Green Mountain Guard 1
FROM THE ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL - ARMYL
Answering the call...
I am honored and humbled to be able leader in recognizing the importance of
to serve you as Assistant Adjutant Information Operations to our future
General – Army. Little did I know 40 national defense strategy. Acting on
years ago when I put on a uniform for that, we established an Information
the first time that I would be lucky Operations cell which has grown into
enough to spend most of my career the 3-124th IO Training Battalion. And,
serving with the great members of the just as we broke new ground in military
Vermont National Guard. It is through mountaineering, we broke new ground
the efforts of many of you and those in IO. With the addition of an Air IO
who have gone before you that I am in Detachment, the VTNG is now a leader
this position today. For that I say in the Joint IO arena.
“Thank You!” Most recently we welcomed back the Brig. Gen. J. Michael Gately
This is a great time to be a member of members of TF Saber and TF
the Vermont Army National Guard! Catamount. They join those who have lead by example – to do the right thing
There have been many changes in the gone before them in the spirit of the and do the thing right! If every squad
VTARNG since I joined as a young earliest Green Mountain Boys to fight leader, every gun crew-chief, every
Captain in 1975 but one thing has against oppression and fear. They section sergeant, every platoon
remained constant – the Vermont selflessly sacrificed in order to bring sergeant and every 1SG works to make
National Guard is a leader. We’ve the hope of liberty and justice to the his or her slice of the pie the very best
transitioned from M48A5 tanks as part people of Iraq and Afghanistan. Their it can be our personnel readiness will
of the 50th Armored Division to M1’s performance was singled out by the Lt. be the envy of all.
with the 42nd Infantry Division where Gen. Clyde Vaughn, Director of the This isn’t rocket science – it is basic
we set new standards on Tank Table XII Army National Guard, as especially leadership. Set and uphold high
qualification. In between, we mastered noteworthy. standards, provide the best training
the M60 as the heavy element of the Now, as we start a new training year, possible for your soldiers to meet
26th ID. we are once again taking the lead with those standards. Hold yourself
In 1982, we stood up the first Mountain the transition to the 86th Infantry accountable for your actions and your
Company since the deactivation of the Brigade Combat Team (Mountain). This soldiers accountable for theirs. Make
10th Mountain Division after WWII. is a great time to be a member of the sure they get rewarded in public and
We established the Army Mountain VTARNG. Each and every one of us reprimanded, when necessary, in
Warfare School to train the soldiers of has the ability to help the VTARNG set private. Insure they are paid and
that Company as it grew into the new standards for the Army. promoted promptly. Provide them the
Army’s only Mountain Battalion. In As we build the best IBCT in the Army, best equipment and training money can
1994, Gen. Gordon Sullivan, former personnel readiness is going to be the buy and send them home tired at the
Army Chief of Staff, named the AMWS lynchpin. To achieve the level of end of drill feeling like they did
the Army trainers for mountain and personnel readiness necessary, leaders something important for their
cold weather operations. Never before at all levels will be called on to step up. community, state and nation. It won’t
was a National Guard unit selected for Make no mistake – THIS IS NOT A take long before they will be
such a mission by the active STRENGTH ISSUE – it is a encouraging their friends to join our
component. LEADERSHIP issue! It starts at the top team. Their enthusiasm will be
We have consistently been a leader in with commanders – TAG, AAG, IBCT infectious. Quality begets quality.
marksmanship winning numerous Commander, Battalion Commanders, Don’t keep the greatness of the VTNG
Wilson Match Championships. We are etc. setting the leadership vision and a secret. Share your pride in belonging
known internationally for our biathlon standard. The hallmarks of that at every opportunity. You do things as
program which has consistently standard are Integrity, Excellence, and a guard member that others only
produced Olympic and World-class Teamwork - in all things at all times! dream about. This is a great time to be
athletes. That’s where it starts, but not where it a member of the Vermont Army
In the mid-1990’s, We were again a stops. Every leader is responsible to National Guard – share the pride!
The Green Mountain Guard is an authorized, unofficial publication produced by the Vermont Army National Guard, Vermont Air National Guard and the Vermont National
Guard Joint Force Headquarters. Circulation: 5,000. Views, opinions, or accounts expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of the Vermont Army National
Guard, the Vermont Air National Guard, the Vermont National Guard Joint Force Headquarters, the Department of the Army, or the United States Air Force. Publication of
material is determined upon available space and reader interest. The staff reserves the right to edit all material. Photographs are by VTARNG 114th MPAD and VTANG
Multimedia unless otherwise noted.
2 Green Mountain Guard
INSIDE the GMG
Volume 7, Number 1 FEATURES
6 The Next Disaster
The National Guard is dual-missioned. We are tasked with the federal
mission of fighting and winning the nation’s wars and also with serving
under the control of the Governor as the primary military responder
for state missions.
10 Operation Rising Phalanx
On Cover Sgt. 1st Class Twenty-two Vermont Army National Guardsmen left the Green Moun
Carlos Rodriquez observes as a
tains in early September to participate in Operation Rising Phalanx.
Macedonian soldier trains during
Operation Rising Phalanx. Photo This operation joins American soldiers with the Macedonian Military
by Tech. Sgt. Michael Davis. Police Battalion for several weeks.
13 Task Force Lobo
The day dawned cool and clear as Task Force Lobo boarded the KC 135 and
Green Mountain Guard Staff the two C-130s heading for Arizona.
Adjutant General
Maj. Gen. Michael D. Dubie
Editor-in-Chief
Capt. Jeff Roosevelt
DEPARTMENTS
Support Staff A Message from The Assistant Adjutant General - Army 2
Lt. Col. Lloyd Goodrow
Commander’s Column 4
Journalists Education Services Notes 4
Lt. Col. Lloyd Goodrow
Capt. Mary Day Air News Notes 18
Sgt. 1st Class Dwight D. Harrington
Spc. Heidi Kroll Army News Notes 19
Chief Photographer
Master Sgt. Robert J. Trubia
Photographers
Tech. Sgt. Michael Davis Page 9
Sgt. Jason Brace
Sgt. Matthew Lang
Page 12
Green Mountain Guard 3
COMMANDER’S COLUMN Assistant Adjutant General - Air EDUCATION SERVICES
One liners for success
I’d like to share a few one liners of
how I try to approach this great
profession. I’ve learned all of these 1st Lt. Joseph Colantoni
from others; my philosophy has
always been that I try to learn I would like to take a moment
something from everyone I meet. to recognize the achievements of Sgt.
Brig. Gen. William Etter
1st Class Phil Rochette, your Vermont
Army National Guard Bonus and
Talk to people, mentor, grow new The solution may not be that Incentive Manager and past Education
leaders. Some topics are difficult. simple. The big picture is really big. Services Officer. Rochette has been
Being diplomatic does not mean triple-hatted for almost two years and
untruthful. All leaders are managers, but not managed eight major education
programs available to you and has
all managers are leaders. There is
managed these programs better than
What goes TDY does not stay TDY a difference. most other states that have three to
but defines your character.
five times the management personnel.
Can’t do it all, learn to live with This summer Rochette was
Biggest room in the world – the 95% and decide what is really recognized nationally as he has
room for improvement. important. ensured 100% on-time bonus
payments. His most important
Wear out your soles not your Nobody eats until everybody eats. accomplishment effecting education
keyboard. E-mail is a tool that We are the Guard, we take care of has been his ability to nearly triple
works for us, not the other way our own. our Federal Tuition Assistance Budget!
around. It is never for controversy. Thank You SFC Rochette!
There is NO private e-mail. The The VA has just announced
Most reassuring statement a U.S.
payment rate increases beginning Oct.
chain of command still applies to e- citizen can hear “the Guard is 1, 2006. The biggest increase affects
mail. here.” Worst nightmare of an Ch1607 Reserve Education Assistance
enemy of the U.S. can hear, “the Program with a $25 increase for one
There is no right way to do the Guard is here.” year of mobilized service. As always
wrong thing. the GI Bill home page
We are at war. Real war, with all www.gibill.va.gov is loaded with useful
Don’t list problems, solve them! the things that come with that. information. The GI Bill home page
Many have been, and will go again, also has a great feature, “ask a
You are the safety and force we can’t thank them enough. question”; this provides you the ability
protection officer. Every one of to get your questions and issues
you. It’s easy enough to get hurt in answered in a timely fashion.
Remember before you do
our line of work, stay safe. The men and women of the anything that involves education
Vermont National Guard exceed especially paying for tuition, call me at
If it’s important to them it’s expectations every day, thank you 802-338-3378, chances are I have
important. Listening is important. for your service. GMG money available for you.
4 Green Mountain Guard
STATE BENEFITS PROGRAM HEALTH NOTES
To all Service Members returning from Deployments,
I will start by thanking you for your service and sacrifice. I need
to inform all of you that you must enroll into the medical side of the VA
with a 10-10EZ form. You can get these forms from the VA or by going
on line at www.va.gov/vaforms/search then type in 10-10 and hit search.
Then fill it out online: then print a copy and send it to ; VA Medical
Center 215 North Main Street White River Jct, VT 05009 Attn; Nancy Maj. Patricia Hammond
04E. Breast Cancer Awareness
You must also send your DD214 Member 4 copy as well and then October is breast cancer
you will be registered on the Medical side. You can also submit your awareness month! The key to curing
claim forms the same way just type in 21-526 for your claim form: fill it breast cancer is early detection and
prompt treatment. A physical
out then print a copy and send it to the same address just changing to examination, mammography and
Attn: Pam Tebo-Piccione. This must be accompanied with Medical breast self-examination (BSE) make
evidence to validate the claim and your DD214 member 4 copy. up the conventional early detection
approach.
You can also go to your nearest VA facility and get a copy of these A physical examination is
performed by a doctor, and it is
forms and fill them out and turn them in with the supporting documents; strongly recommended that you see
LOD, DD214 and Medical Records. your doctor for regular breast
Thank you for your time. Please contact me if you have any questions. exams—at least every three years
Ronnie LaBounty, State Benefits Advisor between the ages of 20 and 40 and
(802) 338-3473 every year after age 40.
A mammogram is a special x-
ray picture of the breast. Due to
modern mammography equipment
HUNTERS BEWARE!!! and techniques, women only receive a
minimal amount of radiation during
Ethan Allen Firing Range – Posted No Trespassing the procedure. With the newer
techniques that are available, a large
percentage of the cancer is detected
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures cooler, many of when the tumors are 2 centimeters
us in Vermont turn our thoughts toward hunting season. As in past years, or smaller. Two x-rays are taken of
the Vermont Army National Guard wants to remind hunters, hikers, ATV each breast during mammography,
riders, etc.., that the Ethan Allen Firing Range is Federal Property which is one from above and one from the
side. A specially trained physician
posted “No Trespassing” and is off limits to all civilian and military called a radiologist reads the
personnel for recreational use. Due to the constant usage of the range mammogram to see if any suspicious
by military units and the General Dynamics Corporation, the safety and areas exist.
protection of all personnel is very important to the Training Site Routine mammography screening
Detachment, which oversees Range Operations. appears to reduce breast cancer
mortality by approximately 25%.
A breast self-examination
The entire range complex is posted and trespass violations can should be practiced monthly. Ask
result in fines being issued. The VTARNG ask that all personnel who are your doctor, nurse, or mammography
using property in proximity to the range, to be aware of your technician to teach you the proper
surroundings, so as to not travel into dangerous areas.In closing, good method. Remember, most breast
lumps are not cancer, but only a
luck to all hunters, wear brightly colored clothes (250 sq. inches of physician can make a proper
fluorescent orange on head, chest and back preferred), and respect other diagnosis. Informational packets will
hunters. And above all, be safe. Happy hunting. also be available in the traveling Safety
and Occupational Health Tips Basket
during October.
Green Mountain Guard 5
The Next Disaster
Part 1 – Soldiers and Airmen
By Lt .Col. L. J. “Sonny” Schumacher
Director, Operations for Military Support
The National Guard is dual-missioned. We are will render assistance with
tasked with the federal mission of fighting and winning the military personnel and
nation’s wars and also with serving under the control of the equipment without prior
Governor as the primary military responder for state approval and as soon as the
missions. State missions are activities and measures taken emergency response
by the Vermont Natioanl Guard to foster mutual assistance permits you will upchannel
and support between the VTNG and any civil government a situation report.
agency in planning or preparedness for, or in the application 4. Expect that a
of resources to, the consequences of civil emergencies or recon will have been Lt. Col. L. J. “Sonny” Schumacher
attacks. In these events, the our role is one of support – conducted by a VTNG
civilian authorities retain the primary responsibility for liaison officer PRIOR to
domestic operations. your arrival in the disaster area. The LNO will pre-
The VTNG has a proud history of responding select your staging area outside the disaster area, from
successfully to disasters. There will be another disaster at which you will feed, maintain and control operations.
some point in the future and its scale cannot be predicted. DO NOT rush headlong into the disaster area; we do
It is important to periodically review and reflect on the not need additional victims. Your military training HAS
fundamentals of state missions before the next disaster: PREPARED you to operate in chaotic and stressful
1. VTNG forces remain under the command of situations. Your very presence has a calming and
VTNG officers and missions are conducted through the comforting effect on the community.
National Guard chain of command after coordination with 5. In the event of an emergency, you will be
civil authorities. You will be part of a military unit and your performing your military duty in public view.
military chain of command will always be in effect with a Your appearance, words, and actions will be closely
Joint Force Commander, supported by the Joint Staff at monitored and observed by the citizenry, by local
GMA, through the Adjutant General, to the Governor. Your government officials, by the press, and others. Do not
unit will be task organized to the mission, and will be respond to queries, press or otherwise. Every person
referred to as a Joint Task Force. The Joint Task Force chain in uniform is identified as speaking for the entire VTNG
of command will exercise tactical control of the JTF to whenever they speak. The TAG and PAO will provide
accomplish definite and limited objectives. Higher echelon timely, clear and consistent messages about JTF
units provide support to personnel under federal task activities including what we know, what we have done/
organizations. are doing, what we are requesting citizens to do, and
2. You will be working side-by-side with civilian what we will do next.
emergency responders in an interagency environment. 6. DO NOT enter private property without
VTNG employs for state missions in support of a defined the consent of owner or specific orders. DO NOT give
lead civilian agency. We do not take ‘command’ of a disaster, command and control of VTNG forces to a civilian. DO
nor do local first responders task on-scene VTNG NOT conduct missions on private property unless
personnel with missions. Direct liaison may be required and ordered to do so. When the VTNG rebuilds roads, we
authorized between the local commanders and the on- work only on town and state roads. DO NOT expect
scene representatives of the lead civilian agency. However, to solve all of the community’s problems. Sometimes a
VTNG missions are approved and assigned only by your community will expect the VTNG to stay on site until
chain of command. Local first responders must send their all damage has been repaired.
specific request for VTNG capabilities to Vermont The VTNG helps restore BASIC services to the
Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center. community as quickly as possible and once acceptable
We execute only on approved mission requests. levels of public safety and welfare have been
3. There is one exception where you will perform reestablished, resources from the civilian sector
missions that have not been authorized in advance by your (government and private) continue the recovery
chain of command. This exception is for Immediate operation. DO NOT furnish support if it is in
Response actions, which gives local commanders flexibility competition with private enterprise or the civilian labor
and authority to respond immediately to time-sensitive force. GMG
situations to save lives, prevent human suffering, or mitigate
great property damage. For example, if you are part of a The Next Disaster Part 2 will provide an overview of
unit that is clearing a single lane of road for use by Command Considerations for performing state
emergency vehicles, and you see a school bus on fire, you missions in the event of a man-made or natural disaster.
6 Green Mountain Guard
Col. Murdock
Recognized
Story and photo by Tech. Sgt.
Margaret Burns
One of our own Green Mountain
Boys has been awarded the 2006 Maj. Gen.
I.G. Brown Command Excellence Trophy for
Region 5.
Tech. Sgt. Heather K. Powell
Col. Philip E. Murdock, 158th Wing
Chaplain Assistant
Commander, was recognized by the Non-
Commissioned Officer Academy Graduate
Association New England Region with this Greetings from the Vermont
award. National Guard Chapel.
The I.G. Brown Excellence Award has First, let me introduce you
been awarded by the NCOAGA since 1988. Photo: Col. Philip E. Murdock to the newest member of the State
Each year there are five Wing Commanders (right) renders a sulute during a
Chapel staff, Chaplain Lt. Col.
Charles Purinton, who joins us as a
selected, one from each region of NCOAGA recent ceremony at the 158th full-time chaplain.
membership, to receive the prestigious award. Fighter Wing. With the increase in Chapel
The recipients of this award are honored for staff, we are beginning many
their contributions in five categories. exciting projects.
1. Encouragement and support of the National NCOAGA overall and the We are initiating joint
selfless work within the unit chapter. Chaplain Assistant training covering
2. Support for meeting and chapter community events. crucial areas such as Post Traumatic
3. Driving force in the revitalization of their chapter and the Young Hero’s Stress Disorder, Family Support,
Award Program. and confidentiality. We hope to
4. Communicates and encourages completion of Professional Military Education
hold our first joint training in
January.
and personal development. We are also in the process
5. Recognition of those who attend PME during Commander’s Call. of revitalizing the Howard C. Lewis
Murdock spearheaded the resurrection of NCOAGA Chapter 41,“The Chapel at the Ethan Allen Firing
Green Mountain Chapter.” Murdock is fully supportive of the NCOAGA program Range. The Chapel was dedicated
honoring young children battling life-threatening illness with courage.The Young on Sept. 11, 1988. Since then the
Hero’s Program was kicked off in January 2006, and since Jan. 19, we have awarded Chapel has been used only for the
ten awards to deserving Young Heroes, a reflection of his direction and assistance. occasional worship service or
He has also been the champion of PME completion, key to the Vermont Air wedding. We are looking into
National Guard’s participation in every Satellite NCO Academy since inception. holding regularly scheduled
Murdock energetically communicates VTANG’s PME successes in meetings,
services there for the many units
rotating through EAFR.
Commander’s Calls and Wing stand-ups. Our third project is to send
“It is great to see Col. Murdock receive such a prestigious award in out a religious support “Needs
light of his continued support of PME,” said Col. Brad Jensen,Vice Commander Assessment Survey” to all VTNG
for the 158th Fighter Wing. “Col. Murdock feels PME is a critical pillar in members. Your feedback is very
maintaining a relevant and reliable force for our community, state, and nation”. important to us and will help shape
Murdock became Wing Commander in January 2004, and since that the future of VTNG Chapel
time, there have been three Satellite NCOA classes graduating 20 students of programs.
which three were Distinguished Graduates, in addition to sending four others While we are very busy
to NCOA at different locations.We have had 12 members graduate from Airman these days, our priority is, and
Leadership School, of which Senior Airman Andrew Beeman recently was the
always will be, giving our Green
Mountain Boys a safe place to deal
Levitow Award Winner from his class. with the trials of life.
The award period for this trophy is from October 2004 to September
2005. Murdock was given his award at a seminar in July 2006, at Hauppauge,
Long Island, N.Y.
Congratulations Col. Murdock!
Green Mountain Guard 7
Vermont Army National Guard
Recruiting and Retention Command
By Maj. Thomas S. Palermo
In the August Issue of the Green Mountain Guard Magazine I spoke of the
Guard Recruiting Assistant Program and since then two new programs have been
unveiled by Docupak, the civilian contractor. One is health care coverage for
individual or family and the second, G-RAP is open to National Guard retirees.
Health Care
Docupak will also be offering a health care coverage plan that includes Maj. Thomas S. Palermo
medical, dental, vision and life insurance from United Health care for all eligible Army
National Guard Soldiers participating in G-RAP. Enrollment began Sept. 22, 2006. All
Recruiting Assistants that are eligible will be contacted by Docupak to see if they are interested in the below programs.
Point of contact for this program from Docupak is Angie Cobb, who can be reached at 1-888-291-6004 Ext. 243 or you
can go the web site: www.guardrecruitingassistant.com/arng/index.php
Here are more specific details. Those RA’s who choose the Health Care Plan must do the following:
1. When loading a Potential Soldier, the RA will have to notate in “Potential Soldier Nominees notes” area that they
want to elect the Health Insurance in lieu of payment.
Also Docupak will contact the RA via e-mail as RA’s have payment pending whether they want to elect $2,000
payment or defer payment to be used towards the individual coverage outlined in Option 1.
2. In order to get Option 2, the RA will have to do the same as in Option 1, only it will need to be for three deferred
$,2000 payments (totaling $6,000) to qualify for Option 2 Health Care. The RA will have to realize if they select Option
1, they will not be able to qualify for Option 2.
3. Once the RA opts in for the health care coverage, they can not change their minds and request payment.
4. If the RA has two accessions from G-RAP and they are awaiting deferred payments to get the three accessions for the
Family Health Care (Option 2) and realize they will not get three accessions, they can contact Docupak and receive the
$2,000 payment for each accession instead of keeping them deferred for the Family Health Care.
5. Above all else, the best thing to do if there are any questions - contact Docupak, they are very helpful.
Coverage Options
Option 1: Individual Healthcare Insurance A $3,100 Value! One accession = 12 months individual coverage;
RA becomes eligible for 12 months of individual healthcare insurance coverage 30 days after verification of the first
accession.
Option 2: Family Healthcare Insurance A $7,900 Value! Three accessions = 12 months family coverage;
RA elects to defer single coverage in order to qualify for family coverage – RA becomes eligible for 12 months of family
healthcare coverage 30 days after the verification of the third accession.
G-RAP is open to National Guard retirees.
Docupak announces an expansion to the G-RAP. Effective immediately, Army National Guard Soldiers retired for
a minimum of six months are eligible to apply for the program.
Docupak, in an effort to “jump-start” this expansion, would like to solicit personal, by-name and contact
information of any Retiree that would be considered an asset G-RAP. Those personal who would like to be considered
can send contact information following email address established specifically for this expansion:
grapretireeinfo@docupak.com.
VTARNG Retirees will enjoy the same payment schedule and access to the Mission Zone materials as our current M-
Day Recruiting Assistants. The guidelines and parameters of the program will generally remain the same. The application
process will mirror the current one with the exception of verifying
their retired status.Verification of their retired status (retirement
orders) will be required to be faxed or scanned/emailed to Docupak.
This information has been updated and is available on the G-RAP
website www.guardrecruitingassistant.com.
The VTARNG Recruiting & Retention Command appreciates
the tremendous support and focused attention given to G-RAP, and
success of the G-RAP has been directly attributed to 49 accessions
since its start in March 2006 as of Sept. 1, 2006. We believe that
expanding the program to our Retired community will solidify and
significantly enhance the VTARNG in achieving its accession mission
goals.
Should there be any questions, please do not hesitate to call
John Copeland, Program Manager, G-RAP, at (205) 621-3378. GMG
8 Green Mountain Guard
Basic combat training:
changing the paradigm
Story and photos by Tiffany Ryan
“The discipline which makes the Soldiers of a free
country reliable in battle is not to be gained by harsh or
tyrannical treatment. On the contrary, such treatment is
far more likely to destroy than to make an army.”
This philosophy was echoed in 1879 to future
leaders throughout the halls of the U.S. Military Academy
in West Point, N.Y., by Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield.
Today, drill sergeants at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.,
put his century-old leadership concept to the test.
Gone are the days of the “Full Metal Jacket”
Photo: While a basic combat training drill sergeant observes
thinking when Gunnery Sgt. Hartman (R. Lee Emery) their moves, two 3rd Training Brigade recruits battle it out
described recruits as “pukes,” “maggots” and “the lowest
during the Pugil Assault exercise.
form of life on Earth.” Methods, Col. Edward Daly, 3rd
Training Brigade commander, said even the Army was
guilty of using. the makeover last year, injured or low-performing recruits
“The Army had to get rid of the old-school might have been shipped home. Not anymore.
mentality, the ‘Full Metal Jacket’ mentality … because it’s “Every Soldier counts,” Daly said. During the
not ‘My way or the highway,’ it’s the Army way,” said Daly, Army’s nine-week basic combat training, he said drill
whose brigade graduates about 11,000 Soldiers a year. sergeants are seen as teachers, coaches and mentors who
One main reason the Army changed its training “insist upon a standard, but assist along the way.” This new
dealt with Americans answering the call, said Sgt. 1st Class concept, he said, has altered the drill sergeants’ culture.
Daryle Walker, Company E, 795th Military Police Battalion. The most significant changes to the paradigm, Daly
“We are at war, and these men and women are said, are the drill sergeants’ role and the exercises taught.
stepping forward to raise their hands to become Soldiers Today, drill sergeants are seen as squad leaders who teach
knowing that they will have to go out and fight for their Soldiers accountability and responsibility, and prepare
country; they’re stepping up to the plate,” said Walker. troops for battle.
Daly said basic combat training is about dignity, For 63 days, recruits are trained on several military
respect and having the opportunity to succeed. Before exercises including forward operating bases, convoy live
fires, military operations in urban terrain,
night infiltration courses, basic and
advanced rifle marksmanship, and
checkpoint operations. On top of that, they
also have daily physical training, road
marches, team development courses,
classroom instruction, and three field and
seven situational training exercises.
Nowhere is this proven truer than in Iraq,
said Staff Sgt. Stanley Miller, 401st MP
Company, Fort Hood, Texas. During an
eight-month tour in Iraq, Miller led nine
Soldiers – three of which were privates
trained at Fort Leonard Wood. Those
privates, he said, showed up ready for
combat operations.
The privates “go through more realistic …
combat-related training,” said Miller, who is
training at the Drill Sergeant School. “They
are prepared for Iraq.”
Miller said he was 100 percent confident in
the privates’ training.
“The privates I went over there with; I
Photo: A 3rd Training Brigade recruit at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., shows no signs could trust them with my life - because I
of fear as she rappels down Warrior Tower – a basic combat training team did - and that’s a result of their training,” he
development course. said. GMG
Green Mountain Guard 9
OPERATION RISING PHALANX
Story by Lt. Col. Dan Pipes, Commander, 1-124th IN TNG BN and event OIC.
Krivolak, Macedonia Sept. 9-22, 2006
Twenty-two Vermont Army National Guardsmen left the Green Mountains in early September to participate in
Operation Rising Phalanx. This operation joins American soldiers with the Macedonian Military Police Battalion for
several weeks. This is the first time that U.S. soldiers have familiarized Macedonian soldiers with training methodologies
involving more than a few soldiers. Half of the team was comprised of members of the 1-124th IN training battalion,
with the other half representing every major command in the Vermont National Guard. All of the team are OIF or OEF
veterans, with some soldiers having served in both theatres.
The Macedonian Army is in a state of transformation, moving from a conscript force to an all-volunteer Army.
Their forces hope to join NATO in the near future and to become an active participant in the GWOT.
One of the primary goals of this operation was to highlight the value of Non Commissioned Officers in U.S.
forces. The American team provided models of NCO leadership for the Macedonians to emulate.
“My soldiers have been preparing for over a year to host the American team,” said Maj. Robert Tasevki, the
Deputy Commander for the Macedonian MP’s, “We have worked long hours to ensure that we make the most of our
time together.”
Preparation included training site renovations, acquisition of new equipment for the unit, military schools in
Europe and the U.S., and several joint planning exercises held both in Macedonia and the U.S.
“We are moving towards future NATO membership and hope to join Vermont Guardsmen in operations in
support of the Global War on Terror,” said Tasevski.
The opening ceremony was attended by Maj. Gen. Michael Dubie,Vermont’s Adjutant General, several
Macedonian Generals, and NATO, EUCOM, USAREUR, and U.S. Embassy personnel. The U.S. team began this event
with what is known as a Gunfighter lane. The gunfighter concept was created by Sgt. First Class Eric Duncan and several
other soldiers of the 3-172nd MTN IN BN. This program has been used to prepare many U.S. units who are facing
deployment to a combat theatre.
“Their soldiers are enthusiastic and willing to learn,” said Capt. George Rodriquez, the U.S. team company
command mentor. “We were immediately impressed with the focus of the MP’s.”
“Despite not having worked on moving as a team while live firing, they quickly grasped the fundamentals and
safely operated in events that took them well out of their comfort zone,” said Duncan of the Macedonian soldiers.
After the Gunfighter, the teams moved into a round-robin event, shifting daily between MOUT, convoy
operations, and checkpoint procedures. The Macedonian soldiers have various experience levels, from many years
including operational service in regional conflicts to soldiers who recently completed their initial entry training and
reported to the unit. Sgt. 1st Class Carlos Rodriquez, the checkpoint operations lane leader, noted that, “All of the MK
soldiers are eager to learn, and have a great
capacity to absorb the lessons that we shared
from OIF and OEF. Follow-on events with
other platoons clearly showed us that they
were cross talking in detail at night in the
barracks.” Three days of lanes operations
prepared both units for the Field Training
Exercise.
“We had to wait to assess their abilities
before we could lock down the details of the
FTX,” said Capt. Rodriquez. “Once we saw
how quickly they grasped our methods, we
decided to challenge them as we moved to
the next level.”
Planning for the field event gave the MK
Photo: Vermont National Guard members (left) instruct NCO’s time to develop their field leadership
Macedonian Military Police soldiers during Operation Rising
Phalanx in Macedonia. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Davis. skills. Their Officers worked in the Tactical
Operations Center on the concept of the
10 Green Mountain Guard
operation, conducted leader’s recons, developed an order, and incorporated all supporting units into the operation.
Macedonian NCOs are able to find creative solutions to challenges. Shifting from the habits of their former
Army, which had no NCO corps, is a process that is progressing surprisingly well. Their NCO and enlisted soldiers are
capable, motivated, and focused on improving the skills that they will need to survive in combat or peace keeping
operations world wide.
American soldiers
served as observer/
controllers for the field
event. All of the skills
shown in the previous
days were utilized. By
reacting appropriately
to situations that occur
daily in the GWOT that
had not been
specifically addressed
earlier, the MPs clearly
proved that they
understand the lessons
demonstrated, and are
able to incorporate
those skills in new
situations.
As a National Guard
Photo: Vermont National Guard members that supported Operation team, we were able to
Rising Phalanx stand with the U.S., Macedonian, and Green Mountain draw upon the unique
Boy Battleflag in Macedonia. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Davis.
skill sets that traditional
guard members bring
to the plate. Sgt. 1st Class John Digby, the event NCOIC, says that,
“We immediately were able to conduct unplanned information sharing events that spun off from the block plan,
said Sgt. 1st Class John Digby, the event NCOIC. “U.S. soldiers clarified the best methods of employing NODs, shared
EOD TTPs, and constantly drew upon their military and civilian experiences to assist the Macedonians.”
One particularly memorable example of the strength of our citizen soldiers was seen when Staff Sgt. Michael
Cutter was speaking to the Macedonian MPs about their newly acquired HUMMVEEs.
“ I was told that they had no way to mount machine guns on their vehicles, so I mentioned that I could build
them a mount if they would give me an hour with a vehicle and a gun, and some follow-up time in a machine shop”
Cutter said. “Three hours later, the MPs had two fully functional prototypes that can be replicated at minimal cost with
assets on hand.”
This kind of creative problem solving by the National Guard is seen every day on deployments worldwide. On
this trip, construction skills were used to show how checkpoints can be assembled with only the items on hand. The
Macedonians also saw first hand how U.S. NCOs’ accomplish missions by expanding on implied tasks.
The last day of the mission brought all of the skills together in a display for military and Embassy guests.
Generals, NATO officials, and Embassy VIP’s joined the MPs on a convoy, moving tactically through a checkpoint, reacting
to IED’s and an ambush. The tactical portion of the event culminated with a live fire modified gunfighter highlighting the
MP’s newly improved abilities. The newly mounted machine guns on two hummvees provided supporting fire for the
soldiers as they maneuvered tactically and engaged a suspected IED, with spectacular results. A Hind gunship provided
simulated close air support for the troops during the convoy. After the live fire, all soldiers moved to a podium on the
hill to receive certificates from the Macedonian Chief of the Joint Staff and Col. Guy T. Williams, commander of the 1-
124th Regional Training Institute.
In his speech at the closing ceremony, Williams called this event “ the high water mark” for the Army of the
Republic of Macedonia and Vermont National Guard’s Joint Contact Team and State Partnership Programs. This ground-
breaking event was successful far beyond the expectations of team members and planners. We look forward to our
next opportunity to work with the Macedonian warriors. GMG
Green Mountain Guard 11
Vermont’s own remembered - The Vermont Brigade
Story by Maj. Michael Papariellp from the Wilderness Battlefield, Spotsylvania, Va.
Photos by VTNG Honor Guard
Answering President Abraham Lincoln’s call, more Barre,Vt., to the National Park Service. Sen. Jim Jeffords
than 34,000 Vermont soldiers left their farms, villages, sponsored a federal appropriation of $200,000 to expand
and families to fight in the Civil War. Most of them served visitor parking and to improve access to the site.
in volunteer infantry units and those units bore the brunt The ceremony included the unveiling of the
of the fighting throughout the war. monument and a special tribute from the VTNG
In 1892, Vermont Adjutant General James Peck Honor Guard. There were more than 250 people in
indicated that 5,237 Green Mountain Boys died during attendance and speakers included Sen. Jeffords,
this conflict and anyone with any interest in the Civil Vermont author Howard Coffin, and numerous other
War can tell you that the battle of Antietam was the local VIPs. Following the ceremony there was a guided
bloodiest day in the history of American warfare. walking tour offered by Daniel Davis, one of the
However the bloodiest day for Vermont was the first park’s historians, entitled “The time that tried men’s
day of the battle of the Wilderness, May 5, 1864. souls: Gen. Lewis Grant’s Vermont Brigade in the
Wilderness.”
Nearly 150 years later on Sept. 16, 2006, a stoic
Vermont National Guard Honor Guard consisting of Henry H. Houghton, Company K, 3rd Vermont
Master Sgt. Ed Daudelin, Sgt. 1st Class Frank Bell, Staff Infantry, survived the first day of the Wilderness, but
Sgt. Tom McCoy and Private 1st Class Timothy Graves some of his comrades were not so lucky; “one man
paid tribute to their heroic brethren. Fredericksburg on my left fell dead, and a bullet went so near the face
and Spotsylvania National Military Park in Virginia hosted of the man in my rear that it took an eye out.”
a special ceremony for the dedication of the Vermont
Brigade Monument. There were hundreds more similar incidents
the first day. Vermont units suffered a total of 1,041
The monument was placed on the battlefield to honor casualties on that day; 297 were killed in action, 721
the memory and sacrifices of the Vermonters who fought were wounded and 23 were taken prisoners. The 297
and died during the battle of the Wilderness on May 5- mortally wounded that day account for more then 16
6, 1864.The State of Vermont donated the 20-ton granite percent of the combat deaths suffered by Vermonters
monument, which was crafted at Rock of Ages quarry in during the entire Civil War. GMG
12 Green Mountain Guard
TASK FORCE LOBO
On the Border
Story and photos by 1st Lt. Michelle Parent Photo: Members of
Task Force Lobo
The day dawned cool and clear as Task Force Lobo boarded stand in the shade of
the KC 135 and the two C-130s heading for Arizona. It was quite their camouflage net
different weather we faced when disembarking seven hours later as while serving on the
U.S. border in
the heat rolled in the open doors and we stepped off the planes onto Arizona during their
the hot tarmack. I was on the first chalk and I was glad to find an air- annual training
conditioned bus waiting to transport us to a holding area while we period in September.
waited until all the flights arrived. The sun was brutal and bright and I
quickly found my sunglasses.
Task Force Lobo was basically run as a company with three
platoons and a headquarters element. The platoons would man the
guard points and there would be a Tactical Operations Center. The first
days were filled with briefings and training. There were some “shoot –
don’t shoot” scenario training that involved paintball guns at different
stations, to include a humanitarian aid station. The platoons, Soldiers of
the Guards and others who would be out on the line went through
this training. There was also training on preventive medicine. There are
a lot of plants and animals in the desert of Arizona to watch out for;
cactus, spiders, snakes, scorpions, gila monsters, to name a few.
The heat is also something to watch for. It was over 100 degrees everyday. Drinking enough water was
extremely vital. We were briefed immediately upon our arrival about a soldier’s death prior. The Border Patrol
and TFs Gila and Maverick really stressed the hydration issue and we did not have a heat casualty.
After the training, we moved on to Yuma, Ariz., and settled in. We were given another briefing at the
Border Patrol station and given our points to guard. We set up Points and our shift rotations that were to be
24-hour shifts with at least four soldiers per point with two on at any time. We established our roving Soldiers
of the Guard to handle radio and light battery change-out and a Logistics Package vehicle that brought ice,
water, MREs and whatever else was needed.
For those who may think it was a
waste of time and money, here is what
Photo: Border Patrol agents stop by a station manned by mem-
bers of the Vermont Army National Guard’s Task Force Lobo the Border patrol had to say of the
during their annual training period in September. difference between last year and this year
during the same time period. It looks like
we are a vital resource in helping to
secure our border.
Sept. 4-14 our sector in 2005 - 202
entries and 13 getaways, 52 vehicle
entries and 25 getaways.
Sept. 4-14 our sector this year - 52
entries and eight getaways, two vehicle
entries both turned back.
Task Force Lobo had a significant impact
in the Arizona desert.
Green Mountain Guard 13
New Experiences...
Story by Spc. Heidi Kroll, 114th MPAD 114th MPAD trains in So. Korea
Korea was where the 114th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment traveled to complete their annual training this
year. They were participating in a Combined Joint Information Bureau with the Republic of Korea as well as the 343rd
Reserve MPAD from Arkansas. CJIB consists of a Briefing Team, Public Information Team and a Press Pool.
The scenario had bombs raining from the sky in South Korea as an attack from the North Korea Army fell on
the peninsula. This was the start to the 32nd Ulchi-Focus-Lens training exercise which is used to evaluate and improve
the joint coordination of the South Korean and U.S. forces.
The joint forces prepared and practiced for what would happen if the North Korea decided it wanted to test
the strength of the alliance that the South Koreans and the U.S. have. Briefing team members prepared the media
training for the generals as well as making sure that we had the correct and up to date speeches for them. The 114th
MPAD worked hand-in-hand with ROK Soldiers preparing general officers for public speaking concerning the exercise.
This is a very sensitive situation due to the tenuous relationship between the North and South Koreans. It is the first
time the MPAD worked in this kind of operation; the ROK soldiers took them
under their wing to assist them in learning about the running of a CJIB.
“The Vermont soldiers are very kind and attentive to detail,” said Young
Sam Yoon from the Republic of Korea Air University.
With the assistance of the ROK translators, the operation went very
smoothly. The translators assisted with the language barrier with a smile and a nod.
They made it seem as if there was no language barrier.
“Translating different languages sometimes is hard because there are not
always the same words in the other language,” said Pfc. Joo Won Jeong, a K3
machine gun operator working as a translator.
Sgt. Jason Brace, a videographer of the 114th MPAD, worked hand-in-hand
with Spc. Randal Townsend, another videographer from the 343rd MPAD, to set up
and prepare video conferencing for the senior leader’s press conferences.
“This exercise was a great opportunity to work with another videographer
and share our experiences of the past to make this mission a success,” said Brace.
Pvt. Quenton Jones, a member of the 343rd MPAD who is working on
becoming a photo journalist, assisted Brace and Townsend with the running of the
switchboard that controlled the video cameras and connected the conference
room to a remote location.
American and ROK Soldiers stationed in Yongsan, Korea for this exercise
made up the press pool. Press pool members were encouraged to act like actual
Photo: Maj. Hyun Park from the
press and attempt to get away with anything that normal reporters would try to. Republic of Korea writes notes
“It was a new and exciting experience, something I never imagined doing. I during a press conference during
was able to experience what reporters normally do such as asking generals’ a training exercise. Photo by Sgt.
questions and making them think outside of the box,” said Sgt. 1st Class Josephine Matthew Lang.
Bednar, Battalion Supply Sergeant and S4 Non Commissioned Officer in Charge
with the 52nd Medical Battalion.
This came into play when it came to being asked for questions
Photo: Lt. Jimho Moon (left) from the Republic
during briefings. The squeaky wheel did get the grease. It seemed
of Korea Army, trains with Sgt. 1st Class Peter
Ferrell. Phot by Spc. Heidi Kroll.
as if the reporter that made the most noise seemed to get in
more questions then he was supposed to. The very active press
pool would attempt to chase the general out of the conference
room. The acting reporters made this training very believable and
were an asset to the training environment.
The Public Information Team dealt with the press pool by
answering their queries, providing the press pool with press
releases as well as making sure they had all the information
concerning the general that was giving the briefing.
When the exercise started the briefing room was divided ROK
on one side and the U.S. Soldiers on the other. By the end, the
briefing room was mixed with no division, symbolizing the
understanding and the cultural unity that had been achieved in the
two weeks of the exercise. GMG
14 Green Mountain Guard
“Keep up the fire!”
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Dwight D. Harrington, VTNG Historian
Not much is known about the early life of the own to deal with. Battle tested and ready for war,
man that uttered these words, Emerson Hamilton Liscum and the 9th assumed a role of protectors for
Liscum. The back of his tombstone said he had been U.S. interests in China. They arrived in-country and
born in Huntington, Vermont on July 16, 1841. The marched for the city of Tientsin and Colonel Liscum’s
adjutant general’s roster for the Civil War listed him final destiny.
as a corporal, enlisting on the May 2, 1861. When he In an old fashioned “storm the castle walls”
joined Company H of the 1st Vermont Volunteer assault, the 9th attacked the walled city of Tientsin on
Infantry, no one knew this would be the first of many July 13. Colonel Liscum and Sergeant Edward
military appearances for him over a 39 – year career. Gorman stood on the battlefield, one to direct the
Officials even misspelled his name at his first attack, the other to guard the colors. Suddenly,
enlistment. Gorman went down, severely wounded. Liscum,
As with many of the 1st Regiment members, although hit in the shoulder, seized the colors and
his duty came to an continued to
end in August 1861. direct the battle.
He returned to “In an old fashioned ‘storm the castle The colors fell
military service and again, this time,
signed with the 2nd walls’ assault, the 9th attacked the walled the colonel with
Battalion of the city of Tientsin...” them. He had
12th U.S. Infantry. been hit again in a
He began his federal barrage that took
service as a corporal and made his way to 1st his life. He gave his last command to his men just
Sergeant. Wounds and meritorious valor on the field before he died. “Keep up the fire,” he directed. The
brought him a presidential commission to second battle raged on through the next day, the city finally
lieutenant on March 22, 1863. Further actions gained fell.
him the rank of Captain, he finished the Civil War as a The 9th continued to fight in China and
regimental quartermaster. received the honorary title of “Manchus” for its gallant
The war over, Captain Liscum continued to performance. The regiment adopted Colonel Liscum’s
serve in the U.S. Army. He joined various infantry final order as their official motto. The rescued
regiments and gradually rose to the rank of Chinese dynasty expressed its appreciation to the unit
Lieutenant Colonel. In 1896, he joined the U.S. by presenting them with a large amount of silver.
Volunteers as a Brigadier General. He served with Craftsmen converted the lump of metal into the
them until the last day of 1898 and then went back to Liscum Bowl, a large punchbowl recently valued at
the regular army, this time as a Colonel and $2.5 million. The bowl resides at Camp Red Cloud in
commander of the 9th Infantry Regiment. The 9th the Republic of Korea.
had a previous Vermont connection when, in 1812, The 9th continued to fight in the various wars
the regiment joined the Army of the North at of the 20th century. They fought in both World Wars,
Burlington. in Korea, and in Vietnam. They hit the beach in
When Liscum assumed command, the unit had Panama and led the fight to capture Manuel Noriega.
just returned from fighting the Spanish American War Today, the 9th lives on in Korea, part of the 2nd
in Cuba. Just two months into his command, the unit Infantry Division in South Korea. So when a modern
headed for the Philippines to help put down an day Manchu soldier shouts the unit motto “Keep up
insurrection. Military actions continued until mid- the fire!,” you can still hear a faint echo of the words
June of 1900. At the same time, on the nearby in the hills above Huntington, Vt. GMG
continent of Asia, the Chinese had a rebellion of their
Green Mountain Guard 15
VTANG Dedication Ceremony AIRMAN PROFILE
By Capt. Mary E. Day
158th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Officer
On a cold and rainy afternoon during the 60th anniversary open
house at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, the 40th Army Band played
as a number of individuals gathered, both guardsmen and family members,
for the dedication of an F-16 to two fallen VTANG soldiers, 1st Lt. Stephen
L. C. Taylor and Staff Sgt. Dennis D. King.
Lt. Col. Terry Moultroup and Chief Master Sgt. Fran Lunderville
spoke from their hearts about the memories they had of Taylor and King.
Looking out into the gathering, you could see in the eyes of the individuals Lt. Col. Bruce McDonald
the pain and appreciation that is still overwhelming several years later. 158 FW Deputy IG
Taylor passed away in November 1993 while on a training mission at school
where he was learning to be an F-16 pilot. King passed away in March 1995 Lt. Col. Bruce McDonald
has been a member of the
after serving several years with the VTANG in the Maintenance Squadron Vermont Air National Guard for a
ensuring the F-16 was ready for the next flight. Moultroup quoted the just over a year now, and he’s very
words of McArthur while Lunderville spoke of the poem “Remembering a happy to be called a Green
Fellow Mechanic” that hangs on the wall in the Maintenance Squadron. Mountain Boy, proclaiming that
“the Wing has really gone out of
Both spoke to the caliber and dedication of the members of the “Green its way to make me feel at home.”
Mountain Boys”. As the Federal Security
Col. Philip Murdock, 158th Fighter Wing Commander, emphasized Director for the Transportation
how important it is to be both celebrating the past as we recognize the Security Administration at the
Burlington International Airport,
future. He also mentioned how important it was to have connection being a member of the Air Guard
between the VTANG and the loved ones of our fallen. On this particular is a natural marriage between his
day he spoke of the importance of having the families of these two military and civilian careers. That
individuals be a part of the dedication. He presented certificates to both wealth of experience in “attention
to detail” scenarios made him
families and explained the naming convention on an F-16 and how this F-16 uniquely qualified when the Wing
has the names of 1st Lt. Stephen L. C. Taylor inscribed on the left side of the needed to select a Deputy
aircraft while Staff Sgt. Dennis D. King is inscribed on the right. GMG Inspector General - a position
which he readily accepted.
As a former member of
the Air Force Reserve, McDonald
Photo: The name of 1st Lt. Stephen L.C. served as the Airlift Control Flight
Taylor is inscribed on the left side of a Commander at Dover Air Force
Vermont Air National Guard F-16. Taylor Reserve in Delaware. During his
was killed during a training mission in tenure at Dover, McDonald
November 1993. Photo by Master Sgt. completed two tours of duty in
Robert Trubia. Kuwait and Iraq as the Airlift
Control Commander at the
Kuwait Airport and the Baghdad
International Airport. McDonald
feels that those critical
assignments as a deployed
commander have poised him very
well for the important
Photo: The name of Staff Sgt. Dennis D. responsibilities of Inspector
King is inscribed on the right side of a General.
Vermont Air National Guard F-16. King Originally from Litchfield,
passed away in March 1995. Photo by Maine, McDonald enjoys many
Master Sgt. Robert Trubia. outdoor activities when he’s not at
work. He currently lives in Essex
with his wife Deanne and daughter
Emilie.
16 Green Mountain Guard
LEAPFEST 2006 D
ri
n
Ta-
Story and photo by Maj. John Guyette
ing
The Vermont Army National Guard Joint Force
Headquarters J3 (Deputy Chief of Staff - Operations) Office
recently assembled a group of Airborne Soldiers to compete in
the Rhode Island Army National Guard International Military
Parachute competition, most commonly referred to as
“Leapfest”. This year’s participation was a success.
The purpose of the competition is to promote the
camaraderie and espirit de corps of the airborne community
through international competition. The competition is
attended by representatives from the active Army, Army
Reserve, Army National Guard, Marines, Navy, Air Force, and
several international teams. Photo: A Paratrooper glides to the ground as another
A competition team consists of four jumpers and one
jumper gathers his parachute during Leapfest 2006, the
alternate. Alternates are not allowed as observers on the
aircraft and only jump if one of the team members are unable Rhode Island Army National Guard’s International
to continue. A static-qualified and current Jumpmaster is Parachute Competition held in August.
provided by the RIARNG. Jumpers exit from a CH-47 helicopter from 1,500 feet using the static line parachute. Each
team makes three jumps. The rules are simple, land as close to the X on the ground, once your feet hit the ground a
judge starts timing your run to the center of the X. With 50 teams and four CH-47’s supporting this event, the air was
constantly filled with Paratroopers.
There are specific criteria needed for Soldiers with an airborne background to be allowed Permissive Parachute
Status by the Adjutant General and the National Guard Bureau. There is a link on the JFHQ J3 Intranet that explains all
the requirements for Soldiers to participate in this event, as well as pictures and links to the past Leapfest events.
Soldiers that are interested in participating should visit the JFHQ J3 web site and fill out the required forms.
The JFHQ-VT team 2006 participants were Staff Sgts. Timothy Cunningham and Charles Elder, Master Sgt.
Samuel Morris, and Majs. John Guyette and Paul Rowe. The Vermont team was able to split into a second team made up
of three other soldiers and Sgt. 1st Class Cunningham, this allowed all team members to make three jumps. The
Vermont teams made a respectable finish and appreciated to opportunity provided by the RIARNG.
The overall winner was the German Army Special Operations Detachment.
Prior to the event, work was done to try to bring a Macedonian team to the competition, however, budget
constraints did not permit for a team to be formed. Vermont has requested team positions for next year’s event for
both the Macedonians and the JFHQ-VT team. JFHQ J3 is already working with Macedonia on securing funding in this
next years budget for this event. Next years event is the 25th anniversary of Leapfest, August 2007, and the RIARNG is
already planning additional festivities for this event. GMG
131st Engineer
Company
A ceremony was held at Fort
McCoy, Wis., on Sept. 23 to recognize the
men and women about to deploy to Iraq
from the 875th Engineer Battalion. The
131st Engineer Company from the
Vermont Army National Guard makes up
about 80 soldiers in that battalion. The
131st left Vermont on July 22 and spent
two months training with the 875th at
Fort McCoy.
“Know that you are heroes in
every sense of the word,” said Maj. Gen.
Photo: Maj. Gen. Michael Dubie, left, speaks with a soldier during a deployment Michael Dubie to the crowd of soldiers.
ceremony held at Fort McCoy, Wis., as Capt. Jacob Roy, center, looks on. Roy “Not in recent memory have the Ameri-
commands the 131st Engineer Company. Photo by Staff Sgt. Chris Durney. can people been more supportive of the
United States military in their efforts to
defend freedom.” GMG
Green Mountain Guard 17
NGA-VT Opportunities PROMOTIONS
Whew…I wish you all Jeff Rector has graciously stepped
could have made the 128th forward to fill my current position
National Guard Association U.S. as Secretary and Capt.
General Conference in Domachowski has also graciously
Albuquerque, N.M. Sept. 15-18. stepped forward to fill the Air
What a great conference! 1st Lt. Membership position behind Col.
Terri Cote from the 158th Fighter Bouchard. The Army Membership
Wing and 1st Lt. Herman Moore portion behind Col. Bouchard still Sr. Master Sergeant
from HHC 3-172 INF (MTN) were needs to be filled as well as a 2nd VP Kathleen Corcoran
selected to attend the conference position. Maj. Jean Kleptz is 158th Medical Gr
gratis as NGA-VT’s company grade working with our corporate
reps. I had the opportunity to alumni.
speak to them and, as first-time We need your help! We
conference attendees, they admit have positions available on the Master Sergeant
they learned a lot about what board as stated above and we Laura Moffett
NGAUS is and the importance of would like to form at least three 158th Log. Readiness Sq
its existence. Just ask them committees within NGA-VT to
yourself. Maj. Joni Pentifallo did a work special projects such as a
great job as our Operations Scholarship Committee, a
Officer and everyone loved the committee to help design our Staff Sergeant
Vermont Dollars Program again annual Spring Formal and a Andrew Crowley
this year with our Corporate Committee to work with Maj. 158th Log. Readiness Sq
Sponsors and Robin Miller from Kleptz and our corporate alumni.
the Chamber of Commerce. To echo the words of one Jennifer Young
You know, NGAUS has of our long-time NGA-VT
158th Maint. Sq
made huge strides in getting your members Col. Terry Lambert, “I ask
requirements addressed at the that each of you take the little time
congressional and national military required to assist in this
level. When leaders such as Lt. worthwhile, professional Senior Airman
Gen. Blum speak on what NGAUS association.” Conor McManus
has done and what it is doing for Look for these NGA-VT activities 158th Student Fl
the National Guard it’s a great coming soon!!
feeling to know we are helping the Sponsor a Company Grade Rep
organization through our local Social Jan 2007…Details to follow
NGA-VT. Spring Formal April 14-15, 2007 at
Recently three of our long- the Sheraton Burlington Hotel and
standing Board of Director Conference Center
Members, Col. Ray Bouchard, Maj. Next Years NGAUS General
Dan King and Maj Steve Lamos Conference is Aug. 25-27, 2007 San
were called to duty for a Juan, Puerto Rico.
deployment in Afghanistan. In Maj.
King’s absence, I will fill his position Thanks for your Support,
as acting President, Capt. Timothy Capt. John Geno
Gariboldi is filling Maj. Lamos Acting President NGA-VT
position as 1st Vice President, Capt.
18 Green Mountain Guard
Congratuilations Col. Lovejoy!
PROMOTIONS
Sergeant First Class
Barbara Quilliam
86 Troop Command
Kathryn Leroux
3 BN 124 RTI
Michael Stack
HHC BSTB
Staff Sergeant
Col. Mark Lovejoy (center) stands with his family after being promoted at the
Patrick Thompson
Green Mountain Armory. From left to right, daughters Nicole and Melissa, VT JOINT FORCE HQ
granddaughter Sarah, wife Susan, daughter Karen, and granddaughter Jessica.
David Bushee
CO C 2 BN 172 AR
The Green Mountain Guard magazine is available on
line at www.vtguard.com. If you would like to view your Sergeant
GMG on line and no longer need to receive the magazine Jennifer Kavanaugh
131 Eng. Co
through the mail, or you have a mailing address update,
please call the Public Affairs Office at (802) 338-3246 or Heather Bordonard
email us at GMGVT@vtngb.army.mil. HHC BSTB
If you have a story for the Green Mountain Guard
magazine, you can email it to us at Christopher Hein
GMGVT@vt.ngb.army.mil, mail to ATTN: PAO, 789 VTNG 42 MP Co
Road, Colchester,Vt. 05446. We are always looking for
stories on the Vermont National Guard. We use stories on Rickey Dyer
CO A 186 FSB
a space available basis.
RETIREMENTS
Michael Pier Scott Woodard
Green Mountain Guard 19
Recognizing Excellence...
Brig. Gen. J. Michael Gately (center) was promoted Sept. 29, by his wife, Ali, and Maj.
Gen. Michael Dubie during a ceremony held at the Green Mountain Armory. He was
also awarded the Legion of Merit for his outstanding service to the Vermont National
Guard. The ceremony also included a presentation of Gately’s Certificate of
Retirement from the National Guard Technician Program. Gately becomes the
Assistant Adjutant General - Army (see page 2). Photo by Sgt. Jason Brace. PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE PD
BURLINGTON VT
PERMIT #417
State Headquarters
Ve r m o n t N a t i o n a l G u a r d
789 Vermont National Guard Road
Colchester, Vermont 05446-3099
20 Green Mountain Guard