Tarheel Guardsman
February-March 2014
Please join us for the 2014 NCNGA and NCNG Combined Event! The Twin City Quarter is comprised of the Marriott Hotel, Embassy Suites Hotel and Benton Convention Center — all connected with a covered walkway in beautiful, downtown Winston-Salem. Embassy Suites — Room Rate $107 plus tax 1-800-696-6107 or NC Ask f al n Natio ate dR Guar
Marriott — Room Rate $97 plus tax 1-800-320-0934
Pack your bags and join us for a great weekend!
Make your reservations early! Rooms are limited and the cut-off is 28 February 2014. (See page 6 for registration and hotel information.)
Hanging in the Balance The National Guard as an Operational Force
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e have closed the books on 2013 and are now poised to enter a new year that will certainly challenge, as the headline implies, the legitimate role of the National Guard in our Nation’s defense. Our Nation’s defense and military was founded on the construct of a militia-nation – the reliance upon a large, decentralized militia (forbearers of the National Guard) that when coupled with a small standing Army could surge and shrink in concert with the demands of the security environment. We, as a Nation, firmly adhered to this principle throughout most of our history until the conclusion of World War II. It was at this time, coinciding with the commencement of the Cold War, that we reversed course and chose, instead, to maintain a large standing Army that counted upon a strategic reserve force for its surge capacity. We now find ourselves at the juncture of a very important decision – do we continue the current path, maintaining the status quo at the expense of the National Guard, or do we balance our security requirements with our militia-nation roots and our founding principles? The uncertainty of achieving a long-term federal spending bill looms large as we enter 2014. Along with this are the potential effects it will have on the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Guard. We have worked hard, as of late, by travelling to, speaking to, and informing many state and federal leaders on how and why our organization is a vital asset for our state and our national security – not to mention what we (National Guard) offer as a potential component to solving some of our national economic challenges. Even if a federal budget is passed, separate decisions will be made at the highest levels of the DoD that have the potential to significantly impact our organization and the National Guard as a whole. The question is, will our nation’s future defense force structure maintain the Guard as an operational force (ready, reliable, responsive and relevant at home and abroad) or return it back to pre-September 11th 2001, strategic reserve status? Gen. Frank J. Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated, “When America has its back against the wall and it is looking for a solution to a dire situation, they call on a force with nearly four centuries of proven service. We are buoyed by the knowledge that our neighbors look to us to help restore things back to normal. We take extraordinary pride in knowing that our rapid response, proven performance and dual-mission capabilities make a difference fighting natural disasters at home and our enemies overseas.” I
can assure you that my fellow adjutant generals and I agree wholeheartedly and unanimously with Gen. Grass’ statement. In “straight talk” - if the current budget uncertainties and sequestration continue, irreversible impacts upon national security will occur, leaving open the door to returning the National Guard to a strategic reserve status; potentially squandering the investment and experience gained by over a decade of overseas deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Ultimately, national military readiness is at stake along with the National Guard’s sanctioned ability to provide for our national security – domestically and internationally. The battle for maintaining the National Guard as an operational force; funded mostly at current personnel and equipment levels is exMaj. Gen. Gregory A. Lusk pected to intensify in early 2014. Adjutant General of NC We, Adjutant Generals, would like to see Congress amend the 2011 Budget Control Act in order to minimize sequestration impacts on the DoD and, therefore, allow the services greater flexibility in determining future defense spending priorities with the hopes of enabling the National Guard to remain operational, ready and strong. Recent eye-witnessed comments from senior Army leaders, however, do not give me confidence that “budget relief”, alone, will ultimately preserve the Operational Force status of the National Guard. Requiring, therefore, challenges to the assumptions and proposed decisions of the Army leadership in order to ensure deliberate and thoughtful dialogue. Recent statements alluded to the intent that any monetary relief from the Budget Control Act (such as recently experienced with the two year budget deal) would be directed towards buying back readiness and not towards buying back any proposed cuts to force structure – the Army has proposed reducing the Army National Guard by 35,000 personnel in the next couple of years. History has shown that for the last decade the National Guard has been able to maintain, train and deploy its authorized national end strength of over 350,000 personnel consistently and proficiently – we have never turned down an assigned mission. The Army National Guard (ARNG) has demonstrated its ability to maintain required operational readiness standards when provided appropriate resources and training opportunities (e.g. steady state overseas deployments, full inclusion in DoD training courses, continued fielding of modern technologies and weapons systems, etc.). Army and Air Guardsmen have stood side by side with their active duty counterparts at combat training centers and on the battlefields. In addition to maintaining a ready force for deployments overseas, we have continued on page 4 ~
TAG’s Corner
Contact Info:
Email: ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao@mail.mil NC Adjutant General — Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk: http://www.facebook.com/NCAdjutantGeneral http://twitter.com/NCTAG
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Contact info continued on page 5 ~
TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014
Volume 48
Number 1
Contents: NCNGA:
Convention Information Application for Office Educational Foundation Golf Tournament Application Legacy Bridge Program In Memoriam List
NC National Guard:
NCNG Guard Aviation Articles/Photos NCNG Tarheel Homecoming
6 7 9 11 14
10,12-13 15
Officers
Executive Council
President Bobby Lumsden
30th HBCT Brian Alkire Scott Schnack
Vice President Brent Orr Past President Ronnie Honeycutt Secretary-Treasurer Adene Tyler Judge Advocate Rick Fay Chaplain Carl Singley STAFF
Executive Director Adene Tyler Insurance Administrator Teri Foster Assistant Insurance Administrator Rhonda Arndt Executive Assistant Katie Westbrooks NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator Peggy Robinson Teri Foster, Editor
130th MEB Robert Holland Christopher McCurry 60th Troop Command Velma Evans Dale Baker, Jr. 449th TAB Colby Hammonds Thomas Underwood 113th Sustainment BDE Miriam Gray Randy Ly JFHQ-NC Steven Johnson Charlene Johnson 139th Regiment (CA) James McKee David Eaton Air Guard Barbara Doncaster Wendy Larsen Junior Council Timothy Stanhope Lonnie Brooks Associate Class John Eudy John Sweat, Jr.
NCNGA Insured Members — Have YOU Checked Your Beneficiary Lately? Have you had a change in your marital status? Do you know who you have designated as your beneficiary? Contact us at 919-851-3390 and either Teri Foster at ext 1, or Rhonda Arndt at ext 0, will be glad to assist you.
Deadline for submitting articles to the Tarheel Guardsman: APR/MAY issue: 3 MAR 2014 Send articles/photos to Teri Foster, Editor at the NCNGA (7410 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047) or email (teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com)
Address changes or questions? Contact us at 919-851-3390 or ncnga@bellsouth.net www.ncnga.org The Tarheel Guardsman, (ISSN 10618392) is published bi-monthly for the Army and Air National Guard of North Carolina, by the North Carolina National Guard Association, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047. Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676-9651. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Tarheel Guardsman, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047. The Tarheel Guardsman is the official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association, a non-profit organization. The publication’s mission is to promote the general welfare of the NCNGA, assist in increasing the readiness of the NC Army and Air National Guard of North Carolina and serve as a vehicle of expression for members of the National Guard. Members receive the publication free with their membership. The annual subscription rate for non-members of the Association is $15.00. Please include your old address when requesting change of address. Deadline for submitted material to the Tarheel Guardsman is the 5th of the month, two months preceding the calendar date of issue. Manuscripts and photographs on subjects of general interest are invited. Unless otherwise indicated, material may be reprinted provided credit is given to the Tarheel Guardsman and the author where listed. Articles and photos will not be returned, unless requested. (USPS 533-640) Advertising is accepted. For details contact the Association headquarters. Advertising, including political ads, published in this publication does not represent the endorsement or approval of the North Carolina National Guard Association.
Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 3
Hanging in the Balance — continued from page 2 continued to prove our intrinsic value to our states during recent natural disasters like super storm Sandy and the Colorado floods. The National Guard was an essential partner during multiple national special security events like the Democratic and Republican National conventions, as well as, various state and federal inaugurations. The Guard IS one of our nation’s most affordable defense options. Both Active and Reserve Components (AC/ RC) must play a part in meeting fiscal realities and obligations. A balanced and prudent approach to attaining a budget solution is required. One option reducing overall DoD costs is to increase the force structure of and reliance upon the National Guard. By doing so, our Nation can maintain its vital defense capabilities at significantly reduced costs – freeing up monies for other national priorities or reinvestment into research and procurement of defense systems and technology. Reserve Components offer an element of strategic and national agility that is largely paid for only when needed. No doubt, the added value of the National Guard and its: 1) unique dual state-federal mission; 2) being forward deployed into nearly every zip code of the United States; and 3) vital connection between the American military and the citizenry it serves demands its preservation and not its reduction. At the time of this writing, the leadership of the Army and the Army National Guard are at an impasse. Each having offered their respective solutions to the budgetary limits imposed on the DoD without any recent movement towards a common solution. The original, hoped for, intent of reaching a mutually-agreed upon budget proposal for presentation to DoD and Congress have halted and, therefore, Congress may ultimately have to decide this debate. The mounting tensions between the Army and the Army National Guard are perhaps best exemplified by the Army’s recently announced plan to divest the Army National Guard of all Combat Aviation Aircraft – transferring all Apache Attack Helicopters and all ARNG Attack Aviation units to the Active Component, as well as, transferring over 100 Lakota (LUH-72) helicopters from the Army National Guard to the Army Aviation School at Fort Rucker. In return, the ARNG would receive older version Blackhawk utility helicopters – not at a one for one swap ratio. A move such as this could deny the Army National Guard its codified war-fighting role with respect to Army Aviation, degrade domestic response capabilities within states, and force the closure of several ARNG flight facilities across the nation (subsequent loss of jobs). Additionally, this presents challenges to the goals
associated with achieving the “Total Army Plan and Concept” whereas only Army “lift” aviation capabilities will reside in the ARNG and Army combat aviation will reside purely in the active component. While reduced monetary resources may have precipitated the need to consider this course of action, it does not, in the opinions of many, take into account the value of the National Guard in retaining this mission. Several studies have stated that Army equipment experiences a longer service life and is, oftentimes, maintained more efficiently in the reserve components than the active components – offering a larger return on investment. On average, ARNG aviators have considerable more flight hour experience than their active duty counterparts. This Army initiative is gaining momentum and will likely be the initial skirmish in the overall attempt to reduce Army National Guard force structure in 2014. The Chief of the National Guard Bureau, with the support of the 54 Adjutant Generals of the Adjutant Generals Association of the United States (AGAUS), have proposed a budget that pays the National Guard portion of the Budget Control Act bill – approximately $ 1.7 Billion. In so doing, we have accepted reasonable risk by reducing: 1) Military Construction Accounts (tough when considering that National Guard facilities average nearly 50 years old around the country); 2) Full Time Manning Authorizations(AGR and Technician reductions – a tough reversal to what had been hard sought after for many years and has proven vital to maintaining individual and collective readiness standards); 3) Collective Training Proficiency Levels (acceptance of lower proficiency levels is bolstered by the confidence that higher level collective training proficiency can be regained with appropriations of adequate time and money); 4) Recruiting and Retention Accounts and Activities (made acceptable by the potential of absorbing qualified service members leaving active duty due to scheduled reductions in the active duty military as temporary “surge force” growths expire as the wars conclude) and 5) End Strength to 345,000 (down from 350,000 – any lower reduction was deemed irreversible and untenably risky for our Nation in the context of a fast-paced, security threat environment). While acknowledging our obligations under the law, the Budget Control Act, we deemed acceptance of these risks feasible - Army leadership has so far disagreed. This is where we stand as we enter 2014. The National Guard has demonstrated its abilities to our States, our Nation, and our fellow citizens throughout its entire 377 years of existence. We have, countless times, proven ourselves a ready, reliable, and responsive force at home and abroad. With the constant threats posed to our American security, made even more daunting by our fiscal challenges, the Relevancy of our National Guard has never loomed larger. My hope, for 2014, is that Congress will realize the value of the National Guard remaining a cornerstone to our national defense strategy, as a robust operational force, so that we may continue protecting and preserving the lives and property of fellow citizens, defending our nation and securing our American way of life – a critical defense component for our Nation at a cost we can afford. As so many who have served in our formations before, each of you who continue to voluntarily don the uniform of our country and serve in the North Carolina National Guard, provide the credibility for our argument and personify the justification of our position daily. You, along with your courageously, selfless family and supporters, who, collectively, sacrifice in answering a noble “call to duty”, make our North Carolina National Guard a highly revered and respected organization. It is an honor to serve with and amongst you. On behalf of the entire North Carolina National Guard command team, I wish you all health, happiness, and prosperity for the New Year! Always Ready – Ready Team!
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The President’s Report By Bobby Lumsden, NCNGA President
G
reetings fellow members of the Association and Happy New Year. As this Holiday Season has once again come and gone, I trust that we all had a safe and happy time. As we look forward to a New Year with so many opportunities and new adventures, we often tend to reflect on the offerings of the last year. I know that many of you, like me, have started making those resolutions and are working hard not to abandon them so quickly. There are many exciting things that continue to happen in the Association, and more changes that are upon us. As many of you are aware, we have welcomed a new member to our Staff. Katie Westbrooks has joined us, replacing Kathy Ford as our bookkeeper and Group Discounts Representative. As many of you are also aware, Adene Tyler has announced her plans for retirement and we – the Executive Council, Headquarters and Employees Committee, and I are in the process of looking for a new Executive Director. Although I must confess it is going to be extremely difficult to replace such a true professional on our staff with the number of years of experience and dedication Adene has. I would ask that each of you take the time to welcome Katie to our team and send your best to Adene as she prepares for retirement. The past few months have been busy and will continue that way for some time. In December, we sponsored a reception for every member of the Congressional Delegation in Washington, DC and for the Governor of North Carolina. Albeit there were no huge gains at this reception, it was our first step
at dedicating some focus to the upcoming fight for resources at the federal level. Now, more than ever, I need each member to be prepared to focus a small amount of your time and efforts on communicating with our elected officials at the federal level. The fight for resources have focused the Department of the Army’s attention on the National Guard. Much like the Air Guard saw last year in proposed cuts to their force structure, the Army is attempting to force the Army National Guard to take all their cuts on force structure. There is an alternate plan proposed by the National Guard, that cuts the same amount without taking the largest hit to force structure. I ask that each of you contact your Representative and our Senators to request they support the National Guard’s alternate plan. Our success or failure on limiting these force structure reductions will have larger implications on the National Guard as a whole, both Air and Army. As I close this article today, I ask that each of you please make arrangements to attend this year’s Association Convention and the Combined Ball Event. Each and every member is requested to attend the business sessions. Your input is needed and your vote counts. Last year, we had only about 300 members in attendance at the Business Session and had nearly 1200 in attendance at the ball. Please join us in attending the business sessions and various breakouts. May God bless each of you in this next year, and I look forward to continuing to serve with you, both in uniform and in the Association.
Walk-in Service at TRICARE Service Centers to end by April 1, 2014 Since the first TRICARE Service Center opened in the mid 1990’s, we’ve seen a shift in how you get information. With today’s technology, anything you can do at a TRICARE Service Center can be done online or over the phone. Consequently, walk-in service ends at TRICARE Service Centers in the U.S. by April 1, 2014. Because our overseas areas are unique, walk-in service at TRICARE Service Centers in all overseas areas will continue. This change does not affect any TRICARE benefits or health care services. For more detailed information and updates go to www.tricare.mil/TSC.
NC National Guard Association:
President — Bobby Lumsden: president.ncnga@gmail.com
Continued from page 2:
N C N G
C O N T A C T I N F O
Headquarters Office: ncnga@bellsouth.net
NC Assistant Adjutant General Air — Brig. Gen. Todd Kelly: http://facebook.com/NCAirAAG http://twitter.com/NCAirAAG NC Command Chief Warrant Officer — CW5 Rick Comer: http://www.facebook.com/pages/NC-Command-Chief-Warrant-Officer/261726843901458 http://www.twitter.com/NCCWO Command Senior Enlisted Leader — CSM John Swart: http://www.facebook.com/NCCSM http://twitter.com/NCSCSM NC Command Chief Master Sergeant — Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Pickett: http://www.facebook.com/pages/NC-State-Command-Chief-Master-Sergeant/330777956943662 http://www.twitter.com/NCCmdChief Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 5
2nd Annual NC National Guard Association and the NC National Guard Combined Event 27 – 29 MARCH 2014 Twin City Quarter Winston-Salem, NC Make plans now to attend the event of the year! We had such a great turnout and so many positive comments, we decided to again combine the NC National Guard Association’s annual convention, the Officer’s Military Ball and the Enlisted Ball into one big event. We have moved the Ball on Saturday night to the Benton Convention Center so we will have more room. Banquet space is limited to 1,200 so get your registration in early! We are planning some different activites, in additon to the usual hospitality rooms, for everyone on Friday and Saturday, so please plan to come early.
Registration and Dinner Price List*: By 28 FEB 2014
After 28 FEB 2014
E1 – E4: $21 ($42 per couple) $31 ($62 per couple) E5 – E7/WO1–CW2/O1–O2: $36 ($72 per couple) $46 ($92 per couple) All other ranks: $41 ($82 per couple) $51 ($102 per couple) Non-Military: $36 ($72 per couple) $46 ($92 per couple) Child(ren) (meal only): $21 (per child) $31 (per child) (*Retirees & Spouse/Guest - price is based on rank at retirement)
Register online at: http://ncng.meetingservicesinc.com/ Mail completed form with credit card information or check/money order to: Meeting Services, Inc.; ATTN: Debbie Wilborn, 3505 Vernon Woods Drive, Summerfield NC 27358. Checks should be made payable to Meeting Services, Inc. Registrations can also be done over the phone by contacting Debbie Wilborn at Meeting Services, Inc. — 336-451-0557
Dress Code for the Combined Event Events other than Ball — Business Casual Ball (Saturday Evening) — ARNG: Blue Mess Evening Dress, Army Service Uniform with bow tie, or Class A with white shirt and bow tie ANG: Mess Dress or Semi-Formal Dress Uniform Spouses and Guests: Semi-Formal for ladies, Suit and tie for the gentlemen
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Twin City Quarter Lodging Marriott Hotel - $97 plus tax, per night 1-800-320-0934 Embassy Suites - $107 plus tax, per night (includes full breakfast) 1-800-696-6107 (Go to www.ncnga.org for links to the hotels.) Hotel cut-off date is 28 February 2014
Help Your Association – Run for the NCNGA Executive Council! Have you ever thought about being a member of the NCNGA Executive Council? The only requirements for serving on the Council are that you must have served on an active committee within the past five years and that you are a member of the NCNGA! The Nominating & Credentials Committee is actively seeking qualified candidates to run for Executive Council seats. Upcoming vacancies for each major command will be filled at the next convention to be held 27-29 March 2014 at the Twin City Quarters, in Winston-Salem, NC. If you are qualified (see above) and interested in being an important part of your Association, complete the application below. If you have any questions, please contact Teri Foster at the NCNGA 919-851-3390 ext 1 or teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com. 2014-2015 Application for Nomination Candidate for the Executive Council North Carolina National Guard Association Name ______________________________________ Home Address _______________________________ City ___________________ State____ Zip_________ Home Telephone No. __________________________ Cell Telephone No. ___________________________ Business Telephone No. _______________________ Unit _______________________________________ Email address: _______________________________ Application can be faxed to: 919-859-4990 Or email to: teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com
Indicate office you want to be considered for: ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
President (at large) Vice President (at large) JFHQ-NC – Council Seat 30th ABCT – 2 Council Seats 130th MEB – Council Seat 60th Troop Command – Council Seat 449th TAB – 2 Council Seats 139th Regiment (CA) – Council Seat 113th Sustainment BDE – Council Seat Air National Guard – Council Seat Junior Council – Council Seat Associate Membership – Council Seat Deadline for submitting applications: 21 March 2014
One Weekend Culminating Into One Big Event! Winston-Salem is the place to be! Especially the weekend of 27-29 March 2014! There will be plenty of time for catching up with old friends and meeting new ones - plus, there will be plenty of time to take in the city and enjoy your weekend. Send in your registration form today and make your hotel reservation - you don’t want to miss this event! Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 7
TPC Wakefield hosts Tournament to benefit NC Military Families Story by Army Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs RALEIGH, NC - The Wakefield’s Senior Men’s Golf Association (WSMGA) hosted its first “WE CARE,” Golf Classic at the TPC at Wakefield Country Club, October 1, 2013. The tournament benefited North Carolina current and former military and their families. The proceeds raised at the event were donated to the Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Fund of NC, the USO of NC and the WSMGA Scholarship fund. “The sponsors and golfers made all this possible,” said Jim Weathers, president of WSMGA. The ceremonial opening began with leaders from the North Carolina National Guard, the USO of NC, and WSMGA thanking the golfers, sponsors and fans for their support. A JROTC Color Guard from Enloe Magnet High School posted the colors as the National Anthem was played and onlookers stood with their hands over their hearts. At the conclusion of the National Anthem, participants and organizers alike joined in with World War II Veteran, Bob Bidwell, a greeter with club, as he recited the Pledge of Allegiance. With the ceremony concluded, 180 golfers, organized into 36 groups, departed in a swarm of carts. They spread out along the rolling hills of the 18-hole, 217 acre, 71-par championship course. Each group was composed of corporate and individual sponsors and a military veteran. A shotgun start began the day’s events at noon. “I am here with good friends supporting a good cause,” said Hines Johnson, senior vice-president, CARQUEST Auto Parts. Scratch golfers, talented amateurs, club pros and the less than practiced enjoyed a long afternoon of golf under clear fall skies on a professional golf course. The military veterans got a chance to meet and mingle with numerous professionals and businesses that support the military. It was a wonderful day and a great opportunity to network and raise awareness to their civilian hosts on the importance of supporting military related causes.
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“It is great to see the community support the military said retired Gulf War Veteran Army Lt. Col. Wallace Mangum, formerly a safety officer with the NCNG’s 130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion. Conversation topics between war veterans and corporate leaders varied from the best approach shot to the green, how to fire a 155 mm artillery shell, business networking or even changing baby diapers. “I got to talk with someone who made a real difference, Staff Sgt. Dale Beatty,” said CARQUEST Senior Director of Merchandising Jon Attenweiler. “He is inspiring.” Beatty, a retired North Carolina National Guard Soldier and disabled Iraq War veteran, is co-founder of Purple Heart Homes. The charity builds personalized housing solutions for Service Connected Disabled Veterans and their families. Between holes, Beatty chatted with members of the CARQUEST team about the National Guard, their company and Purple Heart Homes. “It is a natural fit, we (the Guard) work in their businesses, shop in their stores,” said Beatty. “We want to work together to improve our communities.” The day culminated with a large reception filled with great food and fellowship. Awards were presented to the winning teams and individual players who won various challenges throughout the day. In the end, among edgy rock n’ roll tunes played by the NCNG’s 440th Army Band, NCNG Soldiers and local business leaders connected and understood each other’s plight. As business leaders shook hands with various military members, said good night and exchanged contact information, both were hoping they would stay in touch and see each other here next year.
If you are interested in contributing to the NC Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Fund, please go to their website at www.saaf-nc.com or contact Dennis Roach, Director, at 919-851-3390 ext 3.
PLAY GOLF AND SUPPORT THE NCNGA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION FORMAT: 18-Hole Captain’s Choice WHERE: Tanglewood Golf Club, Clemmons, NC 27012 WHEN: Thursday, March 27, 2014 – Shotgun Start at 9:00 AM ENTRY FEE: $65.00 (Make checks payable to NCNGA Educational Foundation, Inc.) DEADLINE FOR REGISTERING: All checks must be received by Monday, 3 March 2014 TEAM PRIZES: 1st Place Team — 4th Place Team MAIL TO: NCNGA Educational Foundation, Inc., 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 The entry fee includes cart and green fee, all prizes (Longest Drive Front and Back Nine, Closest to the Hole All Par 3’s, Hole in One All Par 3’s, Putting Contest at Conclusion of Round, Door Prizes) and Driving Range prior to round. Mulligans may be purchased for $5 (3 for $10). Money from mulligans will be added to the donations to the NCNGA Educational Foundation. Cost for Putting Contest is $10. Prize for Putting Contest is 50/50 split the pot on the cost, with the remainder also added to the donations to the NCNGA Educational Foundation. You may put together your own team or sign up individually and I will place you on a team. For additional information, contact Peggy Robinson at 919-851-3390 ext 5 Open to all golfers during the 53rd NCNGA Annual Convention in Winston-Salem, NC and their guests. All proceeds go to the NCNGA Educational Foundation. Check must accompany entry form. Convention attendance not required to enter tournament. Entry fee will be returned if tournament is cancelled due to rain. If you would like to register as a team, all four entry forms must be submitted together with checks totaling $260. Name _____________________________________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: (home) ___________________________ (cell) _________________________________ Email address: ______________________________________________________________________________ I declare myself physically able to compete in this event. I waive all rights for claims for injury or illness which may occur during this event. Signature: ___________________________________________
Date: _____________________
NCNGA Educational Foundation estimates the value for each entrant to be $45.00. Charitable contributions are deductible only to the extent that they exceed the value of any goods and services received. Your cancelled check is acknowledgement of your contribution.
Tax Assistance for Service Members
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n recognition of the complicated nature of filing taxes as a military service member and in support of financial readiness, the Department of Defense offers tax consultation and e-filing services through Military OneSource at no cost to service members and their eligible family members. These valuable tools and resources are provided as part of the Family Readiness System. Eligible service and family members have access to a no-cost tax preparation filing service, which allows users to
complete and electronically file federal and up to three state tax returns with the support and experience of professional tax experts. The tax preparation software is easy to use, and filings are backed by a 100 percent accuracy guarantee. In addition to filing services, Military OneSource tax consultants provide specialized support to help service members and their families understand the unique tax requirements related to military personnel. Tax consultants are available to service members and their families at no cost by calling Military OneSource at 800-342-9647.
Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 9
NC Guard Aviators Rescue Stranded Hikers By SFC Robert Jordan, NCNG PA Office ASHEVILLE, NC - “Always Ready, Always There” is more than the North Carolina National Guard’s motto. It was a mission Friday when three hikers became stranded in the North Carolina Mountains. Members of the US Forest Service located the hikers near the North Carolina, Tennessee border. The hikers endured life threatening conditions the night before, four to six inches of snow, wind gusts more than 30 miles-perhour, two-foot snowdrifts at 4,100 foot elevation. With the hikers suffering hypothermia and dehydration, North Carolina Emergency Management called out their Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART), the team pairs NCNG aviation with civilian first responders. “It is pretty rugged terrain and evacuation by ground was not possible without risk to life and limb,” said Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jeff Gordon with the NCNG’s C Company, 1-131 Assault Helicopter Battalion. Soldiers at the NCNG Flight Facility Two in Salisbury, NC, prepared for the mission at 7:20 a.m. Aviation Support Personnel loaded the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with fuel and rescue equipment as NCNG leaders planned the mission and assembled a flight crew. Gordon was recalled from leave at his home in nearby Mocksville, NC. He joined Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Tom Underwood, Army Staff Sgt. Todd Bowers with the battalion and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Hamm of the NCNG’s 449th Theater Aviation Brigade and two first responders from the Charlotte Fire Department. They departed for Asheville Regional Airport at 10:30 a.m. to refuel and pick up a Transylvania County first responder. The crew got directions and updates on the hikers’ condition via Voice Interoperability Plan for Emergency Responders radio. “We keep in contact with Emergency Management throughout the flight and made contact with the guys on the ground,” said Gordon. They arrived on site in the mountains about 12:20 p.m. The 63-foot-long helicopter hovered near the evacuation site using the rotor wash to blow debris and snow away before the rescuers arrived on foot. The civilian first
responders were lowered down to the site to retrieve the hikers by hoist, a thin metal cable winch on the side helicopter’s cargo A North Carolina National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk area. Helicopter lands at Asheville Regional Airport after res “It is cuing three stranded hikers trapped after a winter storm advanced problem solv- in nearby mountains, Friday, Jan. 4, 2014. The hikers ing, somewere then transferred to local ambulances and transthing needs ported to Mission Memorial Hospital. The NCNG crew to get done is part of the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue and then they Team. The team pairs NCNG aviation with civilian first figure it out,” responders. said Gordon. With the hikers aboard, they flew to Asheville Regional Airport to waiting ambulances from Mission Memorial Hospital. This is the first NCHART mission in 2014 but the team has flown many rescue missions in the area. “It has become routine and uneventful and that is a good thing, I’ve never been on a mission more difficult than our training,” said Gordon. NCHART also executes missions involving swift water/flood rescue, lost persons and urban/wilderness high angle rescues.
Greetings Fellow Junior Soldiers and Airmen, Timothy Stanhope and Lonnie Brooks are your two Junior Council Representatives to the North Carolina National Guard Association (NCNGA) Executive Council. The Junior Council Forum is geared to represent the Junior Soldiers and Airmen (Enlisted E-1 - E-6, Officers O-1 - O-2, and Junior Warrant Officers WO1 and CW2) of the North Carolina National Guard and to provide a voice for them with the NCNGA Executive Council on their constructive opinions and issues and presents them to the Executive Council for guidance. We are the future of this great organization and we, the Junior Soldiers and Airmen, need to carry on the task of being a voice for all Soldiers and Airmen. To see what you can do to be a part of the future of Junior Council Forum and the NCNGA, visit WWW.FACEBOOK. COM/GROUPS/JRNCNGA.
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Legacy Bridge Program
T
he NCNGA Executive Council approved the Legacy Bridge program, which is designed to financially carry the Association through our present fiscal transition period. As we move from a system where we depended on our investments and insurance premiums to pay our Association’s expenses to one that will rely on new revenue sources to cover our budget, the Legacy Bridge Program will provide the interim funds to meet budget costs until the transition is complete. Our projection is that this should occur within the next 5-6 years, and as such it is a closed end program. The short-term plan is to use the income from the Legacy Bridge Program until our new revenue sources come on-line allowing us to insulate our investments so that they are allowed to grow over the long term. At the end of the program, the new revenue sources, along with insurance premiums,
*Our Newest Members of the Legacy Bridge Program: 259. Nathaniel G. Shields 260. In Memory of Chief Myron Pigg by Tom Davis 261. Percy Liles
*As of press time
will be our main income sources and the Legacy Bridge Program will close. Long term, we hope to reach an investment fund goal of $3 Million. At that point, even at a modest 4%, the Association could survive indefinitely should our insurance and new revenue sources take a hit during lean times. Please consider joining us in the Legacy Bridge Program. And, if you would like to remember or honor someone, please consider making a donation in their name. Please take a few minutes to fill out the application and to write a check. Questions? Please call us at 919-851-3390.
NCNGA LEGACY BRIDGE PROGRAM DONATION Name:
(
Mailing Address: City:
State:
Zip:
Phone: ( ) NCNGA Life Member: Yes No Unit:
) I would like to make this donation in honor of ( ) in memory of ( )
Please include my name: ____Yes ____No
E-Mail Address:
$100 Donation (Donations are not tax deductible) $25 Quarterly Installments _____
$100 Full Payment _____
_____ Check _____ Money Order _____ Master Card/Visa (Add $3 credit card fee) ______ Credit Card Information: Acct #________________________________________________________________ Exp Date: ______________________ 3-digit Sec Code:____________________ Signature: _____________________________________________________________
Return application and payment to: NCNGA, ATTN: Legacy Bridge Program, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh NC 27607-5047 Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 11
Governor Visits Flight Facility #1
Governor Pat McCrory and retired Army Maj. Gen. Cornell Wilson watch Army Chief Warrant Officer Chris Wilson demonstrate a portion of the sensor system on a AH-64 Apache helicopter, during his visit to the North Carolina National Guard, Army Aviation Support Facility #1 in Morrisville, NC. McCrory, as NCNG’s commander-in-chief, wanted to learn more about the capabilities and needs of his 12,000 Soldiers and Airmen as an operational force. (US Army National Guard Photo by Capt. Matthew Boyle, NCNG Public Affairs/Released)
Governor Pat McCrory meets with the North Carolina Helicopter and Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART) that recently performed a rescue in the Appalachain Mountains, during his visit to the North Carolina National Guard, Army Aviation Support Facility #1 in Morrisville, NC. (US Army National Guard Photo by Capt. Matthew Boyle, NCNG Public Affairs/Released)
1-252nd AR Training
The 105th Engineer Combat Battalion supported their counterparts from the 1-252nd Armored Regiment (AR) by digging tank sized foxholes to use as fighting positions at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, NC on Jan 11, 2014. Soldiers of the 1-252nd AR conducted tank maneuvers and battle drills with the M1-A1 Abrams battle tank, the M2-A1 Bradley, and the M113 Armored Personal Carrier. Soldiers executing the battle drills were graded by Observer Controllers from the First Army Division. (US Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Leticia Samuels, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs/Released)
Page 12 – Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014
Are You or Someone You Know A Korean War Veteran? The NCNGA has available to all Korean War Veterans, a book entitled “Korea Reborn – A Grateful Nation.” The book can be picked up at the NC National Guard Association office, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh NC 27607. (Books cannot be mailed.) Please contact the Association office for additional information at 919-851-3390 or email us: ncnga@bellsouth.net.
1-130th ARB Pilots Perform Fly-Over at Army-Navy Game North Carolina National Guard AH-64D Longbow Apache attack helicopters enter the air space over Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia as part of introductions for the US Military Academy’s Black Knight football team during the 114th annual Army vs. Navy football game. (US Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Leticia Samuels, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs/ Released) North Carolina National Guard AH-64D Longbow Apache Helicopter pilots supported by the 1-130th ARB and the 449th Theater Aviation Brigade, were selected this year to perform a diamond formation flyover for the 114th annual Army versus Navy football game on December 14, 2013 at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The pilots were also recognized by name on the field for their outstanding skills as pilots representing the North Carolina National Guard. (US Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Leticia Samuels, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs/Released)
Do You Have a High School Senior or College Student? The 2014-15 NCNGA Educational Foundation Scholarship application is available on the NCNGA website (www.ncnga.org) under “Documents” and “Educational Foundation.” Application deadlines are: 1 Feb 2014 for College Students and High School Graduates 1 Mar 2014 for High School Seniors
Paid Advertisement
The North Carolina Department of the American Legion Thanks You for Your Service to Our State and Nation!
We invite you to visit any of our 327 Posts, statewide, visit our website www.nclegion.org, email us at nclegion@nc.rr.com, or call 919-832-7506.
“For God and Country - Still Serving Proudly.”
Please contact Peggy Robinson at the Educational Foundation at 919-8513390 ext 5, for additional information.
Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 13
NCSECU Members and Volunteers Send Care Packages to Deployed NCNG Members RALEIGH, NC - Jimmy Goodrum, NCSECU SVP, welcomed and thanked all the volunteers who spent most of their Saturday putting together care packages for units of the North Carolina National Guard currently deployed, their goal today is to complete 5,001 care package boxes. The volunteers gathered at the Wake Forest Road, NC State Employees Credit Union Operations Center, in early December. Volunteers consisted of employees, NCSECU members of which some are prior service, and family members of previously deployed Service Members. This is the 4th year since the project started at a local branch where members and employees used to put together Christmas stockings to send to local Soldiers deployed. "This now is a statewide project and represents thousands of members and students who made donations throughout North Carolina" said Jimmy Goodrum. The volunteers packed thousands of boxes with snacks, toothbrushes, bath wipes and other toiletries. These were shipped to NCNG Soldiers currently deployed, like the 210th Military Police detachment, the 211th Military Police Company, the 630th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion and Active Duty units from throughout the state that are also currently deployed. Wyoma J. Moses, Retired US Army Sergeant First Class, who served two tours in Iraq said, "I know what it is to get items that we need and use out in the battlefield. I support those currently doing the same thing I did and want to give back to them." (US Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Odaliska Almonte, NCNG PAO)
In Memoriam Listed below are members (and non-members), spouses and dependent children that have recently passed away. If we have missed someone, please contact the Editor, Teri Foster at teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com or 919-851-3390 ext 1. Rufus W. Brown Goldsboro, NC 21 April 2013
Patrick L. Pittman Wilson, NC 18 November 2013
Jay D. Patton, Jr. Columbia, SC 30 November 2013
Angela M. Reagan Todd, NC 16 December 2013
Jerry W. Butler Wagram, NC 4 January 2014
Bruce A. Myers Shelby, NC 13 August 2013
Carlton L. Pridgen Fairmont, NC 23 November 2013
William Harrelson Raleigh, NC 7 December 2013
Leon Bryant Englehard, NC 18 December 2013
John A. Fisher, Jr. Butner, NC 7 January 2014
Leslie B. Fisher Eastover, NC 1 November 2013
Jackie R. Ray Warsaw, NC 24 November 2013
James Thomas Butts, III Charlotte, NC 11 December 2013
Cad L. “Luke” Wilkins Raleigh, NC 21 December 2013
Rudolph E. Warden Elizabeth City, NC 5 November 2013
Terry A. Ghorley Gastonia, NC 28 November 2013
Charles R. Pearce, III Gastonia, NC 23 December 2013
Claude F. Fisher St. Pauls, NC 16 November 2013
Hector H. Henry, II Concord, NC 28 November 2013
Doris Everett Spouse of Larry Everett Laurinburg, NC 13 December 2013
Tynika N. Humphrey HHC 690th BSB Kinston, NC 7 January 2014
Franklin B. Holland Bessemer City, NC 18 November 2013
G. L. Bissette Bailey, NC 29 November 2013
Boyd E. Dickey Durham, NC 14 December 2013 William E. Herring Kinston, NC 14 December 2013
Page 14 – Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014
Thomas W. Queen Asheville, NC 30 December 2013 John P. Jones Taylorsville, NC 31 December 2013
Philip O. Whitaker, III Calabash, NC 8 January 2014 Jackson C. Battle, Jr. Charlotte, NC 10 January 2014
NCNG — Tarheel Homecoming By Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan, NCNG-PAO
North Carolina National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, civilian staff, service organizations and other vendors host the Tarheel Homecoming celebration held at the NCNG’s Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, NC, Dec. 13, 2013. Tarheel Homecoming invites NCNG retirees and prior service members to learn more about current Guard operations and provide information on retiree benefits. This year, attendees also celebrated the National Guard’s 377th birthday.
The North Carolina National Guard’s Command Team, Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Swart, NCNG senior enlisted leader, far left, Army Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, adjutant general of North Carolina, center left, Army Chief Warrant Officer Five Richard D. Comer, state command chief warrant officer, far right, with retired Army Col. Carl Acree, oldest NCNG Soldier enlisting in 1949, center, and Spc. Aimee Glavan, youngest NCNG Soldier, together cut a National Guard birthday cake at NCNG Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, NC, Dec. 13.
Retired Army Col. Carl Acree, oldest NCNG Soldier enlisting in 1949, walks with Spc. Aimee Glavan, youngest NCNG Soldier, during the National Guard Birthday ceremony, Dec. 13, 2013. Tarheel Guardsman — February/March 2014 — Page 15
Tarheel Guardsman NC National Guard Assoc. 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
Periodicals U. S. Postage PAID Raleigh, NC
Would you like a chance to win $3,500? The NCNGA Educational Foundation will be holding a Reverse Drawing on Thursday, March 27, 2014 @ 6:00 pm. at the Winston-Salem National Guard Armory 2000 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 Tickets are $35 per couple & includes dinner for two The last ticket drawn is the winner! The first ticket drawn will receive $35 & every 25th ticket drawn after the first ticket will receive $50. And you do not have to be present to win! Only 300 tickets will be sold!
Get your ticket(s) today! If you are interested in purchasing a ticket(s), contact Peggy Robinson at the NCNGA Foundation Office 919-851-3390 ext. 5 or contact a member of the Board of Directors Proceeds go to the Scholarship Fund & your donation is tax deductible.
Stanley Tool Box
The cabinet is a specially configured mobile cabinet, 45" L X 43"H X 27 3/4" deep and has one 40 1/4" W X 25 1/8" deep drawer for tools and two banks of 17 7/8"W X25 1/8" D drawers of varying depths for other tools & parts (note these are estimated measurements & color may vary)
Tickets $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00
(only 1,000 tickets printed)
Drawing will be held Saturday, March 29, 2014 Proceeds benefit the NCNGA Educational Foundation & are tax deductable