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Rhode Island National Guard
The Ocean State Guardians Winter 2009
The Governor of Rhode Island and the Captain General of the Rhode Island National Guard
The Honorable Donald L. Carcieri The Adjutant General of the State of Rhode Island and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard
Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray
From The Adjutant General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Commander’s Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Rhode Island’s Special Operations Recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Rhode Island Soldiers Parachute into Holland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 43rd MP Brigade Honored for It’s Service in Operation Iraqi Freedom . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Rhode Island National Guard’s Air Show Receives One of the Nation’s Highest Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 R.I. Hosts National Camp for Children of Deployed Servicemembers . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Two Units Reform into the 1207th Forward Support Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Rhode Islanders Receive Defender of Freedom Awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 April is Sexual Assualt Awareness Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Rhode Island Remembers the Fallen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Assistant Adjutant General for Army and Deputy Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard
Brig. Gen. Brian W. Goodwin Commander, Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard
Brig. Gen. Matthew J. Dzialo Assistant Adjutant General for Air Rhode Island National Guard
Col. Paul L. Ayers Managing Editor State Public Affairs Officer
Lt. Col. Denis J. Riel Editor
Sgt. David B. Osgood Public Affairs Specialists
Sgt. John Cervone Sgt. Megan Burmeister Public Affairs Office 401-275-4038
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Rhode Island Historic Militia Commands in Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The 1st R.I. Calvary Civil War Guidon Comes Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Operation Holiday Cheer a Success for 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 R.I. National Guard Soldiers Supporting Military Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Transition Assistance Advisor (TAA) Ready to Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Dusty Mission in Afghanistan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chief Brady Selected as Air National Guard’s Human Resource Advisor of the Year . 19 The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Chief Warrant Officer Four Steven Moy Retires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 R.I. National Guard Memorial Update! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Units Head Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 National Resource Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Photo Scrapbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE • (401) 275-4038 • david.b.osgood@us.army.mil
ON THE COVER Col. R Robert obe b rt rt E Ede Ed Edenbach ddenba nbach c of the Ar ch Artil Artillery tiller til leryy Comp ler C Company ompany omp any of any an ort His or H Hi iistor to icc M Mil iiliti it a ((left) left) lef t) and St Staff aaff ff Sg gt Tan Tania ia Newport, Historic Militia Sgt. Olsen of Joint Force HQ. Photographed and Composed by Sgt. David “Oz” Osgood The Ocean State Guardians is published by AQP Publishing, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the Rhode Island National Guard, under written contract with the Rhode Island National Guard. This Rhode Island National Guard magazine is an authorized publication for employees and military members of the Rhode Island National Guard. Contents of this publication are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the state of Rhode Island, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, or the Rhode Island National Guard. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the state of Rhode Is-
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land, DoD, the Rhode Island National Guard, or AQP Publishing, Inc. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided by the Office of Public Affairs, Joint Forces Headquarters – RING. All photographs and graphic devices are copyrighted to the Rhode Island National Guard unless otherwise indicated.
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
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From The Adjutant General Doing More with Less:
RING Gets Lean and Mean As the country moves headlong into a recession, the military is quickly realizing that we are not as immune or “recession� proof as we thought. Prudent fiscal and operational behavior is the order of the day. We will undoubtedly continue to be called upon to do more, and quite possibly, do more with less in terms of financial support. How do we survive? We fall on our core values and press forward! We in the Army and Air Force have always been masters at making due and getting the job done. In these uncertain times of finite fiscal resources, I am confident that we will continue to meet our mission despite financial constraints. Some of the most effective cost saving measures are right in front of us. Thermostat and light discipline, paper recycling, use of electronic documents, and other easily applied measures are a good starting point. Workplace initiatives vary from shop to shop but certainly there are opportunities in every workplace for cost-saving measures. In the big picture, the cumulative effect of agency-wide cost saving measures are more money for operational and equipment initiatives. We must always remember that we are all stewards of the public purse-strings. We are all responsible to the U.S. taxpayer for effective and efficient use of our resources while still meeting mission criteria. I am confident that in these dire times you will continue to find ways to do more with less. Hooah Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray Adjutant General, Commanding General Rhode Island National Guard
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Commander’s Column Brig. Gen. Brian Goodwin, Assistant Adjutant General for Army Rhode Island National Guard
On September 11, 2006 my son joined the Rhode Island Army National Guard as a member of the 173d Infantry Company (LRSD). Having served in the Rhode Island National Guard for over 36 years it was an extremely proud and anxious moment for my wife and I. On this day we joined numerous other members of the Rhode Island National Guard who now have children who have chosen the military as their profession. The decision my son made was solely his own. He approached us on his 17th birthday and told us he wanted to join and asked for our support. I had absolutely no reservations with this, however being a military wife for the past 25 years my wife was not so supportive knowing full well what his enlistment would mean. After numerous conversations she finally consented and signed the enlistment paperwork clearing the way. When he left to attend basic training at Fort Benning he and I were extremely excited but it was hard on his mother. At his graduation from basic training my wife and I could not have been more proud. Now as his career takes shape
and he has graduated from Advanced Individual Training and Basic Airborne School he has chosen to become a member of the Warrior Trainer Center at Fort Benning where he will complete Air Assault, Pathfinder and Ranger school. With the War on Terror progressing and deployments at an all time high we now join numerous other Rhode Island National Guard parents with the anxieties that come with the thought that some day your Soldier/Airman son or daughter will deploy. The Guard is a special place in that we have so many 2nd, 3rd, and even 4th generation Soldiers and Airmen serving, in many cases, along-side their fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, uncles, and aunts. My wife and I now appreciate this special quality despite the fact that we realize that our son may someday be called to deploy. God bless our Rhode Island National Guard families who serve together, and God bless America!
Rhode Island’s Special Operations Recognized By Sgt. David “Oz” Osgood
Members of the Rhode Island National Guard (RING) have been recognized for their work in strengthening our national security and building relations in South America. Members of the RING’s Special Operations Detachment-Global (SOD-G), one of Rhode Island’s two Special Operations Force (SOF) units, were presented with awards by the commander and senior enlisted personnel of Special Operations CommandSouth (SOCSOUTH), the outfit in charge of SOF operations in South America. The ceremony, which took place at SOCSOUTH’s headquarters in Florida, honored Sgt. Maj. Michael Lewis, who received a certificate of achievement from Brig. Gen. Hector Pagan, SOCSOUTH Commander, for six months as acting Senior Enlisted Advisor. In addition, Staff Sgt. Christian Martin received the Outstanding Servicemember of the Quarter plaque from 1st Sgt. Willie Gibbons of SOCSOUTH. Both Soldiers have worked tirelessly since leaving family and friends in Rhode Island in March 2008 for this deployment. SOD-G’s work in CENTCOM revolves around collecting and analyzing strains of intelligence to ensure that Special Operations Command is “postured to meet the global mission requirements.” Part of SOD-G’s unique capability is that they are the only SOF detachment with a global focus, allowing them to work anywhere. In addition, as a SOF unit, they are skilled in thinking and working outside the box. SOD-G represents one of the great units in the RING, and they carry the pride of their state to their mission – not surprising for a unit from a state whose citizens have deployed more times than nearly any other in the nation.
Sgt. Maj. Michael Lewis with SOCSOUTH Commander Brig. Gen. Hector Pagan
Outstanding Servicemember of the Quarter Staff Sgt. Christian Martin with 1st Sgt. Willie Gibbons
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The Rhode Island National Guard jumpers in parachutes (Left-Right): Staff Sgt. Brian Morey, Sgt. Phil Wagoner, Spc. Mike Biestek, 1st Lt. Jeffrey Ahern, Sgt. David “Oz” Osgood
RI Soldiers Parachute into Holland
Taking part in the 65th Anniversary of Operation Market Garden By Sgt. David “Oz” Osgood
On September 20, 2008, five Rhode Island National Guard (RING) Soldiers parachuted into Arnhem in Holland to help recreate the 64th anniversary of the British-US jump during Operation Market Garden, the failed Allied push in World War II to take a series of key bridges from the Germans.
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Paratroopers descending onto Arnhem drop zone.
Memorial wreaths at Arnhem cemetery. cemetery (left) 1Lt Jeffrey Ahern with a British veteran of the original Arnhem jump. (right)
Every year, the anniversary of this famous jump is celebrated throughout the town. The RING Soldiers were invited to participate in the two-day celebration, starting with the memorial jump onto the original Arnhem drop zone of 1944. Hundreds of people turned out to watch including a handful of veterans who were there on that original day.
1st Lt. Jeffrey Ahern on drop zone with Arnhem children.
The memorial jump began early in the morning for the paratroopers with a briefing by the British Royal Air Force on wind and drop zone conditions. Then, after a quick tea, parachutes were distributed: one main chute worn on the back and one reverse strapped to the front. Ten minutes of flying brought the aircraft over the target area and each group or “stick” of jumpers exited the plane. During the original operation, the week of fighting that followed cost the British, US, and Dutch 11,000 Soldiers and Airmen killed, wounded, or captured. Though they failed to take the bridges, their valiant efforts weakened the Nazi war machine and stand as an eternal tribute to Allied heroism. Said 1st Lt. Jeffrey Ahern, senior member of the U.S. team: “It is an amazing feeling to talk with these veterans and hear their stories. To stand on the ground where these paratroopers fought and hear their stories first hand is quite the experience. The Airborne esprit de corps is strong through generations, young and old.” The next day, the R.I. Soldiers attended a wreath-laying ceremony for those who gave their lives during the operation. The moving ceremony, conducted in both English and Dutch, took place at the Arnhem memorial cemetery. The sacrifice of the Arnhem Soldiers and Airmen is still in the hearts of the Dutch, and each child in Arnhem has a Soldier’s or Airman’s grave that they tend throughout the year and lay flowers on during the ceremony. It was a great privilege for Rhode Island Soldiers to stand side by side with their historic allies, to parachute onto the sacred field, and to be part of the moving commemoration. To watch a video of the memorial and the jump, go to www. YouTube.com and type in key word “RI National Guard.”
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
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43RD MP BRIGADE HONORED FOR IT’S SERVICE 4
IN OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM By Sgt. John Cervone
On a warm S O Sunday d afternoon on Sept. 7, 2008, units of the 43rd Military Police (MP) Brigade, Rhode Island National Guard (RING), stood at attention as Battle Streamers and a Meritorious Unit Commendation were awarded to them for their outstanding service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The ceremony took place at Camp Fogarty, R.I., with National Guard dignitaries, retirees and family members looking on as the Battle Streamers were pinned to the guidon. The units of the Brigade represented there included the 118th MP Battalion, the 119th MP Company, the 169th MP Company, the 1207th Transportation Company, and the 115th MP Company. These streamers, emblazoned with the names of their operations, are a time-honored tradition and represent the courage and sacrifice of not only the Soldiers but their families and employers as well. The brigade’s Meritorious Unit Commendation was for participating in six military operations against an armed enemy. In addition, Soldiers from the 43rd MP Brigade and attached units assisted in training more than 1,500 Iraqi correctional officers, guarding 15,000 detainees, and helping develop a plan for the transfer of authority from American troops to the Iraqi police. Brig. Gen. Kevin McBride, commander of the 43rd MP Brigade, said of his troops, “I couldn’t be more proud of them. Their courage, loyalty, and dedication to seeing each mission
R.I. MPs at work with their Iraqi counterparts.
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S Anthony Marshall III Spc. hholds the 118th MP Battalion Colors at Present Arms as the C N National Anthem is played. B Battle streamers being affixed tto the guidon.
through to success is an outstanding tribute to the United States and Rhode Island. I am honored to command such brave men and women.” Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, the State Adjutant General and Commanding General of the RING, praised the brigade too for its success in helping democracy take hold in Iraq. “These Soldiers represent the finest of our country,” said Maj. Gen. Bray. “Their bravery in the face of hardship and danger brings great credit upon themselves and their state. Their Battle Streamers are well deserved.” The men and women of the 43rd Military Police Brigade, their families, and employers can be truly proud of their achievements, as should the people of the great state of Rhode Island.
The Rhode Island National Guard’s Air Show Receives One of the Nation’s Hightest Awards By Master Sgt. Janeen Miller
The Rhode Island National Guard was presented the Schram Memorial Community Relations Award for 2008 during the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) convention on December 11, 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. The RING’s Open House and Air Show, held each June in North Kingstown, RI, was awarded this honor not only Accepting the award (left to right): Mst. Sgt. Janeen Miller, 1st Lt. Mike Martin, Sen. Mst. Sgt. Val Hupf, Lt. Col. Arthur Floru, Col. Bob Germani, Founding Sponsor of RING Air Show Al for its amazing aerobatic performances but also because Cerone with guest Rita, and Col. Larry Gallogly. the RING uses the event to raise money for local charities. Overall, RING events have raised millions of dollars for organizations. Frankly, ICAS had exactly this kind of military institutions like Hasbro Children’s Hospital in nearby Provi- air show in mind when they established the Schram Award dence, RI, which both helps RI citizens while reducing the more than 20 years ago.” burden on state finances. The award was named for Lt. Dick Schram, a former Blue AnIn giving the award, John Cudahy, the ICAS President, not- gel and Department of Defense Aviation Support Liaison Officer, ed: “The Rhode Island National Guard Air Show has helped who personified all that was good in military air shows. Since generate more than $1 million for the Hasbro Children’s Hos- 1988, the ICAS has presented this award to the one military air pital. But more than that, they have created an event that is show, open house or flying event that best represents the spirit embraced by the local community…a community event in the of community that Schram stood for throughout his career. most literal sense that has helped the RING forge a close and In receiving this award, the RING becomes only the third unique relationship with local residents, government and other two-time winner since getting its first in 1995.
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R.I. hosts national camp for children of deployed servicemembers By S By Sgt. gtt. Da g D David avi vid “O vid ““Oz” Ozz”” O Osgood sg go oo od Photos: Sgt. Megan Burmeister Ph P hot oto oss: Sg gt. t. M ega eg egan an nB urm ur meeisste ter
The Rh Th Rhode d Island I l d National N ti l Guard G d Child and d Youth Y th Program held its annual Operation Purple Camp last summer. This overnight camp was a full week of activities, offered free to children of military service members, the primary attendees being those children with a currently deployed parent or one whose parent is within the 18-month deployment cycle. The camp derives it name from the term “Purple,” the color that represents all the branches of service coming together as one. In this sense too, children of the many different branches are represented as well. Boys and girls between the ages of seven and seventeen came from around the country to R.I. to participate. Each child was given the choice to participate in one of the ten themed groups. For example, children could join the Technonuts to work on creating computer programmed robots, while those who wanted a more aquatic experience could choose the Aquanuts. There was also group Exchange City, where children got to spend two days in a simulated city at Johnson and Wales University, designing their own representative government and writing their own laws. In addition, all campers got to experience the normal activities of camp life such as swimming, boating, and arts and crafts. 8
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More importantly, children participate in discussions and entertaining workshops dealing with parental deployments and other issues affecting children of military personnel. The opportunity to interact with children of other military members greatly helped them deal with these great stresses. “Operation Purple Camp is one of the best support networks that we have for our military kids,” said Laura Paton, State Youth Coordinator. “It’s important for them to feel that they are not alone, and the feelings they are having are shared by other kids.” While nothing can completely shelter a child from the realities of deployment, Operation Purple Camp and its staff work hard to provide the necessary coping skills and a well deserved break from the difficulties of military family life. If you have a son or daughter who could benefit from such an experience or would like to get in touch with Family Support for other services, please contact Laura Paton at (401) 275-4032 or by email at laura.paton@us.army.mil.
Two Units Reform into the 1207th Forward Support Company By Sgt. John Cervone
On October 5, 2008, two Rhode Island National Guard (RING) units were inactivated and reactivated into the 1207th Forward Support Company (FSC) to better meet the demands of the Global War on Terror and emergency management at home. The ceremony was held at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, R.I. for the two units being inactivated: the 1207th Transportation Company and the 1043rd Maintenance Company. They were then immediately reactivated as the 1207th FSC. The mission of the new FSC will be to provide combat service support to Army Operational forces. Historically, when a unit is inactivated, it does not simply fade off into the sunset. Though the guidon of the unit, the military flag representing the outfit, may be retired, its history lives on. Both of these inactivated units have a proud and honorable history, and they are transferring that pride
to their new unit. The 1207th Transportation Company’s history goes back to 1818 when it was the First Light Infantry Company, 2nd Regiment, in the Rhode Island Militia. The unit was mustered into federal service several times during its lifetime: in 1861 during the Civil War; in 1898 during the Spanish-American War; and during World War I. During World War II, it was again called into service for the coastal defense of Narragansett Bay. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, it was transformed – first into a missile battalion and later into a howitzer battalion. Finally, in 1968, the unit was converted and re-designated the 1207th Transportation Company. Its last mission was in 2006, when it deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) under the 82nd Airborne Division. The 1043rd Maintenance Company was constituted into the RING on October 27, 1952, as Company A, 743rd Ordnance Battalion. The unit was subsequently reorganized and re-designated on March 18, 1963, as the 1043rd Ordnance Company and finally on March 1, 1972, as the 1043rd Maintenance Company. The 1043rd has provided numerous soldiers to other RING units deploying in both OIF and Operation Enduring Freedom. The men and women of the 1043rd served with distinction during these operations. The inactivation ceremony was not an ending but a true beginning: the beginning of a new, proud heritage for the Soldiers of the 1207th FSC and all the Soldiers that will be a part of its future. The new 1207th Guidon being passed between unit members, representing the establishment of leadership. (L to R) PFC Thomas Mercurio (guidon bearer), CPT Peter Lawrence (Commander of the 1207th FSC), 1st Sgt. Patrick Curran (Senior NCO of the 1207th FSC), and Lt. Col. Richard Kaley (Commander of 1st Bn. 103rd FA).
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Rhode Islanders Receive Defender of Freedom Awards By Sgt. John Cervone
On Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008, a special ceremony took place at the National Guard Armory in Warren, R.I., when members of the 169th Military Police (MP) Company were presented with the “Defender of Freedom” awards. These awards, part of the Freedom Salute Campaign,one of the largest Army National Guard recognition efforts in history, were designed to publicly recognize the Soldiers and those organizations and individuals who supported them during the President’s call to duty. Presenting the awards were Gov. Donald Carcieri and Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, The Adjutant General of the Rhode Island National Guard. Each Soldier was presented with an American flag in a wooden display case, a Defender of Freedom certificate, a Defender of Freedom medallion, and a commemorative coin. The Soldiers and their families showed great pride in their accomplishment as they cheered for each other. These brave men and women had served in extremely dangerous areas of Iraq, training the Iraqi Police to take over law enforcement in their towns and cities. The 169th was very successful in this objective and left Anbar Province a safer place than they had found it.
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Gov. Gov. C Carcieri arci ar c er eri and and Maj. Ma aj.j Gen. Gen en.. Bray ay both bot o h expressed expr ex pres esse sed d pride prid pr de and and gratitude tit d for f the th Soldiers S ldi off the th 169th and d their th i families. f ili Gov. G Carcieri spoke of his trip to Ramadi last year, when he visited them, and how impressed he was by their professionalism and esprit de corps. He explained that his visit to Ramadi allowed him to witness first hand the wonderful job they were doing and how they were truly making a difference in the lives of the Iraqi people. The men and women of the 169th Military Police Company, as well as all the members of the Rhode Island National Guard, can be proud of the reputation they have built and the legacy they are leaving behind.
Rhode Island Remembers the Fallen By Sgt. Megan Burmeister
When a friend or family member dies, we like to think we will remember them forever. The truth is, however, over time, these memories will fade unless we take steps to preserve them. That’s what the 103rd Field Artillery Battalionhas been doing since October 3, 2004: preserving the memory of Staff Sgt. Christopher S. Potts. Staff Sgt. Potts of the 103rd died that day on a mission in Taji, Iraq. Those who knew him personally, and some who knew him only by name, are doing all they can to honor his memory. “If we don’t honor their memories, we lose sight of why they died,” said Major Christian Neary, Potts’ commander in Iraq. “It can’t die with us.” The community around the Potts family has been very supportive as well. The Rhode Island Builders Association’s not-for-profit initiative, Builders Helping Heroes, helped the Potts family complete the repairs needed on their home. This past year, they remodeled the kitchen and drainage system, replaced the floors with hardwood and painted some of the
rooms. On Veterans Day, a ceremony was held to celebrate the project’s completion. The 103rd also recently dedicated a memorial to Potts and Sgt. Russell L. Collier, the Soldier who died fighting beside him, on the grounds of their armory. The two memorial stones were etched with their likenesses and each engraved with a short epitaph. Under the image of Staff Sgt. Potts are the words, “When you go home, tell them about us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today.” “I can’t describe how I’m feeling,” said Terry Potts, widow of Staff Sgt. Potts, at the memorial dedication. “I’m glad that they remember them and they’re not going to forget.” The Rhode Island National Guard does remember and thanks to the efforts of the Soldiers of the 103rd Field Artillery Battalion, we are unlikely to forget.
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Rhode Island Historic Militia Commands In Action Preserving Our Heritage By Master Sgt. James Loffler, Official Rhode Island National Guard Historian
The Rhode Island National Guard is 370 years old. Founded in 1638, it was mustered out of Portsmouth, R.I. with its original members consisting of two sergeants, two corporals, and one clerk. Today, the R.I. militia is still very much around in the form of the R.I. National Guard (RING) and the Historic Militia Commands, both of which hold an active commission from the governor. While the RING protects the state and the nation, the Historic Militia Commands protect something equally as valuable: Rhode Island heritage. These commands work tirelessly to preserve the past through many outreach and reenactment programs including parades, encampments, official reviews and ceremonial functions. Each militia unit represents a different part of R.I. military history, the oldest of which, the Artillery Company of Newport, traces an unbroken lineage back to 1741. In all, there are fourteen historic militias in R.I., including the Kentish Guards
(1774), the Bristol Train of Artillery (1776), and the Federal Blues of Warren (1798). The 2nd Rhode Island Regiment (1777), an affiliated R.I. Militia, emerged from one of the first black regiments in U.S. history, the Black Regiment of the Revolutionary War. Each year, the public has an opportunity to see all the militias gathered in one place during their annual historic encampment and pass-in-review at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, RI. The weekend event includes public demonstrations of camp life, cannon and musket firing, and fife and drum music. This year’s event will be held in May. The R.I. Historic Militia Commands have a very active membership of men and women of all ages and backgrounds. One of the units, the Varnum Continentals (1775), recently held a change of command on Veterans Day, 2008, at the historic Varnum Armory in East Greenwich, officiated by Brig. Gen. Brian Goodwin, the Deputy Commanding General of the Continued on next page.
Artillery Company of Newport, Kentish Guards, and Pawtuxet Rangers march onto the parade ground for Governor Carcieri.
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Rhode Island National Guard. Occasionally the line between the National Guard and the Historic Militia Commands becomes blurred as several Guard units can trace their lineages back over one hundred years. For example, R.I.’s19th Special Forces Group came from the North Providence Rangers (1774), the 103rd Field Artillery Battalion from the Providence Marine Corps of Artillery (1801), and the 861st Engineer Company from the Emmet Guards of Providence (1865). This year, the Kentish Guards and Pawtuxet Rangers will celebrate their units’ 235th Anniversary in conjunction with the annual Centennial Legion Conference of historic units from across the United States. The Historic Militias of R.I. instill a sense of pride in the state’s heritage and the role it played in shaping a nation. If you are interested in finding out more about the R.I. Historic Militias, please contact Master Sgt. James Loffler at the Command Readiness Center: james.loffler@us.army.mil.
Pawtuxet Rangers at their annual open encampment.
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The 1st R.I. Calvary Civil War Guidon Comes Home By Sgt. John Cervone
On December 12, 2008, a very special ceremony was held at the historic Varnum Armory, in East Greenwich, RI. While celebrating the National Guard’s 372nd Birthday, Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, The Adjutant General of the Rhode Island National Guard (RING), and other senior members of the RING welcomed the repatriation are of Rhode Island’s Civil War guidons. This guidon had belonged to Troop L, 1st Rhode Island Volunteer Cavalry but was captured by Confederate soldiers in 1863. It was on display at the North Carolina Museum of History when the museum curators generously decided to return it to R.I.. The gold-fringed guidon is in impeccable condition, with the gold stars of the Union States and the initials R.I. emblazoned on a field of blue. The 1st R.I. Cavalry, raised in Pawtucket, R.I., in 1861, played an important role in the opening battles of Gettysburg. Primarily a scouting outfit, they were engaged in the
Battle of Middleburg when, on that fateful day of June 17, 1863, they became surrounded by the 5th North Carolina Cavalry. A fierce battle ensued, during which the 280-member outfit of the 1st R.I. suffered six killed, 20 wounded, 220 captured or reported missing and the loss of the guidon. To mark the proud return of this historic state treasure, Maj. Gen. Bray said, “As we recognize this 372nd birthday of the National Guard, it is appropriate to take the opportunity to remember that it is the work of our citizen-Guardsmen that helps keep our country free. This guidon is emblematic of that proud heritage and of the hundreds of Rhode Island Guardsmen and women who are on duty across this state and across this globe.” Rhode Islanders can be proud of their heritage. For those who would like to see other flags and historic artifacts of the RING, please visit the rotunda of the R.I. state capital.
Two RI Guard Soldiers posing with their heritage: Staff Sgt. Cesar Tamayo (left) and Sgt. Spencer Scott, both from R.I. Joint Force HQ.
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Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
Volunteers packing boxes at the Providence Armory, Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts and Maj. Gen. Robert Bray at far right.
OPERATION HOLIDAY CHEER Staff Sgt. Sggt Thomas Calouro (left) and Staff Sgt. Sgt Matthew Eramian of the RI Air National Guard receiving a Holiday Cheer package in Iraq. receivin
By Sgt. John Cervone
Rhode Island’s Operation Holiday Cheer has completed its seventh successful year of sending holiday presents to the troops overseas. Led by Rhode Island Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts and the Military Family Relief Fund, with support from the R.I. National Guard, the project provides hundreds of care packages for Soldiers and Airmen stationed overseas during the holidays. This year, work began in November with the Lt. Governor and volunteers from many local organizations spending a morning filling large cardboard boxes donated by The Home Depot. Each box was individually addressed to a Soldier or Airman and contained hometown favorites donated by local enterprises – Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, Del’s Lemonade, and many others. “Operation Holiday Cheer is one way we can show our appreciation for these men and women and provide them with some comforts of home,” said Roberts. “We know every day away from family and friends is difficult, but it is especially hard during the holiday season.”
Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, the Commanding General of the RING and one of the volunteers packing boxes, commented, “It fills me with immense pride for the people of Rhode Island and the many businesses who turned out in such numbers and gave so generously to our men and women.” The event took place at the North Main Street Armory in Providence. Among the many volunteers on hand was retired Sgt. 1st Class Gary Rehak, 34-year veteran of the RING, who had made the journey to Providence to help his brothers and sisters in arms have a happy holiday. For the many Rhode Island men and women serving our country in dangerous places overseas, something from home can raise the spirits, a fact that I can attest to having served a year in Baghdad, Iraq. It can also help the families at home, reassuring them that their loved ones are being looked after by a whole state. Thank you to all those who contributed so generously, the individuals as well as the local businesses. All of you helped make this past season a brighter one for the troops overseas.
Corporate Sponsors of Operation Holiday Cheer: AAA Southern New England American Red Cross, R.I. Chapter American Speedy Printing Centers Amica Mutual Insurance Autocrat Coffee Bank of America
Boston Celtics CVS Caremark Del’s Lemonade Dunkin’ Donuts Hasbro The Home Depot
National Grid The New England Patriots Ocean State Job Lot Providence Journal United States Postal Service
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
15
R.I. National Guard Soldiers Supporting Military Values ARMY VALUE:
Honor
Spc. Joel Morales
Honor: honesty, fairness, or integrity in one’s beliefs and actions; a source distinction; worth, merit, or rank. Spc. Joel Morales, a full time employee and drilling member of the Rhode Island National Guard (RING), embodies that commitment to Honor, one of the seven core values of the U.S. Army. Joining the RING on January 23, 2006, Morales was assigned to the 169th Military Police Company who were on their way to Iraq, deploying with them on September 11. While in Iraq, Morales was a member of Third Platoon, whose mission was to create and build several new Iraqi Police stations and restore order along Main Supply Route Mobil, the primary east-west transit corridor linking Baghdad, Ramadi, Fallujah and Syria. These were essential to their overall goal of training the Iraqi Police force in maintaining law and order, allowing the American forces to eventually withdraw from the area. Said Morales: “I enjoyed working with and training the new Iraqi Police officers so much. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. If I could go back, I absolutely would.” Morales brought to the job his commitment to honor, an attribute that can build courage when courage seems to fail and guide a person to the
AIR VALUE:
EXCELLENCE Staff Sgt. Russell Cote
Excellence: ellence: the quality of excelling; possessing good qualities in high degree; exalted merit; superiority in virtue. Excellence: One of three Air Force Core values. The core value which best defines Staff Sgt. Russell Cote of the 143rd Security Forces Squadron. Staff Sgt. Cote, who recently returned from a 6 month deployment to Southwest Asia, embodies excellence, whether in his capacity as a USAF Security Forces professional, a Woonsocket Police Department member, or a husband and father-to-be. “He is one of our best NCOs and a role model for our younger Airmen,” said Command Master Sgt. Jose Baltazar, 143 SFS Superintendant. “Russ is a real pro in everything he does. He was among the first to volunteer for deployment and was a real asset and one of the reasons the deployment was such a huge success.” Said Cote, in his typically unassuming manner, “I just love this unit, this career field, and this mission. The level of profes16
Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
rightt path. This was a daily help in Iraq, where challenges were constant, stant, allowing Morales to be an asset to his peers and a good teacher h to t the th Iraqi I i people l who h had h d placed l d their th i trust t t in i him. hi Said Capt. Jeffrey Floyd, Morales’ commander in Iraq: “I am very proud of the work Soldiers like Morales did while working under such difficult circumstances.” With Honor too came respect for different cultures and customs, especially for the Iraqi people he was working with. Morales made every attempt to study their customs and was very proud of the mutual trust and respect that was built within the two groups. He believed that by attempting to learn their language and their customs, a bond of mutual respect could be established, which was essential to their mission success. Morales, currently a Joint Force HQ Security Officer, is married and has a son who was born while deployed in Iraq and another child on the way. Morales is also pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice, an endeavor that he feels is strengthened by his experience in Iraq. His leadership, sense of right and wrong, and his moral compass were greatly enhanced due to his time in Iraq. He enjoys his present job and his military career immensely and thanks both Donna Callahan and Todd Tinkham for helping him be reinstated upon his return.
sionalism is infectious and this unit is squared away from the newest recruit to the commandc er. The culture here makes you m want to be your best.” Cote is an 8 year veteran v of the Woonsocket Police Polic Department where he was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant in the Patrol Division. Sgt. Ed Cunnanan, a colleague and former supervisor, calls Cote “the most dedicated officer I work with.” Adds Cunnanan: “His military experience only serves to make him a better officer for the department and the people of Woonsocket.” Among his many duties past and present, Cote administers his department’s web site, was a member of the department’s Special Response Team, is a Field Training Officer, is qualified as a DARE officer, and is a firearms instructor. Additionally, he is a former EMT, having worked full time for the Town of Lincoln in that capacity. Cote is also finishing a double-major degree in Administration of Justice and Public Administration and he and his wife Ann are expecting their first child. Cote is truly a shining example of today’s Airman.
Transition Assistance Advisor (TAA) Ready to Help Who is a TAA? A TAA is a statewide resource advisor for service sembers of any branch and their families to help them access their many benefits, such as:
Healthcare · TRICARE entitlements · Community resources · Career-safe counseling referrals Dental issues · Job search assistance · Financial hardship assistance · Records acquisition Why the TAA will meet your needs: • Over 90% of our staff are veterans or spouses of military members. • Many have worked through the disability process themselves and receive disability compensation. • They have a strong partnership with numerous state and federal assistance services. Where is the TAA? We are located in Cranston, R.I., but we can also go off-site for large events including mobilizationdemobilizations and unit events/drill weekends. What You Mean to Us: You served your country; now let us serve you. For assistance, please contact: Sgt. Maj. Charles B. O’Connor (Retired) Transition Assistance Advisor Rhode Island National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters Command Readiness Center 645 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920-3097 Office: 401.275.4198 or DSN 247.4198 Fax: 401.275.4306 or DSN 247.4306 E-mail: charles.b.oconnor@us.army.mil
“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war...shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” — President George Washington
Dear Reader, To make The OSG the best magazine possible, we would love your feedback. After all, this magazine is for you. Please give us a rating below and let us hear your comments! The responses go back to me at: john.cervone@us.army.mil. Thanks, Sgt. John Cervone WHO ARE YOU? Airman - RI Guard Soldier – RI Guard RI State Employee
RI Resident Other State Resident
CONTENT RATING Best 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 4 . . . . . 5 Worst Comment: READABILITY Best 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 4 . . . . . 5 Worst Comment: PHOTO CONTENT Best 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 4 . . . . . 5 Worst Comment: KNOWLEDGE GAINED Best 1 . . . . . 2 . . . . . 3 . . . . . 4 . . . . . 5 Worst Comment: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF? More Air or Army focus Personal stories Advice: Finance, Fitness Other:
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
17
Dusty Mission in Afghanistan By Spc. Michael Sherman
On June 26, 2008, Taliban forces ambushed U.S. and coalition troops in an area of mountainous terrain in western Afghanistan. As the battle intensified, air support comprising of B-1 Bombers and F-16 Fighter Jets quickly responded to assist ground operations, and a long, drawn out firefight ensued. Ammunition was running low and causalities were requiring urgent evacuation. Lt. Col. Bernie Duszkiewicz of the Rhode Island Air National Guard 143rd Airlift Wing and commander of a C-130 answered the call. The C-130 had to be hastily reconfigured to accommodate 16 medical personnel, 25 oxygen cylinders and 20 pints of blood, all adding about 2000 lbs of extra weight. Duszkiewicz explained how uploading this gear was a very precise and time consuming task, and time was a luxury which ground forces, now down to about 10 percent of their ammunition, did not have. The crew boarded the aircraft and prepared for the trip. To get ready for the drop, the door was left in the open position. Duszkiewicz said, “At 10,000 feet with the door open, you need oxygen.” He explained how the medical personnel, despite their not being used to operating at such high altitudes, still managed to maintain their professional composure, in cold temperatures with bag like oxygen masks affixed to their faces. After three passes over the drop zone, clearance was granted. The heavy load of ammunition instantly left the aircraft under GPS-guided, self-
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Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
directing parachutes. The ground operation had been re-supplied. Duszkiewicz and his crew turned to the next part of their mission: evacuating the wounded to nearby medical facilities. While the aircraft climbed over the mountains, the medical crew hastily configured the cargo space to receive wounded troops. Duszkiewicz and his Co-pilot, Cpt. Jeremie Huot, battled high winds and poor visibility to make a hasty assault landing. Two armored ambulances were waiting. Five injured soldiers were flown to Bagram Air Force Base, where they were transferred to other facilities for ongoing care. Thanks to Col. Duszkiewicz and his crews’ efforts, friendly forces successfully repelled the ambush and five wounded soldiers were flown to safety. Three of them returned to duty shortly thereafter. BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - Members of all branches of service off-load wounded patients from Duszkiewicz’s on their way to Craig Joint Theater Hospital, June 26, 2009. Photo: U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester
Chief Brady Selected as Air National Guard’s Human Resource Advisor of the Year By Tech. Sgt. Kristine Rodrigues Joint Force Headquarters (Air)
Chief Master Sgt. Michael Brady was selected as the Human Resource Advisor of the Year for 2007 during the national Human Resource Advisor Conference for the Air National Guard, held in October 2008 at McGhee Tyson ANG Base, Knoxville, Tenn. Brady has served as state Human Resource Advisor for the Rhode Island Air National Guard (RIANG) since June 2006 and said he was humbled by the announcement of his selection. “All of Rhode Island shares this with me, as well as my fellow Human Resource Advisors across the country,” Brady said. “I certainly could not have done this alone. [HRA] is a unique and awesome position in the Air National Guard. I thank all of you that have given me a chance to grow in this position.” Brady is directly responsible to the Assistant Adjutant General for Air, and advises command leadership on all matters relating to diversity, mentoring, force management and force development. Brady displays a genuine eagerness to learn from others and continually pursues methods to improve his programs to better meet the needs of his customers. His top priorities since taking on his job as HRA have included leadership and team building training and the Air National Guard Mentoring Program. He is especially thrilled about the Diversity Champions class, a program that has been ongoing in the ANG HRA community for about two years and made available recently to the RIANG. “It is the best class I’ve had in 20 years,” says Brady. A new initiative for Brady this year is the formation of an HRA advisory team for members of the RIANG. “It’s open to anybody who wants to play,” he says. The idea is to have a variety of input from many individuals to help develop HRA initiatives and programs. “I have been able to share and communicate,” Brady adds about his role in HRA. “It’s not that I have dreamed up anything great, but we got to stay connected. As much as I have shared, I’ve gotten back more.”
Chief Master Sgt. Brady (right), selected as the Air National Guard’s Human Resources Advisor of the Year, stands next to Staff Sgt. Kristine Rodrigues (center) and Chief Master Sgt.Lorraine Casucci (left).
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
19
The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) How to Improve Your Scores and Your Fitness Level By Sgt. Maj. Richard Burmeister
In order to stay healthy and fit, a person must make exercise a regular part of his or her life. In order to stay in the military and get promoted, each Soldier must also pass the APFT (or PFT for Airmen). The APFT measures three areas of fitness: upper body strength, lower body strength, and cardiovascular or aerobic fitness. Focusing on these areas will improve test results by developing muscle memory, strength, and endurance. The following improvement techniques cover these areas of fitness. Start with the first phase of each section and move to the next phases once they feel comfortable. The key is completing these workouts at least twice weekly and having
PHASE
SET #1
rest
SET #2
rest
a rest day in between for recovery. The pushup and sit-up exercises take just a few minutes. The running or speed work requires more time but is just as important.
Pushup (PU) Improvement Complete each set of pushups in the time listed with the “rest” time between sets. Try to do the pushups as fast as possible using the correct form until muscle failure and then continue on your knees with your back straight. For the last regular set, do as many as you can without going to your knees to simulate the last seconds of an actual APFT.
SET #3
rest
SET #4
rest
SET #5
TYPE
REGULAR
WIDE
DIAMOND
WIDE
REGULAR
PUSHUP
PU
ARM PU
PU
ARM PU
PU
1
:20
:10
:20
:10
:20
:10
:20
:10
:20
2
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
3
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
4
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
5
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
Pushup (PU) Improvement Before starting the speed training, you must determine your quarter-mile time. To do this, take your last 2-mile time and divide by 8 (i.e. 14:00/8 = about 1:45 per quarter mile). To improve, you need to subtract 1 to 4 seconds from each quarter mile. To do this, you need a measured quarter-mile 20
Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
track or field. Follow the regimen below, paying attention to each section, including warm-up runs, stretching, speed work (“pickups”), and cool-downs. Do not take breaks any longer than what’s scheduled in the workout.
WARM UP
JOG
STRETCH
WARM UP
COOL DOWN
EXERCISE
JOG
JOG
DISTANCE
PHASE
For your speed Two One 4 pickup laps with a ½ lap 10 – 15 min. 1/4Two work, break each 1/4 mile 1/4 mile mile 2.375 Mi. 1 jog in between each pick up stretch laps lap laps ¼-mile section into two even sections One Two Two 6 pickup laps with a ½ lap 10 – 15 min. 1/4 mile 3.125 Mi. 1/4 mile 1/4 mile 2 and make a menjog in between each pick up stretch lap laps laps tal note of your speed at that halfTwo One Two 8 pickup laps with a ½ lap 10 – 15 min. 1/4 mile 1/4 mile 1/4 mile 3 3.875 Mi. way mark. At the jog in between each pick up stretch laps lap laps end of the ¼-mile, Two One make a note of 8 pickup laps with a ½ lap 10 – 15 min. 1/4Two 1/4 mile 1/4 mile mile 3.4375 Mi. 4 your time to monijog in between each pick up stretch laps lap laps tor improvements. Two One Two 10 pickup laps with a ½ lap Monitor your 10 – 15 min. 5 1/4 mile 1/4 mile 1/4 mile 4.0625 Mi. jog in between each pick up effort. If you push stretch laps lap laps too hard, you will run out of energy and will not complete the workout; too slow, and you will not see the improvements. In phases 4 and 5, you will jog only a quarter of the lap (1/16 mile) between pickups. These workouts can be incorporated into your regular routine and can be varied based on your fitness level and lifestyle. Make the best of your APFT and make the best of your career!
E DOG KNOWLIISSEPPOWER WER
Sit-Up (SU) Improvement Complete each situp exercise in the same manner as the pushups, using the proper form and going as fast as possible. When you reach muscle failure, use your arms by throwing them forward and letting the momentum help you up. Do not
PHASE
SET #1
rest
SET #2
rest
to use your arms during the last la ast set to simulate an APFT. No one needs eeds to hold your feet (an (a an additional benefit).
SET #3
rest
SET #4
rest
SET #5
TYPE
REGULAR
SITUP
SU
1
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
:15
:30
2
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
:15
:35
3
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
:20
:40
4
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
:20
:45
5
:50
:25
:50
:25
:50
:25
:50
:25
:50
REGULAR
CRUNCH
LEG LIFT
CRUNCH
SU
Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
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Chief Warrant Officer Four Steven Moy Retires RING Says Goodbye to Another Vietnam Veteran By Sgt. John Cervone
The Rhode Island National Guard (RING) says goodbye to a mentor and decorated Vietnam Veteran, helicopter pilot Chief Warrant Officer Four Steven Moy of the 126th Aviation Regiment. Retiring after thirty-four years of exceptional military service, Moy’s stewardship and strong attitude in each position he has held in the military have always helped set the military on a path for success. Enlisting in the Army in 1967, he attended Warrant Officer training and flight school at Fort Rucker, AL. After graduation, he was sent to Vietnam with the 71st Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade. There he flew 928 combat hours in a UH-1 Huey from August 1968 to August 1969. For his heroism, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After Vietnam, Moy continued to serve with distinction in the Army and joined the RING in 1980. In his 28 years with the RING, Moy performed exceptionally in all his positions. As an AH-1 Cobra helicopter instructor, Moy trained long and hard with junior aviators to ensure they were battle-ready. His mentorship helped these pilots through the many aviation conversions and mission changes that brought the RING into the combat ready force it is today.
A ceremony for a final flight: retiring Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steven Moy (center) gets hosed down by fellow helicopter crew members.
In two of his most recent adventures, Moy oversaw the first deployment of the RING’s A Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment to Honduras in support of Operation New Horizons in 2004; and he served a vital role as company operations officer in Rhode Island Army Aviation’s first combat deployment. Over his career, Moy amassed over 4,600 flight hours, of which 1,320 were flown in combat, and qualified on four different types of helicopters. He voluntarily served in two overseas conflicts, Vietnam and Iraq, as well as multiple training deployments. Chief Moy epitomizes the American Fighting Soldier, Officer and Aviator. The Rhode Island National Guard is certainly a little poorer as this true comrade and Army Aviator has flown his last flight.
R.I. National Guard Memorial Update! We’re making great progress on our monument to the R.I. Guard! Twenty cubic yards of concrete will be poured in the spring. The granite slabs, from Rock of Ages, Vt., for the three walls and statue base are cut and being finished this winter. We have raised almost $40,000, 18.5% of the revised $215,000 lower cost estimate, and have received 171 brick orders to date. However, we still could use your support. Without your participation, the project will be delayed. If you’d like to order a brick or bricks to line the walkway to the monument or you’d like to access the Memorial flyer, give “suggested text” for the bricks, FAQ’s, site location, or additional pictures, please visit our website: http://ringretirees.homestead.com, and click on Memorial.
Sgt. Bobby Wilding of the 861st Engineer Company, RING, plows an even surface in preparation for the RING monument.
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Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
Units Head Home Charlie Battery of the 103rd Field Artillery Battalion returns to Quonset, R.I. Excited crowds at Quonset Air Guard Base, Rhode Island awaiting the arrival of the 103rd.
By Sgt. John Cervone
After 12 months away from home, 186 members of C Battery, 1/103rd Field Artillery Battalion returned to a warmhearted homecoming on Saturday, September 20, 2008. The Field Artillery Battery was deployed from Rhode Island in September 2007 and spent several months in Fort Dix, N.J. for mobilization training, before deploying to Iraq in December 2007. They were initially assigned to serve as base defenders for Camp Cropper, Baghdad, Iraq. However, in February 2008, the unit was re-assigned to the Dar Al Hikmah Juvenile Detention Educational Facility also known as Forward Operating Base Future in Baghdad. At Dar Al Hikmah, the artillerymen were responsible for the day-today operations of the institution and the maintainance of an orderly and professional environment. Dar Al Hikmah is the only school for juveniles under the supervision of coalition forces. This system provides many opportunities for the more than 24,000 detainees in the care and custody of Multi-National Force, Iraq. The soldiers of Charlie Battery can be proud of their accomplishments. They not only helped to “Serve and Protect” the individuals in their care, but they also helped to educate young minds, something that time can’t erase. As a great American, George Washington Carver, once taught us many years ago: “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”
Triumphal Arch of 155mm RING Howitzers.
Family Reunion.
New Web Site Launched for Injured Soldiers and Their Families The Department of Defense (DoD) has launched a new web site called the National Resource Directory for ill and injured Service Members, Veterans, their families and those who support them. This is an extensive but easy-to-use source for finding medical providers, coordinators, and support information, covering over 10,000 medical and non-medical topics and resources. These combined federal, state, and local resources include Benefits and Compensation; Education, Training,
and Employment; Family and Caregiver Support; Health; Housing and Transportation; Services and Resources As Lynda Davis, Ph.D., Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, said, “As new links are added each day by providers and partners, coverage from coast to coast will grow even greater, ensuring that no part of that journey will ever be made alone.” To access the site, please visit: www.nationalresourcedirectory.org. Winter 2009 / Rhode Island National Guard
23
Rhode Island Airmen and Soldiers from Around the World
Scrapbook
New RING Convoy Trainer to Save Lives: RI National Guard Soldiers get hands-on training with the new Virtual Convoy Operations Trainer (VCOT) at Camp Fogarty, RI. This trainer trains multiple Soldiers with realistic 3D scenarios on head-mounted displays, allowing them to react as a team to situations they might experience on deployment.
Annual Training at Tripler Army Medical Center Emergency Room: Cpt. Rhoda Gomez (left) of the RI Medical Detachment stands beside a registered nurse as they prepare to perform surgery. During the Annual Training, Gomez performed emergency open-chest, abdominal, thyroid, tonsil, and reconstruction surgeries.
California Training: Capt. Alan Ali (left) collects medical information from Staff Sgt. Tim Deschene, both of the RI Guard’s 13th Civil Support Team, before conducting a Chemical, Biological, Radiological/Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) exercise in Santa Barbara, CA.
Training in Puerto Rico: A RI Guard Special Forces Soldier watches over two other unit members as they conduct weapons training in Puerto Rico during their weekend drill.
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Ocean State Guardian / Winter 2009
View from the Cockpit: Two Rhode Island Air National Guard Pilots prepare to land their state of the art C-130 J series cargo aircraft at the Rhode Island Air National Guard Base. The RI Air Guard was the first in the nation, Active or Guard, to be completely outfitted with the new J series.