WINTER 2020
Commander in Chief Washington State Governor The Honorable Jay Inslee The Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Bret D. Daugherty Communications Director Karina Shagren State Public Affairs Officer Joseph Siemandel Contributors Michael Brown Kim Burke Tim Chacon Justyn Freeman Steven Friederich John Hughel Sara Morris Joann Moravac Aly Teeter-Baker
ON THE COVER 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment troopers running in formation during their pre-deployment run on Sept. 20, 2019 at Camp Murray, Wash. The squadron deployed to the Middle East this fall in support of Operation Spartan Shield. (U.S. National Guard by Joseph Siemandel)
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Gurchetan Singh recites the oath of enlistment with Brig. Gen. Jeremy Horn, Washington Air National Guard Commander during his enlistment into the WA ANG, Sept 27, 2019 on Camp Murray, WA. Singh will be the first Sikh to enlist in the Air National Guard with a religious accommodation wavier that allows him to serve and still practice key elements of his religion. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon)
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T BLE of CONTENTS
Scouts Honor
1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment hold a deployment ceremony at historic Tacoma Armory.
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Leading the Way
194th Wing recruit is a first in the Air National Guard.
Hearing in full color
New map helps visualize language access needs statewide.
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Ready for Flight
With Thanks
Mock Interviews give cadet real world experience thanks to volunteers.
Air National Guard hosts employers for 2019 Boss Lift at Camp Murray.
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Guardsman Firefighter
Washington National Guardsmen makes an impact as volunteer firefighter.
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Washington Military Department History: After Pearl Harbor In the morning hours of Dec. 7, 1941, more than 350 Imperial Japanese fighter planes, bombers and torpedo planes launched from six aircraft carriers in two waves, attacking the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor. The surprise military strike led the U.S. calling for a formal declaration of war on the Empire of Japan and its official entrance into World War II. Ten months prior to the United States being thrust into World War II, two units of the Washington National Guard were called into federal service at North Fort Lewis to begin training on a highly important mission that would span the course of the war.
The 205th Coast Artillery Regiment (Anti-Aircraft) The 205th Coast Artillery Regiment (Anti-Aircraft) and 248th Coast Artillery Regiment (Harbor Defense) were called into service Feb. 3, 1941, to begin training on what would be a four-year mission of protecting the West Coast of the U.S. and the major metropolitan cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. In June of 1941, the units began mobilization across the West Coast and parts of Alaska. Battery “E”, 205th Coast Artillery, set sail from Seattle for Seward, Alaska. In July, two additional batteries of the 205th joined them as part of the defense of the Northwest Passage. On Oct. 29, 1941, the War Department directed the remaining units of the 205th Coast Artillery to move to Camp Haan, near Los Angeles, California. The unit arrived for duty Nov. 22, 1941, only two weeks before the attack on Pearl Harbor. After more than two years of service in the southern California region, the 205th went through a number of reorganizations. Some units split off and were assigned to other commands. One such unit was the 530th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion (AAAW BN) (originally 2nd Battalion, 205th Coast Artillery) which was mobilized to Greenock, Scotland in December 1944. The 530th AAAW BN was reassigned to the 15th Army, and moved to Germany in April 1945 before returning to New York City for deactivation on Halloween Day 1945. Today, the 205th Coast Artillery lineage is still serving proudly in the Washington National Guard’s 205th Regimental Training Institute, based at Camp Murray.
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The Guard and Emergency Management plan for
Exercise will pick up where the 2016 Exercise left off, allowing the Guard and EMD to continue building off lessons learned
Local and federal officials joined the Washington Emergency Management Division to officially kick off the planning efforts for Cascadia Rising 2022 in December. The exercise slated for June 2022 builds on the previous exercise of the same name and takes another look at how response and recovery from a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake might turn out. After the 2016 exercise, Washington state changed its messaging to encourage residents to be “2 Weeks Ready” and many agencies, including the Washington National Guard, were able to field test plans to see what worked and what didn’t.
2022 Story by Steven Friederich
Washington National Guard, who also gave a presentation on the matter to the National Guard Bureau. “We really want to be prepared for the day an actual earthquake hits. The better prepared and the more assistance we can get from Guard Bureau will only make us stronger, and it is really beneficial for the citizens of our state.” The exercise’s objective is “to plan, organize, equip, train, exercise for responding to and recovering from a catastrophic incident resulting in extraordinary levels of mass casualties, damage or disruption severely affecting the population, infrastructure, environment, economy, morale and/or government functions.”
A concept and objectives meeting was conducted on Camp Murray on Dec. 4 to give local jurisdictions a chance to chime in on what’s expected for the exercise and to make The exercise will be known commonly as sure everyone remains on the same page as the “CR22,” and will be considered a National exercise ramps up in a couple of years. Level Exercise for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. A National Level Local, state and federal agencies, tribal Exercise allows for different agencies to nations, private sector and non-governmental practice focused disaster recovery through a organizations across three states - Washington, series of preliminary training events. The Oregon and Idaho - will be participating in the exercise not only improves the way FEMA four-day Cascadia Rising 2022 Exercise. Other helps people before, during and after disasters, key partners include the National Guard and but provides an invaluable experience that the U.S. Department of Defense. improves preparedness in all areas of public and private life. “It’s not just about the exercise for us,” said Army Maj. Gen. Bret D. Daugherty, the director of the Washington Military Department and commander of the Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department |5
Cover Story
Remembering the past, honoring the present and preparing for the future was the theme during a recent deployment ceremony for the 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment held at the historic Tacoma Armory on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019. “It’s only fitting we do this ceremony in this armory,” said Lt. Col. Tim Ozmer, Squadron Commander, 1-303rd Cavalry Regiment. “We have a storied history in Tacoma. After looking through historic photos, we discovered 100 years ago the Cavalry troop held a similar deployment right here and we wanted to do that as well.” As more than 400 members of the squadron stood in formation, the more than 600 guests in attendance learned briefly about the history of the armory, as well as the great work of the Cavalry troops in formation as they prepared for their deployment to Jordan and what they were preparing for in the future while serving with their Jordanian counterparts. 6 | Washington Military Department |Winter 2020
Scouts Story And Photos by Joseph Siemandel
Honor 1-303rd Cavalry prepare for deployment while honoring historic Tacoma armory
Maj. Dale Wright, Executive Officer, 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment, salutes the commander during the squadron’s deployment ceremony at the historic Tacoma armory on Sept. 21, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Joseph Siemandel)
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Lt. Col. Timothy Ozmer, Commander, 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment address his squadron in front of family and friends during the squadron’s deployment ceremony at the historic Tacoma armory on Sept. 21, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Joseph Siemandel)
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“I
am so proud of all of you,” Ozmer said. “We are going to execute this mission to the best of our abilities and going to kick butt doing it.” 1st Squadron troopers deployed in support of Operation Spartan Shield, a unique, multi-component organization made up of active Army and National Guard units which maintains a U.S. military posture in Southwest Asia sufficient to strengthen our defense relationships and build partner capacity. Units supporting OSS provide capabilities such as aviation, logistics, force protection and information management, and facilitate theater security cooperation activities such as key leader engagements, joint exercises, conferences, symposia and humanitarian assistance/disaster response planning. The 303rd Cavalry’s deployment is part of the Oregon National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team rotation to the Middle East. “We are so excited about the way the 303rd has seamlessly joined up with the soldiers of the 41st Infantry, we know they will do amazing things in Jordan,” said Col. Eric Riley, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. During the ceremony, the 303rd Cavalry honored the historic Tacoma Armory, which was an active Washington National Guard facility until 2011. If not for the Washington National Guard, the city of Tacoma’s landscape would look much different today. In 1880, the newly formed 1st Washington Cavalry began recruiting members for its new Tacoma City Troop, a new unit of the Washington Territorial Militia. This new unit would build the foundation of what we today know as Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry. Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 9
“This squadron can trace its roots back to the early days of the Guard and this armory has been a part of that tradition,” said Ozmer. In 1903, with the passage of the Dick Act, the organized militias were standardized as the National Guard and became a part of the reserve forces of the U.S. Army. The Cavalry Troop, under the command of Captain Everett G. Griggs, remained in service in Tacoma. Griggs, a businessman in Tacoma, assisted in the design and construction of the Armory which opened on January 1, 1909. During the Mexican border emergency of 1916, troopers from Tacoma were among the Washington Guardsmen called to federal service pursuant to General Orders No. 19 of June 18, 1916. Under the command of Captain Hartwell W. Palmer and 1st Sergeant William R. Tyree, the troop departed for Calexico, California by rail on June 30, 1916 and by July 7, had set-up camp. While in California, the Troop served under General John J. Pershing in his pursuit of outlaw Poncho Villa. They remained on duty in California until early 1917 and was mustered out of federal service at Camp Murray on February 22, 1917. “Our squadron has an amazing history and we are so proud to be a part of that,” said Ozmer, who also deployed as a member of the 1-303rd Cavalry during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 20042005. “We have plumbers and carpenters, police officers and firefighters, just countless professionals in this formation who are less than one percent of the population and willing to leave their job and families to serve overseas. We plan to bring them back smarter, stronger and better for going on this mission.”
Lt. Col. Timothy Ozmer, Commander, 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment cracks a joke with troopers from his squadron prior to the squadron’s deployment ceremony at the historic Tacoma armory on Sept. 21, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Joseph Siemandel)
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Guardsmen with the 141st Air Refueling Wing receive training at the eastern Washington Fire Training Academy with the Washington Department of Natural Resources in June 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by TSgt Michael Brown)
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Emergency Management Employee is “Rising Star” Story by Steven Friederich
Shane Moore, the emergency planning program coordinator for Washington Emergency Management Division, has been recognized with a statewide “Rising Star” award by the Center of Excellence - Homeland Security Emergency Management. The “Rising Star” award recognizes individuals in the all-hazard emergency management profession who have assisted his or her community and positively change members of the community’s lives. These individuals have also contributed to his or her profession through demonstrating leadership and responsibility. Linda Crerar, director of the center at Pierce College, joined WA EMD Deputy Director Jason Marquiss in recognizing Moore for his efforts in front of his peers in the state Emergency Operations Center. “We spend a long time to make sure we’re training our students to help make sure they get jobs after college and Shane is one of our success stories,” Crerar said. Moore has been with the Washington Emergency Management Division for about a year. He was with the center for two years before that. During his time, he updated and published the center’s Internship Guidebook, which is used to distribute to other organizations on how to run a proper internship program.
Linda Crerar with Shane Moore and WA EMD Deputy Director Jason Marquiss (Courtesy Photo)
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He was instrumental in helping the center with its employee engagement outreach project when he served as the southwest Washington regional coordinator. He graduated from Pierce College with a Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Homeland-Security Emergency Management. In addition to Moore, the Center of Excellence - Homeland Security Emergency Management also recognized Kellie Hale and Jasmine May, who both currently work at the center. “It is an honor to recognize three outstanding people with our Rising Star Award this year for their accomplishments and contributions to the center,” Crerar said. “Kellie Hale, Shane Moore and Jasmine May are being recognized as emerging leaders on their way to reaching senior-level positions in their careers. They have gone above and beyond in their service this past year.” The Center of Excellence for Homeland Security Emergency Management is focused on student success and helping people positively change the trajectory of their lives and who have demonstrated excellence in their professional endeavors working for the advancement of people in education and public service. The “Rising Star Award” recognizes these emerging leaders and their contribution to their profession and organizations.
Running for a cause
WADS team runs 491 miles during 24-Hour POW/MIA Run
Story by Kimberly Burke
More than 50 members of the Western Air Defense Sector ran a combined total of 491 miles during the 24Hour POW/MIA Remembrance Run at the McChord Field track Sept. 19-20, 2019. WADS placed first in the team division with the 1-94th Field Artillery Regiment, 17th Field Artillery Brigade, finishing second with 288.5 miles and the 627th Security Forces Squadron finishing third with 241.5 miles. The Air Force Sergeants Association hosted the event and included participants from Air Force, Army, Washington Air National Guard and USAF Reserves assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The run raised awareness and honored prisoners of war and those still missing in action. A total of 3,101 miles were completed and more than 500 individuals participated in keeping the POW/ MIA flag going at all times and at all hours. The $2,000 raised during the event will be donated to the McChord Field Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 1461 (a 501(c) (3) charitable nonprofit organization).
WADS also placed first in the individual division with retired Senior Master Sgt. Bruce Robie, the National Airspace System Defense program manager for the 225th Support Squadron, completing 81 miles over a 24-hour period. The next closest competitor was Paul Pazar, 17th FAB (62 miles) and John Spurlock, 17th FAB (59.5 miles). Robie is an avid long distance runner and has completed multiple ultra-distance marathons all over the United States and overseas. Robie has been participating in the POW/MIA Run since 2014 where he consistently increased his mileage from 41 miles (2016) to 74 miles (2018) to 81 miles (2019). This year, Robie was unsure about participating after completing a grueling 91-mile, 4 day trek around Mt. Rainier during the Wonderland Trail race in August 2019. “The Wonderland Trail race reminded me that there are some life impacting, amazing adventures out there for the taking – if we’re willing to step (or run) outside our comfort zone,” explained Robie. “I carried with me this motto into the POW/MIA run…I don’t know how this will end but I know how it will start with me accepting the challenge…1 stride/ 1 mile, 1 minute/ 1 hour.” Contributing significantly to the WADS team running mileage total were:
Col. Brett Bosselmann, 225th Support Squadron commander, runs with Master Sgt. Eric Poe and his children during the POW/MIA Remembrance Run Sept. 18, 2019 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. (Courtesy photo)
- Bill Cooper, 37 miles - Master Sgt. Eric Poe, 25 miles - Maj. Kip Trausch, 25 miles - Staff Sgt. Christine Cooper, 24 miles - Master Sgt. Michael Doing, 20.5 miles - Staff Sgt. Rachel Blevins, 19.25 miles - Staff Sgt. Kevin Peltier, 18.5 miles - Col. Brett Bosselmann, 17.5 miles - Lt. Col. Matthew Venable, 13 miles - 1st Lt. Brian Villanueva, 10.5 miles - Maj. John Dalrymple, 9.5 miles - Maj. Daniel McIntosh, 8.5 miles - Tech. Sgt. Patrick Ilog, 8.25 miles - Master Sgt. Eric Poe, 7.75 miles - Maj. David Brown, 7.75 miles - Col. Brian Bergren, 7.5 miles - Airman First Class Alice Miller, 7 miles Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department |13
Leading the Way 194th Wing recruit is a first for the Air National Guard Story and Photos by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon
After months of hard work by many people, the Washington Air National Guard’s newest recruit will no longer have to choose between serving his state and country and freely practicing his religion. Gurchetan Singh is Sikh and elements of his religion -- especially in how he follows the principles of the 5 Ks (Kes, Kanga, Kara Kachhera, Kirpan) – cause a conflict with the standards of dress and appearance while in uniform. A waiver for religious accommodation recently signed by Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, Director Air National Guard, will allow Singh to maintain his commitment to Sikh Rehni (Sikh way of life) and begin his newly sworn commitment to the ANG. “This lets people know that something that might have stood in their way before, that ethically or morally they didn’t feel comfortable giving up, is no longer a choice they have to make,” said Brig. Gen. Jeremy Horn, Washington Air National Guard Commander. “We have room for progress and this is a really good step towards removing barriers.” Singh is not the first Sikh to serve in the U.S. military or even the WA ANG. But he is the first in the Air National Guard to have this religious accommodation as a new enlistee that allows him to serve in a way that aligns with his faith. “We have an incredible force, but we can keep striving towards a force that more adequately represents the community outside the gate,” said Horn. “I think it fits in with who were are as Washingtonians. We have an incredibly diverse state here so why would we put barriers up to segments of our population? Why would we exclude portions of our population that add that different view point to what we do? So if there is a wavier process, we would be breaking faith with our citizens 14 | Washington Military Department| Winter 2020
Gurchetan Singh shakes hands with Brig. Gen. Jeremy Horn, Washington Air National Guard Commander after saying his oath of enlistment into the WA ANG, Sept 27, 2019 on Camp Murray, WA. Singh will be the first Sikh to enlist in the Air National Guard with a religious accommodation wavier that allows him to serve and still practice key elements of his religion. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon)
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by not exploring those waivers as they come in. I really hope this is the first of many.” The whole process from the time Singh contacted a recruiter to his swearing in took more than 15 months. In comparison the average ANG recruit takes one to three months. Although the process for Sikh’s to serve with a waiver is an extra step right now, there is a process in place within the Department of Defense that as time goes on should become simpler and simpler. It just takes the support of people who are willing to go through it because they see the benefits of it. “It is worth it. Someone has to take the first step,” Singh said. “In a way I’m lucky that I had to do that. Someone had to do it if it wasn’t me it had to be someone. It takes effort to pave that path for future generations.” Singh talked about having friends within the Sikh community that wanted to serve but were hesitant to try because of the process.
“I had faith and I believed this would happen,” said Singh. Singh has a long way to go in his ANG career. In fact, he has all of it in front of him. He will go on to basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, then on to his technical training, and finally return to Camp Murray to join the 262nd Cyber Operations Squadron. Going forward Sigh’s career is in his own hands and he will have the opportunity to shape it just as every other Airman does. He will face struggles and challenges that are shared by other Airmen and some that are unique to him. “We are extremely proud he wants to serve in our organization. We are grateful for each of our young citizens, someone else’s son or daughter, that is willing to sign on the line and become part of our organization,” said Horn. “The fact that he is willingly to fight a little more of an uphill battle, more so than average candidate, shows a strong desire on his part. I’m confident he is going to be an example for a lot of people.” 16 | Washington Military Department| Winter 2020
Capt. Nima Sarrafan, front row, second from the right, stands with his class peers for a photo prior to their formal dinner event. (Courtesy Photo)
National Guard Captain takes opportunity to learn in United Kingdom
Learning about our nation’s allies is valuable to the United States military. It often provides members the chance to professionally develop, while gaining insight on the doctrine and specializations of other countries, which always is important in building relationships. In October 2019, Capt. Nima Sarrafan, 56th Theater Information Operations Group, had the opportunity to attend the United Kingdom Intermediate Command and Staff College in Shrivenham, England. “It is basically their version of the Captain’s Career Course, training in doctrine, staff planning and strategy,” Sarrafan said. “The class also was well attended by international students, which increased our joint effectiveness and best practices while also lending to cultural appreciation.” The Intermediate Command and Staff Course (ICSC) is a post-graduate course which equips officers of each service, both British and international, with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for the full range of junior command and staff appointments. It allows officers to step outside their professional specializations, to broaden their leadership
and management skills and to analyze key defense issues at the higher tactical level and in joint force environments. Opportunities like this come up often for members of the Guard across the United States but are rarely taken advantage of. “Chief Andrew Rose was looking out for me; he brought up this broadening opportunity with the National Guard Bureau,” Sarrafan said. “Only 10 people had applied for 15 spots, so I applied and was able to attend. Not only was I able to develop professionally, but also personally.” Sarrafan was able to travel to London during the two-week class for a cultural day, sharing the experience with other U.S. officers, as well as Jordanian, Ukrainian and Nepal military members. “I know I learned more about the way that other militaries are structured and their missions; it is definitely different from ours,” said Sarrafan. “If you get the chance to attend a course or do an overseas training, do it. Don’t limit yourself. Take the chances when they come.” Story by Joseph Siemandel Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 17
SAerving
uburn couple starts
T ogether N G ational
uard careers
Story and Photo By Joseph Siemandel
had considered it for a long time, but I didn’t want to be gone for a long time. I didn’t want to make this decision alone.” After talking with his wife April about the opportunities, her initial response was not at all what he expected. “I said ‘no,’” April said with a laugh. “I honestly think I was just making excuses and after listening to the benefits more, I thought, ‘Not only can he do it, but I can do this too.’” Hunter called Staff Sgt. Gerhardt for a follow-up meeting and they both took the pledge and joined the Guard. Hunter is a motor transport operator while April, currently a student athlete at Highline College, will train to be an ammunition specialist. “It was best to talk with both of them about the Guard,” Gerhardt said. “I had a chance to really lay out the benefits and the education opportunities while they talked together about what was best for their family.” Both Hunter and April are excited to use their education benefits from the Guard to continue their education. After completing their training, each will be eligible for National Guard tuition assistance, the Montgomery GI Bill and the Washington National Guard conditional scholarship. “I want to be a teacher, and the education benefits from the Guard will help me accomplish that goal,” said Hunter. On October 30, the couple joined others at the Military Entrance Processing Station in Seattle. “It was easier at MEPS having someone there with you,” Hunter said. “It has been very easy on our end. Staff Sgt. Gerhardt has been super easy to work with and it has been fun.”
After committing themselves to each other, married couple Hunter White and April Talaiga vowed to serve in the Washington National Guard on Oct. 30, 2019. They were approaching their first wedding anniversary when Hunter came home after talking with Staff Sgt. Marilyn Gerhardt, a career counselor in the Auburn area, about the idea of joining the National Guard. “I wanted to serve in some aspect,” said Hunter, a para-educator at Auburn Mountainview High School. “I 18 | Washington Military Department| Winter 2020
The couple recently completed their first recruit sustainment program drill in Kent, which gives new recruits their first introduction to Basic Combat Training and gets them on the right track mentally, physically, emotionally and administratively while preparing for their careers in the Guard. The experience has been so good for the couple, April even talks to her teammate at Highline about joining the Guard. “I already have meetings set up with one of her teammates,” said Gerhardt. “April is out here helping us bring more great people into the Guard.”
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Royal Thai Army and National Guard share exchange about domestic response
During a recent visit to Washington, officers from the Royal Thai Army joined Washington National Guardsmen in a Military Operations Other than War exchange, the Thai version of domestic operations. “The Thai military has a significant role in domestic response operations in Thailand,” said Maj. Jae Kim, Executive Officer for the Washington National Guard Counterdrug Program. “They protect their borders and conduct disaster planning and response operations, all of which are very important.”
During the three day exchange, the Thai delegation learned about the Washington Military Department’s role in Domestic response. They toured the National Guard Joint Operations Center and the State Emergency Operations Center and participated in discussions about coordinating 20 | Washington Military Department| Winter 2020
disaster response efforts among multiple jurisdictions. Wildfire missions were a consistent topic of conversation. The Kingdom of Thailand and Washington State have both seen an increase in wildfire activity over the past several years.
Many of the military assets highlighted in the exchange are part of the Washington National Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force, which utilizes their platforms to respond to state emergencies and to assist law enforcement. Linguist support is also a consistent part of exchanges with the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Staff Sgt. Cameron Hartley, a Thai Linguist with the 341st Military Intelligence Battalion, routinely is called to support the missions. “As a Thai linguist, these engagements are
great for me to use my language skills,” said Hartley. “Just in the few engagements I have supported I have raised my language test scores from a 2/2 to a 3/2+, with more engagements I could easily continue to see my score increase, becoming more proficient in Thai.” Hartley also believes the exchanges have helped him learn more about both organizations. “I sit in a lot of briefings about different topics highlighting the Washington National Guard, so I have been able to take a lot of that information back to the unit and talk about the missions my soldiers haven’t heard about,” said Hartley. In 2020, the Washington National Guard and
Royal Thai Armed Forces are forecast to conduct approximately 30 engagements, varying in size, topic and locations both in Thailand and in the United States. “We do frequent engagements in Thailand and in Washington State with our Thai partners,” said Maj. Keith Kosik, State Partnership Program Director. “Our exchanges build relationships, capacity and support Indo-Pacific Command’s efforts in Southeast Asia.”
Opposite page: Group photo during the Military Operations other than War Subject Matter Exchange on November 21, 2019 at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. (U.S. National Guard Photo by Joseph Siemandel) Below: Staff Sgt. Cameron Hartley, Thai linguist with the 341st Military Intelligence Battalion shares a laugh with a member of the Royal Thai Army during a Military Operations other than War Subject Matter Exchange on November 21, 2019 at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. (U.S. National Guard Photo by Joseph Siemandel)
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Cutline
The first few minutes of care in a medical emergency can be the difference between life and death. The Washington National Guard’s Counter Drug Program gave local first responders and guardsmen new tools on how to assess this crucial time. The Counter Drug Program put on a tactical medicine course, attended by law, fire and emergency department personnel and guardsmen from the 1st Squadron, 303rd Cavalry Regiment. The tactical medicine course is designed to provide law enforcement officers, agents and other first responders with an understanding how to respond to and care for patients in a civilian tactical environment. The focus is on the primary interventions provided for the leading causes of preventable death. Utilizing a mix of classroom presentation and hands-on skills practice, attendees will be exposed to a unique training environment which will enable them to provide basic life-sustaining treatments in a hostile environment. “This course has been a great refresher for me,” said Patrol Officer Elijah Allman, a former Army medic who now works for the Tacoma Police Department. “I think the most beneficial part of this course has been the point of injury training, especially for law enforcement, since often we are the first responders on the scene.” Leveraging overseas and domestic military experiences, instructors illustrate and convey lessons learned in hostile situations. “The local law, fire and emergency departments have adopted a program called Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, and it is very similar to what we teach in Tactical Combat Casualty Care courses,” said Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Keating, an instructor with the Western Regional Counterdrug Training Center. “We’ve adapted the TCCC course to meet the needs of our first responder students.” The program sets its course dates on a website and uses its established relationships with high intensity drug trafficking areas and their training coordinators to fill the seat. The course also receives many students who were referred by a previous student that enjoyed the course. “I’m glad my counter parts from other agencies sent me the email for this course,” said Allman. “I’ll be spreading that awareness through my department as well. Every law enforcement officer should go through this form of training.” 22 | Washington Military Department| Winter 2020
The
first few minutes
Washington National Guard Counter Drug Program conducts Tactical Medicine Course Story and Photos by Sara Morris
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Story and Photo by Steven Friederich
Emergency Management garners national accreditation After almost two years since initial application, the Washington Emergency Management Division has received conditional accreditation by the Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP). To achieve accreditation, applicants must demonstrate through self-assessment, documentation and peer assessment that the agency meets a standard created and honed by experts within the Emergency Management Accreditation Program. Emergency management programs nationwide use accreditation to prove the capabilities of their disaster preparedness and response systems. Conditional accreditation may be awarded when there are a few areas that need to be adjusted to receive full accreditation. “We know what we need to do to bring us into full compliance and our team has a plan to complete the work by the middle of next year,” said Washington Emergency Management Division Director Robert Ezelle. “I am so proud of our staff and our team across not just our agency but our partners in the state to help us get this far. This is a huge accomplishment and is testimony to the superb work our team does. My heartfelt thanks to all who worked so tirelessly to bring us over the finish line.” Last June, 10 evaluators from emergency management programs across the country traveled to Camp Murray and met with staff for a week, conducting interviews and reviewing documentation to ensure the agency was meeting the 64 EMAP standards. These standards are the framework for building and ensuring a solid emergency management program known as the Emergency Management Standard. The standard defines what components must be in place but does not tell the agency how they must do it. That’s up to each individual organization. The evaluation and accreditation is not solely for EMD, but for the state’s emergency management program as a whole. The state program involves other agencies ranging from the departments of Health and Agriculture to the Washington State Patrol and the Fusion Center. EMAP, run by a non-profit organization affiliated with the Council of State Governments and the National Emergency Management Association, provides a national standard for emergency management programs. The non-profit organization’s board awarded the conditional accreditation in December. The board is made up of experienced emergency management professionals from local, state and federal governments, academia and the non-profit sector. The jurisdiction-wide system provides for management and coordination of prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery activities for all hazards. Cost to the state for accreditation is about $13,000, which pays for self-assessment training, the on-site peer review and related activities. Accreditation is valid for five years.
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Hearing in full color
New map helps visualize language access needs statewide
T
he Washington Emergency Management Division has launched a new online map to help local jurisdictions and the public at large figure out different languages spoken in counties and Census tracts across the state.
The map is color coded to provide details when one, two or more languages are spoken in that area. The Census tract allows the user to zoom into more specific areas to see the languages spoken in that specific area.
The goal is to help local governments know ahead of time what languages they need to have emergency messaging translated into before a disaster occurs. And, during a crisis, what languages may be in specific areas where something has happened – be it an earthquake, flood, wildfire or even a police event.
For instance, if an earthquake struck Spokane, you’d be able to see if the damage impacted a Census tract where residents spoke Russian in one part and Spanish in another.
It’s state law for governments to provide life safety information in languages other than English if the limited English proficient population is five percent of the total population or 1,000 people, whichever is smaller. “Having a map is a lot easier than an excel spreadsheet,” said Lewis Luján, the limited English proficiency coordinator for Washington Emergency Management Division. “It’s much easier to visualize.” The map uses two data sets to determine language access. A “county” layer is based on 2016 population Office of Financial Management population data. There’s also “county subdivision” and “Census tract” layers based on 2015 Census information of languages spoken at home by a population, who is five years of age or older.
“When the new Census comes out, we’ll take that data and update the map with the latest information,” said Rick Geittmann, the applications & database manager, who worked with Luján to create the map. “The goal is to make sure the map has the latest information available. This is a great way for you to visualize the data and be able to take – and see -- how languages work spatially, so you can see where those people live and how we can better serve them.” Meantime, Luján says he is working with local governments and other state agency partners to craft a cloud based- electronic database of pre-scripted messages in various languages. In addition, he’s working to credential speakers of various languages to provide immediate help in a crisis as well as teaming with the Washington National Guard’s own language experts to provide assistance. “We have some way to go, but we’re making headway,” he said. Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 25
Mock Interviews give cadet real world experience thanks to volunteers
After months of early morning wake-ups, grueling physical activity and challenging classroom exams, a crowded drill floor often intimidates cadets at the Washington Youth Academy the most. With just tables along the edges of the room, cadets have to convince a stranger that they’re the best person for a hypothetical job. During week 17 in the cycle, cadets prepare for and conduct “mock interviews,” a highly anticipated day that will affect their character, confidence and ability to face one of their most important life experiences: post academy life. “Mock Interviews help satisfy the job skills core component, one of eight core components that the cadets must demonstrate mastery in to successfully complete the program,” said Karen Ludy, a counselor with the Washington Youth Academy.
Senior Master Sgt. Danielle Osborn talks with a cadet during Mock Interviews at the Washington Youth Academy in Bremerton, Wash. on Nov. 15, 2019 (U.S. National Guard photo by Joseph Siemandel)
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The job skills training component includes: - Career Exploration - where staff prepare cadets for long-term gainful employment.
- Career, College and Recruiter Day - which gives cadets familiarization with some of the opportunities that are available around Washington state.
- Resume Building – getting cadets familiar with sharing their resume with prospective employers in what can be a very competitive atmosphere in their communities.
- Mock Interviews – community members come together, volunteering time to help cadets get comfortable with interviewing for jobs. Cadets dress professionally, interview for positions they are interested in obtaining and receive scores based on how they perform.
“Cadets use class time practice sessions to prepare,” said Ludy. “They take turns asking and answering interview questions.” “It pays off when you see a cadet walk out of the interview with a big smile and a sigh of relief,” Ludy continued. “They are proud to see their interviewer feedback forms with helpful comments for successful future interviews.” Senior Master Sgt. Danielle Osborn volunteered during cycle 19-2 to conduct mock interviews.
“I feel drawn towards helping our youth succeed because as a parent, I know it takes everyone pulling together to make someone succeed,” said Osborn. Osborn’s son had struggles in school and needed more structure. After a talk with former Senior Enlisted Leader Command Chief Master Sgt (Ret.) Trish Almond, Osborne reached out to the youth academy for help. She has continued to support the youth academy through volunteering for the mock interviews. “It is such a rewarding experience, and humbles you,” said Osborn. “To see these struggling teens turn their lives around in such a short period of time, I am truly blessed to be part of the process.” Individuals that are interested in volunteering to assist with future cycle’s mock interviews can reach out to Karen Ludy for more information at Karen.ludy@mil.wa.gov.
Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 27
Bulldog 22 signing off” “
After 30-Year Career eremy “Java” Horn Retires J . en G . rig B el e hil W s and H s by Master Sgt. John Hugh WA Air Guard Leadership Changes Story By Lt. Col. Alyson Teeter Photo
Brig. Gen. Jeremy Horn, outgoing commander of the Washington National Guard address those in attendance during his retirement ceremony held at Camp Murray, Wash., on Jan. 11, 2020. Horn served for over 30 years in the Air Force and Air National Guard after his graduation from the United State Air Force Academy in 1989. (National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, Washington Air National Guard Public Affairs)
The Washington Air National Guard leadership torch was passed from one leader to another when Brig. Gen. Jeremy “Java” Horn relinquished command of the Washington Air National Guard to Col. Gent Welsh during a Change of Command ceremony on Jan. 11, 2020 at Camp Murray, Washington. Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, The Adjutant General, Washington National Guard, officiated the change of command and conveyed his confidence in Welsh, who is now commander of the Washington Air National Guard, but not yet a state employee. Welsh previously held positions at the squadron and wing level, and was the Washington National Guard’s Chief of Staff. When Welsh addressed the audience after taking command, he focused on the headquarters’ mission and how it compares to Amazon. “Everything is focused on the customer, from this process to that process, you name it, it’s all focused on the customer,” said Welsh. “From my perspective, I have an airmen obsession. My whole job and the job of the headquarters is to absolutely return value to every airman in this room. Our job is to make processes simpler, to make processes faster, and honestly do the best we can every day to improve the experience that you have.” 28 | Washington Military Department | Winter 2020
Following the Change of Command ceremony, Daugherty served as the presiding official for Horn’s retirement ceremony, asking people to view his retirement as an event to be celebrated. “He’s had an incredible adventure. That is something to be celebrated – not mourned – because it is coming to an end,” said Daugherty. “As President Kennedy once said, ‘Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future.’” Horn commissioned from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1989 and served in the active duty Air Force until 2009 before moving to Washington Air National Guard. “Thank you for your selfless service and for placing the safety of America above your own desires,” said Daugherty. “You have truly left a legacy of unity here and I thank you for that. We are a much better team because of your service.” When Horn got to the podium for his farewell address, he recounted how when he was a newly commissioned lieutenant, the U.S. was in a conflict in the Middle East and there were tense relations with the Russians. “When I came into this we had these issues and as I step
out 30 years later we still have these issues,” he said. “But we have a whole new crop of airmen and soldiers with fresh ideas who are going to be able to tackle those as well.” Horn took time to impart his top three takeaways from his career. First piece of advice: “Don’t focus on yourself. It ain’t about you.” Horn said as a younger officer, he thought the world revolved around him and didn’t realize how he was serving something much larger than himself. As he progressed in his career and became a leader, he realized his success was the success of his team and the growth of his people. “Bloom where you’re planted,” was his second takeaway. “I’ve never really had a bad job in my life. I’ve had hard jobs, I’ve had frustrating jobs, I’ve had frightening jobs, stressful jobs,” he said. “But, really, each opportunity has been a chance to lean in and learn and do the best I possibly could and help out the people around me.” Lastly, he asked airmen to, “Enjoy the ride.” As commander, Horn said he watched soldiers and airmen working on the fire line come back with grins on their faces or the partnerships we built in Thailand and Malaysia. “At every moment possible, take that five seconds to zoom out and appreciate just what a privilege it is to wear this nation’s uniform and also to lead people,” he added. Being an airborne forward air controller was one of Horn’s favorite positions. During combat operations, he’d be flying
in the A-10 ahead of fighters and finally reach the area of operations, which was chaotic. “You’ve got folks on the ground, airmen and soldiers, who desperately need what you can provide,” he said. “Their lives are literally hanging in the balance, waiting for you to get there.” Horn noted that his call sign during this time was Bulldog 22. “I really started developing relationships with folks on the ground because they knew when Bulldog 22 showed up I was going to do whatever I possibly could to get them what they needed out there,” he recalled. “It wasn’t about me, it was about them and them being closest to the fight, so I was there to help.” Horn would do all he could to get whatever was attacking them or whatever was an obstacle out of their way. But eventually his part in the mission would come to an end. “At a time it was going to be time to start thinking about heading home…that I was out of gas, out of bullets…it was going to be time to turn over to the next FAC coming in so that he or she could prosecute that fight.” Using forward air control concepts as a metaphor and terms such as Bingo (out of gas) and Winchester (out of bullets), Horn’s retirement ceremony came to an end. “So Gent, you have troops in contact, and Bulldog 22 is Bingo and Winchester. You have the AO. I’m departing to the north. God speed.”
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Changing
of the
Guard
Brig. Gen. Wallace Turner retires after 34 years of service leaving a legacy while passing command to Brig. Gen. Dan Dent There is one constant in the military: change always happens. Soldiers change units, units change missions and leaders come and go.
During November drill, the Washington Army National Guard promoted Col. Dan Dent to Brigadier General before he took command of the Washington Army National Guard. Dent replaces Brig. Gen. Wallace Turner, who retired after more than 35 years of service. “I have to thank everyone that has gotten me to this point in my career,” Dent said during his promotion ceremony. “Most of all my wife Julie and my girls for their sacrifice.”
During his 28 year career, Dent has held a number of leadership positions ranging from platoon leadership
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to commanding the 96th Troop Command from April 2015 to April 2017. He most recently served as Army Chief of Staff for Turner, whom he gave thanks to during his ceremony. “General Turner, I have to thank you for your guidance, mentorship and friendship,” said Dent.
“I couldn’t think of a greater responsibility to be entrusted with,” said Dent. “I am so grateful to serve the Guardsmen of this great state. And General Turner, I couldn’t have asked for a greater man to receive the guidon from.” Following the change of command, attendees celebrated Turner’s more than 35 years of service. “There is no doubt General Turner will miss
Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, Adjutant General Washington National Guard, and Julie Dent pin on one star shoulder boards during the promotion ceremony of Brig. Gen. Daniel Dent on Nov 2, 2019. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class JoAnn Moravac)
Brig. Gen. Wallace Turner presents his wife Nancy wife a Family Support Award during his retirement cermony on Nov. 3, 2019 at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. (Courtesy Photo)
serving,” said Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, the adjutant general, during the ceremony. “It is hard to stop doing something that you have enjoyed for so long and has been so rewarding.” During Turner’s tenure as the commander of the Washington Army National Guard, the organization experienced tremendous change to include the transition of the 81st Armor Brigade Combat Team to a Stryker Brigade Combat Team, new aircraft for aviation units, the creation of a new Major Subordinate Command and the successful leadership of Guardsmen through some of the busiest state activations and federal deployments in the Washington Army National Guard’s history.
Turner credits his wife Nancy for her support when he was asked to serve as Assistant Adjutant General and commander of the Washington Army National Guard. “When General Daugherty called me in December of 2011 and asked me to consider this opportunity, after a bit of laughter, I sought the counsel of the only person that really could impact this decision,” Turner said. “Nancy said, if you want to give this a
shot, let’s go. I can assure you, if she said, ‘I’d rather not,’ we wouldn’t be here today.” His farewell speech reflected upon the challenges the organization faced, the ups and downs experienced during his tenure, and the resiliency of the soldiers of the Washington Army National Guard.
“I’m incredibly grateful for having had this opportunity and believe that the Washington Army National Guard is positioned well for future success,” said Turner.
Turner closed the ceremony by acknowledging the sacrifice of his wife, as well as his son, who recently had a baby. “Nancy and I are incredibly excited about the future,” said Turner. “We’re eager to get back to our home in Florida and spoil the daylights out of our grandson.”
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R E A D Y
F O R
F L I G -- Air National Guard Hosts H Employers for 2019 Boss Lift -- T Story and Photos by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon
Employers of Airmen from the 194th Wing, local legislators and community partners got the chance to learn about the mission of the Washington Air National Guard during the 194th Wing Boss Lift September 18-19. The Boss Lift is an annual event and this year was a hosted by the 194th WG in conjunction with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve with support from the Western Area Defense Sector and 141st Air Refueling Wing. There is typically one event in Western Washington hosted by the 194th Wing or WADS and one on the east side hosted by the 141st ARW. The event is designed to give employers a better understanding of what their citizen Airmen do in the Washington Air National Guard as well as serve as a thank you to the employer who helps bridge the gap between civilian companies employing part time military personnel. During the event participants were shown displays and equipment from the 111th Air Support Operations Squadrons, 116th ASOS, 116th Weather Flight and the 10th Civil Support Team. They also toured the 116th and 111th ASOS simulation facilities that show how the unit’s members train to provide close air support in combat. They also received a tour of the Western Air Defense Sector facilities. The Boss lift concluded with a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling flight over Spokane, Washington where the employers got to see aerial refueling operations with a C-17 Globemaster III. Lance Murdock, regional manager, Tissue Recovery at LifeNet Health, was the recipient of the ESGR Patriot Award for outstanding support of his guardsman employee, Staff Sgt. Brittany Taylor. Murdock was thrilled by the honor and very excited to be a part of the boss lift. 32 | Washington Military Department | Winter 2020
When asked about his experience employing a member of the guard, Murdock said, “A lot of our workforce is young. Working with Brittany and other members of the guard is really great. They bring with them a level of aptitude, work ethic and maturity that makes them a really great asset.” Another employer, Kelly Kleemeier, a programs director with Boeing, had a unique perspective during the refueling flight. Her employee, Tech. Sgt. Nathan Simpson, 141st ARW, was one of the maintainers assigned to the aircraft Kleemeier flew on. Not only did Kleemeier get to fly with her employee on the KC-135, a Boeing aircraft, but Kleemeier is the director of propulsion for the KC-46 Pegasus at Boeing. “At Boeing Nathan works on refuelers. He brings an energy and passion to our workplace which are things I’m sure he brings from his service in the Air National Guard. When he’s gone for training we definitely notice it. It leaves a hole, but it’s such an important mission and we are proud to support it.” Rep. John Lovick, 44th District, acting Speaker of the Washington State House of Representatives, expressed his excitement with the event. “This is something I am glad to able to come out to, and see the great work you all are doing,” Lovick said. “I really learned a lot today. I knew what some of the capabilities here were, but there was a lot that I didn’t know. Sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know. This was a great experience to see the capabilities right here in our own back yard. I drive by these facilities every day on my way down I-5 and after seeing the capabilities here it gives me a whole new perspective,” Lovick continued. “When I go to Olympia tomorrow I’ll be talking about all of these things I learned today. I get excited about these things. I’m excited beyond words.”
Opposite Page: Washington Air National Guardsmen in a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 141st Air Refueling Wing conduct aerial refueling operations with a C-17 Globemaster III over Eastern Washington Sept. 19, during the 2019 Boss Lift. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon) Above: Participants in the 194th Wing Boss lift receive mission briefs about the 116th Air Support Operations Squadron simulation center Sept. 18, 2019 on Camp Murray, WA. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon)
Winter 2020| Washington Military Department | 33
Around the Department
Above: Washington Emergency Management Division’s E911 Unit poses for a photo after being recognized by the Adjutant General during the agency award ceremony in October. (Courtesy Photo)
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Below: Col. Scott Humphrey, commander of the 225th Air Defense Group Command addresses a group of employers during the Air National Guard Boss Lift at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash on Sept. 17, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Kimberly Burke)
Above: Daulton Gamboa, Rachel Well and Serina Roberts, State Fianance Office pose for a photo during the Washington Military Department’s Diversity Day event on Sept. 4, 2019 at the Pierce County Readiness Center, Camp Murray, Wash. (Photo by Steven Friederich)
Below: Chief Warrant Officer 5 Tim Gorden swears in Warrant Officer 1s Matthew Boden, Ricardo Godinez, Matthew Harrison, Tomas Huber, Phillip Sheldon, and Benjamin Steele during a ceremony on Sept. 27, 2019 at the Aviation Readiness Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. (U.S. National Guard photo by Sara Morris)
Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 35
Around the Department
Above: Deployed Guardsmen from the 156th Information Operations Battalion, 56th Theater Information Operations Group and 122nd Public Affairs Operations Center got a chance to talk with Congressman Derek Kilmer and Congressman Adam Smith on their operations and how their deployment is going in the Middle East. (Courtesy Photo)
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Below: Chief Warrant Officer four Steve Denham and the Washington Army National Guard flag football team pose with the Senior Enlisted Leader’s trophy after their victory over the Washington Air National Guard team at the North Fort Lewis Atheltic Fields, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Nov. 21, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Sara Morris)
Staff Sgt. Kurt Erickson instructs students on common Russian words for terrain features using a sand table at the Western Regional Counterdrug Training Center. With more than 16,000 Russian-born citizens in the Puget Sound region alone, law enforcement officers in areas with large Russian populations have sought a new course provided by the Washington National Guard’s Counter Drug Program. The Russian Language Survival Guide for Law Enforcement is available through the Western Regional Counterdrug Training Center on Camp Murray. This scenario-based course provides law enforcement personnel with the skills to interact with the Russian-speaking community to deter, interdict and counteract drug-related activity. (U.S. National Guard photo by Sara Morris)
Lt. Col. Adam Dipetrillo and CPT Sam Puri, Cyber Mission Assurance Team, gave a brief during the Nordstrom Information Security Conference. The duo talked about the great work of the cyber professionals in the Washington National Guard and how many have dual responsibilities, working both in the Guard and as professionals in the field for many organization in Washington state. “Our team of three full timers, and seven traditional Guardsmen, one works at Amazon.com, one at GoDaddy, so I am often the least knowledgeable one in the room, and I like that,” said Dipetrillo. “We have outstanding individuals in our organization.” (U.S. National Guard photo by Joseph Siemandel)
Winter 2020| Washington Military Department | 37
Meet Your Department Private 1st Class Brandon Ousley - Cannon Crew Member Years in the Guard: 6 years
Unit: 2nd Battalion, 146th Field Artillery Regiment
Job: Field Artillery Crew member
What Led You To Joining The Guard? In 2003 I started working at Blockbuster. It was only meant to be a summer job until I joined the Army, but I stayed on because it was a great place to work. I ended up managing 3 stores in the Seattle area. After the birth of my first child, Tyler, I was laid off and began bouncing from part time job to part time job during the 2008 recession. Towards the end of 2012 I was working a dead end job as night security with two kids now. I had given up on service because of my age and the shape I was in, I was 29 then at 230 lbs. I was feeling pretty guilty about how I had broken the tradition of service my family had for quite a few generations on both sides of my family. After a few google searches I had found out that it wasn’t actually too late. Another google search for a recruiter later and found out about the Guard. Learned about the weekend warrior life, and the benefits that the Guard had. The biggest being that I wouldn’t need to uproot my family.
I ended up speaking to my cousin, SSG Joshua Pratt. He told me about a lot more. About how the Guard is more of small family business than big Army. He told me about his job in the FA, and the hard work that came with it. So at 30 I went to Basic Training at Ft Benning, GA. I tore my rotator, and fractured my ankle, but still completed every training requirement with my class. When I graduated I was 190 lbs and fulfilling my term of service like my family before me.
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Master Sgt Craig Minnihan - 141st Civil Engineer Squadron Hometown: Coast to Coast and overseas, but considers Spokane home
High School: Immanuel Lutheran High School and College, Eau Claire, Wi Unit: 141 Civil Engineer Squadron Job: HVAC Superintendent
What Led You To Joining The Guard? Left active duty in 2007, and my wife convinced me to not throw away 6 years of service so Senior Master Sgt. Doug Nielson convinced me to continue on in the Guard. Best experience in the Guard: You meet a lot of good people and learn a lot of useful skills Hobbies / Interests: Sports and hunting
Future goals: Get our section more training from the civilian sector so our guys can be at the same skill levels as our civilian counterparts, and ultimately train my replacement.
Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 39
Meet Your Department Bernard Jackson - Energy Manager, CFMO Q: How long have you worked here? A: I have worked with the agency for almost 2 years now.
Q: What do you feel are the greatest benefits to working for the Washington Military Department? A: The opportunity to serve the state and country I live in the best way I know how — infrastructure optimization!
Q: What’s the most interesting/significant project you’ve worked on while with WMD? A: The most interesting project I have worked on so far has been the exterior lighting upgrade campus wide (soon to be statewide). It is challenging due to the many regulations and funding authorities involved; educational due to the amount of detail and range of scope involved; impactful because we are committed to installing dark-sky compliant lights that will reduce the negative impacts we humans have on our micro/macro-ecosystems; and fun at the end of the day because I get to be part of a team that builds really cool things! Q: In what ways have you had an opportunity to grow new skills? A: The Agency is committed to educating its employees, and gives me the opportunity to bolster my skills through instructor led courses and out-of-state training/certification. I can then immediately apply my new skill set to my work in the field, and teach my co-workers what u have learned. Additionally, the CFMO is chock full of brilliant and experienced folks that are eager and willing to share and apply what they know. Q: Which value do you need to embrace most in your job, and why? A: Patience. Because Rome was not built in a day, and road blocks really do exist.
Q: What do you find most challenging about the work you do here? A: Balancing federal and State requirements, regulations, and guidance. I have never before seen such a mash-up. While frustrating at times, walking the tightrope between the two can be exhilarating and a form of art. Q: Do you have a favorite quote or mantra you live by? A: “Willfull waste makes woeful want.” Q: How do you recharge from a busy or stressful day? A: I play board games with my wife, do math (yes I’m that much of a nerd), or walk my dog.
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Specialist Nathan Stone - Washington State Guard I was born in Arkansas and grew up in a small town called Swifton, population less than a 900. Everyone knew each other. Growing up, you’re going to work on the farm and stay, or get locked up in jail. That was the reality I lived with.
Early on I knew I wanted to join the military but never really thought about the challenges to get there. I actually dropped out of school and went to the Arkansas National Guard Youth Challenge Program. I graduated with a leadership award and my GED. I also took my ASVAB there, and joined the Arkansas National Guard 6 months after graduation. Fast forward to Army basic training. I arrived at Fort Benning, GA and was in a world of shock. I overcame selfishness, cowardice, and fear when I graduated and earned my blue cord and crossed rifles. Earning the title Infantryman was worth every second of misery associated with Alpha Company 2nd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment on Sand Hill.
Next, I returned home to Arkansas. I was a part-time soldier but had a full-time heart to service to country, state and community. I went to work for the Arkansas Department of Corrections as a correctional officer. I served at the Grimes unit in Newport, AR where I learned my passion for law enforcement. I served in a medium-classification facility and ultimately got accepted to serve in the unit’s Emergency Response Team. A career change took me from Arkansas to Alabama. I moved from the Arkansas to the Alabama National Guard. I became a contractor for the Department of Homeland Security at the Center for Domestic Preparedness. I protected the COBRA Training Facility as a Protective Security Officer and found that contracting was a fun and rewarding career choice.
Once I got out of the Alabama National Guard, my family moved to Spokane, WA. I decided that Washington would be a great new beginning. However I quickly realized that I missed the military. I had served my country as a contractor for the Department of Energy, but I still missed serving my community. That’s when I bumped into SFC Butch McConnell of the Washington State Guard. SFC McConnell made me realize that the Washington State Guard has what I needed in my life. I get to serve my community and state, and still serve my country as a patrol officer for the Department of Energy. My sense of service is able to come full circle, even though I’m far from where I started. I get to continue to impact and lead from the front as a soldier in the Washington State Guard.
Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 41
Serving the Community Nick Van Kirk, a logistics and decontamination non-commissioned officer with the 10th Civil Support Team and volunteer firefighter with South Bay Fire Department talks with his two commanders prior to a ceremony on October 10, 2019 in Olympia, Wash. (U.S. National Guard Photo by Joseph Siemandel)
G uardsman Firefighter W N G ashington
ational
uardsman makes an impact as volunteer firefighter
A service member is often born with a strong desire to help others. Whether it’s coaching a child’s baseball or soccer team, cleaning up their neighborhood or giving a hand-up during the holidays, public service is frequently a common trait of those serving in the military.
“I had wanted to be a volunteer firefighter for a while, giving back to the community I grew up in,” said Van Kirk. “Being a full-time active Guard member with the 10th Civil Support Team, I wasn’t sure if I would have that chance.”
For Sgt. 1st Class Nick Van Kirk, a logistics and decontamination non-commissioned officer with the 10th Civil Support Team, he wanted to give back to his community in a different way.
He got his chance three years ago, right at the time that the Washington Military Department switched from a traditional five-day workweek to a four-day, 10 hour a day schedule.
Growing up in the South Bay community of Olympia, Van Kirk lived down the road from the South Bay Fire Department on Shincke Road. He would see it on his way to South Bay Elementary School.
“The schedule switch gave me the opportunity to go for it, and the leadership with the Civil Support Team supported it,” said Van Kirk. Becoming a firefighter and
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emergency medical technician takes time and requires the individual to volunteer hours to earn certifications. However being a full-time member of the 10th Civil Support Team, responding at a moment’s notice to support local law enforcement and first responders also requires a lot of time and energy. “The training for both firefighting and EMT is time consuming, my command supported everything about me volunteering with South Bay,” said Van Kirk. Volunteering with South Bay hasn’t hindered Van Kirk’s work at the CST. “He probably volunteers 40-50 hours a month with the fire
department, he never misses a day of work with us though,” said 1st Sgt. Paul Gautreaux, 10th Civil Support Team. “He is there on Mondays even getting our folks and gear ready for the week ahead.” This past Fourth of July, Van Kirk put his training, both with the fire department and Guard to good use during a critical situation. That morning, Van Kirk and other members of the South Bay team responded to a call involving a car missing a turn, going down a hill, and hitting two small children who were playing on the shoreline. The call came in to the dispatcher and South Bay firefighters went to work. “We got to the scene first and the two children were injured pretty bad, so we immediately called for additional EMTs, contacted the hospitals and got everything organized quickly,” said Van Kirk. “Jordan and Ava were rushed to Harborview and are doing great today.” Van Kirk received praise from his station leadership for his work. “Nick was our only volunteer who stayed on for the additional shift, he organized the sub units to the incident and help save the lives of two little ones,” said John Clemons, medical service officer, South Bay Fire Department. “He is a real asset to our station.” His commander, Maj. Wes Watson, also believes it is great for his team at the 10th Civil Support Team. “He is like so many in the organization, they are the quiet professionals, volunteering their own time to help others, it’s just the spirit of the Guard,” Watson said. Story and Photo by Joseph Siemandel
Washington Air Guard member honored for heroic response to Tumwater attack
Staff Sgt. Jonathan Tinsley, 116th Air Support Operations Squadron Tactical Air Control Party member, became the first Air Guard member to receive the Washington State Guardsman Medal, on November 2. The Washington Guardsman Medal is awarded to an individual who voluntarily demonstrates extreme courage and heroism. On March 3, 2017, in Tumwater, Washington, while off duty from both his military and civilian job, Tinsley rescued two members of the community who were under attack from a violent criminal. Tinsley tackled the attacker and placed him into a submission hold, disrupting the attack and preventing further harm to the victims.
Tinsley held the suspect until police arrived and let go only to allow officers to place the perpetrator in hand cuffs. The perpetrator resisted violently, knocking the officer away. Tinsley again leaped into action, reapplying the submission hold with increased pressure, rendering the attacker unconscious and allowing the officer to safely place handcuffs onto the perpetrator. Tinsley, who is a firefighter and emergency management technician in his civilian job, immediately switched roles from protector to caregiver, rendering medical aid to the victims and the perpetrator. Tinsley was credited with saving the lives of the victims, and his actions led to the arrest of a violent criminal. "Jonathan really represents the best of our Guardsmen,” said Brig. General Jeremy Horn, Washington Air National Guard Commander, during the award ceremony. “For his day job, he gravitated to a life of action, a career field where you run in when others run out and you assume danger to try and save other people. Then he goes above and beyond, joins the Air National Guard and also gravitates to a career field where he runs towards the sound of the guns when others run away, where he is willing to risk personal safety in order to bring our soldiers, Airmen and Marines home safely. The fact that he would do that is really a testament to his character." Tinsley, inspired by his grandfather and uncle’s military service, joined the Washington Air National Guard in 2014. Following Basic Military Training, Tinsley went on to attend TACP school, where he received the Distinguished Graduate Award. In his civilian job, Tinsley has received three Medals of Valor for life saving efforts off duty. - Story and Photo by Senior Airman Justyn Freeman Winter 2020| Washington Military Department | 43
Sprung Into Action
194th
airmen receives award after actions on deployment Photo and Story By Senior Airman Justyn Freeman and it took them outside the wire of the base,” said Henderson. When things don’t go according to plan, we aren’t always lucky to have someone come to our rescue, but for two Pararescue Airmen in Iraq a The situation had taken a turn, prompting those providing overwatch 194th Security Forces Flight Airman was that someone. security to spring into action. Using their rapport with the Iraqi Air Force, Henderson and Tech. Sgt. Lewis, New Jersey ANG 105th Security Forces Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Lisa Henderson, 194th SFF fire team lead, Squadron, were able quickly navigate through control points and reach the was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal with combat device for her deployment to Al Asad Air Base, Iraq from March to October of 2018. PJs. Henderson, along with other security forces members, helped retrieve the Pararescues (PJs) after they were blown off course during parachute jump “The sun was going down quick, we didn’t want to leave them out there in the dark. We just went out and talked to the Iraqis,” Henderson said, training. ‘Hey remember when I brought you wipes and cereal that one time? Do The Al Asad Airbase perimeter is divided into zones, consisting of the green you remember my face?’” zone, orange zone, and red zone. The base security forces are the ones responsible inner perimeter security, but the outermost wire is protected by Base intelligence had received information regarding a truck circling the the Iraqi Air Force, who work with U.S. Air Force security forces personnel. area who had rocket launcher in the bed of the vehicle. Knowing that a credible threat was in play and those threats not seen, two other security forces patrols came to provide more security for the team outside the “The first part of my tour I was an assistant flight chief and as part of wire. After picking up the PJs, the teams were able to return to base my job I was responsible for liaising with the people in the towers. We would go out and stop at different towers and build relationships with the without incident quickly and efficiently. [American] and Iraqi Air Force at the towers and gate,” said Henderson. “I think the liaising with the interpreters, and actually getting out there The second part of Henderson’s tour, she worked in the back office where with them is what helped in this situation,” said Henderson. “A lot of she would provide overwatch security for groups, like the PJs, who needed people when they deploy overseas immediately think that the Iraqis are a threat and they have their guard up. I think you can have a balance the less populated areas of the outer zones to conduct their exercises. of knowing your enemy, being aware of your surroundings, knowing the threat levels, but also to pull that wall down and build that relationship “The PJs requested overwatch security and access to that area, so while they did their exercise we were providing overwatch to their landing zone. with them. I think just going out there and showing them we appreciate When the two jumped out of the plane the wind unexpectedly kicked up and need them too, let’s work together, we have the same goal makes a big difference.” Tech. Sgt. Lisa Henderson, 194th Security Forces Flight, received an Air Force Commendation Medal with combat device for her actions during her deployment to Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. Henderson led a team of Security Forces Airmen to recover two pararescuemen who had landed outside the base perimeter during parachuting training. (Washington Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Justyn Freeman)
44| Washington Military Department | Winter 2020
Cutline
Use of Force
141st Security Forces train for the fight
Story and Photos by TSgt Michael Brown
On September 7, 2019 the 141st Security Forces Squadron participated in a training exercise at the Spokane Police Department Training Range. The airmen ran through 9 different scenarios ranging from use-of-force to domestic violence. The training is important because as a Security Forces airman you never really know what you’re walking into in any given situation. Any contact could become a hostile situation in the blink of an eye, each defender needs to be able to stay calm and rational in those types of scenarios. “Putting them in these (practice) situations allows them to later visualize what those physical or emotional responses might be,” said Tech. Sgt. Josh Weigelt, 141st Security Forces Squadron. “We run tactical scenarios to train everyone on what it would be like in a real-world situation.” In one Scenario, the Security Forces Airman has to decide quickly what level of force he should use as a situation rapidly unfolded in front of him, another where a suspicious motorist was broken down on the road and the Airmen needed to decide if the individual was a threat or not. “Were trying to get people to think on their toes,” said Weigelt. “That is one of the biggest hurdles in training, getting them to continuously evaluate the situation and respond.” The ability for the unit to train in a semi realistic environment, where the Spokane Police Department also train offered the Airmen a unique perspective during training. Watching first hand the professionalism and technical ability of even the youngest Airmen to effectively respond and de-escalate a situation was inspiring to see. These men and women are constantly training to be prepared for a wide variety of international and domestic missions. Winter 2020| Washington Military Department | 45
Giving Back
Guard Family start a foundation with Humanitarian opportunities in Honduras By Sara Morris The Mission for Healing Foundation is a veteran-founded 501(c)(3) non-profit, which provides humanitarian opportunities for current and former service members, as well as their spouses. The foundation takes service members and their spouses to developing nations like Honduras and partners with other organizations to help build feeding centers and playgrounds for children.
“The process is generally us posting the next trip on Facebook or our website, and then the applications are submitted, and we take who we can,” Trish explained. “Then, we expect them to fundraise the cost of their trip, not just to cover the expenses but to start that process of talking to people and engaging them.”
The organization is founded by Command Sgt. Major Patrick Turnage and his wife Trish, who both traveled to Africa in 2017 and were so inspired that they wanted to just keep helping.
The veterans and spouses that have taken part in these trips remain connected after they return home, and the foundation will hold get-togethers throughout the year to maintain that bond. They currently conduct one trip a year, as Turnage is still serving as a guardsman.
Turnage, with the 1-161 Infantry Battalion, noted, “After feeling like I’ve been so destructive during my career, I wanted an opportunity to build and create something good. This gives me a chance to change the lives of these children.”
Trish posted her own testimony to their Facebook page, and regularly speaks at the beginning of each trip with her husband to show the veterans and their spouses that they truly understand how the service has impacted their lives.
The reason for providing the international humanitarian opportunities is to create a separate environment, like while deployed, and encourage stronger bonds between the members on the trip. This leads to more story sharing and comradery. It also provides resources to a country with fewer services available to them. “We want to target veterans that are really struggling, and just need that push to speak to someone, and are ready to figure out the next step,” Turnage said. Around 10 veterans and spouses travel for each six-day trip. Three days are dedicated to the manual labor to do service to the communities. Two days are for travel and there’s an extra day for a fun activity to lighten the mood of the trip.
A Mission for Healing Foundation is a military husband and wife team that helps past and present service members heal from the effects of PTSD. We offer them a chance to heal by rebuilding and giving back in developing countries on mission trips. We also offer 2 other programs to help spouses and gold star families.
“He was kind, smart, funny, and loved me unconditionally,” she wrote. “Surely, he didn’t have any combat-related issues. Those guys were nuts! Talk about stereotyping. I guarantee many people think the way I once did.” These feelings brought on many questions, “So now what? How can I help him and my husband or be there for him?” Their answer was this foundation and the work they are trying to provide veterans and their spouses as a catalyst to a healthy and happy life post-service.
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Do You Like Podcasts? Participants in the 194th Wing Boss Lift ride on a on a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 141st Air Refueling Wing Sept. 18, 2019. The Boss Lift is an event co-hosted with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve that helps civilian employers of Air National Guard members understand what their employees do during their military service. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Tim Chacon)
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Winter 2020 | Washington Military Department | 47
Cadets Morrison and Arns show off their “war paint� during their Team Building Exercise at Camp Parsons, Wash. on Oct. 25, 2019. (U.S. National Guard photo by Sara Morris)