Annual Training 2015 Pages 4-13

June-JulyJune-July 20152015 Vol.10Vol.10 No.No. 33

GRIZZLYGRIZZLYOfficialOfficial NewsmagazineNewsmagazine ofof thethe CaliforniaCalifornia NationalNational GuardGuard Annual Training 2015 pages 4-13

The HRF heads to Hawaii for Vigilant Guard pages 14-15

www.calguard.ca.gov/pa Leadership Corner Making our Mark in Many Different Ways

Major General David S. Baldwin

The past two months have seen our dedicated Soldiers and Supporting the World Games gave us opportunities for a respond; the 330th Military Police Company provided secu- Airmen carry out a tremendous variety of missions. That wide range of beneficial training, but more than anything, rity for contaminated areas; and the 49th MP Brigade Home- diversity of tasks and customers - and the dedication of we will remember the privilege of contributing to an event land Response Force performed command and control. our fine service members - were striking, but they were not that has done so much to benefit people with disabilities, unique; they are defining features of the Cal Guard. and has inspired and educated those of us who witness their Not to be outdone by the multi-unit coordination of Vigilant feats of courage and dedication. Guard, the 144th Fighter Wing flew to Oregon for Sentry Headlines in Northern California, and elsewhere in the Eagle, an air combat exercise with Air National Guardsmen country, are currently dominated by images of wildfires Other visitors to California this summer included a del- from six states as well as members of the active duty Air once again tearing through our great state. Out on the front egation from one of our longtime partners, the military of Force, Navy, Marines and the Canadian Air Force. The ex- lines, assisting Cal Fire, are 12 Cal Guard Army helicopters Ukraine, which came to Cal Guard training ground Camp ercise enabled the various fighter squadrons, with about 50 and crews, two Cal Guard planes and crews from the 146th Roberts to learn about interagency coordination during do- total aircraft, to train like they fight in combat, learn from Airlift Wing, and three Army hand-crew task forces, bring- mestic operations such as the ongoing wildfire fight. We re- each other and build inter-component relationships. The ing the total Cal Guard contingent to about 550 men and turned the favor in July, deploying about 20 Soldiers from 144th then flew to Georgia for another air combat exercise, women protecting Californians' homes, lives and natural the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team to Ukraine to serve Atlantic Spear, this time with the 104th Fighter Wing of the resources. as mentors during the multinational exercises Rapid Trident Massachusetts National Guard. and Saber Guardian. Containing wildfires is an annual mission for the Cal Guard; Meanwhile, on the front lines of the fight against illegal nar- it is as much a part of who we are as the traditional military The Cal Guard and the Ukrainian military have been close cotics, the Cal Guard increased its presence up and down roles we master to prepare for our federal responsibilities. partners since 1993, shortly after the Cold War ended California's 840-mile coast. As part of Operation Triton, our In addition to fighting-men and -women, we are domestic and Ukraine established itself as an independent nation. Counterdrug Task Force brought on an additional 65 Sol- response specialists, and we are members of the California Through the National Guard's State Partnership Program, diers this summer to monitor the coast and detect smug- and world communities. the Cal Guard has helped Ukraine modernize its forces and glers. Several units across the state contributed troops, who develop its capacities for security and emergency manage- underwent intense training on maritime-observation tech- A much less common, but no less meaningful, mission just ment. The exercises in July were just one more instance of nology and techniques before heading to their duty stations. wrapped up in Southern California, where more than 500 our efforts to advise this young nation's military, maintain Cal Guard and teenage Cadet Corps members enjoyed good working relationships and build a stable platform for Technology came into play this summer as well during a supporting the Special Olympics World Games, a once-in- democracy in that part of the world. search-and-rescue mission in the El Dorado National For- a-lifetime event for most of us, which we were honored to est. When Army Guard helicopter crews and other search- support. We also deployed troops this summer to respond to a simu- ers were unable to locate the subject, we launched a re- lated hurricane and resulting chemical spill in Hawaii as motely piloted aircraft (RPA) from the 163rd Attack Wing In addition to providing logistics, communications, emer- part of exercise Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili. More than capable of staying aloft for extended periods and relaying gency preparedness, luggage handling and other support at 150 Army and Air Guardsmen from California coordinat- real-time video and infrared images. This was the first time every World Games venue and athlete housing location, our ed with Guardsmen from other states and several civilian a National Guard RPA had been used in a search-and-res- service members consistently went above and beyond their agencies to provide humanitarian assistance, save lives and cue mission anywhere in the country, just as we were the duties to make the athletes from more than 160 countries protect critical infrastructure. Our 9th Civil Support Team first to use one in a wildfire fight in 2013. feel welcome in California. assessed the chemical threats and the resources needed to The Silicon Valley-based 129th Rescue Wing, which is always busy with domestic search-and-rescue missions, also is currently training for a September deployment to the Horn of Africa to provide combat-rescue support to ongoing operations there. Their Northern California neighbor, the 162nd Combat Communications Group, has been just as busy, working to convert itself into the 195th Wing, the newest wing in the Air National Guard.

The 195th, which will officially stand up in September, will tackle cyber, space, combat communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Headquartered at Beale Air Force Base, with subordinate units spanning the length of the state, the 195th is the Cal Guard's fifth wing, matching New York for the most in the country. More importantly, it gives us greater footing in some of the most important emerging fields in the Armed Forces, and it brings highly qualified citizen-Airmen into military fields that will benefit from their experience in the private sector.

Since 2001 the California National Guard has deployed more than 41,000 Soldiers and Airmen overseas in support of the fight against terrorism, including multiple deployments for many individuals. We take up that responsibility with pride and vigor, but we also do much more.

We are emergency responders who run in the direction of every type of disaster. We are mentors to our partners and caring supporters of our community. We are technological experts who come to your rescue, watch our coastline and protect the cyber realm. ABOVE LEFT: Col. Larry K. Morden, left, and Col. Timothy J. Kelley, both of the California Cadet Corps, welcome Special Olympics World Games athletes to the Opening Ceremony at the Los Angeles Coliseum on July 25. Photo by Brandon Honig BOTTOM The Cal Guard's diversity and flexibility are among our LEFT: Sgt. Daron Robinson, left, and Sgt. Andrew Bituin, of the 330th Military Police Company’s Casualty Assistance and Support greatest strengths. Few organizations can boast of our var- Element, participate in Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015 on June 2 at Bellows Air Force Station in Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Sgt. ied accomplishments during the past two months, and I Brianne M. Roudebush Soldiers from Task Force Alpha remove a burnt tree stump on Aug. 9 near the mountains of Wildcat Butte, for one, am proud of the tremendous service our Soldiers Humboldt County, California, during the Humboldt Lightning Fire. Photo by Sgt. Eddie Siguenza and Airmen are providing to our state and nation.

2 Grizzly Table of contents The Official Newsmagazine of the California National Guard Annual Training 2015 Camp Bob proactive with water 4 Camp Roberts was overrun with more than 4,000 troops for 12 Camp Roberts keeps the water flowing during annual train- two weeks in June during consolidated training that including through efficient water management ed combat and disaster response exercises June-July Vietnam vet feeds the troops UAS ideal for disaster response Richard Squier cooks hot dogs on the grill at his popular Vol. 10 No. 3 Soldiers hone skills with Cal Guard unmanned aerial sys- Guard Dog BBQ on Camp Roberts tems, for both combat and domestic emergency support 2015 Purple flowers bloom on Camp Bob Behind enemy lines 13 Rare flower thrives alongside heavy weaponry out on Camp Cal Guard scouts train at Camp Bob for worst-case scenario Roberts’ training ranges Publisher 5 Maj. Gen. David S. Baldwin The Adjutant General Tankers tear it up at A.T. Camp Roberts facility earns gold 6 M1 Abrams battle tanks and Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehi- The new Tactical Unmanned Aerial System facility on Camp Director of Public Affairs cles from the 1-185th Armor Regiment return to Camp Rob- Roberts earns a Leadership in Engery and Environmental Col. Peter B. Cross erts after 12-year absence Design (LEED) gold certification

Editor Medics get dusty HRF hits Hawaii for Vigilant Guard Capt. Jason Sweeney 7 1-18th Calvary medics practice their skills under the rotor 14 The Cal Guard’s Homeland Response Force (HRF) trains for wash of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter disaster response in Hawaii’s Vigilant Guard exercise Infantry attacks First A.T. 8 Infantry Soldiers from 1-160th Infantry Regiment assault the 15 Spc. Erika Holmes steps it up at her first annual training objective during a live-fire exercise at Camp Roberts JAG helps the HRF Submissions Digital wars Six-man JAG team provides legal guidance during Vigliant 9 The Army’s Dismounted Soldier Training System allows Guard disaster response exercise in Hawaii Articles: Soldiers to train on a virtual battlefield 40th CAB completes Warfighter Articles range from 350 to 2,000 words. 16 Soldiers from the 40th Combat Aviation Brigade practice All articles should be accompanied by Live fire combat scenarios at Warfighter exercise before upcoming de- multiple high-resolution images. page 8 ployment to Kuwait Include first names, last names and military ranks. Always verify spelling. Aerial gunnery 1-140th Aviation Regiment conduct’s aerial gunnery training Spell out acronyms, abbreviations and 17 full unit designations on first reference. Airman gives back Only submit articles that have been Master Sgt. Cesar Jurilla volunteers in the Philippines to help those in need approved by your unit’s public affairs officer. Sunburst turns lives around 18 The Cal Guard’s Sunburst Youth Academy gives troubled Photographs: teens a fighting chance Highest resolution possible: MB files, not KB. In Every Leadership At a News & Did You No retouched photos, no special effects. Issue 2 Corner 10 Glance 19 Benefits 19 Know? Include the photographer’s name and rank, and a caption: what is happening in the photo, who is pictured and the date California National Guard troops mobilized as of July 2015 and location.

E-mail submissions and feedback to: [email protected]

U.S. Europe 125

U.S. 112 Asia Kosovo Kuwait Iraq GTMO 3 162 1 152 Horn of Africa Other Afghanistan 5 2 52

Cover photo by Master Sgt. Paul Wade Afghanistan Africa Djibouti Germany Cal Guardsmen assigned to the 1-184th Infan- Jordan Korea try Battalion conduct night fire operations on Kuwait Camp Roberts on June 9 during annual train- Netherlands ing. The Soldiers, trained as mortar men, use Qatar their 120-mm mortars to light up the mid- 190 night sky with illumination rounds.

Air Army 3 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Cal Guard takes over Camp Bob Troops descend on Camp Roberts for Annual Training 2015

By CPT. WILL MARTIN Military Police Battalion. “The integration of our MPs with California Military Department Public Affairs combat arms reflected what they’d do in a real-world mission, where they would set up the infantry and other com- More than 4,000 California Army National Guard Soldiers bat arms personnel for their attacks.” from across the state congregated on Camp Roberts June 6-20 to conduct a series of combat and disaster-response Camp Roberts serves as an ideal location to conduct an- exercises. The two weeks of consolidated training, an annual training. Assigned to the Cal Guard’s operational con- nual requirement for all National Guardsmen, serves to trol in 1971, the post encompasses more than 40,000 acres sharpen the Cal Guard’s readiness in responding to both and more than 50 weapon ranges, training courses and fir- state and overseas missions. ing points. In addition, its 4,200 beds – many located in newly renovated barracks – help it support the more than Included in the training were unit- and squad-level ma- 15,000 troops that train there in a typical year. neuver drills, medical evacuation and helicopter transport operations, command post exercises that tested the Cal But Camp Roberts can also be austere and hot. With tem- Guard leadership’s ability to coordinate missions involv- peratures exceeding triple digits during parts of annual ing multiple units, and the firing of M1 Abrams tanks, training, the environment itself provided realistic training mortar rounds and .50-caliber machine guns. to Soldiers who might find themselves deployed to harsh climates overseas. With more than 41,000 deployments un- The 301st Airlift Squadron provided airlift in a C-17 Globemas- The training, said one field grade officer who spent two der their belt since 9/11, such deployments are a very real ter III on June 6 for more than 70 California Army Guardsmen, weeks in the field among his troops, was true to the combat possibility for California’s guardsmen. four Humvees and one truck from Mather Air Force Base, Cali- mission of the troops. fornia, to Fort Hunter Liggett, California, as part of an earth- “It rivals any training post you might find on active duty quake exercise during annual training this year. The overall exer- “Our MPs got some exceedingly valuable training, both installations,” said Lewis. “Above all, a Soldier must be cise provided a seamless integrated training experience for Air traditional combat and law and order missions,” said Maj. able to shoot, move and communicate; we can train on all Force Reservists, active duty and Army National Guard service Peter Lewis, executive officer for the Cal Guard’s 185th those at Camp Roberts.” members. Photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Brown UAS Soldiers master their craft Unmanned aerial systems bring unique capabilities to Cal Guard

By BRANDON HONIG that can be swiftly assembled to catapult the California Military Department Public Affairs aircraft skyward.

Carlos Altamirano got a big surprise when “This unit is mobile,” Choi said. “We just he returned to his unit in 2004 after com- need a clear area that is unobstructed and pleting advanced individual training to be- controlled, where we can launch and [safely come a power generation mechanic. integrate with] civilian and military aircraft.” “They told me, ‘You’ve been selected to go to school and then Iraq as a UAS maintain- Choi, who flew for three years as a UH-60 er,’” said Altamirano, now a staff sergeant Black Hawk helicopter pilot before switch- and unmanned aerial system (UAS) main- ing to the UAS mission, said the Shadow is tenance chief for the California Army Na- an ideal aircraft for supporting civil authori- tional Guard’s Detachment 1, Delta Com- ties in a domestic emergency. pany, 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion. “Well, I had never heard of a UAS before. I “If something happens like a dam breaks really don’t know how they chose me, but or an earthquake, we can put eyes on the it was the best thing that could have hap- scene and gather near-real-time imagery for pened to me.” the incident commander,” he said. “We can provide damage assessments and help them Altamirano had his 21st birthday in Iraq, understand what they’re dealing with.” which was not the place he had envisioned celebrating that occasion, but he wouldn’t Spc. Martin Rebollo performs pre-flight checks before an RQ-7 Shadow unmanned aerial system Choi said his experience as a helicopter pilot trade the deployment experience. He en- for the California Army National Guard takes off from Camp Roberts, California, during annual helped ease his transition to the UAS section joyed the camaraderie with the other Sol- training for Detachment 1, Delta Company, 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion. three years ago: The physics surrounding diers, learned a ton about his job and, most Photo by Brandon Honig flight doesn’t change, and neither do the importantly, grew into an adult. rules regulating airspace. Nonetheless after which were a target for enemy forces — and Camp Roberts. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dan- 15 years in the Army, including six on active “The deployment changed me, from a per- fulfilling many other missions. iel Choi said the detachment’s Soldiers learn duty, he said the UAS mission is the most sonal perspective,” he said June 15 at the the basics of their UAS specialty during challenging — and therefore most gratify- Cal Guard training base Camp Roberts, “We would follow patrols and make sure several months of full-time school, but they ing — of his career. Calif. “I matured a lot quicker over there. there were no ambushes waiting for our master their craft during training at Camp When I came back, I needed responsibili- troops or snipers on top of buildings, so our Roberts. “Learning the tactics is very different [from ties in my life.” guys could take them out before they hit our manned aviation], to understand how to Soldiers,” he said. “We’d be doing flight op- Choi, an operations technician for the de- share the airspace and best use it against the On a professional level, he found that un- erations [later], and random Soldiers would tachment, said there are many potential enemy,” he said. manned aerial systems — like the 12-foot- come up and want to shake our hands and uses for the Shadow and pointed out that long RQ-7 Shadow flown by the Camp thank us for saving their lives. operating it (or its hand-launched cousin Once those tactics are learned, though, the Roberts-based Detachment 1 — are tre- the RQ-11 Raven) is cheaper than using a aircraft has great potential, and Choi hopes mendously valuable to troops in a variety “It was really touching, and it motivated us manned aircraft or a larger remotely piloted its role will grow for the Cal Guard. of situations. to keep doing our jobs as best we could to aircraft: The Shadow requires less fuel, no help out our battle buddies.” satellite link, less maintenance and fewer “UAS is a growing industry, and technology Altamirano’s unit flew 3,500 hours dur- man-hours. will continue to improve,” he said. “There’s ing its 10-month deployment, supporting Altamirano and the other members of his a lot of potential for the Shadow to help in convoys, performing surveillance on high- detachment are honing their skills during The Shadow also can be launched from just disaster-response efforts, and many other value targets, monitoring power lines — two weeks of annual training this June at about anywhere, using a hydraulic system applications for the National Guard.”

4 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Scouts face worst-case scenario By BRANDON HONIG via border was an area of secondary con- California Military Department Public Affairs cern for the 79th Infantry Brigade Com- bat Team, the higher headquarters for the You’ve been lying in a hole for days. It’s 1-184th and the 578th, which was focused your turn to get 30 minutes sleep, so you on another military confrontation during roll over, using every last inch of space. its two-week annual training period this Within moments, you get an elbow in the June. back — a teammate alerting you someone’s coming. “The 79th IBCT is involved in a command post exercise focused on a more traditional This is the “oh no” moment — the moment battle, supporting Atropia against Ariana,” scouts hope never comes. said a chief warrant officer for the 79th’s Headquarters and Headquarters Com- “He’s 10 meters out. You know he sees you, pany, who organized this portion of the and he knows you see him,” Staff Sgt. Jef- scouts’ training and led the guerrilla role- frey Nelan said to a scout platoon from players. “The Donovians saw that the 79th Headquarters and Headquarters Company, is busy with Ariana, so they’re pushing 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, on arms and military advisers to a guerrilla June 11 in the dry yellow hills of Camp Rob- group in Atropia in hopes of destabilizing erts, California. “What do you do now?” Atropia.”

Nelan didn’t bother explaining to these In addition to putting the 1-184th to the test troops what they already knew: These types ABOVE and BOTTOM LEFT: Scouts with the Cal Guard’s 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, during this annual training period at Camp of missions take place behind enemy lines, break contact with enemy “guerrillas” from the 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion on June 11 Roberts, the Donovian smugglers and guer- where scouts are outnumbered, with no during their two-week annual training period at Camp Roberts. Photos by Brandon Honig rillas performed their opposition-force mis- hope for immediate support if discovered. sion to train scouts and snipers from the Cal sions is 3 to 4 feet deep and just long and began at daybreak. Guard’s 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry Regi- “Seconds matter at this moment,” he said. wide enough to accommodate three Sol- ment; 1st Battalion, 185th Armor Regiment; “The ‘blowout’ is what’s going to save your diers. The trench is dug a little deeper on “We saw vehicles and weapons traveling and 1st Squadron, 18th Cavalry Regiment. life.” the edges to handle their waste. All the dirt down this road beginning at 0515, and re- is carried off in duffel bags at least 100 me- ports of additional activity came in con- “This training is so important because we A good three-person team’s surveillance ters from the surveillance site, where it is tinually throughout the day,” said 1st Lt. need accurate intelligence for our brothers- site is virtually undetectable, which is why spread around to blend with its surround- Stephen Strickland of the 1-184th. “We in-arms,” Nelan said. “If we fail at this mis- troops practice facing an enemy only 10 ings. monitored patterns of movement, equip- sion, lives are lost. It’s that simple. And if we meters away: From any real distance, their ment, uniforms, times, number of people, do our job right, we can save lives.” location should blend perfectly with the Branches are measured and cut to fit the any information we could gather.” surroundings. surveillance site, then stacked over the dug- The value of the information gathered by out. Camouflage nets go over the branches, In the late afternoon, three members of Del- scouts makes the specialty appealing to “The guy on glass” — the one looking then foliage is placed on the nets. The pro- ta Company, 578th Brigade Engineer Battal- many Soldiers, but both the danger and the through his scope or binoculars — “en- cess takes six Soldiers five to six hours, ion, who were dressed as guerrillas, walked conditions associated with their missions gages the contact. Bang, bang, bang,” Nelan working in complete darkness and com- down a road near the fictional border of At- turn many away. said. “The guy [taking] notes blows the plete silence. ropia and Donovia, where they happened claymore [mines] and throws the smoke upon the 1-184th scouts’ position. (For the “Once you’re in the surveillance site, you grenades, and the guy [who was] on rest The 1-184th scout platoon had been in- purpose of this portion of the exercise, the can’t leave until the mission is complete, does the blowout — throws the nets and serted to this location on Camp Roberts scouts positioned themselves unusually which could be a five-day position,” Nelan branches off, and tosses the ruck[sacks] out via CH-47 Chinook helicopter the previous near the road, and they did not fully conceal said. “You can’t get up to stretch or move behind him." night around 10 p.m., when they set up two themselves.) around, and at most you get to sleep one three-man surveillance sites on opposite hour at a time.” “Then, whoever’s on rest, grab a ruck — hills overlooking a road. The spot was on The guerrillas approached at a normal it doesn’t matter whose — get to cover, a suspected smuggling route for weapons walking pace, and then suddenly contact The three-person team rotates through the and start firing,” he continued. “It doesn’t and military advisers on their way into the was made — it was the I-see-you-and-you- three positions — glass, notes and rest — sound too complicated, but [contact] al- fictional country of Atropia from neighbor- see-me moment. typically at intervals closer to 30 minutes. ways comes when you least expect it.” ing Donovia. Nelan said the intervals don’t last longer be- The Soldier on glass fired first, popping off cause it is “painful” to be on glass for long The scouts’ hidden lair during their mis- The movement the 1-184th was looking for blank rounds repeatedly while the Soldier periods of time, constantly peering through on notes mimicked setting off claymore your scope or binoculars. mines and throwing smoke grenades before training his weapon on the enemies. The The people who commit to the scout spe- Soldier on rest leapt into action, throwing cialty and the danger and grit associated off the notional camo-nets and tossing three with its missions tend to be “type A person- heavy rucksacks to the rear, then sprinted alities,” said Spc. Nicholas Maness, “smart, to the treeline, grabbing a ruck on the way, hard-working, aggressive guys.” and turned to fire. “[The missions] are physically and men- Once he began firing, the notes Soldier tally demanding, but you know that going jumped up and found his way to cover, in,” said Maness, who has been a Soldier where he turned to fire, and was followed for three years and a scout for four months. by the glass Soldier, each finding his way “I initially joined the infantry because I to a strategic point that would enable his thought it would be challenging, but then teammates to move under the cover of his I moved to the scouts, because I thought it fire. would up the [intensity].”

No words were spoken or shouted — the So far, he said, being a scout has been the Soldiers just listened for each other’s M4 most challenging and most rewarding ex- carbines. perience of his military career. And to hear him tell it, passing the time in that little hole “At any point, anyone can go. If two go at doesn’t sound so tough. the same time, that’s fine, as long as someone is covering you,” Nelan said. “So pay “When you’re out there in a surveillance attention to the sound of each other’s fire to site, you’re very focused the whole time, know if it’s OK to go. ... The point of this is so you don’t even think about [comfort or to be unpredictable.” boredom],” he said. “You’re so focused on your task, you’re not thinking about much During annual training, the Atropia-Dono- anything else.”

5 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July 1-185 brings the big guns to A.T. Tank battalion returns to Camp Roberts for annual training for first time in over a decade

ABOVE: M1 Abrams battle tanks from the Cal Guard’s Delta Company, 1-185th Combined Arms Battalion, fire Sabot, high-explosive anti-tank warheads, and training rounds during a live-fire exercise in the backcountry ranges of Camp Roberts, on June 7. Photo by Master Sgt. Paul Wade

By MASTER SGT. PAUL WADE California National Guard’s largest training installation. That vehicle feasible. California Military Department Public Affairs is because the mainly Southern California-based unit keeps its hulking beasts housed at Fort Irwin. The home of the National Once in the hands of their eager crews they blazed a path into Each unit arriving at Camp Roberts for training makes it a Training Center is the perfect location for armor to train, with the camp’s backcountry, using tank trails, and got to work. point to showcase their might. Logistics and sustainment its vast open landscape and long-distance firing ranges. Lo- units roll by in their vast array of support vehicles, fuel trucks gistics to keep these mechanized monsters purring also play “Our overall intent was to integrate our heavy forces with oth- and heavy transporters. Field artillery brandish their guns. a decisive role. er units in the California Army National Guard, especially the Aviation crews snap and crack the air before landing in a swirl light infantry of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team,” said of dust. Infantry and cavalry companies’ parade by in their The armor drought at annual training at Camp Roberts ended Lt. Col. Kris Kough, commander of the armor battalion. “We turret mounted Humvees with equipment poking from every this year, and with the help of an armada of heavy equipment liked the idea of giving our crews and dismounted infantry a seam. And so on. All very impressive. transporters, history was written. Each HET, courtesy of our different type of terrain to maneuver and train on.” Riverside-based, 1498th Transportation Company, deftly But when the main battle tanks and fighting vehicles of the hauled a 27-ton Bradley, or the smaller, versatile, armored per- The armor of the unit isn’t the only war hammer they can California Army National Guard’s 1st Combined Arms Bat- sonnel carrier variations, such as a M113, along California’s throw down. The unit is considered a combined-arms battalion, 185th Armor Regiment arrived the first week of June, it highways. talion, meaning they have dismounted infantry, mortars and was like “The Greatest Show on Earth” just pulled in. scout assets. Spanning the 300 miles between the desert proving grounds Most Soldiers who perform their two weeks of annual train- of Irwin and the rolling coastal hills of Roberts, newly upgrad- “Fort Irwin is great for mechanized heavy forces,” said Kough. ing at the camp have never seen our armor there. It has been ed rail yards at the 74-year-old camp made the transport of roughly 12 years since the unit’s tracks churned up the dirt of the 68-ton M1 Abrams and 50-plus ton M88 Hercules recovery continued on page 7

LEFT: Combat engineers with the 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion clear a path during company-level breach and assault training at Fort Hunter Liggett on June 16. RIGHT: Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles from the 1-185th Combined Arms Battalion support Soldiers from the 1-160th Infantry Battalion during training on June 16 at Fort Hunter Liggett. Photos by Capt. Cody Gallo

6 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July

‘big guns’ from page 6 Graphic by Master Sgt. Paul Wade

“But not so great for dismounted infantry so our infantry squads benefitted greatly from the landscape at Roberts. In the end, we worked with engineers from the [578th Brigade Engineer Battalion] improving vehicle fighting positions and breaching obstacles. We conducted some air insertions of our scouts and infantry. Finally, we integrated with light infantry of the [1st Bat- talion, 160th Infantry Regiment] for company and team operations.”

While the foot Soldiers stomped dirt instead of sand, the tankers practiced maneuvering, focus- ing on attack and defend tasks.

“My driver had a blast,” said 1st Lt. Rito Guerra, commander of Delta Company, 1-185th, and a M1 Abrams tank commander. “We are just used to vast open spaces with little elevation but Roberts provided great training with some steep hills, riverbeds, water sources and TREES!”

Just the addition of a wooded area raised the danger factor a DEFCON level or two. The pow- dery dirt layering at Camp Roberts was an additional issue.

“We found out the dirt here clogs our road wheels causing a thrown track,” said Guerra. “So we brushed up a lot on track maintenance, which is a good thing. Overall, it was great fun.”

Despite its 44,000-acre training area, Roberts still has its limitations.

“We were not able to conduct tank or Bradley gunnery because Camp Roberts can’t facilitate those training requirements,” said Kough. “We did complete a dry run [gunnery table] with no firing in preparation for crew qualification coming up at Irwin. However, our tanks were able to knock out a Live Fire Accuracy Screen Test and put steel on steel targets, which is really awe- some to see.”

On a massive range surrounded by high hills, a company of tanks sent 120 rounds of high- explosive anti-tank warheads and Sabot projectiles into rusting hulks of old vehicles and armor that dotted the landscape.

“It was great [zeroing] our guns at the Roberts range,” said Guerra. “At Irwin we shoot at wooden targets. Here we had the chance to put actual hard targets in our crosshairs and light them up.”

The full brunt of force wasn’t on display during annual training due to expected restrictions but it appears it wasn’t needed to impress the Soldiers gathered there or the leadership. According to Kough the unit capitalized on all their available resources and truly enhanced the realism of the training exercise and could be summed up in one aviator’s words:

“Having the chance to train alongside armor made my annual training.” Field medics train up 1-18th Cavalry medics load patients onto a medevac flight

By MASTER SGT. PAUL WADE “[Calling in a medevac] in the classroom and then doing it California Military Department Public Affairs out here with the heat, the dirt flying around, the helicopter noise and actual flight medics and pilots to talk to, it’s The rotor wash from the UH-60 Black Hawk kicks up nee- almost like the real thing,” said one medic. dle-like weeds and swirling dust that surrounds the Fort Hunter Liggett landing zone, engulfing three Soldiers in Machado returns to the scene and signals Walker and Spc. a wave of scorched earth that hasn’t seen rain in months. Juan Perez to start transporting Martinez to the waiting bird. Perez, who works in private security, is the litter team As the helicopter lands, Spc. Taylor Walker leans over a leader. The team deftly maneuvers over rolling terrain, Soldier who is lying in the dirt on a litter, covering her from crashing through the needle-covered weeds, and slides the debris. This protective nature is infused into Walker’s the patient onto the aircraft’s metal floor, lashing the litter every now-dirt-clogged pore. He is a health care specialist, down with straps. known better in the U.S. Army as a combat medic. Walker guides them back into the start position and the When not serving his state and nation as a citizen-Soldier role players are switched out for another run. assigned to Headquarters, 1st Squadron, 18th Cavalry, a unit of the California Army National Guard, he doubles up Machado and his crew take off, churning up the earth his closet space with another uniform by protecting and again, covering everyone on the ground with a layer of dirt serving the city of San Diego as a police officer. that won’t be removed for another nine days.

Emerging from the aircraft is Spc. Brad Machado, a flight “We have around 20 medics here at annual training,” said medic with 3rd Battalion, 140th Aviation Service and Sup- 1st Lt. Matt Keane. “They all worked on radioing inthe port, based out of Stockton. He bends down to speak with request during last month’s drill weekend but to do it with Walker, looks over the bandages and tourniquet that Walk- actual pilots just improves this important skill even more.” er had applied to his patient, and gives some final words of guidance and encouragement before updating his fellow “Obviously, we don’t get to have a helicopter around very Spc. Taylor Walker, left, and Spc. Juan Perez, right, cover Spc. Ce- crew chief and pilots. often,” said Walker. “So beyond our primary goal of con- sire Martinez from a sea of dirt and dust. Perez and Martinez ducting a patient handover so they can get to a higher level are helping by role playing as litter patient and carrier at Fort Walker’s patient is Spc. Cesiro Martinez, who is as- of care we also get this amazing opportunity to work with Hunter Liggett during the California Army National Guard’s an- signed to the Cavalry’s support unit, D Co., 40th Bri- flight medics and learn about the inherent dangers of man- nual training, June 6-20. . Photo by Master Sgt. Paul Wade gade Support Battalion, out of the same armory in Azu- aging a helicopter extraction.” sa as Walker’s headquarters. Martinez, a security guard “Best of all, this is motivating for the troops. They feel good at a hospital, is lending her own support as a role player “Annual training provides the perfect setting to recertify about their [jobs].” in their medical evacuation training exercise on June 11, certain tasks within our skill set, like aeromedical evacu- and is playing it well by thrashing, yelling and adding ation,” said Capt. Giancarlo Lembo, officer-in-charge of The helicopter returns and another sand storm blankets that extra layer of realism. the medical section and a physician at Kaiser Permanente. Lembo’s team. “This is an experience of a lifetime,” he said.

7 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July

ABOVE LEFT : The assault and breach squads of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1-160th Infantry, based in Fullerton, California, bound forward and provide covering fire during a platoon attack live- fire exercise held at Fort Hunter Liggett on June 12. ABOVE RIGHT: Sgt. 1st Class Darren Toedt, platoon sergeant for 3/A 1-160th Infantry and member of the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, issues commands to his platoon following a live-fire attack exercise Fort Hunter Liggett on June 12. Photos by Capt. Cody Gallo Into the breach Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry Regiment assault the objective during A.T.

By SPC. MATTHEW DIXON Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry who deployed as part of Operation Endur- different scene – the charred landscape vir- 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Regiment trained over the past year in ing Freedom, went on to add that the ca- tually free of concealment-providing tall anticipation of a platoon live-fire exercise maraderie he shares with his team not only grass, the burnt brush radiated a pungent ‘We few, we happy few, we band of slated to take place June 11 at Fort Hunter what makes these long hot days bearable, fragrance. The conditions changed, but the brothers; For he today that sheds his Liggett, California, but they would have to but it also becomes something he looks for- mission remains the same. blood with me shall be my brother…’ wait one more day as the arid conditions ward to as a contrast to his work as a men- and blazing Central California heat led to tal health counselor in Los Angeles. If camaraderie stands as the foundation of It was William Shakespeare, from the a brush fire, eventually forcing Range Con- the Infantry’s success, trust serves as the play Henry V, who is credited with trol to close the training area for the day. “We’re the best team in California,” he con- pinnacle. coining the phrase ‘band of brothers.’ tinued. The play chronicled King Henry V and The Soldiers took a reprieve from the over- “We’ve all been waiting for this for a long the battle of Agincourt. whelming heat, as they waited for word The infantry serves as the tip of the spear of time,” said Sgt. Killianne Sath, acting third from Range Control, by huddling together the Army. Infantrymen take pride in it. The squad leader, first platoon, Charlie Compa- It’s unlikely that he knew the signifi- in the small areas of shade provided by intense training and grueling repetition ny, 1-160th Infantry. “I have complete trust cance this term would take way back their Humvees, joking, talking about their keeps them sharp. Staying sharp means in my guys that we can achieve our in 1599, but more than 400 years later, dogs, fast food, and the dream of a long staying safe, as this makes up the culmina- goal here today as a platoon and at the it has become an esprit de corps of the hot shower – downtime like this builds the tion of more than a year of rehearsals. They company level.” infantryman. The long days and nights bond Infantry Soldiers share. traded in their blanks for magazines filled of training in harsh conditions brings with live rounds, locking them into their The Soldier’s objective on this day is to them together, sharing each other’s Spc. Vincent Quinteros, a machine gunner M-4 rifles. move as a platoon, using tried and true pain while motivating each other to from 3rd platoon, Alpha Company, 1-160th push through. Infantry, a former combat-tested Marine Arriving the following morning to a much continued on page 9

Soldiers of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1-160th Infantry, from Fullerton, California, move into the assembly area prior to conducting a platoon attack live-fire exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett on June 12. The exercise tests the ability of the unit to fire and maneuver on an objective to accomplish the core mission of the infantry – close with and destroy the enemy. Photo by Capt. Cody Gallo

8 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July First-person shooter Cavalry scouts battle digital enemies in Virtual Battlefield Arena

By MASTER SGT. PAUL WADE “Target destroyed,” said the instructor California Military Department Public Affairs as the three scouts, staring at seven black plumes of smoke on the screen, admired The U.S. Army’s Dismounted Soldier their virtual dirty work. Training System located on Fort Hunter Liggett is located off the beaten path and “Way better than the classroom instruc- in a building that could be in an episode of tion,” said Guillen, as his team exited the Storage Wars. Inside, however, sits more simulator. “To be able to see the results than a half million dollars of the latest vir- and make on the spot corrections helps tual war gaming gadgetry. make the entire [call for fire] process clearer." During their annual training on June 11, three cavalry scouts from the California “What is that and can we have a go?” National Guard’s Alpha Troop, 1st Squad- asked Faber staring at the DSTS like a kid ron, 18th Cavalry Regiment, based out of spotting a new video game at the arcade. Ontario, walked in and Joe Ping, the supervisor for the U.S. Army Reserve base’s In the most basics terms the DSTS is a Training Aids, Devices, Simulation & Sim- system you wear that turns you into an ulators facility, got them started on the Call avatar on a virtual battlefield. After strap- for Fire program. ping on a helmet, goggles, earphones, a computer backpack, and motion sensors “As scouts this is a significant part of what on your arms, legs and shooting finger, we do so any chance to practice this skill you then grab a real looking play gun and is a good thing,” said Capt. Josiah Faber, stand on a padded foam circle to begin a the incoming commander, as he peered scenario. through binoculars at a projected battle- LEFT: Sgt. Samuel Crook, a freelance web designer, Capt. Josiah Faber, a L.A. County Deputy field on a wall screen. “We find the enemy, According to Joe, the DSTS has around Sheriff, and Spc. Nefftali Guillen, maintenance technician for Toyota, are suited up to take on 3D report it and strike when we can and retro- 20 scenarios based on what Soldiers have battles in the virtual world of the Dismounted Soldier Training System located at Fort Hunter grade out of there.” faced during a deployment and he can Liggett. TOP RIGHT: A screen shot from the Dismounted Soldier Training System. BOTTOM custom build one to fit a unit’s need. The RIGHT: Sgt. Samuel Crook is suited up to take on 3D battles in the virtual world of the Dis- Each Soldier drew up a range card, plot- gaming tool isn’t just for combat arms mounted Soldier Training System. Photos by Master Sgt. Paul Wade ted their points using a map and protractor troops. With its React to IED setting it can and called in their fire mission. test the nerves of motor transport opera- speakers. Muffled curses were heard and took time to maneuver and engage but tors during a convoy and those who con- a look of deep concentration was etched with more practice this would be a great “Enemy vehicle in the open,” shouted Spc. duct presence patrols. on each face. Enemy fighters dropped but tool to use," said Guillen. Nefftali Guillen, a maintenance technician each wave of attack got harder. Their ava- for Toyota when not sneaking and peeking “Let’s go with the Defend the [Forward tars died. A lot. Joe watched the carnage "This is something I'd recommend my around for the enemy in the woods. Operating Base] scenario,” said Sgt. Sam- from his command center. troops going through," said Faber, a uel Crook. “That way we get more ac- Deputy Sheriff with Los Angeles County. “Send it,” said the Call for Fire instructor. tion.” “The FOB scenario is actually meant for "Even though it looks like a video game Guillen timidly rambles off coordinates, three squads, not three people,” Joe said. you shouldn't treat it as such. This could which are entered and the instructor push- Once suited up and looking like extras “I have the AI setting on low but it doesn’t really benefit Soldiers and add another es the fire button. on the set of “Starship Troopers,” the matter. If a unit brings enough troops one dimension of training and preparedness." three men lowered their visors and were squad can go against another eliminat- “Splash over,” said the instructor finishing virtually transported thousands of miles ing the need for the AI. The [opposition Becoming a member of the “Starship the sequence. The artillery round struck the away to a desert-colored walled fortress force] gets really tough then because they Troopers” mobile infantry and training ground near the target but did little dam- in Afghanistan. Joe puts them through a know what you know.” in the virtual world is trending as the age. few drills to help them understand their wave of the future. Faber, Crook and movements and weapon system and then “It’s really cool but very disorienting at Guillen were among the first California Guillen quickly learned his mistake, made the battle began. first,” said Crook, a freelance web de- Army National Guard’s Soldiers to use a slight correction and called in death from signer. “It does help reinforce skills,” he this resource. More than 200 Golden State above. Triggers were pulled. They spun and took continued while he removed his suit. Warriors have since added their own a knee a few times. The sounds of battle plumes of smoke and sent their avatars “Fire for effect.” echoed in the warehouse from mounted "The enemy was all over the place and it into battle.

The 1-160th Infantry’s platoon- and company-sized assault (IMTs) to move toward the enemy and neutralize all threats. ‘breach’ from page 6 proves vital because it mirrors the intensity and concen- Once the gunfire ceased and the enemy lay defeated, the tration of the real-life operations they could encounter Soldiers faced another challenge – save one of their battle infantry tactics to breach an obstacle and attack the en- together if deployed to a combat zone. buddies’ life. Adding to the harsh realism and all-too- emy. Before the troops assault the hill, they would need a likely scenario of actual combat operations, the Infantry little help to gain the advantage. Major Chris Walter, Executive Officer, 1-160th Infantry, Soldiers along with a combat medic assessed a simulated stressed to his men the importance of situational aware- casualty with a “gunshot wound to the armpit.” The pla- A mantra for infantrymen since the beginning of their ness when it comes to operating on a platoon- and com- toon setup 360 degree security positions around the in- training states, “always initiate contact with the most pany-level assault because of the coordination required jured sergeant as his teammates buddy-carried him to the casualty-producing weapon.” with units to the left and right. relative safety of a trench to provide combat life saving procedures and call in a nine-line MEDEVAC request, a A Delta Company section pulled their gun trucks into “If this was a real scenario I’m going to send a Company, message sent to aircraft crew notifying them of a casualty defilade to give a coordinated and overwhelming sup- that’s how we get things done effectively,” continued in need of airlift to a hospital. port-by-fire attack to the rifle platoon. Truck-mounted Walter, “and you’ll have platoons operating on either machine guns initiated contact at the onset of the assault. flank.” “Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more…” Shakespeare continued in Henry V, and 3/A, 1-160th Infan- After the onslaught of rounds decimated the hilltop objec- Once the pinging sounds of the rounds impacting the try will return the next day to propel one another through tive, the breach and assault squads charged from the final metal targets subsided, the assault and breach squads the intense but necessary training yet again, understand- covered and concealed position of a hill toward whatever bounded toward the hilltop objective, using dirt berms ing that the pain they feel now may save the life of their remained of the enemy. for cover and implementing individual movement tactics brothers-in-arms downrange.

9 Pvt. Steven Diaz, Bravo Battery, 1-143rd Field Artillery, pulls landing zone security as a CH-47F Chinook helicopter from Bravo Company, 1-126th Avia- tion Regiment takes off after sling loading an M119A3 105mm Howitzer at Fort Hunter Liggett, California on June 15. Photo by Capt. Cody Gallo

Sgt. Samuel Crook, top, Capt. Josiah Faber, middle, and Spc. Nefftali Guil- Soldiers from the Headquarters Company of the California National len, with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 18th Cavalry Regiment, are suited up while Guard’s 3-140th Aviation Battalion conduct Army Warrior Tasks and Bat- using the Dismounted Soldier Training System at Fort Hunter Liggett, Cal- tle Drills at the urban assault course on Camp Roberts on on June 9. ifornia during annual training, June 6-20. Photo by Master Sgt. Paul Wade Photo by Sgt. First Class Benjamin Cossel

10 At a Glance

The Soldiers of Gun Three, Alpha Battery, 1-143rd Field Artillery, from Lodi, California, wait Cal Guardsmen assigned to the 184th Infantry Battalion conduct night fire operations on Camp for the call to conduct a coordinated illlumination mission during annual training at Camp Roberts during their annual training, June 6-20. The Soldiers use their 120 mm mortars to light Roberts, California, on June 12. Photo by Capt. Cody Gallo up the midnight sky with illumination and high explosive rounds. Photo by Master Sgt. Paul Wade

Cadet Gabriella Perez gives a shout-out to Cal Guard Sunburst Youth ChalleNGe Academy cadre and fellow cadets during a June 1 event at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. Photo by Brandon Honig

A Soldier from Bravo Company, 1-160th Infantry, takes a knee on a security halt during a Cal Guard Soldiers receive their combat patch on the Fourth of July in Afghanistan where they company attack mission at annual training with the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team at are participating in Operation Resolute Support. The Soldiers came together from 14 different Fort Hunter Liggett, California, on June 16. Photo by Capt. Cody Gallo Cal Guard units and are organized into a derivative unit of the 224th Sustainment Brigade. Their mission is to train, advise and assist logistical elements of the Afghanistan National Security Force. Courtesy photo

11 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Proactive efforts minimize water worries on Camp Bob

By SGT. NADINE WHITE to run the wells more and keep the tanks Soldiers can also help save water while a need for drastic changes to the water 69th Public Affairs Detachment full.” they’re on base by just practicing their nor- system or levels on base. Consequently, mal, at-home water conservation routines. the Soldiers stationed here during annual Infrastructure is typically out of sight, out Operating its own water treatment system, Those include taking quicker showers, not training needn’t worry about water and of mind; that is, until it stops serving the Camp Roberts has four active water wells, running the water while brushing teeth, can focus on their top priority: training for very people who ignore it. each capable of producing 500 gallons of washing adequate loads of laundry, and their state and overseas missions. water each minute. The wells pump drink- not washing vehicles unless absolutely Due to California’s current severe drought able water into three tanks, which when paramount to mission success. conditions, water has become a popular combined hold up to 2 million gallons. and sensitive subject. During the summer Another aspect of the base water produc- months at Camp Roberts, annual train- However, having this abundance of water tion that further supports troop care, as ing significantly increases the amount of available to the base hasn’t slowed the ef- well as water consumption, is the drink- troop traffic and consequently the amount forts to minimize water waste and update ing-water treatment system. All water of water use and consumption on the post. the base infrastructure. pumped through the base wells is treated, Fortunately, the base has made a continu- tested and maintained for drinkability. ous effort in recent years to implement and “One of the main ways we’re constantly maintain a comfortable, self-sustaining sys- making improvements in water conser- “The one thing we don’t want to limit is tem for water collection and distribution, vation are utilities modernizations,” ex- the drinking water,” Williams said. “More ultimately keeping the resource readily plained Mark Williams, the Camp Roberts than anything, we make sure the troops available to troops. Training Sites Environmental Lead. “The stay hydrated.” barracks remodel, new bathrooms, new In order for the California Army National showers, new water lines - those are less Camp Roberts is a public water system, Guard’s training operations to run smooth- likely to leak and are more water efficient regulated by the state of California. Wa- ly during annual training, the facilities, than the 1941 versions that we had.” ter samples are taken twice each month to grounds and utilities have to be in ade- make sure it doesn’t contain a long list of quate working order. John Morrow, Senior Along with the updated, low-flowing bath- chemicals. The base publishes a consumer Environmental Scientist at the Camp Rob- room fixtures, the barracks’ air condition- confidence report annually, which is a erts Department of Public Works, tracks ing units also received an environmentally summary of the previous year’s monitor- the methods used to protect and efficiently friendly upgrade that the troops can appre- ing. disperse the base water supply, along with ciate. other environmental concerns. Morrow, Williams and their proactive en- “The A/C systems we used before were all vironmental science teams are constantly The Camp Roberts Well 3 release valve is one “During annual training, our water con- swamp coolers and those all used water,” exploring new ways to help improve of five release valves used to pump ground wa- sumption goes up, but it doesn’t tax our said Williams. “Now we use regular refrig- Camp Roberts’ energy and resource yield. ter for use on Camp Roberts and for water resources,” said Morrow. “To prepare for eration units, which are more efficient and By incrementally improving the over- reserves. Water conservation is a priority on the higher number of Soldiers, we just have pleasantly more effective.” all water conditions, they don’t foresee the camp. Photo by Sgt. Nadine White

Guard Dog BBQ an annual training establishment Vietnam veteran Richard Squier serves up hot dogs, Polish sausages and tri-trip to hungry troops at Camp Roberts

By SGT. NADINE WHITE 69th Public Affairs Detachment

The summer months are the peak season at the California Army National Guard’s main training base, Camp Roberts. For two weeks, brigade-sized swarms of Sol- diers are stationed here to complete their annual training requirements. Which means it’s also the busiest time of year for the base’s longest-running, non-military eating establishment, the California LEFT: Richard Squier, a Vietnam veteran, takes Guard Dog BBQ shack. an order from a Soldier at his popular Guard Dog BBQ shack during Annual Training 2015. What was originally a small, one-man Squier has been serving up hot dogs, Pol- run hot dog stand, the “Guard Dog,” as ish sausages and tri-tip sandwiches on Camp it’s most commonly called, has grown in Roberts since 2008. His offerings are a popular size and popularity over the years. Start- alternative to MREs during training. ABOVE: ed in 2008 by Richard Squier, a Vietnam A Soldier prepares his “Guard Dog” for con- veteran, Guard Dog has never waivered sumption at Camp Roberts during Annual in its service to the troops. Training 2015. Photos by Sgt. Nadine White

“He’s really the reason why it took off,” “I pretty much turned it into a year- ity food is evident. ing about how they’re mobilizing,” said said Spencer Churchill, Squier’s son-in- round thing,” said Churchill. “We’re Churchill. “Then 9 months later, they’ll law and the current Guard Dog manager open every day during AT and we don’t “The food is so good,” said Spc. Trey be back and it’s exciting to see how their and BBQ master. “He started out just put the hours on the building. We’ll stay Hamilton, an IT specialist with the 115th deployments went.” staying here on base, every day from 1:30 open until the food runs out or the Sol- Regional Support Group, between bites to 5:30; seven days a week he’d be here diers stop coming.” of a tri-tip “Guam bomb,” a mixture of Many Soldiers admit that Guard Dog is selling hot dogs.” meat, rice and beans. “It’s nice to take a the one thing they look forward to when Even though they grill an average of 48 break from Army food and MREs; I eat training at Camp Roberts. Churchill Soldiers caught on to the quality of tri-tip steaks a day, and plenty of hot here multiple times when I’m here.” takes pride in offering the troops a little home-style grilled hot dogs, polish sau- dogs and chicken beyond that, the food bite of barbequed goodness while they’re sages and hot links, and eventually the usually runs out before the Soldiers It’s not uncommon for Soldiers to be here and hopes to continue to do so for small hot dog cart was overwhelmed turn away. During annual training, a frequent visitors of Guard Dog, and many years to come. with customers. In 2012, Churchill built platoon-sized element of Soldiers is typi- Churchill values the relationships he has the permanent Guard Dog shack locat- cally lined up around the Guard Dog pa- with his customers. “We’re here for the troops,” he said. ed on California Avenue and expanded tio, and the grill is constantly manned. “We’re here for the Soldiers. Anything the menu to include tri-tip, chicken and Churchill and his staff’s dedication to “It’s cool, I’ll stand at the window, I’ll that we can do to make AT just a little bit sides of rice and beans. serving the troops with appetizing, qual- talk with the Soldiers and they’ll be talk- better, we’ll try our hardest.”

12 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Purple amole’s last stand Camp Roberts protects 32 rare species, including a rare flower

By BRANDON HONIG mental staff now even uses controlled but Mayer said the Army’s efforts to look California Military Department Public Affairs fires to eliminate competing plants while after the plant are not unusual: The Army the bulb is dormant. is very conscious of protected species on Visitors to the California Army National its installations and makes strong efforts Guard’s two-week annual training ses- Those prescribed fires may help the 4- to to support them. sion at Camp Roberts may witness some 16-inch-tall plant survive, but other kinds rare sights — a howitzer dangling from of blazes pose a real threat to the plant “I’m new to the Department of the Army,” a helicopter, mortars fired under cover also known as Chlorogalum purpureum. said Mayer, who began working at Camp of night, remotely operated weapons or Roberts in November, “but the Army re- even a truck rodeo. But none is more rare “Because of the clumped and limited dis- ally wants to instill a conservation ethic than a small purple flower found only at tribution of the purple amole in a semiar- from the top all the way to the bottom. It’s Camp Bob and its nearby Army cousin id environment, a wildfire could destroy been very proactive in many ways.” ABOVE: The purple amole is known to exist Fort Hunter Liggett. a substantial portion of the population,” only two places in the world: the California Fish and Wildlife warned in a 2008 re- Army installations, in fact, follow higher Army National Guard training base Camp The environmental experts at Camp Rob- port. The authors suggested that efforts conservation standards than are required Roberts and nearby Army Reserve base Fort erts care for 32 protected, threatened or should be made to find additional purple of other landholders, said Mark E. Wil- Hunter Liggett. Photo by Amy Millan BELOW endangered species, including the bald amole habitats in Monterey and San Luis liams, environmental lead for Camp Rob- LEFT: The bald eagles on Camp Roberts are eagle, vernal pool fairy shrimp and bur- Obispo counties. erts. Partly that’s because military lead- used to the military training activities. rowing owl. All of those species, though, ers want to be good stewards and support Photo by Michael L. Moore are also known to live somewhere “off The purple amole is currently found at biological diversity, but that’s not their post,” meaning they don’t depend so three sites on Fort Hunter Liggett and only motivation. which eats carcasses. The post also curbs heavily on Camp Roberts for survival. only one site on Camp Roberts, with 19 off-road driving in certain areas; restricts miles separating the two. Camp Roberts, “If we were to lose this facility,” Williams digging near pools and streams; and re- “The purple amole is not very well-un- though, is home to most of the world’s said of Camp Roberts, “where would quires careful surveys prior to any exca- derstood yet,” said Jeanne E. Mayer, an purple amole plants, with more than we find another 42,000 acres to train our vation, to ensure the safety of protected environmental scientist at Camp Roberts. 250,000 on about 215 acres in the rain military units? … Our goal is to benefit animals — and of cultural sites. “We are in communication with the scien- shadow of the Santa Lucia Range. (The the troops by protecting the environment tists at Fort Hunter Liggett, who we share largest purple amole habitat on Fort and [consequently] reducing training re- In addition to myriad plants and animals, information with. … We are contributing Hunter Liggett was estimated to have strictions.” the history of Camp Roberts’ land in- to the scientific knowledge of the plant.” 10,000 plants in 2000). cludes many generations of Native Amer- The restrictions on Camp Roberts rarely icans, who left behind a building founda- When the purple amole, a perennial of The purple amole also once grew in the have a major effect on training. In 2003, tion and a variety of tools and household the Agavaceae family, was first identified flat upland areas near Camp Roberts and for instance, a pair of bald eagles got items. at Camp Roberts in 2000, the U.S. Fish Fort Hunter Liggett, but grazing and de- spooked by artillery shells near their and Wildlife Service said to stay away velopment have depleted the population, roost. The Environmental Office re- “I think of us as being like the National from the habitat year-round to protect it. Camp Roberts’ environmental staff said. sponded by closing some artillery points, Park Service or the U.S. Forest Service — Experience at Camp Roberts since then, The two Army bases — two of the area’s merely pushing the training event down but with tanks. We have the same level of however, has shown that allowing mili- only properties that are not subject to the road. environmental requirements, ” Williams tary training there during the late sum- farming or development — have there- said. “If you see an arrowhead, call us, so mer — when the bulb is dormant under- fore become de facto preservation areas. The sound of artillery, of course, would we can manage it, curate it and take care ground — can benefit the purple amole startle almost any species, and Williams of it.” by reducing the presence of competing The extreme rarity of purple amole habi- said the bald eagles at Camp Roberts plant species. Camp Roberts’ environ- tats makes it a special case for the Army, rarely get spooked by anything else. One With more than 3,000 Soldiers descend- eagle nest is only a mile from a small ing on Camp Roberts at once for annual arms range, and the birds appear to be training this June, and so many living habituated to the environment. and cultural resources to protect on post, one might think the influx would be an “They’ve been seen flying around during environmental headache. But Camp Rob- training and seem unbothered,” Williams erts’ experts say they’re well-prepared to said, adding that the base’s controlled handle the traffic. fires don’t seem to upset the majestic birds either. “They’ve gotten used to it.” “The biggest component is the disposal of [dirty] water, which requires some coor- Camp Roberts has implemented night- dination with each of the different units time speed limits to protect wildlife; out there,” Williams said. “The Army eliminated some poisons and pesticides; National Guard was very proactive about and prohibited hunting with lead ammu- planning in advance with us, so we don’t nition to protect the California condor, foresee any problems.”

Camp Roberts Tactical Unmanned Aerial System Project earns gold

By MASTER SGT. SHARON SHINN LEED is a facility sustainability rating sys- system, a water well, a geothermal piping project team. The energy and water saving California Facilities and Engineering tem established by the U.S. Green Build- system, and a 5,000 gallon water retention features incorporated into this facility to ing Council, which has four certification cistern that reuses rainwater for irriga- achieve LEED Gold will save these valu- The Tactical Unmanned Aerial System levels for new construction – Certified, tion. The infrared heating uses propane able resources and demonstrate our inno- (TUAS) facility located at the McMillan Silver, Gold, and Platinum. gas, and the maintenance hangar is cooled vative path into the future for facilities.“ Air Field on Camp Roberts, was named using a swamp cooler. Site improvements a Leadership in Energy and Environ- The ‘LEED Gold’ level was achieved by also include drought tolerant landscap- The TUAS became home to Detachment 1, mental Design (LEED) Gold certified earning additional points, beyond design, ing, using hardscape and plants native to Company D, 578th Brigade Engineer Bat- facility. This is the California Military for exemplary performance in innovation. the local environment. For all intents and talion (TUAS) in April 2014. Chief War- Department’s first LEED certified con- Specific innovations included maximizing purposes, the TUAS is a self-sustaining rant 2 Mitchell S. Veino, UAS Operations struction project. Managed by the Fa- open green space, exceeding the require- facility. Officer, said, “By having this facility, we cilities and Engineering, Military Con- ments for manufactured recycled content, don't lose time due to the emplacing and struction (MILCON) team, the two-year and exceeding the requirements for re- Maj. Lorren T. Deakin, Construction Facil- displacing of equipment. The facility al- project was designed and engineered newable energy, all at no additional cost ities Management Officer for Facilities and lows the unit to maximize their training by Leidos, Inc. and constructed by Red to the government. Some notable sustain- Engineering, said, “This is an exceptional time by providing a place and means to Mountain, LLC. able facility features are a photovoltaic and timely accomplishment by the entire conduct classes and flight training.”

13 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Vigilant Guard: Training for disaster response The Cal Guard’s Homeland Response Force trains in Hawaii in multi-state, multi-agency exercise

By SGT. BRIANNE ROUDEBUSH 69th Public Affairs Detachment

More than 150 California Army and Air National Guard members from across the state participated in Vigilant Guard/ Makani Pahili 2015 on the Hawaiian Is- lands May 31-June 8.

VG/MP15 is a large-scale, multi-agency training exercise designed to improve collaborative efforts in response to domestic emergencies. The scenario, a hurricane that wreaked havoc on four of the Hawaiian Islands, required National Guard units from multiple states to team up with local, state and federal agencies in order to protect life, property and critical infrastructure and to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the wake of the hurricane.

“The reason it’s important [to conduct this type of training] is that if there is a LEFT: An engineer with A Company, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion, learns how to use an electric drill to breach a barrier as part of search and state emergency of this magnitude, we extraction exercises June 3 during Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015 on Oahu, Hawaii. RIGHT: Spc. Marielle Abueg and Pfc. Ileen Vergilio, Soldiers can almost certainly bet that we will re- with the 330th Military Police Company Casualty Assistance and Support Element, gear up to conduct rehearsals June 2 at Bellows Air Force Sta- quest help from other states,” Col. Peter tion on Oahu in preparation for the main Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015 exercise June 4. The white decontamination suits are practice suits Cross, the commander of the 49th Mili- made of a lighter-weight and more breathable material to allow soldiers to train for longer periods of time. Photos by Sgt. Brianne Roudebush tary Police Brigade (Homeland Response Force), said. “It fosters and builds rela- Headquarters Headquarters Detach- vide training to junior personnel. with the Army to learn how they oper- tionships and simulates what will really ment. “We need to track everything and ate,” he said. “It has been very beneficial happen if there is a disaster.” close loops so we aren’t degrading the “Junior enlisted personnel need to be for us to build these relationships in the mission or letting our Soldiers down in able to fill in the gaps in the absence of event that a disaster does occur.” The 9th Civil Support Team out of Los the process.” senior leadership,” he said. “To do that, Alamitos, California assessed the threats they have to have a good foundation of Two members of the 42nd MP Brigade, and resources needed at the different During this exercise, junior enlisted and what a senior does in order to step in to Capt. Christina Tamayo and Sgt. 1st training sites, the 330th MP Company junior officers were given the opportu- that role.” Class Adam Gossens acted as the chief Casualty Assistance and Support Ele- nity to run the show; they were in charge and deputy of assessment and protec- ment out of Ontario, California provided of running the day-to-day operations Junior personnel need to be able to com- tion. The active-duty unit does not usu- security for the contaminated areas, and within the TOC. petently and successfully run the daily ally participate in HRF missions. They the 49th MP Brigade (HRF) out of Fair- operations to allow senior leaders to en- said they conduct similar training, but it field, California provided the mission Coleman, who has participated in a HRF gage in the planning process. is not usually disaster-based. They were control element over the CSTs, CBRNE exercise before on the search and extrac- able to learn a lot about the HRF mission Enhanced Response Force Packages, and tion team, said working in the operations Cross said it helps keep the integrity of and the different terminology used. the CASE. center has been an eye-opening experi- the mission when the junior enlisted and ence. She was able to see how each ech- junior officers handle the day-to-day op- In a real-world incident, the 42nd would In the HRF’s tactical operations center, elon worked together and gain a clearer erations, allowing the senior staff to plan be the HRF’s active-duty counterpart. Soldiers and Airmen manning phones understanding of why each team oper- and focus on future operations. They were able to share their knowledge and computer monitors ensured opera- ates the way it does. and capabilities with each other. tional success. They tracked the scope of “This exercise, more than any other ex- the disaster as well as each unit’s loca- “This is a no-fault learning environ- ercise, showcased our ability to do that,” “Our intent was for all of us to work to- tion, mission requirements, supplies and ment,” Coleman said. “I was prepared to Cross said. “Our junior enlisted and ju- gether to help increase our cooperation any issues encountered. learn whatever I was tasked to do. Now nior officers really were the all stars for between the components and establish when mistakes do happen, we know how this particular mission.” a shared understanding,” Capt. Amber “Especially in this high-tempo environ- to correct ourselves, not overreact, and Luchtefeld, the brigade adjutant for the ment, whether it’s training or real-world, quickly adjust fire.” Members of the 149th Combat Communi- personnel section. tracking information from higher and cations Squadron, an Air National Guard lower echelons is very important,” said Major Isaac Bristow, the senior logistics unit out of North Highlands, California, The ability for different Army and Air Spc. Corinne Coleman, a human resource officer for the brigade, agreed that the and the 42nd MP Brigade, and active-du- National Guard units as well as active- specialist with the 185th MP Battalion, exercise was an ideal opportunity to pro- ty unit out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, duty and civilian personnel to work to- Washington, were also invited to partici- gether was a critical component of the pate in the training. They augmented the VG/MP15 exercise. 49th MP Brigade in the tactical operations center. “They are dealing with a real-world situation right now in Texas,” Sgt. Maj Cari The 149th Combat Communications Beetham, the brigade’s operations ser- Squadron operated the Joint Incident geant major, said. “They need us to be Site Communications Capability, which able to handle these disasters. There is a provided satellite communications dur- real need for us to be able to support or ing operations. civil authorities and our citizens.

“This simulates a real-world scenario Cross echoed theses sentiments and in the event that cell towers go down,” thanked Brig. Gen. Bruce Oliviera and 1st Lt. Steve Januario, the communica- the Hawaii National Guard for including LEFT: Sgt. Andrew Bituin and Spc. Jonathan tions officer in charge with 149th, said. California in the exercise. Iniguez participate in Vigilant Guard June 2 “The unit will still need the capability to at Bellows Air Force Station on Oahu, Hawaii. communicate with the different islands, “We would not be able to manage an ABOVE: Airmen with the 60th Aerial Port teams and the joint task force.” emergency without or state partners,” Squadron out of Travis Air Force Base and the Cross said. “By Hawaii inviting us, they 165th Airlift Wing out of Savannah, Georgia, This was the first time the 149th support- are highlighting and emphasizing the load a Humvee into a C-130 headed for Ha- ed the HRF. importance of state partnerships and we waii for the Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015. look forward to working with them in Photos by Sgt. Brianne Roudebush “It was been a good experience working the future.”

14 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Soldier rises to the occassion at first A.T. By SGT. BRIANNE ROUDEBUSH “I had never heard about these different types of units, 69th Public Affairs Detachment so when I came into a HRF unit, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” the Roseville, Calif. resident said. “I think it’s Surrounded by officers, senior enlisted noncommis- cool that we would be one of the first units to help with sioned officers, and Soldiers with years of experience, natural disasters in our region.” Spc. Erika Holmes, a supply specialist with the 49th Military Police Brigade (Homeland Response Force) Throughout the exercise, she has learned about the dif- jumped right into the action during her first annual ferent terminology used in disaster response as well as training event, Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015 on the structure of the HRF and how the different teams the Hawaiian Islands May 31-June 8. work together to accomplish the mission.

“She hit the ground running,” Sgt. Tami Watson, the The logistics section was given the opportunity to get property book HRF noncommissioned officer in charge out of the command center for an afternoon to tour for the 49th MP Brigade, said. “She asked a lot of ques- some of the training sites in order to have a clearer tions and was actively engaged.” understanding of the roles that the search and extrac- Spc. Erika Holmes, a supply specialist with the 49th Military tion teams, the decontamination teams and the medical Holmes was part of the logistics team during the exer- Police Brigade, takes a tour of the search and extraction sites teams have in a disaster response. cise. Using digital and analog maps and charts as well and the decontamination sites June 4 at Vigilant Guard/Makani as a joint task force portal for communication, the lo- Pahili 2015 in Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Sgt. Brianne Roudebush Holmes said the tour was very beneficial in that it pro- gistics team coordinated and tracked the supplies re- vided her with a visual picture of what was happening quired by subordinate units. turning to complete the rest of her job training after outside the operations center. graduation. “I haven’t done anything like this before,” Holmes “It’s good to get this experience because we don’t usu- said. “This is totally all new stuff so I’m becoming Her first drill with the 49th MP Brigade was Dec. ally do this kind of training during drill weekend,” she comfortable with asking questions and not being 2013. Overall, she said she has had a very positive said. “If we were to be called to a real-world mission afraid to speak up if I don’t understand.” experience in the Army so far. and hadn’t gone through these exercises, we would have no idea what to expect.” Holmes, who says she is naturally a shy person, sur- Both Watson and her supervisor, Master Sgt. Paul prised everyone when she decided to enlist in the Bauer, commended her for her great attention to de- Watson, who worked closely with Holmes throughout Army National Guard during her sophomore year of tail. the exercise, said Holmes had a good grasp on the ex- high school. She said it was her dad who encouraged ercise as a whole. She appreciated that Holmes was a her to join the military. “She has done very well,” Bauer, the brigade logis- team player and was very competent at applying her tics noncommissioned officer in charge, said. “She skills to the tasks given. “He wanted me to be able to get out and explore the didn’t know anything about [the HRF] at all but she world,” the 20-year-old said. “He knows I’m shy and has picked it up quickly and she accomplishes the “She’s pretty excited and eager to learn,” Watson said. he wanted me to have those experiences.” tasks she’s given 100 percent.” “She doesn’t wait around for someone to tell her what to do, which is important because we move so fast and She chose to do the split-training option: attending Holmes, a nursing school student at Sierra College, there are lots of bit and pieces to track so we need peo- basic between her junior and senior year and then re- has enjoyed working with the HRF. ple who work hard like she does.” Vigilant JAG Judge Advocate General troops give legal guidance to the Cal Guard’s Homeland Response Force

By SGT. BRIANNE ROUDEBUSH all units understand the rules for the use of 69th Public Affairs Detachment force in Hawaii.

"JAG," the TV series that ran for 10 years, Their main effort was focused on provid- between 1995 and 2005, served as many ing legal guidance and support to the com- people’s first and only look into the roles mander. and responsibilities of the Judge Advocate General. During disaster response training “If JAG was not present at these types of however, the JAG’s role is less criminal in- trainings, we may not to be able to see legal vestigation and more legal consultation. ramifications that might be present that we need to consider during operations,” Sgt. Six JAG members with the 49th Military 1st Class Bernie Lagasca, the chief parale- Police Brigade (Homeland Response Force) gal with Headquarters Headquarters Com- participated in the Vigilant Guard/Makani pany, 49th MP Brigade, said. Sgt. First Class Bernie Lagasca and Spc. Sean Chaffin attend to legal matters during Vigilant Pahili 2015 exercise in Hawaii May 31 Guard 2015 in Hawaii May 31 through June 8. Six JAG team members with the Cal Guard’s through June 8. Operations during VG/MP 15 ran 24 hours Homeland Response Force participated in the exercise. Photo by Sgt. Brianne Roudebush a day, and at least one member of the legal Their role during the exercise was to lend team was always present in the tactical op- experience from doing multiple exercises rienced members to learn how all the com- their experience to the Hawaiian counter- erations center. and because the Federal Emergency Man- ponents work together. parts. agement Agency Region IX is located in “We need to be able to cover all the shifts California.” “It is important for junior enlisted Soldiers “We bring a good amount of operational so that we can support all aspects of the op- to participate in this type of exercise be- law knowledge due to our experience with erations,” Lagasca said. Vigilant Guard/Makani Pahili 2015 is a cause they are being exposed to the mission emergencies in California as well as work- large-scale, multi-agency exercise designed in its entirety instead of being locked down ing with the HRF,” Maj. Christopher Weav- The six-man team consisted of a command to improve collaborative efforts in the re- in an office,” Spc. Sean Chaffin, a paralegal er, the command judge advocate, said. judge advocate, attorneys and paralegal sponse to domestic emergencies. National specialist with the 49th MP Brigade, said. specialists. Guard units from multiple states joined The team was responsible for researching forces with local, state and federal agen- Chaffin said his role was to provide re- legal authorities for the deployment of the “The homeland response force JAG is prob- cies to respond to a hurricane that wreaked search and analysis of regulations and HRF outside California, preparing docu- ably the most experienced team in the state havoc on the Hawaiian Islands. The train- policies and to gather information for the ments and legal memos, and ensuring that of California,” Weaver said. “We get this ing provides an opportunity for less expe- attorneys.

15 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July 40th CAB gets ready to roll Warfighter exercise at Fort Hood prepares the 40th Combat Aviation Brigade for upcoming deployment to Kuwait with high-tech simulated combat scenarios

By SGT. IAN KUMMER 40th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs

Most Soldiers are taught from the very first day of boot camp to “train like you fight.” For most troops, that mantra seems pretty straight-forward. Infantrymen practice foot patrols and room-clearing exercises. Drivers and gunners practice convoy operations.

But how does a command team train? How do the Soldiers in a tactical operations center (TOC) practice the command and control of an entire brigade during a combat mission? How can these staff members safely learn how to manage doz- ens of flights, artillery strikes, medevac missions and fuel supply convoys on a real-life battlefield?

The Army’s answer to these questions is the Mission Command Training Program (MCTP). Every year the MCTP networks LEFT AND RIGHT: Soldiers from the California Army National Guard’s 40th Combat Aviation Brigade tear down their tactical operations center Army units from around the world in mas- during Warfighter 15-05 at Fort Hood, Texas, on June 12. The 40th CAB participated in the Warfighter exercise in preparation for its scheduled sive combat simulations. These exercises deployment to Kuwait later this year. Photos by Sgt. Ian Kummer allow the unit commanders and their staff members to navigate the most hazardous it could save someone’s life out there.” The CAB Soldiers got hands-on experi- helicopters have deployed in two-aircraft scenarios their Soldiers might ever face ence with the tools they will be using dur- teams – aerial weapons teams – but doc- from the safety of a computer simulation. Every Soldier in the TOC, regardless of ing their mission in Kuwait. For example trinally we would be sending them in pla- rank or status, is responsible for being Command Post of the Future (CPOF), the toon, company or even battalion-sized el- One-hundred-and-forty-four men and aware of what is going on in the battlefield, Army’s primary mission-command soft- ements,” said Champaign, Illinois, native women from the California Army Nation- and able to take additional responsibilities ware since 2006, allows the TOC staff and 1st Lt. Ryan Close, a platoon commander al Guard’s 40th Combat Aviation Brigade if needed. Kaminski, who deployed with the subordinate battalions to track data from 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, attended the Warfighter Exercise (WFX) her battalion to Kosovo in 2012, empha- ranging from unit locations to significant 211th Aviation Regiment, 40th CAB, based 15-05 at Fort Hood, Texas, June 3-12. This sized the importance of learning as much events, such as medevacs and air strikes. out of West Jordan, Utah. “In Afghanistan training is a crucial stepping-stone in the as a possible about her own job and the While CPOF is capable of being used to and Iraq we haven’t done that in a long CAB’s preparation for a scheduled deploy- jobs of the Soldiers in the TOC with her. simulate engagements with enemy forces, time, but with the wars winding down, ment to Kuwait later this year. WFX required something far more sophis- we’re getting back to that doctrinal train- “You should know your job, the job of the ticated: WARSIM. ing.” The brigade command team, Col. Jeffrey person under you, and the person over Holliday and Command Sgt. Maj. Troy you,” Kaminski said. “You have to be able WARSIM is not just a video game – it is an Close worked as an attack planner in the Eck, led 1st Battalion, 140th Aviation Regi- to step into a job when someone steps in-depth simulation tool that calculates the TOC, an expert in the capabilities of his ment on the brigade’s deployment to Iraq out.” full logistical consequences of any troop battalion’s attack helicopters. Staff officers in 2010-2011. More than three quarters of movement or attack. WARSIM calculates like Close are responsible for keeping the the CAB Soldiers have deployed before – During WFX the CAB served as the pri- the food, ammunition, fuel and other sup- brigade commander informed of his units’ now they all must learn their new roles in mary aviation asset for the Texas Army plies consumed by Soldiers and equip- capabilities and limitations during a mis- the new mission. National Guard’s 36th Infantry Division. ment throughout the mission, providing sion. Active-duty Soldiers from the 101st Divi- real-world training for every section in the “This is an opportunity for us to improve sion Artillery were also present. TOC. “We’re very useful to the brigade and the our skillsets,” said Pleasant Hill, Califor- state if employed properly,” Close said. nia, resident Spc. Kristen Kaminski, an avi- “WFX is all about integrating a joint force Unlike most commercial war gaming soft- ation operations specialist from 3rd Battal- of reservists and the active component,” ware, WARSIM has human role-players for But even the staff sections with a routine ion, 140th Aviation Regiment, 40th CAB. said Lt. Col. Rick Debowski, the MCTP every subordinate unit involved, even en- job stateside become vital during a com- “We have to take these exercises seriously, operations officer. “Train like you fight.” emies. Informally referred to as “pucks,” bat mission. The S-1 personnel section is battalion commands not physically pres- responsible for keeping accountability of ent at WFX and enemy units were simulat- every person under the command, and ed by Soldiers and civilian contractors in ensuring their administrative needs are a separate training area from the division taken care of. The S-1 is also responsible TOCs. Every subordinate unit is represent- for notifying next of kin when a Soldier is ed by a real person at a WARSIM station. killed or wounded.

“We actually have a thinking opponent “We let the commander know what the that’s moving around enemy units,” said Soldiers’ limits are, and we make sure the Maj. Daniel Goldsmith, the officer in Soldiers have what they need to stay in the charge of the brigade’s response cell. fight,” said 1st Lt. Allison Henderson, the personnel officer in charge. WFX tested the CAB’s ability to provide air support operations against a “near- WFX taught the Soldiers of the CAB a lot, peer” opponent; an enemy military with but there is still a lot of work and training training, technology and equipment equal to be done before they deploy to Kuwait or almost equal to that of the United States. later this year. This is an experience completely different from the counter-insurgency operations “There are whole battalions who aren’t Soldiers from the 36th Infantry Division gather by a map board for a briefing in preparation for a that the CAB conducted during their de- here, we need to take what we learned simulated air assault operation during Warfighter 15-05 at Fort Hood, Texas, June 2. The Califor- ployment to Iraq. and pollenate the rest of the brigade,” said nia Army National Guard’s 40th CAB participated in the Warfighter exercise in preparation for Chief Warrant Officer Jeffrey Crandall, the their scheduled deployment to Kuwait later this year. Photo by Sgt. Ian Kummer “[In the War on Terror], AH-64 Apache chief warrant officer of the brigade.

16 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July 1-140th Aviation Soldiers conduct aerial gunnery training By SGT. IAN KUMMER than 19,000 missions and logged more than 121,000 flight- 100 percent, and we will have a story we can be proud of," 40th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs hours. More than 75 percent of the CAB soldiers slated to said Col. Jeffrey Holliday, commander of the 40th CAB. deploy this year are veterans of previous deployments. The California National Guard's 1st Battalion, 140th Avia- tion Regiment, conducted aerial gunnery training with "I am pleasantly surprised and thrilled from what I have their UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters at Fort Hunter Liggett, seen [at the gunnery event] so far," said 1st Army Com- California, July 17-19. mand Sgt. Major J. T. Hall.

The battalion is scheduled to deploy to Kuwait later this The 43,000-acre Camp Roberts in San Luis Obispo and year. The 1-140th is part of the Cal Guard's 40th Combat Monterey counties is the premier training facility in Cali- Aviation Brigade (CAB), which plans to deploy more than fornia for National Guard and Reserve military forces. Ele- 1,000 California Guard soldiers to Kuwait this fall. They ments of the 40th CAB will also conduct pre-mobilization will be joined by 40th CAB members from Utah. training at Camp Roberts in August. This event certified helicopter crews to safely and precisely engage threats on "It is important for [the Soldiers] to know their job well," the ground with their M240B machine guns and night vi- said Staff Sgt. Evelina Gamboa, a petroleum specialist with sion equipment during their deployment. the battalion. The Cal Guard’s 1st Battalion, 140th Aviation Regiment con- "Keep up the good fight, and learn everything you can ducts aerial gunnery drills at Fort Hunter Liggett, California, The 40th CAB deployed to Iraq in 2011, when it flew more about your job and the jobs of your fellow Soldiers. Put out July 16-19. Photo by Sgt. Ian Kummer Airman volunteers abroad Master Sgt. Cesar Jurilla of the 163rd Reconnaissance Wing helps those in need in the Philippines

By MASTER SGT. JULIE AVEY of pocket. San Diego Regional Public Affairs “We pay our own way to the Philippines,” said Jurilla. Thousands of miles away in remote Philippine villages there “Cora and I spend about $2,100 each, including airfare, are families who lack access to medication and basic health lodging and meals.” care. The medical needs of the people in the Philippines are tremendous, especially in the rural areas, where many suf- As if this is not enough, Jurilla and Cora also purchase fer from treatable ailments. additional items to pass out to the patients, such as vitamins, toothpaste, toothbrushes and flip flops for people Every January for the past five years, Master Sgt. Cesar Ju- who don’t have shoes. “One time we saw some kids go- rilla, of the 163rd Reconnaissance Wing Communications ing to school carrying their flip flops. They didn’t want Squadron, and his wife Cora travel to these remote loca- them to get dirty or broken in the mud so they would tions. They are part of a team of 25-50 doctors, nurses and carry them and then wash their feet and put on their new non-medical assistants who volunteer with the Filipino sandals once they arrived at school.” Ministry of the Diocese San Bernardino in cooperation with Bishop Gerald Barnes Diocese of San Bernardino. The Jurillas provide a 30-day supply of vitamins for children and adults due to the lack of vitamins in their diets “A goal of the medical mission trip is to discover and redis- and some are malnourished. cover Filipino roots through indigenous people in the Phil- ippines – to know their health situation and to respond to “The bad thing is the kids’ vitamins come in Gummy their medical needs,” said Jurilla. Master Sgt. Cesar Jurilla poses with local children during a vol- Bears and sometimes they take them all in one day, think- unteer medical mission in the Philippines. Photo courtesy of ing the vitamins are candy. Some of the kids came back Most of the patients are kids, mothers and senior citizens be- the Jurilla family the next day asking us for more vitamins,” he said. cause the adult men are working out in the rice fields. How- ever, the volunteers have treated 12-year-old kids in the past “After the pharmacy collects the prescriptions we account The volunteers often stay with local host families due to with back pains from working in the rice fields before going for what medicine we passed out. At the end of our hot very few lodging facilities in the remote areas. Some of to school. wash we know what was exactly in demand. For example, the places they visit have been severely damaged from if high blood pressure meds are not in demand, we can typhoons or earthquakes over the years, destroying some The team sets up in one location for a couple of days then lower the amount for next time. If there was a medicine crops. moves to another location. About 500 patients are treated in short supply, we can buy more the next time. There are each day for anything from infections, headaches, stomach- always lessons learned,” said Jurilla. “We brought canned goods to our host families. We carry aches and even malnutrition. At one location, people from our own stuff so I brought canned Vienna sausages which four or five villages will seek treatment, with some walking Jurilla has to expect the unexpected sometimes and works is lighter. They were so happy – it was like Christmas for very far distances. with local security to ensure the process runs smoothly them. This family was so nice they shared it with other rela- and safely. On their first trip, while the volunteers went tives. They appreciate the little things in life. You wouldn’t A typical day begins with Jurilla loading all the medicines in out to take a group photo, someone stole their antibiotics. think it was much, but to them it is,” said Jurilla. the vehicle and driving to the location to set up the different stations so when the doctors, nurses and pharmacy staff ar- “I have to be aware for safety and security as well. I keep The volunteers often share their snacks and on one trip Ju- rive everything is ready. accountability of our doctors, nurses and non-medical rilla shared beef jerky. Jurilla said “To my surprise one of people. At the same time I work with the local people, the kids saved it to share with his family to have meat with “In the mornings, there is a lot of preparation. Non-medical local security and local volunteers because they speak the their dinner. This is how much they appreciate.” people like me are in charge of logistics and setting up. I dialect. I let them know what is needed,” said Jurilla. help calm the patients and assure them that everyone will be Jurilla was born in the Philippines. His father moved the seen. I tell them not to rush and not to push,” he said. Through the assistance of contacts in the Philippines, the family to the U.S. in order to have a better life. team decides where they will set up before making the “After they’re seen by the doctor and get their prescriptions, journey overseas. Local priests survey the locations most “Every time we go back we see how fortunate we are. they crowd the pharmacy because they’re afraid they won’t in need and assign numbers for the patients to show up That’s why rediscovering our roots and giving back to the get their medicine. If we run out of medicine for patients, we at a designated time. community is important - we feel grateful,” he said. “Some will donate our personal stuff like aspirin because it’s dif- of the people are afraid to approach us but I explain to ficult to refuse villagers who walk two to three hours to get “We don’t want to deal with the red tape and waste time,” them that I was born there and grew up there. I tell them to us, but they arrive late so most of the medicine is gone.” said Jurilla. “It is not for us to, say, choose who can or anything is possible. My dad grew up here on a farm. can’t be seen.” An inventory of medication is conducted at the end of “It feels good giving back. People approach me and say, every day to help determine what will be needed for the The medical expenses all come from donations and fun- ‘Thank you for being here for us. Now, instead of buying next mission. draisers. The expenses for the team members are all out medicine we can buy food.’ It feels good.”

17 Grizzly | 2015 | June-July Sunburst puts light back in troubled teens’ eyes The California National Guard’s Sunburst Youth Academy is turning lives around

By BRANDON HONIG mature, respectful and hard-working than California Military Department Public Affairs one would ever expect from students their age. Sgt. 1st Class (CA) Timothy Edwards sets the tone right from the beginning. Even before The relationship between sergeant and ca- new cadets arrive at Sunburst Youth Chal- det has become one of mutual respect and leNGe Academy, he lets them know he is affection by this stage of the program, and not their friend. both staff and student seem to enjoy every day together. “You will not run my program!” Edwards yelled to a group of prospective cadets at a Even Edwards, the drill sergeant, who refus- “Roll Call” introductory session on Saturday es to get involved on a personal level with ABOVE: Sgt. 1st Class (CA) Timothy Edwards, morning April 25. Pacing in front of a bleach- incoming cadets, says that by the time they a drill instructor at the Cal Guard’s Sunburst er full of high school students, Edwards’ pas- graduate, “We’re going to be so close, I’m go- Youth ChalleNGe Academy, explains to pro- sion was evident in his classic drill sergeant ing to have to hold back tears.” spective cadets that he runs the show at Sun- demeanor. “Do I look like the kind of person burst, not them. RIGHT: A Sunburst Youth who argues with children?! All that drama, A commitment to oneself ChalleNGe Academy color guard takes the leave it at home, because I do not care.” The process starts at Roll Call, a series of field for the national anthem sung by Andy Saturday morning physical training and Allo at the May 22 game against the Padres Always underlying his bark, however, was drill sessions, where students get a taste of at Dodger Stadium. Photos by Brandon Honig the true message he wanted to get across: “If military school life and decide if Sunburst you act right,” he told them, softening his is right for them. A parent can send their likely something wrong in the home.” gain self-esteem and learn to regulate their tone, “I will give you the world.” child to Roll Call, but Sunburst won’t ac- emotions and employ conflict resolution cept any students into the full program un- That’s why parenting classes are required for strategies. That promise may sound bombastic, but less they show they truly want to be part all cadets’ families, and a certificate of comple- youths who have gone through Sunburst’s of it. tion must be presented to the academy before “I have learned discipline, integrity and transformative program say Edwards relatives can attend any Family Day events. courage,” Cadet Eric Cobarrubio told about speaks the truth. “Roll Call makes sure you’re mentally and 1,900 nine-to-13-year-olds at the June 1 anti- physically prepared for Sunburst,” said A well-rounded experience gang event, which was held at Angel Sta- “My life was going down the drain [when] Cenaida Morales, who completed the Sun- At Sunburst, youths get a clean slate and dium through the Orange County Gang Re- I decided to join Sunburst,” Cadet Gabriel- burst program in December but comes back receive the mentoring they need to make a duction Intervention Partnership. “Sunburst la Perez told a group of youths at a June 1 periodically to volunteer her time. “I real- positive change. The program’s first tenet is has made me believe in myself and my abil- anti-gang event. “I’m five months into this ized after one Roll Call that I had to make a academic excellence, and cadets are expected ity to be successful in the tough world we academy, and I can’t believe how much I’ve commitment and I wanted to change.” to earn a year’s worth of high school credits in live in.” changed. … I have become a girl that can 5 1/2 months. achieve anything.” The April 25 Roll Call ended at noon, and Reluctant parting 20 minutes later, Morales accompanied Sunburst is a community high school run by Gary Verge, who completed the Sunburst pro- A unique bond about 25 of the 120 students to a theater on the California National Guard in partner- gram in December, said it felt weird at first to As an outsider stepping onto the Sunburst base to wait for their parents to arrive. The ship with the Orange County Department of live with people he didn’t know, especially in campus at Joint Forces Training Base Los other students had already been picked up, Education (the teachers at Sunburst are typi- the barracks-style housing at Sunburst. But as Alamitos in June, it doesn’t take long to no- but at 12:40, about 10 were still waiting. cally civilians). Credits earned at Sunburst the program went on, “we all came together tice the change Perez spoke of. The last one’s ride showed up, after several can be taken back to a student’s home school as a family, as brothers and sisters.” stern phone calls from Sunburst cadre, at and applied toward graduation, or a cadet The 193 cadets living there are dropouts 1:27. can earn a high school diploma — not just a The shared experiences at Sunburst create and other youths whose behavioral and GED credential — from Sunburst. friendships that will last a lifetime, he said. academic problems put them in jeopardy of “A lot of the time, [the source of the stu- The cadets learn from each other’s struggles not graduating. They have used alcohol and dent’s problem] is where they come from,” “The average incoming cadet has a grade and understand each other’s challenges, and drugs and had run-ins with the law. But af- Edwards said. “If you have four kids, and point average around 0.3 to 0.5,” on a four- they grow into adults together. ter a few months at Sunburst, they are more they all need to come to Sunburst, there’s point scale, according to Sgt. James Thomas, a member of the Sunburst cadre. “But virtu- And they credit the cadre and their teachers ally every student when they leave here is for their growth. earning a 3.5 to a 4.0. They start to learn that they have these capabilities and can be suc- “Today when Gary saw the cadre, he got so cessful, and they just take off.” excited,” Verge’s father, Gary Verge Sr. of the Los Angeles Police Department, said April A cadet’s day begins at 5:15 a.m. most days 22 during another youth mentoring event at — once or twice a week it’s 4:30. Apart from Angel Stadium. “When you’re in the military an hour of free time, each day is fully sched- and you see your drill instructor, do you get uled with daily exercise, study and activi- excited? But these people changed his life.” ties until lights out at 9 p.m. Cadets perform community service, receive hands-on voca- Gary Jr. said the cadre were “mean” early in tional training and gain resume-building, the program, and they pushed the cadets as interviewing and financial skills. hard as they could. “But if you take the challenge, they get nicer … as you start doing the Perhaps most importantly, Sunburst builds right thing.” By graduation, he said, the ca- character. Cadets are expected to maintain dets grow to love the cadre and don’t want high moral and ethical standards and each to leave. cadet learns the qualities of a good leader, follower and team member, then has a Perhaps the greatest endorsements, though, chance to lead their fellow cadets. come from cadets’ happy parents.

Through a combination of classroom ac- “The light came back in Gary’s eyes,” his Cadets with the California National Guard’s Sunburst Youth ChalleNGe Academy march on tivities, group discussions and Sunburst’s father said. “And I went from being a very Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos May 11. Photo by Brandon Honig structured living environment, students worried parent to a very proud parent.”

18 News & Benefits

A Bradley crewman from 1-185th Combined Arms Battalion keeps watch from atop his Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle on June 16 at Camp Roberts. Photo by Spc. Matthew Dixon Training Panel gets vets jobs California’s Employment Training Panel has approved a contract through its veterans’ Did you know... program for $199,050 to train and place in jobs 75 unemployed veterans. The program provides veterans with the skills needed to enter the workforce and improves opportunities for advancement in high wage, secure jobs. Since its inception in 2008 as a pilot program, Active Guard and Reserve Soldiers and more than 650 veterans have received workforce training through the program. Airmen, as well traditional M-Day Soldiers Veterans who have served on active full-time duty in the Armed Forces and were honor- and Airmen, qualify for “Sanctuary/Lock- ably discharged or released from active duty due to a service-connected disability are eligible for training under this contract, as well as reservists who have served on active In” after 18 years of service? full-time duty and are still on reserve status. Sanctuary/Lock-In is a federal program that protects military members from being separated from military service when they are close to attaining retirement eligibility. “California employers recognize the talent and experience our veterans bring to the work- Active Guard and Reserve (AGR) Soldiers and Airmen must reach 18 years of Active force,” said Stewart Knox, the Employment Training Panel’s Executive Director. “The Em- Federal Service (regular service) for retirement in order to qualify for “Sanctuary” ployment Training Panel is proud support this program which helps businesses with the under the authority of 10 U.S. Code 12686(a) - Reserves on Active Duty within two years demand to train veterans for high wage jobs.” of retirement eligibility. This applies to AGR Soldiers and Airmen who reach 18 years of Active Federal Service through a combination of Active Duty and AGR service while Under the approved contract, the South Bay Workforce Investment Board will work with assigned as a member of the National Guard. AGRs that achieve “Sanctuary” status the Occupational Safety Councils of America to deliver vocational safety training to meet can only be involuntary separated from service with the approval of the Secretaries of the demands of the manufacturing, petrochemical and construction industries. the Army (SA) and Air Force (SAF) or their approved designees.

For more info about the program, please visit www.etp.ca.gov, or call 916-327-5368. Enlisted M-Day Soldiers must reach 18 years of National Guard Service (non-regular service) for retirement in order to qualify for “Lock-In” per National Guard Bureau Camp Roberts firefighters help save landmark (NGB) and Enlisted Drill Status Guardsmen (DSG). Airmen must reach 18 years of non-regular service for retirement in order to qualify for “Sanctuary” under the In what has already been an active fire season for Camp Roberts Emergency Services, fire authority of 10 U.S. Code 1176(b) - Reserve Members in Active Status. The term “Active personnel from the post were called upon to assist firefighters in the local community of Status” means the Reserve Service Member is drilling with their unit and not assigned San Miguel, helping to save a historic building from damage. to either Inactive National Guard (ING) or Individual Ready Reserve (IRR); it does not mean the Service Member is on “active duty.” M-Day Soldiers that achieve “Lock- On July 22 at approximately 8:30 p.m., Camp Roberts Emergency Services (CRES) re- In” status can only be separated from service with the approval of the Chief, National sponded to a grass fire burning along Highway 101 near San Miguel. Moderate winds Guard Bureau. DSG Airmen that achieve “Sanctuary” can only be separated from were pushing the fire towards the Rios Caledonia Adobe, a 180-year old landmark that service with the approval of SAF. was originally part of the San Miguel Mission Complex. “ M-Day and DSG Officers must reach 18 years of non-regular service for retirement CRES firefighters positioned their attack from the north, between the fire and the historic in order to qualify for “Lock-In” per National Guard Bureau (NGB) under the structure, and stopped the fire before it could reach the adobe. In a cooperative effort with authority of 10 U.S. Code 12646. AGR Officers must reach 18 years of regular service the San Miguel Fire Department, the burned area was limited to about one acre, with no for retirement in order to qualify for “Sanctuary” under the authority of 10 U.S. Code damage to the historic buildings. 12686. The SA and SAF are the sole authorities for approving discharge requests for Officers that obtain 18 but less than 20 years of service for regular and non-regular Two Cal Guard Airmen receive national honors service for retirement. Nearly 20 Soldiers from the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), California Army Leaders and service members at all levels must understand the difference between National Guard, will traveled to Ukraine to serve as mentors during the multinational “Sanctuary” for regular service for retirement and “Lock-In” for non-regular service military exercises Rapid Trident and Saber Guardian 2015 held July 20-31 in Lviv Oblast. for retirement and how the terms apply to the current retirement status of service members. A key takeaway for Soldiers and Airmen to remember is that they can still be Rapid Trident and Saber Guardian are annual exercises held among US, NATO, and involuntary separated while in Sanctuary/Lock-in; however, involuntary separation Ukraine to strengthen cooperation between their military forces. The Cal Guard has a his- must be processed according to regulation and approved at the appropriate level. tory of cooperation with Ukraine through its State Partnership Program (SPP).

19 Public Affairs Directorate, California National Guard . 9800 Goethe Road, Sacramento, CA 95827-3561

Second Lt. Alex Joyce, Bravo Battery, 1-143rd Field Artillery, pulls landing zone security during an air assault exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, California, on June 15. The exercise took place during a two- week annual training event when more than 4,000 Cal Guard Soldiers descended on Camp Roberts and Fort Hunter Liggett. Photo by Capt. Cody Gallo

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