UARDIAN Volume G8, Issue 8 September 2015 physicallY & Mentally Tough North Dakota Soldiers Vie for Top Honors During Best Warriror Competition PG. 10
AFTER THE STORM Airman Recalls Wing Involvement in Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts PG. 8 Inside This Issue Features
4 Military Service Commander in Chief North Dakota Governor In the second installment of a three- Jack Dalrymple part recruiting and retention series, The Adjutant General we explore some of the job skills, Maj. Gen. David A. Sprynczynatyk education benefits and military training applicable to civilian Chief of Public Affairs Capt. Amber Balken employment being offered to those with an interest in serving their Editor communities, state and nation. Sgt. Jennifer Joyce Contributors Chaplain (Lt. Col.) David Johnson Capt. Jeff Hoffer 6 Ten Years Chief Master Sgt. Ben Bush Later Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen Staff Sgt. Jared Klempel Chief Master Sgt. Ben Bush, North Staff Sgt. Sara Marchus Dakota State Command Chief, Staff Sgt. Brett Miller recalls the N.D. Air National Sgt. Ashley Johlfs Guard’s involvement in Hurricane Sgt. Erin Walters Katrina relief efforts in 2005, when a Spc. Deidra Steele 55-man team from the 119th Wing deployed to Mississipi for a six-week mission. The North Dakota Guardian is an authorized publication for members, families and retirees of the N.D. National Guard. • Contents of the North Dakota Guardian are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, or the Department of the Army or Air Force. • Editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of Reports from the Joint Force Headquarters, N.D. National Guard ( JFND) 13 Public Affairs Officer. the Field • Printed by United Printing, a private firm in no way connected to the U.S. Government under exclusive written contract with the JFND. Reproduction is by the offset method with a circulation After months of planning, preparing of approximately 4,900. and executing operational orders • The North Dakota Guardian is published by the JFND Public Information Office, Box 5511, Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511, and developing courses of action 701.333.2007 for military occupation in this fictional war, more than 300 Soldiers ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS participated in a 3-week War Fighter Contributions to the North Dakota Guardian are encouraged! exercise in August during their annual Send articles, photos and art to Editor, JFND PIO, Box 5511, training at the Maneuver Training Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511. Electronic submissions are preferred. Please e-mail stories in Word format to: Center (MTC) in Camp Dodge, Iowa. [email protected] Phone: 701-333-2195 Fax: 701-333-2017 Digital photos should be 300 dpi, if possible. Departments On the Cover Guardian Snapshots ...... Page 16 Spc. Stephen Johnson, of the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, conducts News Briefs ...... Page 18 combat maneuvers last month during the Best Warrior Competition held at the Camp Sound Off! ...... Page 19 Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake, North Dakota. Interact With Us! See even more N.D. National Guard highlights at our social media sites, and share your thoughts!
www.youtube.com/NDNationalGuard www.twitter.com/NDNationalGuard Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters
www.flickr.com/photos/NDGuard www.facebook.com/NDNationalGuard VIEW FROM THE TOP A MESSAGE FROM THE ADJUTANT GENERAL Preparedness is half the battle
Taking care of our Soldiers, Airmen families, enabling us to respond quickly to and their families is, and will remain, my our communities when disaster strikes. No. 1 priority. Keeping ourselves, and our Less than half of Americans have taken Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk Tcommunity safe involves not only our the time to plan what they will do in cases resiliency and our force protection, but our of emergency. Communication is key. Talk North Dakota Adjutant General disaster preparedness as well. to your family members, make a plan and September is disaster preparedness test your plan for feasibility. Verify that you month. The focus of this month is to have everything that you’ll need, assemble The North Dakota National Guard has educate and empower our communities or update emergency supplies, collect and a unique position within our community. across the state to prepare for and respond safeguard critical documents to include The National Guard and the office of the to all types of emergencies, from flooding, insurance papers. governor play an important role in disaster to fires, to potential terrorist attacks. Plan with neighbors to help each other response — all efforts are in support In North Dakota, we are all too familiar and share resources. Stay informed. If a of state and local officials. No other with how quickly a natural disaster can disaster is in the early stages, stay on top organization in the Department of Defense happen. Although unpreventable, we can of news alerts using as many sources as has the National Guard’s combination of take the steps to prepare ourselves and our possible. skills, expertise and location to support civil authorities quickly. We have an obligation to serve and protect our communities, and we have the assets to do so. We have the capability and equipment to evacuate and rescue people, preserve civil order, protect property and maintain or reestablish communications. Across the nation, the National Guard was called up more than 200 times last year, responding to fires, storms, floods and hurricanes. Units were credited with rescuing more than 3,000 people. At home, we have responded to snow storms, floods, fires, and we are one of the firsts to be called upon when disaster strikes. I am proud of what we have done in the past to support our state. We must continue to prepare so that we are ready when we are called upon by the governor. Preparedness is the shared responsibility of our entire state. Preparing ourselves and our families for disasters and emergencies ensures the strength of our communities and it strengthens our ability to safeguard our state and our nation.
Photo by Sgt. Ashley Johlfs, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment (Security & Support) As a firefighter works in the foreground, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from the North Dakota National Guard’s Company C, 2nd Battalion, 285th Aviation Regiment (Assault) uses a 600-gallon bucket April 14, 2015 to suppress a wildfire south of Bismarck, North Dakota, near the residential area of Briardale.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 3 Part 2 of 3
Opportunity Knocks: Wealth of Benefits, Incentives Offered Through National Guard Service
Pvt. Willie Ulness has been striking all the pursuing a career in music are going hand- Story by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters right chords while embarking on his post- in-hand. When he returns from military Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing high school, future path. In the distance, he training this fall, he later plans to attend sees a career as a singer and songwriter. In the University of Mary for a double major Author’s Note: North Dakota National fact, he just recently cut an album recording in music and business. Ulness will do that Guard recruiters continue to promote an in Nashville, Tennessee. But right now, by leaning on a treasure trove of earned array of benefits and incentives to entice new he’s focused on completing his advanced incentives gained from swearing an oath to enlistees into the organization. In this second individual training, or AIT, as a combat serve. From enlistment bonuses to education installment of a three-part recruiting and engineer to serve in the Minot-based 818th benefits and receiving job training applicable retention series, we explore some of the job Engineer Company (Sapper). While he’s to civilian employment, now still is a great skills, education benefits and military training heard the music world calling, Ulness also time to become a member of the North applicable to civilian employment being offered has held an admiration for those who serve Dakota National Guard. to those with an interest in serving their in the U.S. military, an organization he’s “Most applicants join the North Dakota communities, state and nation. longed to be a part of so he too can serve his Army National Guard for the 100 percent country. college tuition assistance or enlistment “Whenever I see someone who’s in bonuses, which can amount up to $20,000. uniform, it motivates me to do something Others join because they want to be part like (serve in the military). It’s inspiring to of something bigger than themselves or see what (others) have done and see where because of family tradition,” said Chief they’ve been,” he said. Warrant Officer 3 Jammy Ryckman, East And Ulness is finding out that enlisting Production Team officer-in-charge. “Either into the North Dakota National Guard and way, our new Soldiers are gaining valuable
4 · Guardian · september 2015 were introduced to some of the vocational opportunities provided by attending military training at the 164th Regiment’s Regional Training Institute at Camp Grafton Training Center. By and large, the N.D. Air National Guard has a lot to offer potential enlistees, as well, especially in terms of new positions requiring military training that later can be used in the civilian work force. Upon transitioning from its manned flying mission, the 119th Wing has been recruiting for its new intelligence mission, culling expertise from Airmen in a range of job specialties, or Air Force Specialty Codes. The 119th Intelligence Group has sought out professionals who specialize in functions involved in collecting, producing and distributing data that has strategic, tactical, or technical value from an intelligence viewpoint. Many of the intelligence technical schools are some of the longest and most challenging in the Air Force, with lengthy Above, Staff Sgt. Shelly Pherson, of the 119th Wing recruiting office, left, visits with a prospective recruit June 23 at the Fargo American Legion Post 2 and Fargo Jets baseball military appreciation night at Jack Williams Stadium in Fargo, North Dakota. follow-on courses. Left, Blake Murphy (right) is sworn in as a member of the North Dakota Army National Guard June 27, 2013, by his dad, Maj. Dan Murphy “For Intel specifically, we’re looking for a (photographed as a captain), at the Military Entrance Processing Station in Fargo. lot of smart individuals, who have a pretty specific skill set. The analytical personality leadership training and life experience to his questions about basic training and what is what we’re looking for there,” Filloon help them succeed on the civilian side. For it was like, and eventually, took him to a said. “Those positions do require really example, we offer more than 60 military recruiter,” Ulness said. high ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational occupational specialties (MOS) and 85 The N.D. Army and Air National Guard Aptitude Battery) scores, so we have to Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSC) that an have similar incentive programs in which redirect and precision recruit to those applicant can choose from. The leadership Soldiers and Airmen can acquire cash individuals we know will meet the aptitude and job experience an enlistee receives in the bonuses for referring prospective enlistees to requirements for those jobs. In addition to Guard with set them apart from their peers area recruiters. Funds now are available for that, they all require Top Secret security competing for similar civilian jobs.” the payout until June 2016 and are expected clearances, which is another challenge Ulness, for example, received a $7,500 to help fill the organization’s ranks. because not everyone can qualify for this sign-on bonus and now qualifies for 100 “We’ve always had a great referral source level of clearance. So, finding that perfect percent college tuition reimbursement from within the unit, but I think that applicant that comes into fulfill all those (offered by both the N.D. Air and Army we have seen a good number of referrals requirements can be hard.” National Guard) at North Dakota State (enlistees) come in from unit members N.D. Air National Guard recruiters, University System schools and a payment who are definitely taking advantage of The though, have been successful in finding of $600 each month through the G.I. Guardian Friend program,” said Master Airmen for tomorrow’s force. Filloon Bill with Kicker. Recruiters say North Sgt. Merri Jo “MJ” Filloon, 119th Wing said the 119th Wing has found a lot of Dakota Guardsmen — both Army and Recruiting Officer supervisor. “It’s a great success gaining new recruits by visiting Air — largely are drawn to their prospective incentive to bring people in (the Guard). local high school and college classrooms organizations because of rewarding And it gives (applicants) a good point of that are focused on IT-related career fields. education assistance. Making information contact to have somebody take them around Recruiters make sure to stress that the available about those benefits is crucial to the the unit and really show them what happens technical training new Airmen receive from recruiting mission. And one of the best ways here, and be introduced to a recruiter.” the Air Force can be parlayed into civilian to do that has been by word of mouth. In the July 2015 issue of the North employment later on. Having a Top Secret When UIness returned from his basic Dakota Guardian, Army Guard recruiters security clearance makes their resume training experience, he pocketed an extra invited teachers and school administrators attractive to employers, as well. $1,000 for getting one of his friends to enlist to Camp Grafton Training Center to see “The communications (intelligence field) into his same unit. how new enlistees in the Recruit Training is a big one right now that we’re pushing “He had been thinking about joining for Battalion spend their drill weekends. There, for. The possibility of being able to take the a while, and I told him it was an important the educators also learned more about the training they receive on the Guard side and decision. I just helped him by answering benefits of Guard service. Particularly, they make that useful to a civilian employer is
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 5 huge,” she said. “The Top Secret security clearance is also valuable to complete five general studies courses through the CCAF to obtain a civilian employers when they’re looking for people to bring into that two-year degree with a major in criminal justice. communications field, along with the training. There are certifications “What I tell people is ‘we’re going to get you halfway there,’” our Guardsmen receive during technical training that a civilian Peterson said. “It’s 100 percent free; doesn’t cost you a thing. And it’s would wind up paying out of pocket for if they were to attend that an associate’s degree. The only thing they would need to do, other same training on their own.” than the training that is required of them anyway, are those five However, Filloon said there are jobs open in a number of fields (college) classes.” across the 119th Wing that can provide substantial work experience Peterson said a good portion of new enlistees have come from for new Airmen. For example, the N.D. Air National Guard’s recruiting active-duty personnel from the Minot Air Force Base. fire department offers a list of training certifications through the Air National Guard service gives active-duty members the option of Department of Defense Fire Academy, all of which can be used staying in the military without making constant Permanent Change when applying for a civilian job in the fire service. That includes of Station, or PCS, moves. The reallocation of active-duty personnel Firefighter I and II-level courses, which are basic requirements to the 219th Security Forces Squadron has yielded a strong number for joining any fire department. Airmen also receive Emergency of new enlistees. But Peterson still focuses his recruiting efforts Medical Responder Training; a HAZMAT, or hazardous materials, in schools and businesses throughout the Minot area. Sometimes Awareness and Operations course and an Airport Rescue and reaching that future Guardsman can be a challenge. Firefighting course. “We’re in a unique situation. We’re a new unit up here, so you lose Tech. Sgt. Greg Peterson is a N.D. Air National Guard recruiter in some of that big awareness (about the National Guard) that Fargo Minot and focuses much of his day-to-day attention on building the or even the Army Guard has being around for so long,” he said. “Our ranks of the 219th Security Forces Squadron. The unit works side- unit is only eight years old. A big thing for us is trying to generate by-side with active-duty Airmen guarding nuclear missile facilities that public awareness (about the Air National Guard). Instead of us near Minot Air Force Base, a one-of-a-kind mission for members of having to go out and find people, it has people come out and find us.” the Air National Guard. And if it’s opportunity that a recent graduate or potential enlistee “We have opportunities here that most Air Guard units don’t. is looking for, they’re sure to find it in the N.D. National Guard. Because the 219th is the only unit that does this (field of work) in the Air National Guard. That’s a huge part (of recruiting) for us,” he For more information about enlistment and educational said. benefits in the N.D. Army National Guard, contact your Those who decide to become members of the 219th are well local area recruiter. Their contact information can be found at positioned to complete an associate’s program in law enforcement ndguard.com, under the “Recruiting and Retention” tab, or through the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF). After call 701-333-3159. For the N.D. Air National Guard, call its new Security Forces Airmen attend basic training, technical school recruiters at 1-800-972-8825. and Airmen Leadership School (to become an E-5), they can
From left to right 219th Security Forces Squadron members Airman 1st Class Angela Lage, Senior Airman Tyler Waltz and Airman 1st Class Alex Pauling inspect equipment at a Minot Air Force Base launch facility May 20 as the perform a sweep of the area for anything suspicious. They performed the real-world mission of missile field security while training for their war-time tasking mission during their annual trainin in Minot, North Dakota.
6 · Guardian · september 2015 Be a Lifeline
By Staff Sgt. Jared Klempel North Dakota Army National Guard Medical Detachment
Taking care of Soldiers and Airmen is the There are many myths about suicide that Since 2003, there have been 18 suicides top priority in the North Dakota National we, as a force, need to try to dispel: within the North Dakota National Guard. Guard. In order to ensure a resilient force, In 2014, 133 people died by suicide in Guardsmen must watch out for each other. Myth: Suicides occur with little or no North Dakota, 19 of whom served in the This month, which is Suicide Prevention warning. U.S. Armed Forces. Awareness Month, the N.D. National If you have any questions regarding Guard Resilience, Risk Reduction and Fact: While some do occur this suicide prevention training resources, please Suicide Prevention (R3SP) office reminds way, most individuals thinking about contact the North Dakota National Guard Guardsmen to remain vigilant in regards suicide will provide verbal or nonverbal Suicide Prevention Program Manager, Jared to the wellbeing of others. If you suspect indicators. Some may be subtle and Klempel, at 701-333-3080 or the R3SP someone might be suicidal, do not hesitate some more obvious. Manager, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Shelly to act. Sizer, at 701-333-3295. Suicide can be an uncomfortable topic to Myth: A suicidal person clearly wants If you are or know of some at risk of approach for many people, but it is also an to die. suicide, please use the resources below. uncomfortable feeling to experience for at- risk individuals. If you suspect that someone Fact: Most people are ambivalent might be suicidal, it’s alright to ask them about their intentions up to the point of about it. In fact, it’s encouraged. People in dying. The majority do not want to die. that situation often are overwhelmed by Instead, they want their pain to stop. negative thoughts and might be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. Myth: Talking about suicide may give Are you thinking of killing yourself? someone the idea to complete suicide. It’s a yes or no question. Imagine the relief the person at risk might feel, knowing that Fact: By talking about suicide, you someone cares enough about them to ask open a door for a person thinking about such a thing. When you ask a person if completing suicide to feel safe talking they are thinking of suicide, provide some about their feelings. background regarding your inquiry. Address any suicidal ideations or statements you Myth: Treatment does not cut the noticed, such as, “They would be better off risk of suicide. without me,” “I can’t do this anymore,” or “I feel like nothing will get better.” Fact: Effective mental health Once you ask the question, be prepared treatment of any underlying psychiatric to listen. Don’t judge the individual, don’t disorder is very important and can make any promises you can’t keep and reduce suicidal thoughts.If you or ensure the person that you will be there someone you know is in treatment through the process of getting help or and you are not seeing improvement, until you can get them to a safe place or to explore a new regimen of treatment. another person that will keep them safe.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 7 kATRINA: tEN yEARS lATER
Story by Chief Master Sgt. Ben Bush, North Dakota State Command Chief Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
With the passing of the ten-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we are hearing stories about how it affected Louisiana and its residents. Some may not know how it affected the North Dakota Air National Guard, and I thought it would be a good time to share that story. Katrina hit the Louisiana coast on Aug. 29, 2005, with 125 mph winds and devastated the city of New Orleans. As the scope of the disaster was becoming evident, authorities realized that they were going to need much more help responding to the needs of the people and the community. The National Guard Bureau (NGB) requested the assistance of the 119th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) of the North Dakota Air National Guard. On Friday, Sept. 2, 2005, at 9:10 a.m., the NGB made contact with Tech. Sgt. Veril Larson, who was the Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force, or PRIME BEEF, manager for the 119th CES in Fargo. NGB representatives told him that he should begin preparing and assembling the entire 55-man PRIME BEEF team. Shortly after noon that day, NGB called again and basically said, “Do it.” So, on Friday afternoon, before the long Labor Day weekend, the recall process began, Tech. Sgt Jody Saatoff, of the 119th Civil Engineer Squadron, works on power cables Sep. 12, 2005, to supply power to personnel tents erected in support of the Hurricane Katrina relief effort at the Gulfport Combat Readiness Training Site in Gulfport, Mississippi.
8 · Guardian · september 2015 the team reported to the 119th Wing and was in place by 7:30 personnel. The plane departed at 2:30 p.m. that day. a.m. Saturday morning to start the mobilization process. They Later in the week, a 15-passenger van carrying Col. knew where they were going, but had no idea how long they (Chaplain) John Flowers, his assistant, one photographer, would be there. two more engineers and supplies left to drive to Gulfport, That Sunday, the team started loading equipment. First, two Mississippi. flatbed semi-trailers were filled. After the semis were full, a While the civil engineers were most involved in the mission, C-130 transport plane was loaded. While this was going on, a this enormous task could not have been accomplished without C-5 Galaxy was brought in. The aircraft was then loaded with help from around the base and even beyond. The Base Supply, abound 115,000 pounds of equipment, the engineering team Aerospace Ground Equipment, Wing Plans and Contracting and four other volunteers from shops on base. That plane left sections were big contributors, as well as Airmen from the Fargo at 3:00 p.m. that day. Grand Forks Areo-Port. Not long after the C-5 was airborne, Larson was notified These Happy Hooligans dropped their holiday plans at that a second C-5 was on its way and would be in Fargo in a moment’s notice and left their jobs and families — not two hours. That afternoon and into the evening, the remaining knowing for how long — to help a community and people in engineers were busy prepping more equipment to deploy. On desperate need. And that is the very essence of what makes Monday morning, the second C-5 was loaded with about the National Guard one of the greatest organizations that this 110,000 pounds of equipment and nine Armed Services country has to offer!
An aerial photo, dated Sep. 15, 2005, shows storm damage along the beach in Biloxi, Mississippi, from Hurricane Katrina, which hit the Louisiana coast Aug. 29, 2005. In September of that year, 55 members of the North Dakota Air National Guard deployed for a six-week mission to assist with the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.
North Dakota Airmen return to Fargo, North Dakota, Oct. 17, Senior Airman Nikolas Guttormson, of the 119th Fighter Wing, removes sheetrock from a Hurricane Katrina flood-damaged home 2005, after a six-week delployment to Gulfport, Mississippi, in Sep.14, 2005, in D’Iberville, Mississippi. support of the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 9 North Dakota Soldiers Vie for Top Honors During Best Warrior Competition
Story by Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen, Joint Force Headquarters Photos by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters
The North Dakota Army National Guard’s 2015 Best Warrior tough competition, you all deserve to be recognized as leaders Competition came to a close Aug. 23 after 22 Guardsmen from within our organization, and I thank you for your participation across the state tested their Soldiering skills during three days of and warrior spirit. Be proud of what you have accomplished. To military tasks and challenges at Camp Grafton Training Center, the winners, we wish you the best of luck in further competition near Devils Lake, North Dakota. and know you will do well.” Staff Sgt. Michael Tavis, of Mandan, North Dakota, a member Soldiers representing their units must first win in their of the Grand Forks-based 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense respective major commands in order to vie for the “Best Warrior” Artillery Regiment, was the winner of the state-level Best Warrior title during the state-level competition. According to State Competition in the noncommissioned officer category. In the Command Sgt. Maj. Brad Heim, the event this year was designed enlisted-level competition, Sgt. Colin Dunn, of Hettinger, North to determine winners based on the “total-Soldier” concept. The Dakota, a member of the Dickinson-based 816th Engineer victors had to demonstrate a mastery of multiple Soldier skills — Company (Horizontal), took top honors. tasks designed to challenge both physically and mentally — to “You all belong to an elite group from within the North outdo their competitors. Dakota Army National Guard’s ranks, and you are all winners,” On Friday, Aug. 21, the Guardsmen arrived and immediately said Col. Robert Fode, the North Dakota National Guard’s immersed themselves in the competition by participating in the Army Component commander, who addressed the Best Warrior Army Physical Fitness Test. The following day, the competitors competitors during an awards ceremony. “By participating in this spent their morning answering a barrage of questions on current
Spc. Stephen Johnson, of the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, assembles an M 16 assult Pvt. 1st Class Calvin Miller, of the 818th Engineer Company, is evaluated on Modern Army rifle while blindfolded last month during the N.D. National Guard Best Warrior Competition. Combatives techniques during the “Warrior Stakes” portion of the Best Warrior Competition.
10 · Guardian · september 2015 events and military-related topics in front of a board of sergeants major and also were evaluated on their wear of the military dress uniform. From there, they moved to Camp Grafton Training Center’s land navigation course where they were tasked with finding map grid locations using a compass. “It was an excellent competition with great Soldiers,” Tavis said. “The land navigation course was challenging and increased the degree of difficulty, which made us (the Soldiers) really compete, work hard and dig deep. Overall, it was good to see what we were able to do as all-around Soldiers competing against one another.” Saturday’s outing to the land navigation course was followed by an event titled “Warrior Stakes.” Competitors darted through Camp Grafton’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain, or MOUT, site where they were tested on tactical movements Spc. Dalton Morel, left, of Detachment D, 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, executes his plan to on foot, Modern Army Combatives techniques transport people and goods last month during a team-building obstacle course at the Best Warrior Competition. and using a Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System, or SINCGARS, radio. The final day of competition, Sunday, got progressively more challenging, with the final event being foreshadowed to the Guardsmen as a “mystery challenge.” The competitors, without knowing what they were up against, marched to locations across Camp Grafton, stopping at checkpoints to lead their own assigned squad of Soldiers through team- building obstacles while being timed and evaluated on their leadership abilities. “This was a very interesting year of competition. The enthusiasm for this weekend’s event, with 22 Soldiers participating, has not been seen in recent years,” Heim said. “We had a lot of support from our staff within the North Dakota National Guard to run the event, and we wanted to make it as challenging as we could to help our winners prepare themselves for the next level of competition. Soldiers run during the Army Physical Fitness Test Aug. 21 at the Camp Grafton Training Center to begin the 2015 Because, from here, it doesn’t get any easier.” Best Warrior Competition. Twenty two Guardsmen from across the state participated in the three-day event. The winners now will prepare for the regional competition held in June 2016. The Soldiers will compete against Guard Soldiers from seven other states: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Regional winners go on to compete in the All-Guard Competition and, if they win there, they compete in the All-Army Competition. Should the winners not be able to compete, they will be replaced by the runners-up from the state competition. This year, Sgt. Jordan Gehlhar, of Lauderdale, Minnesota, a member of the Jamestown-based 817th Engineer Company (Sapper), was the runner-up in the noncommissioned officer category. Spc. Tara Loomer, of Wahpeton, North Dakota, a member of the Bismarck-based 814th Medical Company (Area Support), took the runner-up position at the enlisted level.
Sgt. Colin Dunn finds map grid locations during the Best Warrior Competition land navigation course Aug. 22 at the Camp Grafton Training Center near Devils Lake, North Dakota.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 11 PROUD TO SERVE Bruschwein Reflects on his Military Experience
By Capt. Jeff Hoffer, Part 3 of 3 of a Historical Series N.D. National Guard Historian
dawn, we woke up to someone shooting and introduced himself as Jack Kennedy, Deep in the jungle at Guadalcanal, a few rounds in one the tents. This son of the U.S. ambassador to England. 1st Lt. Harold Bruschwein adjusts to life was something you just didn’t do. But Jack Kennedy turned out to be Lt. John F. at war, contending with attacks from this guy was sitting on a stool with his Kennedy, the future 35th President of the Japanese bombers and troops. Additionally, flashlight on and his rifle out and was United States. his company encounters some of the island’s shooting these rats that were coming “At the time the incident occurred,” animal inhabitants. The episodes provide across the wall. That called for an David said, “Kennedy wasn’t the some comic relief during tense days. investigation!” president, just the kid of the U.S. Despite the humor of these anecdotes, ambassador to England.” when Bruschwein tells his experiences on David said Harold and his friend were While Tokyo Rose and Stars and Guadalcanal, the theme of stress through bombarded with questions from the Stripes offered news about what was combat leadership remains apparent. young Navy officers who wanted to know going on around the world, lighthearted “When I’d send out a patrol, I’d take what ‘the ‘Canal’ was like, captivating moments provided some levity between a turn with my lieutenants. This one their attention despite Kennedy being operations, when the American Soldiers lieutenant I had was the father of twin present. and Marines struggled as much with girls back home, depending on him. “Dad would smile whenever he told the jungle and disease as they did with Every time I sent out a patrol with his that story,” David said. “Then he’d say, the Japanese. One of these moments name on it, I’d be concerned. Does this ‘maybe we embellished the story a little.’” occurred in the middle of the night in a make me a good commander or a bad Shortly after departing Guadalcanal canvas tent situated in a sort of bivouac commander?” he wondered aloud. in mid-1943, Harold Bruschwein fell ill area behind American lines. Lt. Col. David Bruschwein, Harold and was sent back to the United States. “We were camped by a little stream Bruschwein’s son and present commander He spent the next fifteen months in coming out of the main line by the of the 164th Engineer Battalion in Minot, a series of hospitals before receiving a coast, and they set us officers up in a remembers hearing his father’s accounts medical discharge in December 1944. tent. Maybe four or six of us in that tent,” Bruschwein said. “And that night in particular, there were was an awful “...I have seen the beauty of life racket. Something was throwing things — like rifles and equipment we had stacked in the tent — all over the place. and the love of living.” We got a flashlight on and there was this six- or eight-foot alligator making its way out. This alligator wandered into of leaving Guadalcanal. Harold told The war may not have been over, but our tent, then realized where he was and about one occasion on the Pacific island with his experiences at Pearl Harbor started thrashing about, sending stuff of Tulagi, where Company A was sent to and Guadalcanal, Bruschwein had flying all over.” resupply and reorganize following combat contributed more than his fair share, Aside from alligators, Guadalcanal’s on Guadalcanal. He recounted how his despite the fact that he wanted to rats also posed a problem. father and a friend went to a local south continue his service. “They’d follow the guide wires from Pacific watering hole for a beer. While After he returned home to Driscoll the top of the tent and follow them down there, the pair of Army officers ran into following his discharge, Bruschwein was to the ground where equipment, supplies several Navy officers, mostly torpedo boat approached by members of the Driscoll and food were stored,” Bruschwein said. commanders. As the group made their School Board, whose high school “We’d lie traps for them, but they kept introductions, one of the Navy lieutenants principal had just resigned, and talked coming in. One morning, just before offered his hand to the elder Bruschwein him into becoming their new principal.
12 · Guardian · september 2015 “I told them I’m not a teacher,” Bruschwein said. “Their response was, “I just hope that I’ve done some ‘you have a degree, and the state says you can teach high school.’” Bruschwein relented and told them good in this world.” that he’d run the office for them until they found someone else. “But,” he said, “They never did.” By the following spring, Bruschwein was enjoying the work as it was something different. “So, I went back to summer school and got enough education to get my accreditation so I could teach and be principal,” he said. But its Bruschwein’s experiences in the military, not education, that clearly stand out in his mind and continue to shape his life. Since departing military service in late 1944, Bruschwein maintains membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans. When asked what his most meaningful decoration was during his military service, Bruschwein listed numerous honors. The first that came to his mind was a medallion he received from Congress, presented to Pearl Harbor survivors on the 50th anniversary of the attack. His Combat Infantry Badge was another. After sitting quietly for a couple minutes, Bruschwein also mentioned the Silver Star. When asked about the circumstances surrounding earning the honor, he said, “One of my platoons was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. They couldn’t move forward or back. They couldn’t do anything. So, I borrowed a platoon from another company and went forward and got those men out of there.” With the awful surprise of Pearl Harbor and the brutal and unforgiving experiences of Guadalcanal now decades behind him, Bruschwein is thankful for life. It’s been a life he has dedicated to service to his community and nation. “I can sit back here and say that, for the rest of this life, that I have seen the beauty of life and the love of living,” Remembering back to his friend’s death and his own close call with the Japanese sniper, Bruschwein said, “I would have had none of that had he picked me off. I just hope that I’ve done Contributed photo some good in this world.”
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 13 War Fighting Guard Soldiers Convene in Iowa for 3-week ‘Wartime’ Scenario Story and photo by Sgt. Erin Walters, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Nestled between the Greater and Lesser their specific area of operations. As the war Throughout the exercise, Soldiers were Caucasus Mountain ranges on the Western part progressed, each section was busy addressing able to perform their war-time roles. As a of the Caspian Sea, lies the country of Atropia, real-world war scenarios including damaged result, their culminated efforts enhanced the which expands over an area of 32,200 square and missing equipment, troops killed and overall effectiveness of the 141st MEB as a miles. This country, driven by its oil and natural wounded in action, intelligence gathering, command and control element. Additionally, gas production, is at war with the country of personnel reporting and management, the exercise provided an opportunity for each Ariana. For four months the 141 Maneuver Red Cross messaging, small arms fires, section – from the unit ministry team to the Enhancement Brigade (MEB) has been airspace management, plans, protection, mess section, which prepared nearly 10,270 involved in the military decision making process maintenance, legal actions, mortuary affairs, meals in an 11-day period – to demonstrate (MDMP) to develop the courses of action used public affairs, chaplain services and technical and evaluate their capabilities. by the command and control element, which systems support. “I think this was a better learning oversees five task forces of more than 4,000 “The Maneuver Training Center provided experience than anyone could have ever Soldiers to occupy this war-torn nation, forcing a dynamic training environment with expected,” said Sgt. 1st Class Chris Lemke, out the Arianans and liberating Atropia. very realistic scenarios,” said Maj. Mark 141st MEB operations sergeant. “Having live Topp, 231st BSB Executive Officer. “The troops (from the 231st BSB) on the ground After months of planning, preparing and doctrinal training Team are truly subject made the experience that much more realistic, executing operational orders and developing matter experts, very professional and as you could see how the decisions made had courses of action for military occupation in were integral in preparing our staff for an effect on the operations of the subordinate this fictional war, more than 300 Soldiers the training. The BSB Staff embraced the units. It was a great teambuilding experience participated in a 3-week War Fighter training opportunity, continually improving to bring the Soldiers together and show what exercise in August during their annual products, processes and communication.” this unit is capable of.” training at the Maneuver Training Center (MTC) in Camp Dodge, Iowa. Supported by MTC civilian support staff, Soldiers of the 141st MEB and the 231st Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) demonstrated their war-time capabilities in a training environment which provided an opportunity to prepare for real-world scenarios. The first week of training focused on using the MDMP process for course of action development, from which the brigade operation order was created. The next stage of preparation for the War Fighting exercise was a combined arms rehearsal, in which subordinate plans were synchronized with those of other units to ensure that the plans achieved the intent of the higher commander. Then, the 141st MEB and 231st BSB went to war. As fictional troops moved down range in three phases, route clearance, infantry support and medical and logistical support, the battle drills rolled on in. A battle drill is Photo by Sgt. Erin Walters, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade a rehearsal that ensures that all participants Soldiers with the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade conduct an update briefing during a War Fighter Exercise held last month understand techniques and procedures for during the unit’s annual training at the Maneuver Training Center in Camp Dodge, Iowa.
14 · Guardian · september 2015 Airmen End 26-Year Drought Grenz and Rolph First Hooligans in Nearly Three Decades to Attend In-Residence Senior NCO Course By Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing
Master Sergeants Derrick Grenz, of the 119th Civil Engineer member has passed the course 14, version 6 correspondence. So, Squadron, and Amber Rolph, of the 119 Support Group, there has been little interest in taking ALE in-residence once are showing unique initiative in ending a 26-year Senior members have completed the correspondence course. Noncommissioned Officer Academy in-residence drought for the Grenz and Rolph had to send in a pretty extensive application Happy Hooligan. package in order to be accepted into the program. North Dakota Air National Guard members have been doing “I think the application package requirements might have kept their Senior NCO preparatory ‘course 14, version 6’ for many some people from applying,” said Rolph. years by distance learning through correspondence, which is a According to the SNCO Academy website, the changes were requirement for master sergeants to be promotable to senior master made to incorporate better ways of learning by blending technology sergeant. with time-tested ways of training, and making better use of time to U.S. Air Force active duty and Air National Guard members shorten training whenever possible to save money. have been required to take the course 14 correspondence course in “We spent the first week to ten days covering the course 14 order to be accepted for the in-residence course in the past, but the material, pretty much on our own, and then we moved into the school is offering a pilot program for the second half of fiscal year ALE with a course instructor present, but on more of a student 2015 combining the correspondence course with the in-residence driven basis. The activities included leadership scenarios we might Advanced Leadership Experience (ALE) course at the Senior encounter in our jobs,” said Grenz. NCO academy at Air University, Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, “I believe there were about 325 students at the school, with 26 Alabama, for the first time. flights and we had 12 in my flight, with 2 from the Reserves and 2 The ALE is focused on a more hands-on approach to leadership from the Guard (in the flight),” said Grenz. training at the in-residence school. The 119 Wing first sergeants and base training office were active “I feel like I learn better with a hands-on approach to training, in getting the word out to unit members about the opportunity. rather than just reading about things in a book,” said Grenz, of Announcements were made at unit training assembly commander’s the 119th Civil Engineer Squadron and is the North Dakota Air calls, and postings were made on the base Sharepoint website. National Guard Regional Training Site training manager. Several inquiries were made by unit members at the training Grenz and Rolph are among the first to have the opportunity office, but only Grenz and Rolph took it upon themselves to submit to go to the in-residence senior NCO academy without taking the packages and were accepted. course 14 correspondence course first, and the pilot program has not They might both be among a small group to leap at the been extended into fiscal year 2016 so far. opportunity and reap the benefits of a brief training window “There might be an evaluation process to determine whether with the blended courses at the Senior NCO Academy ¬— or blended course 14 and in-residence senior NCO academy is a good they might be the trail-blazers for a new way of accomplishing way to do the training,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jeff Miller, the 119 professional military education for North Dakota Air National Wing noncommissioned officer-in-charge of training. Guard members. Time will tell whether it becomes the preferred The ALE has not been required for promotion once the unit way of doing the training.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 15 UARDIAN G Snapshots See More, and Download Photos! Visit www.flickr.com/photos/ndguard/.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters
Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota Adjutant General, speaks at a kick off event at the North Staff Sgt. Jacob Backer, of the 119th Civil Engineer Squadron, uses a crane to place a concrete barrier Dakota Herritege Center in Bismarck to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. into a target area Aug. 19 at the N.D. Air National Guard Regional Training Site, Fargo, North Dakota.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Sara Marchus, 119th Public Affairs Detachment
Lt. Col. Julie Thomas, center, assumes command of 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment (Secuiryt & Support) from outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Paul Helten, Sep. 13 as Col. Scott Fontaine, 68th Troop Command commander, left, presides over the ceremony held at the Army Aviation Support Facilitity in Bismarck, North Dakota.
16 · Guardian · september 2015 Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing
Tech. Sgt. Scott Heldt, right, and Senior Airman Jordan Haller, both of the 28th Civil Engineer Squadron, trouble shoot and repair a reverse osmosis water purification unit equipment Aug. 19 at the N.D. Air National Guard Regional Training Site in Fargo.
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Photo by Staff Sgt. Sara Marchus, 119th Public Affairs Detachment
Josie and Jesse Orgaard place dog tags at the Memorial to the Fallen in the Global War on Terrorism in memory of their son, Tyler, who was killed in action in 2012, during a memorial ceremony Sep. 11 in Bismarck, North Dakota.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 17 NewsBriefs
N.D. Airmen Named Region II Production Recruiter of the Year
Tech. Sgt. Tyrel Cale, a recruiter for the North Dakota National Guard’s Fargo-based 119th Wing, was recently named the Air National Guard’s Region II Production Recruiter of the Year. Cale, who has consistently surpassed individual recruiting goals, had already been recognized as the North Dakota Air National Guard recruiter of the year for 2014. In fiscal year 2014 alone, Cale recruited 35 new members into the Air National Guard, with 34 of those Airmen joining the 119th Wing and one Airman joining the 148th Fighter Wing, based in Duluth, Minn. “I would have to say my favorite part of the job is seeing recruits after they’ve returned from training,” Cale said. “Seeing them working on a drill weekend, succeeding in their jobs and enjoying what they do as a member of the Air National Guard is fulfilling. Helping them get into the Guard, where there are lots of opportunities for new recruits is great, but seeing them succeed in the Air Guard, in general, is what makes it easy to get up in the morning.” Cale’s involvement in the community is one reason that he’s found success as a recruiter in the military. He has participated in outreach programs for local churches, and he is an active member of the local American Legion chapter. In addition, Cale has maintained strong relationships with local schools. In fiscal year 2014, he conducted 69 high school visits and 18 college visits. Beyond connecting with recruits from his office at the Air National Guard base in Fargo, Cale is often traveling to various locations throughout the state to meet with students and build awareness of opportunities in the Guard. Cale said that qualified leads coming from current 119th Wing members have been key to building a strong force. “It’s a team effort,” Cale said. “Referrals are the bread and butter of our recruiting efforts. And, beyond helping build a great Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David Lipp, 119th Wing team, current Air Guard members can earn a bonus for sharing Tech. Sgt. Tyrel Cale, of the 119th Wing, was named the North Dakota Air National Guard Recruiter good leads.” of the Year for Fiscal Year 2014 for outstanding overall recruiting performance. He alsow was As part of program called Guardian Friend, Airmen can earn selected as the Fiscal Year 2014 Production Recruiter of the Year for Region Two of the Air a $1,000 bonus, between now and June 2016, if they refer an National Guard’s five regions. This award eligibility is determined by recruiting production, job eventual enlistee to the recruiting office. knowledge and leadership abilities, self-improvement and community and base involvement.
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Guard Bureau’s Assistant Joint Surgeon Visitis North Dakota
Rear Admiral Joan Hunter, who serves as the Assistant Joint Health Conference, where she shared her insight and thoughts Surgeon at the National Guard Bureau, Joint Surgeon General’s with members of the civilian mental health community. Office - Psychological Health at the Pentagon, in Washington, “It takes a community to help our service members,” she said. D.C., recently spoke with North Dakota National Guard members “It’s not only identifying the issue but helping the service members about mental and behavioral health. get help.” Hunter spoke about behavioral health challenges, solutions and Rear Admiral Hunter has been tasked to “build” the National opportunities facing the National Guard and its behavioral health Guard’s psychological health program by placing a director program. She emphasized the importance of getting Guardsmen of psychological health in every state, wing and territory the help they need and developing the community services to while working with partners to direct services to mitigate the care for military members and their families. Admiral Hunter was psychological health needs of Guard members and their families. in North Dakota to present at the State Health and Behavioral
18 · Guardian · september 2015 SoundOff! Chaplains’ Corner: REMAINING STRONG WHILE FACING ADVERSITY By Chaplain (Lt. Col.) David Johnson, North Dakota National Guard Staff Chaplain
One day an old dog lost his way while dog, the situation confronts me and I have From a religious perspective, what that chasing rabbits. Soon he noticed a lion in nowhere to turn. I simply have to face it. I means to me is that I need to have an the distance running towards him with could try to ignore the situation (whatever ongoing connection with God and have a hungry look in his eye. Noticing some it might be), but that’s not usually the best people of faith in my life to build and bones on the ground close by, the dog course of action. maintain a strong foundation for all that immediately settled down to chew on the So, how do we gain and maintain life throws my way. Maintaining these bones with his back to the approaching the wisdom and ability to face life’s connections, for me, is life-giving. So, when cat. Just as the lion was about to leap, the uncertainties and challenges? Part of the those “lions” sneak up on me (and they old dog exclaimed, “That was one delicious answer is to simply live life. “We live and have and will continue to do so) I have a lion! I wonder if there are any more learn,” as they say. But I want to argue we foundation to face them. It may not always around here.” must do more than “react” to life and its be pretty, but I have what I need to endure Upon hearing this, the young lion challenges. We need to be intentional in all hardship and maintain strength, even if I stopped mid-stride and hurried to safety areas of our lives. In the military, we plan, don’t always feel like it. Do you? in the trees. A squirrel who had been practice and plan some more so that we watching from a nearby tree knew the become proficient in our respective jobs. Blessings, dog’s tricks and decided to trade his We also maintain ourselves physically and Chaplain Johnson knowledge for protection from the lion. mentally so that we can meet the demands Catching up with the lion, he explained of our professions. But we are also spiritual “I can do all things through him who what happened and struck a deal. The people. How can we grow in this area? strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13 young lion was furious at being made a fool of and said, “Hop on my back and see what’s going to happen to that conniving canine!” The old dog spied the lion coming with the squirrel on his back. Instead of running, he sat down with his back to the pair, pretending he hadn’t seen them yet. When they got close enough to hear, the old dog said, “Where’s that squirrel? I sent him off an hour ago to bring me another lion!”
This “old dog” had a lifetime of experience and knew that he was physically no match for the king of the jungle. Had he ran, he’d have been a quick lunch for this strong and hungry lion. This dog, however, proves that with age comes wisdom. He had to use his wits to meet, deal with and go through this very precarious situation. I don’t know about you, but when I’m faced with scary, difficult and very uncertain situation, I confess that I’m Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, Joint Force Headquarters not always as quick on my feet as I’d Chaplain (Lt. Col.) David Johnson places a rose at the Memorial to the Fallen in the Global War on Terrorism Sep. 11, 2013, in Bismarck, like to be. Why? Because, like the old North Dakota, during a candle light vigil remembrance ceremony.
www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 19 Photo by Spc. Deidra Steele, 164th Forward Support Company 1st Lt. David Stein and Sgt. 1st Class Robert Lawson, both of the Minot-based 164th Forward Support Company, while supervised by an instructor sling a non-functioning high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV) to a UH 60 Blackhawk last month during the unit’s annual training and the Sustainment Training Center at Camp Dodge, Iowa.