AlumniAlumni specialspecial editionedition

Alumni special edition

Official Publication of the National Guard

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Warrior Ready 2015 Contents

Wellness Camp produces stronger, healthier Soldiers...... 4

Air National Guard holds State Command Chief CoR...... 6

Ensuring battlefi ed Soldiers remain Warrior Ready......

UAV training provides invaluable air assets...... 10

The care and feeding of 2,000 Iowans at AT...... 11

The year in pictures...... 12

132nd welcomes Governor Branstad, Lt. Gov. Reynolds...... 14

185th hosts media day...... 15

Eldon youth recognized for life-long military support...... 16

Summary of state legislation...... 23

Iowa retirees...... 25

Iowa retirees...... 26

2 Th e Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tim Orr Public Aff airs Offi cer Col. Greg Hapgood Editor/Designer Master Sgt. Duff E. McFadden State Photographer Staff Sgt. Chad Nelson Command Historian Tech. Sgt. Michael McGhee

Warrior Ready 2015 Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all Americans including all military members (active duty, retired, Selected Reserve, or Retired Reserve) and their family members must have health care coverage that meets a minimum standard called minimum essential coverage, or pay a fee. Your TRICARE coverage meets the minimum essential coverage requirement under the ACA.

"The term 'active duty' means full-time duty in the active service of a uniformed service for more than 30 consecutive days."

Beginning in January 2016, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) will proide IRS Form 1095-C to all U.S. military members and IRS Form 1095-B to all Retirees, Annuitants, former spouses and all other indiviuals having TRICARE coverage during all or any portion of tax year 2015. An IRS Form 1095 documents you (and your family members, if ap- plicable) have the minimum essential coverage. More information will be forthcoming about the delivery method of these forms.

These forms will document the information that DFAS will provide to the IRS on yourself and your authorized family members. The forms will be required to be reported with your 2015 federal tax return. DFAS will pro- vide you with IRS Form 1095 series forms no later than Jan. 31, 2016.

You can fi nd more informaton about the impact of the Affordable Care Act on your federal income tax at: http://www.irs.gov/Affordable-Care-Act .

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Warrior Ready 2015 Wellness Camp produces stron

by Master Sgt. or not meeting height/weight healthy choices and lifestyles and Duff E. McFadden standards. By failing to act, the working out. Overall, it’s all about could lose these Soldiers becoming more or Spc. Jerrod Luetje, of Og- nearly nine percent of its force to health-conscious persons, as op- den, Iowa, his life-changing circumstances its leadership could posed to just being able to pass a F epiphany came within fi ve actually impact. PT test, or maintain their height to six weeks after taking part in Th is disturbing forecast sounded and weight standards,” Waters said. a relatively new Iowa National a loud and clear call for Iowa Th is four-day program specifi cally Guard program. National Guard offi cials, and it targets Iowa National Guard wasn’t long before Camp Dodge’s “I was able to pass my Physical Soldiers with less than six years of innovative Wellness Camp was Fitness test in April for the fi rst service, who’ve failed their previous born. time since I had knee surgery in late 2012. Since I passed APFT, I “All across our nation, as well as 4 was able to reenlist and stay on as the National Guard, we have a lot “I never knew a full-time technician,” said Luetje. of health issues,” said Master Sgt. “I could actually see the changes in Gary Waters, the Iowa National to substitute foods th my body,” he added. “My gut was Guard’s State Retention Non- shrinking and my upper body was Commissioned Offi cer. and taste developing muscles I never knew “Within the Iowa National Guard It’s also very easy I had. Overall, my body just felt alone, we have Soldiers who can’t better.” pass their PT test, so they’re not you cook things Warrior According to Iowa National eligible to extend, which drops the numbers of our overall strength, all the di Ready Guard projections, more than 600 Soldiers could conceiv- so our readiness is just a little bit in nutrition 2015 ably be separating over the next lower. several years, either from failing “So, we’re now off ering special- - the Army’s Physical Fitness Test, ized classes addressing nutrition, nger, smarter, healthier Soldiers

PT Test and/or are fl agged for the grocery store, to making the I wasn’t sure what to expect. I height/weight failure. It’s custom- right decisions when cooking or thought it was going to be very tailored for those Soldiers who dining out. In addition, Soldiers PT-focused, but there was a lot of wish to continue their military receive invaluable instruction on nutrition focus as well,” Merrifi eld career and are dedicated to a wide variety of exercise options, said. improving their overall health and to include resilience training, “I never knew it was so easy to wellness. swimming, and proper physical substitute foods that are good for fi tness techniques. Th e curriculum provides Soldiers you and taste good too. It’s also everything they need to know While each Soldier departs the very easy to change the way you about nutrition basics, ranging camp with all the necessary tools cook things that can make all the from portion sizes, to shopping at to meet APFT and height/weight diff erence in nutritional value. requirements, more importantly, Now, Merrifi eld said, her family’s it’s up to each Soldier to translate eating habits have changed for the those lessons into signifi cant 5 it was so easy better. lifestyle changes, enabling them to hat are good for you make better wellness choices the “We’re cooking at home more rest of their life. and when we do go out, we order good too. things that are better for us,” she Pfc. Scarlett Merrifi eld, of Des said. “We also get out and do Moines, volunteered to attend the to change the way something every day, even if it’s Wellness Camp after her husband just a walk around the neighbor- participated in the August 2013 s that can make hood.” camp. She thought if she went ifference through the course, it would be Warrior easier for both of them to make Ready nal value." any necessary health alterations. Wellness Camp 2015 Pfc. Scarlett Merrifi eld “I went into it very open-minded. continued on page 18 Th e program was really new and ommand Chief Master Sgt. Tim Cochran assumed duties as the sixth State Command 132nd Air Wing CChief of the during a Change of Responsibility ceremony held July 12 at the Joint Forces Headquarters in Johnston, Iowa. Command Chief Brig. Gen. Jennifer Walter, Chief of Staff , Iowa Air National Guard, presided over the ceremony, which 6 saw the outgoing State Command Chief Master Sgt. Lowell (Ed) Schellhase Jr., transfer his responsibilities Tim Cocharan to Cochran. Schellhase retires following 43 years of military service. assumes duties “I’m very excited for the opportunity to represent all Airmen within the entire state,” said Cochran. “We have a state full of awesome Airmen and I look forward to celebrating their successes. I also look as Iowa forward to the collaboration and synergy gained for Warrior our servicemen and women with Command Sgt. Maj. Rachel Fails and the Solders of Iowa.” Ready Air National Guard A 33-year Air National; Guard veteran, Cochran has 2015 already hit the ground running. Command Chief “My fi rst goal is to meet all the Airmen in the state and start building relationships. We need to ensure our Airmen are receiving eff ective performance feedback and focus them on personal initiative and discipline for success,” Cochran said. “We also need to guide them to proactively acquire development training and professional education, plus ensure they've identifi ed mentors to help them plan for success and achievement of their career goals,” he added. Cochran, a Martensdale, Iowa native, began his military career with the Iowa Air National Guard in November 1981 when he enlisted into Des Moines’ 132nd Fighter Wing. He completed basic training and technical training in 1982 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, and Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., where he was Honor Graduate at both schools. Brig. Gen. Jennifer Walter reads Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Cochran the Command oath, with his wife He returned to the 132nd Fighter Wing, where Teresa at his side, as he assumes responsibility he served in various full-time positions within the as the Command Chief Master Sgt. of the Iowa Air Maintenance Group to include jet engine mechanic, National Guard. (Iowa National Guard photo by intermediate maintenance supervisor, fuel systems Tech. Sgt. Linda K. Burger) supervisor, fabrication element supervisor, accessories element supervisor, maintenance operations superin- tendent, quality assurance superintendent. In August 2012, he became the 132nd Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant. Schellhase enlisted in the Air Force as a high school senior on Dec. 18, 1972, and after graduating from Cedar Falls’ Northern University High School in 1973, he attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. In July 1973, Airman Schellhase attended basic electronics and advanced radio maintenance training at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Miss., where he graduated with honors. In March 1977, Schellhase separated from the active duty and began work at the Iowa Department of Public Safety Communications Division as a radio Maj. Gen. Timothy Orr,The Adjutant General of technician. the Iowa National Guard, presents Doreen Schell- hase, wife of Chief Master Sgt. Ed Schellhase with In October 1977 he joined the Iowa Air National a certifi cate of appreciation during Schellhase's Guard, 132nd Communications Flight as a radio retirement ceremony held iat the Camp Dodge maintainer. In 1984 he became a fulltime technician Pool Pavilion on July 11. Schellhase retires after with the 132nd Communications Flight. 42 years of service. (Iowa National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Linda K. Burger) He was promoted to Chief Master Sergeant on Sept. 7 15, 1994. In September 2006 Schellhase deployed to Kirkuk, Iraq as the 506th Air Expeditionary Group looks forward to retirement and doing the things he superintendent, which was the highlight of his mili- loves, like scuba diving, traveling, camping and fi sh- tary career. While deployed, he was selected as the ing. 132nd Fighter Wing Command Chief. He served until July 2011 when he was selected as the fi fth State In the meantime, responsibility for the Airmen of the Command Chief for the Iowa Air National Guard. Iowa Air National Guard rest in the able hands of Iowa's newest State Command Chief Mastear Ser- He was also very active in his community, proudly geant. serving on the Norwalk Fire Department for 25 Warrior years as a fi refi ghter-EMT, captain, assistant chief “I lead from the front and by example,” Cochran and fi re chief. said. “I’m passionate about the profession of arms and Ready serving others. It’s a privilege and honor to defend the 2015 He and his wife, Doreen (Holmes), reside in Nor- constitutional values of our great nation and we need walk and have three children, Michelle, Jennifer to pass the baton onto our future generations in even and Daniel, and seven grandchildren. He said he better condition than when we received it.” Ensuri JAS-R: Warrio

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by Staff Sgt. Chad D. Nelson Joint Readiness Training Center Soldiers, convoys, equipment and 135th Mobile Public Aff airs Det. (JRTC) on Fort Polk, La., they've operating bases. In turn, the Red faced extensive challenges to both Bulls conduct counter-attacks s more than 2,000 body and mind. of their own in this realistic, Soldiers from the 2nd relevant and rigorous, force-on- Warrior Brigade, 34th “Red Bull” Oppositional forces, composed A force training exercise. Ready Infantry Division, Iowa Army of Soldiers from across the National Guard, headquartered at country, challenge the Red Bulls All combat scenarios are safely 2015 Boone, Iowa, pass the midpoint at every turn, mounting direct waged through the use of a of their annual training at the and indirect attacks on Iowa Multiple Integrated Laser ng battlefi eld Soldiers remain or Ready during annual training

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Engagement System (MILES). training exercises of their own. Manning this aid station is a Th e MILES gear is essentially team of Iowans ready to treat Fortunately, none of the a laser tag system. If a Soldier real-world casualties so they can casualties from the MILES fi re is “hit,” an alarm sounds on return to the exercise. fi ghts are real – their injuries are his equipment and he becomes only notional. Warrior a “casualty.” Th e “casualty” is Ready then rushed to a medical facility, For actual, real-world injuries, JAS-R where combat medics sharpen Soldiers are treated at the JRTC Continued on Page 2015 their own skills through intense Aid Station Rear (JAS-R ). UAV training provides invaluable air assets for military, emergency response applications by Sgt. Renee Surentine 135th MPAD

n a hot summer day in central Louisiana, Iowa OArmy National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Chris Jorgensen, of Garrison, Iowa, oversees the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) training of his 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division Soldiers.

Iowa and Minnesota Army National Guard Soldiers are currently training at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) in Fort Polk, La. to obtain fl ight validation on the Raven UAV Spc. Jared McKenna, Company A, 1st during their two-week annual Battalion, 133rd Infantry, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, from Dubuque, Iowa, prepares to launch an Unmanned training. Aerial Vehicle (UAV), at Fort Polk, La., during annual training at the Joint Readiness Training Center, July 28. McKenna is a Certifi ed Th e Soldiers run tests and checks Operator and Navigator for the reconnaissance aircraft. (Iowa on the UAV system prior to hand- National Guard Photo by Sgt. Renee Seruntine) launching it. Once it’s airborne, they use the remote ground station controller to guide the UAV’s solo, that individual knows what fl ight. Th ey also learn to work a safety brief and a discussion he’s doing.” with the Falcon View computer on air space control so they’re program, which is a multi- not fl ying the same air space as Th e mission of the aircraft is to platform mapping and mission manned aircraft, as well as dialogue collect reconnaissance and photos, planning application used with the on some of the other hazards observe a selected area and fi nd the reconnaissance aircraft. particular to operating at JRTC, enemy before sending out troops. said Jorgensen, a small unmanned “Before every launch we have a aerial system master trainer. “Ravens give the comany series of checks we have to do to commander a reconnaissance make sure everything is working “Today we had to do the validation asset he or she can control,” said well with the bird before it goes fl ights so the JRTC observer- Jorgensen. “Th ey can use it to 10 up in the air,” said Iowa Army trainers can make sure these guys specifi cally look at things they National Guard Sgt. Ray Deojay, know what they’re doing,” said need to know as a company of Huxley, Iowa, a certifi ed UAV Jorgensen. “So when they go out commander, so they can better operator with the Headquarters to the maneuver box, they’re not utilize their soldiers to accomplish and Headquarters Company, fl ying into where Blackhawks come the mission.” 334th Brigade Support Battalion. in, or spend days looking for a downed Raven.” Besides military applications, these While Soldiers go through a same skills Soldiers are learning two-week UAV course to get “Once they complete this fi eld today in Louisiana can later be Warrior certifi ed, they are still unable to exercise, they’ll be able to operate used back home in Iowa as part of Ready fl y alone. Th ey have to fl y with a independently without people emergency response eff orts. Th ese master trainer until they meet unit observing them,” said Jorgensen. same UAVs can also be used to 2015 requirements to fl y solo. “Th e people at JRTC, for safety provide real-time images to fi rst reasons, want to make sure before responders during tornados, fl oods, Classroom training includes they send somebody out to fl y or other natural disasters. The care and feeding of 2,000 Iowans at AT Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen 135th MPAD ometimes it takes a drill sergeant attitude to take total Schaos and organize it into a working plan, especially when it comes to feeding hungry Soldiers in a fi eld environment. In this case, it takes a former para- trooper, who supervises hospitality staff in the entertainment industry and plans and organizes formal events when he’s not serving his country. Sgt. 1st Class John DeVore, as- signed to Headquarters and Head- quarters Company, Brigade Special Troops Battalion, has the monu- Iowa Army National Guard cooks unload milk into a refrigerated con- mental task of feeding more than tainer during a JRTC rotation. These Soldiers operate a dining facility 2,000 Soldiers on a daily basis, which prepares hot meals twice a day, and more than 4,000 meals during the Iowa National Guard’s each day. (Iowa National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Darwin Seehusen) Joint Readiness Training Center rotation at Fort Polk, La. meals during each service. Cooks Guard, stated the service is pretty not actually working in the kitch- quick and the dining facility has a Devore, from Columbus Junc- ens are serving meals or making variety of food available. tion, Iowa, supervises 36 Soldiers sure the drink and condiment sta- at a consolidated dining facility on tions are stocked. Rouse likes waking up to a hot Forward Operating Base Warrior. breakfast. “Th e biscuits and gravy Th ey prepare hot meals twice a day “It’s (meal service) non-stop for makes you feel at home.” said from three Containerized Kitchens two-and-a- half hours.” said De- Rouse. “It a real morale booster.” (CK) and each is capable of serving vore. “It’s a continuously moving up to 800 Soldiers per meal. line.” Sgt. Brian Butterfi eld, a logistics specialist from Sumner, Iowa Devore explained during the fi rst Devore said they’re serving around assigned to Company E, 334th meal there’s no orderliness for 2,400 meals per service and had Brigade Support Battalion, really Soldiers trying to get their meal, a high of more than 4,800 meals enjoys the air-conditioned dining condiments, and drinks. Th is over one day. area. “Th e A/C is a nice touch. causes bottlenecks at diff erent sta- (It’s) the fi rst one I’ve had in the tions which delays Soldiers from Th e food service workers do a great fi eld.” said Butterfi eld. “It’s better getting served and seated, so they job communicating with each than eating in the fi eld.” can enjoy their meal. other and are excited about work- ing together to serve Soldiers, said Butterfi eld especially liked the per- 11 Devore spent three days determin- Devore. sonal–sized pizza the dining facility ing the most effi cient way to bring off ered. “Th ey give us the nutrients the meals from the kitchens to the After each meal they perform an we need and a hot meal beats an service line, optimizing the fl ow of after-action review to discuss ideas MRE (pre-packaged Meal Ready Soldiers in and out of the dining on how to provide better service. to Eat),” said Butterfi eld. tent, feeding them as quickly as possible in a constantly-moving “Th e food service personnel ap- Not everyone agrees a hot meal line. preciate when Soldiers tell them beats an MRE. they’re doing an awesome job,” “It takes old-school mess hall guid- said Devore. Spc. Craig Borden from Primghar, Warrior ance,” said Devore with a smile on Iowa, assigned to Battery A, 1st his face. Staff Sgt. Brad Rouse, a combat Battalion, 194th Field Artillery, Ready engineer from Prestonsburg, Ky., said the dining facility off ered All of Devore’s team members are assigned to the 577th Sapper plenty of food and meals were 2015 cooks, and each of the CKs has six Company, 201st Engineer Bat- good, but “my favorite meal is an personnel prepping and cooking talion, Kentucky Army National MRE. You can’t mess up an MRE.” A year in pict

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Warrior Ready 2015 tures

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Warrior Ready 2015 First visit since conversion 132nd welcomes Governor Branstad, Lt. Gov. Reynolds during tour of Wing

by Tech. Sgt. Linda K. Burger said, "You are doing it right." 132d Wing Heer also spoke about the 132nd being effi cient he 132nd Wing, Iowa Air National Guard custodians of their facilities. Th e 132nd hangars welcomed Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and once used to store and maintain F-16 Falcon aircraft TLieutenant Governor to the have since been repurposed into the 132nd Fire Des Moines, Iowa airbase on June 9, for a tour of the Department, where they also store an RC-26 and 14 Wing's capabilities. C-12 aircraft.

Th is visit included a visual demonstration of the Th is facility may also be used in the future by the Iowa Wing's domestic operations capabilities and a brief of Army National Guard to store and maintain UH-60M the Wing's three missions -- Intelligence Surveillance Black Hawk and UH-72 Lakota helicopters. Reconnaissance, Defensive Cyber Operations and During the tour, Iowa offi cials learned about Iowa MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft fl ying operations. National Guard domestic operations capabilities, During the presentation, the 132nd Wing including demonstrations of the Medical Counter Warrior Commander, Col. Kevin Heer, explained how, over Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) Program, Civil Disturbance Kit, Disaster Response Ready the last two years of conversion, unit members have been resilient and maintained a spirit of enthusiasm Mobile Kitchen, Fatality Search and Recovery Team, 2015 resulting in one of the most effi cient conversions in Mobile Emergency Operations Center (MEOC), Air National Guard history. He quoted the Director of Urban Search and Rescue, Civil Engineering Debris the Air National Guard, Lt. Gen. Stanley Clarke, who Clearance, and Prime Power. 185th hosts media day

Journalists from the Sioux City, Iowa area were invited to fl y with the Iowa Air National Guard’s on Thursday June 4, 2015 as part of a media day event. Ten members of the civilian media were able to witness a mid-air refueling mission with F-16 Fighter jets from Buckley Air Force base in Colorado. (Iowa National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot/) by Master Sgt Vincent De Groot this" said Mast, when talking to journalist about the 185th Air Refueling Wing main mission of the refueling wing.

he Iowa Air National Guard's 185th Air Refu- Th e pilot for the mission was Wing Commander Col eling Wing (ARW) in Sioux City, Iowa hosted Larry Christensen who also made himself available for Ta media day event on June 4, 2015. Journalists interviews as part of the event. from the Sioux City, Iowa area were invited to fl y with "We are in high demand, both for training and op- the unit, while crew members performed a mid-air erational missions", said Christensen when talking to refueling mission. media representatives about the need for air refueling. 15

During the mission, Air Force F-16s from Buckley, Christensen talked to reporters about the unique- Colorado met the KC-135 from Sioux City while ness of the National Guard and how air units like the fl ying over north central Kansas for a fl ight that lasted 185th depend heavily on their traditional guard mem- about three hours. bers who typically serve one weekend each month and two weeks each year. Photographers were given a close up view of the refu- eling process while lying on their stomachs in the back Christensen also talked about other important mem- of the Air Force KC-135 next to boom operator, Chief bers of his team, which he said includes employers and Warrior Master Sgt. Al Mast who is assigned as the "Chief family members. Ready Boom" to the 185th ARW. "We wouldn't be able to do what we do without the 2015 "It is a great job, we take it for granted because we get support of the community where we live," said Chris- to do it every day, but I can't believe they pay us to do tensen. Iowa National Guard recognizes Eldon youth for life-long military support

by Master Sgt. Duff E. McFadden Adjutant General of the Iowa Na- “As a 34-year veteran of the Iowa Iowa National Guard tional Guard. Iowa Governor Terry Army National Guard, I have Branstad and Gen. Frank J. Grass, seldom witnessed the actions of a or most 13-year olds, life Chief of the National Guard Bu- young man that compares to what generally revolves around reau were also present during the Braden has accomplished,” said school, sports and friends. F ceremony, held at Camp Dodge Culver. “We are fortunate to have For Braden Ridgway, a wres- Joint Maneuver Training Center in a young person with this pas- tler, cattle farmer and honor roll Johnston, Iowa. sion who appreciates veterans and student at Eldon (Iowa) Cardinal 16 understands the great sacrifi ce our Schools, honoring military service Th e Commander’s Award, consist- veterans have made. has become a signifi cant aspect of ing of a bronze medal, lapel pin his day-to-day experiences. and certifi cate, recognizes service “It’s with great pride and admira- or achievements that contribute tion that I recommend the Iowa Ridgway has dedicated much of his signifi cantly to the accomplish- Army National Guard recognize young life to the less than one per- ment of the mission of the Iowa the actions of a young patriot. cent of the American population National Guard. Braden Ridgway has displayed who’ve served in the U.S. military. patriotic characteristics seldom Once the young Ridgway discovers According to Command Sgt. Maj. demonstrated by adults,” Culver Warrior someone has served in the military, Bart L. Culver, 224th Engineers, of said. Ready that Soldier, Sailor, Airmen, or Fairfi eld, Iowa, it’s simply amazing Marine has found a friend for life. to witness the faith and passion As early as the age of eight, Ridg- 2015 this young patriot has demonstrat- way began to show his compassion Recently, Ridgway was presented ed for those in military uniform. and commitment for those in the the Commander’s Award for Public military. After asking his father for Service by Maj. Gen. Tim Orr, the permission to participate in the with U.S. fl ags. Th is involved plac- “He simply continues to express Adopt A U.S. Soldier program, he ing fl ags over more than 14 miles his appreciation for those in the immediately signed up and began of roadway, one every 20 paces military service and the sacrifi ce correspondence with an American apart. those Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Soldier. Marines willingly give without ask- Ridgway and other volunteers ing for anything in return,” Culver When he was 10 years old, he vis- worked tirelessly in cold, rainy added. ited Minnesota’s Mall of America weather placing the fl ags along the with his mother and sister. As they route. At one point, Ridgway’s dad Ridgway’s award reads: “For ex- shopped, he found a Marine Corps asked him if he wanted to quit be- ceptionally meritorious service in pin and purchased it with his own cause of the miserable conditions. support of Iowa’s Soldiers, Sailors, money for a Marine veteran who Airmen, and Marines. Braden's Without hesitation, the youth sim- worked with his father. He couldn’t support and contributions to our ply stated, “Adam Wolf didn’t quit, wait to call his dad to tell him he military servicemembers cannot why should I?” bought the veteran a present. be overstated in importance of the As if he felt he hadn’t yet done value, personal care, and morale As a grade school student, Ridge- enough in honoring Wolf’s memo- of the servicemembers he has way’s persistently presents informa- ry. Ridgway personally raised more touched. Our state and nation are tion about the Wounded Warrior than $400 to help create a memo- fortunate to have a young man Project to his peers. Th e TV ad rial plaque for the fallen Iowan. who displays such passion to ap- asking for a donation of $19 a preciate veterans and understands month motivated him to create “Th ese are just a few of the actions the great sacrifi ce that they have a presentation, which he’s given of this young man which provide a made to protect our freedoms. to classmates and Eldon Cardi- glimpse into his character. nal Middle School/High School “Braden's actions and commit- Braden doesn’t do these things for students. ment to our servicemembers and recognition,” said Culver, “which veterans refl ects great credit upon During his summer break, Ridg- makes this recommendation even himself, his community, the Iowa way volunteers twice a week for the more worthwhile. National Guard, and the State of local Senior Meals Program. He Iowa.” can tell you who each veteran is, their rank, and what branch of the service they served in. Whenever he’s at a convenience store, he in- sists on purchasing coff ee, snacks, and other items for Soldiers. Ridgway has even gone so far as to express his desire to become an Army doctor, so he could better assist wounded warriors. All this pales, however, as Ridgway took it personally to help ensure 17 one Iowa Marine was met with dignity and respect during his fi nal journey home. Lance Cpl. Adam Wolf was an alumni of Cardinal High School, who enlisted in the U.S. Ma- rine Corps. Wolf, 25, was killed June 20, 2014 while conducting Warrior combat operations in the Helmand Eldon native Braden Ridgway was presented the Commander’s Province of Afghanistan. When Award for Public Service during a recent ceremony held at the Camp Ready Wolf returned home for burial, Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center in Johnston, Iowa. From Larry “the Flagman” Eckhart began left to right are Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, Gen. Frank J. Grass, 2015 lining both sides of the road, from Chief of the , Ridgway and Maj. Gen. Tim Orr, the funeral home to the cemetery, Adjutant General for the Iowa National Guard. routines and fi tness habits for On another occasion, after com- Wellness Camp recent Camp participants. pleting a pilates class, Waters sent continued from page 4 out a note saying, “I’ve never tried Besides establishing a daily fi tness this before. I don’t know if anyone routine, Downing suggests keeping else has, but give it a shot.” Figures from the Centers for an exercise diary, or a notebook. Disease Control and Prevention He received an e-mail back from “If you set a goal, write it down,” show self-reported obesity among a young Wellness Camp graduate Downing said. “Write down what U.S. adults in 2012 ranged from in Sioux City. “Hey, you probably you do every day, making sure 20.5 percent in Colorado to 34.7 didn’t expect a response from me,” you’re tracking that goal and writ- percent in Louisiana in 2012. the Soldier wrote, “but I’m down ing it in a book. If you don’t, then Th irteen states (Alabama, Ar- 25 pounds already.” you’re most likely going to forget kansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, about it, or where you are in that “A couple of weeks later, I’m in Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, goal. Tracking it in a notebook is Sioux City and that same young Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, the best thing I would say to take man comes up and tells me, ‘I’m Tennessee, and West Virginia) with them.” down another eight pounds from had prevalence equal to, or greater the last e-mail I sent you. My wife than, 30 percent. Iowa’s prevalence After six camps and nearly 250 and I are eating healthier, and fi gure was 30.4 percent. participants, Waters can easily cite we’re working out together. We’re a wealth of Wellness Camp success Luetje admits his Camp experience really motivated to do this.’ stories. had its good and bad moments. “Th en the Soldier adds, “I feel so “I was in Knoxville when I saw While the “best part was the fact much better.’ And he was just here a young man who previously the instructors and staff had very at Camp Dodge during our last couldn’t pass his PT test. I said broad knowledge of what they class. He’s taking these lessons he’s ‘Hey, you’re looking pretty slim were presenting, and they prac- learned at Wellness Camp and he and trim. How are you doing?’” ticed what they preach,” he also and his family are applying it to noted his least favorite part was the He told me, “Pretty awesome. I their daily lives,” Waters said. swimming exercise, since “I’m not passed my PT test and signed up “And that’s what we preach to a strong swimmer, whatsoever,” he for my fi rst 5k road race.’” them: Goals,” he added. “Regard- said. Waters pointed out while fi ve kilo- less of what your goal is, it’s got to A Physical Military Trainer with meters may not seem like a lot to be yours, you have to own it. We the 132nd Fighter Wing, Iowa Air long distance runners, for a young don’t want you to just pass the PT National Guard, Tech Sgt. Anne man who used to struggle with test, we want you to be a healthier Downing served as an instructor, running just two miles, 3.1 miles person.” helping demonstrate proper fi tness is quite an accomplishment.

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Warrior Ready 2015 enough to make it through a simu- Soldiers who relive those traumat- JAZ - R lated fi re-fi ght without any twists, ic experiences are given solace at continued from page 9 sprains or bruises, there’s still the the JAS-R. Th ey are able to relax possibility of opening some deep, and decompress before returning emotional scars. to the fi eld. "We support those in the fi eld who get real-world injuries. We Th e Red Bulls are not unfamiliar “We bring them in; they have a do what we can here, keep them with real-world combat. Many chance to shower, put on clean if they need to be kept, and then of these Soldiers are Afghanistan clothes, hydrate and eat,” said send them back to the fi ght,” said combat veterans, and have faced Sanchez-Barranco. “Th ey come Spec. Ashley Sadewasser, a Gut- the rigors of war. in very anxious and tremulous, tenberg, Iowa resident and combat but we give them a quiet, non- medic with the 209th Medical “Th ree cases of Soldiers with pre- stimulating room to relax in.” Company, Iowa Army National viously-diagnosed Post Traumatic Guard. Stress D isorder have come in,” After Soldiers have had a chance said Pablo Sanchez-Barranco , a to sleep and rest, they are re-eval- Despite all the safety features Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. Resident and uated. Th ey are either sent back factored into any exercise, there a psychiatrist with the Iowa Army into the exercise, sent to a hos- will always be risks when running Medical Detachment, Iowa Army pital, or return home for further over rough terrain in temperatures National Guard. “JRTC is a very evaluation. ranging in the upper-90s. realistic exercise, and Soldiers experience some triggers from However, PTSD only accounts “Th ey're running around out in combat.” for a minute part of the mental the fi eld, so there's a lot of ankle health issues treated by the JAS- and knee injuries. Th ere's also a Some of the most common trig- R. Th e simple act of being away lot of heat casualties with this heat gers are bright fl ashes of light, on annual training is sometimes down here,” said Sadewasser. which often remind Soldiers of enough of a stressor for Soldiers improvised explosive devices, and to seek counseling. Heat casualties can be deadly if not smells. In fact, JRTC’s Modern treated properly. JAS-R serves as Operations on Urban Terrain “Th e fatigue, stress, lack of sleep a welcome oasis, treating Soldiers (MOUTS) live-fi re village uses a and environmental factors start to urgently, lowering core body tem- “smells of the battlefi eld” machine, add up,” said Sanchez-Barranco. peratures as quickly as possible. which recreates a variety of smells On top of that, some Soldiers – ranging from burning garbage to bring issues like fi nancial or fam- Even if a Soldier is fortunate decomposing bodies. ily troubles from home to annual training. Th e pressure mounts until that Soldier starts to shut down.

“Th ey push through it for a long time until they dip into their reserves,” he said, “but then the reserves run out.” 19 Again, the JAS-R is available for rest and revitalization, assisting Soldiers with physical or psycho- logical needs so they can get back into the exercise.

Whether it’s a necessary break from the oppressive heat of Louisiana, or the constant stress Warrior from such a realistic, high-tempo Ready Spc. Ashley "Soda" Sadewasser, a combat medic with the 209th exercise provided by JRTC, the Medical Company, Iowa City, prepares notes on her patients at the JAS-R is there to ensure Soldiers 2015 Joint Readiness Training Center's Aid Station Rear (JAS-R). (Iowa return warrior-ready to complete National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Chad D. Nelson) the mission. Summary of state legislation

Senate File 303, an Act relating to Veterans, military  service members, and certain survivor benefi ciaries. Signed into law May 26, 2014. Senate File 2347, an Act relating to the funding of, • Exempts military retirement pension from state the operation of, and appropriation of moneys to the taxes. College Student Aid Commission and other agencies. • Increased the appropriations allotted for the Mili- Signed into law May 30, 2014 by the Governor. tary Homeownership Assistance Program by $900,000 • Includes $5,100,233 for the National Guard Edu- for a total of $2.5 million. Also, expanded eligibility to cation Assistance Program. service in the Persian Gulf confl ict, beginning Aug. 2, 1990 and ending April 6, 1991.  • Allowed for permissive Veterans preference in the Senate File 2347, an Act relating to the funding of, private sector. the operation of, and appropriation of moneys to the • Directed Iowa’s occupational licensing boards to College Student Aid Commission and other agencies. adopt rules allowing credit for military training and Signed into law May 30, 2014 by the Governor. experience in licensing process. Each board must adopt • Th is includes $5,100,233 for the National Guard rules easing licensure restrictions on spouses of military Education Assistance Program. Veterans.   Senate File 130, an Act making changes to certain 20 Senate File 2349, an Act relating to and making ap- limitations within the National Guard Educational propriations to state departments and agencies from Assistance program. Signed by the governor March the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund, the Technol- 31, 2015. ogy Reinvestment Fund, the Revenue Bonds Capitals • Th is Act makes changes to program limitations Fund, and other funds. Signed into law May 30, 2014 within the National Guard Educational Assistance by the Governor. Program. Under prior law, participation in the program • Major maintenance projects at National Guard was limited by semesters ofattendance, or the trimester armories and facilities: $2,000,000 or quarter equivalent. Th e Act replaces these limitations • Construction improvement projects for Iowa Na- by providing an eligible member of the Iowa National Warrior tional Guard installations and readiness centers to sup- Guard shall not receive assistance under the program port operations and training requirements: $2,000,000 for more than 120 credit hours of undergraduate study. Ready • For exhibits highlighting Iowans and their service Th e Act also includes transition provisions relating to at the Gold Star museum, notwithstanding section 8.57, 2015 educational assistance receivedunder the program prior subsection 5, paragraph “c”: $250,000 to July 1, 2015. Iowa Army National Guard Retirees (Oct. 1, 2014 – Aug.. 31, 2015)

29A.23 of the provides for a Roll of Retired Iowa National Guard Personnel. Any offi cer or enlisted member who has completed 20 years of military service under 10 U.S.C, 1331, or 12731, as evidenced by a letter of notifi cation of retired pay at age 60, shall upon retirement and her/his request in writing to the Adjutant General, be placed By Order of the Commander in Chief, on a roll in the Offi ce of the Adjutant General to be known as the, “Roll of Retired Military Personnel."

Name Rank Name Rank Agan, Nicholas R. SPC Dennis, Joedy J. 1SG Akers, Monte A. SGT Dorothy Richard D. MSG Andrews, Keith E., Jr. SSG Doyle, Benjamin J. SSG Astleford, Aaron T. SGT Dunn, Adam G. SFC Balducki, Julia L CW5 Dwight, Shane E. SPC Baumgartel, Valerie J SFC Fauchier, Christopher M CPT Behrendt, Charles R. SPC Feldmann, Christopher J. SSG Beireis, Steven W. SFC Fetters, Michael J. SSG Beisell, Russell E. SGT Fink, Trent D. SFC Blanchard, Chad R. SPC Franzen, Isaac G. SSG Bockenstedt, Stanley D. SGT Freese, Gary A. COL Bohr, Charles A. SGT Frein, Matthew A. SGT Borland, Jeffrey A. SGM Frentress, Joseph A. SFC Bradley, Roger W. SGT Frisch, Chisum C. SGT Brammer, Michael T. SSG Gaar, Anika M. SFC Brenke, Christian D. SFC Gauley, Jennifer L. SSG Brock, Katie A. PFC Gemberling, Greg J. SSG Brown, Jeremy M. SGT George, Mark A. MSG Burg, john carl SFC Graber, Daniel L. SSG Cain, Adam M. SGT Grimm, Anthony D. SPC Carter, Eric R. SFC Grote, David J. SGM Chatfi eld, Luke R. SSG Hall, Matthew R. SSG Christensen, Christopher L. SGT Harrison, Christopher C. MSG Clarksmith, Christopher A. SGT Hawley, Lance C. SSG 21 Clausen, Christopher L. MSG Heimer, Charmin M. SSG Clegg, Howard R. CW4 Hingtgen, Larry J. SFC Cockrell, Dorothy S. SFC Hinshaw, Brian P. SSG Colvin, Gregory B. SFC Holt, Edward G., Jr. CW4 Commins, Andreas G. MAJ Horton, Joshua A. SPC Cory, Russell K. SSG Ites, Joshua M. SGT Cowie, Matthew W. SGT Ites, Michael D. 1SG Cox, Troy R. SFC Ites, Terry J. SGT Warrior Crowley, David A. MSG Jacoby, William R. SSG Ready Jaeger, Jean L. SSG Deboer, Steven G. SGM 2015 Delarm, Daniel L. SSG Jewell, Samuel R. SSG Name Rank Name Rank Johnson, Darren M. SPC Ratliff, Todd A. SGM Johnston, Timothy L. SGT Reding, Trenton J. SGT Jones, Dierdre SSG Reeves, Eric W. SPC Keating, Emily C. SGT Remington, Travis J. SSG Kelly, Gregory S. MSG Rennison, Randy J. MSG Kimball, Benjamin C. SGT Rinehart Matthew D. SGT Kinsley, Sean A. SSG Roese, Richard A. MSG Klotz, Tyler L. SGT Ropa, Raymond A. SSG Koch, Jeremy L. SSG Rosenau, Tyler J. SGT Kressley, Matthew S. SPC Rossell, Douglas H. SGM Kruser, Martin M. SPC Rulon, Mark E. SPC Lane, Heidi L. SSG Sandoval, J. SPC Larson, Randy L. SGT Schaffer, Sheila R. SPC Manders, Daniel J. CW2 Schonlau, Brent J. SFC Mcartor, Eric J. SFC Sego, Richard D. 1SG Mccarty, William P. CSM Sells, Todd A. 1SG Mcclintock, Micheal W. SSG Shelburg, Daniel E., Jr. MSG Mckevitt, Cory J. SPC Sickles, Saralee R. MAJ Mckevitt, Robert V. III SSG Silhanek, Roy E. 1LT Mcloud, Andrew S. SSG Skeries, Michael C. SSG Mcnaul, Lawrence W. CPT Slack, Richard D., Jr. MSG Mendez, Harold R. SSG Smith, Gregory A. SGT Metcalf, Reagan J. SFC Smith, Thaddeus R. SPC Miles, Jennifer S. SGT Snyder, Scott A. CW2 Miller, Jacob B. CPT Sroka, Jeremy F. 1LT Miller, Joseph T. SSG Stills, Adam L. CW2 Miller, Matthew T. CSM Stone, Travis J. MAJ Montgomery, Robert C. MSG Stuffl ebeem, Therrill L. CW4 Munoz, Diego A. PFC Swinehart, Jennifer R. SGT Murphy, Christopher S. SGM Thomas, Brady J. SGT Murphy, Craig J. MSG Thomas, Johnathan F. SPC Murphy, Michael J. SFC Tracy, Christopher S. SFC 22 Neer, Zachary G. SPC Valline, Todd A. SPC Netten, Keith A. SGT Waechter, Joshua R. PFC Nordyke, Danny G. SFC Walter, Derrick L. 1SG Oliver, Jonathan D. SFC Wardell, Alan E. SFC Olsen, Hugh C. CW4 Weber, Eric J. SFC Olson, Michael A. SGM West, Thomas J., II SSG Olson, Phillip C. SSG Williams, Billy L. SGT Oxenreider, James W. SFC Williams, Johnathan L. SPC Warrior Palmer, Donald J. SPC Wilson, Ashley A. SGT Ready Paulton, Brandon M. PFC Woods Jonathan J. SPC Peterson, Dean A. SGM 2015 Wygle, Derrick K. SSG Poindexter, Scott J. SSG

Iowa Air National Guard Offi cer and Enlisted Retirees

Name Unit Rank Name Unit Rank Ahart, Kathleen 132d WG MSgt Self, Jerry Jr. 185th ARW LTC Avery, Christopher 185th ARW TSgt Seiler, Roger 185th ARW MSgt Bartlett, Dan 132d WG LTC Selby, Darrin 185th ARW TSgt Battien, Michael JFHQ SMSgt Starmer, Russell 132d WG CMSgt Brady, Timothy 132d WG LTC Titus, David 132d WG SMSgt Bumsted, Daniel 185th ARW CMSgt Zajicek, Lynn 132d WG MSgt Chase, Matthew 132d WG MSgt Schwab, Gregory JFHQ Maj Gen Christensen, Matthew 185th ARW TSgt Singer, Rick 185th ARW MSgt Coenen, Stacy 185th ARW TSgt Spidell, Anthony 185th ARW TSgt Cramp, Kevin 133rd TS MSgt Stratmeier, Marc 185th ARW SMSgt Crilly, Joseph 185th ARW MSgt Traeger, Kevin 133rd TS MSgt Crilly, Lisa 185th ARW MSgt Vander Molen, Mark185th ARW CMSgt Dietrich, Michael 185th ARW CMSgt Vlaanderen, Scott 185th ARW TSgt Flemmens, Terry 132d WG TSgt Volwiler, Todd 185th ARW MSgt Gates, Ricky 132d WG SMSgt Waite, Robert 185th ARW CMSgt Gray, Ronald 185th ARW MSgt Hanson, Amie 185th ARW MSgt Herman, Clayton 185th ARW TSgt Hill, J. Derek JFHQ Brig Gen Hoops, Charles 132d WG CMSgt Kabitzke, John 132d WG Lt Col Keller, Douglas 132d WG MSgt Kulish, Clarence JFHQ Maj Lane, Gerald 132d WG CMSgt Leonard, Charles 132d WG CMSgt Leonard, Sean 132d WG MSgt Logsdon, Paul 185th ARW TSgt Lorenzen, Keith 185th ARW MSgt Lovell, Zita 132d WG SMSgt 23 Manning, Danny 132d WG SMSgt McDonald, Richard 132d WG MSgt McGaughy, David 133rd TS MSgt Miller, David 185th ARW CMSgt Neal, Mason 132d WG Maj Oberhauser, Dennis 185th ARW MSgt Prewitt, Paul 185th ARW MSgt Pullum, Paul 185th ARW Lt Col Warrior Ryan, William JFHQ SMSgt Schellhase, Lowell Jr JFHQ CMSgt Ready Schumacher, William 132d WG TSgt 2015 Seeley, Myron 132d WG CMSgt 24

Warrior Ready 2015