Summer 2014
Rhode Island National Guard
The Ocean State Guardian Summer 2014
www.ri.ng.mil www.ri.ng.mil
IN THIS ISSUE... Taking a Look Back, and Stepping Forward
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The World is Watching
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National Guard aids Boston Marathon Law Enforcement Efforts
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Colonel Germani Retires after 34 years of Dedicated Service
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Diversity: Leadership Experience
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The Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall
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Leading the Way The Governor of Rhode Island and the Captain General of the Rhode Island National Guard
The Honorable Lincoln D. Chafee
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We’re Back: The 2014 Open House & Airshow
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The Experience of a Lifetime: Military Duty in Israel
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Colonel Donnelly Assumes Command
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CERFP Conducts Local Maritime Exercise
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LTC Caruolo visits Stony Lane
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Rhode Warriors Return Home
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Sexual Assault Awareness Month Confidence Course Challenge
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1/143rd Infantry at Big River
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Colonel Burns Promoted to Brigadier General
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Congratulations: The NCO and Soldier of the Year
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Brigadier General Keene Retires
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Look who got Promoted
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The Adjutant General of Rhode Island and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard
MG Kevin R. McBride Director of Joint Staff Rhode Island National Guard
BG Charles E. Petrarca Jr. Deputy Adjutant General Rhode Island National Guard
Brig. Gen. Marcus Jannitto Assistant Adjutant General for Air Rhode Island National Guard
Brig. Gen. Matthew Dzialo Managing Editor State Public Affairs Officer
LTC Peter Parente Public Affairs Specialists
2LT Megan Burmeister SGT Peter Ramaglia Public Affairs Office (401) 275-4038 Feedback on The OSG content, please email: ngristaffpao@ng.army.mil _____________________________
Summer 2014
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE (401) 275-4038
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ON THE COVER The 2014 Rhode Island National Guard’s Open House & Airshow is back on! Cover composed by Army Sgt. Peter Ramaglia
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From the Director of Joint Staff & Land Component Commander Brigadier General Charles E. Petrarca Jr.
Taking a Look Back, and Stepping Forward As we look back to early spring and forward to late summer, let’s celebrate some true successes and focus on the opportunity for improvement. Our Recruiting Command and retention efforts throughout the units have netted 78 gains in personnel in the past 12 months. This great accomplishment is a significant step towards the goal of 100 percent strength. However, only continued effort and focus will get us there. Overall strength of each state is a critical metric measured by the National Guard Bureau and will ultimately determine our ability to retain force structure in the future. Work with your commands to retain good Soldiers. All Service Members are part of the retention team. Ensure proper counseling and mentoring
sessions are part of each soldier’s career development to optimize our retention efforts and achieve our goal of 100 percent. Just as the goal of overall strength is extremely vital, medical readiness defines our organization’s ability to properly train, prepare, and care for our soldiers. It also is a critical metric used at the national level to gauge our capability to maintain force structure. Currently the RI Army National Guard’s medical readiness is 81 percent, compared to the National Guard Bureau standard of 85 percent. We are also below the 54 states and territories average of 84.9 percent, which places us in the bottom half. What can you do? If you have a medical appointment, it is your responsibility and duty to fulfill your obligation. It is
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no different from any other requirement you have as a Soldier. All leaders at every level are responsible for training and Soldier readiness. You must ensure that your Soldiers attend their assigned medical appointments and unit events. We are in a political fight for our existence in the National Guard. Our senior leaders and politicians friendly to the Guard fight for us every day. Collectively, our job is to maintain the highest levels of strength and readiness so the next generation of citizen soldiers can follow our long history of selfless service. You and your families have a safe and fun summer. ■
From the Assistant Adjutant General - Air Brigadier General Matthew Dzialo
The World is Watching Integrity first. Service before self. Excellence in all we do. We know these as our Air Force Core Values – we memorize them in basic training, echo the words upon demand and display them proudly on our walls. We learn the phrases but do we actually live and stand by their meaning? I would hope your answer is a resounding “YES!” It is vital to our mission that we portray and project the highest of standards and conduct ourselves with the utmost professionalism, both here at home and around the world, 24/7. As members of the Rhode Island Air National Guard, we represent something far greater than ourselves: we represent Rhode
Island, the Air National Guard, the Air Force, and the United States of merica. Given the tempo and reality of our mission, members of the National Guard are no longer known as “Weekend Warriors”. Since 9-11, we have been heavily tasked, steadily deployed and globally recognized as a professional force.
tion upon ourselves and the military we serve. Make a difference…
It is an honor to serve our state and nation. I truly feel if you are put in a position to make a difference – then make a difference. You have all taken an oath and have been given the awesome responsibility to protect and defend the One bad apple… constitution of the United States. It is important to Unfortunately, there have been instances where remember that while we are mobilized, deployed, TDY, adverse actions and bad home station, UTA, on-duty, behavior of a few military or off, we are members of members have reflected the Rhode Island Air Napoorly on the entire force. tional Guard and part of the However few and far between, these incidents cause most powerful Air Force in far-reaching damage on how the world…and the world is the United States of America watching. ■ is perceived around the globe. The way we conduct ourselves is a direct reflecSummer 2014 / Rhode Island National Guard | 5
NATIONAL GUARD AIDS BOSTON MARATHON LAW ENFORCEMENT EFFORTS by Army Sgt. 1st Class James Lally, Massachusetts National Guard More than 800 Massachusetts, Maine and Rhode Island National Guard members helped local law enforcement agencies in eight cities and towns to keep the route clear for runners as they hit the road for the 118th Boston Marathon today. The National Guard provided civil support teams from 20 states specializing in chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and improvised explosive detection teams, as well as medical and security personnel to help local communities along the 26.2mile route to ensure the race was safe and successful. The Massachusetts National Guard’s 79th Troop Command formed Task Force Patriot, commanded by Army Col. Mark. A. Merlino. Task Force Patriot supervised and planned the Guard’s efforts and successfully coordinated with inte-agency partners to support the Boston Athletic Association as they continued to carry on the world’s oldest marathon. “The Massachusetts National Guard is proud to support the 118th Boston Marathon and is working closely with officials from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, the Boston Athletic Association and more than 15 interagency partners to ensure a safe and successful race,” said Army Lt. Col. James Sahady, spokesman for the Massachusetts National Guard. Because of the finish-line bombings and subsequent manhunt that marred last year’s event, the Department of Homeland Security categorized this year’s race as a national special security event. “We are well-prepared to provide medical and security support to our civil authorities and communities, enhancing safety for the 2014 Boston Marathon,” said Army Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice, the Massachusetts adjutant general. “Our National Guard soldiers and airmen are proud to be an integral part of this historic race and our nation’s ‘Boston Strong’ spirit of competi-
tion, compassion, and community.” A significant change in the Guard’s security strategy this year was that all of
training, and our soldiers and airmen carry weapons.” All of the public safety agencies have
Army Spc. Brandon Smith, 169th Military Police Company, Rhode Island Army National Guard, at the starting line of the 2014 Boston Marathon, April 21, 2014. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jerry Saslav)
the security personnel were armed military police or security forces specialists. During previous Marathons, Guard members were unarmed while supporting the event. The National Guard civil support teams that advise and help first responders to detect chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive weapons also were armed. “We train year-round to advise and assist incident commanders and first responders to detect and deal with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear devices,” said Air Force Lt. Col. Matthew Woolums, commander of the Massachusetts Guard’s 1st Civil Support Team. “This year, we added more explosive detection
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been committed to carrying out the safety plan in a way that did not diminish the fun for runners and spectators, officials said. In the wake of last year’s events, public interest in supporting the city’s greatest race resulted in 36,000 runners registering for the marathon, compared to 27,000 last year. The combination of more runners and tighter security has been a challenge for planners. “It’s great to be here, and to know that we are doing everything we can to keep people safe,” said Air Force Airman 1st Class Eric Lapworth, a security forces airman with the Massachusetts Air National Guard’s 102nd Intelligence Wing. ■
COLONEL GERMANI RETIRES AFTER 34 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE By MSgt, John McDonald, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
In a packed auditorium of family, friends and fellow Airmen of the 143d Airlift Wing, a heartfelt goodbye was said to an icon of the Wing’s leadership. Colonel Robert Germani Jr. retired after more than 34 years of diligent and dedicated service to the Rhode Island National Guard. Wing Commander Arthur Floru remarked on Col Germani’s legacy of professionalism and dedication to duty, “Bob made major changes in the evolution of the warrior team. He put a human face on things. He was an absolute expert on getting the job done and getting us to the finish line.” Brigadier General Mark Jannitto, Deputy Adjutant General, Rhode Island National Guard thanked Col Germani and his family for their sacrifice during his service to the best organization in the world, the Rhode Island Air National Guard. As a longtime friend and co-worker BG Jannitto praised Col Germani by saying, “No can do, does not exist in
Colonel Arthur Floru, 143d Airlift Wing Commander, presents Colonel Robert Germani, former 143d Airlift Wing Vice Commander, with the Legion of Merit for his 34 years of dedicated servive. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
Bobby’s vocabulary. He was the king of delegation. He knew who to go to, to get things done.” During his speech Col Germani reflected on his father, the late Sergeant Major Robert Germani Sr.’s military achievements. SGM Germani had also received the Legion of Merit which Col Germani had been awarded during the retirement ceremony. “Two in one household, pretty good,” Col Germani added, “I am truly humbled by all this fuss and fanfare. So, thank you, Art [Floru] and all the presenters today.”
Colonel Germani closed his retirement speech by saying, “It’s the people I’m going to miss, the camaraderie.” He added, “Please be kind to one another and continue the great work that you do.” And in classic Col “G” fashion, he rendered a crisp salute to the men and women of the 143d Airlift Wing said “Colonel Germani is OUT!” The Airmen of the 143d Airlift Wing wish Colonel Germani good luck and Godspeed in his retirement. Thank you for your dedication to the Rhode Island National Guard. ■
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DIVERSITY Leadership Experience By Leiutenant Colonel Ellis Hopkins
Twenty two Rhode Island tendencies reveal about themselves The informal atmosphere encourNational Guard Soldiers and Airand how individual “type preferaged everyone, regardless of rank, men participated in a Diversity ences” influence decision-making. to comfortably share their attitudes Leadership experience at the North “It was eye opening experiand experiences as they apply to Smithfield Air Station during ences that lead to increased self improving the Rhode Island Nathe first week of June. This diawareness,” stated LTC Joseph Mer- tional Guard. versity experience, facilitated by rill. “The course provided a deeper Without doubt, this course the veteran-owned Leadership understanding of how we view the dispelled a few myths about the Foundry, provided an in-depth work place environment, through perceptions of what many Soldiers examination of leader personality our own filters and encourages to and Airmen may think of diversity traits, receptivity to change, and embrace diversity of thought as a training. First, the participants various conflictlearned that, handling modes – despite their timely subjects for differences in a military force in age, ethnicity, transition. or gender, most The two people serving and one-half day in the military experience chaltoday share likelenged memminded attitudes bers of Rhode towards service Island’s Joint and standards. Diversity CounNone of the discil. The Council, cussions during established by the training event Rhode Island’s ever touched on Adjutant General, what made the Major General participants difSoldiers and Airmen who took part in the Diversity Leadership Challenge Program stand together at the culmination of the class. Kevin McBride ferent from each (Photo by Army Sgt. Terry Rajsombath) and chaired by Brigadier General way to improve the organization.” other – only the commonly-shared Marcus Jannitto, Deputy Adjutant Both of the Leadership experiences of a force that has been General, focused the participants Foundry facilitators had extensive at war for over a decade. Most imtowards self-reflection and examimilitary and law-enforcement portantly, this Diversity Leadership nation of their own attitudes and credentials and guided participants experience emphasized that there is “blind-spots” that may color their through various problem-solving always room in a large organization leadership styles and ultimately our activities – many times by smallfor individuals who value service organizational culture. Participants group discussions and presentabefore self and want to contribute learned what their personality tions and, once, while blindfolded. to a greater good. ■ 8 | Ocean State Guardian / Summer 2014
THE TRAVELING
VIETNAM
MEMORIAL WALL By 2nd Lieutenant Megan Burmeister, Public Affiars Specialist, RING
From June 5, 2014 until June 8, 2014 Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI), an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, hosted the American Veterans Traveling Tribute’s Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall in India Point Park, Providence RI. The Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall is the largest traveling replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall. It is an 80% replica, displaying all of the names of the fallen from the Vietnam War. The wall display allows servicemembers, family of servicemembers and the general public, who may not be able to travel to Washington D.C., to visit the memorial and take the time to appreciate the sacrifice of the United States servicemembers. Tony DeQuattro, president and founder of Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, spoke at to a group of fifth graders visiting the wall. He asked them to remember the sacrifices of the servicemembers and to realize that the names on the wall are not just names. “Go like this on your hand,” said DeQuattro, pinching the skin on his wrist. “There’s flesh and blood in there, right? That’s exactly what they were. So remember that when you read their names.” OSDRI is Rhode Island’s primary nonprofit resource for homeless and at-risk veterans. ■
Colonel Kathleen Sullivan stands at attention as her daughters apply her new rank to her uniform. (Photo by TSgt. Jason Long)
LEADING THE WAY! By Lt. Col. Bruce Fletcher, JFHQ Public Affairs
Lt Col Kathleen Sullivan, JFHQ A3/A7, was promoted to the rank of Colonel on Saturday, May 4, 2014 during a ceremony held at the Schofield Armory. The Assistant Adjutant General-Air, Rhode Island National Guard, Brig Gen Matthew Dzialo promoted Col Sullivan, in the presence of friends, family and Joint Force Headquarters personnel. She was pinned by her husband, Col John Sullivan, and their daughters, Rachel and Kadie. Col Sullivan thanked state leadership for their confidence in her abilities and pledged to use her leadership and technical skills to strengthen the organization.
Col Sullivan grew up in Hingham, Massachusetts and received her Air Force commission through the ROTC program at Boston University in 1987. She received her training as a Meteorology Officer at the Air Force Institute of Technology. Col Sullivan entered the Rhode Island Air National Guard through the palace chase program, transferring from the active duty into the Air Guard, in 1991 by accepting a pilots slot and thus, earning the proud distinction of becoming the first female pilot in
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the Rhode Island Air National Guard. Col Sullivan has served as commander of the 143d Operations Support Flight and deployed in support of both Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. She has earned great respect as a pilot, mentor and senior leader in the Rhode Island National Guard. â–
By Air Force Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Since 1991 the Rhode Island National Guard has opened the gates to Quonset Air National Guard Base to the public for the RING Open House Air Show. Each year the community and National Guardsmen alike look forward to the event as the unofficial start to the Rhode Island summer season. Unfortunately, in 2013, sequestration made the Open House Air Show impossible which was
disappointment to all. However, a change in policy by the Pentagon allowed the military jet demos to take to the skies again and the Rhode Island National Guard Open House Air Show was BACK this May 17 & 18, 2014! Initially scheduled for June 28 & 29, 2014 and set to feature the USAF Thunderbirds, a scheduling conflict with the Thunderbirds put the show in jeopardy again. Luckily, the United States Navy Blue Angels stepped in with a schedule opening in May and the Show was back on for 2014! There was concern with the show being so early – Would the weather work out? Would there be enough
Chief Master Sergeant Sean Ballard, Captain Brendan Duffy, and Major Spencer Romph ensure safety at show center. (Photo by TSgt. Jason Long)
time to prepare? These were the questions on the minds of the staff, performers, sponsors, and spectators. But, the weather was BEAUTIFUL and in true Rhode Island National Guard fashion it went off without a hitch! In addition to the always popular US Navy Blue Angels, the show featured the F22 Raptor, V22 Osprey, several warbirds to include the P51 Mustang, A1E Skyraider, and FM2 Wildcat, the Geico Skytypers, and award winning aerobatic performers Sean D. Tucker, Rob Holland, and John Klatt. In addition to the Air National Guard MX-S, John Klatt debuted the brand new Jack Link’s Screamin’
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Sasquatch jet powered biplane to an awed crowd. Rob Holland, who showed off his world aerobatic champion skills, may be a new performer at the RI show but is certainly not a newcomer. Rob came to his very first air show in RI as a child with his father and said, “someday, that’s what I want to do,” upon seeing the aerobatic displays. He now wows hundreds of thousands each year with his very own display. And our good friend, Sean D. celebrated over 20 years performing at the RI National Guard Open House Air
Show with yet another OUTSTANDING performance. The Men and Women of the RI Army and Air National Guard welcomed approximately 90,000 spectators onto Quonset Air National Guard Base this year and were eager to give them a peek into what they do for the state of Rhode Island and for the United States every day. Despite restrictions that did not allow the RING to perform in the show the Soldiers and Airmen did not go unnoticed,
manning static displays and walking through the crowds to meet and greet the members of the community. Overall, the 2014 Rhode Island National Guard Open House Air Show was a huge success! Thank you to all who worked very hard to make this show possible and to all who attended. See you again May 30 & 31, 2015 featuring the USN Blue Angels! ■
(Left to right) Captain Duffy, Jack Link’s Sasquatch, Master Sergeant Gurnon, Major Romph, and Chief Ballard take a moment to pose for a photo during a break in the action at show center. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
Members of the Blue Angels Demo team position themselves around the aircraft after finishing preflight preparations. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
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A F-22 Raptor takes off as it’s flight demonstration begins. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. John McDonald)
THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME: Military Duty in Israel By CPT Aaron A. Rozovsky, 43rd Military Police Brigade
Captain Aaron Rozovsky, 43rd Military Police Brigade, standing in Jerusalem, Israel.
In March 2013, I was accepted into the Rabbinical program at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, the seminary which produces Reform Judaism’s Rabbis, cantor’s, and educators. It is a five year course of study that leads to a Master’s Degree in Hebrew Letters and ordination as a Rabbi. For our first year of school, we are required to study at the Jerusalem campus in Israel. To fulfill my military obligations while in Israel, I was assigned to work for the National Guard Bureau Liaison Officer to the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command (IDF HFC). This billet is currently held by COL Alicia Tate-Nadeau, an extremely capable officer and terrific mentor. The specific relationship between NGB and IDF HFC is part of the State Partnership Program. IDF HFC was created in 1992 in aftermath of the Gulf War and has a mission-set very similar to that of the National Guard’s domestic responsibilities. This includes natural disaster response, mass casualty incident response, CBRNE response teams, and maintaining the national alarms, sirens, and threat alert systems. HFC has even sent some of its search-andrescue teams and field hospitals abroad in response to disasters such as the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and the 2013 typhoon in the Philippines. My military duties and responsibilities in Israel were extremely diverse in nature yet were ultimately very rewarding. For instance, I coordinated visits and meetings between a leading subject matter expert on societal resiliency from John Hopkins University and full-time Chaplains at National Guard Bureau with trauma psychologists from IDF HFC in order to enhance and strengthen both of our resiliency, mental health, and suicide prevention programs. I conducted seven major staff rides to various sites that are of great significance in Israeli military history, photographed Summer 2014 / Rhode Island National Guard | 13
them extensively, wrote about them, and sent the finished products back to the 43rd Military Police Brigade and JFHQ, RIARNG. The purpose of these staff rides was for our leadership to gain a greater understanding and knowledge of a very important ally as well as to propel the staff ride package beyond traditional sites such as Gettysburg and Bunker Hill. The sites visited included the Ammunition Hill Battlefield and Memorial, Latrun (the IDF’s armored corps museum and spiritual home, as well as the site of numerous battles over thousands of years), the Israeli Air Force Museum in Beer Sheva, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the Israeli Navy Museum in Haifa.
In addition, I mentored and prepared Chaplain Candidates for their training this summer. Another duty, this one incredibly solemn and humbling, was organizing and leading Veterans’ Day services at my seminary that included both American and Israeli military personnel and veterans. Finally, I interfaced with a start-up technology company, Sesame-Enable (whose main purpose is to allow people suffering from paralysis to be able to operate computers using just facial motions) in order to see if their technology could be applied to aiding our nation’s wounded Warriors. In addition to my official duties, I was able also to participate in mili-
tary life just as I would back home. This included attending the US Marine Corps Ball in Jerusalem, hosted by the consulate’s Marine Security Guard detachment. There I had the opportunity to meet VADM Paul Bushong, the U.S. Security Coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority. However, the crowning achievement was a 26.3 mile memorial ruckmarch in Jerusalem that I organized and did with members of the New York Army National Guard, US Air Force, and US Marine Corps in honor of US Coast Guard Petty Officer Third Class Nathan Bruckenthal, a Jewish service member killed in action during OIF. ■
Captain Aaron Rozovsky (second from the right) joins fellow chaplain candidates holding an American Flag in Jerusalem, Israel.
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COLONEL DONNELLY ASSUMES COMMAND By Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
At a ceremony held May 2, 2014 in the Maintenance Hangar at Quonset Air National Guard Base Lieutenant Colonel Michael Donnelly was promoted to Colonel and Assumed Command of the 143d Maintenance Group. Previously the Commander of the Maintenance Squadron, Donnelly was selected from a group of highly qualified candidates. The mission
of the Maintenance Group is to provide safe, reliable and effective aircraft and maintenance capability to the Airlift Wing for its state and federal missions. Colonel Donnelly was pinned by his wife and children in front of State and Wing Leadership, members of the 143d Maintenance Group and many other fellow Rhode Warriors. In addition, a small
Colonel Michael Donnelly Stands at attention as members of his family pin him during his promotion ceremony. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
group of retired and former Navigators gathered to watch one of their own earn the well-deserved rank of Colonel. Colonel Donnelly served as a Navigator on the C-130 prior to moving to Maintenance. Congratulations to Colonel Donnelly, his family, and to the men and women of the 143d Maintenance Group. â–
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CERFP members decontaminate a simulated victim by sending him through a wash system during a joint Maritime Exercise at the Newport Navy Base on March 30, 2014. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
CERFP Conducts Local Maritime Exercise By Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
On Saturday 29 March 2014 and Sunday 30 March 2014 at Naval Station Newport, Newport, Rhode Island, members of the 143d Airlift Wing, part of the New England Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, High Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Package (CERFP) team, joined forces with members of the NE CERFP team to conduct an exercise of CERFP capabilities. The NE CERFP includes members from the Rhode Island Army National Guard, and Air and Army National Guard units from New Hampshire and Maine. The simulated exercise scenario of a CBRNE incident aboard a cruise ship in port allowed the members to also work with personnel from the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and US Coast Guard
from Naval Station Newport. New England CERFP has the ability to respond to a homeland incident to conduct crisis and consequence management operations in support of civil and federal authorities. They also have the capability to identify, assess, advice, and assist during a CBRNE and all Hazard incidents. The New England CERFP can assemble its personnel in six hours from the time of an official request. It is comprised of fulltime and traditional National Guard personnel that are trained and equipped to perform the functions of Patient Decontamination, Medical Triage, Medical Treatment, and Casualty Search and Extraction at a Catastrophic Event â–
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A CERFP member decontaminates a simulated victim during a joint Maritime Exercise at the Newport Navy Base on March 30, 2014. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
LTC CARUOLO VISITS STONY LANE By Sgt. Michael Iacona, 110th Public Affairs Detachment
Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Caruolo met with students and faculty of the Stony Lane Elementary School to thank them for their support of her family while she was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. “The faculty and staff along with the kids have been amazingly supportive,” said LTC Caruolo, “They were especially accommodating to the ups and downs that my children and many families experience when a family member is deployed.” LTC Caruolo deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Once LTC Caruolo returned the students had a chance to ask her about her experiences, her mission and the
hardships she experienced while deployed. “The 5th grade class wanted to know how dangerous Afghanistan was and had more questions about the war. We got into a very good discussion about the elections and the function of NATO.” The faculty welcomed the visit because it helps the students understand the sacrifice of the military but also gives them a sense of pride in what can be accomplished through hard work. “I feel that students have a better connection to the importance of and respect for our military personnel,” said Mrs. Henault of Stony Lane’s 5th grade class. “Many of them are reminded of family members who have served or are presently serv-
Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Caruolo stands with Stony Lane’s Principal and teachers after presenting them with an “Operation Enduring Freedom” guidon as a token of her appreciation for the school’s support of the Armed Forces. (Photo by Army Sgt. Michael Iacona)
ing, and always make a point of mentioning it with pride!” Stony Lane’s Principal Mr. Ed Farrario also said “The impact on our students is that they can share an awareness of what it is like to be part of a military Family. The positive impact for those who are not military is that they can learn to appreciate what it is like for those children who come from a military family. Both have a positive impact on each other.” Stony Lane is one of the many schools around the country that have made it their mission to show appreciation to Service Members. ■
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Families and friends gather to await the return of their loved ones, the 143d Maintenance Operations Flight. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
RHODE WARRIORS RETURN HOME By Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Airmen from the 143d Air Wing’s Operations Group, Maintenance Group, Medical Group and Logistics Readiness Squadron returned home from a deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. While deployed, the Airmen supported air mobility operations. They provided rapid, global mobility and sustainment of the combat capability of America’s armed forces; including humanitarian efforts, troop movements and supply missions. “Our Team is responsible for another successful deployment supporting our military efforts overseas. We have the best and most highly trained Airmen on earth,” said Colonel Arthur Floru, 143d AW Wing Commander. “We are extremely proud and thrilled to
welcome our Team home to their Families after answering our nation’s call.” The entire 143d Airlift Wing Team thanks these men and
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women for their sacrifice. Welcome Home Rhode Warriors! ■
Captain Ryan Dwyer, 143d Maintence Operations Flight Commander, is greeted by his wife and son after returning home from Kuwait. (Photo by Air Force MSgt. Janeen Miller)
SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH CONFIDENCE COURSE CHALLENGE By Master Sgt. Janeen Miller, 143d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
At what has become an annual tradition, Soldiers and Airmen, took on the Confidence Course at Camp Fogarty, East Greenwich, RI for the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Challenge. Each year the month of April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and commits to raising awareness and promoting the prevention of sexual violence through use of special events and public education. SAAM provides an annual opportunity to reinforce
An Airman traverses an obstacle during the 4th annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month Confidence Course Challenge. (Photo by TSgt. Sage Maker)
our commitment to strengthening the professional climate across the armed forces where the cultural imperatives of mutual respect and trust, team commitment, and professional values are reinforced to create an environment in which sexist behaviors, sexual harassment, and sexual assault are not condoned, tolerated, or ignored. During the obstacle course the teams were quizzed regarding their knowledge of the Sexual Assault and Harassment Program (SHARP). This combination ensures the Soldiers and Airmen have a thorough understanding of the program and can recall the information in times of stress. The three teams with the fastest completion times were awarded trophies by Brigadier General Charles E. Petrarca Jr., Land Component Commander, RI National Guard and Chief Master Sergeant Lori Ashness, State Sexual Assault Coordinator, RI National Guard for their outstanding efforts. At the end of the day everyone who participated, despite being a bit worn out, had a great time and were much more aware of the importance of Sexual Assault Awareness. â–
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From the Adjutant General
1/143rd INFANTRY AT BIG RIVER Major General Kevin R. McBride
Photos by Army Sgt. Terry Rajsombath
The Future of the Rhode Island National Guard
(Right) Soldiers of the 1/143rd Infantry dismount from a UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter Lorem ipsuma dolor sit amet, contincidunt. lorem. Maecenas nec odio et ante and secure parimeter as the Blackhawk pre- Duis leo. Sed fringilla sectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean mauris sit amet nibh. Donec sotincidunt tempus. Donec vitae pares to lift off. The 1/143rd spent their April commodo ligula Sling eget dolor. dales sagittis magna. Sed consesapien ut libero venenatis faucibus. drill completing Load Aenean Operations, Squad massa. Cum sociis natoque penatiquat, leo eget bibendum sodales, Nullam quis ante. Etiam sit amet level training and Airborne Operations at Big bus et magnis parturient mon-Rhodeaugue velit cursus nunc, Lorem orci eget eros faucibus tincidunt. River indis West Greenwich, Island. tes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer Duis leo. Sed fringilla mauris sit quam felis, ultricies nec, pellenadipiscing elit. Aenean commodo amet nibh. Donec sodales sagittesque eu, pretium quis, sem. Nulla ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. tis magna. Sed consequat, leo eget consequat massa quis enim. Donec Cum sociis natoque penatibus et bibendum sodales, augue velit pede justo, fringilla vel, aliquet nec, magnis dis parturient montes, nacursus nunc, Lorem ipsum dolor sit vulputate eget, arcu. In enim justo, scetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. rhoncus ut, imperdiet a, venenatis felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. vitae, justo. Nullam dictum felis pretium quis, sem. Nulla consequat Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque eu pede mollis pretium. Integer massa quis enim. Donec pede justo, penatibusKelly et magnis dis parturient (Right) Staff Sergeant tincidunt. Cras dapibus. Vivamus fringilla vel, aliquet nec, vulputate montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. leads his squad through an elementum semper nisi. Aenean eget, arcu. In enim justo, rhoncus Donec quam felis, ultricies nec, open field during a squad vulputate eleifend tellus. Aenean ut, imperdiet a, venenatis patrol vitae, while training pellentesque at Bigeu, pretium quis, sem. leo ligula, porttitor eu, consequat justo. Nullam dictum felisRiver. eu pede Nulla consequat massa quis enim. vitae, eleifend ac, enim. Aliquam mollis pretium. Integer tincidunt. Donec pede justo, fringilla vel, lorem ante, dapibus in, viverra Cras dapibus. Vivamus elementum aliquet nec, vulputate eget, arcu. In quis, feugiat a, tellus. Phasellus visemper nisi. Aenean vulputate enim justo, rhoncus ut, imperdiet a, verra nulla ut metus varius laoreet. eleifend tellus. Aenean leo ligula, venenatis vitae, justo. Nullam dicQuisque rutrum. Aenean imperporttitor eu, consequat vitae, eleiftum felis eu pede mollis pretium. diet. Etiam ultricies nisi vel augue. end ac, enim. Aliquam lorem ante, Integer tincidunt. Cras dapibus. Curabitur ullamcorper ultricies dapibus in, viverra quis, feugiat Vivamus elementum semper nisi. nisi. Nam eget dui. Etiam rhona, tellus. Phasellus viverra nulla Aenean vulputate eleifend tellus. (Right) Staff Sergeant Lewis ut metus varius laoreet. Quisque cus. Maecenas tempus, tellus eget Aenean leo ligula, porttitor eu, takes a knee during a patrol condimentum rhoncus, sem quam rutrum. Aenean imperdiet. Etiam consequat vitae, eleifend ac, enim. while conducting squad level ultricies nisi vel augue. Curabitur semper libero, sit amet adipiscing Aliquam lorem ante, dapibus in, training. ullamcorper ultricies nisi. Nam sem neque sed ipsum. Nam quam viverra quis, feugiat a, tellus. Phanunc, blandit vel, luctus pulvinar, eget dui. Etiam rhoncus. Maecenas sellus viverra nulla ut metus varius hendrerit id, lorem. Maecenas nec tempus, tellus eget condimentum laoreet. Quisque rutrum. Aenean odio et ante tincidunt tempus. Dorhoncus, sem quam semper libero, imperdiet. Etiam ultricies nisi vel nec vitae sapien ut libero venenatis sit amet adipiscing sem neque sed augue. Curabitur ullamcorper faucibus. Nullam quis ante. Etiam ipsum. Nam quam nunc, blandit ultricies nisi. Nam eget dui. Etiam sit amet orci eget eros faucibus vel, luctus pulvinar, hendrerit id, rhoncus. Maecenas tempus. 20 | Ocean State Guardian / Summer 2014
A Soldier trains his M4 during walk-through drills at Camp Fogarty, East Greenwhich, RI prior to arriving at Big River.
(Bottom) Two Soldiers from the 1/143rd Infantry perform practice drills at Camp Fogarty, East Greenwhich, RI prior to arriving at Big River to conduct more infantry tasks.
Summer 2014 / Rhode Island National Guard | 21
COLONEL BURNS PROMOTED TO BRIGADIER GENERAL On Sunday, March 2, 2014, Colonel Christopher Burns ,accompanied by his friends and family, gathered in the House of Representatives Chamber at the Rhode Island State House for his promotion to brigadier general. Brig. Gen. Burns will move on to become the Assistant Vice Commander U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Washington Office, Pentagon. Brig. Gen. Burns was most recently the Commander of the Special Operations Detachment-Global, out of Coventry, Rhode Island. â–
(Above) Colonel Christopher Burns watches as members of his family apply the rank of Brigadier General to his uniform during his promotion ceremony at the Rhode Island State House. (Photo by Army Sgt. Terry Rajsombath)
(Right) Newly promoted Brigadier General Christopher Burns receives his General Officer’s Flag during his promotion ceremony. (Photo by Army Sgt. Peter Ramaglia)
22 | Ocean State Guardian / Summer 2014
CONGRATULATIONS! NCO & Soldier of the Year The Rhode Island National Guard would like to congratulate Sgt. Stephanie Engro of the 115th Military Police Company for being named the NCO of the Year. A special congratulations is also in order for Spc. Tori Franceschi, also of the 115th Military Police Company, for being named the Soldier of the Year.
NCO of the Year, Sgt. Stephanie Engro (left), and Soldier of the Year, Spc. Tori Franceschi (right) stand with State Command Sergeant Major Michael Lewis, after being named NCO and Soldier of the Year for 2014. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin Riel)
Summer 2014 / Rhode Island National Guard | 23
BRIGADIER GENERAL KEENE RETIRES After more than 30 years of service to the Rhode Island Army National Guard, Brigadier General Richard F. Keene is retiring. BG Keene entered the Rhode Island National Guard in August of 1982 and has held a variety of positions of increasing responsibility culminating with his current assignment as the Assistant to the Vice Command of United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). BG Keene has been a leader in this organization at every level, commanding at the Special Forces Operational Detachment - Alpha, Company and Battalion, as well as serving in several staff officer positions at the battalion, brigade and state headquarters. As the Executive Officer of Special Operations Detachment - Global, he deployed in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom -
Horn of Africa (OEF-HOA) where he served as the Director of Operations for the Joint Special Operations Task Force, Special Operations Liaison Element to Nairobi, Kenya and Future Operations Officer within the Future Operations Division of USSOCOM. In 2008, he again deployed with Special Operations Detachment - Global to Special Operations Command South, where he filled dual roles as the Deputy Commander for Inter-Agency Coordination and Commander of Special Operations Command Forward in Bogota Colombia. In his current position BG Keene is responsible for representing USSOCOM and the Component Commands to the Joint Staff, Service Staffs, Office of the Secretary of Defense and other governmental agencies in the National Capitol Region. He provides timely
24 | Ocean State Guardian / Summer 2014
and critical information flow, coordination, liaison, research, analysis and advice as well as special operations forces unique expertise in the areas of plans and policy; programs and resources, and current operations. BG Keene serves as a General Officer/Flag Officer level interface to senior Military and civilian leadership in the Pentagon and oversees the conduct of a forward operating base for the USSOCOM Commander, Deputy Commander and staff to conduct business in the Pentagon and National Capitol Region. BG Keene’s commitment to combat readiness, unselfish dedication to duty and Soldiers, and personal commitment is a testament to this officer and reflects distinct credit upon the Rhode Island National Guard and the United States Army. â–
LOOK WHO GOT PROMOTED April-June 2014
RI - ARNG Alvarezcepeda, Gerain Bibeault, Austen Constantino, Michael Deroche, Brittany Esquivel, Lubia Evans, Christopher Gonzales, Tiffany Ibanez, Johnny Ibanez, Oscar Marsh, George Mercado, Angel Reynolds, Shane Rosario, Angeliz Sanchez, Angelica Silvia, Kayla Stevenin, Michael Soares, Albert Tetchi, Yves Vandermost, Alaena Comtois, Sean Gutierrez, Rony Hernandez, Luis Kaminski, Timothy Lusignan, Nicholas Maccarone, Steven Moulton, Brian Pearcemarshall, Ade Pereyra, Anthony Pich, Narith Ranley, Kayla Vega, Jorge Walsh, Cameron Aceto, Michael Butler, David Correia, Kristopher Cunniff, Alexander Dias, John Howieoutland, Deanna Jimenenzduarte, Steven Lopes, Ashley Raposa Jr., Ronald Smith, Rhyheime Stonge, Jordan Bates, Andrew Cabrera III, Andrew Dextradeur, Casey Dubois, Kevin Dunn, Evan Duszak, Joseph Grenier, Michael Guilbert, Normand Hart, Stephanie Hetu, Ryan Hughes, Walter Inthasanh, Scotte Lima, Davidson Ludovici, Tasha
PV2
PFC
SPC
SGT
Marr, Dean Marsocci, Katie Mcallian, Aaron McInerney, Stephen Parrillo, Justin Pereira, Michael Reilly, William Rosario, Chayanne Scuncio, Zachary Stocker, Drew Vasquez Jonaldfer White, Daniel Yetton, Andrew Boudreau, Robert Bowry, Rachel Buehner, Christopher Cottrell, Nichol Daniel, Madia Dippold, Benedikt Dooley, Jared Fortin, Brian Gagnon, Justin Hulkow, Paul Johnson, Robert Joseph, Gislaine Letoile, Ashley Matthews, Sean Measley, Hans Reardon, Mark Santana, Felix Woodward, Gregory Brunelle, Kevin Burnham, James Chambers, Theodore Coronel, Abel Dupuis, Christopher Gilliard, Robert Medeiros, Jeremy Mendez, Jose Tamayo, Cesar Tovar, Luis Vita, Adom West, Brian Langelier, Stephen Nichols III, Robert Dececco, Glen Baysah, Albert Bobroff, Michael Flood III, Charles Magiera, Dawn Mason, Kyle Morris, Peter Pacheco, Joshua Chianese, Brian MacDonald, John
CW4
Sciamacco, Gerald
RI - ANG Chan, Skye
SSG
Allen, Katie Dallaire, Matthew McDonald, Joseph Pacheco, Ariana Sengsouvanh, Johnny Fitzgerald, Ryan Fortin, Scott Peckham, Nathan Hammond, Anthony Howard, Joshua Kearns, Jared Nelson, Anthony Selman, Ryan Shalvey, Kelly
SFC
Burke, Christopher Boynton, Andrew Costello, Joseph Darling, Christopher LaRoche, Justin Lowell, Michael Morse, Kyle Powers, Marisa Siconio, Cory Sullivan, Brittni Taglianetti, Eric Wilkins, Adam Bruhn, Joshua Devine, Ian Gonzalez, Luis Sagario, Gary Sheldon, William
MSG SGM CPT
Blanchette, Gregory Boyns, Alun Comella, Mario King, Adam Pirnie, thomas Potenza, William Kahan, Alan Kelley, Timothy Lebon, Justin Jackson, Nathaniel
MAJ LTC
Hannon, Lynne Donnelly, Michael Sullivan, Kathleen
Amn A1C
SrA
SSgt
TSgt
MSgt
CMSgt Capt
Maj Lt Col Col
Summer 2014 / Rhode Island National Guard | 26