CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE onnecticut

VOL. 18 NO. 10 HARTFORD, OCTOBER 2017 Always Ready, Always There Connecticut Guardsmen Fly South to Provide Storm Relief Staff Sgt. Chris Moore, part of the crew of a Connecticut Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopter assigned to Company B, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion, conducts a survey mission in northern Florida, Sept. 13. The mission was to evaluate river levels and damage along the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee rivers, while ensuring areas were free of stranded civilians. When conducting reconnaissance, the air crew indicated possible increased water levels, but deemed areas clear of any civilians in distress. The crew of the CH- 47 included eight of 14 Connecticut National Guard Soldiers currently operating out of the Florida National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility No. 1 in Jacksonville, Florida, in support of Hurricane Irma relief operations. More than 30 Connecticut Soldiers and Airmen supported relief efforts in Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Army National Guard photo by Spc. Lisa Crawford) See Hurricane Relief Stories on Pages 14, 15 In This Issue:

CST Trains with First Responders 1-102nd Celebrates Past, Looks to Future Another SWAT Challenge for 103rd SF Page 3 Page 4 Page 7 PAGE 2 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 3 Disaster Distress Helpline CTNG’s 14th Civil Support Team Trains If You or Someone You Know is Struggling After a Disaster, You Are Not Alone Alongside Local, State, Federal Agencies

Submitted By 1st Lt. Patrick E. Hevey than usual; using illegal drugs Program Coordinator CTARNG Emergency Management • Eating too much or too little Refines Skills for Domestic Response • Not connecting with others Also partaking Editor’s Note: The following is an excerpt from a • Feeling like you won’t ever be happy again. Sgt. Christian Mason 14th Civil Support Team UPAR were the United pamphlet provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Tips for coping with stress after a disaster: States Coast Guard, Health Service Administration of the U.S. Dept. of Health Take care of yourself. Try to eat healthy, NEW HAVEN, Conn. – August saw the Connecticut the Federal Bureau and Human Services. For additional information and avoid using alcohol and drugs, and get some National Guard’s 14th Civil Support Team conduct two of Investigation, resources, see below. exercise when you can- even a walk around interagency exercises in the name of improving standard the Connecticut Disasters have the potential to cause emotional the block can make a difference. operating procedures and relationships. State Police, distress. Reach out to friends and family. Talk to The 14th CST led various, “Hot Zone Entries,” into a the Connecticut Some are more at risk than others: someone you trust about how you are doing. simulated incident site located in a dormitory at Western Department • Survivors living or working in the impacted areas Talk to your children. They may feel Connecticut State University, Aug. 1-3. Other agencies of Energy and (youth & adults) scared, angry, sad, worried, and confused. Let involved included the Vermont National Guard’s 15th Environmental • Loved ones of victims them know it’s okay to talk about what’s on Civil Support Team and the Danbury Fire Department Protection, and the • First Responders, Rescue & Recovery Workers. their mind. Limit their watching of TV news Hazmat team. New Haven Police Stress, anxiety, and depression are common natural areas, find a quiet spot to sit in or go for a hike. reports about the disaster. Help children and The 14th CST was tasked with identifying the hazards Department’s reactions after a disaster. Know when to ask for help. Signs of stress can be teens maintain normal routines to the extent possible. down range, to include a clandestine bio-warfare Bomb Squad. Warning signs of distress may include: normal, short-term reactions to any of life’s unexpected Role model healthy coping. agent production lab, simulated drug lab, and even a “There is no • Sleeping too much or too little events- not only after surviving a disaster, but also after Get enough ‘good’ sleep. Some people have trouble clandestine explosives lab. such thing as too • Stomachaches or headaches a death in the family, the loss of a job, or a breakup. falling asleep after a disaster, others keep waking up Over the course of the three-day exercise, members much interagency • Anger, feeling edgy or lashing out at others It’s important to pay attention to what’s going on with during the night. from all agencies present conducted over six joint entries cooperation,” • Overwhelming sadness you or with someone you care about, because what may If you have trouble sleeping: into the, “hot zone.” The Danbury Fire Department Brig. Gen. Ralph • Worrying a lot of the time; feeling guilty but not seem like “everyday stress” can actually be: • Only go to bed when you are ready to sleep Hazmat team began the exercise with their first site Hedenberg, sure why • Depression (including having thoughts of suicide) • Don’t watch TV or use your cell phone or laptop reconnaissance of the building and improvised labs Director of the • Feeling like you have to keep busy • Anxiety computer while you’re in bed providing the 14th CST tactical operations center Joint Staff, CTNG, • Lack of energy or always feeling tired • Alcohol or Drug Abuse. • Avoid eating (especially sugar) or drinking caffeine with critical information for follow-on sampling and said. “The more Capt. Steve MacSweeney, 14th Civil Support Team Survey Team Leader, CTNG, briefs CST • Drinking alcohol, smoking or using tobacco more If you or someone you know may be depressed, or alcohol at least one hour before going to bed analytical efforts. familiar we are members during training exercise, Operation Sound Water in New Haven, Connecticut, Aug. suffering from overwhelming feelings of anxiety, or • If you wake up and can’t Then, the CST was back at it, burning the midnight oil with each other’s 24. The CST performed the collective training alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, the Federal possibly abusing alcohol or drugs: Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Energy fall back to sleep, try writing in to conduct collective training alongside during Operation nuances, the better Changing Your Address a journal or on a sheet of paper Call 1-800-985-5990 or text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746 and Environmental Protection and the New Haven Police Department Bomb Squad. (Photo If you move and would like to continue receiving the Sound Water, Aug 24. prepared we all are what’s on your mind. to get help and support for any distress that you or by Sgt. Christian Mason, 14th Civil Support Team) Connecticut Guardian, change your address by contacting the Take care of pets or get someone you care about may be feeling related to any editor by phone or email at to help play a deemed that the identified threat was an explosive device outside into nature when disaster. (860) 524-4858 or [email protected]. role in keeping and stolen radiological sources. it’s safe. Nature and animals The Helpline and Text Service are: TTY for Deaf / To change your home of record, please see the following: Connecticut’s “Every agency played a role, pulled their weight and can help us to feel better when Hard of Hearing: 1-800-846-8517 CTNG Retirees: Contact Sgt. 1st Class Ericka Thurman at residents safe.” asked the questions that need to be asked in this kind we are down. See if you can Spanish-speakers: Text “Hablanos” to 66746 [email protected] or 860-524-4813. Beginning of training environment,” Hedenberg said. “I was very volunteer at a local animal Visit disasterdistress.samhsa.gov. Militia Members: Contact your chain of command or unit admin. at 11:00 p.m., impressed with the skill sets each organization brought shelter- they may need help Like on Facebook, facebook.com/distresshelpline. Current Members: Contact your chain of command or unit admin. the agencies to the table.” after a disaster. Once it’s safe Follow on Twitter, @distressline: Any other questions about the Guardian, contact the editor directly. trained on Upon reaching the simulated target, New Haven’s twitter.com/distressline. to return to public parks or tasks including Bomb Squad characterized and rendered the hazardous Assistant Adjutant General - Army State Public Affairs Officer ship boarding device safe, then removed it from the vessel. Connecticut Guardian Brig. Gen. Fran Evon Connecticut Guardian Managing Editor 360 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06105-3795 by responding From there, it was up to the CST to discover the presence Maj. Michael T. Petersen Phone: (860) 524-4858, DSN: 636-7857 to a merchant of radiological sources, then identify said sources. The State Command Chief Warrant Officer FAX: (860) 524-4902 vessel with CST then monitored the area for contamination and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Daniel Bade Connecticut Guardian Editor E-Mail: [email protected] Ms. Allison L. Joanis irregular ports practiced reporting to follow-on agencies. State Command Sergeant Major and rendezvous This is far from the CST’s first exposure to interagency Contributors points. With coordination. In past instances, the CST has been Captain-General Command Sgt. Maj. John S. Carragher 130th Public Affairs Det., CTARNG Gov. Dannel P. Malloy Maj. Jeff Heiland, 103rd AW/PAO the simulated requested to provide their expertise throughout the state. State Command Chief Master Sergeant 103rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs target anchored “Receiving calls to support various missions throughout The Adjutant General Chief Master Sgt. John M. Gasiorek 103rd Air Control Squadron offshore, agency the state requires the professionalism and proficiency the First Company Governors Horse Guard Commanding General, CTNG Second Company Governors Horse Guard representatives team displayed working alongside subject matter experts Maj. Gen. Thaddeus J. Martin First Company Governors Foot Guard traveled to and from partnered agencies,” Capt. Steve MacSweeney, Second Company Governors Foot Guard The Connecticut National Guard’s 14th Civil Support Team staged a training event, working from the ship CST Survey Team Leader said. “(The CST) works very The Connecticut Guardian is an authorized publication for and in the interest of, the personnel of the Connecticut National Guard, State Military Department, State Militia and their families. The editorial content of this publication is the alongside the Vermont National Guard 15th Civil Support Team and the Danbury Fire aboard Coast hard to maintain the highest standards, and I’m proud of responsibility of the CTNG Hartford Public Affairs Office and is not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, and the Department of the Army or the Department of the Air Force. Department HAZMAT Team at Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, Connecticut, Guard vessels. all the hard work these Guardsmen put in day and night.” Connecticut Guardian is published monthly in accordance with AR 360-1 and is printed through the Government Printing Office. Deadline for the October issue is September 5. Circulation: 7,800 August 1-3. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mark Spencer, 14th CST, CTNG) The exercise PAGE 4 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 5 “The Old 1 and the 2 With Nothing in Between” Eyes on the Prize – CT Guardsman Taps into Mental, 1-102nd Celebrates Past, Looks to Future on Historic Yale Field Physical, Spiritual Strength to Cross the Finish Line Maj. Mike Petersen State Public Affairs Officer Staff Sgt. Stanquinto Sudduth for service members, Comulada is one 192nd HHC Military Police Battalion, UPAR of many who have ventured outside of WEST HAVEN, Conn. – As the 102nd Army Band First Sgt. Edgardo Comulada, the senior enlisted traditional Army doctrine to achieve an marched past each company formation, Sept. 9, with leader of the 141st Medical Company, took fitness to even more advanced level of fitness. every note echoing through historic Yale Field, the men a whole new level when he entered the 2017 Mainova ”I was pretty active in the past and women of the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment Ironman, European Championship, held in Frankfurt, doing weight training, obstacle course stood proudly. Germany, July 9. events, until I injured my back. I then Almost as if the battalion of more than 500 strong could The Ironman is an extreme challenge of physical began doing low impact exercises and feel the members of the 102nd who mustered near the endurance and strength that consists of three events: a events,” Comulada said. very ground they stood on a century earlier. 112-mile bike ride, a 2.4-mile swim, and a 26.2- mile After sustaining the back injury, The battalion marked 100 years since its muster for run. It was a challenge, however, that Comulada was Comulada continued to want more than World War I with a special ceremony in the Yale baseball more than ready to tackle for the first time. the Army Physical fitness exercises, yet stadium to honor its past. Events of the day included You may expect a first-time competitor in a triathlon to weight training was not feasible. It was a rededication of the Corporal Timothy Ahearn statue be bit newer to the ranks of the U.S. Army, yet Comulada during this time that he discovered a (just down the street from the field), a Purple Heart has completed more than 21 years of military service and different method of training. presentation, where two members of the Battalion earned served in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation “My brother, who’s a master swimmer the award posthumously, and a change of command Enduring Freedom. Physical fitness has always played coach and Ironman, introduced me to ceremony. a large part of his professional life, so it should come as the triathlon world. From there, I found The ceremony closed out with a pass and review, no surprise that he was able to perform as well he did. a local triathlon training program, initiated by Lt. Col. Frank Tantillo, incoming battalion While there are many exercising regimes established where I ended up training for my first commander. ever sprint distance “It was definitely a special day,” Command Sgt. Maj. triathlon,” Comulada Daniel Morgan, senior enlisted leader of the 1-102nd, said. said. “It isn’t often you can celebrate a century of history, While he traveled but it was important for the men and women of today’s More than 500 members of the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment celebrated 100 years since the unit’s first to various Ironman Iron Greys to honor and learn about our predecessors.” muster as the 102nd on Yale baseball field in West Haven, Connecticut, Sept. 9. In August of 1917, the 1st and contests and became The Corporal Timothy Ahearn statue, originally 2nd Connecticut Regiments merged to form the 102nd Infantry Regiment and shortly after went on to fight in more immersed in dedicated in 1937, stands near the intersection of Routes France in World War I as part of the 26th Yankee Division. (Photo by Allison L. Joanis, State Public Affairs Office) the triathlon world, 10 and 34, honoring his military accomplishments reorganizing the remaining men of his unit after an attack Ryan was killed in action on Oct. 25, 1918 in France, Comulada met other during, “The War to End All Wars.” left all of his superiors dead. less than ten days after his promotion to Sergeant. Eades combat veterans Ahearn was responsible for assuming command and The Battalion then marched into Yale Field, greeted by would make it home, passing away at the age of 68 in involved in triathlons CTNG leadership Coffeeville, Mississippi. Two current Soldiers of the and various veterans and past members 1-102nd accepted plaques on behalf of the men. support groups such who learned Following the presentation, Lt. Col. David L. Pickel, as the Wounded about the history Jr. relinquished command of the 1-102nd after two years Warrior Project First Sgt. Edgardo Comulada checks out his finisher medal following his of the 1-102nd and one month as battalion commander to Tantillo. In his triathlon team. After completion of the 2017 Mainova Ironman, European Championship, in as it was created exit speech, he thanked his mentors, current and former evolving and growing Frankfurt, Germany, July 9. Comulada is the senior enlisted medic with from the 1st and Soldiers, and lastly, his family. in the sport, he is now the 141st Medical Company, CTARNG, and this was his first Ironman 2nd Connecticut “Taking command of the 1-102nd is one of the greatest proud to be on the triathlon. An Ironman triathlon consists of three events: a 112-mile bike Infantry. honors I have had in my military career,” Tantillo said. Airborne Tri Team. ride, a 2.4-mile swim, and a 26.2- mile run. (Photo courtesy of 1st Sgt. Col. Nathan “There is a lot of hard work ahead of us, but to be tapped Teams like the Edgardo Comulada, 141st Medical Company (Ground Ambulance)) Lord, Commander to lead one of the oldest units in the Army inventory - and Airborne Tri Team is needed to compete and hopefully finish the event. of the 86th Infantry a unit I love so much - is truly special.” use physical fitness training to help “This means staying away from fast food restaurants Brigade Combat Tantillo, a graduate of Georgetown University and the bring awareness to combat veterans and saying no to substances that contain sugars,” Team (Mountain), Quinnipiac University School of Law, currently serves who may be coping with issues related Comulada said. the higher full-time as the CTNG’s Purchasing and Contracting to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Another consideration that Comulada emphasized was headquarters for Manager. He has deployed twice with the 1-102nd (both This form of physical activity is a way important for anyone who is interested in participating the 1-102nd, then times to Afghanistan) and has served the battalion in of helping combat veterans alleviate in a triathlon is that there will be less time for friends, posthumously various staff and command positions. stress, channel their energy, and most family and work. There will be times when training will honored two men Even with all that time serving with the battalion, First Sgt. Edgardo Comulada at the finish line of the 2017 Mainova importantly, it is a way to let them know have to be prioritized more than anything else. When it – Sgt. Edward Tantillo continues to be amazed at what the men and Ironman, European Championship, in Frankfurt, Germany. Comulada that they are not alone. comes to testing your stamina, endurance, and your will F. Ryan and Pvt. women of the 1-102nd are capable of. completed the Ironman triathalon that three events: a 112-mile bike ride, Training and team work are not to compete, you are going to require all the energy you Lt. Col. Frank Tantillo (center) assumes command of the 1-102nd Infantry Regiment, Walter Wilson “This battalion is made up of some of the most a 2.4-mile swim, and a 26.2- mile run on July 9. Comulada has more than the only factors for successfully can muster up. It won’t be easy. accepting the colors from Col. Daniel Murphy (left), Commander, 85th Troop Command, 21 years of military experience and has served in both Operations Iraqi Eades – with the passionate, patriotic Soldiers I have ever had the honor of CTARNG, during a change of command ceremony at Yale baseball field, West Haven, and Endurring Freedom. He is currently the senior enlisted member of the competition in an Ironman. Proper “You must have the desire, commitment, and Connecticut, Sept. 9. Lt. Col. David Pickel (right), outgoing commander of the 1-102nd, Purple Heart for serving alongside,” Tantillo said. “I was blown away with 141st Medical Company, CTARNG. (Photo courtesy of 1st Sgt. Edgardo dieting is paramount in providing the understanding of the mental, physical and spiritual relinquished command of the 1-102nd after two years and one month as battalion their actions during the professionalism and execution of the entire event.” Comulada, 141st Medical Company (Ground Ambulance)) energy necessary for the body to sustain endurance needed to be successful. It will become an commander. (Photo by Allison L. Joanis, State Public Affairs Office) the war. the grueling physical conditioning that additional full time job or lifestyle,” Comulada said. PAGE 6 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 7 Echo Company 1-169 Gets Local 103rd SFS Partakes in CT SWAT Recognition for National Award Challenge for 13th Year Running Airman 1st Class Sadie Hewes Spc. Erikka Lemieux 103rd Airlift Wing, Public Affairs D Co., 1-169th Aviation Battalion (GSAB) UPAR A team of 10 103rd Security Forces Squadron Airmen brought a whole new level of competition to the annual WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. - Since April 2016, Connecticut SWAT Challenge from August 22 through Soldiers of Echo Company 1-169 Aviation Regiment, August 24, 2017, despite the fact that many of their General Support Aviation Battalion mess section have veteran members are currently deployed overseas. performed to their highest of standards in every aspect Many of the members, like Tech. Sgt. Dedrick Baublitz, of food service in hopes to be awarded the winners of have competed in the SWAT challenge for several the 49th Philip A. Connelly competition. consecutive years, but having newer members like The company was announced as the winning team in Airman 1st Class Adam Roach and Airman 1st Class April 2017 and took home the trophy at the 2017 Military Emilio Masella seemed to reinvigorate the team and Food Service Awards Dinner in Chicago, May 19. push them harder than ever before. Representing the company were Capt. Jamie Cuticello, The first two days of the challenge were held in Echo Company Commander, Staff. Sgt. Nicholas Berube, Weatougue, Connecticut, at the Metacon Gun Club, Advanced Culinary NCO, and Sgt. Cody Hettrick, where the team participated in several team and Culinary NCO. individual shooting competitions. During the 14-month long competition, the cooks had According to Master Sgt. Rick Marks, 103rd SFS to overcome many adversities from the blazing heat of Operations Superintendent, the most important part of regionals in the summer of 2016 to frozen pipes on the the shooting competitions is being able to accurately handwashing station’s water supply source right as the shoot under pressure. national level competition kicked off in the winter of Staff Sgt. Aaron Jerolmon, a member of the 103rd 2017. SFS, said through many of the obstacles, both during The Soldiers were always quick on their feet and the shooting competitions and the obstacle course, the Members of the 103rd Security Forces Squadron team work together to carry a telephone pole as part of the worked together to prosper which resulted in success participants were required to wear full SWAT gear, 2017 Connecticut SWAT Challenge at West Hartford Reservoir, West Hartford, Connecticut, Aug. 24. The team and first place in the overall competition. including weighted vests, kevlar helmets, and gas masks. had to synchronize its movements and perform quickly during the obstacle. (Photo by Airman Roxanne Kongkiat, 103rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs) Berube described his team as, “a well-oiled machine The mess section of Echo Company, 1-169 GSAB with the first place trophy from the 49th Philip A. Connelly “It’s a lot harder to shoot your weapon accurately if and we still had a huge smile while we did it all.” competition at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Windsor Locks, Connecticut, Sept. 10. The unit won the you’re under a lot of heavy gear,” said Jerolmon. “You you’re going to miss.” Connecticut, Rhode Island and even Indiana, as well “These Soldiers just truly love what they do. They love national award following their stand-out performance over the 14-month competition. Their win was announced have to work more on controlling your breathing because On the final day of the challenge, no weight was lifted as other military teams such as the Connecticut Army cooking for people,” Cuticello added. in April, 2017, and representatives of the unit accepted the award at an dinner in Chicago in May. (Photo by Spc. that affects how you shoot. If you’re breathing heavy, from the shoulders of the team. Instead, on top of their National Guard and a team of Army Rangers from Fort Teams competed in three different stages: State, Erikka Lemieux, D Co., 1-169th Aviation Battalion (GSAB), UPAR) heavy vests and Benning. Regional, and National. The teams, however, did not Echo Company brought great honor to the 1-169th In addition to earning the title of best mess section in helmets, some of The course began with swimming, cross fit, weight compete side-by-side. They are evaluated and scored General Support Aviation Battalion and the Connecticut the nation, the company was awarded around $40,000 the members were lifting, and running in gas masks. They also had to squat at their home stations by a team of evaluators from the National Guard, but that’s not the only thing that they and was also able to send two Soldiers to the Culinary also forced to carry and lunge carrying a telephone pole, drag over 70 lbs National Guard Bureau and Department of Defense. walked away with. Institute of America in Napa Valley, Calif. for one week. heavy medicine across a field alone, and were sprayed with a fire hose Although everyone hopes for the best, they During the trip, Pfc. Tania Arroyo and balls, kettle bells, while navigating through a tunnel. still have to prepare for the worst. Adversity Pfc. Holly Kidder received advanced and bags of extra “It’s really meant to smoke you in the beginning,” said is inevitable and it’s also something the culinary training and were also able to enjoy gear through a Jerolmon. “Once you’re tired, you have to do the rest judges consider while grading. It’s commonly spending seven days in California together. four-mile obstacle of the obstacles.” mistaken that the taste and quality of the Most of all, Cuticello wanted them to bring course. The competition can be extremely taxing on the team food is all that matters during a culinary back a great experience and even more The course was members, but the grit shows on their faces when they’re competition but that is far from the truth. motivation than before. held at the West in action. “The judges focus on every single bit of “Win or lose, you will be rewarded in Hartford Reservoir “The teams that we’re going against are full-time food service. There are three evaluators who some way as long as you give 110%. The in West Hartford, SWAT operators,” said Marks, who has participated in look at everything from site set up to site experience that they received is the real Connecticut, where the competition for 11 years now. “They train SWAT cleanup. The checklist consists of a 1,000 reward,” Cuticello said. they faced 35 day-in and day-out, whereas we train for roughly 10 total points,” Berube said. The team has competed in the competition obstacles both in days before we come out to compete. The fact that we “They focus on everything. You have previously and plans to continue to do water and on land. can even go up against these other teams from across the combat aspect, cover and concealment, what so. Surprisingly, this was the first time The 103rd team country is really a testament to our guys.” is the threat level, is it managed appropriately, participating in the competition for 85% competed against The SWAT competition has become a tradition for the management of money and proper accounting, Staff Sgt. Nicholas Berube (center), Advanced Culinary NCO from Echo Company, of the mess section. Winning this year has 33 other groups, squadron, and along with the exhaustion and triumph of 1-169 Aviation Regiment, was received the Meritorious Service Medal from Maj. if someone forgets to put their cover on, is given them more motivation, dedication, including SWAT finishing the challenge, there is evidence that Airmen Gen. Thad Martin (left), at an award ceremony for the unit at the Army Aviation there gravel for the greywater, how much Support Facility, Windsor Locks, Connecticut, Sept. 10. Echo Company won the and a real love for what they do and they After completing an obstacle, 103rd Security Forces Squadron members run to the next teams from police new and veteran to the test are already looking forward gravel is there, how far is the latrine from the 49th Philip A. Connelly competition in 2017. The competition is a national military- will bring that with them to the competitions as part of the 2017 Connecticut SWAT Challenge at the West Hartford Reservoir in West departments to attending next year. cooking area? It has to be 100 yards exactly wide competition that tests the highest of standards in every aspect of food to come. Hartford, Conn., Aug. 24, 2017. This was the squadron’s 13th year participating in the event. from across Interested in putting a team together for next year? from the kitchen,” Cuticello said. service. (Photo by Spc. Erikka Lemieux, D Co., 1-169th GSAB,UPAR) (Photo by Airman Roxanne Kongkiat, 103rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs) Massachusetts, Contact your chain of command. PAGE 8 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 9

JRTC From Page 8

“Forming and Performing” build our unit defense, in responding to recovery missions, and treating casualties in addition to performing Connecticut ARNG Engineers Tackle JRTC his mechanic duties,” Jackson said. Mota Santos is employed at the Staff Sgt. Benjamin Simon Unit Training Equipment Site in JFHQ Public Affairs Office East Lyme, Connecticut as a Surface Fort Polk, Louisiana has served as a vital U.S. military Maintenance Mechanic. He said training installation for more than 75 years. working at UTES helped him prepare As the home of the U.S. Army Joint Readiness for his unit’s time at JRTC. He said Training Center, Fort Polk has also hosted a seemingly he also studied in advance. consistent rotation of Connecticut Army National Guard “I studied up on recovery Units training for potential and impending active duty procedures,” said Mota Santos. “We activations. definitely had to deal with some Soldiers assigned to the CTARNG’s 192nd Engineer stressors, and we had to get used Battalion, recently returned to Connecticut following to the heat, but it made us stronger. their JRTC rotation, held July 16 to Aug. 9, 2017 at the It was an eye opener. We learned 200,000-acre installation. about the things we’ll have to fix Capt. Douglas Jackson, company commander of going forward. It was worth it. It the 192nd Engineer Battalion’s Forward Support brought us together. I wouldn’t mind Company, said the rotation was a welcome reminder to deploying with my fellow Soldiers in the unit’s Soldiers and its leaders of the importance and the 192nd.” significance of maintaining readiness and preparedness. 248th Squad Leader, Staff Sgt. Jackson’s unit of predominately of cooks and Adam Ordway was also named a mechanics was tasked with field feeding, equipment “Hero of the Battle.” 192nd FSC repair, maintenance duties, and vehicle recovery Soldier, Spc. Shawn Bethune was operations. The FSC was attached to the Indiana Army named, “Logistics Warrior of the National Guard’s 776 Brigade Engineer Battalion, 76th Rotation.” IBCT during mission exercises at JRTC. 192nd FSC 1st Sgt. Keith Ekmalian Jackson said he welcomed the challenge of integrating said that despite some logistical with the 776 BEB and training with an unfamiliar unit. constraints, his Soldiers did well working together as a team. Soldiers assigned to the 192nd Engineer Battalion prepare for training exercises, “in the box,” at Fort Polk, Louisiana, July 31, 2017. “We weren’t familiar with each other’s [Standing A Soldier assigned to the 76th IBCT pulls security, July 30, 2017 during rotation 17-08 during JRTC training at “Our junior leaders have been 192nd FSC 1st Sgt. Keith Ekmalian said that his Soldiers did an outstanding job working together as a team. (Photo courtesy of Capt. Operating Procedures]. We had numerous coordination Fort Polk, Louisiana. 192nd FSC Commander, Capt. Douglas Jackson said working to integrate into the 776 BEB, stepping up in key roles. My Soldiers Douglas Jackson, 192nd FSC) meetings to get on the same page. The rotation 76th IBCT was a welcome challenge. (Photo by Joint Readiness Training Center, Operations Group) did an outstanding job. I was happy to see everyone definitely gave us the maintenance section was most challenged in acquiring looking out for one another,” he said. opportunity to train the necessary parts and equipment needed to make quick Ekmalian said that based on how well his Soldiers in an ever-changing repairs. handled their JRTC training he feels that the company environment and we “We had to learn to build relationships with Soldiers is better prepared for future missions and operations. were all extremely in other units to help us get stuff done. I learned that it’s Jackson explained that the process of developing and flexible,” he said. important to be able to work with other units. You may gelling as a military unit is as simple as, “Forming, The 248th Engineers not have everything and vice versa. It’s no help being Storming, Norming, Performing,” world famous were also attached to selfish. We’re all one team,” he said. psychologist Bruce Tuckman’s theorized four stages of the 776 BEB, 76th Jackson said the 248th and FSC companies met their group development. IBCT, and supported JRTC training objectives, and then some. “When groups and units come together, they all go their training during the The company’s cooks fed approximately 900-1000 through this growth process, and our unit went through rotation’s, “in the box” Soldiers daily, the mechanics maintained the vehicles and this process very well at JRTC. It made us stronger,” exercises. Spc. Jacob equipment of the BEB and IBCT, and the FSC recovery said Jackson. “This experience for the Soldiers of the Avery, Construction section successfully performed recovery operations for FSC and the 248th will be with us for the rest of our Equipment Repairer, numerous battle damaged vehicles during the rotation’s careers. We’ll be able to look back on this rotation and said the maintenance training. as an organization, and it’ll help prepare us for future section, to which Jackson said Connecticut’s Soldiers worked diligently missions. Our Soldiers can now see the bigger picture. he is attached, was and performed exemplarily during their JRTC training, I’m proud of their growth,” he said. extremely busy during but that Spc. Luis Mota Santos, Track Vehicle Mechanic, The FSC is scheduled to train at Camp Dodge, Iowa in their cycle. truly exceeded the command’s intent and expectations. 2018 at the installation’s Sustainment Training Center. “We did a whole lot Mota Santos was named, “Hero of the Battle,” and was The 192nd Engineer Battalion also consists of the 250th Engineer Company, the 246th Engineer Detachment, the A CH-47 Chinook helicopter assigned to the 76th IBCT takes off from the Geronimo DZ of on-the-fly fixes,” awarded an official citation during the rotation. July 26, 2017, at Fort Polk Louisiana. The 76th IBCT was supported by the CTARNG Avery said. Avery, who “He was our go-to guy. He was crucial in helping us 247th Engineer Detachment, and the 256th Engineer 192nd Engineer Battalion, 248th Engineers and Forward Support Company during their joined the CTARNG 76th IBCT Soldiers conduct live fire at Peason Ridge training area, at Fort Polk, Louisiana, July 31, 2017 during Detachment. JRTC rotation. (Photo by Joint Readiness Training Center, Operations Group) in 2014, said his Continued See JRTC on Page 9 their JRTC rotation. (Photo by Joint Readiness Training Center, Operations Group) PAGE 10 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 11 Improve Paving the Way for Future Connecticut’s Office Of The Victim Advocate Visits With Leaders of the CTARNG the Sexual Assault Prevention And Response Team Capt. Alan L. Merriman website, Connecticut’s victims’ rights Your ASVAB Special Victims’ Counsel, CTARNG laws serve to promote respect for MIDDLETOWN, Conn. -- Members of Connecticut’s crime victims, including their safety, Office of the Victim Advocate visited with and presented privacy and the interest they have to a small group of key stakeholders that, in large part, in seeking justice. In addition, such GT Score; constitute the Connecticut National Guard’s Sexual laws serve to foster administrative and Assault Prevention and Response team, Aug. 29. judicial sensitivity to the difficulty The presentation took place at the Middletown Armed experienced when crime victims are Advance your Forces Reserve Center and was coordinated by Vanessa unexpectedly drawn into an often Torres, OVA Secretary, and Capt. Alan Merriman, indifferent, but always confusing, CTNG’s Special Victims’ Counsel. criminal justice system—often at the CTNG Career OVA’s Merit Lajoie, Complaint Officer, and Hakima very time they are trying to cope with Bey-Coon, Staff Attorney, presented. Among the CTNG injury and the trauma of personal loss. Maj. Derek J. Musgrave Education Service Officer attendees were Col. Tim Tomcho, CTNG Staff Judge The mission of OVA and CTNG’s Advocate and Maj. Katherine Maines, Sexual Assault Special Victims’ Counsel Program If you are Response Coordinator for Joint Force Headquarters – are synergistic. Our great State interested in Connecticut National Guard. is ahead of most in its efforts to improving your The presentation covered the history and development ensure that criminal defendants’ Armed Services of crime victims’ rights in the state of Connecticut, rights are protected and promoted. Vocational the creation and mission of the Office of the Victim As the Special Victims’ Counsel, I Aptitude Advocate, the scope and limitations of the Crime look forward to working with the Battery General Victims’ Rights Amendment, and victim services passionate professionals of the Office Technical score, delivery systems throughout Connecticut. During the of the Victim Advocate, as well as our you can schedule presentation, the teams engaged in extensive discussion committed Sexual Assault Response an appointment about issues specific to Guard member-victims; and the Team members to pursue mutually to take the Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Carragher, State Command Sergeant Major, CTARNG, shares experiences, guidance teams anticipate future collaboration with the goal of beneficial victims’ rights initiatives Armed Forces and advice with future company-level leaders of the CTARNG at the Pre-Command and First Sergeant Course in enhancing our ability to provide robust services to our that will enhance the rights and Classification Camp Niantic, Connecticut, Sept. 15. The training is provided for newly-promoted Captains and First Sergeants reporting victims. remedies available to crime victims Merit Lajoie, Complaint Officer for the Connecticut Office of theictim V Test in the to prepare them to take command and lead a unit in the near future. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Stanquinto Sudduth, In 1996, Connecticut residents overwhelmingly voted and the Connecticut National Guard’s Advocate, left, and Hakima Bey-Con, Staff Attorney for the OVA, right, visit Hartford Armory. With prior coordination, proctors are 192nd Military Police Battalion,UPAR) service members. Should you have to adopt the Victims’ Right Amendment to the CT with Capt. Alan Merriman, Connecticut National Guard Special Victims available most weekdays at 8:00 a.m. Constitution. The Office of the Victim Advocate was any questions about the content of Staff Sgt. Stanquinto Sudduth Sergeants complete this course so that they are prepared Counsel at a presentation to the Connecticut National Guard Sexual The GT score is the “General Technical” test area of the 192nd HHC Military Police Battalion, UPAR created by the Connecticut Legislature in 1998 to enforce this article, please contact Capt. Alan to lead with a foundation of knowledge and skill. The Assault Prevention and Response Team at the Middletown Armed Forces ASVAB and is a measure of word knowledge, paragraph and promote victim rights throughout the criminal justice L. Merriman at alan.l.merriman.mil@ Reserve Center, Middletown, Connecticut, Aug. 29. (Photo courtesy of the Camp NIANTIC, Conn. - The 169th Regional Training idea is to begin to train these officers and Soldiers early comprehension and arithmetic reasoning. A GT score process. According to OVA, as found on its official mail.mil or (860) 837-4643. CTARNG Judge Advocate General Office) of 110 is required for entry into the Officer and Warrant Institute held its Pre-Command and First Sergeant in their careers, so as they move forward, they can build Officer Candidate programs. If you are concerned about Course at Camp Niantic, Connecticut, Sept. 15. on their skills. passing the exam, we have resources here to help you The course, which has been in existence for 11 years, “It’s to give them a great baseline foundation; how to 1st Battalion (OCS/WOCS), 169th Regiment (RTI) study or you can take online practice exams to prepare has become a key cornerstone in pre-leadership training be effective leaders at the next level,” Jakubson said. you for the test. for unit-level leaders. The training is provided for newly- Jakubson also stressed the importance of not only OCS & WOCS OPEN HOUSE If you have any questions about your education promoted Captains and First Sergeants to prepare them having the knowledge, but to realize resources available benefits, stop by the Education Services office in room to take command and lead a unit in the near future. to leaders, so when they need help, they know where INFORMATION BRIEF 103 of the William A. O’Neill Armory in Hartford or “The purpose of this course to give to the new to go. contact Education Services directly. Commander and First Sergeant proper understanding “No one can know everything,” said Jakubson. “You of their duties and responsibilities and the tools and just need to know where to go to get the answers and September 28, 2017 Maj. Derek J. Musgrave - Education Services Officer the programs that are out there to help them facilitate a information.” 860-524-4816 successful command,” Maj. Michael Jakubson, Training The concept of learning a correct way of getting the Uniform: ACUs/ January 27, 2018 Staff and Cadre will [email protected] Specialist assigned to the Connecticut Army National job done along with utilizing yours peers and most Mr. Sam Salmeron - Education Service Specialist Guard’s G-3 said. importantly, knowing where to go to find the information OCPs with PC or Report Time: 10:00 a.m. be on hand to an- 401-275-4143 To help distribute important information for its or answers needed is what this course is all about. Business Casual swer questions and [email protected] attendees, the course was extended from two to “It’s a great opportunity for those that will be Sgt. 1st Class Eduardo Foster - Incentive Manager (Civilians Only) RTI, Camp Niantic support administra- three days. This provided the extra time necessary commanders and first sergeants to discover all of the 860-524-4809 tive requirements. [email protected] for instructors to have more time to pass along vital information, tools and recourses that are at their dispose information and to share experiences and best practices [and] to apply them when they are in command,” Transfer your Post 9-11 GI Bill to your dependents today! to help enhance their overall future decision making and Jakubson said. “This will ultimately assist them in taking Please RSVP through your chain of command and to: Transfer your Post 9-11 GI Bill at: style of leadership. care of their Soldiers and being successful.” Capt. Eric Roy - [email protected] https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/ Participants selected for this leadership development For more information on attending the FY18 Pre- To apply for GI Bill benefits, visit: are mainly chosen from their chain of command, but it Command course, contact your chain of command. See Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Mottolo [email protected] https://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp_ssl/login.asp is a state requirement that all new commanders and First page 24 for additional CTARNG courses. PAGE 12 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 13 Health & Fitness Camp Niantic An Affordable A New Approach to Your Physical Fitness Waterfront Getaway Staff Sgt. Silas Holden function of PRT. What good is a program if those 1109th TASMG, Master Fitness Trainer partaking in it are not performing it as intended? If you ask around the Army what Physical Readiness And how will it prevent injury as intended if Training is, you are sure to get a mixture of positive and the exercises and drills are not being performed negative feedback. properly? The two week phase 2 resident course Many Soldiers have become very discouraged by the helps to ensure that leaders are trained in the Army’s new physical training regimen. What we must correct performance of PRT. The course also do is ask why? What has gotten them to the opinion covers the four core lifts and proper execution they have formed about it? What can be done to reverse of them. The four lifts are bench press, deadlift, their thinking, and, most importantly, what can be done squat, and overhead press. If proper form and to bring up the percentages of overall physical readiness function are not used during these lifts injury is in our current force? sure to follow. When performed properly these One of the most talked about aspects of our Army lifts become the core of building overall strength today is its state of readiness. I intend with this newly- to help increase overall physical readiness. added column to hit on all aspects of physical fitness In 2003, I was 27 years old and shipped out to readiness and how becoming an Army Master Fitness Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Trainer has opened my eyes to the realm of PRT and Little did I know that the battalion I was assigned added to my thirst for knowledge within the fitness and to would be the initial trial cycle for the Army wellness sector. PRT system. Reserve Rooms at the RTI or Building 32 My name is Staff Sgt. Silas Holden, currently assigned The Army began their process with PRT in Single, Full and Queen Bed Options to the 1109th TASMG. Being an English major I jumped 1999, but it was not until 2008 that the system Private or Shared Bathrooms at the opportunity to write a monthly column on fitness was implemented Army wide. Looking at the and health for our monthly state publication. On Aug. 18, span of years above it is easy to see that it was 2017 I graduated from the Army Master Fitness Trainer not a rushed decision. Many hours of study and Staff Sgt. Silas Holden from the 1109th Theatre Aviation Who’s Eligible? Course, and I can honestly say that the course was one analysis went into adopting our current physical Sustainment Maintenance Group, and also a recent graduate of the best courses of my 13-year career. training system. from the Army Master Fitness Trainer Course is an avid All current CTNG Soldiers and Airmen and their dependents This first installment of my column is going to go over So what was the leading driver of this you ask? competitive golfer outside of his Connecticut National Guard Active Duty Military and their dependents the basics of the MFTC and try to enhance the overall Injury prevention. So many Soldiers were being responsibilities. Be sure to check back each month for his health and fitness pointers and advice. (Photo courtesy of Staff DOD employees understanding of PRT. injured during training that something had to be Sgt. Silas Holden, 1109th TASMG, A Co MFT) Retired Military The MFTC was reinstated throughout the Army so done to halt the injury occurrence and rehabilitate that individuals could be trained in the proper form and the injured within our ranks. As with everything, the toll great video pertaining to this can be viewed on YouTube, State Militia members was not just manifested simply search for Lt. Gen. Hertling speech about FNSI. State Military Department employees physically, but it was also Many have the impression that PRT only utilizes the an economic issue for the exercises and drills that are the core part of the program, Army. this is false. PRT is exactly as it sounds, physical Post MWR Facilities The injury most readiness training, and it can encompass a vast array Post Exchange Open Tuesday - Saturday commonly seen at of fitness and exercise. At the core of the program are BCT which initiated drills and exercises that enhance flexibility, mobility, and Kayaks, canoes, sailfish and other sporting equipment available the changes in physical overall functional strength. Waterfront picnic areas training was the Femoral If you have not utilized the entire PRT system I Volleyball court Neck Stress Injury. When would greatly encourage you to do so. There are many Beach access the hips and legs are not exercises that will awaken muscles within you that don’t Fitness centers strong enough to support often get the attention they need. An example of this is the weight and stress of Conditioning Drill 3, which consists of more advanced training, FNSI is known plyometric training. If attempting to perform these to occur. The head of get with either an MFT or do your research about the Local Attractions the femur bone becomes exercises so you execute them properly. Nearby State and Local Beaches fractured due to its lack Staff Sgt. Holden is a newly-trained Master Fitness Numerous Shopping and Dining Options of ability to withstand Trainer eager to share his knowledge with those wanting Close to I-95 the stress it is put under. to learn. The thoughts expressed in this column are his. When you have multiple Always do research and consult your doctor before occurrences of this injury undergoing any physical fitness regiment. For Rate Information and Reservations the economic impact goes Request a topic, or ask Staff Sgt. Holden a direct Download a complete Army Pocket Physical Training Guide at https://m.goarmy.com/ up rapidly creating quite question by emailing him at silas.k.holden.mil@mail. Contact the Billeting Office at (860) 691-4314 content/dam/goarmy/downloaded_assets/pt_guide/pocket-pt-guide.pdf. a liability to burden. A mil. PAGE 14 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 15 103rd Connecticut Army National Guard Sends Troops, CH-47s to Support Relief Efforts Flying Maj. Mike Petersen State Public Affairs Officer

Fourteen Army National Guardsmen headed south to Yankees support ongoing relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Irma, Sept. 10. Men and women assigned to the 169th General Support Complete Aviation Battalion took off from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Windsor Locks, Conn. aboard two CH- 47F Chinook helicopters and made the nine-hour journey to South Carolina, where they staged in anticipation First Herc of follow-on missions. The group saely returned to Connecticut, Sept. 16. The crew then moved forward to Jacksonville, Fla. and Hurricane were housed at the Florida National Guard’s own AASF. “When there are people in need, time and time again the Guard stands up and answers the call,” Maj. Gen. Thad Martin, Adjutant General and Commander of the Relief Connecticut National Guard said in a recent press release Members of the 103rd Airlift Wing return to Bradley Air National Guard Base, East Granby, Conn., after completing announcing Connecticut’s hurricane relief efforts. “We a disaster relief mission Aug. 29. As part of the mission, members of the unit were tasked with transporting continue to pray for those affected by these weather command and control personnel to southeast Texas to support Hurricane Harvey disaster relief efforts. (Photo by events, and know that the Guardsmen of Connecticut Missions Tech. Sgt. Tamara R. Dabney, 103rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs Squadron) supporting these relief efforts will remain on duty until Tech. Sgt. Tamara R. Dabney The mission was different than hurricane relief efforts disasters, such as floods and hurricanes. The C-130, with the job is done.” 103rd Public Affairs Office Connecticut Air National Guard of the past in that it required the unit to provide a greater its proven versatility and reliability, plays an important The crew was composed of rotary-wing pilots, crew amount of support. role in mission accomplishment. members and maintainers – individuals specifically trained The 103rd Airlift Wing completed its first Hurricane “Sometimes our state mission can cross state lines,” The CTANG has supported several missions in Florida, to provide airlift support for both equipment and personnel (From left) Sgt. John Harrington, a flight medic from Company C, 3-126thAviation Regiment, sits next to Staff Disaster Relief Mission since converting to a tactical said Col. Roy V. Walton, Vice Wing Commander, 103rd Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin islands since, in the wake if the need arises. Sgt. Dave Gulino and Staff Sgt. Chris Moore - all part of the crew of a Connecticut Army National Guard CH-47 airlift mission. Airlift Wing. “The C-130 conversion has changed how of Hurricane Irma. The CH-47F Chinook is a heavy-lift helicopter capable Chinook helicopter from Company B, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion, conducting a survey mission On Aug. 28, 2017, the Flying Yankees of the 103rd the 103rd is being utilized for support. Skillsets, such as “In the past, before the C-130 conversion, our role of moving personnel, supplies and equipment weighing in northern Florida, Sept. 13. The mission was to evaluate river levels and damage along the Santa Fe and provided an airplane and crew to transport a command aerial port, that we didn’t have in 2005, when Katrina would typically be state specific,” said Walton. “This Ichetucknee rivers, while ensuring areas were free of stranded civilians. When conducting reconnaissance, the air up to 26,000 pounds, according to Lt. Col. Raymond crew indicated possible increased water levels, but deemed areas clear of any civilians in distress. The crew of and control team from Andrews AFB in Maryland to hit, are now available for use.” is the first time we’ve used the C-130s in support of Chicoski, State Aviation Officer, CTNG. the CH-47 Chinook helicopter included eight of 14 Connecticut National Guard Soldiers currently operating out of Austin, Texas, to aid in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. The Air National Guard has dual missions that include Defense Support to Civil Authorities. We’ve been alerted The extent of Hurricane Irma’s damage left millions the Florida National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility No. 1 in Jacksonville, Florida, in support of Hurricane both federal and state to provide additional C-130 support to ensure relief without electricity throughout the Caribbean and Florida, Irma relief operations. The CTNG has more than 30 Soldiers and Airmen who have been supporting relief efforts operations. The mission personnel and equipment are available to send to Texas.” according to multiple sources. in Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Army National Guard photo by Spc. Lisa Crawford) requires units to maintain Editor’s Note: As of Sept. 21, over 30 Connecticut As of Sept. 13, the Total Army response for Hurricane mobilization readiness and National Guardsmen supported hurricane relief efforts Irma totaled more than 15,000 Soldiers and U.S. Army pro-vide emergency relief – including 17 Air National Guardsmen - in Florida, Corps of Engineers civilians in the U.S. Virgin Islands, support during natural Texas, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico and the continental , according A maintainer to the United States Army. assigned to the 103rd “Connecticut stands ready to assist our friends and Airlift Wing washes neighbors in the Sunshine State in the days, weeks and the windshield of months to come,” Governor Dannel P. Malloy said in a a C-130 Hercules recent press release. September 9, on the flight line of Bradley Air National Guard (right) A CH-47 Chinook helicopter and crew of Base, East Granby, Guardsmen from Company B, 2-104th General Support Conn. The Airman Aviation Battalion, conduct a survey mission in northern were preparing the Florida, Sept. 13. While performing reconnaissance, the aircraft for a flight to air crew indicated possible increased water levels, but deemed areas clear of any civilians in distress. The CH- Puerto Rico to deliver 47 crew included eight of 14 Connecticut National Guard meals ready-to-eat to Soldiers currently operating out of the Florida National victims of Hurricane Guard’s AASF No. 1 in Jacksonville, Florida, in support Maintainers assigned to the 103rd Airlift Wing wash the windshield of a C-130 Irma. (Photo by of Hurricane Irma relief operations. The CTNG has more Hercules, September 9, on the flight line of Bradley Air National Guard Base, East Airman 1st Class than 30 Soldiers and Airmen who have been supporting Granby, Conn. The Airmen were preparing the aircraft for a flight to Puerto Rico to Sadie Hewes, 103rd relief efforts in Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. deliver meals ready-to-eat to victims of Hurricane Irma. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Airlift Wing Public Virgin Islands. (Army National Guard photo by Spc. Lisa Sadie Hewes, 103rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs Squadron) Affairs Squadron) Crawford) PAGE 16 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 17 New Equal Opportunity Guidelines Enlisted Update First and foremost, Gen. Curtis E. LeMay, the founder of Strategic Air Wilson and Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General 1st Lt. Ryan Serfes available at the company level and can help facilitate SEEM will be able to guide a complainant through that let’s please keep our Command (now known as Air Force Global Strike David L. Goldfein established the Air Force priorities State Equal Employment Manager interaction with the chain of command prior to initiating process. fellow Guardsmen Command). Gen. LeMay was an exceptional leader who as “Restore readiness… to win any fight, any time. In September 2016, the National Guard Regulations a complaint. Title 32 Technician and Title 5 Civilian EEO in our hearts and was responsible for quotes like, “That was the era when Cost-effectively modernize… to increase the lethality governing the Equal Opportunity complaint process If a Service Member believes that they are being Complaints minds operating not we might have destroyed Russia completely and not even of the force. Drive innovation… to secure our future. was rescinded and on April 25, 2017, a new regulation subjected to discrimination including sexual harassment, This category of complaints is governed by civil only overseas but skinned our elbows doing it,” or “If you kill enough of Develop exceptional leaders… to lead the world’s most governing the Equal Opportunity Complaint Process was and they would like to make a complaint, they must laws and regulations requiring different procedures those also executing them they stop fighting,” and lastly, “that’s the reason powerful teams. Strengthen our alliances… because released (CNGBM 9600.01). report their complaint to one of the following individuals: and reporting timelines. If a technician or civilian the mission here some schools of thinking don’t rule out a destruction of we are stronger together.” Many of the reporting procedures and timelines have their Equal Opportunity Advisor, the Military Equal employee in the CTNG are subject to discrimination, a within the homeland the Chinese military potential before the situation grows All five of the Air Force priorities directly impact changed. Below are highlights from the regulation Employment Officer, or the State Equal Employment complaint must be initiated within 45 calendar days of saving lives in the worse than it is today. It’s bad enough now.” our Connecticut National Guard. and contact information should any employee of the Manager. Deadlines for filing a complaint are different the discriminatory event. Upon receipt of the complaint storm-ravaged These quotes were made during the height of the cold While both the Army and Air Connecticut National Connecticut National Guard have questions about EO depending on the complainant’s status at the time the ,the EO professional will attempt to resolve the dispute areas impacted by war. It is hard to believe all these years later some of Guard continue their readiness efforts they have the or if they would like to initiate an EO complaint. alleged discrimination occurred. through a counseling process and through contact Hurricane Harvey. these same territories still dominate the topics of our ability to work together as highlighted in the August First and foremost, the primary goals of the EO program M-Day, AGR, and Title 10 EO Complaints with the Responsible Managing Official to resolve the Missions like this daily conversations. It makes sense the Air University 2017 edition of the Connecticut Guardian article, are to prevent discrimination in the workplace and to A timely complaint must be filed no later than 180 complaint. An appeal process is also available for EEO are a key reminder has named their doctrine website the Curtis E. Lemay “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” This article resolve EO disputes at the lowest level possible. When calendar days from the time of the discriminatory complaints. If a service member is unsure what their Command Chief Master Sgt. to all of us why the Center for Doctrine Development and Education. exemplified how both Army and Air worked together possible, it is incumbent upon anyone who feels they event. The service member may remain anonymous status was at the time the discrimination occurred, please John M. Gasiorek National Guard must For the purposes of a further explanation I would to move Army personnel and equipment to the Joint are being discriminated against to inform the offender during the initial, informal stage of the complaint. contact the SEEM for further guidance. remain, “Always ask you to take some time and access from a military Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana for that their behavior is unwelcome. If the discriminatory Regardless of anonymity, an inquiry officer will be In summary, it is important to report any claim of Ready, Always There.” computer http://www.airuniversity.af.mil/LeMay/ annual training. behavior continues or is egregious, the Service Member appointed to investigate and will report their findings discrimination as soon as possible. Use the chain of It is hard to believe that yet another summer has Display/Article/1099110/doctrine-websites/ which will When we talk about developing exceptional leaders, should inform their immediate supervisor or the to the commander. The commander will make a final command to resolve disputes as early as possible and come and gone with the holiday season quickly bring you to the Air University Curtis E. Lemay Center we have the capability to participate not only in senior offender’s next-higher-level commander immediately. determination as to any corrective action to be taken at the lowest level. For questions, concerns, or to file approaching. Time flies when you are a Connecticut for Doctrine Development. All Department of Defense enlisted joint professional military education but, Equal Opportunity Leaders are a great resource to use as a result. If the complainant is not satisfied with the a complaint please contact your assigned EOA or the National Guardsman! After the Labor Day weekend, Doctrine, Multi-Service Doctrine and Multinational also in in-residence sister-unit professional military for initially addressing discrimination claims. EOLs are decision, an appeal process is available. An EOA or the SEEM. many of our Connecticut Guardsmen will soon Doctrine will be available for review. If you select education and first sergeant academies. Last year there return from overseas and we will need to ensure we the Air Force Doctrine, and select under Doctrine were one hundred and forty-four joint professional Equal Opportunity Advisors by MACOM take full advantage, recognizing their outstanding Annexes your will find in the drop down box topics like military education opportunities offered by the Air accomplishments as we prepare packages for the Force Development, Operations and Planning, Force Force however only 80 of them were filled. JFHQ & Sep Units (acting): Lt. Col. Valery Seery 860-613-7610 SEEM: 1st Lt. Ryan Serfes 860-613-7610 annual awards program. Protection, Counterland Operation, Medical Ops, and Through the two previously mentioned Air Force 143d RSG: Sgt. 1st Class Terry Mahon 860-613-7549 MEO Army: Lt. Col. Val Seery 860-613-7610 With the holiday season approaching we need to Public Affairs to name a few. Without digging too far into priority examples we will further enhance strength in 169th RTI: Cheif Warrant Officer 3 Brett Wilson 860-613-7622 EEO Air: Maj. David Ferrer 860-292-2382 also heighten our Battle Buddy and Wingman skills the weeds, I will mention Force Protection and Command our alliances and we will truly be stronger together. I to ensure we keep our fellow Guardsman safe through Relationships in a Joint Environment as an example. encourage all of our Army and Air Noncommissioned 85th TC: Sgt. 1st Class Jason Bloom 860-739-1679 the New Year and beyond. Within all military operations and military services, Officers and Senior Noncommissioned Officers to be 1109th TASMG: Master Sgt. Charles Joseph III 860-691-6043 As you may remember from my last article, protecting the force is an all-embracing mission innovative and seek out joint training opportunities. I mentioned I would be attending a four-week responsibility which we can all relate to. Within this Start educating your subordinates now on this 103d AW: Master Sgt. Michael Grey 860-292-2382 professional military education program. As expected annex there is an explanation on service authority and concept as this will become the norm as we continue the course was full of great information and reminded on administrative control versus tactical control as to drive forward in accordance with Joint Operating me you can still teach an old dog new tricks. well as other important methods of operation. When Environment 2035, The Joint Force in a Contested During the strategic course of study we talked about commanders and senior enlisted leaders plan their force and Disordered World. JOE 2035, outlines how future CKRIT otherwise known as China, Korea, Russia, Iran protection strategy, having a basic understanding of the Joint Forces will approach war and conflicts into the and Terrorism. When talking about CKRIT, we often governing doctrine will aid in the successful execution year 2035. Another interesting read and concept. referred to and applied military doctrine. of the mission. Our senior leadership and my family are extremely Some of you Air Force historians may remember In late July, Secretary of the Air Force, Dr. Heather grateful for all that you do! Be safe! PAGE 18 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 19 Connecticut Military Department OCS Class 62 Graduates 38th Annual Officer’s Dining In Hosted by the 169 Regiment, Regional Training Institute Connecticut Army National Guard All current and former Army and Air National Guard Officers, Command Sgts. Maj., Chief Master Sgts. & Militia Officers, Please join us for an evening of camaraderie as we honor the 38th Annual Officer’s Dining In, Thursday, November 2, 2017 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. The Aqua Turf Club, Southington, Connecticut Uniform: Army Dress Blues, Air Force Mess Dress, Retirees - uniform or a business attire

Highlights Maj. Alyssa Kelleher, Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 169 RTI (OCS), administers the Oath of Office to nine members of Officer Candidate Class 62 at the Regional Training Institute, Camp Niantic, Connecticut, August 19. Traditional Punch Bowl Ceremony The candidates became 2nd Lieutenants after completing the 18-month OCS program hosted by the 1-169th RTI Keynote Speaker to be Determined (OCS), CTARNG. (Photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Mottolo, 1-169 Regt. (RTI)) Cost: $60 per person Meal Options: Prime Rib, Chicken Florentine, Baked Scrod, Vegetarian Lasagna Please detach and mail in the below portion by October 22, 2017 to 169 Regiment RTI c/o, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Mottolo, 38 Smith Street Niantic, CT 06357 For more informaiton, email [email protected] or call 860-691-5905 I WILL attend the CTNG Officer’s Dining In on November 2, 2017. My check in the amount of $60.00 is attached and made out to 169th Regiment Unit Fund Rank/Name:______

Organization/Unit:______TAKE THE CHALLENGE TODAY, CONTACT CW2 Lisa Chipman Mailing Address:______WARRANT OFFICER STRENGTH MANAGER 2nd Lt. Michael Dowd is presented the Distinguished Honor Graduate Award by Lt. Col. Paul Thompson, Deputy Commander, 169th Regt. (RTI), left, and keynote speaker, Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Ronald Welch, during the Officer Email Address:______(203) 410-0828 Candidate Class 62 Graduation Ceremony at the Regional Training Institute, Camp Niantic, Connecticut, August [email protected] 19. Dowd was one of 10 graduates of the CTARNG OCS program and he will be assigned to Headquarters and Meal Choice (Circle One): Prime Rib Chicken Fish Vegetarian Headquarters Company, 1-102nd Infantry Battalion, CTARNG. (Photo by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Mottolo, 1-169 Regt. (RTI)) PAGE 20 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 21 R3SP - Resilience, Risk Reduction & Suicide Prevention R3SP - Resilience, Risk Reduction & Suicide Prevention Suicide Prevention Courses FY18

Ms. Meagan MacGregor Life Lines Suicide Prevention Manager CTARNG The Suicide Prevention Emergency - 911 Program is looking forward to an active and productive year ahead. CTNG Behavioral Health Help Line - In order to best address the 1-855-800-0120 needs of the Soldiers of the Connecticut Army National Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline - Guard, a new Ask Care Seek Help Immediately Escort- Suicide Intervention If you are thinking of hurting yourself, 1-800-984-8523 (ACE-SI) Brief has been developed to provide up-to- looking for ways to kill yourself, or www.armyfamiliesonline.org - date information and statistics, becoming self-destructive, as well as provide more 1-800-833-6622 opportunity for interactive don’t continue to face it alone. conversation and less boredom Contact the Military Crisis Line www.militaryonesource.com - through PowerPoint. Training dates have been • Dial:1-800-273-8255 1-800-342-9647 solidified and the SPP is happy • Text: 838255 to be offering four ACE-SI National Suicide Hotline - courses and five Applied • Online chat: www.militarycrisisline.net Suicide Intervention Skills 1-800-SUICIDE Training (ASIST) courses in fiscal year 18. Check out Identify the Warning Signs www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org - Guard Knowledge Online for 1. Hopelessness, feeling like there is the Training Circulars and 1-800-273-TALK (8255) rank requirements for each no way out course. If you are interested in becoming a Trainer 2. Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, The SPP is proud to announce that 1st Lt. in either ACE-SI or ASIST please contact Alexander Long, SPP Trainer, has completed Meagan MacGregor, SPPM at 860-524-4962 or mood swings all the requirements to become a certified [email protected] to discuss 3. Feeling like there is no reason to ASIST instructor. We are happy to have upcoming training opportunities. Resilience Resources: him on board and look forward to his unique Editor’s Note: Each month a training live contributions to each ASIST course. schedule is ran on page 24 of the Guardian, 4. Rage or anger Outward Bound As the Suicide Prevention courses continue ACE-SI and ASIST courses will be listed there to gain popularity and momentum, SPP will in addition to GKO. Contact your chain of 5. Engaging in risky activities without www.outwardbound.org/veterans be looking to bring on additional trainers. command to sign up. thinking Service Member and Family 6. Increasing alcohol or drug abuse Substance Abuse Issues? Get Help Now 7. Withdrawing from family and Call 911 in the event of an emergency. Support Center friends National Helpline for Substance Abuse Prevention - 1-800-662-4357 1-800-858-2677 CTNG Substance Abuse Program Staff Connecticut Veterans Affairs Know Your Resources Mr. Denis Tomczak Ms. Shaneka Ashman Newington: 860-666-6951 • https://www.guardyourhealth.com Alcohol and Drug Control Officer Prevention Coordinator • http://www.readyairman.org 860-729-9745 860-549-2838 [email protected] [email protected] West Haven: 203-932-5711 • https://phc.amedd.army.mil Sgt. Chris Wichrowski Military OneSource • http://www.airforcemedicine.af.mil Drug Testing Coordinator • http://www.preventsuicidect.org/ (860) 549-3298 www.militaryonesource.mil [email protected] • https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ PAGE 22 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 23 Off the Bookshelf Military History with Staff Sgt. Simon Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge Brig. Gen. (CT-Ret.) Robert Cody country I was ever in.” Historical Columnist Tallmadge played a significant role Lost Boys of The River Camp This summer, the cable television network, AMC in the apprehension of Major John Staff Sgt. Benjamin Simon concluded a four-season drama called “TURN: André, the British spy involved in JFHQ Public Affairs, CTARNG Washington’s Spies.” The true story of America’s the treason of . After earliest espionage effort had many ties to Connecticut. being captured by three militiamen The military histories of New London and Groton, The leader of the infamous, “Culper Ring,” was in September 1780, André, who had Connecticut and the region’s significance to the defense Continental Army Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge. Although been using a false name of John of the United States are well established. not a native of the state, he spent a great deal of his life Anderson, was turned over to the 2d Much of New London was burnt to the ground in the in Connecticut. Regiment Light Dragoons. It was Revolutionary War during Benedict Arnold’s effort to Tallmadge was born on Feb. 25, 1754, in Setauket, New then that incriminating documents draw General ’s forces North to York, just across the from Fairfield. were found in his boots, implicating protect the busy port in the Battle of Groton Heights. At the age of 15, he entered Yale College and it was General Arnold in the plans to turn still stands today in New London, and Fort here that he developed a close personal friendship with over West Point to the British. Griswold lies just across the Thames River. a classmate, Nathan Hale. Hale would also eventually Arnold was able to escape to the Farther North along the Thames, past the U.S. Coast become involved in a Revolutionary War espionage British garrison in . Guard Academy, but south of the Mohegan Sovereign effort. After completing his studies four years later, Andre was tried, convicted and Reservation and Fort Shantok, lays swaths of rocky Tallmadge became a teacher in Wethersfield and joined executed for spying. beachfronts and sandy properties in Uncasville (named the local militia company. After the war, Tallmadge returned after the 17th century Mohegan Sachem). This is where After the fighting had started Lexington and Concord in to civilian life with his wife Mary and hundreds of spectators gather each spring to watch the April 1775, Tallmadge joined the Continental Army as a their seven children in Connecticut. annual Yale-Harvard Regatta. Lieutenant. By December 1776, he had been appointed As the overseer for Washington’s In 1916, a private company leased a few acres of a captain in Colonel Elisha Sheldon’s prestigious 2nd most active intelligence network in property in Uncasville along the river and created a Regiment of Light Dragoons, and was promoted to the New York and Long Island, he never training camp for teenage boys interested in joining the rank of Major in April 1777. spoke directly about his activities, U.S. military. Tallmadge participated in the Battles of Brandywine nor did he reveal the identities of his The proprietors of the new Camp Dewey (named and Germantown. In 1778, he was appointed Director agents, even after the war. During after U.S. Admiral of the Navy, George Dewey) and of Military Intelligence by George Washington, tasked Washington’s first presidential the financiers of the U.S. Junior Naval Reserve did not with collecting information about the British in New term, Tallmadge was given the create their training camp in a vacuum. The United York City. Tallmadge had a personal stake in this. His position of postmaster for Litchfield, States’ involvement in World War I was looming, and older brother, William was captured at the Battle of Connecticut. He was elected to much of Europe had been at war since 1914. There was An August 12, 1916 “New London Day” article Long Island and died onboard a British prison ship in Congress in 1800 and remained in a high demand for able-bodied men in the United States detailed the Dewey cadets’ visit to the nearby all girls New York Harbor. the House of Representatives until Continental Army Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge military, and for many boys who were still too young Camp Sebowisha in Montville, Connecticut. According In addition to his role as Washington’s chief of 1817. After retiring from public Brig. Gen. Cody retired from the CTARNG in 2014 and to enlist, “training camps,” like Camp Dewey presented to the article, the campers enjoyed tennis, croquet, intelligence, he was constantly engaged in attacks and service he devoted himself to establishing a training them with a reasonable alternative. canoeing, slide shows, music and dancing together. currently teaches 7th grade Social Studies in Stamford, reprisal raids in Westchester County’s “Neutral Ground.” school for Native American and Asian missionaries. Connecticut. Email him at [email protected]. In “Lost Boys of The River Camp,” author and former The United States entered World War 1, April 6, 1917 What Tallmadge called, “the most rascally part of the Benjamin Tallmadge died at the age of 81 in 1835. Quaker Hill, Connecticut resident, Jeffrey S. Turner, and many of Dewey’s cadets, enlisted in the military. resuscitates life into Camp Dewey, and the young men The annual Yale-Harvard Regatta was canceled that year. who trained there in the short years prior World War I. Camp Dewey stayed open to campers until October 1918, His fictional account of the boys’ camp adventures shortly after the property was sold to the Eastern CT carries a romanticism and spirit that is suggestive of Power Company. Fortunately, a wonderful story about early twentieth century, “Boys Life,” magazine covers, the camp has been preserved in Turner’s novel. and mid-century Norman Rockwell portraits. Based on Today, large power line networks span over the Turner’s narrative, it’s fair to state that Camp Dewey property that once hosted hundreds of young men did not have to sell itself to the public. The allure of preparing for future military endeavors. Ledyard, serving in the military was exceptionally present in the Connecticut is directly across the Thames River from region’s young men, and many had long since grown the old campground. The town’s namesake is, of course, out of the Boy Scouts. Colonel William Ledyard, who was killed with his own Camp Dewey cadets learned basic military skillsets that sword after surrendering to British Forces during the would serve them in their young adult lives: marching, battle of Groton Heights. order and discipline, battle formations, marksmanship, camping and survival skills. The boys also discovered Would you like Staff Sgt. Simon to that the allure of their uniforms and the presence of review a book? Send in your suggestions! their inevitable future endeavors had an effect on the Email [email protected] community, including members of the opposite gender. PAGE 24 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 25

Training Circulars for TY18 Are Now Available CTNG Safety: October 8-14 is National Fire Prevention Week Contact Your Chain of Command for More Information Seconds Can Mean the Difference Between Life and Death National Safety Council drill timer, in the palm of your hand The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is To participate in Home Fire Drill Day, practice as a “Every Second Counts; Plan 2 Ways Out!” family, take the pledge and encourage others to take the Working smoke alarms, which cut the chances of dying pledge. Also, be sure to spread the word on social media in a house fire in half, are a family’s first indication of a using #homefiredrillday. fire. Yet once that alarm sounds a fire can spread quickly, Leading Causes of Fire leaving only a minute or two to escape, according to the Over the past several decades, deaths from home National Fire Protection Association. That’s why it’s so structure fires in the United States have steadily gone important to have an escape plan and practice it using down – from 5,200 in 1980 to 2,646 in 2015, according different ways out of the house. The NFPA offers more to Injury Facts 2017®. educational resources on fire safety below. However, even one death from a preventable fire is too Call to Action for Families: Home Fire Drill Day many. While fire doesn’t discriminate by age, it is the A home fire is reported every 86 seconds. Despite this third leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 14. In threat, families rarely practice home fire drills, and nearly 2015, 232 children in this age group died from fire and half of parents report their children do not know what to smoke inhalation. do in the event of a fire. Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home Home Fire Drill Day, a safety observance developed structure fires and fire injuries, followed by heating by Nationwide in partnership with NSC and other equipment, according to the NFPA. Other causes include organizations, will be held at the end of Fire Prevention smoking, electrical problems, children playing with fire • If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop and roll Week, on Oct. 14. Families are encouraged to practice and candles. • When evacuating, if door handles are hot, pick an home fire drills and take advantage of tools and resources What You Can Do alternate route offered at HomeFireDrillDay.com, including: NSC provides the following tips to keep your home • Leave your house and call for help; do not go back • Step-by-step instructions for doing a home fire drill safe from fire: to help someone else • Games to make the experience memorable for • Install both types of smoke alarms (ionization and The U.S. Fire Administration offers these additional children photoelectric) and carbon monoxide alarms; change tips to keep children safe from fire and burns: • Worksheet to help you draw a floor plan of your home the batteries at least once a year in these devices • Keep children three feet away from anything hot, like • Video of a fire drill in action • Plan – and practice – an escape route and agree on a candles, space heaters and stove-tops • Family pledge to practice a home fire drill twice a year meeting place outside of your home; be prepared to • Keep smoking materials locked up in a high place; • Downloadable fire safety resources to share with assist young children, family members with special never leave cigarette lighters or matches where friends and family needs and pets children can reach them • Link to download the free Make Safe Happen mobile • Know two ways out of every room in the home • Never play with lighters or matches when you are app that puts home fire drill instructions, including a • Learn how to use your fire extinguisher with your children; they may try to imitate you CTARNG Safety CTARNG Exellence in Safety Awards Program Nomination Information The CTARNG has established Find the full form at https://states.gkoportal.ng.mil/states/CT/ARNG_Staff/ a State Safety Awards Program Safety/SitePages/Home.aspx, or email the following information to Capt. Highlighted Courses: to recognize Soldiers for their Matthew P. Soucy, [email protected] contributions in Safety. Leaders Bus Driver Training Course: The Operator’s Training Course is a “Train the Trainer” (T3) course, Please nominate for all applicable awards primarily targeted to personnel with the skills necessary to train individuals on the safe operation of a and supervisors wishing to GSA Bus. This course will provide training on Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS), CTARNG Unit Accident Prevention Safety Award Operations, Operational Policies and Safety. 16-20 October 2017. 16 Soldiers Max, See your unit training nominate a Soldier should fill NCO for current availability. out the form located at the CTARNG Maintenance Facility Safety Award Connecticut GKO State Safety CTARNG Certificate of Merit for Safety Award Engagement Skills Trainer II (EST II) New System Training Course: This training opportunity provides training for Soldiers to set-up, operate, reconfigure, troubleshoot and perform minor PMCS on the EST II. Page (link below) or email CTARNG Safety and Occupational Health Award The EST II will replace all existing EST 2000s in CT and current operators of the EST 2000 must complete nomination information to the State Safety Office. the EST II course in order to be a qualified operator on the new system. This initial system training is a The requirements and types of awards are laid out in Please include, Soldier’s name, unit name, unit address, nominator phone number 4 day course. Attendees must attend all 4 days of instruction to be considered certified on the EST II. and email address. Multiple dates for M-Day (ADOS available) and FTSP based on MSC allocations; See your unit training detain in the State Safety SOP, CTNG PAM 385-10, NCO for current availability. Appendix K and full nomination form can be located on Also provide significant contributions and list eligibility requirements met by the Connecticut GKO State Safety Page, see link below. Range Control Operator Course: Attending Soldiers will be trained and certified to properly run Solider up for award. the Stones Ranch Military Reservation (SRMR) and East Haven Rifle Range (EHRR) Range Control For questions on the State Safety Awards Program, Eligibility requirements are listed in the CTNG PAM 385-10, Appendix K, found Operations. These individuals must make themselves available to the Connecticut Training Center (CTC) call the CTNG State Safety Office at 860-292-4597 or on the Connecticut GKO Safety page.https://states.gkoportal.ng.mil/states/CT/ as operators in support of utilizing units. Upon certification and course completion, Soldiers will also be 860-292-4599. eligible to perform Range Control support in a paid, FTNGDOS Status (pending available funds). 13- ARNG_Staff/Safety/SitePages/Home.aspx 17NOV17; 12 Seat Max per class; See you unit training NCO for current availability. Connecticut GKO State Safety Page : https://states. gkoportal.ng.mil/states/CT/ARNG_Staff/Safety/ Maj. Michael Jakubson - G3-FTB, Training Specialist - [email protected] - Phone: 860-493-2774 Questions? Call the CTARNG Safety Office (860) 292-4597 SitePages/Home.aspx. PAGE 26 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE 27 Veterans Affairs – Individual Unemployability CONNECTICUT NATIONAL GUARD Coming Events Chief Warrant Officer 4 (Ret.) John Godburn is not considered substantial Retiree Affairs Columnist gainful employment for the & Holidays Individual Unemployability is a part of the VA’s VA PROMOTIONS disability compensation program that allows the VA • Besides the Eligibility to pay full benefits to Veterans who are found to be Requirements, there are also October “unemployable” even if they are rated less than 100 Evidence Requirements. October 9 percent disabled. These include: More than 3.4 million Veterans with medical conditions • Evidence of at least one ARMY Columbus Day or injuries that were incurred or worsened during active- service connected disability October 10 duty service are receiving disability compensation from AND To Private 2 To Chief Warrant *November Guardian Deadline* the VA. The amount of compensation they receive • That the service-connected Officer 3 depends on the severity of their disability (generally rated disability or disabilities are Zea, Diego Leary, Tyshawn T. Lu, Luis A. October 13 in a scale of 10 percent up to 100 percent). sufficient (without regard to Aquino, Jashua N. Kwakye, Russell Y. Gilman, James K. Picard, Jonathan R. Navy Birthday Trudeau, Nicholas C. Merced, Javier Jr. Turner, Shayquan J. However, the VA may supplement the regular disability other factors) to prevent the To 2nd Lieutenant October 26 compensation payments for Veterans whom it deems mental and/or physical tasks required to get or keep should receive reduced disability compensation because Calderon, Katherine E. Pozochacon, Samantha Gosselin, Maverick T. unable to engage in substantial work. To qualify substantially gainful employment AND they wouldn’t be working past age 62, so they shouldn’t Boone, Tyler C. Perrotti, Frank R. Gagnon, Justin S. Sirianno, Kyle E. National Day of the Deployed for these supplemental benefits, termed Individual • That one disability is rated at 60 percent or more OR be paid “unemployment” compensation. Valentin, Louis M. Butkus, Alexa A. Lopeztirado, Angel Barnabei, Christopher October 31 Unemployability (IU) payments, Veterans may not earn • If more than one disability exists, one disability is In my opinion, this is wrong. IU is not a form of Almeidaperez, Leandro Rodriguezfigueroa, Eli To Sergeant Arango, Fabiola Halloween more than the federal poverty guidelines and generally rated at 40 percent or more, with a combined rating unemployment insurance. Rather it is a total disability Andino, Mariano A. Kussainova, Diana Dowd, Michael D. must be rated between 60 to 90 percent disabled. A of 70 percent or more allowance. A Veterans disability does not simply end Ficeto, Alexis M. Alfarorosa, Christopher Silk, Luk B. Michaud, Justin J. Pierce, Aleksander Arpin, Jake D. November Veteran receiving the IU supplement, would receive The VA’s regulations require that IU benefits be or go away once they are old enough to retire and IU To 1st Lieutenant November 5 a monthly disability payment equal to the amount that based on a Veteran’s inability to maintain substantial should not end either. Some disabled Veterans might find Mercado, Sheila B. Caldwell, Timothy E. Jr. Bennett, Jack D. he or she would receive if they were rated 100 percent employment because of the severity of a service- it difficult or impossible to replace the income provided Boi, Tyler P. Damicol, Justin M. Rohrberg, Seth T. Siwanowicz, Robert J. Daylight Savings Ends Jimenezbaptiste, Luis disabled. connected disability. It is not based on age, voluntary by the IU supplement. Additionally, if they had been out To Staff Sergeant To Captain November 7 of the workforce for any significant amount of time, their Paier, Christopher J. Basic IU Eligibility Requirements are: withdrawal from work, or other factors. A Veteran To Private *December Guardian Deadline* • You must be a Veteran therefore may begin to receive IU payments, or continue Social Security benefits might be small, and they might Machin, Vanessa M. Monahan, Jennifer J. To Specialist • You must have at least one service connected disability to receive them, after the full retirement age for Social not have been able to work long enough to accumulate First Class Passantino, Patrick J. To Colonel November 10 Mcintosh, Lesha A. rated at least 60 percent OR Security. much in personal savings. To just abruptly end the Ruckey, Curtis J. II Schneider, William J. U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Loosemore, Troy C. • Two or more service connected disabilities with at At a recent Congressional hearing, VA Secretary Dr. IU payments, due to age, could result in devastating Martinez, Jacob W. Swider, David Tomcho, Timothy J. Yanker, Emily A. November 11 least one disability ratable at 40 percent or more with David Shulkin stated that President Trump’s budget consequences for many Veterans. Ouellette, Thomas M. Mack, Chris R. Nowak, Craig P. Quinones, Jose A. Veterans Day a combined rating of 70 percent or more request includes a proposal to terminate IU benefits for If you feel the same as I do, contact your Representatives Forbes, Jodi K. Villamana, Matthew J. • You must be unable to maintain substantially gainful disabled Veterans once they reach age 62 and become and Senators, and tell them to reject this proposal in its Dinglasan, Paolojoaqin D. Maderia, Joshua J. To Master To Brig. Gen. November 23 employment because of the service-connected eligible for Social Security, and that he supports this final budget. Tharp, Samuel M. Kosswig, Joseph M. Sergeant Thanksgiving Day disabilities. Marginal employment, such as odd jobs, proposal. He further said that this group of Veterans Myska, Daniel J. Gaines, Devante R. Cruzarroyo, Jose A. Hedenberg, Ralph F. December December 7 Veterans’ Services, Where to Find Them AIR Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Veterans of the United States Armed Forces may be Benefits & Services To Senior Airman December 12 eligible for a broad range of programs and services VA administers a variety of benefits and services Morin, Alexander Quiles, Nathaniel R. Davis, Christopher R. Hanukkah Begins provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. that provide financial and other forms of assistance to Ruffin, Briana E. Zygadlo, Patryk J. Ventura, Jennifer December 12 Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon veterans, their dependents, and survivors. Major benefits Jarvis, Chad T. Knochenhauer, Peter H. Bartow, Jeremy A. discharge from active military service under other include compensation, pension, survivors’ benefits, *January Guardian Deadline* Beaudoin, Christopher Hernandez, Torie D. Marler, Keefer B. than dishonorable conditions, and certain benefits rehabilitation and employment assistance, education December 13 Della Penna, David M. require service during wartime. If you are new to the assistance, home loan guaranties, and life insurance Laquerre, Gregory R. To Staff Sergeant National Guard’s Birthday VA, the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents coverage. To Technical Chebelyondalizu, Likuvi Siksay, Alexander C. and Survivors booklet will help you get started. Burial and Memorials Sergeant December 16 Doucette, Matthew A. Lyew, Andre B. http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_ Burial and memorial benefits are available for eligible National Wreaths Across America Day Miller, Matthew W. Bursiewicz, Brian R. Duquette, Sara B. book/ service members, Veterans and eligible family members. December 20 Health Care Service include interment, headstones and markers, and Hanukkah Ends VA’s health care offers a variety of services, Presidential memorial certificates. VA operates 128 Congratulations to All! information, and benefits. As the nation’s largest national cemeteries in the United States and Puerto Rico, December 24 integrated health care system, VA operates more than together with oversight and management of 33 soldiers’ Christmas Eve 1,400 sites of care, including hospitals, community lots, confederate cemeteries, and monument sites. December 25 clinics, community living centers, domiciliaries, Veterans Benefits Fact Sheets readjustment counseling centers, and various other http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/benefits/ Christmas Day facilities. factsheets/#BM1 December 31 New Year’s Eve Contact CT VA at (860) 616-3600, http://www.ct.gov/ctva Promotions as of September 1, 2017 PAGE 28 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE

VOL. 18 NO. 10 HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT OCTOBER 2017 Connecticut Military Kids Make Lifelong Friends, Memories this Summer Michelle McCarty kindergarten through fifth Lead Child & Youth Coordinator grade. During the week, the ervice ember amily upport enter

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED CTNG S M & F S C campers participate in science It was a busy summer for the Connecticut National programs, 4-H activities, military Guard Child and Youth Program, filled with programs cultural experiences along with and activities to keep military kids in Connecticut busy traditional camp activities and and learning during their summer vacations. games. The culminating event of the camp is a field trip to the Permit No. 603 The Connecticut National Guard ran two installations US POSTAGE Hartford, CT PRSRT STD of Operation Military Child Intelligence Training Connecticut Science Center in PAID at its facilities in Windsor Locks and Southington, Hartford, Connecticut. Connecticut. In addition to CTNG-run Operation Military Child Intelligence Training is camps, Connecticut Military a week-long day camp for military children from kids also can participate in several additional camps run by local community organizations offering summer programing to Military children. For the past seven years, Connecticut’s WTNH Channel Connecticut’s military kids enjoyed a field trip to the Connecticut Science 3 Kids Camp applies for a grant Center, Hartford, Connecticut as part of the Operation Military Child Intelligence from the National Military Training Summer Camp in July and August. The week-long day camp, hosted Family Association to offer by the Connecticut National Guard Child and Youth Program included science Operation Purple Camp here in programs, 4-H activities, military cultural experiences in addition to the science Andover, Connecticut. Operation center outing. (Photo courtesy of Michelle McCarty Lead Child & Youth Purple Camp is a week-long Coordinator, CTNG Service Member & Family Support Center) overnight camp that offers traditional camp activities field events, nutrition education and cook-outs. designed to foster camaraderie and community among We are so grateful to our community partners who children who may be dealing with the stress of a deployed graciously open their facilities to military kids. With parent or other military family challenges. their help, we had a packed summer and Connecticut’s Camp Sloane YMCA also offers camperships to Military kids were able to learn new things, make new military children to attend a two-week overnight friends and to create life-long memories. traditional summer camp session at their facility in While we are looking forward to next summer already, Lakeville, Connecticut. At Camp Sloane, campers stay we also know that we have an entire year of great state in canvas walled tents and engage in a wide range of programing for military children. Please check the activities based on the four core values of Connecticut Guardian and our facebook page, https:// caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. www.facebook.com/CTNGFamilies/ for flyers and Over the past five years, Operation Camp Farnam updates about future events and programing. in Durham, Connecticut offers a week-long day camp If you would like to be on the mailing list to find Military kids got hands on with aircraft at the Windsor program at no cost to military children. The program out more about camp programs and along with other Locks Readiness Center as part of the Operation Military Child Intelligence Training Summer Camp in emphasizes the group experience and encourages an programs throughout the year please email Michelle July and August. (Photo courtesy of Michelle McCarty appreciation for nature and the environment. Some of McCarty, Lead Child and Youth Program Coordinator Lead Child & Youth Coordinator, CTNG Service the activities include Red Cross swimming instruction, at [email protected]. Member & Family Support Center) team-building activities, nature studies, organized sports, PAGE S2 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN OCTOBER 2017 PAGE S3 With God, There is Always a Way Children, Schools and Family Initiatives, On a cool autumn the promises God placed in your heart. And He will see difficulties were stepping stones to move her forward Promising Practices, Tools and Resources afternoon, a father and his you though to victory. For, today, God is saying to you, onto something far better. teenage daughter took a “I am with you every step of your journey.” The woman didn’t complain for she knew that A fit and healthy fighting • Operation Kid Fit - This is a military-adapted, Fidelity Tools are short, checklist-style surveys hike in a quiet, conservative • Are you fearful or anxious? With God, there is always complaining could distort our perspective. And when force is the foundation evidence-based child obesity program. tailored to each program implemented under the countryside. While a way. God created you to have wings, to rise above we magnify adverse situations, we can make them of a strong national • 5210 Healthy Military Children campaign - This Healthy Base Initiative. The surveys assess fidelity walking on a deserted trail, your circumstances. Thus, put fears and concerns worse. For if we keep thinking about and talking about defense. In the United educational campaign is aimed at increasing activity on a semi-annual basis, as appropriate to the specific they enjoyed the beauty aside over uncertainties that may lie ahead. Rather, wrongdoings or the seemingly dead end; it will stifle States, poor nutrition, and consumption of fruits and vegetables, while program, based on the intervention’s HBI start date. and serenity of nature. focus on being grateful and thank God daily for all our ability to come up with creative solutions. Paralyzed obesity, lack of physical reducing sugar-sweetened beverages and recreational Resources After a while, hiking up a of your blessings. Remember, “The Lord is your light by anxiety, the stress of replaying that negativity in our fitness and tobacco use screen time. • The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and long, winding pathway, the and your salvation— whom will you fear? The Lord minds and holding on to bitterness, may zap our energy, pose a growing threat to Promising Practices Nutrition- The president’s council engages, Catherine the military’s four “Rs”: • Baby Hot Wheels - This free circuit-training program educates, and empowers all Americans to adopt Galasso-Vigorito father stopped. He looked is the strength of your life; of whom will I be afraid?” trigger un-due stress, and might cause us to make poor to the right and then to the (Psalm 27:1). choices. recruitment, retention, is also a social outlet for mothers and babies alike. healthy lifestyles, including regular physical left. Feeling a twinge of uneasiness, the father thought • Have you experienced unfair circumstances? With Even though the woman got knocked down, she got readiness and resilience. Sessions are rain or shine in the gym or on the track. activity and good nutrition. The council is made up that they might be lost. God, there is always a way. Do not give up on what back up again. She remained faithful. The woman prayed. To address these threats, the Department of Defense • Club 2150 - This after-school program setting targets of athletes, chefs, physicians, fitness professionals So he asked his daughter, “Do you have any idea you’re believing. There are infinite possibilities ahead And she went places with her friends to meet new people launched a Healthy Base Initiative to make healthy living childhood obesity through the concepts of 5210. and educators who are appointed by the president to where we are now?” The girl shrugged her shoulders for you. Pray and keep pursing your goals. Soon, and even asked her co-workers if they knew any single, the easy choice for Service Members and their Families. • Recess Before Lunch - The initiative improves child serve in an advisory capacity through the Secretary and replied, “No, father.” your stumbling blocks will turn into stepping stones. young men. Then, she joined an exercise class that helped The military supports programs that protect the well- nutrition and reduces waste by implementing a school of Health and Human Services. They walked further. The next ten minutes seemed like God will make the wrongs turn out right. And you her increase her confidence and even volunteered in her being of our military Families, including: schedule change for recess prior to lunch. • Human Performance Resource Center - The center’s an eternity. Then they stopped again. Not sure which will go further than you’ve imaged. Hence, “Trust community. The woman continued to enjoy her life, Initiatives • Youth sports program - This comprehensive, year- human performance optimization website is for U.S. way they should proceed, the father leaned against a in the Lord with all your heart; listen to His voice trusting that at the right time God would bring her to the • Alliance for a Healthier Generation - This program round youth sports program for kids ages 3-15 at 29 warfighters, their families and those who support tree for a moment and questioned his daughter, “Do you in everything you do, and He will keep your paths perfect person for with whom to share her life. targets the prevalence of childhood obesity and Palms, teaches participants skills in a variety of sports them. The goal is total force fitness: warfighters know where we’re going?” Once again, the girl uttered, straight.” (Proverbs 3:5,6). Quite coincidentally, at a work event, she did meet empowers kids to develop lifelong, healthy habits. and overall functional movement while instilling optimized to carry out their mission as safely and “No, father.” • Is there a dream you’ve had that has not yet come someone. Almost immediately, she knew that this man • Share our Strength - Shopping and cooking classes lessons of leadership and responsibility. effectively as possible. A bit puzzled, the father said, “I guess we’re lost to pass? With God, there is always a way. God’s was her soul-mate. Now, four years later, they are married empower families to purchase and prepare healthy Tools Find this article and direct links online at https:// then.” The girl followed her father’s gaze and shook resources are unlimited, and His supply is boundless. and expecting their first child. food on a budget. • Initiative Program Fidelity Tool template - Program www.militaryonesource.mil/. her head ‘no.’ So don’t pull back. Step up, for God has a great When she looks back, she says, “That break-up was The daughter’s gentle brown eyes seemed to gleam plan for you. You have countless gifts and strengths the best thing that ever happened to me.” And she thanks with a secret message. Next, she confidently declared, to be used for the good of others. Start looking God daily for knowing best, and moving her out of that “I’m not lost, father…. I am with you.” forward to what God has next for you. Your time of past relationship. Overcome with emotions, the father smiled. And soon success is coming. Before long, you’ll receive your You haven’t been brought this far for God to give up on they found their way back to the right trail and back breakthrough. Thus, “Commit your way to the Lord, you now. So don’t give up on yourself and the amazing home to safety. Trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” future that’s in store. In difficult times, it’s easy to say, “Father, where are (Psalm 37:5). God your Father is with you. Take that next step in you?” Maybe challenges are knocking at your door like Therefore, do not despair or be shaken by temporary faith…. and you’ll discover … with God, there is always a regular visitor. Possibly, you’re uncertain about the setbacks, challenges or delays. Similar to a Rubik’s Cube a way. future. And, at times, perhaps, you don’t know what you that has many different sides, God has countless ways to Catherine Galasso-Vigorito is a nationally-syndicated columnist should do next. But as this father was with his beloved help you, heal you, and restore you. It is just a matter of and author from Connecticut who donates a monthly inspirational daughter through the path of twists and turns, God, your time before God blesses you and causes your situation column to demonstrate her appreciation of U.S. Service Members father, is with you now. to work out much better and more rewarding than ever. and their families. The content is her own and does not express the official views of the Connecticut National Guard, the U.S. With God, you are never lost. You’re not alone. God’s I know a woman who, years ago, was dealing with a Government or the Department of Defense. You may write to presence is with you. So trust in His promises. Trust in painful breakup in a relationship. Although the change Ms. Galasso-Vigorito in care of the Connecticut Guardian, 360 His timing. And trust in God. You’ll never be overcome. was troubling, she made the decision to not sit around Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06106-3795 or e-mail her directly Therefore, be encouraged. Rest assured. God is there. and feel sorry for herself. The woman knew God was at [email protected]. Visit her website at www. So stay committed. Be determined. Don’t give up on with her. She had the attitude that believed that her past anewyouworldwide.com. © Catherine Galasso, 2017 CONNECTICUT NATIONAL GUARD HELPLINE If you or someone you know is struggling with the stressors of life, please contact us at 1-855-800-0120. In an effort to support the needs of our service members and their families, the Connecticut National Guard has a 24-hour HELPLINE. Your call will be answered by a behavioral health professional. You will receive information and referrals to community resources to support you and your family. HELPLINE - 1-855-800-0120 PAGE S4 OCTOBER 2017 CONNECTICUT GUARDIAN

Service Member & Family Support Center Staff Directory