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2| Rhode Island National Guard
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
2016 Open House & Air Show Recap
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Managing Editor: Col. Peter Parente, State Public Affairs Officer Contributing Editor: 1st Lt. Mark Incze, Commander, 110th Public Affairs Detachment Layout & Design: Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia, Public Affairs Specialist
Marlin Shield 2016
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Contributors:
State Public Affairs Office 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs 110th Public Affairs Detachment 1-126th Aviation Battalion Joint Force Headquarters RI RI Military Family Programs
Also in this issue: 7th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Obstacle Course Rhode Island Honors 1SG McKenna 143d Airmen Conduct CDDAR training
RI’s Best Ranger Representative
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Rhode Island National Guard Hosts Earth Day 2016 Military Police Conduct Training at Big River Editorial on the OCS Program Rhode Island National Guard Living Memorial Cyber Patriot 2016 And more...
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COLUMN
A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRCTOR-JOINT STAFF Brigadier General Arthur Floru
I hope you and your families are enjoying the summer season. As the newly appointed Director-Joint Staff, I wanted to convey a few thoughts to our entire Guard family during a time when many of us are recharging for the next challenge and mission. But please keep in mind that while some of us are fortunate enough to take some well-deserved time off to spend with family and friends, many of our Rhode Island National Guard Teammates are deployed or preparing to deploy. First, my family and I would like to thank everyone for the support we have received over the years. We are so proud to be on the Team. As I continue in my new position as Director, Joint Staff, I need to ensure the Soldiers and Airmen of the Rhode Island National Guard are in the best position to succeed. I am confident we will be successful because of the demonstrated Teamwork that the RI National Guard is known for throughout the nation. My number one priority as the Director-Joint Staff is to ensure we have a healthy environment 4| Rhode Island National Guard
for not only the 3200 men and women on our Team but those we collaborate with throughout the year. By continuing to tell “the Guard story,” we will grow as an organization and attract those who want to serve and expand opportunity for personal growth. Our unique capabilities and diversity set us apart and provide a foundation of strength. Our Service members are proud of their work and believe they are part of something that is special and makes a difference. Examples of this pride and selfless service can be seen daily through our actions and commitment, in and out of uniform. We also serve as an example to our state within each city and town. We must continue to commit ourselves to a changing culture that develops, mentors, and trains our men and women through programs that foster diversity, opportunity, and values. To accomplish this requires a Team approach. Our leadership can continue to set goals and priorities but it is up to each Soldier and Airmen to internalize the values that have set us apart. Our culture is diverse and spans several generations. This adds value to our organization and provides a strong mentoring roadmap for success to many who have joined our
ranks. Our values define our culture and these values are not negotiable. Societal changes, healthy debate, countless news forums and opinions are now part of our lives and in many cases enhance a healthy democratic and free system. Healthy debate is a value we all defend and the constant flow of soundbites, points of view, instant messaging and numerous social media platforms are an essential part of our global environment. However, they can never cloud our focus or duty we have as Service members. Our mission as our nation’s warfighters must always drive our goals and objectives. It’s what we do and what we are expected to do. Our Team provides ready forces every day, regardless of the ever-changing environment, because of our professionalism and dedication. It is an honor to continue serving in the RI National Guard. It is especially gratifying to have worked with some of our nation’s finest Soldiers and Airmen. Please enjoy the remainder of the summer and let’s take a moment to reflect on our values, refocus on our objectives and always keep our deployed service members and their families in our thoughts.
JFHQ CONDUCTS ANNUAL TRAINING AT FORT McCOY by Staff Sgt. Jennifer McCoy, Joint Force Headquarters
From pulling into the gate at Quonset Point, to a safe return home, Rhode Island’s Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ) endured intense training and comradery-building during annual training at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. Instructions and accommodations on the first day exceeded all standards. Upon arrival to the flight line at Quonset the Soldiers of JFHQ’s loaded onto C-130J’s manned by members of the Rhode Island Air National Guard. After a short flight to Ft McCoy everyone worked together to download equipment and gear onto vehicles provided by the advance team. The advance team ensured barracks were established prior to arrival which allowed the detachment to occupy the classroom and begin training within an hour. Classroom instruction began with subject matter experts preparing Soldiers for the upcoming land navigation courses. Despite humid weather, thick brush, destroyed markers, and the potential of rattlesnakes, the Soldiers of the JFHQ embarked on two daytime iterations of land navigation training, consisting of three points and one nighttime iteration consisting of two points. Every Soldier safely and successfully completed these tasks without incident.
Tired, yet motivated, JFHQ’s started day three in the classroom where they conducted their primary marksmanship instruction in preparation for the M-16 range. Following the instruction, and thanks to an impeccable range, all Soldiers were able to zero their weapons safely and timely. Although the inclement weather temporarily shut down operations, the range was able to reopen and ran smoothly long into the night. The pistol range on the following day enabled the Soldiers to become familiar with the M-9. Weapons cleaning provided down time to prepare physically for the following day. Rising before the sun, a unit “fun run” was led by Maj. King and 1st Sgt. Lyons. Sgt. 1st Class Gibbs skillfully called cadence keeping the Soldiers motivated and in step. Once heart rates were up and motivation was high, JFHQ transitioned to the leadership reaction course. The teams worked together to cross the challenging obstacles by stepping, lunging,
lifting, and pulling to successfully complete each task. Organization, leadership, and communication enabled the Soldiers of JFHQ’s to step away from their normal routine and accomplish every basic warrior task that was required of them. They were able to push their limits both physically and mentally during this training period as well as improve the esprit de corps of the organization. After an entertaining MWR event and an early C-130J flight home, JFHQ’s annual training was a complete success and enjoyed by all members. Mission complete!
A member of the Rhode Island National Guard Joint Force Headquarters traverses an obstacle during the unit’s annual training in Fort McCoy, Wisconsin in June 2016. (Photo courtesy of 1st Sgt. Lee-Ann Lyons, Joint Force Headquarters)
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FEATURE ARTICLE
by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The 26th annual Rhode Island National Guard (RING) Open House Air Show was held this year on June 11 and 12, at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island. Each year the RING opens its gates to the public for an opportunity to say “thank you” to its neighbors. The Open House and Airshow gives the citizens of Rhode Island an inside look into the Guard’s numerous capabilities, while treating them to a free air show of military and civilian performers. Thanks to the hard work of the men and women of the RING, planning the 2016 show was so smooth that some people feared something may have been missed. While that was not the case, this year’s event did not come without some unique challenges. 6| Rhode Island National Guard
Just over one week before the show, the United States Air Force Thunderbirds were scheduled to be at the RING Open House Air Show and suffered an unfortunate mishap in Colorado Springs, CO. Fortunately, Maj. Alex Turner, the pilot of the number 6 jet that crashed, was able to eject
safely. Following the incident a safety investigation was necessary, and on Tuesday prior to our show the RING was informed that the Thunderbirds would not be able to attend. But the show must go on and the rest of the scheduled performers, along with the R.I. team, worked together to
A parachutist from the United States Southern Command kicked off the 2016 Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show by jumping with the United States’ colors on June 11, 2016 at the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Simmons)
adjust as necessary. Weather was not entirely cooperative, and the show had to end early on Saturday, but the sun was shining on Sunday and the show, in fact, went on. In contrast to the challenges faced, one of the many success stories from the 2016 Open House Air Show was the addition of commuter train service to the event. In hopes of reducing the amount of vehicle traffic, one of the biggest challenges faced every year, the Rhode Island Department of
Transportation partnered with the National Guard Association of Rhode Island and for the first time in the 26 year history of the show a train service was offered to the public. Patrons who took the train were very pleased with the service and the Department of Transportation expressed interest in bringing the service back for the 2017 show. To date, the National Guard Association of Rhode Island has been able to donate more than $2 million dollars to
A member of A. Company, 19th Special Forces Group assists an air show spectator as she tries on various pieces of special forces equipment at the 2016 Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show on June, 12, 2016 at the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Simmons)
charity from the Rhode Island National Guard Open House Air Show, and will add to that amount this year. The success of the show is owed to the Soldiers and Airmen of the Rhode Island National Guard, the show staff, countless volunteers, show sponsors, and the support received from Rhode Island’s elected officials and its citizens. As always, thank you.
Members of F. Company, 1-126th Aviation Battalion demonstrate a casualty extraction during the combined arms demonstration at the 2016 Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show on June, 12, 2016 at the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Simmons)
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O.C.S. By 2nd Lt. Rebecca Gard, 1-126th Aviation Battalion
The 243d Regional Training Institute at Camp Varnum in Narragansett, Rhode Island is home to the Rhode Island State Traditional Officer Candidate School (OCS). The mission of OCS includes the development of Warrior Leaders in the skills necessary to lead, train, and mentor Soldiers. It is here that Soldiers of different ranks, backgrounds, and years of service will test their mettle by pursuing the responsibility of becoming an officer in the Rhode Island Army National Guard (RIARNG). While the Rhode Island OCS program is a long and demanding course, the quality of instruction and development will set graduates up for success as they begin their careers as commissioned officers. The four phases of OCS cover 16 months and follow the traditional “one weekend a month, two weeks a year” schedule. General Dwight D. Eisenhower once wrote, “the one quality that can be developed by studious reflection and practice is the leadership of men.” The course is designed to allow time for many lessons to be implemented into the training. Both on and off drills, candidates work with their 8| Rhode Island National Guard
peers, plan and prepare for the product of their program is not following training missions and for the benefit of the officer canserve in various student leader- didate alone, but for the future ship assignments. This reflects of the RIARNG. This enormous the process that will occur as an responsibility dictates that the officer and leader within a unit. training standards and expecta Once commissioned, for- tions must be high. mer classmates serve alongside The R.I. OCS program is each other as officers in the a fully accredited training inRIARNG. This is an additionstitution. What sets R.I.’s proal advantage of the R.I. State gram apart is what is included traditional program. My classin the program beyond what is mates and I, while assigned to required. For example, guest different branches, units, and speakers from across the Army positions around the state, have have been invited to share regularly shared our experienc- with candidates while they are es, knowledge, studying at “I cannot speak and lessons the Naval War learned to help highly enough College in each become Newport, R.I.. better officers. of the quality of Professional The reading books training and develbiggest benand articles, efit of the R.I. opment available and associated OCS program to those intereststudent briefs, is the cadre. have been ed in becoming The cadre’s added to the mission is to class requireofficers offered guide and ments to drive through the R.I. develop quality home the future leaders Traditional OCS importance of for the RIGeneral Eisenprogram.” ARNG. This is hower’s “studievident in the ous reflection experience, qualifications, and and practice [of] leadership.” passion that each brings to the Most importantly, cadre take task. They each know that the their own time to mentor past
graduates. No one element demonstrates their commitment to developing leaders more than guiding new officers after commissioning. Completing the RIARNG OCS program gives each new officer the tools to be successful as a leader and as a Soldier. The most important lessons the cadre teach are the responsibilities of leadership, the care and passion it requires, and to always take care of Soldiers. This does not diminish the physical, academic, and leadership tasks that are required to graduate. What the cadre teach is that it takes all these pieces, together, to be successful. When I attended my branch’s Basic Officer Leader Course, my course included
newly commissioned officers from across the country, representing each Army component and commissioning source. I again relied on the lessons and training I received at OCS. I cannot speak highly enough of the quality of training and development available to those interested in becoming officers offered through the RIARNG traditional OCS program. It will set graduates up for success, provide the tools for leadership development, and build a foundation for a career in the RIARNG. If you’re interested in seeking a new career path or believe you have what it takes to be an officer and future leader of the RIARNG, then consider the Of-
ficer Candidate School conducted at the 243rd Regional Training Institute, Camp Varnum, Narragansett. This State OCS program follows a traditional M-Day schedule by completing Screening Board (MAR 17) Phase 0 at Camp Varnum (APR 17-JUN 17), Phase I at Camp Niantic, CT (2 weeks – JUL 17), Phase II at Camp Varnum (AUG 17 – JUN 18), Phase III at Camp Fretterd, MD (2 weeks – JUL 18), AUG 18 Graduate/ Commission as 2LT in RIARNG. Contact the OCS Company Commander, Maj. Jonathan Elliott at jonathan.m.elliott12. mil@mail.mil or the 243rd RTI at #401-275-4700 for further information on pre-requisites.
An officer candidate with the 243d Regional Training Institute’s Officers Candidate School waits to board a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter at Camp Varnum in Narragansett, R.I. prior to training. (Photo provided by Maj. Jonathan Elliott)
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FEATURE ARTICLE
By Captain Jarred Rickey, 1-126th Aviation Battalion
MARLIN SH 10| Rhode Island National Guard
A Bahamian Soldier guides a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter manned by members of the 1-126th Aviation Battalion, Rhode Island Army National Guard, into position during a sling load training event in the Bahamas during Exercise Marlin Shield 2016. (Photo provided by Cpt. Jarred Rickey)
HIELD 2016 By Cpt. Jarred Rickey, 1-126th Aviation Battalion
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A group of Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation (GSAB) deployed to the Bahamas on 28 April 2016, in support of Exercise Marlin Shield 2016. The 23 Soldiers from Task Force Wolfpack self-deployed their three UH-60 helicopters from Quonset State Airport to the United States Navy Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center on Andros Town, the Bahamas. The aviation task force, commanded by Captain Jarred Rickey, provided rotary wing aviation support for the Ground Force Commander from April 30 to May 16, 2016. Marlin Shield 16 is a bilateral, counter-terrorist exercise aimed at improving interop-
erability between the Royal Bahamian Defence Force, US Northern Command and the US Special Operations Command North. The Rhode Island Army National Guard was invited to participate in the exercise to provide valuable aviation support due to the remoteness of the exercise locations, and to enhance our state partnership with the Bahamas. Planning for the mission began in July of 2015. During the two week exercise, task force Soldiers participated in every aspect of the exercise. Soldiers were tasked to work in the Special Operations Command North Joint Operations Center on Coral Harbour
base at the Royal Bahamian Defense Force Headquarters. These Soldiers were the link between the aviation unit, the Ground Force Commander and the Combined Exercise Control Group. In 15 days the task force flew 202 hours while conducting more than 50 missions. The aircraft sling loaded more than 19,000 pounds of all-terrain vehicles, tools, construction material, and life support and communications equipment to several island locations in the northern Bahamas. The main efforts for the exercise were three target assaults over a nine day period. Task Force Wolfpack provided 24 hour casualty evacuation
A U.S. Navy vessel cuts through the ocean as a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the 1-126th Aviation Battalion fly’s off in the distance. (Photo provided by Cpt. Jarred Rickey)
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support for the exercise participants and airborne command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance during each target assault. The task force also conducted casualty evacuation cold-load training with the Royal Bahamian Defense Force commandos and supported movements from the Bahamian Government, including the Royal Bahamian Defense Force acting Commandant, Captain Tellis Bethel, and Brigadier General Christopher Callahan, the Adjutant General of Rhode Island. The exercise concluded May 14, 2016. The task force redeployed on May 16 and returned to Quonset State Airport on May 18.
Twenty-three Soldiers from Task Force Wolfpack self-deployed their three UH-60 helicopters on April 28, 2016 from the Quonset State Airport to the United States Navy Atlantic Undersea Test and Evacuation Center on Andros Town, Bahamas. (Photo provided by Cpt. Jarred Rickey)
A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter manned by members of the 1-126th Aviation Battalion, Rhode Island Army National Guard, maneuvers into position during a sling load training event in the Bahamas during Exercise Marlin Shield 2016. (Photo provided by Cpt. Jarred Rickey)
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MILITARY POLICE TRAIN AT BIG RIVER (Right) Soldiers from the 169th Military Police Company evacuate simulated casualties from a simulated UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter crash site at the Big River Management Area in Coventry, R.I. on April 2, 2016. This lane also provided the Soldiers a chance to move as a platoon and react to various simulated ambushes until they reached the crash site. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
(Left) Soldiers from the 169th Military Police Company emerge from the woodline of the Big River Management Area as they approach a simulated downed UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter on April 2, 2016. The platoon would moments later secure the crash site while performing emergency aid to simulated crash survivors before evacuating them to safety for medical treatment. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
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282d COMBAT
COMMUNICATIONS AIRMEN AWARDED by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Three Airmen from the 282d Combat Communications Squadron, North Smithfield, Rhode Island, were recognized by Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and Rhode Island National Guard leadership at a ceremony held Sunday, May 15, 2016 at the North Smithfield Air Guard Station. The 282d Combat Communications Squadron Airmen of the year are; for the Airman category, SrA John M. Roias, for the Non-Commissioned Officer Category, Staff Sgt. Matthew J. McNamee, and for the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Category, Master Sgt. Glenn McGlynn. Each year the Air National Guard recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly in the areas of professionalism, leadership and personal achievement. Individuals are selected in the categories of Airman of the Year, Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, and Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year. “The Airmen honored here today are the selfless and dedicated citizens within our state
that inspire confidence and provide us with an example of what can be accomplished with hard work,” said Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo. “I am truly humbled and honored to be a part of today’s ceremony honoring some of our organization’s best,” said Brigadier General Christopher Callahan, Adjutant General, Commanding General, Rhode Island National Guard, “I am proud of their accomplishments and want to thank their families
for supporting their efforts.” “Our people are responsible for the success of our mission,” said Major Amalia McCaffrey, 282d Combat Communications Squadron Commander, “It is a great pleasure for us to honor these individuals for their outstanding achievements.” Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, Captain General of the RI National Guard, presents Senior Airman John Roias the Airman of the Year certificate of recognition on May 15, 2016 at the North Smithfield Air National Guard Station in North Smithfield, R.I. (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller)
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RHODE ISLAND NATIONAL GUARD
LIVING MEMORIAL by 1st Lt. Mark Incze, Public Affairs Specialist
The Rhode Island National Guard (RING) can trace its lineage back more than 375 years. In 2007, the Rhode Island National Guard Retirees Association decided to create a monument to raise awareness of the organization. “We had been around for so long that people didn’t remember us,” said Bob Urquhart, RING Retirees Association Chairman. “We wanted to build something that would put some visibility on the National Guard in the state.” Five years after the original concept was adopted, the Rhode Island National Guard Living Memorial was dedicated in the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery, Exeter R.I., in 2012. The primary source of fund raising is selling engraved bricks around the statue, but 16| Rhode Island National Guard
much of the memorial is owed to donations of labor and products. Companies donated over $40,000.00 in material and labor. The RING Retirees raised over $112, 998.00 including state grants, the sale of benches and were the recipients of numerous donation. “People came out of the woodwork and were so quick to say “what can I do to help”?” said Urquhart. “That blew me away. We weren’t expecting that.” Donations came from the across the businesses and associations of Rhode Island but it was the RING Retirees Association whose hard work that brought the Living Memorial to life. “It was a labor of love,” stated Urquhart. “We worked very hard to bring it about.”
The RING Retirees wanted to build a quiet place for rest and contemplation. Today, the Living Memorial stands serene against the backdrop of the Exeter forests, teaming with life and sound. The stark contrast of stone, bronze and forest, puts a finishing touch on the contemplative mood started by the stone benches, arranged in a circular pattern overlooking the forest. The upkeep of the memorial relies upon ongoing donations of time and effort from the National Guard Retirees Association, who dutifully remove weeds and debris that appear each spring from the brick and cobblestone. Their reward is a memorial unlike any other in any other state.
Rhode Island Governor Gina M. Raimondo unveils the 1st Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna Memorial Highway sign on April 1, 2016 at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol, R.I. The sign will be used to mark a stretch of highway between the Mt. Hope Bridge and Warren Bridge. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller)
RI HONORS SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGANISTAN by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Rhode Island Governor Gina M. Raimondo signed a bill naming the 1st Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna Memorial Highway on April 1, 2016 at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol, R.I. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller)
At a ceremony held at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol, R.I., April 1, 2016, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, Captain General of the R.I. National Guard signed a bill into law naming the stretch of Rt. 114 in Bristol/Warren between the Mount Hope and Warren bridges “The 1st Sergeant P. Andrew McKenna Memorial Highway.” 1st Sgt. McKenna, who grew up in RI, was killed in August 2015 in a suicide bombing while serving with the U.S. Army Special Forces in Kabul Afghanistan. In attendance were McKenna’s parents, R.I. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, R.I. Representative Jim Langevin and several members of the R.I. House and Senate.
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2016 by 1st Lt. Mark Incze, Public Affairs Specialist
On Wednesday, May 25, 2016, the 2016 Cyber Patriot Award Ceremony and Banquet was hosted by the Rhode Island National Guard Recruiting Battalion in honor of more than 20 participating Cyber Patriot Teams at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Warwick, Rhode Island. The event celebrated the first place finish of the Roger’s High School team, from Newport, Rhode Island, and featured citations from Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo. The Cyber Patriot Competition is a national level competition for middle and high school students and is sponsored by the Air Force Association. It is part of their National Youth Cyber Education Program, which also includes an introductory elementary school component. The goal of the competition is to introduce students to the field of cybersecurity, and expose them early to 18| Rhode Island National Guard
some of the foundational principles. This year, 111 students throughout R.I. formed 20 teams, which were paired with an industry partner for sponsorship and ongoing mentorship. Each team, together with a coach engaged in a cyber security exercise weekly. On a monthly basis, teams participate in competitions where they receive a virtual image and have to identify and fix the vulnerabilities. Teams gained and lost points throughout the process, which helped track progress and performance. “Throughout this outreach initiative, the Rhode Island National Guard (RING) has been a pivotal and enthusiastic partner. Both the Army Computer Network Defense Team under Lt. Col. Mike Tetreault and the Air 102nd Network Warfare Squadron under Maj. Christopher Allen have been instrumental in making this competition successful in Rhode
Island,” said Meghan Martinez, an organizer of the competition. Other sponsors of the annual competition include the Rhode Island State Police Cyber Crimes Unit, National Grid, the Town of Middletown, Roger Williams University, New England Tech, University of Rhode Island, Salve Regina University, and the Tech Collective. “During this year’s competition, Chief Bob Hewett of the CND Team had two students he was mentoring enlist in the RING. Inspired by Chief Hewett’s leadership and dynamic with his team, Lt. Col. Stephen Guertin and Maj. Jason Lafferty were the driving force behind the wonderful event. They share our belief that the Cyber Patriot competition should be viewed and celebrated just as any sporting or other extra-curricular achievement, and helped us raise the bar for future years,” said Martinez.
Airmen from the 143d Airlift Wing conduct Crashed Damaged or Disabled Aircraft Recovery training on March 16, 2016 at Volk Field Air National Guard Base in Wisconsin. (Photo provided by the 143d Airlift Wing)
CDDAR TRAINING FOR RI AIRMEN by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Airmen from the 143d Airlift Wing Crash Damaged or Disabled Aircraft Recovery (CDDAR) Team performed their annual training requirement at Volk Field Air National Guard Base March 15-18, 2016. Volk Field Air National Guard Base (ANGB) provides facilities and equipment for Airmen to perform hands-on training. The Airmen are required to perform CDDAR training annually, but do not have the facilities or equipment available for handson training locally. Sending Airmen to one of the Air Force schoolhouses for annual or refresher training can be very expensive. When the 143d Maintenance Group learned of the availability of the facilities, equipment and expertise at Volk Field, they could not pass on the opportunity. The team was flown out to Volk Field by the
143d Airlift Wing, and were met by an enthusiastic training team and terrible weather. But that didn’t stop the team from getting straight to work. During the review from the first training day, after dealing with constant rain and very heavy wind conditions, Staff Sgt. Kalyn Addessi, CDDAR team member, said, “The weather wasn’t too bad because it was worst case scenario.” Senior Airman Chelsea Lebron added, “It’s more realistic [than] what we have back home,” referring to the unpredictable Rhode Island weather. Technical Sergeant Ian Day, who has been a member of the 143d CDDAR team for more than 10 years, and had not seen a more successful training event, spoke about the training and resources the Wisconsin Air National Guard provides at their facility, “It has been 10 years
since I’ve done this training and out of all the scenarios we’ve had at home, this is the only one that I’ve been to that actually brought to light all the training that I had 10 years ago.” Some of the members that attended the training had not been to the formal schoolhouse yet. Tech Sgt. Jarred Surprenant said it was a, “great experience for the new guys. They can learn a lot out here before they go to school,” adding that some of the members on the team that had just gone to the formal training found the training at Volk Field better. Overall, the training was a huge success and the team hopes to hold additional training events at Volk Field in the future.
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A volunteer presents a sexual assault and rape prevention themed question to an Airman participating in the 7th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Obstacle Course Challenge on May 15, 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, R.I. The event is typically held in April during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but was postponed to May due to inclement weather. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kristi McDonald)
7th ANNUAL OBSTACLE COURSE CHALLENGE FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS
A team of Airmen traverse an obstacle during the 7th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Obstacle Course Challenge on May 15, 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, R.I. Each year, during Sexual Assault Awareness month, the Rhode Island National Guard Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team host this event to bring awareness to the members of the RI National Guard about Sexual Assault statistics and prevention. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kristi McDonald)
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Airmen Rivera and Millette of the Rhode Island Air National Guard traverse an obstacle during the 7th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Obstacle Course Challenge on May 15, 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, R.I. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kristi McDonald)
A team of Soldiers run to their next obstacle as the participate in the 7th Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Obstacle Course Challenge on May 15, 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, R.I. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kristi McDonald)
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FEATURE ARTICLE
Captain Jose Moreno and his partner Sgt. 1st. Class Troy Conrad of the Pennsylvania National Guard crosses the finish line at the 2016 David E. Grange, Jr. Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Georgia. (Photo provided by Cpt. Jose Moreno)
by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
Many soldiers can say that they have competed in a Spartan Race or a civilian obstacle course open to the general public. Fewer can say that they have competed in the Best Ranger Competition; a mentally and physically grueling non-stop, three-day challenge hosted by the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, Georgia. Most recently, fewer than 100 Soldiers can say that they have participated in both races simultaneously. One of those Soldiers is Rhode Island’s own, Cpt. Jose Moreno, commanding officer of the 182nd Infantry. “Friday morning and throughout the night we had done a lot of rucking, running, swimming, shooting, warrior tasks, and Ranger tasks, with no sleep,” 22| Rhode Island National Guard
said Moreno. “So, right after Like all things achieved in Ranger tasks, we were shipped the military, Moreno didn’t right out to the Spartan race.” accomplish the race alone. In Moreno said that although order to compete in the Best the Spartan race was open to Ranger Competition, Soldiers the public, civilian competitors are paired up in two-man were not allowed to begin their teams and must cross the race until after the Rangers. finish line together; many times “It was my Soldiers are first Spartan “I’m using these paired up with race,” said other Soldiers lessons to motiMoreno. from outside Despite it vate and train my of their home being his first unit. Moreno guys.” Spartan race, finished his Moreno has most recent competed in the Best Ranger race with, Sgt. 1st Class Troy competition three times. ComConrad, from the Pennsylvania peting in 2013, he placed 25th, Army National Guard. but was unable to complete the “I met [Conrad] in Novemcompetition. In 2014, he came ber,” said Moreno. “He and I in 19th place, and most recent- clicked right away.” ly he finished the race in 8th. During the month of No-
vember, retired Sgt. Maj. John Burns, U.S. Army National Guard coach for the Best Ranger Competition, assessed potential racing candidates and paired each soldier up based on his assessment. “We had no idea we were going to get paired until January,” said Moreno. The National Guard Bureau (NGB) provided funds and resources for Moreno and seven other Soldiers to represent the Army National Guard. Moreno traveled down to Ft. Benning during the month of January, and trained with Conrad for three and a half months prior to the race. “The only other units that really trained there were the Ranger Training Brigade (RTB) and the 3rd Ranger Battalion,” said Moreno. “It really gave us a leg up.” Having a feel for the lay of the land was a great advantage, but inevitably a huge element for successfully completing the competition came down to grit and determination.
“During the first day you start off with about 100 Rangers, 50 teams, and at the end of the competition, we ended up with 46 Soldiers, 23 teams,” said Moreno. “The attrition rate there speaks volumes.” Many Soldiers drop out of the race for various reasons. Injury, fatigue and lack of sleep are often common reasons. “You don’t get any sleep,” said Moreno. “Day one is just non-stop physical events, you try to get some sleep here and there, but it just doesn’t work out. Day two there’s some down time where you can get some shut eye for half an hour or 45 minutes tops. Then it’s a non-stop continuation until Sunday afternoon at the end of the competition.” Moreno said that what kept him going was knowing that Conrad was relying on him. “That’s what it really comes down to,” said Moreno. “You can fail yourself, but are you gonna fail the guy that’s depending on you? Those were my very specific motivations
to keep me moving during the Ranger Competition.” Moreno said that every Best Ranger Competition he’s endured has taught him invaluable lessons, which have helped him grow personally and professionally. “I’m using these lessons to motivate and train my guys,” said Moreno. “Every time I go down there, I’m always pumped. You’re surrounded by guys who are A type personalities. You’re surrounded by guys striving to be the best and that’s very contagious; you bring that back to your home unit.” Moreno’s advice for Soldiers looking to challenge themselves in the Best Ranger Competition is to first have confidence. “You’ve got to trust yourself and your abilities 100 percent, because that’s what’s going to keep you moving forward,” said Moreno. “Any shadow of a doubt will just fail yourself and your partner. You have to have 100 percent confidence in yourself to go in.” Moreno said that given another opportunity he would compete in the Best Ranger Competition again. “All these attempts weren’t in vain,” said Moreno. “They were all stepping stones towards a win.” Captain Jose Moreno of Team 48 prepares for the next event in the 2016 David E. Grange, Jr. Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Georgia. Moreno and Team 48 teammate Sgt. 1st. Class Troy Conrad from the Pennsylvania National Guard finished 8th out of 51 teams. (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Kristi McDonald)
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by Mrs. Holland Tulip, Rhode Island National Guard Child and Youth Program Coordinator
On Friday, April 22, 2016, the Rhode Island Army National Guard’s Environmental Branch and the Child and Youth Program joined forces to hold the first ever Bring Your Child to Work Day and Earth Day celebration. 20 Army and Air National Guard members, along with 29 of their children, ages six to 13, participated in a number of fun-filled activities aimed to engage participants and to provide education on how they can make a positive impact on the environment and their community. Families rotated through three stations where they participated in hands-on learning opportunities all focused around the importance of environmental 24| Rhode Island National Guard
stewardship. Biodegradable birdfeeders were crafted to provide food for birds and other wildlife in the area. Children were also able to upcycle plastic food containers into personized planters to take home. This stressed the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling Rhode Island National Guard Enviornmental Coordinator Elizabeth Stefanik helps service members and their families prepare to plant flowers during Bring Your Child to Work for Earth Day 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwhich, R.I. on April 22, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
products. It encouraged the children to consider growing their own food. The children then ventured with staff members into a wooded area to collect natural objects such as braches, rocks, leaves, and flowers to create their own art such as collages
(Left) Major Jason Dean and his son prepare biodegradable planters during Bring Your Child to Work for Earth Day 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwhich, R.I. on April 22, 2016. The children and their parents got to participate in various organic and biodegradable crafting stations during the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia) (Below) Rhode Island National Guard service members and their families participated in various organic crafting opportunities during Bring Your Child to Work for Earth Day 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwhich, R.I. on April 22, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
and mobiles. This opened their eyes to all the hidden beauty in nature. The families had a chance to get their hands dirty, planting flowers and shrubs in our Camp Fogarty Memorial Garden to create an aesthetically pleasing environment and to inspire an appreciation of the environment for those who visit the property. During this activity, families learned about carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and gardening techniques. Many thanks go out to all the volunteers who helped make this event possible, both the families and staff members had a wonderful day together. Just as the beautiful flowers and shrubs continue to grow around Camp Fogarty, we all look forward to the continued growth of this important event! With the help of Rhode Island National Guard Enviornmental Coordinator Elizabeth Stefanik service members and their families plant flowers during Bring Your Child to Work for Earth Day 2016 at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwhich, R.I. on April 22, 2016. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
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RETIRED AIRMAN, BUT NOT A RETIRED WINGMAN by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The Wingman concept is still a way of life for retired Tech Sgt. Vincent Laquale. Sgt. Laquale who served in the 143d Airlift Wing’s Engine Shop, but has been retired for over a decade. That does not stop him from
providing a service he has provided to his fellow Airmen in maintenance since the early 1980’s. “There used to be another guy,” said Laquale, “but he retired and they said to me, ‘do you want to do it?’ so I said,
Scissors, clippers, brushes and other tools used to cut hair rest on a table after being prepped by Tech Sgt. (Ret.) Vincent Laquale. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller)
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sure.” This was when the 143d Airlift Wing was still based at TF Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island. Since then, Sgt. Laquale has been coming to the base, first Green, then Quonset, on the Thursday before the drill weekends and sharing his barber skills so Airmen can get a good haircut before the drill, between their work periods. Tech Sgt. Laquale comes from a line of barbers. His father was a barber and all of his brothers had to learn the trade to work in the family business. “I did it all through high school,” he said, “until I joined the Navy.” He came back from the Navy and worked as a barber again
Tech Sgt. (Ret.) Vincent Laquale cuts a fellow Airman’s hair during a drill weekend at the Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, R.I. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller)
before joining the Air Guard as a traditional guardsman and getting a full time job working for the City of Cranston. Now, he has retired from both, and he said that coming to the base to give haircuts gives him some-
thing to do. “I keep tabs on my buddies in the unit,” he added. He enjoys coming down each month, catching up with the Airmen, meeting new Airmen, and seeing how everyone is doing.
Air Force Instruction 362618, The Enlisted Force Structure, better known as the “Little Brown Book” says, in paragraph 3.1.6. and again in paragraph 4.1.6., “Know and understand the Wingman concept: Airmen take care of other fellow Airmen. Being a good wingman means you share a bond with other Airmen. You can be counted on to support each other, in all situations, both on- and off-duty.” Retired Tech Sgt. Vincent Laquale takes that passage one-step further, into retirement.
QUONSET AIR BASE CIVIC LEADER TOUR by Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
Members of the Rhode Island Defense Economy Commission visited Quonset Air National Guard Base, May 11, 2016. The primary focus of the event was to present the results of a study on the Economic Impact of the Rhode Island National Guard to the state economy. The members were also briefed about the mission of the Rhode Island National Guard and the 143d Airlift Wing by Colonel Arthur Floru, RIANG Chief of Staff, and Colonel Joseph Francoeur, 143d Operations Group Commander.
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WHY I SERVE IN THE MILITARY by Cpt. Aaron Rozovsky, Chaplain Candidate, 43d Military Police Brigade
A lot of people ask me why I do it, why I’m in the Army. In the Spring of 2016 I finished serving two wonderful years as the Student Rabbi for Temple B’nai Israel of Petoskey, Michigan. Petoskey is a beautiful little town of 5,000 nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, surrounded by massive birch bark forests, and located 40 miles west of
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the Mackinac Bridge, which connects the upper and lower peninsulas. It’s peaceful. It’s tranquil. It’s quiet. The air you breathe is fresh, and the people you meet are some of the most welcoming and friendly as you could ask for the world over. The shul (a Jewish house of worship) is located on the corner of Michigan Street and
Waukazoo Avenue. On the second corner is Parr Memorial Baptist Church. On the third corner is the First Church of Christ, Scientist. And on the fourth is the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Parish. Allow this to sink in for a minute. Four different religious institutions, who all see God and faith differently, dwelling together in harmony and friend-
ship. Most Americans wouldn’t children, and their children, to think twice about this. Why? enjoy the same hard fought Because thankfully it’s such a liberties that I have had all my common sight in this land of life. ours that we accept it without I want them to be able to question. wear a kippot in public, build Sadly a sukkah on “...I want my chilthough, much their front of the world lawn, affix a dren, and their isn’t like Amermezuzah to children, to enjoy ica. In many their doorpost, the same hard places, your or light the religion, your hanukkiah fought liberties political affilin their front that I have had all windows as iation, your race, could I have done my life.” have serious without any consequencfear or retribues. In many places, diversity tion. I want them to be able to isn’t a rich cultural tapestry that be best friends with a Roman illuminates people’s lives, but is Catholic from Rhode Island, a rather the cause of hatred and Methodist from Oklahoma, and genocide. a Kosovar Muslim from VirginA minute’s walk from the ia, as I have been, without it synagogue is the town’s war being a crime. I want them to memorial where the names walk into a synagogue, look of Petoskey’s fallen sons are at the church or mosque next forever enshrined. One of door, wave to the priest, pastor, those who is remembered is Navy SEAL Senior Chief Petty Officer Heath Robinson. Senior Chief Robinson was killed in the mountains of Afghanistan when the helicopter he was riding in was shot down on August 6th, 2011. I didn’t know the Senior Chief, but I was in Afghanistan the day he was killed. I would go often to the memorial, kneel down, put my hand on his name, and simply say “thank you”. I do what I do, whether it’s carrying a 50 lb rucksack up the side of a mountain, honing my warrior skills, or missing numerous family and religious events due to deployment and training, because I want my
or imam, and not think there is anything weird about that. I want them to be free, as I have been free. We have worked extremely hard to get where we are today as a country, and it hasn’t come easy. A lot of that price has been paid by incredible men and women. Each generation has not only served in the armed forces, but also sacrificed their bodies, their minds, their spirits, their youthful days, and even their lives for the rest of us. We live in the land of the free, and it remains that way because of brave men and women like Heath Robinson. That’s why I do it. The memorial plaque of Senior Chief Petty Officer Heath Robinson, a Special Warfare Operator with Navy Seals is displayed in Veteran’s Park in Petoskey, Michigan. Robinson, 34 of Detroit, Michigan was killed in Afghanistan after being shot down on August 6, 2011. (Photo courtesy of Cpt. Aaron Rozovsky)
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CONGRATULATIONS!
Brigadier General Arthur J. Floru, former 143d Airlift Wing Commander, is pinned by his family at a promotion ceremony held at the Rhode Island State House on June 24, 2016. Brig. Gen. Floru is now the Director - Joint Staff, Rhode Island National Guard. Ocean State Guardian |31