@ease ExpressMay-June 2011

Click here to find out about the recent Vigilant Guard exercise. Wisconsin National Guard photo by Spec. Alyson Swanke @ease this is only a TEST

Members 4 of the 434th Chemical Company, Minnesota National Guard, state and National Guard xpress CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, E Nuclear and High Explosives) Emergency Response Force Package, provide aid to a role- player posing as an injured victim 2010 NGB Media Contest winner during a Vigilant Guard event at Volk Field on May 16. CERFP teams provide immediate response capablities to large contaminations. 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment photo by Spc. Alyson Swanke local agencies respond in real 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson Called Vigilant Guard ‘11, the exercise adjutant general of Wisconsin. “This was other federal disaster exercises concerning Wisconsin National Guard is a dress rehearsal for disaster that tested an extraordinary event — it stressed our a notional earthquake along the San how well the Wisconsin National Guard system and strengthened our relationships Madrid fault. Senior Wisconsin National Guard responds to calls for assistance from local with local and federal partners.” Lt. Col. Steven Sherrod, exercise May-June 2011 leaders are pleased with the results of a communities. Nearly 3,000 participants representing director for Vigilant Guard, was happy massive disaster response exercise — “This type of exercise — the homeland up to 48 federal, state, county, volunteer with the end results. including scenarios of tornadoes, flooding, mission, the types of disasters that and private agencies — including 12 “I believe we produced the largest, chemical spills, power outages due to have happened here — this is what the Wisconsin National Guard units, two most complex Vigilant Guard as far as cyber attacks, earthquake evacuees, and National Guard is about, in addition to Minnesota National Guard units and one number of different activities and an encounter with an armed drug-running our warrior role with the Army and the Ohio National Guard unit — took part in Volume 3, Issue 3 boat — which wrapped up May 19. Air Force,” said Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, the exercise, which coincided with two time to mock disasters on the cover Official Newsletter of the Members of the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s Wisconsin Army and Air National Guard 115th Fighter Wing assist in the setup of medical http://dma.wi.gov BEST in the triage lanes during a Vigilant Guard event at Volk Field on May 16. For more information, see the story The Adjutant General: MIDWEST n Wisconsin Army National Guard sweeps regional Best Warrior competition on Page 4. 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar Spc. Cassandra Monroe Iowa Army National Guard 10 Two Wisconsin Army National Guard Soldiers from the same infantry battalion took top honors at the Region IV Best photo by Spc. Alyson Swanke Warrior Competition May 9-12 at Camp Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers Dodge, Iowa, and will now advance to Deputy Adjutant General Army: compete against the best Soldiers across the National Guard for national honors in August. “Another first for the great state of Wisconsin,” said Wisconsin Army National Guard State Command Sgt. Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson Major George Stopper. Thirteen Soldiers from Iowa, Illinois, FROM THE TAG Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and 3 Wisconsin competed in events such as the Army Physical Fitness Test, combat water survival test, M-9 pistol and M-4 rifle qualification, day and night advance to NGB Best Warrior land navigation, confidence course, a nine-mile road march with a 35-pound Deputy Adjutant General Air: backpack, an essay and an appearance NICARAGUANS OBSERVE VIGILANT GUARD board in dress uniform. 7 Sgt. Steven Dahl of Oconto, a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry in Menomonee, Wis., Brig. Gen. John McCoy bested six other competitors in the Sgt. Brandon Swanson low crawls beneath a bridge of barbed wire May 11. Soldier category at the Best Warrior Swanson and 12 other Soldiers ran the course as part of the Region IV Best Competition. He was a specialist when Warrior Competition held at the Iowa National Guard’s Joint Maneuver Training 115TH FW TAKES PART IN NATO EXERCISE Center, Camp Dodge, Iowa. Iowa Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Chad D. Nelson Competition 8 Director of Public Affairs: GOVERNOR THANKS GUARD MEMBERS Lt. Col. Jackie Guthrie 12 WISCONSIN’S FIRST V.I.P. CLASS GRADUATES At Ease Editor: 13 Vaughn R. Larson 15 DRILL SERGEANTS IN THE NATIONAL Joint Force Headquarters Public Affairs GUARD?

Abbab Taj Mousa recites the oath of allegiance administered by Lt. Col. Julie Gerety during a ceremony held at Milwaukee’s Military Entrance Processing Station June COMMUNICATION EXERCISE A SUCCESS 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment 3. 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment photos by Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez 14 16 From Baghdad to Badgerland: Opportunity translates into 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team New Soldier enlists in Wisconsin National Guard HANGER EXPANSION AT 128TH ARW Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez to in America,” Mousa said. “I chose to 17 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment enlist in Wisconsin because of the friends I already have in the Wisconsin Guard.” One of the newest Wisconsin Army Becoming a Wisconsin Guardsman National Guard enlistees already has took nearly three months. “The process Public Affairs served overseas with one of its units. was frustrating at times because I’m Abbab Taj Mousa — affectionately not yet a citizen,” Mousa said. “The SECOND TAKE-BACK EVENT BETTER THAN known as “Cowboy” — recited the oath of interpreter job I was hoping for was allegiance during a June 3 ceremony at the closed, so I had to explore other options. 18 Military Entrance Processing Station in Once I get my citizenship, I plan to go to downtown Milwaukee. But the Baghdad officer candidate school.” enlistment for Iraqi interpreter native worked as an interpreter with Mousa is scheduled to leave for basic Abbab Taj Mousa — known as “Cowboy” — finalizes his training in Fort Jackson, S.C. in November. enlistment process into Wisconsin’s National Guard by signing members of the Wisconsin Army National 157th Maneuver Enhancement Guard’s 332nd Rear Operations Center After learning the basic Soldiering a contract June 3 at Milwaukee’s Military Entrance Processing skills, he will continue on to become an FIRST during the unit’s 2007 deployment to Iraq. Station. Mousa is scheduled to leave for basic training in Fort automated logistical specialist where he Jackson, S.C. in November and will become an automated After obtaining a visa from the U.S. will handle the distribution of nearly every logistical specialist with Company A, 257th Brigade Support Embassy, Mousa came to the United type of supply. He will then join the ranks Battalion in Whitewater. States in August 2009 to be with family. of Company A, 257th Brigade Support Brigade Public Affairs “Wisconsin was the first place I came Battalion in Whitewater. A VISIT WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS 115th Fighter Wing Public Affairs 19 22 TAKING ON THE BOSTON MARATHON Wisconsin Army National Guard combat medics transport Sgt. Tiffany Addair 128th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs a mannequin via litter as part of a training event at the 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Wisconsin Military Academy on May 21. 157th Maneuver Public Affairs Enhancement Brigade photo by Sgt. Tiffany Addair Crawling on their bellies under barbed wire, while moving a patient strapped to a WISCONSIN WINS GUARD MARATHON litter. Applying a tourniquet to a battlefield amputation in the dirt and grime of the 23 field. Saving a life while getting everyone Volk Field Combat Readiness back to safety in one piece — just part of a recent weekend training event for more than 150 Wisconsin Army National Guard medical professionals. The Wisconsin Army National TOP TROOPS AWARDED AT ESGR BANQUET Guard’s third Army Medical Department Training Center Public Affairs (AMEDD) conference, held May 20-22 at 24 Fort McCoy, gave medical professionals — those assigned to medical units as well as those assigned as medics or medical professionals in non-medical units — the opportunity to brush up on medical skills, train with new and familiar equipment and WISCONSIN GUARD TAKES THE GOLD network with other people in the medical community around the state. “The focus of the training was to 25 How to Reach Us get down to basics,” said Capt. Shawn Murphy, physician’s assistant with the 20 Wisconsin Medical Detachment — the organization tasked with providing medical readiness support to all Wisconsin Army National Guard units. “It is UNIFORM CHANGES ANNOUNCED E-mail: [email protected] important to always build on the basics. Medical conference allows for You add more skill sets and equipment 26 at every level, but the fundamentals are always the same.” Through the Wisconsin Military Academy, the Wisconsin National Guard Phone: (608) 242-3056 Fax: (608) 242-3051 training facility housed at Fort McCoy, the 68 whiskeys (combat medics), medical MERITORIOUS SERVICE professionals and other medical military occupational specialties were able to 27 receive valuable training in a field where Department of Military Affairs; continuing education is paramount. The training was designed to be very realistic, helping Soldiers prepare for hands-on training opportunity scenarios they may face in the future. “It is really easy to be overwhelmed VETERANS, FAMILIES, RETIREES with a casualty,” said Sgt. 1st Class Clint Attn: Vaughn R. Larson Vervoren, senior combat medic and 28 training noncommissioned officer-in- charge with the 426th Regiment, based at 2400 Wright Street; Madison, WI 53708-8111 Going back to basics WMA. “The lanes were designed to put a Submissions: For photo or story submissions, The Wisconsin Army and Air National Guard’s At Ease Express newsletter is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of please call (608) 242-3056 At Ease Express are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, or the Department of the Army or Air Force. The editorial content or e-mail [email protected] of this publication is the responsibility of the Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs Officer.

@ease Express 2 May-June 2011 From the TAG ecently the Wisconsin National battlefield. Similarly, when we Guard and dozens of other prepare for responding to natural Rfederal, state, local and or man-made disasters, the training volunteer agencies took part in a should be as realistic as possible. major exercise on disaster response There is no 9-to-5 mentality here in various communities across the — the Wisconsin National Guard state. worked 24/7 on this exercise, just Vigilant Guard is a as we would in a real emergency. U.S. Northern Command This is what is required to live up (NORTHCOM) program to our motto of “Always Ready, conducted four times a year in Always There.” different regions of the United As Vigilant Guard drew to a States, to test National Guard close, Gov. Scott Walker stopped capabilities developed since the by Joint Force Headquarters to Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks as deliver a thank-you message in well as Hurricane Katrina in 2005. honor of Armed Forces Week to The exercise shows how local, the Wisconsin National Guard. state and federal agencies would Allow me the honor of relaying collaborate in response to a real that message to each and every one emergency. of you. Your governor is proud of Our homeland security strategy Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, is given a tour of the your service, and so are the citizens decontamination and medical lanes by Maj. Shaun Riffe, Minnesota National builds upon existing training Guard’s 682nd Engineer Battalion, during a CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, of the great state of Wisconsin. and programs, and culminates Radiological, Nuclear and High Explosives) Emergency Response Force Package I am proud of the Wisconsin with a periodic capstone training exercise, part of a Vigilant Guard event at Volk Field. 112th Mobile Public Affairs National Guard’s Joint Staff for its event. Vigilant Guard is that photo by Spc. Alyson Swanke support, planning and preparation capstone event. This exercise was for this exercise. I am equally designed to put pressure on our power grid. Imagine a suspicious, state agencies, federal agencies proud of Wisconsin Emergency emergency management response possibly hostile vessel lurking off and volunteer organizations such Management for its assistance and network, and help us identify any the Lake Michigan shoreline. as the American Red Cross and coordination. Both organizations weaknesses. Now imagine responding to all Salvation Army. Responding to did a great job throughout this Imagine responding to chemical those scenarios at the same time, disasters involves many moving challenging exercise. More spills — some small, some large and you get a sense of the scope of parts and effective communication importantly, however, I am proud — and tornado damage which also Vigilant Guard. and coordination tools. of all our Soldiers and Airmen that smashed homes and businesses. Approximately 3,000 individuals It was a big undertaking, but serve Wisconsin and America — Imagine moving inmates from a were involved in this exercise. being the first military responder thank you for your selfless service! prison threatened by rising flood Many were with National Guard in the event of a disaster is a big waters. Imagine coordinating relief units in Wisconsin, Minnesota responsibility. The military often efforts for earthquake evacuees in and Ohio. There were also county says it trains as it fights, which the Midwest. Imagine losing power emergency units, Wisconsin means that training conditions because of a cyber attack on the Emergency Management and other should mimic those on the

@ease Express 3 May-June 2011 this is only TESTa

Members of the 434th Chemical Company, Minnesota National Guard Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Explosives Emergency Response Force Package (CERFP), provide aid to a role- player posing as an injured victim during a Vigilant Guard event at Volk Field on May 16. CERFP teams provide immediate response capablities to large contaminations. 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment photo by Spc. Alyson Swanke

1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson Called Vigilant Guard ‘11, the exercise adjutant general of Wisconsin. “This was other federal disaster exercises concerning Wisconsin National Guard is a dress rehearsal for disaster that tested an extraordinary event — it stressed our a notional earthquake along the San how well the Wisconsin National Guard system and strengthened our relationships Madrid fault. Senior Wisconsin National Guard responds to calls for assistance from local with local and federal partners.” Lt. Col. Steven Sherrod, exercise leaders are pleased with the results of a communities. Nearly 3,000 participants representing director for Vigilant Guard, was happy massive disaster response exercise — “This type of exercise — the homeland up to 48 federal, state, county, volunteer with the end results. including scenarios of tornadoes, flooding, mission, the types of disasters that and private agencies — including 12 “I believe we produced the largest, chemical spills, power outages due to have happened here — this is what the Wisconsin National Guard units, two most complex Vigilant Guard as far cyber attacks, earthquake evacuees, and National Guard is about, in addition to Minnesota National Guard units and one as number of different activities and an encounter with an armed drug-running our warrior role with the Army and the Ohio National Guard unit — took part in boat — which wrapped up May 19. Air Force,” said Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, the exercise, which coincided with two Continued on Page 5

@ease Express 4 May-June 2011 Vigilant Guard prepares Wisconsin National Guard, civilian agencies for real-world disaster response Continued from Page 4 number of civilian agencies involved,” he said. “We still have a lot to learn about supporting our civilian partners.” Col. Todd Nehls, chief of staff for the Wisconsin National Guard Joint Staff, said the value of the past week’s training was the opportunity to test existing plans and protocols “to facilitate a response of this magnitude, and manage it. There’s no doubt in my mind that we exceeded expectations.” The three chief goals of Vigilant Guard were to task the joint staff with responding to requests for assistance and information as well as providing direction to subordinate units, integrate military responders with the civilian incident command structure, and to establish a contingency dual status commander authorized to direct both National Guard and other U.S. military assets. “This is the first time we’ve ever exercised [the contingency dual status commander],” Nehls said. “It went very well.” The week-long exercise consisted of several disaster scenarios in various Wisconsin communities. The largest scenario was at Volk Field — a Wisconsin Air National Guard base near Camp Douglas, Wis. — which simulated the portions of the city of La Crosse devastated by two tornadoes and a major leak at a collapsed chemical plant. Approximately 1,000 National Guard troops from Ohio Load masters for a C-130 cargo plane prepare to load a vehicle the state Department of Natural Resources and the Wisconsin and Minnesota who specialize in rescue from the Wisconsin National Guard’s 54th Civil Support Team State Patrol, deployed to Indiana to assist with earthquake and decontamination operations were at Truax Field May 17 as part of a Vigilant Guard exercise. In relief. Wisconsin National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Jon LaDue brought to Volk Field for the exercise. this scenario, a portion of the 54th CST, along with members of Click on this photo to see video. “These units are located near us Minnesota and Ohio included a very large of earthquakes along the Midwest’s San sandbags to Prairie du Chien, and manned geographically, and they specifically convoy that consisted of all their unit Madrid fault — the Wisconsin National traffic control points once there. A exist to provide support to domestic equipment.” Guard deployed part of its 54th Civil situational awareness team maintained emergencies similar to the one that we are While Wisconsin was importing Support Team as well as members of contact with the Wisconsin National simulating,” said Capt. Matt Mangerson, National Guard troops, it was exporting civilian agencies to Indiana on C-130 Guard’s Joint Operations Center in a Vigilant Guard planner. “The Ohio units them as well. Collaborating with the military cargo planes. Madison during the scenario. Wisconsin came in via ground and military air travel Federal Emergency Management Flooding was another scenario that Emergency Management, Crawford —nine different flights over the course of Administration’s National Level Exercise played out in various communities. The County Emergency Management and the about eight hours. The logistics were very 11 and U.S. Northern Command’s Ardent Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 132nd intense. The ground transport for both Sentry 11 — both focused on scenarios Brigade Support Battalion delivered Continued on Page 6

@ease Express 5 May-June 2011 Multiple scenarios test Wisconsin National Guard’s ability to respond to disasters Continued from Page 5 Prairie du Chien Correctional Institute staff also participated. Chemical spills were another recurring theme in this exercise. Besides the chemical plant leak in La Crosse, chemical spill scenarios played out in Jefferson County and Kenosha County. In the latter case, a traffic collision between a van, a coach bus and a tanker truck filled with hydrochloric acid was the notional challenge for approximately 100 first responders from 23 agencies. The Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 457th Chemical Company in Burlington also took part in the scenario, decontaminating victims at a nearby hospital. “If you don’t practice doing it — the hospitals getting drained down, the EMTs, paramedics and firefighters working — you won’t learn it,” said Rob Hamm, a Somers Fire Department captain. “It’s important you get to practice it in real life and real time.” “This [exercise] is as close to real life without anybody getting hurt,” said 2nd Lt. Jeremy Garfoot, a platoon leader with the 457th. “It helps our young Soldiers get some insight of what we might do in the field or in the civilian world.” This required members of the Joint Staff Hinman, departing WEM administrator. to improve coordination with local A portion of the Wisconsin National and others to determine which Wisconsin “The National Guard and the scenarios all government and industry. Guard’s 54th CST and the Minnesota National Guard assets were available and had a nexus with local communities.” Dunbar praised WEM’s role in the National Guard’s 55th CST joined forces develop a plan to activate and deploy Hinman said Vigilant Guard gave exercise. with the U.S. Environmental Protection those troops in short time. This “notional county agencies the opportunity to address “It was awesome to see them get into Agency, U.S. Coast Guard, Ozaukee deployment” was also used for search and emergency response practices or policies the fight like that,” he said. “It highlights County Sheriff’s Department, Ozaukee rescue scenarios requiring military aircraft that needed rehearsing or improvement, the professionals that work on the civilian County Hazardous Materials Team and as well as sending troops to support local even if they were not directly related to side of the Wisconsin Department of Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department authorities in Wisconsin communities. scenarios laid out in Vigilant Guard. Military Affairs.” tactical team to respond to reports of an Vigilant Guard was also the first time “We were able to write it into the Sherrod reiterated the importance of armed drug trafficking vessel navigating Wisconsin Emergency Management exercise,” Hinman said. civilian agency interaction in Vigilant along the Lake Michigan shoreline. staffed the State Emergency Operations He also said Vigilant Guard clarified Guard. Portions of Vigilant Guard were not Center around the clock for an exercise. individual responsibilities concerning “One of my best experiences working necessarily hands-on, but still required In declared emergencies, WEM receives executive orders, and provided WEM on this project is the diversity of the Wisconsin National Guard members requests for assistance from the county cross training opportunities in planning, civilians I got to work with,” he said. “In to respond to requests. For example, level, and coordinates with the Wisconsin operations, logistics and the emergency almost every scenario, civilians were in while elements of the 54th CST actually National Guard Joint Operations Center to mutual assistance compact, as well as the lead. That’s where we really shined — flew to Indiana, the scenario called for determine if National Guard assets should an opportunity to test new Emergency the depth of civilian involvement.” approximately 2,000 Soldiers and Airmen be used to meet that request. Operating Center procedures. The http://www.flickr.com/photos/ to deploy in support of earthquake relief. “Our role was integral,” said Mike cyber attack scenario highlighted ways wiguardpics/sets/72157626574889301

@ease Express 6 May-June 2011 Distance learning: Nicaraguan delegation observes Vigilant Guard 2011 Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez and Response to Disasters) just as the 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Wisconsin National Guard works with Wisconsin Emergency Management to The chief of civil defense and five plan and respond to natural disasters and other Nicaraguan emergency management other emergencies that take place within officials visited Wisconsin May 16-18 to their respective borders. Like Vigilant observe emergency management practices Guard exercises, the Nicaraguan military as part of Wisconsin’s State Partnership prioritizes involving the civilian population Program. during natural disaster exercises. The primary purpose of their visit “This exercise is great hands-on- was to observe the crisis planning and learning,” said Perezcassar. response phases of the 2011 Vigilant “One of the goals for our state Guard exercise—a training exercise with partnership program with Nicaragua multiple disaster scenarios in different is to bring a team of their search and communities throughout the state in order rescue Soldiers to conduct an exchange to assess the Wisconsin National Guard’s at our REACT Center,” said Capt. Joe ability to assist state and local agencies in Davison, State Partnership Program response, coordination and collaboration coordinator. “As the Wisconsin National to several emergencies. Guard will be forming its own Chemical, The six members of the Nicaraguan biological, radiological, nuclear and high delegation observed the response to a explosive Enhanced Response Force chemical spill and collapsed building Package (CERFP) in 2012, there is great rescue after two tornadoes struck the city potential for future collaboration with of La Crosse. The simulated exercise the Nicaraguan Civil Defense Forces, took place at the Regional Emergency especially their humanitarian rescue unit.” All-Climate Training Center (REACT) The Nicaraguan delegation visited at Volk Field—a training facility that Joint Force Headquarters to see how certifies emergency responders in a variety the exercise was controlled from the of catastrophic disaster management State Emergency Operations Center and techniques. Brig. Gen. Mario Perezcassar, Wisconsin Joint Operations Center. They the Nicaraguan chief of civil defense, also visited the 147th Aviation Battalion and the other Nicaraguan emergency and got a sense of Wisconsin’s rotary management officials observed the steps, wing capabilities. On their final day precautions and technology needed to in Wisconsin, in addition to sampling decontaminate victims from hazardous Wisconsin cheeses, the Nicaraguan material and how different agencies delegation met with Wisconsin Supreme interact with one another. Court Justice Michael Gableman, who “We have seen what we were promised explained the Wisconsin court system and we were going to see,” said Perezcassar. the history of the State Capitol. “It’s evident that there was an incredible Wisconsin’s relationship with amount of planning for this exercise and Nicaragua dates back to 1964, when the excellent execution and dynamics of 18 sister-city relationships developed the exercise have been well-organized,” as a result of President Kennedy’s he added. “Alliance for Progress” initiative. This Both the Wisconsin National Guard initial people-to-people connection was and the Nicaraguan military have similar part of the impetus to establish the State roles in emergency management. The Partnership Program with the Nicaraguan Nicaraguan Civil Defense works in Defense Ministry in 2004. The Wisconsin- conjunction with SINAPRED (National Nicaraguan partnership is one of 63 similar System for the Prevention, Mitigation partnerships within the National Guard.

@ease Express 7 May-June 2011 F-16s return to Iceland after a mission June 6, as Airmen from the Madison-based 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard, participate in Operation Northern Viking, training in Iceland with NATO forces focusing mainly on air-space protection. 115th Fighter Wing photo by Senior Airman Ryan Roth

115th Fighter Wing part of NATO exercise in Iceland

Senior Airman Ryan Roth Office and the University of Iceland’s States. The Icelandic Coast Guard assisted NV11 is the first time Euro Fighters 115th Fighter Wing Department of Earth Sciences. in the exercise as well. Of the nearly 450 from Gioia Del Colle have trained with Northern Viking — an annual United participants, roughly 150 were from the U.S. and Norwegian F-16s. Likewise, KEFLAVIK, Iceland – Approximately States-led NATO and partner nation U.S. — including active duty Airmen 115th Fighter Wing pilots have never 100 Airmen from the Madison-based interoperability exercise based on a 1951 from the European command and the Air flown against the Italian Euro Fighter 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air bilateral treaty between the government Force Reserve. Iceland is the only member 2000 Typhoon aircraft. National Guard, were among 450 NATO of Iceland and the U.S. — validates of NATO without an active military. Two Norwegian DA-20 electronic military members to take part in Operation participant readiness and their ability to Participants from the U.S. military warfare aircraft performed electronic Northern Viking 11 June 6-10, focusing respond quickly to conflict or emergency included the 115th Fighter Wing; the warfare operations with fighter jets, mainly on air-space protection and situations. 459th Air Refueling Wing, Joint Air Base implementing communication and radar interoperability between forces. “This exercise allows a venue for Andrews, Md.; the 100th Air Refueling jamming during the training exercise. A The biennial exercise was held at the NATO forces to come together, train Wing, Royal Air Force, Mildenhall, KC-135 Stratotanker from the 459th Air former Keflavik Naval Air Station, near as we would fight, operate within the England; the 1st Combat Communications Refueling Wing, Joint Air Base Andrews, the coast of southwest Iceland, miles from European theater and this kind of training Squadron and the 603rd Air Operations Md., is also gaining joint-force training, the snow-covered volcanoes that have provides that continuity from year-to-year Center, Ramstein Air Base, Germany. having already refueled numerous U.S. erupted into world-wide news the past two to sustain our combat capability,” said “This is a great opportunity for Euro and Norwegian F-16s. years. The volcanic eruption at Grimsvotn Lt. Col. Brian Vaughn, Northern Viking Fighters to fly together with F-16s and “In a real world scenario, it is always volcano in Iceland was officially declared exercise director. learn from each other,” said Maj. Eros going to be a coalition of partners,” over May 28 according to a situation Military members from Denmark, Zaniboni, a pilot with the 36th Fighter report from the Icelandic Meteorological Italy and Norway trained with the United Wing, Gioia Del Colle, Italy. Continued on Page 9

@ease Express 8 May-June 2011 Tech. Sgt. Alex Fiebig and Senior Airman Chris Gibbs, both electrical and environmental systems technicians with the Madison-based 115th Fighter Wing, Staff Sgt. Jeff Braun, a crew chief with the Madison-based 115th Fighter Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard, replace an anti-collision light on an F-16 in Iceland Wisconsin Air National Guard, buckles in Lt. Col. Charles Merkel, a pilot with the as their unit participates in Operation Northern Viking. 115th, as they participate in Operation Northern Viking. 115th Fighter Wing photos by Senior Airman Ryan Roth Click on this photo to see video. 115th FW part of NATO’s ‘Northern Viking’ exercise Continued from Page 8 To maintain and improve interoperability, NATO members take said Lt. Col. Ivan Rismo, detachment advantage of the opportunity to train at commander for the Norwegian forces. one location together. “The fact that we are able to operate with “Being together where we can all [our partners] and different fighters will talk together in the same room and get allow us to be interoperable with these a common picture of how we need to other units at any given time.” operate is paramount,” Rismo said. The pilots were not the only ones The 1st Combat Communications training together in Iceland. Squadron and 603rd Air Operations Center, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, “The controllers that talk to these pilots from United States Air Force Europe also are shared between the Norwegians, the contributed to NV11. U.S. and Italy,” Rismo said. “We are very Col. Erik Peterson, 115th FW happy to see this exercise come through operations group commander and fighter and it is very interoperable in the way we pilot, believes the training received are doing it.” through NV11 can be invaluable toward The importance of this type of training ensuring NATO partners adapt and plan is still evident today, 60 years after the accordingly to ensure mission success in treaty. real world engagements. “All the big conflicts we have seen “The exercise is a prime example of have always consisted in an alliance, how partner countries can act collectively Staff Sgt. Jason Varnum, a crew chief with the Madison-based 115th Fighter Wing, whether in NATO or in a coalition,” to address common, natural challenges,” Wisconsin Air National Guard, prepares an F-16 for takeoff in Iceland June 4. Rismo said. Peterson said.

@ease Express 9 May-June 2011 BEST in the MIDWEST n Wisconsin Army National Guard sweeps regional Best Warrior competition Spc. Cassandra Monroe Iowa Army National Guard Two Wisconsin Army National Guard Soldiers from the same infantry battalion took top honors at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 9-12 at Camp Dodge, Iowa, and will now advance to compete against the best Soldiers across the National Guard for national honors in August. “Another first for the great state of Wisconsin,” said Wisconsin Army National Guard State Command Sgt. Major George Stopper. Thirteen Soldiers from Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin competed in events such as the Army Physical Fitness Test, combat water survival test, M-9 pistol and M-4 rifle qualification, day and night land navigation, confidence course, a nine-mile road march with a 35-pound backpack, an essay and an appearance board in dress uniform. Sgt. Steven Dahl of Oconto, a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry in Menomonee, Wis., bested six other competitors in the Sgt. Brandon Swanson low crawls beneath a bridge of barbed wire May 11. Soldier category at the Best Warrior Swanson and 12 other Soldiers ran the course as part of the Region IV Best Competition. He was a specialist when Warrior Competition held at the Iowa National Guard’s Joint Maneuver Training Continued on Page 11 Center, Camp Dodge, Iowa. Iowa Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Chad D. Nelson

@ease Express 10 May-June 2011 Wisconsin Army National Guard sends two Soldiers to National Guard Bureau’s Best Warrior competition Continued from Page 10 According to Command Sgt. Maj. John Breitsprecker, the senior enlisted advisor the competition began at the unit level last for the Iowa Army National Guard, fall. (Click here for related story.) the regional Best Warrior competition Sgt. Brandon Swanson of St. Croix evaluated each Soldier’s skill as a war Falls, a member of Detachment 1, fighter. Headquarter Company, 1st Battalion, “Every one of the tasks we test here are 128th Infantry in Chippewa Falls, Wis., Soldier-type skills, to include the combat beat out five other competitors in the water survival tasks, the marksmanship noncommissioned officer category. training and the physical readiness,” “It’s a lot of weight off my chest, that’s Breitsprecker said. “It’s all tied at what for sure,” Dahl said. “I’m relieved now — warriors do, either in combat or during hopefully next year I can sponsor one of their unit missions.” my Soldiers and take it again to give him “I can’t swim and water survival a heads up.” always gets me, but I did it no problem “The competition was great, and all the this time,” Dahl said. “I surprised myself competitors were phenomenal, and in the — when the going gets tough, you just end I was not expecting to win,” Swanson have to stay calm and not worry about added. “I can’t even describe how I felt. anyone else but yourself.” I was just as happy when [Dahl’s] name Stopper said that the appearance board was called out because we’re from the was a critical piece in evaluating the same company.” mental aptitude of competitors. When unit-level competitions began, “It’s a fairly intimidating event both Dahl and Swanson were members because [there are] three senior command of Company A. Swanson has since sergeants major sitting in front of the transferred to Headquarters Company. room with the Soldier and [they] fire For Staff Sgt. Matthew Ward, a Green questions at them,” said Stopper, who was Bay, Wis., native and infantryman with also the president of the enlisted board. Company A, preparing Dahl for the “We had 90 questions in a period of 30 competition was second nature. minutes, but the reason why we give them “I’m [his] squad leader actually, and so many questions is that so when they I looked at him and said, ‘You can pick get to the next level in the competition, anyone you want as your sponsor,’ and he they’ve had exposure to a lot of different ended up picking me,” Ward said. topics.” Ward and Dahl prepared for the Spc. Matthew Kosloski, a Lansing, competition by modeling their training to At right, Sgt. Brandon Swanson Mich., native and a cable systems installer mirror past competitions and by utilizing plunges into the deep end of maintainer with the 126th Network local training areas. Urbandale High School’s swimming Signal Company, 46th Military Police “We used a local armory to train, and pool during the Region IV Best Warrior Brigade, was chosen as the runner-up for we also came up to Ft. McCoy twice to Competition on May 10. Iowa Army the Soldier of the Year. Staff Sgt. Patrick do some training as well,” Ward said. National Guard photo by Sgt. Chad D. Helderman of Medina, Ohio, a military “Whatever resources we could get hold of, Nelson policeman with 838th Military Police we used. but I think it brought out the best in him,” Company, was chosen as the runner up for “I feel extremely proud, but he put in Eads said. “Sgt. Swanson is literally a the noncommissioned officer of the year. the effort,” Ward continued. “He had the human sponge — he’s one of those rare This will mark the third straight year motivation and dedication to put in the individuals that can take information from the Wisconsin Army National Guard has work — that’s what gave him the edge.” any given source at any type of level and competed at the National Guard Bureau’s Staff Sgt. Joshua Eads, Swanson’s he automatically processes it and applies Best Warrior Competition, held Aug. sponsor, was also pleased. it. He was born to do stuff like the Best 2-8 at the Warrior Training Center, Fort “The level of competition was tough, Warrior Competition.” Benning, Ga.

@ease Express 11 May-June 2011 Gov. Walker thanks Wisconsin National Guard troops 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson Wisconsin National Guard The commander-in-chief of the Wisconsin National Guard expressed his appreciation to some of those citizen Soldiers May 20 as part of Armed Forces Week. “I wanted to come by and offer my thanks on behalf of my family and on behalf of the state of Wisconsin,” Gov. Scott Walker said during a brief visit to Joint Force Headquarters in Madison. “We appreciate the commitment you make, the excellence you bring — we don’t take that for granted.” Walker spoke of attending numerous sendoff ceremonies and funerals for fallen service members when he served as Milwaukee County executive. “I like the welcome home ceremonies best of all,” he said. “I consider every one of you my guys. As commander in chief, I won’t be satisfied until everyone who is currently deployed is welcomed home.” Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, recalled how Walker reached out to him shortly after winning the election last year with the idea of holding a tailgate party for the troops during the Jan. 1 Rose Bowl game. “His appreciation for the military is real,” Dunbar said.

Brig. Gen. John McCoy, commander of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, presents Gov. Scott Walker with a coin and a handshake in Witmer Hall at Joint Force Headquarters in Madison on May 20. Walker thanked Wisconsin National Guard members for their service as part of Armed Forces Week. Wisconsin National Guard photo by 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson

@ease Express 12 May-June 2011 Veterans In Piping graduates first Wisconsin class Sgt. Eric Liesse 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment GREEN BAY — Fourteen veterans are ready to enter the workforce as certified pipefitters with accelerated welding training, following their June 3 graduation from the firstVeterans in Piping class at the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s Camp Williams. “It’s not just a good thing to do, it’s the right to do,” said United Association General President Bill Hite, who created the program in 2008 in Washington state. “It’s an honor … to make a difference in these men and women’s lives.” Camp Pendleton, Calif., also has a VIP program. The VIP program started its first class at Camp Williams in January, finishing its 20-week, free program Friday (June 3), certifying the veterans as second-year apprentices in the United Association at the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association 99th Annual Convention. The program — a partnership between the United Association, Wisconsin Army National Guard and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development — provides training and also guarantees job placement for the graduates. “When you’re on active duty, you’re behind the curve on employment,” said graduate and Wisconsin Army National Guard member Sgt. Paul Anderson of Oconto Falls. “Thankfully, that is starting to change with programs like this.” Anderson will work in UA Local 400 in Green Bay. “To be given an opportunity like this is unheard of, and I can’t think of anywhere Wisconsin, two in Minneapolis, one in about a career,” Hite said. After five years Charles Buari, Middleton; Charles Cluney, else [this could happen],” said Sgt. Mike South Dakota and one in North Dakota. of apprenticeship, UA members can earn Oak Creek; Paul Anderson, Oconto Falls; Dunlap, another graduate and Wisconsin “We also take brotherhood and journeymen status and may earn up to Benjamin Eskola, Osceola; Nicholas Army National Guard member. Dunlap sisterhood seriously,” said Mike Arndt, the $68,000 per year. McGeshick, Rhinelander; Cody Fegraeus, will work in UA Local 539, Minneapolis. UA training director. “All 14 of them said Graduates include: Justin Engelkens, Superior; Geoff Brand, Wausau; Michael Of the 14 graduates, 10 are currently thank you. But you all need to realize you Belleville; Zackary Romanowski, Dunlop, Wausau; and Jacob Nieft, Wisconsin National Guard members. don’t need to thank anyone. We need to Chippewa Falls; Cassidy Gunderson, Wisconsin Rapids. The program placed 10 graduates around thank you.” Grand Chute; George Maxwell, Green The second Camp Williams class will “This program is not about a job — it’s Bay; Michael Johnson, Menominee; begin in mid-July.

@ease Express 13 May-June 2011 Abbab Taj Mousa recites the oath of allegiance administered by Lt. Col. Julie Gerety during a ceremony held at Milwaukee’s Military Entrance Processing Station June 3. 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment photos by Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez From Baghdad to Badgerland: New Soldier enlists in Wisconsin National Guard Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez to in America,” Mousa said. “I chose to 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment enlist in Wisconsin because of the friends I already have in the Wisconsin Guard.” One of the newest Wisconsin Army Becoming a Wisconsin Guardsman National Guard enlistees already has took nearly three months. “The process served overseas with one of its units. was frustrating at times because I’m Abbab Taj Mousa — affectionately not yet a citizen,” Mousa said. “The known as “Cowboy” — recited the oath of interpreter job I was hoping for was allegiance during a June 3 ceremony at the closed, so I had to explore other options. Military Entrance Processing Station in Once I get my citizenship, I plan to go to downtown Milwaukee. But the Baghdad officer candidate school.” Mousa is scheduled to leave for basic Abbab Taj Mousa — known as “Cowboy” — finalizes his native worked as an interpreter with members of the Wisconsin Army National training in Fort Jackson, S.C. in November. enlistment process into Wisconsin’s National Guard by signing After learning the basic Soldiering a contract June 3 at Milwaukee’s Military Entrance Processing Guard’s 332nd Rear Operations Center during the unit’s 2007 deployment to Iraq. skills, he will continue on to become an Station. Mousa is scheduled to leave for basic training in Fort automated logistical specialist where he Jackson, S.C. in November and will become an automated After obtaining a visa from the U.S. will handle the distribution of nearly every logistical specialist with Company A, 257th Brigade Support Embassy, Mousa came to the United type of supply. He will then join the ranks Battalion in Whitewater. States in August 2009 to be with family. of Company A, 257th Brigade Support “Wisconsin was the first place I came Battalion in Whitewater.

@ease Express 14 May-June 2011 Traditional Wisconsin Guardsman first to fill assigned drill sergeant role Staff Sgt. Andy Poquette help new Soldiers, and this program Wisconsin Army National Guard was a great way to bring back the latest and greatest teachings to our The “Smokey the Bear” brown Soldiers here,” Maple said. “The campaign hat. The cold stare that Wisconsin National Guard having a freezes blood in the veins. The loud, drill sergeant means we can bring back piercing voice barking commands. the best techniques for training our Anyone who has spent any time in an Soldiers and set them up for success.” Army boot camp can recognize these The benefit of having drill sergeants trademark signs of a drill sergeant — training National Guard recruits the tough-as-nails noncommissioned include similarity of instruction from officer charged with turning civilians the recruit sustainment companies to into Soldiers in roughly two months. basic training, and less culture shock Until recently, drill sergeants from one training environment to the primarily resided in the active next. Army and in Army Reserve training The Recruiting and Retention regiments. Now, however, drill Battalion has 12 drill sergeant sergeants are showing up in the positions for six companies. 1st Sgt. Wisconsin Army National Guard’s Joshua Reed, a recruiting and retention Recruiting and Retention Battalion, noncommissioned officer in charge preparing young recruits for basic stationed in Green Bay, said that some training. The newest drill sergeant — a Army Reserve drill sergeants have member of Detachment 1, Company transferred into the Wisconsin Army B who graduated drill sergeant school National Guard’s recruit sustainment June 2 — is the first traditional companies, and that two other part- Wisconsin Army National Guard time National Guard Soldiers attended member to fill that role. drill sergeant school but did not “It’s a very challenging program, transfer to the battalion. but also very rewarding,” said Sgt. “Maple is our first home-grown “LJ” Maple of Mosinee, who drills on drill sergeant on the traditional side of a monthly basis just like his recruits. the house,” he said. “I’m able to give our new recruits the The U.S. Army Drill Sergeant tools they will need to succeed and School, established in 1967, is now the become honor graduates at the schools Army’s only drill sergeant school after they attend.” the schools at Fort Benning, Ga., and Maple — whose wife, Senior Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., closed in Master Sgt. Jessica Maple was recently 2007 and 2008, respectively. selected as the national level Airman of the Year — joins Staff Sgt. William Shafer, who works full-time with the Sgt. “LJ” Maple, a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s Wisconsin Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion, as Recruiting and Retention Battalion, one of the few National Guard Soldiers graduated from drill sergeant to graduate from the course. school at Fort Jackson, S.C. on June “I’ve always wanted to do this and 2. Submitted photo

@ease Express 15 May-June 2011 Agencies learn effectiveness of communications systems

A communication exercise involving had to overcome terminology barriers. approximately 250 people from more “The Department of Defense has its own than two dozen federal, state, local and language and so do [non-military agencies],” volunteer agencies as well as the Mexican MacLaughlin explained. “We really had military surpassed expectations, according to learn to speak in plain language, or we to a Wisconsin Emergency Management wouldn’t understand each other.” official. The exercise also demonstrated the “Agencies from all levels of government need to include federal emergency radio are establishing communication,” said frequencies in the network of mutual aid Kent MacLaughlin, state communication communication channels. MacLaughlin and warning officer with WEM. “They’re said WEM will propose adding those meeting others, learning about other frequencies this year. [communication] platforms —exactly what There were no major communication we’re supposed to be doing.” problems during this year’s exercise, The three-day exercise, sponsored MacLaughlin said, and participants were by the U.S Northern Command pleased with how the event was organized (NORTHCOM) Vital Connection Program and run. He credited the Wisconsin and hosted by WEM and the Wisconsin National Guard’s Joint Operations Center National Guard, was held April 13-15 at Keith Tveit (front, far right), fire services coordinator for Wisconsin Emergency with planning the exercise and meeting the 64th Troop Command headquarters Management (WEM), provides a tour of the WEM mobile communications center the challenge of cold, wet weather. building in Madison, next to Truax Field to fellow participants in the SIMCOM ‘11 exercise April 13. The exercise, was “We feel that we’re much better and the Joint Force Headquarters. There, sponsored by the U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) and hosted by Wisconsin prepared to respond to an event because numerous command platforms were Emergency Management and the Wisconsin National Guard. Wisconsin Emergency we’ve done this,” he said. “It’s good to get staged and communication capabilities Management photo by Jerad Albracht the equipment out, get new people to work were briefed for agency representatives. Wisconsin Emergency Management, and representatives of the Mexican Army with it and to make sure it works in a non- “SIMCOM is intended to bring several state departments, several county and Navy. emergency situation.” together communication assets from all agencies including two from Illinois, Participants got the chance to work SIMCOM is expected to return in 2012, levels of government,” MacLaughlin said. amateur radio operators from around together in four groups on practical though without NORTHCOM sponsorship “It’s not the first time we’ve done this, but the state, the Civil Air Patrol, the Ohio exercises involving incident command it will return to a one-day event. in the event of an incident we’d like to National Guard’s Homeland Response structures — used in multi-agency “One of the first things to consider in know each other and develop some trust.” Force, the South Dakota Air National operations — and incident action plans. an incident is how do we communicate?” The exercise included communication Guard, NORTHCOM, the Federal In addition to interfacing with different MacLaughlin said. “We’ve made some assets from the Wisconsin National Guard, Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) communication platforms, participants giant leaps forward with this exercise.”

@ease Express 16 May-June 2011 128th Air Refueling Wing expands hangar capabilities Sr. Airman Ryan Kuntze 128th Air Refueling Wing A $4 million expansion at the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 128th Air Refueling Wing in Milwaukee that will make maintaining a larger fleet of stratotankers much more efficient is weeks away from completion. The project converts an airplane dock that previously could only accommodate the wings and foward portion of aircraft into a fully enclosed hangar that will allow for year-round painting and cleaning of KC-135R Stratotankers. According to Chief Master Sgt. Chris Chatham, 128th Air Refueling Wing maintenance operations flight chief, a detailed cleaning for stratotankers requires two days in an enclosed hangar. An isochronical inspection — fully reviewing, repairing and returning an aircraft to the flightline as mission ready — takes one month. Corrosion is the biggest problem for today’s aircraft, Chatham explained. “It’s always going to happen to these aircraft as they get older,” he said. Deployments near salt water require constant corrosion repair, and an aircraft Contractors from KPH Construction of Milwaukee continue greatly increased capability to the 128th Air Refueling deployed for even 30 days requires work on expanding an aircraft dock into a $4 million aircraft Wing’s maintenance squadron and improve efficiency by corrosion maintenance, he said. hangar at the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 128th Air 40 to 50 percent. 128th Air Refueling Wing photo by 2nd Lt. Expansion began Sept. 13, 2010 Refueling Wing in Milwaukee. Dual hangars will give a Nathan Wallin according to Maj. Heath Duncan, 128th Air Refueling Wing civil engineering KPH Construction and the architect and hangar is used to great effect, but it is also Furthermore, the 128th Air Refueling squadron commander. The project is engineering firm Mead and Hunt for the site for on-base functions regarding Wing will save money by reducing the expected to wrap up on July 10. their continuing role in mitigating the community interactions, such as the Civic amount of time spent maintaining each The project faced some challenges, construction challenges. Dinner Dance, or training events, such as aircraft, Chatham said. This has become such as winter’s effects on the new “We wouldn’t have done this without base-wide annual training. With the new more important since the Wing acquired foundation. this team,” he said. hangar, the maintenance squadron can three new aircraft late last year, Chatham “We had to figure out a solution to Dual hangars will greatly increase the continue its mission without interruption said. these problems, and then execute the 128th Air Refueling Wing’s maintenance while also serving the needs of the base’s “[This expansion will] increase our solution,” Duncan said. He praised capability, Chatham said. The existing population. efficiency by 40 to 50 percent,” he said.

@ease Express 17 May-June 2011 Take-Back effort exceeds last year’s totals The Wisconsin National Guard’s Drug Control Program delivered 5.6 tons of expired, unused and unwanted prescription medication to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Milwaukee office May 2 following theNational Prescription Drug Take-Back Day April 30. That is two-and-one-half times the pharmaceutical turn-in from Sept. 25, 2010 — the first national take-back event. Wisconsin residents also turned in nearly 7,400 pounds of over-the-counter medications, which are not considered a controlled substance, to 138 collection sites operated by 123 law enforcement agencies. The over-the-counter medications were destroyed in Milwaukee shortly after the collection. The discarded pharmaceuticals were destroyed by the DEA May 5 in Indianapolis. James Bohn, assistant special agent in charge of the DEA Milwaukee district office, said the biggest challenge was the logistics behind coordinating the safe collection, transportation and destruction of the pharmaceuticals. “Due to the combined cooperation and participation of local, state, and federal agencies, [National Take-Back Initiative] II Wisconsin National Guard Drug Control Program members assist personnel from was a tremendous success for Wisconsin,” the DEA Milwaukee District Office as part of the National Take-Back Initiative on he said, “and once again demonstrated the May 2. Wisconsin National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Mike Hemberger overwhelming need for such a program.” Col. Mark Greenwood, director of the Wisconsin National Guard’s Counter Drug Greenwood continued, “but were well health indicated prescription drug abuse protecting them from this growing threat Program, said that creating awareness of prepared to handle the volume because outpaced the combined use of cocaine, to their neighborhoods,” he said. the need for the event and providing the of the planning and coordination with hallucinogens and heroin. Bohn said that the increased collection right information was challenging, but DEA and community law enforcement “There is a misperception among the this year shows the ongoing need for this ultimately worthwhile. beforehand.” public that prescription drugs are safer type of program in communities across “The amount of prescription drugs National Prescription Drug Take-Back than illicit drugs since they are prescribed Wisconsin. turned in by Wisconsin citizens during Day was initiated to give the public a by a licensed medical provider,” Bohn “This program is so successful this second Take-Back event was simply free, anonymous opportunity to safely said. “However, when abused and not in Wisconsin due to the enthusiastic amazing,” he said. “Our people did a great dispose of old or unwanted prescription taken as prescribed, prescription drugs are support received from law enforcement, job — all of them had participated in the medication. The two-fold impetus behind just as dangerous as illicit drugs.” community groups, and the Wisconsin Take back event back in September, and the take-back event: prevent prescription Greenwood said that Wisconsin is not National Guard,” he said. “DEA could not were knowledgeable and experienced in drug abuse or theft by removing supply, immune to this growing danger. have undertaken this enormous task without how to transport the drugs. and keeping pharmaceuticals from “Our Wisconsin National Guard the cooperation and support received from “They were pleasantly surprised by the contaminating the water supply. A members live and work in many of these countless partners and the public across amount of prescription drugs turned in,” 2009 national survey on drug use and communities, and have a vested interest in Wisconsin and the nation.”

@ease Express 18 May-June 2011 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson Pfc. Joshua Vlach, a member of the Wisconsin National Guard Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 273rd Engineer Company in Medford, Following a line from the Warrior speaks with Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, Ethos — “I will never leave a fallen commander of the Wisconsin Army comrade” — senior Wisconsin National National Guard, at the Warrior Guard leaders visited a handful of their Transition Battalion at Fort Knox, Ky., Soldiers in the Warriors in Transition on May 25. Senior Wisconsin National program at Fort Knox, Ky., May 25. Guard leaders spoke individually with The Wisconsin Army National Guard the Soldiers, who are undergoing currently has 35 Soldiers in the Warriors lengthy medical treatment, to gauge in Transition program. Eight are assigned their morale and quality of care. to the Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Wisconsin National Guard photo by 1st Knox, intended for injured or wounded Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson Soldiers who require at least six months of complex medical management. The and professional cadre providing a remaining 27 Soldiers are participating in structured setting that allows a Soldier the Community Based Warrior Transition to focus on healing. Each Soldier is Unit, which allows wounded or injured assigned a primary care manager, nurse Soldiers to receive medical treatment from case manager and squad leader to health care providers near their home. coordinate their care with other medical Soldiers remain on active duty status professionals. while in the program. “Our main focus and mission is to The Warrior Transition Command support the warfighter and the war effort,” is designed to provide a vast array of he said. “The rules are simple — go to services, but no system is foolproof — formations for accountability. Make your any number of variables can impact a appointments — that’s a big deal because Soldier’s progress, impeding his or her missed appointments cost us money. Do return to productive service as a Soldier, [physical training] within the limits of or as a veteran in the community. The your profile. You’re going to do some kind leadership visit is, in part, one way to of job.” ensure their Soldiers are satisfactorily warriors in For example, Spc. Ryan Mantz, a engaged in the transition from injured to member of Detachment 1, 32nd Military recovered. Police Company in Oconomowoc — who “We’re here to support you,” state has spent nearly two years at Fort Knox Command Sgt. Maj. George Stopper told — performs mail clerk duties for the the six Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers Warrior Transition program. present at the May 25 meeting. “We want “Engagement is crucial,” Majewski you to know that we still really care about TRANSITIONDunbar invited the Soldiers to speak to visit for extended periods of time, and continued. “Those that are engaged do you.” their minds about their time at the others acknowledged the strain their stay the best, are the least stressed out, are the “We’re busy in the state, and we’re Warrior Transition Battalion. Given the at Fort Knox has put on relationships. happiest.” busy overseas,” said Brig. Gen. Mark opportunity, many chose to air their “These are some serious issues,” Some of the additional opportunities Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin frustrations. Some remarked about their Dunbar acknowledged. “I believe the available to Warrior Transition Soldiers Army National Guard. “But in the midst extended stay — one Soldier had been at Army and Fort Knox have our best at Fort Knox include job fairs, college of all that, we want you to know that you Fort Knox since June of 2009, and another interests at heart, but that doesn’t mean courses, internships, and volunteer are not forgotten — you are not lost to the since December of that year. Others raised these aren’t real issues.” positions at the Veterans Administration Wisconsin Army National Guard.” concerns about the post transportation According to Maj. Gregory Majewski, hospital in Louisville. Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant system and its impact on their ability to executive officer for the Warrior Stopper said that the Warrior Transition general of Wisconsin, agreed. keep medical appointments. Inconsistent Transition Battalion at Fort Knox, the Command may never be perfect, but “Sometimes we can miss the obvious,” flow of information and perceptions about Warrior Transition Command is not that Soldiers should not give up hope. he said. “It’s important to me that you case managers and Warrior Transition intended to be a hospice where the Majewski agreed. know your mission has not diminished — staff were also raised. One Soldier said chief goal is relieving discomfort. The “This is a good program,” he said, “and it’s just changed. Your mission is to get the only change he would like to see is a environment is modeled after a traditional it’s not going away. The Army is doing the well.” greater opportunity for family members Army “line” unit, with Army procedures best it can to take care of these guys.”

@ease Express 19 May-June 2011 Wisconsin Army National Guard combat medics transport Sgt. Tiffany Addair a mannequin via litter as part of a training event at the 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Wisconsin Military Academy on May 21. 157th Maneuver Public Affairs Enhancement Brigade photo by Sgt. Tiffany Addair Crawling on their bellies under barbed wire, while moving a patient strapped to a litter. Applying a tourniquet to a battlefield amputation in the dirt and grime of the field. Saving a life while getting everyone back to safety in one piece — just part of a recent weekend training event for more than 150 Wisconsin Army National Guard medical professionals. The Wisconsin Army National Guard’s third Army Medical Department (AMEDD) conference, held May 20-22 at Fort McCoy, gave medical professionals — those assigned to medical units as well as those assigned as medics or medical professionals in non-medical units — the opportunity to brush up on medical skills, train with new and familiar equipment and network with other people in the medical community around the state. “The focus of the training was to get down to basics,” said Capt. Shawn Murphy, physician’s assistant with the Wisconsin Medical Detachment — the organization tasked with providing medical readiness support to all Wisconsin Army National Guard units. “It is important to always build on the basics. You add more skill sets and equipment at every level, but the fundamentals are always the same.” Through the Wisconsin Military Academy, the Wisconsin National Guard training facility housed at Fort McCoy, the 68 whiskeys (combat medics), medical professionals and other medical military occupational specialties were able to receive valuable training in a field where continuing education is paramount. The training was designed to be very realistic, helping Soldiers prepare for scenarios they may face in the future. “It is really easy to be overwhelmed with a casualty,” said Sgt. 1st Class Clint Vervoren, senior combat medic and training noncommissioned officer-in- charge with the 426th Regiment, based at WMA. “The lanes were designed to put a Going back to basics Continued on Page 21 @ease Express 20 May-June 2011 Wisconsin National Guard combat medics carry a litter and patient through a culvert as part of an obstacle course combining medic skills with tactical challenges May 21 at the Wisconsin Military Academy.

Wisconsin Army Guard medical professionals strengthen skills from the ground up Continued from Page 20 the treatment rendered or not rendered. This type of training not only provides little stress on the medics so they can learn the necessary requirement to maintain to focus and communicate effectively with certifications as EMT-B, but more counterparts to manage a casualty.” importantly the expertise needed to Murphy echoed Vervorens’ words, provide advanced emergency care.” stating that creating a little bit of stress Following the conference, Soldiers during the training helps put the skills and were wet, muddy and — in some cases knowledge into a deep-seated memory — blood-stained from the mannequins’ box. simulated wounds. In spite of that, or While the weekend was concentrated perhaps because of it, the training proved on getting back to the basics, new immensely popular. Sgt. Kayla Wells, dental specialist with the Wisconsin technology aided in creating more realistic Lee was also very impressed with the Army National Guard’s 135th Medical Detachment, is medical scenarios for Soldiers to respond caliber of training. evacuated via litter beneath a barbed wire obstacle to. Life-like simulators were used in place “I sleep soundly knowing that I can at the Wisconsin Military Academy at Fort McCoy of traditional mannequins that were used rely on the Wisconsin Army National on May 21. 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade in the past. Guard AMEDD NCOs to push the limits photos by Sgt. Tiffany Addair “The new mannequins are computer of our logistics, training and mission,” and trainer operated with multiple medical Lee said. “I am proud of the Soldiers that scenarios,” said Col. Kenneth Lee, participated, as well as the leadership who Wisconsin Army National Guard state were able to foresee the necessity of the surgeon. “The mannequin responds to realistic training scenarios.”

@ease Express 21 May-June 2011 From Baghdad to Boston, Wisconsin Guard members answer marathon challenge Sgt. Tyler Lasure new friends made, the two began the 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment grueling 26.2-mile run ahead of him. But the 16-week running program wasn’t the Running the Boston Marathon once only preparation the officers had in their is quite the accomplishment for any corner. runner. Running it twice, on two different “Military training instills ‘heart,’ which continents, is a rare feat. is what compels people to run a distance Maj. Mike Yount, the brigade that most people would prefer to drive,” logistics officer for the Wisconsin Army Berberich said. National Guard’s 64th Troop Command “The thing about marathon running is and a Baraboo native, and 1st Lt. that it is nine-tenths mental, and the ability Katie Berberich, the rear detachment to focus and stick to a goal and plan administrative officer for the 157th helped,” Yount explained. “When Things Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and weren’t ideal my military background an Onalaska native, are members of the gave me a leg up to mentally work elite few who have done this. Yount and through the 26-mile run.” Berberich ran their first Boston Marathon The most memorable part of the four as a “shadow run” while deployed to hours, 33 minutes and eight seconds the southern Iraq in April 2010. This race two ran the marathon? qualified them for the 2011 Boston “Crossing the finish line after four Marathon held stateside. and a half hours and being motivated by “When the opportunity to enroll came the crowd and being able to feed off the we decided, ‘Here’s our chance to go for crowd’s energy and the energy of the other real,’” Yount recalled. 1st Lt. Katie Berberich and Maj. Mike Yount ran in the 2011 Boston Marathon in runners,” he said. “It’s a good feeling.” “Not many people get to say they have April. Last year they took part in a “shadow run” of the Boston Marathon while Yount encourages others to get out and run the Boston Marathon — certainly deployed in Iraq. Submitted photo run, especially at the marathon level, fewer can say they have run it in Iraq and “It’s one of those things where you in Boston,” Berberich added. “We have put many miles in together,” together, but they weren’t the only become part of an elite group just by she said. veterans in the immediate area. Other doing it,” he said. “If you’re into it and The two planned on running the One of the biggest differences between recent combat veterans took advantage motivated you can make it happen. Get original Boston Marathon since taking the two marathons was the training. For of a Boston Marathon program where a group of like-minded Guardsmen and part in the shadow run last year. Once they the first race, they trained in the Iraqi deployed shadow run participants build camaraderie — move toward an were registered, the hardest part of the desert with temperatures exceeding 100 automatically qualify for the stateside important personal goal.” endeavor began — training. degrees, but when they began preparing race. “[Yount] has been a great mentor “My goal was to improve from the last for this year’s Boston Marathon they “It was very moving to be treated like a and running all the relay races and now marathon,” Yount said. The workload of a faced the freezing Wisconsin weather. rock star just for doing what I volunteered the two Bostons are great memories,” full-time logistics officer, along with the After 16 weeks of preparation, it was to do,” Berberich said of the veteran’s Berberich said. Wisconsin winter, didn’t make the training finally time to make the trek to Boston and program. Berberich also hopes to run the 116th any easier, but Yount had a partner in realize their goal of running in one of the “Getting to run with over 100 other Boston Marathon next year, either as a Berberich. They competed in the shadow country’s oldest marathons. veterans was very rewarding,” Yount part of the veteran’s program or through run in Iraq together and decided to have a “The Boston Marathon is ‘the’ said. “There, other veterans ranged fundraising. Yount plans on running the reunion tour in Boston. marathon to run,” Berberich said. “There from 82-year old veterans of the Korean Fox Cities Marathon later this summer, Even though Berberich and Yount live was so much sensory overload that the and Vietnam wars to recent veterans of and has put together a group of active in different parts of the state — Berberich course just flew by. Operation Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.” and retired Wisconsin National Guard in Onalaska and Yount in Baraboo — the “Running in the marathon was [The race officials] brought us together members to run a 200-mile relay. two trained together. rewarding because of the pageantry they and treated us well. The interaction with “It really is about the camaraderie,” he “We were encouraging each other over have,” Yount said. “They really do it all of the veterans was the coolest part of said, “and the ability to get with folks that e-mail and Facebook to keep up with the right.” the deal.” enjoy running and doing something that training and to stay focused,” Yount said. Yount and Berberich ran the race With their training behind them and others rarely get a chance to do.”

@ease Express 22 May-June 2011 Wisconsin National Guard marathon team top in championship race LINCOLN, Neb. — After 27 years of years of service and extensive running close finishes, the Wisconsin National accomplishments. Guard marathon team can once again take “I think everybody running today … a victory lap. that was kind of the extra thing that kept The Wisconsin team pulled out the us rolling is [to] give a good race for Mike closest victory possible in edging the [Zeigle],” Western said. “It was pretty Pennsylvania National Guard’s marathon inspiring to know this is his last race and team at the 2011 National Guard marathon to win it for his last year here.” championship race held May 1. Just one “This team has always been kind of second separated the first-place team from competitive,” he added. “We’ve always the runner-up, after the top three times for thought it was something we’d be able to each team were tallied. Wisconsin’s top do and to actually do it this year is neat, three finishers averaged 2:55:21. especially on Mike’s last year.” Staff Sgt. Jason Kirch, 106th Engineer Zeigl agreed. Detachment, was the top Wisconsin “I was on the team the only other time finisher with a time of 2:53:42. Maj. Wisconsin won the championship,” he Michael Western, 128h Air Control recalled. “We have been on the podium Squadron, was on his heels at 2:53:56, many times since then, but the top spot followed by Capt. Seth Kaste, 54th Civil always eluded us. The guys really did a Support Team, at 2:58:20. great job to pull this off, and to win it by Above, Tech. Sgt. Michael The five-man Wisconsin team one second was icing on the cake. Zeigle (wearing green competed against teams from 43 states sweatband) completes his and territories. Tech. Sgt. Michael Zeigle, “Every step of the race counted.” Western, Kirch, Kaste, and Zeigle all final National Guard marathon 115th Fighter Wing, took first place in the as a team member. He had 55-59 age group with a time of 3:07:29, qualified for this year’s All-Guard team, which competes in race events throughout competed in the annual event and Spc. Nathan Lee, 106th Engineer since 1984. Detachment, finished in 4:08:37 to round the country and participates in recruiting out the Wisconsin team. and retention activities. Western, Kaste and Kirch are extending At left, Spc. Nathan Lee, Western, a first-year team captain, said Maj. Michael Western and it was special to break through and win a tradition of team running which began with Western and Kaste at Cadott High Staff Sgt. Jason Kirch of the the team title. Wisconsin National Guard’s “It’s pretty cool, absolutely,” he said. School and continued with Kirch joining them on the University of Wisconsin- marathon team. Nebraska “We’ve always been somewhere in the top National Guard photos five and this is our first year winning.” Stout cross country team. Making the win extra special was the Zeigle said he would miss being part fact that Western was replacing a staple of the team as well as the Wisconsin of the Wisconsin team and National National Guard. Guard Marathon team as captain. Zeigle “It is time to move aside and make is expected to retire at the end of August room for the young troops,” he observed. after a 29-year career, also ending his He plans to continue running and stretch of competing in the marathon competing in biathlons. since it began in Lincoln in 1984. Zeigle “It will be different doing it as a was awarded a Wisconsin Air Force civilian,” he said. Commendation Medal during a ceremony Tech Sgt. Alex Salmon of the Nebraska held the night before the marathon for his National Guard contributed to this article. @ease Express 23 May-June 2011 Master Sgt. Mike A. Schmaling of the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 128th Air Sgt. 1st Class Richard P. Gerard of the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 132nd Refueling Wing, Milwaukee, receives the Bong Award during the ESGR breakfast Army Band receives the Bong Award during the ESGR breakfast held at the held at the Wisconsin Club in downtown Milwaukee on May 16. Pictured with Wisconsin Club in downtown Milwaukee on May 16. Pictured with Gerard is Brig. Schmaling is Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin (left), and Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin (left), and Brig. Gen. Dom Cariello, Gen. Dom Cariello, land component commander for the Wisconsin Army National land component commander for the Wisconsin Army National Guard. 128th Air Guard.Service members, employers recognizedRefueling Wing photosduring by Tech Sgt.Armed Thomas J Sobczyk Forces Week Tech. Sgt. Thomas Sobczyk Guard; and Sgt. Ryan M. Lackey, U.S. Members of 128th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Marine Corps Reserve. Wisconsin Air Hydro-Thermal Corporation, National Guard’s Two Wisconsin National Guard Waukesha, was recognized at the breakfast 128th Air members were among five Richard Bong for its support of service members. Refueling Wing Award recipients honored at the Employer Honor Guard Support for the Guard and Reserve Bong Award recipients are chosen by present the colors (ESGR) breakfast, held May 16 at the their commanders for outstanding service during the ESGR Wisconsin Club in downtown Milwaukee. and dedication. The award commemorates breakfast held Master Sgt. Mike A. Schmaling, New Maj. Richard Bong, a Medal of Honor at the Wisconsin London, a member of the Wisconsin Air recipient born in Superior, Wis., in 1920 Club in downtown National Guard’s 128th Air Refueling who remains the top American ace fighter Milwaukee on Wing in Milwaukee, and Sgt. 1st Class pilot with 40 enemy aircraft destroyed in May 16. Richard P. Gerard, Franklin, of the aerial combat. Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 132nd The ESGR breakfast, organized by Army Band in Madison received awards the Milwaukee Armed Forces Committee alongside Staff Sgt. Edel A. Rojas, U.S. and the Wisconsin Committee for Air Force; Boatswain’s Mate (Petty ESGR, kicks off Armed Forces Week in Officer) 1st Class Adam Kraft, U.S. Coast Milwaukee.

@ease Express 24 May-June 2011 Wisconsin Army Guard takes gold rating in Army evaluation The Wisconsin Army National Guard According to Wanda Thurman, chief of The ACOE Awards program follows was awarded a Gold First Place award the business transformation branch at a 12-month evaluation in which Army, in the Army National Guard category of the Army National Guard’s chief of staff National Guard and Reserve installations the Army Communities of Excellence office, all 33 participants are winners in are judged against Army priorities and Awards competition. the quest for excellence. Brig. Gen. Mark the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality The West Virginia Army Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin Program criteria. Participants are not National Guard, one of the Army National Guard, agreed. judged against each other. The assessment two finalists along with “Whether it’s first place or a lower considers the overall quality of military Wisconsin, was named the ranking does not matter to me as environment, facilities and services. overall winner by the much as the results we have seen The ACOE program, a holistic Two graduate from Department of the in our organization because of integrated business management Army. Wisconsin the strategic planning at the approach used to measure organizational advanced military studies is the first organizational level and the performance, is based on the idea that Two Wisconsin Army runner up. operational planning at the communities have the greatest success National Guard officers recently [brigade] level,” he said. supporting people when excellent services graduated from the School of “The real benefits of the are combined with excellent facilities in a Advanced Military Studies at Fort ACOE program are quality environment. Leavenworth, Mo., with a Master’s better organizational degree in Military Arts and Science. and individual The ACOE guidelines state that Maj. Virginia Egli, deputy readiness to meet Soldiers who are convinced their leaders intelligence director with the our domestic care about them and their families perform directorate of security and and federal their mission with greater confidence. intelligence at Joint Force missions. “We’re able to focus on systems and Headquarters in Madison, and Maj. “More processes and streamline them to better Stephen Pelicano, Headquarters than utilize the funding we get to sustain Company, 157th Maneuver anything or improve our readiness,” Anderson Enhancement Brigade, were among else, explained. 113 graduates of the year-long it’s a program May 19. Pelicano also validation This year’s placement continues a earned the Physical Fitness Badge of the string of recent top ACOE finishes for during the course of his studies. organization the Wisconsin Army National Guard. In The advanced military studies and our focus 2010 Wisconsin received a Silver Second program prepares students to become on continuous Place finish — sixth in the Army National agile and adaptive leaders capable improvement,” Guard. The state earned a Gold Third of critical and creative thinking he added. “I Place award in 2009 (fourth overall), and who can produce viable options to want to thank a Silver 1st Place award (fifth overall) in solve operational problems. The all of the leaders 2008. program focuses on building leaders and Soldiers The Wisconsin Army National Guard with a firm understanding of peer who continue was the overall ACOE winner in 2001, leadership; effective operational to support our and took third place overall in 1999 and planners grounded in doctrine who efforts in this area. 2000. think critically to solve problems The recognition and effectively communicate belongs to Wisconsin may participate in next recommendations to commanders; everyone in the year’s competition, but as one of this educating leaders who understand Wisconsin Army year’s top two finishers will be considered how to think, not what to think; and National Guard — for feedback only. building teammates who collaborate they should be All ACOE participants were honored effectively and do not seek credit for very proud of during a May 4 ceremony in Arlington, success. it.” Va.

@ease Express 25 May-June 2011 Beret out, Velcro optional under ACU changes C. Todd Lopez that they wore the majority of the time,” he to be added and removed at will — without Army News Service said. “And they didn’t like the fact it didn’t time-consuming and sometimes costly trips shade the sun and it took two hands to put to clothing alterations. The voice of the Soldier has been heard: on. And they didn’t like to carry two pieces Still, some Soldiers were displeased with the Army announced the patrol cap will of headgear to do different functions during Velcro on the uniform, Chandler said. replace the black wool beret as the default the day.” The Army’s new policy on attaching headgear for the Army combat uniform. The beret has been the standard headgear accouterments to the ACU will allow Also changing are the options for how for the Army’s ACU — the camouflage Soldiers to sew on rank insignia, the name Interim solution reached for Soldiers can attach certain items to their uniform worn by most Soldiers. But most tape and the service tape. Additionally, skill ACU shirts. Army Chief of Staff Martin E. Soldiers still needed to switch to the patrol badges such as the Airborne, pathfinder, combat identification badge Dempsey said Soldiers will soon be able cap based on the work they were doing — in combat action, combat infantryman’s, and The Army has announced to sew on name tapes, service tapes, rank a motor pool or in the field, for instance. expert infantryman’s badge will also be a temporary fix for indicating insignia and skill badges, instead of using Those Soldiers would have to carry two authorized for sewing. combat service on the Army Velcro. pieces of headgear with them, one in each Currently, those badges are provided in Service Uniform. According to the National Guard Bureau, pocket, and switch depending on what they painted metal and have to be pinned to the Soldiers who served in the changes are effective as of June 14. The was doing. In the field, they put on the patrol uniform. Pinning badges to the uniform can Afghanistan may wear the U.S. change comes 10 years to the day after the cap. Back on base, they’d have to switch to be a lengthy process because they have to Forces-Afghanistan badge beret was first authoized as standard head the beret. be aligned using a ruler. The new policy will (USFOR-A) until their authorized gear for the entire Army. The new policy will make the patrol allow Soldiers to sew those badges to the unit badge is produced. Likewise, The changes were made after Dempsey cap the standard. But the beret isn’t going uniform. Soldiers who served in Iraq may received input from Sergeant Major of the anywhere. It will remain as the standard Combat and unit patches on the left and wear the U.S. Forces-Iraq badge Army Raymond F. Chandler III, who had for the Army service uniform, and as an right sleeve and the U.S. flag will remain (USFOR-I) until their authorized been tasked to gather opinions from Soldiers optional uniform item with the ACU — at Velcro-only, the SMA said. Additionally, the unit combat service identification in the field. the discretion of commanders. ACU will continue to come with Velcro in badge (CSIB) is produced. “I am a scout for General Dempsey, who “They could choose to say for an event, the same locations it is now. Where a Soldier Soldiers serving in the asked me to look into everything a Soldier like change of command, that they want is authorized to sew something on, they will Philippines may wear the Special wears from the top of his head to the bottom them to wear the beret,” Chandler said. sew it on top of the Velcro. Operations Command, Pacific of his feet,” Chandler said. “These are The change in the beret policy will Chandler also said Soldiers had asked for (SOCPAC) badge until their changes that the field said they wanted to save the Army about $6.5 million over the changes to how cargo pockets are fastened. authorized badge is produced. see.” lifecycle of the ACU. New Soldiers had Velcro had been used — now, ACUs are This voluntary interim Typically, uniform changes come as a been issued two berets, now they will be available with buttons used to keep the measure allows Soldiers to result of a board that meets twice a year. But issued one. pockets closed. A similar change is being display their wartime service Chandler said issues surrounding both the Chandler pointed out that Soldiers didn’t discussed for how sleeve cuffs are fastened, and geographic location while ACU headgear and the use of Velcro were ask to eliminate the beret — just to change but Chandler said that decision will be made waiting for completion of changes the Army chief of staff wanted when it’s worn. by the July uniform board. authorized CSIBs. All badges to bring to the Secretary of the Army “Soldiers said we don’t want to wear it A more localized uniform decision will are tentatively scheduled to be immediately. with this uniform, but they do feel they look affect Soldiers assigned to the Army’s completed by December, 2013. Chandler said he spoke with “several very professional wearing it with the Army headquarters at the Pentagon in Washington, No other CSIB will be worn in thousand” Soldiers and also received service uniform,” Chandler said. D.C. There, Soldiers had been wearing the lieu of the authorized badge, comments via social media sites, like The Army implemented a mandatory ACU as their daily uniform. By as early and once the authorized badge Facebook. wear date for the ACU in April 2008. The as October, those Soldiers will show up to is available it becomes the only “I have also discussed this with my board ACU, a replacement for the Battle Dress work in the Army service uniform, Chandler CSIB authorized for wear by that of directors — the most senior sergeants Uniform, featured many design changes. said. Soldier. major of our Army,” Chandler said. Post- Included among those were a different cut “Our perspective is that this is the The CSIB is for the Army deployment combat uniform surveys were for the fabric, new placement for pockets corporate part of the Army,” he said. “The Service Uniform only, and is not used as a basis for the changes. and a new “digital” color pattern. business-part of the Army is done in the authorized for the Dress Green The No. 1 and No. 2 issues, Chandler Also included were Velcro fasteners that Pentagon, and as a professional there are uniform or the Army Combat said, involve the beret and Velcro. allowed pockets to be sealed shut, sleeves to certain standards of attire associated with Uniform (ACU). “The Soldiers didn’t like the fact that be cinched down, and rank insignia, name certain activities. For the business aspect of the beret was hot — it was not something tapes, service tapes, patches and skill badges the Army, it is the Army service uniform.”

@ease Express 26 May-June 2011 Meritorious service Three retired Guard Soldiers enter Wisconsin Army National Guard Hall of Honor Retired Brig. Gen. James Daley of Retired Brig. Gen. James Daley (top Janesville, retired Maj. Lynn Rasmussen photo), retired Maj. Lynn Rasmussen of Madison, and retired Chief Warrant (lower left photo) and retired Chief Officer 5 William W. Richardson of Warrant Officer 5 William W. Richardson Middleton, joined the prestigious (lower right photo) were inducted into Wisconsin Army National Guard Hall the Wisconsin Army National Guard of Honor during an induction ceremony Hall of Honor May 15 at Joint Force May 15 in Witmer Hall at Joint Force Headquarters in Madison. Pictured Headquarters in Madison. with the inductees are, left to right: With nearly 100 years of combined Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, commander military experience, each of the inductees of the Wisconsin Army National Guard; expressed their profound honor at being Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch; selected for the highest honor in the state and Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, the adjutant of Wisconsin. general of Wisconsin. Wisconsin National “I am honored and humbled to be Guard photos by Staff Sgt. Andy Poquette here,” Rasmussen said. “I have had the opportunity to work with great because it’s our job, and it’s important.” commanders and mentors over my career, Richardson had similar remarks about and I never would have gotten here his success. without them.” “When you surround yourself with Daley shared his secret for success people who enthusiastically share your throughout his military career. goals, you can accomplish anything,” “Do every job you’re given to the Richardson said. “Choose good people, Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, Brig. Army National Guard, attended the best of your ability,” he said. “Whether give them the tools they need to succeed, Gen. Don Dunbar, the adjutant general induction, along with family and friends it’s pushing a broom or taking the hill. and they will astound you with what they of Wisconsin, and Brig. Gen. Mark of the inductees as well as current and We don’t do this for glory — we do this can accomplish.” Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin retired Guard members.

@ease Express 27 May-June 2011 Meritorious service Veterans, Families, Retirees 732nd CSSB honored for deployment excellence Military, veterans family Military appreciation day Sgt. Tyler Lasure day at Milwaukee Zoo All armed forces personnel and their 112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment immediate family members will receive The Milwaukee County Zoo is offering free admission to the Dane County Fair free admission and parking to service on July 21, Military Appreciation Day. The Tomah-based Headquarters members, veterans and their immediate Proper military identification — military Company of the Wisconsin Army National families on July 3 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ID card, VA hospital ID card, or a copy of Guard’s 732nd Combat Sustainment Tickets are required and are available until separation orders — is required for free Support Battalion was recognized as the July 1 at local County Veterans Service admission. runner-up in the Chief of Staff of the Offices. There is a limit of 10 tickets per Army’s Deployment Excellence Awards family. during a ceremony earlier this month. During the Milwaukee County The 732nd took second place in the Zoo’s Military/Veterans Family Day, a Services, hours for National Guard small deploying unit Supermarket of Veterans Benefits will be category. The unit deployed to Iraq held at the US Bank Gathering Place from Retiree Activities Offices in 2009 and was in charge of eight 9.a.m. to 4 p.m. This event, sponsored by The Retiree Activities Office (RAO) companies — approximately 1,280 the Wisconsin Department of Veterans provides guidance and information to Soldiers — located at 13 contingency Affairs and the Milwaukee County retirees and spouses of retirees, of all operating bases throughout southern Iraq. A concrete “T” wall adorned with the ranks and services. The RAO provides 732nd Combat Sustainment Support Veterans Service Office, offers veterans Their mission also consisted of running one-stop shopping to learn about their information on military status, TRICARE, the second-largest supply support activity Battalion’s logo is moved into place military ID cards, survivor benefits, death at Camp Adder, Iraq Aug. 3, 2009 benefits. Veterans are advised to bring a and ammunition supply point in country. copy of their most current DD-214. reporting and much more. The DEA is a part of the Chief during the 732nd’s deployment. The Retirees may provide an e-mail Wisconsin National Guard unit earned The next Supermarket event will be of Staff’s Combined Logistics held in Madison Aug. 5-6. address, to include first name, middle Excellence Awards, a program that a top deployment excellence award. initial, last name, retired military grade awards achievement in the areas of Wisconsin National Guard file photo and branch of service to widma.retiree@ maintenance, supply operations, and the unit to spend almost 11 months in Veterans job fairs wisconsin.gov to be added to the RAO’s deployment. Iraq. e-mail data base. The RAO also has a “They are looking for units that have The award is a two-phase process. scheduled website that provides a lot of information deployed and redeployed to a theater of “You put in a packet and it goes up to Job fairs for veterans will be held for retirees and can be found at http://dma. operation and done so in a manner that be reviewed,” Yount explained. “If you across the state in July. wi.gov/retirees. exceeded the standards,” said Maj. Mike are chosen, then they send a team to the At these events, veterans will be The Madison RAO is located at Joint Yount, the battalion’s support operations armory to see the different products on able to meet with local, state or federal Force Headquarters, 2400 Wright Street, officer during the deployment. hand that made the unit successful.” agencies who may have employment Room 160, Madison, Wis. 53704. The The goal is to share and adapt the The unit’s ability to work cohesively, opportunities; visit with local employers RAO is open Tuesdays and Thursdays processes and standard operating focus and move toward a common goal about job opportunities; leave resumes 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. except on holidays. procedures used by the top units with helped the unit take runner-up, Blaha said. or job applications with employers; Their phone number is 608-242-3115, other units throughout the areas of The honor of being recognized is not lost have short interviews with employers 1-800-335-4157, ext. 3115, DSN 724- operations. on the unit. about their job skills; apply for state and 3115. Contact the RAO with questions or “The DEA is intended to find practices “It’s very prestigious,” Yount said. “It’s federal benefits; receive information and for assistance. in both training and logistics to be shared for the unit, not the individual — as a talk with representatives about loans, The Milwaukee RAO is co-located with other units based on pre-deployment, unit, every person was responsible for the health care and education benefits; and with the 128th Air Refueling Wing, deployment, deployment activities, and award.” visit with Wisconsin Job Center Veteran General Mitchell Air National Guard redeployment,” said Lt. Col. John Blaha, “It is a great honor for the members staff, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Base, 1835 E. Grange Ave, Bldg 512, commander of the 732nd during the of the 732nd,” Blaha added. “It shows Affairs staff, and County Veterans Service Milwaukee, Wis., 53207. Their phone deployment. their pride, work ethic and commitment to Officers. number is 414-944-8212. Their e-mail One of the reasons the 732nd was excellence.” Veterans job fairs will be held July 15 at address is [email protected]. The recognized is that the unit spent less than “It is good to see the Wisconsin Army the Army National Guard armory in Beloit, Milwaukee RAO is manned by volunteers 30 days at the mobilization site, Blaha National Guard get recognition for what July 20 in Bristol, and also July 20 at on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 said. The short mobilization allowed we always do,” Yount said. American Legion Post 52 in La Crosse. a.m.-2 p.m.

@ease Express 28 May-June 2011 Parting shot

Brig. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, presents Green Bay Packers President Mark Murphy with a Minuteman trophy in thanks for the continuing support the Packers organization has shown to the Wisconsin National Guard. Dunbar said that, like the Wisconsin National Guard, the Green Bay Packers are a community-owned and community-backed organization. Wisconsin National Guard photo

@ease Express 29 May-June 2011