Battalion pre- Bunting Kansas Guard pares Burun- retires as supports dian soldiers adjutant inaugural PlainsPlainsfor mission ..2 GuardianGuardiangeneral . . . . .7 events . . . . .8

Volume 54 No. 1 Serving the Kansas National Guard, Kansas Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol January 2011 Tafanelli selected as 34th adjutant general of Kansas Brig. Gen. Lee Tafanelli was selected as Kansas National Guard for over 30 years. adjutant general by Governor-elect Sam He assumed the position of assistant adju- Brownback on Dec. 10, 2010. tant general of the Kansas Army National “I am humbled and honored that he Guard July 19, 2010 and was the com- chose me,” said Tafanelli, adding that the mander of the Kansas Army National Guard. honor was “bittersweet.” Tafanelli previously served as commander “I have really enjoyed representing the of 69th Troop Command and the director of people of my district in the House and to operations for the Kansas Guard. give that up is not easy.” He joined the Kansas Army National Tafanelli received recognition as major Guard in 1980 and was commissioned as a general by the Kansas Senate Jan. 27, second lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers 2011. He was sworn in as adjutant general through Pittsburg State University’s Re- Jan. 28 in the Kansas Senate chambers. serve Officer Training Corps program in As adjutant general, Tafanelli will be 1982. Tafanelli has served in a wide variety charged with guiding the preparation and of command and staff positions as a tradi- training of over 7,700 Kansas Army and tional Guardsman, Active Guard and Re- Air National Guard citizen-Soldiers and serve and Active Duty Soldier at the Airmen. As the director of Kansas Emer- company, battalion, brigade, state head- gency Management, he is also responsible quarters and Department of the Army level. for directing and coordinating state and In 2005 he was deployed with the 891st local government agencies when emergen- Engineer Battalion (Combat) in support of cies and natural disasters strike in the state. Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brig. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general-select, takes his oath of office Jan. 28, 2011, In addition to the part-time Soldiers and In 1999, Tafanelli received a master’s de- in a brief ceremony in the Kansas Senate Chambers. the oath was adminstered by the Airmen, The Adjutant General’s Depart- gree in Environmental Planning and Man- Honorable Lawton Nuss, chief justice of the Kansas Supreme Court. (Photo by Steve ment includes about 2,300 full-time State agement from Kansas State University and Larson, Public Affairs Office) and Federal employees. Tafanelli will also is a 2008 graduate of the U.S. Army War Badge and Air Assault Badge. program coordinator for the National Agri- serve as the director of Homeland Security College. His awards and decorations in- Prior to becoming the adjutant general, cultural Biosecurity Center. for Kansas, where he will work to ensure clude the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Tafanelli was a state representative for the Tafanelli and his wife, Tammy, live in security in the state is a top priority. For Service Medal, Army Commendation 47th District in the Kansas Legislature. He rural Ozawkie with their two children, budgetary and administrative purposes, he Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Global also worked at Kansas State University as a Nicholas and Francesca. is responsible for the Civil Air Patrol. War on Terrorism Medal, Iraq Campaign Tafanelli has been a member of the Medal, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist “Home for the holidays” a dream Kansas sends off third Agribusiness come true for Kansas Soldiers Development Team to Afghanistan By Steve Larson By Steve Larson in Salina. Public Affairs Office “This is the best Christmas Public Affairs Office “This will be the third team we’ve sent It was a holiday story with a Hollywood present we could ever give Members of the Kansas Agribusiness to Afghanistan with this mission,” said ending: Soldiers return home just in time to the families of these fine Development Team #3 Afghanistan re- Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant gen- for Christmas. ceived a rousing send-off during a deploy- eral. “Our first two teams have made great Approximately 170 Soldiers of the Soldiers.” ment ceremony Nov. 23, 2010, at the strides in building relationships with the Kansas National Guard’s 226th Engineer Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting Kanss State University Recreation Center people of the area, showing them how they Company returned home from Afghanistan Dec. 23, 2010. A brief ceremony was con- can improve their agricultural production of military schedules and the availability of ducted for the Soldiers in Hangar #600 at and, consequently, the quality of their transportation, it was not always certain the Salina Municipal Airport, where lives. I have every confidence that this whether the Soldiers would make it back to throngs of families and friends gave them a team will continue to build on those rela- Kansas in time for the holidays. rousing and heartfelt welcome. tionships and be true mentors to the “This is the best Christmas present we PAID Afghan people.” Given the sometimes changeable nature (Continued on Page 5) PRSRT STD PRSRT SALEM, OR

U.S. POSTAGE “There is no one tyrant in Afghanistan, PERMIT NO. 178 PERMIT but there is a tyrannical group there that seeks to not let the Afghan people choose their own way forward,” Bunting told the crowd of family and friends. “So what America has always done is and what Kansas has always done is we find brave men and women that put on the uniform of their country and they go where we send them to do the great work.” “That’s what this third Agribusiness De- velopment Team will do and were im- mensely proud of them,” said Bunting. “A year ago, it seemed like this day was going to be forever coming,” said Lt. Col. Howard Wheeler, commander of the team. “And now… we realize that time has really flown by quickly and we hope that the next year flies by just as quickly.” Wheeler explained the mission of the team is to assist the Afghan people in de- veloping new farming techniques and sus- tainable crops to help improve the Afghan economy. 2800 Topeka Blvd. 2800 Topeka

OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL “It’s a challenging mission and it needs a Adjutant General of Kansas Topeka, Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka, Penalty For Private Use, $300 Soldiers of the 226th Engineer Company and 891st Engineer Battalion are greeted DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY THE OF DEPARTMENT special team of warriors,” said Wheeler. NATIONAL GUARD OF KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL “That special team of warriors stands right by senior leadership of the Kansas National Guard as they step off a jet at the Salina next to you. They’re a team that only the Na- airport Dec. 23, 2010. The Soldiers had been on a one-year mission to Afghanistan. DEPARTMENT AND AIR OF THE ARMY FORCE DEPARTMENT (Continued on Page 13) (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Office) Page 2 Plains Guardian • January 2011 Guardsman headed for fourth deployment, second mountaintop Editor’s note: In the September 2010 issue with the only Kansas unit that was immedi- of the Plains Guardian was an article about ately sending troops to the Middle East at Capt. Aaron “Ike” Isaacson and his involve- that time. “He made it clear to them that if ment in an expedition to climb Mount they were going to put him behind a desk, he Lobuche in Nepal with the “Soldiers to the wasn’t going to join.” Summit” program in October 2010. In 2004, Isaacson deployed to Iraq as a Isaacson will be in training throughout member of a U.S. Army Reserve unit from this year for a second climb, this one up Kansas City, Kan. It was there, in the Al Mount Vinson, the highest mountain in Anbar province, that he suffered the first of Antarctica. That climb is scheduled for several serious injuries he would sustain in January 2012, shortly after he returns from the coming years. Those wounds earned him a fourth deployment to Afghanistan. his first Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. Below is an edited version of an article He deployed for a second tour to Iraq, about Isaacson and the Wounded Warrior’s serving with the 2nd Battalion, 137th In- “Soldiers to the Summit” program that ap- fantry in Baghdad as an infantry platoon peared in Foundation’s magazine prior to leader. In 2007, Isaacson deployed for a the 2010 climb. Reprinted by permission. third tour, this time to Afghanistan as a *** *** *** member of Embedded Training Team #4. By Rachel Gladstone, Staff Writer It was there that Isaacson sustained his Foundations magazine third injury and was awarded his second What is it that makes an ordinary man Bronze Star. extraordinary? Is it the way he handles Fortunately, none of Isaacson’s injuries major life events? Or is it something he’s were life threatening. But, their aftermath simply born with? will affect him for the rest of his life. According to those who know him best, “The main thing is that I just can’t hear Capt. Aaron Isaacson proudly displays the United States flag on top of Mount for Capt. Aaron Isaacson of the Kansas people any more. Sometimes that’s good,” Lobuche, Nepal. Isaacson, a member of the Kansas National Guard, climbed the Army National Guard it’s a combination of he laughed, “but most of the time, it’s peak in October 2010 with a group of Wounded Warriors as part of the “Soldiers to these things that make him an exemplary not—especially when I’m spending time the Summit” program. (Photo by Didrik Johnck/Johnck Media, LLC) Soldier, a steadfast friend, a loving son and with my family. The doctors tell me it’s a remarkable man. only going to get worse.” In addition, Isaacson feels the people ing to not let God see what I was doing But if you were to ask him the same In light of this news, and the fact that he around him have helped him focus on the over there. I subconsciously thought that if question, he would tell you that it’s about gave a year of his life to the recovery of positive aspects of his life. I avoided [religion], maybe God wouldn’t adhering to his principles, which include his broken leg, one might wonder how he “Of course, I have aches and pains like notice the things I was doing in combat devotion to his country and an unwavering stays as positive as he does. His family anybody. But from a mental perspective, as arms. But I worked out of that.” desire to help others whenever possible. chalks it up to an indomitable spirit and a long as I’m around my buddies who were “My faith has always kept me going in Isaacson has been patriotic almost all his great attitude. [deployed] with me as much as possible, the right direction. It especially helped life. Hailing originally from Hugoton, “I think that a lot of it has to do with I’m OK. That’s the best way for any Soldier when I was recovering from my broken Kan., he felt the first stirrings of patriotism Aaron’s personality, and the strength he to get by after returning home,” he contin- leg. During that year, I had a lot of time to as a child. draws from our family and his fellow Sol- ued. “[Your fellow Soldiers] know what think about my faith. It’s been renewing.” “I’ve always had [these inclinations],” he diers. They depend on one another for their you’re thinking and what you’ve experi- After his stint in the hospital in 2009, recalled. “When I was six years old, I wrote lives,” Isaacson’s mother, Robin, told us. “I enced, and it makes sense to them. It doesn’t Isaacson returned to Topeka, Kan., and got a letter to President Ronald Reagan in crayon think that with Aaron, as an individual, [his really make sense to anybody else. I’m defi- a job working as the legislative liaison for to say I was sorry they were saying bad service] just continues to make him a nitely a different person [than I was], and I the Kansas adjutant general, Maj. Gen. things about him in the news. And he actu- stronger person. When you are met with don’t think that will ever [change]. But it’s Tod Bunting. In addition to this new job, ally sent a nice note back. I’ve always been things you have to go through and you never going to hold me down. Helping peo- Isaacson plans to redeploy to the Middle interested in serving one way or another.” wonder if it’s humanly possible to survive ple and the love I have for my country in- East in 2011. Isaacson went on to become a Boy Scout them—and then you do—I think you come spire me to continue to serve.” But, he admits, sometimes it’s great to and an Eagle Scout. After high school, he through it that much stronger.” Isaacson’s faith has also been a constant take a break, too. attended Washburn University, graduating As far as Isaacson is concerned, his re- for him, even when he had doubts about his “My family has a farm out in the country, in 1999 with a degree in business adminis- silience hinges on his ability to unflinch- day-to-day activities overseas. and I like to get away from everything and tration. Then, something terrible happened: ingly face the truth about his life. “I’ve always been a Christian,” he shared. just work out there. It gives me a chance to 9/11. The attacks on America had such a “You have to keep going,” he mused. “It’s really trying sometimes, though. On my think. It’s great to be able to take some time profound effect on Isaacson that he felt he “You just can’t stop. Some days I have to in- first tour, I brought a Bible with me and al- to block myself off from everything. I’ve had no choice but to join the military. He spire myself to get up, but I do it. It comes ways went to church. But then I stopped come to appreciate the simple things in life, jumped at the first chance for deployment. and goes in waves, I guess. On those days going to church. I did some deep searching like being on the farm and watching the sun “There was a real change in him after that you don’t want to get up, you have to to see what was going on with that. I had go down. And, I love spending time catching 9/11,” John Isaacson, Aaron’s father, told put one foot in front of the other. And you stopped praying and everything.” up with friends and family.” Foundations. He said that Aaron really have to keep a sense of humor—my sense of “It wasn’t because I stopped believing,” Although Isaacson has seen his share of wanted to serve his country, so he enlisted humor really carries me through.” he continued. “It was almost like I was try- (Continued on Page 10) Battalion prepares Burundian soldiers for peacekeeping mission By Staff Sgt. Heather Stanton During the exercise, the BNDF battalion the order, they used the Military Decision cle during the week-long exercise, the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa worked as though they were in position at Making Process--analyze the situation, fig- biggest obstacle to overcome was that the A three-officer team from the 2nd Com- their deployed location, Mittman said. They ure out the best course of action, “wargame” BNDF staff officers and soldiers lacked the bined Arms Battalion, 137 Infantry, Kansas were given rudimentary orders from brigade the course of action, make a final decision fundamental understanding that would be National Guard, serving with Combined telling them they were going to proceed as a and execute that decision. inherent to an American Soldier at that Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa recently brigade and what their role would be. With Though a language barrier was an obsta- rank, Mittman said. returned from Burundi where they worked “(For the exercise) we don’t have a com- alongside the Burundian National Defense munications director. The operations and Force in a command post exercise. intelligence directors were just picked from The exercise was the capstone of a U.S. the ranks,” Mittman explained. “In our mil- Department of State-sponsored Command itary, those people would be specifically Staff Operations Course. During the five- branched and tracked that way.” week course, battalion commanders and Overcoming this obstacle was a slow staff learn the NATO military decision process, but the soldiers powered through it. making process, according to James Cobb, “You try to teach through it,” Mittman U.S. State Department program country said. “Sometimes you don’t realize there is a manager for Burundi. During the exercise, problem. You go through and ask questions the BNDF used what they previously and you find out there is a very basic piece learned in a scenario similar to what they of information missing that is causing a lot may experience during their upcoming of problems. You go back and try to fix it peacekeeping mission. and go on through. It’s trial and error.” “If you look back through history, staff The CJTF-HOA Soldiers provided a mili- work probably gets more soldiers killed on tary presence their U.S. State Department the battlefield than an actual engagement, counterparts did not necessarily possess. (more) than poor tactics decisions,” said “All of the (U.S. State Department) in- Lt. Col. Gregory Mittman, 2-137 com- structors have a wealth of experience and mander. “Poor staff work can lead large are all very competent,” Mittman said. “But numbers of soldiers down a totally wrong Burundian National Defense Force Captain Commander Jean Claude Bizoza, the the fact that someone is here wearing the path with no options. If we continue to chief of staff during the Command Post Exercise, gives the morning situation report uniform brings some legitimacy. (It says) help them refine their staff work, ideally to the BNDF command staff and the U.S. Army partners during an exercise in Bu- ‘Here is real-time information straight out of they’ll be able to minimize their own casu- rundi. Three Soldiers from the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry trav- the ranks of the U.S. military’.” alties and try to lessen the suffering on in- elled to Burundi to partner with the BNDF for the exercise and share best practices The U.S. military partners with the U.S. nocent populations.” for the Burundian’s upcoming deployment. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Heather Stanton) (Continued on Page 10) January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Lee takes charge of 169th CSSB JAG officers attend 21st annual The 169th Combat Sustainment Support received his commission and served with Battalion has a new commander. 891st Engineer Battalion. During his legal conference in Topeka A change of command ceremony was tenure, he served in various positions in- held Dec. 5, 2010, in the Olathe, Kan., cluding communications and electronic of- Army National Guard armory. The new ficer, platoon leader, reconnaissance commander, Lt. Col. David E. Lee, took officer, executive officer, company com- command from Lt. Col. Thomas J. Foster. mander and logistics officer. “I am both humbled and honored at the Lee had served as operations officer of opportunity to serve as battalion com- the 287th Sustainment Brigade, during mander of the 169th CSSB,” said Lee. which the unit deployed in support of Op- “I take the privilege of command very eration Iraqi Freedom. In 2001, Lee trans- seriously,” Lee continued. “As the integra- ferred to the 169th Corps Support tion process begins into command, I imme- Battalion, deploying in support of Opera- diately realize the outstanding quality of tion Iraqi Freedom as the support opera- staff, company commanders and Soldiers tions officer in 2005. that Lieutenant Colonel Foster has trained Upon return from the deployment, Lee and mentored over the past 30 months of served as the assistant support operations command. To that I am grateful and pledge and training officer for the 287th Sustain- to continue the strong leadership and tech- ment Brigade. nical skill building that he and his prede- “This has been the best military position cessors have established and maintained I have ever had and I have been blessed to over the long history of the battalion.” be the commander of the 169th CSSB,” Lee brings with him a wide range of said Foster, who had been the battalion’s knowledge to the command position that he commander since July 2008. “I truly love feels will help ensure his success. His di- this battalion and the Soldiers that make it verse background started when he enlisted great. It is a sad day to give up command, with the Headquarters and Headquarters but, Lieutenant Colonel Lee will do a fan- Company, 891st Engineer Battalion, as a tastic job during his command here at the Maj. Jared Maag, staff judge advocate, 190th Air Refueling Wing, Topeka, was one wire systems installer in 1985. In 1989, he 169th CSSB.” of several speakers at the Kansas National Guard 2010 Judge Advocate Legal Con- ference, held at the Washburn University School of Law. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Bill McGinnis, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) By Sgt. 1st Class Bill McGinnis “The conference provides 12 hours of 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment continuing legal education, which every at- More than 50 past and present members torney in Kansas needs to stay licensed,” of the Kansas National Guard’s Judge Ad- said Oleen. “While the conference is fo- vocate General’s Corps and civilians who cused on the needs of judge advocates and practice military law gathered together at civilians who practice military law, it is the Washburn University School of Law open to all licensed attorneys.” Oct. 2 and 3, 2010, for the 21st Annual During the conference, participants heard Kansas National Guard 2010 Judge Advo- from specialists in various legal fields of cate Legal Conference. expertise, such as ethics, current legal is- The conference was arranged by Lt. Col. sues in the Iraq and Afghanistan theaters of Matt Oleen, command judge advocate, 635th operations, Sharia law, how America prose- Regional Support Group; Maj. Jared Maag, cutes unprivileged enemy belligerents ac- staff judge advocate, 190th Air Refueling cused of violating the Laws of War, cyber Wing; and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Indulis attacks and other current legal issues. Dambro, legal administrator, Joint Forces Participants were also invited to a formal Headquarters, Staff Judge Advocate Office. dining-in at the Ramada, in downtown “This is the 21st year we’ve hosted the Topeka and an informal social at the Mu- Kansas National Guard Judge Advocate seum of the Kansas National Guard to General’s Corps Conference and this year honor retired judge advocates, as well as Lt. Col. David E. Lee addresses members of the 169th Combat Sustainment Support we had our largest turn out ever,” said three former judge advocates who received Battalion during the ceremony that marked his assumption of command of the unit Oleen. “We had a great turnout, due largely special recognition for their contributions Dec. 5, 2010. (Photo by Spc. Robert Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) to the efforts of Chief Dambro.” Oleen said to the Kansas National Guard JAG Corps. Dambro is scheduled to retire in 2011 after They were retired Brig. Gen. Jonathan Chaplains serve God and Country 40 years in the Army and 34 years in the Small, retired Col. Ed Wiegers and retired By Chaplain (Col.) Don Davidson quire graduation from counseling courses JAG Corps. Lt. Col. Randy Mettner. State Chaplain such as Clinical Pastoral Education. The Chaplain Corps was established prior Chaplains serve all members of the mili- 635th RSG has change of authority to the Revolutionary War when General tary community within the tradition of their By Maj. DeAnn Barr Guard as a squad leader for Detachment 1, George Washington requested the assistance own faith group. Chaplains will seek to pro- GPJTC Public Affairs Company B, 891st Engineer Battalion. of his minister for the welfare and morale of vide pastoral care and support to every Sol- A change of authority from Command Boring is a veteran of Operation Iraqi the Soldiers. Since dier and every military family. However, in Sgt. Maj. Manuel R. Rubio, Jr. to Com- Freedom, serving as first sergeant with Com- then, chaplains some cases, they may refer to another chap- mand Sgt. Maj. Edward A. Boring, 635th pany B, 891st Engineer Battalion. His previ- have served in lain who may be better enabled to provide Regional Support ous assignment was as command sergeant every conflict and that support because of their specific de- Group based in major for the 891st Engineer Battalion. been with Soldiers nominational ties. A good example might be Hutchinson, Kan., Boring is a retired captain of the Kansas on every field of that a Baptist chaplain would defer to a took place on Dec. Highway Patrol with over 26 years of serv- battle. Roman Catholic chaplain for the pastoral 5, 2010, at the ice. He currently works for the U.S. De- In today’s Army, care of a Roman Catholic Soldier or family. Great Plains Joint partment of Transportation as a Federal the Chaplain Corps Chaplains are not commissioned to Training Center in Motor Carrier Safety Administration Pro- consists of chap- evangelize for their individual faith tradi- Salina, Kan. gram manager. lains, chaplain as- tions, although when they conduct a serv- Boring assumes His awards include the Bronze Star sistants and Chaplain (Col.) ice or provide counseling they do so within the position with Medal, Army Commendation Medal with chaplain candi- Don Davidson the context of their educational and spiri- 36 years of mili- oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal dates. Chaplains tual convictions. Saying this in another tary experience. Command Sgt. Maj. with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Con- are commissioned officers who are en- way, I would never try to convert a Soldier “I’m looking for- Edward Boring duct Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct dorsed by a specific denomination or en- to the Episcopal faith, yet when I lead a ward to the oppor- Medal, Army Reserve Component Achieve- dorsing agency. Currently, chaplains are service or provide counseling I do so as an tunity to work with a different type of ment Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Na- Christian, Islamic, Jewish and Hindu, along Episcopal priest. My obligation as a chap- brigade,” said Boring. “I’ve been an engi- tional Defense Service Medal with two with the various sub-groupings within those lain, however, is to provide support and neer my entire career in the Guard. This is bronze stars, Armed Forces Reserve medal faiths. The Army establishes basic require- care for every member of the military and going to be a new experience for me.” with “M” device and hour glass, Iraqi Cam- ments to become a chaplain; each denomi- I will do so to the best of my ability. After one year in the position, Rubio de- paign Medal with bronze service star, Global nation or endorsing agency may add to The Army chaplaincy as a corps is secu- parts his post with no regrets. War on Terrorism Service Medal, Kansas those basic requirements. The Army re- lar, that is, it has no one religious doctrine “It’s been a year of experience for me,” Commendation Ribbon with bronze oak leaf, quires that a chaplain be a graduate of an or theology and chaplains are dedicated to said Rubio, now serving with the Recruit- Kansas Homeland Defense Service Ribbon, accredited seminary or theological school protecting the religious freedom of every ing Command in Topeka, Kan. “Up to this Kansas Emergency Duty Service Ribbon with a master’s degree in divinity, theology military member, including their right not assignment I’ve been a maintenance logis- with two sunflower devices, Army Meritori- or its equivalent; ordination, accreditation to profess a specific faith or creed nor be tician. This was an eye-opening experience ous Unit Award, the Bronze Order of the de or licensing within their individual group- forced or harassed to do so. for me to see how field artillery and their Fleury Medal and many other awards. ing; meet physical and age standards and be Chaplains, no matter of rank, should be rich tradition operate.” Boring and his wife, Twilla, live in Cher- endorsed. Some denominations require ac- addressed as “Chaplain,” “Rabbi,” “Father” Boring enlisted in the United States Ma- ryvale, Kan. They have one daughter and a tive participation and leadership in the local or “Imam.” rine Corps in 1971, serving four years of ac- son, Sgt. Edward Boring II, 891st Engineer religious community for one or two years Chaplain candidates are full-time students tive duty as an aviation structural mechanic. Battalion. They have four grandchildren before commissioning and others also re- (Continued on Page 6) He then entered the Kansas Army National and one great-grandchild. Page 4 Plainly Speaking Plains Guardian • January 2011 A different world calls for different strategies By Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli on the lives of Kansans, both living and yet 2. Organizational structure – examining So, instead of focusing exclusively on the The Adjutant General to be born. Because of this, we need to how we are currently structured to see if type of weapons systems or responder When I joined the Guard in 1980, the make our time and our efforts count. it makes sense and is sustainable given equipment that are being promised or hoped Cold War was still very hot and the world I believe in shooting straight with you, so the threats and trends. for in the unknown future, we will focus on looked a lot different than it does today. here’s the situation we are facing. Both Eu- 3. Interagency culture – examining how the development of individual Soldiers, Air- If you don’t re- rope and the United States face massive we can enhance our capabilities by work- men and state employees. Much of what we member the details long-term fiscal challenges. China’s eco- ing with other agencies, educational in- need to know can be learned by examining of 1980 (or weren’t nomic and military power is rising much stitutions, nongovernmental the following individually-based questions: born yet), here’s a quicker than most experts expected. The organizations and private industry. What will a future Kansas National Guard quick run down. wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are winding 4. Individual development – examining Soldier or Airman look like? What will a fu- The Phillies beat down, but a sizeable number of other re- how we can best prepare our people for ture Adjutant General’s Department state the Royals in gional conflicts are heating up. Many crafty the future. employee look like? What skills and capa- Game 6 of the non-state actors are testing us in ways we are The four focus areas are integrally tied bilities will they need to have? How will World Series, the unfamiliar with and poorly equipped, organ- together. If there is a change in one focus they work alongside their counterparts? first Pac Man ized or trained to defend against. area, it affects the others. For example, How will they need to plan and support videogame was re- Additionally, the surge of money pushed long-term economic stress (trend) could re- local and state officials when funding gets leased and Dallas for homeland security and defense efforts sult in changes to how an agency is struc- tight? How will they be different (and bet- Maj. Gen. (KS) was the most popu- after Sept. 11 is receding rapidly. Secretary tured (organizational structure), which ter) than us? How can we best train them in Lee Tafanelli lar show on TV. of Defense Dr. Robert Gates has called for could result in the need for the agency to a joint environment? Japan surpassed the United States as the $100 billion in defense cuts over the next work closer with private industry to pro- These questions are daunting, but much largest producer of automobiles and 3M in- five years, and there are likely more cuts vide a needed capability (interagency cul- more knowable than guessing about future troduced something called the Post-It note. and tough decisions ahead. ture), which could result in the need for world events, politics and economic dy- Around the globe, the Soviets were in Even with all these challenges and new or different types of training for our namics. By thinking about these questions Afghanistan, 52 American embassy hostages budget cuts, there will be small, but attain- people (individual development). We will and moving ahead in developing the type were still being held by the Iranians, a Pol- able, niche areas of military, emergency push hard on all focus areas, but I wanted of Soldiers, Airmen and state employees ish electrician named Lech Walesa was lead- management and homeland security-related to explain my thoughts about individual de- we will need, no matter the circumstances, ing a pro-reform strike in communist importance that Kansas can seize. We will velopment as it relates to the future. we can best position ourselves and the peo- Poland, Iran and Iraq kicked off an eight- have to be willing to make bold moves, be It’s impossible to accurately and consis- ple of Kansas for success. year war, Mount St. Helens erupted and adaptive and be at the top of our game. tently predict what’s coming, even if Please know that I will need your ideas CNN was launched. Operation Eagle Claw Competition for these missions and re- you’re relatively skilled at forecasting fu- and your help in shaping our future. If you to rescue the American hostages in Iran sources will be intense, so we will need to ture trends and threats. Even if you’re have any ideas on any of the four focus failed, resulting in a massive military review push very hard and get used to planning, fairly accurate in your forecasts, certain un- areas that I mentioned above, I would ap- and the eventual development of Special working and living in an ever-changing and predictable events (e.g. Sept. 11, economic preciate hearing them. Operations Command and the push for chaotic environment. This is nothing new recessions, future large-scale attacks), can Thanks for all you do for our state and something called “joint.” There were two for Kansans. It is our perseverance of past change everything in an instant. nation. superpowers, but no Facebook, Twitter or difficulties that has made our state great, smartphones. Former California Governor and will bind us together as we work Soldier to Soldier Ronald Reagan was elected president and through future challenges. the twin towers of the World Trade Center No matter the challenges ahead, our mis- dominated the New York skyline. sion is clear. Whether at home or abroad, Professional Development: We live in a very different world now. we will always answer the call with trained And the changes that happened in the professionals ready to meet any state emer- The key to a successful career past 30 years are nothing compared to gency or federal mission. We have done it By Command Sgt. Maj. James Crosby selves and, more importantly, our Sol- what’s coming. The future geopolitical since 1855 and we will continue to do it. 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment diers by not being the best noncommis- chess board will look very different. I want you to know that we have a strat- What is it that drives ordinary people sioned officers we can be to help our Changes in bioengineering, nanotechnol- egy to address the challenges above. It is to join an organization that promises you Soldiers fight and survive, not only on ogy, energy production, robotics and hun- based on four key focus areas: trips to exotic the battlefield, but in life. dreds of other fields will be nothing short 1. Threats and trends – understanding as places like Iraq, While deployed to Afghanistan last of remarkable. We are at a historical mo- best we can the long-term economic, na- Afghanistan, year with the Kansas Agribusiness Devel- ment in time. What we do over the next tional security and geopolitical trends and Africa and opment Team # 1, I had an opportunity to several years will have a massive impact threats that we will have to contend with. Egypt? In many visit with my Soldiers about why many of cases, it’s bene- them weren’t “fully” qualified for promo- fits such as the tion. Since our team was comprised of News to start the year off right GI Bill, insur- members from 17 different units within By Command Chief Warrant Officer 4 gram. He brings with him a vast amount ance, part-time the state, I received a pretty good sam- Hector Vasquez of experience and knowledge to his new income or just an pling of “reasons.” Here are just a few of I hope every Soldier and their families assignment that will improve recruiting opportunity to them that led the way: are having a good start to the year, espe- for the Kansas Warrant Officer Corps. serve your nation • “I don’t have time to take away from cially the men and women who were I had the pleasure of visiting the 1st and the state of Command Sgt. Maj. my civilian employer.” away from their Battalion, 108th Aviation (Assault) in Kansas. Whatever James Crosby • “My unit wants me to go to Annual loved ones pro- Topeka and met with the warrant officer that reason is, I Training instead of Noncommissioned tecting this great aviators. I met the full-time staff, which firmly believe that Soldiers join our or- Officer Education and I can’t do both.” nation of ours. consisted of 10 warrant officers. I was in- ganization to succeed. I don’t think we As the training operations sergeant For the people formed about the four types of Aviators-- just wake up one morning and decide, “I major and an Active Guard and Reserve back home, maintenance, safety, tactical operations think I will intentionally fail today, just to member, my all time favorite: please send an e- and instructor pilots. Any of the aviators see what happens.” • “My full-timer says there are either no mail or card to can cross train on the four positions with With that said, we are failing. We’re seats or no money to send me.” someone who is the proper education and training. failing on the promise we make to our- (Continued on Page 5) deployed away I was impressed with the number of from home and hours that are placed on maintenance to let them know Command Chief keep all of their aircraft ready to fly at PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian they are not for- Warrant Officer 5 any given notice. The National Guard The PLAINS GUARDIAN is published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Guard. The editorial content gotten. Hector Vasquez warrant officers have the same require- of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Officer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN are not necessar- Now that win- ments of flight time as the Active Duty, ily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Department. News, features, photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. All photos must be high res- ter is here, please remember to continue to so they have to constantly keep up with olution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertisement will be accepted, nor will exercise because it is easy to gain a few their flying and simulation requirements payment be made for contributions. pounds during the holidays. The average to stay current with flight regulations. The deadline for all submission is the first Wednesday of the month: February, April, June, August, October and December. Submissions may be e-mailed to Jane Welch ([email protected]). person gains 11 pounds from Thanksgiv- A few months ago, I went to watch the Circulation: Approximately 15,500 ing through the New Year. It’s a lot easier 108th in action at the Smoky Hill Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Office to maintain then starting an exercises pro- Weapons Range, where they were con- Commander-in-Chief Public Affairs Office gram all over again. So, the New Year is a ducting weapons qualifications on the Gov. Sam Brownback Director great way to start the year off right by get- Black Hawk helicopters. It was pretty im- Adjutant General of Kansas Sharon Watson 785-274-1192 Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli ting in shape. pressive to see how they fly and fire their Assistant Director

Stephen D. Larson 785-274-1194 I would like to take this opportunity to weapons. The 108th will deploy this year, Editor Sharon Watson announce the selection of our new war- which will be the second time that this Administrative Assistant rant officer recruiter, Sgt. 1st Class unit has deployed to Iraq. They deployed Production/Graphics/Writer Jane Welch 785-274-1190 Stephen D. Larson FAX 785-274-1622 Samuel Bonham. Bonham comes from for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2006 to e-mail: [email protected] Production Assistant the Recruiting and Retention office out of 2008 and have been involved in many Jane Welch Videographer Topeka. He has performed the duties as stateside deployments, such as Hurricane Senior Airman Matt Lucht 785-274-1195 the marketing and advertising noncom- Ike 2008 and the winter storms of 2009. Staff Writer missioned officer for Kansas since Octo- Anyone interested in becoming an aviator Sgt. Jessica Rohr 785-274-1191 ber 2009 and is also the senior drill can contact me or Warrant Officer 1 Jes- The Plains Guardian may be read online at http://kansastag.ks.gov sergeant for the Recruit Sustainment Pro- (Continued on Page 5) For change of address, contact Jane Welch. January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 5 New lighting improves outlook for aeromedical evacuation patients By Tech. Sgt. Emily F. Alley Bureau and Headquarters, Air Mobility 190th ARW Public Affairs Command.” The KC-135s of the Kansas Air National The 190th ARW Maintenance Squadron Guard’s 190th Air Refueling Wing fly di- supported the testing and installation, even verse missions all over the world. They making suggestions to the manufacturer carry cargo, refuel other aircraft and for the that will improve the lighting kit for other last several years have also participated in aircraft. Grunberger stressed these are aeromedical missions—airlifting medical fleet-wide improvements, not just for the patients out of the Middle East and flying 200 KC-135s in the Air National Guard. them to the United States. “The innovation is a result of the hard However, the dark, sparsely windowed work from the Maintenance and Opera- interior of the planes lack modern lighting. tions squadrons here,” said Capt. Marci “The plane has flown for 50 years with Solander, deputy commander of Mainte- almost no lighting in the cabin,” recalled nance, “and represents a culmination of Lt. Col. Lee Grunberger, who first re- many dedicated individuals going above searched the idea of improved lighting. and beyond in their efforts to ensure the The light improvements started in 2008 unit remains ready.” when Grunberger was on an aeromedical A few active duty bases have begun to evacuation mission to Afghanistan and benefit from the lighting kits. However, asked medics what could make the mission months before they received them, the better. When they suggested lighting, he 190th was flying generals into Afghanistan began to do research and discovered new on aircraft already equipped with the lights. LED lights, which had been installed in The 190th ARW flew the first aeromed- RC-135s. By the time he ordered lights, ical evacuation combat mission with new they had improved in color quality and lighting into Bagram, Afghanistan, in July brightness to the point that doctors will be 2010. Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adju- Ground and air crews prepare to load patients on to a KC-135 from the 190th Air able to not only see patients, but recognize tant general, and Brig. Gen. John Owen, Refueling Wing at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. The jet has been equipped with skin tones, such as paleness or bruising, in Air Mobility Command National Guard as- new light packages that improve visibility in the hold, resulting in better care for true colors. sistant to the command surgeon, accompa- military personnel being medivaced to hospitals. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Emily Alley) After researching the lights, Grunberger nied the flight at the invitation of the 455th “And when you’re coming out of tions. In the future, an improved layout can approached Air Mobility Command. He Medical Group commander in Bagram. Bagram, you’ll have patients in critical provide more space for medical crews. The told them how he sought to bridge medical When the patients were loaded, the condition,” Grunberger reflected. current layout can be cramped when a doc- needs with maintenance capabilities. medics noticed the difference. While it is Senior Master Sgt. James Spurlock, the tor, respiratory technician and nurse, in ad- “We helped set specs,” said Grunberger. certainly a benefit at night, even daytime boom operator during the July flight, said dition to other medical personnel, are all at “We talked to people who set policy for loading and unloading of patients is differ- the medical personnel were impressed with work in the aisles. Grunberger plans to the KC-135 at Tinker, the National Guard ent, with less risk of tripping and snagging. the lighting. They had experienced the old work with Air Mobility Command to install lighting and said the improvement was out- litters that mount closer to the sides of the Key to a successful career standing. The design also gave the medics cabin and may expand aisle space as much more control. They can dim them when the as 40 inches. They will also save 2,000 Continued from Page 4 get you to understand whatever your reason patients need to sleep. pounds in weight compared to the current Currently, the fully qualified Noncom- is, it’s incumbent upon you, the Soldier and The 190th has plans for more innova- palletized system. missioned Officer Education System rate in Leader, to handle your career. I could’ve the state stands at less than 55 percent. You asked that question to 100 noncommis- have to look no further than Army Regula- sioned officers who aren’t qualified and Soldan selected as chief of staff tion 600-8-19, Promotions and Reductions, gotten 100 different answers, but is it the Col. Alan K. Soldan, operations director sition Jan. 15, 2011. to think that I am not being up front when I answer that matters or is it the end result? for Joint Forces “Col. Soldan is a seasoned, combat-ex- give you the 55 percent rate. After all, it You, and you only, are the keeper of your Headquarters perienced officer who thoroughly under- clearly states that a sergeant doesn’t have career. Should there be a senior noncom- Kansas, Kansas stands the missions of the Kansas National to attend the Warrior Leader Course in missioned officer there to coach, teach and National Guard, Guard both at home and in the international order to keep his rank. Nor does a staff ser- mentor you? Absolutely. However, if there has been selected arena,” said Maj. Tod Bunting, the adjutant geant have to attend the Advance Leader is not one, be the kind of Soldier I see in as the new chief of general. “I’m confident he’ll continue his Course to maintain his rank. It’s the same the Kansas Army National Guard today-- staff for the Kansas proven record of success in this new lead- with the Senior Leader Course for our ser- bright, innovative, articulate and, above all Army National ership position.” geants first class. else, motivated. Guard (Joint “It is an honor to be chosen for this chal- The only “required” attendees are those Someday, one of you is destined to be the Forces Headquar- lenging position and have the opportunity who currently hold the rank of sergeant replacement for the sergeant, staff sergeant, ters Kansas – Land to serve the citizens of Kansas, our Soldiers major or command sergeant major. That is Component). He and the leadership of the Kansas National sergeant first class, master sergeant, first ser- Col. Alan Soldan the only conditional promotion that is still geant, sergeant major or command sergeant replaces Col. John Guard in the new role,” said Soldan. maintained in the Army National Guard major of your current formation. Do it the Andrew, who is In 2006 Soldan commanded the 1st Bat- today. However, what the regulation does right way by being proactive in your ap- taking the position of chief of staff for the talion, 108th Aviation Regiment when the tell you is that in order to be eligible for proach to attending school. Your actions do 35th Infantry Division, Fort Leavenworth. battalion deployed in support of Operation promotion to the next higher grade, you make a difference! Soldan, of Topeka, assumed his new po- Iraqi Freedom. must be “fully qualified.” So, I ask you If you have questions about NCOES or this: Where do we draw the line between schools, contact your squad leader or platoon E-mail will keep retirees better informed qualification and inefficiency? sergeant and get the right answer. Be proac- In an effort to keep our retirees better in- or welcome home ceremonies, etc. I share all of this for only one reason: To tive, get qualified! formed on what is happening in the Adju- If you would like to be added to the list tant General’s Department, the Public please e-mail your request to Jane Welch at News to start the year off right Affairs Office has put together an e-mail [email protected]. distribution list. Also if you are a retired Guardsmen and Continued from Page 4 for Phase 2, he should enroll into the Dis- Individuals on this distribution list will are not receiving a copy of the Plains sica Davis at (785) 861-3889; tance Learning Phase 1 and complete it. If receive agency news releases, death notifi- Guardian at your home please contact the [email protected]. they have not completed Distance Learning cations to retired Guard members, invita- Public Affairs Office at 785-274-1190 to be The Kansas Regional Training Institute Phase 1 and a late cancellation comes in, he tions to changes of command, deployment added to the mailing list. in Salina is hiring an Active Duty Opera- will be passed over on the wait list to the tional Support position for Training, Advis- first Army National Guard Soldier who has ing and Counseling Officer/Instructor, as completed Phase 1. Soldiers arrive home for the holidays well as assisting with operational/accredi- If you know you are within a two years of Continued from Page 1 you’ve ever seen in the world are standing tation support. The position is for 365 days becoming eligible for promotion, you need could ever give to the families of these fine right in front of you here right now.” and the rank for the position is chief war- to place your name in for your school. Fiscal Soldiers,” said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the Once again, the crowd expressed their rant officer 2 to chief warrant officer 4. Year 2011 is already full and the National adjutant general. “They did a superb job in agreement with a chorus of cheers and ap- Anyone interested in the position can con- Guard Bureau is already taking names for Afghanistan and now they deserve some plause. tact Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael Smith Fiscal Year 2012, so you have to be proac- quality family time.” “On behalf of the governor and three at (785) 822-6688; michael.william.smith tive in your career to be promoted in time. The Kansas National Guard leadership million people in Kansas…” said Bunting, @us.army.mil. Along with your schooling you all should wanted to make sure the Soldiers and fami- “we’re glad they’re home for the holidays.” School slots have been reduced and the be updating your Individual Personnel Elec- lies were reunited as soon as possible. Directing the first sergeant to bring the Army National Guard is losing reserved tronic Records Management System records “This will be the shortest ceremony any- unit to attention, Bunting concluded, “God Warrant Officer Senior Course seats due to on a yearly basis. It was brought to my at- one’s ever seen,” said Bunting as he took bless you and God bless America! 2-2-6 Soldiers not completing their paperwork in tention that we have a bunch of warrants the podium. “I mentioned that to your Sol- Engineers, dis-missed!” the time allotted. It appears that the Distance who haven’t reviewed your records. In order diers when they got off the plane. They The unit, headquartered in Augusta, and Learning Phase 1 is on a schedule and com- for you to have the best chances of a promo- said they were fine with that and I’m sure augmented by Soldiers from the 891st En- pleted within a specific time allotted by tion, it is imperative that you have every you are, too.” A resounding cheer showed gineer Battalion, headquartered in Iola, de- Warrant Officer Career College. When Sol- school, awards and promotions uploaded the crowd’s agreement. ployed in December 2009. While in diers are enrolled into Distance Learning into your IPERMS. Many promotions are “This is a great day in Kansas,” Bunting Afghanistan, the Soldiers constructed, re- Phase 1, they should immediately contact now conducted solely by looking at your continued. “We are immensely proud of our paired and maintained vertical infrastruc- the blackboard Point of Contact to be en- IPERMS, so make sure your records are families that made the sacrifice (to be here, ture, including base camps and facilities, rolled, etc. Even if Soldier is in a wait status current and reviewed at least annually. because) the greatest combat engineers for other units deployed to that nation. Page 6 Plains Guardian • January 2011 Officers say training at Crisis City is “big bang for the buck” By Maj. DeAnn Barr of all six teammates, including a simulated GPJTC Public Affairs injury with a tourniquet. Six deputies from the Pottawatomie Immediately following the completion of County Sheriff’s High Risk Warrant Team the first scenario, the team traveled two conducted their monthly tactical training miles within the complex to practice Urban at a wide array of training venues at Cri- Mount Operations at one of the Urban As- sis City and the Great Plains Joint Train- sault Courses. The team simulated clearing ing Center in Salina, Kan., Nov. 30 and all 36 buildings and honed the skills prac- Dec. 1, 2010. ticed the day prior in a new setting. During the two-day training event, team “This kind of training is a big benefit to members were able to receive all their us,” said Petticord, who planned all the ex- handgun, long-rifle and spotter training. ercise scenarios. “We have been able to uti- Multiple outdoor facilities on the 40,000 lize many venues here that enhance our acre complex were utilized for dry-run training and have not traveled far between drilling on diverse terrain. each one. It’s big bang for the buck. The “We took advantage of the long range hard quarter billets by the range were free shooting opportunities here,” said Buck Ped- of charge, so all we are out is some gas on dicord, training officer for the Pottawatomie travel and the range fee, which was nomi- Sheriff Department. “It’s not often we have nal and covered our ammunition. We have the opportunity to shoot outside of 400 me- found the service to be outstanding and we ters and today we shot at 800.” didn’t even get into the Walt Disney World After completing their rifle range train- inside with computers and classrooms.” ing, the six traveled a short distance to the The team also took advantage of the Tech- Collapsed Structure Rubble Pile and con- nical Rescue Venue, a five-story structure ducted an exercise scenario within one of suited for high rise rescue operations, rope the tunnel systems. The Collapsed Struc- rescue, military and law enforcement search Members of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s High Risk Warrant Team assist each ture Venue is a large engineered rubble pile and extraction operations, and shoring oper- other out of the tunnel system on the Crisis City collapsed building venue. The sce- with underlying tunnel infrastructure that ations. They used the tower to exercise ap- nario included a simulated injury to one of the officers. (Photo by Maj. DeAnn Barr) simulates a collapsed building. The team proaches with the ballistic shield. training at the rail venue, using the upright an upright boxcar containing a simulated had one minute to formulate an entry plan Because of the heavy rail traffic through BNSF engine. The rail venue also includes methamphetamine lab, an upright fertilizer and the scenario ended with the safe egress the county, the officers concluded their an overturned boxcar and tanker, as well as car, passenger car and chlorine car. Chaplains serve God and Country Continued from Page 3 chaplains are able to do what they do. in seminary or theological school. They are Rarely does a chaplain travel without an as- commissioned and, in some cases, provided sistant. Soldiers and noncommissioned of- with tuition assistance for their education as ficer chaplain assistants function with a way to give them an introduction to mili- chaplains as a Unit Ministry Team. Be- tary life. They are not chaplains, should not cause chaplains are not permitted to carry be addressed as chaplain nor are they per- or use any weapon, the chaplain assistant mitted to function as chaplains. Currently functions as the chaplain’s bodyguard. The the Air Guard does not have a chaplain can- chaplain assistant also functions as the ad- didate program. ministrator for the field or garrison chapel. Chaplain candidates are supervised by We are blessed in the Kansas National the state chaplain and attached to a unit Guard with an amazing group of chaplains, under the mentorship of an experienced chaplain candidates and chaplain assistants. chaplain. Our hope is that all of our chap- We have a significant shortage of chap- lain candidates will someday become chap- lains, more than 50 percent in both Army lains once they have graduated from their and Air. If your minister, rabbi or imam secular and military education and have re- would be interested, please ask them to ceived ecclesiastical endorsement from contact me ([email protected]) or their individual faith traditions. Maj. Tim Button ([email protected]. Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office deputies practice approaches and search pro- Chaplain assistants are the reason that mil) for more information. cedures at the Urban Assault Course. The team simulated clearing all 36 buildings, many of which were multiple stories. (Photo by Maj. DeAnn Barr) Annual parade a reminder of Veterans Day’s Emporia origins By Staff Sgt. Curtis Brown one in 1954. Although Company D, 2nd United States service members and Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry their family members understand the sac- Regiment is currently deployed in support rifices made by veterans during their of the Joint Task Force in the Horn of terms of service, but what do people re- Africa or preparing for deployment to ally know about how Veterans’ Day Afghanistan, Soldiers from the rear detach- began? The answer may surprise many ment ensured that the unit was represented people. The Soldiers of Company D, 2nd in the parade. Two Company D Soldiers, Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Staff Sgt. Curtis Brown, Topeka, and Pvt. Regiment know the answer is close to Chris Cates, Salina, came together with 1st their home, home station, that is. Sgt. Steve Harmon to participate in the In 1953, Alvin King and the Emporia Veterans Day Parade. Chamber of Commerce began a move- “Emporia is our home,” said Cates. ment to change the official recognition of “The community has been there for us Armistice Day, the eleventh hour on the and even though Company D is not ac- eleventh day of the eleventh month rec- tively drilling here, it’s our home and ognized to honor those who served dur- we haven’t forgotten them. They have ing World War I, to Veterans Day in an always shown us their support for us. effort to honor the service of veterans of This is the least we could do.” all conflicts. Harmon, who works for Flint Hills King’s efforts to recognize veterans Technical School in Emporia, was asked was assisted by Kansas Rep. Ed Rees to participate by the Boy Scouts Troop from Emporia, who worked with support- 156 and Cub Scout Pack 156. ers on the House of Representatives Bill “The Kansas National Guard serves a 7786 (HR7786). Veterans Day was offi- national and state mission. The state mis- cially a day of recognition when Presi- sion is helped by building the relationship dent Dwight D. Eisenhower, a native of with our home communities,” said Abilene, Kan., signed HR7786. The city Brown. “When Kansans have the chance of Emporia held its first Veterans Day pa- to meet the people who are in the Guard rade Nov. 11, 1954. during a time of celebration and remem- Kansas Army National Guard Soldiers brance, it helps build the trust needed for stationed at the Emporia Armory have to the Guard to succeed in times of crisis or participated in the parade since that first deployment.” January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 7 Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting offers his last remarks as adjutant general

In his final farewell to the men and Master Sgt. Bernie Deghand women of the agency he led for seven years, Spc. John Wood Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting, the adjutant gen- Sgt. Jessie Davila eral of Kansas, expressed his pride at their Spc. Dusty Carroll accomplishments, shared his hopes for the Sgt. 1st Class David Berry future and offered some advice on life. Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bachman Bunting’s final address is printed here. Sgt. Courtney Finch **** **** **** Spc. Ronnie Schmidt I thank you all for honoring Barbara and We know the days, we remember them, me with your support. We have truly been and we can best honor them by living our honored to serve and the last seven years life to the fullest each and every day. You have been an incredible experience for us. would do me a great honor if you would re- We are staying here in Kansas and will be member that part of my comments if you your biggest fans. choose to remember anything at all. To attempt to cover all those who de- I know I am going to do that. In fact, I serve special recognition or to even cover will likely live it up enough to cover a few the true highlights we have had these last of you while you are thinking about how seven years would far exceed available to live it up. space and time. So with apologies now to No moss is going to grow on me and any I miss, I will at least try. I am confi- none ever has had a chance to grow on dent, though, I have been sincere with my anyone in our agency. personal acknowledgment to all who have Nature sure as heck never goes quiet for served so superbly. But just in case, I stop long and today’s world has called us for- now and say simply – Thank you. ward like at no other time. I was honored to serve Governor (Mark) We have sent thousands of warriors Parkinson, Governor (Kathleen) Sebelius Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting offers words of humor, advice and farewell in his final ad- down range, and every formation was at and five other governors during my mili- dress as adjutant general of Kansas on Jan. 8, 2011 at Nickell Armory in Topeka. strength, all performed superbly, no one tary career. (Photo by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office) had to come help us out, and their accom- I have offered one bit of advice to young plishments are legendary: Iraq, Afghan- men for years. It can be modified for “Never stop leading or innovating. The playbook will istan, the Balkans, all of Europe basically, women, but as I am a man, I can only speak always be outdated – make your own. If the legal office is Egypt, Horn of Africa, the Southwest bor- to my brothers in the room. After wisely der, and Central and South America. choosing your parents, a decision of mine not on oxygen, you are not leaning forward enough.” We built a strong partnership with Arme- that was truly a blessing and in my opinion nia, and trained and conducted exercises in the best parents ever, I needed to find a bride. ingly. No one means more to me or has done I served my first six years as TAG with a South Korea and much of the Far East. We Here is what I did and you should copy. more for me than Barbara and I thank God great battle buddy in Command Sgt. Maj. even went to California to fight fires. Find an incredible woman with occasional every day for her, and I ask that you offer her Steve Rodina and a superb Command Our emergency management teams, in- lapses of judgment and time yourself accord- some solace for that lapse in judgment. Chief Warrant Officer with Mark Jensen. cluding many of our public safety partners, My current battle buddy, Command Sgt. were quickly on the scene and did great Maj. Scott Haworth, has been more than work during many hurricanes and equal to the task of looking after me, but storms/contingencies in Mississippi, most importantly, looking after you. I wish Louisiana, Texas and Arizona. him all the best. I had two great battle bud- We were the rock for our fellow Kansans dies and they made all the difference. They in 2007. Hope is not a course of action, but were in charge; I was responsible . It all I think we can all agree that we need 2007 worked out quite well. to be the record year for storms and never Our Warrant Officer Corps is an asset be- approach that type of “whupass” being yond measure. The Air Force made a big opened on us by Mother Nature again. mistake years ago when they stopped hav- We are leaders in public safety training, ing warrants. Chief Jensen was a key part and the Eisenhower Center and Crisis City of our team and his expertise in safety and already make our state safer and our re- all things warrant officer made this organi- sponders better trained. I fully expect each zation safer and much more capable. will grow in time and be the finest of their Soon to be Chief Warrant Officer 5 Hec- kind in the nation. tor Vasquez is continuing the great service We were the first with EMEDS (Expedi- of our command chief warrant officers and tionary Medical System) and deployed be- I enjoyed working with him and wish him fore we unpacked it. We are innovators and well. Managing the warrant officers is no leaders in air evacuation. We fly people small feat, but I know he is up to the task halfway across the world on 50-year-old and already making a huge difference to tankers that hospitals would not put on an our readiness. elevator. Our executive staff of Tracey Talley and We are the Resiliency Center for the na- Debbie Doyle are invaluable to our entire tion. While others talked, we acted. Flash Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Gov. Mark Parkinson and members of the senior leadership agency and these great women made work- Forward is real, it is not a concept. It will of the Kansas National Guard watch as a two-star flag, a symbol of the adjutant gen- ing here every day enjoyable – crazy at only get better. eral’s rank and authority, is furled and cased in honor of Bunting’s retirement as ad- times - but still enjoyable. I thank them Our Airmen have been a key part of the jutant general of Kansas. (Photo by Jane Welch, Public Affairs Office) both and will miss them immensely. intelligence mission around the globe, We are the oldest state agency and some having been mobilized for over three started, actually, as a territorial agency. I years. We have the nation’s largest STAR- was honored to serve as the 33rd adjutant BASE program with four sites. We are a general, leading an agency of the world’s premier state for building turbine engines finest Soldiers and Airmen, and an emer- and rebuilding trucks and trailers. Our gency management/homeland security Counterdrug and our Civil Support teams team of the most devoted state and federal are recognized for excellence. employees. Everyone who works for our We have the finest Premobilization agency is a patriot who puts Kansas and, Training and Evaluation Team in the Na- when called, the nation ahead of them- tional Guard – no brag, just fact. We have selves. I am proud of all of you. improved from six months at mobilization Barbara and I harbored the dream, some station to 11 days. Keep going. may call it a hallucination, that we might We have the finest Honor Guard and Mili- serve as TAG when we were not at war or tary Funeral Honors Team. We have the best had no open disasters. Such was not to be. military band in the world – and we are We wish General Tafanelli and Tammy all ready to prove it. We are one of only three the best as he becomes our next TAG and states with a Mounted Color Guard. will now pray and hold to the dream that We now have incident management they, and all of you still in service, may teams and task forces/search and rescue in serve in a time of peace and calm. every region of the state. Our leaders at the I cannot begin to recount a few of your ac- local levels made that a reality. They did it complishments until I note the 11 heroes with little more than a go forth, do good, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our do what works for you. state and nation during these current wars: Never stop leading or innovating. The Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting shares a moment with his parents, retired Brig. Gen. Alfred Sgt. 1st Class Clint Wisdom playbook will always be outdated – make Bunting and Marjorie Bunting after his retirement ceremony on Jan. 8, 2011. (Photo Sgt. Don Allen Clary your own. If the legal office is not on oxy- by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office) Sgt. Derrick Lutters (Continued on Page 10) Page 8 Plains Guardian • January 2011 Heavy snow and bitter temperatures don’t deter Kansas Inaugural 2011

Moments after taking his oath of office, Gov. Sam Brownback gives his first a 10, 2011. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Bill McGinnis, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Deta The Jan. 10, 2011, inauguration ceremony of Gov. Sam Brownback was supported by the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Highway Patrol at the Kansas Statehouse. Despite heavy snow and bitter tem- peratures that forced the ceremony inside to the House of Representa tive chambers, the ceremony went smoothly. The Kansas National Guard, both Army and Air, cooperated with many other agencies in planning for and assisting in activities for the inauguration of Brownback and other elected officials of the state. As governor, Brownback is the commander in chief of the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Highway Patrol. The Adjutant General serves as his chief of staff for state military matters. The Kansas National Guard Color Guard presents the colors at the Governor’s Inaugural The Adjutant General’s Department includes the Kansas Army and Ball Jan. 9, 2011, at the Kansas Expocentre in Topeka. (Photo by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th Air National Guard, Division of Emergency Management and Home Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) land Security, and provides administrative support to the Civil Air Pa trol. The Kansas National Guard has approximately 7,700 Army and

Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback and Brig. Gen. Lee Tafanelli talk with Staff Sgt. Jerrod Hayes (left) and his wife, Nancy. Hayes was wounded in Iraq in 2006 while serving with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery for Operation Iraqi Freedom. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Members of the Kansas Army and Kansas Air National Guard and Kansas Hi Witzke, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) the Assumption of Command ceremony, honoring Gov. Sam Brownback as th January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 9 naugural, Assumption of Command ceremonies

While his wife, Mary, holds the family Bible, Gov. Sam Brownback takes his oath of office, ad- ministered by Kansas Chief Justice Lawton R. Nuss. Brownback’s children Abby, Andy, Eliza- beth, Mark and Jenna were also present while their father took his oath. (Photo by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

s as Kansas governor in the Kansas House of Representatives chamber Jan. nt) Air Guardsmen throughout the state. Following his swearing in as governor, Brownback gave his inau- ural address from the House Speaker’s platform. The Assumption of ommand ceremony was conducted immediately following Brown- ack’s remarks. The Assumption of Command ceremony provides a formal setting or the governor, as commander in chief of the Kansas National Guard and the Kansas Highway Patrol, to officially take command f these organizations. Lt. Col. Barry Manley, Kansas National Guard, was the commander of the troops for the Assumption of ommand ceremony. The governor was honored with a 19-gun salute fired on the south awn of the Kansas statehouse by Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 130th ield Artillery, Kansas National Guard, Abilene, and four Ruffles and lourishes, played by the 35th Infantry Division Band. Gov. Sam Brownback; Brig. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general select; and Maj. Alan Stoeck- line, acting superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, return the salute of Lt. Col. Barry Manley, commander of the troops for the Assumption of Command ceremony. (Photo by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office)

Members of Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, Abilene, fire a 19-gun salute in y Patrol stand at attention in the House of Representatives gallery during honor of Gov. Sam Brownback, their new commander in chief. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip w commander in chief. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Office) Witzke, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) Page 10 Plains Guardian • January 2011 Guardsman headed for fourth deployment, second mountaintop Continued from Page 2 adventure through his three tours of duty, “This is a first for me. I’ve adventures of another kind also call his wanted to do this since I name. He has run with the bulls in Pam- plona, Spain, and skied the glaciers of was a kid. Growing up in Switzerland. Kansas, (there was noth- “I consider myself a calculating thrill- seeker. I’m not geared to jump out of air- ing like this)—it’s pretty planes or anything.” So, Isaacson decided to flat.” try a new kind of thrill: mountain climbing. Capt. Aaron Isaacson Isaacson’s decision wasn’t a knee-jerk reaction, however. While recovering from his leg injuries in 2009, he heard about a “Teamwork is important in technical group of veterans who were climbers and climbing, because if one of us slips and thought that sounded like exactly the chal- we’re all tied in together, you can keep that lenge he was looking for. guy from falling,” he told us. “It’s kind of a “[They were] taking Soldiers to climb metaphor for life. And since we’re all Mount Denali in Alaska. So I contacted Wounded Warriors, we have to be extra those people. They said, “If you have a vigilant in looking out for each other.” Purple Heart, we may have something bet- “One climber, for example, is blind and ter for you.” has lost the use of one arm,” Bull went on. That was how Isaacson discovered World “So I’ll be in front of him, giving com- Team Sports, a non-profit organization that mands on where to put his feet and ringing organizes and hosts a myriad of challeng- a bell so he can get a general [sense of] di- ing sporting events. rection. It’s going to take a little longer for “World Team Sports was planning to Capt. Aaron Isaacson and other Wounded Warriors climb Mount Lobouche, Nepal, us to summit than a normal team, and take a group of Wounded Warriors to in October 2010. (Photo by Didrik Johnck/Johnck Media, LLC) there’s more pressure on me because I’m Nepal, and I thought that sounded [like a since I was a kid. Growing up in Kansas, being uncomfortable. I think Aaron’s going more able-bodied. But it feels good. I’m great fit for me],” Isaacson told us. (there was nothing like this)—it’s pretty flat.” to excel at that. Also, he’s a very selfless glad I can be there to help.” Isaacson and 10 other Wounded War- Preparing for this expedition included person in terms of supporting other people, This incredible expedition is the subject riors will be engaged in a three-week ex- five months of training and several trips to and this group is an interesting mix of of a new documentary called Soldiers to pedition in which they hope to summit the Colorado. strengths and weaknesses. He’s going to be the Summit. The film is being shot by 20,075-foot peak of Lobuche East, located “Climbing the mountains in Colorado able to apply his wide range of strengths to climber Michael Brown, who has sum- just 8.7 miles from Mount Everest. The was challenging,” Isaacson shared. “We a lot of different situations.” mited Mount Everest five times. team will be led by Erik Weihenmayer, the climbed 14,300 feet and let me tell you, But in the end, the success of this expe- For Isaacson, the entire expedition is a first blind climber ever to summit Mount when you reach the summit you feel like dition will rely largely on the team itself testament to the Soldiers who fight for our Everest, and a number of climbers who you’ve really accomplished something.” and the way they work together. Isaacson is country every day. summited with him 10 years ago. In preparing for the event, Isaacson relied proud to be able to support his fellow “I just hope if people read about this World Team Sports not only organized on trainer Brad Bull for expertise and advice. Wounded Warriors in this endeavor and it climb and see the movie, they’ll take a mo- the expedition, but financed the lion’s Bull, an experienced mountain climber, was is that, as much as the thrill of the climb, ment to remember that guys are overseas share of it. part of the first father-son team to summit that excites him. fighting right now,” Isaacson concluded. “We did some climbing in Afghanistan on Mount Everest, and he’s been impressed the mountains, of course, but that was a dif- with Isaacson and his abilities. ferent technical ball game,” said Isaacson. “In climbing, there’s sort of the joy of fa- Kansas Response Plan updated “This is a first for me. I’ve wanted to do this tigue, and you’ve got to be comfortable The Kansas Division of Emergency Man- Response Framework and is based on the agement and its many partners including fundamentals within the National Incident state agencies, local government, private Management System. Battalion prepares Burundian soldiers sectors, and other key stakeholders revised The revisions of the Kansas Response Continued from Page 2 pose of his presence in Burundi wasn’t to the Kansas Response Plan during 2010. This Plan include: creates and tasks a plan which State Department in many capacities to as- teach the BNDF how to conduct their oper- plan became effective Jan. 5, 2011. provides support through all phases of emer- sist in developing African armies’ skills for ations, but to build a partnership with the The Kansas Response Plan applies to all gency management; increased use of Emer- peacekeeping operations throughout force and share best practices. state government departments and agencies gency Support Function planning teams and Africa, said Cobb. “The truth is I really like doing these providing assistance in a disaster or emer- coordinated revision meetings; protocols for “It helps both Americans and Africans,” types of engagements,” Mittman said. gency situation. Within, it describes the incident management actions (Emergency Cobb said. “It gives us an opportunity to “They’re inexperienced in some areas, but fundamental policies, strategies, general Management Assistance Pact, Preliminary partner together and part of our exchange is there is nothing I can teach them about concept of operation, and incident manage- Damage Assessments, mission tasking, etc.); we provide them with a baseline of doctrine how to fight a war. They’ll know more than ment action to be used through all phases and increased specificity of Emergency Sup- and information that is NATO-standard and I ever will about how to fight. But hope- of emergency management. The plan port Function actions and responsibilities. can be applied to all peacekeeping opera- fully, if we can bring them a little bit of so- serves to provide guidance and policy di- The report may be downloaded as a PDF tions on the continent. It also gives (African) phistication with regard to staff work here, rection on interfacing with county emer- at http://kansastag.ks.gov/KDEM.asp?Page battalion commanders an opportunity to it’ll lessen the casualties they are having gency operations plans and the National ID=186 train their staff with our assistance.” (while deployed) and help them be more Mittman understands that the main pur- accomplished in finishing their mission.” 2010 Annual Report now online The Adjutant General’s Department has and homecomings of Kansas National released the agency’s 2010 Annual Report. Guardsmen involved in Operation Iraqi The report was passed out to Kansas legis- Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, lators the first week of the 2011 legislative Horn of Africa and other U.S. military op- session. erations; overview of 2010; a historical The report reviews the major accom- overview; fiscal information; and a map plishments and highlights of all the depart- showing the locations of all Kansas Na- ment’s divisions – Kansas Homeland tional Guard units. Security, Kansas Division of Emergency The report is available on-line in a PDF Management, Kansas Army National format at http://kansastag.ks.gov/Ad- Guard, Kansas Air National Guard and vHTML_Upload/files/Annual%20Re- Civil Air Patrol. This includes deployments port%202010%20w%20map.pdf Bunting says farewell to agency Continued from Page 7 many places around the world looking in gen, you are not leaning forward enough. on our warriors, goes like this: The solutions that will work best for us “How often at night when the heavens are will come from us. Our commission on bright/ With the light of the glittering stars/ emergency preparedness is led by a private Have I stood here amazed/ And asked as I industry member – John Prather of gazed/ If their glory exceeds that of ours.” Groendyke Trucking. He succeeded Jack You, and all you have done and will con- Taylor – the Emporia Fire Chief. tinue to do for Kansas and our nation, are We are the cavalry; we are the scouts. truly worthy of equal glory. TACAMO – take charge and move out. Ad Astra per Aspera – “To the stars Capt. Claver Nahimana, Burundian National Defense Force (left) goes over the Final detail: through difficulties.” It is what made us a morning briefing with Lt. Col. Gregory Mittman, commander of the Kansas Whenever you get a chance to sing our state in the first place and it is the motto that National Guard’s 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment, during state song, Home on the Range, I ask you will keep us great and take us into the future. a Command Post Exercise in Burundi. The exercise allowed the Burundian battal- to do so with gusto. Most of us know only God bless you, God bless America, and ion to work as a command element before an upcoming deployment (Photo by the first verse. There are other verses and God bless the great state of Kansas. Staff Sgt. Heather Stanton) my favorite, which I have noted while at Proud to Serve. January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 11 Stranger’s letters shed new light on father’s death in Vietnam By Devan Tucking-Strickler home soon. I agreed. By the time I got up It was many years ago that Natalie at 0630, Jim was already out flying. I heard Davis, a staff member with the Kansas Divi- him leave at 0500 or so. It was still dark, sion of Emergency Management, began her gloomy, rainy outside. The day went nor- quest to gain the honored Purple Heart mal until about 0930-1000 when we first medal for her father, James M. Garrett. received word that Jim’s chopper went Garrett, a U.S. Navy corpsman, was killed down. At first they thought the Medevac in action in Vietnam on Nov. 29, 1969, ship had a mechanical problems and set leaving behind a wife, Lois, and two small down. Then they later confirmed it had children, Natalie and Paul. crashed and burned and that it appeared Original reports to the family said that he from the chase ship they had been shot died as a result of mechanical failure in the down, probably by an RPG somewhere helicopter in which he was traveling, re- near LZ Ross. There were no survivors of sulting in the crash of the helicopter. Gar- the seven men aboard. For me, I was rett and a number of other servicemen died stunned. I kept thinking that I was sup- in the crash. posed to be on that chopper. Why wasn’t I? For many years, the Garrett family as- I was single and had no responsibilities sumed that the death was attributed to the and Jim was married with two kids. God mechanical failure and did not have reason was crazy. He made a mistake. I was sup- to question this. However, in 1989 the Gar- posed to be dead. rett family received a letter from one of Several of Jim’s friends found out I had Garrett’s bunk-mates, Bruce, telling about switched flights and took their anger out on the time he served with Garrett and sharing me, confirming my belief that “the wrong a story that none had heard before: man had died.” They told me it was bad “… On the night of November 28th, Jim, luck, superstitious to change flights. I never U.S. Navy corpsman James M. Garrett finally received the Purple Heart medal he myself, and two other corpsman were sit- heard that before, but became a believer. was due on May 28, 2007. Garrett died in combat in Vietnam in 1969, but a records ting around in the old dispensary talking. I Thank you for letting me enter into your error about the circumstances of his death was not corrected until a letter from a remember he talked about his car, and life with the memory of Jim after all of former bunk-mate brought to light new facts. (Photo provided) about all of you. We talked until about these years. I can only imagine the feelings 2230 and decided to turn in. It was raining I have stirred up in you all. For this again, the initial evidence indicated mechanical to know the father who died before ever outside and as we were about to go out the I am sorry. failure rather than enemy action, but a later being a memory for either of them. door Jim asked me if I would change flights Sincerely, inspection determined that a .50 caliber The Garretts found that changing mili- with him because he was trying to get off Bruce round had entered the bottom of the air- tary records is no small undertaking. With a the flight rotation early as he was going Through this letter, the Garretts learned craft, continued through the radio cabinet lot of support from Bruce and the assis- behind the cockpit and struck the synchro- tance of the offices of many political fig- Guardsmen share Veterans Day nization shaft, causing it to fail. ures, Natalie’s quest became a reality. On After this determination was made, the May 28, 2007, Senator Pat Roberts pre- casualty reports for five Marines on the air- sented the family of James M. Garrett with with those who came before craft were corrected to reflect death due to the Purple Heart for his service in the Viet- By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson “so that they would have appreciation of hostile action rather than accident. How- nam War. Joint Forces Headquarters those who came before.” ever, the reports about the two Navy Corps- The story of James M. Garrett not only On Memorial Day, we honor the veterans “They love the military as much as I do,” man had never been changed to reflect the lives through his children and fellow ser- that have given the last full measure of devo- said Finkemeier. later findings. vicemen, but is now included in a book, tion to their country. On Veterans Day, we Capt. Marci Solander, 190th ARW, took This new information brought a new Luminous Base: Stories about Corpsmen honor living veterans who are a part of our time to visit with Army veteran Larry Fos- wave of emotions for the Garrett family, and Helicopters, Courage and Sacrifice, by community. However, as veterans age, they ter. Foster told her of his service in Viet- stirring up feelings that had long before Bruce Williams-Burden, the bunkmate sometimes outlive their family and friends, nam in 1968 and 1969. Staff Sgt. Dane been dealt with and bringing in a wave of whose letter started the chain of events for spending their last days in a care home. Baker, Company D, 1st Battalion, 108th anger and confusion that took a number of the Garrett family. Recently, Natalie was This Veterans Day, members of the Aviation, talked with Bill German, who additional years to sink in. contacted by a man who served with her fa- Kansas Army and Air Guard in Topeka served in the Navy during the 1960s. After coming to terms with this new ther, telling her that he has a coffee mug took time out of their holiday to spend time Master Sgt. Terry Martin, 190th ARW, his knowledge and the establishment of a new that belonged to her father and asking if with other veterans, visiting more than 180 wife, Amanda, and children, Cara, 11; Seth, friendship with the bunk-mate who shed she would like to have it. veterans in 10 care homes. 9; Lorraine, 7; Jesse Lyn, 4, and Megan, 6 light on the situation, Natalie set out on a Things happen in our lives that we do not “We have made Veterans Day a special months, visited two facilities. mission to have her father’s military understand, and maybe we are not meant event before, but this is the first time that we “The children made cards to give to the records corrected to reflect the actual cir- to. Other things fall into place that make have brought in serving service members to veterans at the Atria Hearthstone,” said Mar- cumstances that lead to his death so many these tragedies easier to manage, events be with our veterans,” said Rosmarie Doyle, tin. “They were so excited by it; they wanted years before. such as the letter that came to the Garrett Eventide Convalescent Center. to do it again. We went home and they made Through this process, Natalie and Paul ac- family in 1989. The letter that shed light on The event was held in the center’s dining more for the veterans here at Eventide.” tually got to know the father who had de- the truth and brought peace to one family room, which was decorated for the occasion. Jeff Moszeter, Eventide’s director of oper- ployed to Vietnam on Natalie’s first birthday and to a dedicated serviceman, a letter that Certificates were presented to each veteran ations, said that he has a special respect for and died in Vietnam on Paul’s first birthday. resulted in a quest that became a reality and in recognition of their service to their nation. the veterans under his care. He thanked the They had always known that their father had a journey to bring honor and the Purple Tech. Sgt. Emily Alley, 190th Air Refuel- men and women in uniform for taking their been a brave man and gave his life while in Heart medal to James M. Garrett, a hus- ing Wing, made time to visit several of the time to share war stories with his veterans. the service, but through the new found rela- band, father, son, brother and member of homes. Senior Airman Shanna Finkemeier “I hope that we can make this visit a reg- tionship with Bruce these two children got the United States Navy. brought her children, Destiny, 8, and Jessie, ular part of our annual Veterans Day’s ac- 9, to help pass out certificates to the veterans tivities,” said Moszeter. Civitan Club, Cub Scouts send care packages to Kansas troops By Spc. Jessica Zullig, asked to get the youth involved. 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment “It’s a great example for these kids to be Members of the Topeka Civitan Club and doing something like this,” said Hodges, Cub Scout Pack #478 came together Nov. 1, “to be writing letters and cards and show- 2010, to put together care packages for the ing that respect and giving thanks. That’s 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th In- awesome. If they do it as kids, they might fantry, currently deployed to the Horn of do it as adults. We’re proud of those kids.” Africa. This is the third year the group has The faces of the Scouts displayed their sent packages to deployed Kansas Soldiers. excitement while writing post cards and Civitan normally works with the devel- packing boxes for the Soldiers. opmentally disabled and stays involved in “It goes along with some of the achieve- the community, but during a trip to the Vet- ments the Scouts need to do with their eran’s Administration, David Hodges, badges,” said Hays. “Doing this project Topeka Civitan Club chaplain, was blown helps them, helps the troops and falls into away by the amount of courage the veter- what Civitan is all about – community ans have. service.” “I was speaking to someone who lived the For the past three years, Civitan and the Battle of the Bulge,” said Hodges, “hearing Cub Scouts have worked together to sup- that they still had nerve damage from being port troops deployed around the globe. frostbitten. They have courage.” “I hope Soldiers know that they’re not Two years ago, members of Civitan got forgotten,” said Hodges. “We know that involved after hearing on the news about a they have to make an incredible sacrifice Spc. Justin Prochaska, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 287th Sustain- company in Afghanistan that was in need while we get to stay home, but we’re think- ment Brigade, presents a certificate of appreciation to veteran Mosi Marlow. (Photo of supplies. Michael Hays, Civitan member ing about them. They’re loved and re- by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) and a den leader for Cub Scout Pack #478, spected and we care about them.” Page 12 Plains Guardian • January 2011 184th Force Support Squadron serves thousands, one meal at a time By Capt. Nancy Harper force efforts around the world.” 184th Force Support Squadron Guild has had to overcome weather and French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte is electrical issues while maintaining the credited with creating the motto, “An army warehouse. marches on its stomach.” However, it was “It’s been reaching 120 degrees here,” he the endless number of military and civilian said. “Since we’re in charge of the connex cooks who, throughout the centuries, put freezers with all the food, it’s been a con- those words into action. Services personnel stant battle with the heat trying to keep the from different armed forces continue the food at safe temperatures to where it tradition of providing meals to scores of doesn’t spoil. We’ve had about five con- deployed military members. nexes go down in week, so some days I get Master Sgt. Edgar Salazar-Aguirre and pulled out of bed before sunrise to move Staff Sgt. Christopher Guild, members of product and avoid incredibly large mone- the 184th Force Support Squadron, are cur- tary losses. All of our connexes are over- rently providing that service to thousands of heating trying to keep the food frozen.” U.S. service members and coalition forces at Guild was also on hand to assist the Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Salazar-Aguirre is grand re-opening of the Fox Sports Sky a facility manager at one of the many dining Box in June 2010. The sports bar, funded in facilities while Guild oversees daily opera- part by the Fox Network, was renovated tions at the food distribution warehouse. The over a five-month period. Although the multimillion dollar facility includes dry base hosts other franchise eateries such as goods storage; giant freezer and refrigerator Baskin Robbins, Green Beans Coffee and sections that house produce, dairy and Burger King, the Al Udeid dining facilities meats; and metal cargo containers used to continue to serve over 500,000 meals a store frozen items such as ice cream, fried month. Staff Sgt. Christopher Guild, 184th Force Support Squadron, inspects a product foods, meat, fish and ice. The food items are Guild’s daily tasks are to ensure food and shipment at al Udeid Air Base in Southwest Asia, where he is deployed as a food later transported to the dining facilities and ice deliveries have a timely arrival to food service technician. (Photo by Capt. Nancy Harper, 184th Force Support Squadron) served to thousands of military members, storage facilities in theater. civilians and contractors. While Sergeants Salazar-Aguirre and Maj. Steven Shook, 184th Force Support Guild miss their families and friends, they TRICARE benefits extended for operations officer, praised the sergeants for are motivated to provide first-class service their achievements. to their customers. military dependents up to age 26 “Sergeants Salazar-Aguirre and Guild “I’d say that without me, the food would- were eager to volunteer for the deployment n’t get to the base and we wouldn’t have all The signing of the National Defense TRICARE. The law was signed by the to Qatar. The skills and expertise they take the amenities that remind people of home. I Authorization Act of fiscal year 2011 into President Jan. 7, 2011, but full details of with them to the field will continue to guess I would just like people to know how law enables TRICARE to extend coverage the TRICARE Young Adult program will demonstrate the dedication and commit- much Force Support does and how critical to eligible adult children up to age 26. A not be in place until later this spring, ac- ment that Air Guardsmen offer the total we are to the base standard of living.” premium-based TRICARE Young Adult cording to TRICARE officials. program is expected to be in place later Beginning later this spring, qualified, un- this spring. married dependents up to age 26 will be 190th Air Refueling Wing The Patient Protection and Affordable able to purchase TRICARE coverage on a Care Act of 2010 required civilian health month-to-month basis – as long as they are testing automated air refueling plans to offer coverage to adult children not eligible for their own employer-spon- until age 26. TRICARE previously met or sored health coverage. By Tech Sgt. Emily F. Alley almost 20 test runs, using the equipment. The exceeded key tenets of national health re- Premium costs are not yet finalized, but 190th ARW Public Affairs flights provided ample opportunity for engi- form, including restrictions on annual lim- the NDAA specifies that rates must cover Flying high and moving fast, boom oper- neers to improve the automated refueling its, lifetime maximums, “high user” the full cost of the program. ators in KC-135 air refueling tankers can system. A manned Learjet stood in for an au- cancellations, or denial of coverage for pre- Initially, the benefit offered will be a pre- still look down and see a pilot when they tonomous aircraft, which was embedded existing conditions – but did not include mium-based TRICARE Standard benefit. refuel a plane. Eventually, however, the with GPS. Representatives from the Air this expanded coverage for adult children. Eligible family members who receive cabin may be empty. Force Research Lab, Wright-Patterson Air Dependent eligibility for TRICARE previ- health care between now and the date the The 190th Air Refueling Wing was se- Force Base, Tinker Air Force Base and even ously ended at age 21 or age 23 for full- program is fully implemented may want to lected to host the first group of tests for au- Navy testers participated. Refueling was per- time college students. purchase TYA retroactively and should tomated air refueling. After the first set of formed by guest boom operators from Ed- The fiscal year 2011 NDAA now gives save their receipts. Premiums will have to tests concluded, the engineers could have wards Air Force Base. the Department of Defense the authority to be paid back to Jan. 1, 2011 in order to ob- gone somewhere else--other bases would Once all testing is completed, the avion- offer similar benefits to young adults under tain reimbursement. have been happy to host them. But they ics equipment can be installed in other chose to come back to Forbes. bombers, fighters and built into future gen- The 190th ARW was first selected largely erations of aircraft. Warrender suspects, Chapman marks recovery with because of its location near Tinker Air Force however, the technology won’t be com- Base in Oklahoma, but with less air traffic monly available until after he retires. reopening of city’s schools than Edwards Air Force Base in California. Lt. Col. Lee Grunberger, who helped co- Members of the Kansas Division of the community has received from the de- Engineers appreciated the wing’s willingness ordinate the testing, suggested the new sys- Emergency Management’s Public Assis- partment of Homeland Security/FEMA and to innovate and noted the outstanding effort tem blurs the distinction between tance Office attended the grand KDEM during the recovery process. by the Maintenance Squadron, specifically traditionally piloted and autonomous air- opening/dedication ceremonies for the ele- On June 11, 2008, the city of Chapman, mentioning Tech. Sgt. Jason Piper and Tech. craft. Several aircraft could fly in a tight mentary, middle and high schools of Chap- Kan., was struck by an F-3 tornado. The Sgt. David Powelson from the 190th Avion- formation, even in turbulence, in what man, Kan., Wednesday, Jan. 12, marking a elementary, middle and high schools, as ics shop as part their reason for returning for Grunberger calls “station keeping.” Pilots milestone in the community’s recovery well as the USD 473 administration build- the second round of testing. can use the avionics system to keep in from a tornado that ripped through the city ing, were heavily damaged or destroyed. “We flew eight days in a row. Our guys place while they take a break. in 2008. The cost to repair these facilities exceeded were always there,” said Maj. Jeff Warren- “It’s a safety feature,” described Grun- Prior to the ceremony, KDEM staff sur- $70 million. der, a 190th ARW pilot who took part in the berger. “The pilot can let go and it relieves prised USD 473 Superintendent Tony Presidential disaster declaration DR-1776 testing. “They were just superb, actually.” fatigue. Planes can be manned or un- Frieze by handing him a check for was awarded to the state in July 2008. After By early December, they had performed manned. It’s optional.” $2,215,414 as part of continuing payments insurance proceeds were deducted, com- of the federal and state share of eligible bined federal and state funding exceeded $42 disaster funds. The state share of the check million for all categories of work under the was $260,637. Frieze and other School Public Assistance Program. This includes re- Board members and city officials ex- pairing and rebuilding the above mentioned pressed heartfelt gratitude of the support structures in the City of Chapman. High power rifle team plans reunion The Kansas National Guard High State level High Power Rifle Team Power Rifle Team is planning a re- when it was active, please contact re- union to be held at the Museum of the tired Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Lewis Kansas National Guard, in Topeka, on at [email protected]; phone 785- April 10, 2011. 235-2248. Currently, the team is trying to com- Please provide your current mailing pile a list of all past members. These address, phone number and e-mail ad- teams competed in Army area matches, dress. If you know any other past regional matches, various state members, who may not receive the matches, national matches, and the Na- Plains Guardian, please contact them A Lear jet trails a 190th Air Refueling Wing KC-135 refueling jet while testing an Auto- tional Guard championship matches. and have them contact Lewis with mated Air Refueling. Ultimately, the system will allow for the refueling of unmanned If you were ever selected for the their information. aerial vehicles. (Photo by Master Sgt. Allen Pickert, 190th Air Refueling Wing) January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Taylor retires after 39 years 778th arrives at Camp Arifjon By Staff Sgt. Heather Wright and I knew, absolutely, that I was going to By Sgt. Charles Malloy, UPAR Iraqi Freedom/Enduring Freedom. 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs fill my toolbox up with good,” Taylor said. 778th Transportation Company 1st Lt. Jerry Monasmith, company Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Taylor, 35th “I’ve seen the easy wrong and the hard Nearly 300 Kansas National Guardsmen commander, was promoted to the rank of Infantry Division, retired from the Army right too many times.” He made a vow as a of the 778th Combat (Heavy Equipment captain, pinned by Lt. Col. Richard National Guard after 39 years of service, young Soldier that none of his troops Transport) Company arrived at Camp Ar- Rollins, the outgoing 164th Transporta- handing over responsibility to Command would see the easy wrong. ifjon, Kuwait, in the early morning hours tion Battalion commander. The 778th Sgt. Maj. Timothy Newton, 287th Sustain- Taylor leaves the division with a few of Dec. 7, 2010, to start their year-long de- takes over operations from the 1166th ment Brigade. words of wisdom: “It’s been an honor and ployment in Kuwait. This is the unit’s sec- Transportation Company, a Massachu- Taylor joined the Missouri Army Na- privilege to wear the uniform with you. Be- ond deployment in support of Operation setts National Guard unit. tional Guard in 1971. His initial enlistment lieve in Be, Know and Do. Never compro- as an aircraft sheet metal repairman was for mise you character – Be. Know yourself, six years, but by the sixth year, he decided your family and your military position. Do to make a career of it. He got a civilian job – be a doer. God Bless. Santa Fe.” as a federal technician and worked his way Taylor assumed duties as the 35th In- through the military ranks to become a fantry Division command sergeant major in command sergeant major in 1997. December 2006. “Concluding my career here at the division His major awards and decorations in- is the highlight of my career,” Taylor said. clude a Bronze Star Medal, two Meritori- Highlights of Taylor’s time with the 35th ous Service Medals, two Army ID include the successful deployment and Commendation Medals, an Army Achieve- redeployment of the Kosovo Force 2009, ment Medal, nine Army Reserve Compo- fielding of the Standard Integrated Com- nent Achievement Medals, three National mand Post System, participating in Opera- Defense Service Medals, a Global War on tion Key Resolve in Korea and being the Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, a Global first Division to put the Domestic All-Haz- War on Terrorism Service Medal, two ards Response Teams process together. Armed Forces Reserves Medals, four Non- Though Taylor relished the division’s ac- commissioned Professional Development complishments, he derived most satisfac- Ribbons, an Army Service Ribbon, five tion working with division Soldiers. “The Army Reserve Component Overseas Train- hardest thing about leaving the military ing awards, the Missouri Conspicuous will be not having contact with Soldiers,” Service Medal, five Missouri Army Na- Taylor said. tional Guard Commendation ribbons, a Taylor’s made a career based on taking Missouri National Guard Recruiting and care of Soldiers. He was “blessed to have Retention Ribbons, five Missouri National great commanders and command sergeants Guard State Emergency Duty Ribbons, the 778th Transportation Company gun crews conduct Basic Issue Item inventories major,” throughout his career that made Missouri National Guard Long Service as they take over operations in Kuwait from the Massachusetts National Guard’s Soldier care a priority. Ribbon for 30 years service and the Master 1166th Transportation Company (Photo by Sgt. Charles Malloy, UPAR) “I saw what bad was as a young Soldier, Aircraft Crew member badge. Civil Air Patrol practices for search and rescue missions In November, the Kansas Wing of the known path of the missing plane. They Civil Air Patrol conducted its last search looked for signals from the emergency loca- and rescue exercise for 2010. The Wing es- tor transmitter or signs of a downed plane. tablished mission bases for the exercise in In the meantime, the ground teams were Chanute, Ellsworth, Garden City, King- sent out, driving to staging points along the man, Lawrence and Osage City. missing plane’s route of flight. When one The exercise simulated a statewide emer- of the flight crews received a radio signal gency, challenging the command and con- or had a visual sighting, they would direct trol and communications capabilities of the the ground crew. The ground crews had to wings. Exercise missions were passed confirm the information provided by the down from higher headquarters to the inci- flight crew. This often required the ground dent commanders at the mission bases. The crew to dismount, form a search line and incident commanders and their staff had to conduct a search, following directions from decide how to do the mission with the re- the flight crews. sources on hand. On this day, the Civil Air Patrol trained The Lawrence Squadron hosted the by themselves, conducting two four-hour Topeka and Olathe Squadrons. Their mis- missions. On a real mission, many other sions involved the search for a missing or local and state agencies would be involved. State Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Haworth presents a bronze statuette and congratu- overdue aircraft. The Civil Air Patrol is a volunteer force lations to Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Taylor as he retires from military service after The Civil Air Patrol planes, with a pilot, comprised of cadets ages 12 to 18 and sen- 39 years. (Photo by Lt. Col. Rick Peat, 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs) observer and scanner, followed the last iors 21 and older. Kansas sends off third Agribusiness Development Team to Afghanistan Continued from Page 1 tional Guard could answer… and especially the National Guard of the state of Kansas… Kansas sets the standard and that was proven by ADT 1 and ADT 2.” Wheeler said that the ADT team “is only the tip of the spear when it comes to this mission.” “It’s taken the support of literally hundreds of fellow Kansans to get us to this point and prepare us for mission accomplishment,” said Wheeler. “I’d also be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to thank our families and employers,” he continued. “I know it’s difficult to fill the gaps at home and at work that our absence causes. We work through it all the while, smiling, patting us on the back, or giving us a hug and all the while telling us how proud you are of us.” “But in my opinion,” said Wheeler, “you’re the true pa- triots. It’s your support that allows us to do what we do.” “General Bunting,” Wheeler concluded, “we’re prepared to go forward and represent Kansas in the way that we should.” ADT #3 is comprised of approximately 60 members of the Kansas Army and Air National Guard. The team will work in conjunction with a number of agencies to assist in building capabilities for increased agricultural production, training and services, and improving the safety of food and other agricultural products that are produced and distrib- uted to the Afghan people. They will also assist in the de- velopment of sustainable agriculture and other related enterprises that will increase the economic well-being of Agribusiness Development Team 3 stands in formation at their deployment ceremony in Salina on Nov. 23, 2010. the Afghans. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Office) Page 14 Plains Guardian • January 2011 Air Force Commendation Medal Staff Sgt. Byron Smith, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Wendy Taylor, 190th ARW, Topeka Awards and Decorations Staff Sgt. Michael Zeller, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Douglas Carey, 184th IW, Wichita KANSAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD Leaf Cluster Senior Master Sgt. Wendy Davis, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Senior Airman Erick Dean, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Brenton J. Long, 2-6 ADT, Topeka 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Shanna Finkemeier, 190th ARW, Topeka Legion of Merit Staff Sgt. William P. Lorenz, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Nicholas Deguire, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 4th Senior Airman Jacob Perez, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Tyrone E. Martinez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Gabriel Ramirez, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. William E. Warner, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. James Helms, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Staff Sgt. Harold L. Wespe, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Air Force Achievement Medal Brig. Gen. Norman E. Steen, GPJTC, Salina Sgt. Raymond W. Alexander, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Mark Jantz, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Sgt. Jesse B. Caplinger, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Bronze Star Medal Sgt. Adam L. Cloyd, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Terry Martin, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Sgt. Larry K. Coppins, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Senior Master Sgt. William Angstadt, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. Esteven D. Decker, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Mark Moulden, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st 4th Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Daniel L. Guthrie, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Troy Hultgren, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Col. Barry L. Adams, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. Brian A. Lee, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Mark Sabes, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Col. Michael P. Dittamo, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. Christopher S. Rasmussen, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Tech. Sgt. Richard Bowman, 190th ARW, Topeka Capt. Chris W. Broadrick, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. Patrick J. Stapleton, GPJTC, Salina Tech. Sgt. Michael Budde, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Sara Butcher, 184th IW, Wichita Capt. Chadwick B. Hines, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. George B. Villarreal, HHD, 635th RSG, Hutchinson Tech. Sgt. John Fagan, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Jayme Gabbard, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Oak Capt. Dallas D. McMullen, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. Aaron D. White, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Emily Halderson, 184th IW, Wichita Leaf Cluster Capt. Justin T. Rutledge, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Cpl. Joshua L. Fettke, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Robert Ringer, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Dustin Ward, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak 1st Lt. Brandon L. McDade, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Cpl. Jason L. Hartung, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Sarbjit Singh, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Maj. Dennis D. Holder, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Caleb T. Ash, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Derek Dunn, 184th IW, Wichita Master Sgt. Clinton R. Bradfield, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Edwin C. Bulstrode III, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Leland Weathers, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Staff Sgt. Bret Harvey, 184th IW, Wichita Master Sgt. Rene A. Bumgarner, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Douglas G. Cathey, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Aaron Rausch, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Master Sgt. Michael Cheek, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Clayton J. Foster, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Bradley Yocum, 190th ARW, Topeka Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. John P. Kilpatrick, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Julian Galan Jr., 2-6 ADT, Topeka Staff Sgt. Joshua Kennedy, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ana Tavares, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Clinton D. Barnett, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Andrew L. Garr, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Staff Sgt. Robert Sauerbrunn, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Joshua Epperly, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Bonifacio R. Purganan, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Matthew S. Goddard, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Staff Sgt. Brett Shouse, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Timothy L. Bemis, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Logan T. Huffman, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. Marlan T. Ash, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Daniel P. Mansur, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Enrique M. Martinez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Brown marked for promotions Meritorious Service Medal Spc. Zachariah A. Martinez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Joseph W. Navarro, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Catarino S. Ramirez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Joshua L. Reding, 2-6 ADT, Topeka in civilian and military careers Lt. Col. Christopher A. Burr, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with Spc. Arthur R. Rodriguez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Spc. Anthony K. Stiles, 2-6 ADT, Topeka The year 2011 is starting out as a good Brown worked his way through the ranks, Lt. Col. Thomas J. Foster, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Ryan M. Warren, 2-6 ADT, Topeka one for Chief Master Sgt. James Brown. ultimately serving as the superintendent for Lt. Col. Carla F. Hale, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Army Achievement Medal In April, he will become the state com- the squadron. Brown was called back to ac- Lt. Col. J. Matt Oleen, HHD, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with mand chief for the Kansas Air National tive duty status in 1991 and again in 2001, 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Lt. Col. Russell E. Richardson, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hiawatha, Guard. It was also recently announced that serving in support of Operations Desert with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Larry K. Coppins, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Brown has been selected to become the as- Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Lt. Col. John W. Rueger, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hiawatha, with Staff Sgt. Harold L. Wespe, 2-6 ADT, Topeka 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Esteven D. Decker, 2-6 ADT, Topeka sistant chief of police for the Kansas City, Southern Watch and Noble Eagle. Maj. Scott A. Arpin, 287th SB, Wichita, with 1st Oak Leaf Sgt. Brian A. Lee, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Kan., Police Department. In 2004, Brown was selected as the State Cluster Sgt. Aaron D. White, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Maj. Michael L. Wallace, 105th MPAD, Topeka, with 1st Oak Cpl. Joshua L. Fettke, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Brown joined the Kansas City Police De- Homeland Security Manager for the Leaf Cluster Cpl. Jason L. Hartung, 2-6 ADT, Topeka partment in 1991, working as a patrol officer. Kansas National Guard. The role of this Capt. Eric Washington, HHD, 69th TC, Topeka Spc. Caleb T. Ash, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 William N. Nicoll, Rec & Ret Bn, Spc. Edwin C. Bulstrode III, 2-6 ADT, Topeka During his career, his assignments have in- position is to work and coordinate with the Topeka Spc. Andrew L. Garr, 2-6 ADT, Topeka cluded work with Community Policing Unit, Joint Forces Headquarters Homeland Secu- Command Sgt. Maj. Edward A. Boring, HQ, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Spc. Logan T. Huffman, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Debra S. Alaniz, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Spc. Catarino S. Ramirez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka S.W.A.T. Team, shift supervisor, commander rity Planner and the Director of Military Master Sgt. Terry C. Goscha, 635th RSG, Hutchinson Spc. Arthur R. Rodriguez, 2-6 ADT, Topeka of the Bomb Squad, West Division executive Support to develop and implement the Master Sgt. Robert D. Hall, HHB, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hi- Spc. Ryan M. Warren, 2-6 ADT, Topeka awatha, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Pfc. Steven C. Woodin, 2-6 ADT, Topeka officer, public information officer and execu- preparation and maintenance of contin- Master Sgt. Gregory R. Kober, GPJTC, Salina tive officer to the chief of police. gency plans for natural disasters, domestic Sgt. 1st Class Joseph A. Alaniz, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka Kansas National Guard Meritorious Service Ribbon Sgt. 1st Class Chad S. Allen, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with 1st He will be promoted to lieutenant emergencies, civil disturbances, and state Oak Leaf Cluster colonel Jan. 25 when he assumes the role and federal contingency operations. Sgt. 1st Class Rosalyn V. Carr, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Maj. Paul W. Schneider, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka of assistant chief. Brown combines his civilian and military Sgt. 1st Class Christopher E. Foster, Btry A, 2nd Bn, 130th Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel R. Rubio, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka Brown will become the state command roles as a participant in the State Partner- FA, Marysville Sgt. 1st Class Mack H. Jackson, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with Kansas National Guard Commendation Ribbon chief for the Kansas Air National Guard in ship Program, acting as a law enforcement 1st Oak Leaf Cluster April. As the state command chief, liaison with Armenian police departments. Army Commendation Medal Brown’s responsibilities will include advis- The State Partnership Program partners Chief Warrant Officer 2 Billie J. Hancock, Rec & Ret Bn, ing the Kansas adjutant general and the state National Guard organizations with de- Topeka Staff Sgt. Myra D. Kennedy, 635th RSG, Hutchinson commander of the Kansas Air National veloping nations to foster military-to-mili- Maj. Jeffrey B. Howell, HHD, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Michael R. Maschmeier, Btry A, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Guard on matters impacting the enlisted tary, military-to-civilian and civilian-to- 1st Lt. Donald J. Frecks, Det 1, 995th Maint Co, Concordia Marysville Warrant Officer 1 Abra N. Cloyd, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka force, such as proper utilization of person- civilian relationships. Master Sgt. Mark L. George, 2-6 ADT, Topeka KANSAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD nel, quality of enlisted leadership, manage- Brown’s military awards include the Sgt. 1st Class John P. Beckman, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Brian E. Dale, Co B, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina, Meritorious Service Medal ment/supervisor training, operations tempo Meritorious Service Medal with two oak with 4th Oak Leaf Cluster and quality of life. leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Sgt. 1st Class Donald E. Flax, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Kevin A. Hammeke, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Brown, a native of Kansas City, Kan., Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal with Sgt. 1st Class Paul C. Heater, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Maj. Benjamin Garcia, 184th IW, Wichita began his military career in 1985, serving two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Outstand- Sgt. 1st Class Gregory A. Kittle, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Barry Hofflinger, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. 1st Class Christopher S. Lucas, HHD, JFHQ-KS, Topeka, 1st Oak Leaf Cluster on active duty with the United States Air ing Unit Award with Valor and three oak with 4th Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Master Sgt. Newell Applegate, 184th IW, Wichita, Force. In 1990, Brown separated from ac- leaf clusters, and numerous other medals Sgt. 1st Class Joseph L. Ostermann, Co C, 2nd CAB, 137th with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Inf, Lenexa, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Master Sgt. Robert Gates, 184th IW, Wichita tive duty and joined the 190th Security and ribbons. Sgt. 1st Class Darrin P. Sack, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Senior Master Sgt. Randolph Johnson, 190th ARW, Topeka Forces Squadron, Kansas Air National Brown lives in Kansas City, Kan., with Staff Sgt. Robert S. Botkin, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Keith Adams, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. David W. Coleman, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Master Sgt. Andrew Child, 184th IW, Wichita Guard. During the next several years, his wife, Cheryl, and sons Jared and Jacob. Staff Sgt. Larry K. Coppins, 2-6 ADT, Topeka Master Sgt. Joseph Copeland, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Kenneth A. Coyle, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Master Sgt. William McClain, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. David J. Dunbar, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with 1st Master Sgt. Roderick Meadows, 190th ARW, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Jeffrey Milligan, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Darin A. King, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with 1st Oak Tech. Sgt. Leona Legg, 190th ARW, Topeka

Sgt. Michael Adams, HHD, 169th CSSB, Olathe Sgt. John Berry, 778th Trans Co, Kansas City Retirements Sgt. Arthur Cole, Det 1, Btry B, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Lenexa Kansas Army National Guard Sgt. Daren Guy, Det 1, 170th Maint Co, Goodland Sgt. Harold Harmon, FSC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Brig. Gen. Alexander Duckworth, HSC (-), 35th ID, Sgt. Jon Johnson, 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Fort Leavenworth Sgt. Joseph Kinyon, 242nd Eng Co, Coffeyville Col. Timothy Marlar, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Randall Lee, Det 1, 170th Maint Co, Goodland Lt. Col. Steven Ferrell, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Roland Moore Jr., 35th MP, Topeka Lt. Col. Noel Grubb, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Aaron Moore, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Kansas City Lt. Col. Brian Sholar, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Richard Myers, 35th MP, Topeka Maj. Randy Crawford, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth Sgt. Michael Ott, HHB, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hiawatha Capt. Tony Burt, HHD, 635th RSG, Hutchinson Sgt. Warren Rogers, Det 1, 170th Maint Co, Goodland Capt. Eric Washington, 69th TC, Topeka Sgt. Michael Rouse, Btry C, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, 1st Lt. Donald Frecks, Det 1, 995th Maint Co, Abilene Phillipsburg Sgt. Mary Schoemann, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 4 William Norton, HHC, Sgt. Paul Worden, 2137th FSC, Manhattan 891st Eng Bn, Iola Spc. Michael Beerbower, 772nd Eng Co, Pittsburg Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Taylor, HSC (-), 35th Spc. Michael Humphrey II, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, ID, Fort Leavenworth Kansas City 1st Sgt. Thomas Nelson, HHB, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Spc. Robert McHenry, 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Wichita Spc. Jerry Mitchell, HHC (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Master Sgt. Joel Paige, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Topeka Master Sgt. Bryan Schroeder, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. William Ratzlaff, Btry E (TA), 161st FA, Great Sgt. 1st Class Frank Asebedo, 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Bend Sgt. 1st Class Bruce Laffery, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Pfc. Courtney Davis, HHC (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Sgt. 1st Class Barry Munger, 137th Trans Co, Olathe Topeka Sgt. 1st Class William Pushee, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Sgt. 1st Class Darryll Watkins, 35th MP, Topeka Kansas Air National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Harold Wellmeier, FSC, 891st Eng Bn, Chief Master Sgt. James Brown (right) talks with Carl Hofstra, deputy head of Or- Iola Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting, JFHQ, Topeka Staff Sgt. Leon Bryson, 995th Maint Co (-), Smith Col. Michael C. Foster, 184th IW, Wichita ganization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, during a 2009 visit to Armenia as Center Chief Master Sgt. Barry L. Hofflinger, 184th IW, part of the State Partnership Program. Brown, a member of the Kansas Air National Staff Sgt. Tobe Eggers, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Wichita Staff Sgt. Bryan Hone, Co B (-) 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Chief Master Sgt. Howard Koehn, 184th IW, Wichita Guard and assistant chief of the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, is a law en- Salina Senior Master Sgt. Newell Applegate, 184th IW, Wi- forcement liaison for the program. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Office) Staff Sgt. Michael Luster, HHB, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, chita Hiawatha Master Sgt. Joseph Copeland, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. James Peterson, HQ, 235th Rgt (RTI), Master Sgt. Joseph A. Dillon, 184th IW, Wichita Salina Master Sgt. William McClain, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Dennis Pritchett, 250th FSC (-), Ottawa Tech. Sgt. Sandra Foster, 190th ARW, Topeka Read back issues of the Plains Guardian Online Staff Sgt. Thomas Simpkins, Det 37 (OSA) Cmd, Tech. Sgt. Ivan May, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka Staff Sgt. Gregory Bates, 190th ARW, Topeka http://kansastag.ks.gov/NGUARD.asp?PageID=7 Staff Sgt. David Yochim, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Staff Sgt. Robert W. Holladay, 184th IW, Wichita January 2011 • Plains Guardian Page 15 New Teen Council to train leaders and give teens a voice By Spc. Stephanie Hodges event aimed at building group collaboration 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment and friendship. Last November, 13 youth volunteers gath- “It’s a great opportunity for kids to get out ered at Nickell Armory in Topeka to pioneer of their normal routines, and engage and the establishment of the first Kansas Na- participate with other young adults,” said tional Guard Teen Council. Seitz, “and while we do try to steer the ac- The group is comprised of young individu- tivities towards building collaboration and als ranging from 13 to 18 years old who have teamwork, we also want to keep it fun.” family members enlisted in the Kansas Army The Teen Council has aspiration of es- and Air National Guard. The mission of this tablishing a networking community that in- council is to develop leadership skills and volves peer mediation for Kansas National enhance life for military children in Kansas. military youth. This networking enables the “We felt an ample amount of military council to discuss military related issues youth were looking for leadership positions and establish an interpersonal relationship within the Kansas National Guard,” ex- with the geographically dispersed military plained Darcy Seitz, State Youth Coordina- youth of Kansas. tor. “We believe Teen Council will be an They also plan on creating a presentation opportunity for them to represent their age called “Life as a Military Kid.” The presen- group and help make decisions for youth tation will explain the strengths, weakness, and children.” opportunities, and viewpoint of a military The intention of the teen council is to child through various ages and situations. provide a forum for military teens to dis- Leadership training will begin in January cuss ideas and offer suggestions that will and the teens will take part in other commu- positively impact the Kansas National nity service events. Guard Child and Youth Program. The Teen “The Teen Council is an opportunity to Council’s role is to assist the state youth Members of the Kansas National Guard Teen Council (front row) Tyler Prine, gain leadership skills,” said Kassidy Seaba, coordinator and act as a collective voice for Allyson Henry, Kassidy Seaba, Sophia Olsen; (second row) Toby Sullivan, Mary a council member, “I think our experience the children and youth of the Kansas Na- Powledge, Reed Wheeler; (third row) Skylar Dickey, Ty Shafer, Jahna Yuh; (back with deployment will allow us to help out tional Guard. To be involved in the Teen row) Preston Henry, Ryan Brunner, Sawyer Green. (Photo by Spc. Stephanie other kids.” Council, participants must fill out and sub- Hodges, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) The Teen Council members are Ryan mit an application to the state youth coordi- are less fortunate receive toys and trying to gathering and sorting new toys by age Brunner, Skylar Dickey, Sawyer Green, nator. Council members hold a term of make their life a little better by doing it.” groups and gender. The toys were distrib- Allyson Henry, Preston Henry, Sophia appointment for one full year. The Teen As part of their first meeting, the Teen uted during the Christmas holiday. Olsen, Mary Powledge, Tyler Prine, Kas- Council consists of president, vice presi- Council spent the day performing commu- After a morning of community service of sidy Seaba, Ty Shafer, Toby Sullivan, dent, secretary, two historians and up to 10 nity service and team-building activities to sorting and packing toys, the group headed Jahna Yuhn and Reed Wheeler. council member positions. strengthen the bonds between council to Blue Star Ranch, Carbondale, where the For information regarding Teen Council “The Teen Council is a great place to members. The Teen Council completed council learned how to care, maintain and contact Darcy Seitz at 785.274.1967; email bond with other military kids and make a their first community service opportunity, ride horses. More importantly, it was an [email protected]. difference,” said Reed Wheeler, a council Toys for Tots, with the local U.S. Marine member, “Today, we are helping kids that Corps Reserves. The opportunity involved Yellow Ribbon event provides Scouts provide “eyes and ears” good times for Guard kids By Amanda Herlinger had a presentation from the Cosmosphere in the field when disaster strikes State Youth Coordinator about space and planets. Activities included By 1st Lt. Mathew Nordquist The Kansas National Guard Child and making solar system bracelets and a rocket When disaster strikes the state, key lead- Youth Programs hosted 120 youth ages 6 to demonstration. ers need reliable and knowledgeable per- 17 for a day and a half 161 Yellow Ribbon On Sunday, both groups stayed on site sonnel on scene to provide accurate Predeployment event in Hutchinson Nov. 6 for presentations and team building activi- information about the situation. That’s and 7, 2010. ties from the Kansas National Guard Drug when the members of the Kansas National On Saturday, teens ages 13 to 17 took a Demand Reduction office. The team build- Guard Scout Program respond, providing field trip to the Cosmosphere in Hutchin- ing activity focused on working as a team support to ensure that Kansas National son, Kan., where they experienced all the with your family during deployments, and Guard assets are properly organized and Cosmosphere has to offer, including Dr. how every person in the family plays an deployed to affected areas. Goddard’s lab, a guest speaker and the important role. The scouts serve as the “eyes and ears” IMAX theatre. The younger group then made conversa- of the adjutant general, providing timely Youth ages 6 to 12 stayed behind at the tion boxes. Many times when the deployed and accurate information to the Joint Oper- hotel to enjoy several guest presentations. warrior calls or gets on the computer to ations Center on the situation and anticipat- Instructors from Kansas STARBASE spent speak with the youth, the youth forgets or ing the need for state assistance. the morning demonstrating the properties is too excited to remember everything they The Scout Program was created in an ef- Volunteers with the Kansas National of air. Youth got to help the instructors with wanted to tell their warrior. The “conversa- fort to improve the responsiveness and ef- Guard Scout Program provided valu- several engaging demonstrations about air. tion box” is a special box to keep mes- fectiveness of the Kansas National Guard able on-site information following the After the presentation, the youths broke sages, pictures, awards, school papers and during disasters by ensuring that Guard Greensburg tornado. (Photo provided) into groups and took turns creating and projects, and anything else they would like members are engaged with county elected multiple state agencies. shooting straw rockets, using the airzooka to share with their deployed warrior. The leaders, first responders and emergency “The Scout Program exists so we have to knock things over, and getting them- conversation box can be left by their pre- managers prior to an emergency. on-scene situational awareness and to rep- selves “vacuum-packed.” ferred means of communication, so that it Angee Morgan, the deputy director of resent the Kansas Guard on-site to commu- In the afternoon, the 6 to 12 year olds is ready at all times. the Kansas Division of Emergency Man- nicate with emergency management agement, attests to the value of that role. personnel,” said Sgt. 1st Class Justin “The scouts are crucial as a liaison at the Becker. “Scouts can notify us of incidents local level, and they really become a part in their areas of residence or we can call of our team,” said Morgan. them for information. For instance, this Scouts have responded to numerous dis- past spring we contacted scouts on the asters over the past 11 years. In 2007 alone, phone and over the radio net to ask them scouts provided damage and needs assess- about violent weather and any reported ments following the winter storm in West- damages in their area. They can give us ern Kansas in January, the Greensburg info more quickly than waiting for it to ap- tornado in May, the flooding in Southeast pear on the news.” Kansas in July and the winter storm of De- Now, more than ever, new scouts are cember. Because of the scouts, leaders re- needed. The need to deploy National Guard ceived timely assessments and information troops throughout the world has put a strain that greatly increased the efficiency of the on the program. Retirees from the Kansas response and assistance provided. National Guard and other military services Scouts work with the Joint Operations are able to continue their service to the Center and some make daily contact. state and play a major role in the program. These scouts give pre-storm updates when There is required online training for each inclement weather moves into their area volunteer and additional training on the In- and can be deployed anywhere within their cident Command System and National In- region. cident Management System. Scouts are also a means to ensure impor- For information regarding the National tant aspects of disasters are not overlooked. Guard Scout Program, go to the Kansas The scouts have military training and can Adjutant General’s Web site at Demonstrations, crafts, making new friends, a little learning--and a lot of fun-- were provide on site knowledge, giving a dis- http://kansastag.ks.gov and select Scout all part of the 161 Yellow Ribbon Predeployment event in Hutchinson Nov. 6 and 7. tinct advantage when coordinating with Program under the Careers tab. (Photo by Amanda Herlinger, State Youth Coordinator) Page 16 Plains Guardian • January 2011 PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian The only way is down... and Even at 73, giving is in his blood that suits one Soldier just fine By Ann Marie Bush don’t like to sit down, but it is well worth Used by permission of the it. I feel good.” Topeka Capitol Journal Holmes stopped by the Community Bickley B. Holmes, 73, of Topeka, does- Blood Center in Topeka on Sunday, Jan. 2, n’t sit still for long. for a photograph. He chatted with staff After three months of retirement, he members, who said Holmes is a regular at went back to work because he needed the center. Holmes has donated more than something to do. 800 times. Holmes works 19 hours per week for the His next goal? Kansas Adjutant General’s Office, and han- “I don’t think I could donate another 100 dles a majority of the laundry, cleaning and gallons. That would take another 40 years,” grocery shopping for him and his wife. he said. “Maybe I’ll try to reach 1,000 do- But when it comes to giving back to the nations. I can do that.” community, Holmes finds a few hours “Bickley is a caring and giving person every month to sit down and donate with a strong desire to help others only for platelets at the Community Blood Center in the reason that they need it,” said Kathy Topeka. Boldt, site manager for the Topeka Com- He reached a milestone of donating 100 munity Blood Center. “He has been dedi- gallons, or 800 pints, Dec. 22. cated in donating his time to Community “I’ve been doing it for 40 years,” the Blood Center to help save lives since I can 1956 Highland Park High School graduate remember. I have been working with the said Sunday morning. blood center since 1983 and he has been a Holmes began donating when he was an regular donor since then. Bickley’s attitude employee of the city of Topeka and his has always been take what you need with- workplace had a blood drive. out any concern for his own time. We thank “I was nervous,” he said with a laugh. “I Bickley for his dedication in helping Com- didn’t feel a thing. I’ve been hooked ever munity Blood Center save many lives over since.” the years and hope to see him continue the In February 2005, Holmes was honored support of saving lives in our community.” along with several other donors for their The center needs 580 donors each day to achievements. At the time, he had donated meet area hospitals’ needs, according to the 83 gallons, or 664 pints, and was the sec- Community Blood Center Web site at ond highest donor. www.savealifenow.org. The center, the Holmes started donating whole blood at headquarters of which are based in Kansas Topeka Blood Bank and recalls that a nee- City, Mo., sends out almost 3,600 units of dle was placed in each arm for the collec- blood components each week to treat pa- tion process. tients in more than 70 area hospitals. “Things have changed,” he said. Holmes encourages others to give blood, Now, like clockwork, Holmes donates too. platelets — sometimes double platelets — “I tell them it’s no big deal,” he said. once every two weeks. “It’s not painful enough to make me quit. Spc. Jake DeCaro readies to exit a plane. He has more than 600 jumps to his “It’s just the feeling of helping some- The good you do surpasses that little bit of credit, at least 400 of them while shooting video. (Photos provided) one,” he said. “I just do it to help people. I pain.” By Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, UPAR $200 and the cost tend to increase more as Company D, 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation the individual becomes more active in the Kansas Army National Guard Soldier jumps. Although a little expensive, DeCaro Spc. Jake DeCaro looked up to see the says it’s definitely worth being able to say onrushing ground he was fast approach- you jumped out of a plane, if only once. ing, knowing that he had just seconds to “I highly recommend this to anyone correct or cut away the tangled suspen- who is considering trying it and having it sion line that had ended up over the para- videotaped,” says DeCaro. “You will chute canopy before he would impact. He wear that video out showing it to all your was rushing towards the ground in excess buddies.” of 10,000 feet per minute, yet time The standard height of each jump is dif- slowed down for him while he worked to ferent, DeCaro explained, and depends on correct his dilemma and save his life. the location of the jump and the type of air- “I could hear a friend’s voice going craft that is being used. On DeCaro’s first through my head saying, ‘The number one jump, he was tandem with the instructor, reason for a reserve malfunction is instabil- meaning that he and a diving instructor ity upon deployment’,” said DeCaro, a were tethered together for this jump. UH-60 helicopter repairman with Com- “Basically, you’re just along for a ride pany D, 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation Regi- at that point” said DeCaro ment (Assault) in Topeka, Kan. “So I knew After a couple of weeks, DeCaro went I had to correct the spin, and the standard back to begin Student Progression Train- parachutist response is to cut away the ing. This training requires the student to fouled parachute, stop the spin of the body make 20 free fall unassisted jumps, which and deploy the reserve chute.” took him about six to eight weeks to com- DeCaro succeeded in those three steps, plete. Once DeCaro completed this stage which took only a few seconds, “but it of his training he started working on free Bic Holmes, who works part time in the Kansas Division of Emergency Management seemed like time slowed down for me.” fall photography and videography around has practically made a second career out of donating blood. Holmes recently hit the This one mishap does not diminish De- 2000. 100 gallon mark and has no plans to stop donating. (Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathew- Caro’s love of jumping out of a perfectly “You just strap a camera to your helmet son, Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas) performing aircraft to pursue his talent as a and begin experimenting with it all,” said skydiving photographer and videographer. DeCaro. Join the Civil Air Patrol He’s been skydiving for 11 years, getting They began producing video for forma- his start in 1999 out of curiosity, when he tion skydiving teams and began doing was on active duty at Fort Carson, Colo., tandem video and photography, as well. The Kansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is where he was a heavy wheel mechanic. During this jump, the instructor is tied to Now that he has done more than 600 the new student and the videographer looking for teens 12 to 18 years of age jumps, roughly 400 of them video jumps, jumps out of the aircraft at the same time and adults to join our current volunteers DeCaro says that it is no longer as much and video tapes the entire dive. in our important missions. of an adrenaline rush to skydive, but he It may seem ironic that someone who The Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the has slowed down quite a bit over the past repairs aircraft to keep them in the air years, practicing his art in Colorado, Ne- would enjoy jumping out of them, too, U.S. Air Force with three primary missions: vada, New Mexico, Kansas and Missouri. but DeCaro says the thrill of jumping is • Aerospace education “Now, it is more relaxing than any- its own reward. thing,” said DeCaro. “But, I would defi- “I had always wanted to try it and one • Cadet programs nitely recommend it to anyone who has day I just opened up the Yellow Pages and • Emergency services not tried skydiving but is considering it,” looked it up and set up an appointment,” said DeCaro. said DeCaro. “I showed up all scared, I Go to www.kswg.cap.gov Skydiving can be an expensive hobby. was pretty nervous, thinking ‘What am I for a Civil Air Patrol Squadron near you The first tandem jump is roughly about doing…’ Once I tried it, I was hooked.”