Tarheel Guardsman
June/July 2014
2014 - 2015 NCNGA Executive Council 2nd Annual Combined Event photos on pages 4-6
LEADERS CORNER –
I
NCNG: Remaining Interchangeable and an Operational Combat Reserve of the Total Army Force
am honored to have this opportunity to communicate with you through the Tarheel Guardsmen. As the Vice Chief of Staff (VCoS), I assist the Adjutant General in ensuring that the more than 12,000 NCNG Army and Air personnel are accessible, capable and ready to protect our State and Nation. I have also been a member of the NCNGA for more than 20 years. As Minutemen have answered the call since the founding of our Nation, the NCNG answers each call to duty without fail. It is you, your families and our supporters who play a key role in making the NCNG ready, reliable, responsive and relevant. As many have heard, there is tremendous debate on the future force structure of the Army and National Guard due to the Budget Control Act (BCA), passed by congress in 2010. The Budget Control Act requires reductions in defense spending and as a result, will result in reductions in manpower and equipment along with restructuring of the Army and Army National Guard. The National Guard fully understands the responsibility for all services to adjust with the changing budgetary environment, and is willing to accept reasonable cuts that do not negatively impact our capability to successfully perform our mission as an operational reserve. Defense cuts and reductions are necessary by current law. Given the historical rebalancing of forces after long surges in global contingency missions and major regional conflicts, these new reductions come as no surprise to the National Guard. The National Guard, by design, is an interchangeable partner with the Active Army. During the last 12 years, the Army and Congress made significant financial investments to achieve this posture; however, as a Nation and National Guard we cannot depart from 12 years of experience, superior performance, and our proven relevancy. If the Army’s current Restructuring Plan goes into effect, due to the BCA, our National Guard could see the transfer of combat force structure and equipment into the Active Army. For example, under the current plan all Army combat aviation force structure is transferred from the National Guard to the active component Army. This divestiture of combat force structure out of the National Guard sets a dangerous precedent and reduces
the National Guard’s ability to respond when the nation calls. These budget fights and restructuring battles physically take place on Capitol Hill, but you can make a difference. Your unit and individual readiness is extremely important now, especially during mobilizations and amid the looming COL Todd Hunt, budgetary decisions. Readiness begins at the individual level and in certain cases NCNG Vice Chief of culminates during combined exercises or Joint Staff (VCoS) annual training. As the VCoS, I am keenly aware of the training we do in preparation for the warfight, domestic operations, and community support. Our organization has a proven record of superior performance in each of the previously mentioned areas. As an Association member, I urge you to stay abreast of changing developments concerning the National Guard’s future. The NCNG will be an Always Ready, Ready Team that answers the call to duty as the Minutemen before us have. It is the proven dedication of individuals, units and family members that make the NCNG an interchangeable force with the Active Services, while still providing civil support to our state. From the VCoS, I commend you for your efforts and accomplishments in serving our great Nation, State, and communities.
Legislative Alert from the NCNGA Here is what YOU can do today! Go to http://capwiz.com/eangus/issues/alert/?alertid=63069936 Scroll to the bottom and enter your information. The letter is already drafted; all you have to do is click “Send”and it will automatically be sent to your legislators.
NCNGA Announces New Executive Director NCNGA President Bobby Lumsden, along with the NCNGA Executive Council, is pleased to announce the selection of Craig Lloyd as the new North Carolina National Guard Association’s Executive Director. Craig has served as an Executive Director for numerous other non-profit organizations for the last 15 years; including the Futures for Kids Organization, NC MADD, and several chambers of commerce. He was most recently serving as the Executive Director for the North Carolina Chapter of MDA. Welcome, Craig!
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TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association JUNE/JULY 2014
Volume 48
Contents: NCNGA:
Combined Event Photos Discount Ticket Information
4-6 7
NC National Guard:
Cajun Care 2014 National Guard — Interchangeable Officers President Bobby Lumsden Vice President Brent Orr Past President Ronnie Honeycutt Secretary-Treasurer Craig Lloyd Judge Advocate Rick Fay Chaplain Carl Singley STAFF Executive Director Craig Lloyd Insurance Administrator Teri Foster Assistant Insurance Administrator Rhonda Arndt Executive Assistant Katie Westbrooks NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator Peggy Robinson
Teri Foster, Editor
Number 3
11,15 13-14
Flag Day — 14 June 2014 Independence Day - 4 July 2014 Please fly your flag proudly!
Executive Council 30th HBCT Shane Evans Scott Schnack
Do we have your email address?
130th MEB Mark McMahan Robert Holland 60th Troop Command Jack Midyette Velma Evans
In order to contact our members when time is of the utmost importance (legislative issues, special benefit opportunities, etc.), the NCNGA is trying to build it’s email list for our members. Send your email address to ncnga@bellsouth.net and we will add your name to our alert roster.
449 TAB Patrick Szvetitz Mark VanVeldhuizen
(Your email will only be used for NC National Guard Association legislative and benefit updates. We will not sell or give your information to anyone else.)
113th Sustainment BDE Randy Ly Miriam Gray
Deadline for submitting articles for the AUG/SEP issue of the Tarheel Guardsman:
th
JFHQ-NC Reggie Hooker Steven Johnson 139th Regiment (CA) Norman Walls James McKee Air Guard Tamvaria Walker Barbara Doncaster Junior Council Jeremy Davis Timothy Stanhope Associate Class Danielle Hodges John Eudy
1 July 2014 Address changes or questions? Contact us at 919-851-3390 ncnga@bellsouth.net or 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.
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Scenes from the Second NCNGA/NCNG Combined Event — 28-29 March 2014
Photos by Patti Moran
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It was a great conference — thank you to everyone that attended!
Photos by Patti Moran Thank you, Patti! Page 5 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2014
Scenes from the Combined Event Ball
Photos by Sgt 1st Class Robert Jordan, NCNG Public Affairs More than 1,100 Soldiers, Airmen and their guests made the second annual North Carolina National Guard and NCNG Association Convention combined event held in WinstonSalem, NC, a continued success. The convention blended camaraderie and business with NCNG senior leaders, new Soldiers and Airmen, retirees and association staff meeting, learning and socializing as peers. “After a year of hard work, it is a good thing to let your hair down a little,” said Army Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, adjutant general of North Carolina.
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NCNGA DISCOUNTED TICKETS Kings Dominion – www.kingsdominion.com/affiliates User Name & Password : KDNCNGA Carowinds – www.carowinds.com/affiliates User Name & Password : CANCNGA Biltmore – www.biltmore.com/ncnga (no code) Tweetsie – www.tweetsie.com Code: NCNGA99 Emerald Pointe – www.emeraldpointe.com Code: ng14K Busch Gardens/Water Country USA – Information unavailable at press time; please check our website for ticket information.
136 TH NGAUS C ONFERENCE C HICAGO, IL 22-25 AUGUST 2014
Contact Katie Westbrooks at 919-851-3390 ext 2, or visit http://ncnga.org/discount-programs for more information.
Corporate Members Thank you for all your support to the NCNG and the NCNGA!
Marriott Chicago-Downtown Lobby pictured
Ads provided as part of the Corporate member’s benefits.
Minimize distractions
Maximize Medical READINESS
A NGAUS tradition, the annual conference allows members to gather and vote on the top legislative priorities for NGAUS, share information and celebrate the camaraderie of being National Guard and NGAUS members. Join us in Chicago and network with more than 4,000 fellow National Guard men and women from all 50 States, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia.
NCNG will co-host a hospitality
suite with WANG and OKNG in the Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile for daily meetings and Hospitality Night
We have rooms blocked at the Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile for $166 (+taxes/fees) ARE YOUR SOLDIERS MISSING OUT ON VALUABLE TRAINING IN ORDER TO GET THEIR MEDICAL READINESS SQUARDED AWAY? We are committed to supporting the war-fighter so the war-fighter can get back in the fight. With our years of experience delivering services to the military, we can provide your required medical and dental services with precision planning. We work to get your unit readiness numbers back up in one drill weekend. With our real-time data entry, you will see immediate results. Gone are the days of endless PHAs. No more SNAFUs. No more red. With Onsite Health as your ally, we’ll make sure your training time isn’t wasted.
Now go kick down some doors, Commander.
We got this.
health
TORREY HUBRED Military Health Services Subject Matter Expert 571-257-2413
Onsite Health, Inc. 241 18th Street South, Suite 403, Arlington VA 22202 | info@onsitehealth.com | 888.411.2290 | onsitehealth.com
Registration is $200 and includes
tickets to the Governor’s Reception, All States Dinner, Convention Center exhibits and events, and daily access to refreshments at the North Carolina National Guard’s hospitality suite
POC is MAJ Brian McIlvaine at: nc.ngaus@gmail.com
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The Soldiers and Airmen Fund
3rd Annual “Fairway to Honor” Charity Golf Tournament Join us for a great day of golf! We expect another sell-out, so sign up early! Sponsored by Exxon Mobil Date: September 18, 2014 (Thursday). Format: 18-Hole Captain’s Choice. Lunch, carts, range balls provided.
Shotgun start at 10:30 AM. Address: Bentwinds Golf and Country Club, 6536 Dornoch Place, Fuquay-Varina, NC, 919-552-5656.
On Course Contests: Longest drive, closest to the pin holes, three hole-in-one contests sponsored by Ray Price Harley Davidson and Anheuser-Busch, Hooter’s “Let’s Make A Deal” hole and the $5,000 team putting contest.
Tournament Proceeds: All proceeds will benefit the families of the North Carolina National Guard. Registration and Sponsorship: Information will be posted on our website July 1, 2014 — http://saaf-nc.com/golf-tournament.html
2013 SAAF Patriot Award Recipients: Presented for extraordinary
efforts of an individual or organization that supports the quality of life for our military service men and women, and their families. Dennis Hatchel, Pantry/Kangaroo Wesley Campbell, Minuteman Food Marts Haddon Clark, Sampson Bladen Oil Co. Brandon Bryce, Largemouth Communications
Scott Aman, New Dixie Oil Co. Blair Pender, Hooters-NC Dean Cline, Sr., Cline & Assoc. Wakefield Men’s Senior Golf Assoc.
SAAF Has New Grant Programs! Several new grants programs are
now available through the Soldiers and Airmen Fund: scholarship grants through the NCNGA Educational Foundation and Casualty Assistance Grants for National Guard wounded warriors discharged from the military since 9/11. Contact the SAAF office at 919-851-3390 ext. 3 or visit our webpage at www.saaf-nc.com for more information.
You Could Be The Lucky Winner of A Fabulous Trip!
Two Southwest Airline tickets and 7 days at a 5-Star Resort Condo, plus $1,500 spending money. Drawing will be October 14th. Proceeds from the sale of the raffle tickets will benefit the Wakefield Senior Men’s Golf Association, USO-NC and the NCNG Soldiers and Airmen Fund. Raffle tickets cost $20 each. Send your check, payable to the SAAF-NC; mail to SAAF-NC, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.
A Helping Hand For Those Who Serve… The strength of our
Guard is our Soldiers, Airmen and their families. We have been able to help them because of your generosity and support. REMEMBER to purchase your “In God We Trust” license plate this year. It cost $30 and for each plate sold, a $20 tax-deductible donation will go to the Soldiers & Airmen Assistance Fund to help our Guard families.
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Paid Advertisement
KANGAROO EXPRESS’ SALUTE OUR TROOPS FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN HAS RAISED OVER $8 MILLION FOR MILITARY SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS IN THE LAST THREE YEARS.
4th ANNUAL FUNDRAISER JUN 26th–SEP 2nd You can say “Thank You” by participating in a Salute our Troops ROO Ride or visit your neighborhood Kangaroo Express to donate. To learn more, go to www.KangarooExpress.com.
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2nd Star for Brig. Gen. David “Todd” Kelly By Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina National Guard hosted a pinning ceremony for the promotion of Air National Guard General Officer, Air Force Brig. Gen. David “Todd” Kelly at the NCNG Joint Force Headquarters on March 7, 2014. Kelly was promoted to the rank of major general during a traditional ceremony as a second star was pinned on by his wife, Renee; son, Jeremy; and daughter, Shannon. Daughter, Melissa, pinned insignia on Service Dress blues and his uncle, Tom Kelly, pinned rank on his flight cap. Maj. Gen. Kelly graduated from North Carolina State University in 1981 and received an Air Force commission through the Air Force Officer Training Corps program there. After completion of pilot training, Kelly served in operational C-130 and C-21 assignments at Pope AFB, NC and Andrews AFB, MD prior to joining the North Carolina Air National Guard in 1989. He was appointed as the Assistant Adjutant General-Air, JFHQ-NC from May 2011 until February 2014, serving as the primary advisor and Commander to the Adjutant General on all programs, strategic planning and operations affecting the NCANG. He also served as the A-5, Assistant to the Director, Air National Guard. Maj. Gen. Kelly is a command pilot with more than 5500 flying hours, in the T-37, T-38, C-21A, C-130B/E/H3 aircraft. In addition to several operational combat deployments, he also served as the Deputy Director of Mobility Forces, US Central Command Combined Air
Retiree Corner
By SFC Tre’ Caraway, J9 M-Day Retirement Services Office If you are RETIRED from the North Carolina National Guard, you have the most comprehensive information system available at your fingertips. A variety of valuable benefits are available to RETIRED National Guard Airmen, Soldiers and their families. Check out the North Carolina National Guard J9 M-day Retirement website (http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil/Services/Pages/ Retirees.aspx) to review the following topics: Retired Pay – information about Reserve component retirement, benefits available, who is eligible, and how to apply. Survivor Benefit Plan – information regarding your choices of coverage and how those choices will impact you. State Pension – information regarding the State Pension in regards to who is eligible, and amounts to be paid based on qualifying years of service.
Air Force Color Guard unfurled the two star general officer flag for newly promoted General Officer David Todd Kelly at North Carolina National Guard Joint Force Headquarters. Kelly was promoted to the rank of Air Force Maj. Gen. and will serve as the Air National Guard Assistant to the Commander, Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base, IL. (US Army National Guard Photo by Sgt Leticia Samuels, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs/Released)
and Operations Center, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, from September 2006 through February 2007 supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. After receiving his second star, Maj. Gen. Kelly turned to the Soldiers and Airmen in the audience and gave advice to all by stating, “Take advantage of the opportunities that you have. Get out of your comfort zone and take on challenges. Take North Carolina National Guard forward.” Kelly, who will serve as the Air National Guard Assistant to the Commander, Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base, IL, will be responsible for advising the commander and staff on all issues impacting the ANG nationally. “As I move forward in my new position,” Kelly said, “I look forward to the opportunities to continue to be a part of my North Carolina family. Yes, I am a Guardsman and will continue to be a North Carolina Guardsman.” Gray Area Benefits – information for National Guard members who have received a 20-year letter, but have not received any retired pay may be eligible to receive “gray area” benefits. Retired vs. Discharged – view our 15 minute brief for Soldiers to see the difference in what a decision can make on not only your pay, but also all of your other benefits. 20-Year Letter – information about notifications of eligibility for retired pay at age 60, or before based on qualifying Title 10 service. Retirement Points – view how you earn retirement points, how to correct your statement, and how to read your statement. TriCare – health care benefits under TRICARE Standard at age 60, and how it changes at age 65. Visit www.tricare.com to find your region and proper contact number. Commissary – “Gray Area” retirees and former National Guard members in the Retired Reserve are authorized commissary privileges if they meet eligibility requirements. ID Cards – information on the issuing, reissuing, and renewing of ID cards. Call 1-800-538-9552; this number will also allow you to change your address, and check your enrollment in DEERS, and check your TRICARE insurance status. If you cannot find the RETIRED information needed, please call the J9 M-Day Retirement office at 919-664-7565.
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NC Air National Guard Play Vital Roll Providing Real-World Care During Cajun Care 2014 Article and Photos By Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs ABBEVILLE, LA — More than 120 Air National Guard and Navy Reservists gathered in Louisiana to participate in a training mission that provided medical, dental and optometry care to over 3,000 residents in and around Abbeville, LA. For 10 straight days, Air National Guard and Navy Reserve personnel from more than a dozen different units across the United States participated in Cajun Care 2014, a Department of Defense-sponsored Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) mission. IRT is designed to provide US military professionals valuable training, as well as provide support to underserved communities. Airmen from the North Carolina Air National Guard play a vital role in the coordination, planning and execution of the IRT program. Air National Guard Lt. Col. Jamie Ruffing, Cajun Care mission commander, spoke highly of the NCANG team. “The sheer magnitude of getting an operation such as this off the ground is staggering,” she said. “But, our supply and logistics team has answered every call, and enabled the providers to serve this community.” Senior Master Sgt. Chris Amburn is the 145th Airlift Wing’s Base Contracting Officer. Amburn was approached three years ago by Lt. Col. Hall, the IRT Program Manager at that time, who asked SMSgt Amburn to manage contracts for the entire program. US Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Smith, dental surgeon assigned to the 145th Medical Group, NCANG, surgically removes 12 non-restorable teeth from a patient while 2nd Class Petty Officer Stephanie Aquirre, from Naval Operational Support Center, Tuscan, AZ assists during a training mission. Smith and Aquirre, along with other Air National Guard and Navy Reservists participated in Cajun Care 2014, an Innovative Readiness Training mission held in Abbeville, LA. Smith extracted 177 teeth during the first three of the 10 day mission.
US Air Force Tech. Sgt. Phillip Harrell and Staff Sgt. Jesse Huneycutt, 145th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Air Transportation Specialists, use a K-Loader and 10k All Terrain forklift to load pallets containing dental and medical supplies onto a C-130 Hercules aircraft at the North Carolina Air National Guard base. The 145th Airlift Wing prepares a flight bound for Louisiana in support of Cajun Care 2014, a Department of Defense, Innovative Readiness Training mission designed to provide US military medical professionals invaluable training as well as provide health care options to a medically underserved community.
Amburn, in conjunction with Master Sgt. Bryant Alexander, Contract Specialist and Tony Cherry, Procurement Technician, 145th Contracting office, writes and executes supply and service contracts for all services; ANG, Air Force Reserve, Marines, Navy, and ARMY Guard. Amburn manages the logistics portion, as well for the entire program including medical and civil engineering projects. In the last year alone, he has managed $.6 million in contracts and purchases for the IRT program, and $89,000 for Cajun Care, all as a side duty. Over the course of three years, Amburn has grown the program from one to many. It has encompassed and touched all areas of the NCANG including Aerial Port, Finance, Maintenance, Civil Engineers, Flight Operations, Medical and Public Affairs. By incorporating many units base wide, NCANG has not only impacted and inspired the lives of those here locally at the 145th AW, but also impacted the lives of many nationwide who have received support through the IRT mission. “Working with Airmen, Marines, Sailors and Soldiers in a very joint environment is perhaps one of the most rewarding experiences I have had the privilege to be part of,” Amburn said. He went on to say, “It is very gratifying to be part of a one team-one fight mission that provides training for our troops while helping those who are underserved as well.” While the contracting office at the NCANG heads up logistics, Capt. Michael Cain, 145th Civil Engineer Squadron, is the Air National Guard IRT Project Manager for all ANG Lead IRT Engineering Missions. As project manager, it is Cain’s responsibility to help ensure that all participating units are meeting their training objectives, and as a product, providing the IRT applicant with quality Military Engineer Workmanship. 1st Lt. Rebecca Roodhouse-Hintz, 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, is now serving as IRT ANG Program Manager and works directly for the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. Roodhouse-Hintz is proactive, combat-ready, and has proven to be adaptable. She has taken the lead to get the ANG actively involved with a variety of IRT missions, providing a dual benefit for community and Airmen training. Cain and Hintz work alongside of SMSgt Amburn, all having a direct impact on the program and report to OASD on various levels. Once logistics for Cajun Care were completed, the training continued as the 145th AW got equipment and supplies ready to deploy. For the Continued on page 15 ~
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NC Air National Guard Celebrates 66th Anniversary March 15, 2014, we celebrated the North Carolina Air National Guard’s 66th Anniversary. Then Lt Col William J. Payne, who ran a furniture store in downtown Charlotte, was asked to start the unit, which received federal recognition on 15 Mar 1948. Brig Gen Payne commanded the unit from 15 March 1948 until his retirement in 1976, where he was assigned as the Assistant Adjutant General, Air and promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in 1961. The North Carolina Air National Guard origins date to 15 March 1948 with the establishment of the 156th Fighter Squadron, the oldest unit of the North Carolina Air National Guard. It was federally recognized and activated at Morris Field, near Charlotte and was equipped with F-47D Thunderbolts. Its mission was the air
defense of the state. The NC Air National Guard now flies C-130 H-3 “Hercules” aircraft, performing federal and state missions to include aerial firefighting, with 145th Airlift Wing’s C-130s equipped with the Modular Airborne Firefighting System (MAFFS), and the 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, responding to natural disasters. The 145th AW has deployed in support of joint operations related to Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita in 2005 and continues to deploy overseas in support of the war on terrorism. (Submitted by MSgt Patricia Moran, 145th Public Affairs)
NCNGA Retiree Hospitality Room - 2014
E
ach year a group of retired NCNG men and women sponsor a “RETIREE HOSPITALITY ROOM” at the annual Combined NCNGA/NCNG Combined Event. This RETIREE HOSPITALITY ROOM is made possible only by the generous contributions and volunteers of fellow NCNG retired personnel. We have been selected as the #1 Hospitality Room in past years, and be assured, members, both active and retired, attending the event recognize our friendly and “gourmet” hospitality room as the meeting place. We are retirees and proud to support our theme: “NCNG RETIREES - WE ARE STILL SERVING.” We appreciate so very much the support of the following contributors to the NCNGA Retiree Hospitality Room – 2014. Many of these contributors have supported this hospitality room annually for the past five years. YOU are a vital part of the success and recognition of the “joint” efforts of NCNG RETIREES (Army & Air). A special thanks to ALL and those that are not named that just dropped monetary contributions while attending the hospitality room, including purchasing raffle tickets for door prizes. A very special appreciation is extended to
Mrs. Candy Atkinson for her untiring efforts in the successful raffle ticket sales and to Dave Suddreth for donating all the “gifts” passed along to those visiting our hospitality room.
Summary of 2014 Contributors: Fisk Outwater Albert Rose Jim McCaskill Gene Deal Terry Benson Gregory Smith Mabry (Bud) Martin Dave Jennette Gene Ray Frank Reynolds Vernon Potter Del Foster Willie Poole Jerry Sebastian Joe Dickens John Hatcher Mike Austin Barry Davis Joe Parker Stacey Averett Mike Turner Charles Scott Bobby Harmon Bob Cassel Drew Goodwin Ben Hudson Glenn Sloan Larry Steed Bob Lane Bobby Weis Leonard Killian Nelson Freeman Ronald Bowers Gary Pendleton Vernon Morton John Taylor Earl Haithcock Glenn Jackson Charles & Beverly Barnes John & Candy Atkinson Tom Barnett Robert McCauley Fred Keith Charlie Harris John Heath Danielle Hodges J.R. Mauldin Robert McGrath Curtis Harris Steve Blackwood Dave Suddreth J.D. Hughes Harold Earnhardt Contributions (not a tax deductible contribution) are welcomed year round and may be made payable to: “NCNGA Retiree Hospitality Room - 2015” and mailed to the NCNG Association (Attn: Gene Ray), 7410 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh NC 27607. Our association provides many benefits for its membership, including the State Retirement pension for the NCNG retirees. Please seriously consider sending your donation to make our 2015 NCNGA Retiree Hospitality Room the main meeting place of the Guard family. The NCNGA Retiree Hospitality Room volunteer committee consists of: John Atkinson, Kerney Peoples, Chuck Barnes, Al Rose, Gene Ray, John Eudy, Steve Blackwood and Dave Suddreth. Article by Gene Ray; photo by Beverly Bizzell (more photos are on our website - www.ncnga.org).
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The National Guard: Interchangeable, Ready and Reliable By CPT Matthew Boyle, NCNG Public Affairs Office RALEIGH, NC — Who do you call when your installation has no available maintenance test pilots and qualified mechanics to inspect, repair and test fly a fleet of helicopters needing to be transferred? Who do you call when a bridge project on your Army post needs to be completed? You call on the Army National Guard. The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) called North Carolina Army National Guard’s (NCNG) 449th Theater Aviation Brigade’s always ready and reliable team of Apache and Black Hawk aviation experts, and Fort Jackson called NCNG’s 505th Engineer Battalion. The Screaming Eagles aviation units were out of state on a training exercise and unable to support a fleet of aircraft scheduled to be transferred. Once NCNG leadership approved the request, the North Carolina National Guard team traveled, in late March, to Fort Campbell to inspect and test fly 22 helicopters. At Fort Jackson, SC, ten Soldiers from NCNG’s 878th Engineer Company built a bridge when they deployed there April 10-12. The 878th is based in Kings Mountain, NC. The Guard is an important part of readiness at Fort Jackson. While it’s a very large post with many thousands of Soldiers, most are there for training and not assigned permanently. This creates a critical need for skilled, ready and reliable personnel; the Guard has plenty of that. “I do not have extra active duty Army Soldiers to get things done at Fort Jackson, and we came across an opportunity to partner with the NCNG,” said Lt. Col. Shane Ousey, Fort
Jackson’s deputy chief of staff for logistics. The 878th Engineers brought more than 100 years of combined civilian and military experience, completing a bridge project over a creek at Fort Jackson’s Legion Lake.Not
just mechanical skill with five-ton skid steers, generators, augers, chain saws, but the professional’s touch building among trees and wetlands without destroying either. “We do over fifty percent of the Basic Combat Training for the Army,” said Ousey. “Guard assistance like this bridge project helps makes us a top notch training facility, among the best in the Army.” NCNG’s mission to Fort Campbell’s 101st added some salt on the wound due to recent national discussions over the need to remove all combat aviation (Apache Attack Helicopters) from the National Guard. “In spite of recent comments by senior Army leaders, this mission clearly shows that in the Apache community, not only is the Guard interchangeable with the active component, but the Guard and its Soldiers are among the most experienced in the force,” said Col. Brian Pierce, NCNG’s State Aviation Officer and commander of the 449th Theater Aviation Brigade. “We remain proficient in both our individual and collective skills and maintenance practices throughout the year and have always been ready and responsive to support our state or in this case our nation.” It took the NCNG team at Fort Campbell 12 days and long hours to complete their mission. They inspected and test flew 17 Apache’s and five SGT Matthew Flick of Detachment Black Hawks. 1 Delta Company 1-131 Aviation “We were all excited to help out is conducting torque checks on a our fellow Army aviators,” said Chief UH-60L Blackhawk belonging to Warrant 3 Thomas Underwood, a 16- the 101st Airborne Division at Fort year NCNG veteran and Black Hawk Campbell Kentucky. Photo by maintenance test pilot with the 1-131st CW3 Thomas Underwood Aviation Battalion, based in Salisbury, NC. “We conducted detailed inspections of five Black Hawks and were able to correct serious vibration issues and other items to prepare them for transfer to another base.” “The only challenge for us was not being familiar with the Fort Campbell flying area. Everything else was textbook maintenance checks and test flying, just like how we do it in the Guard,” said Underwood. “I’m proud of our team,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Carl Glover, a 22-year NCNG veteran and Apache Attack Helicopter instructor pilot and maintenance test pilot with the 1-130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, based in Morrisville, NC. “We got the call to help out the 101st, and in four days we were on the ground executing our mission. It really demonstrates the respect that the active Army aviation community has for us and we were happy to help them.” The 1-130th is no stranger to working with their active duty counterparts and performing at and above Army standards. The 1-130th was the first reserve component Apache unit in the Army and the first reserve Apache unit to deploy to Afghanistan in 2002. Continued on page 14 ~
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30th Engineer Reunion ...Ready and Reliable Continued from page 13 By Lewis Stabel
The 30th Engineer Brigade Reunion held it’s 4th annual event on 22 Mar 2014 at the Charlotte NCNG Armory. This year a total 105 members and guests attended and enjoyed the activities, which included posting of flags by UNC-C Army ROTC Pershing Rifle Team, recognition of fallen but not forgotten soldiers, tickets drawn for door prizes, a vendor-catered meal, reviewing military photographs dating back to the 378th Engineer Battalion’s mission during the Korean War conflict, and most importantly, members and guests had the opportunity to visit old friends and discuss their military experiences.
In another example of the 1-130th’s readiness and reliability, the unit will deploy to Fort Polk, LA, and conduct a high intensity, three-week training exercise, in June, at the Joint Readiness Training Center there. The 1-130th is the only Army National Guard combat aircraft unit conducting this type of complex combined arms training this year. “The unit has a proud history and record of accomplishment including multiple deployments to combat zones, and recognition as the top Apache battalion in the Army,” said Pierce. “The 1-130th has over 25 years of institutional knowledge and well earned respect across the Army aviation community. We continue to provide strategic depth and capability as part of the Total Army, so it will be a sad day for the Army and our Nation if the Army’s plan to transfer the Apaches continues.” These two missions demonstrate yet again that the Guard is a ready and reliable force with Citizen Soldiers and Airmen highly proficient in their skill sets and interchangeable with their active duty counterparts.
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.”
~
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 NCNGA at ncnga@bellsouth.net or 919-851-3390. Charles G. Cooper Emerald Isle, NC 18 March 2014
James M. Chaffin Lexington, NC 29 March 2014
Bobby G. Capps Jacksonville, NC 16 April 2014
Kenneth M. Mitchell Wilmington, NC 20 April 2014
Donald P. Beard Charlotte, NC 28 April 2014
Max H. Lippard Clinton, NC 18 March 2014
Wayne L. Brantley Kinston, NC 2 April 2014
Jack E. Clayton Washington, NC 18 April 2014
Stephen L. Trantham Canton, NC 22 April 2014
John R. Garner Creedmoor, NC 2 May 2014
Charles E. Wilson Kings Mountain, NC 22 March 2014
Janice Kornegay Spouse of Gary Kornegay Kinston, NC 5 April 2014
Jerry G. Johnson Coats, NC 19 April 2014
Livis C. Owens, Jr. Delco, NC 22 April 2014
James (Jim) C. Kennedy Fort Mill, SC 19 April 2014
Diane Gay Spouse of Harvey R. Gay, Jr. Cary, NC 25 April 2014
Vicki L. Fuentes Spouse of Stephen F. Jones Cary, NC 2 May 2014
Vernon L. Hood New Bern, NC 25 March 2014
Dozier E. Murray, Jr. Fort Mill, SC 5 April 2014
Page 14 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2014
Cajun Care 2014 Continued from page 11
Navy and Air National Guard medical personnel check vital signs on a patient during Cajun Care 2014, an Innovative Readiness Training mission held in Abbeville, LA. US Military medical professionals worked as a team getting invaluable training as well as providing health care to over 3,000 patients. Cajun Care 2014 is one of the largest IRT Department of Defense Programs providing free medical, dental and optical services to underserved communities. (US Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs)
145th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Air Transportation Specialists, Tech. Sgt. Phillip Harrell and Staff Sgt. Jesse Huneycutt, used a K-Loader and 10k All Terrain forklift to load five aircraft pallets, full of dental equipment and medical supplies, onboard a C-130 Hercules aircraft bound for Louisiana. Master Sgt. Pennie Brawley, a loadmaster assigned to the 156th Airlift Squadron, helped position and secure the pallets as they were placed in the cargo area. “All this medical equipment and supplies made me feel like I’m back in Afghanistan,” Brawley said. “Except,” she added, “this time we are not getting shot at!” Arriving in Louisiana, medical personnel started scheduling their days to provide multiple face is always rewarding” Smith said; then added, “You’re doing great services, including nursing evaluations, buddy!” encouraging a patient who was having 12 teeth extracted. blood pressure screenings and diet and health Members of the Cajun Care team worked in a joint environment, consultations. Dental services, including serving with sister services learning another service’s culture. “Despite the assessments and extractions were scheduled, as fact that we all wear different uniforms,” Smith stated. “We speak the same well. Eye exams and spectacle manufacturing language when it comes to practicing medicine. We all took the same oath were offered and a pharmacy dispensing to serve our community as medical professionals and to serve our country prescriptions was set and in place for patients as military servicemen and women.” that had been assessed by medical teams. IRT is an amazing program. It is Americans helping Americans. The As with all IRT deployments, Cajun Care focus is not international, but domestic. It’s symbiotic in nature, everyone 2014 was implemented as an opportunity to wins. The troops train to improve their skillset while helping those in need. increase the quality of life for fellow Americans, We return with sharp minds, improved skill sets, and most importantly while challenging deployment skills and full hearts. It’s just a matter of spreading the word and involving as many operational readiness of each military member. people as possible. Once the troops are involved, they leave forever For that reason, Cajun Care team members inspired and most importantly come back for more.... IRT is addictive in set up cots in the Louisiana Army National nature and we’re just getting warmed up.....we’ve barely scratched the Guard Armory and the Abbeville VFW surface. emulating field conditions to better prepare for deployment to an austere environment. They ate breakfast and dinner in the armory and lunch at the work site. For those who did venture out, they had to have a Wingman Get help to get what you and your family deserve. and adhere to the enforced curfew of “lights out at 2200.” PEB 2013 (Physical Evaluation Board) Adjudicator As commander of Cajun 25 year Army Veteran/Enlisted and Officer Care, Lt. Col. Ruffing stated that although the primary mission of Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, NJ Supreme Court IRT is ensuring US military medical 10 year Army JAG (Active, Reserve, and National Guard) professionals are able to rapidly Operation Iraqi Freedom, attached to 10th Special Forces and establish a functional medical 1-8th Infantry, 4th ID, 2003 facility, the mission’s dividends to a community cannot be understated. Physician on staff At the end of the first day, 102 Phone: 908-246-9963 optical exams were performed, 78 medical exams were given, dentists performed over 90 dental procedures and more than 60 hours of patient www.CitizenSoldierLaw.com health training was accomplished. Lt. Col. Michael Smith, dental physician assigned to the 145th Medical Group, kept extremely busy extracting 177 decayed teeth in just the first three days. “Seeing the relief on a patient’s
INJURED IN THE MILITARY?
Page 15 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2014
Periodicals U. S. Postage PAID Raleigh, NC
Tarheel Guardsman NC National Guard Assoc. 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
How to reach us: 919-851-3390 ncnga@bellsouth.net - email www.ncnga.org - website
Legacy Bridge Program The 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
*Our Newest Members of the Legacy Bridge Program:
us to insulate our 267. In Honor of Kathy Hales investments so that they are allowed to 268. Harvey L. Poole grow over the long *As of press time term. At the end of the program, the new revenue sources, along with insurance premiums, 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:
$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: ________ Sec Code:________ Signature: _____________________________________________________________
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Return application and payment to: NCNGA, ATTN: Legacy Bridge Program, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh NC 27607-5047