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he Kansas Sentinel is an authorized, official publica- Departments Ttion of the Kansas Army National Guard (KSARNG). It is published to provide command and public informa- From the Commander...... 3 tion about the KSARNG and its Soldiers, at home and de- ployed. It is published by the 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD), out of Topeka, Kan. Guard News...... 8 The views expressed herein are those of the authors and subjects, and do not necessarily reflect the official ►Recent retirees honored views, opinions, or constitute an endorsement by the U.S. ROM ►105th MPAD change of Command Government, the Department of Defense or the Depart- F THE ment of the Army. This publication does not supersede ►JAG conference information presented in any other official Army or De- ►Retiree luncheon partment of Defense publication. OMMADER The Kansas Sentinel reserves edited rights to all ma- C We have just distributed the guidance on conducting a virtual terial. Published works may be reprinted, except where drill. I want you to understand that by offering this option to your Soldier Spotlight...... 10 copyrighted, provided credit is given to the Kansas Sen- commanders, approval is at the battalion and brigade command levels, tinel and the authors. Distribution of the Kansas Sentinel we are offering options to complete required training that is adaptable ►Combat medic turns journalist to your unit’s needs. As we have all seen over the last few years the is electronic. number and types of training offered online, including some training that must be completed annually, has increased. This is another way of The submission of articles, photos, artwork, and let- accomplishing that training to benefit both our units and our Soldiers. I Features ters is encouraged. Please address to: have asked commanders to ensure we check on the learning that is going on for this kind of training as it is easy to go through some of these Editor, Kansas Sentinel, courses and not pick up the key information that may be critical as you Chiefs host Military Appreciation Day...... 4 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, execute your mission for either our overseas missions or state disaster 2722 SW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66611. response missions. I will be looking for feedback from commanders to see how well this works for learning the material, making sure Hall of Fame inductions...... 6 Telephone: 785-274-1896, or by e-mail at: Soldiers can access the training, as well as administratively managing [email protected] attendance. I want to remind each of our leaders out there at all levels of Agriculture Development Team helps open new Assistant Adjutant General-Land Component: the importance of taking care of all of our Soldiers. We are rapidly Brig. Gen. Eric Peck approaching the promotion and retention boards so making sure that all of your Soldier’s records, including market for locals...... 12 photos, Army Physical Fitness Test information, awards and ratings are all updated and in our electronic files will be critical to making sure the boards can objectively accomplish their tasks. Each individual should also Publisher: be checking their own records to confirm the information that will be going before the boards. Make sure you Sergeants Major of the Army visits Guard troops in Capt. D. Matt Keane, 105th MPAD Commander understand the board schedules and how the board system works so you know yourself or can explain it to your Africa...... 14 Soldiers. Reading the current guidance is important as regulatory and policy changes do make a difference on Editors: board results. Capt. Michael Sullivan As we wrap up 2011 with preparations for the winter snow storms that have hit this month and anticipating Soldiers help train medical skills in Tanzania...... 15 Capt. Benjamin Gruver that we might see a few more in the early months of 2012, I started thinking about all of the great work each of you have done over the last year. We continue to receive notes, letters and emails on all of the support our Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke Soldiers and Airmen are providing to their communities, their families and their fellow Guardsmen. Thank you Sgt. 1st Class Bill McGinnis for all you continue to do for the Kansas Army National Guard. Sgt. Jessica Barnett On the Cover Graphic Design and Layout: Very Respectively, A joint Kansas and Missouri color guard present the colors at Arrowhead stadium Nov. 6 prior to kickoff Capt. Michael Sullivan as the Kansas City Chiefs organization hosted a Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke Eric Peck military appreciation day at Arrowhead. Sgt. Jessica Barnett Photo by Pfc. Brandon Jacobs Brig. Gen. Eric Peck Assistant Adjutant General-Land Component

2 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 3 Chiefs host Military Appreciation Day

By Pfc. Brandon Jacobs lined up inside the tunnel. After both teams left the field 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment the service members were given a hero’s welcome as they exited the tunnel, complete with fans leaning over The Kansas City Chiefs organization claims to have the railings to give high fives and handshakes. the most loyal fans in the National Football League. “It makes the Soldiers feel good, things like this While this claim might be open to debate, the loyalty of make the military more enjoyable,” said Spc. Siu-onn these fans to the U.S. military is not. Service members Chak, a member of the 778th Transportation Company, from all branches showed up for Military Appreciation and resident of Olathe, Kan. Day as the Chiefs hosted the Miami Dolphins at Arrow- After they lined up along the inside walls, each head Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 6, 2011. service member took hold of a piece of Old Glory and More than 50 motivated volunteers of the Kansas began to spread across the field as the national anthem and Missouri National Guard, as well as representatives was sung. of the Kansas City Military Entrance Processing Station “The community asked for something for Veterans provided the color guard and assistance in the pregame Day, and we answered the call. This is important because ceremonies. The service members assisted in unfolding the Guard is different and more involved in the com- a field sized American flag during the national anthem. munity,” said Master Sgt. Joseph A. Alainz, the noncom- Sgt. 1st Class Michael Catlin, the noncommissioned missioned officer in charge of the Kansas Recruiting and officer in charge of the medical section at the Kansas Retention Battalion. City Military Entrance Processing Station, was a mem- “We really are one of their own, the guy next door,” ber of the pregame color guard. said Alainz. “It means a lot for military pride,” he said. “This After the pregame ceremonies all the service mem- helps put a face with the National Guard.” bers moved into the stands to watch the game. As fans leaned over the railings vying for auto- The Chiefs lost the game 31-3, but service members graphs from their favorite players, the service members and fans alike enjoyed a beautiful day for football.

A joint color guard of Kansas and Missouri Soldiers march onto the field at Arrowhead Stadium to present the colors in Service members were greeted with high fives and handshakes as they came During the pregame ceremonies soldiers hold tight to the sides of the a pre-game military appreciation ceremony hosted by the on to the field for the pregame ceremonies. The pregame show was just a American flag. Service members from all over Kansas and Missouri came to Kansas City Chiefs organization. small part of the Kansas City Chief’s Military Appreciation Day. Photo by Pfc. participate in both the ceremonies and the Military Appreciation Day. Photo by Brandon Jacobs Pfc. Brandon Jacobs Photo by Pfc. Brandon Jacobs

4 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 5 Retired Command Sgt. Maj. George E. Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steven Kansas National Guardsmen Stevens D. Evans Retired Command Sgt. Maj. George E. Stevens’ ser- Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steven D. Evans vice to the Kansas Army National Guard spans more than devoted more than three decades of outstanding and inducted into the Hall of Fame 40 years and continues today as he serves as a scout for the dedicated service to his nation, the state of Kansas and Kansas Division of Emergency Management. He enlisted the Kansas Army National Guard. He built his military in the Kansas Army National Guard in 1965. He has served career around his love for music and the care and training in field units his entire career and in 1988 he was promoted of members of the 42nd and the 35th Division Bands of to the rank of sergeant major. the Kansas Army National Guard. He has served as command sergeant major for the 1st During this period, he worked as a band director for Battalion, 161 Field Artillery; the 35th Division Artillery; the Olathe, Kan., school district. He has conducted music and the 287th Sustainment Brigade. During a deployment groups performing in 14 states and six foreign nations, to Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2003, Stevens served as com- appearing before the president, vice-president, six gover- mand sergeant major for Joint Military Affairs as part of nors and three foreign heads of state. the 35th Infantry Division’s peacekeeping mission. Evans entered the military in the 40th Army Band of In 1991, he led in the organization of the 18th Kansas the Mississippi Army National Guard on April 25, 1963. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment, a unit of the Kansas Mili- After Basic Combat Training, he was assigned to the tia, a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving this Post Band, 60th United States Army Band, Fort Polk, La. important history of the Kansas military. He served as the Later in his military career he served in the 47th Army regiment’s command sergeant major since it was chartered. Band, Minnesota Army National Guard; the 1st Battalion, During the Kansas National Guard’s 150th anniversary 156th Brigade; and the 31st Infantry Division of the Loui- celebration, he appeared in a replica 18th Cavalry uniform siana Army National Guard before joining the Kansas at a community presentation of a framed Heritage Print Army National Guard’s 42nd Army Band. of the “Battle of Prairie Dog Creek” to the city library in In 1984, he became the conductor of the band, and Long Island, Kan. later, the bandmaster and commander of the 42nd. He was Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steven D. Evans expresses his passion for his musical military career by conducting the 35th Division Band during his induc- In his community, he has been a member of the Pratt commander of the 35th Division Band for 17 more years. tion into the Museum of the Kansas National Guard’s Hall of Fame. The ceremony was held in Topeka, Kan., on Nov. 6, 2011. Photo by Spc. Stephanie Hodges Fire Department for 40 years and serves as the assistant The band doubled in size in 1984, and by 1987 it chief. In addition to these responsibilities, he built the an- was at 100 percent authorized strength. The band was se- By Spc. Stephanie Hodges torian for the Kansas National Guard, it’s lustrated the distinction of being Hall of nouncers’ booth at the Pratt Sixth Street Ball Park, served lected for missions in Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment a decoration that only a small percentage Fame inductee. as fundraising co-chair for a new flag pole at the Pratt High Panama and Ecuador. of Kansas National Guardsmen have been “I am deeply honored to be inducted School football field, as well as installing it and a new flag. Evans continues to dedicate a tremendous amount Two former Kansas National Guards- presented with. into a very elite group of individuals.” He serves as the coordinator of the community’s Inde- of time to civic and community organizations. One of his men were inducted into the Museum of “This is a tremendous honor, and I Attendees at this year’s ceremony pendence Day celebration, organized at his own expense. favorite activities is to teach radio communications in the Kansas National Guard’s Hall of Fame can’t think of any other two individuals included past Hall of Fame inductees, Stevens is the vice-chairman and special projects coordina- amateur radio clubs. As a current resident of Florida, his Nov. 6, 2011. Every year, nominations are who are more deserving of it,” said Jacobs. honored guests, family members and tor of the B-29 museum and the All Veterans Memorial at experience with radio communications proved invaluable meticulously reviewed and voted upon to Evans, who during his career was National Guard members. Guests were the Pratt Industrial Airport. He has also been instrumental to the communities experiencing the devastation from select the most deserving and commend- chiefly responsible for rebuilding the 35th entertained with music by the 35th Divi- in partnering with the Museum of the Kansas National Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina. Evans serves his commu- able members from the Kansas National Infantry Division Band, was grateful for sion Band, pomp and circumstance by the Guard by securing and displaying aviation art. He holds nity in his retirement by supporting civic, church and Guard for this select honor. An induction the award, owing much of what he ac- Kansas Guard Ceremonial Platoon and membership in the American Legion, Patriot Guard, Vet- amateur radio operations for disasters. ceremony was held at the Ramada Inn in complished to the troops who worked with video highlights of the lives and accom- erans of Foreign Wars, Pratt Rifle and Pistol Association, Topeka, Kan., to pay tribute to the newest him and to his wife, Connie. Yet before plishments of each inductee. Enlisted Association of the Kansas National Guard and members, retired Chief Warrant Officer leaving the stage, Evans wished to make Tafanelli concluded with remarks on other community organizations. 4 Steven D. Evans and retired Command one final comment. the importance of nominating potential Retired Command Sgt. Maj. George E. Stevens. “I am not very much for speech mak- Hall of Fame inductees. Sgt. Maj. George E. “These two men have devoted their ing, I am going to conclude my portion “This is the one opportunity we have Stevens accepts the time and their lives to strengthening the of the remarks by stepping in front of the for history to be able to recognize the Hall of Fame lapel Kansas National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. band and letting them speak for me,” said outstanding service and dedication that is pin from his wife, (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general. Evans. a true part of our Kansas National Guard Karyl, at the Museum Their dedication and service has generated Accompanied by the 35th Division heritage.” of the Museum of a lasting impression on countless other Band, Evans conducted “Stars and Stripes Military members and civilians the Kansas National service members.” Forever” by John Phillip Sousa for the on may nominate a retired Kansas National Guard’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Inductees were welcomed into the looking crowd. Guardsmen. For further information about Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general, presents Retired Topeka, Kan., on Nov. Hall of Fame by being awarded a Minute- Retired Command Sgt. Maj. George Hall of Fame nomination please contact Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steven D. Evans, the Minuteman statue with 6, 2011. Photo by Spc. man statue, a certificate to recognize their E. Stevens expressed gratitude for the retired Lt. Col. Doug Jacobs at (785) 862- his wife, Connie, by his side during his induction into the Museum of induction into the Hall of Fame and a Hall commitment and support of his mentors, 1020 or visit The National Guard Associa- Stephanie Hodges the Kansas National Guard’s Hall of Fame in Topeka, Kan., on Nov. of Fame membership pin. According to military comrades and most importantly tion of Kansas website at www.ngaks.org 6, 2011. Photo by Spc. Stephanie Hodges retired Lt. Col. Doug Jacobs, the state his- his wife, Karyl. Stevens’ final words il-

6 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 7 Guard news

Recently retired service members recognized Retirees gather for JAG holds another successful legal annual update briefing By Pvt. Anna Laurin The Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. li. “I can honestly say that knowing each 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (KS) Lee Tafanelli, concluded the dinner and every one of the honorees here tonight conference at Washburn University By Sgt. Jessica Barnett thanking the retirees for their effort and that the Kansas National Guard is a much 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment The Kansas National Guard rec- leadership that they have put forth over better place because of their service and By Sgt. 1st Class Bill McGinnis as understanding Islamic law, as well 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment ognized its recent retired members and the years making the Kansas National sacrifice and will be forever grateful. To as the standard topics of election law, Kansas National Guard retirees their spouses for their service during the Guard a much better place. the families, let me say thank you to each immigration law, law of war and ethics. joined together for a retiree briefing at Adjutant General’s Joint Forces Headquar- “The future generations will continue and every one of you for all of the sacri- More than 50 past and pres- With the continued growth, Nickell Armory, Nov. 6, 2011, hosted by ters 2011 Retirement Recognition Dinner, to have the National Guard, that we are all fices that you’ve made over the years.” ent members of the Kansas National Maag’s goal is to grow large enough Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the adju- served at the Ramada Inn in Topeka, Kan., so very proud of, because of all the hard Guard’s Judge Advocate General’s to move the conference into larger tant general. Nov. 5, 2011. effort that you’ve put forth,” said Tafanel- Corps and civilians, who practice auditoriums. During the event, retirees were Friends, families and colleagues military law, gathered together at the “We’re trying to make this the briefed on the latest actions and initia- attended the dinner to show their appre- Washburn University School of Law in premier conference not only in the state tives of the Kansas National Guard. To ciation for the seven individuals honored Topeka Nov. 5-6, 2011, for the Kansas but for the military JAG community. I start the briefing, Tafanelli showed a who have collectively given more than National Guard 2011 Annual Judge don’t know of any other state that of- video encompassing the Kansas Guard 285 years of military service. Those being Advocate General’s Conference. fers this forum,” said. Maag. “In years from its beginning to today. honored were retired Brig. Gen. Deborah The conference provides 12 hours past, we’ve gotten a lot of participation The retirees also heard from Brig. Rose and husband retired Col. Joe Rose; of continuing legal education (CLE) from National Guard Bureau JAGs Gen. Eric Peck, assistant adjutant general retired Col. Kathryn Hulse and husband which every attorney in Kansas needs. ... we’re the only CLE, the only JAG – Army and commander of the Kansas William; retired Col. Michael Slusher and The conference is primarily focused on conference that really exists beyond Army National Guard, and Brig. Gen. wife Jeanne; retired Lt. Col. Craig Fox and the needs of judge advocates and civil- the individual conferences that each in- Keith Lang, assistant adjutant general – wife Lt. Col. Cheryl Whelan; retired Lt. ians who practice military law, but it is dividual service branch has. But those Air and commander of the Kansas Air Col. Noel Grubb and wife Kristin; retired open to all licensed attorneys. conferences don’t always get into legal National Guard, on events that have Lt. Col. Lester Gellhaus and wife Vicki; “In 12 hours we give an attorney issues, those are more just service- happened over the past year from each retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Indulis their entire year’s worth of required oriented issues. This is strictly law and component. Dambro and wife Jo Ellen. hours,” said Maj. Jared Maag, Staff it fulfills all of our legal requirements.” “As General Bunting used to say The retirees were awarded a plaque Judge Advocate, 190th Air Refuel- According to Maag, there are other about retiree checks, that it’s just really with all of the State’s unit crests and ing Wing and conference coordinator. forums available to JAG officers, such a retainer,” said Tafanelli. “What I am the date of their service. Their spouses “This would cost them a thousand as intranet groups, but there is no other going to ask each and every one of you to received a miniature glass pillar encasing Family, friends and co-workers attended the TAG’s Retiree Recognition Dinner, to show their appreciation dollars at any other CLE at a tenth of forum for them to get together like this do is be an ambassador and continue to the Minuteman, to recognize the sacrifices and support for the sacrifice and service of those who retired from their leadership positions in the Kansas the price.” in Kansas, and as far as he knows there be an ambassador for the Kansas Nation- they made in order to allow their Soldiers National Guard. Onlookers and those being recognized watched as a loved one or former colleague was Maag stated that the conference is nothing else on this level that is of- al Guard and, more importantly, tell the and Airmen to serve. honored with a speech and a plaque recognizing their service to the state. Photo by Pvt. Anna Laurin continues to grow every year. This is fered in the Midwest. National Guard story.” due to the JAGs and civilian attorneys Though the primary focus of the “You run into groups of people fre- who not only come back every year but conference is military law issues, civil- quently who don’t even realize what the Guidon passed at 105th MPAD in hear about it through word-of-mouth. ians come to see what the military does Kansas National Guard is, how long we change of command ceremony Maag said that it takes a real team and are interested in knowing more, have been around, what we have done, effort to put these conferences together Maag said, and this conference also who we are and what we do on a daily Lt. Col. Tom Barnett, Commander Joint Forces Head- and every year his staff tries to bring tries to draw interest from the law stu- basis. That is a constant education that quarters Table of Distribution and Allowances Battalion something new to the table, not only in dents there at the university who may we need to do and I can’t think of anyone receives the guidon from Maj. Michael Wallace as he re- what is being taught, but also in how it be interested in the military. better in our communities to be our am- linquishes his command to incoming commander Capt. is formatted. Another added bonus to the civil- bassadors and tell the Guard stories other Matt Keane (left) Dec. 3, 2011. Wallace commanded the New to the program was a subject ian attendance is how it also benefits than our retirees.” 105th MPAD for more than four years. Prior to com- matter expert discussion on current is- the military members. Maag said there manding the 105th MPAD, Wallace served in numerous “I have been away for a couple of sues that are affecting all of the branch- are also several civilian lawyers, who years, so it was nice to come in and get commands as a pubic affairs officer. es. The topics discussed ranged from as a result of attending the conference, Incoming commander, Keane takes commanding, a short briefing on where the Guard has wills and powers of attorney to deploy- want to get on a pro bono list to assist been over the past year, where it is pres- having prior command experience with Headquarters ment issues and other legal matters that military members. “They are commit- and Headquarters Company 2nd Battalion 25th Infantry ently and where they look to be in the come up such as veterans laws. ted to helping out there” and he credits Division Aviation company as well as serving multiple next couple of years,” said retired Lt. Col. During this year’s conference, the conference with helping build that deployments to the Iraqi theatre in support of Operation Craig Fox. “This gives us a feeling when specialists in their legal field of program. “We want as much civilian Iraqi Freedom. Photo by Capt. Benjamin Gruver we go out and talk to the community with expertise also spoke on issues such participation as we can get.” a better understanding of the current mis- sion and where it is going in the future.”

8 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 9 Soldier Spotlight

thought she would be serving her country “ wanted to make my dad proud.” as a journalist or a photographer. Upon being assigned to the 1-161 FA The pen struck the parchment As a high school junior, Lawrence public affairs office, Lawrence was placed leaving her signature – Michelle C. looked forward to becoming a combat in the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn Lawrence – above her father’s, she medic and serving her country. of Africa public affairs office as the bat- recalled. Although she was inspired by her talion’s public affairs liaison with the task IWeeks later on her 17th birthday, she father to become a Soldier, it was her force. Combat became the third generation of her family mother, a nurse, who led her to become a It was there that a U.S. Air Force staff to raise her right hand and recite the Oath combat medic. sergeant, skilled in public affairs, helped medic trades of Enlistment, according to Spc. Michelle “My mom is a nurse. I have always her tell the story of the Kansas Army Lawrence, 35th Military Police Company wanted to help people like she does,” National Guard Soldiers serving at Camp in bandages combat medic currently serving as a unit Lawrence said. Lemonnier and throughout the African public affairs representative for the 1st It was while attending advanced continent, she said. Battalion 161st Field Artillery, Kansas individual training at Fort Sam Houston, “I don’t think I would be where I am for camera Army National Guard. Texas, to become a combat medic, Pvt. now if he had not taken me under his wing “That was her goal [to join the Army Lawrence called back to her unit and re- like he did. He took time out of his day off By Staff Sgt. Stephen Linch National Guard]. That’s what she wanted ceived the unexpected news that she would and out of his work schedule to teach me Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa to do, and I wasn’t going to stop her,” be deploying. photography and how to write,” Lawrence said John Lawrence, Lawrence’s father, “I happened to call my unit … out of said. a resident of Dighton, Kan., and a U.S. nowhere they said ‘by the way, we are go- Ever since learning the tricks of the Army veteran. ing to Africa next year and you are going trade, Lawrence has been highlighting A little more than three years after with us,’” Lawrence said. what Soldiers deployed to Africa are joining the Kansas Army National Guard After the initial shock, Lawrence said doing, said Staff Sgt. Daryl Davis, 1-161 as a combat medic, Lawrence is covering she was excited to deploy to Africa. FA BN public affairs office, non-commis- the efforts of soldiers deployed to Africa “I was pretty much pumped,” Law- sioned officer in charge. thanks to a vacancy within the unit and rence said. “I had never been outside the “Within a short period of time she leadership who realized her potential. U.S.” began to churn out remarkable articles “Specialist Lawrence is one of a and photos,” Davis said. “She is always select few very influential public affairs willing and very capable of handling all representatives in my battalion achiev- “Lawrence does a assignments. She even volunteered for ing my communication plan,” said Lt. several others, and continues to impress.” Col. Thomas Burke, 1-161 FA battalion great job of telling the According to her father, it is no commander. “I knew coming into this surprise Lawrence has proved capable of mobilization that communication with our story from the Sol- serving her country outside of her skill set military supporters, the general public in dier’s perspective.” as a combat medic. the state of Kansas and employers was “That is the way Michelle is,” John vital to maintaining both public support Lawrence said. “She will go after any for the mission and employer support for Lt. Col. Thomas Burke, task with the best of her ability and not the soldiers.” 1st Battalion 161st Field Artillery complain.” Lawrence wrote stories highlighting commander Her beliefs probably have a lot to do what U.S. soldiers did in countries such as with her diligence and work ethic, he said. Tanzania, Rwanda, Mozambique, Burundi A year after the phone call, 20-year- “President John F. Kennedy made a and Kenya. old Spc. Lawrence arrived at Camp Lem- statement … ‘Ask not what your coun- “They tell the story of how relation- onnier, Djibouti, and once again received try can do for you. Ask what you can do ships with our counterparts are going be- unexpected news. for your country,’” John Lawrence said, yond the skills of building partner nation The mission she was assigned to had quoting U.S. President John F. Kennedy. capacity. Soldiers from both countries are one too many people. Although she was a “I believe in that whole heartedly. I think learning that both countries want peace, combat medic, she was being reassigned to Michelle does too.” stability and better futures for ourselves meet the needs of the battalion and would “I’m really proud of her - her mother and our children.” Burke said. “Specialist be working as a unit public affairs repre- is too,” he added. Lawrence tells how working together, we sentative. can strive to meet that goal.” “I didn’t know anything about public “Lawrence does a great job of telling affairs. I didn’t know how to write a story. Soldier Spotlight Nominations Spc. Michelle Lawrence, 35th Military Police Company combat medic currently serving as a unit public affairs representative for the 1st the story from the Soldier’s perspective,” I didn’t know how to take a good photo. I Do you know of a Kansas Soldier who should Battalion 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army National Guard, adjusts her camera settings at Camp Lemonnier, June 30, 2011. The 1-161 FA he added. didn’t even know how to use one of these have their story told? Tell us about them. BN is currently deployed to the Horn of Africa. Photo by Master Sgt. Dawn Price Although she receives praise for cameras,” Lawrence said. Telephone: 785-274-1896, or by e-mail at: her stories and photos, Lawrence never [email protected]

10 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 11 ust off the busy Afghan Highway 7, near the village of Gerdy Katz, a little market has emerged out of the dust and debris. Although Jsmall in stature, the shop is bursting with promise and hope for the New market sells hope villagers. The market is only the most recent, albeit essential, addition to a list of achievements the Kansas National Guard’s Agribusiness Devel- opment Teams and their Afghan counterparts have struggled to reach to desperate locals together. By Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani Two years ago the ADT cleared 10 Jaribs - roughly 50 acres - of Combined Joint Task Force 1 - Afghanistan land adjacent to Combat Outpost Xio Haq. That initiative resulted in a boom of farming and agriculture to in- clude greenhouses erected on-site, a well-supplied irrigation system and a citrus fruit tree and nut tree orchard. Roughly 120 farmers were trained in greenhouse technology, soil analysis, drip irrigation, pest management and animal husbandry. The culmination of all these projects was the ribbon-cutting cer- emony of the market, owned and operated by Wasir Kahn, a local Malik. Kahn and his team of laborers worked hard to see the fruits of their labor evolve to a business that would help bring hope to their district. “Because it’s close to the highway, the people of Kabul and Jalala- bad, they want to buy something from here, so we have market here,” Kahn said. The closeness to the highway, combined with a lack of anything else like it in the area may spell success for this long awaited market. “One of the keys to this marketplace is that there really is not much in the way of commercial, particularly commercial agriculture, products in this part of the district,” said Phil Blake, U.S. Department of Agricul- ture agricultural advisor. “This is really the perfect place in this western part of the district to have a facility where we can have a diversity of products.” At the moment the humble market can only boast having poultry selling services, tailoring services and fresh locally grown produce. It holds the potential for growth to other areas. “We were recently funded to set up a micro dairy here,” Blake said. “This will be the only place in this part of district where people can stop Members of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and the USDA inspect a greenhouse that the USDA and the Kansas and pick up fresh cheese and yogurt-milk products.” Agriculture Development Teams built to train Afghan farmers near Gerdy Katz, Dec. 3, 2011. Photo by Sgt. Staff Sgt. Luke All of the perishable products for the local villages were brought in by trucks in the past. Before the market, getting fresh products were not cost effective. Members of the 45th Infan- “We go to Jalalabad or Methar Lam city so we spend more money try Brigade Combat Team as a transportation cost,” said Kahn, referring to the way they used to and the USDA take a mo- conduct business. ment to speak with Wasir “For example, one kilogram of sugar you buy [at] 100 Afghani, Kahn, the proprietor of a but we spend 300 Afghani here for transportation cost, so one kilogram new marketplace just before was almost 400 [Afghani]. Now [that] you [can] buy the sugar here, the the ribbon cutting ceremony transportation cost will drop.” near Gerdy Katz, Dec. 3, The market has already been a success story just by being there. 2011. Photo by Sgt. Staff Sgt. Locals can enjoy the benefits of fresh products, but not have to dig as Luke Graziani deeply into their pockets. The Gerdy Katz villagers are expected to take this development on their own to grow and expand it as their village expands and grows. The future is in their hands. “The most important thing here is this district has now been de- clared transitioned,” Blake said. Wasir Kahn, an Afghan Malik and village elder, cuts the ceremonial “We are seeing more and more of a pull-back of advisors and U.S. ribbon during the opening of a new marketplace near Gerdy Katz, forces here, so in the coming months the Afghans are pretty much going Dec. 3, 2011. The market is only the most recent, albeit essential, to be on their own,” he said. “We see this as a perfect opportunity for addition to a list of achievements the Kansas National Guard’s Agri- them to stand up for themselves and stand up the business here that is business Development Teams and their Afghan counterparts have already proving to be successful.” struggled to reach together. Photo by Sgt. Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani

12 KANSAS SENTINEL December 2011 December 2011 KANSAS SENTINEL 13 y Sergeant Major of the Arm Tanzania, U.S. contribute medical skills Africa visits Soldier s in the Horn of A team of Soldiers from the 1st Battalion 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army National Guard recently returned from a 20-day Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond mission to Msata, Tanzania, F. Chandler speaks to soldiers during where they shared medi- a visit to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, cal best practices with the Dec. 16. Chandler spoke to soldiers Tanzania People’s Defense about maintaining professionalism and Force. upcoming changes for the Army. Photo The five-day Combat by Spc. Michelle Lawrence Lifesaver course covered basic life saving measures, By Spc. Michelle Lawrence tance of professional pride and how it’s faces is developing and improving the including evaluating a ca- Combined Joint Task Force 1 - Horn of Africa everyone’s responsibility to maintain fitness level of all its Soldiers, said sualty, airway management, high standards. He said he tries leading Chandler. He would like to move away bleeding control, chest, The 14th sergeant major of the by example, not direction. As the senior from a physical fitness test to a physical abdominal and head injuries. Army made his first trip to Camp Lem- enlisted member of the Army, Chandler readiness test. “The soldiers demon- onnier, Djibouti, visiting Soldiers with wants to be remembered for taking care A physical fitness test measures strated their skills well,” said Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of of the soldiers who come after him. The specific areas of a Soldier’s body, Staff Sgt. Brian McKinney, Africa on Dec. 16, 2011. future of the Army rests with them. while the physical readiness test would 1-161 FA medic. “They were His visit afforded him the opportu- measures muscle strength and endur- excited to return to their unit nity to discuss various important topics ance of the entire body. The battlefield to share their training.” with Soldiers stationed here. today requires soldiers to be dynamic, A follow-on two week “I want to talk to you about what’s focusing on challenges presented to the field medical training course Staff Sgt. Brian McKinney, 1st Battalion 161st Field Artillery Kansas Army National Guard medic, watches as the Tanzania going on in the Army and where it’s go- entire body and mind he said, and em- exchanged basic medical Peoples Defense Force medical noncommissioned officer in charge of a training mission conducts an after-action review ing in the future,” said Sergeant Major phasized appearance and fitness have tasks, such as intravenous at the end of an exercise in Msata, Tanzania, Nov. 4, 2011. McKinney and his team conducted a medical training exchange of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III. everything to do with professionalism. therapy and HIV/AIDS mission in Tanzania in support of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa mission. Photo by Spc. Bradley Youngers “We’ve been working an idea - relearn- His goal is to develop a fighting force awareness and protective ing what it means to be a professional.” capable of handling any possible situa- measures. The Tanzanian Chandler explained how in some tion that could arise at any time. medics were also tasked to give their fel- medics performed their skills on a mock leader to evacuate casualties to the medi- aspects, Soldiers are the same as any “This is the standard,” he said. low medics a first-aid class which pre- battlefield. cal evacuation site.” professional in the world and the devo- “And this is all about meeting a stan- pared them to teach classes to the remain- “In a simulated combat situation, According to Spc. Bradley Youngers, tion to professionalism engenders trust Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond F. Chandler dard that’s even more difficult.” der of their battalion. the medics treated multiple injuries such 1-161 FA medic, the exercises were chal- among Americans. discusses what his post duties entail with Spc. While meeting the Army standards The field medical training concluded as fractures, burns and airway issues,” lenging and a great learning experience for “The American people implicitly Charlie Beuttel, 1st Battalion 161st Field Artillery, is a cornerstone of professionalism, with a two-day field exercise where the McKinney. “They worked with the squad all involved. trust you because you wear this uni- as they look out from the tower overlooking an there are still other aspects to consider form to support the [U.S.] Constitution entry control point on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, when developing a Soldier. and defend the American people in our Dec. 16, 2011. Photo by Spc. Michelle Lawrence Soldiers’ development is about Is your unit’s story being told? nation’s wars,” he said. “They believe commitment, selfless service and con- you’re going to do what’s right.” “I try to do what is right and take fidence he said. Chandler added that he Are Guardsmen and women in your area doing things that would be of Maintaining the trust of the Ameri- care of soldiers and their families,” wants every Soldier to fulfill the obliga- can people is what defines a soldier as Chandler said. “You’ll decide my legacy, tion they signed up for – to realize they interest to others? a professional Chandler said. A Soldier not me.” personally come last and to gain the must have character. They do what they Chandler also noted part of being confidence to do their job right. The 105th MPAD wants to give you the exposure you deserve. If you are supposed to do all the time. It’s a professional was maintaining a profes- “I hope the younger generation of constant challenge for a soldier to be sional appearance and physical fitness. Soldiers took away the intent of his part have stories that you would like to see in the Kansas Sentinel, submit true to themselves and the uniform they He encouraged soldiers to break the mold on professionalism,” said Sgt. Steven wear he added. of physical fitness and push themselves Sprawka, 1st Battalion, 161st Field them to Kansas Sentinel in care of Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke at One thing Chandler passed on to new heights. Artillery. “We need to get back to the throughout the visit was the impor- An ongoing challenge the Army basics and be professional Soldiers.” [email protected] or [email protected]

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