TAG visits National Honor Crisis City troops in Guard team shows off its Kosovo . . . .2 competition is facilities . . .10 demanding . . .7 PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian

Volume 53 No. 1 Serving the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, Kansas Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol February 2010 State budget shortfalls force closure of 18 armories Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant general, recently announced the names of “This was a difficult deci- the communities where 18 of 56 Kansas sion, but we had little National Guard armories will close in Feb- ruary 2010 due to state budget cuts. choice as the state budget Armories slated to be closed are in was reduced and we con- Atchison, Burlington, Chanute, Cherryvale, Council Grove, Fort Scott, Garden City, sidered what would be Garnett, Goodland, Horton, Kingman, necessary for long-term Larned, Phillipsburg, Russell, Sabetha, sustainment of armory op- Salina (East Armory), Troy and Winfield. The Salina East building will remain open erations statewide.” for Guard use, but armory operations will Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting be transferred to other armories. Armory personnel, community leaders, the adjutant general legislators and congressional staff affected by the impacted armories, as well as all necessary for long-term sustainment of ar- Adjutant General Department staff, were mory operations statewide,” said Bunting. notified prior to the public announcement. “When you factor in maintenance, re- Budget cuts and the need for long-term pairs and utilities, the real annual cost of sustainment of operations force closures keeping the remaining 38 armories open is The decision to close the facilities and $2.95 million,” Bunting explained. “We’ve consolidate operations into 38 existing lo- been getting about $1.7 million for those cations was the result of state budget cuts 38 armories. Due to this shortfall we’ve announced in the governor’s budget reduc- had to defer maintenance for decades, re- Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general, and Brig. Gen. John Davoren, assis- tion package on Nov. 23, 2009, and is nec- quiring us to take out millions in bonds to tant adjutant general - Army and commander of the Kansas Army National Guard, essary for long-term sustainment of armory bring armories up to a usable standard.” announced the closure of 18 armories across the state, a move necessitated by short- operations. “If funding continues at this reduced falls in the state budget. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson) “This was a difficult decision, but we level, the Guard will be forced to seek fu- had little choice as the state budget was re- ture bonds for renovations or make addi- Personnel and financial impact A total of 29 full-time Guard staff and 412 duced and we considered what would be tional armory cuts,” said Bunting. All National Guard personnel working at traditional/M-day Guard Soldiers will be im- these 18 facilities will be transferred to pacted by the consolidation. Traditional/M- other armory locations. Training, equip- day Soldiers are those who train one Second Kansas Agribusiness ment and other items needed to continue weekend a month and two weeks a year. Development Team deploys operations will also be relocated. (Continued on Page 8) A joint Kansas Army and Air National Kansas Regional Training Center in Salina Air Guard Engineers help Guard team of approximately 60 personnel and was attended by a standing room only was honored during a ceremony on Jan. 14, crowd of family and friends. as the second Kansas team deployed to “I knew this place would be packed and provide disaster relief in Haiti Afghanistan as an Agribusiness Develop- it is,” observed Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, As part of their annual two-week train- “Within a short time of a ceremony to ment Team. Kansas adjutant general. “I knew our fami- ing requirement, 48 members of Topeka’s send Soldiers and Airmen to a critical mis- The 11 a.m. ceremony was held at the lies would be here.” 190th Air Refueling Wing deployed to sion in Afghanistan we get another mis- The team, under the leadership of Col. Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to assist with sev- sion,” said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas Mike Dittamo, will take over for the first eral base construction projects Jan. 4. adjutant general. “This is what we do and it Kansas ADT team which deployed in However, following the disaster in Haiti, is an honor to be called upon to support this. March 2009 and returns this spring. 190th personnel began assessing personnel Our Guardsmen are prepared to do whatever Bunting praised the ADT, noting the and equipment for providing disaster relief is necessary to help the victims in Haiti.”

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Soldiers of the Kansas National Guard Agribusiness Development Team #2 2800 Topeka Blvd. 2800 Topeka

OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL await the start of the ceremony honor- Adjutant General of Kansas Topeka, Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka, Penalty For Private Use, $300

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY THE OF DEPARTMENT ing them as they prepare to deploy for NATIONAL GUARD OF KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL a one-year mission to Afghanistan. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Tim Traynor, Airmen from the 190th Civil Engineering Squadron set up tents near Guantanamo

DEPARTMENT AND AIR OF THE ARMY FORCE DEPARTMENT Public Affairs Office) Bay, Cuba, to be used for Haitian relief operations. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Angela Brees) Page 2 Plains Guardian • February 2010 Adjutant general visits Kansas troops serving in Kosovo By Sgt. 1st Class David Dodds The commander of the Kansas National “From what I have seen Guard took time recently to personally over the last few days, the thank his state’s Citizen-Soldiers, who are here beginning an important NATO peace- Soldiers here understand keeping mission. their task and are per- Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant general, spent two days in Kosovo, visiting forming well.” troops from the Sunflower State and hold- Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting ing meetings with leaders of Multi-Na- Kansas adjutant general tional Task Force-East, part of NATO’s KFOR 12 Kosovo Forces peacekeeping op- erations in Kosovo. “From what I have seen over the last few The general was an honored guest of the days, the Soldiers here understand their 231st Maneuver Task Force, which has task and are performing well.” about 20 Soldiers from the 2nd Combined Also, during his stay in Kosovo, Bunting Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry, headquar- toured areas around Camp Bondsteel, the tered in Kansas City. The Kansas Soldiers main U.S. KFOR base, including a stop in and members of the North Dakota-based the city of Gjilan/Gnjilan, where he met up 231st have come together seamlessly to with Capt. Darren Koberlein, commander form one unit, working with Kosovo peo- of the Kansas force in Kosovo. ple and institutions to maintain safety, se- “The Soldiers from Kansas and all the curity and freedom of movement. Soldiers serving in Kosovo are performing Bunting ate meals with the Kansas-based their mission to the highest degree. It is my Soldiers, along with Brig. Gen. Al pleasure to lead this disciplined and well- Dohrmann, commander of MNTF-E; and Lt. trained team,” said Dohrmann. Capt. Darren Koberlein, of Kansas City, Kan., shows various points of interest to Col. Lee Nordin and Command Sgt. Maj. The Soldiers began their mission in Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant general, on top of “Memorial Hill,” an Joel Walsvik, respectively, commander and Kosovo on Nov. 14, after approximately two overlook of Gnjilane/Gjilan, Kosovo. (Photo by Spc. Joshua Dodds) senior enlisted leader of the 231st. months of training in Indiana and Germany. State Command Sgt. Maj. Scott W. Ha- Multinational Task Force - East is a U.S. worth, Kansas National Guard senior en- led task force commanded by Dohrmann. listed adviser; Chaplain (Col.) Donald This task force is comprised of nearly 2,200 Davidson, Kansas state chaplain; and Soldiers, including Task Force Hellas and Chaplain (1st. Lt.) Brock Sailer, 231st Task Force POL/UKR (Polish/Ukraine). The chaplain; also joined the generals for meals charter mission of MNTF-E is maintaining a with the troops. safe and secure environment and providing “They are disciplined, well focused and freedom of movement for the people in have great leadership,” Bunting said. Kosovo. Deployed unit completes Weapons Qualification and Army Warrior Training in Sinai By Spc. Lori Hudson, UPAR combat lifesaving, land navigation, squad 250th Forward Support Company survival, and MFO specific skills. The Soldiers of the 250th Forward Support training and evaluation was platoon-driven Company completed Individual Weapons and an opportunity for the squad leaders to Qualification and Army Warrior Task train- hone their leadership skills as well. State Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Haworth (right) talks with Spc. Timothy Stewart ing Nov. 12-14, 2009, as part of their over- “This was a great training event where during a dinner on Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo. (Photo by Spc. Joshua Dodds) seas training in the Sinai Peninsula. The Soldiers were able to qualify with their as- 250th, headquartered in Ottawa with detach- signed weapon and accomplish Army War- ments in Burlington, Clay Center and Sa- rior Tasks,” explained Capt. Daniel Agribusiness Development Team betha, is deployed with about 300 other Mehlhaff, commander of the 250th FSC. Continued from Page 1 present. I have faith and confidence that the Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field “The trainers were prepared and kept the proud 154-year history of the Kansas Na- ag team will be more than capable of carry- Artillery in support of the Multinational audience interested.” tional Guard. ing the day in Afghanistan and excelling.” Force and Observers. The mission is an in- The unit utilized the entire Spellmann “Few people can do what we do and ADT # 2 will work in conjunction with ternational peacekeeping force overseeing Range area on South Camp and completed a even fewer actually choose to do it,” said the Provincial Reconstruction Team, U.S. the terms of the peace treaty signed between great number of requirements while on the Bunting. “These right here are the finest of Agency for International Development, De- Egypt and Israel in 1979. This is the 53rd MFO. Training was culminated with a Sim- Kansas, the finest of America. You won’t partment of Agriculture, the State Depart- Multinational Force and Observers mission ulated Training Exercise for certification. go anywhere in your life and see any better ment and other agencies in Afghanistan’s the United States has supported. “Overall this was a very successful event Soldiers or Airmen than around this room Laghman Province to assist in building ca- The unit combined classroom and lane that we will continue to use in the future,” and particularly this ag development team.” pabilities for increased agricultural produc- training to execute doctrinal exercises in said Mehlhaff. Bunting also acknowledged the support tion, training and services, and improving of Guard families. the safety of food and other agricultural “We serve—we’ve done it for 154 products that are produced and distributed to years—and we’ll do it for 154 more be- the Afghan people. They will also assist in cause of the great people like you, the fam- the development of sustainable agriculture ilies,” said Bunting. “I salute each and and other related enterprises. every one of you.” “With sword or plow, that’s our motto,” said Dittamo. “It’s meant to evoke an image that dates back to the famous citizen soldier of ancient Rome, Cincinnatus, who was twice called literally from plowing his fields to take charge of the Roman army and defend the city-state.” “It evokes an allusion to the Bible,” he continued, “where the idea of beating one’s sword into a plowshare, moving to- ward peace.” Dittamo said that although the focus of the mission “is simply to help the Afghans help themselves through the improvement of the agricultural economy,” the ADT also “...retains a strong sword able to defend against and defeat our enemies.” Col. Michael Dittamo (right) and Sgt. “These Soldiers are ready,” said Dittamo, Maj. Dennis Holder, accept a Kansas “these Airmen are ready. They’re ready as flag from Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting to fly Soldiers of the 250th Forward Support Company take part in a Squad Survival Citizen Soldiers in the tradition of Cincin- over their headquarters in Afghanistan. Skills exercise while deployed to Sinai, Egypt, as part of a Multinational Observer natus, the Minutemen of Lexington and (Photo by Staff Sgt. Tim Traynor, Public Force. (Photo by Spc. Lori Hudson, UPAR) Concord, of the National Guard past and Affairs Office) February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Rodina steps down as State Command Sergeant Major By Maj. Mike Wallace 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment “Command Sergeant Kansas National Guard State Command Major Rodina’s outstand- Sgt. Maj. Stephen Rodina, a 1968 Bishop ing performance and Ward High School graduate and Kansas City native, stepped down from his post as dedication to duty are in the Kansas senior enlisted advisor for the keeping with the highest Joint Forces Headquarters on Dec. 5, 2009. traditions of military The retirement ceremony coincided with a change of authority at the Topeka Nickell service and reflect great Armory, where Command Sgt. Maj. Scott credit on him, the Kansas Haworth, Pratt, assumed Rodina’s duties. Army National Guard, and At the ceremony Rodina was awarded the prestigious Legion of Merit from the the United States Army.” Secretary of the Army. Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting, the adjutant the adjutant general general, who presented the award, said, “Command Sergeant Major Rodina was my battle buddy for many years. We’ve travelled as an infantry first sergeant, a military police the world together and he deserves this medal first sergeant, command sergeant major of for his exceptionally meritorious service the 169th Support Battalion, command ser- while serving in various positions of increas- geant major of the 69th Troop Command, ing responsibility throughout a distinguished concluding with nine years in service as the career spanning more than 41 years.” state command sergeant major. Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting (right), Kansas adjutant general, and Command Sgt. Maj. “Command Sergeant Major Rodina’s The state command sergeant major is the Scott Haworth (left) present a replica of an 1860 Army pistol to State Command Sgt. character and energy motivated his subordi- senior enlisted leader and advisor to the ad- Maj. Stephen Rodina (center) during Rodina’s retirement ceremony in Topeka. nate non-commissioned officers and estab- jutant general and the Joint Forces Head- (Photo by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) lished a reputation for excellence in Soldier quarters for all of the administrative, Emergency Duty Service Ribbon with one tion, meritorious Unit Commendation, Re- care,” Bunting said. “His enforcement of training, morale and welfare matters of all device, and the Kansas National Guard public of Vietnam Civil Action Medal with standards is the cornerstone of excellence enlisted Soldiers, Airmen, and their families. Service Medal with one device. Unit palm device and the Republic of Vietnam within the command and set the example for He has oversight of promotion boards and awards include the Navy Unit Commenda- Cross of Gallantry with palm device. all to emulate. Command Sergeant Major recommends senior non-commissioned offi- Rodina’s outstanding performance and dedi- cers for positions of greater responsibility. Haworth assumes role of State cation to duty are in keeping with the highest Rodina also served in civilian law en- traditions of military service and reflect great forcement, retiring as a Kansas Highway Command Sergeant Major credit on him, the Kansas Army National Patrol trooper. He earned an associate’s de- By Maj. Mike Wallace and welfare matters of all enlisted Soldiers, Guard, and the United States Army.” gree from Barton County Community Col- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Airmen and their families. He will also re- President Barack Obama and Kansas lege and enjoys a love for horses, dogs, hot Command Sgt. Maj. Scott W. Haworth, spond to the concerns of civilian and con- Governor Mark Parkinson sent letters of rods and motorcycles. Pratt, assumed the duties as the Kansas tractor employees of the command and congratulations to Rodina. The President Rodina is the son of the late Edward B. senior enlisted leader for the Joint Forces perform community outreach activities. He gave personal thanks and sincere apprecia- and Frances C. Rodina. His mother and Headquarters when has oversight of promotion boards and rec- tion for all of Rodina’s contributions to the two sons, Jake and Nick, and their wives he was investured ommends senior non-commissioned offi- U.S. military. Parkinson thanked Rodina and children, as well as siblings and other as the state com- cers for positions of greater responsibility. for the monumental effort, saying Rodina relatives attended the retirement ceremony. mand sergeant “Command Sergeant Major Haworth has left a lasting impression on those with Rodina’s other military awards include major for the some big shoes to fill, but I am completely whom he served. the Meritorious Service Medal with oak Kansas National confident that he is the right Soldier for the “It has been my honor and privilege to leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal Guard during a job,” said Kansas Adjutant General Maj. serve as the senior enlisted leader of the with three oak leaf clusters, Army Achieve- ceremony held at Gen. Todd M. Bunting. “I don’t think that Kansas National Guard for the last nine ment Medal with oak leaf cluster, Navy the Nickell Armory anyone else could be as capable and ready years,” said Rodina. “I thank former Adju- and Marine Corps Achievement medal with in Topeka on Sat- for the position.” tant General Maj. Gen. Greg Gardner and combat “V” device, Marine Corps Good urday, Dec. 5, Throughout his years in the Guard, Ha- current Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tod Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Compo- 2009. The event worth has had two deployments, once to Bunting for giving me the opportunity to nents Achievement Medal, National De- Command Sgt. Maj. coincided with a Bosnia in 2003, where he was the opera- lead the greatest Soldiers and Airmen in the fense Service Medal, Armed Forces Scott Haworth retirement cere- tions sergeant, and once to Iraq in 2008, world. I also thank my warriors, peers, Reserve Medal, Vietnam Service Medal mony for the outgoing senior enlisted where he was the National Guard Affairs leaders and my family for their support.” with three campaign devices, NCO Profes- leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Rod- senior enlisted advisor. His previous as- The day celebrated Rodina’s 41 years of sional Development Ribbon, Army Service ina, who held the position for nine years. signments include Battery B, 1st Battalion, military service, which began with four years Ribbon, Overseas Training Ribbon, Repub- “I feel extremely fortunate and greatly 161st Field Artillery; Battery C, 1st Battal- in the Marine Corps as a military policeman, lic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Kansas honored to have been selected for this posi- ion, 127th Field Artillery; 35th Division including a one-year tour of duty in Vietnam National Guard Medal of Excellence, tion,” said Haworth, a 1978 graduate of Artillery; 35th Division; Headquarters, 1st in 1970. Rodina’s military career progressed Kansas Meritorious Service Ribbon, State Pratt High School and a member of the Battalion, 161st Field Artillery; 69th Troop Kansas Army National Guard for 30 years. Command and Joint Forces Headquarters “I am excited and ready to serve the Sol- Land Component-Kansas. Online and up-to-date diers and Airmen of the Kansas National Haworth has been married to Pamela Sue Guard as their senior enlisted leader.” Haworth for more than 28 years. They have As state command sergeant major, Ha- four children and four grandchildren. worth will be the senior enlisted leader and Haworth has attended numerous military advisor to the adjutant general and JFHQ schools and he has also attended Pratt for all the administrative, training, morale Community and Barton County Colleges. Adjutant general renews joint training agreement with Fort Riley Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant Kansas National Guard liaison office at general, and Maj. Gen. Vincent K. Fort Riley, exploring options for expand- Brooks, commanding general of the 1st ing Military Occupational Skill and Non- Infantry Division and Fort Riley, signed a commissioned Officer Education System renewal of a Joint Training Cooperative courses by Fort Riley Soldiers at the Agreement Jan. 5, 2010. Kansas Regional Training Institute in The renewed agreement includes some Salina and exploring opportunities to new provisions detailing cooperative conduct Defense Support of Civil Author- training at the Great Plains Joint Training ities training at Great Plains Joint Train- Center in Salina. These new provisions ing Center. include plans to work together on Un- “This new agreement will enhance the manned Aerial Systems, a Forward Oper- training opportunities for both the Kansas ating Base at the Great Plains Joint National Guard and the Soldiers at Fort (From the left) Pfc. Daniel High, Spc. Michael Mize and Sgt. Maj. Rick Matticks Training Center in Salina, facilitating the Riley,” said Bunting. “Our mutual re- Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, use staging of military aircraft at Salina Mu- sponsibility of protecting the lives and computer kiosks to update their files on Army Knowledge Online, such as peri- nicipal Airport, training on tactical opera- safety of the people of the United States odic health assessments or their civilian employers information during drill tions center technology, expanding mandates that we do everything we can to weekend. These computers are available for use by Soldiers during drill week- cooperation on training aides and de- ensure we’re training and fighting as one end and normal armory operating hours throughout the week. (Photo by Staff vices, exploring options for opening a team.” Sgt. Larry Coltharp) Page 4 Plainly Speaking Plains Guardian • February 2010 Facing our challenges at home and abroad By Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting Unfortunately, our budget situation is not Kansas with record-breaking snowfall and The Adjutant General We understand it’s emo- expected to get better anytime soon and the ongoing cases of H1N1 flu. So far, we’ve We recently made an extremely difficult that’s why we are looking at additional ar- had one state disaster declaration for snow. decision to close tional for many to see ar- mory closures beyond the first 18. Our state H1N1 vaccine arrived prior to an anticipated 18 of our 56 ar- mories close in a budget for maintenance and repair of ar- peak of cases in February. Unfortunately, 27 mories due to re- community... but we must mories dropped from more than $800,000 to Kansans have lost their lives from H1N1. cent state budget just over $200,000 in the past decade. We Everyone must remain diligent in the fight cuts; however, it make the best use of our simply can’t keep these facilities going with- against the flu. If you haven’t received the was an issue we’d existing funds and ensure out the funds to support them. vaccine, make time to get it. been considering the mission of the Kansas Our Guard members are deployed in many Recently, I welcomed Command Sgt. for some time be- locations around the world today. The most Maj. Scott Haworth on staff and wished the cause of budget National Guard is recent deployment was Jan. 22 when more best to a long-time friend and battle buddy, reductions that fulfilled.... than 40 Kansas Air Guardsmen from the Command Sgt. Maj. Steve Rodina, who have been on- 184th Intelligence Wing and the 190th Air has served his country well for more than going for several Refueling Wing Civil Engineering 41 years. I’m excited for Steve’s opportu- Maj. Gen. years. Future ture bonds for renovations. Squadrons flew to Haiti from Cuba, where nity to relax and ride his Harley after all of Tod M. Bunting budget cuts are of Our decision regarding which armories some had spent annual training. The unex- his many efforts in caring for our warriors great concern to us as Kansas continues to to close incorporated a number of factors, pected 120-day deployment involves con- through the years. I’m pleased to have project shortfalls. Given this, we had to of which two key ones were the number of struction of a living area for disaster victims. Scott stepping into his shoes to continue take these steps in order to ensure we are Soldiers drilling at an armory and consoli- In January, approximately 60 Kansas his successful work. able to properly maintain our existing ar- dation of operations in the most effective Army and Air Guard members of the state’s We do many good things in the Kansas mories for the Guard and the community. and efficient means. In many cases, ar- second Agri-Business Development Team Adjutant General’s Department for our The real cost to keep the remaining 38 mories have fewer than 30 Soldiers drilling left for Afghanistan. They will take over for communities, and often we do it without armories open annually is $2.95 million for there, but they were built for 150. And in the first team Kansas sent over a year ago. thinking about it. It’s just what we do. maintenance, repairs and utilities. Actual some areas, armories are only 15 to 30 The focus of their efforts is to assist Afghan However, I’d like to draw your attention to funding received for 38 armories has only miles apart, so it made sense to combine farmers in improving agricultural tech- a “thank you” letter on this page which re- been around $1.7 million or a $1.25 million facilities. We understand it’s emotional for niques through a partnership between the minds us of the type of impact each of us shortfall. Due to this shortfall, we’ve had to many to see armories close in a commu- Guard and Kansas State University. can have on our community by simply defer maintenance for decades, requiring nity, as it is for the Kansas Guard leader- Over the winter holidays, I was blessed doing our jobs. In this case, it was the Fu- us to take out millions in bonds over the ship, but we must make the best use of our by a visit to members of our 2nd Combined neral Honors Team that brought apprecia- last decade to bring armories up to a usable existing funds and ensure the mission of Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry in Kosovo tion, but next time it may be a Family standard. If funding continues at a reduced the Kansas National Guard is fulfilled both and the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery Readiness Group worker helping a Sol- level, we will again be required to seek fu- here at home and globally. in the Sinai. I’m proud of each and every dier’s spouse, an emergency management one of them as they remained strong staff assisting after a disaster or one of our Soldier to Soldier through the holidays, despite not getting to orientation flights for an ROTC student be with family. It’s a tremendous sacrifice that impacts our community. Let’s remem- Four vital traits for NCOs and one our families also make. I thank ber that each of us, by doing our jobs well, you for your dedication and service. is touching the lives of Kansans and be- By Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel Rubio right Soldiers the right things and recom- This winter has been a difficult one in yond. Keep up the good work. 635th Regional Support Group mend the best Soldiers for promotion and re- Let me start off by sharing with you a tention. The only good way to prepare good quote from Sgt. Soldiers to become noncommissioned offi- Deal with problems immediately Maj. Glen E. Mor- cers is to place them in leadership positions By Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 communication. rell, the seventh and increase their responsibility according to Mark Jensen It’s important to address these types of Sergeant Major of their ability. This process takes time and pa- I wanted to take a moment in this edi- concerns as soon as possible and not per- the Army, who tience. ...Noncommissioned officers make tion of the Plains Guardian to discuss mit them to cause unnecessary difficulty. said: “Identifying noncommissioned officers.” some of the re- A wise man once told me that bad news good Soldiers — I want to remind our NCOs and Soldiers cent difficulties does not get better with time and I can potential leaders — of a few items that I have found to be true encountered by certainly validate that through many and turning them in my career that we need to be aware of to warrant officers years of experience. Please consider con- into noncommis- be successful NCOs and leaders. in our system. tacting the command chief if you have sioned officers is a Army Regulations define the role of the I’ve recently such issues and please make that effort complex process. noncommissioned officer, the NCO Guide Command Sgt. Maj. been engaged by before the issues become real problems. The bottom line is (FM 7-22.7), lists the skills, knowledge and Manuel Rubio several young I am a staunch advocate of the chain of simple, however: attitudes of each grade, and the NCO Creed warrant officers command and always defer to that Weed out the poor performers, teach the (Continued on Page 5) to assist them in process, but should you feel that process resolving prob- has failed, always remember that I’m lems with things available for consultation, as are the in- With deepest appreciation from Officer Command Chief spector general and equal opportunity of- On Dec. 3, your officers and men pro- older veterans like my father, and my sister Evaluation Re- Warrant Officer 5 ficer, both very effective tools designed Mark Jensen vided Military Honors at the funeral of and I were delighted when we learned that ports to school to assist you. The Warrant Officer Corps my father, Leonard Barker Jr., in Sumner even with such short notice, your Honor qualifications to in Kansas is exceptional and has the re- Cemetery, Atchison, Kan. Guard would be able to be there. personal issues in dealing with both su- spect of the adjutant general and com- My father, 91, was a combat veteran of Your team performed their duties with pervisors and subordinates. I wanted to mand staff. World War II, serving overseas for more deep respect and true professionalism and tell each of you as warrant officers that I Remember, if you feel in your gut that than two years in the 6th Army, 414 Truck I am sure my mother was standing there consider it part of my responsibility to something is wrong with what is happen- Battalion, in the invasions of New Guinea smiling as her husband of 69 years was help you resolve these problems and ing around you and you can’t find a way to and the Philippines, and received two put to rest so he and her can now be to- with the support of the command and ex- change it, take the time to find the help you bronze stars for operations under fire. Like gether forever. I was only able to briefly ecutive staff, I assure you most issues need to improve our system. It’s your right most of us that have seen war first hand, thank your team, but I would like every- can be positively impacted with a little and your responsibility as a warrant officer. he seldom spoke of the horrors he had one involved with this program to know seen, but instead related the good times he how much it meant to our family for the remembered while serving with other Military Honor Guard to be there on that brave young Americans of that time. My very cold windy day. PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian mother, who passed in 2005, had suffered Sir, I would also like to express my per- The PLAINS GUARDIAN is published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Guard. The editorial content through those terrible years of him over- sonal thanks to you, your men and your of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Officer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN are not necessar- ily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Department. News, features, seas and had always told my sister and I families for serving in our countries mili- photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. All photos must be high res- that she would like to have the VFW or tary, especially in such difficult times. I olution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertisement will be accepted, nor will payment be made for contributions. American Legion at his funeral to honor truly know how demanding it is on our The deadline for all submission is the first Wednesday of the month: February, April, June, August, October and December. Submissions his service, if at all possible. Soldiers of today and on their families. may be e-mailed to Jane Welch ([email protected]). From the time I was little I can remember With my father serving in World War II, I Circulation: Approximately 15,500 going to this same cemetery on Memorial serving in Vietnam, my younger son in his Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Office

Day to decorate graves, and for many of the seventh year with the U.S. Air Force and Commander-in-Chief Public Affairs Office later years, when my own family and I ac- my late father-in-law having been career Gov. Mark Parkinson Director companied my parents to Sumner, the local Army, I can truly say that only those of us Adjutant General of Kansas Sharon Watson 785-274-1192 Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting Assistant Director VFW would honor our war dead by setting who have served know the high price of Stephen D. Larson 785-274-1194 the flag to half staff and playing Taps. freedom. Thank you again for honoring Editor Sharon Watson There is something almost religious about my father and may God Bless and keep Administrative Assistant Production/Graphics/Writer Jane Welch 785-274-1190 the sound of a bugle playing Taps on a cold safe your entire command and their fami- Stephen D. Larson FAX 785-274-1622 e-mail: [email protected] winter morning and those memories rushed lies in the coming years. Production Assistant back Thursday morning as your men hon- Jane Welch ored my father. I had not been aware that With the deepest appreciation, The Plains Guardian may be read online at such an Honor Guard was available for Leonard W. Barker and Family http://www.Kansas.gov/ksadjutantgeneral/Library/Plains Guardian current issue.pdf For change of address, contact Jane Welch. February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 5 Battalion conducts successful Ask annual training at Fort Irwin By Spc. Sharon Smart an active duty company stationed at Fort 169th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion Irwin, Calif.; 266th Ordinance Company, a the The 169th Combat Sustainment Support Reserve unit from Puerto Rico, and the Battalion conducted their 2009 annual 2123rd Transportation Company (Pal- training at the National Training Center, letized Loading System), a National Guard TAG Calif. The 169th CSSB conducted their company from Kentucky. doctrinal mission as a unit “in the box” at Lt. Col. Thomas Foster, battalion com- NTC and supported the 3rd Heavy Brigade mander, said “This was a perfect venue for Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division from our battalion headquarters. We were able to DD-214 now available online Fort Benning, Ga. conduct our mission and command and con- Is it possible to get a copy of my DD- ments must still complete the Standard The 169th CSSB’s primary missions at trol units from every component, just like we 214 any way other than going to the Form 180, which can be downloaded NTC were to maintain a Forward Operat- would have to do deployed.” records office in Topeka or the National from the online Web site. ing Base and support the delivery of nu- The battalion received training in operat- Personnel Records Center? Because the requester will be asked to merous classes of supply to the 3/3 HBCT. ing in a contemporary operating environ- The National Personnel Records Center supply all information essential for NPRC The battalion commanded and controlled ment, Iraq-specific cultural and language has provided the following Web site for to process the request, delays that normally four companies totaling approximately 450 skills, individual warrior tasks, the Com- veterans to gain access to their DD-214s occur when NPRC has to ask veterans for Soldiers during the rotation. mand Post of the Future and Battle Com- online: http://vetrecs.archives.gov additional information will be minimized. The battalion had units from the National mand Sustainment Support System. This may be particularly helpful when a The new Web-based application was de- Guard, Reserves and Active duty as part of The battalion conducted a very success- veteran needs a copy of his DD-214 for signed to provide better service on these re- their structure. These units were the 872nd ful training, proving that a rotational CSSB employment purposes. NPRC is working quests by eliminating the records centers Maintenance Company, a Reserve unit with appropriate subordinate companies to make it easier for veterans with comput- mailroom and processing time. from Ogden, Utah; 2nd Transportation could sustain a brigade. This is an impor- ers and Internet access to obtain copies of ** ** ** Company (Heavy Equipment Transport), tant test that NTC wanted to learn. documents from their military files. Send your question(s)by email to Military veterans and the next of kin of [email protected] or by mail to deceased former military members may the Adjutant General’s Public Affairs Of- 226th Engineer Company sets now use the new online military person- fice, Att: Sharon Watson, 2722 S. Topeka nel records system to request documents. Blvd., Room 108, Topeka KS 66611. Ques- off on the road to Afghanistan Other individuals with a need for docu- tions may be submitted anonymously. Approximately 170 Soldiers of the “We honor your service and your sacrifices Kansas National Guard were honored in because we know it takes a special person to Salina during a ceremony on Dec. 30, do what you do. It takes a person who under- 995th Maintenance Company supports 2009, as they prepared to deploy to stands sacrifices must be made for freedom, Maintenance Activity Kaiserslautern Afghanistan in support of Operation En- a person with skills and abilities to lend to during Freedom. keeping the peace. And a person who desires By Spc. Kevin Landers, UPAR The technical expertise that the 995th The Soldiers are from the 226th Engi- to ensure that the world is a safer place.” 995th Maintenance Company brought to the Maintenance Activity neer Company, headquartered in Augusta, “Kansas needs you, America needs you,” Members of the 995 Maintenance Com- Kaiserslautern was reciprocated in the and the 891st Engineer Battalion, head- said Findley, “and as always, you’re an- pany supported the War fighter at Mainte- hands-on experience the 995th received. quartered in Iola. The commander is Capt. swering our call.” nance Activity Kaiserslautern at The MAK placed several experienced Sol- Brian Henning. “We have trained, we have prepared our- Kaiserslautern Army Depot, Germany, dur- diers with their own less experienced me- “I was interviewing today and they said selves,” said Capt. Brian Henning, 226th ing their Overseas Deployment Training in chanics, allowing the exchange of valuable ‘What does this unit do?’,” said Maj. Gen. commander. “This has been something that August 2009. The Kaiserslautern Army training. A contingent of Soldiers sup- Tod Bunting, the adjutant general. “I said we have really put ourselves into... we are Depot is the largest maintenance and sup- ported the 5th Quartermaster, providing ‘They build things... They can tear the ready to go to (Fort) McCoy and we will be port facility in Europe. Over 2,000 major much needed technical assistance. heck out of stuff if they have to, but ready to go to Afghanistan.” end items are repaired through the facility “When we got there, the active duty Sol- mostly they build things. And we’re really The Soldiers deployed to Fort McCoy, each year. diers didn’t have a good handle on certain proud of them’.” Wis., for additional mission-specific train- The 995th operated its own shop office areas relating to generator repair,” said Sgt. “I love this unit’s motto,” Bunting con- ing and then on to Afghanistan. Their mis- and completed over 40 work orders with a Darby Lane. “But the more we worked tinued. “It says ‘We do what we do and all sion is to construct, repair and maintain total of 1,400 man-hours of production. with them, the more familiar they became.” you have to do is just say when’.” vertical infrastructures in support of sup- “You should know that all of us– your port brigades or engineer brigades within Soldier to Soldier friends, your neighbors, your state–we are all the Afghanistan theater, including construc- behind you,” said Lt. Gov. Troy Findley. tion of base camps and facilities. Noncommissioned officers Guardsmen come home from Iraq Continued from Page 4 nothing more than an unruly mob. is the guiding document on how we must Appearance and bearing. Looking like perform our duties. I strongly recommend and performing as a proud Soldier will that all enlisted Soldiers and NCOs dust off, serve you well. A Soldier who looks sharp, or if you don’t have one, get a copy of the displays confidence and takes the initiative NCO Guide. As it states in the manual’s for- will always be recognized as top performer. ward “Read this manual thoroughly. It will Sloppy Soldiers who can’t care for them- assist you in your growth as a leader of Sol- selves or display substandard behavior will diers” and all NCOs and future NCOs need not go very far in the military. to review, follow, know and be proud of the Remember that Soldiers are required to NCO Creed. It should be your guide in per- be physically fit and maintain body fat forming your duties. standards for their height and weight. The four traits noncommissioned officers Those who can’t meet the requirements and Soldiers need to strive to master, main- will be left behind in the promotion race tain and remember are: and could be separated from the service for Technical and tactical proficiency. All noncompliance. Soldiers should be proficient in their Military Professional and self development. Occupational Skill at their current grade and Coming to work, putting in a full day and skill level. Basic Soldier and job skills are doing the jobs assigned to you will not critical in assessing performance. This area alone ensure your success. The Army is a also includes Common Task Test, survival profession of arms. We have volunteered to skills and weapons qualification. A Soldier defend our country and our Constitution. who is not proficient in his job is a burden on Just as in any endeavor you desire to be Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ross England hugs his son, Cameron, at a welcome home the remainder of the unit and beyond certain good at, you must learn, study, train, and ceremony held in Salina for members of the 287th Sustainment Brigade. The unit grade levels should not be allowed to stay in continue to better yourself, both personally returned from their deployment to Iraq in September 2009. (Photo by Jane Welch) the military. Staying current in your job, and professionally. learning new skills and developing good Learning about the Army through read- Approximately 140 Kansas National plished and happy to have them back in the work habits are necessary to excel. ing – don’t forget to read field manuals, pe- Guard Soldiers of the 287th Sustainment U.S. with their families.” Functional discipline. Good Soldiers can riodicals and related military publications – Brigade were welcomed home Sept. 29, Approximately 75 Soldiers of the 287th be defined by their ability to react correctly classes and self-study are great ways to ex- 2009, after serving a year in Iraq support- Special Troop Battalion, 287th Sustainment in the absence of orders. A better way to de- pand your skills. ing Operation Iraqi Freedom. Soldiers of Brigade, were welcomed home in a cere- fine this is obeying rules when the boss is Being a Soldier is a rewarding experi- the 287th served as the logistical support mony held on Sept. 24. not around to look over your shoulder. ence. Each of us has personal reasons for for U.S. and Coalition forces in Iraq in The 287th Sustainment Brigade, head- Undisciplined Soldiers bring down a unit choosing this profession. However, as you their assigned area of operations. quartered in Wichita, is also made up of the and cause much grief among their peers. progress through your career, remember “It’s always a great day when we wel- 169th Combat Sustainment Support Battal- Rules and regulations are much a part of the why we do this: To give you the skills to come our Soldiers home,” said Maj. Gen. ion, 891st Engineer Battalion and the 287th military and Soldiers are expected to follow better train and prepare our Soldiers for the Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant general. Special Troop Battalion, as well as subordi- orders. Without discipline in a unit, it is ultimate battles they may face. “We’re proud of what they’ve accom- nate units in each battalion. Page 6 Plains Guardian • February 2010 Ribbon cutting marks opening Let’s eat out: 190th dining hall of Air National Guard facility closed for renovations By Staff Sgt. Emily Alley Those who return to the dining facility 190th Public Affairs after the renovation will experience an en- Put down your fork and grab a hardhat tirely different flow plan. Both the kitchen the next time you go to the 190th Air refu- and serving areas will change. The street eling Wing dining facility! east of the dining facility will be perma- Over the next year, the building will be nently closed and converted into a walk- gutted and renovated. way and outdoor dining area. Peterson and Lt. Col. Mark Green, armed with a mas- Green would like to make the entire facil- sive scroll of paper that illustrates the fu- ity more adaptable to the base’s needs; it ture floor plan, directs the project through could be used for meetings, and as a the 190th Civil Engineering Squadron, al- lounge for events such as family day. though the work will actually be completed “We want to encourage people to eat through contractors. He said about six here, and enjoy it,” said Green. years of planning have already been in- Several practical innovations will take vested towards this renovation. advantage of security and environmental Over the next year, Tech Sgt. Alike Pe- initiatives. Thanks to ground source heat, it terson and the Services Flight will have the will be more than 30 percent more energy responsibility to feed about 900 people efficient. every month without a kitchen, set dining Kitchen appliances will be updated and area or permanent office. new equipment will give younger services She thought about the strain on restau- members an opportunity to apply what rants that accept meal chits for lunch and they’ve learned in tech school. potential congestion at the front gate, but “The kids will probably have to show statistically only 60 percent of members those of us who’ve been around how to use who are eligible to eat at the dining hall it,” Peterson said. Members of the Kansas National Guard and local Salina dignitaries prepare to cut tend to take advantage of it. Four hundred The furniture is being donated to Army the ribbon marking the official opening of the 284th Air Support Operations unit members usually eat off base during units and being replaced with more modern Squadron headquarters, located on the Smoky Hill Weapons Range, Salina. (Photo drill weekends. tables and booths. by Staff Sgt. Tim Traynor, Public Affairs Office) Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant here in Salina.” general and director of Kansas Division of The 284th ASOS brings ground forces Emergency Management and Kansas and air forces together to conduct joint Homeland Security, hosted a ribbon cutting training and will be a key component to ceremony Oct. 1, 2009, for the headquar- joint military training operations at the ters for the Kansas Air Guard’s 284th Air Great Plains Joint Training Center. In addi- Support Operations Squadron at the Smoky tion, the ASOS can also provide communi- Hill Range in Salina. cations resources for homeland security “The opening of this facility also marks needs in Kansas during disaster response. the day we are officially standing up this Senator Sam Brownback secured $9 mil- new Kansas Guard unit,” Bunting said. lion dollars in funding for the ASOS’s new “The 284th Air Support Operations facility. McPherson Contractors, Inc., in Squadron is one of only 14 in the entire Air Topeka completed the facility in a little National Guard and we’re proud to have it over a year. His promotion was up in the air... and that’s good

Artist’s rendition of new 190th Air Refueling Wing dining facility. 184th Intelligence Wing team wins Race for the Cure event

Master Sgt. Nathan Neidhardt, a member of the Kansas National Guard’s 117th Air Refueling Squadron on assignment with the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, received his promotion to that rank in mid-flight during a mission in sup- port of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Lawrence Angelita) By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kapinos are not a lot of people who can say they took U.S. Air Forces Central Public Affairs off as a technical sergeant and landed as a The largest Intelligence Wing in the Air National Guard won the largest team Very rarely do flight orders, which list master sergeant.” competition at the Wichita Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on Sept. 26, the names and ranks of the aircrew, have to Neidhardt became that master sergeant 2009. This first-year team from the 184th Intelligence Wing at McConnell Air be altered in the middle of a mission. But during his pinning ceremony tens of thou- Force Base, Kan., placed first in a field of 245 local teams. on Sept. 25, an exception was made when sands of feet above the Afghan country- “As Guardsmen, we serve our state and community, and today that means cele- Tech. Sgt. Nathan Neidhardt was promoted side. He had just completed refueling a brating our fellow Kansans who have beat this disease,” said team member to master sergeant. Belgian F-16A Fighting Falcon and while Capt. Alyson Stockton. Instead of the standard pinning ceremony they waited for the next plane to arrive, he Nearly 130 Kansas Airmen and their friends and families registered to walk or done during a weekend training, the sergeant stood proudly at attention in front of the run a 5K or one mile race to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. An ad- wanted to do something different. American flag while the orders were read ditional 35 unit members provided parking support and barricade management “I wanted to make it memorable,” said by the aircraft commander promoting him for the race that curved through the residential neighborhood. In all, the team Neidhardt. “Everybody gets promoted in to his next rank. raised nearly $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. (Photo by Maj. front of their peers. I wanted to tell people Lt. Col. Ken Folger, acting deputy of op- DeAnn Barr) how, for me, it was special and unique. There (Continued on Page 13) February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 7 Army National Guard Honor Guard Team competition is demanding By Sgt. Adam Cloyd 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment In September, eight teams from Min- nesota, Tennessee, Oregon, Maine, Califor- nia, Maryland, Kansas and Idaho came together in Washington, D.C., to compete in the third annual Army National Guard Honor Guard National Competition. The in- tent of the competition is to recognize Sol- diers within the Military Funeral Honors program and continue to raise the tradition of excellence in the program. National Guard Military Funeral Honors teams have performed more than 100,000 services for fallen Soldiers this year. For these teams, tradition is a part of their stan- dard operating procedures. Members of the Kansas team that took part in the competition were Staff Sgt. Ben Aldridge, Staff Sgt. Jessie Brinker, Sgt. Jesse J. Lawrence, Sgt. Chase Taylor, Spc. Shawn Francis, Spc. Dru Payne, Spc. Kyle Simmons and Spc. Joseph Swann. Brinker, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 69th Troop Command, in Topeka, Kan., the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Kansas Funeral Honors team in this year’s competition, expressed his belief in the tradition when he said, “Without honoring our fallen Soldiers, America would not be what it is today.” “I served in Iraq and making sure no vet- eran has to take his final march alone is very important to me,” said Lawrence. Left: The Kansas National Guard Honor Guard stands at attention during a moment in the national competition. From the “Presenting the flag to the widow of a front are Spc. Shawn Francis, Spc. Kyle Simmons, Sgt. Jesse J. Lawrence, Spc. Joseph Swann, Sgt. Chase Taylor, Spc. Dru fallen brother is the greatest honor I’ve had Payne and Staff Sgt. Ben Aldridge. Right: Sgt. Jesse J. Lawrence, Company E, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry in my career.” Regiment, ensures the flag is properly folded prior to being presented. (Photos by Sgt. Adam Cloyd, 105th Mobile Public Af- For family members of fallen Soldiers, fairs Detachment) these traditions can stand as a reminder that just as they were part of a larger family • “I present this flag on behalf of a grate- task, once with the team members in posi- something new we can use to better our while their Soldier served, even in their ful nation for the honorable and faithful tions dictated by their team noncommis- performance as a team.” time of mourning they do not stand alone: service rendered for your loved one,” sioned officer in charge and once by the After an exhaustive day of competition, • The flag draped coffin, the field of blue said on bended knee in little more than a evaluators. the teams were all within single digit points draped over the left shoulder, is carried whisper, with a crisp salute to the flag. The evaluators, Justin Helton and Tim of each other. From the two-time winners feet first in the Soldier’s last march. For some National Guard Soldiers in the Ferrell, Army National Guard Honor Guard from Oregon to first-time competitors such • The crack of the rifle in the 21-gun competition, these traditions are a part of instructors at the National Guard Profes- as Kansas, all the teams served notice that salute can make even the most hardened their daily duties. sional Education Center, are no strangers to they had come prepared to represent the veteran twinge. The competition began with an in-ranks the tasks being performed by the teams. world’s most professional fighting force. • The sounding of Taps, since 1891, both Dress Blue Uniform inspection, an event Each is a former member of the 3rd In- On day two, after performing all morn- sobering and uplifting evokes a profound that would be repeated daily throughout the fantry Regiment, the Army’s “The Old ing, the competitors took an Army Physical sense of loss in those left behind, yet re- competition. Teams were judged on their Guard.” Fitness Test. Unlike other events of the minds them that they are joined by those execution of the six-Soldier casket detail “Each of the teams representing their re- week, this event provided a clear winner... who have heard the call in the past and and the seven-Soldier firing detail. gions have exceeded the high standards the almost. Kansans Lawrence, Company E, those that will hear it after they are gone. Each team was evaluated twice on each Army National Guard Military Funeral Hon- 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th In- ors program has established,” said Helton. fantry Regiment; and Taylor, Sniper De- The first day jitters were apparent as the tachment, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, Making another friend competitors left the field. Many teams could 137th Infantry Regiment, tied for first with be seen huddling after their turn, dissecting a time of 12:14 in the two-mile run event. what went right and what they needed to im- On day three, an in-ranks inspection for prove before their next iteration. grade was performed. By Army National But as Taylor of the Kansas team said, Guard Honor Guard standards, there are 171 “It’s about competing against the best, to inspection points on the Army Dress Blue learn from the best in the hope of learning (Continued on Page 11) Five inducted into Officer Candidate School Hall Of Fame By Spc. Angie M. Mooneyham was just doing my job and 35 years later 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment here I am.” Five Kansas National Guard officers Weaver attributes a lot of his achieve- were inducted into the Officer Candidate ments to having good family, friends and School Hall of Fame on Saturday, Aug. 22, subordinates working with him. at the Kansas Regional Training Institute, The Kansas National Guard OCS Hall of Salina, Kan. Fame was established in 2003 by retired This year’s inductees were retired Col. Col. Robert D. Bloomquist, former com- Everett R. Weaver, Topeka, OCS Class mander of the 235th Regiment. Its purpose XVI (1972); retired Col. Robert D. was to recognize outstanding military lead- Bloomquist, Topeka, OCS Class XXIII ers who have made significant contribu- (1979); retired Col. James E. Trafton, tions to the achievement, tradition or Kansas City, Kan., OCS Class XXVI history of the Kansas Army National Guard (1982); 1st Lt. Kerry E. Hess, Topeka and the Armed Forces of the United States. (killed in action in Vietnam) OCS Class To be considered for selection into the XII (1968); and 1st Lt. Arlen D. Richard- OCS Hall of Fame, officers must meet one A few weeks ago, Joe Hoelscher from the Lawrence-Douglas County Fire De- son, Lawrence (killed in a helicopter acci- of the following criteria: have attained the partment sent a care package to the members of the Kansas National Guard’s dent in Vietnam) OCS Class XII (1968). rank of colonel or higher, have been Agribusiness Development Team, currently serving in Afghanistan. Included in Weaver’s father-in-law, Dr. James awarded a Silver Star or higher award, the package was a soccer ball and instructions to give it to a deserving little boy Warn, Kansas City, Kan., is a member of were killed in action or died in a combat or girl in the area. A local man named Esal, who works on the local Mehtar Lam the Fort Benning, Ga., Infantry OCS Hall zone or were held prisoner of war. Research and Demonstration Farm, has two children who fit the bill. of Fame, which is the National OCS Hall When the OCS Hall of Fame was estab- “I was able to give this ball to them first thing this morning and make their of Fame. Weaver commented his father- lished, it was determined that the induction day!” said Lt. Col. Dirk A. Christian, deputy commander of the ADT. “I in-law is quite the accomplished man and ceremony would coincide with the cere- couldn’t believe the size of the smiles that instantly appeared.” (Photo by Spc. an inspiration. mony for the Officer Candidate School Richard Hansen, Agribusiness Development Team) “I never set out in my military career to graduates receiving their commissions as be someone outstanding,” said Weaver. “I second lieutenants. Page 8 Plains Guardian • February 2010 State budget shortfalls force closure of 18 armories Continued from Page 1 dresses additional cuts for next year’s to minimal standards.” Criteria for determining closures For several Soldiers, the changes will budget for a total of $264,217 for FY 2011. “Because we’ve been operating with so A comprehensive strategic analysis was mean a shorter drive to work. For some “The funding we would need to ade- much less than the required funds for so conducted to consider the closure of ar- others it will mean a longer drive. Prior to quately sustain these 18 armories we are many years prior to these state budget cuts, mories and consolidation of operations. It these closures, more than 52 percent of closing is approximately $1 million annu- we had been considering closures for some included location and proximity to other ar- Kansas Guardsmen lived within 50 miles ally,” said Bunting. “We need approxi- time,” he continued. “These cuts left us no mories, historical and projected demo- of their armory. After these closures, two mately $40,000 a year per armory for choice but to move forward with the con- graphic shifts in population, consolidation percent more of Kansas Guardsmen, for a maintenance and repairs and another solidation of our operations.” of operations, condition of current facilities total of 54 percent, will live within 50 $18,000 per armory for utilities. We’ve The Head Start Program is operating out and the potential to expand to accommo- miles of their armory, making it a shorter had to severely limit upkeep and repair of of the armories in Horton, Sabetha and Troy. date new mission requirements in the fu- drive to work. these facilities and wait for years until we Guard leadership will work with the commu- ture, required facility upgrades and Closing the 18 armories will cut $156,662 could get millions of dollars in bonds ap- nity regarding the program to ensure it can maintenance costs. Another factor included from the current fiscal year’s operating proved, then go back and perform mainte- continue operations at the armories for the ensuring a National Guard presence in each budgets to meet state requirements and ad- nance on these buildings just to get them remainder of its current school year. of the seven homeland security regions to Kansas Nat Topeka Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas TDA Battalion Armories in the cities marked JFHQ -Land Component 1979th Contrtact team in RED are slated to be 105th MPAD 1989th Contract team 137th Chaplain Spt Team USPFO closed between January and Rec and Ret Det Central Issue Facility June 2010. The units will be transferred to other armories. Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas - JFHQ - Air Component Land Component

Norton Smith Center 170th Maint Co (-) Phillipsburg 995th Maint Co (-) Det 1, 995th Maint Co

Cheyenne Smith Rawlins Decatur Norton Phillips Jewell

Goodland Colby Det 1, 170th Maint Co Det 2, 170th Maint Co

Mitchell

Rooks Osborne Sherman Thomas Sheriden Graham

287th Special Troops BnHays Russell HHD, 287th Special Troops Bn th Det 3, 170 Maint Co Lincoln Det 3, 731st Trans Co (Med Truck) Smo Det Wallace Logan Gove th Trego Ellis Russell 284

Ellsworth

Great Bend Rush Btry E (TA), 161st FA Greeley Wichita Scott Ness Lane Larned Barton Rice 731st Trans Co (-) (Med Truck)

635th Regional Supp Garden City Pawnee HHD, 635th Regiona Det 1, Btry A (-), 1-161st FA Hodgeman 11

Dodge City Stafford

Hamilton Kearney Finney Btry A (-), 1-161st FA Edwards Reno Pratt Kingma Det 1, 1161st FSC Btry C (-)

Gray Ford Pratt

Stanton Grant Haskell Kiowa Kingman

Seward

Liberal Det 2, Btry A, 1-161st FA Stevens st Morton Det 1, 731 Trans Co (MedMeade Truck) Clark Comanche Barber Harper

Legend AR = Armor Det = Detachment HHC = HQ and HQ Company MPAD = Mobile Public Affairs Detachment ARW = Air Refueling Wing Div = Division HHD = HQ and HQ Detachment OCS = Officer Candidate School ARS = Air Refueling Squadron Eng = Engineer HHS = HQ and HQ Service Btry Rgmt = Regiment Avn = Aviation FA = Field Artillery HSC = Headquarters Support Company Rec and Ret = Recruiting & Retention Bde = Brigade Flt = Flight HQ = Headquarters Spt = Support Bn = Battalion FSB = Forward Support Battalion Inf = Infantry Sqdn = Squadron Btry = Battery FSC = Forward Support Company KSRTC = Kansas Regional Training Center TA = Target Acquistion D CAB = Combat Arms Battalion Gp = Group Lg = Logistics TDA = Table of Distribution and Allowances C Cmd = Command HET = Heavy Equipment Transport MAC = Mobile Augmentation Company Trans = Transportation C Co = Company HIMARS = High Mobility Artillery Rocket System Maint = Maintenance Trp = Troop CSSB = Corps Support Sustainment Battalion HHB = HQ and HQ Btry Med = Medical WMD = Weapons of Mass Destruction MP = Military Police December 31, 2009 February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 9 support domestic response operations. training there,” Bunting said. “This isn’t improve in the near future.” All of the closed armories eventually “Many of the facilities to be closed were cost effective, it reduces the cohesiveness Disaster response will not be impacted will be returned to the communities for built in the 1950s and designed for 100 to of our units and it isn’t sustainable given Despite the consolidations, the Kansas local use. In the meantime, some of the im- 150 Soldiers. However, today several of the budget situation we have been facing National Guard is committed to its state pacted facilities will remain unoccupied for these facilities have 50 or fewer people for several years and which isn’t likely to mission of disaster support to communities. a time while equipment and personnel are “Although the Kansas Guard has never transferred and operations are consolidated. had an armory in every community, we have “With fewer armories, strategically lo- Armories closed prior to 2010 always fulfilled our mission to help protect cated around the state, we will be better ARMORY...... DATE CLOSED Mankato ...... Dec. 17, 2008 Kansans and their property during emergen- postured to sustain the 38 remaining facili- Belleville ...... Dec. 17, 2008 McPherson ...... Jan. 1, 2001 cies, no matter where they occur in our state, ties and provide our Guardsmen and the Beloit...... Feb. 1, 1995 Medicine Lodge ...... May 1, 1980 and we remain committed to this,” Bunting local communities with the type of facility Ellsworth ...... Nov. 1, 1994 Neodesha ...... Aug. 20, 1992 said. “We didn’t have armories in Greens- they deserve,” Bunting added. Eureka ...... March 1, 1982 Pittsburg...... Dec. 17, 2008 burg, Chapman, Osawatomie, Hoisington, Prior closures of armory locations have Fredonia ...... March 13, 1997 Pleasanton...... Jan. 16, 1999 Sublette or Parsons, as well as many other occurred in Kansas for a variety of reasons; Harper ...... Feb. 16, 1996 St. Marys ...... Sept. 30, 2006 communities hit by severe weather in recent however, usually these involved one or two Leavenworth ...... March 29, 1996 Wellington ...... July 15, 1992 years, yet we responded and stayed as long at a time. A total of 17 armories have Manhattan ...... June 12, 2005 Yates Center ...... Oct. 26, 1997 as we were needed.” closed since 1980. onal Guard Forbes Field, Topeka

69th Trp Cmd 190th Air Refueling Wing th HHD, 69 Trp Cmd 1st Bn, 108th Aviation 190th Operations Gp 190th Mission Support Group th th Det 1, 137th Trans Co. (PLS) HHC (-), 1-108th Avn 117 Air Refueling Sqdn 190 Logistics Readiness Squadron th th th 190 Operations Support Flt 190 Security Forces Squadron Det 3, HHC, 2-137 Inf Co A, 1-108th Avn th th Co D, 1-108th Avn 190 Maintenance Group 190 Civil Engineering Squadron th th Army Air Support Facility #1 Co E, 1-108th Avn 190 Maintenance Squadron 190 Force Support Squadron th th st st 190 Communications Flight Det 37, OSA Cmd Det 3, HHC, 1 Bn, 171 Av 190 Aircraft Maintenance Squadron st st 190th Maintenance Support Flight 190th Medical Group 102nd Mil Hist Det Det 1, Co C, 1 Bn, 171 Av Det 3, Co D, 1st Bn, 171st Av Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas - th rd th st st 73 Civil Support Team (WMD) 127 Weather Flt 35 Military Police Co Det 3, Co E, 1 Bn, 171 Av Air Component

Marysville Sabetha Hiawatha Det 3, 250th FSC nd th Btry A (-), 2-130th FA (HIMARS) 2 Bn, 130 FA (HIMARS) HHB (-), 2-130th FA (HIMARS) Troy

Horton th Btry B (-), 2-130th FA (HIMARS) Det 1, HHB (-), 2-130 FA (HIMARS) Republic Brown Doniphan

Washington Marshall Nemaha Atchison Concordia Det 2, Btry B, 2-130th FA (HIMARS)

th Holton t 1, Btry A, 2-130 HIMARS FA Clay Center Det 1, Btry B, 2-130th FA (HIMARS)Atchison Det 2, 250th FSC

Cloud Fort Leavenworth Jackson th Pottawatomie 35 Division 35th Div TAC CP Clay Manhattan Det 2, HHC, 35th STB 2137th FSC Kansas City Riley nd th Det 1, 778th Trans Co (Combat HET)Topeka Jefferson Battle Cmd Training Support 2 Bn, 137 Inf Junction City Wyandotte HHC (-), 2-137th Inf th Det 2, HHC, 2-137th Inf Leavenworth 778 Trans Co (-) (Combat HET) Ottawa Lenexa Abilene Fort Riley Lawrence Johnson Co C, 2-137th Inf Btry C (-), 2-130th FA (HIMARS) Det 1, Btry B, 1-161st FA Geary Shawnee th Salina Co A, 2-137 Inf KS Medical Detachment ll Range Det1,BtryC,2-130th FA (HIMARS) Olathe169th CSSB Co B, 1st Bn, 108th Avn th W Waubaunsee Douglas HHC, 169 CSSB th pport Operations Sqdn Army Air Support Facility #2 Council Grove 137 Trans Co (-) (Med Truck) 35th Division Band Great Plains Joint Det 3, 778th Trans Co (Combat HET) Ottawa 1077th Ground Ambulance Co Dickinson Saline Regional Training Center 250th FSC (-) th Paola 235 Rgmt (KSRTC) Morris Btry B (-), 1-161st FA 1-235th Regt (OCS) 2-235th Regt (General Studies) Osage Regional Training Site - Maintenance Franklin Miami Training Site Det Emporia Co D, 2-137th Inf Garnett Det 1, HSC, 891st Eng Bn Burlington McPherson Marion Lyon Det 1, 250th FSC Hutchinson Newton Chase Coffey Anderson Linn roup Det 1, Btry C, 1-161st FA rt Gp Iola C (-) Harvey 891st Engineer Bn Augusta HSC (-), 891st Eng Bn Wichita st 891 Support Co Fort Scott 226th Eng Co (-) (Vert) Woodson Allen Chanute Bourbon Det 1, 772nd Eng Co (MAC) Greenwood Det 1, 891st FSC t FA

Sedgwick Butler

Wilson Neosho Pittsburg

Crawford nd Elk Cherryvale 772 Eng Co (-) (MAC) Det 1, 226th Eng Co (Vert) Det 2, 226th Eng Co (Vert) Winfield Det 1, 242nd Eng Co (Horz) Coffeyville Montgomery nd Sumner Cowley Chautauqua 242 EngLabette Co (-) (Horz) Cherokee Wichita McConnell AFB, Wichita st Bn, 161st Field Artillery 184th Intelligence Wing HHB, 1-161st FA 184th Regional Support Group 184th Mission Support Group 184th Civil Engineering Squadron 287th Sustainment Brigade 127th Command and Control Sqdn 134th Air Control Sqdn 184th Communications Flight th HHC, 287 Sustainment Brigade 177th Information Aggressor Sqdn 184th Force Support Squadron 184th Services Flight HC, 2-137th Inf Det 2, 731st Co (Med Truck) 184th Munitions Sqdn 299th Network Operations Security Sqdn 184th Security Forces Sqdn 137th Inf Det 2, 778th Trans Co (Combat HET) 184th Intelligence Group 184th Logistics Readiness Sqdn 137th Inf 161st Intelligence Sqdn 184th Medical Group 184th Operations Support Sqdn 184th Intelligence Support Sqdn Page 10 Plains Guardian • February 2010 Crisis City shows off its facilities to Kansas city managers By Major DeAnn Barr extrication, trench and rope rescue, haz- 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs ardous material response and urban opera- Nearly 120 city managers from across tions law enforcement. Kansas were on hand to tour the Great Plains “I think the regional opportunity for Joint Training Center’s Crisis City Complex training is a very exciting aspect of this fa- on Dec. 3, 2009, in Salina. Attendees of the cility,” said John Deordoff, Hutchinson city Kansas Association of County and City manager. “It can bring our emergency re- Manager’s Conference were intrigued with sponders into situations with peers from what they saw at the comprehensive training like-sized communities and that will be facility that sits on more than 36,000 acres of very advantageous.” wide-open training space. “This was built for you by the Kansas “I bet our fire and police departments legislature,” said Jordan as he addressed have already called and asked when it’s the city managers. open for business,” said Emily Vincent, Access to the various training venues are budget analyst for the city of Olathe. free of charge for Kansas first responders The Great Plains Joint Training Center and nominal fees for consumables will be offers civilian and military first responder’s incurred as they are utilized. Requests from access to multiple, state-of-the-art training out-of-state organizations will be fulfilled venues that can accommodate hands-on on a space available basis, with a venue training exercises as well as offer overnight utilization fee. and dining facilities for a nominal fee. The facilities at the GPJTC satisfy the “The Great Plains is an outstanding na- needs for proposed regional training cen- tional asset for joint military training,” said ters to enhance the state’s capabilities to Lt. Col. Jeffry Jordan, deputy commander defend against terrorism and respond to Spc. Patrick Stapleton shows John Deardoff, Hutchinson city manager, and Meryl of the GPJTC. disasters and emergencies. Crisis City is Dye, assistant city manager, a view from the Crisis City observation deck. (Photo by At Crisis City alone, a two-story state of the first of these potential sites and would Maj. DeAnn Barr, 184th Intelligence Wing) the art command center building offers sev- form the hub for an additional four RTCs limitless opportunities as research progresses busiest Air National Guard bombing range in eral large conference rooms that also can that would be strategically located to en- in regards to Unmanned Aerial System capa- the nation, encompasses 54 square miles of function as a command center. An elevated sure state and local first responders, the bilities when linked with emergency re- training space with more than 100 tactical observation deck with a 300 degree view of National Guard and public safety organiza- sponse. Partnered with Kansas State targets and an electronic warfare site. the training area allows for complete sur- tions train together. University-Salina, the center also offers To secure training dates at the GPJTC con- veillance of the multiple, on-premise train- This is good news for one conference at- unique access to restricted air space. The tact Spc. Patrick Stapleton at patrick.j.staple- ing venues. Eight rail cars and a 166,000 tendee who lived four hours away and Smoky Hill Weapons Range, the largest and [email protected], call 785-826-3733, or visit square foot concrete rubble pile have al- wanted to utilize the facility, but was ready been utilized for search and rescue doubtful his civil support branches could and fire rescue training. Venues nearing depart the local area for the extended completion include an urban village, grain length of time training would entail. Army, Air Guard cooperate tower and helicopter landing pad. Also part of the GPJTC is the Kansas “Our fire department would especially Regional Training Institute, which offers an in joint training mission utilize the derailed train scenario,” said simulated weapons range and the virtual Nick Wollery, management intern with the convoy operations trainer with plans to in- By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, UPAR riggers are not trained to do,” explained city of Olathe. “We have some of the clude a virtual battlefield and call for fire 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation Sgt. 1st Class Derron Lindsey. “They are busiest rail sections in the state.” trainer, computer labs and 13 classrooms The 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation (Assault) trained to rig the JPADS for parachute Venues are also available to exercise that can accommodate classes from nine to conducted a joint interoperability operation drops out of the backs of the cargo aircraft confined space rescue, collapsed structure, 360 people, and a small arms range. with the Wyoming Air National Guard. The like the Hercules. That is why we call upon technical rescue, vehicle and machinery The Unmanned Aircraft Center provides training took place during the 108th’s annual the Army crew chief to ensure that the ex- training at Camp Guernsey, Wyo. ternal load is safely rigged and ready to be Conducted over two consecutive days, hooked up to the helicopter.” C-130 Hercules cargo planes from the 153th “It is always good to train with external Disaster relief in Haiti Air Lift Wing flew from Cheyenne to Camp loads,” said Capt. Joshua Urban. “This Guernsey. The Air Guard’s mission was to training gave us a chance to train with fly to a predetermined drop zone. On direc- working our aircraft power management tions from the forward controllers, the C-130 with external loads in a high altitude flying crews deployed the 3,400 pound Joint Preci- environment.” sion Air Drop System or JPADS. The JPADS For example, the field elevation at Forbes is used to supply forward operating bases. Field, Topeka is about 1,000 feet, while the Once the JPADS was on the ground, the terrain at Guernsey ranges between 5,000 riggers removed the parachute and rigged it and 6,000 feet. The training to develop this for helicopter external sling loading. When skill cannot be done at home station. ready, UH-60 Black Hawks from Compa- Although great training for the pilots and nies A and B flew in to conduct the external crew chiefs there was a practical side of the load lifts. External loads are one of the mission. The Black Hawks returned the main missions of the Black Hawk. Moving JPADS from the drop zone to the Guernsey everything from artillery to water to wher- airfield. From there they could be returned ever it is needed, on the battlefield or to to the Air Guard. This kept the Air Guard support a state emergency. from having to deploy a heavy forklift and “External loads are something Air Force tactical truck to the drop zone.

An Airman from the 190th Civil Engineering Squadron, Kansas National Guard, used a bulldozer to clear land near Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to prepare the area for Haitian relief operations. (Photo by Senior Airman John Countryman) Continued from Page 1 electrical conduits and outlets in the base’s Twelve additional personnel deployed migrant processing centers. Near that same Jan. 22 to Cuba to support the mission. The area, members also cleared away brush and additional Airmen included members of the trees, laying the groundwork for the con- 184th Intelligence Wing, Wichita. struction of tents to house refugees after a The Civil Engineering Squadrons, which crisis event, if necessary. are comprised of construction personnel, “Their (Civil Engineering Squadron) ef- utility workers, plumbers and electricians, forts are another indication of the level of assembled tents and attended to other logis- expertise and dedication to duty that mem- tical requirements used to support on-site bers of the Kansas National Guard exhibit humanitarian assistance. each and every day,” said Col. Keith Lang, “We have a very experienced team here. 190th Air Refueling Wing commander. This is what we are trained to do,” said Lt. On Jan. 25, the Kansas Guardmembers Col. Mark Green, 190th Civil Engineering deployed to Haiti to assist with logistics A UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from the 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation, Kansas Squadron commander. operations and to assemble an Expedi- Army National Guard, lifts a Joint Precision Air Drop System package dropped ear- As part of their original assignment in tionary Medical Support hospital in Port- lier from a C-130 cargo plane flown by the 153th Air Lift Wing, Wyoming Air Na- Cuba, 190th members worked to install au-Prince. tional Guard. (Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson, UPAR) February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 11 891st Engineer Battalion welcomes new commander Lt. Col. Barry W. Manley turned over officer. In 1998, he moved to Headquar- Freedom III from September 2004 to De- command of the Kansas Army National ters, State Area Command, Topeka, as the cember 2005. He also served as the com- Guard’s 891st Engineer Battalion to Lt. officer accessions officer for Recruiting mand executive officer for Joint Force Col. Roger D. Murdock during a change of and Retention Command. In April 2002, Headquarters Kansas–Land Component. command ceremony on Jan. 10, 2010. Manley became the executive officer for Manley’s next assignment will be as the The 10 a.m. ceremony took place in Iola, Headquarters, 891st Engineer Battalion, brigade executive officer, 69th Troop Kan., at the Iola Senior High School. where he served in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Command, in Topeka. “It has been my privilege and honor to command the 891st Engineer Battalion for Muther succeeds Kuntz as the last 44 months,” said Manley. “The of- ficers and enlisted personnel of the battal- Medical Detachment commander ion have accomplished every assigned task By Lt. Col. Rex Johnson force when they return.” and mission with incredible dedication and JFHQ Kansas PAO Kuntz entered the U.S. Army on March commitment to the organization.” Col. Gordon D. Kuntz turned over com- 10, 1975, serving as a tactical microwave “The Soldiers of the Engineer Battalion mand of the Kansas Army National repairman. He later reenlisted as a patient have accepted a multitude of changes and Guard’s Medical Detachment to Col. John care specialist in 1978. He joined the challenges that were presented before D. Muther during a ceremony on Saturday, Kansas National Guard in 1984 and them, in a very short manner, and were al- Dec. 5, 2009, in Lenexa, Kan. served as the medical noncommissioned ways successful,” he continued. “I know “It has been my privilege and honor to officer for the Kansas Military Academy they will continue to do so in the future. Lt. Col. Barry Manley addresses the au- command the Kansas Medical Detachment in Salina. He completed the State Officer The citizens of Kansas and our nation can dience during the ceremony marking for the past 26 months,” said Kuntz. “The Candidate School and was commissioned be very proud.” the end of his tenure as commander of professionalism of the officers and enlisted as a second lieutenant in the infantry. “I am honored and excited to take com- the 891st Engineer Battalion. (Photo by personnel in the unit has remained very high Upon completing his nursing education, mand of the 891st Engineer Battalion, a Capt. Sean Linn, UPAR) and there has been incredible dedication and he received a direct commission in the unit with a distinguished and proud legacy ion logistics officer, 891st Engineer Battal- commitment to accomplishing the mission. Nurse Corps in January 1988. of providing support to the citizens of ion; company commander, 242nd Engineer The state of Kansas has consistently ranked Kuntz served in the roles of clinical nurse, Kansas and the nation,” said Murdock. Company; detachment commander, De- in the top 10 nationally for medical readi- nurse practitioner, training officer and head “The National Guard faces numerous tachment 1, 714th Maintenance Company; ness for the past two years and is on target to nurse for physical examination with Detach- emerging challenges and I am looking for- platoon leader, 242nd Engineer Company. be there for three years in a row.” ment 5, Headquarters, State Area Command, ward to the opportunity to lead the out- Manley enlisted into Company B, 891st Kuntz was awarded the Meritorious Serv- in Lenexa, Kan. He served as the executive standing men and women of the battalion Engineer Battalion, Kansas National ice Medal from Brig. Gen. John Davoren, officer and deputy commander for the Med- as we meet those challenges.” Guard, in 1983 as a combat engineer. He commander of the Kansas Army National ical Detachment. Upon completing the U.S. Murdock was commissioned in the U.S. attended Officer Candidate School and was Guard, for his service as the commander. Army War College in May 2007, Kuntz re- Army Corps of Engineers in May 1986. commissioned in the U.S. Army Corps of As the incoming commander, Muther turned to the Medical Detachment to serve Most recently Murdock served as the oper- Engineers in June 1987. said that he is honored to have the ability to as the commander. ations officer for the 287th Sustainment After commissioning, Manley’s first as- serve with the Medical Detachment. Muther enlisted in the United States Ma- Brigade during its deployment to Iraq in signment was as the support platoon leader, “I am very excited and looking forward rine Corps Reserve in 1978. He received a support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Company B (-), 891st Engineer Battalion to the opportunity in the continuous step to direct commission in the Army Nurse His previous assignments include sup- in June 1987. He served in three different increase medical readiness,” expressed Corps in 1991. He worked in various posi- port operations officer, 287th Sustainment platoons with Company B and was then as- Muther. “To continue the great work we’ve tions at the Kansas Area Medical Detach- Brigade; brigade operations officer, 69th signed as the company executive officer in done up to this point.” ment including clinical nurse, training Troop Command; branch chief, Joint March 1990. In June 1990, Manley was The mission of the Medical Detachment is officer head nurse, executive officer, and Forces Headquarters Kansas-Land Compo- selected as commander of Company B, to improve the readiness of Kansas National deputy commander of clinical services. He nent; battalion operations officer, 891st En- serving in that capacity through September Guard Soldiers. The detachment performs most recently served with the 56th Stryker gineer Battalion; assistant brigade 1992 when he became the commander of the periodic health assessments that are re- Brigade, Pennsylvania Army National personnel/training officer, 69th Troop the battalion’s Headquarters and Headquar- quired for all Guard Soldiers and Airmen an- Guard, as brigade surgeon during Opera- Command; brigade logistics officer, 69th ters Company. Later staff positions in- nually. They also assist with medical tion Iraqi Freedom 2008-2009. Troop Command; assistant brigade logis- cluded assistant operations officer, readiness for service members who are de- Muther works full time as the deputy tics officer, 69th Troop Command; battal- intelligence officer and full time training ploying or returning from a deployment. surgeon for the Joint Forces Headquarters “We make sure they (Soldiers) are Kansas. He lives in Topeka Kan., with his Honor Guard competition healthy and ready for deployment,” said wife, Nancy. They have two children, Kier- Continued from Page 7 swering questions and explaining why they Muther. “We also help them reenter the sten and Kelsey. Uniform. Uniforms are measured to within a choose to serve on the funeral honors team. 16th of an inch with a 1/16th of an inch mar- Payne, a member of the 35th Infantry Di- gin for error. With more than 60 Soldiers to vision Band and the Kansas team, told the inspect, the inspection lasted over two hours, board members, “I joined the honor guard during which the professionalism and dedi- to serve the veterans of my community. cation of the participants was tested as they These men and women taught me the value stood at attention the entire time. of a handshake, and helped shape who I That afternoon saw the competitors have become as a woman and a Soldier.” tested on the six-Soldier Urn detail and the “It is our moral obligation to maintain three-Soldier detail. As with previous itera- the standard and tradition of the military tions, each team’s performance reflected funeral honors,” said Payne. the highest standards of military bearing In the end though only one team could and professionalism. come in first place. The honor went to the After three grueling days of intense Minnesota team. Every team showed re- scrutiny the teams were beginning to see the markable attention to detail and outstand- light at the end of the tunnel. However, as is ing professionalism with Minnesota edging so often the case, when their country called out the others. next it was in the cover of darkness. At “These teams’ performances were the around midnight on day four the call came: most excellent I’ve ever seen since we’ve Wake up and be downstairs in 20 minutes. had the competition,” said Helton. Honorable transfers were next on the When asked about the competition a near evaluators score cards. As in all facets of unanimous sentiment was expressed by the honoring a fallen Soldier there is a precise competitors, what happens at the competi- Col. John Muther (left center) receives the command flag of the Kansas National manner in which this happens. tion is merely an opportunity to improve on Guard Medical Detachment from Brig. Gen. John Davoren, commander of the The teams performed this duty out of a the honors rendered in their home states. Kansas Army National Guard. At right is Col. Gordan Kuntz, who stepped down as Chinook helicopter. Even at 2 o’clock in Brig. Gen. Renwick Payne, special assis- commander of the detachment. (Photo by Lt. Col. Rex Johnson, PAO, Joint Forces the morning, working in pitch blackness on tant to the deputy director of the Army Na- Headquarters Kansas) just a few hours of sleep, their movements tional Guard, spoke to the competitors near reflected the respect they had for the task. the end of the competition. After completing the honorable transfer “Military service is like a four by 100 Employer receives ESGR award portion of the morning’s events, the teams meter race,” he said. “Running one leg as The Missouri Committee for Employer Broadcast Group stands with them in support were evaluated on the manual of arms and well as you can will not win the race. Each Support of the Guard and Reserve, an of their call to serve and protect our nation.” their ability to maintain military bearing in leg must give it their all and each leg must agency of the Department of Defense, an- Spc. Chris Vedder, a Kansas National what can only be described as less than pass the baton to the next smoothly. With- nounced Michael Carter, owner of the Carter Guardsman with Headquarters, 35th In- ideal circumstances. out the smooth passing of the baton the Broadcasting Group, was honored with a fantry Division, and an Carter Broadcast All this before breakfast. next leg will surely fail.” Patriot Award in recognition of extraordi- Group employee said “The Carter Broad- Next came a two hour written test on The professionalism and dedication to nary support of the employees who serve in cast Group sets an outstanding example for military history and military funerals his- duty in maintaining the tradition of honor- the Kansas National Guard and Reserve. other employers, and in doing so other tory before the final evaluation. ing the fallen is certainly being carried this “I am amazed by the service, and sacrifice guardsman and reservists like myself can The conclusion of the competition found leg by an outstanding group of Soldiers that is continually made by the men and serve their community, state, and country each team’s NCOIC and its youngest mem- who will no doubt pass on the baton to fu- women of the U.S. military,” said Carter. with confidence, knowing they have the ber or its female member before a board an- ture generations. “So, it is with great pleasure that the Carter support of their civilian employer.” Page 12 Plains Guardian • February 2010 Preparedness Day event helps Kansans get ready for emergencies The 2009 Kansas Preparedness Day organizations focused on emergency pre- of the Kansas Highway Patrol; Dr. Jason mational booths will be provided by a vari- kicked off Sept. 15 at the Kansas State Fair- paredness with displays of equipment, infor- Eberhart-Phillips, director of Health, ety of local, state, federal and non-profit grounds. Kansas Preparedness Month cre- mational booths and prizes. Kansas Department of Health and Environ- emergency response agencies including the ates a significant opportunity for every A news conference to highlight Kansas ment; Bill Guy, Reno County emergency Adjutant General’s Department/Kansas Kansan to learn more about ways to prepare Preparedness Day featured Maj. Gen. Tod manager and Steve Hewitt, city administra- Emergency Management/Kansas National for all types of emergencies from natural Bunting, director of Kansas Division of tor of Greensburg, Kan. They addressed the Guard, Kansas Department of Agriculture, disasters to manmade events. The annual Emergency Management and the adjutant importance of emergency preparedness in Kansas Animal Health Department, Citizen event features state and local agencies and general; Col. Terry Maples, superintendent the home, community and the workplace Corps, Civil Air Patrol, Kansas Department given the ongoing threats of natural and of Health and Environment, American Red manmade disasters in our state and nation Cross, Kansas Highway Patrol, Hutchinson today. They also highlighted each agency’s Fire Department, Hutchinson Police De- role in keeping Kansans safe before, during partment, the Community Emergency Re- and after a disaster. A special focus for the sponse Team Trailer, Reno County news conference was a discussion of how Emergency Management, Reno County Kansans can best protect themselves from Sheriff’s Department, Kansas Department contracting the H1N1 virus. of Transportation, National Weather Serv- Featured displays, equipment and infor- ice and FEMA. Adjutant General’s Department co- hosts Technical Rescue Conference The Adjutant General’s Department and sented on Sept. 10 before the main confer- the Kansas Search and Rescue Working ence, providing hands-on instruction at Group hosted a Kansas Technical Rescue the Great Plains Joint Training Center’s Conference Sept. 10-12 at the Great Plains Crisis City training site. It included an Regional Training Center in Salina. open forum for sharing news and views The three-day event featured field experts on advances in equipment and techniques, in training venues for local search and res- technical problems and issues surrounding cue personnel. The event was aimed at peo- local jurisdictions. ple with backgrounds in structural collapse, Other classes presented during the con- trench collapse, confined space, water res- ference included vehicle and machine res- cue teams. The conference also featured cue, U.S. Army technical search and K-9 equipment, manufacturers and distributors operations for the Army, breaching/break- Fairgoers take a tour of information booths set up for Kansas Preparedness Day at showcasing new gear and technology. ing for Army operations and shoring for the Kansas State Fair. The booths offered information and resources on emergency Several four-hour classes were pre- Army operations. preparedness for home and business. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Tim Traynor, Public Affairs Office) Crisis City hosts ribbon cutting Lt. Gov. Troy Findley and Maj. Gen. Tod silo accidents and a five-story rescue train- Bunting, the adjutant general, hosted a rib- ing tower. It will also provide training in bon cutting Oct. 1, 2009, for the debut of the military operations and urban terrain. Crisis City training site, a hands-on home- In-kind contributions of approximately land security public safety training area at $12 million made the rail venue at Crisis the Great Plains Joint Training Center in City possible. The locomotive and other Salina. This training venue will allow emer- rail cars were provided by Burlington gency responders from local, state and fed- Northern Santa Fe Railway. They were eral organizations, including law moved and the tracks set in place by R.J. enforcement, search and rescue teams, med- Corman Railroad Group. Other contribu- ical response teams, public and private in- tions of equipment and labor came from dustry safety professionals and the National Union Pacific Railway Company, Occiden- Guard, to train together, conduct exercises tal Chemical Corporation, J.R. Simplot and work through realistic disaster scenarios. Company, Mid-America Car, Inc. and En- Crisis City includes a completed rail ergy Transportation. training venue and will also include an en- “Kansas is among one of the first states gineered concrete rubble pile, urban search in the country to develop such a training and rescue venues, a grain bin for search opportunity for our first responders and and rescue training, a farm training venue National Guardsmen to prepare together for to provide training for farming and grain disasters,” said Bunting. Participants in a Kansas Technical Rescue Conference, held in Salina Sept. 10-12, 2009, test their skills on the vehicle accident venue at the Great Plains Joint Training Conference focuses on making Center’s Crisis City. (Photo provided) Kansas schools safe, prepared Homeland Security Summit addresses Creating schools that are safe and pre- conference brought together many key pared for emergencies was the focus of players who will be instrumental in en- state, national security issues the Kansas Safe and Prepared Schools suring resources and training are in place Designed for senior-level decision mak- Guard, elected officials plus local, state and Conference held in Salina last September. for schools to provide a safe and prepared ers involved in homeland security response federal officials and the private sector. The conference was sponsored by the learning environment and to assist them issues, the first biennial Kansas Homeland Presentations discussed Middle Eastern Kansas Adjutant General’s Department in preventing, preparing and responding Security Summit was held Dec. 8-10, 2009, intelligence and terrorist organizations, and Kansas Department of Education. to crisis events impacting local schools in Wichita. emerging domestic threats, addressing vul- Lt. Gov. Troy Findley opened the con- and communities.” “In an ever-changing world, where new, nerabilities, terrorism tactics, along with ference with Kevin Jennings, assistant “What is particularly unique about this potential dangers threaten our state and our several other presentations to familiarize secretary of U.S. Department of Educa- event is that we’ve tried to broaden the nation’s security, it is critical that Kansas’ leaders with the scope and nature of poten- tion, serving as the keynote speaker. The communication between school officials, homeland security responders come to- tial threats to the heartland and, accordingly, conference hosted school administrators, first responders and emergency manage- gether, discuss issues and continue to be able to appropriately integrate that infor- board members, teachers, counselors and ment personnel,” said Bob Hull, director, strengthen our communication and coordi- mation into disaster response plans. Home- resource officers who will discuss topics Kansas Center for Safe and Prepared nation,” said Governor Mark Parkinson. land security leaders focusing on man-made ranging from classroom behavior to natu- Schools. “School crisis is also community “This working summit provided an oppor- threats heard lectures on improvised explo- ral disasters and possible school violence. crisis; if it happens to a school, it happens tunity for Kansas leaders involved in home- sive devices, weapons of mass destruction, The Kansas Center for Safe and Pre- to the community.” land security preparedness planning and evidence collection and current threats. pared Schools was created in 2009 to pro- Hull, of Olathe, has served as the direc- response to engage in discussions and work Kansas-specific presentations focused on vide a central office to coordinate tor of the Kansas Center for Safe and Pre- through disaster and terrorism scenarios,” familiarizing local leaders on vulnerabili- school/safety/preparedness activities. The pared Schools since February 2009. Hull said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant ties, communications and threats. Attention center was developed as a result of guid- has spent 30 years in the public education general and director of Kansas Homeland was also given to Kansas-specific medical ance from the Governor’s Commission on system and prior to becoming the director Security and the Kansas Division of Emer- capabilities and limitations, including rural Healthy and Prepared Schools. served as a Kansas school superintendent. gency Management. “By bringing together communities. “Feedback from superintendents across State officials note that on any given the knowledge and experience of the various The summit was sponsored by the Kansas Kansas indicated a need for a coordinated day, 20 percent or more of Kansans are response sectors with an array of profes- Adjutant General’s Department, including effort and we collaborated with other gathered in a school setting, where soci- sional presenters, we ensure better planning Kansas Homeland Security and Kansas Di- state agencies to form the center,” said ety and parents expect their children to and improved communication.” vision of Emergency Management, along Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, director of learn in a safe and prepared environment Attendees included representatives of with the Kansas Highway Patrol, U.S. De- Kansas Homeland Security, Emergency where school and community officials are police and fire services, emergency med- partment of Homeland Security, National Management and adjutant general. “This prepared to handle unforeseen events. ical services, hospitals, trauma and emer- Preparedness Directorate and the University gency medicine, public health, National of Kansas Medical Center. February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Four inducted into Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame The Museum of the Kansas National Pvt. William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody On April 26, 1872, at the age of 26, he viewing and crafting a plan, Smith proposed Guard added four new names to the ranks The 1861-65 Report of the Adjutant Gen- was awarded the Medal of Honor for “Gal- his plan to the leadership and it was ap- of honored service members. Officials for eral of Kansas shows that William F. Cody lantry in Action” by General Order 7 by proved. By the end of the year, other states the Hall of Fame hosted an induction cere- enlisted in February 1864 at the age of 18 General Eugene Carr while serving with had heard of the plan and requested their mony on Nov. 8 in Topeka, Kan., to pay and was mustered out of service with Com- the 3rd U. S. Army near the South Fork of Soldiers be allowed to attend in Kansas. tribute to the new members. The new mem- pany H, Seventh Cavalry Regiment, the Loup River in Nebraska. This was the beginning of what was known bers range from years past in the Civil War Kansas Volunteers. He later served as a Cpl. James Whitfield Ross as the Primary NCO Course and now is the and Wild West to more recent members civilian scout for the 9th Kansas Volunteer Cpl. James Whitfield Ross was born into Warrior Leadership course. who battled in Vietnam. Cavalry Regiment. His service to the na- slavery. In 1862, at the age of 26, he es- In 1983, after assignment to the 226th En- The inductees were Pvt. William F. “Buf- tion continued when, at 22 years of age, he caped and found his way to a Union Army gineer Battalion, he was named commandant falo Bill” Cody, Cpl. James Whitfield Ross, was handpicked by General Phil Sheridan regiment heading for Kansas. of the Noncommissioned Officer School. By retired Command Sgt. Maj. Warren J. “Bud” to be the chief scout of the 5th U.S. Cav- Upon reaching Topeka in August of that 1984, he was selected to be the command Smith and retired Col. Charles R. Ray. alry in October 1868 as a civilian. year, he joined Company F of the First sergeant major of the 1st Battalion, 635th Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry. His Armor. His assignment to the Armor Battal- Five complete Warrant Officer School service and ability was such that on Jan. ion was short because of the activation of the 13, 1863, he was promoted to the rank of 35th Infantry Division and the need for an By Chief Warrant Officer 5 Rosanna full time for the Kansas Army National corporal. He remained with Company F of operation training sergeant major in the divi- Morrow Guard and accepted certificates of eligibil- the First Kansas, which on Dec. 13, 1864, sion headquarters. Last August, five members of the Kansas ity to be appointed to warrant officer one became the 79th Regiment, United States In 1991, Smith was selected to be the state Army National Guard graduated from the any time within the next two years. Colored Troops until mustered out in Oc- command sergeant major, retiring in 2000. Reserve Component Warrant Officer Can- The current iteration of the Reserve Com- tober 1865. Retired Col. Charles R. Rayl didate School at the Indianapolis War Me- ponent Warrant Officer Candidate School After mustering out of the Union Army, Col. Charles Rayl enlisted in the United morial. Warrant Officer Candidates was approved in 2005. Phase I consists of a James Ross returned to Topeka where he States Army in January 1964 and was com- Samantha Hancock, Kevin J. Linder and distance learning course with Phase II con- lived on a small farm just north of the city. missioned in March 1965. In 1970, he was Christian D. Tinch were appointed to the ducted during five consecutive drill week- In addition to farming he also worked lay- commissioned in the Kansas National Guard rank warrant officer one. Warrant Officer ends at the Kansas Regional Training ing stone for the basement and interior and remained in the Guard until his retire- Candidates Bradly A. Henry and William Institutes in Salina, Kan. The final two-week walls of the first portion of what is now the ment in 1994. N. Nicoll completed the course but will re- resident Phase III is conducted at the Indiana Kansas State Capitol building. Rayl completed Armor Officer Basic vert to their prior enlisted ranks while they Regional Training Institute, Camp Atterbury, In 1868, he met and married Margaret Course in 1965, as well as Airborne Train- await vacancies compatible with their full Ind., where all the warrant officer candidates Elizabeth Chapman from Mound City, ing. He became an Army aviator in 1967 time employment. Henry and Nicoll work from the other states are brought together. Kan. They lived on a farm he bought and and was assigned to Troop A, 7th produced a family of seven children, in- Squadron, 14th Air Cavalry in the Republic Promotion up in the air cluding two girls who died in infancy. of Vietnam in 1968. He held various com- Their sons, however, went on to become mand positions in Armored Cavalry Regi- Continued from Page 6 “Nate” originally wanted to become a educators and prominent members of their ments from November 1968 until May of erations for the 340th Expeditionary Air pilot and saw serving in the Guard as a way communities. 1970 in Germany. Refueling Squadron and Chief Master Sgt. to accomplish his goal. He initially looked Retired Command Sgt. Maj. In September 1970, he was commis- Tim Treinen, chief boom operator, stood by at serving in the Guard unit at McConnell Warren J. “Bud” Smith sioned in the Kansas National Guard, serv- with him and “tacked on” his new name Air Force Base; his plans changed when the Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Warren J. ing in the 137th Aviation Company and the tag. Folger is the squadron commander of mission there switched from B-1 bombers to “Bud” Smith enlisted in the Kansas Army Headquarters, State Area Command, the Kansas Air National Guard’s 117th Air KC-135 tankers. National Guard in September 1966 and was Kansas Army National Guard. During his Refueling Squadron at Forbes Field, Kan., “I was close to finishing my degree when assigned to the 226th Engineer Battalion. time in the Kansas National Guard he also where Neidhardt is a member. the [base realignment and closure list] After serving as a traditional Guardsman served as the commander, 920th Medical Once the ceremony was complete and changed the mission at McConnell,” said for six years, Smith was hired in 1972 to be Detachment (Air Ambulance) and as the congratulations given, it was time for a bit Neidhardt. “I saw becoming a boom opera- an administrative supply technician for the battalion commander of several units in- of levity as the pilots stated over the inter- tor was my way of getting my foot in the 242nd Engineer Company. In the early cluding the 135th Aviation Battalion, the com that “snacks and refreshments were door. Before I started flying I was working 1970s, Smith served in an additional duty 108th Aviation and the 635th Armor Battal- available on the veranda.” in maintenance as a full time Guard mem- status as operation sergeant at the Kansas ion, and as the brigade commander of A Kansas native, Neidhardt was born just ber. Luckily my unit was able to keep me Military Academy Officer Candidate Troop Command, Kansas Army National outside of Wichita. Calling himself a “Guard full time when I changed jobs.” School. In 1980, he was asked by the Guard. He served on the headquarters staff baby,” he followed his father, Col. Hans Nei- But being a “boom” got into his blood. school’s leadership to examine and evaluate as the Director of Security and was the dhardt, into the Guard almost 10 years ago. “Seven years later, I have my degree, a proposed course that would affect all po- State Army Aviation Officer during his last “Serving in the Air National Guard was and I have taken all the tests required to be- tential noncommissioned officers. After re- assignment in the Kansas National Guard. always something I wanted to do,” said come an officer — I just really find it hard Neidhardt. “It’s what my family does, it re- to let go of this job,” he said. “I truly enjoy ally is a tradition.” what I get to do every day.” Technical tactical training BNSF gives holiday gift to Kansas service members

(From the left) Spc. Michael Beckner, 1st Lt. James Pope and Sgt. Tim Rozell, all from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Ar- tillery, Wichita, use newly fielded Getac laptop computers, to conduct the battal- ion’s first successful Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System training Brig. Gen. John Davoren, assistant adjutant general - Army and commander of over the state network Jan. 9-10, 2010. AFATDS is the Army’s artillery tactical the Kansas National Guard, expresses his thanks to Burlington Northern Santa data system that provides net-centric battle command to coordinate indirect fire Fe railroad for providing a free “Holiday Express” train excursion to members systems in support of maneuver operations. of the Kansas National Guard and other military members and their families. This also marked the first time the AFATDS Effects Management Tool was in- The event, which also provided free cookies and hot chocolate and a visit from corporated into the battalion’s training. The Getac laptops operate a new Win- Santa, took place in Topeka Dec. 1 and 2, 2009. Burlington Northern Santa Fe dows-based AFATDS that enhanced and increased the communication ability also donated $10,000 to the Kansas National Guard Foundation. (Photo by Steve between the headquarters in Wichita and units in Paola and Newton. Larson, Public Affairs Office) (Photo provided) Page 14 Plains Guardian • February 2010

Sgt. 1st Class Laurie Monarez, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Emilio Montanez, 287th SB, Wichita Army Achievement Medal Awards and Decorations Sgt. 1st Class Dale Munk, 287th SB, Wichita KANSAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD Master Sgt. Jimmy Breese, Det 2, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Sgt. 1st Class Jason Oesterreich, 287th SB, Wichita Junction City Sgt. 1st Class Patricia Peay, 35th MP Co, Topeka, with 3rd Maj. Jared Maag, 287th Sust Bde, Wichita Bronze Star Medal Master Sgt. Larry Burk, Training Site Det, Salina Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Danny Lundberg, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Joseph Dauben, HSC (-), 891st Eng Bn, Iola, with Sgt. 1st Class Robert Pepper, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Michael Wahl, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Etoi Purnell, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with 1st Staff Sgt. Wallace Austin, 287th SB, Wichita Col. Robert Schmitt, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Roy Hosier, HSC (-), 891st Eng Bn, Iola Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Charles Craig, 287th SB, Wichita Col. Barry Taylor, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class John Burns, 73rd CST (WMD), Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Michael Schlingmann, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Stephen Drury, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Tony Divish, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Francisca Jimenez, 73rd CST (WMD), Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Melissa Stupka, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Rodney Miles, Rec & Ret, Topeka, with 1st Oak Lt. Col. Roger Krull, 287th SB, Wichita with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Michael Swiercinsky, 287th SB, Wichita Leaf Cluster Lt. Col. David Lee, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class David Miles, 69th TC, Topeka, with 1st Oak Sgt. 1st Class Ronald Towson, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Russell Biffle, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Clinton Moyer, 287th SB, Wichita Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Roy Wagner, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Rex Hammer, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Roger Murdock, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Clinton Waggoner, 35th MP Co, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Sherry Weishaar, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Norman Rogers, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Anthony Randall, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Chris Wyman, 69th TC, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Samantha Wier, 287th Sust Bde, Wichita, with Sgt. Joanna Salazar, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Cheryl Whelan, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Lonnie Henkle, HSC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Jennifer Whitekiller, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Richard White, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Edwin Huddleston, 250th FSC, Ottawa Sgt. 1st Class Charlie Williams, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. David Birnell, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Lon Williams, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Samuel Kracht, Btry A, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hiawatha Sgt. 1st Class Derwin Worcester, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Lydia Diebert, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Scott Arpin, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Richard Mason, 250th FSC, Ottawa Sgt. 1st Class Kathy Zabel, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Richard Fisher, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Henry Camarin, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Cynthia Singleton, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa Staff Sgt. Mark Adams, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Eric Reese, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Erica Christie, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Steven Rupert, 35th MP Co., Topeka Staff Sgt. Sara Bigelow, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Jacob Schainost, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Lisa Mullinax, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Dana Burdick, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Shante Stevens, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. James Reis, 287th SB, Wichita Army Commendation Medal Staff Sgt. Terrence Burgess, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Sandra Welden, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Kenneth Weishaar, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Daniel Byrd, 287th SB, Wichita Pfc. Steven Anderson, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Rodger Woods, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Timothy Clendenin, 287th SB, Wichita Pfc. Matthew Bryce, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Edward Bailey, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Dirk Christian, ADT#1, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Leaf Staff Sgt. James Dowis, 287th SB, Wichita Pfc. Angel McCray, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Nathan Bukowski, 287th SB, Wichita Cluster Staff Sgt. William Driscoll, 287th SB, Wichita Pfc. Tiara Smith, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Traci Earls, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Andy Trager, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Fagan, Rec & Ret, Topeka Pfc. Jeremy Tauer, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Peter Euler, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Alma Whitelaw, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Adam Fink, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Angela Gray, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Jeffrey Woods, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Robert Flynn, 287th SB, Wichita Kansas National Guard Meritorious Service Ribbon Capt. Charles Jones, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Jeffery Bottenberg, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Melissa Franz, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Wallace Miller, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Timothy Button, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Ernie Goetz, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 5 Terry Patton, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Richard Dunn, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Daniel Haines, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Maj. Dennis Holder, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sandra Hannah, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Adam Lockhart, HSC (-), 891st Eng Bn, Iola, with 1st Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson, 105th MPAD, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Master Sgt. Robert Audano, ADT#1, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ronnie Fankhauser, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Dwane Clifford, ADT #1, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jay Hedke, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Lonny Nelson, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Timothy Hoesli, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Paul Johnston, ADT #1, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Stuart Stupka, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Mark Penrod, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. David Jermark, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Walter Miller, ADT #1, Topeka Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Newton, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Bradley Webster, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Raymond Kutzke, 287th SB, Wichita Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel Rubio, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Lt. Matthew Gilpin, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Darwyn Luat, 287th SB, Wichita Kansas National Guard Achievement Ribbon Sgt. Maj. William Buck, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Lt. Brent Jennings, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Lewis McSparen, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Maj. Bobby Dodd, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Lt. Michael Liotta, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Theodore Meyer, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Maj. Steven Scott, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Lt. Jeffery Mincks, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Daniel Morgan, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Benjamin Aldridge, Det 1, 137th Trans, Topeka Master Sgt. Scott Baruth, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Lt. David Paul, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Richard Mounts, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Jesse Brinker, 69th Troop Cmd, Topeka Master Sgt. Ricky Combes, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 2 Morgan Davis, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ameer Mutazammil, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Jessie Lawrence, Co E, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Wichita Master Sgt. Roy Hosier, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ross England, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. McKindree Perrin, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Chase Taylor, Det 1, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Wichita Master Sgt. Charles Hughes, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 2 Johnathan Keck, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Clayton Reed, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Shawn Francis, Det 1, 137th Trans, Topeka Master Sgt. Alexander Parker, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 2 Scott Sackrider, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Jamie Schulte, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Dru Payne, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Master Sgt. William Quaney, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 2 Luis Vazquez, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Timothy Shull, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Kyle Simmons, Co A, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Lawrence Sgt. 1st Class Bruce Combes, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Warrant Officer 1 Andrew Laffery, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Kyle Stevens, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Joseph Swann, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Schneider, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Sgt. Thomas Sprague, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Bryan Swink, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Jared Worley, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Janet Blunt, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. James Wellman, 287th SB, Wichita Meritorious Unit Commendation Staff Sgt. Geoffrey Gorup, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Stephen Brandt, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Christopher Wittig, 287th SB, Wichita HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Master Sgt. James Briery, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Michael Adams, 287th SB, Wichita Meritorious Service Medal Master Sgt. Michael Briggs, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Magen Albert, 287th SB, Wichita Campaign Participation Credit Master Sgt. Doretha Clark, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Amber Alvord, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Master Sgt. Harvey Deatherage, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Cody Breon, 287th SB, Wichita Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Col. Jose Davis, HHD, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Master Sgt. Steven Haag, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Christy Bukowski, 287th SB, Wichita Det 1, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Robert Hernandez, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Steven Burks, 995th Maint Co, Smith Center Det 1, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina Col. Gordon Kuntz, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa, with 1st Master Sgt. Jimmy Jarvis, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Keith Coleman, 287th SB, Wichita Det 1, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Carl Mar, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Monica Craig, 287th SB, Wichita Col. John Muther, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa, with 3rd Oak Master Sgt. Frank Narvaez, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Michael Creach, 287th SB, Wichita KANSAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Claude Palmer, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Jolene Davis, 287th SB, Wichita Col. Eric Peck, ADT #1, Topeka, with 4th Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Bryan Schroeder, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Robert Diebert, 287th SB, Wichita Meritorious Service Medal Col. David Joe Wheeler, HHD, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with Master Sgt. Max Wharton, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Josephis Douglas, 287th SB, Wichita 6th Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Paul Wilson, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Lyndon Ellis, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Barry Adams, Rec & Ret, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Aguirre, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Jerrod Eubanks, 287th SB, Wichita Col. Bradley Link, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 7th Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Bryson, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Mark Ford, 250th FSC, Ottawa Cluster Lt. Col. Barry Manley, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Sgt. 1st Class Avan Burkes, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Daniel Forrest, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Thomas Ballou, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Lt. Col. John Rueger, HHS, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hiawatha Sgt. 1st Class Rosalyn Carr, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Dean Fouquet, 287th SB, Wichita Leaf Cluster Capt. Brian Komar, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa, with 1st Sgt. 1st Class George Carter, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Jason Gribbon, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. Brian Becker, 190th ARW, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Rickie Christie, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Ryan Grillo, 287th SB, Wichita Lt. Col. William Hendricks, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Capt. Shawn Miller, Btry C, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Kingman Sgt. 1st Class Ralph Coy, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Kenneth Hare, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Capt. Adam Weitzel, 287th Sust Bde, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Clayton Crumpton, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Matthew Helmer, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Brian Riniker, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Lt. Joseph Nichols, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa Sgt. 1st Class Carolyn Davis, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Dakota Helvie, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Zachary Thompson, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Robert Coleman, Co B (-), 1st Bn, Sgt. 1st Class Sharon Dicks, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. William Hilmes, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Master Sgt. David G. Wilson, 184th IW, Wichita, with 108th Avn, Salina Sgt. 1st Class Maurice Evans, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Brenda Holdren, 287th SB, Wichita 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Chief Warrant Officer 4 William Norton, HSC (-), 891st Eng Sgt. 1st Class Charles Farrison, Rec & Ret, Topeka Sgt. Robert Isbell, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. James F. Hunter, 184th IW, Wichita, with Bn, Iola, with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Jeff Flikkie, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Elissa Johndrow, 287th SB, Wichita 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Command Sgt. Maj. James Moberly, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Tammy Garner, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Charles Kendall, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Robert A. Sauer, 184th IW, Wichita, with with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Gibson, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Joseph Kinyon, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel R. Rubio Jr., 287th STB, Hays, Sgt. 1st Class Donald Gray, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Jimmy Kirk, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Connie Moser, 190th ARW, Topeka with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Duane Griffin, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Don Little, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Marci Solander, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Sgt. John Degand, Co B, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina Sgt. 1st Class Jason Jenkins, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Mario Lozoya, 287th SB, Wichita Staff Sgt. Steven Blowers, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Sgt. Kenneth DeWitt, 250th FSC, Ottawa Sgt. 1st Class Fred Jones, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Brant Marble, 250th FSC, Ottawa 1st Sgt. Larry Heck, 250th FSC, Ottawa Sgt. 1st Class Lance Jones, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Christa Martin, 287th SB, Wichita Air Force Commendation Medal 1st Sgt. Todd Schainost, HSC (-), 891st Eng Bn, Iola Sgt. 1st Class Randy Kohlman, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Marion Martin, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Timothy Boller, Co C, 2nd Bn, 235th Rgt, Salina, Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Lucas, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Michael Meisenhelter, 287th SB, Wichita with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Tamara Lutze, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Allen Payton, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Sherry K. Barnes, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. Teresa Perrin, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Kevin W. Hopkins, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. Justin Prochaska, 287th SB, Wichita Maj. Jacob Salmond, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Staff Sgt. Donald Hensley, Det 2, 778th Trans Co, Wichita Sgt. Jason Prock, 287th SB, Wichita Cluster Staff Sgt. Terry Hillyer, Det 1, Btry B, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Paola Sgt. Jonathan Raye, 250yth FSC, Ottawa Maj. Thomas Turner, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Retirements Staff Sgt. Terence James, Det 1, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Sgt. Brandon Rupe, 287th SB, Wichita Cluster Kansas Army National Guard Wichita Sgt. Ivan Sanchez, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Penny Jamvold, 190th ARW, Topeka Col. Michael Selby, HHC, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Staff Sgt. Steven Jarvi, Det 2, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Sgt. Frankie Schubert, 287th SB, Wichita Capt. Mark Kelly, 190th ARW, Topeka Lt. Col. Norman Childs, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Junction City Sgt. Blake Schulte, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Michael D. Beason 184th IW, Wichita, Lt. Col. Robert Merkel, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Anna Meyers, 170th Maint Co (-), Norton Sgt. Austin Sigg, 287th SB, Wichita with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Maj. Gregory Leeds, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Staff Sgt. Michael Miller, Det 2, Btry B, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Sgt. Jenny Smith, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Brian Dillon, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Maj. Mark Wisner, HHC (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Atchison Sgt. Chase Taylor, Co A, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Lawrence 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Capt. Peter Barrett, HHC (-), 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Staff Sgt. Shonda Reed, Det 1, HHD, JFHQ KC-LC, Topeka Sgt. Edy Tominaga, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Drewelow, 190th ARW, Topeka, 1st Lt. John Avila, Btry C (-), 1st Bn, 161st FA, Kingman Staff Sgt. Rickie Schiffner, Det 1, 731st Trans Co, Liberal Sgt. Tam Tram, 287th SB, Wichita with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Chief Warrant Officer 5 Robert Good, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Joe Shellnut II, Det 1, 778th Trans Co, Manhattan Sgt. Richard Vickers, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Wade Durkes, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Don Davison, 35th Div, Fort Leav- Staff Sgt. Vernon Vancleave, 242nd Eng Co (-), Coffeyville Sgt. Laura Wilber, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Kelly Innes, 190th ARW, Topeka enworth Staff Sgt. Leodis Washington, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Sgt. Brian Wilhite, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. William Mukes, 190th ARW, Topeka, with State Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Rodina, JFHQ KS-LC, Staff Sgt. Boyd Woodyard, Co B (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina Sgt. Heather Wright, 287th SB, Wichita 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Topeka Sgt. Ricky Beerbower, 242nd Eng Co (-), Coffeyville Spc. Charles Arbogast, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Christiana Wickline, 190th ARW, Topeka, Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Quenzer, HHD, 635th SG, Sgt. Michael Boswell, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Spc. James Bowles Jr., 226th Eng Co, Augusta with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Hutchinson Sgt. Bruce Dunlap, Det 1, Btry A, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Garden Spc. John Bowman, 287th SB, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Shawn Willard, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Sgt. Maj. Keith White, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth City Spc. Kimberly Call, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Oak Leaf Cluster 1st Sgt. John Degand, Co B (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina Sgt. Douglas Hennen, 242nd Eng Co (-), Coffeyville Spc. David Carver, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Suzette Baumgardner, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Sgt. Rodney Labbe, Btry C (-), 1st Bn, 161st FA, King- Sgt. Robert Lux, Co B, 2nd Combined Arms Bn, 137th Inf, Spc. David Childers, 287th SB, Wichita 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster man Wichita Spc. Louis Colling, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Casey Cooper, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Matthew Birney, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa Sgt. Michael Pracht, Det 3, 731st Trans Co, Hays Spc. Timothy Ellifrits, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Russell A. Hansen 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Master Sgt. Robert Bottom, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. James Rink, Det 3, 250th FSC, Sabetha Spc. Thomas Forehand, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Jimmy Breese, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Steven Rupert, 35th MP Co, Topeka Spc. Zachary Gibbs, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Jeffrey Johansen, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Master Sgt. Larry Burk, Training Site Det, Salina Sgt. Bobby Scott, 242nd Eng Co (-), Coffeyville Spc. Brandon Grabast, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Harlan Kneisel, HHB, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Hi- Sgt. Robert Stillwagon, Det 1, 778th Trans Co, Manhattan Spc. Thomas Hallam, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Shawn D. Jones, 184th IW, Wichita awatha Sgt. Ronald Williams, Co A, 1st Bn, 635th Ar, Emporia Spc. James Hobbs, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Eric Montgomery, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Master Sgt. Tommy Neill, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Melba Young, HHD, 169th CSSB, Olathe Spc. Andrew Jayne, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Michael Pomes, HHC, 35th Div, Fort Leaven- Spc. Richard Judd, Det 2, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Junc- Spc. Brett Johnson, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Kristina Perkins, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st worth tion City Spc. Kasey Keck, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Christopher Tharp, 35th Div, Fort Leavenworth Spc. Justine Staley, 137th Trans Co (-), Olathe Spc. Titus Locure, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Mark Sabes, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Baker, Co B, 2nd Combined Spc. Kevin West, Det 2, 731st Trans Co, Wichita Arms Bn, 137th Inf, Wichita Spc. Edward Magana, 287th SB, Wichita Leaf Cluster Spc. Amanda McCauley-Davison, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Patrick Sampson, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Sgt. 1st Class Sherman Crawford, Det 1, Btry C, 1st Bn, Kansas Air National Guard Spc. Jeffrey McCrory, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster 161st FA, Newton Lt. Col. John Hutter, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Cassandra Miller, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Donald W. Schafer, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Gabert Sr., 250th FSC, Ottawa Lt. Col. Charles Remboldt, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Robert Putman, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Gerald Kehres, Co D, 2nd Combined Arms Lt. Col. Arthur Roveto, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. James Ramsey, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Richard Smith, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Bn, 137th Inf, Emporia Lt. Col. Kimberly Smith, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Matthew Reazin, 287th SB, Wichita Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Lukavsky, HQ, 235th Rgt, Salina Chief Master Sgt. Philip Mahan, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Kristopher Ried, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Thomas Vandersluis, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Sgt. 1st Class Mark McCarter, Rec & Ret, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Howard Steanson, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Earnest Saulsberry, 287th SB, Wichita 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Ternilia Myers, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. James Steele, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Matthew Scheetz, 287th SB, Wichita Master Sgt. Brian Wohletz, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Sgt. 1st Class Micheal Schmidt, Btry E (TAB), 161st FA, Senior Master Sgt. Delton Brun, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Timothy Schreckhise, 287th SB, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Great Bend Senior Master Sgt. Shawn Gamber, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Kyle Simmons, Co A, 2nd Bn, 237th Inf, Lawrence Tech. Sgt. Marsha K. Chavez, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Michael Shaffer, Det 1, Btry A, 1st Bn, 161st Senior Master Sgt. David Gogian, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Danielle Smith, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Sean Cochran, 190th ARW, Topeka FA, Garden City Master Sgt. Gary Holliday, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. John Solis, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Sherry Fincham, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Tracy Thompson, 772nd Eng Co, Pittsburg Master Sgt. Connie Moser, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Amber Suter-Boudreaux, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Chartchai C. Halverson, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Wyman, 69th TC, Topeka Master Sgt. Paul Owens, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Nathaniel Taylor, 287th SB, Wichita 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Jerry Birdsley, Det 2, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Master Sgt. Lanard Paden, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Richard Tillery, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Robert P. Harvey, 184th IW, Wichita Junction City Master Sgt. Carolyn Wilson, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Christopher Wisdom, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Douglas Latessa, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Lee Carlson, Co B (-), 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Salina Tech. Sgt. James Norris, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Norma Zepeda, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. James Norris, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Deborah Carson, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Clinton Brown, 190th ARW, Topeka Pfc. Aaron Brooks, 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Alike Peterson, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Joseph Cole Jr., 35th MP Co, Topeka Senior Airman John Gaber, 190th ARW, Topeka Pfc. Alisha Smiddy (Swift), 287th SB, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Randall Shull, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Daniel Grubb, Btry E (TAB), 161st FA, Great Bend Senior Airman Brian Rapplean, 190th ARW, Topeka Pfc. Andrew Walburn, 287th SB, Wichita (Continued on Page 15) February 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 15 Civil Air Patrol members tests Heroic WWI Kansas National emergency service skills Guardsman honored in France By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson Army National Guard Armory, where they Unit Public Affairs Representative slept warmly on cots with sleeping bags. The Kansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Sunday was set aside to conduct training conducted their Kansas Emergency Serv- missions based on Saturday’s missions. ices Academy the weekend of Oct. 9-11, The training missions began by creating 2009. new ground teams from the assembled sen- “The purpose of the KESA is to give ior and cadet members. Cadet Chief Master rookie and veterans alike hands-on learning Sgt. Bradley Doubrava was selected to experience in the various aspects of CAP’s head one of the teams. His team’s training emergency services,” said Col. Tim mission was to locate a three-year-old child Hansen. that had wandered away from her family. The academy’s mission base was the Far- Dounrava deployed his team at the last num Creek camping area on the east side of known location of the family. Cadets Milford Lake. The area was filled with a Gabrielle Roth, Samuel Dorsey, Steele Ward mixture camping trailers and tents of vari- and Gyluss Hutchens formed a search line. ous sizes and colors. They quickly found a child’s shoe, their first “We have 55 senior and cadet members clue in the search. Empowered by the clue, for the weekend. Their ages range from 12 they continued on. When the open field to over 60,” said Capt. Linette Lahan. “Our turned into a tree line, Dounrava closed up goal was to conduct as realistic training as the line before going into the trees. we could. The fact that this happened to The team moved as far as the lake’s end up being one of the coldest Octobers in shore line before forming a new line going 35 years, although unplanned, just adds to back the way they came. Just before reach- the training.” ing the clearing there was excitement. Saturday’s training included first aid pro- Dounrava called in a “tally ho” as the team Brig. Gen. Deborah Rose, director , Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas, assists M. cedures to include prevention and treatment found the doll representing Denise. Ghislain Deketele, mayor of Remicourt, France, in unveiling a plaque in honor of of hot weather injuries. Additional training “It was great that we were able to find Medal of Honor recipients 2nd Lt. Erwin Bleckley and 1st Lt. Harold Goettler, who included locating a distress beacon, con- our target,” said Ward. “I am just glad that died in World War I (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Office.) ducting a search line, land navigation and it was not for real.” By Sharon Watson German troops. map reading. After dark, there was training “It was a very good feeling when we Public Affairs Office Bleckley received a Medal of Honor for with various night vision devices. were able to radio back that we had found Kansas National Guard members joined his heroic efforts and was inducted into the With overnight temperatures projected to her,” agreed Dorsey. the community of Remicourt, France, Oct. 7, Kansas National Guard’s Hall of Fame in be freezing, arrangements were made to “This made the weekend worthwhile,” 2009, for a ceremony honoring 2nd Lt. 1997. Jacobs recommended Bleckley for move everyone in tents to the Junction City said Hutchens. Erwin Bleckley, a Kansas Guardsman who the Guard’s Hall of Fame recognition. died Oct. 6, 1918, in a heroic effort to rescue Bleckley’s niece, Nancy Erwin, and her the American 77th Division, the “Lost Bat- husband of Shreveport, La., and Goettler’s talion,” during World War I. niece, Joan Starr, of Connecticut, along with Bleckley, one of the 50th Aero Squadron her two sons, attended the wreath laying, heroes, joined the Kansas National Guard’s site visits and the ceremony in Remicourt. 130th Field Artillery Regiment in 1917, “It’s been very gratifying to think that I volunteering for forward observation duty could represent my grandmother,” said with the Army Air Service. Erwin, who says her family didn’t talk Brig. Gen. Deborah Rose, director of the much about her uncle and while she knew Joint Force Headquarters Kansas, greeted what had happened to him, as a child she members of Bleckley’s family Oct. 6 to couldn’t comprehend what good it did. place a wreath at Bleckley’s grave site and “Suddenly, at some point in my young another at the site where his plane crashed. years, I realized, I pulled it together: I Rose attended the events in France and wouldn’t be here today, my family wouldn’t was joined by Doug Jacobs, command his- be here today, if there weren’t young men torian of the Kansas National Guard, and who were willing to do this, to give their Soldiers and Airmen of the Kansas Na- lives in defense of liberty,” Erwin said. tional Guard. The Illinois National Guard During the ceremony, a plaque was dedi- was also represented. cated to the city of Remicourt, which will “It’s truly an honor to be a part of this be permanently displayed outside of the ceremony to recognize Lieutenant Bleckley mayor’s office to recognize the heroics of and to be able to personally thank his fam- Bleckley and Goettler and others who Maj. Ron Schlesener, Kansas Wing, Civil Air Patrol, conducts training on the radio ily for the sacrifices he and they have made served with them. direction finder for two CAP cadets. (Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson, UPAR) for our country,” said Rose. “It’s critical we remember those who On Oct. 7, the city of Remicourt hosted a served and ensure they are recognized in Awards and Decorations 91st anniversary ceremony to honor Bleck- the history books for their heroic actions,” ley and his pilot, Harold Goettler, of Illi- said Jacobs. “Without the research and doc- Continued from Page 14 Master Sgt. Angelina Siroky, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Tech. Sgt. Richard L. Sparks, 184th IW, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster nois, who flew a fatal mission that may umentation of Oct. 6, 1918, we wouldn’t Tech. Sgt. Denton Stafford, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Jacob Urban, 190th ARW, Topeka have provided key information, perhaps a know how critical Lieutenant Bleckley and Tech. Sgt. Daniel W Strickland, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Gordon Cole, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 5th Oak Tech. Sgt. Cynthia A Swazey, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Leaf Cluster map, to troops that would later help them Lieutenant Goettler were in saving so Oak Leaf Cluster Tech. Sgt. Michael Dunn, 190th ARW, Topeka locate the battalion that was surrounded by many of the lives of their comrades.” Tech. Sgt. Dorothy Westergren, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Tech. Sgt. Jamel Francis, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Oak Leaf Cluster Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman James P. Soutar, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. John Williams, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Matthew M. McCoy, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman John Barnes, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Senior Airman Mattheiu A. Statler, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Erin Burden, 190th ARW, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Carolyn Tatum, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Crystal Crews, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Phillip Money, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Kelly Bartholic, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Brandon Terhune, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Staff Sgt. Anthony G. Gordon, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Brian Beatty, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Paul Harper, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Jason Parker, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Daniel Berends, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Ming J. Tran, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Troy P Kaufman, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Christopher Berroth, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Senior Airman Carina Vazquez, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Khamkert Khuesy, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Topanga I. Stanton, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Kevin Williams, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Staff Sgt. Sarah Mendez, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Christopher Blaski, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Karissa R. Nelsen, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Levi Vincent, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Airman 1st Class Joseph P. Andra, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Heather R. Stump, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Kyle Brabb, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Matthew P. Benoit, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Ashley Tremblay, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Deric Winn, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Joshua J. Brown, 184th IW, Wichita Airman 1st Class Christopher Lake, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Joseph Weber, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Brooke Cessna, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Alex Lopez, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Clinton C. Adams, 184th IW, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Bradley Yocum, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Jeffery A Corbin, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Kyle Cochran, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Ashley Martin, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Aaron L. Crockett, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman John Countryman, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Trinita McNutt, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Cori M. Fortner, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Barbara Dustin, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Sean Greenlee, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Jarod Creed, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Michael Strobel, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Senior Airman Jennifer Lord, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Erick Dean, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Jake Meyer, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ashley Hastings, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Neal Jensen, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Shanna Finkemeier, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Anthony R. Garner, 184th IW, Wichita Kansas National Guard Achievement Medal Air Force Achievement Medal Staff Sgt. Justin Meier, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Melinda Griffith, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Nathan Miles, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Micky V. Grogan, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Chris G. Guild, 184th IW, Wichita Maj. Michael D. Hagerty, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Capt. Donald Harper, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Staff Sgt. Robert Morris, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Lianne C. Hendrickson, 184th IW, Wichita, Leaf Cluster Cluster with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Maj. Mark J. Tillison, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Gary Cox, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Staff Sgt. Gabriel Moulden, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Aaron Poston, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Jonathan Henry, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Capt. Deborah L Balentine, 184th IW, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Oak Leaf Cluster Capt. Kelly A Martin, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Wendy Davis, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Staff Sgt. Jesse Price, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Aaron Robinson, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Celestina Johnson, 190th ARW, Topeka 2nd Lt. Amanda George, 184th IW, Wichita 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Colby Knox, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Sidney Baldwin, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Randy Bole, HHC, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Kansas City Staff Sgt. Robert Sauerbrunn, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Michael Schneider, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Anthony D Kober, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Master Sgt. William A. Angstadt, 184th IW, Wichita, Master Sgt. Mary J. Douglass, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Senior Airman Matthew Leonard, 190th ARW, Topeka, with with 5th Oak Leaf Cluster Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Sarbjit Singh, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Master Sgt. Donna Buckman, 184th IW, Wichita Master Sgt. Jean Hager, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Senior Airman Melanie Nelson, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Senior Master Sgt. Debora L Hooper, 184th IW, Wichita Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Daniel Snyder, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. David Tomczek, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Paul H. Arnold, 184th IW, Wichita Master Sgt. Gina Hastings, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Senior Airman Diana Olivar, 184th IW, Wichita Master Sgt. Frank W. Cook, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. David Wright, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Senior Airman Jacob Perez, 190th ARW, Topeka Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Mark Jantz, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Senior Airman Kaitlin Robinson, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Neil H. Fogg, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Michael Zeller, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Ryan Sipes, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Mark Moulden, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Eric R. Smith, 184th IW, Wichita, with 2nd Oak Oak Leaf Cluster Senior Airman Curtis Anderson, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Jeffrey Austin, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 2nd Senior Airman Byron A. Smith, 184th IW, Wichita Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Richard Rust, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Robert Snyder, 190th ARW, Topeka Page 16 Plains Guardian • February 2010 PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian Black Hawk crews practice Inspired student puts Salina with jungle penetrator By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, UPAR Once on the ground, the medic opens the teacher in national spotlight 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation legs of the yellow penetrator. The medic Problem: How to get a flight medic from sits facing inwards, straddling two of the a hovering helicopter to the ground when penetrator’s legs, and places his arms there is no place to land. through the safety straps. When ready, the Solution: Use a hoist to lower the medic medic signals the crew chief, who activates down on a jungle penetrator. the hoist to pull the medic up. On Sept. 18, 2009, the 171st General This training was conducted for flight Support Aviation Battalion conducted hoist medics Burpo and Sgt. Justin Miser and training for their pilots, crew chiefs and crew chiefs Staff Sgt J.T. Smith and Sgt. flight medics. The training was conducted Ryan Kohlman. Capt. Kevin Kennedy and in a grassy area on the southern edge of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Steve Hood piloted Forbes Field, Topeka. Staff Sgt. Jennifer the Black Hawk. Burpo explained this training is done while If the medics have a patient, the patient the Black Hawk is hovering overhead. The would be sent up first. Once safely onboard crew chief swings the hoist outside of the the helicopter, the crew chief would then helicopter and lowers the jungle penetrator, lower the penetrator to recover the medic. a heavy metal device designed, as the name The penetrator can also be used to rescue implies, to penetrate dense jungle foliage. people from flood waters or from rooftops. The penetrator is used to retrieve someone “It was exhilarating!” said Burpo. “It is a from the ground or to lower them to the great way to develop confidence in the ground. abilities of the pilots and crew chiefs.”

Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Susan Jordan, Salina elementary school teacher and a retired member of the Kansas National Guard, was nominated–and won– a national teacher’s award by student Lena Kellogg. (Photo by Tom Dorsey, Salina Journal) By Tim Unruh the state award, Jordan said, but that was Salina Journal just the beginning. One day back in January 2009, Mag- At midsummer, Jordan was informed dalena Kellogg announced a high honor she was among the five finalists for the to second-grade teacher retired Chief federation’s national My Favorite Teacher Warrant Officer 4 Susan Jordan at Mead- award. She was invited to the national owlark Ridge Elementary School. convention in Orlando, Fla. “She said, ‘I hope you don’t mind. I Lena and her mother, who is a member nominated you as my favorite teacher of the Saline County Republican Women, who makes a difference,’ “ Jordan said. attended the convention. Both of her “What better thing than to have a student grandmothers – Trisha Marietta, of say that to you?” Salina, and Sandra Bohne, of Leaven- It was the beginning of what would be- worth and aunt, Emily Bohne, of Leaven- come “an amazing ride” for Jordan and worth – were also in the crowd Sept. 12. her former student. It concluded Sept. 12, Lena’s father, Chris Kellogg, a Salina Sgt. Justin Miser hangs from a jungle penetrator below a Black Hawk helicopter 2009, in Orlando, Fla., said Magdalena’s attorney, and her little brother, Carson, 5, from the 171st General Support Aviation Battalion. (Photo by Sgt. Matthew Rose) mom, Becky Kellogg. were unable to make the trip. The little girl, known to most as Jordan’s husband, Lt. Col. Jeff Jordan, Kansas, Oklahoma partner in bi-state “Lena,” penned impressions of her sec- who is also a Kansas National Guards- ond-grade teacher – she was in third man, and their daughter, Samantha, 14, stop animal movement exercise grade at the time – in an essay that she went along, as well. On Oct. 22, 2009, officials in Kansas and the major threats to our state’s economy used to nominate Jordan for the National Brenda Smith, Salina, president of the Oklahoma recently partnered to conduct the and the more we exercise for it, the more Federation of Republican Women’s My Kansas Federation of Republican first interstate emergency response exercise. everyone will know what to expect should Favorite Teacher Award. Women, knew that Jordan was the win- The Oct. 22 event tested coordination and it happen in the U.S.” “I think she is the best because she is ner, but she didn’t tell. the logistics of implementing a stop live- Animal health, agriculture, law enforce- so energetic and so funny and she helps Convinced she would win stock movement order issued by state ani- ment, transportation and emergency man- us a lot,” Lena, 8, now a fourth-grader, Lena was convinced that her favorite mal health officials. agement officials from both states wrote in her essay. teacher would win. The exercise took place in Topeka, participated in the exercise by working as “She made me want to go to school “Whenever they said ‘if’ she wins, I Kan., and Oklahoma City Okla., and on players, evaluators and actors. The exercise every day. She made me feel loved by lis- would correct them and say ‘when’ she the Kansas-Oklahoma border. The sce- was played out as realistically as possible, tening to me. When I see her in the hall- wins,” Lena said. nario involved a simulated outbreak of in real time, and involved emergency oper- She reminded Jordan to “have some- way, I get excited. I am thankful she was foot-and-mouth disease in the eastern ations centers, key decision makers and thing in your back pocket (an acceptance my teacher!” Lena wrote. speech) when you win.” United States. local officials in both states. Traffic was Her nomination of Jordan was faxed to As Jordan and four other finalists stood “Many states have conducted exercises to screened at two border locations -- one at the organization’s state chairwoman in before 1,300 people in the banquet hall test their response plans to a highly conta- the intersection of Highways 160 and 183 December, but Lena waited until after Sept. 12, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, gious foreign animal disease within their near Sitka, Kan., and the other three miles Jordan was a finalist to inform her. the featured speaker and presenter, an- own borders, so this exercise provides the north of Turpin, Okla., on Highway 83. It was a week before the state winner nounced Jordan as the winner. new dimension of coordinating activities to “Kansas is a leader in animal agriculture, would be announced at a luncheon on “We were just overwhelmed. We stop animal movement across a shared bor- so it’s no surprise our state would be Kansas Day in Topeka. weren’t expecting it,” Becky Kellogg der,” said George Teagarden, commissioner among the first to test this critical element Somewhat perplexed, her mother said. of the Kansas Animal Health Department. of our foreign animal disease response asked Lena why “Miss Jordan” had such It was an “exciting” moment, Jordan said, The exercise, titled SAMS-KO, or Stop plan,” said Josh Svaty, acting secretary of especially when she spotted her “star” ex- short notice. Animal Movement Statewide KS-OK, was the Kansas Department of Agriculture. student, who “bubbles from within, sitting “She said, ‘I was scared she wouldn’t right up front with her paparazzi” family, funded by a grant from the U.S. Depart- “I’m proud that folks in my department win and I didn’t want her feelings hurt,’ “ taking pictures. ment of Homeland Security. Kansas and have been able to help develop and carry Becky Kellogg said. “I jumped up and down and screamed,” Oklahoma are members of the Multistate out this exercise and that we will play a A helicopter pilot Lena said. Partnership for Security in Agriculture, a strong supporting role in a real event. It Jordan was able to make the trip to Jordan was given a finalist certificate, consortium of 13 states that work together will take all of us working together, includ- Topeka and listened as Lena read her crystal star and crystal bowl, not to mention to protect the food and agriculture sector ing our partners in neighboring states, to essay at the luncheon. The audience the enduring memories of a very special ex- by sharing information and building inter- control the spread of diseases that could learned of Jordan’s military experience – perience she shared with Lena, who some- state response capabilities. devastate our livestock industry.” a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, 30 years day wants to be a teacher. “We conduct a number of exercises an- “A stop livestock movement order is de- in the Army National Guard and a year of “It was an exciting time,” Jordan said. nually with our state partners in Kansas,” signed to protect healthy animals from the service in Afghanistan – and her efforts to The little girl’s words had an effect, said said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adju- introduction of harmful diseases. Its focus improve reading and writing and to in- her mother. spire learning in the classroom. “I’m a proud momma,” Becky Kellogg tant general and director of the Kansas Di- is to stop potentially diseased animals or “All the other students who nominated said. “I told Lena, ‘Your small and simple vision of Emergency Management. contaminated animal-handling equipment were high school girls. That kind of made things can grow into big and wonderful “However, working with our partners from other states from entering our state me feel a little nervous,” Lena said. things. This is something you will re- across state lines is critical because disas- and coming into contact with healthy ani- It was a thrill and a true honor to win member the rest of your life.’ “ ters seldom stop at the state line. We con- mals,” Teagarden said. “This exercise will sider foreign animal disease to be one of allow us to test how well our plan works