GUARDIAN North Dakota
August/September 2016
Volume 9, Issue 5
soldier savvy
Guardsmen Test Skills at Best Warrior Competition
welcome home
Airmen Return from Deployment
PG. 4
PG. 10
Inside This Issue Features
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Sharp Shooters
Nearly 65 Soldiers and Airmen representing North Dakota National Guard units from across the state tested their abilities during multiple pistol, rifle and shotgun shooting events July 8-10 at the firing complex on Camp Grafton’s southern training area.
Chain of
12 Command Gov. Jack Dalrymple appointed Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Robert Becklund to the position of deputy adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard July 25. Becklund replaces Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, who was appointed by Dalrymple to serve as the state’s adjutant general last year.
Butter
16 Bars
The newest leaders in the North Dakota Army National Guard were welcomed into the organization’s officer corps ranks during a formal graduation ceremony Aug. 21 at the 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute on Camp Grafton Training Center, near Devils Lake.
Departments Guardian Snapshots ..................... Page 17 News Briefs ..................................... Page 18 Sound Off! ..................................... Page 19
Commander in Chief North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple The Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Alan S. Dohrmann Chief of Public Affairs Capt. Amber Balken Editor 2nd Lt. Jennifer Joyce Contributors Chaplain (Capt.) Scott Noyes 1st Lt. Karen Holliday 2nd Lt. Eric Jungles Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kiel Skager Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen Staff Sgt. Brett Miller Sgt. Rachel Grothe Sgt. Ashley Johlfs Spc. Thea Jorgensen Ms. Donnell Hushka Ms. Mandy Malo The North Dakota Guardian is an authorized publication for members, families and retirees of the N.D. National Guard. • Contents of the North Dakota Guardian are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, or the Department of the Army or Air Force. • Editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Joint Force Headquarters, N.D. National Guard ( JFND) Public Affairs Officer. • Printed by United Printing, a private firm in no way connected to the U.S. Government under exclusive written contract with the JFND. Reproduction is by the offset method with a circulation of approximately 4,900. • The North Dakota Guardian is published by the JFND Public Information Office, Box 5511, Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511, 701.333.2007
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
Contributions to the North Dakota Guardian are encouraged! Send articles, photos and art to Editor, JFND PIO, Box 5511, Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511. Electronic submissions are preferred. Please e-mail stories in Word format to: jennifer.m.joyce2.mil@mail.mil Phone: 701-333-2195 Fax: 701-333-2017 Digital photos should be 300 dpi, if possible.
On the Cover
Spc. Andrew Kessel, of the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, traverses a confidence course Aug. 18 during the Best Warrior Competition held at Camp Grafton, near Devils Lake, North Dakota.
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Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters
VIEW FROM THE TOP
The art of UNDERSTANDING Before being UNDERSTOOD Maj. Gen. Alan S. Dohrmann
North Dakota Adjutant General
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In our fast-paced, information-now society, it’s easy to get caught up in the need-to-know and need-to-share mentality. People are quick to make assumptions and quick to spread their opinions. We are programed to want to get our point across, make the first comment or write a witty post on social media. While doing so, we are ignoring the other side of the conversation. Most people listen with the intent to reply, not to understand. I don’t need to look further than the closest mirror to validate this point. This column serves to remind everyone, including myself, of the importance of listening and respecting diversity within our organization and communities. We hear what people are saying and immediately tie it to an experience we have had in our lives. So often we have a need to be understood. In all cases, to be
effective leaders, Guardsmen and citizens, we must first understand before we can be understood. Understanding can be even more difficult when you are speaking to someone with a different background, culture and traditions from your own. In such instances, attempting to relate your own experiences can result in unintended consequences. To better serve the people of North Dakota, we need to do our best to understand the context of the differences, not just the differences themselves. Understanding others begins with being aware of your own values and principles, strengths and weaknesses. You need to define your goals for yourself and for the organization and understand where those goals come from. What experiences have you had that shape the way you think or operate?
Those same principals can be used when interacting with your Soldiers and Airmen, as well as with people in our communities. Work to understand their strengths, goals, weaknesses and the experiences and cultural background that drives each of those. Remind yourself that culture is a response to the environment, politics, and resources – not something that appears out of thin air. Only when progress is made to understand one another can effective communication begin. When we really understand each other, we allow for outside-the-box thinking and alternative solutions. Our differences are no longer road blocks for progress, but allow us to cooperate and move forward collaboratively.
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Master Sgt. Scott Gordon, of the 119th Wing, North Dakota Air National Guard, in tan shorts, walks through a greeting party of Patriot Guard members upon his return to Hector International Airport, Fargo, N.D., after a four-month deployment to Europe July 30, 2016. (Below) Senior Airman Colter Pratt, left, is greeted by his mother Melissa Mohr.
HAPPY HOOLIGANS back on north dakota soil
By 2nd Lt. Eric Jungels, North Dakota National Guard Public Affairs Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
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leven North Dakota Air National Guard members, assigned to the Fargo-based 119th Wing Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, returned home July 30 after a four-month deployment to a naval air station in Italy. “We are so proud of the outstanding work these Airmen completed while deployed and so grateful they are returning safely home to North Dakota and to their families and friends,” said Gov. Jack Dalrymple. “The mission they performed was vital not only for the maintenance of aircraft and the safety of pilots and their crews, but for the security of our state, our nation and our world.” All eleven of the aircraft maintainers returned home on a late-July flight that landed at Hector International Airport in Fargo. “We’re excited to welcome back this group of Airmen,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Erstad, commander of the 119th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “Their experience and achievements on this deployment demonstrate proficiency in a highly technical and important role. Maintainers ensure that aircraft is ready and available to fly safely and successfully, and they’re a great asset to the 119th Wing in Fargo and our nation, more generally.” The U.S. Air Force employs significant numbers of aircraft to complete vital missions around the globe. It’s the responsibility of aircraft maintenance specialists to ensure that every component of high performance aircraft is maintained to the most exacting standards. Maintenance experts ensure that the aircraft in their care are ready to fly at a moment’s notice so that pilots and their crews
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can safely and effectively complete their mission. “This is a great time for Airmen to reunite and spend time with their families and friends,” Erstad said. “As usual, we’re prepared to assist this group of Airmen as they transition back to life at home. We’re grateful for the sacrifice that they and their families have made this year, and we’re committed to giving back and supporting them as much as possible.” A number of resources are available to service members returning home from deployments. There are resources offered from the N.D. National Guard, the community, the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, education & finance offices, legal assistance and more. The National Guard works diligently during the redeployment of Guardsmen to provide any necessary readjustment support.
in Quality of Life England provides training opportunity for Happy Hooligans Story by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
Thirty-five Happy Hooligans departed the North Dakota Air National Guard Base in Fargo, July 29 through August 11, 2016, on a deployment for training (DFT) to Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England. The group was made up of 20 Airmen from the 119th Services Flight and 13 fire fighters from the 119th Civil Engineer Squadron, with one officer from the 119th Force Support Squadron and a first sergeant. The services flight personnel worked in food service, the fitness center and lodging, performing tasks that are not possible at home station in Fargo since different equipment and facilities are found at the deployed locations than there are at the Fargo Air National Guard Base. “The trip to England was the best experience I have had in my career since I became an Airman,” Airman 1st Class Marcus Mensahn said. “I learned many functions when it comes to meal preparation, working as team, serving meals and preparing midnight meals. One of my most remarkable duties on my shift was being on the grill preparing omelets and scrambled eggs. I was able to see other functional areas, especially food services and fitness.” There are no lodging facilities at the Air National Guard Base in Fargo, so the services flight personnel assigned to that area were able to get training in England that could not be done at home. “You can read all of the AFIs you want about how you should be doing that part of your job but until you’re thrown into an environment where you can get handson training, you don’t have the same confidence. The training we received really was top notch and every single person in the lodging office had a part in continuing our training, from civilian to active-duty,” said Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Jasmann. The fire fighters did their training at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, and were also able to train in areas that are unavailable at home station. In particular, they were able to utilize fighter aircraft, which are no
longer flown by the unit in Fargo. Five services flight members, Senior Airman Jamila Branch, Airman 1st Class Marcus Mensahn, Staff Sgt. Chelsea Vanraden, Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Jasmann and Staff Sgt. Michelle Mahrer, were recognized for outstanding performance in their duties on the DFT. Several of the deploying services flight personnel are new to the functional area, and it was the first DFT for at least 10 of them. “The experience our people get from a deployment like this really helps prepare them for any deployments they might encounter in the future,” said Senior
Master Sgt. David Mehus, the 119th Services Flight superintendent. In addition to great training, the DFT offered a chance for most Airmen to see some sites during their off duty hours, with base tours to English castles being a popular destination. “Trips like this DFT are a great way for our Airmen to gain invaluable skills and experience, while giving them opportunities see the world, benefiting both readiness and morale levels,” said Capt. Shaun Carlson, the 119th Force Support Squadron operations officer.
re thrown into an t, but until you’ an w u yo Is AF e u don’t have the l of th s-on training, yo “You can read al nd ha t ge n ca u re yo Jasmann environment whe ch. Sgt. Tiffany Te — .” ce en id same conf
(Clock-wise, from upper right) Senior Airman William Archinal serves a meal at Royal Air Force Mildenhall; Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Jasmann, right, and Staff Sgt. Michelle Mahrer work at the check-in counter of base lodging; and Airman 1st Class Kathleen Mohr, right, hands a plate of food to an Airman in the food service line as Airman 1st Class Rachel McGrady looks on.
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Guardsmen Highest Caliber of the
North Dakota Marksmen Compete in state shooting match, Messer joins All-Guard Team for ‘Fortuna trophy’ win By Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters
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n the heels of winning a national championship in North Little Rock, Arkansas, this spring, North Dakota’s marksmen began a new cycle of yearly shooting competitions with the start of the 2016 Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Match. Nearly 65 Soldiers and Airmen representing North Dakota National Guard units from across the state tested their abilities during multiple pistol, rifle and shotgun shooting events July 8-10 at the firing complex on Camp Grafton’s southern training area. “This annual marksmanship competition
always is one of my favorite events to attend,” said Maj. Gen. Alan S. Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, who recognized the shooters’ performances during the competition’s awards ceremony. “It’s exciting to see how much you all, as marksmen and members of the North Dakota National Guard, share a common passion. The shooting expertise you develop here is an invaluable skill you can pass onto fellow unit members — Soldiers and Airmen alike — to strengthen individual readiness across our organization.” When the winners were announced during the final day of competition, four shooters from the Jamestown-based 817th Engineer Company (Sapper) again came out on top as the best overall team with the highest aggregate score from multiple shooting matches. The team members are Sgt. Evan Messer, of Mandan, North Dakota; Sgt. Jordan Gehlhar, of Lauderdale, Minnesota; Sgt. Andrew Maley, of Enderlin, North Dakota; and Spc. Drew Topp, of Jamestown. This is the 32nd year in a row the Jamestown unit has secured first place at the state match. They were followed by a team from the Fargo-based 119th Wing from the N.D. Air National Guard. The second place winners were Tech. Sgt. Josh VonBank, Senior Master Sgt. Brian Rook, Airman 1st Class Gavin Rook and Staff Sgt. Matthew Jasper. Maj. Michael Champagne, the state’s marksmanship coordinator, said the group of North
Photo by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters
North Dakota marksmen take aim July 9 during the Combat Pistol Barricade Match at Camp Grafton’s southern training area. The competition was one of several shooting events comprising the 2016 Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Match. 6 · Guardian · august/september 2016
Dakota marksmen were able to form 15 teams this year for competition, a significant uptick in participation from previous matches. “This is the most teams we’ve had compete here in a while. Seeing that many new people interested in the program is really good, so that they can get that training and bring it back to their units, and show people that there’s not only just a typical marksmanship qualification to participate in every year. There are different types of shooting events available to make everyone better at what they do,” he said. In individual competition, Messer was named the best overall marksman, or “top gun.” He was followed by Spc. Bryce Solie, of Fertile, Minnesota, also a member of the 817th Engineer Company, in second, and Staff Sgt. Jason Dittus, of Bismarck, a member of the 818th Engineer Company (Sapper), based in Williston, North Dakota, who came in third. A veteran marksman, Messer recently returned in late June from the British Army Reserve Operational Shooting Competition, an international shooting match at the Army Training Centre Pirbright in Woking, England. While there, he competed as a member of the All-Guard Marksmanship Team, which is comprised of the top marksman across the country. The team shot a number of rifle and pistol matches against 200 shooters from various nationalities to earn the coveted Fortuna Trophy, based on its aggregate scores. The National Guard team won the honor for the first time in 15 years after not competing at the match since 2006. Messer said he gained insight into the competition by visiting over the phone with his mentor and a member of the N.D. National Guard’s Marksmanship Hall of Fame retired Sgt. First Class Gary Varberg, who won the Fortuna Trophy with All-Guard teams three times during his shooting career. A “double distinguished” competitor, Messer also holds Distinguished Marksmanship Badges for both rifle and pistol, which is a significant accomplishment for military shooters. The achievement is earned by accruing compounded “leg points” during state, regional and national marksmanship competitions. A marksman acquires “leg points” by finishing in the top 10 percent of shooters in rifle and pistol “Excellence-in-Competition” matches. Fewer than 5 percent of all shooters ever reach “Double Distinguished” status. At the Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Match, Messer was able
"
Photo by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters Above, Spc. Tyrel Hoppe, of the 817th Engineer Company, tallies his score following a pistol match July 9 at Camp Grafton’s southern training area. Hoppe’s parents had an opportunity to watch their son compete while watching the event from the sidelines over the weekend. Below, The All-Guard Marksmanship Team won the Fortuna Trophy June 27, 2016, at the Army Training Centre Pirbright in Woking, England. The team is comprised of the best combat shooters in the National Guard, including Sgt. Evan Messer, of the 817th Engineer Company (Sapper), back row, fourth from right. The team came to the British Army Reserve Operational Shooting Competition with one main goal — win the Fortuna Trophy, which they accomplished, becoming the first National Guard team to acquire the honor in 15 years.
to share his experiences and gained skill with other North Dakota marksmen to enhance their performances. “Everyone was receptive to the information I was putting out. They weren’t afraid to ask questions and I gave them every bit of useful knowledge that I could. They were really appreciative,” he said. According to competition planners, “the Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Match is held to promote battle-focused marksmanship training and to enhance overall marksmanship proficiency. The event also is designed to test and improve the capabilities of the state’s National Guard forces in a tactically-oriented environment.” “This is a stepping stone for determining who our better shooters are, so we can put forward teams to compete in the regional tournament and Winston P. Wilson (WPW) where we go up against all the other states,” Champagne said. “We have a program here in North Dakota that is top-notch and everyone wants to be part of an elite team. When our guys took the WPW this year, a lot of other people wanted to throw their hats in the ring to be a part of it.” Winners from the state competition now will advanced to the regional competition Aug. 18-21 at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, where the “A” Team took 1st place. Messer also was the “top gun” in individual competition. Later, the North Dakota Soldiers and Airmen will compete at the national level next spring at the 46th Annual Winston P. Wilson Championship. Soldiers and Airmen who are interested in participating in the N.D. National Guard’s Marksmanship Program can call Champagne at 701-333-3103 or Mr. Stephen Herda at 701-333-2070. Units also can arrange for match training, in which Marksmanship Program administrators can give attendees an introduction to marksmanship competition standard operating procedures and match rules and fundamentals.
We have a program here in North Dakota that is top-notch and everyone wants to be part of an elite team.”
Photo courtesy of National Rifle Association of the United Kingdom
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Lt. Col. Dwight G. Harley, physician assistant, 119th North Dakota Air National Guard, Fargo, N.D., examines incoming Kamehameha Schools senior, Makana Alexander’s ears for an extracurricular activities physical during Tropic Care 2016, Kea’au, Hawaii, June 7, 2016.
By 2nd Lt. Eric Jungels, North Dakota National Guard Public Affairs, and 1st Lt. Karen Holliday, Marine Corps Forces Reserves
CARE
Tropics
119th Medical Group Airmen Provide Health Care Services to Thousands in Hawaii When one imagines spending time in Hawaii, they might imagine an unhurried pace. The clocks on wall seem stuck on island time, and things tend to occur as they occur. But an intentionally high-tempo and remarkable production occured on the island for two weeks this summer. Airmen from the North Dakota National Guard’s Fargobased 119th Medical Group, worked diligently alongside service members from the Army, Navy and Marines to provide health care services to thousands of people in Kauai, Hawaii, from June 1-11, 2016. The Airmen were participating in Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) Tropic Care 2016, a real-world rapid deployment training event sponsored by the Department of Defense. The initiative is a multi-service operation that provides medical support to a variety of underserved American populations located in remote or rural areas throughout the U.S. and its territories. The IRT program was developed as a way to serve communities in need, while also providing realistic military training.
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In the short time that the Airmen were on the ground, they provided 9,632 services to 2,305 people for a total medical care value (or savings) of $750,833. “IRT Tropic Care is an amazing operation, in that we can drop 300 people into a location, give them one day to set up clinics in four locations on an island, build a functioning practice for 10 days, and then retrograde in one day, as if they were never here,” said Lt. Cmdr. Michael C. Cabassa, 14th Dental Company, 4th Dental Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group. More than 300 military reservists were involved in IRT Tropic Care from start to finish. Site locations included three static sites at Kauai Community College, Kapaa Middle School and Elelele Elementary School, and one mobile site was designed to target more remote locations on the island of Kauai. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to work together with our sister services, and get together to work as a team to deliver care to an underserved population who otherwise wouldn’t have access to this care,” Cabassa said. Hawaii Gov. David Y. Ige highlighted the importance of the service members’ work in Kauai.
“We work really hard to ensure that all of our citizens have access to health care, but the harsh reality is that no matter how hard we work, there are many in our community that are unable to get medical care, even the basic kinds of things, like screenings and check-ups,” Ige said. Physical exams, dentistry, optometry exams and glasses fabrication, medication review, provision of medication, nutrition education and basic behavioral health counseling were offered to the public, free-of-charge on a first-come, first-served basis. The Department of Defense worked closely with the County of Hawaii and the Ka’u Rural Health District Health Office to ensure mission success. “If IRT Tropic Care were to go away, we would be back to where we were, and no matter how hard we tried, we would not be able to bring the access to those who truly need it,” Ige said. “It is a win-win for us to have the service members here in our community.” Due to Medicare cuts, dental care was one of the services most utilized during Tropic Care 2016. “As a dentist, I’m providing care to the people of Kauai, educating them not just dentally but medically, helping them with whatever they need, including basic health care needs,” said Lt. Cmdr. Pooja V. Shah, 4th Dental Company, 4th Marine Logistics Group. “It is very humbling.”
Photos by Sgt. Rachel Grothe, 305th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Above) Maj. Olivia M. Egan, a nurse with the 256th Field Hospital, Royal Army Medical Corps, discusses inprocessing paperwork with Noah during Tropic Care 2016, June, 4, 2016, Ka’u, Hawaii. (Below) Senior Airman Shelby Modern, a healthcare specialist with the 119th Medical Group, N.D. Air National Guard, assists Ka’u resident, Noah, while taking his eye exam during Tropic Care 2016, June 4, 2016, Ka’u, Hawaii. Noah aced the test, 20/20 vision. Tropic Care 2016 is a U.S. Army Reserve and state of Hawaii Department of Health-led, joint services, innovative readiness training program, conducted off military installations in the civilian community, and assists local civilian efforts by providing quality healthcare to the underserved rural communities of Kea’au and Puna districts of the island of Hawaii.
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BEST WARRIOR competition yields state’s top soldiers Story by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquartersand
Spc. Andrew Kessel, of the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, rolls over logs to complete the “Belly Buster” obstacle in the confidence course Aug. 19 during the Best Warrior Competition held at the Camp Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake, North Dakota.
Hailing from North Dakota Army National Guard units across the state, 26 Soldiers slogged through a four-day gauntlet of obstacles and challenges to test their mettle and military acumen at Camp Grafton Training Center, near Devils Lake, North Dakota. When this year’s Best Warrior Competition came to a close Aug. 21, only two of those Guardsmen would be recognized as the top contenders, advancing to represent North Dakota in a future regional competition. Sgt. Dustin Devillers, of Fargo, North Dakota, a member of the Fargo-based 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, was the winner of the state-level Best Warrior Competition in the noncommissioned officer category. In the enlisted-level competition, Spc. Calvin Miller, of Carpio, North Dakota, a member of the Williston-based 818th Engineer Company (Sapper), took top honors. “This competition brings great value to our organization. It builds confidence in Soldiers and helps us build leaders for the future of the North Dakota National Guard,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, North Dakota National Guard Army Component commander. “Each of these competitors are outstanding Soldiers, and they are tremendous assets to their units. By participating in this weekend’s events, they’ll be better able to mentor their peers and enhance their unit’s training and readiness.” Soldiers representing their units must first win in their respective major commands in order to vie for the “Best Warrior” title during the state-level competition. The victors had to demonstrate mastery of multiple Soldiers skills — tasks designed to challenge both physically and mentally — to surpass their competitors’ scores. According to Command Sgt. Maj. Brad Heim, North Dakota National Guard state 10 · Guardian · august/september 2016
command sergeant major, the Best Warrior Competition events this year were designed to surpass the intensity incorporated into prior competitions. “The competition has been grueling. The sergeants major and state command sergeant major did an awesome job setting it up,” said Devillers, who competed at the state-level Best Warrior Competition two years ago. “I know they were planning on stepping it up this year and they definitely did. But it’s been a great time and the competitors here have all bonded, so it’s been a really good experience. When the Soldiers arrived Aug. 18 at Camp Grafton, they immediately were ushered into a classroom where they were administered a written exam to test their knowledge about basic military tasks and current events. They then traded their thinking caps for running shoes to push their endurance during an Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The following days of competition presented the Soldiers with more events, including land navigation, marksmanship and answering a series of military-related questions posed by a board of sergeants major. The Soldiers also had a chance to traverse a newly-constructed confidence course on Camp Grafton, which resembles the structures most see as new recruits at training posts during Basic Combat Training. Eighteen separate obstacles comprise the confidence course, which the Soldiers began after descending from the training post’s rappel tower. Upon touching ground, the competitors set forth over their obstacles, including a rope climb, crawling underneath barbedwire and hurtling themselves over elevated logs. During the final event of the Best Warrior Competition, the
Soldiers endured a 6-mile road march, wearing 35-40 pounds of gear inside their ruck sacks. Miller said the grueling event required the Soldiers to conjure up the very last of their energy and resolve. “The competition is a lot more difficult this year; you have to be well rounded. Last year, if you had a solid APFT and a solid board, you were probably in the top five. This year, you have to be good at everything,” Miller said upon finishing the road march event. To train, Miller, who spends about five days each week in the gym, said he started running a lot more, improving his cardiovascular fitness. The physical training was accompanied by diligently studying training manuals and military principles. He even gathered co-workers during the week to give him an audience as he recited long-established Army oaths, like “The Soldier’s Creed,” to accustom himself to public speaking. He also faced the challenge of immersing himself in studies while caring for a newborn. “That was the hardest thing about preparing for the competition. I’ve got a three-week-old child at home and a threeyear-old, who’s about to be four. So, after this, my whole life’s going to change,” he said. “This competition gets people excited to learn new things and start training harder. When we go back to our units, they’re going to be excited to find out how we did.” The winners now will prepare for the regional competition held in Washington in June 2017. The Soldiers will compete against Guard Soldiers from seven other states: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Regional winners advance to compete in the All-Guard Competition and, if they win there, they have the opportunity to compete in the All-Army Competition. “The two winners of this year’s competition are more than ready to represent the state of North Dakota at the regional competition and beyond. I feel, without a doubt, they will score very high and represent the state very well,” Heim said. Should the winners not be able to compete, they will be replaced by the runners-up from the state competition. This year, Sgt. Cody Dravland, of Fargo, with the Minot-based 769th Engineer Detachment (Survey and Design), was the runner-up in the noncommissioned officer category. Spc. Zachary Miller, of Fargo, with the Fargobased 191st Military Police Company, took the runner-up position at the enlisted level.
Sgt. Andrew Tanata, of the 818th Engineer Company (Sapper), disassembles and reassembles an M9 pistol Aug. 19 as a part of the mystery event of the Best Warrior Competition held at the Camp Grafton Training Center.
Sgt. Dustin Devillers, center, of the 141st Maenuver Enhancement Brigade, poses with State Command Sgt. Maj. Brad Heim, left, and Army Component Commander Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, right, Aug. 20 after being named 2016 state-level Best Warriorin the noncomissioned officer category.
Spc. Calvin Miller, center, of the 818th Engineer Company (Sapper), poses with State Command Sgt. Maj. Brad Heim, left, and Army Component Commander Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, right, Aug. 20 after being named 2016 state-level Best Warrior in the enlisted-level competition.
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CHAIN OF COMMAND Governor Appoints Becklund Deputy Adjutant General Story by Maj. Amber Balken, North Dakota National Guard Public Affairs Officer
Contributed photo
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Gov. Jack Dalrymple appointed Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Robert Becklund to the position of deputy adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard July 25. Becklund replaces Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, who was appointed by Dalrymple to serve as the state’s adjutant general last year. “Brig. Gen. Becklund’s impressive resume of leadership, vision and strategic planning, as well as his breadth of experience, will serve him well as he assumes this important role for the Guard and for our state,” said Dalrymple. “He will be a valuable asset to the Guard’s leadership team, and along with Maj. Gen. Dohrmann, will continue to uphold the North Dakota National Guard’s reputation as the nation’s finest and most successful.” Becklund currently serves as executive director of the North Dakota Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Site and has been instrumental in positioning North Dakota as a leader in UAS technology and innovation and a hub for unmanned aircraft business and development. Additionally, he serves as chief of staff for the N.D. Air National Guard and is responsible for Air Guard personnel assigned to the Joint Force Headquarters. Prior to that assignment, he served on the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Task Force at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Becklund also served as the 119th Wing Commander in Fargo and led the successful and unprecedented conversion of the unit from its F-16 fighter aircraft mission into three entirely new areas: the MQ-1 Predator Remotely Piloted Aircraft, C-21 Operational Support Airlift and a Security Forces Squadron at the Minot Air Force Base. “I have worked with Bob for years and am honored to have him join our leadership team,” said Dohrmann. “He has done great
things as a leader within the 119th Wing, as well as the Northern Plains UAS Test Site. His experience at the national level and extensive background in both the Air National Guard and UAS industry make him an incredible asset to the North Dakota National Guard, and we look forward to having him serve at a higher level.” Becklund enlisted in the NDANG in 1982 as an F-4 Flight Simulator technician, and following graduation from North Dakota State University, was selected for commissioning and pilot training. Following his training,
he served in the Air Guard full time for 28 years holding such titles as chief of safety, mission support group commander and wing commander of the 119th Wing Command. Becklund achieved distinguished graduate honors from the USAF Basic Military Training program, the Air National Guard officer training academy and the USAF Undergraduate Pilot Training program, finishing first in his class. He flew in two USAF William Tell weapons competitions, earning first place honors in 1994. “I am truly humbled and honored to be selected for the position of deputy adjutant
general,” said Becklund. “I appreciate the trust the governor has placed in me and look forward to working with Maj. Gen. Dohrmann and all the Soldiers, Airmen and civilian staff of the North Dakota National Guard to ensure we are always ready to support the needs of the governor or the president when called upon by either.” As deputy adjutant general, Becklund will be second-in-command of the more than 4,100 N.D. Air and Army National Guard men and women, with approximately 1,100 full-time federal and state employees.
Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
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Commanding
URBAN TERRAIN 119 Security Forces Squadron trains at Camp Ripley in Minnesota Story and Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
T
he 119th Security Forces Squadron had 44 members travel in an eight-vehicle convoy to Camp Ripley, Minnesota, Aug. 10-15 for annual training. The security forces personnel spent time on a leadership reaction course and confidence course, firing range for heavy weapons qualification, and the military operations on urban terrain (MOUT) village, conducting force-on-force exercises. Firing and qualifying with the heavy weapons on a range is an annual security forces requirement, and is necessary for maintaining deployment preparedness. The MOUT village at Camp Ripley provides unique video surveillance capabilities in a multi-building facility, which is a realistic mock city simulating an urban village or township. The mock city includes a simulated bar, church and police station, which sit among the mostly concrete block buildings. The security forces personnel are broken into tactical
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(Opposite page) Airman 1st Class Gabriel Ahnee, of the 119th Security Forces Squadron, takes aim with a training pistol during a force-on-force training scenario at the Camp Ripley military operations on urban terrain (MOUT) village Aug. 13, 2016. The Camp Ripley MOUT village provides a realistic environment for the security forces personnel to practice tactics they would use in deployed locations. Ahnee is firing an M-9 training pistol loaded with simunition rounds that are similar to paintball rounds, so they can identify adversaries that have been hit.
groups and assigned as defenders and aggressors to train for scenarios like active shooter, high risk room and building clearing, and potential deployed location actions. They wear personal protective equipment that includes helmets with clear visors, while firing M4/M9 simunition rounds at each other that are similar to paintball. The force-on-force scenarios in the MOUT village and team building exercises at the leadership reaction course provide valuable training, and are also good bonding and team-building experiences for the security members. By deploying to a location where the members train and live together outside their comfort zone of home station in N.D., these bonds can be strengthened more effectively. “It was great training, but was also a lot of fun for the members during the force-on-force exercises. The facilities here allow us to accomplish a more in-depth and realistic training environment than we can get at home station,� said 2nd Lt. Jason Augdahl, the 119th Security Forces Squadron commander.
Senior Airman Lukas Brendemuhl leads fellow 119th Security Forces Squadron Airman 1st Class Pamela Fehr down a flight of stairs as they pursue a simulated adversary during a force-on-force training scenario at the Camp Ripley MOUT village Aug. 13, 2016. (Opposite page, left) 119th Security Forces Squadron members Senior Airman Brandon Leier, above, and Airman 1st Class Michael Strom take aim during a training scenario. (Opposite page, right) Airman 1st Class Gabriel Ahnee, of the 119th Security Forces Squadron, takes aim with a training pistol during training at the Camp Ripley Aug. 13, 2016.
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THE NEXT GENERATION North Dakota’s Newest Leaders Recognized during Officer Candidate School Graduation Ceremony Story by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquartersand
Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters Graduates of North Dakota’s Officer Candidate School Class 59 are administered the oath of office Aug. 21, 2016 by Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, N.D. National Guard Army Component commander, during a ceremony at the 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute on Camp Grafton Training Center, near Devils Lake, North Dakota.
The newest leaders in the North Dakota Army National Guard were welcomed into the organization’s officer corps ranks during a formal graduation ceremony Aug. 21 at the 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute on Camp Grafton Training Center, near Devils Lake. Sixteen Soldiers of the 59th Officer Candidate School (OCS) class were presented diplomas for completing the intensive officer training program. Fourteen graduates immediately accepted their commissions as second lieutenants in the Army National Guard. “To our guests here today — families, friends and employers — thank you for supporting your Soldiers. For these new officers, today is not the end, but only the beginning of their military careers,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, N.D. National Guard Army Component commander, as he addressed attendees at the graduation ceremony. “I ask our graduates here to consider committing themselves to longlasting careers in the North Dakota Army National Guard. You all now are in a position to serve for as long as 40 years, like I have, and one day even reaching the
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rank of brigadier general in the greatest organization in the U.S. Army.” Fode later presented the graduates with their diplomas and administered the oath of office to the newest second lieutenants. Lt. Col. Bradley Brown, commander of the 164th Regional Training Institute’s 2nd Modular Training Battalion, presided over the “Pinning Ceremony,” where the new officers donned their gold-colored second lieutenant bars. The graduating officers were joined by family members and friends during the ceremony. Soldiers who graduated from the 59th OCS class had various options for pursuing their commissions. Some attended a threephased, 8-week accelerated, or “Fast Track,” course at Camp Rapid, South Dakota, and Fort McClellan, Alabama. Soldiers also could participate in a traditional course, which is spread out over 16-19 months during Guard training weekends with two additional 2-week training periods. Other sources of officer commissioning are available through the North Dakota’s Reserve Officer Training Corps program with locations at the University of North
Dakota, North Dakota State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College — Moorhead. The 2nd Training Battalion (Modular), of the 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute, 59th OCS graduating class includes: Brett K. Barber, of Fargo * Lorence C. Cossette, of West Fargo * Chad L. Czeczok, of Mandan * Luke D. Daley, of Fargo * Karl A. Erickson, of Fargo * Daniel J. Geiger, of Bismarck * Thomas C. Hansen, of Bismarck * Brent A. Havelka, of Manvel * Benjamin J. Jechorek, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota * Jennifer M. Joyce, of Mandan * Nicholas P. Kindelspire, of Fargo * Grant T. Lonski, of Bismarck Taylor K. Markel, of Moorhead, Minnesota * Bradley D. McGinnis, of Minot * Steven J. Schaffner, of Bismarck * Christopher H. Spangler, of Bismarck (*) indicates acceptance of commission
GUARDIAN Snapshots
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Life’s a Dance
The N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program hosted two father/daughter military balls Aug. 14 in Fargo and Sep. 17 in Bismarck. The events were free and open to service members of all military branches. More than 170 people attended both events.
Photo by Ms. Mandy Malo, Child and Youth Program Coordinator
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment
Share your photos! Submit your photos to be considered for inclusion in the N.D. Guardian! Email high-resolution photos to 2nd Lt. Jennifer Joyce, N.D. Guardian editor, at jennifer.m.joyce2.mil@mail.mil.
Photo by Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kiel Skager, Joint Force Headquarters
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NewsBriefs Fargo-Based Military Police Unit Receives Mobilization Alert By Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters A North Dakota Army National Guard unit has received an alert notification for possible mobilization. About 30 members of the Fargo-based 191st Military Police Company were placed in an alert status. The decision to mobilize this unit has not yet occurred, but upon a final decision, an official U.S. Army mobilization order will be published. The unit has detachments in Mayville and Bismarck. If mobilized, the unit will provide military police operations support to U.S. and coalition forces, in Afghanistan early in 2018. “I have complete confidence in the ability and professional competence of the leaders and Soldiers in our
military police unit to accomplish their assigned missions,” said Maj. Gen. Alan S. Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general. “I remain appreciative of the tremendous support demonstrated by our Guard families, employers and friends during all of our domestic and overseas missions.” The Soldiers were notified of their alert status by their leadership. The 191st Military Police Company specializes in law enforcement activities, mobility support operations, area security, detention operations, and criminal investigations in support of joint contingency efforts worldwide. They also execute domestic operations with emphasis on police and
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detention operations in support of state and civil authorities. About 30 Soldiers of the unit served in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, from 2012-2013, and about 180 Soldiers served in Baghdad as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008-2009. The 191st Military Police Company is led by Capt. Jacob Danduran, of Fargo, and 1st Sgt. Jennifer Gowan, of Grand Forks, North Dakota. Soldiers in the unit hail from nearly 70 communities across North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota. The 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB), based in Devils Lake, North Dakota, is the only other N.D. Army National Guard unit that’s also in an alert status.
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Photo by Ms. Donnell Hushka
Soldiers of the 191st Military Police Company operate a traffic information point south of Mandan, North Dakota, after being called upon Sep. 8 to support law enforcement and augment public safety efforts, in light of recent activity with the Dakota Access Pipeline protest.
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Chaplains’ Corner:
SoundOff!
Testing Our Resiliency By Chaplain (Capt.) Scott Noyes, 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion The month of July marks one year since I accepted the duties of Camp Grafton Training Center (CGTC) chaplain. In one short year, I’ve discovered how CGTC is more than just an impressive place; it is full of impressive and inspirational people. It’s been an extraordinary place to “live the call…serving God and Country.” Prior to relocating my family to this region, we were Minnesota residents for 17 years. I’m sure many of you can imagine the transition we experienced — new ministry post (job), home, community,
church family, school/teachers/friends for children, and hunting and fishing regulations. Essentially, our family closed the door of familiarity and faithfully entered the unfamiliar. We have endured a year of challenges for sure. Also, to add to all our adjustments, there is a potential for deployment on the horizon. Many might say, “Suck it up and drive on, chaplain!” Which, to a point, I would agree, since it is the military, and to date, I’ve moved nearly 40 times in my life. However, I’m not completely certain how to successfully teach the military “HOOAH” mentality to my family members.
To extended family members: I’m aware that you are affected by a number of challenges, because you serve faithfully right alongside your military member. First, I want to thank all of you for your service and sacrifice! I know it’s not easy. Being a part of a military family certainly tests our resiliency. That said, with all the transition that is going on and with all the challenges you face, I want to remind you of a promise for people of faith. That is: God is faithful and He has a plan for your life — and your family. You may not always see it, but God has called you for a purpose and He will be with you to fulfill that purpose. If there is one thing I have learned over the years, it’s that as I put my faith in God and His plans for my life, He is faithful and He will see me through whatever challenge my family and I face. It’s not always easy, but with Him I have everything I need. “… faith is diff icult to own until you know the One who is faithful.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) A note from the author: If you want to talk more about anything in this article or if you simply want to talk, stop by and see me sometime. If I’m not in my office, it most likely means I’m out looking for you. Chaplain Noyes can be reached by phone at 701-665-7895 or 701-381-2168.
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Photo by Spc. Thea Jorgensen, 116th Public Affairs Detachment Spc. Lexi Nistler, of the 164th Engineer Battalion, attempts the land navigation portion of the Best Warrior Competition August 20 at the Camp Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake, N.D.