ISSUE #7
Issue #7 / Rhode Island National Guard | 1
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Featured
Governor of Rhode Island and Captain General of the Rhode Island National Guard: Gina M. Raimondo Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard: Brig. Gen. Christopher P. Callahan Managing Editor: Col. Peter Parente, State Public Affairs Officer
RING Biathlon Team
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Contributing Editor: 1st Lt. Mark Incze, Commander, 110th Public Affairs Detachment Layout & Design: Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia, Public Affairs Specialist
Contributors:
1st Lt. Megan Burmeister 2nd Lt. Melissa Heintz Master Sgt. Janeen Miller Master Sgt. Stephen Chasse Staff Sgt. Glenn Sousa
State CSM Change of Responsibility
Brig. Gen. Jannitto Retires
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Staff Sgt. Joshua Winchell Staff Sgt. Zachary Walker Sgt. Terry Rajsombath Sgt. Michael Iacona Spc. Kaidian Smith
Also in this issue: A Message from the State CSM Rhode Island National Guard Biathlon Team Command Chief Brady Retires Friars Host Armed Forces Appreciation Night With Full Honors Cobra Gold 2016 RING Partners to Host Art Exhibit 43d & 118th MP Changes of Responsibility 2016 Winter Classic Flyover State CSM Change of Responsibility CyberPatriot Infantry Leads the Way Counter Drug Program Recognized SALTY Appreciation T’Was the Season at the Coventry Senior Center 1/126th Aviation receive Dunker Training Brigadier General Jannitto Retires RING Assists URI Cadets in Frozen Ram 2016 Open House & Air Show Preview
OSG
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COLUMN
A MESSAGE TO ALL RI GUARDSMEN
FROM THE STATE CSM It’s an honor and a privilege to serve as your State Command Sergeant Major and to be in a position to positively influence the Non-Commissioned Officer Corps, supporting both our Soldiers and Airmen alike. I will represent you to the best of my ability as I engage the Rhode Island National Guard senior leadership. Without your input I cannot be an accurate voice. You, are my eyes, ears and voice into the various units in the Rhode Island National Guard. I expect you to carry my message throughout the force. During the upcoming months I will be visiting units, facilities, and attending training events to develop a deeper understanding of the status of our organization by reaching out to many of our NCO 4 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
professionals. The United States’ military is transforming at a rapid rate, reducing force structure and realigning units. These effects will also impact the Rhode Island National Guard. We need to be poised to accept these transformations and to continue to be an asset. The National Guard operates as a tactical reserve and we will continue to augment the Active Component during contingency operations. Overall, the Active Component expects its Guardmembers to be “ready” – individually and as units and in order to meet this readiness expectation. Essential to our mission readiness is personnel status; readiness and retention. We need to continue to process new recruits to fill vacancies but it is as critical that we
take care of the current members because of their acquired skills, knowledge and leadership that is essential to our survivability. We need to do all we can to motivate and inspire our servicemembers to stay engaged. We do this by caring for our servicemembers and their families. Individual engagement means personal readiness. Education is the corner stone of readiness and career growth. I believe that Professional Military Education (PME) is an area in which we all need to improve. The lack of PME can have a negative impact on any Guardmembers career, particularly for promotions and key developmental assignments. I intend on improving our servicemembers understanding of the importance of completing their educational
requirements. Without that understanding we are failing our Guardmembers. The Rhode Island National Guard constitutes the tactical reserve of the U.S. Army and Air Force and is expected to be ready to complete its state and federal missions. It is my intent that the NCOs of the RI National Guard will be the most competent and professional leaders during these missions. To accomplish this senior leaders will educate, coach, and mentor our NCO Corps to promote skill improvement and proficiency, resulting in a new generation of warriors ready to lead. Final thought – Hope is our state motto; it is not a planning factor – NCOs make it happen!
WE NEED TO...
• Improve PME preparation, attendance, and completion • Enable NCOs to complete their Structured Self-Development requirements to make themselves competitive for promotion and advancement • Develop NCOs to perform their duties as the primary trainers of our Army and Air Force • Set the conditions so that our Soldiers and Airmen are physically and mentally fit for continued service and deployment • Provide our service members with honest and fair evaluations and proper counseling Issue #7 / Rhode Island National Guard | 5
FEATURE ARTICLE
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Duncan Douglas, of the RI Army National Guard Medical Detachment and athlete with the Rhode Island National Guard Biathlon Team, aims his rifle down range during the 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships at Camp Ripley, M.N., on February 28, 2016. Biathlon requires mastery of cross-country skiing’s aerobic blast, with the precision and control for marksmanship. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Kaidian Smith)
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RHODE ISLAND NATIONAL GUARD By Spc. Kaidian Smith, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
The Rhode Island National Guard biathlon team attended the 41st annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau (CNGB) Biathlon Championships in Minnesota February 26th – March 4th 2016 with RI Army Guardsman and U.S. Olympian, Lt. Col. Robert Duncan Douglas. Douglas, a member of the RI Army National Guard’s Medical Detachment, is a mentor to numerous athletes and is highly respected among the biathlon community. “Everybody around here at least knows Duncan,” said Sgt. Gregory Lewandowski, an athlete with the Wisconsin National Guard biathlon team. “He’s a quick skier, but he’s a teacher too.” During Douglas’ career, the course of biathlon has led him to two Olympics, 1992 and 1994, among several Biathlon World Cups. He has also participated in many cross-country skiing events, much like the American Birkebeiner in Wisconsin. Douglas, 50, appreciates the level of camaraderie at biathlon championships such as the Chief of National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships, which he recently attended. “One of the best things about these competitions is these relationships I have with these
people,” said Douglas. Douglas said the best part of attending the championships was watching his teammates learn how to ski. “You always learn a lot when you’re instructing someone,” said Douglas. “You learn something about yourself and you learn something about the people you’re helping.” “It’s always fun to see them grow in front of your eyes,” said Douglas. “It’s really a good feeling.” Douglas shares his experience
and knowledge with anyone who’s willing to learn, not just his teammates. Lewandowski talked about when he had the opportunity to share a wax hut with Douglas some years back. Lewandowski was the only athlete who attended from Wisconsin that year, so Douglas took him under his wing. “He takes his success and passes it on to other people,” said Lewandowski. “Whether you’re just skiing behind him or watch-
U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Burmeister, coach of the Rhode Island Biathlon Team, observes a target being fired upon by U.S. Army Lt. Col. Duncan Douglas as he Douglas zeroes his biathlon rifle before the 12.5km pursuit race event at Camp Ripley, M.N. on Feb. 26, 2016 at the 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Kaidian Smith)
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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Keith Moody, a member of the Rhode Island Biathlon Team, skis down a slope after exiting the range during the 12.5km pursuit race in 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships at Camp Ripley, M.N., on February 29, 2016. National Guard athletes from all over the country compete in the 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Kaidian Smith)
ing him waxing skis, you’ll learn things. It’s awesome we have these kinds of people at these events.” “He’s a humble man,” said Lewandowski. “He’s not afraid to go and talk with all of us that are not up at the same level he is.” Some people have been under Douglas’ mentorship longer than others. Sgt. Wynn Roberts, a Vermont National Guard biathlete, has known Douglas for about 14 years. “I was racing Biathlon since I was about 14 years old, and Duncan Douglas was senior racing at the time in the Vermont National Guard,” said Roberts. “He was kind of a role model. Even though he was older than a majority of the racers, he was still extremely competitive and was winning high caliber races.” “Duncan is definitely a mentor,” said Roberts. “He’s the kind of 8 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
person if you need anything, you just say it and he’ll take care of you. He’s got the best heart.” Roberts explained how Douglas would go above and beyond to help someone, regardless of rank. Whether it’s their first time on skis or they need help shooting the biathlon rifle, he’s willing to offer his assistance. Roberts continued, “It could be eight o’clock at night and he’d go out with the head lamp on. Then he would be like ‘All right let’s go do some ski lessons. It’s nice out.’” Everyone enjoys competing against Douglas because of the energy he brings to every race. His drive motivates the people around him. “It gives you something to strive for,” said Lewandowski. “In the relay race, I started right behind him. I made it my goal to stay be-
hind him, at least for the first lap. I was actually in front of him in the second lap for a little bit. Needless to say, he did catch up to me and pass me.” “You don’t get that opportunity elsewhere to compete on the same field as Olympians,” said Lewandowski. “It gives you a goal and somebody to emulate.” Most biathletes know of Douglas’ ability to perform when his focus has been on training for biathlon. At the CNGB Biathlon Championships, Douglas came in third for the male sprints event. “Well I was kind of worried,” said Roberts when asked about competing against Douglas. “You never know what kind of shape he is going to be in. He’s a full-time anesthesiologist, so he’s working 30 – 60 hours a week depending
on the week. But then he’s also
training full time, and then he is a full-time dad and husband. So you never know which mode he is in.” “You never know if he is in training mode,” said Roberts. “If he is in training mode, then its like, ‘look out everybody. Duncan might win’.” Time and time again Douglas expresses how much he loves to cross-country ski. For his age, there’s no evident sign of him slowing down either. Now in the biathlon off season, Douglas is ready to start practicing with Rhode Island National Guard biathlon team for next season.
(Above) U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Keith Moody (far right), athlete with the Rhode Island National Guard Biathlon Team, traverses a ski slope during the 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships at Camp Ripley, M.N. on Feb. 28, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Kaidian Smith) (Below) U.S. Army Lt. Col. Duncan Douglas, of the RI Army National Guard Medical Detachment and athlete with the Rhode Island National Guard Biathlon Team, gives Maj. Daniel Isenbergh last minute tips before a race during the 41st Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Championships at Camp Ripley, M.N. on Feb. 28, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Kaidian Smith)
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Chief Master Sergeant Gregory Houghton, Command Chief, 143d Airlift Wing, presents Chief Master Sergeant Michael Brady with a photo of the C-130J Super Hercules from the 143d Airlift Wing during a retirement ceremony for Chief Brady held at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island, January 10, 2016.
34 YEARS DEDICATED TO SERVICE, CHIEF MASTER SGT BRADY RETIRES Photos and story by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Chief Master Sergeant Michael Brady served 34 years of dedicated service to the Air Force and to the Air National Guard and retired from service January 7, 2016. During the last three and a half years of his career, Brady served in the highest enlisted position in the Rhode Island Air National Guard (RIANG), State Command Chief. At a ceremony held at Quonset Air National Guard Base on January 9, 2016, Brady relinquished authority as the State Command Chief to Chief Master Sergeant Jose Baltazar. Brady was further recognized at a ceremony held on January 10. In front of friends, family, and fellow Airmen, the Chief received words of praise and sentiments from representatives 10 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
from Joint Force Headquarters-RI, the 143d Airlift Wing, the 282d Combat Communications Squadron, and the 102d Network Warfare Squadron. The Chief was also awarded the Legion of Merit and the Rhode Island Star, pinned by Brigadier General Matthew Dzialo, Assistant Adjutant General for Air. During the ceremony, Dzialo took some time to say a few things about the outgoing Chief, “I want to thank you from myself and from the Airmen of the RIANG for your 34 years of service; teaching, leading, and mentoring, right up to the very end.” Reaching into his pocket he continued, “We have a tradition of presenting a coin for excellence so I’d like to present the Chief with the Assistant Adjutant General’s
coin for excellence… I’d like to, but you know Chief Brady, he brought his own style to this, so Chief, I’d like to present you with a Dunkin Donuts gift card.” Brady accepted the gift card with a smile. Dzialo then presented the Chief a coin for excellence, thanked him again for his service, and said, “Maybe he’ll buy me a coffee later on.” Brady enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1981. He served three years on active duty and then transferred to the Rhode Island Air National Guard. Brady served in the 282d Combat Communications Squadron from 1984-1991 as a Wideband Communications Specialist and a Satellite Com-
munications Specialist. In 1991, he transferred to the 281st Combat Communications Group and served in Maintenance Control, Logistics, and as Communications Systems Superintendent. In 1990 and 1991, Brady served in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. In 2003, he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom serving at USCENTCOM. Brady became the State Human Resource Advisor (HRA), Rhode Island Air National Guard in 2006 and was selected as the Air National Guard HRA of the Year in 2007. In 2010, the Air National Guard recognized Brady as the Region V Human Resource Advisor of the Year. Brady served as the State Command Chief of the Rhode Island Air National Guard from June 2012 until January 2016. At the end of the retirement ceremony, Brady took the opportunity to share some parting thoughts. Brady spoke about a piece of advice he had learned long ago from Chief Master Sergeant (retired) Ed Brown, Air National Guard Com-
Technical Sergeants Michael Degre and Patricia Testa of the Rhode Island Air National Guard Color Guard fold a flag for Chief Master Sergeant Michael Brady during a retirement ceremony for Chief Brady held at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island, January 10, 2016.
mand Chief #6. When an Airman asked Brown how he or she could make Chief Master Sergeant, Brady recalled, “He had the most awesome response. It was very simple. His response was, ‘Be the best Airman, or Staff Sergeant, or Tech Sergeant or Master Sergeant that you can be.’” Brady added, “That’s
the only secret to success. The rest of it will happen or not happen so just do the best you can.” Brady wrapped up his remarks by thanking the men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard, his family and guests, and retirees present at the ceremony. He closed out the ceremony by recognizing three Airmen for their accomplishments in the Rhode Island Air National Guard.
Brig. Gen. Matthew Dzialo, Assistant Adjutant General - Air, Rhode Island National Guard, pins the Rhode Island Star on Chief Master Sergeant Michael Brady during a retirement ceremony for Chief Brady held at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island, January 10, 2016. The Rhode Island Star is awarded to individuals who distinguish themselves conspicuously by exceptionally meritorious service to the State of Rhode Island.
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Photos and story by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
In honor of the armed forces, the Providence College men’s basketball team played the DePaul Blue Demons during the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Night at the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence, R.I. on Feb. 27, 2016. The annual event honored not only the veterans and service branches, but also members of the Providence Veterans Assistance Medical Center. Family members of the late 1st Sgt. Peter Andrew McKenna were recognized by Providence College at halftime. The family was met with a standing ovation from the crowd. McKenna was a 17-year Army veteran and was assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group, now located at Eglin Air Force Base.
Family members of the late 1st Sgt. Andrew Mckenna are honored during the 3rd annual Armed Forces Appreciation Night, held at the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence, R.I., on Feb. 27, 2016. McKenna was killed on Aug. 7 during an attack in Kabul, Afghanistan. He was a 17-year Army veteran and his hometown was Bristol, R.I.
(left to right) Rochelle Fortin, Nancy Brand, and Jennifer Lambert receive appreciation during the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Night on Feb. 27, 2016, for their work helping veterans at the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
Korean War veterans watch the Providence College Friars men’s basketball team play the DePaul Blue Demons during the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Night at the Dunkin Donuts Center on Feb. 27, 2016 in Providence, R.I.
Brig. Gen. Christopher P. Callahan, Adjutant General of Rhode Island leads a swearing in ceremony at halftime for new recruits during the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Night at the Dunkin Donuts Center on Feb. 27, 2016 in Providence, R.I.
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Photos provided by Maj. Christopher High
WITH FULL HONORS by Lt. Col. Brian Hennessey, Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard
Chief Warrant Officer Four Thomas M. McNulty (1957-2015), a distinguished and decorated soldier, officer and pilot, was laid to rest among our nation’s most notable servants March 2, 2016. This final chapter of McNulty’s life and career began at the conclusion of his memorial service shortly after his untimely death on April 14, 2015. For nearly a year, great efforts were made to ensure that this American hero, who served three combat tours and earned the Soldiers’ Medal for his selfless act of bravery in saving a fellow service member’s life without regard for his own, received the honor of
having his final resting place in the National Cemetery, Arlington, VA. McNulty traveled aboard a UH60 Blackhawk from Quonset Point, North Kingstown, Rhode Island and arrived in Arlington March 1, 2016 where his family and friends gathered to remember and celebrate his life once again. On March 2, under a blue sky on a brisk morning, McNulty was recognized for his service and his sacrifice in a solemn ceremony. Many came from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, Delaware and Washington, D.C. to bid McNulty a final farewell and spend a moment with someone who always had time for everyone else.
As the guns sounded and taps played, sadness was replaced by pride and honor for all those who attended this richly-deserved and dignified ceremony for an American Soldier and hero. DUSTOFF! Dedicated unwavering service to our fighting forces.
Chief Warrant Officer Four Thomas M. McNulty receives full honors as he is laid to rest in the Arlington National Cemetary in Virginia on Mar. 2, 2016.
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A 143d Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules sits on the ramp in Thailand during exercise Cobra Gold 2016, an annual Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint and multinational exercise. (Photo provided by Staff Sgt. Tyler Fletcher, 143d Maintenance Group)
COBRA GOLD 2016 By Staff Sgt. Zachary Walker, 143d Airlift Wing
Cobra Gold. It sounds like the title of an Indiana Jones film. Fortunately, for the Rhode Island Air National Guard (RIANG), and the international partners involved, it was not. No one was running from boulders or falling into snake pits. Possibly with a little less Hollywood flare, but certainly not lacking excitement, Cobra Gold deserves the spotlight and recognition just the same. Cobra Gold is a long-standing, multinational exercise in the Asia-Pacific region intended to ensure peace, build strong bonds, and develop humanitarian and disaster relief capabilities while conducting joint military operations. The joint 14 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
nature of Cobra Gold between the U.S. and its international partners, has left long-lasting impressions and promise in the region. For the first time in more than 30 years, the National Guard had the privilege to be included in this exercise. With all humility, as proven leaders in the C-130J community, the Rhode Island Air National Guard proved to be right for the job. Cobra Gold, one of the largest multinational exercises in the Asia-Pacific region, is hosted by the Kingdom of Thailand and the United States. This annual training exercise has gone on for over 30 years and includes many nations
from the Asia-Pacific region, many of which act as observers rather than players. “This year’s Cobra Gold will consist of three primary events: a command post exercise, which includes a senior leader seminar; humanitarian civic assistance projects in Thai communities; and a field training exercise that will build regional relationships,� said Marine Corps 1st Lt. Courtney in a statement from the U.S. Marine Corps Forces in the Pacific prior to the event. Building strong, multinational relationships remains a vitally important mission throughout the U.S. and our armed forces. Cobra Gold has remained an
A 143d Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules sits on the ramp in Thailand during exercise Cobra Gold 2016 an annual Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint and multinational exercise. (Photo provided by Master Sergeant Phillip Engelke, 143d Maintenance Group)
annual exercise and highly relevant for a list of reasons. As one of the largest exercises in the Asia-Pacific region, it strengthens bonds between nations through leadership and cooperation. As one team, we work together to increase battlefield proficiency through amphibious, air, and ground maneuvers. Nations also work together on humanitarian efforts such as building schools, administering medical aid, and disaster relief. Through exercises such as Cobra Gold, the U.S. and a host of other nations in the region can improve their disaster relief response proficiency. As our mission states in the National Guard, we are “Always Ready, Always There.” I believe exercises like this allow the National Guard to prove its versatility, and hopefully it will open future opportunities to support this mission and more. Overall, for the Rhode Island Air National Guard, the opportunity was an enormous honor. The RIANG strives to remain proactive in the search of opportunities, both
foreign and domestic, to share our knowledge and expertise. Cobra Gold was no exception. As leaders in the C-130J community, the RIANG is grateful to be the first National Guard unit to participate. From our Flight Commander down to the lowest ranking Airman on mission, we were excited to share our knowledge and experience with others while performing aerial delivery of supplies and troops. As our world can tend to be a dangerous place, it’s vital that nations work together for a safer and better tomorrow. Cobra Gold will remain a long-standing joint exercise for this reason and more; aiding in safety, sharing battlefield tactics, humanitarian work, disaster relief or simply trading knowledge and experience to better one another. The RIANG has given us the opportunity to demonstrate once again the effectiveness of the Guard and its application within the U.S. military.
(Above) 143d Airlift Wing Maintenance Airmen work on a C-130J Super Hercules on a flightline in Thailand during exercise Cobra Gold 2016 an annual Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint and multinational exercise. (Photo provided by Staff Sergeant Zachary Walker, 143d Maintenance Group) (Below) A 143d Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules loadmaster completes an airdrop during exercise Cobra Gold 2016 an annual Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint and multinational exercise. (Photo provided by Staff Sergeant Zachary Walker, 143d Maintenance Group)
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Photo provided by Lt. (Ret.) Karl Rittmann
RING PARTNERS TO HOST ART GALLERY By 1st Lt. Megan Burmeister, Public Affairs Specialist
The Rhode Island National Guard hosted the Lt. Karl Rittmann, “We Are Soldiers Now,” art exhibit on Feb. 25, 2016 to Mar. 4, 2016 at the Benefit Street Arsenal in Providence RI. On Dec. 8, 1941 Karl Rittmann answered the national call to service during his senior year at Rhode Island School of Design. He received his commission in the 857th Engineer Aviation Battalion. He was a white officer in a predominantly black unit. Rittmann continued to produce artwork during his service, sketching the Soldiers of the 857th throughout their tour in the in the Pacific Theater. 16 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
Lt. Rittmann’s forty exhibited sketches provide a historical insight into the daily lives of Soldiers during WWII. Most of Lt. Rittmann’s subjects were black Soldiers. “Thankfully we are no longer a segregated organization but we cannot forget this part of our history. LT Rittmann’s art reminds us of that time,” said Chief Warrant Officer Cheryl Irving, the Officer in Charge of the Exhibit. Over 1,200 Rhode Island high school students from 13 local schools attended the exhibit throughout its run. The many teachers and students remarked how comfortable the subjects of
Rittmann’s art appeared. “He captures the love these Soldiers had for their country despite the inequalities they faced, and brings to light their contributions in changing the face of the organization,” stated Irving. Dave Cannon, a history teacher at Narragansett High School, shared his hope that his students would take multiple things away from the exhibit. “I’m hoping they get something from this, they are really into the artwork, the flag display and the leadership. They seem to understand now a little better about leadership and the importance of documenting daily life.”
43d AND 118th EACH GET NEW CSM by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
(Left) Master Sgt. Daniel Delayo renders a hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem during the Change of Responsibility ceremony for Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Wall on Mar. 6, 2016 at the Army Aviation Support Facility in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath)
Members of the 118th Military Police Battalion and 43d Military Police Brigade stood at attention as Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Wall handed responsibility of the battalion to Sgt. Maj. Anthony Atella during a Change of Responsibility ceremony on Mar. 6, 2016 at the Army Aviation Support Facility. Immediately following the 118th’s ceremony, Wall received responsibility of the 43d Military Police Brigade from outgoing Brigde Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Klostermann. The two near identical ceremonies included the passing of the NCO Sword, signifying each Sergeants Major’s acceptance of re-
sponsibility of authority over their respective units. Based in Warwick, the 43rd Military Police Brigade was constituted on March 4, 1959. It’s motto is, “Protect the right.”
Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Atella, incoming 118th MP Battalion Command Sgt. Maj., is passed the NCO Sword by Lt. Col. Kenneth Niles, 118th Battalion Commander, during a Change of Responsibility ceremony on Mar. 6, 2016 at the Army Aviation Support Facility in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath)
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A WINTER CLASSIC FLYOVER Video and story by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The 143d Airlift Wing, Rhode Island Air National Guard was asked to perform the flyover during the National Anthem at the 2016 National Hockey League Winter Classic between the Boston Bruins and the Montreal Canadians. The NHL Winter Classic is an annual event held in which a regular-season ice hockey game is played outdoors; this year’s classic was held at Gillette Stadium. The request came in shortly
before the holiday season kicked off and the 143d Airlift Wing was eager to help! Any opportunity to show off what we can do to our community is one we don’t want to miss. Careful flight planning was necessary to ensure exact timing with the singing of the National Anthem at the stadium. Major Brendan Duffy, a pilot with the 143d Airlift Squadron was the Aircraft Commander for this mission. “It was a great honor to represent
the 143AW at the Winter Classic,” said Duffy when asked about his experience, “It was an amazing experience and I would like to thank all the members of the 143d who contributed to the event’s overwhelming success.” The NHL tweeted a photo of the Rhody C-130J overhead at Gillette Stadium with the caption, “Possibly the coolest flyover in event history.” The Rhode Warriors certainly don’t disagree.
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FEATURE ARTICLE
Brigadier General Christopher P. Callahan, Adjutant General of Rhode Island and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard passes the Non-commissioned Officers’ Sword to incoming State Command Sergeant Major Moises A. Moniz during the State Command Sergeant Major Change of Responsibility ceremony on March 6, 2016 at the Army Aviation Support Facility on the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, RI. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
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RHODE ISLAND’S NEW
STATE COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR Video and story by Sgt. Michael Iacona, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
The Rhode Island National Guard held a Change of Responsibility ceremony at the Army Aviation Support Facility in North Kingstown, R.I. on Feb. 6, 2016, appointing Command Sgt. Maj. Moises A. Moniz as Rhode Island’s 7th State Command Sergeant Major. Moniz assumed responsibility from outgoing State Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Lewis who has served in the position since 2012. In his final act as State Command Sgt. Maj., Lewis passed the Non-commissioned Officers’ Sword
to Brig. Gen. Christopher P. Callahan, the Adjutant General of Rhode Island and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard, signifying the completion of his duty and responsibility. Callahan then passed the NCO Sword to Moniz signifying the incoming Command Sergeant Major’s acceptance of the duty and responsibility the position calls for. Moniz was born in Portugal and moved to the United States in 1981, settling in East Providence, R.I. He graduated from East Providence
Senior High School in 1983 and enlisted in the U.S. Army on Sep. 14, 1983. He attended Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training as an Armor Crew Member at Fort Knox, K.N., and attended Basic Airborne Training at Fort Benning, G.A. His first assignment was with F Troop, 2d Squadron, 3d Calvary Regiment at Fort Bliss, T.X. In 1987, Moniz reenlisted as an Infantryman and completed Infantry Training at Fort Benning, G.A. After completing this transition, he was assigned to A Company, 4th
Sergeant Major Moises A. Moniz, with the assitance of his wife Patty is promoted to the rank of Command Sergeant Major during a Change of Responsibility ceremony on March 6, 2016 at the Army Aviation Support Facility on the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, RI. Moniz is appointed the 7th State Command Sergeant Major later in the ceremony. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
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Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C., where he participated in Operation Just Cause and served in various infantry leader positions until 1990. After leaving Fort Bragg, Moniz continued his Army service in the Rhode Island Army National Guard with the 173d Infantry Detachment, Long Range Surveillance. In 1993, he volunteered for Special Forces Training and was transferred to A Company, 2d Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (SFG). He Graduated from the Special Forces Qualification Course in 1995 and was later accepted into the Active Guard and Reserve Program. During his service in the Rhode Island Army National Guard, he held various NCO leader positions, culminating as the Company Operations Sergeant for A CO/2nd BN, 19th SFG. On Jan. 1, 2013 Moniz was promoted to Sergeant Major and 22 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
was transferred to the 56th Troop Command as the Brigade Operations Sergeant Major. Moniz’s combat tours include Operation Just Cause in Panama as a Rifle Squad Leader with the 82d Airborne Division in 1989; Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Special Forces Engineer Sergeant with A CO/2nd BN, 19th SFG from 2005 to 2006; Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan as the Advance Operations Base Operations Sergeant with A CO/2nd BN, 19th SFG from 2008 to 2009. Moniz also participated in contingency and training operations in the Republic of Korea, Kenya, Kuwait, Bangladesh, United Kingdom, Germany, Scotland, and the Netherlands. During the ceremony, Lewis was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional service while serving as Rhode Island’s 6th State Command Sergeant Major. The citation read, “This is to certify that the President of the Unit-
ed States of America authorized by Executive Order, 16 January 1969, has awarded the Meritorious Service Medal to CSM Michael J. Lewis for exceptionally meritorious service while serving as the State Command Sergeant Major, Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard. Command Sergeant Major Lewis demonstrated extraordinary leadership, professionalism, competence, dedication, and commitment to the enlisted and NCO Corp, setting an example that has been emulated throughout the force. His actions have had a profound impact and reflect distinct credit on him and the Rhode Island National Guard.” The mission of the State Command Sergeant Major is to serve as the senior enlisted advisor to the Adjutant General which includes enforcing standards, developing policies on enlisted matters, and making recommendations to improve the quality of life for Rhode Island National Guard Airmen, Soldiers, and their families.
by Staff Sgt. Joshua Winchell, 102d Network Warfare Squadron
Four students from Father John V. Doyle School in Coventry, Rhode Island are working together to identify security vulnerabilities in a Windows 7 computer. Armed with two technical mentors from the 102nd Network Warfare Squadron, Rhode Island Air National Guard, and a team coach from Father John V. Doyle School, the students are ready to use what they have learned to defend themselves from hackers on the internet. One of the students identifies that there is an unknown user account on the computer, and the team works together to quickly investigate the account. After comparing the list of authorized user accounts to what user accounts are actually on the computer, the team determines that the unknown user account must be removed. The team wonders how this user account even ended up on the computer in the first place. The root cause: an administrator account with elevated privileges, and no password set. The door was wide open for hackers to take advantage of. How old are these students? It should be noted that these four students are in the 6th-8th grades, and have already learned how to navigate various operating systems such as Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2008, and Ubuntu. The team learned this information
to compete in the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot, which is the National Youth Cyber Education program. Middle schools and high schools nationwide are able to form their own teams where the students compete against one another. Each team must work together in order to swiftly identify and fix security vulnerabilities. The teams compete for top placement within their state and region. The top teams in the nation earn an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, DC for the
National Finals Competition where they can earn national recognition and scholarship money. As of July 2015, elementary schools are also able to participate as part of the Elementary School Cyber Education Initiative. This program places an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, helps to train the next generation in cybersecurity. In a world of cyber warfare, it is important for all of us to learn how to defend ourselves against hackers. This is just another way that members of the RI Air and Army National Guard participate in their communities as CyberPatriot mentors and coaches.
Major Christopher Allen, Staff Sergeant Ryan Powers, and Staff Sergeant Joshua Winchell pose with students and their teacher from John V. Doyle School during Cyber Patriot.
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Photos and story by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
Pvt. Preskiggs Willie, a soldier with the 1/182nd hooks his carabineer onto a fixed rope on Jan. 09, 2016 at the Old Furnace State Park in Killingly, Connecticut. The fixed rope obstacle challenged the soldier’s capability to maneuver down a steep incline alongside a mountain.
“You hear folks say things like, ‘you scored low on your ASVAB score and wound up in the infantry as a last resort,’” said Staff Sgt. Michael Fitzpatrick, squad leader with 2nd Platoon of the 1/182d Infantry Battalion. “What people don’t understand is that people choose to be in the infantry.” Many Soldiers express that they join the Army National Guard for similar reasons, which is the 24 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
“
In the infantry, you’re taught to be a leader, setting the example and leading from the front.
unique ability to serve their country while obtaining a college education. Where they differ is in their choice of military career, the occupational field in which they will serve. There’s a lot of people who get
into the military, and after looking at different jobs decide they want to join the infantry, said Fitzpatrick. I think that the infantry produces the best caliber of guys who are here to serve on the tip of the sword, and I
joined the infantry for that reason.” Fitzpatrick is a Boston firefighter who worked in corporate America prior to joining the fire department. Much of what he has learned in the infantry parallels his role as a firefighter. “In the civilian world you’re taught that there’s a boss,” said Fitzpatrick. “In the infantry you’re taught to be a leader, setting the example and leading from the front.” Fitzpatrick said that overall, the military teaches enlisted Soldiers how to take charge and become a leader. Although, he says, there is more of a need within the infantry community for lower enlisted to learn and be able to carry out the role of their senior enlisted. “Today, we don’t see it so common-place for guys to [get injured] on deployment,” said Fitzpatrick.
“But should that happen, you have to be prepared to do so and have the junior guys step up.” Pvt. Preskiggs Willie, an infantryman assigned to 1/182nd Infantry Battalion, joined the infantry for two reasons, one was to get more experience and the second was to go to school and advance himself in life. He said that he specifically decided to join the infantry because he wanted a challenge, physically and mentally. “I would say that the infantry is not only about fighting, but about being physically and mentally tough,” said Willie. “The infantry is not about the gun, it’s about learning something about yourself, about life.” Willie said that the infantry has taught him how to serve under the harshest conditions as a team and
not as an individual. To serve as a subordinate and as a leader. The physical and mental adversity an infantryman endures sets him up for a strong and winning mindset, said Fitzpatrick. Willie said that despite his relatively short time in the infantry, it’s taught him how to maintain motivation and persevere through any condition. “Nothing can deter you, nothing can make you lose control, you’re always focused,” said Willie. “I’ve learned a lot in the infantry and it’s been a great experience.”
Soldiers from the 1/182nd maneuver down a rocky out-cropping on Jan. 09, 2016 at the Old Furnace State Park in Killingly, Connecticut. The soldiers are clipped onto fixed ropes and are challenged to maneuver their way down the mountain.
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COUNTER DRUG PROGRAM
RECOGNIZED BY DEA
Members of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) present Certificates of Appreciation to three service members of the Rhode Island National Guard’s Counter Drug team. The Guard team assists members of the DEA and local law enforcement throughout the state in the collective counter-narcotics mission.
S.A.L.T.Y. APPRECIATION Dave Pickering, Founder and Chairman of Seamanship and Leadership Training for Youths (SALTY) presented Brig. Gen. Callahan a plaque on Feb. 4, 2016 in appreciation for his support of the Ocean State Gold Star Teen Sailing Adventure 2015. Ocean State Gold Star Teen Sailing Adventure developers; Brig. Gen. Richard Keene (Ret.), Jess Rivard, Survivor Outreach Specialist and Lt. Col. Sharon Harmon, State Family Program Director also attended the presentation.
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ESGR MILITARY IMMERSION EVENT 17 MAY 2016 08:30-13:30 CAMP FOGARTY TRAINING CENTER 2841 SOUTH COUNTY TRAIL EAST GREENWICH, RI 02818 The Rhode Island ESGR and Hero2Hired cordially invite you to attend our Military Immersion Event. A half day event designed to help employers and potential employers better understand what their employees do when they are called to service on drill weekends and active duty deployments. This event will offer a unique hands on experience moving through several workstations highlighting some of the jobs our service members do to insure mission success. Events includeMilitary Personal Protective Equipment Virtual Convoy Operations Trainer (VCOT) Confidence/Obstacle Course
Employers with all levels of experience in having citizen-soldiers as employees, or employers that are considering citizen soldiers for employment are encouraged to attend this exciting event.
Please contact the R.I. ESGR office at P: 401-275-1246 F: 401-275-4323 or Email us at brian.b.lafauci.ctr@mail.mil kenneth.g.capuano.ctr@mail.mil sage.a.maker.ctr@mail.mil
Please RSVP by May,3 2016 Issue #7 / Rhode Island National Guard | 27
by Master Sgt. Stephen Chasse and Staff Sgt. Glenn Sousa, 102d Network Warfare Squadron
On Christmas Eve you may have a routine that you go through every year. I am one of those people as well but in 2015, I changed it up a bit. I joined Major Christopher Allen, Master Sergeant Stephen Chasse, Technical Sgt Autumn Benker, Staff Sgt Ryan Powers and Senior Airman Brittany Thompson at the Coventry Senior Center to prepare meals for the elderly. This event was sponsored by the Association of Retired Combat Communicators (ARCC). The Christmas Eve lunch consisted of soup, turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, corn, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls, and different flavors of puddings for dessert. While we created the plates for the main course of the lunch, Major Allen helped out with serving the soup and main course to the tables with his three children. Few things bring a team together quite like food does. Major Allen even showed off some of his former enlisted skills by washing dishes during the cleanup. It was a sight to see! We also prepared many meals on wheels as well as meals for the nursing home next door. Even after handling the same food all day, it was still delicious after everyone cleared out and we had a chance to eat! 28 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
The members of the ARCC were pleased with our support of this event. The diners were also grateful for the volunteers and the wonderful job they did. Some members of the 102nd Network Warfare Squadron (NWS) have been doing this for a few years and for some of them it was their first time participating in this event. Other Rhode Island Air National Guard units were also represented, the 143rd Airlift Wing (AW), and the 282nd Combat Communications Squadron (CBCS). Retirees from the former 281st Combat Communications Group, 282 CBCS and 102 NWS present
at this event helping. It was a great time seeing some old faces as well as meeting some new ones. There certainly is something about helping others during the holidays that gets you in the holiday spirit, even when the weather is in the 50’s and it seems more like spring! I know I plan on participating for years to come and I hope to see all of you there as well. We can all benefit from supporting our community by adding this into our annual routine. Working Crew - SSgt Glenn Sousa, SSgt Ryan Powers, and SRA Brittany Thompson, 102 NWS helping at the Coventry Senior Center to prepare meals for the elderly. (Photo provided by the 102d Network Warfare Squadron)
2016 RHODE ISLAND NATIONAL GUARD
OPEN HOUSE & AIR SHOW PREVIEW by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The 2016 Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show is scheduled to be held June 11th and 12th at the Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds will make their first appearance at the RI show since 2012. In addition to the Thunderbirds, the show will feature performances from Sean D. Tucker, the Shockwave Jet Truck, Combined arms demo, Ace Maker Air Shows L-39 demo, B-25, P-40 and Mark Murphy’s P-51 Demo. We are also excited to welcome back our longtime friend and neighbor, Michael Goulian out of Massachusetts, with his spectacular Extra 330 routine. The 2015 show was a huge success! We welcomed over 100,000 spectators to Quonset Air National
Guard Base over the course of the weekend. In addition to thoroughly entertaining all with the action in the sky, the men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard, both Army and Air, had the opportunity to show our community members what they do. As a result of the success of the show, the National Guard Association of Rhode Island was able to donate $172,000 to charities
including the Hasbro Children’s Hospital, Special Olympics, Meeting Street School, Make-A-Wish, and the Soldiers and Airmen Emergency Relief Fund. The Open House and Air Show would not be a success without the hard work and dedication of the soldiers and Airmen of the Rhode Island National Guard. Thank you for all you do. We are looking forward to hosting another OUTSTANDING show this June! Come out and join us June 11th and 12th at the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, R.I.
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Photos and story by Spc. Kaidian Smith, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
A group of soldiers, assigned to Alpha and Fox Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, conducted Dunker Training at Survival Systems USA in Groton, Conn. Feb. 6th and 7th, 2016. Dunker Training is a two-day exercise created to simulate an aircraft crashing into the water and to train soldiers in the proper survival techniques. “Over the two days, the major portion [of the training] is the progression of the underwater egress,” said Daniel McInnis, a senior instructor at Survival Systems USA. “So we start with the easy breath hold runs, then get to the more advanced run. Eventually you get into the compressed air bottles.”
On the second day, McInnis said they continue the advanced runs with compressed air bottles. They would also do life jacket formations, life raft entries and Coast Guard rescue hoists. “We’re teaching people how to remain calm when an aircraft submerges under the water and how to utilize different procedures to make their escape,” said McInnis. The quality of training, given by the highly certified instructors at Survival Systems, is intended for soldiers to become comfortable with those life saving techniques. “I’ve been in the army for about nine years now, and some of that training is the best training that I’ve had, especially being a crew
Daniel McInnis, a senior instructor at Survival Systems USA, practices breathing holds with a soldier during Dunker Training at Survival Systems USA in Groton, Conn. February 6th, 2016. Dunker Training is a two-day exercise created to simulate an aircraft crashing into the water and to train soldiers in the proper survival techniques.
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chief,” said Sgt. Richard Bouchard, with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment. “When you’re overseas and something like that happens, it won’t be the first time you go through it. You would have been through it in the training situations.” Bouchard addressed how crucial this training is after observing a soldier who slightly panicked during the exercise. He said, that had it been overseas in a real aircraft, with hydraulic fluid and fuel everywhere, in addition to the nerves after a crash, just having experienced this training could make a difference. Survival Systems USA performs several scenarios to simulate different situations that soldiers may experience. They make the simulation as real as possible, from submerging an aircraft and adding sound effects to simulating rain and winds. “This is as realistic as it can get,” said Bouchard. “They put a lot of time and effort into making you feel like you’re actually in a situation where you need to get out.” Coleen Mason, an instructor at Survival Systems USA, placed the realism of Dunker Training into perspective when she spoke about an individual, who had taken the training after he experienced a real life crash. “If you ask a pilot who’s gone through this training and who
Soldiers practice breathing using compressed air during Dunker Training at Survival Systems USA in Groton, Conn. February 6th, 2016. Dunker Training is a two-day exercise created to simulate an aircraft crashing into the water and to train soldiers in the proper survival techniques.
has gone through their own plane crash, they say that this training is very similar to the actual accident,” Mason said. “I know one guy who actually went through our training after a crash, who used this training as rehabilitation so that he can fly again.” The Rhode Island National Guard is the state’s first military responder in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. Soldiers utilize this type of training opportunity to prepare for the possibility of an incident over water and to work together as team in crisis. “In medical evacuations, a lot of times they can get close to the water, less than 100 feet,” said Bouchard. “At that height, every little movement that you make can be catastrophic. It can be you res-
cuing somebody one second to you needing to be rescued the next.” After enduring the survival training for two days, Soldiers would’ve experienced how to utilize the proper procedures to escape a submerged aircraft safely. They would then have these techniques at their disposal in the event their aircraft crashes into the water. “Most people, when they walk away from this training they feel really confident,” said Mason. “They feel like they can take on the world because a
lot of the time they’re confronting something that is a terrible fear.” Soldiers board a replicated Blackhawk during Dunker Training at Survival Systems USA in Groton, Conn. February 6th, 2016. Dunker Training is a two-day exercise created to simulate an aircraft crashing into the water and to train soldiers in the proper survival techniques.
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FEATURE ARTICLE
Brigadier General Christopher Callahan presents the Legion of Merit to Brig Gen Mark E. Jannitto during a retirement ceremony in honor of Brigadier General Mark E. Jannitto held February 6, 206 at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Technical Sergeant Jason Long)
BRIGADIER GENERAL JANNITTO RETIRES By 2nd Lt. Melissa Heintz, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs Officer
Brigadier General Mark E. Jannitto was joined by the men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard, members of Congress and family and friends to pay tribute on the occasion of his retirement. Jannitto served as the Deputy Adjutant General of the Rhode Island National Guard and the Director of Joint Staff, Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard. He also served as the Joint Force Headquarters Commander. Jannitto started his career in the Air Force in 1978 when he commissioned through the Air National Guard’s Academy of Military Sciences. He completed Undergraduate 32 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
Navigator Training at Mather Air Force Base, California later that year. He accumulated more than 5000 flying hours flying on missions through diverse areas such as Central and South America, Africa, the Balkans and the Persian Gulf. He served two tours as a special projects officer at the Pentagon. In September, 2001 he led a team of six individuals to Ground Zero to provide critical incident stress management counseling to more than 1000 police, firefighters, rescue workers and National Guardsmen. Jannitto served in various positions with the Rhode Island National Guard, working as a fulltime member directly for the state
adjutant general. He was the 143d Airlift Wing Quality Manager, and then became the community manager - the Wing’s liaison with local, state and community agencies, state legislature, schools and colleges, businesses and non-profits. He served on the C-130J model acquisition team, traveling frequently to Washington to brief the Rhode Island Congressional delegation on the need for aircraft modernization and the current status of the new aircraft. General Jannitto served three tours in the desert, the last as commander of the 736th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron. This squadron, consisting of 12 Air National Guard crews and 24
active duty crews, was the largest C-130 squadron in the theater of operations at the time. Under his command, the squadron safely carried more than 68,000 passengers, 12 million pounds of cargo, and flew 2,900 combat sorties for both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. During his tenure as Maintenance Group Commander at the 143d Airlift Wing, General Jannitto initiated a C-130J model maintenance-seasoning program to assist foreign air forces in bringing their C-130J model aircraft to operational status. Along with hosting maintainers from Canada, Norway and India, his Maintenance Group sent mobile training teams abroad to provide in-depth instruction for the host nation. At the beginning of his remarks, General Jannitto shared one of his philosophies, “Progress begins one retirement at a time,” he added. “So it’s good to see the Air National Guard making progress today.” And in true General Jannitto fashion, addressing his fellow navigators in the audience he remarked,
“As navigators we perfected the art of our primary job as navigators, which was telling the pilots where to go.” As Jannitto reflected on his career, he said, “I’ve been associated with, through luck, good fortune or intent, with some extraordinary people. People who in big ways and small positively, affect and inspire the lives of others and people’s lives every day. And I thought, if I could surround myself with people like that, I could learn to be like them.” He also stressed the importance of getting out there and making a difference. He also reflected on the Airman’s creed saying, “This is what we believe. This is what drives us. This is who we are and this is what we do. Also, referring to the Air Force Oath of Office each member
raises their right hand and swears to, he added, “This is why we do what we do.” His parting words for the future generation of Rhode Island Air National Guard Airmen were “you have no excuses, you have the examples in front of you. You are part of a great organization, one built brick by brick by those who have gone before us, some of them here today. [An organization] whose reputation is worldwide and whose worldwide reputation we continue to build.” He added, “Don’t wait for somebody to make a difference someday. That someday is now and that somebody is you.” Brigadier General Mark E. Jannitto addresses the men and women of the Rhode Island Air National Guard and the attendees during his retirement ceremony held February 6, 206 at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Technical Sergeant Jason Long)
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A U.S. Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadet grabs his rucksack before loading onto a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with his fellow cadets as Exercise Frozen Ram kicks off at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston, R.I., January 30, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath)
FROZEN RAM By Spc. Kaidian Smith, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
The University of Rhode Island Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps integrated Soldiers from the Rhode Island National Guard for the first time into their annual January field training exercise, Frozen Ram, from January 30th-31st, 2016 at URI’s Alton Jones Campus, West Greenwich, RI. Frozen Ram, a training exercise hosted by the University of Rhode Island ROTC, is designed to stimulate critical thinking in cadets. The cadets are placed in the field with real-world scenarios to test their physical and mental toughness. Frozen Ram provides experience for the cadets as they study to become the future leaders of the U.S. Army. “Frozen Ram is first and foremost a leadership exercise for the Cadets in ROTC,” said Lt. Col. 34 | Ocean State Guardian / Issue #7
RING SOLDIERS
ASSIST URI CADETS
Ryan Whittemore, Professor of Military Science at the University of Rhode Island Army ROTC. “We have all of our contracted cadets come out for a two day exercise and it’s focused on a dynamic environment where they have to make difficult decisions under stressful conditions.” The aim of the two-day training exercise was to simulate a deployment into another country where they would have to make split-second decisions to meet their objectives. Cadets were intentionally deprived of some information by Cadre to see how they would react in certain situations. “The training value behind it is of course ROTC is in the business of developing leaders and more importantly critical thinkers,” said Cadet Ethan Flynn, the battalion’s
Cadet operations and training officer. “Frozen Ram is designed to put cadets in an ambiguous environment and have them learn how to make decisions when not all the information is known.” It won’t be long before these cadets get their commission and are tasked with leading Soldiers. The cadre at URI’s ROTC sought to improve the annual training by incorporating the Rhode Island National Guard into the exercise this year. “We’ve done Frozen Ram twice previously… this year we had the idea to try to integrate the Rhode Island National Guard,” said Whittemore. “We thought this was a way to make it even better and provide a training opportunity for not just our cadets but also for the National Guard Soldiers.”
Whittemore said that overall, the integration of Soldiers into the cadets’ formation went well. Of course there were challenges, more so faced by the cadets. “Some of these cadets are freshman in college and it’s an intimidating thing for them, to deal with enlisted Soldiers when they’ve never done it before,” Whittemore said. “This is the first time we’re taking people from the Rhode Island National Guard and integrating them into our platoons,” said Flynn. “ Flynn expressed that like any other training exercise, they experienced some ups and downs, but once everyone got an understanding of the overall concept, they all stepped up to the plate. He continued to say that the soldiers gave their experience and their training as enlightenment to cadets. Both cadets and soldiers brought skill sets needed to accomplish the mission. According to Flynn, the cadets were enthusiastic
and had a strong desire to learn. A part of becoming an Officer means trying to learn as much as they can from any source. “National Guard Soldiers have proven to be that source in many ways,” Flynn said. “I think our cadets got an appreciation for what noncommissioned officers do,” said Whittemore. “They got an appreciation for what it is going to be like to be a lieutenant. When you’ll go in and you’ll be in charge, but you won’t be the most highly trained, or the subject matter expert.” Taking pride in the quality of training that the cadets received, Whittemore sees the potential in these exercises to strengthen the relationship with the Rhode Island National Guard. Whittemore
Rhode Island Army National Guard Soldiers and University of Rhode Island Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Cadets stack in preparation to breaching an enemy position. Forty-five ROTC Cadets and twenty-five Soldiers participated together in Frozen Ram, an annual exercise in the sprawling 2,300 acre woodlands at URI’s Alton Jones Campus, West Greenwich RI. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael A. Simmons)
hopes that the commanders on both sides of the relationship see these joint exercises as an opportunity for good training, and that both organizations benefit.
University of Rhode Island Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Cadets and Soldiers from the Rhode Island Army National Guard form a defensive perimeter upon exiting the UH-64 Blackhawk aircraft. The ROTC Cadets and Soldiers participated in Frozen Ram, a two-day exercise in the sprawling 2,300 acre woodlands at URI’s Alton Jones Campus, West Greenwich RI. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael A. Simmons)
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