TAG philosophy 5 American Heroes Celebration 10 Senior leadership conference 14
A group of WWII reenactors brought history to the crowds at American Heroes Celebration with a recreation of a battle fought by the 36th Infantry Division in Southern France.
The Adjutant General of Texas Military Forces, Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, visited the 36th Inf. Div. in Iraq April 14th and 15th.
A National Guard Soldier with the 162nd Area Medical Support Company based out of Camp Bullis, Texas, received an outstanding civilian award from a privately contracted fire and emergency services company on Contingency Operating Base Basra.
Skating has been a lifelong passion for the 36th Infantry Division future operations noncommissioned officer, who is currently deployed to southern Iraq. He got his first board for his ninth birthday; even though he said he had originally asked for a bicycle instead. . 2 THE DISPATCH
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Cover—A member of the Texas Army National Guard Sport Parachute Demonstration Team hangs in the sky over Camp Mabry during a demonstration jump at the American Heroes Celebration. (Photo by Laura Lopez, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs).
Army MWR Great Getaway Sweepstakes
The Great Getaways Sweepstakes, sponsored by the Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command, runs through June 15 at the Great Getaways website at http://www.armymwr.com/travel/recreationcenters/. The grand prize includes a seven-night stay for as many as four people at one of five Armed Forces Recreation Centers, and $2,500 for travel expenses. Active duty U.S. Military personnel from all branches of Service, Reserve, National Guard, retirees, Family members and Department of Defense civilians 18 and older are eligible for the contest. Eligible patrons may enter online at the Great Getaways website. Limit is one entry per day, per person.
DFAS.mil Gets a Makeover
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service website, www.dfas.mil, now has a new look, new navigation and better content. The website has been redesigned to focus on the information needs of more than six million military members, federal civilian employees, military retirees and annuitants, and DoD vendors and contractors DFAS serves every day. The website features sections devoted to pay topics for the agency's diverse payroll customers. The navigation has been designed to get visitors to the most popular pages easier and faster. In addition, the site's navigation received extensive rework to make exploring the various sections easier and more intuitive.
Missing in America Project
The purpose of the Missing in America (MIA) Project Veteran Recovery Program is to locate, identify and inter the unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans through the joint efforts of private, state and federal organizations. Nationwide, this program visited 414 funeral homes, identified 286 American veterans and interred 149 in the 17 months since it was organized. The second phase of the MIA Project is the creation of a network of individuals working with local funeral homes, state, and national agencies to ensure that, from now on, the cremated remains of any unclaimed veteran will be identified, claimed and interred in a timely manner. For more information, visit the Missing in America Veteran Recovery Program website at http://www.miap.us/.
New DoD Sexual Assault Helpline
The Department of Defense (DoD) has launched its new DOD Safe Helpline. The resource is free, anonymous and confidential with live sexual assault support professionals available 24 hours a day, every day. The telephone Helpline is 877-995-5247. Users can also text their location to 55247 inside the United States or 202-470-5546 outside of the United States to receive automated contact information for the sexual assault response coordinator at their installation or base. Finally, the new Safe Helpline website at https://safehelpline.org/, offers numerous resources. For more information, including Safe Helpline materials, visit the DoD's Sexual Assault and Prevention Response website at http://www.sapr.mil/.
May 2011
Commander in Chief Gov. Rick Perry Adjutant General of Texas TXANG Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols Public Affairs Officer TXARNG Col. William Meehan Public Affairs Chief TXANG Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada Public Affairs Staff TXARNG Staff Sgt. Malcolm McClendon TXANG Staff Sgt. Eric Wilson TXARNG Sgt. Jennifer Atkinson TXARNG Spc. Maria Moy John Thibodeau Laura Lopez
Managing Editor TXANG Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada Design and Copy Editor TXARNG Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson Contributing Writers and Photographers Lt. Col. John E. Olson TXARNG Maj. Steven Keihl TXSG Maj. Michael Quinn Sullivan Officer Candidate Micah Barnes TXARNG Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson TXARNG Sgt. Josiah Pugh Sgt. Raymond Quintanilla Sgt. Jason Kaneshiro Beth Danziger
Proposed Combat Pay Increase
Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-CA) introduced legislation that would give servicemembers modest increases in their combat related special pays and the Family Separation Allowance. Specifically, the bill would raise the monthly hostile fire or imminent danger pay from $225 to $260; hazardous duty pay from $250 to $260; and the monthly family separation allowance from $250 to $285. According to information posted on his website, McNereny introduced a similar bill last year -- the Combat Act in 2010. Provisions from that bill subsequently passed the House with bipartisan support., however they didn’t make it through the Senate.
Vol. 6, No. 5
White House Military Family Initiative
The White House has announced Joining Forces, http://www.va.gov/opa/ militaryfamilies.asp, a community-based effort to help lessen the burden on our military and veteran families. The VA has identified several ways it can support the initiative through its Veteran and Military Families page. For more information, visit the VAntage Point Blog at http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/?p=2270.
Articles and photography are welcome and may be submitted to JFTX-PAO, P.O. Box 5218, Austin TX 78763-5218, or by e-mail to paotx@tx.ngb.army.mil. Deadline for submissions is the 10th day of the month for the issue of the following month. The Dispatch is a funded monthly newsletter published in the interest of the members of the Texas Military Forces. Contents of The Dispatch are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the Department of Defense, the National Guard Bureau, the State of Texas or the Adjutant General’s Department of Texas. Content is edited, prepared and provided by the Texas Joint Military Forces Public Affairs Office, Bldg. 10, 2200 W. 35th Street, Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas. 78703.
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From the TAG: forming the foundation 1. As the new Adjutant General for the Texas Military Forces (TXMF), I would like each of you to know it is an honor and privilege to serve with such a fine group of Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and families. 2. Purpose. The purpose of this document is to issue my primary policy letter forming the foundation from which all other Texas Military Forces (TXMF) policies and guidance flow. Additionally, it provides my vision for moving the TXMF to the next level and details my philosophy on leadership. In the absence of a specific policy in a particular area, leaders will find guidance in this policy letter to enable them to act within my intent regardless of the situation. 3. Priorities for Leaders:
Take care of Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and families. As leaders, our number one task is to act in the best interests of our troops and families. Put ―personnel‖ concerns above ―personal‖ concerns—always. Know our people; give high priority to actions that will help the organization serve people better; prove by your actions that our people are your top priority. Every Soldier and Airman should feel like the valued service member he or she is. I will not accept anything less. Neither should you.
Develop your people. Part of taking care of our Soldiers and Airmen is helping them grow professionally. Mentor them; delegate (but verify accomplishment); guide them in their appropriate career path.
Be open to new ideas; help leaders stay on course. I charge my staff: give me expert advice. No leaders are perfect. We need accurate counsel to stay on the right azimuth. Listen to one another; have the courage to speak up. Do it all professionally, with mutual respect.
Think long-term. I will think and plan 35 years out. While that period may be a stretch for some TXMF leaders, all of us need to think well beyond our current assignments in order to construct the best possible future for troops, families, the state and nation. Think about what you should be doing today to construct that future. Think of the impact of your actions in the long run. Help create the organization that you would be proud to have your children and your friends’ children join. At a minimum, when you are re-assigned, leave your areas of responsibility better off than you received them, and provide your replacement with a cogent plan for the road ahead.
Start with trust—expect the best. When we deploy in support of our state or nation, we cannot requisition a climate of trust—we must foster that today. Engender trust through operating with integrity, communicating with transparency, and staying true to our promises and responsibilities. Cultivate trust every day.
Don’t be afraid of failure—it means you are trying. If leaders are afraid to make mistakes, we won’t improve as an organization. Do the risk analysis; assess the variables; but be prepared to underwrite the mistakes of your people and take responsibility for them.
Be good stewards. As TAG, I secure relevant missions and equipment sets for the future. To do that well, I need your help. First of all, we need to take prudent care of the budget and equipment we have today. Secondly, the TXMF, judged by any standard, must be widely and consistently regarded as a model of outstanding stewardship. Our reputation as stewards must be the very best. Thirdly, our citizens and political leaders must become familiar with the great services our Soldiers and Airman render our state and nation. In short, we must clearly demonstrate that we merit the public trust.
Conduct business in a professional, ethical and legal manner. I will tolerate nothing less.
Be ready. Finally, it goes without saying that we need to be ready to go when called—fully trained, deployable and equipped to do the job. A key component to our readiness is the preparation of our families. Single parents need to have a proper family care plan and those with a spouse need to ensure that they are fully integrated into their unit’s family readiness support structure.
4. If we work together, we can achieve all this and more. I am confident that the proud tradition of excellence earned by the TXMF will continue into the future. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
John F. Nichols Major General, TXANG Adjutant General May 2011
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Volunteers Reenact World War II During American Heroes 2011 Story and photo by Sgt. Josiah Pugh 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP MABRY, Texas – Once a year, Austin hosts a Texas Military Forces celebration designed to increase interaction between the local community and service members called American Heroes. One of the more popular events taking place during the two-day event was a World War II reenactment performed by a group of local enthusiasts. “We see this as a time capsule for our visitors to walk into, so that as much as possible, we can surround them with the look and feel of what happened back in the 1940s,” said Director of the Texas Military Forces Museum, Jeff Hunt. Volunteers as young as 14 participated in the simulation, although most of the reenactors were older. Students, doctors, lawyers, army veterans, historians and teachers comprised a majority of the actors. They slept in World War II style tents near the battlegrounds and did their best to mimic what life was like for American soldiers of the period. “For so many kids today, history is compressed. They go through it so fast in the schools and memorize
the name, place, date, what happened and regurgitate it on a standardized test,” said Hunt. “History is really a much more dramatic and exciting thing than that. We want kids to understand that history is not just a lecture, not an old documentary and it’s not a story that grandpa tells that maybe you only half believe. History is something that lives and breathes. You can hear it, you can feel it, you can taste it, you can smell it. When the kids get out here and they feel the rumble of a Sherman tank going by, they hear the crack of one of those guns, they smell the smoke, they see the muzzle flash and they watch people not a lot older than themselves moving across the battlefield, it really does breathe life into the whole experience.” The simulated battle replicates one fought by the 36th Infantry Division during the invasion of southern France. The museum spent more than $4,000 on pyrotechnics, airplanes, vehicles and blank ammunition to wow the audience. To onlookers, the museum’s budget may have appeared far more massive because the nearly 180 reenactors augmented the museum’s props with their own equipment like uniforms, tents, private
vehicles and even tanks. “If the movie companies were doing this, it’d be a million dollar shot,” said Hunt. “I think it’s pretty important that young people understand the luxury of peace they have, the security they have and the freedoms they have,” said Hunt. “All of that was purchased and all of that has been secured in the price of service and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform. Many of whom have spilled their blood and many of whom have laid down their lives to give us the kind of world where battles are the sort of thing you reenact and they aren’t things that really happen.” “It’s good for recruiting because you get a little eight-year-old boy out here watching this battle reenactment and his eyes are popping out,” said Hunt, “You know he walks away with a positive attitude about the military and ten years later he’s much more likely to raise his right hand and take that oath than a kid who’s never been exposed to the history in this way.” “It was really cool and I thought it was a good example of World War II,” said Geno Albini, a young boy who watched the show. Diane Laube, a first-time visitor to the American Heroes celebration, explained her mother was a French denizen who lived through World War II. She imagines that the reenactment might have been what her mother experienced as a young woman in war-torn France. “I had a great experience here today,” said Laube. “Keep doing it, keep educating everybody, because this is a legacy we need to keep perpetuating.”
Volunteers reenact hand to hand fighting during the WWII history demonstration at the American Heroes Celebration weekend at Camp Mabry. 6
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Forest Service partners with Texas Military Forces: Battling Texas wildfires from the air and the ground Story by Chief Master Sgt. Gonda Moncada Texas Military Forces Public Affairs
Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas (April 20, 2011) – At the request of Governor Rick Perry, the Texas Military Forces have been assisting the Texas Forest Service and firefighters from across the state, in efforts to suppress an unprecedented number of wild-fires. The Texas Forest Service has deployed four Incident Management Photo by Staff Sgt. Malcolm McClendon, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs) Teams with the assistance of numerous agencies to battle 810 fires This fire season, Texas Military Forces personnel have that have burned a total of 1.4 million acres. In addition to dropped more than 730,000 gallons of water. To do so, personnel, the Texas Army National Guard has also remilitary helicopters were equipped with Bambi buckets sponded with four UH-60 helicopters battling blazes in that are filled in local streams and stock ponds prior to Tyler and Stephens counties, and a large fire near the city each mission. The buckets are then flown and emptied of San Angelo. over areas identified by the Texas Forest Service. Since Wednesday, new large fires have erupted in Stephens and Garza counties in addition to existing fires near Possum Kingdom Lake, Caddo, Strawn, and Bunger. Additionally hundreds of homes and apartment complexes were threatened near Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls. Three ground support packages consisting of personnel operating eight D-7 dozers, five tractor trailer combos, two HEMMT tanker/wreckers, one HMMWV, and two 77F refuelers and two mechanics are assisting from the ground. Three medical personnel are providing care for those battling the flames and assisting with smoke inhalation and other fire related injuries.
The Texas Forest Service and the Texas Military Forces routinely practice these maneuvers to respond to wildfires. The Texas Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. John Nichols said: ―We will provide assistance as long as it takes, fly missions and provide ground crews until the Texas Forest Service tells us we are no longer needed. We will serve the citizens of Texas and stand together with the brave men and women of the Texas Forest Service, local fire departments and the many volunteer organizations that have been working tirelessly to protect the homes and businesses of so many. We will pray for all those who are fighting these fires and those who have been impacted.‖
Until they all come home. http://www.uso.org/howtohelp/ May 2011
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Texas Adjutant General Visits Troops By Sgt. Thomas Kappus 305th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, USD-S PAO
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – The Adjutant General of Texas Military Forces, Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, visited the 36th Inf. Div. here for a two day visit April 14thand 15th. “My number one priority is taking care of Soldiers and Airmen,” the Adjutant General said during a breakfast at the Arrowhead Dining Facility on his first day of the visit. After the breakfast he fielded questions from the Soldiers on a variety of topics, mostly concerning what was going on back home in Texas. He assured them that the 36th Inf. Div. was doing an outstanding job carrying out their mission here in Iraq. Nichols became the 51st Adjutant General of Texas Military Forces on February 17th. He is directly responsible for the readiness of the Texas Army National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, and the Texas State Guard to the Governor of Texas for state operations, and to the President for federal operations. "I was pleased that Maj Gen. Nichols and Command Sgt. Maj. Broyles came to see our deployed headquarters. It's good to see how seriously our new adjutant general takes his responsibilities as he takes on the difficult task of leading a military force that is deployed in multiple theaters of operation," said Col. John Stasney, Effects Coordinator, 36th Inf. Div. His visit included a guided tour of COB Basra, a stop at the 36ht Inf. Div. Special Troops Battalion Headquarters to see how the base runs operations day to day, a visit to one of the motor pools, and a circulation of the 36ht Inf. Div. Headquarters itself to shake hands with all the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen that keep U.S. Div.South running during Operation New Dawn. Nichols also had an opportunity meet and share a traditional Iraqi meal with Brig. Gen. Sami Al Tamimy, Basra Airfield Commander, at the Iraqi Air Force Dining Facility.
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The Adjutant General of Texas Military Forces, Major General John F. Nichols, talks to soldiers at the Arrowhead Dining Facility on Contingency Operating Base Basra during a visit to Iraq on April 14, 2011. (Army photo by Master Sgt. Kenneth Walker, 36th Infantry Division Public Affairs)
Accompanying the Adjutant General was former Command Sergeant Major of the Texas Army National Guard, Command Sgt. Maj. Jim L. Broyles. He found time during the visit to conduct noncommissioned officer professional development and to respond to questions from the senior NCOs. The 36th Infantry Division is currently the headquarters unit of United States Division-South and commands approximately 9000 active duty, reserve and national guard Soldiers.
6th CST supports San Antonio FDt during the 2011 Battle of Flowers Parade Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Melissa Bright 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Most people dream of being in the seat of honor during big city parades; riding on the biggest float and waving to thousands of adoring fans. However, for members of the 6th Civil Support Team out of Austin, Texas, participation in the parade means getting their job done and staying out of the spotlight. During one of their most recent missions, a five-man team led by Capt. Michael Torres, operations officer for the 6th CST, traveled to San Antonio, Texas, for Fiesta, one of the nation’s premier festivals. "More often than not, we are in the background, trying not to draw too much attention and just blending in to the crowds," said Torres. While revelers enjoyed almost two weeks of parades, car shows, live music and art exhibits, the 6th CST worked with city officials to ensure public safety. "This is a great opportunity for us to continue working with our partner agencies," said Torres. "Just being on-site allows us additional exposure to our counterparts and ensures we are on-hand to assist in any capacity."
Specifically, the team joined forces with the San Antonio Fire Department Hazardous Material team to begin collecting data for base line radiation readings prior to the start of the Battle of Flowers Parade, held this year April 15. The initial phase of their mission including sweeping the parade route twenty-four hours, twelve hours and one hour prior to the start of the event to establish base-line radiation readings. "We do this three ways," said Sgt. Irineo Flores, team leader. "Two of us are in the suburban, two of us go out on a 6-wheel Gator and we are all trained to walk the area and pinpoint specific issues." Inside the suburban sits a mobile detecting system capable of tracking and archiving both the route the vehicle has driven and any excessive radiation they may encounter. "This equipment lets us keep track of where we've been and what has happened before," said Sgt. John Howard, suburban team member. "For example, last year we had a hit at the same construction site as this year. We still check it out as though it were brand new but when we turn in our final reports, we will include last year's hit for visibility." In the hours leading up to the parade, the
streets opened up to crowds of more than 350,000 spectators, making large vehicle movement through the crowded streets difficult at times and reinforcing the value of the Gators in missions such as this. "We basically do the same thing as the suburban but we are more agile in that we can fit into tighter places and get up-close and personal even when it's this crowded," said Sgt. Daniel Garcia, one of the Gator team members. During the actual parade, team members walked among the festively dressed crowds paired with a member of the SAFD haz-mat team, keeping in constant communication with each other and their headquarters. This coordination allows both agencies to maintain situational awareness and hone in on areas of interest as needed. The teams used devices small enough to be mistaken as cell phones that were easily capable of detecting medical, industrial and weapons grade radiation. "One advantage of working with the 6th CST is their equipment," said Capt. Andrew Rackner, head of the SAFD haz-mat team. "Their technology really is on a different level than ours. We are all trained to react, but [the members of the 6th CST] are able to detect, giving us a tremendous advantage in any situation," Rackner continued. Sometimes, safety risks are spotted in unusual locations. "This year we had a jewelry maker using wire that came up as radioactive, not something we normally expect to find," said Howard. The 6th CST's Mobile Analytical Lab System, staged just a few blocks away from the parade at the fire station, makes detecting threats to public safety even easier. The MALS allows rapid on-site analysis of chemical, biological or nuclear contaminants, providing first responders with a critical and timely breakdown of the threat.
Members of the 6th Civil Support Team work with the San Antonio Fire Department Hazmat team during the Battle of Flowers parade in San Antonio on April 15. The five-man team used high tech radiation detection equipment as part of the city’s overall plan to keep its citizens safe during the high-profile event.
"Our whole purpose is to team up with state agencies to fill any need they may have with our equipment and skills," said Torres. "By adding our personnel our equipment our training and our know-how, we are able to provide the best possible outcomes and support our city and state partners."
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1st Lt. Joy Schoffler Texas State Guard Public Affairs
CAMP MABRY, Texas (April 16-17, 2011)- The 2011 American Heroes Celebration (AHC) began early Saturday morning with members from the Texas Military Forces standing at attention as the Colors were raised in the early morning sunlight. Taking place April 16th and 17th at Camp Mabry, this year’s event welcomed more than 16,000 attendees, beating last year’s turnout. The highlight of the morning was the Anthem Ceremony, where 27 Soldiers, Airmen and Sailors from 17 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens. "This ceremony holds a special meaning for me," said Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo. "It brings me back to the day I became a citizen and the pride I felt taking the oath to become an American." During the ceremony families looked on with great pride as they watched their loved ones become citizens of the country they had been fighting for, some on their fifth deployment. "It is a great day for me and a great day for America," said U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel. "These men
and women are joining a great country and becoming one of us. It was my honor to swear them in." The two day event also gave visitors the opportunity to get a firsthand look at the resources the Texas Military Forces (TXMF), local law enforcement, and first responders use during day-to-day operations and during disaster relief missions. The static displays and tours included everything from the showcasing of the newest communications equipment used by the 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, to chapel tours and various displays from the Austin SWAT Team. "This was a chance for us to show the public how we all work together," said Lieutenant Col. Les Edwards of Garrison Command. "We are all working together to ensure the safety of the community." In addition to being a wonderful way for first responders to help train citizens on disaster response, American Heroes Weekend has become a great way for Texans to get familiar with opportunities for service. The American Red Cross and several other volunteer organizations, as well as all the branches of the military had booths set up to inform and recruit
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new members. History also came to life on the battlefield with Sherman Tanks, M3 Halftracks, Jeeps, German Howitzers and original uniforms during the WWII reenactment focusing around the battle of Montelimar. The sharp crack of rifle shots, plumes of gun smoke and the military pyrotechnics made spectators hearts race as they watched infantry men rush for cover behind the burns of dirt and simulated sharks’ teeth. “It looked so authentic,” said spectator Jamie Armstrong. “We have been bringing our family to American Heroes Celebration for years and it is a really good time.” In between the Opening Ceremony, Naturalization Ceremony, and the World War II reenactment, attendees also had the opportunity to visit the American Heroes Air Show where visitors were able to see the helicopters used by the Texas Military Forces and local law enforcement and first responders. Children and the young-at-heart were able to sit in the pilot seat and dream of the day when they could be at the controls. “It is our mission to produce a special Air Show
which showcases aircrafts unique to public service,” said Jim Paules of the American Heroes Air Show. On Sunday members of Special Forces put on an Airmobile Demonstration where Soldiers put on a simulated terrorist attack that involved setting up a perimeter and taking down the bad guys, before having another team parachute to safety. Another important highlight of American Heroes Weekend was the American Veteran’s Traveling Tribute exhibit (AVTT) on display which brought spectators face-to-face with the harsh realities of war as they gazed down the 380 foot Vietnam Wall exhibit listing the 58,253 names of the soldiers killed in the Vietnam War. “We have displays representing every war and conflict the USA has ever been involved in,” said Don Allen of the AVTT. “We are paying tribute to anyone who has ever put a uniform on in the morning and did not come home at night.” Bottom left- The WWII battle reenactment. Center- A rescue helicopter used by local first responders. Top right- A veteran reflects at the traveling Vietnam Wall. (Photos by Texas Military Forces)
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TXMF hosts naturalization ceremony during American Heroes Celebration Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Melissa Bright 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
AUSTIN, Texas - The Austin Police Department and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services paired with the Texas Military Forces to host a naturalization ceremony April 16, during the American Heroes Celebration at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. The ceremony is just one element of the two-day festival that also featured static displays, multiple military demonstrations and family activities designed to increase awareness within the Austin community of it's substantial military heritage. "This is the second year we have been able to hold this ceremony during American Heroes weekend," said Wuthipong 'Tang' Tantaksinanukij, a corporal with Austin Police Department's Air Operations Unit. "In 2010, Jim Paules invited us to hold a ceremony here during their American Heroes weekend and we were able to swear-in 13 service members from all five branches of service. We had double that number this year and hit all branches of service again except for the Coast Guard."
"The first time we saw the wall in San Antonio I was so overwhelmed," she said. "I couldn't even speak the names of the friends we lost, I had to write them down for the assistants to look up." The 80 percent-scale replica of the Washington, D.C., Vietnam Memorial Wall displays all 58,253 names of the men and women killed in the Vietnam War. "It is an honor for us to provide our Vietnam Memorial Wall as the backdrop for members of the military as they recite their oath of allegiance," said Don Allen, executive director of the AVTT and retired U.S. Army Special Forces. The AVTT is a veteran-owned project that travels the country to provide a forum for communities to honor, respect and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
The wall was the perfect reminder of what it takes to be American for the 27 service members and military one spouse representing 15 different countries sworn in by the Honorable Lee Yeakel, U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Texas. "I am very excited to be able to do this but today is even more special for me because I was able to do a rubbing of my uncle's name for my mom," said Marine Cpl. Alejandro Mascorro. "We’re proud to be part of this event at the Texas Military Force’s historic Camp Mabry while we honor all Veterans and those currently serving by letting them know they will never be forgotten," Allen added. "This is the start of my new life," said Army Spc. Jeanette Ponce, with Charlie Company of the 36th Infantry Division in Austin. "I am just so excited to be here today finally fulfilling my dream."
Paules, president of the American Heroes Aviation Network, coordinated with the founders of the American Veterans Traveling Tribute to bring a replica of the Vietnam War Memorial stretching over 380 ft long from end to end to serve as the backdrop for the ceremony. "My husband Edmond was in Vietnam in 1968 and again in 1970 to 1971," said Alma Croix as they walked in front of the wall. "I think being able to see this exhibit in Austin is just wonderful." 12 THE DISPATCH
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The traveling Vietnam Wall was the backdrop for the naturalization ceremony at Camp Mabry during the American Heroes Celebration weekend.
Going above and beyond his duties Texas guardsman receives fire warden award Story and Photos by Sgt. James Kennedy Benjamin 305th MPAD, USD-S PAO
voice began to crack and eyes fill with tears. ―They are always very proactive in getting stuff done. They really put all the work into it. So I didn’t feel that it was something that was for me. I was just the face of the mayor’s cell.‖
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – A National Guard Soldier with the 162nd Area Medical Support Justin Relkin, a Sallyport fire inspector of Phoenix, Ariz., Company based out of Camp Bullis, Texas, received an outrecalled the first time he met Yevak. Relkin said Yevak displayed standing civilian award from a privately contracted fire and emerqualities that made him stand out among his peers. gency services company on Contingency Operating Base Basra. ―He asked so many questions about the fire warden program,‖ Sallyport Global Holdings firefighters on COB Basra said Relkin, a prior service Air Force member. awarded 1st Lt. Earl Yevak of Hampton, Va., with the COB As the fire warden for his camp, Yevak was always prompt Basra Fire Warden award in front of the Medical Troop Facility and diligent with his work, Relkin said. on post in recognition for his outstanding service and commitment to the fire department. ―He has been on time with all of his USF-I checklists and his monthly inspections,‖ Relkin said, mentioning a few of Yevak’s Yevak, a camp manager for Bradey Lines, said he deserved many duties. the award no more than any of the Soldiers in his unit. Relkin described Yevak as being very ―professional‖, ―Everything I was doing was just what we are supposed to do as camp managers,‖ Yevak said humbly, ―because it is just a part ―honest‖, and ―down to earth.‖ of my job.‖ ―He really took it personal with his troops in keeping them safe,‖ Relkin added. ―I could tell that all his troops could depend ―Those guys are really hard workers,‖ Yevak said as his on him if they were looking for somebody to help lead the way.‖ Clifton Hill of Dallas, Texas, another fire inspector on the COB, said the thing that made Yevak stand out was his initiative to transform the ―marshmallow building‖, a name some Soldiers knew for a rundown, abandoned facility, into a new living area for the 297th ASMC, the unit that would replace Yevak’s unit. ―For life safety issues, Yevak went above and beyond so that everything was good for his Soldiers,‖ Hill said. This was the second time the fire department gave this award in a four-year span, said Richard Galtieri, assistant chief of operations for fire and emergency services on COB Basra. ―It sounds like Yevak was very involved and put his heart into [his work],‖ Galtieri said. First Lt. Earl Yevak, a camp manager and fire warden to Sallyport Global Holdings fire department on Contingency Operating Base Basra, shakes hands with Clifton Hill, a fire inspector for Sallyport, outside the Medical Troop Facility on COB Basra, moments after receiving an outstanding fire warden award.
Yevak said he plans on returning home to do social work for the active-duty military. He will miss the many Iraqi and Ugandan friends he has made during this deployment. ―I have learned a lot,‖ Yevak said about this deployment. ―I will definitely take these experiences with me… and you know anything I do in the future, it will definitely help me.‖
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TAG hosts TXMF senior leadership cross-talk opportunity Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Melissa Shaw 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
AUSTIN, Texas- Coffee cups and presentation packets vied for table space as senior members of the Texas Military Forces gathered for a two-day information and introduction conference at the JJ Pickle Research Center with Maj. Gen. John Nichols, the most recent appointee to the office of The Adjutant General for Texas. Attendees of the conference included members of the Army and Air National Guards and the Texas State Guard, with a cross section of representatives from the officer, enlisted and civilian workforce directly involved with the Adjutant General’s office. Nichols’ goal for the event was two-fold. First, he wanted to provide an opportunity for interpersonal relationships to develop, enhancing communication across the services. Second, he sought to open a forum introducing and addressing issues impacting the culture and readiness of the TXMF. ―This is an opportunity for each of our groups to calibrate our compasses to be in tune with the vision [Nichols] has for Texas service members,‖ said Col. William Hall, Joint Task Force 71 commander. ―But also, for each of our groups to be in tune with each other; to better see how we can support and in turn be supported.‖ Conference planners designed the gathering to function as a relationship-building and advance-planning tool in a mutuallysupportive environment. Each group took the opportunity to present their resources, expertise and potential for growth while maintaining frankness on limitations and opening the floor for discussion. ―One of the greatest advantages our members bring to the table is our passion for volunteerism,‖ said Maj. Gen. Ray Peters, commander of the Texas State Guard, as he presented the capabilities and limitations of the no-contract force that make up the TXSG. ―To join the State Guard you have to possess a distinct passion to serve, specifically as a selfless leader.‖ ―However,‖ he continued, ―we are faced with true tests as leaders to keep our members engaged without any contractual obligation.‖ Conference attendees fulfilled Nichols, few yet substantial goals through a series of break-out sessions and forums where both the officers and enlisted personnel discuss new training programs, the current state of the Texas Military Force as a whole, and new changes in doctrine like the repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. ―When our leadership starts talking policy, how best to create or enforce it, I consider it my highest priority to be in the room,‖ said Command Sgt. Maj. Jimmy Broyles, command sergeant major for 14 THE DISPATCH
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Senior leadership commits to LONESTAR values during the recent conference with Texas Adjutant General John F. Nichols.
the Texas Army National Guard. ―There are times when the enlisted voice needs to speak up. I use my experience to help guide these talks to increase the chances of a positive outcome for both enlisted and officers.‖ Nichols noted that this casual format enables individuals to spend more time informing themselves on issues and opportunities that exist in support of command and its mission, while allowing ample time to develop crucial personal networks. ―The cross talk that results from having us all here together allows synchronization and development of improved ways ahead,‖ said Brigadier General Joyce L. Stevens, the Assistant Adjutant GeneralArmy for Texas and Commander of the Texas Army National Guard. Stevens supervises the operations, training and readiness, and resource allocation for both state and federal missions and serves as the principal advisor to Nichols on all matters concerning the Texas Army National Guard. Nichols closed out the event by requesting the attendees re-affirm their promise to uphold the values that act as a common bond for the Texas Military Forces. As one the group stood, raised their right hand and recited the TXMF values that spell out LONE STAR: Loyalty, Opportunity, Networked, Ethics & Excellence, Selfless Service, Texas Spirit, Adaptability and Ready.
Spouse Buzz SpouseBUZZ is Military.com’s blog for military spouses. It’s a virtual destination where spouses click, connect and share their experiences. The blog features a variety of perspectives as our contributors are affiliated with every branch of the Armed Forces, including Guard and Reserves. When you visit SpouseBUZZ, you can expect to get a taste of what it’s like to be a military spouse in a post 9/11 World. SpouseBUZZ offers a glimpse into the lives of modern military families.
http://spousebuzz.com/ Today, more than ever, Soldiers rely on technology to bring the fight to the front lines. That technology doesn’t just include high-tech weapons, body armor or Blue Force Tracker. It also included web logs, “blogs,” that allow a more immediate glimpse into military life than ever before. Often funny, sometimes painful and poignant, these snippets of opinion, daily life, and commentary on war, the military, and life in general allow more people to see what our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are thinking, experiencing and fighting for.
A view from the front line
Band of Bloggers ut o us ! ! k e c Che onlin
May 2011 THE DISPATCH 15
Air assault, parachute teams capture attention at American Heroes Celebration Story and photo by Sgt. Suzanne Carter 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
AUSTIN, Texas - The air reverberated with the whomps of the chopper blades as the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter hovered inches above the ground before rising just above the trees. The Special Forces Operation Detachment Alpha team aboard the aircraft had a mission: to pursue and capture a high-value target in a moving vehicle. Moments later, shots rang out across the field. The Black Hawk disabled two fleeing vehicles from the air. Swiftly, the flight crew extended a bar out the open doors, hung a rope from it and troops began sliding down to secure the target. Fewer than 15 minutes passed before the troops loaded their target in the aircraft and took off. The spectators rose from their seats and roared with applause. This demonstration, part of the annual American Heroes Celebration, took place at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas, April 17. Service members, families and civilians in attendance had the opportunity to see Special Forces operations in action, as well as a High-Altitude, Low-Open jump by the Texas Army National Guard Sport Parachute Demonstration Team. ―It was awesome,‖ said Sam Temborius, 9, ―the way the helicopter caught them.‖ Once the Black Hawk returned the Special Forces troops to their drop point, the four-man parachute team, composed of members from three different Army National Guard units, boarded the craft for the HALO jump onto the parade field. ―We’re going to climb to an altitude of 4,000 feet and then we’re going to jump out,‖ said 1st Lt. Timothy Hanrahan, a jumpmaster for the team and platoon leader with the 294th Quartermaster Company. ―What I want the civilian population to get out of this … I want them to see what our capabilities are, and that we’re not just out here walking around in uniform. We’re actually performing in situations that are important to the mission for the State.‖ The team, made up of U.S. Parachute Association certified jumpers, dangled their feet out the open doors as the Black Hawk rose higher over Camp Mabry. When it reached the designated altitude, the jumpers took the plunge one at a time, releasing their patriotic, red, white and blue parachutes to descend onto the parade field filled with spectators. ―I thought it was pretty cool, seeing them all the way up in the sky, little dots,‖ said Danielle Conese, a soldier’s neighbor and first-time attendee. ―And all of a sudden, the parachutes open and then there’s actually men.‖ Making sure these missions ran smoothly and accurately posed a challenge for the two specialized teams. The 11-man Alpha team from Company C, 1/19th Special Forces Group in San Antonio, Texas, encountered an unexpected complication with their fast rope drop. ―Sometimes you may never get a straight road,‖ said Master Sgt. Ricardo De La Cruz, a team sergeant. ―That’s exactly what happened today. The crowd was a little bit too close for 16 THE DISPATCH
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where they were supposed to be. We ended up adjusting to the situation. My guys were all situationally aware, and it turned out really good.‖ Of course, completing a mission requires more than just on-the-spot adjustments. It takes planning and preparations ahead of time for an event like this to come off without a hitch. ―It takes everybody from the mechanics all the way up to the aircraft fuelers, to our operations people that track what we’re doing, to the air crews and then the participants in the back,‖ said Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Hatley, the pilot for the mission from Company C, 1/108th Aviation Battalion, based in Austin. ―It takes a good amount of people to pull this off.‖ The extra time needed to prepare for this event and the number of people involved support the volunteerism and patriotism that are vital to the military service, particularly for the Special Forces troops. ―Special Forces guys are three times volunteers,‖ De La Cruz said. ―First, we volunteer for the Army. Then we volunteer for airborne school. Then we volunteer for Special Forces.‖ The HALO jump and fast rope demonstration allowed spectators a glimpse into the world of airborne and air assault soldiers. ―For the crowd and family, it swells them up with pride,‖ said De La Cruz. ―This patriotic stuff, it’s what we live for.‖
Members of the Texas Army National Guard Sport Parachute Demonstration Team wait to jump.
Surfing the road and the concrete waves: skating in Basrah, Iraq Story and photo by Sgt. David Bryant 36th Infantry Div. Public Affairs BASRAH, Iraq – “We old guys have to have great style, because we really don’t have anything else anymore. I used to be young; then one day I woke up, had no idea who the guy in the mirror was, couldn’t find my hair and my knees were shot. So you got to have style.” While 43 may not be what most people would call “old,” and beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, style is one thing Sgt. 1st Class John T. Armstrong is not lacking when he steps onto his skateboard. Skating has been a lifelong passion for the 36th Infantry Division future operations noncommissioned officer, who is currently deployed to southern Iraq. He got his first board for his ninth birthday; even though he said he had originally asked for a bicycle instead. “My father and I were working on a fishing boat, and bicycles were kind of impractical,” said Armstrong, who grew up in Suisun, Calif. “But that’s what I wanted – a BMX bike – but my dad kind of ‘cheaped-out’ and got me a skateboard, so that’s how I started.” More than thirty years later, the resident of Cedar Park, Texas is still skating; and doing it well enough to be sponsored by a skateboard manufacturer. “I was already in the military when I picked up a sponsor; it was around 2006,” said Armstrong. “A friend got me hooked up. He worked for this company as a distributor and he said, ‘Hey, they’re coming on tour out here in Texas, do you want to try out for the team?’” The company, Gravity Skateboards, sent him a box with some boards in it, came out, met him and he skated a demo with them, Armstrong said. “On the last night of their tour I was inducted to the team. I’m pretty much an old workhorse now. I couldn’t get sponsored at this stage; I think they just send me boards now out of sympathy,” he added with a laugh. Armstrong has now been in the military for 20 years; he started out in the National Guard, served a four-year tour in the active-duty Army, then back to the Guard. Operation New Dawn is his first deployment, and so far the impact on his
skating has been to knock down how often he skates to once a week, he said. “I tell you what – the military didn’t hamper my skating at all. I’d skate just about every day,” Armstrong said. “I’d do it on my lunch hour, for (physical training) and I’d find some time after work. Here, I don’t have quite that amount of time.” Sgt. 1st Class John T. Armstrong cruises around on his There is no differskateboard April 3. ence in being a skater in ever you are doing it, that’s the way it’s the military than being a skater and, say, done.” an accountant, he added. “The only thing “In fact there’s an old adage in skateI would say is that sometimes in the miliboarding that says ‘the best skater is the tary, if you do something a bit unusual, one having the most fun,’” he added. people tend to raise their eyebrows just a little bit higher. But other than that, I get Skateboarding gives a person a great deal of physical confidence because nothing but love and support for it.” there’s a certain degree of pain skaters go The tall, lean Californian is a sponthrough to learn it, said Armstrong. Consored amateur skateboarder. “I’m more crete is very unforgiving, and a skater of a sub-culture guy; all the contests I go definitely gets beat up during the learning to are pretty much for skaters, by skaters process. – where guys get together and barbecue, hand out various prizes, that sort of “By the time I got in the Army and I was told, ‘Private, go over that confidence thing.” course,’ there was no problem,” he said. The difference between what people “I’ve fallen from higher than that many see on TV with the X-Games and the real times, so it makes you very aware of what grass roots of the sport, he said, is that you are physically capable of. And there is events such as the X-Games are primarily some mental confidence, as well, in for television audience consumption and knowing that you can accomplish those the average skater event is not. things.” “If you went to a typical contest – like That kind of self-confidence, not to ninety-nine percent of the skateboard mention the pain of unforgiving concrete, contests anywhere in the world – you’d comes from the “two-second accomplishbe like, ‘Wow, this doesn’t look like that ments” skaters spend so much time pracbig of a deal,’” added Armstrong. ticing for, Armstrong said. “Because you’re expecting the ‘Tony Hawk 900,’ the big, spectacular tricks and “That’s kind of the summation of stuff; skateboarding is really a lot subtler. skateboarding,” Armstrong added. “You More for skateboarder consumption – don’t have a coach; you don’t have anyyou can look at an individual guy’s style body teaching you how to do this stuff. and go, ‘Wow, that guys’ got great style.’ You just kind of figure it out on your own, He may not even be doing any tricks, but so those accomplishments are that much you think to yourself, ‘this guy’s a great more meaningful. You don’t get a coach skater; he’s an artist.’” patting you on the back saying ‘good job, “The best thing about skateboarding is son, you did what I told you.’ It’s a great personal evolution for a lot of people, it is a great expression of freedom; here is particularly kids. If you see a kid doing a sport that was invented by children,” tricks on a skateboard, bear in mind that Armstrong said. “There is no governing nobody taught him how to do that.” body, no rule book. No right way of doing it and no wrong way of doing it; just howMay 2011 THE DISPATCH 17
Grants available for Texas National Guard members with financial hardship The Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation (TXNGFSF) was awarded a $160,000 grant from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). Funds from this grant provides for temporary, emergency financial assistance for TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) and TRICARE Dental Plan (TDP) and medical and non-medical expenses. Eligible Service Members are currently enlisted in the rank of E1 to E4 or a Non-Commissioned Officer in the rank of E5 and E6. Service members who receive assistance through this grant will also receive a referral for TVC employment counseling and other TVC services. Service members who are experiencing financial hardship should contact Brandie Cole, Family Assistance Center Specialist at (512) 7821427 or brandie.cole@ng.army.mil for more information.
Applications are also available online at txngfoundation.org. “This program is made possible by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance.” The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations who service veterans and their families. Funding for these grants comes from a portion of Veterans scratch-off ticket sales.” (www.tvc.state.tx.us; 1-800/252-8387)
Law Day: Contribution of legal system to American Democracy “Boston Massacre” of killing five colonists protesting in the streets. Although already a prominent leader in the American colonial resistance to British parliamentary authority, the 35-year-old Adams agreed to take on the cases because, in his own words, “Judgment of Death against those Soldiers would have been as foul a Stain upon this Country as the Executions of the Quakers or Witches, anciently.”
This year Law Day provides us with an opportunity to consider the important legacy of the first American lawyer-president and one of our nation’s greatest founders, John Adams. In 1770 Massachusetts lawyer John Adams represented the British officer and soldiers accused in the 18 THE DISPATCH
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Adams’s role in the trials has come to be seen as a lawyerly exemplar of adherence to the rule of law and zealous defense of the rights of the accused, even in cases where advocates may represent unpopular clients and become involved in matters that generate public controversy. His able defense was motivated by his faith in due process of law, in what he would later famously phrase as “a government of laws, not of men.” Indeed, writing the Novanglus essays in 1775, Adams wrote of this
famous phrase for the first time. It expressed his firmly held belief in the rule of law as the foundation for republican government and the basis for political liberty. It was subsequently incorporated into the 1780 Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, written principally by Adams and a model for the U.S. Constitution of 1787. On this Law Day, all Americans should reflect on the legal legacy of John Adams: the enduring meaning of “a government of laws, not men” and the vital role our legal institutions—including our adversarial legal system, citizen juries, and independent courts—play in our system. By appreciating our legal rights and valuing our civic responsibilities, Americans can work together to sustain our national commitment to a democratic society under law. For more information on the Novanglus essays go to: http:// teachingamericanhistory.org/library/ index.asp?document=787.
From Anzio to Rome Thousands of reinforcements poured into the unit, as well as a large number of new officers – all of them to replace the heavy casualties suffered between November 1943 and February 1944. The process of absorbing these men and getting the division ready for new battles was time consuming. Training was rigorous and realistic, as the surviving veterans taught their new comrades the secrets of success and survival on the battlefield. By early May, a reinvigorated 36th Infantry Division, still under the command of Major General Fred Walker, was ready for action. On May 11, the 5th Army launched a massive offensive to rupture the German Gustav Line, drive north and link up with Allied forces breaking out of the Anzio beachhead. To support this effort, the 36th was shipped to Anzio on May 18. Arriving in the beachhead, the 36th Division was held in reserve while the 45th and 34th Infantry Divisions, alongside the 1st Armored Division, enlarged the Allied perimeter at the cost of heavy casualties. The Germans were being weakened and pushed back, but their line remained unbroken. With the assault divisions nearing the end of their endurance, Major General Lucian Truscott, commander of the VI Corps and the entire Anzio Beachhead, ordered the 36th into the front lines. The key to the enemy defenses was the town of Velletri, which controlled Highway 7 – the principle route to Rome. Several efforts to drive the Germans out of Velletri had already failed. Now Truscott tasked the 36th to launch a frontal attack on the heavily fortified strongpoint. Major General Walker wanted no part of such an operation. It reminded him too much of the numerous bloody frontal assaults his division had been forced to make all the way from Salerno to the Rapido. From the reports of his scouts, as well as personal reconnaissance, Walker had discovered a virtually undefended gap in the German lines. The 2,000-foot- high Monte Artemisio stretched to the northeast of Velletri. From this high ground Allied artillery could dominate Highway 7 and cut the German supply lines to Rome. If the 36th could seize Monte Artemisio, it would cut off Velletri and open the way for the entire VI Corps to bust out of the beachhead and race to Rome. Walker lobbied Truscott for permission to make an assault on Monte Artemisio. At first Truscott refused. But when Walker assured him his men could not only scale the heights against minimal resistance, but that the 111th Engineers could quickly build a road up the rugged mountain that would allow tanks, artillery and supplies to follow the infantry, Truscott agreed. It was a daring plan, and like all daring plans, risky. If the Germans learned of the attempt
they could seal the gap in their line and a slaughter might follow. General Walker, however, was confident his troops could pull it off. On the night of May 30, while the 141st Infantry made a diversionary attack on Velletri to keep the enemy occupied, the 142nd and 143rd Infantry Regiments scaled Monte Artemisio. Moving silently in the dark, with orders to only use knives and bayonets if they encountered resistance, the GIs pushed forward. Ruthlessly dealing with the handful of enemy troops who stood in their way, and ignoring the harassment of snipers, the T-Patchers continued to climb. At dawn they stood on the crest of Monte Artemisio. Behind the infantry came Colonel Oran Stovall’s engineers. Men wielding picks and shovels supported 15 bulldozers— all working non-stop to convert an old, overgrown goat path into a one-lane road capable of handling tanks, trucks and guns. Disregarding enemy mortar and sniper fire, the 111th Engineers carved out a serviceable road by the evening of May 31. Throughout May 31, as the troops on Monte Artemisio beat off desperate German counterattacks, Allied forward observers called down a storm of artillery fire on the enemy’s line of communication. American aircraft bombed and strafed Axis columns trying to reinforce the front. Velletri, now completely surrounded, was attacked at dawn on June 1, by the 141st Infantry, supported by the 36th Engineer Regiment, tanks and tank destroyers. After an intense day-long battle, the town was in TPatch hands. The German defenses containing the Anzio beachhead had been torn apart. As the enemy fled, the VI Corps took up the pursuit. On June 4, the 36th Infantry Division became the first Allied unit to enter Rome. “Our operations for tonight and tomorrow have promise of being spectacular.We are taking chances, but we should succeed in a big way.” Major General Fred Walker, May 30, 1944 May 2011 THE DISPATCH 19
Sunday, 29 May, Sun City, 7pm – Jazz and Concert Band @ Veterans Memorial Plaza Monday, 30 May, Sun City, 930am – Memorial Day Ceremony @ Veterans Memorial Plaza Wednesday, 22 June, Fredericksburg, 11am-3pm – Piano, Brass Quintet, Guitar and Woodwinds @ The National Museum of the Pacific War and the Nimitz Museum Wednesday, 22 June, Fredericksburg, 7pm – Jazz and Concert Band @ The National Museum of the Pacific War and the Nimitz Museum Thursday, 23 June, San Angelo, 630pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ The River Stage – ticketed event (no charge) Friday, 24 June, Odessa, 8pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ Noel Plaza – Hot Summer Nights! Saturday, 25 June, Lubbock, 5-8pm – Classical Woodwinds and Jazz Music Open House, Music and Jazz @ The Silent Wings Museum Sunday, 26 June, Buffalo Springs, 6am – Triathlon Kick-Off Music @ Buffalo Springs Lake, 70.3 Triathlon Sunday, 26 June, Amarillo, 630pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ Elwood Park Tuesday, 28 June, Wichita Falls, 730pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ South Weeks Park Thursday, 30 June, Cisco, 7pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ Cisco College Auditorium Friday, 1 July, Arlington, All Day – Brass Band and Rock Band @ Six Flags Amusement Park Saturday, 2 July, Arlington, 7pm – Military Appreciation Day, Texas Rangers MLB @ Rangers Ballpark in Arlington – ticketed event (standard ticket prices)* Sunday, 3 July, Dallas, 2pm – Pop Music and Concert Band @ Dallas Arboretum – ticketed event (no charge) Monday, 4 July, Waco, 730pm – Brass Quintet, Pop Music and Patriotic Music July 4th Celebration! On the Brazos @ 100 S. University Parks Dr *Except as noted, all events are free and open to the public 20 THE DISPATCH
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