Tarheel Guardsman
October/November 2016
Leader’s Corner
Embracing the Military Profession and Ensuring our Voices are Heard COL Jeff Copeland, NCARNG Chief of Staff and Chairman of the NCNGA Legislative Committee
We are all stewards of the Military Profession. Our profession is defined by our values, ethics, standards, code of conduct, skills, and attributes. As volunteers, our sworn duty is to the Constitution. Our status as a profession is granted by those whom we are accountable to, our civilian authority and the American people. All National Guard members belong to the profession from the junior enlisted to our most senior officers. The distinction between ranks lies in our level of responsibility and degree of accountability. We share the common attributes of character, courage, competence, and commitment. We qualify as professionals through intensive training, education, and practical experience. As professionals, we are defined by our strength of character, life-long commitment to core values, COL Jeff Copeland and maintaining our professional abilities through continuous improvement. Chief of Staff, NCARNG While every Guardsman is responsible for their individual professionalism, I challenge each of you to contribute to the organizational effort ensuring a strong and united voice of the National Guard is heard by our civic leaders and elected NC National Guard officials. We can all do this by exercising our right to vote on Tuesday, November 8th. Another way is by joining and participating in professional organizations. Our Contact Information state voice for the NC Army and Air National Guard is the North Carolina National Email: Guard Association (NCNGA). Our National voice and professional organization ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao@mail.mil for enlisted Guardsmen is the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the NC Adjutant General – United States (EANGUS) and for officers the National Guard Association of the MG Greg Lusk Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk: United States (NGAUS). I encourage you to consider joining these professional http://www.facebook.com/NCAdjutant- organizations and ensuring our collective voice is heard at the state and national General levels. For those of you who are already members of these great organizations, http://twitter.com/NCTAG thank you for your commitment and support of our Soldiers and Airmen. All of our members should be proud of their service to the state and Nation. NC Assistant Adjutant General Air – Brig. Gen. Roger E. Williams: Winston Churchill proclaimed: “The Reservist is twice the Citizen.” I would http://facebook.com/NCAirAAG submit that the National Guardsman is three times the Citizen with our additional http://twitter.com/NCAirAAG role in support of the citizens of our great state, providing protection of life, limb, and property when called upon by our Governor in support of domestic operations. NC Command Chief Warrant Officer Maintaining our military professionalism will require an individual and CW5 James B. “Jim” Herring: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ organizational effort to ensure we remain Ready, Reliable, Responsive and NC-Command-Chief-Warrant- OffiRelevant at home and abroad; the Citizens of North Carolina and the American cer/261726843901458 people deserve nothing less. Command Senior Enlisted Leader CSM John Swart: http://www.facebook.com/NCCSM http://twitter.com/NCSCSM
Always Ready – Ready Team!
NC Command Chief Master Sergeant Chief Master Sgt. Maurice Williams: https://www.facebook.com/ NCCmdChief
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Tarheel Guardsman
TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association OCT/NOV 2016
Contents: NCNGA:
Volume 50
Number 5 •
A Word From Our Executive Director Educational Foundation Financial Statement In Memorium Save the Date for Convention
4 14 15 Back Cover
NC National Guard:
Recognize “Old Hickory” 113th & 449th Change of Command Ceremonies NC Guard Trains with Rural Hall Retiree Homecoming Registration Form “Fire Shield 2016”
Officers
Executive Council 30th HBCT James McKee Brad Colburn
President John Ebbighausen Vice President Shane Evans Past President Bobby Lumsden Secretary-Treasurer Craig Lloyd Judge Advocate
5 7 8 9 13
130th MEB James Andrews David Lewczyk 60 Troop Command Linda Horton Bryan Finch th
449th TAB Mark Pickett Thomas Underwood
Chaplain John Mozzingo
113th Sustainment BDE Kevin Boyles Bernie Williford
STAFF Executive Director Craig Lloyd Associate Director Cindy Basler Associate Insurance Administrator Rhonda Mooring Associate Financial/ Membership Administrator Katie Westbrooks NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator Ken Tyndall
JFHQ-NC Jeremy Davis Jack Midyette
Katie Westbrooks, Editor Tarheel Guardsman
139th Regiment (CA) Rebecca Lynn Godwin David Eaton Air Guard Ronnie Watkins Allan Cecil Junior Council Bryan Cannon Timothy Stanhope Associate Class Ralph Poe John Eudy www.ncnga.org
•
• • • •
DID YOU KNOW?
You can convert your Group Term Policy to Whole Life policy at any time without proving insurability (Whole life rates are based on agethe younger you convert your insurance, the less expensive it is). You may apply for coverage of $7,500 for children (regardless of number), under the age of 18 for only $6.50 if purchased with parent’s Whole Life coverage. Remains in force until age 25, and can then be converted up to 5x the benefit amount to their own Whole Life policy. Whole Life coverage of $2,500 – $100,000 is available (rates based on age) May be purchased between the ages of 18 – 65 Premiums and coverage are level for the duration of the policy and accrues a cash value over time.
Please contact Rhonda Mooring for more information 919-851-3390 ext. 0
Address changes or questions? Call us at 919-851-3390 Our email address is info@ncnga.org Our web site is www.ncnga.org
Deadline for submitting articles to the Tarheel Guardsman: DEC ‘16/JAN ‘17 issue: 1 NOV 2016 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 2016 — Page 3
A Word from our Executive Director... Craig Lloyd
Raising the bar, is the best way to describe this past month for our Association. During our recent attendance to the National EANGUS and NGAUS annual conventions our Association and members received numerous awards and recognitions. Accolades include this publication winning top honors nationwide, to our 100% NGAUS membership and Linda Hotron receiving the Rising Eagle and Christopher Blair receiving theTheodore Roosevelt Awards (both are pictured below). While our efforts as an Association and as individual members receives National exposure it also raises our credibility and leverage as a mover and leader amongst our peers and in the eyes of our lawmakers. As you can see in the pictures to the right, Presidential candidate Donald Trump stopped by and spoke at the NGAUS convention as well. This is another example of how collaboration and a strong message gains respect on a local and National level for Associations like ours. We now shift gears and continue our momentum into the coming month by hosting a reception for our NC members of Congress and Senate in DC. This effort will be followed by our participation at the NC State Fair which has become one of our most successful outreach missions. We not only use it as a way to interact with our current members but also use it to recruit new members. We share the benefits of membership and the many accomplishments we’ve achieved on your behalf. We hope you will consider stopping by. If you’re willing, we would also love to have you volunteer during the week at our booth. The fair will run between October 13th and 23rd. You can call our office or email info@ncnga.org if you’re willing to help. Again we appreciate your dedication and support of our Association…
Pictured above is the 1st Place Publication Award for the “Tarheel Guardsman” from EANGUS.
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Pictured above is Donald Trump speaking at the NGAUS Conference
Pictured to the right is the 100% Membership Award from NGAUS
Pictured below is from the NGAUS Conference
Pictured below are pictures from EANGUS
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Tarheel Guardsman
70 year old effort to recognize the 30th Infantry Division Story By: Melissa Culbreth
A grassroots effort is underway to reenergize a 70 year old effort to recognize the 30th Infantry Division for their service in WWII. The 30th was an all National Guard force with soldiers from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. The 30th Infantry Division, nicknamed “Old Hickory”, was deemed by historians as the most outstanding infantry division in the European Theater of Operations and according to Col. SLA Marshall, Gen. Eisenhower’s chief historian in the European Theater of Operations. Due to a paperwork logjam, retirement of those in command and the Army’s focus on the Korean War, the 30th was never recognized with the Presidential Unit Citation as recommend at the end of WWII. Now, a group of 30th Brigade Combat Team Iraq veterans are pushing for recognition of Old Hickory as the numbers of veterans from this storied unit dwindle with the passing of time. A presidential petition will be launched at the White House petition website from 17 September to 16 October 2016. All who would like to honor these brave men for their sacrifices are being asked to sign the petition. Once the petition is published, the URL will be listed on the 30th Infantry Division Assoication’s website at http://30thinfantrydivision.weebly.com/. While the 30th was vital in several actions, the Presidential Unit Citation is being sought for the 30th's breach and penetration of the Siegfried Line, located east of Maastricht, Netherlands, that provided a clear avenue of march for Allied forces into Germany. The timeframe of the petition marks the 71st anniversary of this action. On 16 October, the 30th linked up with the 1st Infantry Division after
cutting a swath 6 miles long and 4 ½ miles deep through the heart of German defenses along the Siegfried Line. MG Leland S. Hobbs, Commander of the 30th, reported back to XIX Corps that the 30th had “a hole in this thing big enough to drive 2 divisions through”. The 30th captured more than 6,200 prisoners, destroyed at least 191 pillbox positions, destroyed numerous German tanks and set the conditions for the capture of the town of Aachen, the first German city to fall to the Allies as they pushed west across Europe in 1944. While reports vary, during this battle at least 201 Old Hickory soldiers were killed and 2,000 were wounded. Allied commanders called the 30th “the Workhorse of the Western Front”, while their German opponents referred to the 30th as “Roosevelt’s SS”. Please help us inform our American leadership, and all those who desire to recognize the heroes of the 30th Infantry Division with the Presidential Unit Citation within their lifetimes. The White House petition website requires 100,000 signatures in 30 days to get the petition pushed forward to the President. While this may seem like a steep task, our WWII Old Hickory brothers did not give up and accomplished more than anyone thought they could. This new generation of National Guard veterans will ensure that these heroes are never forgotten. Please help bring a long awaited recognition to all the men of the 30th living and dead, and recognize the role Old Hickory played in the liberation of Europe in WWII. Learn more by visiting: http://30thinfantrydivision.weebly.com/ https://www.facebook.com/30thIDA/ http://www.heroesofoldhickory.com/
NCNG Celebrates Air Force Birthday
Airmen, Soldiers and Civilian employees came together at the North Carolina National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina on Sept. 19, 2016 to celebrate the Air Force’s 69th Birthday. Tarheel Guardsman
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OCT/NOV 2016 — Page 5
What do Chaplains Do? NC National Guard’s 2016 By: John Mozingo, NCNGA Chaplain I was speaking to a North Carolina Army National Guardsman the other day who asked me the question, “what do chaplains exactly do?”. Therefore, I thought it would be fitting to give a basic explanation for all to read. To begin, it must be understood that in addition to being a religious leader, the chaplain is part of the personal staff of the commander at all levels (battalion and above). By law or regulation, personal staff officers (as opposed to special staff officers) have a unique relationship with the commander. The chaplain works under the immediate control of the commander having direct access to the commander, and no other officer exercises coordinating staff responsibility over the chaplain. This is done based on the nature of the duties of the office of chaplain, as is also the case with the CSM, SJA and surgeon. However, the chaplain does participate as a special staff officer when they coordinate with other staff officers and in these instances will work through COS/XO for coordination and control purposes. This is done on a case by case basis depending on the commander’s guidance or the nature of the task. The commander provides opportunities for the free exercise of religion through the UMT (Unit Ministry Team). The chaplain is the responsible leader of the UMT which is comprised of the chaplain and the RAS (Religious Affairs Specialist). The UMT performs or provides 11 religious support activities for the command. These are Religious services; Rites, sacraments, and ordinances; Pastoral care and counseling; Religious education, Family life ministry; Institutional ministry; Professional support to the command; Management and administration; Humanitarian support; Religious support training; and Religious support planning and operations. The Army requires that the religious leader have the capability to perform or provide religious support across the spectrum of operations within the organization. This should accommodate the Soldier’s and chaplain’s right to free exercise of religion, and support the resiliency labors to endure Soldiers in the area of Inactive Duty, Active Duty, or State Active Duty. Since each Soldier or authorized civilian has their own definition of what constitutes religious support, then religious support is comprehensive in nature. It must be noted that every Soldier’s religious need cannot be met in combat or during operations however, the UMT will seek to meet as many needs as possible. Therefore these 11 religious support activities make up the workload of the chaplain and the RAS, and it is with these 11 activities that the UMT is employed and will bring support to the command. Your command chaplain and RAS are here to support you as you support the North Carolina National Guard “Always Ready, Ready Team.”
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Leadership Conference Story by Lt. Col. Matthew Devivo
Officers and non-commissioned officers of the North Carolina National Guard conducted a leadership conference. More than 300 Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen were in attendance including 19 general officers, Guard retirees and four state representatives. The North Carolina National Guard’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, provided the theme for the weekend, “Innovative Leadership.” He challenged attendees to, “Take hold of your positions and be active, accessible, innovative leaders for those around you.” “No One can match the US logistics,” said Air Mobility Commander, Air Force Gen. Carlton Everhart II. "We have to work on improving the speed in which we get things done and this will be accomplished through innovative tactical and technical procedures.” Army Gen. Robert Abrams, FORSCOM commander, recognized NCNG's four-man tank crew of the 1st-252nd Armor Regiment for winning the Sullivan Cup tank gunnery competition in May. He identified the importance of breaking down some of today’s misconceptions about the current state of the US Army. “We can't believe the US Army can meet all its commitments with just the regular active component,” said Abrams. “Every component’s readiness is critical.” North Carolina’s Secretary of Public Safety, Frank Perry, explained the differences in a leader who takes action versus a person who is simply active, then turned the floor over to the governor of North Carolina, Pat McCrory. McCrory thanked all in attendance for their dedication and spoke of his uncle’s post- Vietnam life and how it has inspired him to work harder for the men and women in uniform. On day two, the NCNG Association President, John Ebbighausen, illuminated the importance of the NG Association and the role leaders play in its success. The Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Air Force Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel, spoke on the importance of “not promising and then under delivering as a leader.” Lengyel went into detail on the Guard's three missions; Warfight, Homeland and Partnerships and how innovative leadership is key in sustaining our force and supporting the active components. The remainder of the day, attendees participated in educational breakout sessions.
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113th SUS BDE Change of Command
By: SFC Robert Jordan, NCNG PAO
449th TAB Celebrates Change of Command Story by Sgt. Lisa Vines
MORRISVILLE, NC – GREENSBORO, North Carolina - Minutemen again anThe North Carolina Army swered the call to the colors at Guilford Courthouse to welcome the new commander of the North Carolina National National Guard hosted Guard's 113th Sustainment Brigade at a ceremony at the Guil- a change of commandth ford Courthouse National Military Park in Greensboro, North ceremony for the 449 Theater Aviation Brigade Carolina. at the Army Aviation Army Col. Robert S. Wright assumed command from Support Facility 1 in MorArmy Col. Bernard E.Williford, Jr. during weekend drill with risville, NC. senior NCNG leaders, friends, family and nearly 100 Soldiers Col. Jeffrey L. Copeland, who is moving on to Joint Force representing the brigade headquarters and the 630th Combat Headquarters as the Army Chief of Staff, handed over command to Support Services Battalion and 113th Special Troops BattalLt. Col. Joseph W. Bishop, previously commander of 1-130th Attack ion. Reconnaissance Battalion. Brig. Gen. James C. Ernst, the assistant adjutant general for "We will be prepared for our nation's call no matter the maneuver, was in attendance to provide words of encouragement for challenge or danger," said Wright at the ceremony. the outgoing and incoming commanders. “We have never had a more Wright and Williford were joined by Army Brig. Gen. trained, ready and responsive force. Hundreds of our 449th GuardsKenneth A. Beard, NCNG assistant adjutant general - sustainmen are combat veterans with valuable knowledge, leadership skills ment, and the 113th's most senior enlisted leader, Command and technical expertise,” said Ernst. Sgt. Maj. Joseph S. Vickers, for the formal change of com Throughout its existence, the 449th has responded to numerous mand. natural disasters, both within North Carolina and throughout the The Soldiers were called to attention. The leaders United States. Proving instrumental in providing aviation command, marched to the center of the formation. Vickers gave the unit's the 449th has been noteworthy during Hurricanes Fran, Floyd and Kaguidon, a small military flag flying from a staff representing trina. the history and authority of the 113th, to Williford. Williford “I conclude my aviation career today with great respect for the returned it to Beard that ceremonially relinquished command. NC Aviation Team and proud to have been part of that team. I will Beard then placed it in the hands of Wright as the new brigade miss the flying, I loved to fly and my time in command, but time leader. Wright then passed the guidon to Vickers symbolizing flies when you are having fun,” said Copeland. “Lt. Col. Bishop is an experienced, capable aviator and compassionate leader with common the trust command has in the enlisted leader to carry out the commander's policies, guidance, train the Soldiers and set the sense. I am confident that as the incoming brigade commander he will continue to know what is happening, know what is not happenstandard for all the unit's enlisted Soldiers. ing, and know what to do about it.” "It is a special day, it is your (Wright's) job to take the Once taking the podium, Bishop recognized Maj. Gen Beth AusBrigade to the next level," said Beard to the assembled Soltin, Brig. Gen. James Ernst and distinguished guests for attending. He diers. then thanked all those in attendance, paying particular attention his Beard praised the outgoing commander for his service family, wife and children, and read a quote by Winston Churchill. to the guard, "you set high standards and installed a warrior “‘The reservist is twice the citizen’,” said Bishop. “We as citizen sprit." soldiers do not do it alone. It takes a big support system to do what The brigade provided support for NCNG deployments we do, from our families and friends and employers.” for Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. It was Bishop, who has served 18 years in the United State Army and formed in 1974 as a field artillery brigade and reorganized Army National Guard, has served in multiple leadership positions at the battalion and brigade level and has deployed twice to Iraq in as a sustainment brigade in 2008. The Soldiers are logistical, support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a Senior Army Aviator, he is transport, finance and signal experts training across the state qualified in the OH-58, AH-64A and AH-64D helicopters. at multiple armories. 449th Theater Aviation Brigade last deployed in April 2009 to Wright assumed Iraq as the Multi-National Corps Combat Aviation Brigade, with command from responsibility for all fixed and rotary-wing aviation support of senior Army Col. Berleadership, medical evacuation and air movement. nard E. Williford, The 449th TAB was formed in 1986. The 449th is a dynamic Jr. during drill. (US Army Nation- organization with the capabilities to aid state and federal emergency response with air-lift support, aerial reconnaissance, search al Guard Photo by Sgt. 1st Class and rescue and mountain and water aerial rescue (NCHART), as Robert Jordan/ well as counter-drug support to law enforcement agencies. It is the Released) home to Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 2-151 Aviation (Security and Support); Charlie Company, 1-131st Aviation; 2-130th Aviation Operations Battalion and the 1-130th Apache helicopter Attack Reconnaissance Battalion.
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OCT/NOV 2016 — Page 7
NC Guard Trains with Rural Hall, Forsyth County First Responders Story by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan A small town nightmare; local first responders investigated a hostage situation at the Rural Hall train depot and find a mysterious chemical lab. Local fire, rescue, emergency management and local SWAT team leaders decided the threat is greater than their resources and the incident commander called out the North Carolina National Guard (NCNG), this is, fortunately, a drill. “We want to work with civilian first responders before the emergency so they know what we can do, and we can know what they can do,” said Army Capt. Barry Stern, an analytical scientist with the 42nd Civil Support Team. The exercise, Foothills Iron Horse, tested the readiness of the NCNG to deploy its 42nd Civil Support Team, headquartered in Greenville, to a joint response incident led by local first responders. The 42nd has the capability to respond to natural and man-made chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. “Interoperability is the big thing so we can work together,” said Melton J. Sadler, director, Forsyth County Emergency Management Department. The exercise began as an emergency management response to a hostage crisis and hazardous chemical spill. Deputy Sheriffs, fire and rescue personnel swept the downtown rail yard in the center of the town of 3,000. The SWAT team rescued a hostage but when they secured surrounding buildings, they discovered a chemical lab in an abandoned warehouse. Local leaders evaluated the reports from the field and checked with local hazardous material technicians. They decided that they needed more help and the 42nd CST was notified.
More than 100 miles away at the team’s armory in Greenville, NCNG Soldiers, each with military and scientific CBRN expertise, deploy. They are activated by the request and under the authority of local officials when the civilian incident commander on the ground determines a possible CBRN hazard. A convoy of vehicles with advanced laboratory and communications equipment, containment suits and other specialty gear is organized and in minutes, they are in route to Rural Hall. Soon the convoy stages near the Rural Hall fire department. Maps are checked, photos reviewed and a plan made. A joint team of local firefighters and 42nd Soldiers will survey the site and determine what the threat to lives and property is and best response. The team drives to the site. Several fire, rescue and sheriff patrol vehicles with lights flashing block the roads along the track. Soldiers breakout the equipment needed, air tanks, breathing apparatus, sensors, sample bags, radios, hazardous material (hazmat) suits and other gear to safely enter the suspected CBRN site. After a last check of the hazmat seals and air tanks, the team enters the site. The pace was slow and methodical. The members check the entrance with portable sensors for any CBRN threat. They make their way through the main room choked with dirty furniture and dusty storage boxes. Their goal was locating a small chemistry lab of a more recent tenant tucked in a corner of the warehouse. Beakers, chemical containers, a thermometer and a tray of white crystals line a small, improvised table. The team moves carefully testing each component. The team swiped sterile swabs on surfaces checking for unique CBRN evidence. Other team members checked radiation and poison gas sensors. They kept in constant radio contact reporting what they discover. After completing the examination of the lab, the team returned the fire station to share what they learned with the other exercise personnel. “Working on the same problem shows how we can integrate,” said Sadler. With their capabilities, the 42nd Civil Support Team become a valuable and unique disaster response asset for the state and nation.
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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Always Ready! Ready Team!
Come celebrate our Retiree Day and the National Guard’s 380th Birthday! FOR: Army and Air National Guard Retirees DATE: Friday, December 16, 2016 EVENT REGISTRATION: 0900-1000 HRS LOCATION: Joint Force Headquarters, 1636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607 INCLUDES: Mission updates, benefits seminar, various information stations, luncheon, social time, and a celebration of the National Guard’s 380th Birthday. REGISTRATION: Send the form below and a check for $15.00 per person payable to “NCNGA” on or before 1 December 2016 to: NCNGA ATTN: Tarheel Homecoming 7410 Chapel Hill Rd Raleigh, NC 27607 Registration Form also available on the NCNG Public Website at: http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil And on the NCNGA website at: http://www.ncnga.org 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 47677 or via email: ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao-rsvp@mail.mil Registration Questions: Contact NCNGA at 919-851-3390 or info@ncnga.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2016 NCNG TARHEEL HOMECOMING and the National Guard’s 380th Birthday Celebration Registration Form Guest Name (s): Please provide the following Mailing address: E-mail Address: Home or Cell Phone: Tarheel Guardsman
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OCT/NOV 2016 — Page 9
SFC Brian F. Douglas was selected as Honor Graduate Story By: CH (COL) Ben Hodge
SFC Brian F. Douglas (left) was selected as Honor Graduate at Ft. Knox, KY on 26 August 2016. He is the Religious Affairs Deputy NCO for NC ARNG. SFC Douglas earned the distinction while completing the Senior Leaders Course, 56M40. He was promoted to SFC on 1 September 2016. While enrolled in SLC, SFC Douglas earned the Army Physical Fitness Excellence Badge. He also excelled in Leadership, Oral Presentation, and Written Exams, earning an overall academic average above 90%. MSG William Kaemmer (right), Master Religious Affairs NCO for the Army National Guard, was on hand at the graduation ceremony to congratulate SFC Douglas on the achievement.
Top 5% Rating earned by Ministry Teams Story By: CH (COL) Ben Hodge NC ARNG Unit Ministry Teams scored 95% on their recent audit by National Guard Bureau. The score puts the Ministry Team program among the top five states in the US. Chaplain (Brigadier General) David E. Graetz (2nd from Left) conducted the audit. He is Director, NGB Office of Chaplains, and Assistant Chief of Chaplains, ARNG. CH Graetz stated that he was very pleased with the program. He urged the Teams to build upon their strengths. During his audit, he visited Soldiers and Families of the 449th TAB during their Strong Bonds training. CH Graetz added that it was the largest, and one of the best, Strong Bonds events he had witnessed. Participants in the audit included (L to R) CH (LTC) Jonathan Heitman, Deputy State Chaplain; CH (BG) Graetz; CH (COL) Ben Hodge, State Chaplain; and MSG Terry Thompson, Master Religious Affairs NCO. Areas included in the audit were Readiness, Training, Personnel, and Religious Support. The 21 Unit Ministry Teams of the NC ARNG provide 24/7 Religious Support for our Soldiers and Families while deployed and state-side.
COME OUT AND JOIN US FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR AT THE STATE FAIR! 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 2016
NCNGA Active Insured Members – Have YOU Checked Your Coverage and Beneficiary Lately? Have you had a recent life change? Do you have all the coverage you need? Do you know who you have designated as your beneficiary? Contact us at 919-851-3390 ext 0 and Rhonda Mooring will be glad to assist you.
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Tarheel Guardsman
30TH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION “OLD HICKORY” Story by Lt. Col. Matthew Devivo
RALEIGH, NC – World War II veterans of the 30th Infantry Division, nicknamed “Old Hickory” from WWI, and current soldiers of its lineage unit, the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team of the North Carolina Army National Guard, are having their annual reunion. The WWII veterans, well into their 80’s and 90’s, have been passing the torch of military experience, knowledge and comradery to the junior members of “Old Hickory” for decades. In attendance at this year’s reunion are veterans of WWII and 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team’s 2004 and 2009 deployments to Iraq. “Today there are roughly 500 veterans still alive who were members of one of World War II’s greatest infantry divisions, the 30th Infantry Division,” said Charles Morrison, 30th Infantry Division Association president. “With the exception of some senior officers and non-commissioned officers, the 30th was an all National Guard force with soldiers from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.” The 30th Infantry Division landed at Omaha Beach on June 10, 1944 and entered combat five days later. The division took part in every major campaign in the European Theater of Operation’s western front: Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes – Alsace and Central Europe. The 30th spent 282 days in almost constant combat. The division suffered 3,435 killed in action and 12,960 wounded. Six Medal of Honors were awarded to Old Hickory soldiers, 65 Distinguished Service Crosses, 1,718 Silver Stars, 6,319 Bronze Stars and 20,000 Purple Hearts. Notably, the 30th Infantry Division twice decisively engaged and defeated the German Army’s elite tank divisions of the 1st and 2nd SS Panzer at Mortain, France, and the 1st SS Panzer Division, specifically Kampfgruppe Piper Battlegroup's spearhead for the 6th SS Panzer Army, at the Battle of the Bulge. The 30th was a key element in the spearhead to break through the Siegfried Line. There were 60 divisions that fought in Europe during WWII. After months of research following the end of WWII in Europe, the Army review board picked eight divisions, deeming them worthy of unit citations. The 30th Infantry Division was on that very short list of eight divisions recommended for citations.
Colonel S.L.A. Marshall, Gen. Eisenhower’s chief historian in the European Theater of Operations deemed “Old Hickory” the outstanding infantry division in the WWII European Theater of Operation. However, due to a paperwork logjam and the subsequent retirement of those in command, the 30th never received the Presidential Unit Citation (PUC). Many subordinate units of the 30th earned the PUC, but none for the division level. Today, the 30th Infantry Division Association, the North Carolina National Guard Association, former 30th veterans from WWII and others have reinvigorated efforts to request the Army re-examine award submission documents requesting the 30th Infantry Division receive the PUC for its exemplary performance and extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action against the enemy in Europe. “While the 30th was vital in several actions, we are seeking the PUC for the 30th's breach and penetration of the Siegfried Line that provided a clear avenue of march for Allied forces into Germany,” said Morrison. “The 30th captured more than 6200 prisoners, destroyed at least 191 pillbox positions, destroyed numerous German tanks and set the conditions for the capture of the town of Aachen.” Like all WWII era units, the 30th Infantry Division's ranks are growing smaller and smaller. What a fitting and overdue honor it would be if the surviving members of one of America’s greatest WWII divisions get the recognition they deserve before there are no more “Old Hickory” veterans left. To learn more about the Presidential Unit Citation for “Old Hickory” WWII heroes and to support the White House petition for a PUC, visit the 30th Infantry Division Association webpage at www.30thinfantry.wordpress.com.
Happy Thanksgiving! Tarheel Guardsman
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OCT/NOV 2016 — Page 11
CPT Ben Bagwell donates to the NC National Guard Museum By: SGT Gary C. Spencer, Museum Curator/Historian Earlier this summer, North Carolina National Guard Museum received two large boxes of absolutely amazing and historically significant artifacts going back to the 30th Brigade’s deployment to Bosnia in 1999 through to the Operation Iraqi Freedom deployment in 20042005. CPT Ben Bagwell, of 1st Battalion, 252nd Armor Regiment, has had an incredible and long career in the North Carolina National Guard. Prior to commissioning, he served many years as an enlistedman. During his time as an NCO, he rose through the ranks to sergeant first class, platoon sergeant of 2nd Platoon, Company B, “Bandits,” 1-252 AR, and successfully leading his tankers through their first deployment to Iraq. Included in the two boxes are items from his service with the peace keeping mission to Bosnia. One of the maps he donated is from that time, and still has all his notes about routes, minefields, observation posts, etc. He made friends with some Danes serving with in Bosnia, and made some trades in which he obtained a set of their camouflage uniform, beret and a small Danish flag. These items were also donated. In 2003, he and his unit went to the National Training Center (NTC) at FT Irwin. The Danish flag he had gotten in Bosnia was flown on his tank during the unit’s training at NTC. Two of the most unique items may seem rather common to some, but to us at the museum, these are incredibly important. The theater-embroidered boonie hat Bagwell had sewn at a shop at Camp Buehring, Kuwait (originally called Udairi) while platoon sergeant of 2nd Platoon, Company B, 1-252 AR, 30th Brigade, during the 2004/5 deployment of OIF III, is one of these. The platoon's mascot was a spin-off of Shoney's "Big Boy," carrying a 120mm APFSDS "sabot" tank round. SFC Bagwell nicknamed the platoon the "Big Boys," because when the grunts needed help, they called in the Big Boys -Tanks! Even though, they had some
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really big boys in the platoon, and their tanks remained in Kuwait, they kept the nickname. One of the other cool items are a few glow in the dark stickers of the “Big Boy.” The intent was to put one outside the door as an indicator that a room had already been cleared, or place one outside the window of a room as an indicator to the inner cordon that it was clear. When they left theater, these stickers were everywhere! In addition to all of these things, Bagwell included his personal lime green, army-issue leader books from the Iraq tour. In these books, he meticulously wrote notes on everything, from OPORDS, and radio frequencies, to details about patrols. These are invaluable as a resource to historians, not to mention anyone else that served there with him. Also included was a photograph of his platoon in Iraq. One of the soldiers in the photo, SSG Danny Thomas, was recently the tank commander of the Museum curator. There are many other fantastic and fascinating items in those two boxes –too many to cover in this short article. The big take away from this for our Guardsman and THG readers is that the things you use in your everyday military service, be it during a drill weekend, State Active Duty, or deployment, are artifacts. The little things that no one thinks much of, like a notebook, or a patch, or even a uniform worn during something that was significant to you, tells a story. You may think these stories would not be appreciated by anyone but yourself, but as you can tell from reading this, everything is important, no matter how recently it was used, or how common or insignificant it may seem. Don’t let these items from your service wind up in the attic to be eaten away by silverfish, or get tossed into the garbage. Contact the North Carolina National Guard Museum today, and tell them you have something you would like to donate.
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“Fire Shield 2016” Training Exercise Builds On US, Moldovan Partnership Story by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan BULBOACA TRAINING AREA, MOLDOVA – North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) Soldiers joined hundreds of Moldovan Armed Forces peers as Exercise Fire Shield continues in the Bulboaca Training Area in Moldova, Sept. 15, 2016. Over several days the Soldiers of the NCNG’s 1st Battalion, 113th Field Artillery Regiment (FAR) and 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment (INF) learned more about Moldovan Artillery tactics and techniques “We get a different perspective,” said Spc. Brian Huntley, a forward observer with the 113th FAR. The long days began to the songs of Moldovan soldiers marching past the NCNG barracks as the sun rises. Nearby there was the clatter of howitzer breeches slamming shut, the straining of Moldovan setting and resetting two wheeled, several ton howitzers by hand as the Moldovan Soldiers prepared for live fire drills. Several NCNG Soldiers joined the Moldovan artillerymen to ask about weapons ranges, capabilities, training, and procedures. Moldovan experts showed the tools of their trade: compass, protractor, gunner’s quadrant, and other precision instruments used to aim the massive guns. “The equipment is different but the fundamentals for calling artillery fire is so close it is hard to tell the difference other than language,” said Army Master Sgt. Hugh Wilson, the Operations Noncomissioned Officer for the 113th FAR. Moldovan leaders invited NCNG Soldiers to an observation post overlooking the ranges across the rolling hills on post. They scoured maps, assigned targets, and established safe areas for the upcoming live fire mission. Interpreters clarified statements as years of Tarheel Guardsman
hard earned experience of professionals were shared. “They work with limited resources, retain knowledge and put accurate fire on target,” said Wilson. The exchange gave some of the NCNG Soldiers a rare opportunity to try something very different from equipment they were accustomed to. The sound of caterpillar tracks scraping along the dusty gravel announced the arrival of a Moldovan 2S9, self-propelled howitzer. The Moldovan crew invited their new friends to climb aboard the nearly 20-foot long, 8-ton armored vehicle. It was not the only demonstration for the Moldovan’s guests. Dozens of NCNG Soldiers were treated to a weapons demonstration of a 152 mm towed howitzer gun crew. On command the young men swarmed around the 6-ton gun camouflaged in the late summer scrub on a hill overlooking one of the many valleys of the range. As a team they rapidly emplaced the weapon. With the target verified, the crew prepared the ammunition and loaded the heavy round. The howitzer section chief then verified the target sighting and approved the weapon for firing. After the gunners depart, a soldier pulls the lanyard firing more than 2-foot long shell down range. “It is cool to see how they operate and run their drills,” said Staff Sgt. Anthony Anderson, a radar section chief with Headquarters, 113th FAR. Exercise Fire Shield 2016 is part of the United States ongoing commitment to developing relationships and capabilities throughout the region.
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OCT/NOV 2016 — Page 13
Corrections for the NCNGA Educational Foundation Scholarship Recepients NCNG SAAF Scholarship- $1,000 Briana L. Calloway of Mount Pleasant – UNC-Charlotte Daughter of Mr. Brian T. Calloway –CO C 1/131 AVN Lucille Webster Stalls Memorial Teachers Scholarship - $1,000 Hannah M. Dull of Statesville – Appalachian State University Daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Reggie Hooker—JFHQ – HHD
Aron T. Litwiler, winner of the 2016-2017 Hardison Memorial Scholarship. He is presented the scholarship by Sue Hardison, daughter of the late Elmer C. Hardison who the scholarship is named for. Aron is a graduate of West Johnston High School and is joined by his mother, Marian Litwiler, and father, Brian Litwiler who serves with the NCNG. Aron will be attending ECU to study Nursing.
NC National Guard Education Foundation Statement of Donations & Expenses Twelve Months Ending June 30, 2016 Funds Raised Fundraising Events Donations - General Donations - Special Memorial Donations - Endowment Traveling Trophy Donation Investment Income Total Investment & Public Support Expenses Fundraising Expenses Scholarships Paid Walk of Honor* Administrative Support Investment Fees* Other Operating Costs Total Expenses Net Increase to Funds
$ 28,979.50 11,853.42 13,288.44 1,482.00 3,610.00 5,949.83 65,163.19
12,888.00 32,600.00 5,866.65 5,250.00 1,500.00 1,546.52 59,651.17 $ 5,512.02
*Relocation of the Walk of Honor and Investment Fees are non-recurring items
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SAAF “Fairway to Honor” Bentwinds Golf & Country Club September 2016 Our Sponsors
“Thank You For Caring”
EDM Group
Proud supporters of the North Carolina National Guard members and their families!
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. Javes Stancil Rocky Mount, NC February 13, 2016 James V. Gallimore Thomasville, NC February 24, 2016 Darren Duncan Son of Dennis Duncan Gastonia, NC March 7, 2016 Ronald L Johnson Little River, SC March 18, 2016 Roger V. McIntyre Star, NC April 14, 2016 Tarheel Guardsman
James J. Tillman Jr Gastonia, NC June 6, 2016
Wesley H. Martin Hickory, NC July 28, 2016
Curtis W Gautier Benson, NC July 2, 2016
Edward H. Middleton Fayetteville, NC July 28, 2016
Annie S. Espey Spouse of Thomas Espey St. Pauls July 25, 2016
James C. Mattocks Myrtle Beach, SC August 14, 2016 Carrie E. Daniels Spouse of Allen C. Daniels, Jr. Castalia, NC August 15, 2016
Tabitha Lynn Vear Step-Daughter of Charles Hannell Bakersville, NC July 27, 2016
Terry K. ReavisFreeman Spouse of Harlon Freeman, Jr. Mocksville, NC August 1, 2016
Donald W. Franklin Horseshoe, NC August 17, 2016
Kenneth R. Runyon Clayton, NC August 10, 2016
Lester E. Turner Farmville, NC August 19, 2016
Winston C Murphy Pink Hill, NC July 27, 2016
Michael F. Keener Vale, NC August 13, 2016
Hubert A. Gregory, Jr. Newton Grove, NC August 20, 2016
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Jessie R. Eubanks Pollocksville, NC August 23, 2016 Jack T. Potter Cary, NC August 25, 2016 Jose F. Solano Garita Gastonia, NC September 7, 2016 Robert Hanson Rocky Mount, NC September 12, 2016 Jerry A Benson Benson, NC September 19, 2016
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Tarheel Guardsman NC National Guard Assoc. 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
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SAVE THE DATE! NORTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION 56th ANNUAL CONVENTION 18-19 March, 2017 Sea Trail Resort, Sunset Beach
Please Take A Moment to Let Us Know What YOU Would Like From YOUR Association By Taking Our Convention and Benefits Survey. Please type in the link below to your web browser to complete the survey.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Convention-Benefits