The Magazine of Operation Jump Start ~ Volume 1: Issue 9, September

Operation JumpStart Year In Review A desert sentinel is a “guardian of the desert.” This magazine tells the story of our Desert Sentinels, standing watch over the border and those who support Operation Jump Start - Arizona

Desert Sentinel is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of Desert Sentinel are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Departments of the Army and/or Air Force, or the Adjutant General of Arizona. Desert Sentinel is published under the supervision of the Operation Jump Start – Arizona, Public Affairs Office, 5636 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85008-3495.

To submit articles, photos and content, please email: [email protected]

OPERATION JUMP START - ARIZONA Chain of Command

YEAR IN REVIEW Gov. Janet Napolitano Joint Task Force Arizona...... 4 Commander in Cheif Army Maj. Gen. David Rataczak Task Force Raven...... 5 Arizona Adjutant General

Task Force Tucson...... 6 Army Col. Robert Centner JTF-Arizona Commander

Task Force Yuma...... 7 Air Force Col. Wanda Wright JTF-Arizona Deputy Commander - Air Task Force Diamondback...... 8 Army Col. Don Hoffmeister Saying Goodbye to Brig. Gen. Littleton...... 12 JTF-Arizona Deputy Commander - Army Army Command Sgt. Maj. James Elifritz By The Numbers...... 16 JTF-Arizona Command Sergeant Major

Army Col. Patrick McCarville TF Raven Commander DEPARTMENTS Air Force Col. Mark Hughes The View from the Top...... 3 TF Tucson Commander Army Lt. Col. Robert White Photo Gallery...... 10-11 TF Diamondback Commander

MWR...... 14 Army Maj. Paul Babeu TF Yuma Commander CBP News...... 17 STAFF My Life, My Guard...... 18-19 Air Force Capt. Kristine Munn Public Affairs Officer

Army Sgt. Benjamin Cossel Editor

ON THE COVER... Army Spc. Monette Wesolek Operation Jump Start - Ariz. is characterized by its four main el- Layout and Design Assistant ements; Entry Identification Teams, Badges To Border, tactical infrastructure and aviation support. Its primary mission; defend Air Force Master Sgt. Laura Bosco the Southwestern Border. Since early 2006 when President Staff Writer/Photographer George W. Bush directed the to augment U.S. Customs and U.S. Border Protection, nearly 16,000 Soldiers Army Sgt. Ed Balaban and Airmen have answered the call in Arizona. Staff Writer/Photographer P a g e 3 Year In Review The View From The Top

s I reflect volunteers willing to defend our homeland. of Arizona and its National Guard but in a true Aback on In Arizona, nearly 16,000 Soldiers and Air- testament to your commitment, each and every this historic men, from 51 States and Territories, have as- one of you has responded in stellar fashion. year and the tre- sisted the Border Patrol with critical skill sets In the year ahead, the National Guard will mendous impact including Entry Identification Teams (EIT), continue to build upon its already strong rela- Operation Jump engineering and aviation support, and vehicle tionship with the fine agents of Customs and Start has had maintenance. We have built 16 miles of pri- Border Protection. Though our Guard force on our nation’s mary fencing, installed 42 miles of temporary numbers reduce as we enter into the second year security, I am and permanent vehicle barriers, and constructed of this mission, we will continue to build and overwhelmed or improved 39 miles of roads. Our efforts have improve the tactical infrastructure so vital to by contributions aided Border Patrol in reducing the number of protecting America’s Southwest border. of so many that illegal border crossings by 27 percent, the con- This tactical infrastructure coupled with our played a key fiscating of 846,246 pounds of drugs, andre- EIT teams, aviation assets and badges to bor- role in our suc- lieving 101 agents of administrative and logisti- der guardsmen will continue to deter those who cess. This mis- cal support functions so they can perform law would cross illegally into our country. We will sion is notable on several levels, consider; the enforcement duties on the border. approach our mission with equal parts compas- collaboration between the National Guard, U.S. The road to success hasn’t been easy. The sion and resolve, offering aid and comfort to Customs and Border Protection, the Department harsh border conditions claimed the life of Spc. those in need, such as those caught in the un- of Homeland Security, and the overwhelming Kirsten Fike, Pa. National Guard, who gave her forgiving Arizona landscape, and stopping cold support provided by the 54 States and Territo- life serving our country while assigned to an those who would poison our streets with drugs. ries; their Governors, Adjutants General, and EIT site in the Yuma Sector. The deployment I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen. Truly, this is a of such a large number of troops, on relatively and participate in Operation Jump Start and to mission of epically historic scope. short notice, tested our logistical abilities. For serve with each and every one of you. Audaces The National Guard’s presence on the border many, this is a first-time experience working in fortuna iuvat. is a testament to our relevance and effective- a bonafide joint environment, utilizing the com- ness. We have demonstrated that we are su- bined resources of the Air and Army National Col. Robert Centner perbly suited to conduct this mission having the Guard as one team for one mission. While an skills, the capabilities, and the highly-trained overall benefit, OJS has asked much of the State Commander, JTF - Arizona

Command Sgt. Maj. James Elifritz our nation, or filling the ranks of mechanics and water. Command Sgt. Maj. JTF - Arizona maintenance technicians that raised the level of Live the Army U.S. Customs and Border Protection operational and Air Force effectiveness, you have succeeded and are to be values each and ith half of our mandated border security commended for your accomplishments. everyday and I mission behind us, I would like to take W But we’re only half way there. know that we this opportunity to congratulate all the Soldiers I charge all of my Soldiers and Airmen to will complete and Airmen from the many states that have come continue on the path they’ve already forged. As this mission in to Arizona in support of Operation Jump Start. American service members, we know all too well such a way as to Whether durational or rotational, your commit- that the mission isn’t over until we are back at our write yet another ment to excellence and professionalism in ac- home stations, released from orders. I expect my fine chapter in complishing this challenging mission is a credit junior and senior non-commissioned officers to the history of the to your training, your leadership and the high enforce the standard, continue taking charge and National Guard. caliber of today’s Armed Forces. carrying out the mission. Be safe out there Whatever task was asked of you - standing Adherence to standards will ensure that we and by the way, watch at the Entry Identification Team (EIT) complete this historical mission with the same sites or manning the computer systems that en- Semper Fi!! success in which we began. abled Border Patrol agents to return to the “front Ensure that all Soldiers and Airmen know their lines,” engineering and construction duties that mission and complete it to the fullest of their abili- improved the miles of roads along the border, all ties. Treat every day like a day in a combat zone - the while building the fence that lead to dramatic ensure your troops have all their equipment, wear decrease in the number of illegal crossings into all the proper protective gear and drink plenty of

Operation Jump Start - Arizona on the web at http://www.azguard.gov/PublicAffairs/PAO%20Pages/ojs/ojs.htm Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

t the epicenter of any military op- Aeration is the command and control component, strategically maneuvering ele- ments like pieces on a chessboard, main- taining overall accountability and staffing resource requirements. At the heart of Op- eration Jump Start - Arizona is Joint Task Force Arizona, located at the Papago Park Military Reservation in Phoenix, where command and staff ensure this nationally visible mission succeeds. Of the 6,000 Soldiers and Airmen obli- gated to , New , , and Arizona for OJS, 40 percent of those resources were tasked to Arizona. With the state already making a heavy contribution to the Global War on Terrorism, JTF Ari- zona found itself in the unenviable position of requiring staffing assistance from other states as Arizona was only able to staff nearly one-third of the total with organic A Soldier with JTF Arizona puts troops through scenario based training prior to their assign- personnel. ment to one of four task forces within Arizona. The scenario training covers such potential scenes as an angry farmer or a mother and child suffering from dhydration. Processing so many troops necessitated a robust Reception, Staging, Onward Move- struction vehicles and other items, the mis- tions officer Army 1st Lt. Jason Kimbrough ment, and Integration (RSOI) program. At sion would come to a grinding halt. awake at night. the onset of the mission, the RSOI process “This has been one of the most challeng- “The first five to six weeks on mission didn’t work as seamlessly as many in TF ing missions I’ve ever been apart of,” said were some of the longest days of my life,” Arizona would have liked. With a year of JTF Arizona logistics officer, Army Lt. Col. Kimbrough said. experience under JTF Arizona’s belt, to- Peter Cullum. Kimbrough and his staff use a combina- day’s RSOI is vastly improved. “With the different requirements of the tion of civilian and military technology to “We’ve rebuilt the RSOI process from Army and Air Force, making sure all the facilitate communication across the state. the ground up,” said JTF Arizona com- proper equipment is acquired, accounted As with Cullum, Kimbrough works in con- mander, Army Col. Robert Centner. for and sent down range has been a mas- cert with the task force communications One key improvement - a liaison offi- sive undertaking,” Cullum said. shops resolving any issues as they arise. cer is assigned to each inbound Soldier and “And then there’s the issue of making As Kimbrough looks to the year ahead, Airman, ensuring all necessary paperwork sure that all of those Soldiers and Airmen he sees the challenges for his shop and the is completed before the troops even report. have food and lodging,” he added. operation as a whole. “The liaison officer has greatly dimin- Cullum and his J-4 staff work closely “My challenge will be to continue pro- ished the amount of time personnel spend with task force S-4 shops to keep a steady viding reliable communication to everyone at the RSOI and has also reduced the num- flow of material and resources within the while reducing our expenditures,” Kim- ber of individuals disqualified from the state. With no government housing avail- brough said. mission,” said JTF Arizona deputy com- able, JTF Arizona worked with commercial Communications, logistics, administration, mander - Army, Col. Don Hoffmeister. agencies to provide housing for OJS per- they’re all problems that ultimately find their Once through the process, individuals sonnel. way to the desk of the JTF-AZ commander, are assigned to one of four task forces with- Spread across 389 miles of Arizona bor- but as Centner looks out on the year ahead, he in the state. Staffing the task forces with der, communications between those de- sees obstacles of a larger, more dire nature. enough bodies is just one logistical chal- ployed forward and higher headquarters is As annual training season draws to a close lenge JTF Arizona faces. Without proper the type of “stuff” that keeps communica- (JTF Arizona, continued on pg. 15.) equipment - Interceptor Body Armor, con- P a g e 5 Year In Review

quired to demonstrate proficiency in dusty landings and power management. If re- quired, they also train on Kiowa mission equipment. Off-site landings are part of the mission during the day and flying below 500 feet above ground level (AGL) is re- quired periodically to confirm targets on the ground. Training keeps instructor pilots extremely ask Force Raven is the aviation compo- Maintenance busy as the bulk of the aircrews are rotation- Tnent of Arizona’s Operation Jump Start Kiowas operate out of Silver Bell Army al, averaging 90 days on mission, making commitment. Among several others, the Heliport in Marana, Ariz., while Black- standardization and safety a challenge. Stan- mission includes augmenting existing U.S. hawks base out of Phoenix. Maintenance for dard operating procedures and an Aviator’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP) avia- the aircraft is provided by the Army Aviation Procedure Guide were developed early in tion assets with OH-58 (Kiowa) and UH-60 Support Facilities (AASFs) co-located with the mission as a countermeasure, and each (Blackhawk) helicopters. the aircraft. Aircraft and crews push forward aircraft is assigned a durational standardiza- Initial Planning to support the two sectors which are divided tion instructor and safety officer. At the outset of the mission, TF Raven into nine different areas along 389 miles of Hazard maps, located in each flight op- commander, Army Col. Patrick McCarville Arizona border. erations planning area and carried on the immediately began coordination with the Five fuel sites operate in remote areas aircraft, are a daily part of mission planning. National Guard Bureau on sourcing this along the border, reducing “dead head” Crews are also required to complete weap- unique mission. With 65 percent of Arizo- time, maximizing support to CBP agents. ons training with the M-9 service pistol. A na’s aviation personnel currently deployed, Refueling personnel travel to these remote strict rule of force exists and weapons are the bulk of the force would have to come sites daily conducting recirculation and fuel only used in self-defense. Pilots also fly with from other states. As mission analysis began testing to ensure no contamination. body armor. at the national level, McCarville began the Operations Commanders conduct thorough mission same process in Arizona. Through a weekly air tasking order briefings prior to every flight ensuring risks Kiowa aircraft are required to perform (ATO), a CBP air boss, using a process are mitigated. A special risk assessment area reconnaissance both day and night. Ex- developed jointly by CBP and TF Raven, form, developed exclusively for the OJS perience supporting counter drug operations generates aviation missions. Highlighting mission, addresses the unique hazards pos- indicated aircraft needed compatible radios, CBP’s requirements, the ATO is prioritized sibly encountered here. Heat, high-density a Forward-Looking Infrared Radar (FLIR) allowing commanders to schedule crews altitude, wire hazards, crew endurance while system, Nitesun searchlight, radar altimeter, and aircraft to support higher priority mis- flying with night vision goggles (NVGs) high skid gear and a moving map. sions first. and FLIR are some of the more challenging Blackhawk missions include insertion/ex- Crews must be available both day and aspects of the mission. The more difficult traction of CBP special operations elements, night, 24 hours a day, year round. Due to missions are flown at night in the Kiowa air- search and rescue, casualty evacuation, and the increased effectiveness, CBP generally craft. movement of supplies internally and exter- requests Kiowa support at night. FLIR capa- To get the best FLIR picture, the OH-58 nally. bility at night is critical to finding undocu- flies at 500 ft. AGL or higher. There is little “The biggest challenge in the beginning mented aliens (UDAs) or drug smugglers contrast and no lights in these remote areas. was providing immediate, desperately need- in the desert. A rotation from the Alaska The moving map is critical for situational ed, aviation support to CBP while building Guard, supporting the OJS mission with awareness, hazard avoidance and prevention the task force,” said McCarville. “I had no FLIR-equipped Blackhawks, was able to of border incursions. battle staff initially.“ support nighttime operations but generally, Temperatures, which can exceed 120 de- Now, with a complete command staff, the the Blackhawks support the mission during grees on the ramp, remain over 100 degrees at 215 authorized Soldiers and up to 11 aircraft daylight. night in the summer and density altitudes over of TF Raven focus solely on the mission. Training 5,000 feet are common in some areas. Com When pilots arrive in Arizona, they’re re- (TF Raven, continued on pg. 15) Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

ith one year in the history books “Being able to be creative for the origi- “We started with a picnic table on a drill Wand one year yet to write in the Op- nal training mission and being a part of the floor, a stick drive and 25 combat lifesaver eration Jump Start chapter of the National creation process of the original assessment bags. Now we have a full staff of medics Guard, leadership at Task Force Tucson teams has been very rewarding,” said Gris- doing health and welfare at the EIT (Entry took a minute to reflect on the previous 15 wold. Identification Team) sites and armories,” months. For Nogales Border Patrol Station officer Carter said. Task Force Command Sgt. Maj., Rick in charge, Army 2nd Lt. Jacob Condon, the All those surveyed agreed that the Na- Griswold noted that spread across such a greatest reward during his tour was watch- tional Guard’s presence in the Tucson sec- large area, communications down to the ing his Soldiers succeed in accomplishing tor has had a direct impact on Border Pa- field level proved challenging even under their mission goals while task force medical trol’s ability to put agents back in the field. the best of circumstances. But with that, non-commissioned officer in charge, Army “The EIT sites are a critical part of this Griswold relished the opportunity to create Sgt. David Carter, enjoyed seeing how far mission. The impact and results are docu- new training experiences for his Soldiers the whole task force has come since the be- mented and very evident,” said Griswold. and Airmen. ginning of the mission. Condon put some specific numbers be- hind the command sergeant major’s state- ment. “We have been able to free up 101 Bor- der Patrol agents to perform their duties in the field with our presence,” he said. Through the year, the mission hasn’t always been easy, fraught with challenges requiring some creativity on the part of leadership. “Working in a joint environment has definitely been difficult,” said Carter who integrated Army and Air Force medics into a single medical unit. For Army Chaplain (Maj.) Michael Sum- mers, sometimes just getting to his troops, navigating the terrain, proved a formidable obstacle. “Access to the appropriate vehicles for the terrain we faced to get to our guys has been difficult,” said Summers. Airmen of Task Force Tucson stand at an Entry Identification Team checkpoint watching for Summers noted that timely processing of undocumented aliens attempting to cross the U.S.- Mexico border. (TF Tuscon, continued on pg. 15.) P a g e 7 Year In Review ed at the Marine Corps main post, with our maintenance sections stationed at the Border Patrol sector headquarters.” said Emmons. In a hallmark of the operational commit- ment made by all the different agencies and services making Task Force Yuma, Emmons credits much of the task force’s success to their seamless integration. “Regardless of the color of our uniform, hen President George W. Bush visited field who are no longer required to process we are all here to support our nation. We Wthe Yuma sector in May 2006, an- the hundreds of UDA’s apprehended each have all come together and accepted the nouncing the beginning of Operation Jump day,” Emmons said. mission to provide this critical service to Start (OJS), he witnessed a location under But for all of TF Yuma’s success, the road our country during a time of national crisis,” siege – undocumented aliens (UDA) flood- from where they were to where they are was said Emmons. ing across the border with an understaffed a rocky one. With the success of year one of OJS, Em- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Emmons said that initially, communica- mons and the troops of TF Yuma look to agency unable to stem the tide. tions proved to be a severe complication. continue building on the accomplishments One year later, Bush returned to Yuma to tout “The austere environment of FOB (for- that have made the Yuma sector a national the success of OJS, specifically highlighting ward operating base) Cannon did not pro- triumph. the successes there. Since the formation of vide an easy or secure solution for com- Said Emmons, “We will continue to re- Task Force Yuma in June 2006, CBP has munications, which greatly hampered the inforce our achievements through the EIT witnessed a nearly 69 percent reduction in effectiveness of our operations,” explained mission while maintaining our excellent the apprehensions of undocumented aliens Emmons. vehicle readiness rates for the military and in the Yuma sector. Emmons said that with the degraded CBP fleets. Through effective command and “…it’s amazing progress that’s been communications, processing orders and control, we will maximize the resources made,” praised Bush. other personnel-related tasks were difficult. in our reduced footprint to further promote “We have come back to this spot because Overcoming the communications roadblock, positive results for the remainder of the OJS it’s where I was the last time. And I was servicemembers used personal cell phones mission.” most impressed by your strategy, even more and military-issued Blackberry’s to stay in impressed by the fact that it’s now being contact. implemented,” he said. Communication “Our Entry Identification Teams (EIT) problems were ex- are directly responsible for dropping the acerbated by head- number of apprehensions of undocumented quarters sections aliens by 68.2 percent,” said Task Force located in disjoint- Yuma commander, Army Maj. Christopher ed facilities around Emmons. the city. Emmons went on to note the overwhelm- “FOB Cannon ing success of the Badges to Border program was located on the where Guardsmen work in typically admin- Marine Corps aux- istrative functions relieving CBP agents of iliary post while those duties. Through the utilization of the the personnel and program, 27 agents have returned to opera- some of the supply tional capacity. sections were lo- “Service members are responsible for cated at the Yuma returning 27 agents back to the field for di- armory. Our op- Tech. Sgt. Robert Stefko, a communications specialist assigned to the rect enforcement activities. On top of these erations and the North Dakota ’s 119th Wing, with Task Force Yuma checks equipment as part of the Badges to Border mission where Sol- 27 agents, the Yuma sector has additionally rest of our supply diers and Airmen serve in typically administrative functions allowing been able to provide another 35 agents to the section was locat- Border Patrol agents to perform their primary field operations Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

hey are the most geographically spread In addition, TF Diamondback trains its started,” she added. Tout of Arizona’s four task forces. Their troops as welders, combat life-savers (CLS) “This diverse task force has really learned mission is, arguably, the most debated and in other critical skill sets. Daily safety to speak each other’s language,” said task around the water cooler and reported in the briefs are conducted by the non-commis- force commander, Army Lt. Col. Robert news media. They are the engineer Sol- sioned officer corps and each Soldier and White. diers and Airmen of Task Force Diamond- Airman is checked to ensure they have, and “We’re no longer blue and green, we’ve back, charged with, among several tasks, use, proper protective equipment. really come together to become one,” said constructing the most visible symbol of Training and logistics for a heavily ro- White. the immigration issue - the physical fence tational force were just some of the many “So what does that makes us…teal?!” separating the United States and Mexico. challenges TF Diamondback overcame to White added with a chuckle. “We build fences, temporary and per- accomplish their mission. Overall, keeping pace with the different manent vehicle barriers, pedestrian fences, “Priorities within Border Patrol change priorities from the various Border Patrol make road improvement, whatever Bor- due to sector needs but Task Force Dia- sectors TF Diamondback serves has proven der Patrol needs,” said TF Diamondback mondback is flexible - when we have to the greatest difficulty. executive officer, Army Maj. Elisabeth Ji- move our equipment to a new location, our “Different people want different things but menez. sourcing for a project changes. With the we’ve adjusted accordingly and accomplished “We support Border Patrol, they’re our changing priorities, the time-to-task chang- a mission that many thought we couldn’t,” customer,” she added. es,” said Jimenez. said Jimenez. For the period ending July 2007, TF With such different cultures inherent be- Indeed, praise for TF Diamondback has Diamondback has completed 16 miles of tween the two services that make up TF Di- come from the highest levels inside the D.C. primary fencing, 4.75 miles of secondary amondback, a learning curve for everyone (TF Diamondback, continued on pg. 15.) fencing, and improved 36.28 miles in ad- was inevitable. dition to the 2.33 miles of new road since “There have beginning operations in early 2006. definitely been “Right now we utilize about 375 pieces some differ- of heavy equipment ranging from earth ences between movers to rough terrain forklifts,” said Ji- the services menez. that we’ve had Jimenez noted that some of the equip- to get used to,” ment came from outside the military re- she said. quiring TF Diamondback to certify their “A first ser- troops on the new machinery before they geant in the got behind the controls. Army is a little “Military construction equipment is a different than a little bit different in the controls and op- first shirt in the eration than some of the civilian equipment Air Force. That we use, so we had to spend time training was something our troops in their proper operations,” Ji- I had to learn menez said. when we first A vehicle barrier in Nogales, Ariz. contructed by Task For Diamondback. P a g e 9 Year In Review Operation Jump Start Military Appreciation Night Saturday, October 13th, 7:00pm at the Jobing.com Arena Vs.

$19 scores you: $32 scores you: •Upper-level seat (reg.$28) •Lower-level End seat (reg.$55) •Free commemorative Coyotes Hat ($20 value) •Free commemorative Coyotes Hat ($20 value) (package valued at $48) (package valued at $75) Directly After the game everyone is invited to take a slap-shot down on the ice! *This will be available if 100 people go to the game from Operation Jump Start so tell your friends to go! FREE Commemorative Hats!! A $20 Value!

For more information or to order by phone, call Rebecca Felty @ (602) 267-2813 or fill out order form and fax attn: Rebecca Felty (602) 629-4668 email: [email protected]

Name: ______Phone: ______Company: ______Address: ______City: ______Zip: ______Email: ______

# of Upper Level Tickets ($19) ______# of Lower-level Tickets ($32) ______

Method of Payment: Check (made payable to Phoenix Coyotes) Visa MasterCard Card # ______Exp. Date: ______Check #: ______Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

Watching EITthe Border Presidential2007 visit Task Force Raven Equipment Transport

Repeater Team EIT Task Force Diamondback Building Roads Long Range Surveillance

Badges to Border IT Support

EIT Training Task Force Diamondback Fence Contruction P a g e 1 1 Year In Review

Spc. KirstenMemorial Fike

Task ForceBuilding Diamondback Fences

Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius EIT

“From such great heights” “EverybodyEIT say cheese!”

Border Wall 2006 Task Force Diamondback Presidential visit

Badges to Border “Is that regular or unleaded?”

Arizona Govenor Janet Napolitano Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

OJS Bids General Fond Farewell P a g e 1 3 Year In Review

eaning back in the chair behind his Llarge wooden desk, Air Force Brig. Gen. Ulay Littleton, Jr., looks relaxed as he finishes up his phone conversation and turns his attention to the task at hand. On this Aug. 3, morning, the task at hand will be one of the last for the general as com- mander, Joint Task Force Arizona. Since October 2006, Littleton has been the command and drive behind Operation Jump Start – Arizona. “We’ve done one heck of a job in the past year bringing together all the Soldiers and Airmen needed to complete this mis- sion,” said Littleton. With nearly 400 miles of area to cover, Littleton realized immediately that help from outside Arizona was needed to meet the requirements of U.S. Customs and Bor- der Protection. “We just couldn’t meet the mission with Brig. Gen. Ulay Littleton, Jr., commander Joint Task Force Arizona is presented the Arizona Distinguished Service Medal, Aug. 3, by Arizona Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. David P. Rataczak the resources we had available in Arizona,” during a ceremony at Russell Auditorium at Papago Park Military Reservation. he said. “It’s just astounding to think that worked through the initial growing pains. Littleton and his staff, in conjunction through it all, the Soldiers and Airmen out “We’ve definitely come together, side by with the National Guard Bureau, sent out there never loose their compassion.” side, towards the common goal of accom- the call and the responses began flooding While the Soldiers and Airmen under plishing this mission and we will continue in. the command of Littleton performed their to work through any and all of the chal- “We’ve had Soldiers and Airmen from mission admirably, coordination of such a lenges that working in a joint environment 51 states and territories represented in Ari- large undertaking hasn’t been without it’s produce,” he said. “This has definitely been zona for this mission,” he said. share of roadblocks to overcome. one of the most rewarding experiences of “And these Soldiers and Airmen have “The logistics of so many personnel my career.” performed nothing short of heroically in – how to feed them, lodge them, make sure For his service, Littleton was awarded this mission,” Littleton continued. they are properly taken care of has been the Arizona Distinguished Service medal Littleton recounted the many stories of one of the largest challenges my staff and I by Arizona Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. bravery and dedication to duty that has faced over the past year,” he said. David Rataczak. While he relinquishes characterized the troops under his com- And of course, Littleton said, bringing command of day-to-day operations to mand noting, most recently, the story of a together two very different services tested Army Col. Robert Centner, Littleton prom- Soldier who rescued three individuals from his leadership. ises he’ll never be too far away. drowning. “In my 34 years of service, I’ve only ever Said Littleton, “I’ll be around in an advi- “Beyond our stated mission of Entry dealt with the Air Force,” said Littleton. sory status. I’ll never be too far away that I Identification Teams, building tactical- in “Each of the services comes to the table can’t help out however needed.” frastructure and such, this has been a hu- with its own set of skills and abilities,” he manitarian mission,” Littleton said as he said. “Leveraging them both into a cohe- explained that not only do the troops on sive team has been an obstacle to my lead- the border help with security they often ership,” he said. times find themselves rescuing individuals Undeterred, Littleton and his staff trapped in brutal surroundings. Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007

parking/campgrounds, recreational vehicle storage, vehicle storage, vehicle resale lot, equipment rental (camping gear, boating & fishing equipment, sports equipment, lawn and garden equipment, rug cleaners and cleaning supplies), archery and skeet ranges, swimming facilities, tours (shopping, hiking, horseback riding), ticketing services (con- certs, movie theaters, sports events, performing arts, special events), discount tickets for major tourist attractions, both local and regional (Disneyland, Sea World, Arizona- Sonora Desert Museum). And if you can’t find it at one of the MWR locations, Piskacek wants Soldiers and Airmen were invited to Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, May 5, to you to talk to your 1st Sgt. or 1st take part in military appreciation activities. Diamondback, Coyotes and tickets to other Arizona Shirt. sports teams is just one of the many services provided by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation facilities “If you’re interested in doing across the state. something, let us know,” Piskacek said. hank you Arizona! The state of Arizo- na to see the Phoenix Coyotes hit the ice, “I realize a lot of times that the Tna has welcomed Operation Jump Start been privileged to see comedian George troops just don’t have the time to coordi- (OJS) and its more than 15,000 National Carlin’s second-ever show in Yuma, Ariz. nate everything involved with MWR ac- Guardsmen, some with families in tow, and been on the track at Phoenix Interna- tivities and that’s where they need to get with gracious and open arms. In addition tional Raceway when National Guard car us involved. If we don’t know, we can’t do to Arizona’s full array of natural beauty driver, Casey Mears, burned rubber there, anything to help,” said Piskacek. and available activities, including one of April 20. Overall, the numerous MWR activities the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, The Arizona National Guard, in conjunc- participated in by OJS troops have been an numerous local communities and organiza- tion with the four active-duty military in- overwhelming success, some, much to the tions have reached out to show their sup- stallations around the state; Luke Air Force surprise of Piskacek. port for our men and women in uniform. Base, Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Fort “When we went down to Davis Monthan “MWR is so important, especially on a Huachuca, and Marine Corps Air Station AFB to visit the Air Force boneyard we had mission like this where everyone is work- Yuma, have accepted the OJS troops as a lot of Air and Army personnel very excit- ing so hard,” said Air Force Master Sgt. their own allowing Guardsmen and their ed about being there. That really surprised Kim Piskacek, a first shirt with Task Force families to enjoy the privileges afforded to me,” Piskacek said. Arizona’s personnel section. “Even the all active duty personnel. As OJS enters into it second year, MWR smallest things help lift the troops’ over-all The major military installations in Ari- will continue to play a vital role ensuring morale,” she said. zona maintain full-service Morale, Wel- that Soldiers and Airmen are able to play as Over the course of the last year, Soldiers fare, Recreation offices and/or outdoor rec- hard as they work. and Airmen of OJS have hit the ballpark reation centers that also provide most of the taking in Diamondback and Scorpions following services to National Guardsmen games, braved the cold of Jobing.com are- and their dependents: recreational vehicle P a g e 1 5 Year In Review (TF Tuscon, continued from pg. 6) (TF Raven, continued from pg. 5) Rescues financial paperwork has been challenging as bined with zero illumination, mountainous Many UDAs are woefully unprepared for well but it’s all worth it when he thinks about terrain, monsoon storms and gusty winds, the deadly summertime heat. Aircrews often the Thanksgiving he spent with Soldiers from the challenges are significant. come upon individuals suffering the full ef- the New York National Guard at the Nogales Crew selection is a critical component of fects of heatstroke and transport them to the Armory. the safety program. Flying at night along the nearest medical facility. TF Raven has par- Summers also encapsulated the views of border can be a significantly different envi- ticipated in 35 of these life saving events. many of Task Force Tucson’s leadership on ronment for pilots unfamiliar with the terrain. Border Security the uniqueness of the OJS mission when he ex- Only the most proficient pilots can safely op- The ultimate objective of the mission is to plained what has made his experience special. erate in this environment. secure the border. The Yuma Sector has ex- “We’re making a difference,” said Summers. “Pilots who come in from other states of- perienced a 68 percent decrease in UDA ap- “We’re protecting our borders from security ten don’t realize how different it’s going to prehensions this past year. Drive through traf- threats. At the same time, there’s been lots of be from their experience back home,” said fic decreased by 53 percent during that same opportunity for cross-cultural awareness and commander of the OH-58 detachment, Army period. Deaths in the Yuma Sector remain communication.” Maj. George Harris. far below totals from previous years with 11 Carter agreed with the chaplain and elabo- “They haven’t experienced the total dark- deaths in the sector so far, a 59 percent reduc- rated. ness of the nighttime desert. Most aren’t ac- tion. “This is a group of people that have come to- customed to the heat and density altitudes,” Overall, OJS has been very rewarding gether to accomplish a mission. From where we he said. for the crews and pilots of TF Raven. started to where we are today, we are a force to Harris said pilots new to the mission are “I haven’t had one Soldier complain about reckon with.” trained for two weeks before they’re ready to any aspect of the mission,” McCarville laud- (TF Diamondback, continued from pg. 8) serve as a mission copilot. ed. “They don’t focus at all on the adverse en- beltway. Jimenez credits much of the success to “Guys who started out with the attitude that vironment. They put their head down and get task force leadership. ‘I’m ready to go – I don’t need this training,’ it done. I’m extremely proud of all of them.” “(Lt.) Col. White has this ability to just get in- come back from a mission saying ‘Wow... I side a task to figure out what truly needs done,” wasn’t ready for that!’” said Harris. (JTF Arizona, continued from pg. 4) said Jimenez. “And he has this ability to recog- Primary Responsibilities nize the unit’s strengths and then places them in The job of TF Raven is providing aerial for National Guard units across the coun- the correct positions.” support to CBP. The primary mission of try, Centner sees a return to a problem that plagued JTF-Arizona from the onset - peo- In addition to praising leadership, Jimenez TF Raven pilots is to help identify UDA’s, noted that the many skill sets, both military and including potential terrorists and high-threat ple. civilian, the entire task force staff brings to the weapons, from entering the United States. “At this time, rotational units are not com- table have been an incredible asset to the opera- Drug smugglers, who may be armed, add an ing. My biggest concern right now is force tion. additional element of risk. Generally more flow,” said Centner. “But as long as we are able to keep CBP hap- All told, 62 units from 35 states have come to aggressive in their movement and operations, Arizona to help with the tactical infrastructure these smugglers will do everything they can py, then we’re doing our job. And right now, border mission. As work continues on the miles to avoid capture. They use vehicles, horses, we’re doing our job,” he said. of fence, road improvements and other projects, mules, and their backs to transport illegal con- “Our crews are busting their butts out there the troops of TF Diamondback look forward to traband, drugs and humans across the border. with all the work on the fencing and roads. the future and another year filled with success. Scouts, located on high terrain, serve as look- That’s something tangible, something you can put your hands on and it will be there “Every state that’s come here has been outs for maneuvering elements of UDAs on thrilled to take part in this mission. They under- the ground. They create diversions - forcing even when we’re gone,” said Centner. “And stand the logistical challenges but they know one group of UDAs into capture, thereby oc- we will continue to meet the expectations of they’re doing good work. We fully expect that cupying CBP agents, while a second group Washington and CBP, we will continue our to continue,” said Jimenez. moves along a different corridor with their success in this mission.” White agreed with his executive officer. illegal contraband. Integrating a helicopter “This task force has a ‘can do attitude,’ with the ‘maneuver force’ has become an they’re mission oriented and they get the job interdiction force-multiplier for CBP ground done,” said White. agents ... ‘bread-n-butter’ for Army aviation. Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007 7,600 Task Force Tucson By The Numbers

Task Force R aven 101 50,000

8,560 4,062 23 2,645 1,447

36

BadgesBorder to

Task Force Yuma Rescues 39,050 CBP Assists

Hours flown HoursOH-58 flown UH-60 Facilitated UDA Arrests Soldiers/Airmen rotated through EIT sites Facilitated Drug Seizures 90% Average number of sites since mission start 88%

27

UDA

Apprehensions VehicleYuma Readiness StationVehicle Readiness Badges to Border Wellington Station Task Force Diamondback 36.28 miles 25.51 miles 15.68 miles 14.20 miles

4.75 miles 3.88 miles 2.33 miles 4

Water Wells

Primary Fencing Barriers Barriers Temporary Vehicle Road Construction Secondary Fencing Road Improvements High Density Lighting Permanent Vehicle P a g e 1 7 Year In Review BORDER PATROL NEWS July 20, 2006 Since early June, U. S. Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol agents assisted by National Guard Entry Identification Teams (EIT), has apprehended 1,251 undocumented aliens. More than 180 CBP Border Patrol agents have returned to direct border security duties as Na- tional Guard troops relieve agents of non-law enforcement responsi- bilities in support of Operation Jump Start.

October 24,2006 U.S. Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol agents seized more than one ton of marijuana in two days. The marijuana has an estimated value of more than $3.5 million.

December 07, 2006 National Guard troops reported that two pick-ups had crossed the in- ternational border into the United States west of Sasabe, Ariz. A total of 3,318 pounds of marijuana was seized from both trucks, one of which was reported stolen out of Tucson, Ariz.

January 18, 2007 Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents rescued six illegal aliens who were attempting to cross the Colorado River.The individuals entered the river in Andrade, Calif., and attempted swim north in the river before being spotted by an Operation Jump Start National Guard EIT, which reported its observations to Yuma Station Border Patrol agents.

March 15, 2007 U.S. Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol agents assigned to Tucson Sector arrested 45 illegal aliens in and around a parked school bus. The bus was not registered to any school or organization and was bearing a fictitious government license plate.

May 15, 2007 U.S. Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol agents assigned to the Yuma Sector, assisted by National Guard ground and air person- nel supporting Operation Jump Start, rescued 10 individuals after a National Guardsman assigned to the Ajo Border Patrol Station re- ceived an anonymous phone call advising that several UDA’s were walking west along Interstate 8. August 12, 2007 Customs and Border Portection Border Patrol agents assigned to the Yuma Sector were called to assist a group of distressed UDA’s. When the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) agent was un- able to start an IV on one of the individuals, UH-60 Blackhawk crew- chief, Sgt. Louis Garcia was able to assit and start the IV. Desert Sentinel Volume 1: Issue 9, September 2007 Desert Sentinel

My Name Sgt. Nick Teeter childhood ambition NFL Quarterback

fondest memory Friends and family

indulgence Watching football

current mission Task Force Tucson - S6

favorite hobby Fishing

My Life is busy My Guard 272nd Combat Communications Squadron, Ore. ANG

My Name Tech. Sgt. Walter Runstetler childhood ambition To be the best at everything I do

fondest memory Seeing my son catch his first fish indulgence Fishing/Coin Collecting

current mission Task Force Yuma - Supply NCOIC

favorite hobby Fishing/Playing Pool

My Life Raising two good kids My Guard 280th Combat Communications Squadron, Ala. ANG P a g e 1 9 Year In Review

My Name Pfc. Simone Leslie childhood ambition Musician and/or photographer

fondest memory Basic Training and AIT

indulgence Tattoos and strawberry ice cream

current mission Task Force Raven

favorite hobby Playing guitar and bass

My Life is the Guard My Guard Headquarters & Headquarters Co., 2nd Battalion, 285 Aviation Regiment Ariz. ARNG

My Name Sgt. David Parisi childhood ambition An artist for Marvel comics

fondest memory Returning home from Kuwait

indulgence Playing video games

current mission Task Force Diamondback

favorite hobby Camping with my family

My Life My Family My Guard Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 180th Field Artillery, Ariz. ARNG PRESENTING

The Operation Jump Start - Arizona Coin Available, while supplies last, at the Papago Military Reservation Clothing Sales for $6.00 plus sales tax.

Task Force Diamondback T-Shirts available for a limited time. Contact TF Diamondback - $12.00 each.