Tarheel Guardsman
June/July 2015
2015 - 2016 NCNGA Executive Council 3rd Annual Combined Event photos on pages 4-6
Leader’s Corner
COL Todd Hunt, NCNG Vice Chief of Joint Staff NC National Guard Contact Information Email: ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao@mail.mil NC Adjutant General – MG Greg Lusk Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk: http://www.facebook.com/ NCAdjutantGeneral http://twitter.com/NCTAG NC Assistant Adjutant General Air – Brig. Gen. Roger E. Williams: http://facebook.com/NCAirAAG http://twitter.com/NCAirAAG NC Command Chief Warrant Officer Rick Comer: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ NC-Command-Chief-WarrantOfficer/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- MasterSergeant/330777956943662 http://www.twitter.com/NCCmdChief
NC Guard NG Cyber Warriors: Power On
E
ver noticed how much we depend on technology in our daily lives? Just observe how many of us use smart phones, tablets and technology based devices in our homes and work places. As our society becomes more dependent on physical technology and information cloud sharing technology, cyber threats have also increased. Malicious acts toward others have prevailed since time began and continue today on the internet with fraud, personal identity theft, and social media misinformation. Since the inception of the North Carolina National Guard in 1663, we stand ready to protect the lives and property of our citizens. We are continuing that tradition today in this technology based world with our Joint Cyber Defense Team. The National Guard is proposing the formation of 10 Cyber Protection Teams throughout the National Guard and the North Carolina National guard is in pursuit of one of these teams. The North Carolina National Guard has proven their cyber capabilities in the Army and Air Guard, our state is uniquely postured with our most important resource already quality trained and certified cyber professionals. Many of our soldiers and airman work in advanced technology fields with private corporations in the Research Triangle Park, Charlotte’s Bank industry and Universities across the State. A Cyber Protection Team increases our already proven ability to execute cyber defense, cyber assessment, and training services to Local, State, and Federal governmental agencies. The North Carolina National Guard is able to sustain a robust talent pool of potential cyber warriors due to an outstanding state-wide recruiting and retention effort augmented with technology professionals as previously mentioned. Our cyber warriors have the elite and high demand certifications necessary to work in this very specialized and demanding field. We currently have over 23 Certified Information Systems Security Professionals and Certified Ethical Hackers. People may ask why the National Guard needs a role in cyber due to the already established large Federal presence throughout the Nation. Concerns over growing threats and overlapping government functions are valid; however our cyber protection team is a true conduit of support between Federal and State agencies just as we perform domestic support for natural and man-made disasters. The North Carolina National Guard Cyber Protection Team would become a force within our state to protect our citizens on the cyber front and to collaborate with a growing community of cyber professionals to countering a real danger to our property and privacy. It is understandable for the public to be unaware of the tremendous efforts our NCNG cyber professionals accomplish in protecting networks as most of their work goes unseen with minimal publicity. Our Cyber warriors have participated in many National events involving network security and multiple Cyber Guard and Cyber Shield exercises. Our talented and superior Soldiers and Airmen were also selected for positions and currently serve in the first National Cyber Protection Team. Our cyber defense strength and professional reputation are already proven by our performance and relationships with partners at all levels in the private and public sectors along with other National Guard cyber teams. We are postured to train, assess and operate at an elite level ensuring our partners are able to defend against malicious cyber attacks. NCNG’s cyber warriors have the equipment, infrastructure, capabilities and depth of real-world experience to take on the role as one of the National Guard’s Cyber Protection Teams. No matter what the future holds in terms of National Guard Cyber force structure, the NCNG Cyber team has proven its relevancy and responsiveness. We will continue to provide Cyber support not only for our organization but to other State and Local agencies as requested, because we the North Carolina Nation Guard are the front line defenders of the Homeland.
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TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association JUNE/JULY 2015 Volume 49 Number 3
Contents: NCNGA:
Combined Event Photos Historical Society - “Battle of Hanging Dog Creek” Retiree Corner Educational Foundation Golf Tournament In Memorium
4-6 10 11 13 14
NC National Guard:
Air Guard Command Chief Says Goodbye Air Guard Exercises Vigilant Guard 2015
Flag Day — 14 June 2015 Independence Day - 4 July 2015 Please fly your flag proudly!
8 15
Officers
Executive Council
President Bobby Lumsden
30th HBCT Shane Evans Scott Schnack
Vice President Brent Orr Past President Ronnie Honeycutt Secretary-Treasurer Craig Lloyd Judge Advocate Rick Fay Chaplain Carl Singley STAFF Executive Director Craig Lloyd Associate Director Cindy Basler Associate Insurance Administrator Rhonda Mooring Associate Financial/ Membership Administrator Katie Westbrooks NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator Peggy Robinson
Katie Westbrooks, Editor www.ncnga.org
130th MEB Mark McMahan Robert Holland 60th Troop Command Linda Horton Bryan Finch 449th TAB Patrick Szvetitz Thomas Underwood 113th Sustainment BDE Randy Ly Bernie Williford JFHQ-NC Jack Midyette Larry Wiedel 139th Regiment (CA) Rebecca Lynn Godwin Joseph Hough Air Guard Tamvaria Walker Allan Cecil Junior Council Brian Cannon Timothy Stanhope Associate Class Danielle Hodges John Eudy
Do we have your email address? 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 info@ncnga.org and we will add your name to our alert roster. (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.) Deadline for submitting articles for the AUG/SEP issue of the Tarheel Guardsman: 1 July 2015 Address changes or questions? Contact us at 919-851-3390 info@ncnga.org 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.
Page 3 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2015
Scenes from the Third NCNGA/NCNG Combined Event — 13-14 March 2015
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!
www.ncnga.org
Page 5 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2015
Scenes from the Combined Event Ball
Photos by Staff Sergeant Mary Junnell, NCNG Public Affairs
Soldiers and Airmen from across North Carolina came together March 14, 2015 for the North Carolina National Guard Association's Combined Military Ball held in Concord, N.C. This is the third year that the association has hosted the combined event which is open to North Carolina Guardsmen of all ranks
Page 6 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2015
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
137 TH NGAUS C ONFERENCE N ASHVILLE , TN 10-13 SEPTEMBER 2015
Emerald Pointe – www.emeraldpointe.com Code: NCNG15 Tickets-At-Work - www.ticketsatwork.com Company Code:ncnga Contact Katie Westbrooks at 919-851-3390 ext 2, or visit http://ncnga.org/discount-programs for more information.
Marriott Gaylord Opryland Resort pictured
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 Nashville 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
Earn a degree aligned with your experience in the National Guard! Visit our booth and find us online at excelsior.edu/military.
with WANG and OKNG in the Marriott Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center for daily meetings and Hospitality Night
We have rooms blocked in the Cascades
section of the Marriott Gaylord Resort for $176.02 Opryland (including taxes/fees) per night with a $100 non-refundable deposit due upon upon registration
Registration, open through 24 July, 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.
Send inquiries to: nc.ngaus@gmail.com Registration forms available upon request or on ncnga.org
Ads provided as part of the Corporate member’s benefits.
www.ncnga.org
Page 7 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2015
NC Air National Guard Command Chief humbly says goodbye by Staff Sgt. Julianne M. Showalter
A
fter 30 years of service and achieving the highest enlisted position in the North Carolina Air National Guard, Command Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Pickett passes the sword to a new leader during a Change of Authority ceremony held at the North Carolina Air National Guard Base, Charlotte Douglas Int’l Airport. “I’m getting close to 60 and I look forward to having more time for other things,” said Pickett when asked about his time in the Air Force. Pickett is not only retiring from the Air Force, but last year he also retired from the Charlotte Fire Department. In 2014 Pickett found time to get a commercial driver’s license and in a short period started his own trucking company. As well as running a new business, he’s looking forward to spending more time with this wife and best friend, Jan. “He’s the love of my life, he’s my hero, and I’m incredibly proud of what he’s accomplished,” Jan Pickett said. They met in the North Carolina Air National Guard and wed 20 years ago. Ironically, they were married in the operations building. She’s his biggest supporter. “I’ve never had to worry while deployed whether it was the house or the checking account. Everything was taken care of. I would not have been nearly as successful in my career had it not been for my wife,” said Pickett. His final assignment before assuming the State Command Chief position was with the 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron where he served for over 20 years. He was most proud of a deployment to Iraq in 2003. “We picked up some guys after they’d been in a helicopter crash. I remember thinking these 19 and 20
year olds should be in college, having a good time, enjoying life, and not being transported in a C-130 to a medical facility because they were blown up,” said Pickett. Former coworker and now 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron commander, Lt. Col. Charles ‘Chuck’ Scronce, was with Pickett when they joined the unit. “I met Bruce the day he joined. We showed up on the same day in line at the clinic. We formed an instant bond US Air Force Brig. Gen. Roger E. Williams Jr. Assisbecause we’re cut from the same mold,” tant Adjutant General for Air, presents outgoing State said Scronce. Command Chief Master Sgt. Bruce G. Pickett the Air “We’re lifelong friends. We trained Force Meritorious Service Medal. (U.S. Air National together, we got qualified together and Guard photo by Master Sgt. Rich Kerner, 145th Public I’ve always thought he’s a solid and one Affairs/Released) of the most genuine guys I know,” said Scronce. Chief Master Sgt. Pickett also had a positive impact on the airmen he supervised and led. Master Sgt. Christopher Choate, 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, was one of those airmen. “He was a Senior Master Sgt. and then a Chief Master Sgt. when we worked together. I learned so much from him. There’s limited time during drill weekends, and he always balanced leadership duties, the job tasks, and making the right decisions,” said Choate. Pickett offered some advice to newly appointed Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Stanley, as he takes the helm as the North Carolina Command Chief. “My advice to him is to be visible across the board with the Army and with the Air Force. It’s not about us, it’s the about the people we work with and work for: families, airmen, and the community,” said Pickett. The change of authority ceremony marks a new chapter for the North Carolina Air National Guard. “I will miss the people and the comradery, but it’s time,” said Pickett.
2nd Annual NCNGAEF Golf Fundraiser for the SSG (Ret) Michael (Mike) Sherrill Memorial Scholarship Fund honoring MSG James Helms The 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and the 505th Engineer could have been more proud. The last place team was awarded the traditional Battalion hosted the 2nd Annual SSG (Ret) Michael Sherrill Memorial bobble-head trophies: Neal Nethery, Lance Hayes, Lance Wells, and Michael Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament fundraiser on 20 April 2015 at Shipley. Lincoln Country Club in Lincolnton, NC. This tournament was held in Thanks to the hole sponsors for this year’s tournament: CW4 (Ret) honor of MSG James Helms in his upcoming retirement. MSG Helms Wayne Church, MSG (Ret) Jamie Robinson, MAJ Cale Moody and Madison has served for over 26 years and plans to retire from the NCARNG Moody, CSM Reggie Hill, MSG Jamey Helms, Sheer Vanity – Kings Mtn, April 2016. NC, 823rd Engr Det (Quarry Team) – Elkin, 875th Engr Co A true testament of MSG Helm’s character (Horiz) – North Wilkesboro, Det 1 875th Engr Co (Horiz)– was evident when his entire neighborhood Lexington, Det 1 878th Engr Co (Vert) – Forest City, 883rd showed up for the tournament in his honor. A En Co (Sapper) – Winston-Salem, 630th CSSB – Lenoir, Det great time was has by all. Many teams traveled 1 882nd Engr Co (Vert) – Taylorsville, Det 2 882nd Engr Co throughout North Carolina to honor MSG Helms (Vert) – Mt Airy, 196th Signal Co – Thomasville, 5/113th and SSG (Ret) Sherrill. We were also honored FA Bn – Louisburg, 171st Engr Co (Sapper) – St Pauls, The to have in attendance again this year part of SSG Sherrill Family, Total Technologies, and Newton-Conover (Ret) Sherrill’s family: his mother Linda Sherrill Crossfit. nephew Matthew Sherrill. Thanks to this year’s sponsors of the tournament and their Proceeds from this tournament will benefit donations: Standard Distributors of Gastonia, Dick’s Sporting the North Carolina National Guard Association Goods of Mooresville, Camping World of Statesville, Carolina Educational Foundation (NCNGAEF). $1000 Panthers, Randall Jones, Cracker Barrel, Red Lobster, Olive raised will go towards the SSG (Ret) Michael Garden, Hooters of Hickory, Shane’s Barber Shop of Denver, SSG (Ret) Michael Sherrill’s Nephew Sherrill Scholarship and $500 will go to purchase and Auto Zone of Mooresville. We also want to thank Matthew and his mother Linda. a brick for the NCNG Walk of Honor to the following people for their monetary donations: Mark commemorate MSG Helm’s service. The remaining funds raised will go McMahan, Randall Jones, Frank Poovey, and Stan Goodson. to the NCNGAEF Endowment Fund. The 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and 505th Engineer Battalion Congratulations to the First Place Team of Matthew Sherrill, Benny is now planning their next NCNGAEF Fundraiser for their 8th Annual Len Boyles, Tommy Belcher Jr, and Gary Benfield. SSG (Ret) Sherrill’s Adams Memorial Tournament at the River Oaks Country Club in Statesville, nephew and his team won the tournament this year and no one attending NC in October.
Page 8 – Tarheel Guardsman — June/July 2015
NC Air National Guard welcomes new state command chief by Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs CHARLOTTE, NC – On a windy afternoon in February, airmen stood in formation on the tarmac at the North Carolina Air National Guard base, Charlotte Douglas International Airport to say farewell to State Command Chief Master Sgt. Bruce G. Pickett. After serving over 30 years in the military, Pickett relinquished his positon to newly appointed State Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael D. Stanley during a Change of Authority ceremony. Following tradition, Brig. Gen. Roger E. Williams, Jr., Assistant Adjutant General-Air, formally oversaw the ceremony that relinquished the responsibility and authority from Pickett to Stanley with the passing of the ceremonious sword. As the new state command chief, Stanley will be the senior enlisted representative for more than 1200 enlisted members of the North Carolina Air National Guard. He will be responsible for giving advice to the adjutant general and the commander of the NCANG on several issues, to include: mission effectiveness, professional development, military readiness, training, utilization, health, morale and welfare of the command's enlisted Airmen. Before assuming authority in the highest enlisted position of the NCANG, Stanley held the role of First Sergeant for 145th Logistics Readiness Squadron and the 145th Airlift Wing. “I was selected, by then Lt. Col. Barbara Doncaster to serve as the Logistics Squadron First Sergeant. It was my third attempt and it turned out to be the “charm.” said Stanley, “Serving as a First Sergeant changed the path of my Air Force career.” emotionally he added, “Thank you Col. Doncaster, for giving me a chance.” Stanley, who has served more than 33 years in the military, entered the Air Force in 1982 as fuels specialists. He has deployed several times supporting many contingencies including Operations El Dorado Canyon, Desert Shield, Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom. He served seven years on active duty in several stateside and overseas assignments. Stanley transferred to the Air Force Reserves in 1989 where he continued to serve as a Fuels Specialist. In 1992, he joined the North Carolina Army National Guard as a Petroleum Laboratory Specialist and in 1995 furthered his military career when he took a position in the 145th
Logistics Readiness Squadron, NCANG. During the week Stanley wears a different uniform as a fulltime firefighter. Serving his community for over 19 years, Stanley dedicates his life to protecting and serving others. His most recent assignment as a NC State firefighter has him located at the Charlotte Douglas Intl. Airport where he as an US Air Force State Command Chief Aircraft Rescue Firefighter Master Sgt. Michael D. Stanley, NCANG (AFFF). receives the non-commissioned officer’s As he assumes authority sword from Brig. Gen. Roger E. Williams Jr., Assistant Adjutant General for Air. over his new post and The passing of the sword signifies honor relocates to Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, NC, and gratitude for the opportunity to care for the North Carolina Air National Stanley reminds his airmen Guard’s airmen. (U.S. Air National that he is not saying goodbye Guard photo by Master Sgt. Rich Kerner, to the 145th Airlift Wing. “It’s 145th Public Affairs/Released) an opportunity to serve the men and women of the Air National Guard on a different level.” said Stanley. Along with an audience that included many Mecklenburg and Rowan County firefighters, military members, dignitaries including NC Rep. Bill Brawley, of the 103rd House District and family and friends, sat Stanley’s wife, Leanne, and their three children . In his remarks from the podium, Stanley thanked his children and his wife for their support throughout his career. “She is my rock!” said Stanley. “She has stood with me through numerous TDY’s, military schools and conferences. She has withered five deployments since 2001 all while raising three wonderful kids. Leanne understands military families; she understands the impact our unique job and the impact deployments have on our relationships! In his closing speech, Stanley said to the members of the Wing, “I want you to know I am proud and grateful to be standing here with you all as a member of our 145th Airlift Wing family. I do not take this position lightly. I believe it is an honor and a privilege to serve as your North Carolina State Command Chief.”
The NCNG Museum Needs Your Artifact Donations! The North Carolina National Guard Museum needs your artifact donations in order to tell the story of your service with the proud history and traditions of the North Carolina National Guard. The new museum is seeking artifacts from all eras, including: uniforms, insignia and awards, weapons, accoutrements, gear, 1st Lt. Sean Daily, Deputy Command Office Phone: 919-664-6199 Email: sean.r.daily.mil@mail.mil
www.ncnga.org
photographs, and even captured enemy relics. The museum already has a very small collection, much of which is currently on display in the atrium at Joint Force Headquarters, but much more is needed in order to tell the story of Our North Carolina National Guard.
To donate artifacts of any kind, please contact:
Historian Sgt. Gary Spencer Office Phone: 919-664-6214 Email:gary.c.spencer2.mil@mail
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“The Battle of Hanging Dog Creek” By LTC (Ret.) Sion H. Harrington III “Never heard of it,” you say? If you are a true student of the War Between the States, more commonly though incorrectly referred to as the “Civil War” or you live in Cherokee County, North Carolina, you have likely heard of it. Known as “The Last Battle of the Civil War East of the Mississippi River,” the action at Hanging Dog Creek did not compare in size, scope, or tactical and strategic importance to larger battles such as Antietam, Gettysburg, or the fall of Fort Fisher, but it was a legitimate military action. According to contemporary accounts by participants, it was more a skirmish and foot race than pitched battle. Regardless, it is claimed as the last martial action of organized Confederate forces in the State of North Carolina. According to Professor William S. Powell’s “The North Carolina Gazetteer,” Hanging Dog Creek received its name from an Indian’s hunting dog being entangled and left hanging in a log jam and vines when the creek flooded. Located in Cherokee County southeast of Hiwassee Lake, the creek empties into the Hiwassee River, northwest of the town of Murphy. To set the stage, imagine you are in Cherokee County, North Carolina in early May, 1865. The greatly depleted ranks of Robert E. Lee’s once formidable and feared Army of Northern Virginia was surrendered on April 9th at Appomattox Court House. Seventeen days later, Joseph E. Johnston’s much larger Confederate army capitulated to William T. Sherman in the simple farm house of James Bennett near present day Durham. The war was over … or so most thought. In the mountains of western North Carolina, Confederate soldiers were still in the field. In addition to regular Union forces operating in the area bands of lawless Union and Confederate deserters, draft evaders, and common bushwhackers preyed on the local populace. The war for the unlucky citizens of this area was definitely not over. One of the most famous units of the war from the Tar Heel State was Thomas’ Legion, composed of Cherokee Indians and western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee whites. In later times it was commonly referred to as the 69th Regiment, North Carolina Troop, but was never officially designated as such. In December, 1864, the men were ordered to return to western North Carolina from their service with General Jubal Early in the Shenandoah Valley. The unit was divided into three detachments and posted to camps at Valley Town, on the outskirts of the current town of Andrews, in Cherokee County, Thomas Store at Cheah, now Robbinsville, Graham County, with the third at Qualla Town (Quallatown, Jackson County). According to the March, 1935 memoir of battle participant First Lieutenant John H. Stewart of Company I, later the Legion’s adjutant, the men at Valley Town had only six rounds of ammunition a piece. Colonel William Holland Thomas, Legion founder and commander, had promised to send more, but it had not yet arrived. Considering the number of predatory deserters in the area and the presence of Union troops, the ammunition situation was less than satisfactory. Some Confederate deserters had traveled into Eastern Tennessee where they enlisted in the Union Army, forming a company of cavalry and one of infantry. The cavalry company raided into western North Carolina without causing the populace excessive grief, but the following infantry company under a Captain Aker was not so well behaved.
It is claimed in the lore of the region that many of these men had court cases and other negative actions pending against them in Murphy, the county seat of Cherokee County, and were determined to destroy the incriminating paperwork. When the paperwork could not be found they determined to burn the entire court house to remedy the situation. The marauders stayed in town just long enough to insure the destruction of the court house and then marched toward the camp at Valley Town where they had been told there were some “15 or 20” Confederate soldiers ripe for capture. Enroute they encountered a Mr. Hyatt who informed them that were quite a few more troops at Valley Town than first reported. Reassessing the situation, Captain Aker aborted the mission and headed for Hanging Dog Creek to rest his approximately fifty soldiers at a nearby homestead. As soon as the “Galvanized Yankee” troops were out of sight, Mr. Hyatt sent one of his sons on horseback to Valley Town to alert the Confederates to the burning of the court house and alert them that Captain Aker and his men were headed to Hanging Dog Creek. With Colonel Stingfield away at Qualla Town seeking ammunition, Major Stephen Decatur Whitaker, a distant relative of the author who had raised and commanded Company E of the Legion was in command at Valley Town. No official documentation exists for Whitaker’s promotion from Captain, but his 1900 obituary, authored by his son, states he was promoted on January 4, 1864. For a while he commanded the entire 1st Battalion, Thomas’ Legion, so may have been “unofficially” promoted by Legion Commander Colonel William Holland Thomas. Upon hearing the boy’s news and learning that they might be overtaken, Major Whitaker issued the command to his approximately one hundred men to “Fall In” prepared to march and fight. The major, an older gentleman, then gave the command, “Forward, March, all of you follow me!” Lieutenant Stewart recalled with some amusement that Major Whitaker “never gave a drill command correctly!” Pausing briefly at the home of Mr. Hyatt to confirm the direction the Unionists had taken Major Whitaker then selected Privates Dan Hyatt, Mr. Hyatt’s son, and neighbors Bill and Dan Dockery to scout ahead as guides since they were intimately familiar with the terrain. Just before daylight on May 9, 1865, the guides came upon a house with a large number of men milling about as if preparing breakfast. Major Whitaker sent Lieutenant Stewart and Sergeant Newt McClelland forward to reconnoiter an advantageous spot for the coming assault. Having selected a spot some sixty or seventy yards from the house, Major Whitaker ordered his men into position. By this time the Yankees were breaking camp and it was decided to allow them to begin their march in order to use the house to mask the initial phase of the Confederate attack and to provide a bit of cover. When the time was deemed right, Major Whitaker gave what Lieutenant Stewart remembered as the major’s favorite command, “Forward, Men, Double Quick, Follow Me!” The assault began “at a fast run,” but was soon slowed by briars and vines to the extent that the Yankees were some one hundred and fifty yards ahead by the time the Confederates extracted themselves from the tangle foot. Raising the “Rebel Yell” they fired their muskets and took off at a run, reloading as they ran, toward the startled Union soldiers. Lieutenant Stewart remarked in his memoir that he “never saw men run so fast.” By the time the Confederates had reached the brush at the end of a cleared field, they had already expended three of their six rounds. They continued to pursue the rapidly retreating Federals around the mountain, firing their last three shots. Now out of ammunition, they were forced to allow the enemy to escape. Lieutenant Stewart observed that the Yankees “fired a few shots back but never stopped running.” Thus ended the “Last Battle of the Civil War East of the Mississippi River.” Never was the old adage, “for want of a nail the shoe was lost, etc.,” truer. For want of ammunition, the action that had begun at Hanging Dog Creek had to be terminated. It was for the best. At that stage of the extended war, what was the point of further bloodshed? Figures on casualties for the action vary considerably. One source states the combined Confederate and Federal loss at one killed and three wounded. In the early 1870s, while teaching in eastern Tennessee, former Lieutenant Stewart spoke with his pre-war friend Bill Cox, one of the Union infantrymen engaged at Hanging Dog Creek, about the number of casualties. Mr. Cox recollected that his unit suffered none killed, but had eleven wounded, though none seriously. Page 689, Series I, Volume 49, Part II of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, records that three days after the affair at Hanging Dog Creek, Major Whitaker (then apparently in command of what was left of Confederate forces in western North Carolina) and his troops were intercepted while advancing on White Sulphur Springs (now Waynesville) to reinforce Colonel Thomas. Confronted by Colonel George Washington Kirk and
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continued on page 15...
Retiree Corner: What happens to Federal/State Pension at Time of Death? Written by: SSG Travis J. Reed, NCNG Retirement Services Officer Several falsities have circled the Retirement community over the years in reference to what actually happens to the Federal and State Pension upon a Retirees death. This write up is to help clarify some of the confusion and insure that our current Service Members and Retirees alike know the whole truth. The North Carolina Retirement Systems is a division of the Department of State Treasurer. The division administers the statutory retirement and benefit plans that cover more than 900,000 public employees in the state. The North Carolina National Guard State Pension is one of these retirement plans geared toward servicing eligible NCNG Retirees. Once an eligible Retiree, who has applied for the State Pension, reaches age 60 they will start receiving said Pension based on their individual eligibility criteria on the 25th of the month following their age 60 birth month. The Retiree will continue to receive this funding until their time of death. If, for any reason, the North Carolina National Guard Pension Fund shall be insufficient to pay in full any pension benefits, or other charges, then all benefits or payments shall be reduced pro rata, for as long as the deficiency in amount exists. No claim shall accrue with respect to any amount by which a pension or benefit payment shall have been reduced. Payment to a retired member of the North Carolina National Guard under the provisions of this section will cease at the death of the individual and no payment will be made to beneficiaries or to the decedent’s estate, except that the legal representative of a retired member who dies shall be entitled to a full check for the month in which the death occurred. Pensions for members of the North Carolina National Guard shall be subject to future legislative change or revision. All State Pension information is covered in the latest General Statue; GS 127A-40. The Federal Retirement Pension is governed by the Department of Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) located in London, KY. Upon receiving a Retirement Application; DFAS administers a Federal Retirement Pension to all eligible Retirees upon their date of eligibility. For Retirees that either elected to have a Reserve Component/Survivors Benefit Plan (RC/SBP) or have RCSBP in place automatically due to not making any election post receiving their 20 Year Letter (NOE); their Beneficiary (Survivor) will receive the Annuity Pay based on the Retirees election. The Annuity pay will be the amount/percentage elected not to exceed Fifty Five Percent (55%) of what the Retiree would have/was drawing for Retired Pay. If the Retiree elected not to have RC/SBP coverage no Annuity Pay will be issued to any survivors. Once Annuity Pay is established and being paid; if the recipient is a spouse, it will continue until their death or remarriage. If the Annuity Pay recipient is a school age child, up to age 22 if full-time unmarried student, they will continue to receive the Annuity until graduation or up to their 23rd birthday (which ever comes first). If the Annuity Pay recipient is a permanently disabled child they will continue to receive the Annuity for the remainder of their life (to a special needs trust) or if/until they marry. For additional State Pension information you can contact the State Treasures Office directly at (919) 733-4191. For additional Federal Pension information you can contact Army Human Resources Command (AHRC) directly at (502) 613-8950.
www.ncnga.org
A Word From Our Executive Director...
On May 19th, I celebrated my one year anniversary as the new Executive Director of our North Carolina National Guard Association (NCNGA). I feel honored to be able to serve each of you and help to implement the vision of our Executive Council. The Association has a long strong history of helping to be the voice for our members and I feel privileged to be able to continue to strengthen our service to you. Our past leadership has built a solid foundation in which we hope to enhance each and every day. Over this past year our team of staff and volunteers has made some tremendous accomplishments. These accomplishments include the increase of the National Guard pension through the General Assembly, increase in our membership benefits, rebranding of our organization, improved communication with our membership through surveys and doubling of our social media portals as well as major enhancements to our headquarters building. All of these accomplishments and the future of our organization are centered around each of you and your support of our organization. As you may have heard, we have some amazing things in store for the year to come. We encourage you to become involved and ask that you encourage your friends that may not be a member of our Association to join us. As Teddy Roosevelt once said… “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”. Helping to strengthen our Association today with your support and time will allow us to have an even brighter future tomorrow. Sincerely, Craig Lloyd
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SAVE DATE SAVETHE THE DATE
And the winners are !!!!! by Terry Westbrook,Fundraising Committee Chairman
September 17, September 17,2015 2015 “Honoring Our Citizen Soldiers and Sponsors”
“Honoring Our and Citizen Soldiers and Sponsors” Soldiers Airmen Fund-NC Soldiers and Airmen Fund-NC 4th Annual “Fairway to Honor” Tournament 4th Annual “Fairway to Honor” Tournament 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start Bentwinds Golf Country Club, NC NC Bentwinds Golf &&Country Club,Fuquay-Varina, Fuquay-Varina, it Upwhile while supporting supporting a great cause! TeeTee it Up a great cause!
The Concord National Guard Armory hosted a Reverse Drawing for the Educational Foundation on March 14, 2015. Even though we did not have a sellout like last year, a good time was had by all. Prize winners are: 1st ticket drawn # 101 $40 Craig Lloyd (donated back to the Foundation) Winners of every 25th ticket @ $50 each were: # 274 Richard Crump (donated back to the Foundation), #113 Mark McMahan, #164 Jamie Robinson, #200 & 299 Maria Fry #45 & 212 Ronald Burrow, # 226 Roger Williams, #82 Karen Hill. The $4,000 Grand prize was split as follows: Ticket #150 Pete Hazelton $800 Ticket #86 Richard Strum $400 and Karen Strum $400 Ticket #280 Karen Hill $400 and Reggie Hill $400 Ticket #88 Adam Mendieta $400 and Jessice Mendieta $400 Ticket #199 Ken Tyndall $400 and Ward Tyndall $400 Side Bar winners: Ticket #150 - Pete Hazelton $100 Side Bar - Holly Mullis (donated back to the Foundation) $200 Side Bar - Robbie Mullis (donated $100 back to the Foundation) The Hardison “Party Wagon” was won by Charlene Johnson. $1,400 was raised and deposited into the Elmer Hardison Memorial Scholarship Fund. Doris and Rex did a great job againt this year! The $2,000 raffle was won by John Swart ( donated back to the Foundation) Second prize of $100 went to James Southerland. Due to a left over door prize, a third Prize of NASCAR Driving Experience was drawn for Vanesa Bell.
Mark your calendar now and save the date for this special event when we honor North Carolina citizen soldiers and our sponsors. Each year the tournament continues to grow with the support of our valued sponsors, golfers and volunteers! We look forward to another highly successful event. Hope you can join us! Registration information will be sent on how to you can help sponsor the event along with an online link, saaf-nc.com/donate, for any end-of-year donations. Right now, commit your support to our military families by saving the date and budget your participation. Registration opens July 1st, 2015. Our website: saaf-nc.com/golf tournament.
Mark your calendar now and save the date for this special event when we honor North Carolina citizen soldiers and our sponsors. Each year the tournament continues to grow with the support of our valued sponsors, golfers and volunteers! We look forward to another highly successful event. Hope you can join us! Registration information will be sent on how to you can help sponsor the event along with an online link, saafnc.com/donate, for any end-of-year donations. Right now, commit your support to our military families by saving the date and budget your participation. Registration opens July 1st, 2015. Our website: saaf-nc.com/golf tournament.
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.”
The Foundation thanks everyone who bought/sold tickets to help raise funds for educational scholarships! We sincerely appreciate the above winners who generously gave back cash prizes to the Foundation!
NCNGA-EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2015-2017 President: Gloria Fields Vice President: Curtis Harris Michael Blilely Richard Crump Sue Hardison Charlene Johnson Wendy Larson Stephen McCormick
James McKee Donnie Mote Irene Smith Eric Stedman David Walliser Terry Westbrook Ted Whitaker
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These individuals give of their time, support and dedication. They serve on the Board, and on committees, working hard for this Foundation. Scholarships totaling $1,205,670 have been awarded to 1,708 members of our National Guard family since 1968!
2015 NCNGA Education Foundation Golf Tournament The 2015 North Carolina National Guard Association Education Foundation Annual Golf Tournament has once again provided a cornerstone event for the annual convention weekend, with 93 golfers participating on 24 teams. Rocky River Golf Club in Concord, NC was the backdrop for the event, and provided us an outstanding golfing experience. Weather all week appeared as if it was going to provide a wet and chilly day for golf, but Thursday came with a beautiful day and provided a great golf event. First, I would like to give a huge THANKS to our sponsors, both with prizes and hole sponsorship. Our great success can be attributed directly to them and their support of the Education Foundation. We were even able to have a hole in one prize of a new car. Unfortunately, no one was able to take advantage of this prize. The list of sponsors includes: SPEEDWAY HARLEY DAVIDSON RELAXMORE CRUSIE PLANNERS BOJANGLES, CCONCORD, NC KRISPY KREME DONUTS, WINSTON-SALEM, NC HARRIS TEETER CORPORATION BUFFALO WILD WINGS HOOTERS LONG HORN STEAKHOUSE TEXAS STEAKHOUSE OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE PEPSI BOTTLING VENTURES STANLEY VIDMAR STONEY CREEK GOLF CLUB MEN’S ASSOCIATION DOLAN PIERCE GRADING & SEPTIC SERVICE CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS
CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY CAROLINA HURRICANES HOCKEY IRON THUNDER CAFE LMI, INC DICK’S SPORTING GOODS GOLF GALAXY ADKOS RAYTHEON COUNTRY PURE MASTERS GALLERY SOUTHERN REIMAGE SNYDER’S LANCE CMSGT MIKE & GINGER ANNAS TARHEEL TOOLING
Second, I would like to thank all the North Carolina Golf Courses that donated rounds of golf to us. These donations really make the event fun to conduct, and be part of: BEACON RIDGE GOLF CLUB PINEWILD GOLF CLUB RIVER LANDING GOLF CLUB TALAMORE GOLF CLUB THE PLAYERS CLUB – PIPER GLEN
LEGACY GOLF COURSE LONG LEAF GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB WHISPERING PINES COUNTRY CLUB WHISPERING WOODS GOLF CLUB HYLAND GOLF CLUB
Finally, I would like to thank all the golfers for participating and making the event a huge success. Altogether, we raised over $5,000.00 for the Education Foundation. Our list of winners is: 1ST PLACE TEAM 2ND PLACE TEAM 3RD PLACE TEAM 4TH PLACE TEAM NEXT TO LAST LAST LONGEST DRIVE – 8 LONGEST DRIVE – 12 CLOSEST TO HOLE – 5 CLOSEST TO HOLE – 10 CLOSEST TO HOLE – 15
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ROBERT HERMANCE, WILLIAM O’NEILL, RICHARD CRUMP, KEVIN BOYLES TERRY WESTBROOK, DENNIS ROACH, DAVID DUNMYRE, REGAN PYATT TERRELL HUGGINS, JEREMY BUTLER, BILLY CANADA, DAVID WITT CHRISTOPHER ADAMS, TOM RATLEDGE, BRUCE MULLIS, CEDRIC JOHNSON ALLEN PRICE, JOSH PRICE, C.C. CRUMP, DON BEDDINGS MIKE BLILEY, ROBBIE MULLIS, KEVIN WESSON, BILL STODDARD MACKENZIE HOUSTON TOM RATLEDGE TOMMY MARTIN PENNIE BRAWLEY BRUCE MULLIS
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NCNGAEF Administrator, Peggy Robinson to Retire By Gloria Fields, NCNGAEF President
T
he NCNGA Educational Foundation is saddened to announce the retirement of Ms. Peggy Robinson, Foundation Administrator, effective June 30th. Peggy has been with the Foundation for almost 18 years and has done a magnificent job in representing the Foundation at numerous military events. She has been an invaluable person we have come to depend on and she will be greatly missed. After Peggy came on-board, she made it her mission to educate everyone she came in contact with about the Educational Foundation and what we do. She has been an advocate for raising money for our Endowment Fund and promoting our Walk of Honor. The Foundation would like to thank Peggy for not only her dedication, time and effort but for creating those relationships with service and family members. If you have a moment, send her a note at peggyncngaef@bellsouth. net before June 30th, thanking her for her numerous years of service and for everything she has done for the NCNGA Educational Foundation. I know it will mean a lot to her.
On behalf of my deceased wife, Kristian K Bullins, I appreciate this opportunity to let the huge military community around me know how very grateful I am for the outpourings of condolence my family and I have received. I am deeply grateful for the out pouring of support by the military community and certainly the many people near and far who have stepped in to make the mystery of my wife's leaving us bearable. You have loved us, visited us, sent us notes of comfort and presented us with such a huge outpouring that we are blessed to have people such as you all in my life. Thank you will never be enough for the support shown by you all. Whatever your blessing: food, sympathy cards, emails, notes, visits, flowers, memorial contributions, attendance or service at the proceedings and especially just remembering us in your prayers, we know and appreciate the active communication of your blessing. The healing process has begun as we pick up and move forward in the blessings of family, church, community and work/duty companions. You are appreciated as we continue our healing expressions. 1SG William Bullins 694th Maintenance Company Wage Leader / FMS #7 NCARNG Winston-Salem, NC
In Memoriam Listed below are those members (and non-members), spouses and dependent children that have recently passed away. If we have missed someone, please contact the Editor, Katie Westbrooks at katie@ncnga.org or 919-851-3390 ext 2. Peter J. Munger Spouse of Mary Munger Laurinburg, NC April 8, 2009 Marvin J. Swinson Mt. Olive, NC January 13, 2015 David M. Martin Hulbert, OK February 12, 2015 Charles Switzer Greenville, NC February 16, 2015 Robert T. Yow Thurmond, NC March 24, 2015 Morris R. Hall Hickory, NC March 25, 2015 Fred C. Watts Whiteville, NC March 27, 2015
Dalton W. Hinson Kinston, NC March 29, 2015 Finnian B. Doss Son of Kevin D. Doss Walnut Cove, NC March 30, 2015 David Rooks Butner, NC April 1, 2015 Guy R. Johnson Raleigh, NC April 3, 2015 Lonnie G. Fulk Dobson, NC April 4, 2015 Oren D. Simpson Mint Hill, NC April 4, 2015 David Q. Street Siler City, NC April 6, 2015
Anna Long Daughter of David Long Clover, SC April 6, 2015
Johnny T. "Monk" Minton Stony Point, NC April 7, 2015 Kristian Bullins Spouse of William M. Bullins King, NC April 8, 2015 James R. Mason Rock Hill, SC April 8, 2015 Charles M. Stephens Morganton, GA April 10, 2015 Charles McMilliam Elizabethtown, NC April 12, 2015 Rufus D. Kinlaw Whiteville, NC April 15, 2015
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Lamont McLaurin Maxton, NC April 17, 2015 W. Kern Holoman Raleigh, NC April 20, 2015 Brandon Chambers Marshville, NC April 24, 2015 Eddie C. Newsome Grandy, NC April 24, 2015 Robert E. Gillespie The Villages, FL April 24, 2015 Michael Huffman Moravian Falls, NC April 25, 2015
Jason Eichorn Leland, NC April 27, 2015 James A. Carroll Wagram, NC May 4, 2015 Robert M. Parham Charlotte, NC May 6, 2015 Roger D. Barbee Locust, NC May 11, 2015 Janice Price Spouse of Wesley Price Spring Hope, NC April 30, 2015 Andrew F Cannady Greensboro, NC May 11, 2015
North Carolina ANG exercises Vigilant Guard 2015 in a new way by Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran and Staff Sgt. Julianne M. Showalter, 145th Public Affairs NEW LONDON, NC - Hurricane Zephyr devastates North and South Carolina and its citizens! This is the scenario for Vigilant Guard Exercise 2015, bringing members of the North Carolina Air and Army National Guard, state Division of Emergency Management and North Carolina Forest Service together at the 145th Civil Engineer Squadron Regional Training Site in New London, NC. Once a disaster happens manpower is going to be a critical need. When civilian authorities respond to a natural disaster the military may be called in to assist with that response. With this exercise, 145th Civil Engineer Squadron was first on scene. In a real-world emergency, 145th CES will prepare a bed-down area in order to receive and support first responders. Tents are erected, power and water purification equipment are strategically placed and washed out roads are repaired by CE task force using heavy construction equipment. “This is a great opportunity to train our young airmen and prepare them for a real-world mission.” said Lt. Col. Timothy Moran, Officer in Charge, 145th Civil Engineer Squadron, Regional Training Site. “During this exercise we also work and train with our army counterparts so we can understand each other’s capabilities and work stronger and more effectively together.” The objective of this exercise also includes establishing a unified incident command system to manage a Joint Receiving, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (JRSOI) site at the 145th CES/RTS. “It’s a three state exercise.” said US Air Force Lt. Col. Gregory Goforth, 145th Mission Support Group deputy commander and National Guard incident commander for this exercise. “For the North Carolina piece, we’re providing provisions to the citizens of North Carolina by processing civilian and military personnel and resources centrally to provide relief.” Sitting side by side with Forest Service and State Division Emergency Management counterparts, members of the North Carolina Air National Guard are exercising the effectiveness of the incident command system in a hurricane scenario. “We’re learning how to work together in this joint exercise environment. I’m learning how we’d do this if something real hit,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jeffery Harwood, 145th Airlift Wing Comptroller Flight. “We’re sitting at the same table and totally integrated. It’s never happened before,” said John Howard, North Carolina Forest Service incident commander. The NC Forest Service has utilized the incident command system since the early 90s to manage the large scale forest fires. The incident command system has now
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been recognized nation-wide as the primary means of organization for support and relief in any disaster, whether it’s a hurricane, earthquake or other type of response. Over the course of the exercise the participants practiced receiving and deploying force packages with an inprocessing goal of 45 minutes from arrival at the JRSOI site. A force package could be personnel, supplies, off road vehicles, ambulances, fire trucks, fuel trucks, bull dozers and/or other assets used to provide relief. Responders are checked in and briefed on the scenario, which gives each person a clear picture of what’s happening and where they’ll be utilized. “If you send folks too much, too little, or too late you’ve made the problem worse on the people that need help. Organizing it up front at this level allows us to mobilize forces from a central location then pushing them out in time to help. It provides a better service to the people impacted by the storm,” said Howard. Three counties provided personnel and vehicle assets to add realism to the exercise to include Buncombe County, Mecklenburg County and Stanly County. In total, 217 personnel and 45 vehicles were processed through for accountability and deployment to aid relief efforts in this category 4 hurricane scenario. The scenario is based on destruction caused by the 1989 storm Hurricane Hugo. The full force of the storm struck with winds of 135 to 139 mph, and it made an imprint area of an estimated 600 miles. “In 1989 I was a responder to Hurricane Hugo, and I was responsible for taking a task force of bulldozers down to help clear roads. We didn’t have the incident command system we use today so we went down to help without a lot of guidance and safety information. We can now provide that information to the crews,” said Howard. “The biggest take away for the National Guard is learning the incident command system from NC Emergency Management and Forest Service. They’re teaching us and vice versa. It’s a true partnership,” said Goforth. “This exercise, the big picture, allows us to work together in order to react better together. Now we can respond as an entire community with a communally understood concept,” said Master Sgt. Rebecca Tongen from the 145th Civil Engineer Flight and filling the role of Plans Chief in the exercise. Vigilant Guard 2015 was a great success as it allowed all agencies to hone their skills in a central location. Military and emergency responders can now bring help to the communities in North Carolina or wherever responders are needed.
...Continued from Page 10 his 3rd North Carolina Mounted Infantry (US), referred to by many as “Kirk’s Raiders” for their depredations and guerilla tactics, Whitaker formed a skirmish line in anticipation of more fighting. He soon received word that General James G. Martin, Adjutant General of North Carolina and commander of all Confederate troops in western North Carolina, had surrendered on May 8th and that Colonel William Holland Thomas, the Legion commander, had done so on the 9th. Realizing further resistance would be a futile waste of lives Whitaker negotiated a surrender of his forces to Colonel Kirk. Of the signing of their paroles on 13 and 14 May, Lieutenant Stewart recorded, “And, thus, at 10 o’clock in the morning of May 14th, 1865, our Civil War Soldier Life ended, and our Every Day Working Life Began.” Though there remained roaming bands of deserters with which to deal, the war itself was finally over for the North Carolina Mountains. Sadly, bitter memories and old animosities would linger for generations.
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Tarheel Guardsman NC National Guard Assoc. 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
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