GUARDIAN North Dakota
Spring 2017
Volume 10, Issue 1
In the Eye of the storm North Dakota Guardsmen Train, Help Law Enforcement Keep Peace during Monthslong Oil Pipeline Protest in Southern Morton County Page 12
Meet the New Boss
188th goes to Washington
Happy Hooligans Welcome New 119th Wing Commander Page 4
Air Defense Soldiers to Support National Capital Region Mission Page 16
Inside This Issue Features
8
Thank You, Bottineau
N.D. Army National Guard Soldiers have trained and worked inside the armory in Bottineau, North Dakota, for more than seven decades. Force structure reductions and budget constraints, however, prompted the organization’s divestment from the facility. In February, the city’s Guardsmen reported for one final formation.
Simply
10 Outstanding Each year, the 119th Wing recognizes the “best of the best” from within its ranks. Read about the Happy Hooligans’ Outstanding Airmen of the Year, who are recognized for their contributions as military members and also for their passion for serving others. The winners were recognized in March by Gov. Doug Burgum.
At the Head
18 of the Class The 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute provides the best possible training to Soldiers throughout the state and across the country. For its fourth evaluation cycle in a row, the cadre and staff there have earned “Institute of Excellence” status from the U.S. Training and Doctrine Command.
Departments Guardian Snapshots ..................... Page 22 News Briefs ..................................... Page 26 Sound Off! ..................................... Page 27
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Commander in Chief North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum The Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Alan S. Dohrmann Chief of Public Affairs Maj. Amber Balken Editor Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen Contributors Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp Sgt. Ashley Johlfs Mr. William Prokopyk Sgt. Erin Walters Sgt. Brandi Schmidt Pfc. Ethan Hongess Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kiel Skager Staff Sgt. Brett J. Miller Spc. Andy Weston Sgt. Tiffany Vannett Staff Sgt. Shejal Pulivarti Spc. Thea Jorgenson Shirley Olgeirson Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James Cheney Pfc. Rachelle Lewis 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
Soldiers from the 191st Military Police Company train fellow Guardsmen Nov. 30, 2016, on crowd and riot control at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Bismarck, North Dakota. The N.D. National Guard supported local law enforcement for more than 7 months during a oil pipeline protest in southern Morton County.
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
VIEW FROM THE TOP A MESSAGE FROM THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
F
Thank you, Guard Family for assigned units in Afghanistan. Also, about 250 Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment are at Fort Bliss, Texas, preparing for their mission to protect the airspace around the National Capital Region in Washington, D.C. Additionally, about 150 Airmen from the 119th Wing are getting set to deploy to locations around the world. This will be the third largest deployment for the N.D. National Guard since the Global War on Terrorism began. For the N.D. Air National Guard, it is the largest number of Airmen it has mobilized at one time. As we move into the spring and summer months, we continue to strengthen and celebrate relationships within our communities. Many of us will be present at Memorial Day, Flag Day and Independence Day celebrations across our state — some of which are being planned now. We also will say “thank you and farewell” to a handful of cities who have supported the National Guard for decades. As you know, some of our units have divested from these locations due to budget constraints and changing operational needs. In February, we conducted our closing ceremony in Bottineau, which you can read about on page 8. The city was so kind and gracious in light of the bad news and hosted a parade, a community closing ceremony and a free lunch for N.D. National Guard members and the community. It was an amazing closing to our 70-year history in Bottineau. By the time this issue of the North Dakota Guardian goes to print, we will have completed this year’s legislative session. While our budget likely will be cut by approximately 15 percent, I am confident that we will be able to maintain our Soldier, Airmen, family, and survivor support programs. With that said, we have
Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann had to make some cuts. The Bismarck Military Service Center (MSC) closed in January, however all personnel and services remain in place and are accessible at the Raymond J. Bohn Armory. We’ve also been forced to make some cuts to our reintegration programs, but are confident we can gain efficiency through our ND Cares program to not only maintain reintegration initiatives, but enhance them. My No. 1 priority remains readiness, but to achieve our readiness objectives, we must continue to take care of our people and get more of our state’s youth onto this incredible team. I am incredibly proud of your accomplishments and am honored to serve side-by-side with you.
Photo by Sgt. Erin Walters, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
First and foremost, I want to say “thank you” to our Airmen, Soldiers, their families and employers for the incredible support you all have provided to our state and Morton County, in particular, during the recent pipeline protest there. I know we have asked a lot of our members and those who support them over the past seven months. This extended period of state active duty was like no other domestic response operation we’ve ever experienced. We have fought floods, fires, tornadoes and other natural disasters, but we have never had to contend with civil unrest in a rural setting for such an extended period of time. You have met face-to-face with some of the protestor groups, and have stood side-by-side with our local law enforcement officers. You have kept the peace and protected the citizens of Bismarck and Mandan and throughout southern Morton County. Your training and experience were crucial to the success of this operation. You endured harsh weather, a difficult operational environment and, in some cases, personal attacks against you and your families. Despite all of this, you have continually maintained your professionalism. Our first unit activated for state active duty responded in September. Since then, nearly 1,500 of you have reported to support law enforcement. You did so while leaving your jobs, school and your family. You were asked to perform duties you have never done. No other profession has been trusted to perform duties of this kind, and you have performed them with such expertise. In addition to state active duty, the North Dakota National Guard has mobilized for missions abroad this year. Currently, 70 Soldiers with the 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion are conducting logistical operations and providing command and control
A North Dakota Guardsman monitors activity Jan. 27 near the oil pipeline protest camps established in southern Morton County. Nearly 1,500 Airmen and Soldiers served on state active duty between September 2016 to April 2017 to assist law enforcement in maintaining public safety during the protest events.
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Col. Thomas “Britt” Hatley addresses 119th Wing unit members for the first time as their commander Feb. 4 during a change of command ceremony.
Moving Forward A visit with the new 119th wing commander The North Dakota Air National Guard welcomed its newest 119th Wing commander Feb. 4 during a change of command ceremony in front of an audience of family members, distinguished senior military leaders and civilian guests in Fargo, North Dakota. Col. Thomas “Britt” Hatley assumed duties as the 119th Wing commander from Col. Kent Olson, who has served in the position since 2013. Olson soon will retire with more than 36 years of service in the N.D. Air National Guard. Hatley is the first non-native Hooligan to lead North Dakota’s Airmen. He recently sat down with Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing public affairs superindendent and North Dakota Guardian contributor, to discuss his background, thoughts on becoming a Happy Hooligan and his vision for the future of the N.D. Air National Guard.
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Q: Can you tell us a little about your background and where you grew up?
A: I am originally from Asheville, North
Carolina, but I’ve lived a number of places. My dad worked for Ford Motor Company for 32 years, so we moved quite a bit for his work, primarily throughout the south and midwest. I attended college at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana, where I participated in Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). After commissioning, I attended pilot training at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Oklahoma, and embarked on my Air Force career from there. My in-laws live in Hampton, Virginia. My father-in-law is a retired Air Force senior noncommissioned officer and my parents reside outside
Charlotte, North Carolina, so that is home now. I spent 10 ½ years on active duty and the majority of my career in the Air National Guard. I have been a drill status Guardsman, Title 32 federal technician, and both a Title 10 and Title 32 Active Guard Reserve (AGR) member. So I’ve had the unique opportunity to view the total force from many perspectives.
Q: Was there something that inspired
you to go into the military and helped guide your career path?
A: Both my grandfather and father
served in the military. My grandfather joined the U.S. Army in 1938 and served in the Pacific during World War II, whereas
my father served in the Air Force in the early 1960s. So their stories shaped my thoughts on service to the nation. Additionally, since I was knee-high, I aspired to fly airplanes. Finally, my involvement in ROTC really peaked my interest in the leadership aspect of service.
their return. My philosophy is, really, to go slow to go fast. What that means is we are not trying to fix something that’s not broken. Rather, we want to build upon the success of our predecessors. To that end, I am looking at a ‘four-plus-one line of effort.’
Q: What aircraft have you flown in the military?
One, we must take care of the Hooligans deploying this spring and summer. This is the largest deployment for the unit in many years. So, we want to ensure we properly train and equip our Airmen to get out the door, successfully do the job and return home safely while also taking care of their families while they are deployed.
A:After pilot training, I flew the B-52H at Barksdale Air Force
Base, Louisiana, for three years. During my time there, I was very fortunate to be selected to fly the B-2A Stealth Bomber at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Upon leaving active duty and joining the Air National Guard, I flew commercially for Continental Airlines. After an intervening period of two years, I returned to flying in the Air National Guard when the 131st Fighter Wing in St Louis, Missouri, transitioned to a B-2A classic associate mission with the active-duty 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman. Joining the 131st Fighter Wing, at the time, was my first exposure to the challenges arising from the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). Needless to say, the challenges were many and those lessons learned remain with me today.
Q: What do you think about this opportunity to command the 119th Wing?
Secondly, we want to successfully bed down the MQ-9 Reaper and begin local flying operations in Fargo. This is an important event for the 119th Wing as this is the first time in four years we have had local flying in Fargo. This is significant to the unit and the community of Fargo, to see airplanes flying here again. Third, ensure our Intelligence Group meets the full operational capability (FOC) benchmark in fiscal year 2018. This is an incredible mission, both in the kinetic and non-kinetic targeting intelligence realm. This postures the 119th Wing to support combatant commanders around the world. Incidentally, the Intelligence Group is moving into a brand new facility later this year, and this will go a long way in meeting the FOC benchmark. (Continued on page 6)
A: I am honored and awed, to be quite blunt. When I was
initially approached about the opportunity in Fargo, I immediately knew it was the Happy Hooligans. Your name precedes you. In my time in the Air Force and as a Guardsman, I had learned of the Happy Hooligans for two reasons: from their past accolades and also from their involvement in the 2005 BRAC. Recall, I came from a unit also affected by the 2005 BRAC, so I empathized with many of the challenges and frustrations experienced within the Wing and the larger Air National Guard. In short, to be asked to lead such an outstanding organization was very flattering. I was also keenly sensitive that I would be the first non-homegrown Hooligan to lead the Wing. However, the Hooligans have been exceedingly gracious in welcoming me and my family, which has been a wonderful experience.
Q: What are your short-term priorities for the Wing? A: Let’s start off with how I view the world in my job as the
119th Wing commander. We have one moral obligation, and that is to ensure our Airmen are organized, trained and equipped to succeed. That means taking care of the members and their families, whether at home or deployed, and to ensure they re-acclimate upon
Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, right, congratulates Col. Thomas “Britt” Hatley on becoming the 119th Wing’s newest commander Feb. 4 during a change of command ceremony at the North Dakota Air National Guard base in Fargo. Outgoing Commander Col. Kent Olson, left, soon will retire after more than 36 years of service in the N.D. Air National Guard.
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Photo by Sgt. Brandi Schmidt, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
(... continued from page 5) Fourth, we want to successfully tackle our Capstone inspection in 2018. The last inspection of this size was in 2013. We want to show Air Combat Command the incredible job we do day-in-and-day-out. The Hooligans have a great tradition of crushing every opportunity put in front of them and I am completely confident we will do the same in this inspection. The ‘plus one’ that courses through every line of effort, is meeting TAG’s (Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, the North Dakota adjutant general) 100 percent recruiting goal. We want to make sure we get the right people in the right jobs to ensure the success of the Hooligan family moving forward. Our retention rate has always been impressive. But as members retire, we need to continue bringing in the youth of Fargo and surrounding communities and show them the great things we do here. These young men and women (who join) are doing something the vast majority of their peers are not doing, and that is signing up for something far bigger than themselves. I want to impress upon them how much that means to me. I am proud of them for taking the opportunity to join us. We have an excellent record of bringing in talent, providing world class training and setting Airmen up for success at home and abroad.
Q: What would you like your legacy to be as the Wing commander?
A: Meeting the objectives I talked about in the ‘four-plus-one
lines of effort.’ The next two years are significant in our history because we are effectively turning the page on another great chapter of Hooligan history. With the precision attack and reconnaissance mission, we have been continuously operating in a combat environment for the past 10 years, and we don’t see that stopping anytime soon. But I think the challenges in front of us with a brand new airplane, locally flying that airplane, deploying more than 100 members, getting a new mission up on its feet (119 Intelligence
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Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
Top left, Col. Thomas “Britt” Hatley, 119th Wing commander, left, stands with North Dakota Air National Guard Company-Grade Officer of the Year 1st Lt. Kali Lettenmaier, center, and Field-Grade Officer of the Year Maj. Lee Teigen March 19 as they are recognized at the 2017 Roughrider Conference held at the Ramkota Hotel in Bismarck, North Dakota. Above, Hatley addresses attendees March 4 at the annual 119th Wing Enlisted Banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn, Fargo.
Surveillance Reconnaissance Group), and meeting our inspection commitment, provide an opportunity to make a significant mark on the newest chapter in the unit’s history.
Q: Do you have any advice for unit members to help them with their career success within the 119th Wing and the military, in general?
A:Always seek out opportunities to excel. If you fall short, that’s
where the learning happens. But never give up. Also, if there is one thing I have learned since arriving in Fargo, it is the ‘Hooligan Way.’ The ‘Hooligan Way’ means taking the initiative to improve things and never settling for someone else to fix your problems for you. That resilience is baked into every member when they walk through the doors of the 119th Wing.
Staying Connected: 141st MEB’s Communication section Vital during Command and Control Exercises Story and photo by Sgt. Erin Walters, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade A virtual command and control exercise, the Warfighter Exercise is designed to test and evaluate a headquarters reaction and methods of battle pertaining to its management and execution abilities. On the surface, you see the actions of the various warfighting functions, such as movement and maneuver, fire support, intelligence, sustainment, command and control and protection. What you don’t always see is the most vital piece of this complex strategic puzzle: communications. The 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, based in Fargo, North Dakota, along with its organic entity, the 426th Signal Company, is home to the largest group of technically and tactically proficient communications specialists in the state, otherwise known as the S6. Warfighter exercise venues, over the last few years, including at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in 2014, have served as proving grounds for the section to improve upon its operations. Occasionally overlooked, the brigade S6 section is the power behind the operations. It combines an automation, network operation, combat net radio, and communication security section under one consolidated communications shop and is led by Maj. Justin Abel, the brigade S6 officer. “This small team has the capabilities of an internet service provider, cable, telephone, and a power company combined in a highly mobile tactical form. I am fortunate to work with such a highly skilled team” Abel said. With several military occupational specialties, each member of the team is an integral part of how information is relayed, unencrypted and connected to create the Command Post of the Future OF THE QUARTER (CPOF), a software system that allows the warfighting functions to complete their operations. “It is a very complex situation; if one piece of the puzzle doesn’t fit right, the entire operation doesn’t function,” said Staff Sgt. James Opitz, senior nodal network systems operator. The amount of time, energy, knowledge and dedication that goes into setting up the communications system for a brigade Warfighter exercise is often taken for granted. Network operations teams need to be able to establish a highspeed, wide-area network capability for secure voice, video and data information to be relayed to a tactical operations center. A satellite transport terminal is set up and operated by a satellite communications system operator/maintainer, who maintains overall responsibility for ensuring that the lines of communication remain up and running. A cable systems installer/maintainer ensures that the fiber optic
cables are connected to the associated equipment and also is able to install, repair and maintain the cable for essential communication systems and circuit groups. Then, a nodal network systems operator brings the signal from the satellite and ensures that internet capabilities are available to the operations center. Once connectivity is established, a military information technology specialist is responsible for maintaining the functionality of the network, servers and end-user computers to provide capabilities, such as e-mail, collaboration, file storage and back-up protection, and also works to establish the CPOF. A cyber network defender then ensures compliance and detects and protects against unauthorized activity on the domain. They specialize in anti-virus software and are able to analyze and respond to cyberattacks. The cornerstone of movement and maneuver is the combat net radio, which creates a web of communication linking personnel on the ground with their closest command. A signal support systems specialist also assists and is a subject matter expert specializing in radio systems, spanning the electromagnetic spectrum from high frequency to ultra-high frequency. They work to coordinate programming of the radios, establish antennas and ensure quality transmission to make sure this form of combat communications runs seamlessly. In conjunction, an electromagnetic spectrum manager is responsible for requesting and allocating the frequencies utilized by all the signal equipment. It takes a team of specialized experts who can work together to complete these vital tasks.
Sgt. Jared Munoz, a satellite communications system operator with the 426th Signal Company sets up a satellite transport terminal Dec. 2, 2016, during a communications exercise with the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade.
Are you a Unit Public Affairs Representative (UPAR)? Submit your stories and photos to the N.D. Guardian! Email Microsoft Word documents or PDFs and high-resolution photos to 2nd Lt. Jennifer Joyce at jennifer.m.joyce2.mil@mail.
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Final Formation
North Dakota Soldiers Bid Farewell to Bottineau By Mr. Bill Prokopyk, N.D. National Guard Public Affairs Office embers of the North Dakota National Guard and residents of Bottineau, North Dakota, gathered together Feb. 20 to celebrate 75 years of partnership. Due to budget constraints and forces structure reductions, National Guard units have been faced with divesting from a number of active armories, one of which was in Bottineau. The community and Soldiers who served there met for a final formation to bid one another farewell. Since 1940, Bottineau has hosted an array of National Guard units with ranks comprised of multiple Soldier specialties, from infantrymen and engineers to medical personnel and, most recently, water purification specialists with Detachment 1 of the 132nd Quartermaster Company. Soldiers assigned to Bottineau have served there during World War II, the Korean War, Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism. The final formation festivities began with a parade featuring N.D. National Guard Soldiers, led by Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, and Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, N.D. National Guard Army Component commander. Members of the community also were included, along with Bottineau Mayor Ben Auffoth. After the parade, attendees met at the armory building for a brief ceremony, with Auffoth and Dohrmann rendering remarks. Sgt. 1st Class Charles Votava, former readiness noncommissioned officer for the 132nd
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Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, left, presents a plaque Feb. 20 to Bottineau Mayor Ben Aufforth, which commemorates the more than 70-year partnership between the Bottineau community and the North Dakota Army National Guard. The organization’s units divested from the city’s armory this year due to budget contraints and force structure reductions.
Quartermaster Company, then read the history of the units that were assigned to the armory. After the reading, anyone that had ever been assigned to a unit stationed at the Bottineau armory was invited to participate in a mass formation on the drill floor under the leadership of 1st Sgt. Joseph Wesson, also of the 132nd Quartermaster Company. After the mass formation was established, Capt. Renee O’Connor, 132nd Quartermaster Company commander, and Wesson had the honor of casing their unit’s colors. This
is a long-held military tradition signifying the end of a unit’s service to the military. The flag retirement and mass formation constituted the last official military acts in the Bottineau armory. “Holding a final formation comprised of current North Dakota Guard Soldiers, as well as veterans who once served in units assigned to the Bottineau armory, was a proper way to honor the more than 70 years of partnership between the city of Bottineau and the National Guard,” Fode said. “It was
Photos by Maj. Amber Balken, Joint Force Headquarters
Left, Brig. Gen. Robert Fode, N.D. National Guard Army Component commander (saluting), takes command of the “final formation” at the Bottineau armory from Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, right. The formation was open to all veterans in attendance who had served in the Bottineau armory during their military service. Bottom left, Capt. Renee O’Connor, 132nd Quartermaster Company commander, and 1st Sgt. Joseph Wesson, also of the 132nd Quartermaster Company, case their unit’s colors during the final formation in Bottineau. This gesture signified the official divesture of the unit, which was the last to serve in the Bottineau armory. Bottom right, an honorary Color Guard begins the community celebration in Bottineau to commemorate the more than 70 years of partnership between the city and the N.D. Army National Guard.
truly inspirational to witness the level of support displayed by this community for their Guard Soldiers during this final formation and over the decades.” During the ceremonies, Dohrmann recognized the oldest and youngest veterans in attendance. The honor of being the oldest was Gerald Sanderson, 97, a World War II Veteran, while the youngest Soldier present was Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Cadet Ty Domben. Also honored were four Korean War Veterans: Curtis Nelson, Audrin Larson, Earl Thompson and Ted Ambsbaugh. “It was wonderful to see such community involvement during the ceremony regarding the last formation at the Bottineau armory. The armory has a rich history with the National Guard and its lineage and history spans many generations with decades of service,” Wesson said. “It was a pleasure to have served with this unit and to witness so many prior Soldiers participate in the final formation. It was truly an honor to give the command to ‘fall in’ and see so many
generations of Soldiers fill the ranks to contribute to this ceremony. This was truly a humbling experience.” Due to drawdown in force structure in 2016, the N.D. Army National Guard was experienced a reduction in force and is positioned to lose up to seven units comprised of approximately 300 positions by the end of the 2017 fiscal year. This is not unique to North Dakota. National Guard units across the country have been met by similar challenges in their communities. The N.D. Army National Guard previously had an authorized force structure of 3,400 Soldiers. Currently, its membership is just under 3,000. Because of the changes in force structure, the organization’s new authorized end strength is 3,080 Soldiers. Other North Dakota cities that will face a loss of their local units include: Carrington, Grafton, Mayville, Mott and Rugby. Other cities that previously lost units are Cavalier, Hazen, Hettinger and Oakes.
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The Best of the Best Story and photos by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
Happy Hooligans Name Outstanding Airmen of the Year
T
he North Dakota Air National Guard, known as the “Happy Hooligans,” recognized the organization’s top noncommissioned officers and unit members March 4 during its 2016 Outstanding Airman of Year banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn in Fargo, North Dakota. Fifteen Airmen were nominated for the award based on their military and civic service throughout 2016. Three winners walked away with the titles of Outstanding Airman of the Year, Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Outstanding Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. The N.D. Army National Guard’s 188th Army Band provided entertainment during the banquet, and a number of distinguished guests, including North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and senior N.D. Air National Guard leaders rendered remarks. “I want to say to each of you, that you bring honor to our state and to our nation through your valor and through your commitment. You’re warriors of the highest order. I’m incredibly proud to serve as your commander-in-chief,” Burgum told the Airmen during the event.
After his remarks, Burgum and N.D. Air National Guard senior leaders presented awards to Tech. Sgt. Jeremiah Colbert and Senior Master Sgt. Rollie Swedberg. Colbert was named the Career Advisor of the Year for his individual efforts and achievement with unit retention and career motivation program management. Swedberg was named First Sergeant of the Year, which recognizes the important contributions and leadership qualities exhibited by first sergeants in the U.S. Air Force. “These Airmen are truly the best of the best,” said Brig. Gen. Ron Solberg, assistant adjutant general — Air. “You don’t win 18 Air Force OutstandingUnit awards without having superb, professional and competent Airmen at every level, in every squadron, throughout the entire organization.” The official award presentation followed, honoring the three Outstanding Airmen of the Year winners: Airman 1st Class Ashley Laine was named Outstanding Airman of the Year; Tech. Sgt. Dylan Lorenzen was recognized as the Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer of the Year; and Master Sgt. Merri Jo “MJ” Filloon was named the Outstanding Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.
Airman 1st Class Ashley Laine Airman 1st Class Ashley Laine joined the N.D. Air National Guard in August 2014. She serves as a fusion analyst with the 177th Intelligence Squadron. Laine was raised in Osage, Minnesota, and attended Frazee High School. She lives in Fargo where she attends North Dakota State University, pursuing a degree in nursing. She also volunteers her time with the Minnesota Autism Association, Habitat for Humanity and is involved with the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society.
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North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum shakes hands with Master Sgt. Theopolis Toliver, of the 219th Security Forces Squadron, Minot, Air Force Base. Burgum presented Tollver a recognition coin March 4 for being a candidate for North Dakota Air National Guard Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year at the annual unit Enlisted Recognition Banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn, Fargo. It is the first time a North Dakota governor has given a coin from the governor’s office to a state National Guard member during the recognition banquet.
Gov. Doug Burgum shakes hands with Senior Master Sgt. Rollie Swedberg, and presents him the N.D. Air National Guard First Sergeant of the Year award during the 119th Wing’s annual unit Enlisted Recognition Banquet.
See More Photos at:
www.flickr.com/photos/NDGuard
Master Sgt. Merri Jo "MJ" Filloon Master Sgt. Merri Jo “MJ” Filloon began her military service in February 1990 when she enlisted in the N.D. Army National Guard. After nine years, she transferred to the N.D. Air National Guard. Currently, she is a Recruiting and Retention manager within the Force Support Squadron of the 119th Wing. Filloon was raised in Bismarck and attended Bismarck High School. Later, she attended Bismarck State College and North Dakota State University where she majored in accounting and business. Filloon resides in West Fargo, North Dakota, with her husband and their three children. She is active in youth programs at her church and is involved with a number of other organizations, including the Combined Federal Campaign, Wounded Warrior Project, Compassion International and Feed My Starving Children.
Staff. Sgt. Dylan Lorenzen Staff Sgt. Dylan Lorenzen enlisted into the N.D. Air National Guard in September 2010. He began his military career as a mission intelligence coordinator with the 178th Reconnaissance Squadron. He currently serves as a full-time network warfare analyst within the 177th Intelligence Squadron. Lorenzen grew up and attended high school in Glyndon, Minnesota. He later attended the University of Mary in Bismarck where he earned a business administration degree. Lorenzen lives in Moorhead, Minnesota, and volunteers his time with the Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity, Homeward Animal Shelter, Special Olympics of North Dakota and the Air Force Association Cyber Patriot program. He also volunteers as a wrestling coach and is an active member of the North Dakota State Bison Wrestling Club. He’s involved with the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the U.S. (EANGUS) and InfraGard.
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Holding the L
Airmen and Soldiers Called to State to support law enforcement in mort 12 ¡ Guardian ¡ spring 2017
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
Left, Soldiers from the 191st Military Police (MP) Company train fellow Guardsmen Nov. 30, 2016, on crowd and riot control techniques at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Bismarck. North Dakota Guardsmen supported local law enforcement for more than 7 months during an oil pipeline protest in southern Morton County. The training with the MPs was designed to simulate activities Soldiers and Airmen may have had to contend with during protest events. Below, Capt. Corey Schumacher, of 68th Troop Command, left, confers with Sheriff Paul Laney, right, and Sgt. Carrie Gress, both of the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, to discuss the day’s operations on Dec. 2, 2016 at the forward operating base established at Fort Rice . The N.D. National Guard and local law enforcement agencies integrated and worked together to ensure no major injuries occurred during the Dakota Access Pipeline protest activities.
By Maj. Amber Balken, Joint Force Headquarters
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A 7-months-long mission came to a close on April 15 for members of the North Dakota National Guard. Beginning Sept. 7, 2016, nearly 1,500 Soldiers and Airmen supported law enforcement on state active duty during the Dakota Access Pipeline Protest. The protest activity began last April with a peaceful, sit-in-style protest along highway 1806 in Morton County. Later, in August, a call went out nationwide from protest organizers asking for more support, and for people to gather along the oil pipeline route in North Dakota. That call increased the movement from a dozen people to a couple thousand and swelled even further in coming months. Law enforcement personnel from across the state reported to Mandan, North Dakota, to support the Morton County Sheriff ’s Department, the lead agency for the protest response. By the middle of August, it was evident that it would take more than just law enforcement to maintain safety. Former Gov. Jack Dalrymple issued an emergency declaration on Aug. 19, 2016, initiating the emergency operations plan, which allowed the N.D. Department of Emergency Services to begin work. Initially, the N.D. National Guard was not requested for assistance. “There were a number of historical and political reasons not to call on the Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general. However on Sept. 7, that call came from the governor, and North Dakota’s Soldiers and Airmen responded to support law enforcement and augment public safety efforts, in light of the Dakota Access Pipeline protest’s growing numbers. “Because of the increased and prolonged need for law enforcement resources, I have asked Maj. Gen. Dohrmann to make available some North Dakota National Guard personnel to support law enforcement and augment their public safety efforts,” Dalrymple said in September. “By helping in these support roles, we can free up more officers for enhanced patrols and calls for assistance. The Guard members will provide valuable personnel, resources and equipment necessary to support local, tribal and state officials.” Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
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State Active Duty By the #s (From Sept. 7, 2017 - April 15, 2017)
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Nearly 1,500 Soldiers and Airmen activated for state active duty.
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About 50,000 work day (calendar days multiplied by number of Guardsmen on duty for each specific day).
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136 students left class to respond for state active duty.
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31 was the average age of the Guardsmen on state active duty.
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The Guard members hailed from 159 cities and towns in North Dakota, as well as 9 other states.
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Total cost of the National Guard’s response was nearly $9M.
Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
The mission started with about two dozen Soldiers from the 191st Military Police (MP) Company, who aided law enforcement by manning traffic information points and conducting morale and welfare checks with local ranchers and residents in the community. As the protest activity grew, and the numbers of protestors increased, the need for even more Guardsmen was evident. With the additional forces, the Soldiers’ and Airmen’s roles and responsibilities changed, as well. Guard members performed maintenance at and took day-to-day operational control of a forward operating base established at Fort Rice (about 5 miles north of the main protest
campsite). There, they provided security at observation posts and prepared for crowd control operations. Crowd control was a new task for most members of the N.D. National Guard. Before performing these duties, the Soldiers and Airmen went through four days of extensive training provided by the 191st MPs. “This was my first experience with CRC (crowd and riot control),” said Spc. Matthew Aberle, 815th Engineer Company (Horizontal). “We were trained by the MPs for four days, and I thought it was great; very realistic, and they showed us some stuff we might see on the line (responding for crowd control).” Dohrmann said conducting that type of training and then performing during a state response was unique to the National Guard. “This solidifies the community’s trust in the National Guard. We are a profession of arms and we proved that during this protest activity,” he said. Once their training was complete, the Soldiers and Airmen were asked to integrate with multiple law enforcement and state agencies. More than 50 different state and federal agencies, to include support from outside state agencies, were involved in the protest response. Maj. Amber Balken, N.D. National Guard public information officer, briefs media representatives Dec. 5, 2016, before a press conference with Maj. Gen. Al Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general. Hundreds of media outlets from around the world, nation and region covered the events in southern Morton County while the N.D. National Guard was called to state active duty.
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Photo by Sgt. Erin Walters, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Left, a Guardsmen speaks with media representatives Dec. 8, 2016, while at the forward operating base at Fort Rice. Many Airmen and Soldiers served on state active duty through the winter months with temperatures sometimes dipping to minus 20 degrees. Right, a Soldier with the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade fuels a vehicle at Fort Rice.
“It was challenging at first; we do things a little differently,” said Sgt. Douglas Eagon, 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment. “For a lot of us, this is the first time that we have worked with different agencies. I have really learned a lot working with them, and they have learned a lot about us and our procedures, and it has been a very easy transition.” Unlike other state active duty missions, like flood or wildfire response, the Soldiers and Airmen were faced with a small population that didn’t agree with their presence at the protests. This was the first time that the N.D. National Guard has served in this type of capacity, and not everyone supported its activation. “This was a unique state active duty experience, unlike flood fights. Not everyone we came in contact with was happy that we were on duty,” said Lt. Col. Tad Schauer, 219th Security Forces Squadron commander. “This was a new experience for us. Our Airmen and Soldiers conducted themselves with great restraint, respect and professionalism.” Guardsmen and law enforcement personnel became targets of “doxing”— an Internet-based practice of researching and broadcasting personally identifiable information about an individual. Personal and family information was gathered by certain members of the protest movement and placed on public websites in order to intimidate the officers and service members. “What is hard about this situation is that we are here to protect the protestors also. And at the same time, they want to stop that pipeline, so they don’t care who is here to protect them,” Eagon said while on state active duty. Eventually, the doxing morphed into personal attacks on social media, as well as stalking incidents in the Bismarck-Mandan area. “After our third day here, we got back to our hotel and there were people videotaping and trying to get us to say something bad. They were harassing us, but we all maintained composure and were polite,” Aberle
said. “I believe it turned out to be a pretty positive encounter.” Some Guardsmen experienced those threats with members of their family. Airman 1st Class Ty Haaland began working for the Department of Emergency Services (DES) prior to coming on state active duty with the 219th Security Forces Squadron. He also is a member of a law enforcement family. “My step-dad is in the (North Dakota) Highway Patrol and he’s been involved since the very beginning, so I saw the impacts right away,” he said. “Working with DES, I was able to be involved with the protest response before I went on state active duty, which helped when I was pulling security cover over Christmas and New Year’s.” Haaland said his family did deal with threats toward law enforcement, and that he and his step-dad put in long work days for nearly seven months, but mentioned that the support of the community through the event was outstanding. Lt. Col. Tad Schauer, 219th Security Forces Squadron commander, delvers meals Dec. 5, 2016, to Soldiers and Airmen who were serving on state active duty.
“I was coming home from work (in November), driving over the Memorial Bridge (in Bismarck) and the sides of the bridge were filled with community members supporting law enforcement and the Guard,” he said. “They had signs and flags and were waving at everyone crossing the bridge. It was nice to know that we weren’t forgotten about.” Throughout the protest response mission, North Dakota senior elected leaders expressed their appreciation for the N.D. National Guard’s support. “The Guard played a critical role in maintaining safety and supporting Morton County during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests,” said Cody Schulz, Morton County Commission chairman. “Their dedication and professionalism was instrumental in ensuring there were no major injuries during the seven-month protest period. On behalf of the citizens of Morton County, thank you for your service to our nation, to our state, and to our county.” Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
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s e h s i W t s e B Farewell and gton, D.C., Mission Washin r fo t r a ep D s r ie ld So se en ef Air D
Story and photos by Sgt. Brandi Schmidt, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
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amily and friends gathered at the Sanford Health Athletic Complex March 9 in Fargo, North Dakota, to honor Soldiers deploying for a mission to the National Capital Region in Washington, D.C. More than 200 members of the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery (1-188th ADA) Regiment will collaborate with other Department of Defense agencies as part of the integrated air defense system designed to protect the airspace there by contributing to Operation Noble Eagle. “These Soldiers are answering the call from their country and their state,” said Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general. “After an extended period on state active duty (supporting law enforcement in southern Morton County), they are still giving it their all with a yearlong deployment.” This is the 1-188th ADA’s 11th deployment since 2004, which makes it the most-deployed unit in the North Dakota National Guard. It also is the second time the 1-188th ADA has supported the Operation Noble Eagle mission, having deployed to Washington, D.C., once before from July 2013 to April 2014. The “Send-Off Ceremony” began when the unit received the
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Superior Unit Award, which was presented to Col. Jon Erickson and Sgt. Maj. Wallace Keller, who led the unit on their first mission to the National Capital Region in 2013. Maj. Gen. Glenn Bramhall, commanding officer for the 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, presented the award on behalf of the Department of the Army. Bramhall said the criteria for a unit to be considered for this award is lengthy and earning it is a prestigious recognition. The 1-188th ADA Soldiers mobilizing for the forthcoming National Capital Region mission will be led by Lt. Col. JoDee Aubol, of West Fargo, North Dakota, and Command Sgt. Maj. Joshua Entzel, of Bismarck, North Dakota, the unit’s senior enlisted leader. “The talent, commitment and dedication of this group is second to none,” Aubol said. “There is a lot of expertise to be taken from the 85 Soldiers who are on their second rotation for this specific mission. I have no doubt we are ready to answer the call to protect the nation, if the situation arises.” A North Dakota state flag was presented to Aubol and Entzel from Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford during the ceremony. Other flags also were presented, including the United States flag from North Dakota’s congressional representatives and a North Dakota Patriot Guard flag.
ay Ball D ’s ra a b ra a B t in a S t a G uardsmen Rec ognized By Pfc. Ethan Hongess, 1-188th Air Defense Artillery
“We just want to get rolling,” Entzel said. “We’re excited to do this again, but we know we couldn’t do this without the support from our families.” North Dakota is among five states that will participate in the National Capitol Region rotation. The 1-188th ADA is headquartered in Grand Forks, North Dakota, with units in Bismarck and Fargo, although the deploying Soldiers hail from communities across North Dakota, as well as cities in Minnesota, California, Nebraska and Wisconsin. A greeting from U.S. Rep. Kevin Cramer was read by his aide during the ceremony and video messages from Sen. John Hoeven and Sen. Heidi Heitkamp were played for the audience. Each of North Dakota’s leaders stated they were excited to have the Soldiers back in Washington, D.C., and said their office doors are always open for them.
The 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery (1-188th ADA) Regiment Soldiers’ esprit de corps ran high as they donned their dress uniforms and gathered with loved ones and fellow Guardsmen for their second-ever Saint Barbara’s Day Ball at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota. St. Barbara’s Day falls on Dec. 4 and is a tradition observed by both Army and Marine field artillery and air defense artillery units. This year, Soldiers from each of the unit’s companies and detachments gathered in Grand Forks for this rare event. It was an opportunity for the Soldiers, friends and family to all be together under one roof and bond before some of them embark on another deployment to the National Capital Region. “Dining together as a military mess is a celebration of one of our most cherished military traditions,” said Battalion Commander Lt. Col. JoDee Aubol. “Events such as this, with family and loved ones, help make us a military family.” During the evening, the 1-188th ADA’s esteemed noncommissioned officers and
officers were inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara, which allowed them to be recognized and presented with a coveted medal. The award is reserved for those who have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and moral character, displayed an outstanding degree of professional competence, served the artillery with selflessness and contributed to the promotion of the artillery branch. The following Soldiers were presented with the award: Capt. Mitchell Johnson, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Eric Nagel, Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Walsh, 1st Sgt. Daniel Strehlow, Sgt. 1st Class John Haynes, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Kamedula, Sgt. 1st Class Shannon Kliniske, Sgt. 1st Class David Saari, Staff Sgt. Trevor Desrosier, Staff Sgt. Ross Seefeld and Staff Sgt. Christopher Smallbeck. “Being inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara was, without a doubt, a major highlight of my career,” Kamedula said. “To be recognized by your peers is both rewarding and humbling, and to have that recognition take place with the group of Soldiers who were inducted alongside me makes the experience much more satisfying.”
Photo by Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kiel Skager, Joint Force Headquarters
Above left, Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, left, and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, right, present a North Dakota flag to Lt. Col. JoDee Aubol, commander for the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artilllery Regiment’s National Capital Region mission, and Command Sgt. Maj. Joshua Entzel, senior enlisted leader, during the unit’s “Send-Off Ceremony.” Second from left, Spc. Nicholas Breazile spends some moments with his child during the ceremony. Second from right, Chaplain (Capt.) Yacob Makkonen, left, the unit’s chaplain, spends some time in prayer with Chaplain (Col.) David Johnson, N.D. National Guard staff chaplain. Right, Spc. Hudson McHenry embraces his family during the day’s events March 9 at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment were inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara Dec. 4 during the unit’s second Saint Barbara’s Day Ball at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. The recognition is given to those who have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and moral character, displayed an outstanding degree of professional competence, served the artillery with selflessness and contributed to the promotion of the artillery branch.
Always Excellent
164th Regiment Regional Training Institute Again Earns ‘Fully Accredited’ TRADOC Rating By Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters
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valuators from the U.S. Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) again recognized the 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute (RTI) as an “Institution of Excellence,” making it the fourth “Fully Accredited” rating the North Dakota Army National Guard schoolhouse has received since 2007. RTI instructors and cadre in January earned the distinction after undergoing a series of detailed inspections, which are administered by TRADOC staff in 3-year cycles to Army training institutions nationwide. “This is a remarkable achievement for the 164th Regiment
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Regional Training Institute and the North Dakota Army National Guard, as a whole,” said Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general. “TRADOC first introduced the ‘Institute of Excellence’ standard in 2006. Our RTI was the first engineer schoolhouse in the country to achieve that status, and it has continued to tout the accomplishment after each evaluation cycle since then. We have a top-notch training facility here in North Dakota, staffed by some of the best instructors in the U.S. Army. I congratulate all involved in earning these superior accreditation marks and, most importantly, for providing exemplary training and education to Soldiers nationwide.” Staff and instructors from the 164th Regiment RTI, under the
Courtesy Photo Left, 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute (RTI) faculty and staff, including 164th RTI Commander Col. Jackie Huber, front row, left, and 164th RTI Commandant Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Narum, right, are pictured under a series of award banners noting the years in which the schoolhouse was deemed an “Institute of Excellence” by the U.S. Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). TRADOC staff administers accreditation evaluations to Army training institutions in 3-year cycles. The RTI has earned a “Fully Accredited” rating during every evaluation it has undergone since 2007. Bottom, students at the 164th Regiment RTI emplace siding on a wood hut March 28, 2014, as part of a construction specialist engineer course in a warehouse located inside the RTI building.
One Army School System, provides yearround training to National Guard, Army Reserve and active-duty Soldiers from across the United States. The schoolhouse, located at Camp Grafton Training Center, near Devils Lake, North Dakota, is comprised of two training battalions, responsible for facilitating Engineer Branch Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development (NCOPD) and Engineer and Quartermaster Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) training. The 164th Regiment’s 1st Engineer Battalion specializes in Army engineer training and offers courses in horizontal and vertical construction, including combat bridging, carpentry and masonry, heavy equipment operation, drafting and surveying, electrical systems and plumbing. Additional schools are facilitated by the 2nd Modular Battalion, which provides Officer Candidate School for in-state Soldiers, culinary arts, a Foundation Instructor-Facilitator Course and a Small Group Instruction Course. To achieve “Institution of Excellence” status from TRADOC, the 164th Regiment’s training battalions were required to score 95 percent or higher in 13 evaluated areas, covering a range of schoolhouse functions from safety and educational programs to facilities and environment and leader development. TRADOC staff scored 164th Regiment RTI instructors and personnel using a number of assessment tools to derive the accreditation outcome, including onsite facility observations, instructor and staff interviews, reviews of documents and organizational records, written questionnaires, and interviews with students attending courses at the 164th Regiment RTI. Both battalions scored 100 percent in each area, receiving the highest possible accreditation level. “The results are a true testament to the
commitment, drive and motivation of the men and women assigned to the 164th Regiment RTI, who truly care about Soldiers by providing them the best military education experience,” said Col. Jackie Huber, 164th Regiment RTI commander. “We are truly blessed to have the talent and expertise in our state that sets us apart from other training institutes.” Upon earning its accreditation, 164th Regiment RTI staff received a memo signed by Gen. David Perkins, TRADOC commander, which said, “TRADOC recognizes the dedication and hard work of all personnel committed to ensuring the 164th Regiment RTI received ‘Institute of Excellence’ status. This achievement demonstrates your commitment to meet the competency needs of today’s Army and the future force.” “What is further remarkable about this accreditation, is that our 1st Engineer Battalion received nine ‘Best Practices’ from the
U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence Quality Assurance Office, which is a testament to the quality of training provided and dedication of our faculty and staff at the 164th Regiment RTI,” said Maj. Raymond Ripplinger, 164th Regiment RTI officer-in-charge. “They are truly talented and are committed to continual instructional and process improvement, which is a major contributing factor to the overall success of the organization.” Currently, 65 full-time and 19 traditional faculty and staff support the RTI. In 2010, the 164th Regiment unveiled a new, state-of-the-art, 182,825-square-foot RTI building. The facility features a regimental headquarters and staff offices, 16 classrooms, lecture hall, lodging for students, indoor running track, fitness room, plumbing and electrical labs, and a building material storage space to house carpentry, electrical, masonry and plumbing materials for training.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett J. Miller, Joint Force Headquarters
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BUILDING THE GU 119th Wing Recruiters Expand Footprint to Bismarck Story and photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
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he North Dakota Air National Guard is boosting its efforts to recruit new members for their new and evolving missions, and winning awards along the way. The new high tech missions at the 119th Wing entail operating some of the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world, contributing impactful intelligence work, and providing all of the mission critical support missions that go along with running an Air National Guard base. Many second or third generation Happy Hooligans have been joining the 119th Wing. The new Airmen are carrying out a family legacy, which indicates a high level of satisfaction among unit members. “It is fulfilling for new Airman to become part of an honorable organization that their family members and close friends have contributed to, and the first generation Airmen are also taking great pride in becoming Happy Hooligans,” said Staff Sgt. Maria Yurczyk, a new recruiter at the 119th Wing. Yurczyk has recently been added as a full-time recruiter for the 119th Wing with a newly created position and office space at Fraine Barracks in Bismarck, North Dakota. She completed recruiting school Feb. 16 with Distinguished Graduate honors. “I am looking forward to getting to know the area and local schools, along with being able to help members of our community make a life changing decision to serve their country and state,” said Yurczyk. She welcomes support from Guardsmen residing in the area, as she enlightens prospects and canvases the southwestern portion of the state. And right now, the N.D. Air National Guard has a lot to offer those pondering N.D. Air National Guard enlistment. There are many appealing opportunities available, including with 26 different jobs that qualify for a $20,000 bonus and the high-tier $350 GI Bill Kicker. In addition, there are multiple positions in which a new Airman can earn the advanced rank of E-3 at enlistment. Yurczyk will focus her recruiting efforts on prior and non-prior service applicants interested in Air Guard positions in Minot and Fargo. She can be reached at 701-552-1548. Fargo recruiters also are focusing their efforts on prior and non-prior service applicants. Tech. Sgt. Neil Nelson is making new inroads into his northwestern Minnesota territory. Tech. Sgt. Shelly
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Fink is coming up with innovative ideas to reach students of all ages and Tech. Sgt. Tyrel Cale recently won a national recruiting challenge initiated by Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, director of the Air National Guard. Also on the N.D. Air National Guard Recruiting and Retention team are Master Sgt. Merri Jo “MJ” Filloon and Master Sgt. Tina Sly, who are Recruiting and Retention managers. They are focusing their recruiting efforts on Air Guard transfers, officer recruiting, and Palace Transfer programs, which allow Air Force active-duty members to transition directly to the Air National Guard without a break in service. Master Sgt. Greg Peterson also is a Recruiting and Retention manager tasked with responsibilities for the 219th Security Forces Squadron at Minot Air Force Base. And Senior Master Sgt. Tanya Augdahl is the Recruiting and Retention superintendent overseeing operations for the state of North Dakota. The entire team has been recognized for their recruiting efforts with the Region II Golden Eagle Award for fiscal year 2016 as the top state Recruiting and Retention team with superior programs in their respective region. To contact the N.D. Air National Guard Recruiting and Retention team, call its members at 1-800-972-8825.
From left to right, Staff Sgt. Maria Yurczyk, Tech. Sgt. Neil Nelson, Master Sgt. Merri Jo “MJ” Filloon, Master Sgt. Greg Peterson, Senior Master Sgt. Tanya Augdahl, Tech. Sgt. Shelly Fink and Master Sgt. Tina Sly pose March 4 with the Region II Golden Eagle Award for fiscal year 2016 at the annual N.D. Air National Guard Enlisted Recognition Banquet in Fargo The Golden Eagle award was presented to the group for being the top state Recruiting and Retention team with superior programs in their respective region.
UARD HOME TEAM Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets from North Dakota State University’s Bison Battalion participate in a ruck march March 2 on campus in Fargo, North Dakota.
Courtesy Photo
ROTC Cadets Find Home with 141st MEB By Spc. Andy Weston, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
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he 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) has found its ranks flush with Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets over the last several months, as future officers from North Dakota State University (NDSU), University of North Dakota and Concordia College have converged on the Fargo-based unit. The cadets come from many walks of life and have differing plans for what they will branch in, but most have begun their military careers because of the ROTC scholarships available to them. Cadet Jessica Corley first found out about the ROTC program offered at NDSU while living in Texas and challenges herself to venture outside her comfort zone and try something different. “I like to do things that scare me,” said Corley when discussing moving so far from home. “It’s definitely different. Some things become easier the more time I spend here.”
Other Soldiers learned about being able to receive both a scholarship and commission in the Army by talking to their recruiters. “I was just going to enlist and then my recruiter was like, ‘Wow, you received good grades in high school. You can get a ROTC scholarship,’” said Cadet Thomas Raymond. And some recruiters even take the time to come talk with prospective students, as was the case when a recruiter came to Cadet Lillian McCoy’s high school, which led to her enlisting in the Army National Guard. Along with the incentive of receiving an affordable college education, new cadets with the MEB are finding other benefits through Army Guard service, as well. “The MEB offers a unique opportunity for cadets,” said Lt. Col. Mark Topp. “The composition of the MEB staff offers cadets the interaction with mentors that have a wide array of experiences.” That range of leadership experience is something Cadet Nigel Helley agrees is beneficial. “The MEB is offering me an overview of how operations work,” he said. “It’s good to know that next level up of leadership. You get that outer view. You can bounce around to other officers and get cross training.” The 141st MEB has a large amount of officers within its ranks. It is a rare unit where cadets are allowed the opportunity to meet and converse with officers from different branches and different ranks, ranging from second lieutenant to colonel. “My mentor is really good,” Corley said. “I’m gaining leadership experience and I have time to learn the things I need to.” The mentors also have found opportunity in having the cadets in their ranks. “Cadets have been a welcome addition to the MEB and the mentors have embraced the opportunity to help shape the future leadership of the North Dakota Army National Guard,” Topp said. Camaraderie has been a common experience for the cadets in the unit, as well. “We all get along really well,” McCoy said. “It’s nice to be able to hang out with cadets from other areas. You can see what other cadets are going through at their school.” Individuals in the Fargo area looking to learn more about the ROTC program, as well as Soldiers who are interested in becoming officers while furthering themselves through education, can go to http://www.ndsuarmyrotc.com/index.html or visit https://www. nationalguard.com/tools/guard-scholarships to learn more about the scholarships that the National Guard has to offer.
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GUARDIAN Snapshots
Mandy Malo, N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program coordinator, assists Alex Jensen in completing his “padawan training,” as he traverses an obstacle course while wielding a light saber during the Jedi Academy at Camp Grafton Training Center.
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Photos by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters
Jedi Academy event organizers Bryce Crosby, Family Assistance Center specialist, and Mandy Malo, N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program coordinator, go over the training schedule prepared for the “padawans,” or Jedi apprentices, prior to the kick-off the Jedi Academy April 1 at Camp Grafton Training Center. Photos by Sgt. Tiffany Vannett, 164th Regiment Regional Training Institute The newly-appointed Jedis raise their light sabers after graduating from Jedi Academy. The military children were presented certificates from actors potraying members of the Galactic Empire, including Darth Vader, an imperial officer, a storm trooper, a tie fighter pilot and a snow trooper.
THE FORCE AWAKENS A “padawan” take aim at a womp rat nest during the Jedi Academy sponsored and organized by the N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program at Camp Grafton Training Center.
About 50 young “padawans” reported to Camp Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake, North Dakota, to attend a Jedi Academy April 1, which was sponsored and organized by the N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program. The military children reported to multiple stations throughout the day, in order to complete their Jedi training. During the event, they learned how to build star fighters and droids and also completed light saber training and gained a knowledge of blasters through multiple rounds of laser tag. The children also received a class from Jedi Master Ann (N.D. National Guard Human Relations Counselor Ann Stark) on growth mindset and resiliency, which showed “the Force” is within them.
LEGENDARY Heather Mattson, N.D. National Guard equal employment manager, fourth from right, and Brig. Gen. Robert Becklund, deputy adjutant general, third from right, present appreciation mementos to the cast of “Legendary Ladies” March 21 at the Bismarck Heritage Center in Bismarck. The group, which promotes the history of women who made unique contributions to the American west during the mid-1800s to the mid 1900s, gave a performance in front of an audience of N.D. National Guard members to commemorate Women’s History Month in March. The presentation was arranged on behalf of the N.D. National Guard’s Diversity Council. Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 116th Public Affairs Detachment Courtesy Photos
COMPETITIVE EDGE Members of the N.D. National Guard biathlon team joined more than 100 competitors from 23 states to compete in March at the 2017 Chief, National Guard Bureau Biathlong Championship at Camp Ethan Allen Training Site, Vermont. The competition combines cross-country skiing with marksmanship to build cardiovascular endurance. North Dakota’s “A” team, which includes members Capt. Blake Hillerson, Capt. Robby Meland, Sgt. Brandon Pulst and Cadet Conrad Roberts, placed fifth overall. Left, Spc. Brett Butler, a mechanic with the 231st Brigade Support Battalion, is the youngest member of North Dakota’s biathlon team. This year was Butler’s second season of competition and he said, “the Biathlon Program, to me, is the most rewarding part of (serving in) the Guard and responsible for my retention.” Right, team members, from left to right, Sgt. Jordan Becker, Pulst, Butler, Roberts, Meland and Hillerson prepare for competition in Vermont. www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 23
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
STATE SUPPORT Above, North Dakota Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford signs a statement of support for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Jan. 29 at the North Dakota state capitol. Sanford signed the statement on behalf of the Office of the Governor of North Dakota to recognize the National Guard and Army Reserve as essential organizations for the strength of the nation and well-being of its communities. Gov. Doug Burgum also declared Jan. 16-21, 2017, to be North Dakota Cares (ND Cares) Week during the capitol event. Executive Order 2015-01 initially established ND Cares, which is a coalition charged with improving collaboration and coordination on behavioral health service for service members, veterans, families and survivors. Gov. Burgum’s administration stated its commitment to furthering the ND Cares coalition’s development. North Dakota is home to more than 52,000 veterans. Photos by Sgt. Brandi Schmidt, 116th Public Affairs Detachment
OFFICERS OF THE YEAR
Left, Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, North Dakota adjutant general, presents award plaques March 19 to Capt. Robert Meland and Lt. Col. Rusty Romans, right, at the 2017 Roughrider Conference held at the Ramkota Hotel in Bismarck. Meland was named Company-Grade Officer of the Year for the N.D. Army National Guard, while Romans was named Field-Grade Officer of the Year (N.D. Air National Guard Officers of the Year are featured on page 6).
PARTNERING ABROAD Medical personnel from the N.D. Army National Guard in February took part in a Medical Readiness Training Exercise (MEDRETE) at the 37th Military Hospital in Accra, Ghana, which also included participants from the Ghanaian government, U.S. Army Africa (USARAF) and Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. MEDRETE 17-2 was the second in a series of medical readiness training exercises that USARAF facilitated in various countries in Africa. The mutually-beneficial events offered opportunities for partnered militaries to cooperate on medical specific tasks, share best practices and improve medical treatment processes. Right, Capt. Annie Gerhardt, a N.D. National Guard nurse practitioner, coordinates surgical intervention for a patient during the exercise Feb. 7 at the 37th Military Hospital in Accra, Ghana. Below, Sgt. 1st Class Eric Anton, a N.D. Army National Guard medic, triages a patient during MEDRETE 7-2. North Dakota has established long-term relationships with Ghana through the National Guard’s State Partnership Program since 2004. The program, as a whole, encourages the development of economic, political and military ties between states and partner nations.
Photos by Staff Sgt. Shejal Pulivarti, U.S. Army Africa
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NewsBriefs N.D. National Guard Races to Zero Out Sexual Assault By Spc. Thea Jorgenson, 116th Public Affairs Detachment The 5th Annual Race to Zero 5K and 10K run/walk hosted 217 participants, who laced up their shoes on the morning of April 1 in Bismarck to blaze through the Sertoma Park running trail. The road race was established to create awareness about sexual assault in the state of North Dakota. This year’s race was a collaboration between the North Dakota National Guard’s Sexual Assault and Response Program, North Dakota Council on Abused Women’s Services; or CAWS, Bismarck State College and United Tribes Technical College. Erica Davidson, N.D. National Guard sexual assault response coordinator, said the race has grown since its first year in 2012. “The first year we had 100 participants. This year we’ve doubled that. Next year, we’re hosting Race to Zero in Fargo, too,” she said. In addition to the run/walk, attendees could visit the registration hall at the Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge to observe a visual display called “The Clothesline Project.” The project honors survivors and victims of sexual assault or violence and allows them to share their stories through messages and artwork created on t-shirts. Even though the project was intended for women to share their stories, organizers said it is equally important to remember that sexual assault victims are not always female.
ESGR Presents Patriot Awards to 188th ADA Employers By Shirley Olgeirson, ESGR About 30 employers of Soldiers who departed for a yearlong National Capital Region mission in March were presented Patriot Awards for their support to Guardsmen while they serve in Washington, D.C. The group also learned more about the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery’s (1-188th ADA) deployment while getting a first-hand look at the equipment that will be used to 26 · Guardian · spring 2017
Photo by Sgt. Brandi Schmidt, 116th Public Affairs Detachment Participants at the 5th Annual Race to Zero 5K and 10K run/walk dash across the finish line April 1 at Sertoma Park in Bismarck. The event each year is held to raise awareness about sexual assault in North Dakota. The month of April nationally is observed as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
According to CAWS ND, in 2015, more than 1,200 sexual assault victims were served by approximately 20 sexual assault crisis centers across North Dakota. Of these cases, 90 percent of the victims were female. Only 13 percent of the assaults were committed by strangers, whereas in at least 40 percent of the assaults, the assailant was a friend or date of the victim. Of these 1,200 cases, only 69 percent of the crimes were reported to law enforcement. While some runners participated to get out and run on a beautiful morning, others were there with a different purpose in mind. Lindsay Koch hadn’t heard of the Race to Zero before, and a friend asked her to participate. After doing some research, Koch decided this would
be a great 5K to be a part of, even though she has not run a 5K in quite some time. Koch’s husband, Shane, served in the N.D. Army National Guard with the 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment. He has been her support system as she pushes herself to reach physical goals, but for her, this particular race was more than that. “It’s amazing how many people are here,” she said during the event. “It’s supposed to be a good turnout. I’m hoping people go home today and realize they served a purpose, that they helped acknowledge the sexual violence issue. Hopefully somebody goes home and realizes they made a difference, they put their time in and finished that race, and that they made it to the end.”
defend the airspace there during an event at the National Guard armory in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The Patriot Award recipients included Brian Nygord, from ATOS, a business technology company in Fargo, who was nominated for the award by Sgt. Tyler Nagel, an Avenger Systems repairer with the unit. The Avenger air defense system is the Army’s premier shoot-on-the-move air defense weapon. The award citation noted that Nygord is understanding of Tyler’s military service and always ensures adequate time off, even on short notice. Pfc. Ethan Hongess nominated Melissa
Harvey, his supervisor at the Arc of the Upper Valley. Hongness said, “Melissa commends me for my service and makes me feel like a valuable asset to the Arc team. “ Spc. John Sampel is a crewmember on the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System with the 1-188th ADA. He works part-time as a certified nursing assistant at Altru Health Systems, and nominated his supervisor, Shannon Rud, who provided continued scheduling flexibility when accommodating Sampel’s mobilization, as well as time to respond for state active duty.
Chaplains’ Corner: Iceman’s Lesson
SoundOff!
By Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James Cheney I just finished up a tour at Eielson Air Force Base (AFB) in Alaska. It was great to be a part of a team — and a part of North Dakota’s heritage — in the interior of Alaska. Carl Eielson, whom the base is named after, came from Hatton, North Dakota, to Fairbanks in 1922 to be a teacher. Drawn by the beauty and vastness of Alaska, he soon pursued aviation with the support of local businessmen. His many accomplishments include being the first pilot to fly across the polar ice cap. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and won the 1928 Harmon Trophy for the greatest aviation accomplishment of the year. Eielson’s international fame ended with a tragic flight to the rescue crew — and $1 million worth of furs — on the Nanuk after it became frozen in the ice off the coast of Siberia. Eric Borland died with Eielson on the ice in November of 1929. Borland was Eielson’s mechanic. There were no mountains or Air Force bases named after Borland. However, the beginnings of the sacred bond between mechanic and pilot were forged and became a part of a tradition carried on today at Eielson AFB and across the nation’s force. Essentially, that bond is a solemn trust informed by duty. Any mechanic, worth their salt, out of sense of duty will not turn over an aircraft unless it is air-worthy. A mechanic’s signature in aircraft logs attest to their “say-so” that the
aircraft is mechanically sound and ready for the sky. The inherent message in these trusted relationships is how duty leads to empowerment, or in other words, setting people up for success and letting them receive the glory. Initially, this could very well rub us the wrong way, however, empowering others to succeed is part of the joy of leadership. This joy, once tasted, often finds us returning for more and stumbling upon a worthy way to give ourselves away. Leadership’s vocation is a call to constantly renew our relationships with an awareness that our duty empowers others and leads to their success. A big part of the golden rule of doing unto others as you would have them do to you, and scripture’s call to love our neighbor, has as its end the best interests of those we are called to serve. Easter’s Pasch is a season of springtime’s renewal. Our own renewal could very well be wrapped in the mystery of these relationships of duty, service and empowerment in our attempts to love and serve our neighbor. St. Francis, a man who gave himself away to lady poverty, wrote these powerful words about service: “O Master, let me not seek so much to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love, for it is giving that we receive, it is in self-forgetting that one finds, it is in pardoning that one is pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.”
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Permann named Outstanding Air National Guard Chaplain Assistant of the Year North Dakota Air National Guard member Master Sgt. Jarrett Permann, third from left, receives the 2016 Air National Guard Outstanding Chaplain Assistant of the Year Minuteman Award March 29 at the U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corp Summit Awards banquet in San Antonio, Texas. Permann was selected based on many accomplishments, skills and contributions, as well as civilian civic and community involvement. From left to right in the photo are Senior Master Sgt. Noika Bechara, Air National Guard chaplain assistant liaison to Air Combat Command; Brig. Gen. Steve Chisolm, assistant to the U.S. Air Force Chief of Chaplains; Permann; Col. Terry Williams, special assistant to Air Combat Command; Capt. Jose Martinez, Outstanding Air National Guard Chaplain of the Year (Samuel Stone Award); Senior Master Sgt. John Recore, Air National Guard chaplain assistant career field manager and Col. Bill Yates, director Air National Guard Chaplaincy. Air National Guard courtesy photo www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 27
Photo by Pfc. Rachelle Lewis, 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Lt. Col. Brock G. Larson, 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB) commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Cory J. Everson, senior enlisted leader for the unit, stand at the position of attention March 6 at the head of the unit’s formation during a “patching ceremony” at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. The 136th CSSB is providing command and control structure for assigned or attached logistical units and is assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division’s Sustainment Brigade. In accordance with Army Regulation 670-1, Chapter 21, Paragraph 17, for their service conducting operations in Afghanistan, the Soldiers of the 136th CSSB, and all attached and subordinate units, now are authorized to wear the 1st Cavalry Division shoulder sleeve insignia for wartime service.