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Ohio fields only Air National Guard unit at AMC Rodeo
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MAGAZINE OF THE OHIO ARMY AND AIR NATIONAL GUARD
FALL/WINTER 2005
AFTER
THE
STORMS:
PROVIDING A
RAY OF HOPE
Ohio National Guard
Soldiers and Airmen help
Gulf States recover from
SSgt Douglas Nicodemus / 121st Air Refueling Wing Multimedia Center hurricanes’ devastation
See pages 14-16
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID
Columbus, OH
Permit #3754
The Ohio National Guard
2825 W. Dublin Granville Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Contents
Fall/Winter 2005
Volume 28, No. 3
The Buckeye Guard is an authorized publication for members of
the Department of Defense. Contents of the Buckeye Guard are
not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S.
Government, the Departments of the Army and Air Force, or the F E A T U R E S
Adjutant General of Ohio. The Buckeye Guard is published
quarterly under the supervision of the Public Affairs Office, Ohio
Adjutant General’s Department, 2825 W. Dublin Granville Road, 8 Around the Buckeye State
Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789. The editorial content of this Taking a closer look at
publication is the responsibility of the Adjutant General of Ohio’s
Director, Government and Public Affairs. Direct communication select units around Ohio.
is authorized to the Editor, phone: (614) 336-7003; fax: (614)
336-7410; or send e-mail to buckeye@tagoh.gov. The Buckeye
Guard is distributed free to members of the Ohio Army and Air
National Guard and to other interested persons at their request.
10 Destination: Grayling
Guardmembers and their families are encouraged to submit any Soldiers train another summer at
articles meant to inform, educate or entertain Buckeye Guard
readers, including stories about interesting Guard personalities the vast site in northern Michigan.
and unique unit training. Circulation is 19,000. Deadlines are:
Spring, January 15 19 From Start to Finish
Summer, April 15
Fall, July 15 Ohio National Guard plays large
Winter, October 15
part in 2005 Columbus Marathon.
This issue was printed in December 2005 by Watkins Printing, a
private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Government under
exclusive written contract with the Ohio Adjutant General’s
Department. The appearance of advertising in this publication,
21 Showcasing ONG Assets
including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement Airport open house highlights
of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army and Air
Force or Watkins Printing. Everything advertised in this publication capabilities of Army, Air.
will be made available for purchase, use or patronage without
regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital
status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit PFC Joseph Pramuka (from left),
factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of CW3 Kenyon Kurtz and PFC Rodd
this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the
publisher will refuse to print advertising from that source until the Knepp of G Company, 137th Aviation
violation is corrected. Battalion work on a CH-47 Chinook
helicopter during this summer’s
ADJUTANT GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT deployment to Arizona along the
State Commander-in-Chief U.S.-Mexico border. See page 20.
Gov. Bob Taft Dan Simon / Fort Huachuca Public Affairs
Adjutant General
Maj. Gen. (Ohio) Gregory L. Wayt
Assistant Adjutant General, Army
D E P A R T M E N T S
Brig. Gen. Matthew L. Kambic
Assistant Adjutant General, Air 2 Command focus
Maj. Gen. Harry “A.J.” Feucht
Living these identified core values is
Command Sergeant Major, Army
Command Sgt. Maj. William L. Gilliam
key to success, says Maj Gen Feucht.
Command Chief Master Sergeant, Air
Command Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Muncy
3 Feedback from the field
4 National news
BUCKEYE GUARD STAFF
Director, Government and Public Affairs 6 Citizen spotlight SSgt Douglas Nicodemus / 121st ARW Multimedia Center
Dr. Mark Wayda
Soldier looks to continue past TSgt Jamie Burr of the 121st
Security Forces Squadron scales a
Editor achievements, keeps Olympic hopes.
Mr. Steve Toth log obstacle during an endurance
course, one of the many events
Associate Editor 24 Buckeye briefs
Maj. Nicole Gabriel comprising the Air Mobility
Command Rodeo competition held
26 All about people
Contributors at McChord Air Force Base, Wash.
Army/Air National Guard Photojournalists
ANG Multimedia Specialists 28 Guardmember benefits See pages 12-13.
Unit Public Affairs Representatives
A B OUT THE COVERS
FRONT: SFC Barry Stiverson, a BACK: TSgt Jeff Morgan and TSgt
○
member of Company C, 112th Kevin Cartright compete in the cargo
○
Engineer Battalion, hands a lollipop load event at this year’s Air Mobility
○
to a girl at a distribution point for Command Rodeo competition, held
○
essentials in Sulpher, La. Photo by at McChord Air Force Base, Wash.
○
SPC Chad Menegay / 196th Photo by SSgt Douglas Nicodemus
○
Mobile Public Affairs Detachment / 121st ARW Multimedia Center
○
State of Ohio
Bob Taft, Governor on the web @ http://www.ohionationalguard.com
1
Total copies printed: 19,000 Unit Cost: $.67 Publication Date: 12/05
Command focus Feedback from the field
been for us. My warmest thank you to State command sergeant
O H I O NAT I O NAL G UAR D
Embracing core values leads each of us to success
all the great people of Ohio, and their
great Guard units. major weighs in on ACU
Historical Highlights THOMAS JONES Recently all of the Ohio National
M
SULPHER, LA. Guard’s general officers and the state
aj. Gen. George B. command sergeant major received a
McClellan was comis- complete set of the new Army Combat
I had the pleasure of being involved
sioned Major General of Volun- Uniform.
with a company (I do not know which
teers and commander of Ohio’s The ACU replaces both the temper-
within the organization and seek feedback from all directions. A one) of the 437th Military Police Bat-
militia by an act of the Ohio Legis- ate and enhanced hot weather battle
person of integrity is sobered by the awesome responsibility of talion during the crisis in lower Mis-
lature on April 23, 1861. He became dress uniform (BDU) in the clothing bag
defending the Constitution of the United States of America. I sissippi. The distribution point they
“General in Chief” of the entire and the desert camouflage uniform
encourage each of you to practice integrity both on a personal were manning (VFW Post 58, on High-
Union Army on Nov. 1 of that same (DCU) as an organizational clothing and
and organizational level. It should show in the treatment of our way 603 North of Kiln, Miss.) was run
year. RETIRED JUDGE (COL.) individual equipment (OCIE) item. The
people and our words must be followed by actions. in an efficient manner, and they made
ROBERT D. WALKER / 37TH IN- ACU was initially fielded in February
I
am honored to serve in the it a point to see that everyone who
FANTRY DIVISION 2005 as an OCIE item to units support-
Ohio National Guard as a Service Before Self is the second core value. As members of showed up had all the essentials.
member of the Joint Force the Ohio National Guard, you are all too familiar with this core This unit is a credit to the state of ing Operations Iraqi Freedom and En-
Headquarters and as the value. You may have heard this concept described as selfless- Many Gulf Staters grateful Ohio, and should be treated as such. during Freedom.
commander of the Ohio Air ness, serving above and beyond the call of duty, helping PATRICK G. MARTIN The phase-in period for the ACU uni-
National Guard. This is an others and giving 110 percent. Many talk the talk, but it is
for Ohio Guard’s assistance versal camouflage pattern is from May
organization that understands those who walk the walk who put those words into action. The eye of Hurricane Katrina passed EDITOR’S NOTE: Mr. Martin was refer- 2005 until May 2008. During this pe-
service and duty at the Each time you answer the call to duty you put service before over my sister Carriere’s home, with 150 ring to the 838th Military Police Company, riod, Soldiers will have a mix of camou-
community, state and national self. Many of you have missed birthdays, anniversaries, mph winds. She told me that the Ohio Na- Youngstown. flage equipment. Commanders can au-
BY MAJ GEN HARRY “A.J.” FEUCHT tional Guard was in the area and that they
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL, AIR level. The success of this weddings or the funeral of a loved one because you were thorize the wear of BDU and DCU cam-
organization is directly serving others. Your commitment, your sacrifice and your came to her home to check on them and to My name is Stan Warren and I live in ouflage equipment with the ACU until
attributed to your professionalism, dedication and selfless dedication are what set you apart from others and your service see if they had any needs. Thank you for Poplarville, Miss. I wanted to drop a short those items are replaced. The ACU will
answer to the call to duty. on behalf of your community, state and nation is appreciated. leaving your families to care for mine. I message and express our gratitude for the be placed in the Federal Fiscal Year 2006
I continue to be impressed with your excellence, competence appreciate the sacrifices you made. Ohio National Guard, who supported our clothing bag, and next April will be avail-
and character. When I travel throughout the state to visit units, Excellence In All We Do is the third core value. Excellence is MARY DUKES town following Hurricane Katrina. able at both Army military clothing sales
I continue to see high-powered teams that take pride in their the difference between simply getting by and striving for DELTA, COLO. The individuals of your group were very stores and the Kentucky logistics op-
mission and contributions to the defense of our homeland. That perfection. It is your personal satisfaction and the thrill you get professional and courteous at all times; eration center.
pride translates into a level of performance and excellence that from performing your best. If you live your life with a passion I live in Moss Bluff, which is just out- they are what makes America such a great In order to maximize the service life
few organizations can equal. for excellence you can contribute tremendously to the success side of Lake Charles. We had a National place to live. of the uniform, Soldiers will not starch
The U.S. Air Force has three core values that are applicable of our members. As a professional you promote mission Guard unit here assisting with ice, water Let your guys and gals know somehow the ACU under any circumstances. The
to all of us in the Ohio National Guard. These values provide accomplishment not just to the minimum standard but to the and food. They were working from the that they are in our hearts and will always use of starch, sizing and any process
stability to organizations in an ever-changing environment and achievement of excellence. “old” Wal-Mart location here. Hopefully, be remembered by the Warren family. Also that involves dry cleaning or a steam
can affect the behavior and culture of When you put your head on my husband obtained the correct informa- tell them that our lives are getting back to press will adversely affect the treat-
tion for me: 112th Engineering—Aloha ments and durability of the uniform,
an organization. They are values by This is an organization that your pillow at the end of a
Camp. If that isn’t correct, maybe this is
normal more every day.
and is not authorized. It is recom-
which I have tried to live my life and productive day, you should be THE WARRENS (STAN, DEBORAH,
that have guided me throughout my understands service and duty at the able to say to yourself, “I could enough information to know who I am talk- KIRSTEN AND LORRIE) mended that to clean the new uniform,
career. not have been more productive ing about. POPLARVILLE, MISS. you will wash it in cold water and tumble
As Citizen-Airmen and Soldiers, and community, state and national or given any more.” Some settle This group was so kind, polite, gener- dry at low heat. Sleeves on the coat
with the support of our families, for less than their best and are ous and every good word available! I As a resident of the Moss Bluff Commu- will be worn down at all times, and not
employers and communities, we level. The success...is directly convinced that excellence is know they were away from their families, nity just north of Lake Charles, La., I wish rolled or cuffed.
sustain our force by embracing the negotiable. It is not. Excellence friends and homes. Please give them a “pat to personally thank all your fine National Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt, Ohio ad-
core values of: Integrity First, Service
attributed to your professionalism, is a commitment to constant on the back” for us. They truly deserve Guardsmen for coming to our aid. Every- jutant general, Brig. Gen. Matthew L.
one. Also, please tell them thank you for all Kambic, assistant adjutant general for
Before Self and Excellence In All We dedication and selfless answer to improvement. Excellence is a
they do and have done.
one who assisted me were all very friendly.
On behalf of our little community, we Army, and I agree that the uniform is
Do. Allow me to detail each of these value that we must nurture and
values, to provide a greater under- the call to duty. promote throughout the Ohio THE COLE FAMILY
MOSS BLUFF, LA.
hope that they all made it back home safe Hooah! The feel and comfort of the new
uniform is outstanding. It was designed
standing of these guiding principles. National Guard. There are only and sound and in the arms of their families
two directions to move in life, forward or backward. Maintain- who missed them. by Soldiers, for Soldiers.
Integrity First is the most important of the three values. ing the status quo means you are actually falling behind. Just a short note from southwest Loui- LINDA S. MANUEL CSM WILLIAM GILLIAM
Integrity is a character trait. Simply put, it is what we do when I believe several key elements make members and organiza- siana to say thanks to Ohio and their Na- LAKE CHARLES, LA. STATE COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR
no one is watching. It is our moral compass – our inner voice; tions successful. Effective communication through positive tional Guard units that helped here. The
the voice of self-control and the basis for the trust imperatives leadership and the promotion of values and goals are essential engineer battalion dispensing food here RIGHT: CSM William Gilliam
of today’s military. As a person of integrity, you act on convic- to success. Encouraging improvements to existing norms is in Sulphur were wonderful people. It re- (from left), state command
tion and control impulses and appetites. A person of integrity essential for effective organizational change. I encourage each mains a mystery how they did it in the sergeant major; MG Gregory L.
possesses moral courage and does what is right even if the of you to be a team player and to be a proactive, positive voice heat and confusion, but they re- Wayt, Ohio adjutant general;
personal cost is high. A person of true integrity is responsible for the continued promotion of values and goals within our mained friendly, efficient and very and BG Matthew L. Kambic,
and acknowledges his or her duties and acts accordingly. Ohio National Guard. I am proud of all of you and your great helpful through it all. assistant adjutant general for
Professionals of integrity encourage a free flow of information contribution to our nation, state and community. Words alone will never say enough Army, show off the new Army
of the great help your people have Combat Uniform (ACU).
2 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 3
National news
SOLDIERS/AIRMEN OF THE YEAR MANSFIELD
National Guard spreads sponded were veterans of at least a year The best Soldier, Airman and noncommissioned officers for 2004 were
positive image, says chief
‘boots on the ground’ (in Iraq or Af- selected and announced earlier in 2005. These six individuals represent Command profile
ghanistan) if they were Army National the best resource that the 15,000-member Ohio National Guard has to
Performing its mission around the Guard and at least one, two or more Air
world in 2005 has allowed the National offer—men and women able and willing to respond, when called and ready
Expeditionary Force rotations overseas.
Guard to spread a positive message They brought those same skills to Mis-
to do the job required of them, whether at home or overseas.
about the military, the chief of the Na- sissippi and Louisiana, and they were
tional Guard Bureau said. invaluable.” SOLDIER OF THE YEAR AIRMAN OF THE YEAR
With almost 80,000 Citizen-Soldiers Blum said he is immensely proud of Spc. Paul A. Senior Airman
deployed overseas in the Global War the National Guard response to Katrina, Patrick M. King has
Kaperak is a member
on Terrorism and thousands more re- because it was on target, on time and of Company C, 112th been a member of the
sponding to natural disasters in the more than sufficient. All the U.S. gov- Engineer Battalion, 178th Fighter Wing
United States and abroad, it has been ernors agreed the troops were needed, Columbus. While de- Communications
an unprecedented year for the Guard. and not one doubted the mission at all, ployed for two years Flight, Springfield,
“Nothing has happened this year he said. “It should make every Ameri- in support of Opera- since his induction into
that the Guard hasn’t been part of,” can immensely proud of their National tion Noble Eagle, the Ohio Air National
said Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum in a Guard and of their military,” he said. Kaperak provided Guard in August 2002. Col Mark L. Stephens
Pentagon Channel interview Nov. 30. force protection and King was the quickest 179th Airlift Wing
SGT SARA WOOD /AMERICAN FORCES
“The best part of it is, when we’re re- MSgt Efrain Gonzalez / U.S. Air Force security at Springfield in the history of his
PRESS SERVICE unit to complete Air
Airmen show off different combinations of Air National Guard
sponding to these kind of disasters, Force “5-level” requirements related to his
the new Air Force physical training uniform Base, home of the 178th Fighter Wing. He Age: 48
everybody understands why you’re
needed. Everybody supports what
Servicemembers can get while jogging during the wear-test phase played an important role in several security training as a computer technician. He was rec- Full-Time Position:
force responses, which included a civilian he- ognized for his overall computer hardware sup-
you’re doing; nobody questions how reimbursement for gear conducted earlier this year at Lackland Air
licopter medical evacuation, a downed power port to the entire 178th Fighter Wing. He is commander, 179th Airlift Wing
you’re doing it. When you’re out there Some servicemembers who bought Force Base, Texas. line and a major vehicle accident. currently attending Wright State University. Hometown: Lexington, Ohio
saving lives instead of taking lives, it their own protective gear will get reim- Family: married, two sons, one
makes those that you’re saving feel bursed for the purchase under a new policy
Air Force sets physical
NCO OF THE YEAR NCO OF THE YEAR daughter and two grandchildren
very, very good about you.” approved Oct. 4. training uniform wear date When I was younger, I wanted to:
In disaster relief efforts for Hurri- The order covers the period between The Air Force Uniform Board established Sgt. Matthew J. Tech. Sgt. Dean be a pilot
canes Katrina and Rita and the earth- Sept. 10, 2001, and Aug. 1, 2004. Pentagon an Oct. 1, 2006, mandatory wear date of the France was a member Butler is a member
Most recent achievement: making it
quake in Pakistan, the National Guard officials said “relatively few” servicemem- physical training uniform, or PTU, for unit of Joint Force Head- of the 180th Fighter
quarters, Columbus. Wing, Toledo, as a se- past my 23rd wedding anniversary
is sending a significant message, al- bers are affected by the order. fitness activities.
He since has been curity forces crafts- The last good movie I saw was:
beit unintentionally, about the quality In the early days of the Global War on The board also released additional guid-
commissioned as a man in the wing’s SF The Aviator
of America’s military, Blum said. Terrorism, there was a shortage of inter- ance for Airmen wearing the uniform for per-
second lieutenant, and squadron, and also The book I’m reading is:
“When (people) see the uniforms ceptor armor. The services issue body ar- sonal workouts. Airmen may wear the PTU now is a member of serves as the training
and they see the military equipment mor to those most in need of it; however, during personal workouts given the follow- Leading Change
Battery B, 1-134th noncommissioned of-
being used as a force for good, it sends some servicemembers—both active and re- ing conditions: Field Artillery Battal- ficer. Butler was mo- My favorite recreational activity is:
a very positive message to them about serve component—bought their own pro- ion, Alliance. During bilized for both Op- skiing
what’s right about this country,” he tection. T-shirts may be worn out or tucked in; the time for which he erations Noble Eagle The one thing I treasure most is:
said. Reimbursement is limited to the actual Jackets may be zipped, unzipped and was recognized as NCO of the Year, France and Enduring Freedom, and also was tasked to family and friends
The National Guard’s response to purchase price, plus shipping, of the equip- worn with civilian clothes; worked full-time for the National Guard as a deploy to Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., to
Heroes:
Hurricane Katrina was the largest, fast- ment, and servicemembers must have the Black or navy blue leggings or stretch personnel clerk. He was honor graduate at both supplement security forces personnel there.
his infantry (11B) and administrative (42A) ad- In his civilian capacity, Butler works full-time Founding Fathers
est response of the U.S. military to a receipts. shorts may be worn under the uniform
vanced individual training courses. as a City of Perrysburg police officer. Nobody knows I’m:
natural disaster in the country’s his- Under the legislation, those claiming shorts;
an introvert at heart
tory, Blum said, and it really was amaz- reimbursement must turn in their privately White socks of any length and small
ing in its scope. purchased gear. The services will destroy conservative trademarks are authorized; SENIOR NCO OF THE YEAR FIRST SERGEANT OF THE YEAR I’m better than anyone else at:
“It is a difficult thing to do, but it the equipment, as it may not meet govern- Any athletic shoes may be worn; getting along with almost anyone
didn’t look difficult,” he said. “The way ment standards. Under the policy, reim- Safety items such as reflective belts, Senior Master Master Sgt. Rob- I’d give anything to meet:
the states responded, it actually looked bursement cannot exceed $1,100 for any camelbacks and fanny packs are authorized; Sgt. Tony L. Jones is ert S. Kinion is the George Washington
rather effortless.” one piece of equipment. Hats or knit caps are authorized pro- a member of the 121st first sergeant of the My biggest pet peeve is:
One phone call with the states’ ad- The services can request to add items vided they meet military image requirements; Air Refueling Wing in 178th Fighter Wing laziness
jutants general was all it took to gen- to the list. The list includes the complete Headphones are still authorized; Columbus, where he is Logistics Readiness
The three words that best describe
erate 50,000 guardmembers to respond outer tactical vest or equivalent commer- Bandanas and other similar head security forces super- Squadron, Springfield.
intendent. He is a vet- In that capacity, he me: down to earth
to the disaster, Blum said. cial ballistic vests. The components of the scarves are not authorized unless Airmen If I could leave today’s
eran of Operations provides advice to the
The concerns people had about di- vest—the groin protector, throat protec- have a medical waiver; and Desert Shield/Storm, squadron commander guardmembers with one piece of
saster response being affected by over- tor, yoke and collar assembly, collar pro- Saluting is not required. Northern Watch, on a wide range of en- advice it would be:
seas deployments were legitimate, tector, ballistics inserts and small arms pro- Noble Eagle and En- listed issues, including
Blum said, but were not realized. tective inserts—are covered individually. For more information, Airmen should con- Don’t rule out career or personal
during Freedom. With esprit de corps, per-
“As a matter of fact, the deploy- The list also includes the Kevlar helmet, tact their commander’s support staff, mili- more than 20 years in law enforcement, Jones sonnel management, retention, awards and pro- goals because you think they are
ments did have an effect on our re- ballistic eye protection and hydration sys- tary personnel flight or personnel office at is also a published author, having written more fessional development. Kinion has experience beyond your reach. If you don’t, you
sponse— they made it better,” he said. tems. JIM GARAMONE / AMERICAN deployed locations. AIR FORCE PERSON- than 10 books and 200 articles, technical docu- in construction equipment operations as well will probably be surprised where you
“Over 60 percent of the people that re- FORCES PRESS SERVICE NEL CENTER NEWS SERVICE ments and lesson plans focusing on law en- as avionics, and has an associate’s degree in end up and what you accomplish
forcement, security and corrections. electronics engineering technology.
4 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 5
Citizen spotlight
Two Ohio Guardmembers fall while serving in Iraq
Soldier grappling for chance at Summer Olympics
‘Hollywood Out’
emy was involved in, he went at it full bore.”
On the streets of Rushsylvania you couldn’t
Story By Spc. Michelle Morgan, peted in Greco-Roman wrestling—a style of
was 612th Soldier’s
miss Jeremy’s Dodge Ram 4x4 pickup truck; it
Joint Force Headquarters-Ohio wrestling that focuses on throwing your op- was larger than life, with oversized tires and
ponent to the mat using only your arms and
signature sign-off
chrome wheels. Jeremy replaced the “Dodge”
A
t one point in their lives, a lot of upper body. logo on the windshield with “Hodge.”
kids dream of growing up and Taylor traveled the world from 1999 through Mike and Jeremy communicated via e-mail
starring in the Olympics. They 2001, competing for the Marines in the 50 kilo- often. They would spend time chatting about
see their favorite athlete on the front of gram class (under 110 pounds). But all that ex-
a cereal box and want to be just like
them. For most, once the two-week
perience and training could not quite prepare
Taylor for the biggest challenge of his career
T here are things that fathers “just family and friends and Jeremy’s plans for when
know.” They know when their son he returned. “He’d been deployed since Janu-
is ready to take his first step; they know ary and we were counting the days until he
Games are over, they go on with the rest to that point—the 2000 Olympic Trials in San when it is time to take the training came home… he had 74 days left,” said Mike,
of their lives. Antonio, Texas. wheels off his bike; they know when his gaze focusing on nothing in particular.
But not all. “It’s huge. There are American flags every- he is ready for his first driving lesson; Each time they ended their e-mail session Jer-
While the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, where. It’s so intense I was sick,” Taylor said. and sometimes … fathers know that the emy would sign off with: “Hollywood Out.”
China, are a few years away—and the Courtesy photo
Though all the Marines on the team went, only men in uniform on your front porch are For Vince Gillfillan, Jeremy’s best friend and Courtesy photo
odds of him making the team may be Corey Taylor competes in an 10 of the 13 qualified to try out in different the bearers of bad news. fellow Soldier, the loss is especially painful. SFC Daniel J. Pratt was a 16-year
slight—Sgt. Corey Taylor has never international meet while a member of weight classes. In 2000, one Marine made it to When Mike Hodge, an 11-year Air They were just like brothers throughout high member of the National Guard.
been one to back down from a challenge the All-Marine Wrestling Team. the Olympic team; unfortunately, for Taylor, it Force veteran, went home on his lunch school. They lived close to each other and
and hard work. was not him.
When he was in high school in Mis- from going to state. However, his senior
He left active duty in 2001 and joined the
break, men were standing on his front were inseparable. Whenever you saw one, you Husband’s final gifts
year, in 1995, just after the state champi- porch. “I just knew. I didn’t want to knew the other was not far behind. “I treated
souri, Taylor wanted to play basketball.
onships, the Amateur Athletic Union
Ohio Army National Guard, where he is cur- know, but I did,” them both as my indicative of character
He loved the game, was the fastest on rently the administrative noncommissioned of-
(AAU) Nationals were held in Missouri; Hodge said from sons and I know Linda Pratt received a gift Nov. 4 that
the court and had a great jump shot. ficer for the Joint Force Headquarters chief of
Taylor was determined to compete. his home in this is tough on temporarily brought sunshine into one
But Taylor was cut from the team, not staff in Columbus. He also attends college at
“Everyone said I was wasting my time. I Rushsylvania, a Vince too,” Mike of the darkest moments of her life.
because of his lack of skill, but because Ohio State University, where he is on the
hadn’t even placed in state. I couldn’t pos- village located said. “They were Flowers and candles decorated with
of his lack of stature. He was told to cheerleading squad. His full-time job is no
sibly compete,” Taylor said. “But not only about 50 miles together in the heart-shaped soap arrived just a few
“come back next year after you grow a longer wrestling, but he still lifts every day to
did I compete (in the AAUs), I won.” northwest of Co- same unit, in the hours after military officials visited her
few inches,” by a coach even shorter stay in shape and still competes, though now
In 1997, after his high school gradua- lumbus. same convoy.” Youngstown home to inform her that
than his 5-foot 6- it is ultimate fighting.
tion, Taylor joined the Marine Corps. It The uniformed Teachers and her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Daniel J.
inch size. “Ultimate fighting is basically where two
was not until he was at his first duty as- men told him that coaches remember Pratt, 48, had died of a non-combat-
After Taylor guys get in a cage and anything goes but we
signment in Washington, D.C., that he his son, Spc. Jer- Jeremy as some- related injury the previous day, while
was cut, the can’t hit below the belt, bite or scratch,” Tay-
learned about the All-Marine Wrestling emy Michael Courtesy photo one who was al- serving with the 211th Maintenance
wrestling coach lor said.
Team. Hodge, died Oct. Ohio Army National Guard SPC Jeremy ways offering help Company on a one-year tour in
asked Taylor to But the wrestling bug is still there as well.
“The idea is that the military offers mem- 10 in Baghdad, Hodge, pictured above serving in Iraq, was to others. In high Nasiriyah, Iraq.
try out for the Taylor says he will begin competing in regional
bers the sports and educational opportu- Iraq, when an posthumously promoted to sergeant. school, Jeremy Sgt. 1st Class Pratt sent the gifts to
team. The coach wrestling matches throughout the United
nities that a college would,” Taylor said. improvised ex- sang in the choir his wife in advance of the couple’s
liked Taylor ’s States, beginning in 2006, in preparation for
And he planned to take full advantage of plosive device (IED) exploded near his and played football and baseball. He was a 20th wedding anniversary, on Nov. 7.
competitive na- the 2008 Olympics. And, while his future in
all of those opportunities. vehicle. tough competitor on the track, football and “I was just overwhelmed and
ture and prom- wrestling may not be certain—there is no doubt
When Taylor asked his chief warrant Jeremy Hodge, 20, joined the Ohio baseball field but was not afraid to stand out touched and just felt his goodness
ised to make him about what his wrestling past has taught him.
Taylor officer about trying out for the team, he National Guard shortly after graduat- in choir or during musicals. He was also a coun- again come through,” said Linda Pratt,
a champion. “Wrestling is just like life: at some point you
was told that the only way he would be ing from Ridgemont High School in try boy at heart who loved the outdoors. who lived with her husband and their
Knowing nothing about wrestling, Tay- will either be down or at worst flat on your
allowed to try out was if he could beat 2003, and was assigned to Company B, “I remember when he shot his first deer, he two children in Austintown. “He has a
lor declined. back, but with hard work and determination
him. The chief figured that the scrawny 612th Engineer Battalion, Tiffin. kept yelling, ‘I got it…I got it,’” Jeremy’s kind and good soul. He loved his fam-
That summer, most of the basketball you can fight back and overcome those ob-
little guy could not take him. So out on He, along with 450 other Soldiers of cousin, Dustin, recalls. But his mood turned ily. He just had a zest for life.” AGOH-
team grew even taller, but not Taylor. stacles,” Taylor said. “After I graduate college,
the parade grounds—in front of the Com- the 612th, deployed in November 2004 sour when he got to the buck and saw that PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND WIRE REPORTS
Once more, the wrestling coach asked I plan to coach and instill those same values in
mandant of the Marine Corps’ house, no to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. part of its 6-point antler had broken off.
Taylor if he wanted to join the team. Feel- my wrestlers.”
less—a 120-pound dynamo from small- “We both understood why he wanted But if you ask anyone what Jeremy’s true and to provide words of comfort to a griev-
ing that wrestling was better than noth-
town Missouri took down 6 feet of scoff- to enlist and that he might end up go- passion was, they will tell you that it was ing family. In the small town of Rush-
ing, but probably not much, Taylor de-
ing chief warrant officer. Taylor packed ing to Iraq,” Mike said. “If you knew NASCAR racing. He loved the sport ever since sylvania, people young and old lined the
cided to give it a try. Citizen Spotlight is a feature aimed at high-
his duffel bag and never looked back. what kind of kid Jeremy was, you would he was old enough to watch it on television streets to pay tribute to their fallen Soldier.
With dedication and determination, lighting the unique civilian occupations,
“Wrestling and everyone associated understand that serving others was part and dreamed of someday becoming a As the funeral procession made its way
Taylor learned to wrestle to win. Ten hobbies, endeavors and other off-duty in-
with the sport has taught me values, skills of who he was,” he added. NASCAR driver. His favorite driver was Mark through town, Mike Hodge led the way in
years later, Taylor is still wrestling and terests of Ohio National Guardmembers.
and lessons that you can’t find in any Once he arrived in Iraq, the best of Martin, driver of the No. 6 car. the “Hodge” Ram.
has won many titles, proving his These types of stories call attention to
classroom, book or job,” Taylor said. what Jeremy had to offer came out. “I “He didn’t just talk about it, he pursued his “I want everyone to remember Jeremy for
coach’s boast was not idle. the well-rounded Citizen-Soldiers and Air-
Taylor was one of 13 wrestlers and wres- could tell by our conversations that he dream with the same fire that he went after the way that he was and the passion he
“My first season (in high school), I men who make up the organization, and are
tling partners on the All-Marine Wrestling believed in what he was doing and he everything else with,” Mike said. While in Iraq lived his life with,” Mike said, pausing to
had 25 wins and only two losses. All of balancing family, work, life and their military
Team. They lived, breathed and ate to was always looking for opportunities he was accepted to a NASCAR driving school gather himself.
my wins but five were by pins in the commitments.
wrestle. They ran, lifted and practiced— to lead.” So his father was not sur- and planned to enroll when he returned. “I will miss my son for the rest of my
first period,” Taylor said. Please e-mail story ideas to
five days a week, every week, except prised that Jeremy was the lead driver Friends, family, fellow Soldiers and class- life,” he said. “... Hollywood Out.” JAMES
Bad luck and broken bones kept him buckeye@tagoh.gov, or call (614) 336-7003.
weeks they competed. Taylor mostly com- of the armored convoy. “Whatever Jer- mates went Oct. 19 to say goodbye to Jeremy A. SIMS II / AGOH-PUBLIC AFFAIRS
6 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 7
180TH FIGHTER WING JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS
nally intended for shooters who had not
Soldiers develop weapons fundamentals qualified at their unit’s range. Beamhit was
dropped this year because of the large num-
ber of personnel expected and the units en-
suring their Soldiers were properly in-
structed before attending this event. This
eliminated the slowest portion of the event.
This year Soldiers shot the Alternate
gressional District; Diane Miller, representing U.S. Sen. Mike Qualification Course “C” instead of the pop
DeWine; Dennis Fligore, representing U.S. Sen. George up targets for the M-16 shooters. This meant
Voinovich; state Rep. Mark Wagoner (R-Toledo); Toledo Mayor that they could zero, qualify and conduct
Jack Ford; and Col. Thomas E. Schart, 180th Fighter Wing com- Nuclear Biological and Chemical (NBC) war-
mander. fare qualification firing, all at the same range.
“We were there for you when you left and our hearts re- The engagement skills trainer (EST) was
mained with you while you were gone,” Kaptur said during the used for simulated night fire by both M-16
ceremony. After her speech, Kaptur presented Schart with an rifle and M-9 pistol shooters. After a short
American flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol. transition from the pleasantly warm, sunny
SSgt Beth Slater / 180th FW Multimedia Center
In addition to the AEF deployment, other unit members have day outside, they lined up in the darkened
Airmen of the 180th Fighter Wing take their places Nov. 6 in recently participated in several Expeditionary Combat Support indoor simulated range. Here they used spe-
the aircraft maintenance hangar at the Toledo Express deployments, in various locations including Iraq, Germany, cially modified weapons that simulated the
Airport, prior to a welcome home ceremony honoring them. Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. sound and feel of real range fire while actu-
“Like your fathers and grandfathers before you, you have Ohio Army National Guardmembers attempt to qualify on the 9 mm pistol range. ally engaging a computer screen with laser
Toledo-based ANG unit liberated millions from oppression,” Wayt said at the ceremony.
Exemplary of today’s Air Force—with elements always on Story and photos by large portion of this support was per-
pulses instead of bullets.
Through most of the training year, the
the go—the 180th has members who are currently deployed,
returns from overseas and more Airmen who are preparing to deploy in the near fu-
ture.
Lt. Col. Craig J. Clark
Camp Perry Training Site
formed by officer candidates and TAC
(Train-Advise-Counsel) officers from the
Soldiers of Camp Perry provide customer
support to units that come to use the facil-
Story by Senior Airman Janet Dougherty Ohio Army National Guard Officer Candi- ity for various training activities including
180th Fighter Wing Public Affairs “I want us all to remember those who are still deployed or are PORT CLINTON—On a pleasantly cool date School, 1-145th Regiment, Regional range fire. This one weekend a year, Sol-
getting ready to deploy,” Schart said. “Please hold them in September morning, the sun rises on the Training Institute (RTI), who received both diers can hone and demonstrate their skills
SWANTON—With the Thanksgiving holiday, many Americans your thoughts and prayers until we get them home.” North Coast, where a low-lying layer of fog valuable range operations training and at professionally-run ranges. Thus, they
reflect on what they are thankful for this year. obscures the view of the waves lightly lap- first-hand experience. provide positive examples of how to run
However, none may be as grateful as the family, friends and Air-
men who attended a welcome home ceremony Nov. 6 in the 180th
Unit supports several missions ping at the beach near the clubhouse.
By 8 a.m., as if on cue, the sun burns off
Guardmembers arrived continuously
starting Friday through midday on Sun-
ranges, while getting to share the best North
Coast training weather of the year with Sol-
More than 300 members of the 180th Fighter Wing served on the
Fighter Wing’s aircraft maintenance hangar at the Toledo Express most recent Aerospace Expeditionary Forces (AEF) deployment, the fog and the sound of 40 M-16 rifles day to qualify with their assigned weapon. diers from all over the state of Ohio.
Airport. which spanned Aug. 1 to Sept. 30. In addition to the AEF deploy- splits the morning calm, heralding the start They represented
More than 300 members of the 180th took part in the most recent ment, other 180th Airmen have participated in several Expedition- all the major subor-
ary Combat Support (ECS) deployments during 2005, including: of the annual range fire make-up, hosted PFC Paul Kilbane
Aerospace Expeditionary Forces (AEF) deployment, which by the Training Site Detachment at Camp dinate commands (left) receives
spanned from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30. On this deployment, the 180th— • Security Forces personnel who deployed to Iraq in support of Perry. in the state. Sol- ammo from SPC
Operation Iraqi Freedom, and to Kuwait in a U.S. Central Command
working with units from the Iowa and Oklahoma Air National (CENTCOM) support role; About 500 Ohio Army National diers who previ- Shane Williams.
Guard—fulfilled a U.S. Air Force Aerospace Expeditionary Forces Guardmembers attended the range fire, with ously failed to
(AEF) rotation in Southwest Asia. Personnel provided aerial sup- • Fuels personnel who deployed to Balad, Iraq and also to Rhein Main 408 qualifying on either an M-16 rifle or qualify received re-
Air Base, Germany, where they provided more than 9 million gallons
port to military operations throughout the U.S. Central Command per month of jet fuel to transport aircraft in their area of responsi- M-9 pistol. Much of the lower-than- medial instruction
region, in support of the Global War on Terrorism. bility; planned attendance was due to the very on basic marks-
“The 180th provided close support for ground forces directly • Military Personnel Flight members who deployed to Moron Air rapid deployment of the always ready Ohio manship skills at
engaged, and used the sound of their aircraft to put fear into the Base, Spain, where they provided a Personnel Support Contingency National Guard Soldiers who went to sup- their units.
enemy,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Stanley Kresge, base commander Operations (PERSCO) Team; port the response to Hurricane Katrina. Beamhit, a basic
while the unit was overseas. • Services Flight personnel who deployed to Southwest Asia, where A total of 88 guardmembers ran the com- rifle marksmanship
The 180th and its pilots completed 2,600 flying hours and 370 they supported more than 7,800 U.S.-led coalition forces at the bat pistol range, four M-16 Alternate training aid, was a
sorties with the unit’s F-16 “Fighting Falcon” jet aircraft. second-largest food services operation in the Air Force while Course “C” ranges, the engagement skills required station for
monitoring more than 16,000 morale calls on a monthly basis; and
Ohio National Guard leadership and many public officials were trainer (EST) and various support elements. all shooters in the
on hand to pay tribute to 180th Airmen who deployed, including: • Firefighters and Civil Engineers who deployed to Balad Air Base, While 100 percent of the detachment was past. This require-
Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt, Ohio adjutant general; Maj. Gen. Harry Iraq, where the first Hazmat Safety program was initiated, and the ment was based on
largest, most complicated Hazmat incident—with 500 gallons of fully engaged in this operation, an addi-
“A.J.” Feucht, Ohio assistant adjutant general for Air; U.S. Rep. sulfuric acid—was mitigated without injuries. tional 48 Soldiers from the three major sub- the idea that this
Marcy Kaptur (D-Toledo), congresswoman for Ohio’s ninth Con- ordinate commands provided support. A range was origi-
8 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 9
8 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 9
AT A GLANCE:
DESTINATION: GRAYLING ANNUAL TRAINING ‘05
Leadership focus drives cavalry training PHOTOS BY SSG JOSH MANN / JFHQ-OHIO
Story and photo by Spc. Parker Steele make sure everyone does risk management.”
196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment According to Braun, junior leaders develop
basic skills regardless of what training task
T roops take cover behind their vehicle while they are assigned.
it takes the impact of enemy fire. A sergeant Braun’s squadron served as a support ele-
devises a plan that might turn the tables in his ment for the 37th Brigade Combat Team dur-
Soldiers’ favor. They work together and use ing AT ’05.
the skills they gained at annual training to “Most of our Soldiers were cross-leveled
overcome their challenges. with other elements to support their annual
Soldiers under the leadership of Capt. Devin training,” Braun said.
A. Braun, commander of Headquarters and One of the many different tasks assigned to
Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 107th Braun’s Soldiers was to help run the Multi-
Cavalry, located in Kettering, took advantage Purpose Range Complex (MPRC).
of their mission to support other units by It is very important to use safe weapons-
building their own leadership skills in prepa- handling procedures on this range and it takes
ration for combat. The focus of the 2-107th at good leadership skills for in the Soldiers to
Camp Grayling’s annual maintain that safety, ac-
training this year was on cording to Staff Sgt. Larry
Warrior Task Training. E. Hollie, MPRC operations
The skills they capitalized sergeant.
on were basic troop lead- “Although Soldiers
ership and weapons might think weapons train-
safety, according to ing seems like a small part
Braun. of (overall) training, it’s es-
“Our goal at AT was to sential to form the neces-
be safe and to provide a sary habits Soldiers need
Riding in a humvee convoy, 237th Forward Support Battalion Soldiers react to small arms fire from an “insurgent” role player. meaningful event for our to become proficient in
Soldiers,” Braun said. “At weapons clearing proce-
Ohio convoys thunder through Michigan the same time we devel-
oped individual combat
skills. The junior enlisted
dures and muzzle aware-
ness,” Braun said.
“Everything we do when
Story and photo by ing convoy missions. for Ohio National Guard Sol- signed to cause confusion, ham- will become more profi- we put on this uniform is
Spc. Chad Menegay IEDs normally consist of one diers. per communication and increase cient in basic leader skills important, because it’s de-
196th Mobile Public Affairs Det. or more artillery shells and a trig- “We’re going to hit them like stress levels, blared over the loud that will prepare them to veloping habits and the
A
gering device. Soldiers are be- we got hit in Iraq,” said Sgt. Ri- speakers on wooden buildings. deploy and potentially go perception of our junior
s part of convoy training ing taught to look for specific chard Householder, a truck Some convoys were road-blocked to combat. soldiers. Whether we’re
operations conducted at signs indicating the presence driver for the 1485th Transpor- and forced to halt in the village Braun continued, doing ranges or something
Camp Grayling, Mich., of an IED, based on Soldiers’ tation Company, located in Do- where individuals in Middle East- “Safety is always a big During a class on weapons of a higher collective level,
Ohio Army National Guard vehicles deployment experiences. IEDs ver. Householder’s unit was ern garb approached the vehicles concern. During the initial safety, SPC Curtis Haffey of it’s all building skill sets,
rolled over hardball (paved road- allow small groups of insur- called up for a year of duty in and antagonized Soldiers to test phase of the AT we were Troop A, 2-107th Cavalry and it’s all building hab-
ways), gravel, sand, narrow roads, gents to select when and where Iraq in February 2003. Members the troops’ understanding of the very concerned with pre- Squadron, demonstrates the its—we want to build the
bridges and hills. they want to attack, and also who served in Operation Iraqi rules of engagement. combat checks and pre- proper technique to fire the M-2 right ones for our Sol-
Soldiers overcame heat and fa- permit them the opportunity to Freedom provided experience- While in a village, the instruc- combat inspections. We .50-caliber machine gun. diers,” Braun said.
tigue to survive the mock exercises blend into society without face- driven training as they served tion was to maintain an interval of
and, when the situation dictated, to-face combat. These weap- as OPFOR during a six-day, 40- one to one-and-a-half humvees
destroyed Opposition Forces ons have been the cause of mile lanes training exercise. apart and not to engage unless
(OPFOR) with M-249 Squad Auto- about half of U.S. servicemem- Soldiers were required to engaged first. Outside of a road- units are deployed overseas, units all over the country, led structors commented on how
matic Weapons, M-16 rifles and .50- ber deaths in Iraq. safely navigate the supply blocked village environment, con- they must carry out assault the training of the 237th FSB well the 237th performed and
caliber machine guns from turrets Soldiers assuming the role of route. The emphasis was on voys focused on getting from one convoys to maintain supply and gave detailed blocks of absorbed information.
atop humvees and trucks, also OPFOR during the training ex- communication and awareness. point to another without stopping. route security. Soldiers of the instruction on field communi- For the culminating live-fire
known as “guardian angels.” ercises at Camp Grayling placed “On a convoy, you have to “They’re going to keep the con- 237th carried out one such cation, mounting and dis- exercise, members of the 237th
Lanes and Ground Assault Con- dummy IEDs alongside routes watch everyone around, be- voy rolling as much as possible,” convoy operation, at times, di- mounting a vehicle, check- FSB navigated six engage-
voy (GAC) exercises at the expan- and hid them in the engines and cause any civilian can also be said 1485th Staff Sgt. Bryan Cole, rectly assaulting insurgents. point procedures, 360-degree ments. The majority of the Sol-
sive training grounds located in frames of vehicles in the motor an insurgent,” Householder noncommissioned officer in charge The GAC exercise consisted security, tow bar usage and diers had not fired live rounds
northern Michigan were designed to pool. Through the use of items said. of OPFOR for his unit at Camp of a 15-mile route, repeated breaching a suspected IED. from a moving vehicle before.
reflect conditions that Soldiers are including blank ammunition, Soldiers learned how to Grayling. “A rolling target is harder three times, on the first day The two-day exercise was “Obviously, the situations
facing when deployed overseas to hand grenade simulators, travel through a simulated vil- to hit than a stopped target.” and a live-fire exercise on the packed full of techniques and change every day overseas,”
places like Iraq, where the possibil- smoke canisters, flour bombs lage using proper tactics, and The 237th Forward Support Bat- second. situations, and although a few Householder said. “These Sol-
ity of encountering improvised ex- and pseudo rocket-propelled how to identify civilians on the talion, headquartered in Spring- The 2-337th Training Sup- team members commented to diers are going to be more pre-
plosive devices, also called IEDs, are grenades (RPGs), OPFOR made battlefield. field, normally would conduct sup- port Battalion from Selfridge, one another that it was a lot pared (for the conditions in
a constant concern while conduct- the training even more realistic Middle Eastern music, de- ply convoys, but sometimes when Mich., which helps mobilize to juggle all at once, the in- Iraq) than we ever were.”
10 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 11
AIR MOBILITY COMMAND RODEO wide operations. Rodeo tested the flight and ground skills of air- role. “We have never been more prepared to make Ohio and the
crews and aeromedical evacuation personnel as well as the related Guard proud,” Cameron said.
RODEO
skills of ground support teams like security forces, aerial port opera- Serving in the military for 36 years, Master Sgt. Martin Frey was
tions and maintenance. It also provided valuable joint and com- honored by his co-workers by receiving the 121st ARW mainte-
bined training for all participants. nance Knuckle Buster award for his all-around great performance
A team made up of two security forces members of the 121st Air and teamwork.
Refueling Wing placed second at the Rodeo. Tech. Sgt. Jamie Burr The youngest member of the team, Senior Airman Colin Gallagan,
ROUND-UP
P
and Staff Sgt. Troy Taylor out-performed 29 other security forces said, “I didn’t want to let anyone down due to my lack of experience
teams from around the so I hit the books pretty hard. It was a great learn-
world and were the only ing experience for me and all of my fellow team
representatives of the Air members and I look forward to going back as a
National Guard unit to ‘veteran.”’
121ST AIR REFUELING WING ONLY AIR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT TO compete. Burr and Taylor Boom Operators Tech. Sgt. Jeff Morgan and Tech.
TAKE ON CHALLENGE OF INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION competed in the Combat Sgt. Kevin Cartwright were responsible for com-
Endurance, Weapons posing the 121st ARW tent for “Tent City.” Thanks
and Tactics tests. to the scarlet and gray flag, and the specially con-
For months prior to the structed bar, the unit was known as “the Guard
2005 Rodeo, Burr and from the Buckeye State.” This tent drew multitudes
Taylor engaged in an in- of Buckeyes from all over the country to visit. Of-
tense one-on-one com- ten, visitors would start singing the Ohio State
petition. The one who fell University fight song or alma mater
short at practice did the as a greeting, and everyone else
push-ups. After all the would join in. The tent was very well
training, and at least a received and provided a very wel-
six-year friendship, they coming and memorable Air National
knew each other well enough to cue off of Guard presence at the event.
each other’s body language. When quick “I am really proud of the outstand-
decision-making and prompt action was ing performances of each team mem-
needed in a scenario which required the ber and what we learned,” said Maj.
duo to secure a C-130 on foreign soil from Dave Johnson, team commander.
civilian protestors, hostile military and a “Security did great, bringing home
sniper, this immediate, nonverbal commu- second place. Maintenance worked
r.
TSgt Jamie Burr (left) secures an intruder on the flightline as SSgt Troy Taylor returns fire on another approaching intruder. hard, as always, and showcased
nication produced ideal
teamwork and results. “We how much they love what they do.
(were) ready to push the And, our aircrew got the highest air
Story by Lt. Col. Kathy Lowrey Photos by Staff Sgt. Douglas Nicodemus refueling score on one day of the
envelope and bring home
A
121st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs 121st Air Refueling Wing Multimedia Center competition. We came together and
some trophies,” said Burr,
19-member team from Columbus’ 121st Air Refueling Wing The 121st ARW last participated in 1998. The international event has the security forces team ABOVE, TOP: KC-135 Stratotanker did our best,” he said.
was the only Air National Guard unit in the been on hold since it was last conducted at Pope Air Force Base in leader. crewmembers perform hourly Gen. John W. Handy, commander
2005 Air Mobility Command’s Rodeo competition, con- 2000, due to the increasingly important role air mobility professionals post inspection on the flightline of U.S. Transportation Command
“I am really proud of
at McChord Air Force Base, Wash. and Air Mobility Command, said he
ducted June 18-25 at McChord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Wash. have played during the Global War on Terrorism. Rodeo 2005 allowed them. This result is a great
ABOVE: Maj Dave Johnson knocks
“Just remember what we did there,” said Master Sgt. Jerry AMC professionals to take a pause from the very real, very demanding way for our security forces believed it was important to hold Ro-
out push-ups during the physical
Locke, a 121st ARW jet engine technician, as soon as the team war, and come together in an intense but friendly competition that al- to showcase their strong deo 2005 to allow competitors to test
fitness evaluation portion of the
landed back home after the intense, fun-filled week. To him and lowed competitors to honor the “best of the best.” ongoing commitment to their abilities against peers, while
Rodeo competition. LEFT: TSgt
the other members of the team, this meant seeing the best in each Rodeo 2005 boasted more than 900 competitors from seven coun- Ohio and the U.S. Air sharing knowledge and building
Jamie Burr of the 121st Security
other, forming friendships, gaining corporate knowledge and ex- tries: Brazil, France, Germany, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the United King- Force,” said Brig. Gen. Tom bonds that strengthen joint commit-
Forces Squadron removes a
periencing the pride they felt as the only Citizen-Airman team at dom and the United States. It featured more than 40 aircraft from U.S. Botchie, 121st ARW com- ments for peace and security across
simulated casualty dummy from
Rodeo. and foreign air forces, ranging from the C-21—which is about the size mander. a hostile environment as part of
the international landscape.
“It is our honor to be here and further the tradition of the of a Lear Jet—to the gigantic C-5 Galaxy. France and Germany flew the The 121st ARW placed the combat tactics course.
The 121st ARW, which has 18 air-
Citizen-Airman and Citizen-Soldier,” said Maj. Dave Johnson, C-160, a twin-turboprop cargo aircraft. Other foreign nations flew the third of all the KC-135 craft and about 1,400 people, is the
121st ARW team commander. “We are proud to go shoulder-to- C-130 Hercules, a four-engine turboprop cargo aircraft. Aircraft the U.S. teams in attendance. This ranking included air refueling, arrival time, second largest Air National Guard unit in the United States. Located
shoulder against the ‘best of the best’ in air mobility and show- Air Force teams flew included the C-17 Globemaster III, C-5 Galaxy, C- cargo loading, fuel servicing, preflight inspection, daily observa- at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, the primary mission of the
case our strong commitment to the total force and Ohio.” 130 Hercules, KC-10 Extender and the KC-135 Stratotanker (the refuel- tions and home station check scores. The unit received perfect 121st ARW is to provide aerial refueling to the U.S. Air Force, Navy,
The AMC Rodeo is the international military competition of air ing aircraft flown by the 121st ARW), along with smaller aircraft like the scores for on-time arrival and fuel servicing. On the first day of the and Marine Corps and allied aircraft. The unit’s Airmen perform world-
mobility professionals that tests security forces teams in three C-21 and the T-1. competition, the 121st ARW received the highest air refueling score. wide refueling and transport missions on a daily basis during times
categories: combat arms, security tactics and an obstacle course. Nine other countries participated as observers. In 2000, there were The aircrew, headed by aircraft commander Maj. Chris Fuller and co- of peace as well as during times of international conflict.
Air Force active-duty and reserve components, as well as inter- 2,500 attendees, more than twice the participants of this year. The de- pilot 1st Lt. Nick Hupp, ranked fourth. Of the 11 tankers participat- About 220 wing personnel have been mobilized in support of
national security forces teams, compete in the three categories crease in turnout for 2005 is the result of an increase in operations ing, the 121st ARW placed fifth. Operation Iraqi Freedom, during which time they have performed 27
while providing an opportunity to share the best practices and tempo and funding restrictions. The 10-member maintenance team, led by Master Sgt. Kevin percent of all the refueling missions, flown more than 3,788 hours
lessons learned since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The Rodeo showcased airdrop, air refueling, aeromedical evacua- Cameron, placed sixth. Bringing 160 years of combined military main- and 797 sorties.
Rodeo’s roots began in 1962 as a combat skills competition tion, security forces procedures, short-field landings, related ground tenance experience gained from worldwide deployments, this im- In 2004, the 121st ARW was recognized as the best ANG wing in
designed to develop and improve how air mobility forces oper- operations and for the first time—physical fitness. The world’s best pressive team was tireless in their efforts. Cameron, who has spent Ohio, and also received the 2004 ground safety award for Ohio.
ated and to promote esprit de corps. In 1979, Rodeo expanded to aerial refuelers and airlifters demonstrated their capabilities, improved his entire 22-year career on the KC-135 airframe, consistently dem- “Leading this group of fine citizen-warriors has been the highlight
include international air mobility partners. procedures, compared notes and enhanced standardization for world- onstrated his wealth of knowledge and expertise in his leadership of my military career,” Johnson said.
12 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 13
Modern-Day antry
Infantr
Ohio’s 1-148th Infantry Soldiers
Minutemen shine in New Orleans’ muck
Answer Call
By Maj. Nicole Gabriel, AGOH-Public Affairs
M aj. Rob Fenstermaker got the call as he
arrived home from work on a Friday, ready
to enjoy the Labor Day weekend.
A phone call from a sergeant awakened Spc.
Ricky Robinson early that Saturday morning. ABOVE: A 1-148th Infantry Battalion Soldier
On Sunday, these two 21st-Century “minute- keeps a watchful eye over the activity around
CPT Steve Alvarez / U.S. Army
men” boarded an Ohio Air National Guard C- the New Orleans Superdome. RIGHT: LTC
130 aircraft with 340 Soldiers from the 1-134th White Cypress Lakes, Miss., resident Shirley Lott hugs SGT William Martin of
Gordon Ellis (center), 1-148th Infantry
Field Artillery Battalion and headed to the Gulf Company B, 1-137th Aviation Battalion, when Martin and other aircrew members
Battalion commander, met two of his officers
Coast. They joined the Ohio National Guard delivered supplies to her community after Hurricane Katrina struck.
from the Franklin, Ohio Police Department
task force that had been arriving throughout Robinson said. On Sunday, Robinson met the 121st proved vital to our success.” who were also supporting relief efforts.
the week in Mississippi and Louisiana to sup- up with the battalion’s advance party of Those C-130s and KC-135s enabled the artil- Courtesy photos
port the national relief efforts in the aftermath about 10 Soldiers who had arrived in lery battalion to quickly set up operations. By Maj. Nicole Gabriel, AGOH-Public Affairs said. “There were all types of military helicopters. Crew chiefs ran
I
of Hurricane Katrina. Poplarville, Miss., the day before. Robinson spent his first days in Mississippi out the doors saying, ‘Give me 10, 20 50 pax (passengers). We
In the tradition of National Guard—which During the days immediately following at the battalion headquarters monitoring the nitially, Lt. Col. Gordon Ellis thought his unit, the 1-148th Infan- were loaded and in the air in about 30 minutes. It was the most
traces its history to the colonial militia or “min- the hurricane, C-130s from the 179th Airlift radios. He said he was anxious to go out and try Battalion, was headed to Mississippi to assist with Hurri- amazing thing.”
utemen,” who were ready to defend the home- Wing in Mansfield flew Soldiers and Air- help at one of the food and supply distribution cane Katrina relief efforts. About an hour into the planning During the 20-minute flight from the air station to the Superdome,
land on a “minute’s” notice—Fenstermaker and men to the affected states, while other units sites. “Things are not as bad here as in the process, however, Ellis was called by Brig. Gen. Jack Lee, com- Ellis viewed the devastation that was New Orleans. Below him a
Robinson, were among the 1,600 Ohio National made three-day convoys in humvees and other areas, so in some ways, I feel like I am not mander of the 73rd Troop Command and Joint Task Force Buckeye. building burned and as the helicopter descended through the
Guardmembers who quickly and efficiently an- military trucks down south. doing as much as I should,” Robinson said. “I “He wanted to know how quickly we could get about 300 Sol- smoke, the Superdome came into view. He saw several thousand
swered the call to support their fellow Ameri- Ohio’s Air National Guard played a criti- am glad to be here, though. I wanted to come. I diers to move by air to New Orleans,” Ellis said. Within 13 hours of people milling around the building, but they did not appear to be
cans in a time of crisis. cal role in getting Soldiers, Airmen, sup- volunteered. I know if I was a citizen down here, starting the battalion recall, 315 of his Infantrymen were aboard rioting.
Like their 18th-Century counterparts, these plies and equipment on the ground so I would expect the help.” Ohio Air National Guard aircraft heading to the Gulf Coast. As As the world watched the images of the helpless citizens being
modern-day minutemen dropped what they quickly, said Maj. Gen. A.J. Feucht, assis- Less than a month later, Mother Nature let they boarded the planes, the Soldiers grabbed body armor, shot- rescued from roof tops and heard reports of horrendous crimes
were doing, left behind families, jobs and col- tant adjutant general for Air. “Obviously, loose another punch to the Gulf Coast—Hurri- guns and ammunition—last-minute sup- taking places in the Superdome, not
lege to answer the call. aircraft can get people and equipment there cane Rita—and the Ohio National Guard pro- plies that would prove critical to the mis- many knew that the professional Sol-
Fenstermaker, the battalion operations and in a matter of hours versus the three days vided an additional 1,100 Soldiers and Airmen sion they faced at the New Orleans “It was surreal.... diers of Ohio’s 1-148th were on the
training officer, packed a few last-minute things it takes to ground convoy. Having our C- to the relief efforts. The assistance was pro- Superdome, Ellis said. scene, quietly and efficiently re-es-
Friday night before saying goodbye to his wife 130s from the 179th and our KC-135s from vided under the Emergency Management As- The Soldiers landed that night at Belle The garbage was up to your knees. tablishing order and moving the
and two children on Saturday. He postponed a sistance Compact (EMAC), a national mutual There was every type of bad smell
Chase Naval Air Station in Mississippi to evacuees out of the building to await
family cookout and put his wife’s “honey-do” OHIO’S SUPPORT: aid and partnership agreement that allows state- extremely austere conditions. There was no transportation out of the city.
list on hold indefinitely. “I reported Saturday BY THE NUMBERS to-state assistance during states of emergen-
you can imagine... human waste,
power, no sanitation, nothing. “Imagine The battalion, which returned from
morning to my unit and started working on the Soldiers deployed: 2,479 cies declared by the governor or president. trying to gather people and equipment with
rotten food and dead body peace support and peace keeping op-
plan to get the battalion down there,” he said. Airmen deployed: 191 “The quick response of our Citizen-Soldiers no lights except the lights from the air- all mixed into one.” erations in Kosovo less than six
About the same time, Robinson received a Meals distributed: 4,481,168 and Airmen was amazing,” said Maj. Gen. Gre- craft,” Ellis said. —Lt. Col. Gordon Ellis months earlier, was well-prepared for
call from his Army supervisor. “He told me I Gallons of water distributed: 3,164,042 gory L. Wayt, Ohio adjutant general. “We had They spent the first night in a gymna- 1-148th Infantry Battalion commander this type of mission, Ellis said. That
had to come in ASAP (as soon as possible),” Pounds of ice distributed: 4,444,080 more than 350 Soldiers and Airmen on the sium at the air station knowing they would mission could not, however, prepare
Robinson said. A resident of Carlisle, located Tons of cargo moved by air (OHANG): 352 ground in about 36 hours after the hurricane be moving to the “Dome” sometime the them for the conditions they encoun-
southwest of Dayton, Robinson is a communi- Distribution points supported: 185 struck. Another 1,000 were on their way within next day, Sept. 1. “About 7 or 8 a.m., a ma- tered upon entering the Superdome.
cations specialist for Headquarters Battery, 1- Citizens evacuated: 8,052 48 hours and we continued to respond with jor at the reception station said: ‘There’s a riot at the Superdome. “It was surreal,” Ellis said. “The garbage was up to your knees.
134th Field Artillery Battalion, Columbus. Black Hawk helicopter missions flown: 128 ready units in the days following as the situa- We need your people there as quick as possible.’” Within a half
“I called my mom to get her to help take care Chinook helicopter missions flown: 52 tion unfolded. This is a testament to our readi- an hour, the 1-148th Soldiers arrived at the airfield. —continued on next page
of some personal affairs. I packed up all I could Baby supplies delivered: 1,300 pounds ness, as well as to the sense of selfless service “It was like a scene out of the movie Apocalypse Now,” Ellis
and then headed to my unit in Columbus,” inherent in our guardmembers.”
14 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 F A L L // W II N T E R 2 0 0 5 B U C K E Y E G U A R D
FALL W NTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 15
15
Vigilant Guard: an exercise in preparedness
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Nancy McMillan ment entities and build trust during a simulated crisis in order
196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment to identify shortfalls in current plans and to develop innovative
C
applications.
olumbus—These days, the threat of explosive- During the first week of the exercise participants received
laden zealots detonating themselves in vehicles, build- simulated streams of Indications and Warning (I&W) intelli-
ings and other high-traffic public areas is not unimag- gence information, as well as a series of state and federal
inable. Injury and death is one half of the destructive plot; injects that portrayed a heightened awareness of credible ter-
lasting fear and uncertainty completes the radical feat. The rorist threats.
1-148th Infantr y Soldiers Shine
antry
Infantr capacity for Ohio National Guard Soldiers and Airmen to Intelligence sources indicated that working through associ-
—continued from previous page quickly respond to an incident in Ohio is essential. At times ates in a foreign country, a secular terrorist purchased mate-
it can mean the difference between life and death. rials for making “dirty bombs.” Utilizing sleeper cells within
There was every type of bad smell you can “Ohio is transforming from a strategic to an operational the United States, the radical’s intent was to transport the
imagine...human waste, rotten food and dead force,” said Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt, Ohio adjutant gen- component and detonate devices in four major cities, killing
body all mixed into one.” The smell was so eral. “One important aspect of transformation is ensuring 200-500 people and contaminating 20,000 more.
horrible, Soldiers had to wear masks. There that the readiness level of Ohio National Guard’s Soldiers As the terrorist’s plans started to unfold, participants con-
was no electricity or plumbing. The dome roof and Airmen is at the highest level possible, a must in today’s tinued to respond to previously received I&W information, as
was damaged, there was little lighting and the world where a fast response to a mission means hours, not well as new injects dispensed during morning Joint Task Force
temperature hovered around 95 degrees plus days,” Wayt added. Commander’s and shift change briefs.
humidity. To compound the problem, many of With such terror present throughout the world, the na- Throughout the week, the participants, including represen-
the evacuees were in dire need of medical care. tion is taking measures to tatives from various Defense
The battalion’s medical team treated many become better prepared Department, federal and
medical emergencies from heart attacks to in- for the ongoing violence state organizations such as
sulin shock. Courtesy photo that jeopardizes freedom U.S. Northern Command, the
Despite the adversity, the Soldiers restored While visiting Ohio National Guardmembers supporting Hurricane Katrina and peace. One such Department of Homeland Se-
order quickly. Ellis said a few people who were recovery efforts near Kiln, Miss., Ohio Gov. Bob Taft (second from left), along measure in Ohio included curity, Joint Terrorism Task
intoxicated caused some disruptions and they with BG Jack E. Lee, Task Force Buckeye commander, and MG Gregory L. the hosting of a multi- Forces and Emergency Man-
seized multiple weapons, but the Soldiers were Wayt, Ohio adjutant general, talks with a Salvation Army relief worker. state series of training ex- agement Agency, discussed
well-received and treated with respect. Ellis, ercises designed to en- operational challenges, is-
who serves as the City of Franklin’s police
chief, attributes his unit’s success to having Governor visits Ohio troops, helps hance readiness in per-
forming state roles and
sues and proposed actions
associated with each new
the right equipment to do the job, namely
body armor and shotguns. “When you show distribute supplies to evacuees responsibilities associated
with Homeland Defense
development. “This is a great
training event and the first
up with the demonstrative ability to use force,
you don’t often have to use it. We had the
ability to use force, but we never had to use it
G overnor Bob Taft traveled Sept. 13
to Southern Mississippi to tour the
devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina
lice Company, (Middletown); and Airmen
from the 269th Combat Communications
Squadron, Springfield.
and Defense Support to
Civil Authorities. “Vigilant
Guard, ” a three-day, single-site, multi-state training exer-
of its kind,” Wayt said. “Cri-
ses of this magnitude bring
together many organizations who do not meet on a regular
because (the Soldiers) were perceived as pro- and visit Ohio troops assisting with re- On Aug. 31, Taft authorized 1,500 Ohio cise involving a period of heightened alert, was followed by basis. The scenarios that were presented helped better pre-
fessional and nobody challenged that.” covery efforts near Kiln, Miss. National Guard Soldiers and Airmen to as- a mock Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosive pare us to perform our jobs in a real-life mission.”
Besides securing and clearing the Taft visited with several Ohio National sist in the rescue and recovery efforts for (CBRNE) attack on a major city in the Great Lakes region The exercise ended with the participants, through strategic
Superdome, the group that went to New Or- Guardmembers supporting Joint Task the Hurricane Katrina victims. Within 36 which included participants from Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and operational analysis and quick reaction, thwarting much
leans received many “short-fuse” missions Force Buckeye. hours of the call-up, 320 Ohio National Minnesota and Wisconsin. of the terrorist’s plan, saving hundreds from immediate death
around the city, such as rescuing people who “I am proud that our Ohio National Guard Soldiers were in New Orleans. Conducted in August and sponsored by the National Guard and preventing consequential suffering and destruction for years
were under small arms fire from looters as well Guard (provided) much-needed support Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt, Ohio adju- Bureau, in cooperation with state adjutants general, “Vigi- to come.
as conducting neighborhood patrols, going for the families and communities that are tant general, thanked Taft for spending lant Guard” provided National Guard personnel an opportu- “It was a very productive exercise,” Wayt said. “Our No. 1
from house to house, often in boats because trying to recover from the devastation time with the Soldiers and Airmen. nity to explore cooperative relationships with other govern- priority is the security and defense of our homeland.”
of the flood waters, searching for the living caused by Hurricane Katrina,” Taft said. “When the (state) commander-in-chief
and the dead. Joint Task Force Buckeye was respon- arrives in theater, it shows the men and
The Soldiers themselves endured miserable sible for security operations in parts of women he commands that he is proud of
conditions, yet put aside their own well-being
to help their fellow Americans. When they
Mississippi and Louisiana and provided
support to local law enforcement. The
them, and that he appreciates their effort
and their sacrifice. That means a great deal
Timing of homeland defense exercise proves to be uncanny
completed their mission, 22 days later, the
Soldiers had evacuated 8,000 people from the
Superdome, conducted 363 patrols and res-
units also were involved in missions in-
cluding search and rescue, evacuation
and delivering supplies to the local popu-
to a Soldier or an Airman,” Wayt said.
Joint Task Force Buckeye drew person-
nel from many units of the Ohio National
S hortly after the “Vigilant Guard” ex-
ercise in August, about 2,700 Ohio Na-
tional Guard Soldiers and Airmen deployed
dent. The agreement provides a respon-
sive and straightforward system for the
National Guard in unaffected states to
so quickly, Operation Vigilant Guard was
the best preparation for the Guard’s
support mission in response to Hurricane
cued 52 people from their homes. lations. Guard, both Air and Army, utilizing people to assist in the Hurricane Katrina and Rita send personnel and equipment to help Katrina a mere two weeks later, and to
“Always etched in my mind will be the will- The governor thanked Ohio troops aid- from all over Ohio to aid in Hurricane re- rescue and recovery efforts. disaster-relief efforts in affected states. Hurricane Rita, three weeks after that.
ingness of these Soldiers to do whatever was ing in the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts covery efforts. The assistance was provided under the Soldiers and Airmen from Ohio provided “You saw the results (of the exercise)
asked without reservation,” Ellis said. They and helped the troops distribute supplies However, more than 80 percent of the Emergency Management Assistance Com- security assistance and general support with Katrina and Rita,” Wayt said. “(The
climbed through garbage and put themselves to evacuees outside Kiln, Miss. Taft vis- Ohio National Guard’s assets remained in pact (EMAC), a national mutual aid and in Mississippi and Louisiana. response to the hurricanes) was the Na-
at risk to pull people out of flooded homes. ited Soldiers from the 73rd Troop Com- Ohio, ready for missions closer to home, partnership agreement that allows state- Although there was no way of know- tional Guard’s finest hour. The entire
“No doubt, the best of America resides in those mand, Columbus; 371st Corps Support if the need arose. GOVERNOR’S COM- to-state assistance during states of emer- ing that the lessons learned from the Ohio National Guard was ready to re-
young Soldiers.” Group, Kettering; and 324th Military Po- MUNICATIONS OFFICE gencies declared by the governor or presi- Joint Staff exercise would be employed spond.” AGOH-PUBLIC AFFAIRS
16
16 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL W NTER 2005
B U C K E Y E G U A R D F A L L // W II N T E R 2 0 0 5 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 17
RANGE ROVERS
An Ohio Air National Guard C-130
cargo airplane from Mansfield’s
179th Airlift Wing flies over
downtown Columbus to kick off
Annual weapons qualifications help Soldiers the 2005 Columbus Marathon.
maintain one of the most vital warrior skills
Story and photos by Spc. Brian Johnson Company A, 216th Engineer Battalion
ABOVE: COL Debbie Ashenhurst (No. 6186) finishes her two-
person team’s relay at the Columbus Marathon Oct. 16.
Ashenhurst teamed up with SSG Joshua McKee after the
two served together in Mississippi during hurricane relief
efforts. BELOW: Soldiers of the Ohio Army National Guard’s
237th Personnel Services Battalion, Columbus, pose for a
photo Oct. 15 after a 5-kilometer race that was conducted at
Camp Doha, Kuwait, in support of the Columbus Marathon.
LEFT: From the range control tower at Camp
Sherman, SSG Richard Wright gives instructions
to troops on the firing line. ABOVE: A Soldier
takes aim at a target with his M-16 rifle while
firing from the “prone, unsupported” position.
M
embers of Company A, 216th Engineer Battalion, per- Washington Court House. Added Sgt. Patrick Wolfe: “This
formed their annual individual weapons qualification in was an adrenaline rush. It was good hands-on training. This
August at Camp Sherman, an Ohio National Guard train- was one of the reasons why I joined the Ohio Army National
ing site just outside of Chillicothe. Guard.”
The unit, headquartered in Spc. David Whaley, also a resident
Chillicothe, has more than 100 of Washington Court House, had a
members who perform various slightly more humorous observation. He
engineering jobs including car- was a gunner on a humvee through most
pentry, plumbing and electrical of the 216th’s deployment in support of
Operation Iraqi Freedom. “I miss my 50-
work. The unit also has Soldiers
who operate heavy equipment in- cal(iber machine gun). This really is a From Start to Finish: ONG helps make Columbus Marathon a success
cluding bulldozers, backhoes, change for me.” Story and photos by Sgt. Kimberly Snow About 200 additional Air and Army Na- ter with activities ranging from rock climb-
A
rollers and semi trucks. The 216th was mobilized for service 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment tional Guardmembers volunteered time and ing to a recruiting display with the National
But on this particular weekend, in December 2003, and after train-up at C-130 airplane roared expertise Oct. 14-16 to help support their Guard’s NASCAR show car, the No. 16 racer
everyone, regardless of their job a stateside location, Soldiers of the bat- over building tops community and to celebrate the Guard’s driven by Greg Biffle.
skill, had the requirement to try talion spent 11 months serving in the Oct. 16 in downtown partnership with the Columbus Marathon. Members of the Guard also provided
and qualify their assigned small area around Tikrit, Iraq, hometown of Columbus as about Ohio Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Gregory support to the Red Nose Run at the Franklin
arms weapons. This requirement former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. The 5,000 runners prepared to race 26.2 miles L. Wayt coordinated Guard support with Park, which focused on youth fitness and
enables Soldiers to maintain fa- Two Soldiers from Company A, 216th Engineer unit returned last February. in the 26th annual Columbus Marathon. marathon officials and sounded the air horn offered a wide variety of activities for kids
miliarity with their weapons, Battalion “zero” their weapons under the watchful “Weapons qualification is a basic skill The fly-over, courtesy of the Mansfield- beginning the race. Wayt credited State of all ages. At the Expo Center the Ohio
should they ever be called upon eye of a range safety noncomissioned officer. that each Soldier is required to perform based 179th Airlift Wing, helped to bring Command Sgt. Maj. Bill Gilliam and State National Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force
to use them. at a moment’s notice,” Westfall said. “By an element of celebration and excitement Command Chief Master Sgt. Chris Muncy set up a rock wall for climbers of all ages
Weapons qualification consists of a Soldier trying to hit at least 40 running a qualification range, we ensure that each Soldier is to the event said Mike Collins, the with organizing all aspects of the Guard’s and ability levels.
targets at a specified distance with 40 rounds of ammunition within a familiar with his weapon and can perform the job if required.” marathon’s executive director. involvement, which began with a meeting On Saturday, there was also a “dual mara-
limited amount of time. The minimum required score for an M-16 rifle “I was warming up for the race when the with Marathon Board President Cynthia thon” in Kuwait, with about 60 runners from
on a range with stationary targets is 26 hits out of 40 shots. As easy as
this may sound, the targets are of varying distances from 50 meters to
This was done by a UPAR! C-130 flew over,” said 1st Lt. Buddy Lazarus months before the event. the 237th Personnel Services Battalion run-
Ohio Army and Air National Guard Unit Public Affairs Repre- Longhenry from A Battery, 1st Battalion, In addition to the fly-over, the Ohio Na- ning a 5-kilometer race in an attempt to bring
300 meters. Soldiers also have to qualify wearing their protective mask 134th Field Artillery. “There were a bunch tional Guard provided both pace and sweep a piece of home to the desert. The Colum-
sentatives, or UPARs, are a critical element in telling the great
and at night. Ohio National Guard story. of guys near me who didn’t know about vehicles, staffed two water points and pro- bus-based unit ran the mini-marathon wear-
“The Soldiers of the unit ran a very efficient and effective range,” UPARs are encouraged to submit articles and photos meant the fly-over and they looked up and said, vided an honor guard to open ceremonies ing official Columbus Marathon race shirts,
said Capt. Donald Westfall, Company A commander. “I feel very com- to inform, educate or entertain our readers, including stories ‘Oh man! I used to jump out of those!’” on race day. The 122nd Army National which were donated by the marathon’s ex-
fortable with the results of this range and the Soldiers who qualified about interesting Guard personalities and unique unit train- Longhenry was one of about 50 Ohio Guard Band also performed in front of the ecutive council.
today. This is just another example of why we are the best (company) ing. Submissions also may be utilized on the Ohio National Air and Army National Guardmembers who Ohio Statehouse. “This is a great event to show that we’re
in the battalion.” Guard website, www.ohionationalguard.com. took advantage of a registration fee waiver The three-day calendar of events, culmi- in shape and that we care about our com-
Soldiers held varied views about the weapons qualification. “I re- For information on article and photo specifications, or to
offered to guardmembers by the nating in Sunday’s 26-mile race, began on mitment to the community,” Wayt said. “It’s
ally look at the weapons qualification differently now since I have submit completed stories and photos, you can send an e-mail
to buckeye@tagoh.gov .
marathon’s board of trustees. Oct. 14 at the Columbus Convention Cen- a fantastic partnership.”
returned from Iraq,” said Spc. Christopher Wysong, a resident of
18 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 19
HELP FROM ABOVE:
Ohio Army National Guard aviators assist with border security
Story and photo by Dan Simon Some 30 barriers were placed by Ohio the flyers Digiacomo said.
Fort Huachuca Public Affairs Army National Guard Chinook helicopters “We have to have a lot of pilots,” he
M
embers of the Ohio National Guard and crews. The twin-rotored aircraft are explained. “About two hours of such an
helped plug another gap in America’s each capable of hauling between 18,000 to intensive flight is about all they can take
border with Mexico this summer as 26,000 pounds of a cargo from as many as before we need to rest them.”
their CH-47 Chinook helicopters positioned three hooks located on the helicopter’s un- The project came about when Digiacomo
vehicle barricades in the Coronado National derbelly. received a phone call from Joint Task Force
Memorial in Arizona. The aircraft used two of their three hooks North, a Defense Department agency that
LEFT: Visitors to the OSU Airport Open House get up-
The effort—part of a joint project between for the 1,600- to 2,200-pound barricades. acts as a facilitator for homeland security
close to the Ohio National Guard’s UH-1 Huey helicopter
the Ohio Army National Guard’s Company Besides creating a more stable load, it made and drug interdiction support efforts. The
(foreground) and the C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.
G, 137th Aviation Battalion, National Park Ser- it easier for the pilots to land the barriers organization doesn’t have any forces of ABOVE: SFC John Beltran (left) of Company B, 2-19th
vice, Joint Task Force North, National Guard with the pinpoint precision required. its own, but specializes in finding military Special Forces Group, answers questions about the
Bureau, Bureau of Land Management and It’s a tricky load for us,” said Maj. An- units interested in participating in home- Green Berets and the equipment they use.
U.S. Border Patrol—showed what can hap- thony Digiacomo, the company com- land security support missions.
pen when government agencies work to- mander. “The pilots have to place these The task force makes things happen by
gether on a mutually beneficial mission. loads down on the ground using 40-foot footing the bill for all mission related costs, Army,
Airport open house showcases Army, Air Guard capabilities
For the Soldiers, the project represented a slings, plus or minus 6 or 8 inches. It takes except for the costs of materials needed for Story by Maj. Ed Mikula on the infield grass.
rade in a combat operation. 178th Fighter Wing located in
real-world training opportunity to prepare for a tremendous amount of coordination and the project. These are provided by the re- Joint Force Headquarters-Ohio Once the jump team was safe
Once the Special Forces Sol- Springfield—performed two
C
the kind of conditions questing government on the ground and accounted
amp Grayling, Mich., diers established themselves fly-by exhibitions, showing the
and challenges they entity. for, Herc-93 and its crew con-
wasn’t the only training on the ground and quickly sta- crowd maneuvers such as
might face in Iraq or Company G members ducted various fly-bys and
site for high-speed joint bilized the wounded Soldier, steep banks and vertical climbs.
Afghanistan. For the were eager to take on the demonstrated a combat landing
military operations this past July. they “popped” smoke—set The final joint National
National Park Service it project because it rep- and takeoff.
Members of various Ohio Army off smoke grenades for con- Guard operation was an air-
means fewer places resented a strong train- Other activities and displays
and Air National Guard units de- cealment from enemy view- borne demonstration by the
where motor vehicles ing opportunity. included the Recruiting
scended upon the Ohio State Uni- ing—and the UH-60 Black Ohio Army National Guard’s
can penetrate the U.S. “This is an air move- Command’s rock climbing wall,
versity Airport in northwest Colum- Hawk helicopter immediately Special Forces unit. Once the
border within the memo- ment operation,” Digia- a weaponry display by the Spe-
bus in support of their biennial open returned to the landing zone, C-130 took off and after a brief
rial grounds. como said. “That’s one cial Forces, and booths with in-
house last July. also known as the “LZ,” for climb to altitude, the Herc-93
“We were getting of our mission essential formation on how citizens
The Airport Open House proved quick extraction. approached the airport. Just
people who were com- tasks. Refueling is an- could join the Ohio Army and
to be a great venue for Soldiers and About an hour later, two F- before it crossed the airport’s
ing across the open other one of our mis- Air National Guard.
Airmen to interact with the public 16 jet fighters came screaming infield, the plane’s crew opened
lands of Mexico,” said sion essential tasks.
while demonstrating their skills and out of the western skies for a its back door ramp, and the
Kym A. Hall, Coronado What this allows us to EDITOR’S NOTE: Photos by
displaying their unique equipment. high-speed pass over one of Special Forces Soldiers para-
National Memorial su- do is try all our mission Maj. Ed Mikula, Jo McCulty
While there were more than 40 air- the airport’s runways. The two chuted en masse out of the
perintendent. “Be- essential tasks along and Bob Mullins
craft on display, the most popular “Fighting Falcons ”—from the back of the aircraft and landed
cause of the way the with mobilizing and de-
topography was in that ployment which is our exhibit on display seemed to be the
particular part of the SGT Joseph Russo gives an approaching helicopter a “go” signal. third. They are perfectly Ohio Air National Guard’s “Herc-93,”
park, it was a pretty dovetailed. a C-130 from the 179th Airlift Wing
open shot.” therein lies the difficulty in the way the “This mission is a perfect match to what located in Mansfield.
The memorial shares a three-and-a-half barriers are set up.” we need to do in the real world in a wartime The Open House began with the
mile border with Mexico and much of the The rugged landscape made it impracti- environment.” Don Scott Trot—a 5-kilometer race
approach from America’s southern neighbor cal to use heavy equipment to position the Preparations for the mission began more on the airport’s runway. The OSU
is across hot, flat desert. Once near the me- barricades Digiacomo said, making airborne than six months in advance of the unit’s Airport closed the runways so 394
morial, though, the terrain becomes challeng- delivery the only option. This put a strain July mission in Arizona. race participants could participate in
ing. Near the park edge the ground lifts and on his pilots, but also provided an exquis- “Every month, from January (2005) on, a charitable run-walk in support of
is marked by small ridges and washes. Still, ite test of their training and preparation. we would do sling loading,” said Staff Sgt. Angel Flight-Mid Atlantic.
an aggressive driver in a sport utility vehicle “It (the barrier) has to be positioned pre- Jonathan South. “We would do it at the Once the 5-kilometer run-walk
could often find a way over the ridges and cisely,” he said. “The reason we’re out here (Akron-Canton Airport) where we’re from. concluded and the runways opened,
through the washes. is because ground people can’t access this We would get the pallets and practice mov- the aerial demonstrations began
The solution to the problem has been to area because of the terrain and how rough ing them like we’re doing here.” with the 1-137th Aviation Battalion
place several types of barricades in strate- it is. It’s too dangerous for ground crews Hall said the project was a success for and B Company, 2-19th Special
gic locations to bar access to the park by to try to jockey the barrier as it comes both the Guard and the park service. Forces Group, both headquartered
vehicles. These barricades ranged from ver- down. The aircraft has to place it in a pre- “It meets their need to have specialized at Rickenbacker Airport, Columbus.
tical posts, to post and horizontal bar com- cise manner. That’s where it takes a lot of training, it meets our need to have a project The 137th transported a squad of
binations, to the “D-Day” style Normandy skill.” completed,” she said. “It’s a win-win. We Green Berets into the airport’s infield
beach “X-bar” obstacles that the Ohio Guard The work is so demanding that only mod- get what we need, they get what they need. to simulate a quick insertion rescue As a crowd looks on at the OSU Airport, a C-130 Hercules aircraft makes a pass in preparation
unit placed in the current operation. est stints in the aircraft were possible for It’s just a very positive story all around.” mission to recover a wounded com- for a parachute drop by Ohio Army National Guard Special Forces Soldiers.
20 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 21
a closer look at your associations
Guard chief addresses
EANGUS Conference
ORLANDO, Fla.—“A relevant, reliable, ready and accessible
National Guard.” It is the mantra that the chief of the National
Guard Bureau, Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, has taken on the road
with him everywhere he goes.
On Aug. 21 Blum brought his message to the Rosen Centre
Hotel, location of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard
of the United States’ (EANGUS) 2005 National Conference.
Prior to Blum taking the podium, conference attendees were
shown a short video in which Blum outlined his vision of the
future for the National Guard. Key in the presentation was the
tenet that the Guard must change and adapt to face the chal- LTG H Steven Blum, chief, National Guard Bureau (right) presents
lenges posed by the Global War on Terrorism. SMSgt Shelly Brunn of the 180th Fighter Wing with a Chief’s
“We must transform. We don’t have the advantage of time our Coin during the 2005 National EANGUS Conference.
oceans once afforded us,” Blum said during the video presenta-
tion. “We are defending our homeland today in scheduled away diers and Airmen, a voice on issues before Congress.”
games, to use a sports analogy, both in Afghanistan and Iraq.” Blum responded to concerns on veterans benefits and retirement
Images of Citizen-Soldiers engaged in foreign lands filled the age; how was the National Guard going to get funding to replace
screen; slowly, the screen faded to emotional images of the equipment left in theaters of war and future funding for professional
Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. development conferences such as EANGUS? By far, the most pas-
“But we also know that we can be subject to unscheduled sionate discussion centered on the issue of Base Realignment and
home games like 9-11,” Blum said. “America expects us to be Closure Commission (BRAC). Taking considerable fire from mem-
ready when this happens, and we will deliver.” bers of the conference, Blum reiterated that as a Title 10 officer, there
Shifting from transformation of the Guard to the importance of was only so much he could say but he did note, “As a citizen and a
professional organizations such as EANGUS, Blum noted that taxpayer, I think the BRAC Commission is a good idea…but the pro-
his position as an officer on U.S. Code Title 10 status (federal cess is far from perfect. We are working very close with the adjutants
control by the president) gave him “a left and a right boundary. general of the states affected to do all that we can.”
“In my position, there are certain things that I’m allowed and Bringing the question-and-answer session to a close, Blum left
not allowed to say and do,” Blum said. “That’s why organiza- conference-goers with a final thought—“The National Guard will pro-
tions such as EANGUS are so important. They give you, Sol- tect our country, the associations will protect the National Guard.”
Stories and photos by SPC Benjamin Cossel 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Enlisted association Brunn noted that
several challenges
some of this stuff right now, but I need to, and
we need groups like this to give us a voice.”
looks toward future exist in getting the Henkaline and 11 other junior Ohio National
Guardmembers attended the conference on
EANGUS message
ORLANDO, Fla.—Among the many pre- out to younger Sol- active-duty orders. Command Sgt. Maj. Randy
sentations during the 2005 National Con- diers and Airmen, Kintz, ONGEA president, explained it is just one
ference of the Enlisted Association of the rom lack of infor- of the ways the ONGEA is reaching out to its
National Guard of the United States mation about the younger constituents.
(EANGUS), one issue was prominent organization to the “This is the first year we’ve been able to bring
above all else—how to increase the mindset of a young- people to the national conference on orders,”
organization’s membership. er corps of individu- Kintz said. “We were able to bring one Soldier
Henkaline
For Tech. Sgt. Steve Brunn, vice presi- als who have yet to for every thousand (members of the Ohio Na-
dent-Air of the Ohio National Guard En- think about retirement and health care tional Guard), and we hope to increase that to
listed Association (ONGEA), the issue is benefits. All are issues which Brunn and two for every thousand next year.”
more finite than simply increasing over- other leaders of the Ohio National Guard Kintz said it is his hope that once these young
all numbers. Enlisted Association have noted. Soldiers and Airmen have returned from the
“Your senior personnel—sergeants Spc. Adam Henkaline, 22, of Columbus, conference, they will return to their units and
major, chief master sergeants—they get a member of Headquarters and Head- spread the word of EANGUS and ONGEA.
it,” Brunn said. “They get that we need a quarters Company, 1-148th Infantry Bat-
professional lobbying organization like
EANGUS on Capitol Hill speaking for the
talion, gives voice to many of the chal-
lenges leaders like Brunn identified.
2006 State Conference dates set
issues near and dear to the hearts of Na- The annual Ohio National Guard Enlisted
“Prior to coming to this conference, I
Association Conference will be conducted
tional Guardsmen. We need to focus our had no idea what EANGUS was,” May 19-21 in Columbus. For information,
recruiting efforts on junior Soldiers and Henkaline said. “And let me tell you, I’m call the association at (800) 642-6642.
Airmen, and get them on board.” impressed. I mean, I’m not thinking about
22
22 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL W NTER 2005
B U C K E Y E G U A R D F A L L // W II N T E R 2 0 0 5 FA W NTER BUCKEYE GUARD
F A LLLL/ /W I IN T E R 22 000055 B U C K E Y E G U A R D 23
23
Buckeye briefs
Army R&R praises top listments each); Honor Battalion, 1-148th In- ered: combat lifesaver, combat convoy,
fantry (nine enlistments); Third Quarter- close precision engagement course, M-4
performers in 2005 FY05, Honor Company, 838th Military Po- rifle qualification and sniper weapons sys-
The Recruiting and Retention lice Company (five enlistments), Honor Bat- tem modernization.
Battalion recently recognized talion, 437th Military Police Battalion (eight Wagner expects the combat lifesaver
those who made an impact on the enlistments); and Fourth Quarter-FY05, program to be a real asset to security
force’s success during Federal Fis-
Honor Company, 838th Military Police Com- forces with future deployments. “When
cal Year 2005. At the command’s pany (nine enlistments), Honor Battalion, we go on deployments, we don’t have a
annual Dining Out, Nov. 5 at the437th Military Police Battalion (nine enlist- medical person assigned, and that leaves
Westin Great Southern Hotel in Co-
ments). us vulnerable,” he said. “The training is a
lumbus, many individuals and Top honors for FY05 went to the follow- step above the self-aid buddy care we re-
units were recognized: ing: Honor Company of the Year, 838th Mili- ceive at the 180th. We learned how to take
Chief’s 54 Award, Sgt. 1st Class
tary Police Company (20 enlistments); and care of gun shot wounds, clear obstructed
Vincent J. Coleman; Chief’s 54 Honor Battalion of the Year, 437th Military airways and insert IV units for members.”
Award Runner Up, Sgt. 1st Class Police Battalion (26 enlistments). Other training included classes on the Courtesy of The News Democrat
Jacob C. Kandel; R&R Command For information on the FY06 “You Can various weapons and tactical devices Ohio Army National Guard leaders and Washington Township trustees unveil a
MSgt Brian Schaefer / 121st Air Refueling Wing
Sergeant Major’s Award, Sgt. 1stChallenge” program and incentives, go to such as the M-4 tactical rifle, M-68 sniper sign at an Oct. 8 ceremony to mark renaming a 16-mile span of state Route 756
Ohio Air National Guard Airman Leadership Class David J. Rohrbaugh; Re- https://oh-tagnet.oh.ngb.army.mil/rr/ and rifle, 50-caliber machine gun and night vi- to the “Ohio National Guard 216th Engineering Battalion Memorial Highway.”
School students and guests built a Habitat for gional Production Awards, Kandel click on the “statistics” link. You must enter sion equipment, as well as classes on ba-
Humanity home last July in Columbus, as part and Sgt. Sonny L. Hernandez; Top
of their class project in conjunction with the R&R Area Team Award, Team Can-
your Army Knowledge Online (AKO) login sic rifle marksmanship and range determi- Officials rename highway to serving our nation and their state today.
and password when prompted. DIANE FAR- nation. 180TH FIGHTER WING PUBLIC There is no finer example of that service
nationwide Make A Difference Day. ton; Rookie of the Year Award, AFFAIRS
recognize Guard engineers than the 216th Engineer Battalion. They’ve
ROW / RECRUITING COMMAND
Kandel; R&R Production Sergeant Since the war in Iraq began nearly three always been here in times of need, high
Class ‘makes a difference’ in Major’s Award, Team Rohrbaugh; Car wash benefits Soldier years ago, communities all over the United water, deep snow and when the nation
local Columbus community High School Recruiting Excellence wounded serving in Iraq States have found different ways to honor called for service in Iraq. They’ve been a
Ohio Air National Guardmembers “made a Award, Staff Sgt. James D. Florance; An Ohio National Guard Soldier injured U.S. troops who served in the fight against part of your community and today you
difference” by helping to build a home for Minority Recruiting Award, Staff Sgt. in Iraq received some unexpected help terrorism. honor them with this recognition.” WADE
an underprivileged family last July. John A. Patterson; Superior Perfor- from the Toledo-area community—in the Some communities held “welcome home” LINVILLE / THE NEWS DEMOCRAT
The 121st Air Refueling Wing’s first Air- mance Non-Prior Service Recruiting form of a car wash, so he could return parties, while others threw parades to honor
man Leadership Class located at Ricken- Award, Coleman and Staff Sgt. Rob- the return of troops who were stationed in
home to be with his family.
Iraq. Most local troops and their families
512th third Ohio Army
backer Air National Guard Base and consist- ert A. Scott; Superior Performance Spc. Matthew Drake was seriously in-
ing of 13 students and their four guests, Female Recruiting Award, Scott; Top jured in the fall of 2004 while serving in hold on tight to the pictures taken from the Guard unit to earn MUC
joined more than 100,000 Ohio volunteers Producer College Market Recruiter Iraq when a car bomb exploded near his parties and parades held in their honor. The About 40 Soldiers of the 512th Engineer
and more than 3 million volunteers nation- Award, Kandel; MEPS Guidance patrol. Since then, he has been recover- pictures are often stashed away in albums Battalion headquarters, located in Cincin-
wide as part of “Make A Difference Day.” Counselor of the Year Award, Sgt. 1st ing in rehabilitation facilities stateside. where they are viewed on occasion by fam- nati, received the Meritorious Unit Com-
Master Sgt. Brian Schaefer, a 121st Air- Class Samuel B. Mark; and Write- In order for Drake to be home with his ily members or friends but, as years pass mendation, one of the Army’s highest unit
man Leadership School instructor who ac- Rate Letterman Club, Coleman. Courtesy photo family, their house needs an extensive re- by, the pictures no longer serve as a per- awards, for their service during Operation
companied the group, said the students pro- Also recognized at the Dining Out A Fort Chafee Airman instructs SrA Michael hab to meet his needs. That is where the manent source to remind all members of the Iraqi Freedom.
vided 76 total hours of construction work. were the top five “You Can Chal- Gilb (left) of the 180th Fighter Wing Security Ohio Army National Guard’s 323rd Mili- community of those who stepped up to pro- While deployed to Iraq from February
Make A Difference Day is the largest na- lenge” winners; unit members who Forces Squadron on use of the 9 mm pistol. tary Police Company stepped in. tect the United States, spending extensive 2004 to February 2005, the battalion head-
tional day of volunteering. Through its out- provided leads that resulted in en- The car wash attracted several custom- periods on foreign soil in a time of violence. quarters commanded a diverse group of
reach, the campaign touched the lives of listments during the reporting period: Sgt. 180th Security Forces prep ers, including some veterans who just Washington Township trustees Ron engineer units, spanning the active Army
about 25 million people in 2004. 1st Class Jason D. Litz, 838th Military Po- wanted to help any way they could. “I’m Rudd, Tom Dix and Richard Pollard came and Reserve Army, the Army National
This is the first time the Ohio Air National lice Company; Sgt. 1st Class Manuel S.
for future at Fort Chaffee up with an idea that will continuously re- Guard, the active and Reserve Marine
a veteran,” said Edward Huddy while his
Guard has participated in Make A Difference Perez, 838th Military Police Company; Sgt. It is known as the “Staging Point.” Before mind all locals of the sacrifices made by the Corps as well as the active Air Force. The
car was soaped and rinsed. “I just want
Day, but Lt. Col. Kathy Lowrey, 121st ARW Phillip J. Faires, Headquarters Battery, 2- Active, Reserve and Air National Guard se- to support our young men and women.” Soldiers of the Ohio Army National Guard’s headquarters planned and supervised nu-
community affairs manager, said she hopes 174th Air Defense Artillery Battalion; Sgt. curity forces members deploy to such places Many did not know Drake personally, 216th Engineer Battalion, including those merous critical engineer missions, many
the wing will be able to participate again next Scotty D. Henson, Company B, 2-174th as Iraq or Afghanistan, they train at Fort but wanted to help. Staff Sgt. Marc in nearby Detachment 1, Headquarters of which were conducted under hostile fire
year. She encouraged other Ohio National ADA; and Spc. Gregory S. Serpico, Com- Chaffee, Ark., home of the 188th Readiness Robertson of the 180th Fighter Wing Se- Support Company, located in Felicity, from anti-Iraqi Forces. The 512th’s engi-
Guard units to become involved as well. Ohio pany F, 1-134th Field Artillery Battalion. Training Site. On Oct. 8, Washington Township trust- neers worked tirelessly on an array of
curity Forces Squadron made his Jeep as
has led the nation the past four years in total At the Fall Commanders Call at Camp “Many active-duty units are going ees in Clermont County (located in south- projects that improved the quality of life
dirty as possible before arriving. “It’s just
service projects; 745 projects were con- Perry, units and battalions that provided through Fort Chaffee for training before they so important right now with what’s going western Ohio) held a ceremony to rename a for both American servicemembers and
ducted in 2004. the most enlistments under the “You Can deploy,” said Master Sgt. Ed Wagner, with on in the military. And I just thought I’d 16-mile stretch of state Route 756 the “Ohio Iraqi citizens.
The national Make A Difference Day, Challenge” were recognized: First Quar- security forces operations for the 180th pitch in and do my part and come out to- Army National Guard 216th Engineering The 512th Engineer Battalion is one of
founded by USA Weekend magazine in 1990, ter-FY05, Honor Company, Headquarters Fighter Wing. “We felt our unit needed this day and help out Matthew,” Robertson said. Battalion Memorial Highway.” three Ohio Army National Guard units to
supports communities through activities Company, 1-107th Armor Battalion (four type of training before our next call-up and “He needs help. So we’re out here try- “This is certainly a fitting tribute to the receive this commendation for their ser-
such as food drives, neighborhood and en- enlistments); Honor Battalion, 1-148th In- we wanted to obtain this hands-on train- ing to help our Soldiers,” said Sgt. Will- men and women of the 216th Engineer Bat- vice in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The other
vironmental cleanup, health screenings, rec- fantry Battalion and 2-107th Cavalry ing.” The intense weeklong training was iam Barton of the 323rd MP Company. The talion,” said Brig. Gen. Matthew Kambic, two units are the 216th Engineer Battal-
ognition of veterans and clothing collection Squadron (tie-five enlistments each); Sec- conducted earlier in 2005 at the installation. unit family support group hopes to raise Ohio assistant adjutant for Army. “I will tell ion, with headquarters in Hamilton, and
and distribution. SRA DAVID CONRAD / ond Quarter-FY05, Honor Company, HHC, This rotation had 38 members of the Toledo- enough money eventually to allow Drake you that it is a proud moment anytime the the 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detach-
121ST AIR REFUELING WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS 1-137th Aviation Battalion and Company based unit participate in the training pro- to return home to a newly rebuilt house. citizens that we serve reach out to pay trib- ment, Columbus. AGOH-PUBLIC AFFAIRS
D, 1-148th Infantry Battalion (tie-six en- gram. Five main areas of training were cov- WWW.WTOL.COM
ute and honor to the men and women for
24 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 25
all about People
Airmen Ryan Dunham, Kristin Brothers in wings: C-130 178th Security Forces awareness may have saved the life of a
Crain and Ryan Armstrong, man being robbed an ATM.
Worley’s eyes teared up as he loadmasters serve together Airmen take top honors “I had just finished my shift and was
was presented a plaque thank- Operation Enduring Freedom activities bring The Security Forces Squadron came out on on my way back to the police station.”
ing him for his dedication and together many brothers in arms, but at Karshi- top in the 2004 Air National Guard Security Woods said. “I noticed three men at the
support of the troops and keep- Khanabad Air Base, Uzbekistan—or K-2 as it Forces competition, with two members receiv- ATM and knew immediately something
ing the Global War on Terror- is commonly called—two real-life brothers ing national awards. was wrong.”
ism fresh in the minds of Ameri- supported the war effort together as “broth- Senior Airman Tyler Elliot was named Air What Woods observed was a well-
cans. “You didn’t have to do ers in wings.” National Guard SF Airman of the Year, as well dressed man at the ATM with two
this,” he said with a heavy Ten- Senior Master Sgts. Walter and David as SF Airman of the Year for the entire Air Force. younger, sloppy looking males stand-
nessee drawl. “I never expected Leightenberger, both C-130 Hercules Elliott distinguished himself at Andrews Air ing behind him. When Woods pulled
anything like this when I was loadmasters with the 774th Expeditionary Air- Force Base, Md., during his Air Reserve Com- his police cruiser into the bank parking
told you were coming to talk lift Squadron who deployed from the Ohio Air ponent volunteer tour there, according to Maj. lot, two of the men bolted into a late
Steve Stout / Urbana Daily Citizen
with me. I am deeply honored National Guard’s 179th Airlift Wing in Paul Harrison, 178th SFS commander. Elliott model Ford Explorer and fled the scene.
Country music artist Darryl Worley receives and will wear this shirt proudly.” Mansfield, have had similar careers and lives. was involved in several high-profile arrests The remaining man told Woods that the SFC Don Vogel / 1-145th Regiment, RTI
his own personalized Air Force Battle Dress Each military member got the Walter is senior to David by three years, and as an entry controller, performed in an ex- two had abducted him at gunpoint, ran- Showing off a minuteman statue and
Uniform (BDU) shirt from the 179th Airlift opportunity to talk with Worley but that has never made much of a difference emplary manner while guarding Air Force One. sacked his home and then forced him pistol given to him to help mark his
Wing’s SMSgt Randy Dunham, recognizing before the concert, and then in what they did for the Air Force, they both Staff Sgt. Robert Combs, also of the 178th, to drive to the bank. Woods called in retirement from the military, CSM Gary
Worley’s strong support of the U.S. military. they all were treated to seats di- said. Both brothers have seen their share of was named the ANG SF NCO of the Year. the description of the suspects and Spees leaves with nearly 40 years of
rectly in front of the stage. deployments, so going to K-2 was nothing Staff Sgt. Combs distinguished himself by their escape vehicle as he escorted the service to his state and nation.
“We wanted to stand before Darryl and new to them. The op- taking the lead in the entire Air National Guard victim back to his home.
Too tall to fly, Worley makes tell him that his words do mean a great deal erations they have sup- in the Electronic Systems Security arena, “Being at the right place at the right time Spees retires after nearly
good second career choice to us,” Senior Master Sgt. Dunham said. ported, both separately Harrison said. Combs, single-handedly de- is a small part of police work,” added four decades of service
When country music star Darryl “You don’t have to be a country music fan and together, include signed a local high-speed force protection Woods. “It’s far more important to know
Operations Coronet system with a price tag at more than $1.3 mil- Command Sgt. Maj. Gary G. Spees has
Worley graduated from a western Ten- to appreciate the message he is sending how to quickly assess the situation and
retired after a lengthy Ohio Army Na-
nessee high school, he walked straight regarding our mission in the War on Ter- Oak (El Salvador), Joint lion. SSGT SAMANTHA THOMPSON / 178TH react to it correctly. In this case, my in-
Forge and Provide FIGHTER WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
tional Guard career that began in 1966
into an Air Force recruiter’s office and rorism.” stincts were right.”
in the 1-148th Infantry Battalion and cul-
proclaimed he was there to enlist to learn While the meeting with Worley was a Promise (Bosnia), A high-speed chase ended the suspects’
Uphold Democracy minated as the sergeant major of Ohio’s
to fly fighter jets. private occasion, the musician made it pub- Wright receives special ANG attempted get away and soon they were
Soldier training academy.
The Air Force let him down by telling lic when, just before singing “Have You (Haiti), Southern behind bars. Hilliard Police Chief Rodney
him that at 6 feet 7 inches, he was too Forgotten,” he pulled the plaque out on Watch, Iraqi Freedom award for recruiting work Garnett said it was good police work and
A banquet in Spees’ honor took place
and Enduring Freedom. D. Leightenberger A 121st Air Refueling Wing recruiter received June 4 at the Makoy Center in Hilliard,
tall to fly. Worley never forgot that pain, stage and read the inscription to the audi- now two criminals are off the streets.
attended by more than 120 former and
but he did not carry a grudge. After the ence. “This deployment the National Guard Bureau Chief’s Freedom Woods had a more humble view of
(was) the last one we Challenge Award for recruiting 22 new military current guardmembers, friends and fam-
terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Worley “I haven’t won any CMA (Country Mu- things. “I was tired and I could have easily
(had) together,” said members during a four-and-a-half-month na- ily members, including Spees’ 90-year-
again went to a military recruiter and sic Association) Awards yet,” Worley said missed the whole situation, but then where
old mother, Bernice.
asked what he could do to help. This as he held the plaque up. “But, when I do, Walter, who retired from tionwide Guard recruiter competition. would that man have been?” he stated.
the military last May. “I Exceeding the goal during that time span by Throughout his career, Spees held a
time, the military did not let him down. they will hang under this plaque. This is Overcoming exhaustion and fear in the
variety of traditional and full-time posi-
Military officials told Worley to keep do- much more important and valuable to me.” have always enjoyed four people, rookie recruiter Tech. Sgt. line of duty is not new for Woods. The
time spent with my Lawrence Wright won Ohio’s top Air National tions including antitank gunner, unit
ing what he was doing; by performing in That proclamation was greeted by a 135th Military Police Company Soldier de-
brother. Deployments Guard recruiting award. clerk, supply sergeant, platoon
USO tours abroad, he was giving the standing ovation and cheers of support ployed shortly after the terrorist attacks on
sergeant, operations sergeant, chief in-
troops something they could not get from the crowd of several thousand people. are more fun for us be- In response to last year’s declining National Sept. 11, 2001, and also spent a year with
cause one thing we do Guard recruiting numbers, the chief of the Na- telligence sergeant, first sergeant and
from their remote locations—a slice of 179th AIRLIFT WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS the unit supporting the early stages of Op-
is compare notes on tional Guard Bureau challenged all Army and personnel management and support
Americana in the form of song. eration Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
cultural discoveries of W. Leightenberger Air National Guard recruiters to a four-month noncommissioned officer.
A year after the attacks, Worley re- OHARNG Soldier assists in “Spending a year in Baghdad taught me
the area we are de- push to acquire new members. In April 1991, Spees was promoted to
corded what became an anthem to re- a lot about the different aspects of being a
command sergeant major and served as
mind the world of what happened that OSU Ranger Challenge win ployed in. We have been together in just about Staying in line with Ohio Adjutant General police officer,” he said. “The experience
the 1-148th command sergeant major for
September Tuesday morning. “Have You Army ROTC Cadet Brandon Cheney, every unit deployment or exercise since 1980.” Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt’s and the National made me more self-confident and taught
Guard’s core value of diversity, more than half two years, until he was appointed Non-
Forgotten” catapulted to the top of the also a member of Company A, 1-148th In- David said their military service together has me how to talk with people better. I also
commissioned Officer Education School
charts and Worley took that song on two fantry Battalion, Xenia, was a member of not only allowed them to serve their country of Wright’s enlistees during the period were think the danger I faced in Iraq helped get
minorities. 121ST AIR REFUELING WING PUB- branch chief (commandant) for the Ohio
more USO tours. On Aug. 8, Worley fi- the winning Ohio State University Ranger with the National Guard, but has also afforded me ready for the things I could expect
Military Academy (OMA). On July 1,
LIC AFFAIRS
nally saw his dream of becoming a mem- Challenge team that finished tops in a re- them an opportunity to experience many here.”
1996, he was assigned command ser-
ber of the Air Force come true—sort of. cent competition at Fort Knox, Ky., involv- unique places and diverse cultures that they
Military policeman earns nod According to Woods, the recognition is
geant major for the 145th Regiment,
A team of enlisted troops from the 179th ing 19 universities from across Ohio and otherwise might not have experienced. nice, but he just loves being a police of-
Regional Training Institute (RTI), the
Airlift Wing presented Worley with hon- Kentucky. “Serving together has made this far more as ‘Home Town Hero’ ficer.
The 18-hour competition covered eight enjoyable,” David said. “It’s a dangerous world and if you are not position he held until his retirement.
orary membership into the Ohio National “I sometimes get scared, but it’s some-
While he is retired, Spees continues
Guard Enlisted Association and gave him events—the Army Physical Fitness Test, In Uzbekistan, their work as loadmasters aware of what’s happening, someone could thing I have wanted to do for a long time,”
his service to the OHARNG as a civil-
his own Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) basic rifle marksmanship, construction and kept them busy constantly, with airlift and air- die.” It is an idea that Sgt. Michael Woods, a he added. “People who do what they have
shirt with his name and Air Force tapes. execution of a one-rope bridge, patrolling, drop missions taking place every day, and their Soldier with Ohio’s 135th Military Police Com- to do, every day, with patience and persis- ian contractor in the State Safety Of-
During a backstage meeting at the weapons assembly, orienteering, hand gre- loadmaster experience being called upon over pany, lives by. tence, like my fellow officers and National fice, where he formerly worked as a fed-
Champaign County Fair with Senior nade assault course and a 10-kilometer (6.2 and over again. TSGT SCOTT T. STURKOL / Recently Woods earned the City of Hilliard’s Guard Soldiers, are the real heroes.” SGT eral technician. SFC DON VOGEL /
145TH REGIMENT, REGIONAL TRAIN-
Master Sgt. Randy Dunham, and Senior mile) forced road march. LTC TODD D. 416TH AIR EXPEDITIONARY GROUP PUBLIC “Home Town Hero” award because—in his KENT TAYLOR / DET. 2 HHC/MMC, 38TH
ING INSTITUTE
MILLER / OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ROTC AFFAIRS civilian role as a Hilliard police officer—his SUPPORT COMMAND
26 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005 FALL/WINTER 2 005 BUCKEYE GUARD 27
Photo by Sara A. Perkins LEFT: MG Gregory L.
guardmember Benefits Wayt (left), Ohio
adjutant general, and
Reserve Pay for 4 Drill Periods retired Brig Gen Stephen
Federal, state survivor Unofficial Copy (Effective Jan. 1, 2006) M. Koper (right),
National Guard
benefits see increase YEARS OF SERVICE
Association United States
Legislators in both Columbus and <2 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 president, present U.S.
Washington, D.C., last summer in- Grade Rep. Dave Hobson with
the NGAUS MG Charles
O-10 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 00.0 1709.16 1709.16 1709.16 1709.16
creased benefits for family members of O-9 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1558.60 1581.00 1613.48 1670.08
service personnel who die while serving O-8 1102.80 1138.92 1162.88 1169.60 1199.48 1249.48 1261.08 1308.56 1322.16 1363.04 1422.16 1476.72 1516.16 1513.16 1513.16
Dick Medal of Merit, for
on active duty. O-7 916.36 958.92 978.64 994.28 1022.64 1050.60 1083.00 1115.32 1147.72 1249.48 1335.44 1335.44 1335.44 1335.44 1342.20 a lifetime of legislative
As reported in the Spring/Summer O-6 679.20 746.16 795.12 795.12 798.12 832.36 836.88 836.88 884.44 968.52 1017.88 1067.20 1095.28 1123.68 1178.84 service to the National
2005 edition of the Buckeye Guard, O-5 566.20 637.82 682.00 690.28 717.80 734.32 770.56 797.16 831.48 884.08 909.08 933.84 961.92 961.92 961.92 Guard. RIGHT: Receiving
O-4 488.52 565.52 603.24 611.68 646.68 684.24 730.96 767.44 792.72 807.24 815.68 815.68 815.68 815.68 815.68 recognition during the
Guard
Congress passed the Emergency O-3 429.52 486.92 525.56 573.00 600.40 630.52 650.04 682.12 698.76 698.76 698.76 698.76 698.76 698.76 698.76 Army Engineer Association
Supplemental Appropriations Act (HR O-2 371.08 422.68 486.80 503.24 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60 513.60
Regimental conference
1268), which increased the one-time mili- O-1 322.16 335.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28 405.28
are the 216th Engineer
O-3E 0.00 0.00 0.00 573.00 600.40 630.52 650.04 682.12 709.12 724.60 745.72 745.72 745.72 745.72 745.72
tary death gratuity payment from $12,500 Battalion’s 1LT J. Robert
O-2E 0.00 0.00 0.00 503.24 513.60 529.96 557.52 578.88 594.76 594.76 594.76 594.76 594.76 594.76 594.76
to $100,000, making the benefit retroac- O-1E 0.00 0.00 0.00 405.28 432.84 448.40 465.16 481.24 503.24 503.24 503.24 503.24 503.24 503.24 503.24 Vagnier (left), who won
tive to Oct. 7, 2001. In addition, it raised W-5 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 762.68 788.84 815.08 841.48 the Grizzly Award as the
the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insur- W-4 443.84 477.48 491.20 504.68 527.92 550.84 574.12 596.76 620.20 656.96 680.48 703.48 727.32 750.80 774.80 most outstanding Courtesy photo
Snapshots
ance (SGLI) benefit from $250,000 to W-3 405.32 422.24 439.52 445.24 463.40 484.20 511.64 538.72 567.52 589.12 610.64 619.88 629.44 650.24 671.00 engineer platoon leader
$400,000 as of Sept.1, 2005. W-2 356.52 376.88 394.72 407.64 418.76 449.28 472.60 489.92 506.84 518.44 528.20 546.76 565.20 583.88 583.88
in the National Guard;
and SGT Raymond
W-1 314.84 340.60 357.84 369.00 398.72 416.64 432.52 450.24 462.00 472.64 489.96 503.08 503.08 503.08 487.96
At the same time, the Ohio Legisla- E-9 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 536.28 548.44 563.76 581.80 599.92 629.04 653.64 679.60 719.20
ture focused on the same issues in the E-8 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 439.00 458.44 470.44 484.84 500.44 528.60 542.88 567.16 580.64 613.80
Boso, who won the
biennial budget bill (HB 66). The new E-7 305.16 333.08 345.84 362.76 375.92 398.60 411.32 424.04 446.72 458.08 468.84 475.44 497.68 512.08 548.48 Sturgis Award as the
law raised the state death gratuity from E-6 263.96 290.40 303.24 315.68 328.68 358.00 369.40 382.04 393.16 397.08 399.80 399.80 399.80 399.80 399.80 top engineer NCO in
E-5 241.88 258.04 270.48 283.28 303.16 320.28 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 336.88 the National Guard.
$20,000 to $100,000. Previously, the Ohio E-4 221.72 233.08 245.68 258.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12 269.12
law only covered guardmembers serv-
Courtesy photo
RIGHT: Two Clyde High School seniors, PV2 Andrew Sherman
E-3 200.16 212.76 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60 225.60
ing on State Active Duty. The new law E-2 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32 190.32
(second from left) and PV2 Cory Wetzel (third from left), transfer
expands coverage to include duty un- E-1>4 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80 169.80
to the Ohio Army National Guard after their Reserve unit, the
E-1<4 157.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
der Title 10 and operational Title 32. 706th Transportation Company of Mansfield, was deactivated as a
The new law also requires the adju- result of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). Tiffin Recruiters
This contest is open to all current high able at commissaries worldwide and for down-
tant general to reimburse members for
school sophomores and juniors, and 10 win- load via the Internet at www.commissaries. SSG Kevin Hollenbacher (far left) and SSG Brian Clum found the
the cost of the SGLI premium while they
ners will be named for each state and territory. com or at www.militaryscholar.org. Soldiers a new home with Bravo Company, 612th Engineer Battalion.
are in an active-duty status. If an Ohio RIGHT: Michael Barkey
National Guardmember serves under fed-
The grand prize is an all-expense-paid journey Robinson said applicants are required to Avenue was dedicated earlier
to North Dakota to follow the Lewis and Clark write and submit an essay on why they ad- this year in the city of Canal
eral or state active duty for part of any
trail, experience Indian culture of yesterday and mire a great past or present military leader. Fulton. Barkey, 22, a sergeant
month, the adjutant general must reim- in the 1484th Transportation
discover military history. The trip will take place More than one scholarship per commissary
Courtesy photo
burse the entire SGLI premium for that Company, Akron, died July 7,
Aug. 13-18, 2006. may be awarded, Robinson said. In 2004-05,
month. 2004, in Ramadi, Iraq, when
For information, visit www.lcyouth 500 scholarships were awarded.
An additional federal insurance ben- enemy fire shot out a tire on
rendezvous.com or contact Lt. Col. Julie Blike The Fisher House Foundation administers
efit came online on Dec.1, 2005. A
at (614) 336-6000, extension 7672. OHARNG the Scholarships for Military Children Pro- the military vehicle in which he
$100,000 traumatic injury payout was was riding, causing the driver to
RECRUITING COMMAND MARKETING gram, which is funded by manufacturers and
added to the SGLI coverage. The trau- lose control and the vehicle to
suppliers of groceries and services in the flip over. Barkey’s parents are
matic injury coverage costs an additional Scholarships now available for commissary system. GERRY J. GILMORE / building a house on the Courtesy photo
$1 per month, and was applied automati-
cally to all existing SGLI policies begin- children of military families AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE intersecting Kirkland Street.
ABOVE: Several 16th Engineer Brigade Soldiers
ning with December pay. The Defense Commissary Agency and the ONGSP APPLICATION DEADLINES made “flat daddies” before they departed for a
W Multimedia
For more information, call (614) 336- Fisher House Foundation have teamed up ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
one-year deployment in support of Operation
Fall term, July 1
7000. JOHANN KLEIN / AGOH-LEGISLA- again to offer educational scholarships to chil- Iraqi Freedom. It was a creative way for
Spring semester/Winter quarter, Nov. 1 LEFT: After being promoted
TIVE LIAISON dren of military families and retirees. family members to deal with the separation
at a ceremony in early
odemus / 121st AR
Spring quarter, Feb. 1
The Scholarships for Military Children Pro- from their loved ones. Many family members
Summer term, April 1 December, Brig Gen Tom
Historical trip top prize in gram is marking its sixth year, DeCA spokes- said they planned on taking their flat daddy to
Botchie (right) stops for a
man Kevin Robinson said. The goal, he said, is special events such as sporting contests and
NGB student essay contest It is the responsibility of each individual photo with his wife, Jane.
to provide at least one $1,500 scholarship for student-guardmember to hand deliver or family holiday gatherings.
The National Guard Bureau is spon- Botchie is commander of the
mail a completed application to the Ohio
each of DeCA’s 268 commissaries worldwide. 121st Air Refueling Wing,
SSgt Douglas Nic
soring the “Lewis and Clark Youth Ren- National Guard Scholarship Program
Authorized applicants include unmarried
Office, located at the Adjutant General’s Courtesy photo located at Rickenbacker Air
dezvous Essay Contest,” which began children under age 21 of active-duty, Guard or National Guard Base in
Nov. 12 and will end Feb 28. Submissions Department, 2825 West Dublin Granville
Reserve, or military retiree families, Robinson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789, by the Columbus.
must be 1,000-1,500 word essays dis- said. Applicants may also range up to 23 years deadlines listed above. This must be done
cussing the Lewis and Clark journey and in age if they are enrolled in school. prior to each term a student attends
the Corps of Discovery in relation to an The application period for this year’s DeCA- school. You may also renew your
Army value: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Self- Fisher House scholarship program began Nov. application online at www.ongsp.org. RIGHT: The 1-134th Field Artillery Battalion supply team of SSG Kevin Jones
less-Service, Honor, Integrity and Per- 1 and closes Feb. 22, Robinson said. For more information, call (614) 336-7032 (left) and SFC Chester Sudina (right) are congratulated by BG Matthew L. Kambic,
sonal Courage. Application forms for the program are avail-
or toll-free (888) 400-6484. Ohio assistant adjutant general for Army, for being the national runners-up in the
battalion-level category of the Army’s annual Supply Excellence Award (SEA)
competition. The two were honored at a May awards banquet in Washington, D.C.
28 BUCKEYE GUARD FALL/WINTER 2005
