October/November 2014
211th MP Co. Returns Home from Afghanistan
Leader’s Corner
BG Kenneth A. Beard Asst. Adjutant GeneralSustainment
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-Warrant- Officer/261726843901458 http://www.twitter.com/NCCWO Command Senior Enlisted Leader CSM John Swart: http://www.facebook.com/NCCSM http://twitter.com/NCSCSM NC Command Chief Master Sergeant Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Pickett: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ NC-State-Command-Chief- MasterSergeant/330777956943662 http://www.twitter.com/NCCmdChief
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F
ellow North Carolina National Guard service members and advocates, as we look forward to new challenges and opportunities in FY 15, I would like to highlight some of the sustainment community’s accomplishments this year. Your Guard has tremendous capabilities embedded within its organization. A couple of those are the ability to haul all types of NCNG equipment across the country and to rig supplies for aerial delivery. Our transportation companies executed the cross country haul of NCNG’s Rapid Reaction Force to South Dakota for validation training and provided logistical support for the Air Guard in Delaware. The 1451st and 1452nd Transportation also hauled Bradley Fighting Vehicles and M113 Armored Personnel Carriers to Fort Stewart, Georgia in support of the 30th Armor Brigade Combat Team. The 875th Engineer Company transported Bradley Fighting Vehicles from Fort Bragg to Camp Lejeune for 120th Infantry Battalion’s gunnery training. Providing ‘close to home’ line-haul support gives our Soldiers training that hones their skills and our units an opportunity to train at new facilities and save money in transportation costs. The “Pay Masters” in the 130th Finance Company participated in missions supporting SOUTHCOM in Guatemala and Diamond Saber in Wisconsin. The 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Headquarters completed a warfighter exercise with their peers in the 82nd Airborne Division. Successful training events such as these validate our ability to deploy with any Department of Defense asset anywhere, anytime. In the finest tradition of the National Guard, we have continued our support to federal missions as well. The 630th CSSB returned after a successful deployment to Egypt and Israel as the support element for Multinational Force and Observers upholding the Peace Treaty between Egypt and Israel. Soldiers of the 621st Engineer Detachment are currently providing survey and design support to engineer operations in Kuwait, Jordan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan. As well, the 210th and 211th Military Police Companies successfully deployed to Afghanistan using their talents to help the Afghans take the fight to the enemy. In addition to unit contributions, your ready team of sustainment professionals at JFHQs put numerous processes in place to both increase readiness and improve efficiency of the organization. These contributions include benefits to the individual service members as well as high impact effects organization wide. Wall lockers have been installed in armories to provide Soldiers a secure place to store their OCIE and help reduce property losses. Through detailed planning and rigorous execution and follow-up, our post annual training Operational Readiness (OR) is higher than we have seen in recent years. The planning staff and engineer units have executed numerous facility improvement projects at our armories that provide better environments for our Soldiers during drill and enhance our presence in the community. Our high budget execution rates have ensured our Soldiers get the support they need and that parts are available to keep our equipment fully mission capable. In fact, as a result of the dedicated efforts of the sustainment community, we are currently on track to meet or exceed our Campaign Plan objectives for the year. Sustainment operations for an organization such as the NCNG are complicated, ever changing, and have a significant impact on our ability to successfully execute our requirements. We are fortunate to have proficient Soldiers, Airmen, leaders and units to effectively manage this inherent complexity. Whether training at home, across the country, or supporting an ally in a remote theatre, our combat service support Soldiers continue to prove they are a ready and reliable force that demonstrates the value of the NCNG.
óó www.ncnga.org
Tarheel Guardsman
TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association OCT/NOV 2013
Volume 47
Contents: NCNGA:
President’s Report In Memoriam
5 15
NC National Guard:
Cover Story — 211th MP Co. Returns Home NC Guard 9/11 Rememberance 60th Troop Command Says Farwell 449th TAB & 145th Airlift Wing Change of Command “The Guards Sailors” 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 Associate Director Cindy Basler Associate Insurance Administrator Rhonda Arndt Associate Financial/ Membership Administrator Katie Westbrooks NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator Peggy Robinson
Katie Westbrooks, Editor Tarheel Guardsman
7 8 10 13 14
Executive Council 30th HBCT Shane Evans Scott Schnack 130th MEB Robert Holland Mark McMahan 60th Troop Command Velma Evans Jack Midyette III 449th TAB Patrick Szvetitz Mark VanVeldhuizen 113th Sustainment BDE Miriam Gray Randy Ly JFHQ-NC Steven Johnson Reginald Hooker 139 Regiment (CA) James McKee Norman Walls th
Air Guard Barbara Doncaster Tamvaria Walker Junior Council Timothy Stanhope Jeremy Davis Associate Class John Eudy Danielle Hodges www.ncnga.org
Number 5
Cover: Photos by Staff Sgt. Mary Junell, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs Address changes or questions? Call us at 919-851-3390 Our email address is info@ncnga.org and our web site is www.ncnga.org
Embassy Suites in Concord NC Site of the 2015 Combined Event for the NC National Guard Association, Enlisted and Officer Ball — One Weekend Culminating Into One Big Event! 13-14 March 2015 Deadline for submitting articles to the Tarheel Guardsman: DEC ‘14/JAN ‘15 issue: 3 NOV 2014 Send articles/photos to Katie Westbrooks, Editor at: (katie@ncnga.org) The Tarheel Guardsman, (ISSN 10618392) is published six times a year 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 and unit 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.
OCT/NOV 2014 — Page 3
A Word from our Executive Director... 2014 NGAUS UPDATE
T
he past couple months have been busy and productive for our association. We’ve had Teri’s retirement, the hiring of our new Associate Director - Cindy Basler and helped to pass the increase of the NC National Guard Pension in the Legislature. I have personally had an opportunity to make many visits across the State to visit our members and also attended my first EANGUS and NGAUS conferences. I hope to implement the numerous wonderful insights and ideas I’ve been able to gather along the way. In regards to the increase in the pension, we hope to leverage this year’s success into bigger and better things for next year and use the momentum to expand into National legislative initiatives as well. One of the key things we’re hoping to do over this next year is to enhance our membership benefits/services as well as engagement and communications plan. We have been researching other Guard Associations across the United States as well as other membership groups to identify some key benefits to add to our portfolio. Our goal is to enhance your return-on-investment in our association year after year. We are also happy to announce the date and location of our next Combined Convention for 2015. After many weeks of work our committee has selected the Embassy Suites in Concord, NC as our host. The event will be 13th & 14th of March 2015. This is an ideal location with an even larger spot to host our banquet and exhibitors. The hotel is just up the hill from the Charlotte Motor Speedway and located in close proximity to shopping, entertainment and more. In closing, we ask that you take a second and visit our website to sign-up for our membership alerts (located on our homepage at www. ncnga.org ). Even if you signed up before we ask that your take a moment and do it again to confirm we have your correct information. We promise not to inundate your email with messages but want to use it as an effective communication tool. For those that signup between the publication of this issue and October 31st you will be placed in a drawing for 2 nights stay at the beautiful Sheraton in Myrtle Beach. As always we appreciate your support… Thank you! Craig Lloyd, Executive Director
JOIN NGAUS http://www.ngaus.org/
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www.ncnga.org
By MAJ Brian Mcilvaine, NGAUS Chairman
“The National Guard: Now More Than Ever” was the theme for this year’s National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) General Conference & Exhibition held 22-25 August 2014 in Chicago, IL. Addressing this theme were this year’s keynote speakers: Senator Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and General Mark A. Walsh III, the chief of staff of the Air Force. Sen. Graham gave a rousing speech in which he urged Guardsmen to use their voices through NGAUS to convince Congress to maintain a strong military and reverse the defense cuts. Gen. Welsh emphasized that efficiency and seamless integration are the name of the game as the Air Force works to define the roles of each component in the Total Force. Approximately 4,000 people registered for this year’s NGAUS Conference with nearly 300 exhibitors displaying their wares at the trade show. The North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) delegation was led by the Adjutant General, MG Gregory A. Lusk and 16 other retired and current officers of the NCNG. Former TAG and Director of the Army National Guard, LTG (Ret.) William E. Ingram, Jr. attended the conference as a distinguished guest. Additionally, 9 spouses and our new North Carolina National Guard Association (NCNGA) Executive Director, Craig Lloyd attended. A special thank you to all the delegates that paid their own way to attend this year’s conference and particularly for all those that represented the NCNG during the many committee and task force meetings. For the second consecutive year, the NCNG delegates joined with Oklahoma and Washington State’s delegates in hosting a hospitality suite. This unusual partnership began out of convenience and has continued as we have enjoyed the increased networking opportunities along with the reduced costs. Our corporate sponsors included Boeing, DRASH, Litefighter, Ban-Air, Cobham, Western Shelter, Hurst Jaws of Life, and White Swan Bar-B-Q who donated 50 lbs of Eastern-style North Carolina barbecue. Additionally, the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association donated 200 bags of peanuts. Mark your calendars for next year’s NGAUS Conference and join us in Nashville, TN, 10-13 September 2015!
Tarheel Guardsman
The President’s Report
By Bobby Lumsden, NCNGA President (president@ncnga.org) As summer is coming to an end and fall is rapidly approaching, I’d like to take the opportunity to reflect on the work your Association has done and the work we still have left to be accomplished. The last year has been a time of change for our Association with the loss of Adene and Teri from the staff. They are certainly missed, and their impact on the Association will continue to be felt for years to come. With this change we have welcomed two new members to our team - Craig Lloyd as our Executive Director and Cindy Basler as our Associate Director. With the changing of the Guard the Executive Council, at my request, has reorganized the structure and responsibilities of the Staff to increase efficiency and to project a greater presence to our members, elected officials, and Business / Corporate Sponsors. One major victory the Association was able to secure was a four dollar increase on the monthly benefit for the National Guard Pension Plan. Although wasn’t as much as requested, we were able to get this increase against a state budget still suffering the effects of the economic downturn in 2008. Initially the General Assembly sought out to reduce the amount of funding the pension plan would receive, but the Executive Council, Legislative Committee, and the Full Time Staff partnered together to ensure that the voices of you, our members were heard. The message was received loud and clear and we received word from the House of Representatives that they would get us an increase. There are many thanks to issue for the hard work on achieving this goal, but most importantly we must thank each of you. Without our members contacting our State Legislators, we would have never achieved this victory. As we look forward to the immediate and long term future, our Association still has a lot of work to do. We continue to fight to ensure our voices are heard by the Federal Legislators. I and several others have personally traveled to Washington, DC to discuss issues that affect our
Guards men and women. The Executive Council and all Committees are reviewing each part of our by-laws. We are working hard to make sure our governing documents are right to set us on the course for continued success in all of our future endeavors. You may have seen our mission, vision, values, and overall goals have changed. This change aligns us more correctly with our core function and to better service you, our members. Soon we will publish a Strategic Plan that will set our course for the next five to ten years. We are dreaming big, and know that with your help, will achieve all of our goals. In closing, I ask that all of you keep your eyes on our vision and desired end state. There may be some that are hesitant to change because it may bring about uncertainty. I can assure each and every one of you that the steps the Officers and Executive Council are taking for this Association all are aimed at achieving our goals and vision to be the best Association for Service Members in the United States.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Tarheel Guardsman
www.ncnga.org
OCT/NOV 2014 — Page 5
2014 EANGUS UPDATE
By Steve Jones, NCNGA & EANGUS Life Member
JOIN EANGUS
Go to www.eangus.org to join today!
NEW ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR! We are happy to announce the hiring of Cindy Basler as our new Associate Director. Cindy joined our team after the retirement of Teri Foster this past month. Upon Teri’s retirement, the NCNGA Executive Council decided to restructure the staff duties and evolved the positions to better facilitate our memberships programs and services. After receiving dozens of resumes, conducting numerous phone and face-to-face interviews we decided to ask Cindy to join our team. Her experience in administration, management and event planning fits well for the duties required for this position. We hope you will take a moment and drop Cindy a note and welcome her to our association. Her email is cindy@ncnga.org
The 43rd Annual (EANGUS) Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States Convention was held in August in Phoenix, Arizona and had four members from North Carolina that attended. The conference started with the Area Caucus on Sunday Morning at 0700. EANGUS is made up of seven different Areas. NC is in Area II, with PA, DE,MD, WV,VA, DC, T10 (NGB), KY, and OH. Each area has three Directors, with one of them serving as the Chairman. Nominations were taken for two director vacancies. The election was held on Tuesday. We had multiple candidates for each position. It was the first time with multiple candidates in The attendees for the EANGUS Convention. several years . The directors Left to right: Craig Lloyd, NCNGA Executive elected were Director Mike Director; CMSgt Maurice Willaims; Stephen Arnold (NGB T10), and Jones; Bobby Ray. Director Velda Scye (DE). Joel Mutschler (PA), remained as Chairman. Mid winter conference to be held during the February time frame in Ohio. Area II hospitality night on Tuesday night was exciting to say the least, about 4:30 Tuesday afternoon during the setup of our Area, Phoenix had a rain and wind storm that blew down tents and sent every one scrambling for cover. It lasted about 30 minutes. This was the first time in several years that this out door event has had rain. After the storm we regrouped and proceeded with the activities. Even though we were wet a good time was had trading our state pins and meeting fellow conference attendees. The Conference ended Wednesday night with the All States Banquet and Awards Program. The 44th Annual Conference will be held in Indianapolis, IN, 8-13 August 2015. For info on EANGUS, go to www.eangus.org.
NCNGA Helps to Increase NCNG Pension On behalf of the North Carolina National Guard Association (NCNGA) and our Council, we are happy to announce that our request for an increase in our Guard member’s pension plan was signed by Governor McCrory this past month as part of the State’s budget. Effective 1 July 2014 NC G.S. 127A-40 State Pension increase was approved to $99.00 (20 years of service) and $198.00 (30 years of service). It will also be prorated for those currently receiving the state pension. After many years of lobbying the legislature for an increase, we are delighted that our Legislators and Governor have approved this increase. Your North Carolina National Guard Association and our network of supporters
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work year-round to improve our member’s quality-of-life and are happy to have led this effort on your behalf. The last time the Guards pension was raised was 2008 and has only been raised 3 times since 1973. We believe this increase assists in retaining Guards men and women with the most experience, and ensures the North Carolina National Guard response to emergencies and disasters are manned by the best personnel. We believe this is a step in the right direction for even more benefits and support for our members on a State and National level. Our goal with legislation like this is to increase the likelihood that veterans will remain in NC, thereby improving the available labor pool in NC. We appreciate the efforts of our members that helped us by calling and sending emails to our Legislators during this year’s session on our behalf. Your support is vital to our success and helps us help each of our members and their families. For a copy of the legislation visit our website at www.ncnga.org www.ncnga.org
Tarheel Guardsman
211th MP Co. Returns Home from Afghanistan
Soldiers with the 211th Military Police Company, 105th Military Police Battalion, 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade were welcomed home by family and friends at the Asheville Regional Airport, Aug. 23, 2014. This marked the end of the unit’s nine-monthlong deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Clyde, NC based unit was welcomed with cheering and hand-made signs as their plane landed and then taxied closer to the group of family and friends. This was the second deployment to Afghanistan for the 211th MP Co (Photos by Staff Sgt. Mary Junell, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs/Released) Tarheel Guardsman
www.ncnga.org
OCT/NOV 2014 — Page 7
NC Guard 9/11 Remembrance
By Sgt. First Class Robert Jordan, NCNG Public Affairs September 11, 2014 RALEIGH, NC -- Song, prayer, ceremony and occasional tears marked the anniversary of 9/11 at The North Carolina National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina, today. The headquarters began their duty carrying out the orders of their Commander in Chief, Gov. Pat McCrory, lowering the United States and North Carolina Flags in recognition of Patriot Day. “Thirteen years ago, our nation was attacked and life as we knew it changed forever," McCrory said. "On this anniversary, we unite in remembrance and prayer for our nation, those innocent lives lost and their families who must still cope with this tragedy.” Soldiers, Airmen, friends and staff came together at the Remembrance Ceremony at the HQ’s auditorium. Most of the Soldiers and Airmen are combat veterans. Stories of deployments, battles, friends made and lost make a steady background murmur. The ceremony began as all, military and civilian, stood at attention for the singing of the National Anthem by Army Sgt. 1st Class Ronda Csolak, a personnel manager with NCNG Headquarters. Heads bowed as Fulltime NCNG Support Chaplain Army Lt. Col Steven King lead the audience in prayer for those killed in the attack and in the wars following. “The events of 9/11 have forever been inscribed on our memories, we are resolved to do what is good and right and just,” said King. The keynote speaker Army Maj. Bob May, the NCNG’s 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team training officer. He shared his personal experience from the 9/11 attack when he was serving as a member of the Army’s 3rd Infan-
try Division, “The Old Guard”, in Washington DC. “I heard a crash and saw billowing smoke, everything changed, it was a terrorist attack,” said May. May was one of the many who rushed to the (U.S. Army National Guard Pentagon after the attack Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan, North Carolina Nahelping the wounded. Later as a Memorial Af- tional Guard Public Affairs/ Released) fairs Officer, he helped lead the teams responsible for honoring the fallen in the attack. “There is no more humbling experience than rendering last honors to a fallen comrade and showing compassion to a grieving family.” Those funerals would be the first for the many thousands who gave the last full measure of duty and devotion. The NCNG is no stranger to this loss. Army Lt. Col. Brent Orr, the NCNG’s recruiting battalion commander, listed the 25 NCNG Soldiers who died in battle since 9/11. The reciting of the men’s and women’s names was broken by the sobs of their comrades. After a moment of silence for those lost, Csolak returned to the stage for the singing of God Bless America; the solo soon became a chorus as the voices of those in attendance filled the room. King concluded the ceremony with a prayer and prediction, “go with the certainty that Good will overcome Evil.”
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.”
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www.ncnga.org
Tarheel Guardsman
Come Celebrate our Retiree Day and the National Guard’s 378th Birthday! FOR: Army and Air National Guard Retirees DATE: Friday, December 12, 2014 EVENT REGISTRATION: 0900-1000 HRS, Program begins at 1000HRS LOCATION: Joint Force Headquarters, 1636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607 INCLUDES: Mission update, benefits seminar, various information stations, luncheon, social time, and the National Guard’s 378th Birthday Celebration. REGISTRATION: Send the form below and a check for $20.00 per person payable to “NCNG Retiree Luncheon” on or before 1 December 2014 to:
JFHQ-NC-PAO-CR ATTN: Tarheel Homecoming 1636 Gold Star Drive Raleigh, NC 27607
Registration Form also available on the NCNG Public Website at: http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil NOTE: Seating is limited to 350; please make your reservation as soon as possible. QUESTIONS: Contact the Community Relations Office at 919-664-6000 ext 46242 or via email: ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao-rsvp@mail.mil
2014 NCNG TARHEEL HOMECOMING and the National Guard’s 377th Birthday Celebration Registration Form Attendee Name and Rank (RET): Guest Name (s): Please provide the following Mailing address: E-mail Address: Home or Cell Phone: Questions and/or comments to the Community Relations Office at 919-664-6000 ext 46242 or via email: ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao-rsvp@mail.mil Tarheel Guardsman
www.ncnga.org
OCT/NOV 2014 — Page 9
60th Troop Command says Farewell By SFC Mary G. Scott, HHD Joint Force Headquarters The summer of 2014 has brought many changes to the faces of the 60th Troop Command full time staff. On 26 June, SGM Allan Apperson retired after 35 years in the North Carolina Army National Guard, 25 years AGR, at a ceremony at the Claude T. Bowers buildPhoto by SSG Brendan Stephens, 382nd Public Afing. SGM Apperson fairs Detachment. SGM Allan Apperson cuts his began his career enlistcake as his wife and daughter look on. ing in the NCNG on 24 April 1979 as an 11B assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 120th Mechanized Infantry in Morganton, NC and completed his career as the Operations Sergeant Major for 60th Troop Command, Raleigh, NC. During his service he also deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005 and 2006 and was in El Salvador in 2011 as part of the Humanitarian Mission, Beyond the Horizon 2011. SGM Apperson tirelessly trained, mentored and guided hundreds of troops in his career and his expertise and leadership will be greatly missed. On 1 July 2014, MAJ Ed Wallace, 60th Troop Command, S3 Training Officer, was transferred to the G3T office as the State Training Officer. MAJ Wallace had been an integral part of 60th Troop Command for just over 2 years, transferring to them in April 2012. Following closely on MAJ Wallace’s heels, SSG Corwyn Photo by COL Clifford Wilkins, NCNG Stanley celebrated his career with Chief of Joint Staff. SSG Corwyn Stanley a retirement ceremony on 8 July with his wife, sons and aunt. at the Claude T. Bowers building
COME OUT AND JOIN US FOR OUR FIRST YEAR AT THE STATE FAIR!
as well. Surrounded by his fellow Guardsmen, Marine Corps friends and his family, SSG Stanley retired after more than 27 years of military service in the Marine Corps Reserves and North Carolina Army National Guard. His final assignment was at HHC, 60th Troop Command as the unit Supply Sergeant. During his military career, SSG Stanley deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait with the 2nd Marine Division, 2nd FSSG in 1999 as a part of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and to Iraq with the105th Military Police, NC National Guard in 2004 as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Stanley’s knowledge, experience and good nature will be missed by his fellow Soldiers. August brought two more departures for 60th Troop Command with SFC Robert Shaffer leaving the HHC Readiness NCO position for the Readiness NCO position with the 1132nd Military Police in Rocky Mount, NC and SFC Mary Scott leaving the S3 Assistant Operations NCO Photo by LTC John Ebbighausen, 60th position Troop Command. MAJ Wallace, SFC for a posi- Scott and SFC Shaffer at their Farewell tion as G1 luncheon. Automated Boards NCOIC with JFHQ. SFC Shaffer had been the 60th Troop Command’s Readiness NCO for just over 4 years and SFC Scott had been with 60th Troop Command for more than 7 years. SGM Thomas Childers has replaced SGM Apperson, MAJ Brad Merritt is replacing MAJ Wallace, SSG James Phipps has replaced SSG Stanley, SSG Ronald Valenzuela has replaced SFC Shaffer and SFC Daina Key has replaced SFC Scott.
Stop by and see us!
The Association will be having a booth this year! We will be located with the National Guard near Dorton Arena. Page 10 — OCT/NOV 2014
www.ncnga.org
paid advetisement Tarheel Guardsman
“7th Annual Len Adams Memorial NCNGA Educational Foundation Scholarship Golf Tournament” Format: 4 Man Scramble / Captain’s Choice Where: River Oaks Golf Club When: Monday, 27 October 2014 (CHANGE) Time: 10:00 Shotgun Start Entry Fee: $60.00 Please make plans to join us on Monday, 27 October 2014 at River Oaks Golf Club for our 7th annual Len Adams Memorial Golf Tournament Fundraiser. Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the North Carolina National Guard Association Educational Foundation (NCNGAEF). The first $1000 raised will go to our 505ECB Len Adams Memorial Scholarship NCNGAEF Fund for the annual scholarship. All additional funds raised will go to the NCNGAEF General Endowment Fund. We also will be doing a 50/50 raffle – Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5. The Entry Fee has been reduced to $60 this year and includes golf, cart, beverages, food, door prize tickets, and two mulligan’s each. Tickets will be put into the raffle box for door prizes when entry fee is paid. Dinner will be served immediately after the round. Prizes will be awarded for 1st and 2nd place teams. All par 3’s will have a closest to the pin prize and we will also have a long drive prize. Hole sponsorships may be purchased for a $50.00 donation and will include a sign on the course. Fees and donations are tax deductible. Sign up as a foursome or individuals will be paired up. Please make checks payable to Donnie Mote, and mailed to 4240 West Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28208. The address for the golf course is The River Oaks Golf Club, 233 Broken Arrow Dr, Statesville, NC 28677. Phone = (704) 883-8724.
Player A___________________________________________________________________ Player B___________________________________________________________________ Player C___________________________________________________________________ Player D___________________________________________________________________
Reindeer Dash for Cash!
By Captain Erika Wonn, Public Affairs, Ohio Air National Guard
C
apt. Christopher Cash was the commander of Company A, 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Enhanced Separate Infantry Brigade headquartered in Jacksonville, North Carolina. He was a North Carolina National Guardsman, a Soldier charged with defending his country and way of life. However, more importantly Cash was a husband, a son, a friend and a leader. Although Cash was tragically killed in Iraq on June 24, 2004 serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom, his name and honor live on through those he loved. The Reindeer Dash for Cash is held every December, the second Sunday after Thanksgiving, in Cash’s hometown of Greenville, NC. It started in 2005, and this year marks the 10th annual race. The event, organized by Dawn Cash-Salau, Cash’s widow, is funded from individual race entries, individual donations, and corporate sponsors. “We are truly grateful to our sponsors and those that donate and participate in the race. They make it possible for this event to continue, and to remember Chris through something he loved so much, running,” Cash-Salau said. The Cash Foundation is a 501c3, and in nine years has raised more than $215,000. Of those donations, $110,000 is an endowed scholarship at NC Wesleyan
Tarheel Guardsman
College. This year, the foundation announced a $25,000 endowment at East Carolina University, one of two institutions where Cash earned a degree. Additionally, individual scholarships will be awarded as contributions allow. With no paid employees, the foundation is organized by Cash-Salau and friends all out of love for Chris and his sacrifice. Chris will be honored and remembered every year thanks to the endowed scholarships, and students will continue to learn of his life and sacrifice for years to come. Each year hundreds of runners gather to the run the Reindeer Dash for Cash. Some participate for the love of running while others run to remember their fallen comrade, friend or family member. “I have had runners tell me that they only started running this race to honor Chris,” Cash-Salau said. Whether it’s for the love of running, to honor the fallen or for Cash himself, this race has touched many. “Every year I start the race with a brief explanation of why we run, remembering Chris’ life, and recognizing the scholarship recipient,” Cash-Salau said. “Personally, I run the Army Ten Miler in memory of Chris. My running days began when Chris deployed. The Army Ten Miler is why ours is also a 10 miler. I was new to running completely in 2004 when Chris deployed. He provided wonderful words of encouragement. I have one email where Chris said ‘running is better than Prozac’. He never knew the importance those words would mean to me. After he died, I turned to running to deal with grief. I felt close to him on the pavement. His running buddies became mine and they shared their running stories with me.” Runners can register via www.ReindeerDashforCash.org. They can also donate or get more information about sponsorship. A donation link is also available on www. ChrisCashFoundation.org.
www.ncnga.org
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NC Guardsmen Conduct Aerial Resupply Mission By Staff Sgt. Mary Junell, North Carolina National Guard Public Affairs
RALEIGH, NC - Soldiers with the North Carolina National Guard performed an HHC 130th Soldiers prepared and rigged the aerial resupply training mission at Fort Pickett, VA on Aug. 8, 2014, to validate bundles with parachutes, the NCNG Special Forces their air delivery capabilities for North Carolina. Soldiers with Headquarters and Soldiers set up and secured the drop-zone, an air crew Headquarters Company, 113th Sustainment Brigade, the 1450th Transportation from the 130th Air Wing provided the C-130 cargo Company, NCNG Special Forces and an Air Crew plane that flew the bundles and with the West Virginia Air National Guard’s 130th Air the 1450th Trans. Co. broke down Wing all participated in the realistic scenario. and distributed the bundles of “North Carolina is one of only a few states whose MRE’s to their unit; just like it National Guard has this unique capability, so it’s very would happen if these units were important for us to train jointly with the Special Forces deployed or called to state active Company, the transportation company and the Air duty after a natural disaster. Guard,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Viviana Pare “This is the first time des, an air drop systems technician with HHC, 113th within the state and the 113th that Sustainment Brigade. “That way all the pieces of the the bundles were actually rigged puzzle are accustomed to operating together, because and dropped,” Paredes said. “We when an emergency happens, we are all going to are looking forward to multiple Service members with the North Carolina and West opportunities to train jointly this merge together and are indispensible to the state.” This type of aerial resupply can be used to provide Virginia National Guards prepare a C-130 cargo way again.” plane for take-off at Fort Pickett, Va. during an air basic necessities to stranded civilians after natural The Soldiers within Paredisasters like floods and hurricanes. Paredes used the drop training mission. This was the first time North des’ company who rigged the Carolina completed an air drop training mission example of Hurricane Floyd that hit North Carolina bundles are not riggers according in 1999 to demonstrate the need for this capability in from rigging the bundles all the way through collect- to their Military Occupational North Carolina. She said there were people stranded by ing the dropped bundles. (U.S. Army National Guard Specialty but have been trained Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan / Released) flood waters without clean water or food after the hurto perform the task as an adricane passed. ditional duty. Paredes added, “It was complete bliss “You fix that by having the capability to provide initial support to these people and satisfaction,” to finally see the hard work of her by means of aerial delivery,” Paredes said. She also said that in addition to food Soldiers pay off. and water, communication devices like emergency radios or basic communication “The Soldiers that rigged these bundles have not devices could be dropped in to people who are stranded. had the chance to see this happen,” she said. “For me Four bundles of meals ready to eat, a military field ration, were air-dropped on to know that they had the opportunity to see their efto a small air field at Fort Picket with each unit involved acting as they would durfort and hard work pay off, and for them to see the ing a real resupply mission. bundles intact after coming out of a plane, there is no better satisfaction for anyone who rigs.”
245th Civil Engineer Flight, Successfully Completes Combat Skills Training by Master Sgt. Patricia F. Moran, 145th Public Affairs New London, NC -- Just a few months after taking command of the 245th Civil Engineering Flight, Col. John Wolverton led his unit in an intense three day Combat Skills Training exercise at the 145th Regional Training Site where the members qualified on weapons, High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), Chemical Warfare and a host of other engineering skills. Both the engineering veterans and the new unit members acquired skills that will last them a lifetime and ensure their viability for years to come. The 245 CEF is a relatively new addition to the NCANG. Since its founding in 2008 and recognition of being “Fully Mission Capable” in 2010, the Flight brings a unique set of skills to the state of NC. Comprised of 20 degreed engineering officers and five enlisted members, the 245th has become the “goto” engineering and design cell for JFHQ and its parent unit, HQ USAFE. Because of this, the 245 CEF maintains mission and wartime readiness at all times. It is the requirement to be at the ready which drove the recent weekend training at the RTS. From the moment the team arrived on Friday morning until they departed on Sunday afternoon, the members fired weapons, drove HMMWV’s, received training on generators and Mobile Aircraft Arresting Systems (MAAS), hiked a land navigation course and donned chemical protective gear.
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Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Drost, Operations NCO for the 245th Civil Engineer Flight, energetically stated, “Being out here really allows the team to concentrate as a group on a lot of their core training. In three days, the whole unit will have qualified with the 9mm pistol, refreshed their proficiency in accomplishing real-world tasks while in chemical suits, and engaged in valuable leadership and team-building exercises.” Col. Wolverton, commander of the 245 CEF added, “Drill weekends like this one really bring our unit together. The value of having this training venue available and its exceptionally knowledgeable team of cadre cannot be overstated.
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449th TAB, Change of Command
by Staff Sgt. Meiling L. Cutler, & PFC Kelly L. Widner 449th Theater Aviation Brigade, North Carolina National Guard Morrisville, NC – Saturday at Army Aviation Support Facility #1, friends, families and Soldiers gathered for the North Carolina Army National Guard 449th Theater Aviation Brigade’s change of command ceremony. In front of the brigade formation, Brig. Gen. James Ernst, Assistant Adjutant General Maneuver for the NC Army National Guard, received the brigade colors from Colonel Brian C. Pierce and passed them to Colonel Jeffrey L. Copeland in the time honored tradition symbolizing the passing of command from the outgoing to incoming commanding officer. As Pierce took the stand for his farewell, he said that he felt both honored and humbled to be given the opportunity and responsibility of command. Pierce led the 449th TAB for two consecutive years beginning in 2012. “Though Commanders may come and go, the colors live on -- most importantly through the Soldiers of the organization,” said Pierce. Most of Pierce’s military career was spent within aviation. “To glance at the core of the organization with which I’ve spent the majority of my military career and much of my adulthood is not only emotional, but awe-inspiring,” said Pierce. “Through Col. Pierce’s leadership and guidance and every Soldier’s commitment, this brigade is currently well over 100% strength, which can boast about many accomplishments,” said Copeland, the new commander of the 449th TAB.
Under Pierce’s command, the 449th TAB participated in Yama Sakura, a bilateral exercise with the Japanese military. Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) deployed to Fort Lewis, Washington where they supported the 66th Theater Aviation Command for this important international training event. This was one of several joint, combined arms training missions the 449th took on during Pierce’s tenure, setting a high standard of interoperability for Army National Guard Aviation. Col. Copeland, also a long time aviator, congratulated Pierce on his successes with the 449th TAB and wished him the best in his upcoming assignment noting that his role as the State Aviation Officer would continue his association with the 449th. “I am honored at the prestigious opportunity to serve as Hurricane 6, Commander of the 449th TAB,” said Copeland. “It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly and look forward to it with great enthusiasm.” Copeland takes the reins of the 449th as they prepare to participate in a Warfighter Exercise with the 82nd Airborne Division and several active duty brigades in 2015 at Camp Atterbury Indiana. The exercise will require HHC 449th to deploy and operate as the higher headquarters for other aviation headquarter units.
145th Airlift Wing Celebrates Promotion and Change of Command By Tech Sgt. Kerner, 145th Public Affairs
Charlotte, NC -- The North Carolina Air National Guard observed a change of command of the 145th Airlift Wing and the promotion of a senior commissioned officer during two ceremonies Saturday at the guard’s headquarters in Charlotte. Col. Marshall Collins assumed command of the 145th Airlift Wing, which is responsible for all Air National Guard operations throughout the state, officials said. The unit consists of more than 1,500 airmen who make up five subordinate groups that provide control of the air operations and maintenance, communications, security and logistics support, civil engineering, and medical support for the state’s National Guard. Collins has logged roughly 6,000 hours of flying time to become a Master Navigator and has held a number of leadership positions. Collins lives with his wife and two children in Rock Hill. Col. Roger Williams Jr. was the previous commander of the 145th Airlift Wing and was promoted to the rank of brigadier general Saturday afternoon. Williams will now serves as the NC National Guard Assistant Adjutant General for Air operations, responsible for advising the state’s adjutant general
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on programs, strategic planning and operations affecting the NC Air National Guard, officials said. Williams joined the NC Air National U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James H. Trogdon Guard in 2001 III, Deputy Adjutant General for North and has held Carolina, presents Col. Marshall C. Cola number of lins, 145th Airlift Wing commander with the 145th AW guidon. (U.S. Air National leadership positions. He Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Rich Kerner, th lives with his 145 Public Affairs/Released) wife and three children in Fort Mill, SC.
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“The Guard’s Sailors”
By LTC (Ret.) Sion H. Harrington III, NC Military Historical Society
We need your input... The NCNGA values the support of our 16,000 members across the State. Our goal is to continue to represent our membership and help to improve your quality of life. We hope to expand our membership benefits to help enhance your return-on-investment as a member. We have developed an online survey to help us gather information about what benefits you value the most and get the ball rolling to evaluate some potential additions. Please visit our website (www.ncnga.org) and follow the link on our homepage to help us help you.
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n the late 1880s, a nationwide movement was initiated to create state naval militias to augment the land forces and provide coastal and, in the case of the Great Lakes and other areas, lake defense. Later, its duties were expanded to include fleet augmentation to the United States Navy. For twenty-six years, beginning officially in 1891, the North Carolina State Guard, predecessor to the National Guard, had a naval component: the North Carolina Naval Militia (NCNM). North Carolina’s first naval militia unit was formed in 1888 in the Piedmont city of Charlotte. Over the next two and a half decades, naval “divisions,” the equivalent of an Army company or detachment, sprang up in other towns including Wilmington, New Bern, Windsor, Plymouth, Southport, Kinston, and Elizabeth City. Initially styled the “Naval Artillery Battalion,” the NCNM was furnished with ammunition and miscellaneous other equipment by the United States Navy, including the loan of a series of outdated naval vessels on which the “web-footed” Guardsmen could take their annual cruises. One such vessel, the USS NANTUCKET, a old doubleturreted monitor, had served in the Navy’s blockading squadron off Charleston during the War Between the States. The ships were intended for coastal patrol duties in the event of war, as was the case during the Spanish-American War of 1898 when the NCNM was called to service. At the time of its war service, the Adjutant General reported the NCNM’s strength at 12 officers and 264 enlisted men in 5 divisions, adding that there were naval battalions in twenty-four states. The North Carolina Naval Militia ceased to exist in our state in 1917 when it was, like the National Guard, federalized for service in World War I and absorbed into the National Naval Volunteers and placed at the disposal of the regular forces. Unlike the land element of the North Carolina National Guard, the Naval Militia was not reconstituted following the end of the war. It remains on the books as a viable state military organization to this day, should the state and Adjutant General seek its re-activation, as have several states in recent years. One of the North Carolina Naval Militia’s most famous members was Caleb D. Bradham, a druggist from New Bern who invented “Brad’s Drink,” the popular drink we now know as Pepsi Cola. Bradham, one of the NCNM’s commanders, served for twenty-five years retiring as a Rear Admiral.
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Retiree Corner: North Carolina National Guard State Pension
Announcing a New Benefit for Technicians!
By SSG Travis J Reed, NC State Retirement Counselor The North Carolina National Guard State Pension is additional funding given to eligible Retirees upon reaching age 60 (if no longer in service). The State Pension is not automatic and must be applied for. Applications are accepted at any unit and forwarded to the NCNG State Retirement Counselors office for processing. The determining eligibility criteria are 15 years minimal NCNG service, a minimum of 20 years total military service (any branch), and Retired (no longer serving). Unlike the Federal Pension; the State Pension is non-transferable under any circumstance. Upon the death of the Retiree it will be stopped. It is up to the family to ensure the Retirees death is reported to the State to ensure no debt is incurred. The NCNG State Pension is on a maturing scale; based on the number of years a Retiree served. An applicant with 20 years of eligible service can receive $99.00 per month. For each additional year of service the amount is increased by $9.90; topping out at $198.00 per month for 30 or more years of service. It is a best practice to apply for the State Pension within 6 months of turning 60 or becoming retired; however the State Treasures Department will pay arrears as far as 3 years back. For additional information and criteria please refer to North Carolina General Statute: GS 127A-40.
TECHNICIANS INSURANCE PROGRAM –Disability Insurance for Technicians the only plans endorsed by the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) and Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the U.S. (EANGUS). As a NEW Technician, you are GUARANTEED protections with NO health questions, if you apply during your first 31 days of employment or if you apply during an official enrollment. We will be conducting an Open Enrollment for ALL Technicians soon. Visit our website WWW.NCNGA.ORG for the announcement.
Join Us! Retiree Network Workshop October 30, 2014 starting @ 10:00 AM More details to come on the NCNGA website and Facebook page! If you are retired from NC Air Guard or Army Guard and want to share your passion for the Association and this worthwhile program, please come join us! For more information, please contact Rhonda Arndt with NCNGA 919-851-3390 ext 0.
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. Members not mentioned in previous issues: Faynell C. Beaver Spouse of Willie B. Beaver 25 Feb 2014 Landis, NC Susie Dayvault Daughter of Willie B. Beaver 1 Feb 2014 Landis, NC Priscilla Hodges Spouse of Bobby G. Hodges 9 Oct 2009 Greenville, NC James E Mercer 3 May 2014 Wilson, NC
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Mark D. Currin Spouse of Susan Currin 28 June 2014 Raleigh, NC David V. McMillan Fayetteville, NC 16 July 14 Patsy Perrington Spouse of Charles K. Perrington 17 July 14 Asheboro, NC Zeb V. Jolly 17 July 14 Forest City, NC
Nell H. Eudy Spouse of Larry L. Eudy 26 July 2014 Albemarle, NC
Theodore Horton Son of Charlotte Horton 26 August 2014 Fayetteville, NC
Edward B. Tharrington 3 August 2014 Garner, NC
Jerry D. Connally 27 August 2014 Parkton, NC
Gavin C. Bair 11 August 2014 Matthews, NC
Wilford E. Capps, Jr. 29 August 2014 Gastonia, NC
Barrie S. Davis 19 August 2014 Zebulon, NC
David S Medlin 31 August 2014 Princeton, NC
Zachary Goforth 24 August 2014 Candor, NC
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Dean H Jones 31 August 2014 Gastonia, NC
Past President of NCNGA 1985-1987 Willaim D. Lackey 27 July 14 Statesville, NC
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Tarheel Guardsman NC National Guard Assoc. 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
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