www.ri.ng.mil
Rhode Island National Guard
The Ocean State Guardian Fall 2011
The Governor of Rhode Island and the Captain General of the Rhode Island National Guard
Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Career aspirations and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Commander’s Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 RIANG legacy graduates from undergraduate pilot training . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Counter drug summer camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 K-9 Dustoff—learning to handle and treat military working dogs . . . . . . . . . 8 RING leads international C-130J training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The Honorable Lincoln D. Chafee The Adjutant General of the State of Rhode Island and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard
Maj. Gen. Kevin McBride 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. Marcus Jannitto Assistant Adjutant General for Air Rhode Island National Guard
Brig. Gen. Paul L. Ayers Managing Editor State Public Affairs Officer
Lt. Col. Denis Riel Public Affairs Specialists
Sgt. Megan Burmeister Sgt. Peter Ramaglia Public Affairs Office (401) 275-4038
Pg. 6
Pg. 12
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE • (401) 275-4038 • ngristaffpao@ng.army.mil
ON THE COVER
ngristaffpao@ng.army.mil
Justin Ritter Graphic Designer
Marie Lundstrom Editor
Major General Kevin McBride addresses members of the Rhode Island National Guard. Cover Composed by Army Sgt. Peter Ramaglia
Chris Kersbergen Darrell George Advertising Sales
CORPORATE OFFICE: 8537 Corbin Dr., Anchorage, AK 99507 (907) 562-9300 • (866) 562-9300 Fax: (907) 562-9311 www.AQPpublishing.com info@AQPpublishing.com
Pg. 20
Just call me Leslie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 McBride becomes Adjutant General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 143rd MXG members participate in 3rd Annual PS3 Ronald A. Gill Jr. Motorcycle Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 R.I. Air Show photo essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 RING Open House & Air Show does it again! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Regional Training Institute renames streets in honor of fallen heroes . . . . 19 RING Marathon Team competes in the 28th Annual National Guard Marathon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Transition assistance advisor ready to help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 R.I. National Guard Soldiers support military values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Introducing Tim Clegg, personal financial counselor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Feedback on The OSG content, please e-mail:
Bob Ulin Publisher
Pg. 14
The Ocean State Guardian 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
Island, 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.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
1
2
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
Soldiers from the 126th Aviation stand ready for the Combined Arms Demonstration which they will be part of. The Combined Arms Demonstration is an opportunity during the Open House and Air Show to show off the Rhode Island National Guards military strength. Jointly, the Rhode Island Army and Air National Guard simulate taking over an enemy airfield during this demonstration.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
3
Change Command Chief Master Sergeant Lori A. Ashness
Some hear the word “CHANGE” and cringe, and others look at it as a new adventure. Our National Guard is now 375 years old and the reason we are still a major player in the Total Force is because we know how to change. Our performance over the years has brought us to the point where the National Guard is included in every major operation the United States military conducts. Our responsibilities are many, but our Airmen and Soldiers as leaders of change are stellar. Responsibility to develop leadership skills lies solely on each member of the National Guard. All members of the Air National Guard carry AFI 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure, additionally called, “The Little Brown Book.” Within this Air Force instruction is the direction at the junior enlisted airman level, they begin to develop supervisory and leadership skills and continue progression as they traverse up through the ranks. Within the Army NCO Creed,
4
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
the first sentence states that, as a noncommissioned officer, they are a leader of Soldiers. Even though each member is responsible for personal leadership development, current leaders are also responsible to assist in the development of our Soldiers and Airmen in their quest to become the future leaders of our organization. Through mentoring, coaching and leadership lessons, the development of our Soldiers and Airmen will continue to create the leaders of the future. These leaders in turn will assist with the change that will undoubtedly occur for the National Guard during their tenure. Preparing our NCOs to become future change leaders will ensure that no matter what the face of the National Guard will look like in the future, our people will be prepared and continue to lead with honor, integrity and courage.
Career aspirations and expectations By Brig. Gen. Paul L. Ayers, RIANG Assistant Adjutant General for Air
Regardless of whether you’re a drill status Guardsman or serving in a fulltime capacity, we all can aspire to excel as National Guard members. These ambitions hopefully include becoming experts in our Air Force Specialty Code or Military Occupational Specialty. This expertise includes a combination of technical knowledge, experience, and professional military education. But beyond being the finest Airmen and Soldiers on the planet, we also can aspire to become leaders in our organization. The National Guard needs both enlisted and officers to seek leadership positions and aspire toward becoming the greatest commanders. In addition to our aspirations, we need to have “reasonable” expectations about our careers. Our aspirations can reach for the stars and are limited only by our abilities. But our expectations should occur in the context of factors that may be out of our control. There
are very few sergeant major, chief master sergeant, and colonel positions in the RING. Even if a Soldier or Airman has all the expertise, knowledge, experience and potential to continue being promoted and challenged, the opportunity may not present itself. When you are fortunate enough to serve in a leadership position, you must have a reasonable expectation about how long you can occupy the position. The RING leadership must have an effective personnel management plan so we can continue to provide upward mobility for our outstanding performers. During my years in command billets, I’ve seen a couple of trends warranting comment. First of all, don’t fall victim to what I term the “late epiphany.” This occurs when someone realizes late in their career that they really do want to command and be promoted. If you haven’t aspired, planned for, and communicated this to your supervisors
throughout your career, you probably don’t have the requisite experience and education to proceed. In other words, it’s probably too late. The second trend I’ve noted is people in positions not recognizing it’s time for them to move on. We need to provide upward mobility possibilities for the rest of our great Soldiers and Airmen. Both of these trends occur when people don’t have adequate career mentoring and counseling. To end with a couple of bottom lines—do aspire to do great things in our National Guard, including command. We need great leadership. But also temper your expectations with a dose of reality. If you are lucky enough to occupy one of the coveted ranking positions, realize you’ll be time limited. Respect the leadership when they decide it’s time to thank you for your service and tell you it’s time for you to retire.
Commander’s Column As we come to the end of another training year, I reflect back on the numerous accomplishments of the Rhode Island Army National Guard. During this past year, we have deployed more than 600 of our fellow Soldiers to all corners of the globe. Every deployment went off without a hitch with everyone working as a team to ensure that not only the Soldiers had what was required to subsist and to return home safely but that the families and the employers were well informed and cared for. Also, as we close on this years we are preparing to deploy another 400 of our fellow Soldiers. And we are getting ready to welcome home the 103d Field Artillery. In spite of everything that is currently going on, those are progressing smoothly. Also, the Rhode Island National Guard responded to numerous state emergencies, Hurricane Earl and several snow emergencies, ensuring that the citizens of this great state
were well informed and prepared. On a final note, recruiting and retention has been tremendous. The National Guard Bureau set the goal for this year at 2,145, and you have reached it, further insuring that we are prepared to meet any and all challenges and that the Rhode Island Army National Guard remains a reliable, relevant and ready force. None of this can be accomplished without the hard work, dedication, and devotion that you have displayed throughout the past year. I am extremely proud and humbled to be your Land Component Commander, and I want to thank you and your families for all of your hard work and dedication. Brig. Gen. Brian Goodwin Assistant Adjutant General for Army and Deputy Commanding General, Rhode Island National Guard Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
5
RIANG legacy graduates from undergraduate pilot training Lt. David Buckley graduated from undergraduate pilot training in March as a Distinguished Graduate with high honors. Buckley, son of Mrs. Leslie Buckley and the late Lt. Col. David Buckley, won several awards, including the AETC Commander’s Trophy award, Military Training award and Flying Excellence award. The old saying, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree” couldn’t be more true in Buckley’s case. His father served as a pilot, OSF commander, flight commander and mobility officer during a long and distinguished career with the 143rd RIANG from 1980-2006. Buckley senior’s military career actually began in 1971, when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He spent four years enlisted as active duty Navy, then continued in the Navy reserves until 1979. Between the Navy and the ANG, Lt. Col. Buckley completed more than 35 years of military service. He was not only committed to the Guard, but deeply dedicated to mentoring and helping his friends and co-workers. Lt. Col. Dave Buckley treated his Guard family as his own family – on several occasions taking the time to mentor others and help them with their military and civilian career progression. Unfortunately, cancer ended Buckley’s service in 2008. He is dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of serving with him. We often refer to our Guard organization as “one big family,” but in Lt. Buckley’s case, as with many others in the R.I. Air Guard, it is literally a family tradition. Buckley’s father exposed his kids to the Guard at an early age, and eventually his love of flying and dedication of service to his country and state passed on to young David. Taking on his father’s values, he set military 6
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
aviation in RIANG as a personal goal early in his life. Buckley began his service to the Guard as a young kid by volunteering alongside his father at every air show. He began flying civilian light aircraft at an early age and worked hard in school earning a college degree. After “checking all the boxes” to qualify for an undergraduate pilot training slot, young Buckley interviewed for a position and was selected by a hiring board to attend UPT. After performing well above average in officer training and flight screening, he ultimately achieved his goal by graduating at the top of his pilot training class. There is no doubt that Lt. Buckley has continued to
carry on his father’s long-time tradition of excellence and service to the Rhode Island Air Guard. Buckley is currently in C-130J training at Little Rock AFB, Arkansas. He will return to Quonset in November 2011 as a mission pilot after successfully completing a rigorous two-year training program.
Counter drug summer camp Story and photos by Army Sgt. Megan Burmeister
The blast of air horns sends children leaping straight into the air from a deep sleep at 6:30 a.m. They raise their weary heads, roll out of their beds and begin to prepare for a new adventure. This is the start of a new day at the Rhode Island National Guard Drug Demand Reduction summer camp. The morning will be spent doing numerous activities, including crossing a one-rope bridge over a swamp, climbing a rock wall and receiving additional anti-drug presentations. This camp is one of the three missions performed by the Counter Drug Program. The other two missions include educating school age children on the dangers of drugs and alcohol and working with community-based anti-drug coalitions. All of the summer campers are graduates of the sixth grade education program known as Stay on Track. Camp participants are mostly middleschool-age, a critical age in developing resistance to negative peer pressure. “We have kids come up to the staff members a year after completing Stay on Track and say that we were right, it was one of their friends that tried to convince them to try drugs or alcohol,”
says Tech. Sgt. Stephen D’Amico, Rhode Island National Guard Drug Demand Reduction Program. “This is where the summer camp comes in. It’s another chance to reinforce the message delivered in sixth grade to kids who have gone on to middle school.” This is the 11th year that the Rhode Island Guard has partnered with local police to provide this service to the community.
“The camp is offered for three weeks,” said Warwick Police Officer Dennis Amerentes. “There are two overnight camps and one day camp.” The program began as a partnership between the Warwick Police Department and the Rhode Island National Guard, but expanded to include the city of Woonsocket, town of Smithfield, West Bay Collaborative Educational Center and Caritas Drug Treatment Centers.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
7
K-9 Dustoff—learning to handle and treat military working dogs
By 1st Lt. Rebecca Sanderson
One of the many responsibilities of any military unit is to continuously train in order to update and sustain the skills needed to successfully complete their mission. Since arriving in Shindand, Afghanistan, in early March, F Company, 1-126th Aviation Chaos Dustoff has done exactly that in a continuous learning process. As a medevac unit, F Company can be called on for many types of missions. Medevac units transfer critical medical supplies such as blood, transport patients from one level of care to the next, and pick up patients
from points of injuries, among other responsibilities. What many people don’t realize is that the patients on medevac flights are not always human. Sometimes medevac units may be called to pick up military working dogs. Military dogs are treated just like their human counterparts and handlers, including having rank and the need for medevac calls. The work that military dogs do is just as valuable as that of their human counterparts. As the training kennel master for American K9 Detection Services at Forward Operating Base Shindand and
former working dog handler, Ken Kelley says, “We look at our dogs as partners, not just as dogs. The value of the dogs can be shown in the stuff being found here (FOB Shindand) at the ECP (Entry Control Point) that wasn’t being found before. It makes everyone safer and makes everyone sleep better at night. If we go out on a mission and a dog gets hurt, it’s important to us that they won’t just be treated as a dog. It makes the handlers feel better when they go to work, to know that if something does happen to their dog that it will be taken care of. They are more confident in their mission, and it’s one less thing they have to worry about.”
Personnel pictured include: Staff Sgt. James Sherman, medic, R.I.; Sgt. 1st Class Apollo, combat stress dog, Sgt. Kyle Newman, medic, R.I.; Pfc. Hudgins, medic, Del.; Maj. Rodriguez, combat stress, unknown unit and hometown, Sgt. VonWeber, medic, R.I.; Sgt. Oswald, medic, S.C.; Staff Sgt. McCarthy, crew chief, Mass.
8
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
With this in mind Forward Medical Support Team 1, F Company, 1-126th arranged for special training to learn how to transport and treat military working dogs on their helicopters. On a prearranged April morning, Sgt. 1st Class Apollo and his handler arrived at the Medpond to begin training. Apollo is a combat stress dog; however, medevac units may encounter many types of working dogs, including search and rescue, drug detection, and bomb detection dogs. Once he arrived at the Medpond, Apollo was quickly decked out in his very own special set of booties, goggles, ear muffs, and a backpack just like many other working dogs who have their own gear prior to moving out to train on the helicopter. The scenario the FMST 1 was presented with was a handler and a working dog, both with shrapnel injuries. Medics played roles as both ground and flight medics for this training to enhance the process of learning to treat, package and load both K-9 and human patients. The simulation proceeded with the medics
discovering their patients and starting basic care and preparation for transport. The ground team called in a 9 line medevac request, and medevac helicopters responded. Arriving on scene, flight medics procured details on both patients’ conditions, loaded both K-9 team partners and continued to provide care to both en route to the hospital. The medevac team learned how to properly calm and handle the K-9 partner, including how to ensure Apollo’s safety by appropriately muzzling and restraining him for transport. When asked about some of the challenges in treating K-9 patients like Apollo, Sgt. Kyle Newman said, “Surprisingly, the medical treatment issues are not the biggest challenges. Medics can do the same emergency treatments, and give most of the same medications that they use for humans.” Staff Sgt. James Sherman added, “K-9 patients have different anatomy, and they aren’t able to communicate their injuries like a human patient.” Newman and Sherman both stressed
how they view and treat the military working dog “as a fellow Soldier. K-9 or human, medics treat both with the same respect and urgency.” Both partners of the K-9 team received oxygen, bandaging and a full assessment on the short flight to the hospital and a higher level of care. On landing at the hospital, the patients were met by two medical treatment teams. One for Apollo, led by the vet, and another medical professional prepared to take care of his human partner. Both partners of the K-9 team continued to receive top-of-the-line care until the scenario was completed. Veterinary personnel are in three locations in Regional Command West—at Shindand, Farah, and Herat. NATO vets staff Farah and Herat, and Shindand is staffed by Americans. The medevac unit felt lucky and appreciative to have a chance to participate in this important training. Apollo’s calm demeanor enabled the medevac unit to learn important skills so they will be prepared to treat any Soldier, K-9 or human.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
9
Rhode Island Guard leads international C-130J training By Capt. Brian Lafauci
Since its unveiling in 1999, the C-130J has demonstrated why the 130 platform has been the longest continuously produced military aircraft in history. Technologically advanced, reliable and versatile, the “Super Herk” is now a staple of the United States Air Force. Shortly following its inception, the J model showed its resilience as Rhode Island’s 143rd Airlift Wing became the first U.S. Air Force unit to successfully accomplish a combat airdrop with the C-130J. Its combat durability and flexibility opened the eyes of the international community, and orders have been under way, with 15 countries having now selected the aircraft. With the worldwide delivery of this aircraft also came the need for training on its many new and updated systems. Having extensive combat experience and being the first Guard unit to have a full fleet of stretch J models, the 143rd Maintenance Group out of Quonset, R.I., became a natural fit for this mission. As Capt. Christopher Peloso, maintenance operations flight commander, summarized, “The opportunity to create strong relationships with our international allies, while also providing them with training from some of the most experienced maintainers on this aircraft, was a challenge that we were proud and enthusiastic to undertake.” For the 143rd, the training adventure began in 2008 as the Royal Norwegian Air Force sought out training on the four J models they had acquired. Twelve maintainers from the RNAF spent five weeks at Quonset receiving systems training on engine, propeller, flightline operations, avionics, electrical and environmental. Subsequent to the training received at Quonset, the 143rd devised a Mobile Training Team of six 143rd maintainers who traveled to 10
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
Indian Air Force training in Rhode Island with the 143d Maintenance Group Commander, Col. Marcus Jannitto (far left) and 143d Maintenance Operations Flight Commander, Capt. Christopher Peloso (far right). Photos: Courtesy of the Rhode Island Air National Guard
Gardermoen Air Station at Ullensaker, Norway. The MTT provided an additional three weeks of training to all 48 Norwegian maintainers. Following the support provided to the RNAF, the 143rd found itself in Germany in 2009, providing technical guidance and training to the U.S. Air Forces in Europe. The success of these missions made it clear to both the C-130J community and the 143rd, that these tailored training programs were a necessity for countries taking on the challenges of adapting to this new aircraft.
CAF 436th Transport Squadron with 143d personnel.
Although many countries were transitioning from the older C-130E/H models into the new J, some were converting over from a completely different airframe. This dynamic placed a heavy emphasis on the preparation phase of the training to ensure the needs of the respective countries were met. In 2010 the 143rd sent ten MTT members to the Canadian Force Base in Trenton, Ontario. The 143rd worked there in conjunction with the 146th out of California and the 135th out of Maryland to assist the 436th Transportation
Squadron following their acquisition of 17 C-130J aircraft. The mission lasted for almost four months and resulted in the successful training of 30 members of Canada’s Air Force. The most recent accomplishment of the MTT out of Quonset involved the training of the Indian Air Force as they embarked on the complicated transition from the Russian Ilyushin ll-76 and the Antonov AN-32 to the C-130J. This multi-phase endeavor involved 24 members of the Indian Air Force spending, on two separate occasions, a total of 11 weeks at the 143rd Airlift Wing, receiving training on engine, avionics and flightline operations. As follow-on, the 143rd MTT sent a team of 14 to Hindan Air Station, New Delhi, India, for nine weeks. While on site, the MTT adapted quickly and developed wellorganized solutions to address the linguistic and structural challenges that were present on their arrival. Within the nine-week span the 143rd MTT completed all objectives that the IAF had requested, including engine run training, aerospace ground equipment assembly training, back shop maintenance training and a “best practices” overview. The success of the endeavor was evident in the 68 completion certificates presented at the conclusion of training. In total, over the last two and a half years, the 143rd Maintenance Group has successfully trained over 170 maintainers around the world on the C-130J, with the potential for future missions much more of a probability than a possibility. Currently, the 143rd is scheduled to conduct follow-on training with the IAF in the fall of 2011. Besides this, 36 more J models have been purchased by six other countries and are scheduled to be delivered over the next few years. With past success, and an effective and efficient process, the maintainers of the 143rd Airlift Wing are enthusiastic about expanding the current role of their MTT.
J
ust call me Leslie…
Story and photo by Army Sgt. Megan Burmeister
You walk into building P-1, up the back stairs into a “green” darkened corridor. Outside an office is a floor lamp, turned on and glowing. This is the office of the wing director of psychological health, Leslie Mulligan-McMichael. She asks you to call her Leslie. Her official capacity is to offer you direct access to licensed, confidential, secure, no-cost, consultation, counseling, information, and referral support. If you ask her, she’ll tell you she’s here to help improve how people relate to their life. Tossing out some “shiny pennies” in the form of emails with wellness tips and information, her door’s open. She isn’t here to judge or make notes about you in a secret file. The Air Force is getting smart on keeping the service member healthy and she is a part of its answer. “The difference between me and a friend or family member is, this relationship is one way – it’s to take care of you,” said Leslie. “Together,
we find solutions to whatever problem you may be having.” “We all get to where we have no clue where to go or what to do about some things,” Leslie says. “That’s why I’m here. To help figure it out, bounce ideas off of, provide another perspective.” Part of her job is to find the best resources service members or a family member might need. She goes into the community, makes contact with and evaluates service providers. She finds the people best qualified to help you with struggles ranging from parenting tips, to work or sleep problems, to deployment and military lifestyle stressors. “Whatever you need, we will figure it out—if it takes 20 minutes to two and a half hours—that’s the luxury of my being here, and my help being free.” With a simple question or a complex one, or just to say “Hi,” stop by—she won’t bite.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
11
McBride becomes Adjutant General By Army Sgt. Megan Burmeister
Photo: Army Spc. Michael Iacona
12
accomplishment in the field.” The Adjutant General is battle tested himself, having deployed as the commander of the 43rd Military Police Brigade to Iraq in 20052007. He regularly speaks with Rhode Island Soldiers and Airmen who are currently deployed to maintain a current understanding of the changing battlefield. He has extensive experience with the varied career fields open to the Soldiers of the Rhode Island Guard and works to educate himself about the careers he knows less well. McBride served in command positions in Rhode Island aviation, military police and troop command. “I’m incredibly humbled by the level of volunteerism and devotion to duty which continues to be the hallmark of the Rhode Island National Guard,” McBride said. “Staying prepared and relevant for the future is a challenge that I’m looking forward to.”
Photos: Army Sgt. Peter Ramaglia
Maj. Gen. Kevin McBride’s first reaction to being informed that he was to become the next Adjutant General of Rhode Island was surprise. He had just started a new job as the public works director in the town of Bristol and had a new traditional Guard position as commander, United States Army North’s Contingency Command, Post 1, at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. When the governor of the state you have served for over 31 years calls for you, you go and do the job he asks. It is hard to turn down a position that even your competition believes should be yours. During the application process, when asked if they had anything to add, several of the candidates said that while they would love to be selected, the best person for the job is Maj. Gen. Kevin McBride, said Gov. Lincoln Chafee during his speech at McBride’s assumption of command ceremony. As a University of Rhode Island graduate and a long-time resident, McBride has a deep understanding of what it means to be a Rhode Islander and is dedicated to the traditional Guard members who serve under him. “Both Army and Air offer great opportunities to move forward, for education, for professional careers,” said McBride. He advises Soldiers and Airmen to use their educational benefits and the skills they learn as part of the military and to apply them to their civilian jobs. He tells Soldiers and Airmen that they should be thinking, How can I use my military career to advance my civilian career? As a leader, McBride has a unique perspective on the Rhode Island National Guard because until he accepted his position as Adjutant General, he was a traditional Guardsmen his entire career. “The Rhode Island National Guard today comprises Soldiers and Airmen who have been battle tested,” said McBride at the departure ceremony of two aviation units. “They have distinguished themselves by way of great
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2010
143rd MXG members participate in 3rd Annual
PS3 Ronald A. Gill Jr. Motorcycle Run Story and photos by Senior Master Sgt. Sean Givens, 143rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
On May 1, members of the 143rd Maintenance Group put on their riding gear and set out to honor a fallen Coast Guardsman and fellow Rhode Islander, Port Security Specialist 3 Ronald A. Gill Jr. Gill, a native of Cranston, R.I., was a member of the Coast Guard Reserves based at Cape Cod Coast Guard Station, Mass. Sept. 11, 2001, changed the course of his service to our country. He was soon activated and found himself serving with the Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team in Anchorage, Alaska. He was then deployed on a mission in Seattle, Wash., where he was killed in the line of duty on March 25, 2007, while serving on a 25-foot Defender Class Boat conducting operations north of Vashon Island in Puget Sound. Motorcycle enthusiasts from several motorcycle clubs and from across the state set out to participate to honor Gill and help raise funds to benefit the PS3 Ronald A. Gill Jr. Memorial Scholarship Foundation. The foundation in turn, grants scholarships to students in Rhode Island. To date, scholarships have provided over $85,000 to students wishing to continue their education. This year’s event started at Ronnie’s high school, Cranston West High School. The parking lot quickly filled with 375 riders who embarked on a beautiful 65-degree, clear, sunny ride, traveling first to R.I. Veterans Cemetery for a memorial service. Following the memorial service, the group traveled to Scarborough Beach in Narragansett for a quick stop and then finished up at the Cranston Country Club to celebrate Gill’s life and help raise funds for the scholarship. The efforts of all participants in this year’s bike run raised $11,000 for the foundation. Members of the 143rd Maintenance Group include Chief Master Sgt. Scott
Lunn and Senior Master Sgt. Sean Givens of the 143rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Senior Master Sgt. Dave Laroche of the 143rd Maintenance Operations Flight, and Master Sgt. Joe Delfino, Tech. Sgt. Christine Gail and Tech. Sgt. Derek Hackney of the 143rd Maintenance Squadron. Further information about PS3 Ronald A. Gill Jr, the event and
scholarship fund can be viewed at http://www.rongilljr.org, or contact info@rongilljr.org via email. The 4th annual bike run is scheduled for April 22, 2012.
143rd MXG members line up for the start of the bike run at Cranston West High School.
From left, Master Sgt. Joe Delfino, Senior Master Sgt. Sean Givens, Chief Master Sgt. Scott Lunn, Tech. Sgt. Christine Gail, Tech. Sgt. Derek Hackney, and Senior Master Sgt. Dave Laroche at Scarborough Beach, Narragansett, R.I.
L-R: 143 MXG members Master Sgt. Joe Delfino, Senior Master Sgt. Dave Laroche, and Chief Master Sgt. Scott Lunn talk with another motorcycle enthusiast at their stop at Scarborough Beach.
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
13
14
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
15
RING Open House & Air Show
does it again!
Story and photos by Army Sgt. Megan Burmeister
The Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show, established in 1991, is considered to be one of the biggest and best community events in Rhode Island. The 2011 show lived up to that standard without a doubt. With record attendance and world class performers this will be a show for the history books. Thanks to the men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard, yet another FANTASTIC air show was enjoyed by tens of thousands of spectators from all over. This year we celebrated the centennial of naval aviation at an Air National Guard Base with a deep naval history. Members of the Air Show planning committee work throughout the year 16
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
building a show that other shows aspire to emulate. Performers are scheduled, vendors are coordinated, volunteers are gathered and plans are made. Meetings begin as early as February to get Soldiers and Airmen ready to put on a world class community event. Starting on the Monday before the show, Quonset Air National Guard Base is transformed from a regular Air Guard base and airfield to one of the largest free community events
in New England. By Friday afternoon the base is barely recognizable but amazingly by Monday afternoon following the show, with the exception of a stray sign or a lingering performer or static airplane, Quonset Air National Guard Base is returned to a working Air Guard base and airfield as if nothing had happened. None of it is possible without the hard work and dedication of the members of the Rhode Island National Guard. You may hear people mumble and grumble, “Why do we have to do this EVERY year?” or “We have too much other stuff to do to do AIR SHOW!” But at the end of the day, every Soldier, every Airman, every civilian contractor or returning retiree should take a moment and be proud of themselves for taking the time out of their busy work schedules, training, and preparing for deployments and inspections to realize just how important the work they do to put on the show really is. Without the show, what other event would a family be able to attend for a voluntary donation of only $10? Without the show, how else would we be able to show our local community what we do every day to defend their freedom? Without the show, how could we inspire the next generation to join our armed forces and serve proudly beside us? And finally, without the show, how else could we raise $1.5 million dollars for the Hasbro Children’s Hospital and more than $300,000 for smaller local charities? Every one of those charities, attending families, future recruits and community members are thankful for every minute that you sacrifice to put on the show and to raise that money. The men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard deserve congratulations on another SAFE and SUCCESSFUL Open House and Air Show! Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
17
18
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
Sgt. Luke Walker, a member of the 169th Military Police Company stands as an usher before all four street signs, pictures of the Soldiers, and guidons for which they served. Walker is a former member of the 115th Military Police Company and served with Staff Sgt. Camara, Sgt. Caldwell and Spc. Andrade while deployed in 2003 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Fallujah, Iraq. Photo: Sgt. Peter Ramaglia
Regional Training Institute renames streets in honor of fallen heroes By Sgt. Megan Burmeister
The 243rd Regiment Regional Training Institute of Camp Varnum, Narragansett, R.I., has renamed four of its streets to honor four Rhode Island Guardmembers who were killed in action during the Global War on Terror. The 243rd provides regionalized training for Army National Guard, Army Reserves, and active duty Army Soldiers. An improvised explosive device struck the vehicle carrying Staff Sgt. Joseph Camara of New Bedford, Mass., and Sgt. Charles T. Caldwell of North Providence, R.I., both members of the 115th Military Police Company, on Sept. 1, 2003, on Main Supply Route Tampa, south of Baghdad, Iraq. Spc. Michael Andrade from Bristol, R.I., assigned to the 115th Military Police Company, died on Sept. 24, 2003, of injuries he sustained when a five-ton truck struck his vehicle in Balad, Iraq. Staff Sgt. Christopher S. Potts of Tiverton, R.I., assigned to the 1st Battalion, 103rd Field Artillery Regiment, was killed
on Oct. 3, 2004, when his unit, which was conducting trafficcontrol operations, was attacked by small-arms fire in Taji, Iraq. “The Rhode Island National Guard has made untold sacrifices since 9/11 but none greater than the sacrifice of life made by these four Warriors who have paid the ultimate price,” said Maj. Gen. Robert T. Bray, the Adjutant General of Rhode Island. “Today we continue to fulfill our promise to these Soldiers and their families to ‘Never Forget’ their service by memorializing their sacrifice in perpetuity by the naming of these streets in their honor.” Members of the Rhode Island National Guard escorted the family members and assisted in the unveiling of the street signs. Mrs. Terry Potts, wife of Staff Sgt. Christopher Potts, thanked the Rhode Island National Guard for its continued effort to remember and honor all four of the Rhode Island Guardmembers. Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
19
Master Sgt. Jim Lanctot of the 143rd Civil Engineering Squadron gets a drink of water from Nebraska Army National Guardsmen at the National Guard Marathon on May 1, 2011.
R.I. National Guard Marathon Team competes in the 28th Annual National Guard Marathon LINCOLN, Neb. – Representing 44 states and territories, 177 National Guard men and women came to Nebraska to compete in the Lincoln/National Guard Marathon. Team R.I. was represented by seven members: Lt. Col. John Nolan and Maj. Michelle Kiluk of the Medical Command, RIARNG; Maj. David Neary of the 56th Troop Command, Maj. Ron Cloutier of the 143rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, retired Chief Master Sgt. Bob Christopher of the 102nd Network Warfare Squadron, Chief Master Sgt. Greg Houghton of the 143rd Maintenance Operations Flight, and Master Sgt. James Lanctot of the 143rd Civil Engineering Squadron. All Team R.I. members completed the 26.2-mile event, with retired Chief Master Sgt. Bob Christopher finishing first for the Team R.I. Front Row (left to right): retired Chief Master Sgt. Bob Christopher, Maj. Michelle Kiluk, and Maj. David Neary. Back Row : Maj. Ron Cloutier, Lt. Col. John Nolan, Chief Master Sgt. Greg Houghton, and Master Sgt. James Lanctot.
20
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
Chief Master Sgt. Greg Houghton, Master Sgt. Jim Lanctot and Maj. Ron Cloutier sport their marathon medals at the finish line the 50-yard line of the University of Nebraska’s Memorial Football Stadium on May 1, 2011.
team, with a time of 3 hours, 41 minutes, 51 seconds. Cloutier finished second with a time of 3:43:6. Lanctot, a six-year team veteran, was third at 3:44:21. Fourth was rookie sensation Houghton at 3:46:53. Fifth was Nolan with 4:6:28. Kiluk finished sixth with 4:9:51; and seventh was Neary at 4:10:30. The team finished in 27th place overall. The event determines the top runners in the National Guard. Each participant competes for a spot on the All-Guard Marathon team, which comprises the top 55 National Guard runners in the country. The All-Guard team then become National Guard recruiting ambassadors, competing in other running events around the country selling and telling the Guard story. Since its inception in 1984, this marathon is a great opportunity to serve and represent the Guard. If anyone is interested in participating on this team, now is the time to train. Next May is just around the corner. Qualification requirements: males must have run a marathon in 4:15 hours or less within the previous 18 months; females must have run a marathon in 4:30 or less within the previous 18 months. Please contact Maj. Ron Cloutier if you have questions at (401) 267-3449 or by email at ronald.cloutier@ang.af.mil.
Retired Chief Master Sgt. Bob Christopher, #1736, of the 102nd Network Warfare Squadron and Chief Master Sgt. Greg Houghton, #1937, of the 143rd Maintenance Operations Flight run on their last mile to the finish line.
Military Ball Announcement 2012 The Rhode Island National Guard will host its annual Military Ball, Saturday, April 28, 2012, at the Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence. There will not be a military ball in October 2011. Retired and current members of any branch of the military, as well as the general public, are invited to the formal dress (black tie or military equivalent) event featuring the music of Music Machine Entertainment and Rhode Island’s own 88th Army Band. Tickets will go on sale Feb. 1, 2012. For more information contact Staff Sgt. Jodi Brown at: (401) 275-4103
Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
21
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. Chuck O’Connor (Retired) Contractor, Arrowpoint Corporation 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
“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
E-mail: charles.b.oconnor@us.army.mil
Dear Reader, To make the Ocean State Guardian the best magazine possible, we would like to hear your feedback. After all, this magazine is for you.
Would you like to see more personal stories, events, advice (finance, fitness, etc.)? How do you feel about the presentation of the magazine, photo quality, readability, etc.? Please email NGRISTAFFPAO@ng.army.mil with your feedback. All comments are received at the Rhode Island National Guard Public Affairs Office, Cranston, RI. Also, check us out on Facebook at: facebook.com/RhodeIslandNationalGuard and on Twitter at
twitter.com/RINationalGuard.
We appreciate your feedback and look forward to hearing what you have to say about the next issue of the Ocean State Guardian! Thank you, OSG Staff 22
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
R.I. National Guard Soldiers Support Military Values AIR VALUE:
Excellence in All We Do Master Sgt. John McDonald Master Sgt. John McDonald, NCOIC of the 143rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office, began his military career as a graphics specialist more than 17 years ago. Currently, McDonald serves as a traditional Guardsman who works full time as a splice-service technician with Verizon Fios. In spring of 2011, he was selected from a wide field of military photographers to attend the 2011 Department of Defense Worldwide Military Photography Workshop. Only 25 service members from all branches were selected for the workshop based on their portfolio. While attending, service members received advanced instructions on visual communication skills. “Master Sgt. McDonald brings to the table a true sense of professionalism and enthusiasm as a photographer and as a senior noncommissioned officer,” said Lt. Col. Bruce Fletcher, public affairs officer of the 143rd Airlift Wing. “He has the unique ability to capture the spirit and emotion of the military experience through his photos.” McDonald’s dedication to his craft is an example of following the Air Force core value of “Excellence in All We Do”.
ARMY VALUE:
Selfless Service Spc. Ian Fink
Spc. Ian Fink is a unit supply specialist for the 103rd Field Artillery. He represented the Field Artillery in the last Soldier of the Year board and is active in his community by volunteering to coach youth baseball and basketball when he can. “Despite only working for the Drug Demand Reduction program for a brief period of time, Spc. Fink proved to be a valuable asset and a positive influence on young men and women who may be at risk within the community,” said Tech. Sgt. Stephen D’Amico, Spc. Fink’s supervisor in the Drug Demand Reduction program. Fink is an example of how the Army values define not just your military career but who you are as a person.
If you know someone who should be profiled as living the Army or Air Force Values, please contact Sgt. Megan Burmeister at (401) 275-4038 or megan.burmeister@us.army.mil Fall 2011 / Rhode Island National Guard
23
Introducing Tim Clegg,
personal financial counselor The Rhode Island Military Family Assistance Center is pleased to announce that Tim Clegg has come on board as the full-time personal financial counselor for all branches of military service in the state of Rhode Island. Tim is available to help service members and their families do whatever it takes to “make the most of their money.” He will work privately and confidentially with any service member and/or family member to help resolve financial problems, such as sudden loss of income or debt issues, as well as to take positive steps toward longterm goals, such as buying a home or planning for retirement. Tim says, “I’ve always reached out to military families in my counseling work, going back to the 70’s. In the last few years, I’ve been doing pre- and post-deployment financial counseling
24
Ocean State Guardian / Fall 2011
and have gained new respect and appreciation for men and women who serve, along with the financial challenges they often face.”
“My job is to be a good listener and to use my experience and training to help clients find their path to financial strength.” – Tim Clegg
Tim comes to the R.I. Military Family Assistance Center with more than 30 years of experience helping families to cope with financial problems and to
build financial security. In recent years, he has been working throughout New England as a PFC supporting Yellow Ribbon and Strong Bonds events for National Guard and Army Reserve members and their families. He has also served as a volunteer counselor under the Massachusetts Financial Planning Association’s Military Pro Bono program. During the past year, he served as coordinator of financial coaching for ABCD, Inc. in Boston, where he assisted more than 100 low and moderate income families in getting control of their budgets, managing debt, improving credit scores, and building savings. Tim says, “Whether I’m working with a client getting out of debt, modifying a mortgage to prevent foreclosure, or saving for the kids’ college, each client’s situation and goals are always unique. Tim’s direct line at the Family Assistance Center is (401) 275-4351. He is available days, evenings and weekends as needed.