North Carolina National Guard Welcomes Malawi as Their New State Partner
Lt. Col. Ellis Parks
Leaders from various organizations across North Carolina, including the governor’s office, the Department of Public Safety, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, N.C. State University, and the North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) joined members from the U.S. Army Africa Command, the Republics of Botswana, Malawi, and Zambia to witness the signing of a National Guard State Partnership Program Letter of Intent between the NCNG and the Republic of Malawi, in Lilongwe, Malawi, April27,2024.
This historic day was marked by speeches given by the Chief of Staff for North Carolina’s Governor’s Office Kristi Jones, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, The Adjutant General of North Carolina, Malawi-
Defence Force Commander General Paul Valentino Phiri, Malawi Minister of Defence Honourable Harry Mkandawire, and the final address by the President of the Republic of MalawiHisExcellencyDr.LazarusMcCarthy Chakwera.
The North Carolina National Guard put on full display the strength of the State Partnership Program in Southern Africa this week at the signing ceremony for Zambia and Malawi,” said National Guard Bureau Director of Strategy, Plans and International Affairs, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Darrin Slaten.
Jones and Hunt, joined Mkandawire and Malawi Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo as representatives to sign the SPP Letter of Intent. The SPP is a vital mechanism for fostering cooperation and building enduring relationships between states, both domesticallyandinternationally.
These programs typically involve the pairing of a U.S. state's National Guard with the military forces of a partner nation. Through joint training exercises, exchanges of personnel, and collaborative initiatives, state partnership programs facilitate the sharing of knowledge,expertise,andresources.
Photos by 2nd Lt. Bridget Pittman-Blackwell
“It was great to see this relationship start strong, the North Carolina National Guard flew a C-17 to the ceremony loaded with North Carolina State Senior leaders from Governor Roy Cooper's cabinet,” said Slaten. “This multilateral relationship is well on its way to supporting security in the region.”
The Republic of Malawi will be North Carolina’s third state partner in the local region, with the Republic of Zambia signing their letter of intent one day prior. The N.C. team chosen to attend the ceremony in Malawi did so with the intent of ensuring the right people were there to assess the possibilities of the new partnership, properly discuss the two groups’ needs and capabilities, and begin to look at solutions and resolutions for the future. One of the individuals attending the ceremony was the Associate Dean for NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dr. Richard Bonanno.
“Our objective is to work with our partner states to help develop an inclusive, extension and academic network into a system that incentivizes and facilitates the process of creating solutions and innovations through research that is based on local need,” said Bonanno. “Moving the research findings...to serve all aspects of the agricultural sector and value chain.”
The Republic of Malawi is a country teaming with both people and resources. As you ride through the city of Lilongwe, it is almost impossible to miss the dark rich soil, waiting to be cultivated.
“You can see how amazing the resources here are by just looking at how rich the soil is,” said U.S. Army Col. Mike Marciniack, the NCNG’s J5 strategic plans officer. “If worked correctly, the possibility for agricultural growth here is limitless.”
Marciniack, born and raised in Pembroke, North Carolina has firsthand knowledge of the power of self-sustaining farming. Pembroke, known as a farming town, grows everything from livestock to produce. Marciniack hopes that North Carolina’s new state partner, Malawi, taps into North Carolina’s long farming history.
The significance of the signing was captured by Chakwera, along with his staff, welcoming the team from North Carolina, allowing them to see parts of their astounding country and experience the vibrance of their culture.
“I express my deepest gratitude to the government of the United States of America in general for sustaining this relationship,” said Chakwera, “and the governor of North Carolina, Governor Cooper, in particular for extending to us this partnership.”
Ourobjectiveisto workwithour partnerstatesto helpdevelopan inclusive, extensionand academicnetwork intoasystemthat incentivizesand facilitatesthe processofcreating solutionsand innovations throughresearch thatisbasedon localneed.
Dr. Richard Bonanno Associate Dean College of Agriculture and Life Sciences North Carolina State University
Mrs. Kristi Jones, Chief of Staff for the North Carolina governor’s office (left) joins Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the Adjutant General of North Carolina, Gen. Paul Valentino Phiri, Malawi Defence Force Commander, and Ms. Nancy Tembo, Malawi Minister of Foreign Affairs for a state partnership program signing ceremony in Lilongwe, Malawi.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the Adjutant General of North Carolina (center) joins Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, Mrs. Kristi Jones, Chief of Staff for the North Carolina governor’s office, Gen. Paul Valentino Phiri, Malawi Defence Force Commander, and Ms. Nancy Tembo, Malawi Minister of Foreign Affairs for a state partnership program signing ceremony in Lilongwe, Malawi. The signing ceremony was held to commemorate the new partnership between North Carolina and the Republic of Malawi. The State Partnership Program is a vital mechanism for fostering cooperation and building enduring relationships between states, both domestically and internationally.
North Carolina National Guard Welcomes New Zambian Partnership
What would make a member from the Governor’s Office of North Carolina, several members from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS), and a host of members from the North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) pack their bags, board a plane or two, and travel more than 18 hours, over 7,000 miles to the Republic of Zambia? What exercise or operation is so important that all three components of the U.S. Army, National Guard Bureau, and the North Carolina Army and Air National Guard would be called up to take part in this country of 20 million people? If the agriculture group is going, it must have something to do with farming, right? But if the military is involved, it must have something to do with conflict. Or is North Carolina and the NCNG setting the framework to be one of the most impactful and instrumental state partners on the African continent?
The Chief of Staff for the governor’s office Kristi Jones, and 19 members from the NCNG joined NCDA&CS Chief of Staff Zane Hedgecock, Peter A. Thornton, the department’s director of marketing, and Associate Dean for North Carolina State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Dr. Richard Bonanno on April 22. The team boarded their Delta flight en route to take part in a ceremony that held the potential to be one of the most significant international endeavors that North Carolina has been part of in years, and possibly ever.
After the long flight, the team touched down in Johannesburg and then made their way to the Republic of Zambia. There the team joined the Chargé D’affair for the United States Embassy, Republic of Zambia, Linnisa Wahid, the Secretary for the N.C. Department of Public Safety Eddie Buffaloe, Deputy Commander, U.S. Army Africa Command Army Lt. Gen. John Brennan, and Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the Adjutant General of North Carolina.
After a day of getting acclimated to the change in time, season, and weather, this determined ensemble of leaders met with various members of the Republic of Zambia’s Army, Air Force, Ministry of Defense, and Ministry of Agriculture. The aim was to discuss various paths forward and ways in which both the Nation and the state could best help each other, and with these conversations, the State Partnership Program between the Republic of Zambia and North Carolina began.
Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, The Adjutant General of North Carolina, joins Kristi Jones, Chief of Staff for the North Carolina governor’s office; the Honorable Ambrose Lwizhi Lufuma, member of Parliament, minister of defence, Republic of Zambia; and Honorable Jack Mwiimbu, SC, member of Parliament, minister of home affairs and internal security for a State Partnership Program signing ceremony in Livingstone, Zambia
Lt. Col. Ellis Parks
Photos by 2nd Lt. Bridget Pittman-Blackwell
artnership between us (NCNG and Zambia),” said Hunt. “We have been working together for years already.”
Daily, the two groups were allotted time to discuss the needs of the Zambian people and ways that the state government and the NCNG could assist. Simultaneously, the Zambian leaders shared with the N.C. team their best practices and lessons they have learned over the years. With more than 75% of the Zambian population working in agriculture and North Carolina being one of the biggest agriculture states, both vocationally and through the university systems, this amazing country and North Carolina’s partnership seemed almost destined.
North Carolina continues to lead the U.S. in tobacco and potato production, which are Zambia’s main exports, showing a simple example of how closely knit the partners are.
“We are more than excited to have Zambia as our state partners,” said Buffaloe. “This opportunity opens doors for both groups to share our cultures, our knowledge of the world, our military capabilities, and to improve upon our democratic ways of life.”
The partnership could not have come at a better time, as Zambia is experiencing the worst drought in over 40 years. The country has massive bodies of water throughout it, and it shares Victoria Falls, the largest set of waterfalls in the world, with Zimbabwe. Currently, the Zambian people lack the resources to access and use the water from these waterways to properly irrigate their farmland.
“The State Partnership Program between my country and North Carolina is one that I hope helps with ensuring food security for our people,” said Permanent Secretary for Zambia’s Ministry of Defence, Norman Chipakupaku. “We must learn to use our natural resources to help with our food insecurities. We feel if we work with North Carolina and Malawi, we can learn to use our water and land to be the food basket for all of South Africa.”
The culminating event happened when Jones, Hunt joined the Republic of Zambia’s MP Minister of Defence the Honorable Ambrose Lwizhi Lufuma, SC MP Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security the Honorable Jack Mwiimbu, approximately 250 guests, and about 30 members of the press came together for the State Partnership Program Letter of Intent Signing Ceremony on April 26, 2024. The ceremony took less than two hours but the intent behind it will last, what many hope, is a lifetime.
“We need the building of the relationships between North Carolina, Zambia, and Malawi to be a historical one,” said Chipakupaku.
Thisopportunity opensdoorsfor bothgroupsto shareour cultures,our knowledgeof theworld,our military capabilities, andtoimprove uponour democratic waysoflife.
Secretary Eddie M. Buffaloe DepartmentofPublicSafety
The North Carolina National Guard joined various Zambian government officials for a cultural event held at
the Zambian Air Force Base in Livingstone, Zambia
North Carolina National Guard leaders join fellow U.S. Military and Zambian leaders at a State Partnership Program Signing Ceremony, Livingstone, Zambia. The leaders were invited to the ceremony as part of the NCNG’s expansion joining the Republic of Zambia in their State Partnership Program, a National Guard Bureau initiative joining individual state National Guards and host nations as part of U.S. security cooperation and international civil-military affairs.
Sgt. Vasquez with the 514th Military Police Company after completing his first Norwegian Foot March alongside his fellow Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines demonstrating the physical and mental strength that is the backbone of the Army on Laughlin Air Force base.
Photo by Spc. Wesley Riley
A Closer Look at
NC Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team
Cpl. Nigel Hatcher
North Carolina National Guard Aviators join first responders from several local and state agencies for North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART) training at Weldon, North Carolina. NCHART is a highly specialized team consisting of North Carolina National Guard and North Carolina State Highway Patrol air assets matched with North Carolina Emergency Management and local emergency services personnel that form a missionreadypackageforhelicopter-basedrescues.
Soldiers from the North Carolina National Guard evaluate simulated casualties at their Combat Lifesaver course (CLS) in Asheboro, North Carolina. The 40-hour CLS course includes responding under fire, using tourniquets, managing blood loss, and other emergency procedures for use during deployments.
Photo by Sgt. Hugo Gonzalez
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The North Carolina Air National Guard Base at Charlotte Douglas International Airport buzzed with activity as it hosted Exercise VISTA FORGE 24. The exercise brought together emergency responders from the North Carolina National Guard, the North Carolina Air National Guard, and Mecklenburg County. The primary goal was to maximize interagency cross-training and foster robust relationships between local and state emergency service agencies.
The event saw a C-17 Globemaster III loaded with simulated casualties, a crucial aspect of the exercise designed to simulate real-world emergency scenarios.
Participants worked together seamlessly to handle the logistics and medical care required in such highstakes situations.
ExerciseVISTAFORGE24successfully demonstrated the importance of interagency cooperation. By working together in simulated emergency scenarios, these agencies have strengthened their relationships and enhancedtheirpreparednessforreal-life crises. The exercise underscored the commitment of North Carolina's emergency responders to protect and servetheircommunitieswiththehighest levelofproficiencyandcoordination.
(the conversation continues)
A collective of emergency responders from the North Carolina National Guard, North Carolina Air National Guard and Mecklenburg County emergency responders loaded the back of a C-17 Globemaster III full of simulated casualties.
On a seemingly ordinary Saturday evening, Staff Sgt. Joshua Mullins of the North Carolina Army National Guard, and his team of Paratroopers found themselves thrust into a life-saving missionatalocalrestaurant.
As recounted by Mullins, the evening took a dramatic turn when one of his fellow soldiers discovered an unresponsiveindividualintherestroom.
Without hesitation, Mullins leaped into action, employing the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) toassessandaddressthesituation.
"I ripped the bathroom stall door open," recalls Mullins, "and then I went to grab him." With the precision of a seasoned veteran, he executed life-saving maneuvers, clearing the victim's airway andstabilizinghisconditionuntilmedical supportarrived.
Mullins' quick thinking and decisive actions were instrumental in saving the life of the stricken civilian. His leadership and expertise were further evidenced by his administration of the Heimlich maneuver, a technique that proved vital in restoring the individual's consciousness.
did not go unnoticed. Spc. Warren Goins, a medic with the B Co., 3/187, who happened to be present at the restaurant, provided crucial support until Emergency Medical Servicesarrivedonthescene.
In reflecting on the harrowing ordeal, Mullins credits his extensive training. "The units I've been a part of have been really good about training us on warrior tasks and battle drills," he explains. "I just took all those different times and I've gone through allthosetraininglanesinacompetition."
As Mullins emphasizes, readiness and preparedness are paramount for every soldier. His inspiring actions serve as a testament to the importance of remaining vigilant and equipped to handle any situationthatmayarise.
Mullins’ heroic deeds stand as a shining example of the valor and dedication embodied by members of the North CarolinaNationalGuard.
1-120 IN and 1-252 AR Scouts conduct M2 crew served weapons qualification on at Fort Liberty, NC in order to increase the heavy machine gun capabilities of the battalion’s primary reconnaissance assets.
Photo by Lt. Col. Andrew DeLaney
The primary objective of the training series is to provide agencies the opportunity to host, review procedures and discuss how they can work together to better support victims of sexual violence. The 145th AW Sexual Assault and Response Coordinator (SARC) Lindsey Melton hosted the first training event of the series and presented information about the NCNG Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program. The presentation provided information to civilian community partners about the Department of Defense (DoD) SAPR program structure and administration, reporting options and services for survivors, criminal versus administrative investigations, and how pay status for Guardsmen affects investigative jurisdiction.
Melton has served 22 years in the Air National Guard and has been a SARC for eight years. She believes effective communication between agencies is essential to ensure survivors feel heard, believed and supported throughout the reporting and recovery process. “Many assaults in the National Guard happen in civilian jurisdictions, and there are some resources survivors need that the National Guard cannot provide, like Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE),” said Melton.
To meet this need, the 145AW has an Memorandum of Agreement with Charlotte’s Novant Presbyterian Hospital to assist any military service members who seek medical treatment for a sexual assault at the emergency department. The agreement, established in 2018, ensures that the service members are offered the opportunity to speak with a local NCNG SAPR advocate at that time. Providing targeted, program-specific support to the survivor as early as possible after the assault can be beneficial to their recovery and accountability processes.
“Anytime we can formalize partnerships with these agencies we can streamline the process for both survivor and service providers at the earliest opportunity,” Melton said. The multidisciplinary training events are key to getting the service providers in the same room to have these discussions, so we can identify gaps in our processes and implement collaborative solutions to support survivors seamlessly.”
The significance of this initiative lies in its multifaceted approach to addressing the complex needs of sexual assault victims. By bringing together diverse agencies, each with its own expertise and resources, the training series fosters a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by survivors and the various avenues for support available to them. This collective knowledge empowers frontline responders to provide more compassionate, effective and coordinated care to survivors, enhancing overall response to sexual violence within the community. Huntersville Police Sgt. Maizul Cobeo believes the training equips agencies with the skills and knowledge necessary to ask the right questions when interacting with sexual assault survivors.
Maj. Briana McFarland
Photos by Staff Sgt. Reanna Hartgrove
“It’s really important to understand there are additional resources available to military servicemen who are victims,” said Cobeo. “I’m glad to know there are additional options; you never know who people are comfortable talking to.”
By standardizing protocols across agencies, the training series aims to minimize the risk of re-traumatization and facilitate a more empathetic and trauma-informed response. Additionally, by identifying common barriers and inefficiencies in existing protocols, participating agencies can work collaboratively to implement systemic improvements that prioritize the needs and wellbeing of survivors. Enhancing communication between healthcare providers, law enforcement agencies, victim advocate organizations and other stakeholders ensures a seamless continuum of care for survivors from the moment of disclosure onward.
“It’s important everyone understands who is eligible for DoD SAPR services,” said Melton. “Whether the victim is in the reserves, active duty, a Title 5 Department of Defense civilian or military dependent 18 years or older, we are here to support.”
The impact of this collaborative training initiative extends far beyond the participating agencies themselves. By strengthening the community’s collective response to sexual violence, the initiative sends a powerful message of solidarity and offers a network of support to survivors — fostering a culture of accountability and empathy, where survivors can feel confident in seeking help and know they will be met with understanding and assistance.
This event represents a significant step forward in the community’s response to sexual violence, and is a testament to the collective commitment to create a safe, more compassionate and more resilient community for all.
To connect a member of the NCNG SAPR team, please reach out to Kristian Hall, NCNG SAPR officer Kristian.s.hall.civ@army.mil or Lindsey Melton, NCANG SARC lindsey.melton@us.af.mil. For inquiries about the Mecklenburg County SART, contact SART Coordinator Emily Barnhardt at emily.barnhardt@safealliance.org.
by Patrick Lencioni
Elevate your leadership skills with our carefully selected reading and podcast list
These book and podcast recommendations were provided by Brig. Gen. Cristina Moore, Assistant Adjutant GeneralSustainment.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
How Successful People Lead by John C. Maxwell
The Mindset Mentor
Members of the 145th Airlift Wing Honor Guard present colors during the national anthem at the Spectrum Center, Charlotte, North Carolina. This presentation was during the Charlotte Hornets vs. Boston Celtics NBA game.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Reanna Hartgrove
North Carolina National Guard soldiers with the 1-120th Infantry Regiment assist Habitat for Humanity in Burgaw, North Carolina. The 120th Infantry Regiment is known for their warfighting functions superiority and advanced infantry and armored capabilities, however, the 120th is also known to take great pride in their work servingourlocalcommunities
NASCARSalutes
Sgt. Hugo Gonzalez
At the NASCAR Salutes Coca-Cola 600, held at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the North Carolina Army National Guard proudly stood alongside partners Kaulig Racing, Leaf Home, and LeafFilter Gutter Protection for a stirring display of patriotism and commitment. In the shadow of roaring engines and cheering crowds, the solemnity of service and sacrifice took center stage as our soldiers gathered at the #31 Daniel Hemric Hauler Trailer for a poignant reenlistment ceremony.
Among those who participated in the oath of reenlistment were SPC Niklas Tarczynski, SPC Gregory Riyevski, SPC Benjamin Mooney, SSG William McCormack, SSG Sergio Gonzalez, and SSG Ryan Morgan. Led by Capt. Michael Sangiorge and Sergeant 1st Class Adam Leathers, both with Recruiting and Retention, the ceremony underscored the unwavering dedication of our Soldiers and Airmen.
As the roar of engines filled the air, the NASCAR Salutes campaign commenced with the solemn 600 Miles of Remembrance tribute. Each car bore the name of a fallen service member on its windshield, a poignant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by our nation's heroes.
The NASCAR Salutes series culminated in a moment of silence at lap 200, as engines fell silent and the pit row stood still in reverence for the fallen. It was a powerful reminder of the price of freedom and the solemn duty to honor those who have paid it
Staff Sgt. Nathan Fiola of the 430th Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Company, secures a mortar round during a pre-validation exercise at Fort Barfoot, Virginia.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ruth McClary
Sgt. 1st Class Wall performed duties of color guard during the SOD-X change of responsibility. This ceremony was held after an airborne operation he participated in.
Photo by Command Sgt. Maj. Carl Frye
-Brig. Gen. Wes Morrison Assistant Adjutant General - Maneuver
Among the rolling hills of Louisburg, North Carolina, the spirit of remembrance and celebration soared high at the First Fruits Farm Memorial Balloon Festival this past Memorial Day weekend. An annual event steeped in reverence and camaraderie, it served as a poignant tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Against the backdrop of vibrant hot air balloons dotting the sky, attendees, both active military and civilians, gathered to pay homage to the fallen heroes. The atmosphere was one of somber reflection intertwined with joyful fellowship—a testament to the resilience and unity of the community.
Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan
At the festival grounds, the 5-113th Field Artillery Battalion and the 449th Combat Aviation Brigade engaged with attendees, sharing stories and forging connections. The presence of the NCNG Color Guard added a touch of solemnity, their performances serving as poignant reminders of the sacrificesmadebythosewhocamebefore.
From the static displays to the bustling midway, every corner of the festival was vibrant with activity and meaning. Army Cadet Claudia DePouli, embodying the spirit of service and remembrance, connected with guests, embodying the festival's dedication to honoring the memory of fallen comrades.
As the sun set on another Memorial Day weekend, the sky illuminated by the glow of hot air balloons, theFirstFruitsFarmMemorialBalloonFestivalleft amarkontheheartsandmindsofallwhoattended. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of sacrifice, remembrance, and unity—a beacon of hope and gratitude.
In Louisburg, North Carolina, amidst the gentle rustle of the wind and the colorful dance of hot air balloons, the fallen were not forgotten. Their memorylivedon,carriedaloftbythecollectivespirit ofagratefulnation.
(the conversation continues)
Armament personnel with the 1-130th Attack Battalion load an AH-64E with rockets for the Unit’s Aerial Gunnery.
Photo by Maj. Eric Juarez
139th Regiment FA ALC class 002-24 conducts live fire exercise at Fort Liberty NC. This is the final test for 13B ALC.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan Chinn
The 449th Combat Aviation Brigade and the 145th Airlift Wing combine efforts to load and transport a UH-72 Lakota into a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III for the first time in NCNG history. The integrated operation is intended to foster relationships between the NC Air and Army National Guard.
Photo by Cpl. Nigel Hatcher
Soldiers test out the Army’s new Modular Catastrophic Recovery System (MCRS) at the NCNG’s Jocelyn Carrasquillo Readiness Center and Field Maintenance Shop 15 in Goldsboro, North Carolina. The MCRS, built on the Army’s Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck with a fifth wheel towing and recovery capacity, can salvage damaged vehicles up to 35 tons.
Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan
