The Dispatch

The magazine of the Texas Military Forces

The Dispatch Fall 2012

Spurgin takes esgr reins 6

Maj. Gen. Eddy Spurgin takes the reins of the Texas ESGR Committee.

Stand up to prevent suicide in TXMF 10 The Texas Military Forces conducts suicide stand-down to address suicide prevention in the force.

rogers receives purple heart 15 Governor Rick Perry presents Staff Sgt. Patrick D. Rogers with a Purple Heart and Air Medal for bravery.

www.txmf.us

In the Dispatch:

Chilean air force training 13 A Texas Air National Guard and a Chilean F-16 Fighting Falcon fly side-by-side during a three-day training exercise in Texas.

don’t be that guy or gal...

Pointing and Shooting for Personal Gain: A lieutenant colonel in communications decided his day job wasn't enough, so he started a side business photographing local sporting events.

While on duty, he asked a subordinate to create photo products for his personal business during official time. The officer also requested a press pass on behalf of the Defense Media Activity, which he then used to gain exclusive entry into sporting events to take pictures in his off-duty time. When he was finally caught for misusing the press pass, he received a letter of concern from command.

Don't be that guy or gal! Contact your servicing SJA first or the Agencies Senior Ethics Counselor, Col. Bentley Nettles or Col. David Counts at 512-782-5464.

2 The Dispatch Fall 2012

Texas Gov. Rick Perry finishes placing the Purple Heart onto the uniform of Staff Sgt. Patrick D. Rogers, Jr., a flight medic and member of the Texas Army National Guard, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, Nov. 1, 2012. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs)

The Dispatch 6

Maj. Gen. Eddy Spurgin joins ESGR as new chairman For Maj. Gen. Eddy Spurgin, incoming Chairman of the Texas ESGR committee, ESGR isn’t just a concept with no relation to his life. A Texas Army National Guard member for more than 30 years, Spurgin is no stranger to the benefits of partnering with ESGR.

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I will not let my guard down Members of the Texas Military Forces are duty bound to guard against sexual assaults, and sexually offensive language and/or gestures that encourage this abuse.

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A spouse’s advice to deploying Soldiers So you’re getting deployed, and in all of these pre-deployment briefings, they keep telling you to prepare. “Get your finances in order,” they say.

“Organize your house,” they say. What does that mean, exactly?

10 Stand up for suicide prevention in the TXARNG The Texas Military Forces conduct a stand-down to address suicide and suicide prevention across the force.

13 Air Guard trains with Chilean counterparts About 50 members of the Chilean Air Force participated in a training exercise with the Texas Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing, Oct. 24-26, 2012, as part of the National Guard’s State Partnership Program.

14 Texas service members visit OKC bombing memorial Under a dark and swollen early morning sky, leaders of Joint Task Force 71, Texas Army National Guard, walked the grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum as part of a two day staff ride designed to offer valuable insight into the tactics, techniques and procedures employed by the first responders of the time.

Vol. 7, No. 8 Fall, 2012

Governor Gov. Rick Perry

The Adjutant General Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols

Public Affairs Officer Col. Amy Cook Deputy Public Affairs Officer Lt. Col. Jonathan Pettit Public Affairs Staff Staff Sgt. Malcolm McClendon Staff Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain Pfc. Maria Moy John Thibodeau Laura Lopez Managing Editor Staff Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson Contributing Writers and Photographers Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols Col. Amy F. Cook Maj. Paula Rodriguez Capt. Adam Musil Capt. Angela Gil Master Sgt. Bill Conner Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Griego Staff Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain Staff Sgt. Agustin Salazar Sgt. Jeremy Spires Airmen 1st Class Alicia Lacy Ms. Laura Lopez Ms. Jennifer Turner

15 Perry recognizes Army Guard Soldier for bravery Texas Gov. Rick Perry presented a Texas National Guardsman with the Purple Heart, the Air Medal with “V” Device for acts of heroism and the Combat Medical Badge during a ceremony at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, Nov. 1, 2012.

16 TX promotes first woman to two-star, honors actions The Texas Military Forces made history on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012 as Commander of the Texas Army National Guard and Assistant Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Joyce L. Stevens became the first female two star general in the state.

* The Dispatch is an authorized publication for members of the Texas Military Forces and the Department of Defense. Contents of the Dispatch are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the National Guard Bureau, or the State of Texas. * The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Texas Military Forces Public Affairs Office. * The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army or the Texas Military Forces. * Everything advertised in this publication will be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher will refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. * 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. *

from the TAG

Planning for the future: relevant, ready

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 8, 2012) – Since taking office last year, I have met with senior leaders across the Texas Military Forces, and our state and federal partners, to discuss the goals and objectives for the Texas Military Forces to and beyond 2035. From these discussions, I have made the following conclusions.

We must put people first by investing in our human capital. We will put people first – no exceptions.

To do this, we have to develop strong leaders who act in the best interest of Soldiers, Airmen, civilian employees and their families.

This means we must develop transparent personnel processes that can be reviewed, tracked and improved.

We will instill a sense of ownership and value in each of our employees. Mental health and family readiness will be priority efforts.

We must be relevant by becoming the force provider of choice. A 2011 Department of Defense (DoD) report states “the Guard and Reserve should be a ‘force of first choice’ for those tasks for which they are particularly well suited, owing to their overall cost effectiveness and the skill sets that they can provide.”

Although DoD recognizes our value, we should not rest on our laurels. We must consistently demonstrate through our performance that we are a futureoriented organization capable of performing state and federal missions in a joint manner.

We must be ready to provide the right forces at the right time.

We are operating in a resource-constrained environment. As good stewards of the taxpayer dollars we will allocate resources to those programs and activities that keep us ready for our state and federal missions.

This requires a comprehensive plan to ensure we have properly equipped the right force structure in the right locations.

We must communicate to get our message out.

We cannot afford to take for granted that our constituents and stakeholders understand who we are and what we do. We will proactively engage legislative, state and federal organizations to build mutually beneficial relationships.

Internally, we will strive to improve our information repositories and public websites. The accurate dissemination of information to the lowest level is essential to ensuring that our Soldiers, Airmen, civilian employees and families know their importance to us.

We must partner to build relationships that matter. The TXMF does not operate in a bubble. We rely on external support mechanisms and organizations to accomplish our missions.

We will strengthen our existing relationships and look to forge new alliances. Legislative, military and interagency engagement plans will be developed to ensure that we can leverage the expertise, capabilities and benefits of these organizations.

4 The Dispatch Fall 2012

Likewise, we will look to the private sector and civilian population to determine what programs and initiatives we can implement that build trust and confidence in our service to them.

Although I am currently looking out to 2035, I envision our strategic planning as a five-year effort. Our plan should be forward-thinking enough to get us five years out, but with annual reviews that will allow us to refocus our action plans.

We are a premier organization comprised of professional, unsurpassed, mission ready forces. We are “Texans Defending Texas,” and by working together – whether you are Army, Air, State Guard or civilian employee – we will remain a premier organization and strategic partner that our state and federal leaders can count on to effectively serve at home and abroad.

Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols The Adjutant General of Texas

from the PAO Fall back: an opportunity to be relevant, ready and resilient

FORCES

AS M X E

ITA RY L I

As we turn our clocks back and reflect on the activities of a busy summer and the start of the holiday season, we also pause to remember all those who serve our State and Nation and the friends and family supporting them as we approach Veterans Day. The Texas Military Forces (TXMF) continues its preparation for state and federal missions while putting an emphasis on personal readiness and resiliency.

In September, the Army conducted a force-wide stand down to bring attention to the topic of suicide prevention. TXMF leaders, along with Army and Air Force leaders across the Nation encourage Soldiers and Airmen to TEXANS DEFENDING TEXAS seek help if they are struggling or in distress. In addition, service members and families can always contact Military OneSource for help at 1-800-342-9647 or en español llame al 1-877-888-0727.

T

October was Domestic Violence Awareness month. Recognizing the devastating effect domestic violence can have on family and service member readiness, the Texas Military Forces encourages affected families to seek help at one of the following resources: The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Visit www.ncadv.org or call (303) 839-1852. For SafePlace, visit www.safeplace.org or call the SafePlace 24-hour hotline at 512-267-SAFE or the National Toll-Free Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Nov. 1 marks the start of a month-long proclamation declaring November as Military Family Month. With more than 31,000 men and women in the Texas Military Forces (TXMF) answering the call to serve the nation or state at home and abroad, our Family Support Services (FSS) team remains diligent in providing top-notch care and support services to service members and their families.

Our new strategic goals prepare us to spring forward to support the citizens of Texas and the Nation, as Texans Defending Texas:

Put People First ~ Be Relevant ~ Be Ready ~ Communicate ~ Partner This issue highlights not only state and federal service, but also families, employers and the incredible wealth of resources available to our employees, so we can continue to serve beyond the yellow ribbon.

Col. Amy F. Cook Public Affairs Officer

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 5

serving those who serve - esgr

ESGR looks forward, helping service members Story by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain Texas Military Forces Public Affairs

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 7, 2012) – Retired Maj. Gen. Eddy M. Spurgin, a Texas Army National Guard member for more than 30 years, becomes the new chairman of the Texas ESGR Committee in Austin.

After graduating from Texas A&M University, Spurgin spent more than 30 years as a Citizen-Soldier in the Texas Army National Guard, including service in Iraq. He is currently the District Conservationist for the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Spurgin replaced retired Maj. Gen. Jerry D. Icenhower, who served as Texas ESGR Chairman from 2006-2012, and said he will take over where Icenhower left off.

“I want to continue to foster good communication and interface with national headquarters,” said Spurgin, and will help “move the ball forward with the ESGR mission here in Texas.”

Having been a career guardsman, Spurgin said he understands the unique challenges that arise from service in the military’s reserve components. “I want to

be a strong advocate for our employers and our service members,” he said.

The Texas ESGR Committee is the state-level affiliate of the national Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, said John Steele, the program support technician for Texas ESGR. The organization was created in 1972 to increase cooperation and understanding between guardsmen and reservists and their civilian employers, and to help resolve conflicts that arise between the private company’s operations and the employee’s military service.

“ESGR is not a law enforcement agency, but serves as a neutral resource for employers and service members,” said Steele. “The Ombudsman Services Program provides trained mediators to help resolve employment disputes.”

As an organization, ESGR provides outreach to employers and service members, Steele said, including training and materials (at no direct cost) on their rights and responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, or USERRA, which is a federal law that provides employment protections for individuals who choose, voluntarily or involuntarily, to service in the uniformed services.

Additionally, ESGR works with companies to help integrate unemployed National Guard and Reserve service members into the workforce, Steele said, including the “Hero 2 Hired” program (www. h2h.jobs), and will recognize outstanding employers through several annual awards issued by the Department of Defense.

The Texas ESGR Committee has about 230 volunteers and full-time staff members throughout the state to build bridges in the community, Spurgin said.

Retired Maj. Gen. Eddy M. Spurgin (right), chairman of the Texas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee, and retired Maj. Gen. Jerry D. Icenhower, former chairman of the Texas ESGR Committee, visit in Austin, Texas, Aug. 28, 2012. Spurgin previously served as the commanding general of the Texas Army National Guard’s 36th Infantry Division, which is headquartered in Austin. (Photo

by Laura L. Lopez, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs)

6 The Dispatch Fall 2012

“ESGR is out there, side-by-side with these partners,” Spurgin said. “I’ll provide whatever leadership I can to continue the success of the program here in Texas.”

For more information: Internet - http://www.esgr.mil/Contact/Local-StatePages/Texas.aspx Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TXESGR Twitter - https://twitter.com/TX_ESGR

serving those who serve - prevent assault

I A.M. strong: I will not let my guard down Story by Maj. Paula Rodriguez Sexual Assault Response Coordination Officer

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 8, 2012) – Preventing sexual assault is everyone’s duty.

I am a Wingman is the Air Force’s campaign to encourage teamwork, respect, and support for fellow Airmen, as they face cultural challenges including the prevention of sexual assault.

Intervene, Act, and Motivate (I. A.M.) STRONG is the Army’s campaign to combat sexual assaults by engaging all Soldiers in preventing sexual assaults before they occur.

Members of the Texas Military Forces are duty bound to guard against sexual assaults, and sexually offensive language and/or gestures that encourage this abuse. For the average Texan, the thought of intervening in the face of domestic violence can seem daunting and complicated, but advocacy groups like SafePlace, an Austin-based organization dedicated to offering support to victims of domestic and sexual violence and to work towards prevention, offer guidelines that simplify the topic and empower citizens to make a difference.

SafePlace suggests that a big way for citizens to help prevent domestic violence is to have the attitude of the “courageous bystander.” The SafePlace blog, Community Connections, offers the following steps for being a “courageous bystander”:

• When you see someone in need of help – you do something. You ask if they need help, call 9-1-1, talk to them, and share a hotline number.

• If someone discloses abuse – you believe them.

• You don’t accept the “boys will be boys” mentality as the norm. You challenge it and challenge yourself.

• You volunteer your time, belongings or money to organizations that are dedicated to ending abuse. Doing what you can with what you have.

• You hold the person who is being abusive accountable.

And you offer them help, too.

• You are respectful in your relationships.

STAY CONNECTED TO THIS IMPORTANT EFFORT: The Department of Defense announced its new DoD Safe Helpline Mobile Application. The Mobile App is free and available for download from the Apple and Android app stores.

Department of Defense Sexual Assault Program: http://www.sapr. mil/index.php/saam The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: www.ncadv.org or call (303)839-1852.

SafePlace: www.safeplace.org or call the SafePlace 24-hour hotline at 512-267-SAFE. The National Toll-Free Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 7

serving those who serve - family

Preparing for a Deployment: A Spou Story by Jennifer Turner Family Readiness Group Leader, 698th Military Police Det.

AUSTIN, Texas (Nov. 7, 2012) ­– So you’re getting deployed, and in all of these pre-deployment briefings, they keep telling you to prepare. “Get your finances in order,” they say. “Organize your house,” they say. What does that mean, exactly?

Getting your finances in order and organizing your house are two sides of the same coin. You need to make sure you have made arrangements for all of the expenses necessary because of the deployment. You also need to arrange for the provisions given to your family because of the deployment. These two are ‘getting your finances in order.’

Organizing your home is the flip-side of this. This is the arranging for all of the services you need to keep your life in the States running smoothly during your absence.

To get your finances in order, first you need to look up how much you will make while overseas. Compare this number to your current salary. Is it the same? Is it more? Is it less? If it is the same or more, then you are in a good position to come out of this deployment as financially stable as you are now, as long as you make a plan and stick with it. If it is less, then you need to look closely at your expenses and adjust them accordingly, so this deployment doesn’t leave you in financial trouble. To make these decisions about ordering your finances and organizing your house, you need to think about these areas of your life: mortgage/rent, utilities, vehicles, children, pets, medical insurance, credit cards, and hobbies.

Mortgage/Rent While a single Soldier’s rent may reduce greatly during their deployment because they can chose to store their belongings instead of continuing to rent an apartment or house, Soldiers who own a home or are married will continue to pay for housing during the deployment. If you have a mort-

8 The Dispatch Fall 2012

gage and the interest rate is above 6%, the Serviceman’s Civil Relief Act (SCRA) requires your loan provider to reduce your rate to 6%. To receive this reduction, you should contact your mortgage company and ask what documentation they need. My experience has been that, after I send in a copy of my husband’s orders, they did everything else- including extending the reduction because of a tax law which has since expired. Be aware that the way in which your mortgage payment posts may be strange, sometimes taking over a month for them to credit your account.

Another element to consider when preparing your home for a deployment is the maintenance of your home. Who mows your yard? If you do it, you should arrange for someone to take on that responsibility. Project Evergreen is an internet based service whose purpose is to connect military families in your situation with lawn service providers willing to donate their services to military families.

Who fixes things when they break in the house? If you are your own handyman, then make sure you set aside cash to cover the expense of an unexpected breakdown. You may want to have an inspection of your essentials, like your air conditioner or heater, your fireplace, and any kitchen appliances that those still living in your home couldn’t live without until you can arrange to have them repaired or replaced.

If your home will be unoccupied during your deployment, you may want to arrange for someone to check on it daily. I know that I wouldn’t want to end up like the unfortunate Soldier in Splendora, Texas who unknowingly hosted a pair of squatters who sold his belongings in garage sales and put the rest out with the trash during his deployment to Iraq.

Utilities If your home is still occupied, your utilities (gas, electricity, water/sewer, trash service) will probably remain unchanged during the deployment, but you may want to consider restructuring your cellular, cable/ satellite, or internet services. For example, if you are the only one who watches the sports channels, you may want to cancel those channels during the deployment. Many cell phone carriers will allow you to place the Soldier’s phone number and contract on hold during a deployment. Also, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon all advertise a military discount. So while you have your carrier on the phone preparing for the deployment, ask about a military discount. It could save you 15-20% on your monthly bill.

Vehicles While your gasoline bill will decrease because you are no longer commuting to and from work, the vehicle will still need regular maintenance and should still be insured. While canceling your insurance may sound like a good idea, it can actually result in higher premiums when you return because you have had a break in coverage. Some insurance companies will offer a suspension for the duration of your deployment. If your insurance company doesn’t offer a suspension, ask about reducing coverage to the minimum state requirements while you are away or it might be time to shop around to find a company to better suit your needs. While you are on the phone with them, don’t forget to update the insurance information on any recreational vehicles you may have as well.

Children Having a parent deploy is a major life change for all children and must be planned for. Proper planning ahead of time will reduce stress and make it easier for your child(ren) to deal with

serving those who serve - family

use’s Advice to the Deploying Soldier all of the other changes. Your childcare needs will probably change with the absence of one of the primary caregivers. NACCRRA.org is a very helpful organization dedicated to improving childcare across the country. One of the branches of the nonprofit organization provides financial assistance for military families, so they can have access to first class childcare. If your children are under 12 years old and the non-deploying spouse works or goes to school full time, you may want to check out their military assistance program at http://www.naccrra.org/military-families.

Once I submitted the small packet of paperwork before my husband’s last deployment, NACCRRA and my daycare took care of the rest. My daycare filled out all the reporting paperwork to NACCRRA, all I had to do was sign. NACCRRA even paid my daycare directly so that I didn’t have to worry about anything.

There are also many programs available to support the unique needs of children of deployed Soldiers. The USO (USO.org) has a Sesame Street program that tours the country. This show is free for all military families. Sesame Street has also created an episode specifically about deployments. MilitaryOneSource (http://www.militaryonesource.mil) can provide you with one free of charge. If you have older children, there are numerous camps for military dependants. You should contact your unit’s Family Readiness Group for information on camps near you.

Pets Who normally cares for your pets? Do you walk the dog, clean the tank, or trim the nails? Like the yard, if pet care is your primary responsibility, plans should be set in place to care for animals while you are away. When considering your pet budget, make sure you consider whether you will need to board or hire a pet sitter more often because you will not be available to care for it. If you do not have a family member willing to care for your pets, there are organizations which will help you place your pet with a foster family for the duration of your deployment.

Insurance Tricare Prime is a free medical insurance provided to active duty Soldiers. In order for dependants to be eligible, they (spouse included) must be registered in Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). You will have an opportunity to update your dependants as part of the pre-mobilization process, or updates can be done at any DEERS location during their normal business hours.

Once in DEERS, dependants still must be enrolled in Tricare Prime. The enrollment forms are available on their website at www.tricare.mil.

Be aware that, while Tricare Prime will provide comprehensive coverage for little to no cost, not all doctors and

hospitals accept Tricare. It has been my experience that your normal doctor can be found pretty close to home, but specialists are harder to find. So, while I can walk to my primary care doctor from my house in about 5 minutes, I had to drive 45 minutes one way to get to the nearest obstetrician who could deliver my son in a hospital which also took Tricare. Also be aware that not all pharmacies accept Express Scripts, Tricare’s prescription coverage for both pharmacies and mail order prescriptions. Finding an acceptable pharmacy isn’t as hard as finding a specialist though: CVS, WalMart, and Target all accept Express Scripts.

Credit Cards and Loans Like your mortgage interest, credit card and loan interest can be reduced to 6% through SCRA. To receive the reduction, you will need to contact each of your loan providers to find out what documentation they require to receive the reduced rate. All of our loan providers on my husband’s last deployment wanted basically the same information; name, account number, and a copy of his activation orders.

Food Who cooks dinner? Who does the grocery shopping?

If your spouse is like me, your food bill will increase while you are deployed because without my husband to cook for me and our children, we eat out a lot. So take a moment to consider whether your spouse will spend more on food because of an increase in restaurant dining and adjust your budget accordingly.

Hobbies Do you have a gym or club membership? Do you play a league sport? Do you lease property for hunting? If you answered yes to any of these questions, or can think of another hobby for which you pay a regular fee, you may want to consider canceling or placing the membership on hold during the deployment.

As part of your pre-deployment preparations with the military, you have been organizing your bags using the packing list provided and waiting in lines to get shots and fill out paperwork. Just as having the proper supplies, vaccinations, and forms are necessary for you to have a successful military deployment, making a plan for personal services and expenses are necessary for you to have a smoothly run personal life while you are away. Consider this guide another packing list and make sure you have worked your way through it, making arrangements and filling out paperwork. If you prepare your personal life with as much diligence as you prepare your military life, your odds of a successful deployment and easy reintegration will be greatly increased.

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 9

serving those who serve - suicide prevention Stand Up to Prevent Suicide in the Texas Army National Guard Texas Military Forces Public Affairs Staff Contribution

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 7, 2012) – As the seasons change and summer becomes fall, September kicks off Suicide Prevention Month and begins a three-month Suicide Prevention Stand-Down for the Texas Army National Guard.

A stand-down campaign in October, November and December, will focus efforts on total Army family well-being, resilience, stigma reduction.

Texas Army National Guard Commander, Maj. Gen. Joyce Stevens says that every day is a day to pay attention to this important topic. “Suicide is 100 percent preventable,” she said, encouraging Soldiers, family and friends to reach out to Army leaders for support.

“As strong as we are together, there are some Soldiers who are hurting, not coping well and facing issues that may seem overwhelming,” said Stevens. “Spouses, parents and family members are often the first to notice your Soldier’s struggles; therefore, this message is intended for you. I ask you to give us a chance to assist when you see changes in your Soldier.”

While families will have the opportunity to participate in the training, the ultimate goal result is to reduce stigma, increase resource knowledge, and reduce suicidal activity within the force. The stand down training will consist of Resilience Trainer Assistant (RTA) classes, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training 10 The Dispatch Fall 2012

(ASIST), Peer-to-Peer (P2P) classes, and Ask, Care, Escort (ACE) classes. Videos and town-hall discussions will also take place over the threemonth stand down period.

“Please do not make a permanent decision, based on a temporary situation. Help keep the Texas Army National Guard Soldiers and families Texas Strong- Texas Proud,” she said.

You can access assistance at any time by contacting the following numbers: • C haplain: 1-866-822-7685, option 8 • M ilitary Crisis Line: 1-800-273TALK (8255) • B ehavioral Health Assistance: 1-512426-4880 • S uicide Prevention Office: 1-512786-1180 or 1-512-769-1090 • F amily Support Services in English: 1-800-252-8032 • F amily Support Services in Español: 1-888-443-2124

service around the world - 36th combat aviation bde

Texas aviators prepare for deployment with farewell ceremony Story and photo by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Griego 36th Combat Aviation Brigade

SAN ANTONIO, (Sept. 8, 2012) “When I have your wounded,” said Maj. Charles Kelly July 1, 1964, when instructed to return to safety from his engaged hot zone. Kelly, who founded the call sign “Dustoff,” died in combat moments after that transmission, and his words resonate today as the personal credo of the pilots and crews of the Dustoff legacy.

For the men and women of San Antonio’s C Company, 2-149th General Support Aviation Battalion, designated “Alamo Dustoff,” Kelly’s words will carry them to Afghanistan and back as they prepare to deploy in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Their farewell ceremony, conducted Sept. 8, marked the final good bye for the families and loved ones of these redoubtable soldiers.

“We wanted to show our battalion and our brigade staff,” said Maj. Angel Perez, commander for C Company, “as well as our loved ones that they’re going to be in our hearts and minds forever and we appreciate all of the support.”

“This is the big farewell for the families getting to see us out the door,” said Sgt. Jordan Garcia, a flight medic with C Company C Company is a combat-trained medical evacuation outfit, having previously deployed to Iraq in 2008, where they supported all U.S. and coalition forces in Multinational Division North in Balad and Forward Operating Base Normandy.

“We are an air ambulance company,” said Perez. “Our mission, as a medevac unit, is to operate in fourman crews at four separate possible locations.”

The 45 soldiers of C Company will join 40 additional troops from Oklahoma at Fort Hood, where the two teams will train together before moving out as a single force for Afghanistan.

The 149th GSAB is but one subordinate outfit of the Texas Army National Guard’s 36th Combat Aviation Brigade. As the singular Army aviation brigade in the Texas Guard, the combat aviation brigade is in constant demand for overseas missions.

“Right now, the brigade that we’re all a part of is right in the middle of 10 separate mobilizations,” said Col. Richard Adams, commander for the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade.

“We pushed out our Black Hawk company last August, your counterparts, Foxtrot medevac in February, our ODIN mission in June, our Apache battalion jumps out in January, the brigade joins them in February, and 449th will be followed by the Chinooks rolling out in March. This is what we do now, and we are darn good at it.”

As such, C Company leaves with the support and confidence of its parent brigade, as well as that of the

Texas Army National Guard.

“We’re getting support from our CAB,” said Garcia. “They’re showing us they know what we’re doing, they know where we’re going and they appreciate us, and we appreciate them coming out.”

For these soldiers continuing in the footsteps of Maj. Charles Kelly, their call sign “Dustoff” and dedication to their wounded comrades will never falter or waver. They will carry on the traditions of the countless medical evacuation teams before them and set a new standard for excellence in Operation Enduring Freedom.

“The heritage continues,” said Perez. “It is time for us to make our mark and join the game in Afghanistan.”

The families and loved ones of C Company, 2-149th General Support Aviation Battalion bid farewell to their soldiers with a ceremony and Yellow Ribbon event at the Rio Cibolo Ranch in San Antonio, Sept. 8, 2012. The "Alamo Dustoff" outfit, augmented by Oklahoma Army aviators, will provide medical evacuation services in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 11

service at home - airborne operations Texas soldiers conduct airborne ops in central Tx Story and photo by Sgt. Jeremy Spires 36th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

AUSTIN, Texas (Sept. 8, 2012) – For some National Guard soldiers, drill weekend can get pretty routine, especially with what feels like endless training classes and volumes of administrative paperwork to be completed.

This isn’t the case for service members of C Company, 1/19th and 5/19th Special Forces Group, 71st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, the 147th Air Support Operations Squadron and the 249th Quartermasters Company; during their annual deliberate water airborne jump into the Walter E. Long Lake.

“Historically we do one deliberate water jump a year,” said Maj. Max Krupp, Commander of the 1/19th SFG(A). “As part of the training for a Special Forces soldier, we are required to maintain airborne proficiency as an infiltration platform.”

Prior to a jump, Special Forces Groups train for hours, conducting multiple drills and planning sessions. In an unseasonably windy day, which created choppy waters, the jumpers took extra precautions.

“When you do jump over ground you

12 The Dispatch Fall 2012

have to look at all your obstacles: water, fences and high-tension wires,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Rolando C. Garza, the senior enlisted noncommissioned officer for the C Company 1/19 SFG (A). “Of course since water is part of it, we do a deliberate jump so we know how to control the canopy, the B-7 “floaters” and, of course, how to be comfortable in the water.”

Last year the units were able to do a similar jump into the Gulf of Mexico, outside of Corpus Christi, Texas. This year they decided to bring it closer to home, which afforded them a unique opportunity to help build upon a close friendship with various community organizations.

“This was a combine operation with a lot of our state partners thru the friendships that have been developed over a long time,” said Krupp. “We also work with local law enforcement, and for this operation we worked extensively with the Texas Department of Public Safety, especially the S.W.A.T. and Texas Rangers.”

With an operation of this size, many factors must be looked at. From coordinating the air space down to the safety of every jumper, no stone can be left un-

turned.

“To make it safe, we are trying to get one boat (Zodiacs) per jumper,” said Garza. “Since the (Texas Military Forces) cannot sustain that, so we go out and ask the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Rangers to assist us in the training.”

As the day progressed the jumpers returned to shore soaking wet and in high spirits. Many are already talking about their next jump, both over land and again into the water.

“This was a great opportunity for us,” said Krupp. “We are very appreciative of the climate within the Texas Army National Guard that afforded us to do this type of training that other people never get the opportunity to even attempt to do.” ""Texas National Guard Soldiers who are airborne qualified or those who are interested in accepting the challenge of becoming a Paratrooper in the most elite Battalion in the National Guard, they should contact the Battalion S-1 at 512782-6757 or via email: airborne143infantry@ng.army.mil.

Soldiers from several units of the Texas Army National Guard conduct deliberate water airborne jump at Walter E. Long Lake, near Austin, Texas.

international partnerships

Chilean Air Force trains with Texas Air Guard Story by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain 149th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO - LACKLAND, Texas (Nov. 4, 2012) – About 50 members of the Chilean Air Force participated in a training exercise with the Texas Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing here, Oct. 24-26, 2012, as part of the National Guard’s State Partnership Program.

The three-day exercise teamed aviators and aircraft maintenance crews from each organization, said Maj. Bryan Carlson, an instructor pilot with the 149th Fighter Wing. The training was designed to enhance the Chilean service members’ expertise in deploying the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a multirole fighter aircraft, overseas during combat operations.

“Training fighter pilots for aerial combat is not new for the 149th,” said Maj. Carlson.

The primary mission of the 149th Fighter Wing, known as the Lone Star Gunfighters, is to train U.S. active duty military, National Guard and reservists to fly the F-16.

The unit has held its current training mission for nearly 20 years, and was previously a combat deployable fighter unit.

The Chilean Air Force deployed three F-16s and one KC-135 Stratotanker, an aerial refueling military aircraft, to JBSA-Lackland, Texas, for the joint training exercise, said Chilean Col. Leonardo Romanini, air attaché to the United States. This is the first time the Chilean Air Force deployed their F-16s abroad.

“The opportunity to share experiences, and get some

training with pilots who have a lot of experience with the airplane is really, really good,” said Col. Romanini.

The training consisted of air combat, air-to-air and opposed surfaced attack scenarios.

The operation was conducted as part of the National Guard’s State Partnership Program (SPP), which was established in 1991 to build cooperative relationships with nations emerging from the former Soviet Bloc, according to programmatic documents. Since that time, the program has expanded to include 65 global partnerships.

The Chile-Texas partnership was formally established in 2009, Carlson said. In addition to Chile, the state of Texas has been paired with the Czech Republic.

“This partnership offers opportunities for high-level exchanges and cooperation on civic-military activities,” said Col. John F. Kane, commander of the 149th Fighter Wing.

“This visit builds on the foundation of the ongoing, professional relationship developed between the Chilean Air Force and the Texas Air National Guard,” Kane said.

“This relationship will facilitate the continued sharing of information and exchange of ideas long after the visit is over.”

For more on the National Guard’s State Partnership Program: http://www.nationalguard.mil/features/spp/ default.aspx

Left- F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft from the 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard and 3rd Aviation Group, Chilean Air Force fly together during a joint training exercise at Lackland Air Force Base, Joint Base San Antonio, Oct. 24, 2012. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Agustin Salazar, 149th Fighter Wing Public Affairs) Right- Lt. Col. Jorge Vargas, Commander, 3rd Aviation Group, Chilean Air Force accepts a 182nd Fighter Squadron lithograph from Col. John Kane, Commander, 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard at the conclusion of a joint training exercise at Lackland Air Force Base, Joint Base San Antonio, October 26, 2012. (Photo by Master Sgt. Bill Conner, 149th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 13

we remember - oklahoma city bombing Oklahoma City Memorial enlightens, educates TX Guardsmen Story and photo by Capt. Adam Musil Joint Task Force 71 Public Affairs

OKLAHOMA CITY (Aug. 18, 2012) – Under a dark and swollen early morning sky, leaders of Joint Task Force 71, Texas Army National Guard, walked the grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum as part of a two-day staff ride designed to offer valuable insight into the tactics, techniques and procedures employed by the first responders of the time.

With its reflecting pools, fresh cut grass, and straight, cleanlined structures, the memorial was designed to be a place of peace and reflection. Yet, for the men and women of JTF-71, it also stood as a powerful and sobering reminder of the current threat of domestic terrorism.

"A staff ride is designed to bring to life historic encounters at the same place and terrain where an incident took place," said Col. Lee Schnell, commander for JTF-71. "Visiting the Oklahoma City bombing site provides our service members and leaders with the unique opportunity to learn from this terrible attack and think about how our homeland response force would react if a situation like this happens again."

Responding to attacks and incidents is nothing new to the members of this Texas National Guard force, many of whom are

head," Downs said. "I went unconscious and when I came to I was on the first floor of the building and trapped under rubble.

I started to yell like a child until the firefighters found me. Their way of reassuring me was to say they would 'try to get me out'. I told them afterwards next time they need to lie better."

What the firefighters lacked in bedside manner, Downs said they made up for in professionalism. After her rescue, Downs visited the firefighters with a plate full of cookies.

"I feel so blessed to be alive today," Downs said. “From this experience I have learned that it's not what happens to us, but how we respond to it. You only have one life and you have to live it."

As service members toured the facility, many were visibly unnerved by the museum, some having to step away and collect themselves. Capt. Mitch Fuller, a resident of Oklahoma City at the time of the bombing, was directly affected by the attack.

"I was born in Oklahoma City," said Fuller, "in a hospital a few blocks from ground zero and have lived most of my life in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. I was 50 miles away from ground zero on April 19, 1995. I know two survivors and served in the Army Reserves with one of them. I am glad to be part of a

veterans of the wars in Iraqi and Afghanistan. However, responding to a domestic attack presents a different set of challenges.

When an incident occurs stateside, the Texas National Guard homeland response force is just one of many resources that may be called to the scene. Other agencies on the scene include the police forces and fire departments, both of which responded to the attack in Oklahoma City. One of those men was Mike Shannon, who at the time of the attack, served as the special operations chief of the Oklahoma City Fire department. Shannon met with the service members and discussed some of the challenges he faced during the disaster.

"You'll never know what to expect when you arrive on the scene," Shannon said. "The best you can do is remember your training, be flexible, be logical, and be practical."

Amy Downs was one of the many victims who benefited from Mr. Shannon's steady hand and solid leadership that day. Amy worked at a credit union on the third floor of a building adjacent to the blast site.

"After the explosion it felt like I was shot in the back of the

team that has the ability to directly respond to an event such as the Oklahoma City bombing."

In the 17 years since the Oklahoma City bombing Congress has established the Department of Homeland Security, in large part due to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and has established 10 National Guard-sourced homeland response forces. These units are regionally located and focus on biological, radiological, nuclear, and high explosive consequence response forces. In short, these units are designed to respond tactically and efficiently in the event of another domestic terror event. For Schnell, he believes with proper training and education his team will be up to the challenge.

“I know this staff ride has affected a lot of our service members and I hope they take what they have learned this weekend and share with their subordinates and leadership,” Schnell said.

Much like the minutemen from whom we take our name, our team must always be prepared and have our go bags ready and respond at a moment’s notice.”

14 The Dispatch Fall 2012

spotlight - Staff Sgt. Rogers

Perry honors Texas Guardsman for combat valor Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain Texas Military Forces Public Affairs

AUSTIN, Texas (Nov. 1, 2012) – Texas Gov. Rick Perry presented a Texas National Guardsman with the Purple Heart, the Air Medal with “V” Device for acts of heroism and the Combat Medical Badge during a ceremony at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, Nov. 1, 2012. Perry, commander-in-chief of the Texas National Guard, honored the service member's sacrifice, as well as the numerous Texans and Americans who have served during the past decade.

“The young men and women of this generation have been asked to perform on battlefields in Iraq, and Afghanistan, standing up against the forces of terror at home and abroad,” Perry said. “Without their willingness to give their all, if required, America would be nothing but a sad footnote in history, a place that held great promise, once upon a time.”

Staff Sgt. Patrick D. Rogers, Jr., of Galveston, Texas, a flight medic assigned to the Texas Army National Guard’s Austin-based 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, received the citations from Perry, on behalf of the U.S. Army, for his actions this past June and July while he was assigned to the U.S. Army’s Task Force Wolfpack, a subcomponent of the 4th Platoon at Forward Operating Base Salerno in the province of Khowst, in southeastern Afghanistan, which is near the country’s border with Pakistan.

“Today, we are honoring a particularly brave individual,” Perry said. “Staff Sgt. Patrick Rogers not only served his country in Iraq and Afghanistan, he also served as medic, which means he didn’t really get involved until

things had gone really bad.”

After sustaining injuries during an attack that damaged FOB Salerno’s dining facility in June, Rogers is credited with rescuing several soldiers and a local national from the building and then setting up a triage station to evaluate and initiate treatment for additional injured personnel.

It wasn’t until he was ordered to stop tending to the wounded that he finally relented and allowed other medics to take care of his own injuries,” said Perry.

Then, in July, Rogers was involved in an aerial rescue operation near FOB Salerno while being exposed to gunfire from enemy combatants, according to Capt. Joshua C. Aronson, the aeromedical evacuation officer for Task Force Wolfpack, who wrote the recommendation for Rogers to receive the Air Medal with “V” Device.

Rogers was lowered by a hoist and a steel cable from inside a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and helped with the extraction of two soldiers from a narrow ledge on a mountainside.

For his actions under fire, Rogers was also presented the Combat Medical Badge, which is conferred upon military medical personnel that face combat conditions. The badge was first awarded to American combat medics during World War II. Perry said he was humbled and privileged to present Rogers with the awards.

The feeling between the Governor and the Citizen-Soldier appeared to be mutual.

“It was definitely an honor,” Rogers said of receiving his awards from the state's chief executive, “this is something I will never forget.”

Rogers said he has to undergo further physical therapy and treatments for his combat injuries, but that he will soon head back to Galveston to continue life, go back to work and raise his children.

“Everything after combat is great,” Rogers said. “Everything else is easy."

Texas Gov. Rick Perry finishes placing the Purple Heart onto the uniform of Staff Sgt. Patrick D. Rogers, Jr., a flight medic and member of the Texas Army National Guard, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, Nov. 1, 2012. Perry is the commander-in-chief of the Texas Military Forces, which includes the Texas Army National Guard. Rogers received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained in Afghanistan.

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 15

spotlight - Maj. Gen. Joyce Stevens

Texas names first woman as two-star, honors contributions Story by Laura Lopez Texas Military Forces Public Affairs

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Sept. 5, 2012) – The Texas Military Forces made history on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012 as Commander of the Texas Army National Guard and Assistant Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Joyce L. Stevens became the first female two star general in the state.

which entailed the management and security of Bagram Air Field (the largest U.S. Base in Afghanistan).

Additionally, Stevens was responsible for security and reconstruction projects in the adjacent Kapisa, Parwan, and Panjshir Provinces of Afghanistan.

In a country-western themed promotion ceremony held at the Texas Military Forces Museum in Austin, Texas, the event featured a performance by its own Chief Warrant Officer 3 Darby Ledbetter. Assuming her dual roles of Commander for the Texas Army National Guard and Assistant Adjutant General in March 2009, she serves as the principal advisor to The Adjutant General for all Army operations.

“This organization is a reflection of you,” Stevens said while reflecting on her career and many milestones. “It (TXARNG) is who it is because of the people who serve in it and you have made it great.”

“It’s noteworthy that people from all walks of life can make it in our National Guard and it’s a testament to those who went before and Stryker for supporting her to keep her in the game,” said Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, Texas Adjutant General. “It took a while and was an endurance test. Congratulations.”

Stevens began her military career in April 1979, and has held various command and staff positions within the 49th Armored Division, the 71st Troop Command, 536 Forward Support Battalion and the 111th Area Support Group. Most recently, she served as the Deputy Commanding General of the 36th Infantry Division (Light). She deployed to combat as a Brigade level Task Force Commander in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan in 2005, where her unit was responsible for Base Operations,

With more than 19,500 Soldiers, she is proud to serve and lead the nation’s largest and most premier force of men and women that are respected by the citizens of Texas and combatant commanders. An honor not earned alone Stevens praised the organization, as well as the younger Soldiers and officers.

“I say you are brilliant. You have served more, juggled civilian jobs and full time unit support jobs; you and your families have sacrificed because you have deployed multiple times,” she said. You are going to continue to enrich the culture and make this organization even better than it is today.”

In addition to her promotion, Stevens was most recently recognized as a recipient of the 2012 Outstanding Women in Texas Government (OWTG) by the Texas State Agency Council for her contributions in outstanding management. One of four recipients, the awards luncheon honors women who have helped shape Texas by contributing their talents and skills to state service further emphasizing a motto Stevens lives by.

“If they work for you, you work for them,” said Stevens.

The State Agency Council created the OWTG awards in 1984 to recognize the accomplishments of women whose considerable contributions to the state might otherwise go unacknowledged.

Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, Texas Adjutant General, administers the oath of promotion to Maj. Gen. Joyce L. Stevens as her husband, retired Col. Jim Stryker looks on. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs)

spotlight - hispanic heritage month

Top left- Brig. Gen. Orlando Salinas celebrates during the 2012 Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on Oct. 11, on Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Capt. Angela Gil, Texas Army National Guard) Top right- Maj. Gen. Manuel “Tony” Rodriguez, commander of the Texas State Guard, addresses members of the Texas Military Forces and other friends during the 2012 Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs)

spotlight - Staff Sgt. Corbin Airman pulls woman from burning car, recognized as hero Story and photo by Airman 1st Class Alicia Lacy 147th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs

to visit his family in Ohio, and after the ordeal, he returned to his car Months after Texas Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Mitchell Corbin and continued to the airport. For a few days following the accident, rescued Nancy Decker from her burning car on the Sam Houston the identity of the “guardian angel” who saved Decker was unknown.

Tollway, the 147th Reconnaissance Wing and the state recognized his Decker addressed the airmen at the ceremony, giving thanks to heroic actions.

During a commander’s call ceremony on Oct. 14 at Ellington Field them for their service and training and praising Corbin for his heart that allowed him to stop and save her life.

Joint Reserve Base here, Col. Jack B. Daniel, wing commander, ComDecker said she respects and thanks the troops for their service mand Chief Marlon K. Nation, wing command chief, and Brig. Gen. and training, but it took a special heart to step in and apply that trainKenneth W. Wisian, Texas ANG assistant adjutant general, presented ing to save her life. the aerospace ground equipment technician with the Lone Star Members of Decker’s family also attended the ceremony.

Medal of Honor and a proclamation from Houston Mayor Annise D. Charles Decker, Decker’s husband, Parker proclaiming Oct. 14, 2012 Staff said described his reaction as hysteria Sgt. Mitchell Corbin Day in the presence when he learned of his wife’s accident. of Decker and her family and members But now, Charles, who said he took of the wing. The wing also honored for things for granted, now cherishes all the her support of the wing with a Texas flag moments in his life. that was flown in an MQ-1 Predator on “Because of Mitchell, I’m able to a mission and a certificate. be here today,” she said. “I really, truly On June 1, the aerospace ground believe he was a guardian angel and it equipment technician was travelling on took that particular angel to get me out the toll way when he spotted Decker’s of the car.” overturned car with flames emerging from the engine compartment.

Corbin said he was grateful for the acknowledgment and hopes it will in“I think when we pulled up, I took spire someone else to intervene when a a deep breath and didn’t see anybody situation arises that can potentially save else doing anything,” so Corbin stepped another life. in, evaluated the situation, and pulled “I hope that this moment right here Decker to safety moments before the is not just for the recognition I get but to car was completely engulfed in flames. Brig. Gen. Kenneth Wisian, Commander, Texas Air National Guard, presents The Lone Star inspire somebody else to help,” he said.

Corbin was on his way to the airport Medal of Valor to Staff Sgt. Mitchell Corbin.

Fall 2012 The Dispatch 17

spotlight - around the Texas Military Forces TXANG officer becomes active duty advisor at Lackland Story by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain Texas Military Forces Public Affairs

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 7, 2012) – Earlier this year, Col. Constance C. McNabb, a member of the Texas Air National Guard and former Director/ Chief of the Texas Military Forces' Joint Staff at Camp Mabry, in Austin, became the interim Air National Guard Advisor to the U.S. Air Force ISR Agency as well as the agency's ANG Assistant to the AFISRA/Surgeon at Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland, Texas.

The Air Force ISR Agency is responsible for delivering intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) services. The mission of the agency "is to deliver decisive advantage by providing and operating integrated, cross-domain ISR capabilities in concert with service, joint, national and international partners."

She is now part of a cadre of Texas Guard leaders to have held a principle advisory role to active duty organizations representing the National Guard. For example, Brig. Gen. Brian C. Newby, the Texas Air Guard's Chief of Staff, served in similar roles for the Secretary of the Air Force's Inspector General and Headquarters U.S. Air Force Operations and International Law Division.

Col. Constance C. McNabb (Courtesy photo)

In addition to having been the Chief of the Joint Staff, McNabb brings a broad base of expertise to her position, including prior service as the TXMF's Joint Surgeon and as the medical group commander for the Texas Air National Guard's 149th Medical Group at Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland, where she led the Texas Air Guard's medical response to Hurricane's Katrina and Rita.

New star shining in 36th Infantry Divison Story by Capt. Adam Musil 36th Infantry Division Public Affairs

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Oct. 20, 2012) – On Saturday Oct. 20, Austin resident Samuel “Lee” Henry was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in the 36th Infantry Division, Texas Army National Guard.

Brig. Gen. Henry will serve as the Assistant Division CommanderManeuver for the 36th Inf. Div. and its 14,000 Soldiers.

“I have been blessed with this opportunity and look forward to continuing my service to the nation and the great state of Texas,” Henry said. “The Soldiers of the 36th Inf. Div. have always been ready, willing, and able to answer their nation’s call and I am excited to help lead this historic unit into the future.” .

Henry is no stranger to the 36th Inf. Div. having served in numerous Army Col. Samuel "Lee" Henry is promoted to the key positions, most notably, as commander of the 56th Infantry Brirank of brigadier general during a ceremony at Camp gade Combat Team, which provided Base Defense Operations at VicMabry, in Austin, Texas, Oct. 20, 2012. Henry is the tory Complex in Baghdad from January to August 2009 in support of Assistant Deputy Commander (Maneuver) of the Texas Army National Guard's 36th Infantry Division, Operation Iraqi Freedom. which is headquartered at Camp Mabry, and has his Henry is the son of Emma Lee Higdon, and the late Colonel Frank new rank insignias placed on his shoulders by his L. “Nink” Henry and is married to Tricia Henry and they have three mother, Emma Lee Henry, and by his wife, Patricia, children; oldest son Brandonn of Granbury, Texas, son Greyson and while Maj. Gen. James K. "Red" Brown, commanddaughter Meghan, both reside in Austin, Texas. ing general of the 36th Infantry Division, looks on.

Henry received his U.S. Army commission in May 1983 from the (Photo by Staff Sgt. Phil Fountain, Texas Military Forces Public Affairs) ROTC program at Texas A&M University.

18 The Dispatch Fall 2012

Close Assault: 94 Sat & sun

SHOWTIMES: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Rain or Shine

FREE ADMISSION FREE PARKING Watch a recreation of an attack on a German strong-point See a Sherman Tank and M3 Halftrack in action Learn about uniforms and equipment Discover the realities of the front lines of WWII Tour the Texas Military Forces Museum Blank weapons firing demonstrations of some of the most famous small arms of World War II See dozens of tanks, jeeps and armored fighting vehicles from throughout U.S. history Concessions and souvenirs available

Enter via 35th Street.

Photo ID required for admission to post.

Camp MabryAUSTIN, TX WWW.TEXASMILITARYFORCESMUSEUM.ORG

serving those who serve - joint family services Beyond the yellow ribbon: Family support services connects TX guardsmen, services Story and photo by Laura Lopez Texas Military Forces Public Affairs

CAMP MABRY, Texas (Nov. 11, 2012) - November 1st marks courses, soldiers learn how to recognize signs of distress in the start of a month-long proclamation declaring Novemtheir fellow Battle Buddies and Wingmen and how to get ber as Military Family Month. With more than 31,000 men help when needed. Essentially enabling qualified service and women in the Texas Military Forces (TXMF) answering members to be peer interventionists at the unit level to the call to serve the nation in support of the Global War on identify, intervene and initiate referral management the ulTerror, members with Family Support Services (FSS) remain timate goal is to ensure both their personal and extended diligent in providing top-notch care and support services to military family is there for support. service members and their families.

“This program is focused on preventing our soldiers “Without strong families who stand by their service and families from getting so stressed that they consider member, a successful National Guard cannot exist,” said taking drastic measures to deal with their stress and is Lt. Col. Alba Villanueva, Family Support Services Branch one that is driven year round,” said Capt. Carina Robinson, Manager. “With the ever-changing face and duties of the Texas Military Forces Family Support Services Resilience National Guard, it’s important to help National Guard fami- Coordinator. “After all, we are Texans defending Texas.” lies achieve readiness for what’s ahead while remaining Other fiscal year 2012 highlights include the Job Conflexible in the present.” nection Education Program’s 1000th hire, several youth An umbrella organization consisting of youth and famprogram camps, multiple family outreach events and a ily programs, Strong Bonds workshops, Transition AssisSuicide Prevention 5K run. tance Advisors, Resilience and Mental Health programs, as For more information, about Family Support Services well as family readiness, the Texas Military Forces Family or a list of upcoming events visit http://www.txfss.us or Support Services reports assisting more than 185,000 cuscall 1-800-252-8032. tomers in fiscal year 2012.

“Throughout fiscal year 2012 our Yellow Ribbon program, which aims to help Reserve and National Guard members reintegrate with their families, communities and civilian employers following a deployment, reached nearly 6,300 people over the course of 40 events,” said Villanueva.

A congressionally mandated program, established in 2008, the Yellow Ribbon Program focuses on preparing service member and their families for mobilization, sustaining families during deployment and reintegrating service members and their families following one’s return from a deployment. Phases commencing a minimum of 60 days before the Soldier leaves and continuing throughout and for a minimum of 60 days post deployment, Yellow Ribbon topics include legal readiness, family stressors, communication, suicide prevention, substance abuse and job fairs.

“We want to stress that whether it be a first deployment or sixth for our service members, new information and resources are identified every year,” said Villanueva stressing those Soldiers with multiple deployments have an added value to the families and other Soldiers by sharing their knowledge and lessons learned.

On Friday, Aug. 3, 2012, friends and family members of the SolIn addition, the Family Support Services resilience diers from the 136th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade say goodteam members strive to assist units, Soldiers, and bye, with hugs and kisses, at Hendrickson High School in PflugerFamilies by providing programs, services and resources ville, Texas as the approximately 200 Soldiers prepare to leave that address critical psychological and emotional needs. on a deployment to Afghanistan. The brigade, headquartered in Through Peer-to-Peer (P2P) training and other advanced Round Rock, Texas will provide U.S. installations force protection, emergency services and support operations.

20 The Dispatch Fall 2012

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www.flickr.com/photos/texasmilitaryforces Fall 2012 The Dispatch 19

Maj. Gen. John F. Nichols, Texas Adjutant General, cordially invites you to the Camp Mabry Christmas tree lighting ceremony. ď‚?

December 6, 2012, at 3 p.m.

Building 8.