Iowa National Iowa Guard / January 2016

Annual training at JRTC - Fort Polk, La.

Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 1

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January 2016 Th e Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tim Orr Public Aff airs Offi cer Col. Greg Hapgood Wellness Camp Editor/Designer Master Sgt. Duff McFadden Master Sgt. Duff E. McFadden State Photographer Staff Sgt. Chad D. Nelson

Th e Warrior Ready is an offi cial publication authorized under the provisions of AR 360-1. It is Features 6 published electronically by the Iowa National Guard State Public Aff airs Offi ce on a monthly basis. News and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those New State Command Chief of the Adjutant General of Iowa, Staff Sgt. Darvwin Seehusen the National Guard, or the Department of Defense.

Follow the Iowa National Guard on Social Media 8 www.facebook.com/IowaNationalGuard or at @IowaNatGuard on Twitter

Raven Training Address all submissions to: Sgt. Renee Surentine Th e Iowa National Guard Warrior Ready Magazine State Public Aff airs Offi ce 7105 NW 70th Ave. Johnston, Iowa 50131-1824 9 » Feeding the troops at JRTC or contact us at: by Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen http://www.iowanationalguard.com/contact_us.htm Sometimes it takes a drill sergeant attitude Comm: (515) 252-4582 to take total chaos and organize it into a DSN: 431-4582 working plan, especially when it comes to feeding hungry Soldiers in a fi eld environ- ment.

9 » Soldiers 'Keep on Truckin' by Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen It was a Herculean task to get that many OnOn tthe Cover personnel to Fort Polk on time so they were More than 2,000 Soldiers of mission-ready for their JRTC rotation. It the 2nd2 Brigade, 34th Infantry took more than nine months of logistics Division,Divi with subordinate planning to make it happen. andand supporting units from acrossacro the state, recently completedcom three weeks of 13 » 185th ARW fi tness challenge annuatan training at the U.S. by Capt. Jeremy J. McClure Army'sA Joint Readiness With bright shirts and names like, 'Th e TrainingT Center in Fort Wing Nuts' and 'Th e Young and the Rest Pokl,P La. (Iowa National of Us,' Airmen with Sioux City’s 185th Air Guard photos by Sgt. Refueling Wing competed in the base's 2nd Christie Smith and Capt. Annual Fitness Challenge. SamuelSamuel Rollins)

2 | Warrior Ready | January 2016

Warrior Ready Iowa National Guard monthly electronic publication Debut of the new Iowa National Guard Warrior Ready magazine

Protecting Iowans since 1839, the Just as the Iowa National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, more closely Iowa National Guard was built upon has grown and evolved, so has aligns with Maj. Gen. Tim Orr’s a foundation of strong units, strong this publication. Today marks the philosophy of the Iowa National families, strong civilian employers, introduction of Warrior Ready, Guard being “Mission Focused – and strong communities. From the newest incarnation of the Warrior Ready.” Iowa National Guard command our simple origins as protectors of In order to maintain our information tool. settlers on the early Midwestern organizational readiness, both now prairie, we’ve since evolved into Being good stewards, we can and in the future, we must constantly global guardians. no longer justify the expense of focus on maintaining our readiness, Traditionally, the Iowa National physically printing a 24-page Army infrastructure, and the Guard’s strategic vision has also hard-copy publication due to the realignment of our force to achieve grown and evolved in order to escalating costs of newsprint and greater organizational effi ciencies manage our actions and activities postage and shrinking Department and maximize limited resources. of Defense budgets. Readers will across the organization, enabling Warrior Ready, is yet one more continue to fi nd their premiere us to build new capabilities to strong organizational tool to help source for Iowa National Guard ensure the Iowa National Guard propel the Iowa National Guard into news and information, only in remains relevant, responsive, and the 21st century. ready to meet emerging threats and a unique, easy-to-use electronic accomplish assigned missions. format.

For more than 50 years, The Iowa The Iowa Militiaman was Militiaman has served as the previously issued as a quarterly, 24- Adjutant General’s communications page publication, the Warrior Ready Happy tool, keeping our Citizen-Soldiers will now be published or issued on and Airmen better informed of that a monthly basis to keep our Soldiers strategic vision, current military and Airmen informed. Reading issues, as well as the commander’s Our new title, which refl ects a more intent. contemporary perception of today’s

Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 3 Wellness Camp produces strong by Master Sgt. Duff E. McFadden Th is disturbing forecast sounded a loud and height/weight failure. It’s custom-tailored clear call for Iowa National Guard offi cials, for those Soldiers who wish to continue or Spc. Jerrod Luetje, of Ogden, and it wasn’t long before Camp Dodge’s their military career and are dedicated to Iowa, his life-changing epiphany innovative Wellness Camp was born. improving their overall health and wellness. F came within fi ve to six weeks after taking part in a relatively new Iowa Na- “All across our nation, as well as the Th e curriculum provides Soldiers every- tional Guard program. National Guard, we have a lot of health thing they need to know about nutrition issues,” said Master Sgt. Gary Waters, the basics, ranging from portion sizes, to shop- “I was able to pass my Physical Fitness test Iowa National Guard’s State Retention ping at the grocery store, to making the in April for the fi rst time since I had knee Non-Commissioned Offi cer in Charge. right decisions whether cooking or dining surgery in late 2012. Since I passed the out. In addition, Soldiers receive invaluable “Within the Iowa National Guard alone, we Army Physical Fitness Test, I was able to instruction on a wide variety of exercise have Soldiers who can’t pass their Physical reenlist and stay on as a full-time techni- Trainin (PT) test, so they’re not eligible to cian,” said Luetje. extend, which drops the numbers of our “I could actually see the changes in my overall strength, so our readiness is just a body,” he added. “My gut was shrink- little bit lower. “I never knew it was s ing and my upper body was developing “So, we’re now off ering specialized classes muscles I never knew I had. Overall, my addressing nutrition, healthy choices and body just felt better.” foods that are good for y lifestyles and working out. Overall, it’s all According to Iowa National Guard pro- about these Soldiers becoming more health- It’s also very easy to cha jections, more than 600 Soldiers could conscious persons, as opposed to just being conceivably be separated over the next able to pass a PT test, or maintain their things that can make several years, either from failing the Army’s height and weight standards,” Waters said. Physical Fitness Test, or not meeting height/weight standards. By failing to act, Th is four-day program specifi cally targets in nutritiona the Iowa National Guard could lose nearly Iowa National Guard Soldiers with less nine percent of its force to circumstances than six years of service, who’ve previously its leadership could actually impact. failed their PT Test and/or are fl agged for

4 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 ger, smarter, healthier Soldiers

options, to include resilience training, volunteered to attend the Wellness Camp percent in Louisiana in 2012. Th irteen swimming, and proper physical fi tness after her husband participated in the Au- states (Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, techniques. gust 2013 camp. She thought if she went Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missis- through the course, it would be easier for sippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, While each Soldier departs the camp both of them to make any necessary health Tennessee, and West Virginia) had preva- with all the necessary tools to meet APFT alterations. lence equal to, or greater than, 30 percent. and height/weight requirements, more Iowa’s prevalence fi gure was 30.4 percent. importantly, it’s up to each Soldier to “I went into it very open-minded. Th e pro- Luetje admits his Camp experience had its translate those lessons into signifi cant gram was really new and I wasn’t sure what good and bad moments. lifestyle changes, enabling them to make to expect. I thought it was going to be very While the “best part was the fact the better wellness choices the rest of their life. PT-focused, but there was a lot of nutrition instructors and staff had very broad focus as well,” Merrifi eld said. Pfc. Scarlett Merrifi eld, of Des Moines, knowledge of what they were presenting, “I never knew it was so easy to substitute and they practiced what they preach,” he foods that are good for you and taste good also noted his least favorite part was the too. It’s also very easy to change the way swimming exercise, since “I’m not a strong o easy to substitute you cook things that can make all the dif- swimmer, whatsoever,” he said. ference in nutritional value. A Physical Military Trainer with the 132nd you and taste good too. Now, Merrifi eld said, her family’s eating Fighter Wing, Iowa , habits have changed for the better. Tech Sgt. Anne Downing served as an in- ange the way you cook “We’re cooking at home more and when we structor, helping demonstrate proper fi tness do go out, we order things that are better routines and fi tness habits for recent Camp e all the difference for us,” she said. “We also get out and do participants. something every day, even if it’s just a walk al value." around the neighborhood.” Figures from the Centers for Disease Wellness Camp - Pfc. Scarlett Merrifi eld Control and Prevention show self-reported continued on page 15 obesity among U.S. adults in 2012 ranged from 20.5 percent in Colorado to 34.7 Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 5 ommand Chief Master Sgt. Tim Cochran assumed duties as the sixth State Command Chief of the Iowa CAir National Guard during a Change of Responsibility ceremony at the Joint Forces Headquarters in Johnston, Iowa. Brig. Gen. Jennifer Walter, Chief of Staff , , presided over the ceremony, which saw the outgoing State Command Chief Master Sgt. Lowell (Ed) Schellhase Jr., transfer his responsibilities to Cochran. Schellhase retires fol- lowing 43 years of military service.

“I’m very excited for the opportunity to represent all Airmen within the entire state,” said Cochran. “We have a state full of awesome Airmen and I look forward to celebrating their successes. I also look forward to the collaboration and synergy gained for our servicemen and women with Command Sgt. Maj. Rachel Fails and the Solders of Iowa.”

A 33-year Air National Guard veteran, Cochran has already hit the ground running. Photos by “My fi rst goal is to meet all the Airmen in the state and start Tech. Sgt. Linda K. Burger building relationships. We need to ensure our Airmen are 6 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 receiving eff ective performance feedback and focus them on personal initiative and discipline for success,” Cochran said. “We also need to guide them to proactively acquire develop- ment training and professional education, plus ensure they've identifi ed mentors to help them plan for success and achieve- ment of their career goals,” he added.

Cochran, a Martensdale, Iowa native, began his military career with the Iowa Air National Guard in November 1981 when he enlisted into Des Moines’ 132nd Fighter Wing. He completed basic training and technical training in 1982 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, and Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., where he was Honor Graduate at both schools.

He returned to the 132nd Fighter Wing, where he served in various full-time positions within the Maintenance Group to include jet engine mechanic, intermediate maintenance super- visor, fuel systems supervisor, fabrication element supervisor, Brig. Gen. Jennifer Walter reads Chief Master Sgt. accessories element supervisor, maintenance operations super- Timothy Cochran the Command oath, with his wife intendent and quality assurance superintendent. In August Teresa at his side, as he assumes responsibility as the 2012, he became the 132nd Fighter Wing Command Chief Command Chief Master Sgt. of the Iowa Air National Master Sergeant. Guard. Schellhase enlisted in the Air Force as a high school senior on Dec. 18, 1972, and after graduating from Cedar Falls’ North- ern University High School in 1973, he attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. In July 1973, Airman Schellhase attended basic electronics and advanced radio maintenance training at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Miss., where he graduated with honors.

In March 1977, Schellhase separated from the active duty and began work at the Iowa Department of Public Safety Commu- nications Division as a radio technician.

In October 1977 he joined the Iowa Air National Guard, 132nd Communications Flight as a radio maintainer. In 1984 he became a full-time technician with the 132nd Communica- tions Flight.

He was promoted to Chief Master Sergeant on Sept. 15, 1994. Maj. Gen. Timothy Orr,The Adjutant General of the Iowa In September 2006 Schellhase deployed to Kirkuk, Iraq as the National Guard, presents Doreen Schellhase, wife of 506th Air Expeditionary Group superintendent, which was the Chief Master Sgt. Ed Schellhase with a certifi cate of ap- highlight of his military career. While deployed, he was selected preciation during Schellhase's retirement ceremony held as the 132nd Fighter Wing Command Chief. He served in that iat the Camp Dodge Pool Pavilion on July 11. Schellhase position until July 2011 when he was selected as the fi fth State retires after 42 years of service. Command Chief for the Iowa Air National Guard.

He was also very active in his community, proudly serving on In the meantime, responsibility for the Airmen of the Iowa Air the Norwalk Fire Department for 25 years as a fi refi ghter-EMT, National Guard rests in the able hands of Iowa's newest State captain, assistant chief and fi re chief. Command Chief Master Sergeant.

He and his wife, Doreen (Holmes), reside in Norwalk and “I lead from the front and by example,” Cochran said. “I’m have three children, Michelle, Jennifer and Daniel, and seven passionate about the profession of arms and serving others. It’s grandchildren. He said he looks forward to retirement and a privilege and honor to defend the constitutional values of our doing the things he loves, like scuba diving, traveling, camping great nation and we need to pass the baton onto our future gen- and fi shing. erations in even better condition than when we received it.”

Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 7 UAV training provides Annual Training 2015 invaluable air assets Fort Polk, La. Joint Training Readiness Center

by Sgt. Renee Surentine 135th Public Aff fairs Detachment n a hot summer day in central Louisiana, Iowa Army ONational Guard Sgt. 1st Class Chris Jorgensen, of Garrison, Iowa, oversees the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) training of his 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division Soldiers.

Iowa and Minnesota Soldiers recently trained at the Joint Readiness Training Center Spc. Jared McKenna, Company A, 1st Battalion, (JRTC) in Fort Polk, La. to obtain 133rd Infantry, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, fl ight validation on the Raven UAV from Dubuque, Iowa, prepares to launch an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle at Fort during their two-week annual training. Polk, La., during annual training at the Joint Readiness Training Center. McKenna is a Certifi ed Operator and Navigator for the reconnaissance The Soldiers run tests and checks on the UAV system prior to hand- aircraft. (Iowa National Guard Photo by Sgt. Renee Seruntine) launching it. Once it’s airborne, they use the remote ground station Classroom training includes a safety somebody out to fl y solo, that individual controller to guide the UAV’s fl ight. brief and a discussion on air space knows what he’s doing.” They also learn to work with the control so they’re not fl ying the same The mission of the aircraft is to collect Falcon View computer program, airspace as manned aircraft, as well as reconnaissance and photos, observe a which is a multi-platform mapping and dialogue on some of the other hazards selected area and fi nd the enemy before mission planning application used with particular to operating at JRTC, said sending out troops. the reconnaissance aircraft. Jorgensen, a small unmanned aerial system master trainer. “Ravens give the comany commander “Before every launch we have a series a reconnaissance asset he or she can of checks we have to do to make sure “Today we had to do the validation control,” said Jorgensen. “They can use everything is working well with the fl ights so the JRTC observer-trainers it to specifi cally look at things they need bird before it goes up in the air,” said can make sure these guys know what to know as a company commander, so Iowa Army National Guard Sgt. Ray they’re doing,” said Jorgensen. “So they can better utilize their soldiers to Deojay, of Huxley, Iowa, a certifi ed when they go out to the maneuver accomplish the mission.” UAV operator with the Headquarters box, they’re not fl ying into where Blackhawks come in, or spend days and Headquarters Company, 334th Besides military applications, these looking for a downed Raven.” Brigade Support Battalion, Iowa Army same skills Soldiers are learning today Natinoal Guard. “Once they complete this fi eld in Louisiana can later be used back home in Iowa as part of emergency While Soldiers go through a two-week exercise, they’ll be able to operate response efforts. These same UAVs can UAV course to get certifi ed, they are independently without people also be used to provide real-time images still unable to fl y alone. They have to observing them,” said Jorgensen. “The to fi rst responders during tornados, fl y with a master trainer until they meet people at JRTC, for safety reasons, fl oods, or other natural disasters. unit requirements to fl y solo. want to make sure before they send 8 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 The care and feeding of 2,000 Iowans Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen 135th Public Affairs Detachment ometimes it takes a drill sergeant attitude to take total chaos and Sorganize it into a working plan, especially when it comes to feeding hungry Soldiers in a fi eld environment. In this case, it takes a former paratroop- er, who supervises hospitality staff in the entertainment industry and plans and organizes formal events when he’s not serving his country. Sgt. 1st Class John DeVore, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Compa- ny, 2/34 Brigade Special Troops Battal- ion, Iowa Army National Guard, has the monumental task of feeding more than 2,000 Soldiers on a daily basis during the Iowa National Guard’s Joint Readi- ness Training Center rotation at Fort Polk, La. Iowa Army National Guard cooks unload milk into a refrigerated con-tainer during a JRTC rotation. These Soldiers operate a dining facility which Devore, from Columbus Junction, Iowa, supervises 36 Soldiers at a consolidated prepares hot meals twice a day, and more than 4,000 meals each day. (Iowa dining facility on Forward Operating National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen) Base Warrior. They prepare hot meals twice a day from three Containerized Kitchens (CK) and each is capable of “It’s (meal service) non-stop for two- fast. “The biscuits and gravy makes serving up to 800 Soldiers per meal. and-a- half hours.” said Devore. “It’s a you feel at home.” said Rouse. “It a real morale booster.” Devore explained during the fi rst meal continuously moving line.” there’s no orderliness for Soldiers try- Devore said they’re serving around Sgt. Brian Butterfi eld, a logistics ing to get their meal, condiments, and 2,400 meals per service and had a high specialist from Sumner, Iowa assigned drinks. This causes bottlenecks at differ- of more than 4,800 meals over one day. to Company E, 334th Brigade Support ent stations which delays Soldiers from Battalion, really enjoys the air-condi- getting served and seated, so they can The food service workers do a great job tioned dining area. “The A/C is a nice enjoy their meal. communicating with each other and are touch. (It’s) the fi rst one I’ve had in the excited about working together to serve fi eld.” said Butterfi eld. “It’s better than Devore spent three days determin- Soldiers, said Devore. eating in the fi eld.” ing the most effi cient way to bring the meals from the kitchens to the service After each meal they perform an after- Butterfi eld especially liked the per- line, optimizing the fl ow of Soldiers in action review to discuss ideas on how to sonal–sized pizza the dining facility and out of the dining tent, feeding them provide better service. offered. “They give us the nutrients as quickly as possible in a constantly- we need and a hot meal beats an MRE moving line. “The food service personnel appreciate (pre-packaged Meal Ready to Eat),” when Soldiers tell them they’re doing an said Butterfi eld. “It takes old-school mess hall guid- awesome job,” said Devore. ance,” said Devore with a smile on his Not everyone agrees a hot meal beats face. Staff Sgt. Brad Rouse, a combat engi- an MRE. neer from Prestonsburg, Ky., assigned to All of Devore’s team members are the 577th Sapper Company, 201st Engi- Spc. Craig Borden from Primghar, cooks, and each of the CKs has six neer Battalion, Kentucky Army National Iowa, assigned to Battery A, 1st Bat- personnel prepping and cooking meals Guard, stated the service is pretty quick talion, 194th Field Artillery, said the during each service. Cooks not actu- and the dining facility has a variety of dining facility offered plenty of food ally working in the kitchens are serv- food available. and meals were good, but “my favorite ing meals or making sure the drink and meal is an MRE. You can’t mess up an condiment stations are stocked. Rouse likes waking up to a hot break- MRE.” Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 9 Iowa National Guard Soldiers ‘Keep on Truckin’

By Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen Nearly 6,000 National Guard, Reserve 135th Public Affairs Detachment and Active Duty Soldiers and Airman from 24 states, including more than or Pfc. Taylor M. Christensen 2,000 from the Iowa Army National of Eagle Grove, Iowa, his fi rst Guard, participated in this rigorous, Fannual training was hotter than relevant and realistic three-week what he expected. training exercise. This includes Iowa Soldiers participating in the training as “I didn’t think it would be this hot,” well as those providing support. Christensen said. “I cannot stress enough how this has been a team effort across all areas of It was a Herculean task to get that many the operation.” said Peterson. Christensen is a truck driver with the personnel to Fort Polk on time with the 2nd Platoon, 2168th Transportation right equipment so they were mission One of those tasked with hauling Company, 1034th Combat Service ready for their JRTC rotation. It took Support Battalion, 734th Regimental equipment to Fort Polk was 1st Lt. more than nine months of logistics Brett Blazicek from Urbandale, Iowa, Support Group, Iowa Army National planning to make it happen. Guard. His unit was tasked with platoon leader for 2nd Platoon, 2168th Transportation Company, Iowa Army supporting Iowa National Guard Sgt. Maj. Jeff Peterson, Logistics National Guard. Soldiers during their Joint Readiness Sergeant Major for the Iowa Army Training Center (JRTC) rotation at National Guard, said more than 800 “(My Soldiers) had to come together as Fort Polk, La. by hauling vehicles and pieces of equipment equaling more a team. (They) had a great attitude and equipment from Iowa to Fort Polk and than 1,000 military and commercial accepted the challenge. I couldn’t be by providing logistics and security loads, were shipped to Fort Polk from any prouder.” said Blazicek. support from Forward Operating Base Iowa and other participating states. In Forge to units out in the fi eld. addition to over-the-road-trucking, 25 Blazicek's platoon hauled more than commercial planes and 69 buses were 70 pieces of equipment from Iowa “We put forth the effort to accomplish used to bring Soldiers and equipment including commercial trailers and eight the mission. Everyone worked here for the rotation. fuel tankers, consuming more than together.” said Christensen. 7,000 gallons of fuel in the process. 10 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 Iowa employers gain new appreciation for demands on their Citizen-Soldiers By Sgt. Christie Smith sites, including the Military Operations tary member,” Rue said, “Our military 135th Public Affairs Detachment in Urban Terrain site, which is a mock members have to balance their family village designed to replicate a Middle life, their employment career, as well he old Army adage “hurry up East village. as their military career — and if we can and wait” was the fi rst lesson get employers onboard to help support TIowa employers learned during The employers also had a chance to the military aspect of their employees, the Employer Support of the Guard see a medical facility on FOB Forge, it's a win-win situation.” and Reserve (ESGR) “Boss Lift” this designed to treat mass casualties. summer. In addition to the Boss Lift, ESGR Of the 21 Iowa employers from busi- provides other services to both service After experiencing a few weather nesses both large and small, 20 had no members and their civilian employers. delays at the Iowa Air National prior military service. Guard’s 132nd Wing at the Des Moines “The ESGR program is really com- Bill Ehm of West Des Moines, Iowa at- prised of three main elements,” Rue Airbase, 21 civilian employers and tended the Boss Lift as a representative three ESGR volunteers, who serve as explained. “We have our employer out- from the Iowa Department of Natural reach, …military outreach, …and then liaisons between servicemembers and Resources. their civilian employers, boarded a we have our mediation services where our ombudsmen will mediate issues that KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft headed “Having not been in the military, I re- might occur between employers and ser- for Fort Polk, La. ally didn't have any knowledge of what vicemembers.” goes on,” Ehm said. “And I have to say The Boss Lift, fl own by the Iowa Air coming here has given me a vision that National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Mark Hennessey, an ESGR Area Chair- it's much more complex and involved person from Robins, Iowa, described Wing from Sioux City, Iowa, gave em- than what I ever imagined.” ployers a 24-hour glimpse into a day ESGR's role as both ambassador and advocate for servicemembers in the in the life of their Iowa National Guard Rue stressed the importance of the civilian workforce. Citizen-Soldiers as they conducted Boss Lift for employers, who may not annual training. The ESGR-guided tour fully understand the demands their “[This program] has a huge impact on provided employers a dining facility Citizen-Soldiers face. employers,” Hennessey said. “It really breakfast, meal-ready-to-eat (MRE) gives them a lot of insight and a full, lunch, and a behind-the-scenes look at “This program is critically important new appreciation for their servicemem- various training sites. because it aligns the interest of the bers.” employer with the interest of the mili- ESGR State Chair Dick Rue of Des Moines facilitated the Boss Lift to Fort Polk.

“The Boss Lift program is a core ele- ment of what we do; it allows us to bring employers and Soldiers and other reserve component members together to see what they do on a daily basis,” Rue said.

The bosses were given a traditional military breakfast at the Forward Oper- ating Base (FOB) Warrior dining facil- ity, followed by a presentation from the1st Battalion, 194th Field Artillery (with units in Fort Dodge, Algona and Estherville). After seeing the Field Artillery's 105mm Howitzer cannons, the employers toured several training Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 11 Air National Guard 132nd Wing, Iowa Air Naitonal Guard

First visit since conversion 132nd welcomes Governor Branstad, Lt. Gov. Reynolds during tour of Wing

by Tech. Sgt. Linda K. Burger During the presentation, the 132nd This facility may also be used in the 132nd Wing Public Affairs Wing Commander, Col. Kevin Heer, future by the Iowa Army National explained how over the last two years Guard to store and maintain UH- he 132nd Wing, Iowa Air of conversion, unit members have been 60M Black Hawk and UH-72 Lakota National Guard welcomed Iowa resilient and maintained a spirit of helicopters. Governor Terry Branstad and enthusiasm resulting in one of the most T During the tour, Iowa offi cials learned Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds effi cient conversions in Air National about Iowa National Guard domestic to the Des Moines, Iowa airbase this Guard history. He quoted the Director of operations capabilities, including past summer, for a tour of the Wing's the Air National Guard, Lt. Gen. Stanley demonstrations of the Medical Counter capabilities. Clarke, who said, "You are doing it right." Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) Program, Civil This visit included a visual Heer also spoke about the 132nd being Disturbance Kit, Disaster Response demonstration of the Wing's domestic effi cient custodians of their facilities. Mobile Kitchen, Fatality Search and operations capabilities and a brief of The 132nd hangars once used to store Recovery Team, Mobile Emergency the Wing's three missions: Intelligence and maintain F-16 Falcon aircraft have Operations Center (MEOC), Urban Surveillance Reconnaissance; since been repurposed into the 132nd Search and Rescue, Civil Engineering Defensive Cyber Operations; and Fire Department, where they also store Debris Clearance, and Prime Power. MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft fl ying an RC-26 and C-12 aircraft. operations. 12 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 Air National Guard 185th Air Refueling Wing, Iowa Air Naitonal Guard

Master Sgt. Jason Gamble counts the number of different sections of the base had to complete physical burpees completed by Staff Sgt. John Van Beest during challenges over a 1.5-mile course. (Air National Guard the 2nd Annual 185th Fitness Challenge. Teams from photo by Capt. Jeremy J. McClure) Fitness challenge focuses on fun, competition by Capt. Jeremy J. McClure a great way to get people excited about heads with a patriotic themed wing nut. 185th ARW Public Affairs working out," said Rose. "This is a great way to work on team ith bright shirts and names The event covered a 1.5-mile course cohesion and challenge each other," like, 'The Wing Nuts' and in which teams completed physical said Staff Sgt. Phillip Simonsen, a W'The Young and the Rest of challenges like carrying 35-pound member of the 185th Security Forces Us,' Airmen with Sioux City’s 185th Air kettle bells, push-ups, sit-ups, burpees, Squadron. Refueling Wing competed in the base's and then displaying their marksmanship Simonsen was on the winning team, 2nd Annual Fitness Challenge. using airsoft rifl es. 'The Sheep Dogs,' who captured the title "The Fitness Challenge is a fun way for "The teams had to complete each stage with a time of 19 minutes, 25 seconds. our members to compete and challenge before they could continue to the next They received a traveling trophy for each other while building morale," said stop," explained Rose. their accomplishment. Master Sgt. Val Rose, a member of the Team members named their own teams "Even though the teams were made Logistics Readiness Squadron and one and came up with unique shirts for the up of people from different sections, of the competition’s organizers. competition. The winners of the Best everyone on base cheered on all the "With the unit's commitment to Costume went to 'The Wing Nuts' who competitors and that is also what this improving fi tness, we found this to be painted their faces and adorned their was about," said Rose. Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 13 Family Readiness Sara Christoffel, Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant The deployment cycle: It's not just for the servicemember amily Readiness is when families and organizations for support. are prepared and equipped with Be open to those you trust about your Fthe skills and tools to successfully feelings, doubts and fears. Prioritize what meet the challenges of military life. is critical and pace yourself. Be realistic. Keep learning. Anticipate, prepare and Getting Ready: Start by building a con- recognize stress and know when you need nection as a family. Being “Family Ready” support from available resources and and staying “Family Strong” is something reach out. the entire family needs, well before the announcement of mobilization and de- Keep children connected during deploy- ployment. ments by getting them involved and in touch with your servicemember. Main- As a Family: Th e servicemember and his/ tain communication with the FRG and her family need to work together to deal the unit. with the challenges of a Military Family Homecoming: Your servicemember is With the unit: Understand the overall getting ready to come home. Th e unit service of the military, as well as the is beginning the post-confl ict/mobiliza- stringent schedules and demands of its military and life during deployment, tion processing in-theatre during the servicemembers. they’re likely to be less anxious. Discuss redeployment phase. Th is is for Rest and plans in case of an emergency at home To Programs, Agencies, Organizations Relaxation (R&R) or return to home sta- or overseas, get your fi nances in order, and Resources – Locate and explore dif- tion (Active) or demobilization station know where your families’ important ferent agencies and resources that serve (Reserve). the military and their families. Become documents are located, resolve your fam- At this time, preparations are being made actively involved in your unit’s Family ily problems before the servicemember for your servicemember to return home. Readiness Group (FRG). leaves and how you are going to stay in contact. Th e important thing to remember is It’s helpful to learn and understand the reunions are more than just about your Remember, everyone has a right to their diff erent parts of the deployment cycle. servicemember coming home. It’s a ma- feelings and should support each other. Emotions change throughout the de- jor event in their life, as well as his/her ployment cycle and it’s important to Deployment: At this time the service- family. Accommodations will have to be understand where you fi t in that cycle member has left their home station and is made by both the family and the service- and recognize the changes in your family, in the theatre of operations, performing member to make the transition easier. servicemember and yourself. their mission. Just as you prepared for your service- Pre-Deployment: Th is stage includes the It’s imperative to remember to keep the member to deploy, you'll have to prepare train-up/preparation and mobilization lines of communication open as much as for his/her return. Th ere ares many emo- part of the deployment cycle. Th ese parts possible to foster themilitary family con- tions taking place during this time, and focus on unit and Servicemember prepa- nection. Th e strength of the connection each one is normal. Connection and rations for the military mission and on is linked to the reunion process, reinte- communication are just as important family readiness. Preparation and com- gration of the Family and the mental and during reunion and reintegration, as munication are paramount and integral emotional health needs of all involved. tduring pre-deployment and deployment. to the success of the milit;ary family. Th e Manage the separation. Take good care of As a family, you will be building your family should prepare, just as the service- yourself and your family. Take advantage “new normal.” Most likely, things will member does, for their mission. of the military support system, such as, not return to how they were before your It’s important when family members talk FRGs and Family Assistance Specialists military separation. People grow and about the servicemember’s duties in the (FAS). Look to your local community change as time passes and as they experi- 14 | Warrior Ready | January 2016 ence new and diff erent things. As you are tional, nerve-wracking and frustrating Th e primary thing to remember is, every preparing your family and adjusting, you experience. It’s important to remember situation, servicemember, family member will be adjusting your fi nances as well. to be fl exible and patient for the service- and deployment is diff erent. What may member and family to fi nd their “New work for one, doesn’t necessarily work for Again, always keep in touch with the unit Normal.” all, and what may have worked for one and its FRG during this phase. deployment, doesn’t always work for a It’s also imperative to keep the readjust- deployment that may follow later. Th e Post-Deployment: During the post- ment process gradual. Keep the lines of deployment and reconstitution phase, the family dynamic and make-up may even communication open to build the family be diff erent then it was before. servicemember is readjusting to work and connection even stronger. Stay connected family life, while the family is readjusting to the unit and the FRG during this time Finally, be fl exible, understanding and to their being home. to be aware of any events, resources or or- knowledgeable of the resources available Reintegration can be an exciting and ganizations that can help the family and to the servicemember and the family. joyous time, but it can also be an emo- servicemember smoothly reintegrate.

Wellness Camp continued from page 5

Besides establishing a daily fi tness regime, Downing suggests keeping an exercise diary, or a notebook. “If you set a goal, write it down,” Down- ing said. “Write down what you do every day, making sure you’re tracking that goal and writing it in a book. If you don’t, then you’re most likely going to forget about it, or where you are in that goal. Tracking it in a notebook is the best thing I would say to take with them.” Sgt. 1st Class Micahel Burton, (left) from the Recruiting and Retention After six camps and nearly 250 partici- Battalion, demonstrates the differences between sauce pans as part of a pants, Waters can easily cite a wealth of cooking class. Soldiers and Airmen taking part in the Iowa National Guard's Wellness Camp success stories. Wellness Camp are taught some easy recipes that are smart, nutritional, “I was in Knoxville when I saw a young yet easy to prepare. Tech Sgt. Anne Downing (right), from the 132nd Wing, man who previously couldn’t pass his PT instructs camp participants on the proper procedures for using kettle bells, test. I said ‘Hey, you’re looking pretty as well as tips on maintaining a good exercise routine. Downing also serves slim and trim. How are you doing?’” as a Physical Military Trainer for the Air National Guard. (Iowa National Guard photos by Master Sgt. Duff E. McFadden) He told me, “Pretty awesome. I passed my PT test and signed up for my fi rst 5k road race.’” He received an e-mail back from a young “Th en the Soldier adds, “I feel so much Wellness Camp graduate in Sioux City. better.’ And he was just here at Camp Waters pointed out while fi ve kilometers “Hey, you probably didn’t expect a re- Dodge during our last class. He’s tak- may not seem like a lot to long distance sponse from me,” the Soldier wrote, “but ing these lessons he’s learned at Wellness runners, for a young man who used to I’m down 25 pounds already.” Camp and he and his family are applying struggle with running just two miles, 3.1 it to their daily lives,” Waters said. miles is quite an accomplishment. “A couple of weeks later, I’m in Sioux City and that same young man comes “And that’s what we preach to them: On another occasion, after completing up and tells me, ‘I’m down another eight Goals,” he added. “Regardless of what a pilates class, Waters sent out a note pounds from the last e-mail I sent you. your goal is, it’s got to be yours, you have saying, “I’ve never tried this before. I My wife and I are eating healthier, and to own it. We don’t want you to just pass don’t know if anyone else has, but give it we’re working out together. We’re really the PT test, we want you to be a healthier a shot.” motivated to do this.’ person.”

Warrior Ready | January 2016 | 15 Visit your Iowa Gold Star Military Museum ince opening in 1985, the Iowa Gold Star Military neatly stored on hangers and shelves in the behind-the-scenes Musuem, located at Camp Dodge, in Johnston, Iowa, storage area. Shas served to honor the heroic service of all Iowa veterans, from the Mexican War through the current overseas • The museum has approximately 30,000 square feet of ex- Contingency Operations. hibit and storage space.

In fact, the mission statement for the 30-year old old mu- • A special exhibit detailing the history of the Iowa State seum is "To honor and depitct the militaryexperience of Patrol is also on display. all Iowa citizens in all wars, homeland defense and Iowa • The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is the only federally- service. recognized repository for military artifacts in the state of The Museum's purpose is to collect, preserve and exhibit Iowa. materials that illustrate the story of Iowa's military past, from • And…best of all…admission is free! statehood to the present. The Iowa Gold Star Military Mu- seum honors the heroic service of all Iowa veterrans.

Your Iowa Gold Star Military Museum has a lot to offer. For example, did you know… Hours of Operation • More than 23,000 people visited the museum in 2013. Monday - Friday • There are more than 300 military small arms, ranging from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. American and German weapons, to Spanish and Chinese armaments, displayed in the gun room. Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • More than 6,000 books about warfare and the equipment used to wage war reside in the Brig. Gen. Ed Bird Memorial research library. (Closed Sundays & holiday weekends)

• There’s more than meets the eye – approximately 140,000 Phone: (515) 252-4531 donated artifacts, ranging from clothing to mementos, are 16 | Warrior Ready | January 2016