The Militiaman

AA newnew beginningbeginning Brig.Brig. Gen.Gen. OrrOrr assumesassumes commandcommand ofof IowaIowa NationalNational GuardGuard Contents The Militiaman Spring 2009 Brig. Gen. Tim Orr 4 assumes TAG command The Adjutant General by 1st Sgt. Duff E. McFadden Brig. Gen. Tim Orr

Iowans participate in Public Affairs Officer 6 Bataan Death March Lt. Col. Greg Hapgood by Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Fox 135th MPAD Commander 132nd FW Med Group Capt Tim Mills 8 trains in Puerto Rico by Tech. Sgt. Wendy S. Ohl Editor Iowa Gold Star 1st Sgt. Duff E. McFadden M1 Military Museum Insert Contributors ESGR awards presented Capt. Heather Guck Staff Sgt. Jerald Phippen 11 Sgt. Matthew McArthur Buena Vista U. adds ROTC Sgt. Christina Beck 14 Sgt. Chad Nelson Spc. Robert Jones 132nd FW trains in Alaska Spc. Brian Lloyd 16 by Lt. Col. Mike McMillian Spc. Cassandra Monroe Pvt. Zach Zuber The Iowa Militiaman is an unofficial publication authorized under the provisions of AR 360-81. It is Regular Columns published by the Public Affairs Office and is printed four times annually. 4 TAG Sends News and opinions expressed in this publication are not neccessarily those 12 Through the Ranks of the Adjutant General of Iowa, or the Department of the Army. 13 From the Educaiton Office Address all submissions to: 15 Chaplain’s Corner The Iowa Militiaman Public Affairs Office On the cover -- Brig. Gen. Tim Orr assumes com- mand as the 27th Adjutant General of the Iowa 7105 NW 70th Ave. National Guard. Iowa Governor Chet Culver passes Johnston, Iowa 50131-1824 the National Guard colors on to Orr during the recent or e-mail: [email protected] Change of Command ceremony at Camp Dodge. (Iowa National Guard photo by Justin Cato) The Iowa Militiaman 2 Spring 2009 ‘Humbled by the opportunity to serve’ On March 26, 2009, I assumed command of some really great military leaders in the Iowa the Iowa National Guard and became its 27th National Guard. Leaders, who took the time to Adjutant General. Twenty-six distinguished ensure that I kept my career on track, focused leaders have preceded me - well-known my energy, provided sound guidance through stewards of the Iowa National Guard. It is the journey, and ensured I never forgot that we a great honor and privilege to walk in their work for Soldiers. That is why, today, I stress footsteps. My family and I are humbled by to all Soldiers and Airmen, the importance this opportunity to serve the finest group of of finding a quality mentor and establishing Soldiers, Airmen, and their families, in Iowa professional relationships that will assist you National Guard history. in your journey to achieving your goals and We look forward to the challenges this ultimately being the “Master of your own position brings, but ship.” more importantly I have been in to the time we will command of the spend with the Army Iowa National Guard and Air team. Later for three months this summer, my and my experiences family and I will already have been move to the Adjutant tremendous. I have General’s house on been working very Camp Dodge and hard to visit our establish residency units at home station, – making the Iowa annual training and National Guard our on overseas deploy- TAG home both literally ments to introduce and physically. myself and get to Sends For my first TAG know our team and Brig. Gen Sends column, I want better understand Tim Orr to share a little of my their issues. I call The Adjutant General background with you this program my and talk about what battlefield circulation is important to me plan and I intend to from The Adjutant execute this program General’s fighting on an annual basis. position. I have visited both Army and Air National My military career started 31 years ago Guard units at home stations, annual training, when I enlisted into the Iowa National Guard and overseas deployments. I had oppor- as a high school senior into a Heavy Weapons tunities to see the 734th Regional Sup-port Specialist assignment, HHC 2nd Brigade. I Group in South Dakota, the 2nd BCT in Camp spent over eight years in the Brigade, leaving Ripley, Minn., select units on Camp Dodge, at the rank of Staff Sergeant to attend active and even had the opportunity to travel to component Officer Candidate School. Kuwait and Iraq to visit our truck companies, I am very proud of the fact that both my aero medical unit, fire wife and I served as enlisted Soldiers and Non- fighters, and individually deployed Soldiers. Commission Officers before receiving our I will spend the remainder of this summer commissions. I owe a great amount of loyalty visiting annual training sites and preparing to to the NCO corps for the encouragement kick-off the Community Covenant program and support I received as I crossed into the around the state. In the fall, I will again visit commissioned officer ranks. It was with the units around the state during the week and on encouragement of three senior NCOs, that I completed the active duty Officer Candidate School program and commissioned as a 2nd Tag Sends Lieutenant. continued on page 17 I have been fortunate to be mentored by

The Iowa Militiaman 3 Spring 2009 Brig. Gen. Tim Orr sworn in as 27th Iowa Adjutant General by 1st Sgt. Duff E. McFadden truly a humbling experience, Orr noted. The week of March 22 proved to be a whirl- “I realize that I have been entrusted with the wind of activity for Col. Timothy E. Orr and leadership and care of our nation’s most pre- his family, as well as a momentous period for cious resource – the Soldiers and Airmen of the Iowa National Guard. the Iowa National Guard – our Warriors, and On March 25, Orr became Iowa’s newest their family members. brigadier general, following his promotion “Teddy Roosevelt once observed that far ceremony at the Joint Forces Headquarters and away, the best prize that life offers is the in Johnston. Twenty-four hours later, in a chance to ‘work hard at work worth doing.’ Change of Command ceremony presided over This position certainly fits that description,” by Iowa Governor Chet Culver, he became the he said. 28th Adjutant General of the Iowa National Orr, a 30-year military veteran born in Win- Guard. terset, Iowa and raised in Earlham and Boone, Being afforded the awesome responsibility had been serving as the Deputy Adjutant Gen- of commanding the Iowa National Guard is eral, Iowa . Former Ad-

The Iowa Militiaman 4 Spring 2009 jutant General of the Iowa National Guard, Lt. families, and their needs. Gen. (IA) Ron Dardis, retired as The Adjutant He then presented his current assessment to General, but will continue working for Iowans Gov. Culver of the Iowa National Guard being after being appointed executive director of the strong, “Iowa strong.” Rebuild Iowa Office by Gov. Culver. “I want everyone to know that I am com- Orr began his military career by enlisting in mitting all my energy, effort, focus and drive the Iowa National Guard during his senior year to ensuring that the Iowa National Guard is of high school, graduating from Boone (Iowa) agile, adaptive, prepared for any mission and High School in 1979. After attending basic always ready in the event that Iowa, or the na- training and advanced individual training at tion calls. Fort Benning, Ga.’s Infantry School, his first In closing, Orr pointed his most important assignment was as a heavy anti-armor gunner thanks to those Iowa Soldiers and Airmen. with Headquarters and Headquarters Compa- “You are part of the most experienced, best ny, 34th Brigade. equipped and most professional military to He advanced through the enlisted ranks and serve our state and nation and we all can, and was ultimately promoted to staff sergeant, un- should be, very proud of them,” he said. “It is til receiving his officer’s commission through an honor to serve with you. the U.S. Army’s Officer Candidate School at “There can be no higher privilege for any Ft. Benning on Aug. 20, 1985. Orr has com- soldier than being allowed to serve once more manded at the detachment, company, battal- with such wonderful Americans and to ‘work ion, and brigade level. hard at work worth doing.’ You have my com- “The future will continue to be challeng- plete loyalty and dedication. Thank you for ing,” Orr said. “However, the Iowa National your service,” said Orr. Guard’s tasks are of enormous importance As the adjutant general, Orr is responsible to our state and nation. It is clear that in the for command and control for 104 Army and months and years ahead, a great deal of re- Air National Guard Units and over 9,600 sponsibility will continue to rest on the shoul- Army and Air National Guard members in the ders of the wonderful Soldiers and Airmen of state of Iowa and is responsible for providing the Iowa National Guard and it is an honor to a force ready for mobilization. serve with them. Ver Planck Van Antwerp, was appointed in “It will be my number one priority within 1839 as the first Adjutant General of the Iowa the command to focus on the Soldiers, their territory.

The colors are pre- sented during the Change of Com- mand ceremony for The Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard (far left). Lt. Gen. (IA) Ron Dardis presents his farewell remarks during the hour- long ceremony. (Iowa National Guard photos by Justin Cato).

The Iowa Militiaman 5 Spring 2009 20th Bataan Memorial Death March ‘This march will change you’ (Editor’s Note: After reading “Raider” on flat, even terrain. I’ll now call that a “fun by Decorah, Iowa’s Galen Kittleson, Com- run.” The March is a memorial and tribute to mand Sgt. Maj. Chris Fox was motivated those men who died, or survived Bataan. Only to take part in the Bataan Memorial Death a handful are still alive and about a dozen were March with other Soldiers of the 248th Avi- at the event. For a modern-day Soldier, to see ation Support Battalion. Sandy Sanderson’s one of these men is an experience a civilian story about Glen McDole in the Des Moines respects, but will never fully understand. Register prompted them to name their five- We who serve, don’t do it for you, the person National Guard Light team, Team flag, or our country. We do it for the Soldiers McDole in honor of him. Their efforts re- standing next to us, and for freedom. On that sulted in a third place finish. ) high desert, I had an opportunity to shake a man’s hand who had survived the brutal real- by Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Fox ity that was Bataan. I shook the hands of as Last October, we had 15 Soldiers qual- many of them as I could. Each time I did, I ify by maxing their physical fitness test, but felt a connection with those men, who show only nine were able to make the trip to White up each year, reminding us why we do what Sands, N.M.. One of them had done the march we do. Their example gives us motivation and two years ago, while the rest of us were green- perspective about ourselves that can only be horns. I had heard and read about how hard it gotten in a few places. was, but until you truly experience that 26.2 During the opening ceremonies, there was mile course, there is no way to understand it. a lot to see and hear that emotionally moved It’s not a marathon with your favorite shoes you. The grandstand stood in front of a giant

The Iowa Militiaman 6 Spring 2009 fire truck which flew an even bigger- Ameri your service” She said this over and over all can flag. The National Anthem was sung and the way down the hill. the chaplain opened with a prayer. The post This was a woman who had a legitimate shot commander gave some remarks, noting, “this at winning the race, but found it more impor- march will change you.” tant to thank every Soldier, Airman, Marine, or The Army Chief of Staff gave his comments Seaman she passed. That’s impressive. and two F-18’s did a flyover I will never forget. The hardest terrain on the route was just By far, the most moving part of the ceremony ahead and is appropriately named the “sand was the roll call. The military has a tradition pit” or “gravel pit.” A stretch that seems like of calling the names of those who have passed miles, in reality, it’s only a mile or so uphill. away since they last assembled. These men are After getting through that, with about four gone but not forgotten. miles to go, there was no doubt I would finish No doubt, every one of the 5,300 participants and looked forward to each mile marker as a feels a lot of emotion. There were amputees, victory. civilians (from very young to very senior) and At mile 25, we stopped to take one final pic- military personnel (from all services and many ture next to the mile sign. I had taken my outer allied countries), and even those who went jacket off at mile 10, but it was time to put it barefoot the entire route. back on and finish the race in style. We picked The route is a small reminder of what the up the pace, running most of the last mile, en- men of Bataan experienced, while the pain suring we’d come in under eight hours. was also a reminder of what they endured. As we crossed the finish line, we were greet- Guilt racked my brain when I wanted to com- ed by four more Bataan surtvivors. I immedi- plain about the terrain and when I thought my ately removed my headgear and sunglasses, feet hurt, I came to another reality. thanking each one of them for their sacrifice. At mile 20 or so, I knew I had not prepared My unit members who already finished greet- my feet well enough, nor had I changed socks ed me. Our most junior member limped up to enough and my feet were telling my brain they me and said “Sergeant Major, Thank you for had never hurt this bad. And, my brain started the opportunity to do this with you.” to believe them. I thought, “No, Thank you.” Thank you for Just before mile 20, I was catching up to a being a young American Soldier who took off mom and her son doing the 15-mile honorary from college, travelled 22 hours in a cramped march. Before you assume they were slow, I van, woke up at 3 a.m. all to do this with me. should mention the son was a double amputee You are a great American Pvt. 2. Phil Barker! who was leaning onto his mom, who helped He was not alone – they all thanked me before him take each painful step. the trip was through and they are all equally At that moment I was angry at my feet. I was great. angry because my feet had not earned the right As I look back at my time, I think eight to tell me about pain. That anger never left. In hours may seem slow to those who run mar- fact, it was one of the major reasons I finished. athons. Basically, I think I could have run it I pushed on with my race battle buddy and fo- faster and next year I will. This year I enjoyed cused on finishing. I also thought back to the it all, even if some of it was pain that reminded beginning of the race when the post command- me to enjoy the opportunity to feel a little pain erl promised this race would change me. in honor of those who had no choice. It really “Mission Accomplished, Sir.” has nothing to do with the time though. It has With five or six miles yet to go, I was mov- everything to do with what we did with that ing slower, but giving serious thought to what time. the day was about. I thought of the over 1,000 Sound familiar? volunteers who made the race possible. Later, I It took a full nights rest to wake up and say discovered some of those volunteers had been “I can’t wait for next year!” We got in the van here each of the last 20 years and there is a and headed home and everyone agreed we will waiting list just to volunteer. be back to the Bataan Memorial Death March I remember about mile nine, a woman who next year to never forget the Battling Bastards was obviously a professional marathoner com- of Bataan. ing down the hill towards us at about her mile I hope to see you there. 19. As she passed a never-ending line of mili- P.S. - It’s Friday night before drill and I need tary members, she, with every exhale, uttered to get at least six more miles on these week-old “Thank you for your service, thank you for blisters before tomorrow. The Iowa Militiaman 7 Spring 2009 No vacation for Iowa’s 185th Medical Group by Tech. Sgt. Wendy S. Ohl weekend. Working with the trauma patients in the worst of conditions may someday translate (San Juan, Puerto Rico) -- Car accidents, to real-world battlefield hospital conditions. gunshot wounds, broken bones, stab wounds... “Centro Medico was an ideal location for these are all things members of the 185th Air this type of training because of the size of their Refueling Wing (ARW) Medical Group don't trauma center and the cultural and language generally experience on drill weekend. During challenges to overcome,” stated 1st Lt. Zac a recent trip to Puerto Rico, however, 32 mem- Johannsen, Medical Administrative Officer, bers of the Medical Group saw it all. 185th Medical Group. Centro Medico is located on 22 acres in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico and is the third largest level 1 trauma center in the and its territories. With a population of over 450,000 people in San Juan alone, they keep busy. The trauma center sees over 7,400 pa- tients and admits around 1,000 per year. Auto accidents account for 70 per- cent of these admis- sions, and if you've ever driven through San Juan, you can understand why. With the number of patients that come through the doors, and the types of trauma seen at Cen- tro Medico, spend- ing two weeks there is an excellent train- ing opportunity for the 185th Medical Group. This is the type of hands-on, fast-paced real life training most mili- tary medical person- nel don't receive on their normal drill

The Iowa Militiaman 8 Spring 2009 "Also in Puerto Rico they have the oppor- Assistant to the Surgeon General, was also tunity to treat outside their credentialed field. along for the trip. Webster oversees programs No vacation for Iowa’s This is especially helpful if there is something such as this and wanted to get an idea of how going on they can just jump in and help out things were going. rather than standing by and watching because "This is the 19th group to go through Centro it isn't 'their field.' This gives our staff the op- Medico since the program started three years 185th Medical Group portunity to do more diverse work." ago," Webster stated. "Things aren't going as Sr. Airman Katie Grenier is a nursing stu- smoothly as I'd hoped, but we'll get the bugs dent at St. Luke's School of Nursing in Sioux worked out. We have Rudy assigned full- City, Iowa. She was able to practice her every time to the program now to see that things get day nursing skills, such as IV starts, medica- done.” tion administration, and more. Rudy, or Sr. Master Sgt. Rudolpho Davila, "We do shots, blood draws and physicals on is the Air National Guard liaison for the pro- a normal basis (at the 185th) so when asked gram. Davila was on call for members of the to do them at Centro Medico, I was very pre- 185th to contact if there were any issues. After pared," said Grenier. "I also had the opportuni- all, when you bring more than 30 members of ty to assist with suturing, chest tubes and sur- the U.S. military to a civilian hospital, throw in gery, administer meds, suction, and perform a few cultural and procedural differences, top wound care." it off with a language barrier and you're bound Dr. Mario Ber- "The doctors were very helpful and almost to hit a few bumps. nal, a resident at all of them spoke English,” said Capt. Major However, the experience gained, and the Centro Medico Anderson, a critical care registered nurse in knowledge received was invaluable. Hospital, and Maj. Tyndall, S.D. and a nurse with the 185th ARW. Dr. Juan Angel Nazario, is the head of Cen- Emil Fernando, “We stuck with them as much as possible. The tro Medico, the "go to guy" for anything that Iowa Air National nurses were good, but not as many spoke Eng- goes on at the hospital and university. Guard, operate on lish, making it harder to do things with them," "We are a teaching hospital. If you wish to a patient (far left). Driving can take up to seven hours to trans- stand back and watch, that will be fine. But if (Below) Staff Sgt. port a patient from one side of the island to you want to jump in and work hands-on with Brock McNabb Centro Medico, whereas the helicopter can get the patients, you will be allowed and encour- practices suturing a patient to much needed care in an hour or aged to do this, too." said Nazario during the on an orange while less. Aeromed is a helicopter transport serv- Medical Group 's in-brief receiving instruc- ice used by Centro Medico to increase the re- "We'd like to plan more trips like this in the tion from Lt. Col. sponse time of getting critical care to critically future," Johannsen said. "We need to train in Doug Hoisington. injured and sick patients in Puerto Rico. all the areas of our Readiness Skills Verifica- Iowa Air National "I was surprised how long it takes patients tion Program (RSVP). Going to Puerto Rico Guard photos by to get from the outlying hospitals or accident was a very good training opportunity and we Tech. Sgt. Oscar scenes to Centro Medico and how long it takes look forward to more trips like this." M. Sanchez to get them to surgery once they're here." said Anderson. "In one case we were able to unload a patient from the helicopter. He had gunshot wounds in his head, chest and abdomen. Sev- eral of us were able to go to the operating room with him." Gunshot wounds are quite common in Puerto Rico. Approximately 30 percent of the trauma patients entering Centro Medico are gunshot victims. Some patients are brought in and taken to the OR, but others get patched up and sent home. “A guy came in at 10 a.m. with seven gun- shot wounds and was released later that night. He had no surgery done to remove the bullets. They did not suture around the bullet holes, but covered them up with gauze and sent him home,” said Grenier. Maj. Gen. Ray Webster, Air National Guard

The Iowa Militiaman 9 Spring 2009 Credit Union changes hours on You Tube, Facebook, Twitter and Flickr. The Greater Iowa Credit Union, Although one goal is to bring in new recruits, located on Camp Dodge, has new hours having a presence on these sites has other for its lobby and drive-up services. benefits as well. “This is the first time people The new hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., have been able to interact so directly and Monday through Friday. The Credit immediately with what we are doing in the Union will be closed on Saturday and Guard,” said Rick Breitenfeldt, who oversees Sunday. new media initiatives for the . Tax law changes “Our NGB (social media) sites don’t focus You may have noticed an increase on recruiting as much as they do on telling in your take home pay the last several our joint story and letting people who support weeks, attributable to the American Re- the Guard have a place to share their opinions covery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and connect with others who are in the same (ARRA). However, it also could mean boat,” he added. you’re not having enough withheld to cover income tax liability and will owe Guard joins Helmets to Hardhats money at tax time. The Army National Guard has joined the The Making Work Pay provision of U.S. Army Reserve’s partnership with a ARRA provides a tax credit of up to nonprofit program that pairs servicemembers $400 for working individuals and $800 with construction careers. Helmets to Hard- for married taxpayers filing jointly. hats is a free, nonprofit program that connects If you have two jobs (technician and National Guard, Reserve, retired and tran- M-Day) each job will withhold as if its sitioning active-duty servicemembers with your only job – each job might with- construction training and careers. hold $400 less, with you having had Maj. Gen. Raymond Carpenter, acting Briefs $800 less withheld and only getting a director of the Army National Guard, signed $400 credit on your tax return. an employer partnership initiative agree- ment with Lt. Gen. Jack Stultz, the chief of Brighter tax news the U.S. Army Reserve, and Darrell Roberts, For qualifying, first-time home executive director of Helmets to Hardhats, at purchases between Jan. 1, 2009 and a recent Pentagon ceremony. Nov. 30, 2009, taxpayers can qualify for a refundable credit of up to $8,000 Summer safety message ($4,000 for married filing separately) All of you – Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and and generally do not have to repay the our families – are our most valuable resource credit. and it’s paramount we adhere to a “Back to A credit for energy efficient improve- the Basics” approach to safety. It’s incumbent ments to your personal residence can upon us as leaders to stress the importance net you 30 percent of costs, up to a of using proper judgement when engaging in maximum credit of $1,500. This is ap- off-duty activities. plicable to windows and doors, insula- While there is no shortage of hazarous, off- tion, roofs (metal and asphalt), HVAC, duty activities, please give special emphasis water heaters (non-solar) and biomass to: Boating and watercraft safety; motorcycle stoves. Homeowners should be aware safety awareness; click-it-or-ticket driv- the energy efficiency standards are ing safety; driving under the influence and higher than what they were in 2007. fatigue; grilling and food preparation; heat in- Also, the American Opportunity Tax jury prevention; water and swimming safety; Credit makes temporary changes to the camping and hiking safety; adverse weather; education credits (also known as Hope and extreme sports. Credit). A portion will be refundable. Safety is extremely important to us and we ask you to make it a focus at every level. It is Guard ‘Tweet’s, Tube and Flickr’s’ our responsibility to remain safety-focused. Social networking has hit the mili- The National Guard thanks you for your serv- tary, as the Air National Guard has its ice and challenge each one of you to make own channel on You Tube, while the this summer season the safest in National Army National Guard has a presence Guard Bureau history. The Iowa Militiaman 10 Spring 2009 Vol. No. 5 Spring 2009 Issue No. 2

A World War II reenactor demonstrates military equipment to young visitors during the Memorial Day Museum Open House and S.O.S. breakfast held at the Freedom Center Armory. Museum hosts annual Memorial Day celebration at new Freedom Center Armory By Col. (Ret.) Russell Bierl broadcast their Memorial Day program live from the Over 3,000 people visited Camp Dodge for the Freedom Center drill floor, from 5 to 9 a.m. Visitors were Memorial Day Museum Open House and S.O.S. breakfast also treated to a large military vehicle display, including hosted by the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum and the a World War I Liberty Truck, World War II Jeep and Iowa National Guard. Visitors began arriving well before Weapons Carrier, Korean War Jeep and ¾ Ton Truck, 5 a.m. for the “Same Old Stuff” breakfast at the new Vietnam-era M151 Jeep and modern Armored Security Freedom Center Armory. Vehicle, (ASV) currently operated by the 186th Military According to museum officials, “This is the largest Police Company. crowd we have hosted in the past three years of Memorial Day events. At one time the mess line stretched from the drill hall, down the corridor, to the front door of the Memorial Day Freedom Center..” Continued on page M2 Van Hardin, of WHO Radio’s Van and Bonnie Show, The Iowa Militiaman Spring 2009 M1 Museum event, who all assisted in making this open house Memorial Day memorial event a grand success. As Holliday noted, “We invite all of our Iowa Gold Star Continued on page M2 Military Museum friends to come and visit us again next year in our new museum building addition which will be Brig. Gen. Timothy Orr, Adjutant General of the Iowa completed in December 2009.” National Guard, and his family partook of the S.O.S. breakfast and enjoyed visiting with the Soldiers and area residents in attendance. Orr fired the 105mm Howitzer in Bottom photo - Brig. Gen. James and Vicki Kessler a salute to our fallen veterans at the close of the day-long (left), Maj. Gen. Bud and Bobbie Lawson and Brig. program. Gen. Tim Orr (right) enjoy the “real Army S.O.S. The large crowd also enjoyed a flyover by a National breakfast). Top Right photo - Chief Warrant Officer Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and the privately- 2 Jery Arthur and Pvt. 1st Class Ann Lewis serve owned WWII-era Army PT-19 trainer, flown by Brig. Gen. more hungry customers during the Memorial Day Tim Griffith, former Chief of open house. The mess section served more than Staff and co-piloted by Iowa Gold Star Military Museum 1,500 S.O.S. breakfasts in a three-hour span. Bot- Curator, Mike Vogt,. The day’s events were coordinated tom right photo - Col. (Ret.) Robert King, former by Col. (Ret.) Robert King. Iowa National Guard Public Affairs Officer, renders a Representative Tom Latham presented six, long-overdue salute during the playing of “Taps” at the conclusion service awards to Army Spc. Richard Corey, from Dexter, of the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Memorial Day Iowa, during an awards ceremony conducted at the open house. Staff Sgt. Treg Marcellus, 34th Army Freedom Center drill hall. Corey earned these awards, Band, played “Taps.” The conclusion also included a which included the Army Commendation Medal and the Blackhawk helicopter flyover and the firing of the sa- Iraqi Service Ribbon, for service with the 4th Infantry lute guns. Bottom Left - Congressman Tom Latham Division in Iraq. presents an award to Spc. Richard Corey. The med- Bob Holliday, president of the Iowa National Guard als were earned while Corey was serving on active Memorial Association, thanked the gathered volunteers, duty in Iraq, with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Soldiers and re-enactors supporting the Memorial Day Infantry Division.

The Iowa Militiaman Spring 2009 M2

7105 NW 70th Ave. Johnston, Iowa 50131-1824 (515) 252-4531 www.Iowanationalguard.com E-mail:goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov Museum hours Iowa Gold Star Mon. - Sat., 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Except for holiday weekends) Military Museum Retiree Coffee every Wedneday at 9 a.m.

The Iowa Militiaman Spring 2009 M3 Missing In America Project memorializes eight Iowa vets by Col. (Ret.) Russ Bierl (Maj.) Gary Selof and Col. (Ret.) Russ Bierl. The Iowa National Guard and Iowa National Guard The mission of the MIAP project is to locate, identify Memorial Association supported the Missing In America and inter the unclaimed cremains of veterans through the Project at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, on joint efforts of private, state and federal organizations. April 24. More than 2,000 people attended the memo- These forgotten veterans have served our country and, as rial service for eight Iowa servicemen who had no one to such, deserve to be buried with honor and respect. claim their remains after their passing. The impetus for this program began in November 2006, The Missing in America Project supports the burial of after the Idaho State Veterans cemetery interred 21 cre- the creamains of veterans who have been forgotten in mor- mains of forgotten veterans, with full military honors and tuaries and state hospitals across the country. The MIA the dignity these fallen heroes so richly deserved. Association found the remains of eight unclaimed Iowans, The second phase of the MIA Project will be the crea- which included three Vietnam veterans, three Korean War tion of a network of individuals working with local funeral veterans, and two World War II veterans. homes, state, and national agencies to ensure, from now The American Legion of Iowa and the Old Guard Rid- on, the cremated remains of any unclaimed veteran will be ers were the main sponsors of the event. Chaplain Jeff identified, claimed and interred in a timely manner. This Clark gave the eulogy and final service for the veterans at ongoing project will most likely be a cooperative effort the committal shelter of the cemetery. An Iowa National between many voluntary service organizations. Guard Color Guard, Firing Squad, and 34th Army Band This lengthy project will require many man-hours to bugler supported the ceremony under the leadership of ensure we have done our utmost to discover every forgot- Sgt. Maj. Timothy Perkins. ten veteran and procure each a dignified resting place. Other Iowa National Guard attendees included Air This will also be a labor of love, a task of redemption, for National Guard Chief of Staff Col. Derek Hill, Chaplain a debt of service that can never be repaid. The Iowa Militiaman Spring 2009 M4 Iowa ESGR hosts employer awards On May 2, the Iowa Committee for Employ- Iowa employers have been selected to receive er Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) this award, which is the second-highest award held its annual Employer Awards Banquet at the Iowa ESGR can confer. the Sheraton Hotel in West Des Moines. The Pro Patria award is the highest honor a This event, which recognizes employers state ESGR Committee can give to employers. from around the state of Iowa for their con- It is given to the employer(s) in the state who tinued support of employees who serve in the has provided the most exceptional support of military, recognized 22 companies for their our national defense through leadership prac- support. tices and personnel policies that support their The State Chair Award is presented by the employees who serve in the National Guard Iowa ESGR State Chair, Barry Spear, to em- and Reserves. ployers that show continued support of their This year, three companies received this employees who serve in the Reserve Compo- honor: Decker Truck Lines of Fort Dodge; The nents. This year, three companies received this Printer, Inc., of Des Moines; and Iowa State award. Patrol Post #14, of Ottumwa. All three compa- The “Above and Beyond” Award honors the nies showed exceptional support for not only employers of Reserve Component members their employee, but for others who are in the who have gone above and beyond the require- military, as well. ments of the Uniformed Services Employment For more information about the Iowa ESGR and Reemployment Rights Act. Twenty-one program, visit www.iowaesgr.com.

Pro Patria Recipients Decker Truck Lines, Fort Dodge The Printer, Inc., Des Moines Iowa State Patrol, Post 14, Ottumwa

‘Above & Beyond’ Award Recipients Eaton Corporation, Shenandoah Alliant Energy, Dubuque Shaw Electric, Dubuque Marsh Affinity, Urbandale Hawkey Concrete, Mediapolis Iowa Board of Parole, Des Moines Tri-City Electric Company, Davenport RGS Services, Grimes Dr. Pepper Snapples Group, Davenport West Des Moines Dental Center Eaton Corporation, Belmond Charles City Police Department Evergreen Packaging, Inc., Cedar Rapids Sears, Dubuque Heidman Law Firm, Sioux City Wells Blue Bunny, LeMars Iowa Highway Patrol Post 13, Mt. Pleasant Mason City Police Department City of Bettendorf Police Deparment Red Oak School District Pella Corporation, Pella

State Chairman’s Award GKN Offhighway Systems, Armstrong Van Meter Industrial, Cedar Rapids Winnebago Industries, Forest City

The Iowa Militiaman 11 Spring 2009

Through the Ranks

by Senior Enlisted Advisor Command Sgt. Doyle Norris

For the first time since the first units in the his- the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks tory of the Iowa Army on our nation, the Iowa National Guard to be re- Army National Guard called from annual train- is focusing on Annual ing to assist the citizens Training periods. We of Iowa during the terri- currently are experienc- ble floods of 2008. ing the lowest number of We also have some Soldiers deployed from companies doing annual the State of Iowa since training in locations such the airport security mis- as Fort McCoy and Volk sions immediately be- Field, Wisc.; Aberdeen gan after the attacks and Proving Grounds, Md.; when the 194th Field as well as in the state of Artillery Battalion was West Virginia. Our Of- mobilized for Operation ficer Candidate Classes Noble Eagle in 2002. will again train in the The 2nd Brigade Com- state of Washington. bat Team headed to Camp Ripley, Minn., in A final footnote…Our new Adjutant General late May with all its battalions, except for the is a fantastic, energetic leader. He has taken Brigade Support battalion and the Field Artil- the time to evaluate where we are as a state and lery battalion. The 334th Brigade Support Bat- is slowly making changes that are needed for talion accomplished annual training at Camp our organization to be successful in the future. Dodge in May, concentrating on technical and One of his first changes is that he would like staff training. The 1st Battalion, 194th Field to refer to those we now refer to as retirees as Artillery will head for Camp Grayling, Mich. “alumni.” Alumni continue to serve and many in late August for new equipment training. of you who have chosen to retire do just that. The 734th Regional Support Group and the Whether it’s in support of the Employer bulk of their subordinate units headed to South Support of the Guard and Reserve, or for those Dakota to participate in Operation Golden who just check in with their local armory or air Thunder in early June. Last year, the 734th and base from time to time, your care and concerns the rest of the Iowa units on the ground were are appreciated. The benefits you enjoy as a retiree were earned and are far better than we could have “However, as long as ever imagined. So, your support of the change our Nation is at war, in terms would be greatly appreciated. It re- ally does express the sentiment that our current we need to stand ready leadership team wants to portray. to help support As I said earlier in this article, we are cur- rently at a lull in the number of Soldiers and the military initiatives that our Airmen deployed. country’s leaders order However, as long as our Nation is at war, we need to stand ready to help support the military the Department of Defense initiatives that our country’s leaders order the to undertake.” Department of Defense to undertake.

The Iowa Militiaman 12 Spring 2009 Welcome to Sgt. 1st Class Bullock NGEAP. The first email will tell themt if the The Education office would like to welcome Education received the application. The sec- a new member to the Education team. Sgt. 1st ond will tell them if they have been approved. Class Brian Bullock was hired as the Mont- gomery GI Bill Manager in January 2009. Bullock’s duties include GI Bill responsibili- ties, kicker actions, education assistance and From the control number requests. Bullock also serves as a senior instructor for Company H, Recruit Sustainment Program in Cedar Rapids. Wel- Education come aboard Sgt. 1st Class Bullock!

New post-9/11 GI Bill Office As many of you are aware there will be Upon receiving the second email, take it to a new Post 9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 33 start- your college or university financial aid office ing Aug. 1, 2009. Applications are now be- and they will request the tuition assistance. For ing processed online at www.gibill.va.gov. spring 2009, we had over 1,200 Soldiers/Air- To learn more about this benefit, visit the VA man use this benefit. Remember, this is a first- website. Remember, this benefit may be used come, first-served tuition assistance. only for educational purposes and is an irrevo- cable decision if you decide to participate. To ACT available for Soldiers become eligible for Ch 33, Soldiers must have Another important test is the ACT, for Sol- at least 90 aggregate days of Active Duty, or diers that are serving. This free test is offered serve 30 days continuous with a service con- at JFHQ in Johnston. Many need this test for nected disability. college acceptance. If interested in taking the ACT test, contact [email protected]. Website to use CAC access They will set up an exam date and results may Starting May 8, 2009, the National Guard take up to 4-6 weeks. Benefits website located on the iowanational- guard.com website will only allow Common Contact your VA Certifying Official Access Card (CAC) access. This is the website If a Soldier is in school, they must contact all National Guard Soldiers (except AGR) will the VA Certifying Official (VACO) at their col- use to apply for Army National Guard Federal lege or university, to obtain GI Bill benefits. Tuition Assistance. Soldiers will need to pur- The MGIB-RC, CH 1606 went up to $329 on chase a CAC reader, or go to their local armory Oct. 1, 2008. Once the paperwork is sent to to apply for Fed TA. After Soldiers apply for the VA in St. Louis, or any other Regional VA, Federal TA, they will receive two emails. If it may take 10-12 weeks to process the claim, you do not receive either email within five to so try to start the process early. If you are ap- 10 business days, please contact the education plying for CH. 1606 and need to obtain your office. Maj. Donald Enright will be the point Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE), it may of contact for your FTA questions while Spc. be found in your iPERMS Soldier file. Also, Lisa Langel-Cordes is on deployment. This is provide your kicker contract if you have one. a first-come, first-served benefit. Don’t forget your end-of-month verification, by phoning 1-877-823-2378 or the W.A.V.E. Deadline upcoming program online. Deadline for the National Guard Assistance When applying for Ch 1607, for those that Program (NGEAP) online application is Au- have deployed, you need to submit your mo- gust 31 for the fall semester and December 15 bilization orders and DD 214 to the VA cer- for the spring semester. If you apply late, and tifying offical at your college. Don’t forget must enter a code, you can either contact your to do your end of month verification for this VA certifying official or the Education Office. benefit, by calling 1-877-823-2378. For those Once Soldiers have applied for NGEAP and who have a kicker, it also needs to be submit- the State Tuition Assistance Manager has re- ted with the application. All documents can be ceived the application, the manager will deter- mine if the Soldier is eligible for the tuition Education Office assistance. Remember that each Soldier/Air- continued on page 19 man will receive two emails when applying for

The Iowa Militiaman 13 Spring 2009 Buena Vista to add ROTC program by Officer Candidate Brian M. Clark of $350-$500 a month. ROTC adds an addi- Faculty and students are excited for the op- tional $350 per month kicker to the G.I. Bill. portunities the new Reserve Officers Training The G.I. Bill can provide up to $1,300 per Corps (ROTC) program is bringing to Buena month tax-free with the addition of a kicker, if Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa. the student had deployed, or was eligible for The faculty is excited because it coincides Chapter 30. There is also a tax-free stipend of with the mission of the university: Leadership, $1,200 a year for books. Soldiers in the pro- hands-on learning and student development. It gram are non-deployable, which allows them will bring new ideas, expand the student base to finish their education without interruption. and be incorporated into the existing leader- While ROTC brings many financial benefits ship curriculum of the university. to the table, its greatest benefit is in the per- While many students choose not to attend sonal development, teamwork and leadership private universities due to high costs, faculty opportunities the program provides. It will feel this program will give more students the provide students at BVU an advantage to suc- opportunity to attend. ceed within the university and in roles outside “Offering a ROTC program was a great of the university as well. match for the mission of the university and a 1st Lt. Jared Gledhill is excited to help de- great opportunity to help students attend,” said velop the BVU ROTC program. “Our program Dr. David Evans, vice president for academic is a great opportunity for the Iowa National affairs and dean of the faculty. Guard’s men and women to go to a great pri- The ROTC program is expected to have a vate university for little to no cost for the sol- positive impact on recruitment of new students dier,” Gledhill said. who have a special interest in a military ca- With input from BVU, the Army has started reer, he said. The BVU program will be the the process to hire an ROTC instructor. The only one offered in western Iowa and will be instructor will be employed by the Army but a branch of the ROTC program at Iowa State have faculty status. Other ROTC programs in University (ISU). Iowa are offered by the University of Iowa, "This program will make it economically University of Northern Iowa, Drake Univer- feasible for more students to attend BVU, sity, University of Dubuque and Coe College. and will provide those students with excellent For more information about ROTC, the fi- leadership training and career opportunities," nal 2009 Officer/Warrant Officer Symposium Evans said. "It also allows BVU to have a role will be held at the Freedom Center (Building in educating the next generation of military S70) on Camp Dodge, August 15, beginning leaders, and thus to have the university's val- at 8 a.m.. ues and ideals repre- sented in the officer corps." ROTC pays for tu- ition, which is $25,540 per year for full-time status. The program also allows the additional benefit of a GRFD scholar- ship to pay for room and board the last two years of attend- ance. Soldiers who are members of the Simultaneous Mem- bership Program can Buena Vista President Frederick V. Moore (left) and Lt. Col. John also collect the Mont- Soupene, Professor of Military Science, shake hands following the gomery G.I. Bill, signing of the formal agreement between Buena Vista University and along with a stipend the Reserve Officers Training Corps (Contributed photo). The Iowa Militiaman 14 Spring 2009 The question is: What’s in a name? In his classic play about human love, Wil- liam Shakespeare has Juliet ask the question, “What’s in a name?” Chaplain’s As she thinks about Romeo, Juliet asks: “What's in a name? That which we call a rose, By any other name would smell as sweet; Corner So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd, by Chaplain (Col.) Jim Luder Retain that dear perfection which he owes.” Iowa State Chaplain Juliet’s whole idea, of course, is since their families are enemies, if his name were some- thing else, then all would be well. Psalm 91 Names are an interesting thing. On the one hand, they can have very little meaning. But, 1 He who dwells in the shelter on the other hand, there are certain names that of the Most High will rest have a great deal of meaning. Have you ever in the shadow of the Almighty. had to tell your kids when they keep asking for things, “Look our name is not Rockefeller.” 2 I will say of the LORD, I have a little problem with names, as my “He is my refuge and my fortress, first name is Alton. I have always gone by Jim. my God, in whom I trust.” One time I applied for a job at Huffman’s Welding. The interview was really not going It carries the idea of God as the eternal one. well, so when Bob Huffman looked at the ap- God is greater than time. God is greater than plication and said, “Well Alton, what do they space. God created time – He Himself has no call you, Al?” beginning or end. God created space – He is Since I knew I wasn’t going to get the job I the first and the last. said, “Sure, everyone calls me Al.” While we say this is the name of God, in Then he said, “So Al, can you start on Mon- a way, it really isn’t. Everything we know of day?” I worked there three years and everyone has a name. We need names to distinguish called me Al. one thing from another. However, sometimes names are very impor- So, everything in the universe is given a tant. In Psalm 91, we see some names that are name. God named Adam, Adam named Eve given to God and these names of God tell us and the animals. Eve named her children, and something of Himself. ever since, somebody, somewhere, has named In verse one, God is called the “God Most everything else that has a name. High.” It suggests the exaltedness and over- But no one named God, because there was whelming majesty of God, signifying the su- no one before God. God is not just one object premacy of the deity. God is seen here as the among others, He is the source of everything. God of power and might. He is God most high. All other things exist, because he created them He is the God who is above all other Gods. and allowed them to change and develop. God is the only one in the universe that He simply exists “on his own” and there- doesn’t have to answer to someone else. God fore is not given a name like other things. He is completely sovereign and totally in control. is simply the eternal one who is, was, and al- There is no higher power than God. ways will be. The Alpha and the Omega, the Also, in verse one, he’s called “the Al- beginning and the end. mighty,” or “the all-powerful.” We see here But in the second verse, the psalmist gets both his position: “Most High;” and power: really personal, “He is My God.” He is not “Almighty.” just the God of Moses. He is not just the God Next, he’s called “Lord.” This is the person- of our fathers. He is not just the God of Abra- al name for God. In Exodus 3:13, when Moses ham, Issac and Jacob, But he is my God. asked God what his name is – this is the name It doesn’t matter how long we’ve been a God gives to Moses. It means, “I am that I am, member of a particular church, or how many or I will be what I will be.” It carries the idea times we’re baptized, what matters is our rela- of God’s self-sufficiency. tionship with God -- He’s “my” God. The Iowa Militiaman 15 Spring 2009 Alaskan exercise offers prime experience

by Lt. Col. Mike McMillian in Fairbanks and Elmendorf Air Force Base, in 132nd Fighter Wing Anchorage. Units are organized as an air expe- One Red Air MiG aircraft had already been ditionary wing at Eielson, with a subordinate splashed and another group of adversaries air expeditionary group at Elmendorf. were avoided altogether. This kept Blue Air Near the conclusion of the Vietnam War, strike aircraft untargeted so they could deliver it was determined if a pilot could survive his bombs into the command bunker directing the first 10 flying missions, the chances of being surface-to-air missile system engaging them. shot down during the rest of the year-long tour As the threat warning system audio blared in dropped dramatically. their ears, pilots of the Iowa National Guard’s Red Flag was then created to give Air Force 132nd Fighter Wing “Hawkeyes” dispensed pilots a chance to get those first 10 critical chaff in an attempt to break the lock of the missions under their belt before encountering surface-to-air missile system’s radar. the real thing. To achieve the level of realism Finally, after a minute that seemed more needed to simulate flying in an actual major like 10, the surface-to-air missile system’s ra- conflict, Red Flag North deploys up to 14 Red dar dropped lock long enough for the pilots to Air (Bad Guys) aircraft and 19 surface-to-air deliver their weapons squarely into the heart threat systems, with most of those being actual of the bunker. All that was left was their 80- adversary systems manned by live operators. mile dash for home through the mountains of To adequately counter the threat, Blue Air Alaska, at 500 feet and 540 knots. (Good Guys) launched 30-plus aircraft pack- Scenarios like this one played out 114 times ages covering the full spectrum of combat ca- for the 132nd Fighter Wing, as they tested the pabilities; E-3 Airborne Warning and Control limits of their tactical flying abilities in the Systems (AWACS), KC-135 tankers, EA-6B Red Flag North exercise at Eielson Air Force jamming aircraft, F-15 air-to-air fighters and Base, Alaska, from April 15 to 2 May 2. F-16 multi-role fighters all working together Red Flag-Alaska, a series of Pacific Air to degrade the enemy’s air-to-air and air-to- Forces commander-directed field training ex- surface defenses to successfully put bombs on ercises for U.S. forces, provides joint offen- target. sive counter-air, interdiction, close air support The 132nd FW supplied six multi-role fight- and large force employment training in a simu- ers in each of these 30-plus aircraft packages. lated comabt environment. Faced with the most realistic and difficult It provides U.S. and allied pilots, aircrews major conflict training profiles flown any- and operational suport personnel the opportu- where in the world, the “Hawkeyes” of the nity to train and improve their air combat skills 132nd FW excelled. in preparation for a myriad of worldwide op- And thanks to the hard-working 132nd erations. FW Maintainers, the unit was the only fight- Conducted on the Pacific Alaska Range er squadron at Red Flag North to launch all Complex, the largest training range in America scheduled sorties, as well as the most lines at more than 65,000 square miles, air opera- configured with live or heavy-weight inert tions are flown out of Eielson Air Force Base, ordnance. The Iowa Militiaman 16 Spring 2009 that this sacrifice is voluntarily and that those Tag Sends individuals are making a difference in our continued from page 3 world of their own freewill and without a draft. However, for many of our members, it is not just themselves, but their families who are drill weekends in order to reach both full-time sacrificing and serving. It is the unsung heroes and M-day personnel. at home that keep the porch light burning, pay I am tremendously impressed with the the bills, and take care of the kids, while our Soldiers, Airmen, and leaders I’ve meet during Soldiers and Airmen serve overseas. It is truly these visits and confident they will take the a team effort by all to continue serving our Iowa National Guard to the next level. Many state and nation. of these have deployed once, twice, and in In my next column, I’ll talk to you about my some cases, even three times in support of command mission, vision, campaign plan and the Global War on Terrorism. I am reminded my priorities.

132nd earns prestigious award The 132nd Fighter Wing, recently won the Members also deployed to Arizona for Winston P. Wilson Trophy, presented to the Operation Jump Start, constructing barriers for most outstanding Air National Guard unit in enhanced border security. Last June, essen- the United States equipped with jet fighter or tially all home station Airmen participated in reconnaissance aircraft. response and recovery operations in support of Last year was busy for the 132nd, as 387 Flood 2008 operations. Airmen deployed to the Middle East for com- The Wing is continuing to build on its record bat operations in support of Operations Iraqi of over 83,000 flying hours without a major Freedom and Enduring Freedom. In addition, mishap. The last Class A accident was in April members deployed to Puerto Rico; Nellis 1989. Air Force Base, Las Vegas, Nev.; Savannah This award is not the Wing’s first national Combat Readiness Training Center, Ga.; and award. The 132d has received the Air Force Eielson Air Force Base, Fairbanks, Alaska. Outstanding Unit Award eight times.

Tech. Sgt. Oscar Sanchez and Tech. Sgt. Brian Cox, Sanchez received a first place nod for his “Feature from Sioux City’s 185th Air Refueling Wing, recently Photo” entry, second place finishes in the “Picto- took home several awards in the 2008 Air National rial Photograph” and “Picture Story” categories and Guard media contest. Cox was awarded first place a third in “News Photography.” Judges scored 200 in the “Portrait/Personality Photo” category, while entries, a 75 percent increase in total submissions. The Iowa Militiaman 17 Spring 2009 Are you ready for retirement? courtesy of Army Public Affairs Before Sept. 23, 1996 = 60 points WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As an Army Na- From Sept. 23, 1996 until Oct. 30, 2000 = tional Guard Soldier, you are often quick to 75 points respond, “Yes, I’m ready.” From Oct. 30, 2000 until Oct. 30, 2007 = 90 But, are you ready to retire? Have you taken points the time to plan for your future? And, more im- Since Oct. 30, 2007 = 130 points portantly, do you know the Army has a retire- You can find more information and specific ment program that’ll help you and your family guidance in Department of Defense Instruc- prepare for and support you after retirement? tion (DODI) 1215.7 (http://www.dtic.mil/whs/ Retirement is a process, not an event, and it directives/corres/pdf/121507p.pdf). is a complex and life-changing one. Knowing Next, you need to know how many points where to go for assistance will help you and you have earned. RPAM, formerly known as your family in preparing for retirement. Retirement Points Accounting System (RPAS) For Guard Soldiers and families, support provides an automated method to ensure time- comes from your State G-1 Retirement Points ly recording and verification of all retirement Accounting Management (RPAM) offices, points earned during your career. State Joint Force Headquarters and state Mili- Soldiers must receive an NGB Form 23A tary Personnel Management Officers (MP- and A1 (Annual and Detailed Point Statement) MOs). every year. If not, contact your unit readiness For all components, Retirement Services Of- NCO or state JFHQ RPAM. If you find a prob- ficers (RSOs) at Army installations worldwide lem with your points statement, contact one of (listed at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/rso/rso. these offices for a correction. asp) support retiring and retired Soldiers and When a retirement date is set, the state families. JFHQ will transfer the Soldier to the servicing There are two types of retirement points Transition Center (a list is at: http://www.mili- earned towards non-regular retirement: Inac- taryconnection.com/army_trans.asp) for final tive Duty (IDT) points and Active Duty (AD) processing, discharging the Soldier from state- points. only (or federal recognition from the State IDT Points may be earned by: ARNG, for officers) for assignment to the • Inactive Duty Training/Unit Drill Army Reserve and placement on a retired list. • Equivalent Training (ET) State MPMO/G-1 or other designated staff • Additional Flight Training Period (AFTP) members conduct pre-retirement briefings dur- • Additional Unit Training Assembly (AUTA) ing the 18th or 19th year of service. At your • Jump Proficiency Additional Unit Training briefing, you’ll learn about Reserve Compo- Assembly nents Survivor Benefit Plan (RC-SBP), retire- • Funeral Honors Duty (FHD) ment benefits, medical care, discharge proce- • Junior Leader/Civil Disturbance Leadership dures, and the retired pay application process. Training Spouses should also attend these briefings. • Training Preparation Assembly One of the most important decisions you’ll • Annual Training Assembly (ATA) Individual make for your family is Reserve Component Use Other Survivor Benefit Plan (RC-SBP) election. The • Mobile Conduct of Fire Trainer (MCOFT) Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is the only way • Management/Support Assembly retired pay continues after death of the retiree. Each full anniversary year will earn a Sol- The primary purpose of SBP is to provide dier 15 membership points (partial years will survivors with a portion of a retired Soldier’s earn partial points). pay. Retired pay stops when a retiree dies – Army Correspondence Course Program survivors do not receive any monthly payment (ACCP) awards one point for every three cred- unless the retiree elected some level of SBP it hours completed, provided the Soldier is not coverage before he/she retired. Retirees cannot in an active duty status at time of completion. elect SBP coverage after retirement. Originally established by law in 1949, the RC-SBP allows RC Soldiers who have re- maximum number of IDT points a Soldier ceived Notification of Eligibility for Retired could earn was 60 points. The points allowed Pay at age 60 to continue a portion of fu- depend on the time of service: ture retired pay entitlement to their enrolled The Iowa Militiaman 18 Spring 2009 beneficiary(ies) if they die before receiving retired pay. retired pay at 60. There are three Options: You must complete the DD Form 2656-5, Option A (Decline to Make an Election Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan Until Age 60) (No RC-SBP Participation). (RC-SBP) Election Certificate, 90 days from If you choose this option and die before 60, receipt of the letter for an RC-SBP election. your beneficiaries won’t receive any portion For National Guard Soldiers and Families, of your future retired pay entitlement. If you military retirement is a two-part process. Be- are married at the time of election, your spouse fore reaching age 60 and the start of retired pay must concur with the election not to enroll in and medical care, you are in the “gray area.” the RC-SBP. As a “gray area” Reserve retired Soldier, you If you have no eligible dependents when will have some benefits – you can use- com you make your RC-SBP election and you later missary, Exchange, and installation facilities marry, or acquire a dependent, you have one and space-available travel (for you, not your year from the date of the marriage or acquir- spouse until you reach age 60). ing the child to make an election. That election In the “gray area,” you have the option of becomes effective upon the first anniversary of purchasing coverage in both the non-subsi- the marriage or acquiring the dependent child. dized retiree dental plan and the federal long- Option B (Deferred Annuity). If you die term insurance program. You will also start before your 60th birthday, your beneficiary receiving the Army Retirement Services bul- is entitled to an RC-SBP annuity on the day letin, “Army Echoes.” To receive Echoes and you would have reached 60. If you die after get back issues by e-mail, go to http://www. 60, the annuity is payable immediately. Option armyg1.army.mil/rso/echoes.asp. B becomes your SBP election at age 60. If you If you choose to resign from the Guard un- are married when you make this election, your til age 60, you are not eligible for these pro- spouse must concur. grams or benefits. You must keep the Human Option C (Immediate Annuity). Under this Resources Command-St. Louis informed of option, annuity payments to designated ben- your address and status both for mobilization eficiaries begin immediately upon your death, purposes and to ensure they have your address whether you die before or after age 60. Option when it’s time to mail your retirement packet C becomes the Soldier’s SBP election at 60. at 1-800-318-5298, ext. 4. The spouse must concur if the retiring Soldier To learn more about the retirement process, elects to cover less than full retired pay. contact your Unit Readiness NCO or JFHQ What happens if your spouse doesn’t concur Retirement Points Accounting Management with your SBP election? You’re automatically (RPAM) office representative, Sgt. Joshua enrolled in RC-SBP Option C, covering full Eberly, at (515) 252-4499.

Education Office for MGIB-AD, Chapter 30, you will need to continued from page 13 submit your DD2366, or DD 2366-1 (if avail- able) and a copy of your mobilization orders to your VACO. These forms can be found in found in your iPERMS Soldier file. your iPERMS Soldier file if you bought into If you need to know how to use iPERMS, the Chapter 30. contact your unit. For those applying for pro- You still need to do your end-of-the-month grams other than college, contact the VA or verification by phoning 1-877-823-2378 or the visit www.gibill.va.gov to apply for the GI W.A.V.E. program online. The rates can be Bill. found on the www.gibill.va.gov web site. Remember, if you have been deployed 90 days to one year, you can receive 40 percent Need help choosing a degree? of the Active Duty GI Bill. If deployed one to If you are struggling choosing a degree, two years, you can get 60 percent, and for 2 the Education Office has updated the Career continuous years, or multiple deployments that Counseling tab, on the iowanationaguard.com add up to 36 months, you can receive 80 per- website. This will allow you to do an online cent. Chapter 30 MGIB is $1,321. application and the Education Support Center will provide you with a degree plan. The best MGIB-AD eligibility way to contact the Education Office is educa- For those Soldiers who became eligible [email protected], or call 1-515-252-4468. The Iowa Militiaman 19 Spring 2009 To those family members whose Solder is currently at Basic Combat Training or Advanced Individual Training -- Thank you! Your son or daughter left Iowa a citizen and will return as a Citizen-Solder. You have reason to be proud and we are grateful to have you as part of the National Guard Family. - The Recuiting & Retention Force

Recruiting & Retention Battalion Needs Your Support Guard Recruiting Assistant Program (G-RAP) http:www.guardrecruitingassistant.com G-Rap is one of the best force multipliers in the history of the National Guard. We need the efforts of the entire team to build readiness within our ranks and G-RAP creates and rewards ($2,000 for enlisted accession; up to $7,500 for officer accession) to those who participate. The following individuals are eleigible to participate in G-RAP: M-Day officers and enlisted Soldiers; AGR enlisted Soldiers; Currently mobilized enlisted Soldiers; Soldiers assigned on ADOS orders (not assigned to Recuiting and Retention) and ARNG Retirees with 20+ years of verified service. If a person has signed a contract as a traditional M-Day Soldier, they are eligible to submit an application. An applicant is not required to com- plete BCT to be eligible to participate. Talk with your unit recruiter about this program.

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Officer/Warrant Officer Symposium - The third information briefing on officer and warrant officer opportunities for 2009 will take place on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Freedom Center (Building S70). Contact Maj. Amy Price (Basic Branch Officer) at (515) 252-4136, or amy.price@ us.army.mil; or Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jeff Lee (Warrant Officer) at (515) 252-4596, or [email protected] to register for more information. Please come see how you can take the next step in your military career and take advantage of the outstanding opportunities in our “leadership academies.”