)
**Additional information may be required for specific schools**
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EANGUS Selects A New Executive Director CSM (RET) KAREN M. CRAIG, President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), is pleased to announce the selection of SGM Matthew Krenz as its next Executive Director. SGM Krenz will join the EANGUS National Office team on March 24, 2021, upon his retirement from the National Guard. SGM Krenz is a Life Member of EANGUS and has devoted the last 26 years in service to the U.S. Army and Army National Guard (ARNG). He comes to us from the National Guard Bureau (NGB) where he currently works as the Human Resources Director (ARNG G1 Sergeant Major). He has held positions of increasing responsibility throughout his military career and previously worked in the NGB Legislative Liaison (LL) Office from March 2016 to June 2019 as the Government Affairs Manager and primary liaison responsible for direct interactions with Congressional Members and staff regarding Army National Guard personnel issues. SGM Krenz holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Administration, and a Graduate Certificate in Legislative Affairs from Georgetown University Government Affairs Institute. H
L E G A L
U P D A T E
The Truth about IG Complaints ALL SOLDIERS HAVE THE RIGHT TO FILE A COMPLAINT OR GRIEVANCE WITH THE INSPECTOR GENERAL. An Inspector General (IG) Investigation is a tool used by the Armed Forces to ensure morals and ethics are being upheld by your command and leaders. Normally, if you have a complaint of fraud, waste, abuse, violations of law or regulation you should report it by following the chain of command procedures. If your report is not handled correctly then report your complaint to your local IG office. Any military member or civilian can file a report with the IG. However, civilians will also need to make a report with local law enforcement agencies. You have the option to remain anonymous when filing a report. Your name will not be revealed unless you give consent, or the IG determines it is unavoidable. However, in our experience, anonymous complaints will not be given serious consideration. Not all allegations can be reported to the IG, for example, evaluation reports, enlisted reductions, or court martial actions. Please see https://www.daig. pentagon.mil/ for more examples of complaints that are not appropriate. Once you have filed DA Form 1559, the Inspector General Action Process (IGAP) will begin a seven-step process to ensure your complaint is handled properly. You cannot be disciplined for making an IG complaint. Reprisal is taking or threatening to take an unfavorable personnel action or to withhold a favorable personnel action on a military member for making or preparing a protected disclosure.
JOIN THE EANGUS FITNESS CHALLENGE
Are you up for the challenge?
NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE ON YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY, THIS CHALLENGE IS FOR YOU! C H A L L E N G E DAT E S : 1 February - 28 March Registration is now open!
Why join?
• Improve yourself and achieve your goals with the help of your EANGUS Community. • Complete tasks to earn points. Everything counts for your transformation. • Engage in friendly competition on the leaderboard. You can be a winner throughout the challenge. • Share tips and tricks to help each other through the challenge.
You must be an EANGUS Member in order to participate. A non-refundable $15.00 registration fee is required to participate.
All IG complaints are considered “protected communications,” and when supervisors, commanders, or anyone else takes or threatens to take unfavorable actions or withholds a favorable action against a service member for making a protected communication – that is considered reprisal. Supervisors or others that reprise against you can be punished – if the command determines reprisal occurred. IG complaints are never “off the record.” IG’s are part of the commander’s staff. Anything you say to an IG can potentially end up on your commander’s desk, especially if the IG determines laws or regulation violations have occurred. When to hire an attorney? In the vast majority of IG complaints service members don’t need to hire an attorney. In cases where they believe they are being retaliated against or if the subject of the complaint is so important that the service member feels overwhelmed, they may want to consider engaging an attorney. Experienced attorney can help ensure the issues are legally supported and presented in a coherent manner designed to force the IG to take action. H The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Texas Military Department or the National Guard Association of Texas. Doug O’Connell is a retired TXARNG Colonel who focuses on representing military services members, veterans, first responders and their family members. Doug@ DougOConnell.com
Join Us in Charlotte, North Carolina for the 143rd NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition September 9-12, 2021 MORE THAN 2,000 ARMY AND AIR NATIONAL GUARD OFFICERS from all 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia will gather to connect, party and get down to business setting the upcoming NGAUS legislative agenda. From thrilling adventures to moving artistic performances and magnetic nightlife, Charlotte holds something for everyone. As we gather to conduct Association business and make decisions on the efforts of NGAUS for FY23, we get to learn from senior leaders and connect with old friends. Join us in Charlotte for the 143rd NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition! Watch the NGAT website for registration information. H
For more information visit the EANGUS website at www.eangus.org W i n t e r 2 0 2 1 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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corporate partners
During this time of social distancing due to the Coronavirus we would like to thank our Corporate Partners for everything they have done for us in the past, everything you still do and will continue to do for NGAT. We want you to know how thankful we are for your support, and we look forward to a prosperous future together. We invite our members to visit our website for links to these corporate partners. YOU ROCK!
WELCOME TO OUR NEW WEBSITE SPONSORS
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TAPS AS OF 01/20/2021
CMSgt Frank G. Arbizu, Life Member #8253, San Antonio
Mr. Raymond J. “Manny” Ooley, Life Member #2447, Retired, Borger
Maj Zackary N. Belton, Life Member #14563, Retired, DeSoto
Mr. Marcos A. Padilla, Life Member #7074, Retired, El Paso
CMSgt Kerny P. Blanchard, Life Member #204, Retired, Marrero LA
Mr. David L. Pellerin, Life Member#1585, Retired, Kirbyville
Mr. Gayle T. Brim Jr., Retired, Rockport
MSgt Leo J. Poche, Life Member #26098, Retired, Houston
Mr. James C. Bryant, Life Member #9267, Retired, Shamrock
**SGT Zachary A. Polka, 71st TRP CMD ROLL UP, Austin
Mr. Juan Cantu, Life Member #11480, Retired, The Colony
Mr. Julian L. Putnam, Life Member #10847, Retired, Amarillo
MSG John P. Cochran, Life Member #3220, Retired, Luling
BG William Barnes Putty, Life Member #3411, Retired, Helotes
MSG Richard W. Dehart, Life Member #263, Retired, Alvin
Mr. Vernon O. Ray, Life Member #793, Retired, Thrall
Capt Samuel Dibrell, Life Member #2986, Retired, San Antonio
Mr. George H. Redman, Life Member #1200, Retired, Lacon IL
MSG Terrell G. Dickerson, Life Member #9894, Retired, Stephenville
Col Donald Robison, Retired, Schertz
SSG Benny R. Downing, Life Member #6666, Retired, Quinlan
**SSG Timothy L. Manchester, HHB 36th INF DIV, Austin
LTC Richard F. Dykstra, Life Member #14824, Retired, Port Orchard, WA
SFC Doretha Geneva Roulhac, Retired, Killeen
*MSG Joseph L. Eddin, Life Member #20048, Retired, Humble
Mr. Camillo A. Russo, Life Member #3333, Retired, Houston
Mr. Frank J. Geissen, Life Member #207, Retired, Austin
Capt Ryan Wade Schlafley, Retired, League City
Mr. Robert J. Gilmore, Life Member #617, Retired, Temple
Mr. Leonard Schuessler, Life Member #7267, Retired, Fort Worth
CSM James E. Gravier, Life Member #11620, Retired, Waco
CMSgt Herbert P. “H.P.” Shadrock, Life Member #1277, Retired, Adkins
Mr. George D. Green, Life Member #5060, Retired, Bloomburg
**SGT Charles Sherburne, HHC 36th Sustainment Brigade, Gatesville
COL Kenneth E. Green, Life Member #8837, Retired, Crowley
Mr. Ben Moreno Sifuentes, Retired, Austin
**/*SFC Latoucha Green, 1st BN 141st INF, Houston
Mr. Gilbert Sifuentes, Life Member #14906, Retired, San Antonio
**SPC Matthew Guerrero, HHB, 3D 133D FA, El Paso
Ms. Lydia Sifuentes, Life Member #9629, Retired, San Antonio
Mr Roger O. Guerrero, Brownwood
SFC Patrick Sloan, Retired, Brownwood
LTC Charles T. Gwin, Jr., Life Member #407, Retired, Corpus Christi
Mr. Eugenio R. Solis, Life Member #2362, Retired, Weslaco
**PFC Connor A. Hughes, HHC, 176 EN BDE, Austin
MAJ Alva B. Stem Sr., Life Member #986, Retired, Laguna Vista
MAJ Gene D. Jackson, Life Member #1461, Retired, McKinney
MAJ Floyd L. Swanberg, Life Member #422, Retired, Austin
SSG Thomas “T.J.” Jarrell, Retired, Lannius
Mr. George W. Traver, Life Member #686, Retired, Austin
**SSgt Ted L. Kalloway, 136th Air Lift Wing, Arlington
SGT Chauncey C. Ulbrich, Life Member #7069, Retired, Cleburne
Mr. Bobby G. King, Life Member #2370, Retired, Goldthwaite
SSG Carlos Vega, Retired, San Antonio
Mr. Raymond LeBlanc, Life Member #454, Retired, Port Arthur
COL Reagan Vestal Jr., Life Member #770, Retired, Gainesville
Mr. Johnnye F. Lehr, Life Member #13719, Retired, Graham
TSgt Benjamin M. Ward, Life Member #22033, Retired, Pearland
Mrs. Billie Jean Loftis, Associate Life Member #416, Retired, Austin (Mrs. Loftis worked for NGAT for 18 years, 1973-1991). She was the first NGAT Director of Insurance.)
CMSgt Theodore R. Williams, Life Member #4938, Retired, Grand Prairie
SSG Lorenzo O. Martinez, Life Member #14662, Retired, El Paso MAJ Jesse L. McCrady, Life Member #1640, Retired, Austin SSG (Ret) Jerome McGary, Life Member #11455, Texarkana SPC Teddy W. “Ted” McCulloch, Retired, Cisco Mr. Jimmy L. Moehlmann, Life Member #2407, Retired, Woodlawn MSgt Donald E. “Pop” Neely, Life Member #4307, Retired, Livingston SSG John R. Noe, Life Member #378, Retired, Quitman
CMSgt Donald L. Windsor, Life Member #24070, Retired, Deer Park LTC Willard B. Woodruff Jr., Life Member #860, Retired, Decatur TSgt Humberto T. Zuniga, Life Member #13232, Retired, San Antonio SFC Jesse Zuniga, Life Member #33951, Retired, Lubbock
Some names listed under this issue of TAPS died some time ago however during the process of updating our database we just recently were informed of their passing and wanted to share the information with you. *Had NGAT Life Insurance Policy **Had No-Cost Active Guard Policy of $1,000
IF YOU ARE AWARE OF THE PASSING OF A CURRENT OR FORMER TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD MEMBER, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY PHONE, MAIL OR EMAIL NGATNEWS@NGAT.ORG.
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AFBA proudly supports NGAT, its members and their families by offering State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company. •
Coverage is 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
•
Convenient payroll deduction.
•
Keep the coverage. After you retire or separate, you can continue your coverage for you and your family as long as contributions are paid.
•
No hazardous duty or civilian occupation restrictions.
•
Benefit paid regardless of cause of death, subject to contestability provisions.
•
Full conversion privilege is upon request and must be received within 31 days of termination of term life policy, regardless of health.
•
Optional Spouse and dependent coverage available.
•
Must be an active member of the National Guard to purchase this insurance.
Contact the National Guard Association of Texas at www.NGAT.org or (512) 454-7300 to learn more. Life insurance coveraged provide through AFBA is underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company (a Lincoln, NE company) administered by NGAT at 3706 Crawford Avenue, Austin, TX 78731. This member benefit is offered only to NGAT members in the state of Texas. Policy series: MATPol
NGATAd R1020
10/20
PERIODICAL
National Guard Association of Texas 3706 Crawford Avenue Austin, Texas 78731-6308
ngat.org
PLANNING CALENDAR (As of January 31, 2021)
2021 TBD
Feb
NGAUS Legislative Workshop, (TBD)
15
Feb
President’s Day (NGAT Office Closed)
TBD
Mar
NGAT Board Meeting, (Virtual)
27
Mar
62nd Annual NGAT Conference, (Virtual)
2
Apr
Good Friday (NGAT Holiday Observed)
25
Apr
NGAT Board Meeting, (Virtual)
24
May
Memorial Day (NGAT Office Closed)
5
Jul
Independence Day Observed (NGAT Office Closed)
14
Jul
U.S. Army Birthday/Flag Day
8-11
Aug
EANGUS Annual Conference, Albuquerque, NM
22
Aug
NGAT Board Meeting, (TBD)
9-12
Sep
NGAUS Annual Conference, Charlotte, NC
