2016 Fall NGAT News

Founded 1959 | Volume 57 | Number 3 | Fall 2016

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

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NGAUS Conference Update

NGAT Conference Information

Salute to Retirees

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FROM THE FRONT LINES TO THE HOME FRONT, WE SUPPORT YOU. USAA offers more benefits to military members than any other major financial services provider.

MILITARY MEMBER BENEFIT #35: Estimate your deployment pay with our Deployment Pay Calculator.

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We reserve the right to require documentation. A qualified military campaign is any war or military conflict in which the President of the United States of America issues an Executive Order establishing a campaign medal. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. Use of the term “member” or “membership” does not convey any eligibility rights for auto and property insurance products, or legal or ownership rights in USAA. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. Purchase of a product other than USAA auto or property insurance, or purchase of an insurance policy offered through the USAA Insurance Agency, does not establish eligibility for or membership in USAA property and casualty insurance companies. This credit card program is issued by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. No official U.S. Army endorsement is implied. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement by the Department of Defense. © 2016 USAA. 234878-0916-A

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2016-17 Board of Directors President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Secretary-Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

ARNG Troops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

71st BfSB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Executive Director (Interim) . . . . . . . .

Kenn White Vacant Tony Carter Brian Hildebrand Christopher McKeag Tyra Swanson Mike Wallace Brian Hildebrand Richard Sublett Jet Hays Mark Horn Toni Savely Bob Roark Jimmy Leonard Patrick Hardy Daniel Greigo Michael Selheim Albert Cardenas Leonor Milton Doug Clark Richard Chamberlain Priscilla Leger Vacant Randy Ransom Scott Kingsley Theresa Billeck-Zuniga

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

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

Graphic Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

Theresa Billeck-Zuniga Bailey Buckingham MediaNation.net Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing

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

CONTENTS p10

EANGUS CONFERENCE RECAP

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NGAUS CONFERENCE INFORMATION

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

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

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President’s Report

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Conference Update Letter

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Member Spotlights

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Leadership Changes

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NGAT is Hiring

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Texas Gunfighters

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Members Make EANGUS a Success

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NGAUS Conference Update

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Around the World with the Guard

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NGAT Conference Registration Form

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NGAT Conference Information

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NGAT Conference Breakout Sessions

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Guest Speaker Stedman Graham

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Around Texas with the Guard

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Salute to Retirees

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TAPS/Corporate Sponsors

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NEW NGAT Benefits

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NGAT Planning Calendar

STEDMAN GRAHAM GUEST SPEAKER

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 F a l l 2 0 1 6 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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PRESIDENT’S REPORT NOVEMBER 1, 2016

RECENTLY AT THE CAPITOL ROTUNDA, NGAT President LTC Kenn White (left) along with the Adjutant General of Texas, Maj Gen John F. Nichols presented 2LT Heath Coles with the NGAT Distinguished Honor Graduate Award for OCS Class #59. The award included an engraved clock along with a free lifetime membership in NGAT.

NGAT PRESIDENT LTC KENN WHITE (right) presents 2LT Jason Perdue with the NGAT Bronze Eagle Award for his selection as the Honor Graduate for Officer Candidate School (OCS), Class #59 while BG Tracy Norris (left), Assistant Deputy Adjutant General–Army looks on.

Watch our future unfold at #futureofngat

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AFTER ONLY A FEW SHORT DAYS INTO NOVEMBER and the holiday season rapidly approaching, I’m sure we all recognize that there is much to be thankful for. As the chairman of the National Guard Association of Texas, I am thankful for the opportunity to lead this Association and serve its members. Our Association has a lot to be thankful for as well. I am excited to report in the next few weeks, NGAT will be narrowing its final selection of Executive Director applicants and making an offer by early December. This will be the most important decision NGAT will make in the next several years and it is not a decision that the NGAT Board takes lightly.

The 2017 NGAT Conference is looking to be a very exciting event for our Association.

In addition to an amazing guest speaker, this year we have a great theme with professional and personal development breakouts. The upcoming conference will host a special Junior Officer Symposium with a guest panel of brigade and battalion commanders from the Texas Military Department. I am also excited to announce that NGAT will soon have its own Apple and Android App thanks to a Gold Level Sponsorship from DRS and the assistance of NGAT Life Member, BG (Ret) Jim Bisson. The NGAT app will be a great way for our members to stay connected through the year. Recently NGAT set a new Corporate Sponsorship record, by already receiving our first Platinum Corporate Membership, for that we give a thank you to LiteFighter. Please show your support by liking their Facebook page.

Finally, NGAT Conference time also means applications are now being accepted for NGAT Educational Foundation Scholarships. We all know someone going to college, make sure they know about this benefit and apply. This year thanks to American Military University, NGAT will be offering two $750 Scholarships for a NCO and Soldier/Airmen who are currently serving in the Guard. But you must apply in order to be considered.

Recently, NGAT completed its audit and I am happy to share with you that we continue to do well. You can obtain a copy of the audit by contacting Theresa Billeck-Zuniga, NGAT Interim Executive Director. During the October board meeting, the NGAT Board of Directors passed a budget that will help create a more robust Patriot Program by increasing the program’s outreach to more members. Additional details on this will be released in the coming weeks.

Last week, I reached out to the building committee members to restart discussions and planning for our new building. I hope to schedule a building committee meeting in the next several weeks and get this process moving again.

I want to thank those of you who reached out to me to express support for the new direction that NGAT is taking to create a future focused on its members in new and innovative ways. I have heard personally from members and vendors who are excited about our future! In closing, I want to wish you and your families a safe and memorable holiday season.

Kenn White LTC, TXARNG NGAT President

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s National Guard Association of Texa s 78731 Texa in, Aust nue Ave ford 3706 Craw AT 2-NG 0-25 (512) 454-7300 (TX) 1-80 FAX: (512) 467-6803 www.ngat.org 1 November 2016 erence Attendee DISTRIBUTION FOR: NGAT Conf erence Upda SUBJECT: 58th Annual NGAT Conf

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s will be held on the National Guard Association of Texa 1. The 58th Annual Conference of Most conference s.

Texa nio, Anto Riverwalk in San 31 Mar – 1 Apr 2017 at the Wyndham hotel reservations directly your make e Pleas . rwalk Rive events will be held at the Wyndham for single/double 36. The hotel rate is $121.00 plus tax with the hotel by calling 1-866-764-85 receive the to 2017 uary Febr 17 to reservations prior accommodations. Please make your discounted room rate. the conference unless it is encouraged to attend all sessions of 2. All conference participants are to attend the NGAT ed invit rence participants are also noted as a closed session. All confe on Saturday, 1 April place take will on sessi ess busin T Annual Business Meeting. The NGA 2017 and will follow a new format. appropriate attire, and ittee meeting times, tentative agenda, 3. Information pertaining to comm Magazine and on the News T NGA the of 15 on page administrative instructions is available NGAT website at www.ngat.org. early bird special and is now open. Register now for the 4. NGAT conference registration ce is 1 March 2017. eren conf T NGA register for the save some money. The deadline to a $25.00 late fee will and , accepted after 2 March 2017 Only on-site registrations will be to on-site able avail be not will ages pack l be added to each registration. Mea registrations. and list of required ip applications. The application form 5. NGAT is now accepting Scholarsh NGAT office by the to due are ns catio appli All website. documents are listed on the NGAT 17 Feb 2017. the time to join us to a lot of changes so I hope you will take 6. This year’s conference will have New events, you. for ing plann we have been experience the extraordinary conference ding, super trade show, great atten h wort es class ent lopm deve al dynamic speakers, profession door prizes and so much more. sure to reserve your Annual NGAT Conference, so make 7. We hope to see you at our 58th hotel room and register early.

See you at our Extraordinary Conferenc

The National Guard Association of Texas invites all members of the Texas Military Department and NGAT members to attend our annual

Holiday Open House Wednesday, 14 December 2016 1030 - 1300 For more information please call 512-454-7300, Email membership@ngat.org or visit our website at www.ngat.org.

e!

Theresa Billeck-Zuniga Executive Director — Interim

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Member Spotlights Tim Kennedy to Fight in UFC 205

Harrison Presented with the Davy Crockett Award

Former Ultimate Fighter Championship (UFC) light heavyweight king Rashad Evans will meet former Strikeforce title contender Tim Kennedy at UFC 205 on Nov 12 live on pay-per-view (PPV) from Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.

Kennedy has not competed inside the Octagon since losing to Yoel Romero at UFC 178 via third-round TKO. Before that, Texas Army National Guardsmen, SFC Kennedy had won his first three UFC fights, which included a five-round decision of current 185-pound champion Michael Bisping. Show your support for SFC Kennedy and watch UFC 205 on Nov 12. H

Recently NGAT caught up with COL (Ret) Richard Harrison to present him with the NGAT Davy Crockett Award for his long and valuable dedicated service on the NGAT Scholarship Committee. COL Harrison has served continuously on the education committee with only a single year’s absence in over 49 years. For the past 15 years COL Harrison has also served on the NGAT Educational Foundations board of directors and for the last 6 years he has also served as the Foundations President. His devotion to duty, years of contributions to the NGAT education committee and his commitment to the education of our future leaders demonstrated by him represent the highest standards of servant stewardship, and serve as a testament to his love and sacrifice for this Association. H

Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery SGT Josue Gonzalez (right), border patrol agent and traditional guardsman with the 836th Engineer Company, was recently awarded the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery for his actions during a ceremony on Oct. 5, 2016, in Laredo, Texas. Gonzalez was recognized for his actions in saving an illegal immigrant from rapid currents during a 2014 Rio Grande River border crossing. H (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

Chief Cox Promoted to CW3 COL Elizabeth Hines (left), USPFO for Texas promotes CW2 Timothy Cox to the rank of CW3 during a ceremony at the USPFO office in Austin, TX. Chief Cox is a member of the Joint Force Headquarters with 25 years of service. H

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NGAT would like to thank American Military University for sponsoring two $750 Scholarships. Applications are now being accepted. Scholarships will be awarded to one Soldier/Airmen and one NCO. Winners will be announced in March 2017. To apply visit www.ngat.org/education.htm. H

Special Operations Detachment — Africa Recognized Recently the Special Operations Detachment — Africa was recognized by the Reserve Officers Association — Texas as the Unit of the Year! MAJ David Trent (right) and CPT Christopher Espe (left) accepted the award on behalf of the detachment. An additional honor was bestowed upon CPT Espe, who was selected as the ROA Department of Texas Junior Officer of the Year. Well done, Troopers! H

H LEADERSHIP CHANGES H

Brig Gen Johann “John” Kinsey Air Component Commander Texas State Guard

BG Sean Ryan, commander, 71st Troop Command, hands the guidon to incoming commander, LTC Tim Ochsner, Special Operations Detachment — Africa, at a change of command ceremony held at Bee Caves armory in Austin, Texas. (Photo by SFC Malcolm McClendon)

LTC Miguel Torres Commander Texas Joint Counterdrug Task Force

F a l l 2 0 1 6 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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is Hiring

The National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) is currently accepting applications for the following positions: Insurance Office Assistant, Membership Assistant and Office Janitorial Service. NGAT’s Business Hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. We highly encourage current members of the Texas Military Department, recent retirees, as well as their family members, to apply for these positions.

INSURANCE OFFICE ASSISTANT will assist with the management of our Life Insurance program. This is a part-time position. Not to exceed 30 hours per week.

MEMBERSHIP ASSISTANT will assist with the management of our Membership program. This is a part-time position.

Not to exceed 20-25 hours per week.

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Perform support duties as requested, such as answering phones, processing mail, assisting customers, and scanning documents.

• Posting of insurance payments on a daily basis.

• Updating and maintaining Policyholder’s records.

• Mailing monthly insurance premium notices.

• Processing insurance forms/documents.

• Maintaining current addresses for Policyholder’s records.

• Reviewing new policies for processing.

• Assist the Insurance Director with their duties and responsibilities.

• Other duties as assigned.

•G eneral data entry and mass mailing preparation, billing.

• Administrative Support.

• Assist with the management of social media.

• Assisting with the production of association publications.

• Assisting with annual conference duties.

• Performing special projects as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS • High school diploma (or equivalent) and 2-3 years of customer service and/or administrative experience or at least an Associate’s Degree.

• Dependable, organized, and punctual. Must be a quick learner and have an interest in the Insurance field.

• Must have excellent customer service skills and the ability to communicate effectively with customers.

• Strong computer skills. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook.

• Effective organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills required to help resolve routine problems and answer general questions.

• Professional phone etiquette.

• Mature and responsible personality.

• Licensed as a General Lines Agent (Life, Accident, Health and HMO) a plus but not required.

• Service in the Texas Army National Guard or Texas Air National Guard or prior military service a plus but not required.

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REQUIREMENTS •H igh school diploma (or equivalent) and 2-3 years of customer service and/or administrative experience.

•D ependable, organized, and punctual. Must be a quick learner.

•M ust have excellent customer service skills and the ability to communicate effectively with customers.

•M UST HAVE Strong computer skills. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook.

•A positive, energetic approach in dealing with association members and corporate partners •A bility to communicate effectively, balance multiple assignments, set priorities, and execute tasks independently • S ervice in the Texas Army National Guard or Texas Air National Guard a plus but not required. ________________________________________________ FFICE JANITORIAL SERVICE — Looking for someone who O is willing to come to the NGAT office to provide Janitorial Services once a week during business hours, preferably on a Thursday.

Interested personnel should email their resume to membership@ngat.org.

Texas Gunfighters Join in Hawaii ANG’s Sentry Aloha Original Story By SSgt Mindy Bloem

MSGT LOUIS SORIANO (right), aircrew flight equipment provides MSgt Jacqueline Crow (left), operations intelligence analyst, both with the 149th Fighter Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, EGRESS training at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

TSGT ADAM FLOOD, a crew chief with the 149th Fighter Wing, marshals an F-16 Fighting Falcon at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Hawaii.

TSGT KEVIN YAMAGUCHI, crew chief, and Capt Christopher Myers, logistics readiness officer, both with the 149th Fighter Wing, practice survival techniques in a life raft taught by a survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) specialist with the 15th Wing at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

PILOTS, MAINTAINERS AND VARIOUS SUPPORT PERSONNEL from the Texas Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing traveled to Hawaii to participate in Sentry Aloha, Aug. 17-26, 2016. Sentry Aloha is a large-scale, combat exercise that employs several different fighter and support aircraft from varying Air Force units, maneuvering together in a simulated wartime environment.

Various aircraft- C-130s, KC-135s, C-17s, F-16s, F-15s, F-22s — lined the ramps along Hickam’s runway ramps in order to perform strategic joint combat operations.

Part of the purpose of Sentry Aloha is to integrate with the other Guard platforms as well as some active duty units that are here to better understand how each other operates, so if called upon for some type of contingency, we have a backbone to fall on — that we’ve operated together, and we can all be force multipliers for each other,” said Lt Col Kristian Thiele, a 149th Fighter Wing F-16 instructor pilot.

Performing these coordinated scenarios with other type of aircraft was a chance for the 149th FW pilots to broaden their scope of training. Since the primary mission of the 149th FW is to train and create combat capable F-16 pilots, this exercise also added unique value to the pilots’ distinctive skill set. The fighter pilots weren’t the only ones involved in the exercise. Several supporting agencies from the wing traveled by military airlift to offer their assistance for this year’s training as well, which featured more than 40 aircraft from eight other states Capt. Christopher Myers, a logistics readiness officer with the 149th FW’s Logistics Readiness Squadron, understands the kind of effort it takes to pull off an event of this scale. Myers, who was in charge of requesting airlift and arranging many of the logistical details that go into deploying nearly 80 personnel, began the planning several months in advance. The host of support is not lost on the fighter pilots training in this exercise. They know a lot of people are behind them to make a mission like Sentry Aloha happen. H Photos by TSgt Rebekkah Jandron

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Members Help Make the EANGUS Conference a Success THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) highlighted just a few of the things the Guard does best. The annual conference coincided with catastrophic flooding in parts of Louisiana that caused the state support element for the conference to be pulled to conduct flood response and recovery missions. It was at that point that the EANGUS President, CMSgt (Ret) John Harris put out a call for help to the EANGUS membership and those scheduled to attend the conference and in true National Guard form Guardsmen and family members answered the call in record numbers.

The conference was a huge success because the EANGUS members pitched in and volunteered to work. Members of the Texas delegation assisted with operations, food preparation, security and event coordination while other states worked at food banks and clothes sorting facilities to help those affected by the floods.

More than 1,500 people attended the conference and “came to roll up their sleeves and open their wallets” in support of the Louisiana National Guard said Frank Yoakum, the EANGUS executive director. During the three day conference EANGUS raised almost $100,000 that will directly support effected flood victims who are also members of the Louisiana National Guard. For various reasons many states at the last minute elected to cancel Soldier and Airmen scheduled to attend the conference for Professional Development.

Texas in a show of support to Louisiana took 7 Soldiers and Airmen to the conference on professional development.

Despite some keynote leadership cancellations the conference was a huge success because the Guard takes care of their own and are not afraid to step forward and help out when needed. There are no significant changes to report other than the association is looking to update their bylaws. The recommended changes should go out to the membership before next years conference. H

Aug 27-30, 2017 Reno, Neveda LET ME TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR NGAT INSURANCE YOU CAN CONVERT YOUR GROUP TERM LIFE INSURANCE POLICY to a Whole Life insurance policy at anytime without proving insurability (Whole life rates are based on your age at the time you that take it out — the younger you convert your policy…the cheaper the premium is for the rest of your life). Whole life insurance lasts the rest of your life, the premium never changes, and it does accrue a cash value over time.

You may also apply for a child rider to your whole life policy for life insurance coverage in the amount of $7,500 on your children from the age of 15 days to 25 years. This is $6.50 per month, regardless of the number of children (one price for all).

Children’s coverage ends at age 25 and then can be converted to their own whole life policy with coverage up to $37,500.

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Whole life insurance policies are also available to those who do not have a Group Term life insurance policy. This policy does have health questions and does go through underwriting. It is also available for your parents, siblings, or grown children.

Whole Life insurance coverage is available between the ages of 18 and 75, in amounts from $2,500 to $100,000 ($75,000 for ages 66-75).

This can be paid monthly by a bank draft or by an allotment from your Retired Pay. Please contact Kathy Gallatin at 512-454-7300 for more information or email her at insurance@ngat.org. H

H NGAUS CONFERENCE UPDATE H THE 138TH NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES (NGAUS) conference was held in Baltimore, MD where speakers emphasized the importance of citizen-soldiers in meeting the potential challenges they may face globally while still serving their communities. The conference hosted Army and Air National Guard officers and retirees from all 50 states, as well as Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.

During the conference, the Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump spoke to attendees and promised as commander in chief to supply the National Guard with “the best, most modern equipment” and rebuild the “depleted” American military.

Other keynote speakers included Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James, General Mark A. Milley, Army chief of staff, General David L. Goldfein, Air Force chief of staff, Senator Lindsey Graham, Republican-SC and form General Joseph L. Lengyel, Chief of the National Guard Bureau.

MG James Hoyer, the adjutant general of West Virginia, was elected chairman of the NGAUS board of directors. He follows MG (Ret) Deborah Ashenhurst who was the first woman to serve in that position in the association’s 138-year history. Along with electing a chairman, the delegates also attended a trade show that showcased vendors from around the nation.

1st Lt Paula Palacios, a member of Headquarters, Texas Air National Guard remains the NGAUS Area IV Company Grade Representative. The NGAUS conference provided attendees with a excellent opportunity to network with fellow peers and provides insight into what NGAUS is doing to serve its members and the National Guard as a whole. H

2ND LT PHIL FOUNTAIN give the Texas roll call at the NGAUS Conference. Congratulations on your recent promotion to 1st Lt. (Photo courtesy of NGAUS)

REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE DONALD TRUMP waves to the NGAUS attendees after giving his speech at the NGAUS Conference in Baltimore, Maryland.

(Photo courtesy of NGAUS)

SAVE THE DATE

FOR NGAUS 2017: 7-10 September 2017 — Louisville, Kentucky F a l l 2 0 1 6 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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TEXAS GUARDSMAN AND CLASS 08-16 SAPPER LEADER COURSE honor graduate 2LT Ethan McIntosh, 111th Engineer Battalion, is pinned with the Sapper Tab in the Engineer Regimental Room at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. McIntosh was also the recipient of the Sapper Spirit Award. (Photo by 1LT Jolene Hinojosa)

NGAT BENEFIT SPECIALISTS gathered in Des Monies, Iowa for insurance continuing education training. These individuals are happy to answer any questions you may have about your NGAT Insurance. Pictured left to right are: Rob Casias, CSM (Ret) Bill Abernathy, MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga, LTC (Ret) Ed Komondosky, CSM (Ret) Don Strickland, Kathy Gallatin and SSG (Ret) Wilmer Roberts.

MEMBERS OF THE 136TH AIRLIFT WING entertained Airmen and their families as Star Wars characters during the Kids Understanding Deployment Operations (KUDOS) event at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base. KUDOS is a mock deployment event that helps children understand deployments and the 136th AW mission. (Photo courtesy of the 136th AW Public Affairs)

TEXAS GUARDSMEN attend the Chilean Mountain School course August 15-26, 2016 in Portillo, Chile with Chilean army soldiers. The 10-day course consisted of basic competencies on movement, maneuvering, and life-saving techniques in spring and winter mountain terrain. Through these military exchanges, soldiers are given the opportunity to experience new types of operations.

CPT MARTHA NIGRELLE AND SGT ELIZABETH PENA pose for a photo with Chilean Army LTC Claudio Orellana, during the public affairs exchange conducted in Santiago, Chile.

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MEMBERS OF THE TEXAS STATE GUARD 19TH REGIMENT built a portable stretcher, to evacuate an injured role player, a boy scout from Troop 390 from Terrell, Texas, on a 1.8 mile walk with their rucksack, as part of the training at Camp Maxey, Powderly, Texas.

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honor Sapper Intosh

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W I T H

G U A R D

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THE TEXAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARDSMEN welcomed SPC Rachel Mayhew into its ranks as the first female to be awarded the 12B combat engineer military occupational specialty. Mayhew graduated June 17, 2016, from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, during a rigorous two-week MOS transition course that included the High Physical Demands Tests which includes a series of tasks geared toward combat engineers to ensure force capability and readiness. Mayhew is a native of Fort Worth and is assigned as a combat engineer with the 840th Mobility Augmentation Company. (Photo by 1LT Jolene Hinojosa)

he Kids a mock

COL CHARLES SCHOENING, Commander of the 176th Engineer Brigade and Task Force Chaos and senior enlisted advisor CSM Anthony Simms, officially assumed authority for engineer construction missions for the entire U.S. Army Central area of responsibility. The occasion was marked with a formal ceremony attended by representatives from each subordinate command within the task force, as well as commanders of several adjacent units. (Photo Courtesy of the 176th Engineer Brigade)

ic Affairs)

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TSGT JOSHUA DARCY, CMSGT DEL ATKINSON AND SMSGT AUBREY BEAVER, all security forces members assigned to the 136th Security Forces Squadron, provide security for a C-130 Hercules aircraft at Naval Air Station Fort Worth, Texas.

The Phoenix RAVEN program is a specialized force that provides protection for aircraft in high-threat areas. (Photo by TSgt Vanessa Reed)

LT COL MARK DAVIS, an optometrist with the 147th Medical Group in Houston, Texas, participates in aid during the humanitarian mission. Thousands of local citizens receive medical treatment from Texas Guardsmen and Chilean Airmen during the five-day XXI Operative Medico-Dental Rapa Nui, on Isla de Pascua, more commonly known as Easter Island. The joint Ministry of Health and Chilean Air Force event is designed to deliver medical specialty care to patients they may not otherwise have access to such as ophthalmology, optometry, minor surgery, ear nose and throat, dentistry, cardiology, and pulmonary medicine. (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

TSGT LYNDSEY BARCLAY, 147th Reconnaissance Wing Emergency Manager, explains the proper wear of protective suits during a deployment exercise at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, TX.

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58th NGAT Conference 31 March - 1 April 2017 Wyndham Riverwalk, San Antonio TX Please Check:

o Army o Spouse

o Retired Army o Guest

Conference Registration Form o Air

o Retired Air

o State Guard

o NGAT Life Member

_____ # Conferences Attended including this one

o NGAT Annual Member

Rank:_______________________ Name:________________________________________________________________________ Unit:_______________________________________ Email Address:_________________________________________________ _____________________________ Home Address:_____________________________________________ Daytime Phone:(____)______________________________ City/State:_____________________________ Zip:________________ Cell:(____)________________________________________ Badge Name:_________________________________ Spouse/Guest Name:___________________________Rank: _____________ The unit you wish to sit with at the Dinner:_________________________________________________________________________ Please indicate any special needs (i.e. disability, dietary, etc.) ________________________________________________________ Renew Your NGAT Membership Dues o Renew my NGAT Membership - NGAT Dues Renewal also available online

SUBTOTAL $____________ $____________

E1-E6: $15 E7-O/CW3: $20 O/CW4-O/CW5: $25 O6-O8: $30 Associate/Retired: $20 NGAT Life Membership Special - Become a life member today for $100.00 - Offer expires 31 Mar 2017

NGAT Junior Enlisted Package (Includes registration) Lone Star Package (E1-E6 only) Includes 2 NGAT Meal Packages, 2 Registrations and 2 Nights at Hotel

NGAT Conference Fees

Please select Lunch - LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch

o Attendee Lunch (circle one) LE RL SL o Spouse/Guest Lunch (circle one) LE RL SL Hotel Room o King o Double (NGAT will book the hotel room for this package) Registration - All Attendees Must Pay Registration Fee o Attendee Registration Fee o Spouse/Guest Registration Fee Meal Packages (Registration fee required with all packages) Early Bird Price NGAT Meal Package - Business Sessions, Breakouts, Exhibits, Hospitality Rooms, Welcome Party, Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Early Bird Price Please select Lunch - LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch

o Attendee (circle one) LE RL SL o Spouse/Guest (circle one) LE RL SL Friday Welcome Party Only o Attendee o Spouse/Guest Saturday Breakfast Only Package o (FREE) Breakfast for NGAT Member o Non-NGAT Member Breakfast o Spouse/Guest Breakfast Saturday Lunch Only Package LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch o Attendee (circle one) LE RL SL o Spouse/Guest (circle one) LE RL SL Saturday Dinner Only Package o Attendee o Spouse/Guest Sunday Prayer Breakfast (Optional Meal) o Attendee o Spouse/Guest NGAT Optional Events (not included in Basic Registration) Golf Tournament (Fri) o Attendee Handicap: ____ o Spouse/Guest Handicap: ____ Names of Golf Team: ________________________________________________ Fun Run (Fri)

o Attendee Specify T-Shirt Size:

S M L XL XXL

o Spouse/Guest

$350 ea

$____________

Deadline 6 Feb 2017

$15 $15

$____________ $____________

$115

$____________

Ends 30 Jan 2017

$125

$____________

After 31 Jan 2017

$45 $____________ FREE $10 ea

$____________

$30 ea

$____________

$50 ea $30 ea

$____________ $____________

$75 ea

$____________

$20 ea

$____________

$40 ea

$____________ $____________

S M L XL XXL

Missions Tour

(Fri) 0900 - 1200

Wine Tasting

(Fri) 1100 - 1200

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

$20 ea

Center for the Intrepid Tour

(Fri) 1130 - 1230

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

No Cost

Spirits Tasting

(Fri) 1230 - 1330

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

$30 ea

$____________

River Cruise

(Fri) 1000 - 1130

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

$15 ea

$____________

Ghost Tour

(Fri) 2000 - 2100

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

$12 ea

$____________

For details on optional events visit the details NGAT Website For on

o Attendee

o Spouse/Guest

NGAT optional events please visit www.ngat.org.

o Check Enclosed (Please make check payable to NGAT) Donation - NGAT Educational Foundation $____________ Charge my: o MasterCard o Visa Expiration Date: ____________ SubTotal: $____________ Card #: ____________________________________ Total (Check): $____________ CC Security Code: _______ CC Billing Address Zip Code: _______ Late Fee after 1 Mar 17 (Add $25): $____________ Name of Cardholder:___________________________________________ Credit Card Handling Fee (Add 5%): $____________ Signature of Cardholder: _______________________________________ Total (Credit Card): $____________ ONLINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE AT WWW.NGAT.ORG For Assistance Call 512-454-7300 MEAL PACKAGES MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO REGISTER AFTER MARCH 1, 2017 OR ONSITE!

ONLY ONSITE REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER MARCH 1, 2017

Mail to: NGAT, 3706 Crawford Ave, Austin, TX 78731 Fax: (512) 467-6803 Email: membership@ngat.org

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

H Fall 2016

CONFERENCE INFORMATION H at the 58th Annual NGAT conference that will be held 31 March-1 April 2017 at the Wyndham Riverwalk Hotel, San Antonio, Texas. Our theme will cover conference topics that touch on making our organization extraordinary, make our association extraordinary, and make our members extraordinary.

REGISTRATION (ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN) All attendees must pay the registration fee.

Registration fee is $15.00 per person.

MEAL PACKAGES

• Early Bird Registration fee is $115 and closes on 30 January 2017.

• Regular Registration fee is $125 and closes on 1 March 2017.

(The deadline for meal packages is 1 March 2016. After this date, meals must be purchased individually as available.)

• A $25 late fee will be added to all registrations received after 1 March 2017.

• All cancellation requests must be received in the NGAT office prior to 10 February 2017.

HOTEL

• Wyndham Riverwalk Hotel, 111 E. Pecan Street, San Antonio, TX 78205.

• Make your reservations directly with the hotel at: 1-866-764-8536. Make sure to identify yourself as a member of the National Guard Association of Texas.

• Hotel rate: $121 single/double plus tax per night.

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

(NGAT cannot guarantee rooms after 17 February 2017)

in Afghanistan. The tour is limited to 40 participants, so attendees will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis.

San Antonio River Cruise — You will cruise along the San Antonio river and pass under the Market Street Bridge, cruise pass River Center Mall along with other river attractions and sites while learning of their history.

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

Spirits Tasting — Enjoy a classic cocktail: “Bourbon” It’s important to know Bourbon is whiskey but not all whiskey is Bourbon. Come learn a little about the history and production of Bourbon and learn about the ways to enjoy this classic cocktail.

License to Carry Certification — A License To Carry class will be held Friday morning of the NGAT conference. The class will provide the required 4 hours of instruction as mandated by the State of Texas and a written test.

You must bring certification of your shooting with you to the class. (Check website for more information) Sisters Grimm Ghost Tour — Participants will be guided throughout one of the nation’s oldest cities and your guide will tell you the history and ghost stories no soul dare tell.

ATTIRE

NGAT Business Session: Business Casual.

NGAT Dinner: Army — Class A/Service Dress/Mess Dress Air - Mess Dress/ Service Dress.

Civilians — Business Suit/ Evening Formal Wear.

Spouses — After-Five Attire.

CONFERENCE OPTIONAL EVENTS

Golf Tournament at Fort Sam Houston Golf Course — Shotgun, Florida scramble with low net/low gross competition. The golf tournament is open to both registered and non-registered attendees of the conference.

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

The annual 5K Fun Run/Walk at Brackenridge Park — Come enjoy a leisure run/walk on Friday morning. The registration fee includes wicking t-shirt and refreshments.

14th 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.

Tour of the San Antonio Missions — Tour of the four southernmost Spanish colonial missions — Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan and Espada. The missions along with the Alamo have been name a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO).

Tour the Center for the Intrepid — This center is a state of the art rehabilitation facility that treats amputees and burn victims. It is located next to the San Antonio Military Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston.

It was specifically built to provide care for United States servicemen and women who have served in military operations in the Iraq War and the War

NGAT Welcome Party Reception with Geeks Who Drink — The Welcome Party reception menu includes pasta and Kobe beef slider stations with all the trimmings and ice cold refreshments. So you think you are a trivia buff?

Join your friends for some laughs and friendly competition in military trivia and movies. Bring the whole family with you and enjoy an evening with friends at the reception that will also include a board game room for all you gamers. You can also catch a river taxi after the reception and explore the Friday night festivities along the San Antonio Riverwalk.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Spouses Luncheon on Saturday at the Tower of the Americas. Marine Sergeant Major (Ret) Chermaine Harrell will be the guest speaker. She was a military spouse herself, and is an Associate Dean with National University. Registration fee includes lunch, entertainment and prizes.

Saturday Dinner — Dinner presentations include a extraordinary speaker Steadman Graham who will help your understand your leadership identity.

NGAT will also present the Minuteman and Scholarship awards. After dinner, guests will have the opportunity to visit hospitality suites.

Hospitality Suites will be located at the hotel and units will compete for the “Best Suite” award.

The NGAT Social Lounge — Visit and mingle with friends in a more conversation-friendly environment.

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

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

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H

2017 CONFERENCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS H

DON’T MISS THESE BREAKOUT SESSIONS AT THE NGAT CONFERENCE How to Maximize Sign up for this breakout session and learn how to you can use Linkedin as a powerful tool to promote yourself or your business. All attendees get a free professional headshot portrait.

Sara Helmy founded Tribu in 2011 at the age of 22 and is much more fast pace with her marketing skills than she was at cross-country back in the day. She delights in working on fabulous new projects or chasing exciting and bold opportunities. She also enjoys collaborating with her talented tribe, is a newlywed, and loves to watch movies with her dog Rainy. Tribu focuses on progressive marketing strategies (mostly online) that are loved by today’s consumers. They hate spam too! Oh yeah, and they also like to design epic stuff. H

10 Things Every Guard Member Should Know About the Law Do single people really need a will? What are my options if the police accuse me of driving while intoxicated?

Can I sue my civilian employer for making me work overtime to make up for Guard drill? How can I get an Attorney to work for free? This session will equip participants with some basic knowledge to avoid or mitigate legal issues.

Attorney and NGAT Life Member Doug O’Connell will present some common sense strategies to deal with the most frequent legal issues facing Guardsmen. He routinely assists Soldiers and Airmen sort out legal issues, and when necessary, represents them in Court. H Join us as a six-member panel speaks with Texas Military Department Company grade officers about their future growth as an officer in the Texas Military Department. Brigade and Battalion Commanders will answer questions and give insightful career advice. This symposium is only open to company grade officers only. H

License to Carry Certification A License To Carry class will be held Friday morning of the NGAT conference. The class will provide the required 4 hours of instruction as mandated by the State of Texas and a written test. You must bring certification of your shooting with you to the class. (Check website for more information.) There is no fee for this class but you must sign up for the class because seats are limited. H

Spouses Luncheon Join us at the NGAT Spouse Luncheon at the Tower of the Americas where you can learn and share in the experiences and challenges with being a Military Spouse. Retired Marine Sergeant Major Chermaine Harrell was a military spouse herself, and is an Associate Dean with National University. She is active with other military spouse organizations and has been a guest speaker on many topics related to military spouses. She has children in college and has lived the life as a military spouse. H

Osha General Industry Course The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Course provides employees and employers broad awareness on recognizing and preventing hazards in the workplace. Students will be introduced to OSHA policies, procedures and standards as well as general industry safety and health principles and work practices covered in the 29 CFR Part 1910. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive an OSHA 10-Hour completion card. To register, visit http://www.ngat-osha.eventbrite.com/ H

For more information visit the NGAT website at www.NGAT.org 16 | N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f T e x a s

H Fall 2016

STEDMAN GRAHAM TO SPEAK AT NGAT AWARDS DINNER At this year’s NGAT Awards dinner we are pleased to have Stedman Graham as our guest speaker.

Stedman’s mission is to transform people from followers to leaders and change the way they think and learn. He says that “many of us spend years trying to find out who we are and, sadly, too many of us never do. If we fail to define ourselves, we risk letting others define us by our race, gender, and background. We buy into the labels that keep us in a box and, as a result of those limitations, never reach or realize our greatest potential.”

Graham served in the U.S. Army and played basketball professionally in the European League. He in a large part credits his experience as a soldier for his strong foundation, after proudly serving the U.S. Army from 1974-1979, both stateside and in Germany. Graham used military tuition assistance to complete his graduate degree while serving. Since his honorable discharge as a Specialist, he has built a strong reputation for helping corporations, organizations and individuals succeed. He is the Chairman and CEO of S. Graham & Associates, a management and marketing consulting firm based in Chicago.

Graham holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Hardin Simmons University, a master’s degree in education from Ball State University and an honorary doctorate in Humanities from Coker College. H

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H

A R O U N D

T E X A S

LEADERS BRIDGE THE GAP WITH THE Y-GENERATION COOKING WITH A PURPOSE

The Texas Army National Guard assembled its best culinary specialists to compete and subsequently win the Region V, Philip A. Connelly Competition, Aug. 6, 2016. The Philip A. Connelly Program is the personification of food service excellence executed by culinary specialists resulting in the presentation of extremely gratifying dining experiences across all Army food service platforms in garrison and field environments. Texas Guard units competed against guard units from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Louisiana and Kansas. Pictured above CPT Rita C. Miller, commander, Co C 536th Brigade Support Battalion, joins her Soldiers in preparing and cutting vegetables during the Region VI, Philip A. Connelly Competition and members of Co E 536th BSB proudly display their trophy as winners of the competition and are scheduled to compete and represent the Texas guard and Region VI at the Department of the Army level of the competition in early 2017. There they will compete against other top finishers from the respective four regions across the country. H (Photo by Capt. Maria Mengrone)

STRENGTHENING SPIRTUAL ARMOR

40 chaplains and chaplain assistants from Army and Air National Guard unit ministry teams from the Texas Military Department, 36th Infantry Division, and National Guard Bureau stand together for a group photo outside the Regional Training Institute at Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas on August 20, 2016. The teams attended resiliency and sustainment training within a joint environment to exchange executable ideas for strengthening spiritual armor to serve the citizen Soldiers and Airmen throughout the state of Texas. H (Photo by SGT Adrian Shelton)

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H Fall 2016

Junior Enlisted service members from the Texas Army National Guard, Texas Air National Guard and State Guard meet with senior leaders during a junior enlisted council September 10-11, 2016 at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. The council is designed to bridge the gap between top leadership and the Y-generation and provide visibility and advises on strategic communications initiatives. NGAT is proud to have sponsored breakfast at this event. H (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

143RD INFANTRY REGIMENT CHANGES THEIR PATCH

COL Gregory Anderson, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team commander, right, and CSM Franklin Velez, brigade sergeant major, change patches on Texas Army National Guard LTC Kurt Cyr, left, and CSM Mark Dornbusch, Soldiers from the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment during a ceremony held at Camp Mabry in Austin, Aug. 13, 2016, switching patches from the Texas Army National Guard’s 36th Infantry Division, in Austin, Texas, to the active duty, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team patch, out of Vincenza, Italy. The Army’s Associated Unit Pilot Program pairs select National Guard and Reserve units with Active Duty units to train and build readiness together, enabling the Army to provide more combat ready formations to combatant commanders. H (Photo by CPT Jessica Jackson)

W

S

W I T H

T H E

G U A R D

H

ENGINEERS PARTNER WITH ACTIVE DUTY IN PILOT PROGRAM

COL Mark Quander, commander of the 36th Engineer Brigade, based in Fort Hood, Texas, conducts a patch-over during a ceremony at Cherry Park in Weatherford, Texas, Oct. 15, 2016. The Texas Army National Guard’s 840th Mobility Augmentation Company “Maniacs”, based in Grand Prairie joined efforts with the 36th Engineer Brigade, out of Fort Hood.

The partnering of forces is the result of the Associated Unit Pilot Program, which is designed to increase the readiness and responsiveness of the Army as a total force. The unit will now wear the patch of the 36th Engineer Brigade instead of the patch of the Texas Army National Guard’s 176TH Engineer Brigade. H (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

ACTIVE DUTY UNIT TO WEAR 36TH ID PATCH

For the first time ever an active duty unit will don a National Guard patch. This historic event is part of the U.S. Army’s Associated Units Pilot Program. On Friday, September 16, 2016 at Fort Polk, LAthe 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain “Patriots” removed their 10th Mountain Division patch and place on the highly regarded T patch of the 36th Infantry Division. H

HOUSTON WELCOMES HOME SIGNAL GUARDSMEN

Soldiers from the 136th Expeditionary Signal Battalion were welcomed back from their recent deployment by family members and the local Texas community during a ceremony hosted and sponsored by the Houston Astros at the Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas, Aug. 5, 2016. The signal battalion completed a successful nine-month tour into Kuwait and surrounding areas. During their deployment, the unit was responsible for providing communication capabilities in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, Operation Freedom Resolve, Operation Spartan Shield. H (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

APACHE RECOVERED

Texas Guardsmen prepare an AH-64D Apache helicopter for recovery operations using a universal maintenance aviation recovery (UMAR) kit, Sept. 1, 2016, following a precautionary landing in a rice paddy in Wallisville, Texas, near Houston, due to mechanical issues. Using the UMAR kit maintenance soldiers from the 1-149th Avn Rgmt (Attack Reconnaissance) waded through six-inch deep mud and worked in a heat index of more than 100 degrees, to ensure a safe and successful sling load recovery mission. H (Photo by Capt. Martha Nigrelle)

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

H Fall 2016

KIMBLE RECEIVES THE LONE STAR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL BG Sean Ryan (right) presents SGM Quentin Kimble with the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal at his retirement ceremony held in Temple, Texas. Family and friends gathered to celebrate his 29 years of military service. H

LTC NORBERT FLORES RETIRES COL Scott MacLeod (right), commander of the 136th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade presents LTC Norbert Flores with the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal during his recent retirement ceremony held at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. H (Photo by SGT Elizabeth Pena)

CHAPLAIN REFLECTS ON HIS MILITARY CAREER Chaplain (LTC) Dale Brynestad reflects on his 32 years of military service in the Texas Army National Guard prior to cutting his cake at his retirement ceremony held at the Quadrangle on Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. H

TEXAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD RECRUITERS GATHER

SHARING THE MOMENT

Recently former Texas Army National Guard recruiters gathers at Canyon Lake for their 3rd Annual Recruiting & Retention Reunion. The gathering gave them a chance to share stories and talk about the good old days. If you were formerly a member of the Texas Army National Guard Recruiting & Retention Command they are looking for you!

Get on the recruiting and retention mailing list by emailing your name and contact information to Dwain James at dwainjames79@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page at Texas Army National Guard R&R Force (Fmr & Present). H

NGAT Board member MAJ Toni Savely (left) shares a photo with CSM Jose Castillias following his retirement ceremony. H

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM Do you have questions about the Blended Retirement System? Watch the video posted on the NGAT Facebook page and website presented by CSM John Troxell, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman. Your Money is Your Future! Changes to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s military retirement system are coming in 2018. Our goal is to ensure you receive the information and tools you need to determine if #BlendedRetirement is the right retirement system for you and your family! H F a l l 2 0 1 6 H N a t i o n a l G u a r d A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s |

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H TAPS H As of 10/21/16

Mr. Hans Campbell, Retired, Dallas **SPC Brandi N. Cantrell, Co B 636th Spt Bn, Telephone **SPC Edwin E. Carabajal, Co B 1-141st Inf Rgmt, Dale CMSgt Darrel F. Dooley, Life Member #1888, Retired, Oklahoma City, OK **SFC Charles W. Ellis II, HHC 36th ID REAR, Bayou Vista SMSgt Eric W. Erickson, Life Member #206, Retired, San Marcos Mr. Noel N. Farrer, Retired, Austin Mrs. Dora Mae Hoekstra, Retired, San Antonio LTC Walter W. Huehlefeld, Life Member #95, League City Mr. Lee R. Kahanek, Life Member #140, Retired, Hallettsville **Maj Patrick J. LaCicero, 181st Airlift Sq, Fort Worth **SSgt Richard A. Lynch, 221st CCS, Pottsboro Mr. John E. Mathis, Life Member #764, Retired, Lawton, OK **PFC Darren Mitchell, Co D 536th Spt Bn, Navasota *SSG James A. Newport, Retired, N. Richland Hills LTC John J. O’Donoghue, Life Member #17932, Retired, San Antonio Mr. Charles E. Oliver, Life Member #11442, Retired, Waco **SMSgt Michael Rios, 149th Fighter Wing, San Antonio MSgt Melvin P. Robinson Jr., Life Member #19184, Retired, Boerne

Mr. Rodolfo Rodriguez, Life Member #24272, Retired, El Paso **SPC George B. Samah Jr., Co C 949th BSB, Media, PA Mr. Hilario J. Subialdea, Retired, Fort Worth LTC Fred W. Sumner, Jr., Life Member #1886, Retired, San Antonio **CPT Todd C. Peterson, 1836th Trans Co, Fmyra, GA Mr. William C. Vaughn, Life Member #6459, Retired, Tyler Mr. Howze L. Whitley, Life Member #6265, Retired, Houston Mr. Richard L. Wightman, Retired, Kearns, UT SMSgt Robert “Bob” Woltersdorf, Retired, Schertz **SPC Dustin Yeoman, 111th Engr Bn, Fort Worth *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 NATIONAL GUARD MEMBER, PLEASE NOTIFY US BY PHONE, MAIL OR EMAIL BY SENDING A LETTER TO OUR OFFICE, OR BY EMAIL AT NGATNEWS@NGAT.ORG.

THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

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

H Fall 2016

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation announces the opening of their annual scholarship competition. Educational grants for attendance at a college or university will be awarded to Active or Life Members of NGAT and/or their spouses and children. All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply. The deadline for receipt of all applications is February 17, 2017 in the NGAT office. Donations are still being accepted for the COL (Ret) Dale & Georgie Pyeatt Memorial Scholarship. Download applications or make a donation at www.ngat.org/education.htm. H

H NEW

NGAT BENEFITS H

THE AMERICAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION NGAT members can join AAA for only $42.00 when you enroll in automatic renewal add one family member for no additional cost. Enjoy 24 hr roadside assistance which includes towing, free shopping discounts, free identity theft monitoring, full service leisure travel agency with AAA membership. H

FREE NOTARY PUBLIC SERVICE TO NGAT MEMBERS Free Notary Public service to all current NGAT members. Just stop by our office at 3706 Crawford Ave, Austin, TX 78731 and see either Kathy or Rob and bring the documents that you need to have notarized with you. For more information call 512-454-7300. H

Attention National Guard and Reserve Members:

Your dedicated military service entitles you to dental coverage

The TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is a voluntary, comprehensive dental insurance program for: National Guard and Reserve Members National Guard and Reserve Family Members Active Duty Family Members

Take advantage of the benefits you have earned!

Protect your smile along with your family’s smile and save. Enroll today! www.metlife.com/tricare 1-855-MET-TDP1

DOWNLOAD BLIPPAR

FILL SCREEN WITH IMAGE OF MILITARY SNOOPY

BLIPP IMAGE INTO LIFE!

TRICARE is a registered trademark of the Department of Defense, Defense Health Agency. All Rights Reserved. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, New York, NY © 2016 MetLife, Inc. © 2016 PNTS L1115446578(exp0117)(All States)(DC,GU,MP,PR,VI)

F a l l 2 0 1 6 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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PERIODICAL

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

ngat.org

PLANNING CALENDAR (As of 15 October 2016)

2016 11

Nov

Veteran’s Day (NGAT Office Closed)

26-27

Nov

Thanksgiving Observed (NGAT Office Closed)

13

Dec

National Guard’s Birthday

14

Dec

NGAT Holiday Open House, Austin, TX

26 Dec-1 Jan

Christmas Holiday Observed (NGAT Office Closed)

2017 2

Jan

News Years Day Observed (NGAT Office Closed)

13-15

Jan

EANGUS Area IV Mid-Winter, Natchez, MS

16

Jan

Martin Luther King Day (NGAT Office Closed)

6

Feb

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

20

Feb

President’s Day (NGAT Office Closed)

30

Mar

NGAT Board Meeting, San Antonio

31 Mar-1 Apr

58th Annual NGAT Conference, San Antonio