2023 Winter NGAT News

2022-2023

Board of Directors

President Chris McKeag

President-Elect Mireya Cruz

Vice-President . . . . . . . . Gerald Lorance

Secretary Jolene Hinojosa

Treasurer Paul Cerniauskas

Executive Director

Marvin Harris

HQ, Joint Forces Jolene Hinojosa

HQ, TXARNG Vacant

71st Troop Command . . . . . . Paul Cerniauskas

HQ, 36th ID

56th IBCT

72nd IBCT

Salvador Flores

Wesley Hall

Marius Pusar

36th CAB Vacant

176th Engr Bde Vacant

71st EMIB

Julie Perez

36th Sustainment Bde . . . . . Tielow-Taneesha Henson

136th MEB

HQ, TXANG

136th AW

147th ATKW

Max Puckett

Angela Jenkins

Nate Norton

Emily Martinez

149th FW Vacant

Air Rec & Ret

Army Rec & Ret

Retired Rep – Region I

Retired Rep – Region II

Retired Rep – Region III

Family Readiness Rep

. Gerald Lorance

Richard Newby

Guy Schultz

Oliver Mintz

Talia McKinnis

Army Jr Enlisted Vacant

Jr

Editor Theresa Billeck-Zuniga

Graphic Designer Terri Sheets

Publisher Multicopy Printing Co Inc

NGAT NEWS

3706 Crawford Ave Austin, TX 78731

512-454-7300

1-800-252-NGAT (6428)

Submit articles and photos for the NGAT News Magazine to: ngatnews@ngat org

NGAT Home Page: www ngat org

Executive Director: Marvin Harris, CAE – mharris@ngat org

Deputy Executive Director/Membership Director: Theresa Billeck-Zuniga – tbz@ngat .org

Insurance Administrator/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

ON THE COVER:

Col Matthew Groves, 136th Airlift Wing Commander, prepares to cut a cake in commemoration of the wing’s 75th Anniversary, December 10, 2022, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth, Texas Groves poses with a photo of Col Albert Prendergast, a former 136th Commander, cutting a cake in celebration of the 136th Fighter Bomber Wing’s first anniversary in 1951 (Photo by SSgt Laura Weaver)

NGAT CONFERENCE BREAKOUTS

THE AMERICAN DREAM

FROM THE PRESIDENT

To Our Members,

The state legislative session is in full swing. We look forward to working with our partners to ensure our members continue to receive the benefits and resources they deserve. I encourage you to visit our legislative page regularly (www.ngat.org/legislative) to stay current on the legislative matters that are important to you and continue to write to your elected representatives. Make sure they know that you are a member of NGAT. Of course, I could not go without mentioning our 64th Annual NGAT Conference in Irving! March 23-26 is right around the corner, and you don’t want to miss this year (https://ngat.org/ngat-conference/). Block reservations are available until March 3rd. I will be handing the reigns over to Mireya Cruz. I’m excited for her continued passion and energy to lead this Association. I also anticipate quite a few new board members to be sworn in. As the board membership changes, please make sure that you reach out to your representative, so they can hear your voice and champion for the things you want to see in the Association. Also, tell them the stories of our members. We know our people are doing great things, but we only know about it if you tell us. Visit the NGAT website www.ngat.org/board-of-directors to contact them. Additionally, the NGAT Board of Directors has two upcoming vacancies to fill for a retired NGAT Member. The term of service is 3 years. Interested personnel should contact Marvin Harris at mharris@ngat.org.

It’s still hard to believe that, since you elected me as President-Elect, this is only the second in-person conference we have conducted. That thought made me reflect on the last four years. And as I do that, in this final letter as President, I wanted to say thank you, to all of you, for your continued support of this organization. The state, country, and world have faced some major challenges that reshaped our realities. Regardless of whether that’s COVID response, CDO response, the border demands in Texas, or our continued T10 responsibilities, our Guardsmen and women have consistently stepped up to meet the demands of the nation and the state. In step, our Association has had to change, too. Our people continue to be our greatest strength, and they deserve an Association that continually supports them.

As always, I continue to thank our full-time staff. They continually do the heavy lifting for the organization. We sincerely would not be able to provide the services we do without them. Please take care of yourselves and your families and watch out for your fellow Guardsmen and women. H

NGAT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, 1LT Adrienne Williams shows off one of the many boxes we delivered to the Central Texas Food Bank in Austin, Texas. Thank you to everyone who dropped by the NGAT Office to make a donation. NGAT would also like to congratulate 1LT Williams on her 1st Place win in the NGAT Holiday Open House Chili contest.

Christopher McKeag President NGAT president@ngat.org

CONGRATULATIONS TO CW4 (RET) TERRI MARSHALL who was elected the chair of the Payroll Deduction Coordinating Board (PDCB) at the recent National Guard Executive Directors Association (NGEDA) Annual Meeting. The PDBC oversees the National Guard payroll deduction system in the administration of their state sponsored group life insurance program in all matters pertaining to the establishment, operation and/or improvements in the National Guard payroll deduction system authorized by the Department of Defense.

DONATE TO SUPPORT THE BEST WARRIOR COMPETITION

THE MILITARY FORCES CONFERENCE FOUNDATION, NGAT and many corporate sponsors each year donate to help fund the Texas National Guard Best Warrior Competition. This year’s competition will be held Match 27-April 2, 2023, at Camp Swift in Bastrop, Texas. Donations are used to provide refreshments and snacks during the competition, awards for their accomplishments and to fund the banquet so there are not out of pocket costs for the warriors participating. To help support this event and to donate visit www.ngat.org.

March 23-26, 2023

Westin Hotels & Resorts and the Irving Convention Center Las Colinas

in Irving, Texas

Hotel

• Westin Hotels & Resorts, 400 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, Texas 75039.

• Make your reservations directly with the hotel at: 1-888-627-8457. Make sure to identify yourself as a member of the National Guard Association of Texas.

• Attendee Hotel rate: $147 single/double plus tax per night, plus $10 per night for parking.

• Hotel reservations can also be made online at the NGAT website.

We can’t emphasis to you enough that NGAT cannot guarantee room rates after March 3, 2023!

RESERVE YOUR ROOM NOW!

Attire

• NGAT Welcome Party: Wear your favorite Sports Teams shirt

• NGAT Business Session: Business Casual

• NGAT Banquet: Army — Class A/Service Dress/Mess Dress; Air — Mess Dress/Service Dress; Civilians — Business Suit/ Evening Formal Wear; Spouses — After-Five Attire.

64th Annual NGAT Conference

registration fee includes a T-shirt, award medals and refreshments.

19th 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.

Wine Tasting: Sip, savor, relax and enjoy some exquisite wines at our wine tasting at Nosh & Bottle Market in the Toyota Music Factory.

Military Trade Show (Ribbon Cutting

Fri, March 24, 2023, 1:00 pm)

Don’t miss our Military Trade Show that showcases equipment, products and services for military service members and their dependents. Get your passport stamped at each booth for a chance to win some great prizes at a drawing on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. in the exhibit hall. Door prizes will be given away during Friday’s show times so be sure to attend.

Professional Headshots: Professional Headshots will be offered by Chris Evans in the Exhibit Hall for one day only on Friday, March 24, 2023, from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Bring a change of clothes and get your photo done. The cost is 3 photos for $25.00.

Conference Optional Events

Golf Tournament at Bear Creek Golf Club: Shotgun, Florida scramble with low net/low gross competition. The golf tournament is open to both registered and nonregistered attendees of the conference. Registration includes green fee, cart, breakfast tacos, lunch and award plaques. Tournament benefits the NGAT Educational Foundation. This event is open to the public. Register at: https://ngat.org/golf-tournaments

Annual 5K Fun Run/Walk: Come enjoy a leisure run/ walk along Lake Carolyn on Friday morning. The

License to Carry Certification: Back by popular demand is our License to Carry Certification class that is offered free of charge to all registered NGAT Conference attendees.

Welcome Party: Come to the Welcome Party in your favorite Sports Teams Jersey and challenge each other at Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Giant Connect Four, and table games (Domino’s, Cards, Jenga). Come prepared to eat some game time food of hot dogs and hamburgers and the fixings. Have a fun-filled night listening to our DJ and networking and socializing with friends. For our Cigar fans come enjoy a “Stogie” on the patio and enjoy the evening stars.

Spouse Luncheon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch and a Guest Speaker TBD on Saturday.

Saturday Awards Banquet: Help NGAT recognize our award winners and present our NGAT Minuteman Award. After dinner, guests will have the opportunity to visit hospitality suites.

Hospitality Suites: Hospitality Suites will be in the Westin Hotels & Resorts. Units will compete for the “Best Themed Hospitality Suite” award. Reserve your room for your unit on our website.

NGAT Prayer Breakfast: Close out the conference with 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/ngat-conference.

NGAT Conference Breakout Sessions

Thrive in Wellness

Texas Military Department Counselors Brittany Johnson and Lydia Quintero will give an overview of the 6 Dimensions of Wellness including coping ideas. This presentation will assist service members and veterans with improving their wellness, understanding the effects of grief on your wellness and providing you with resources to get help for yourself and your service members.

Protecting Your Rights

Service members have rights in the military during investigations, inquiries, boards and prosecutions. Knowing your rights is the first step in being prepared for those forums, and often sets up your best defense. Ollie and Wes will discuss pointers and take questions concerning initial encounters, elections of rights, investigations and criminal prosecutions that affect both officers and enlisted members.

Veteran Peer Support & Suicide Prevention

Join Dr. Blake Harris as he introduces the statewide and local strategies implemented by the Texas Veterans Commission’s (TVC) Veteran Mental Health Department to reduce suicide and promote wellness among Texas Veterans. He will review the unique role of the TVC Military Veteran Peer Network in bridging access to mental health services across Texas for veterans and their families.

Veterans Treatment Court

Join us at a breakout session with Judge Forrest C. Beadle, County Criminal Court Judge, Denton County, as he discusses the Veterans Treatment Court Program. This program is a resource that should be known to all Texas veterans. Veterans Treatment Courts are programs specifically designed for those service members with a service-related injury or disorder that have been charged with a crime.

License to Carry Certification

NGAT Conference attendees can attend the 4-hour License to Carry Certification required by Texas DPS free of charge. The class will be held Friday, March 24, 2023, 8:00 a.m.-Noon at the Irving Convention Center.

Headshots by Chris Evans

Do you need a headshot for your Linked in account, business card or Facebook page? Chris Evans will be offering professional headshots in the Exhibit Hall on Friday, March 24, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. For the low price of 3 photos for $25. Reservations are not required. THIS WILL ONLY BE OFFERED ON FRIDAY.

Brittany Johnson Lydia Quintero

Wesley West Oliver Mitz

Dr. Blake Harris

Judge Forrest C. Beadle

Presiding Judge County Criminal Court No. 3

Denton County, Texas

64th Annual NGAT Conference | March 23-26, 2023

Irving Convention Center, Irving Texas

NGAT AWARD NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED

The NGAT Awards Program is designed to recognize NGAT members who 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, 2023.

SERVICE AWARDS:

NGAT Minuteman Award

Davy Crockett Award

Jose Navarro Award

Spirit of Texas Award

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

https://ngat.org/golf-tournaments

KEY LEADERSHIP Update

MG Ronald “Win” Burkett Commander 36th Infantry Division

Brig Gen Matthew A. Barker Commander Operation Lone Star/Texas Air National Guard Director of Staff

BG Carl R. Alvarez Commander 3rd Brigade, Texas State Guard

BG E.A. “Buddy” Grantham Commander 2nd Brigade, Texas State Guard

Col Travis Walters Commander 147th Attack Wing

Lt Col Walter Ehman Commander 182nd Fighter Squadron

CSM Martin R. Zapata Command Sergeant Major 36th Sustainment Brigade

CMSgt John Hernandez Senior Enlisted Advisor 136th Logistics Readiness Squadron

CSM John Marshall Command Sergeant Major 2nd Brigade, Texas State Guard

COL Gene M. Cummins Commander 36th Sustainment Brigade

CSM Frederick M. Heard Command Senior Enlisted Leader Texas Military Department

CSM Eric D. Larsen Command Sergeant Major Recruiting & Retention Command

GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT MET WITH TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS currently serving on the Texas-Mexico border in late December. The governor was briefed on current operations in the area. Operation Lone Star continues to impede and deter illegal immigration into the United States. (PhotocourtesyoftheTexasMilitaryDepartment)

MEMBERS OF THE 36TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE serve Thanksgiving Dinner to Soldiers and fellow service members at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Pictured L-R: CPT Quince Easter, MAJ Brian Burgi and MSG Michael Wick. (Photocourtesyofthe36thCombatAviationBrigade)

FORT HOOD

SSG ELIZABETH COX, an armored crewman with the Texas Army National Guard’s 3rd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, poses for a photo on her M1 Abrams Tank at Fort Hood, Texas. Cox recently became the first female in the ARNG to graduate from the Abrams Master Gunner school, an advanced gunnery and maintenance school that earns graduates the designation of Abrams Master Gunner. (PhotocourtesyoftheNationalGuardBureau)

SOLDIERS OF THE 36TH SUSTAINMENT BRIGADE, arrive at Robert Gray Army Airfield, Fort Hood, Texas, November 7, 2022, and are greeted by the 36th Infantry Division staff. While deployed the 36th Sust Bde worked in support of CENTCOM, handling logistic needs all over the Southwest Asia region.

FORT HOOD

FROM BROWNSVILLE TO EL PASO, members of the 836th Sappers Company are dispersed throughout the Texas border. They are placing hundreds of miles of engineering obstacles between points of entry to prevent, deter and interdict illegal immigration and transnational criminal activities along the border. (Photocourtesyofthe 836thSapperCompany)

MSGT (RET) GREGORY RIPPS displays the award he received in the 2022 Texas Veterans Commission Excellence in Media competition. Ripps was selected as runner-up in the print category for his article about a U.S. Marine veteran with various serious injuries who obtained a new lease on life with a recumbent bike. MSgt (Ret) Ripps is a reporter for the Wilson County News in Floresville, Texas. (PhotobyKristenWeaver,WilsonCountyNews)

TEXAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD SSG David Lee (center right) and SSG Brittany Petersen (center left) were selected as the first recipients of the Texas Joint Counterdrug Task Force “Bullseye” coin Dec 6, 2022, at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. The Texas Counterdrug Coordinator, Lt Col James F. Cobb (far left), and Senior Enlisted Advisor, CSM Jesse L. Kennis II (far right), personally selected each recipient based on their individual performances that have “hit the mark” and made a significant, positive impact to the program. Cut from the 20mm gun barrel of an M61-A1 Vulcan Gatling gun from a Texas F-16 Fighting Falcon, this unique coin represents the recognition of a task force member’s “on target” demonstration of excellence in performance. (PhotobySGTChristinaClardy)

TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD Joint Counterdrug Task Force selected SSG Isaac Espinosa as the 2021 “Bil Enney” Award task force member of the year Dec 8, 2022, at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. Espinosa’s dedication to duty and performance with the Texas Counterdrug’s Drug Demand Reduction Outreach program helped grow the reach and reputation of the DDRO program to provide further support, training, education, and resources to law enforcement agencies, community outreach organizations, and communities.

SOLDIERS FROM TASK FORCE ROUGH RIDER, 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, participated in amphibious operations and deck landing qualification on the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B Puller – Blue, in the Arabian Gulf. UH-60 Black Hawk and UH-64 Apache flight crews from TF-Rough Rider took part in the training with their joint partners in the U.S. Navy. (PhotobySFCChristopherOposnow)

ARABIAN GULF

AS PART OF THE YOUNG HEROES OF THE GUARD TOY DRIVE during the month of December, members of the Texas State Guard’s 3rd Brigade collaborated with the Army Survivors Outreach Program in their first annal toy distribution on the west side of Laredo where they distributed over 600 toys in goodie bags packed with cookies and children’s books.

(PhotocourtesyoftheTexasStateGuard)

TEXAS BORDER

FLORESVILLE

CAMP MABRY

LAREDO

CAMP MABRY

Legal Update with Richard Hood

What You Need to Know about Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance in Texas

Take another look at your auto insurance and find the section labeled Personal Injury Protection (“PIP” for short). Following an auto accident in Texas, your PIP insurance can cover the cost of medical treatment, dental services, professional nursing, and more. In addition, if you miss work due to your injuries in an auto accident, PIP insurance can reimburse you for lost wages. The attractive feature of PIP insurance is that you can use it even if you are at fault in an accident. Having it can give you the comfort that no matter what, you are going to be able to get the initial medical treatment you need. Please be advised that this article discusses PIP insurance in Texas. Other states also have statutory mandates for PIP insurance, but the details of those statutes differ state-by-state.

An insurance company selling you an auto insurance policy in Texas has to offer you PIP insurance. The minimum offer must be $2,500 of coverage. However, considering the costs of medical services today, $2,500 may just get you in the door for treatment. Many insurers offer significantly higher amounts of coverage if you decide you want to purchase more.

Don’t see PIP in your auto insurance policy? No worries. Call your insurance company and ask them about it. You likely denied PIP coverage when you initially purchased your auto insurance policy with that company. Once you

reject PIP coverage in a previously issued policy, the insurance company is not required to provide PIP in a renewal of your policy.

If you have been in an auto accident and you are using PIP to cover initial medical bills and lost wages due to your injuries, ensure you keep all your documentation. An insurance company is going to want to see your medical bills and a doctor’s note explaining that you need to take time off work to facilitate your recovery process. When the insurance company asks for these records, it is ensuring that the medical expenses are reasonable and that the treatment was necessary.

In sum, PIP insurance is a great protective measure for you and your family. We understand that navigating the world of insurance after an auto accident can be confusing and time confusing. If you have any questions, O’Connell West, PLLC always here to assist you. H

Richard Hood is an Associate Attorney at the law firm of O’Connell West, PLLC. Before attending law school, Richard spent 8 years in the U.S. Army serving as an Infantry Officer. If you would like to know more about PIP protection or think you may have a personal injury claim, call O’Connell West, PLLC at 512-547-7265.

145th National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) General Conference & Exhibition

August 18-21, 2023 • Reno, Nevada

www.ngat.org/ngaus-conference

Join us at the 145th NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition. 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 NGAUS upcoming legislative agenda.

The National Guard Association of Nevada is planning some great events so you may want to come early. On August 18 take advantage of the outdoors on a motorcycle ride, a hike of a local mountain or participate in the traditional NGAUS golf tournament.

Conference attendees should expect a few changes in the traditional schedule. The NGAUS board has approved the host-state’s plan to hold the States Dinner on August 19 after the First Business Session. The last evening will feature a farewell reception.

Texas will be staying at the Silver Legacy, so watch our website for update. Registration will open in late April. H

Zero Cost TRICARE to Ensure Reserve Component Medical Readiness

National Guard and Reserve service members continue to face challenges in obtaining healthcare access to meet medical readiness requirements and ensuring continuity of care, especially when deploying overseas. Significant numbers of service members without health care directly impacts National Guard deploy ability, as no-notice deployments have increased to record-highs over the last several years.

You can help by contacting your Members of Congress and ask them to support H.R. 3512 Healthcare for our Troops Act to provide zero-cost TRICARE and dental to all Reserve Component service members. H

www.ngaus.org/legislation/write-congress/zero-cost-tricare

a lways o n ta r g e t r e a dy to e n g ag e

L3Harris is dedicated to delivering world-class day and night vision solutions to the National Guard and the elite professionals who defend our safet y, securit y and freedom

Make plans to join us at the 52nd Annual EANGUS Conference

August 13-16, 2023 • Rochester, Minnesota

This conference allows EANGUS members to gather and vote on EANGUS legislative priorities, share information, and celebrate the camaraderie of being a National Guard Member. The conference is a four-day event packed with keynote speakers, committee meetings, special events and a military trade show.

Register to attend at https://ngat.org/eangus-conference

We hope to see you there!

EANGUS Area IV Mid-Winter Recap

EANGUS Area IV held its Mid-Winter Annual Meeting January 13-15, 2023, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. In attendance from NGAT were SFC Mireya Cruz, NGAT President-Elect, CSM (Ret) Donna Balderston, MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga and SMSgt (Ret) Rick Newby and his wife Silva.

NGAT and EANGUS will now offer a free “New to the Guard” Digital Annual Membership for 12 months to an enlisted member who enlisted or transitioned into the Texas National Guard within the previous 12 months and whom has never been a previous member of NGAT or EANGUS. To sign up go to https://ngat.org/join-ngat.

During the meeting each association in our region shared how their board of directors are elected and how their boards run the operations of their association. It was very enlightening considering NGAT has a full time staff of four and many states on the enlisted side may only have one full time staff member. H

ATTENTION ENLISTED PERSONNEL

The EANGUS scholarship program offers many full-time scholarships provided by our pa rtner institutions, as well as our $2,000 CSM Virgil Williams Scholarship and $1,000 Patriot Scholarship funded by corporate and individual donations. Our scholarship program is one of the primary benefits we offer to our mem bers E ach year, we award multiple scholarships with a total value of over $500,000.

For Scholarships offered and how to apply, please visit www.eangus.org/scholarship-information Deadline to apply is April 1, 2023

SFC MIREYA CRUZ, NGAT PRESIDENT-ELECT, AND CSM (RET) DONNA BALDERSTON pose for a photo at the EANGUS Area IV Mid-Winter meeting in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

COL Miguel Torres Celebrates a 38-year Career & the American Dream

On January 7, 2023, family, friends, and fellow service members traveled from around the country to join in congratulating COL Miguel A. Torres on his successful career of over 38-years with the United States Army. His career resonates with so many Mexican Americans who choose to serve our country.

COL Miguel A. Torres was born in Ciudad Delicias, Chihuahua, Mexico. His family migrated to El Paso, Texas, when he was in the 4th grade not knowing any English but determined to make something of the American Dream. His family was hard working and banned together to help each other to make a better life for themselves in the United States. Unlike many of us he was not born an American citizen but his intent on becoming one was clear in pursuit of the American Dream.

He graduated from Ysleta High School in 1984 in El Paso, Texas, and began his military career in the United States Army in December 1984 with the guidance of his JROTC instructors, LTC Willian Reidy, and SFC Earl Jensen. He attended Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri followed by Advanced Individual Training as a Combat Medic at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. In 1986 he transferred into the Texas Army National Guard in El Paso, Texas. In February 1987 he successfully completed the US immigration process and become a naturalized U.S. citizen and continued to serve in the United States Army.

He received his commission from ROTC at the University of Texas, El Paso in May 1990. He holds a BS in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas-El Paso and a Master’s of Arts in Business Management from Webster University. COL Torres military education includes U.S. Army Airborne School, U.S. Army Infantry Officer Basic Course, U.S. Army Field Artillery Officer Advance Course, Combined Armed Services Staff School, Intermediate Level Education, Recruiting and

Retention Leadership Course, the Field Artillery Pre-Command Course, and the Counterdrug Senior Leadership Course. He also served as the Counterdrug Advisory Chair for the National Counterdrug Program.

From a very young age COL Torres had a desire to serve. While in the Texas Army National Guard, COL Torres also was a Police Officer in El Paso, Texas for ten years and Probation Officer in El Paso, Texas for two years. He entered the AGR program as the Commander for Region IV in San Antonio, TX with the Recruiting and Retention Battalion in March 2006. COL Torres’ assignments throughout his career have been enhanced because of his prior civilian experience as a Police Officer.

COL Torres’ assignments in 3-133rd Field Artillery Battalion include Fire Support Officer, Battalion Motor Officer, Battery Commander, Battalion S4, Battalion Fire Direction Officer and Battalion Commander. He served as the Commander Region IV Airport Security (Operation Noble Eagle) and Rear Detachment Commander of 3-133rd Field Artillery Battalion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) III. While a member of 1-133rd Field Artillery Battalion he served as Battalion S3 and Executive Officer. He also served as the Region IV Commander & Executive Officer in the Recruiting & Retention Battalion. COL Torres deployed as Installation Director 72nd JASG in support of OIF 09-10, Bagdad, Iraq. He also served as the branch Manager, Family Support Services and Program Coordinator for the Texas Joint Counterdrug Task Force. His final assignment was as the Deputy Chief for the Joint Staff for the Texas Military Department.

Some of COL Torres’ awards and decoration include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters,

U.S. Army Parachutist Badge, Basic Recruiters Badge, Texas Superior Service Medal and the Order of Saint Barbara.

During his retirement ceremony COL Torres was grateful and thankful to the many service members, friends, and agency partners in attendance. He explained to them that his success in his military career has only been because of all the support and mentoring he has received along the way from family, friends, fellow service members, and most of all by the Grace of God. He further stated that the National Guard is a great product and a great place to serve. He emphasized that it is important to surround yourself with smarter people than you, who work hard, and are dedicated to taking care of people and mission success. “I learned at a very young age that hard work pays off and I have tried to share that with those I have served with along the way. It has not always been easy, but I refused to give up,” said Torres. H

COMMISSARY EXPANDS ELIGIBILITY & SERVICES

If you did not retire from the National Guard, did you know that you may still be eligible to use the commissary? The Department of Defense expanded commissary shopping privileges in the U.S. effective January 1, 2020, as part of the Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018. Access was expanded to include:

• Veterans with any service-connected disability

• Purple Heart recipients

• Former Prisoners of war

• Individuals approved and designated as the primary family caregivers of eligible Veterans under the Department of Veterans Affairs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

Most local commissaries are also offering “Click To Go” online ordering. Order your groceries online and pick them up at your local commissary. Visit the commissary website for additional details on eligibility and online ordering.

https://commissaries.com/extended-eligibility

BG (RET) GREG CHANEY PRESENTS COL MIGUEL A. TORRES with a Certificate of Retirement at his retirement ceremony of January 7, 2023, at Camp Mabry, Austin, TX. (PhotobySFC(Ret)L.J.Austin)

IN AUGUST OF 1999 CPT MIGUEL TORRES swears CPT Frank Zuniga into the Texas Army National Guard at the Hondo Pass Armory in El Paso, Texas. Both would later obtain the rank of COL in the Texas Army National Guard.

UNIT SPOTLIGHT

Texas Air National Guard

136th Airlift Wing

Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base — Fort Worth

Col Matthew Groves Commander CCMSgt Huey “Trey” McKinney Senior Enlisted Advisor

136th Airlift Wing Celebrates 75 Years of Service

Original Article by SSgt Laura Weaver

At the end of 2022 the 136th Airlift Wing, Texas Air National Guard, commemorated its 75th anniversary year by remembering the distinguished history and heritage of its seven decades of Citizen Airmen ready and willing to respond to our nation’s call.

Throughout its 75 years of operation, the 136th AW has played a significant role in World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Global War on Terrorism. The wing has also helped closer to home, deploying needed personnel and equipment to fellow Texans in times of need, such as relief during natural disasters including Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Operation Lone Star.

“While we are honored to celebrate this milestone, we can only claim a small portion of this success,” said Col Matthew Groves, 136th Airlift Wing commander. “We are celebrating the collective and sustained efforts of generations of Airmen who came before us. It was their dedication, focus and sacrifice that created a legacy that will endure for generations to come.”

Born into combat during the peak of WWII, the 136th AW’s history began May 24, 1943, with the formation of the 368th Fighter Group. Flying the P-47 Thunderbolt fighter-bombers, the group provided air operations support for the landings in Normandy and marshaled roads, vehicles, and gun partitions during the Battle of the Bulge. After Victory in Europe Day, the group served for another year supporting the United States Air Forces in Europe before it was deactivated in Germany on August 20, 1943.

The very next day, it was redesignated as the 136th Fighter Group and assigned to the new Texas Air National Guard. The group was extended federal recognition January 27, 1947, officially marking the beginning of the 136th’s legacy.

Since its constitution, the wing has continued to evolve in name and mission into the 136th Airlift Wing of today. During the Korean Conflict in the 1950s, the 136th Fighter Bomber Wing earned a good reputation for air-to-air battles flying the F-84 by fighting off enemy MiG-15 aircraft while escorting B-53 heavy bombers on a strike. After the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in the 1990s, 136th Tactical Airlift Wing members provided active-duty support to Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM, earning distinction as the first Air National Guard unit to be activated during the Persian Gulf War. Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the 136th Airlift Wing deployed two C-130H aircraft and 175 Airmen to support OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM and went on to maintain partial mobilization in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM for the next three years. During this multi-year deployment, the 136th AW moved more than 50,000 passengers and 6,500 tons of cargo on 3,700 sorties.

During times of natural disaster, the wing provides humanitarian relief efforts such as evacuations, food and water supply, and search and rescue operations. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, almost all wing personnel at home station were activated and helped evacuate more than 35,000 people from the Superdome. In 2017, the 136th AW executed its first-ever 100 percent activation in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, staging 19 ANG C-130s to move 355 tons of cargo and 1,200 evacuees.

In the midst of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, the 136th AW activated nearly 400 Airmen, helping to administer more than 600,000 vaccines and distribute more than 61 million meals. The wing continues to support Texas’ Operation Lone Star, deploying more than 200 members during the first rotation to provide critical relief to United States Customs and Border Patrol and the Texas Department of Public Safety. The wing also fosters alliances with Chile, Czech Republic and

Egypt through the State Partnership Program, conducting military-to-military engagements to leverage whole-ofsociety relationships in support of defense security goals.

Throughout its 75-year tenure, the 136th AW has flown the F-84, F-86, KC-97, and various models of the C-130. At present, the wing plays a crucial role in executing missions for cargo transportation, search and rescue, and emergency response.

Today’s 136th AW continues the legacy from those longago missions by supporting its community, state and nation as duty calls. The 75th anniversary year is also celebrated with other significant milestones for the 136th AW in 2022, including the arrival of the wing’s new C-130J Super Hercules fleet and surpassing 200,000 Class-A mishap-free flying hours. The wing also announced its plans to stand up the ANG’s newest aeromedical evacuation squadron, which will expand the medical evacuation capabilities of the wing.

The 136th AW includes more than 1,000 Airmen as a part of the Texas Military Department. Texas Citizen Airmen have supported tactical airlift missions throughout the unit’s history — at home, across the nation and around the world — executing missions with dedication, professionalism, and above all, selfless service. H

TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARDSMEN

from the 136th Airlift Wing celebrate completion of 200,000 class A mishap-free flying hours, October 21, 2022, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. The 136th AW’s safe flying hours span across 57 years and four aircraft, including the KC-97, C-130B, C-130H, and C-130J. (PhotobySSgtLauraWeaver)

Happy 75th Anniversary, 136th Airlift Wing!

THE 136TH AIRLIFT WING performs an elephant walk with eight C130Js on December 11, 2022 at Naval Air Station, Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth. (PhotobySandyOwens)

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**SPC Joshua A. Aguilar, San Antonio, HHC 1-141 IN

*SSG Michael L. Bavousett, Life Member #23328, Retired, Electra

Maj Janice M. Brewer, Life Member #13213, Retired, Marlin

1SG John Bryan, Life Member #11381, Retired, Corrigan

MAJ Walter E. Clifton Jr., Life Member #6946, Retired, Sunnyvale

SGM Stephen L. Cook, Life Member #16756, Retired, Katy

Richard M. Eldridge Jr., Cibolo

SSG Abraham C. Flores III, Life Member #12510, Retired, Kingsville

MSG Jose A. Flores, Life Member #8791, Retired, San Antonio

BG Daniel A. Flynn, Life Member #33145, Retired, Canton, Former Texas State Representative

Doak Elroy Goains, Retired, Itasca

Christopher E. Harper, Life Member #27297, Retired, Waco

COL Muhammad I. Khan, Life Member #32714, Retired, Harker Heights

MAJ Murph Jack Marrow, Life Member #32249, Retired, Sherman

**SGT Saira Martinez, Houston, Co B 172nd BEB

COL Bobby E, Mayfield, Life Member #22902, Retired, Savannah, GA

SMSgt Windell Rockwell Mimms, Life Member #16637, Retired, Helotes

TAPS

As of January 31, 2023

1SG (Ret) Ueuell Gale Rackley, Chico

COL Billy Jack Rankin, Life Member #12392, Retired, Bangs

**SPC Oliver J. Shaw, New Caney, 162nd MED CO (Area Spt)

*SFC Anthony L. Smith, Life Member #31593, Retired, Texarkana

SGT Hurricane Jackson Spencer, Retired, Luling

CMSgt Bobby D. Taylor, Life Member #1901, Retired, Red Oak

Mr. Larry Terrell, Retired, Eastland

*SGT Robert C. Tyson, Life Member #26792, Retired, Port Arthur

SFC Cecil “Billy” Wards Jr., Retired, Mineral Wells

CMSgt (Ret) Frances M. Arnold

NGAT President 1982-1983

NGAT’s first female President

Life Member #2498

Old Hickory, TN

* 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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2023

GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT stops by to thank the brave men and women of the Texas National Guard on December 13 the 386th Birthday of the National Guard. (Photo Courtesy of the Office of the Governor)

MEMBERS OF THE 136TH AIRLIFT WING, NAVY personnel from NAS JRB Fort Worth and Dallas Mavericks personnel assisted the DOD program “Hoops for Troops” in boxing hundreds of meals for DFW families in need during the holiday season. Afterward, they were all treated to lunch and an on-court experience during practice with the Dallas Mavericks players.

THE TEXAS STATE GUARD OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL (OCS) Class of 2022-2023 will soon conclude and a new batch of Texas State Guard Officers will be ready to begin their leadership journey. Those that succeed will graduate on February 25, 2023.

THE 147TH ATTACK WING celebrates Col Andrew Camacho’s (center) fini-flight in the C-26 Condor at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base–Houston, Texas. This celebration precedes his upcoming promotion to Brigadier General and appointment as the Deputy Adjutant General-Air of the Texas Military Department.