JOINT BASE BERRY FIELD ARMY AVIATION Has a NEW Home

Home , 134th Air Refueling Wing, Air National Guard

164TH AIRLIFT WING BRINGS AID TO NEPAL AFTER EARTHQUAKE

VOL. 15, ISSUE 3 THE VOLUNTEER STATE guard magazine JOINT BASE BERRY FIELD ARMY AVIATION has A NEW home

SOME of Tennessee’s best 2015 BEST WARRIOR COMPETITION

A look at who MOVED on to regionals

1 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 2 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 THE VOLUNTEER STATE GUARD MAGAZINE VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3

ON THE COVER The first UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters belonging to the Tenn. Army National Guard touch down at Joint Base Berry Field in Nash- ville. Photo by Master Sgt. Robin Brown

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MAJ (RET) RANDY HARRIS ART DIRECTION ROB PENNINGTON SENIOR EDITORS LT. COL. (RET) NIKI GENTRY FEATURES RECOGNITION MASTER SGT. ROBIN BROWN ROB PENNINGTON PAGE 8 PAGE 10

BERRY FIELD BEST WARRIOR PHOTOGRAPHY LT. COL. (RET) NIKI GENTRY Army Aviation has a new home at Joint A look at who moved on to regionals. CW2 EMILY WIEST Base Berry Field in Nashville. MASTER SGT. ROBIN BROWN PAGE 22 SSG MELISA WASHINGTON PAGE 16 GIRL SCOUTS HELP OUT STAFF SGT. KATHRYN LOZIER NEPAL EARTHQUAKE IN EAST TENN. SGT ART GUZMAN RELIEF More than 16,000 boxes of cookies AIRMAN 1ST CLASS TAYLOR QUEEN Members of the 164th Airlift Wing out distributed to the Tenn. Guard through JUDITH ROSENBERG of Memphis bring aid after a massive Operation: APPRECIATION. earthquake devastates Nepal. WRITERS LT. COL. KEITH STILES PAGE 23 LT. COL. (RET) NIKI GENTRY MARKSMANSHIP MAJ (RET) RANDY HARRIS CHAMPIONSHIP CW2 EMILY WIEST Tennessee Marksman travel to Arkan- MASTER SGT. ROBIN BROWN TRAINING sas to compete in the Winston P. Wil- MASTER SGT. DAVID EICHAKER son Marksmanship Championship. SSG MELISA WASHINGTON PAGE 12 A FIRST FOR OUR FIRST PAGE 24 SERGEANTS SOLDIER-ATHLETE Tennessee Air National Guard conducts MATTHEW LAMB VolState Guard is published to provide command and public information about the state’s first ever First Sergeant Tennessee National Guardsman places Tennessee Guard Soldiers and Airmen throughout the world. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official view Symposium. 2nd in National Joint Service Greco-Ro- of and it is not endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense man Wrestling Competition in Colorado. or the Departments of the Army and the Air Force. This publication does not supersede any information presented in any other official Air or Army publica- PAGE 15 tion. Articles, photos, artwork and letters are invited and should be addressed ACADEMY TRAINER to: Editor, The Volunteer State Guard, 3041 Sidco Dr., Attn: TNPAO, Nashville, Air National Guard selects first member TN 37204. to serve as Academy Military Trainer at For more information, the staff can be reached by telephone (615) 313-0633, the U.S. Air Force Academy. RECRUITING or by email to [email protected]. The Volunteer State Guard reserves the right to edit all material. Published works may be reprinted, except where copyright- ed, provided credit is given to The Volunteer State Guard and the authors. PAGE 20 PAGE 11 Distribution of the The Volunteer State Guard is electronic and can be down- BOSSLIFT SEEKING RECRUITS FOR loaded at: http://www.tnmilitary.org ESGR gives Tennessee employers a VITAL MISSIONS glimpse into guard training. Tennessee Guard Soldiers seek recruits at MTSU for vital Army air traffic control missions.

3 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 LOWERING THE BOOM TENNESSEE Boom operator, SSgt. Andrew Webber, conducts aerial refuel operations with the SNAPSHOT Tennessee Air National Guard, ESGR Bosslift. PHOTO BY: SSG Melisa Washington

4 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 GOVERNOR’S MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY TENNESSEE Maj. Gen. Max Haston, Tennessee’s Adjutant General, thanks one of the many SNAPSHOT war veterans who attended The Governor’s Memorial Day Ceremony on May 15, 2015 in Nashville, Tenn. PHOTO BY: Lt. Col. (Ret) Niki Gentry

5 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 GUARD SUPPORT IN BRISTOL TENNESSEE Tennessee National Guard Soldiers stand at pit row to support the Food City 500 at SNAPSHOT Bristol Speedway as they celebrate Military service members on April 19, 2015. PHOTO BY: CW2 Emily Wiest

6 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 MILITARY KIDS SERVE TOO TENNESSEE COL Darnbush presents Military children with a coin at the John Rich Red Cross SNAPSHOT Event, celebrating our National Guard youth as a part of Month of the Military Child on April 26, 2015. PHOTO BY: CW2 Emily Wiest

7 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 The first UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters belonging to the Tennessee Army National Guard touched down at Joint Base Berry Field. BERRYJOINT BASE FIELD ARMY AVIATION has A NEW HOMe.

8 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 JOINT BASE BERRY FIELD

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - If you have no- ticed increased helicopter traffic around the Nashville International Airport you may have wondered what’s going on. The first UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters belonging to the Tennessee Army National Guard touched down in May at Joint Base Berry Field in Nashville. The helicopters are part of the 1/230th Air Cavalry Squadron (ACS) formerly headquartered at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Smyrna. Berry Field has been the home of the Air National Guard’s 118th Wing for more than 90 years. Since losing the C-130 Her- cules aircraft due to the 2005 Base Closure and Realignment Commission, the base became a C-130 training site for Allied Inside the hanger at Berry Field. aircrew members, and has since transi- (Photos by Master Sgt. Robin Brown) tioned to a dominant force in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and support missions. The last C-130 left Nashville in December 2012. Losing the C-130s left an empty ramp and a multi-million dollar hanger only a few years old without any aircraft to use it. Immediately upon learning of the loss of the C-130s, planning began on the ef- ficient utilization of the facility. The perfect fit was Army Aviation who were op- erating in antiquated facilities, just a few miles down the road. In Smyrna, UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters belonging to the Army National Guard were housed in World War II era buildings needing renovations that would cost the American taxpayers more than 70 million dollars. To Maj. Gen. Max Haston, Tennessee’s Adjutant General, the prudent choice was obvious. Move the helicopters to Nash- ville and utilize an existing facility saving the taxpayers 70 million dollars. “Moving the helicopters to Berry Field don’t mix, so after crossing many bureau- perfect sense.” utilizes a state of the art facility that is less cratic hurdles, environmental studies and “Increased traffic during this time is due than 12 years old,” said Haston. “We have an other administrative obstacles, final approv- to the training the pilots receive on approach obligation to the citizens of Tennessee to be al was received earlier this year. and departure lanes in and out of the air- good stewards of taxpayer monies, and us- “Renovation of the existing Smyrna facil- port,” said Lt. Col. Gene Reece, the Army ing an existing facility in a joint Army and ities and new construction was just not fea- National Guard State Aviation Officer. “This Air Operation does just that.” sible under the current budget,” continued training will continue through May when The National Guard began planning for Haston. “The reality to move to an existing you will see the helicopter traffic dramati- this transition more than five years ago, but facility that was not being fully utilized and cally reduce.” sometimes the Air Force and Army Aviation sitting just a few miles down the road made - MAJ (RET) RANDY HARRIS

9 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 TWO OF TENNESSEE’S BEST

Army National Guard Region III Best Warrior Competition Spc Joshua Webb From THE 194Th Engineer Brigade AND SSG Adam Johnson From Re- cruiting Retention, Move On To Regionals And Represent The Great State Of Tennessee.

SPC Joshua Webb SSG Adam Johnson

PHOTOS BY: SGT ART GUZMAN 10 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 RECRUITING SEEKING RECRUITS FOR VITAL MISSIONS

Tennessee Guard Soldiers seek recruits at MTSU for vital Army air traffic control missions.

Members of the 1-107th Airfield Operations Battalion, headquartered in Tullahoma, Tenn., provided a static display near the Aerospace Department on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., on April 17. (Photo by Lt. Col. (Ret) Niki Gentry)

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Members of a very sophisticated Air Traffic Control the Tennessee National Guard’s 1-107th Program and is an obvious choice to find Airfield Operation Battalion, headquartered students who would like the opportuni- in Tullahoma, Tenn., provided a static dis- ty to use their skills in military air traffic play of their mission equipment at Middle missions and obtain funds to assist with Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, their tuition.” Tenn., on April 17. The mission of the unit Along with members of the 1-107th is to establish and run tactical and non-tac- AOB, Tennessee National Guard recruit- tical airfields for Army units. The team of ers were available to answer questions Soldiers set up a Mobile Tactical Termi- for students interested in the Army pro- nal Control System and Air Traffic Control gram and other opportunities provided Tower for aspiring student recruits to view. through joining the National Guard. Lt. “The primary reason to host the display Col. Layne stated the event was a tre- at MTSU is to spotlight the Air Operations mendous opportunity to find talented Spc. Elizabeth Farrell, offers information Battalion’s capabilities to students who are and trained students preparing for a ca- to students at an equipment static display enrolled in the Aerospace Department of reer in a highly challenging and critically conducted April 17. (Photo by Lt. Col. the university,” said Lt. Col. Beason Layne, needed career field. (Ret) Niki Gentry) the 1-107th AOB commander. “MTSU has - LT. COL. (RET) NIKI GENTRY

11 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 FIRST SERGEANT SYMPOSIUM A FIRST FOR OUR FIRST SERGEANTS

Tennessee Air National Guard conducts the state’s first ever First Sergeant Symposium.

First sergeants arrive at the 118th Wing in Nashville, for the state’s first ever First MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Tennessee Air Sergeant Symposium. (Photo by Master Sgt. Robin Brown) National Guard first sergeants from across the state gathered March 3-4 at the 118th Wing in Nashville, Tenn., for the state’s first topics we wanted to discuss, but the biggest for the first sergeant council of the 164th ever Air National Guard First Sergeant Sym- part was scheduling a time that all three Airlift Wing. Later that year, he began coor- posium. The active duty Air Force has held wings could accommodate.” dinating all the Wings in Tennessee to share these symposiums for years, bringing in first Shortly after Smith became a first ser- the same experience. sergeants from around the world, even from geant, he viewed an annual broadcast from “I am excited with the direction the first other countries; however, this is a first for the Air National Guard Training and Edu- sergeants are headed, and we have a great, the Tennessee National Guard. cation Center that featured information and diverse group,” said Command Chief Mas- “We began discussing putting together a briefings from Air National Guard leader- ter Sgt. Mark Harris, command chief of the state-wide symposium in September 2014,” ship. “I learned the importance of sharing 118th Wing. “I look forward to expanding said Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Smith, first information with my fellow first sergeants the symposium next year with more table sergeant for the 164th Airlift Wing in Mem- from watching this broadcast,” he said. In top discussions that get real issues out in the phis, Tenn., who organized and facilitated January of 2014, Smith held a symposium open.” the symposium. “We quickly decided what

12 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 FIRST SERGEANT SYMPOSIUM

The Symposium gives First Ser- Without the symposium, the geants from across Tennessee the chance to discuss issues and collab- only formal training first ser- orate. (Photo by Master Sgt. Robin geants receive is the First Ser- Brown) geant Academy that all must graduate in order to attain the diamond on their rank insignia.

The purpose of the symposium was to continue education and training for first sergeants and additional duty first sergeants only formal training first sergeants receive “Our Airmen thirst for leadership. Noth- from Tennessee’s three wings and two geo- is the First Sergeant Academy that all must ing influences our lives and military career graphically separated units across the state. graduate in order to attain the diamond on more than a first sergeant,” said Maj. Gen. An additional duty first sergeant is one who their rank insignia. Terry “Max” Haston, the adjutant general hasn’t been to the formal First Sergeant “Our newly revised Air Force regula- for Tennessee, whose father was a first ser- Academy and does not wear the diamond tion for first sergeants, Air Force Instruc- geant in the Army. “Those you lead emulate device; yet, they assist in performing the du- tion (AFI) 36-2113, specifies a number of what you do. Somebody is taking notes to- ties of a traditional first sergeant. continuing education hours that we need day, watching what you do; you are a role “First sergeants are tasked with advising to receive and the 2015 symposium satis- model.” their commanders on a wide range of per- fies that requirement,” added Smith. “The “First sergeants are the tie that binds; sonnel matters, along with being knowl- symposium also enhances communication you relate to your Airmen,” said Brig. Gen. edgeable about resources for taking care of between the Tennessee Air National Guard Don Johnson, the assistant adjutant gen- Airmen and their families,” said Smith. first sergeants and enables a better flow of eral for the Tennessee Air National Guard. “The symposium keeps the first sergeants communication between wings in the state.” “It doesn’t matter who you work for, we all up to date on changes made to programs First sergeants are traditionally responsi- work for each other, and it is our obligation and processes we provide to our units and ble for relaying the commander’s messages as leaders to provide you with the tools to be our Airmen,” he said. “It gives us time to and voicing concerns of the Airmen below successful.” collaborate and grow our wing council rela- the commander, as well as being the 24/7 “go “You are the balance between the com- tionships outside the normal setting on drill to” person for all Airmen concerns. mander and the Airmen. Ensure the process weekends.” Without the symposium, the

13 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 FIRST SERGEANT SYMPOSIUM

“No matter who is who, even Army, a first sergeant is a first sergeant and people are your business,” - Command Chief Master Sgt. Wade Hudson

MURPHREESBORO, Tenn. - Command Chief Master Sgt. Wade Hudson speaks to attendees at the Air National Guard First Sergeant Symposium. (Photo by Master Sgt. Robin Brown)

is consistent and fair,” Chief Master Sgt. Dan be the one with the answers, the person “It exceeded my expectations. The oppor- Mitchell, the first sergeant functional man- others can go to; bring a notebook and take tunity to meet and share experiences with ager at National Guard Bureau said. “Your notes; be the commanders eyes and ears; and other first sergeants was the most beneficial lane is to take care of the enlisted force and don’t be a “yes” man, be proactive and take aspect of the symposium,” said Master Sgt. your commander.” initiative. Scott Prichard, 134th Medical Group first Attendees got the opportunity to hear The first sergeants gathered in breakout sergeant in Knoxville, Tenn. “It was a great from various other leaders across the state, sessions to work in partnership and commu- learning tool to gain insight into how other including Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Scott, nicate what worked well and what needed first sergeants deal with issues that affect our the senior enlisted leader for the Tennessee improvement in various areas of concern. Airmen.” National Guard, and Command Chief Mas- “As we covered programs that impact all He added, “being a first sergeant is an ter Sgt. Wade Hudson, the command chief of our units, it was insightful to learn that honor. The opportunity to give back to the of the Tennessee Air National Guard. “No other first sergeants face similar obstacles Air National Guard by assisting Airmen matter who is who, even Army, a first ser- as well as hearing about some of the won- with their professional and personal issues is geant is a first sergeant and people are your derful tools and practices units have devel- a very rewarding responsibility.” business,” said Hudson. oped to handle the tasks and needs of their “First sergeants live to serve others. It was “If anything happens regarding an Air- units,” said Smith. Some of the topics cov- a wonderful experience being part of this man, your first sergeant should be the first ered included family care plans, the Airman gathering of servant leaders,” said Smith. person you call,” echoed Harris, emphasiz- Comprehensive Assessment, professional “I believe this event was something benefi- ing the role of a first sergeant and the posi- organizations and development within the cial, in both satisfying our continuing edu- tion’s importance. National Guard. cation as well as building a strong network Col. Keith Allbritten, the vice command- The weather forced the symposium to end of resources to better assist our Airmen and er of the 118th Wing, presented his expecta- a day earlier than planned. Despite this, the commanders.” tions of a first sergeant. Among these were: event was still a success overall. - MSGT ROBIN BROWN

14 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 DEVELOPMENTAL SPECIAL DUTIES ACADEMY TRAINER Air National Guard selects first member to serve as Acade- my Military Trainer at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. – Airmen Guard. “Air National Guard Airmen in any across the Air National Guard have many status (drill status, Air Guard Reserve or opportunities to serve in developmental technician) should look for opportunities roles and serving at the United States Air outside of their technical specialty at critical Force Academy as an Academy Military points in their career.” Trainer is just one of the roles. Airmen who perform DSDs are more like- Air Force Master Sgt. Donald Steven ly to develop intangible skills and become a Sanders, 134th Air Refueling Wing, located well-rounded Airman. at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, “DSDs are positions that are critical to Tennessee, will become the first Air Nation- the development of Airmen,” said Hotaling. al Guard member to serve as an AMT at US- “Additionally, these positions allow mem- AFA as he looks forward to his latest career bers to take on a new challenge outside of change. the technical specialty.” “I’m very excited about it,” said Sanders relating to his latest career change. DSD positions are available at both state Sanders will be leaving his current posi- and extended active-duty levels and can in- tion as a repair and reclamation craftsman clude the following jobs: after 16 years to be an instructor at the acad- Master Sgt. Donald Steven Sanders • Academy Military Trainer emy. Airmen in the Air National Guard can • Professional Military Education serve in many non-traditional roles, and Instructors “We’re sad to see him go be because we’ve teaching at the USAFA is just another exam- • First Sergeants depended on his experience and his exper- ple of these opportunities. • Military Training Instructors tise,” said Lambert. “Losing that is losing a Sanders, who has over 23 years of ser- • Military Training Leaders lot. We’re certainly happy for him to have vice, says he is anxious in a good way and • Recruiters this opportunity and he’ll represent us well. looking forward to the opportunity. It’s is a • Specialty Training Instructors I think it’s a great thing for the Guard and great honor to be selected for this position, identified with a T-prefix I think it’s a great thing for the Air Force he said, indicating he will be starting some- Academy.” time early this summer. The influence that Airmen have filling Opportunities like this are offered to Air Being an AMT not only benefits the these positions can be critical to all three Air Guard members under a program called Guard but can allow for personal develop- Force components – Guard, reserve and ac- Developmental Special Duties. DSDs are ment as well. tive. positions within the U.S. Air Force designed “I need to get out there and grow a little “DSD positions impact Airmen at every to create and progress Airmen through the bit more,” said Sanders. “I need to expand level,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force leadership of other Airmen and place the my horizon, rather than just working on air- James A. Cody, regarding DSD. “We must most qualified Airmen in several key roles craft.” The change from repairing Air Force ensure the right Airmen are in these special which have an impact on Airmen across the KC-135 Stratotankers aircraft to the class- positions.” service. room comes as no surprise to others. Air Guard members are encouraged to “DSD allow Airmen to challenge them- Air Force Col. Burl Lambert, 134th Main- apply for DSD positions and vacancies can selves and gain unique experiences as lead- tenance Group commander, said that he is be found at http://www.ang.af.mil/careers/ ers, manager and communicators,” said certainly happy for Sanders to have the op- dsdva/index.asp. Chief Master Sgt. James Hotaling, command portunity, noting that they worked together chief master sergeant of the Air National - MASTER SGT. DAVID EICHAKER for nine years.

15 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 NEPAL EARTHQUAKE RELIEF +

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tim Peck, looks out a paratroop- MEMBERS OF THE 164TH AIRLIFT WING OUT er door while taxiing in an Air Force C-17 Globemaster III delivering supplies and search and rescue teams to OF MEMPHIS BRING AID AFTER A MASSIVE Kathmandu, Nepal, April 28, 2015. U.S. Air Force Airmen delivered relief supplies for Nepal earthquake victims. EARTHQUAKE DEVASTATES NEPAL. (Photo By Airman 1st Class Taylor Queen)

16 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 NEPAL EARTHQUAKE RELIEF+

U.S. Air Force personnel from the 155th A.S. in Memphis, Tenn., download a U. S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster filled with U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID) members at the Kathmandu In- ternational Airport. (Photo By Staff Sgt. Kathryn Lozier)

KATHMANDU, Nepal - Tennessee Air National Guard members from the 164th Airlift Wing in Memphis, Tenn., touched down on April 28 with 60 personnel from the U. S. Agency for Inter- national Development (USAID) and approximately 55,000 pounds of aid and relief at Kathmandu International Air- port. The mission was part of a global support effort to render assistance to the millions of citizens struggling for sur- vival following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the region on April 25. Nepalese officials have placed the current death toll at over 5,800 and rising daily with an additional 19 mountain climbers who were killed from large Map showing the Nepal earthquake epicenter. (Courtesy New York Times) avalanches that destroyed portions of a base camp on the slopes of Mount Ever- est. Members of the 155th Airlift Squad- ron, which is the flying component of Getting the much needed relief to the S.C., and the third being the Tennessee the 164th Airlift Wing, were already disaster region was a complex logistical Guard’s 164th Airlift Wing personnel. deployed to Ramstein Air Base, Germa- task. The flight required the assistance of The mission began, according to Trisha ny, when their planned mission was di- three aircrews comprised of two active Gallaway, of the Joint Base Charleston verted to provide emergency support for duty squadrons from the 437th Airlift Public Affairs Office, with the loading of USAID. Wing stationed at Joint Base Charleston, “a 57-member team of L.A. County Fire

17 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 NEPAL EARTHQUAKE RELIEF+

Sixty USAID members and approximately 55,000 pounds of aid and relief supplies (shown above) will help support the local people in search and rescue efforts. (Photo By Staff Sgt. Kathryn Lozier)

Department firefighters, six search dogs pivot so quickly from civilian careers and two semi-trucks worth of equip- and plug into diverse and challenging ment. The team known as the Urban military airlift missions anywhere in the Search and Rescue Task Force 2 or CA- world is a testament to the capability and TF2...is one of eight teams that make up value of today’s Air National Guard.” the California Urban Search and Res- The members of the Memphis unit were cue Program. These teams, when called able to successfully off load the USAID upon, travel with specialized equip- personnel and equipment from their ment, such as heavy concrete cutting C-17 aircraft at the Kathmandu Airport equipment, chainsaws, search cameras and return safely to Ramstein Air Base and sonar to locate victims, as well as upon completion of the critical mission. specialized communications and gen- The rapid ability to get trained rescue erators.” The Tennessee aircrew flew the personnel to the disaster site was vital in rescue team on the final portion of the order to save as many the lives as possi- journey into the treacherous mountain ble since time is a precious commodity terrain of the Himalayan region. in earthquake rescue operations. “The recent rescue mission operat- “Tennessee Airmen serve with pride ed to Nepal by Tennessee Guardsmen and distinction and are a proven choice Satellite data of Nepal after the huge earthquake shows the demonstrates the seamless capability to our state and nation,” said Brig. Gen. tallest mountain in the world, our nation’s military brings to bear on Don Johnson, Tennessee’s Assistant Ad- Mount Everest actually got world events. The aircrew in this story jutant General, Air. “The 164th’s ability about 2.8 centimeters smaller than it used to be. The change was diverted from their original mission to provide Airmen on a moment’s notice is explained by a relief of and thrown into the chaotic aftermath is a true testament to the professional- strain in the Earth’s crust, ac- of a natural disaster of epic proportions,” ism and readiness of today’s Tennessee cording to UNAVCO, a nonprofit geoscience research consor- said Col. Mark Devine, Commander of Air National Guard.” tium (Courtesy Photo) the 164th Airlift Wing. “The fact that - LT. COL. (RET) NIKI GENTRY we have pilots and loadmasters who can

18 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 19 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 bosslift esgr gives tennessee employers a glimpse into guard training.

Aircraft from the 164th Airlift Wing and 134th Air Refueling Wing conduct an aerial refuel during a bosslift to Gulfport, Miss. The Tennessee Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve hosted the bosslift to give employers a perspective into the lives of their Guard and Reserve employees when they perform their military duties. (Photo by CW2 Emily Wiest).

20 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 ESGR BOSSLIFT

SMYRNA, Tenn. - The Tennessee Employ- Instruction for the Naval er Support of the Guard and Reserve, or Construction Battalion ESGR, hosted a bosslift for over 20 Middle Center briefs Tennessee employers during a tour and West Tennessee employers from May of the Seabee training 5-6 to familiarize them with some of the center in Gulfport Mis- training their Guard and Reserve employees sissippi. (Photo by CW2 Emily Wiest). conduct during their service. The group from West Tennessee left from Memphis on a C-17 while the group from Middle Tennessee left from Smyrna on a KC-135. The two aircraft met in flight and employers from both aircraft witnessed an aerial refuel before their arrival to Gulfport, Two Tennessee Mississippi. Air National Guard Upon their arrival, the employers visited aircraft (C17 & KC- the Naval Construction Battalion Center in 135) prepare for aerial re-fuel oper- Gulfport where they watched sailors con- ations demonstra- duct convoys on simulators. They toured the tion for employers Seabee training center where servicemem- attending the ESGR Bosslift (Photo by bers acquire skills to perform their military SSG Melisa Wash- jobs. ington). David Augustin, one of the founders and the chairman of the board for Corporate Flight Management in Smyrna, Tenn., was impressed by the caliber of training the Sea- bees were receiving. “I had no idea the Guard and Reservist employees have gone through such activities and training before they become employees. It was very eye-opening to me to see all the time and effort spent in training” he said. The next morning, the employers toured Keesler Air Force Base, home of the Hurri- cane Hunters, an elite group that flies C-130s into hurricanes and storms to collect weather data. Following their visit to the Hurricane Hunters, the group went to Camp Shelby, one of the largest National Guard training bases in the country. They witnessed a tank demonstration and climbed on some of the tanks as well. To conclude the trip, the group watched touch and go’s before they boarded a C-17 to return back to Tennessee. - SSG MELISA WASHINGTON

For more information about the Tennessee Tennessee employers load onto a C-17 in Gulfport, Miss. to return home after a ESGR, please visit bosslift. (Photo by CW2 Emily Wiest). esgr.mil/tn.

21 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 OPERATION: APPRECIATION GIRL SCOUTS HELP OUT IN EAST TENN.

More than 16,000 boxes of cookies distributed to the Tenn. Guard through Operation: APPRECIATION

Front Row - Anne Haston, Audrey Thomasson, Julia Mason, Heather Hatmaker. Back Row - John Pat- terson, Kim McHugh, Jerry Goines. (Photo by Judith Rosenberg) KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Anne Haston, along of the Southern Appalachians jurisdiction with the Family Assistant Specialists in east thanks to generous cookie customers and Tennessee, visited the Girl Scout Headquar- hard-working scouts. The cookies are part ters to present an ESGR Seven Seals Award of the council’s annual ‘Operation: APPRE- revenue for Girl Scouts of the Southern Ap- to Heather Hatmaker and the Girl Scout CIATION’ effort that allows customers to palachians. “We are honored to give a little Council of the Southern Appalachians. purchase cookies for members of the armed taste of home to the folks that risk their lives More than 16,000 boxes of cookies were services. to keep our Girl Scouts and their communi- distributed in early May to the TN National “We are thrilled by the success of the pro- ties safe,” Guard within the local Girl Scout Council gram,” said Heather Hatmaker, director of - CW2 EMILY WIEST

22 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 MARKSMANSHIP CHAMPIONSHIP MARKSMANSHIP CHAMPIONSHIP

Tennessee Marksman travel to Arkansas to compete in the Winston P. Wilson Marksmanship Championship

Left - The Tennessee National Guard A-Team are presented a coin by Gen. Frank Grass, Chief, National Guard Bureau, for their third place victory in the Overall Team Aggregate and second place victory in the Rifle Team Aggregate Competitions. (Pictured left to right: Gen. Frank Grass, Staff Sgt. Mark Prince, Maj. Glenn Jackson, Sgt. 1st Class Dave Keenom and Capt. Tim Butler). (Cour- tesy Photo)

CAMP ROBINSON, Ark. - Two teams of gregate Competition. Based upon their Tennessee marksmen traveled to Camp Rob- win, they were coined by Gen. Frank inson, Ark., to compete in the 2015 Winston Grass, the 27th Chief, National Guard P. Wilson Marksmanship Championship Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs during April, 2015. This year, 44 teams from of Staff. Above - Col. Franklin D. Powell, Com- across the nation competed for the All States In addition to the team’s success, Maj. mander of the National Guard Marks- Trophy at the event. Tennessee’s A-Team is Jackson won first place in the 100-500 manship Training Center presents Maj. comprised of Maj. Glenn Jackson with 30th Special Zero match. The event requires Glenn Jackson a first place plaque for Troop Command, Capt. Tim Butler with firing 12 shots each at 100, 300, 400 and his victory in the 100-500 Special Zero the 269th Military Police Company, Sgt. 500 yards. He was presented a plaque Match. (Courtesy Photo) 1st Class Dave Keenom with the Volunteer from the Commander of the National Training Site, Tullahoma, Tenn., and Staff Guard Marksmanship Training Center Sgt. Mark Prince with the 730th Quarter- for his win. gust 14-16, 2015. Members interested may master Company. Congratulations to Tennessee’s contact Lt. Col. Keith Stiles at Keith.Stiles@ The Tennessee team won third place in A-Team for a job well done! Tryouts for the ang.af.mil for more information. the Overall Team Aggregate Competition Tennessee Team will be held at the Volunteer and also second place in the Rifle Team Ag- Training Site, Tullahoma, Tenn., during Au- - LT. COL. KEITH STILES

23 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 SOLDIER-ATHLETE SOLDIER-ATHLETE MATTHEW LAMB

Tennessee National Guardsman places 2nd in National Joint Service Greco-Roman Wrestling Competition in Colorado.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Kingsport, Tenn., Maintenance Company based in Pictured from left to right: Capt. David native, Spc. Matthew Lamb helped bring All Elizabethton, Tenn., as an automated Smith (Company Commander), Spc. Army Sports its 14th consecutive Armed supply chain specialist. He enlisted Matthew Lamb, Maj. Patrick Ellis (Battal- Forces Wrestling Championship, on March in the Tennessee National Guard in ion Commander). Spc. Matthew Lamb is a 28-29, at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation April of 2014, but he has also served member of the Tennessee Army National Special Events Center at Fort Carson, Colo. in the US Navy, and participated Guard with the 776th Maintenance compa- Lamb placed second in individual compe- with the all Navy wrestling team pre- ny of Elizabethton, Tenn., and recently was tition in his weight class in Greco-Roman viously. picked up on active duty to wrestle with the wrestling. In All Army Sports, Soldiers from All Army Wrestling Team. He participated in “It’s an awesome sense of pride knowing Active Duty, Reserve and Nation- the inter-service competition March 27-28, that I’m representing my fellow Soldiers,” al Guard compete in a variety of 2015, where he placed second in individu- said Lamb. “To be part of number 14 is sports at the highest levels to include al competition in his weight class in Gre- something I will always remember.” Armed Forces, USA Nationals and co-Roman wrestling, and helped the team Spc. Lamb is currently assigned to the Military World Games. earn the gold medal. (Courtesy Photo) Tennessee Army National Guard’s 776th “Although wrestling is very much

24 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 SOLDIER-ATHLETE

an individual sport, you can’t expect to “I’ve worked hard over the past two years achieve your goals without the support of to return to good physical, wrestling condi- your training partners and teammates,” said tion,” said Lamb, who added that so far his Lamb. “It’s the same as serving with your age has been his biggest obstacle. “When I unit; the mission cannot be accomplished was younger, I would just hop on the mat without everyone working together to without warming up or taking treatment; achieve a common goal.” now I think I appreciate the process more.” Wrestling is not new for the Tennessee Soldier-Athletes require command ap- National Guard Soldier. proval before they can be considered. Re- “I started wrestling in eighth grade in viewing officials include All Army Sports New Jersey. I wrestled junior varsity and was staff and the Army Coaches of each desig- the only New Jersey individual state qualifi- nated sport. They consider the applicant’s er from my school that year,” he said. Lamb background, past performances, athletic comes from a military family and moved awards and sports standards. Applicants often growing up. “My senior year, we were have the opportunity to supplement their transferred to Beaufort, SC, where I placed applications with newspaper articles, letters second in the state, losing to a wrestler I had of recommendation, award certificates or beaten eight times during the season.” other forms of support. Lamb joined the Navy in 1991 and was “Typically, you are required to have placed stationed in Newport, RI, where he initially in high level tournaments a the FILA Cadet, applied to be part of the All Navy team. Juior and/or Senior level. NCAA Division “While waiting to be accepted, I entered 1, 2, and 3 placements are also considered,” Lamb (Right) wrestling and won numerous freestyle and Greco-Ro- said Lamb. “Based on my past performanc- with the All Army Wrestling man tournaments on the east coast,” he said. es and experiences, the All Army coach, Team. (Courtesy Photo) “This culminated with winning an AAU Shon Lewis, decided to bring me to camp Greco-Roman Grand National title and once again. He wrestled for the Army while placing third in freestyle.” I was on the Navy team, so we have known Women); Triathlon (Men and Women); After attending his first All Navy camp, each other for quite a few years.” Indoor Volleyball (Men and Women); and his Greco career took off. Training is rigorous for the athletes. Ap- Wrestling (Men and Women). “After my first camp, my coach, Rob Her- plicants must have graduated Basic Training Lamb is heading to Korea in October mann, sent me to the Olympic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to participate in the Council International Center in Colorado Springs,” where he said and at an actual duty assignment. Active Sport Military (CISM) World Games. he may be training for the next Olympic tri- duty officers must have graduated their basic “It is very similar to the Olympic games... als also. “It’s exciting, but ultimately tough. course and be assessed. the competition level is very high,” Lamb Knowing you have the chance to represent Lamb said he most likes being able to said. “Most countries have a mandatory mil- your country and your branch of service in represent his fellow Soldiers, the Army, and itary requirement, so their best athletes will the highest profile sports event in the world his country in domestic and foreign com- be there representing their respective na- is awesome.” petition. “I would encourage any Soldier tions as well.” All Army Sports is a short-term oppor- interested in All Army sports to pursue “The biggest lesson I have learned from tunity that may last between four days or up their dreams,” he said. “The program is not my time in the sport is to embrace and enjoy to three months, depending on your sport easy--qualifying and being invited is the the process,” he added. “Take care of the day and whether you’re selected for higher com- first step. Once you are in the camp, you are to day business, the small things, and the big petition. It is not a change in Military Oc- training with the best athletes in the coun- picture will come together.” cupation Specialty or Permanent Change of try. It’s well worth the effort.” For more information about All Army Station. The following sports are currently being Sports, email usarmy.jbsa.imcom-hq. Participants in the All Army Sports Pro- offered: Army Ten Miler (Men and Women); [email protected] or call 210- gram are called Soldier-Athletes because Basketball (Men and Women); Boxing (Men 466-1337. Applications for an All Army they must be Soldiers first and outstanding and Women); Bowling (Men and Wom- Sport are available at https://apps.imcom. athletes second. Soldier-Athletes must ap- en); Cross-Country (Men and Women); army.mil/apptracmain. ply to be selected for the All Army program. Golf (Men and Women); Marathon (Men - MASTER SGT. ROBIN BROWN They represent the Army in Armed Forces and Women); Rugby 7’s (Men and Wom- Sports Championships and national and in- en); Soccer (Men and Women); Softball ternational competitions. (Men and Women); Taekwondo (Men and

25 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3 September 10 - 13, 2015 Nashville, Tenn. Find out more information at www.ngaus.org

26 VSG MAGAZINE VOL.15 | ISSUE 3