Citizen spotlight Sky's the limit for 'Con Air' pilot Dream of flying refuses to fade for Air Guard captain By Master Sgt. Terri Vance 220th EI Squadron

s a child she and her father would watch the take-offs and landings of A military fighters, carriers and air refuelers at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton. They would spend count­ less hours at the Air Force Museum learn­ ing about aviation and its history. It was during these special trips that Capt. Becky Roman-Amador, 220th En­ gineering Installation Squadron, Zanesville, decided that she would grow up to be a pilot. And despite many ups and downs, she has made her dream come true. Roman-Amador turned her disappoint­ Miss. "Everything worked out the way it ABOVE: Capt. Becky Roman-Amador ment in failing military navigator school was supposed to," she said. stands on the wing of a King Air B200 into an intense desire to pursue a civilian Roman-Amador started her Air National passenger plane. BELOW, LEFT: At aviator career. Now a commercial pilot, Guard career as an enlisted administrative home in front of the instrument panel. the young captain flies for the Harrison specialist with Springfield's l 78th Fighter County Sheriffs Department in Gulfport, Wing. While attending college for electri­ ing but wall-to-wall pilots... it was awe­ cal engineering, she took some some. It was there I learned only six per­ ground school courses and some cent of pilots are women, and I wanted to flying lessons in hopes of one be one of them." And now she is. day fultillingherchildhooddream. Roman-Amador has a commercial After getting her commission, pilot's license with multi-engine and in­ Roman-Amador was offered a strument ratings. While attending Com­ chance to fulfill her dream. " I munication Officer School at Keesler Air was given a opportunity to at­ Force Base, Miss., she was offered a flight tend Navigator School for a C- officer's position with the local sheriffs 130 unit in Louisville, Ky. It was department. She transports prisoners who a way forme to get my foot in the have been extradited on a I 0-passenger door to become a pilot." After King Air B200. Her co-workers at the 220th almost two years of navigator EIS joke that she works for "Con Air." school, Roman-Amador failed "It's a great job. I'm doing what I love her last check ride of the train­ the most- flying. Transporting prisoners ing, therefore failing the school. makes it all the more interesting." She "It was the hardest time of my even wears a sheriffs uniform. Personal life. My dream of becoming a safety never has been an issue, since depu­ military pilot shattered. I took it ties escort the handcuffed prisoners, who are very hard," she recalled. shackled to the chair and floor ofthe aircraft. Dealing with the failure, On one occasion a prisoner was escorted combined with a rare opportu­ to the aircraft, and when he noticed Roman­ nity to spend a week at the Amador he said, "Is she flying this plane?" "Oshkosh Fly-In" in Wis­ "I took that comment as humorous, and consin, motivated Roman­ I decided to hand-fly the entire 3 1/2-hour Amador to pursue her civilian flight, never turning on the autopilot," pilot' s license. Oshkosh hosts smiled Roman-Amador. one of the biggest conventions She saickhe enjoys her current job, but for aircraft and pilots in the still has her eyes in the sky, accruing the country. "Oshkosh was noth- flight hours needed to fly fora major airline.•

6 BUCKE YE GUARD WINTER 2000 /2 001

' : : 1_1 · '· y Fort Rucker facility ignites unique training opportunity for Army Guard firefighters Story and photos by PFC Haraz N. Ghanbari • • • 196th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

hio Army National Guard soldiers The deployment all owed the Buckeye from Mansfi eld 's 5694th Engineer firefi ghters the opportunity to hone their ODetachment (Fire Fighting) escaped blaze battling skills and expand their knowl­ ABOVE: SGT Mike Johnson and SPC the winter cold ofOhi o with a "well heated" edge of fire prevention. Jennifer Williams douse a helicopter during trip south, Nov. 10-1 2, to Fort Rucker, Ala. Fort Rucker's Fire Fighting Training a simulated fire exercise. BELOW, LEFT: Center offers Army National SPC Bill Comer (left) and SPC David Baker Guard and Army Reserve units prepare to enter a building full of smoke fro m across the country the op­ and electronically-controlled fires. portunity to work on crash and rescue procedures not practiced exercise. Using fire trucks provided by the on a regular basis, with each training center, 5694th firefighters reacted to training session designed for a simulated accidents involving various aircraft. unit's specific needs. Though the firefi ghters saw no visible flames "Units come to our training at the scene of a helicopter crash, they re­ center because they don' t have sponded as though the aircraft was set ablaze access to aircraft where they and victims were trapped inside. The firefi ghters are from. Here we have ap­ also had to consider the danger of the aircraft proximately seven real helicop­ itself and the risks associated with military ters, an airplane and various passengers. The possibility of spinning rotors, other types of equipment the a fuel explosion or weapons misfiring fo rced fi refi ghters may encounter dur­ the firefi ghters to assess the situation. ing an emergency situation," "The crews responded to the aircraft as though said Staff Sgt. Gary D. Miller, it was a real emergency," said Sgt. I st Class training noncommissioned of­ Leroy A. Ward, fire chief fo r the 5694th. "They fi cer for Rucker's Fire Fight­ executed their tasks and objecti ves, while ex­ ing Training Center. tinguishi ng the fire and rescuing any victims During the unit's three-day that may have been in the aircraft." deployment, the soldiers re­ Following a morning session of crash and ceived hands-on training in rescue exercises, Miller instructed 5694th sol­ various crash and rescue pro­ diers on t h ~ more conventional type of cedures along with a live fi re firefighting- structure fi res. The training cen- ABOVE: Upon entering a burning building, the first priority for firefighters is to search for victims. BELOW, LEFT: PFC Ben Rings (from left), PV2 Josh Stewart and SGT Bill Amspaugh (inside) hose down a fixed­ wing aircraft simulator.

"Although we train on many firefighting­ related tasks such as structure fires, auto accidents and hazardous material accidents, aircraft crash and rescue is our primary mission," said Staff Sgt. Linda S. Young, unit readiness noncommissioned officer ter is equipped with a two-story multi-room Farenheit, which increases the chances of for the 5694th. "Through the use of team­ structure that creates a realistic smoke- and disorientation and even death. So the abil­ work, this training helped to refamiliarize fire-filled environment. ity to fight simulated structure fires proved and expose the soldiers to the various types The 5694th was divided into three crews for invaluable to those who train to battle of aircraft while building unit cohesion." the afternoon live fire exercise. Before the blazes just one weekend a month and two Young also credited the transportation crews entered the building, Miller placed res­ weeks during the summer- though mili­ support provided by Mansfield's l 79th cue dummies in areas that he felt the firefighters tary firefighting is simply an extension of Airli ft Wing for making this training op­ might overlook. The building was filled with civilian jobs for about a third of the unit. portunity possible. billowing smoke, and elec­ " Without the use of C-130 airlift, the trically-control led fires ability to train at a live fire crash-rescue were ignited. facility is nearly impossible on an IDT With a water-charged (drill) weekend," Young said. hose line, the crews entered Normally, team-level training on the bottom floorofthe build­ crash-rescue firefighting can occur only ing and searched for vic­ during annual training periods due to tims, then fought the fire. limited availability of facilities. Hav­ Before moving to the sec­ ing the opportunity to train at a collec­ ond floor, one soldier re­ tive level throughout the year has paid turned outside with a victim positive dividends to the unit. and began CPR. Mean­ "We can increase and maintain unit while, the other soldiers readiness through sustainment of team carefully moved up the proficiency on collective tasks that nor­ stairs and conducted the mally cannot be trained during this time same procedures until the of year," Young said.• building was cleared. Entering a smoked-filled building, firefighters can encounter temperatures in excess of 1,000 degrees

WINTER 2000 / 2001 BUCKEY E GUARD 9 THE MAKING Path OF A WARRANT begins OFFICER with 28 days of challenges Story by Steve Toth had an adverse effect on readiness (for the If accepted, fully qualified applicants are Adj. Gen. Dept. Public Affairs Office OHARNG)," Shuler said. then eligible to take probably the most chal­ Soldiers earn appointments as warrant lenging step to becoming a warrant officer by hemystiqueandprestigeoftheArmy's officers based on a high level of technical attending Warrant Officer Candidate (WOC) Warrant Officer Corps attracts some and tactical competence in a certain field. School at Fort Rucker, Ala. It is the only war­ T into its fold each year, but the un­ With increased experience and training, rant officer-producing school Army-wide, for known factors about the corps and what it warrant officers become experts in their both the active and reserve components. takes to become a member may keep some field, while also assuming a supervisory or The reserve component technical (non-avia­ potential candidates from ever looking into leadership role of some capacity. In con­ tor) course lasts 28 days. The aviator course, joining the ranks of the "quiet professionals," trast to commissioned officers, warrant regardless of component, and the active course as they are sometimes called. officers ususally remain within their cho­ last six weeks, totalling 30 days. Training is "Partofit is the fearofthe unknown. They've sen career fields for their entire careers. conducted in a rigorous, hi gh-stress environ­ heard war stories about the warrant officer Soldiers who are interested in the techni­ ment where candidates are challenged in nearly school, but I think primarily no one knows cal (non-aviator) warrant officer program every way imaginable. The pressure begins in how to go about the process of applying to must be in the age range of 18 to 46, and the early hours of each morning when candi­ become a warrant officer," said Chief Warrant be in the grades ofE -5 to E-8, Shuler said. dates are awakened and have exactly seven Officer 3 Ron Shuler, in charge of warrant To become a warrant officer in a certain minutes-no more, no less- to get dressed, officer procurement for Ohio. fi eld, a potential candidate must have a conduct personal hygiene and be outside in In the Ohio Army National Guard, there are compatible enli sted feeder military occu­ formation ready for physical training to begin currently about 40 of 234 authorized warrant pational specialty (MOS). For example, to the day. officer slots statewide that are vacant, accord­ become a property accounting technician In addition to physical training seven days ing to Shuler. While most slots are in the areas as a warrant officer, a soldier must have a per week, candidates receive formal classroom of maintenance and logistics, the Ohio Army background in supply. instruction in leadership, Army doctrine and National Guard also has needs for warrant Soldiers who meet these requirements tactics, drill and ceremonies, wear and appear­ officers in fields including aviation, aviation and certain others, such as mi nimum apti­ ance of military uniforms, military history and maintenance, data processing, special forces, tude test scores and a commissioning physi­ professional ethics. military personnel and electronic systems. cal, wi ll then submit an application packet Training-Advising-Counseling (TAC) Offic­ "Certainly the lack of those warrants has through the proper channels, Shuler said. ers guide, mentor and coach candidates through

Photos by W01 Denise Duffy. Massachusetts ARNG LEFT: Warrant Officer Candidate School stresses a professional military appearance and actions at all times. Ohio Guard Candidate Ed Scott stands at a modified position of parade rest in line for chow. ABOVE: Many training days consist of classroom instruction and testing on subjects such as military history, leadership and doctrine.

10 I BUCKEYE GUARD WIN TER 2000/2001 l the rigorous course, giving candidates multiple "I knew beforehand it was going to be tasks that challenge them to prioritize and del­ physically and mentally demanding, but I egate work as members of a team, while main­ had no idea about the emotional stress tain ing their attitudes, clothing, equipment and involved," said Lee Scott, another new appearance at the highest professional levels. Ohio Guard warrant officer. "You may "We do hold (candidates) to a fairly high think you're squared away but you never standard. Everything gets inspected from the hear it from the TACs-w ho represent that first day on," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 position ofa uthority- that you are doing a Norbert Schmidt, senior TAC officer at the good job. You must develop self-confi ­ school. "Ifwe don't hit them hard initially, it's dence and know yourself, and that you are going to take them so much longer to meet the doing it right." standard." "Becoming a warrant officer is not for New Ohio Army Guard Warrant Officer Gary everybody," said Chief Warrant Officer 5 Tinnel related a story from WOC School about Thomas Flynn, the assistant commandant one day when a TAC was inspecting bis per­ of the Army Warrant Officer Career Cen­ sonal clothing. The TAC got to hi s boots and ter at Fort Rucker."We're looking fo r sol­ asked Tinnel what was wrong with them. Eager diers with a sound technical background not to be the fo cusofhis TAC's attention fo r any who want to be challenged in different length of time, Tinnel looked quickly over his ways than they were as NCOs. We want boots-they looked like they were poli shed to people who want to learn to influence Photo by W01 Denise Duffy, Massachusetts ARNG standard, laces OK, everything seemed to check others through their actions and deeds rather out- Tinnel scanned over them again and fi­ than by the rank on their shoulder." EDITOR'S NOTE: For more informa­ nally came to the decision that hi s boots were all Soon after successfully completing WOC tion on becoming a warrant officer in the right, which actually was the case. "I just wanted School, usually within a year, new warrant Ohio Army Guard, call (614) 336-7442. to see you sweat," his TAC said. officers will go to their Warrant Officer Those with access to OH-TAGNet, the What may seem li ke some kind of bullying to Basic Course for their branch-specific train­ OHARNG internal website, can check the outsider actually enables TA Cs to evaluate ing, much like commissioned officers, and warrant officer vacancies statewide and a candidate's leadership and decision-making go back for subsequent courses as they obtain other information at http://oh­ abilities while in stressful situations. progress in their careers.• tagnetlmpmo/opb 1/ Detault. asp.

SUSTAINING OHIO'S ARMY GUARD WARRANT OFFICER CORPS

five guardmembers- Lance Curtis, ager for the OHARNG's military personnel Five right number for Ohio's Frederick Lavery, Lee Scott, Edward Scott directorate. and Gary Tinnel-joined 40 of their fe llow The Red Rhinos class graduation was sig­ first warrant class of 2001 "Red Rhinos" in Class 0 1-02 in pinning on nificant also because it was the first time in t is a solid year when the Ohio Army the silver bars with the black squares. the history of the WOC School that the class INational Guard welcomes five new war­ "I think I speak for all (five) of us when was compri sed entirely of National rant officers into its ranks. But it still I say that, as far as military schooling, it's Guardmembers. Normally, there is a mix of doesn't begin to keep up with regular attri­ probably been the most challenging school guardmembers and Army Reservists. tion rates and the amount of vacancies we've been to-both mentally and physi­ Brig. Gen. Ronald G. Young, Ohio's as­ throughout the state that already exist. cally, it's very stressful," said Curtis, who sistant adjutant general fo r Army, traveled So when Ohio had five warrant officer made the school Commandant's List. to Fort Rucker to honor the milestone class candidates graduate from the same class at Curtis, formerly a master sergeant as of Buckeye warrants, and also was the key­ a Feb. 2 ceremony held at Fort Rucker, well as first sergeant, will be a W-2 in the note speaker at the Red Rhinos' graduation. Ala., it was a significant event. 2 l 6th Engineer Battalion because of his "I feel good about the future with the "The January start dates just seemed to previous enlisted experience. Lavery, group I see here," Young said. "For me it's work for everybOdy involved," according Tinnel and Ed Scott wi ll be W- 1s within a great honor to be with the first all-Guard to Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ron Shuler, in the 73 7th Maintenance Battalion while Lee warrant officer class." ST EVE TOTH, ADJ. charge of warrant officer procurement for Scott will be a W- 1 and automation man- GEN . DEPT. PUBLIC AFFA IRS OFFICE the Ohio Army Guard. At most, there are usually only BG Ronald G. Young about one or two Ohio can­ (fourth from left), assistant didates in any of the seven adjutant general for Army, reserve component War­ poses with new Ohio Army rant Officer Candidate National Guard Warrant School classes conducted Officers Lee Scott (from each year, he said. left), Gary Tinnel, Lance After successfully com­ Curtis, Frederick Lavery pleting 28 days of men­ and Edward Scott during tally, physically and emo­ their class graduation tionally demanding train­ festivities Feb. 2 at Fort ing at the WOC School, the Rucker, Ala. Photo by Steve Toth, Adj. Gen. Dept. Public Affairs Office

WINTER 2000 / 200 1 B UCKEYE GUARD 111 BEST OF THE he best soldiers, airmen, nocommissioned and junior commis­ BUCKEYE STATE sioned officers in the Ohio Anny and Air National Guard for T the past year were chosen from among the 15,000 men and women who serve in units throughout the Buckeye State. For 2000, the Anny Guard honored a traditional soldier and NCO of the year, and an Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) NCO of the year. Anny 2000 Guard personnel were evaluated on their knowledge of military sub­ jects, leadership, Anny programs and current events. Candidates also were judged on personal appearance, military bearing, self-confidence and wear of the Anny uniform. The Air Guard selected an airman, NCO, senior NCO, first sergeant and second lieutenant of the year. Air Guard personnel were evaluated in performance, professional skill, knowledge and leadership.

Ohio Army National Guard

Traditional Soldier of the Year - Spc. Thomas J. DeMange Tank Crewmember, Com an C, l -147th Armor Battalion, Greenville

Spc. Thomas J. DeMange is assigned to Company C, I- I 47th Armor Battalion, with headquarters in Greenville. DeMange originally entered the Ohio Army National Guard in November 1995, and served in Company C, l- 147th for one year before enlisting into the active Army. He then served one year in Korea and two years at Fort Knox, Ky., before re-entering Company C, l-147th in April 2000. DeMange is currently a full-time student at Columbus State Community College in Columbus. He plans to transfer to the University of Toledo beginning this summer to pursue a career as a pharmacist. DeMange is single, and in his spare time he enjoys lifting weights and exercising at the gym, as well as playing soccer. ... Traditional NCO of the Year - Staff Sgt. William R. Cousins Rifle Squad Leader, Company A, l - l 48th Infantry Battalion, Xenia

Staff Sgt. William R. Cousins is assigneo as a ri fle squad leader, Company A, l-148th Infan try Battalion, with t~f headquarters in Xenia. Cousins served more than four years on active duty, including an assignment with I st ~ )~'\ Battalion, 75th Infantry Regiment, before joining the Ohio Army National Guard. Cousins is currently employed as a business analyst for General Electric Aircraft Engines. In addition, he is attending the University ofCincin nati ' ~ . ....·- ·-.·•· •.· where he is majoring in business information systems. Cousins is scheduled to graduate from college this spring. I '-'• 1 ~; - •( f/ I He currently lives in Cincinnati, and enjoys most types of outdoor sports and activities, including rock climbing, ~ l ·"' .,. - parachuting and skiing.

AGK NCO of the Year - Staff Sgt. Linda S. Young Readiness NCO, 5694th Engineer Detachment (Fi re Fighting), Mansfi eld

Staff Sgt. Linda S. Young is assigned to the 5694th Engineer Detachment (Fire Fighting), located in Mansfield. Young enlisted in the Ohio Army National Guard during her senior year of high school, in February 1982, and was assigned to the I 486th Transportation Company, Ashland, where she was mobilized Nov. 17, 1990 to June 29, 1991 for Operation Desert Shield/Storm. She accepted a fu ll-time Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) readiness NCO position in the 5694th in January of 1996; she was mobilized from July 6, 1997 to Feb. 23, 1998 for Operation Joint Endeavor/Joint Guard in Bosnia-Herzegovina. She has been married to her husband, Mark, for 17 years. They have two children, Kristie, 15, and Matthew, 13.

Compiled by Master Sgt. Tonya Minor, Headquarters, State Area Command (-)

~ CK E Y E GU A RD WINTER 2000 / 2001 Ohio Air National Guard

Airman of the Year - Senior Airman Elizabeth J. Miller HY AC Specialist, 200th RED HORSE Squadron, Port Clinton

Senior Airn1an Elizabeth J. Miller is a heati ng, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration specialist assigned to the 200th RED HORSE Squadron, Port Clintion. Born in Port Clinton anda 1998 graduate of Oak Harbor High School, Miller has deployed with the unit on several missions, including Operation Southern Watch in Doha, Qatar. She is active in leadership roles with many community organizations including St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Oak Harbor, the Ottawa County 4-H Program, Ottawa County Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society and American Red Cross. She attends Terra Community College in Fremont, and is working toward an associate's degree in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technology.

NCO of the Year - Tech. Sgt. Timothy A. Anglin Medical Services Specialist, 123rd Air Control Squadron, Blue Ash

Tech. Sgt. Timothy A . Anglin is a medical service specialist assigned to the !23rd Air Control Squadron, Blue Ash. Born in Cincinnati and a graduate of Taylor High School, he began his military career in 1985 in the Marine Corps, and served in Operation Desert Storm. He has been a Cincinnati fi refighter since 1996 and became the I 23rd ACS fire chief in 1999. I-l e is a graduate of the FBI Hazardous Device School and the University of Cincinnati's paramedic program. He recently passed the National Registry Paramedic exam, making him Cincinnati's first paramedic/bomb technician. For more than I 0 years he has coached wrestling and swimming at the middle- and high-school levels. He also works with learning-disabled students at Three Rivers Middle School.

Senior NCO of the Year - Master Sgt. Richard R. Carson Recruiting and Retention NCO, 200th RED HORSE Squadron, Port Clinton

Master Sgt. Richard R. Carson, Jr. is the recruiting and retention noncommissioned officer for the 200th RED HORSE Squadron, Port Clinton. He was born in Columbus, and graduated from Millersport High School. He began his military career in the Air Force in 1979, serving I 0 years. After a short break in service, he became an information management specialist in the Ohio Air Guard with the I 78th Fighter Wing, Springfield. In his current position w ith the 200th, Carson initiated a referral program, a sponsorship program and many other new initiatives that helped to create unprecedented community awareness resulti ng in the unit's present manning strength of I 01.5 percent. Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology, Carson also is an active member in his churc h.

First Sergeant of the Year - Master Sgt. James J. Boyer Logistics Squadron First Sergeant, I 79th Airlift Wing, Mansfield

Master Sgt. James J. Boyer is the fi rst sergeant for the I 79th Airlift Wing's Logistics Squadron, Mansfield. He was born in Mansfield and attended Madison High School. Boyer enlisted in the Navy in 1967, and attended Aviation Ordnance School, Primary Fire Fighting School and police training prior to transferring to the Ohio Air National Guard in February 1980. The next 18 years he was assigned to the 179th Security Forces Squadron where he excelled as one of the chief negotiators of the base hostage negotiation team. Boyer has been with the Mansfield .. Police Department since 1973, and currently is assistant chief of police, responsible for day-to-day department Pi!/·; .~ .. "'" operations. Married for 31 years, Boyer and his wife have a son and daughter, both of whom serve in the Air Force. Second Lieutenant of the Year - 2nd Lt. Troy L. Shofstall Military Personnel Officer, 12 1s t Air Refueling Wing, Columbus

Second Lt. Troy L. Shofstall, a resident of Columbus, is the personnel officer for the !2 1st Air Refueling Wing's Military Personnel Flight, located at Rickenbacker Airport in Columbus. Shofstall is a graduate of Hamilton Township High School and Park College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in management. He enlisted in the 12 1s t in 1984 and was commissioned in 1999. Shoffstall created and implemented processes that helped the 121 st ARW reach I 00 percent manning strength. He constructed several incentive programs for the recruiters, which were instrumental in resolving recruiti ng obstacles. Highly active and visible in the community, Shoffstall volunteers for the OhioReads program and is chairman for the 12 1st's Veterans Day Parade involvement.

Compiled by Command Chief Master Sgt. Richard A. Smith and Master Sgt. Ealnor Grey, Headquarters, Ohio ANG

~--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--~~~~~~~~W-1-N~T-E_R_'_''' ' '''' ,,,,,,, ''''" I13 Ohio Guard unit provides veteran pilots to active Air Force in The Forgotten War'

~--

Pilots and airmen of Columbus' 166th Fighter Squadron, some of whom served in the Korean War in 1951, pose with one of the unit's F-84 fighter aircraft.

Photo courtesy of Col (Rel.) Don Griffith

Story by Sgt. J.R. Lewis on Feb. l, 1951. young and the really old. Gs, F-80s and F-86s was less a HQ STARC (-) "We flew everyday training "They sent over the people problem than switching over to flights- fighter gunnery, air­ who could help fight the the Air Force's style of filing f the conflict in Korea a half to-ground and air-to-air to help war... the pi lots, crew chiefs, gun and filling out paperwork, century ago truly was "The bring the pilots up to loaders," Potts said. Griffith said. I Forgotten War" as some mili­ speed," said retired Many of the pi­ "After we were activated, the tary historians claim, then the mis­ Lt. Col. Kenneth lots and noncom­ first thing we had to do was get sion of the Air National Guard Potts, who,atage 17, missioned officers the l 66th looking like an Air might be called the forgotten con­ enlisted into the assigned to the unit Force squadron," Griffith said. tribution of"The Forgotten War." 166th in 1950 as a were trained in the "This was difficult mostly be­ According to The Air National hydraulics me- Army Air Corps cause the Guard did paperwork Guard and the American Mili­ chanic. during World War differently. tary Tradition by Charles J. Gross, Estimating that II, said retired Col. "Lessons were learned, the Korean War was the Air Na­ the unit was about Donald Griffith, though. Subsequentactivations tional Guard's largest commit­ 1,000 strong, Potts who flew 60 mis­ improved tremendously." ment to date, with 67 of the said the majority of sions in Korea. After six months of straight­ Griffith ANG's 84 flying squadrons mo­ the unit deployed Griffith said the ening out the individual per­ bilized. overseas, while the rest re­ ANG fighter pilots had main­ sonnel records, the Air Guard One of those squadrons, the mained stateside for what was tained their proficiency by fly­ pilots started relieving active­ 166th Fighter Squadron out of supposed to be a two-year acti­ ing the P-51 aircraft with the duty Air Force pilots. Lockbourne (later known as vation. Air Guard and made the switch ...The I 66th pilots were sent to Rickenbacker) Air Force Base Potts said basically two types to jets with the ANG's F-84-C. join Air Force units in Europe near Columbus, was mobilized stayed behind-the really The transition to the F-84- and Korea as replacements for

14 BUCKEYE GUARD WINTER 2000 /20 01 "Many of us that got over there came from the World War II experience and we applied some of . . v " f h at experience ln .nOrea. -Brig Gen (Ret.) Paul E. Hoover

pilots who were completing over­ were losing quite a few," seas tours. Two pilots were sent to Hoover said. "Then as the re­ Europe to fly the F-84-G, including servists and Air Guard got there, .. Lt. Donald Goodwin, who was killed the average age climbed quite a \. in an aircraft accident. bit. With the expe­ Drawing from World rience of these indi­ War I I com bat experience viduals, our loss rate and flight hours logged, decreased rapidly. the seasoned guardsmen "Many of us that were a steadying force for got over there came Photo courtesy of Col (Ret.) Don Griffith their younger, active-duty from the World counterparts. War II experience Not an uncommon sight during the Korean War, a building in the Speakingyearsafterthe and we applied city of Seoul sports a gaping hole in its side after being bombed. conflict, retired Brig. some of that expe­ Gen. Paul E. Hoover, at rience in Korea. It Along with Goodwin, who Airport in July of 1952 to continue one time Ohio's assistant reduced our losses was killed in Europe, the l 66th the 166th 's mission with the Air Potts adjutant general for Air, considerably." also lost Lt. William Prindle Defense Command, with regular Air described the stabilizing effects the During tours that lasted for and Lt. Willis Thatcher, who Force pilots filling vacancies cre­ guardsmen brought to the theater. one year or I 00 missions, Air were killed in combat in Korea, ated by ANG pilots flying in Korea. "When we first got to Korea, we Guard pi lots flew nearly 40,000 and Capt. Harold Powell, who After the Korean War began, the bad a lot of youngsters, Air Force missions, destroying 39 enemy died in an F-84 crash in Ohio. military was looking to increase its types that had been put through (pi­ aircraft, with l 0 I American pi­ Back home, the unit moved force size, recalled Potts. "The Air lot) training rather rapidly and they lots lost in the line of duty. to the Youngstown Municipal Force wanted to establi sh a pres­ ence in the area and they needed the TllE AIR NATIONAL GUARD IN THE KOREAN WAR: 1950-1953 Air Guard to open the base," he said. "Everything was new-han­ gars, mess hall, barracks, it wasn't America's citizen-airmen valuable asset to USAF in Korean War even finished when we moved in." The Air Force took over the air­ orea was the Air National Guard's first war as a separate reserve component ofthe Air Force. craft and equipment at Youngstown In all, 486 units, including 22 of27 Air National Guard wings and 67 of84 flying squadrons, K when the ANG pilots were deacti­ totaling 45,594 officers and airmen, were called to active federal service between October 1950 vated on Oct. 31, 1952, thus ending and April 1951. This was approximately 80 percent of the Air Guard's total personnel strength. more than a year ofactive-duty ser­ Two wings, the I 16th Fighter Bomber Wing (Georgia) and the I 36th Fighter Bomber Wing vice for the Ohio Air Guard pilots. (Texas) fought in Korea, entering combat in May 1951. Both "We left everything up in Youngs­ wings had to transition from outdated aircraft to the F-84 town for the Air Force, and the unit Thunderjet before shipping off to war. The majority of the went back to Columbus and started missions assigned to the F-84 in Korea were close air support of from scratch," Griffith said. friendly ground troops and aerial interdiction of enemy troops Griffith, who went on to fly com­ and supplies behind the front lines. Three Air Guard wings bat missions in Vietnam, said the deployed to Europe to reinforce NA TO-the I 17th (Alabama), conflict's reputation as "The For­ 123rd (Kentucky) and 126th (Illinois). gotten War" was justly earned. The Months before the two Air Guard wings entered combat in colonel has seen the accolades for Korea, hundreds of individual guardsmen had shipped over to World War II pilots and the protests augment U.S. Air Force units. over Vietnam, but said no one Four Air Guard pilots became aces in USAF units flying F-86 seemed to notice those returning Sabrejets. The two Air Guard wings also provided air defense from Korea. "You'd come home for Japan. from Korea and nobody seemed to The Air Force, which had little use for the Air Guard before the outbreak of the Korean War, care," Griffith said. was impressed by the performance it received from its citizen-airmen. Air Guardsmen flew But the colonel believes that, as 39,530 combat sorties, destroying 39 enemy aircraft and damaging another 149. The Air Force always, the Korean activation was discovered that the Air Guard had a level experience and that paid big dividends in combat in another example of Air Guardsmen Korea maturity-40 percent of the men mobilized were veterans with two or more years of completing an assigned mission. service during World War II. In fact, a Fifth Air Force survey conducted in 1951 showed that "We had a mission to keep the 80 percent of that unit's personnel were Reservists and Guardsmen recalled to active service. (communist) Koreans out of south NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU PUBLIC AFFAIRS-HISTORICAL SERVICES BRANCH Korea and that's what we did."•

WINTER 2000 / 2001 BUCKEYE GUARD 115 Keeping the Peace Transition from security police to security forces means responsibilities beyond that of gate guard

Story by 2nd Lt. Shannon Scherer Photos by Senior Master Sgt. Larry Wilson 179th Airlift Wing

o fu lfi ll his Guard mission, Tech. Sgt. Jack Hughes is out- fitted with weapons and devices commonly seen in action-packed Holly­ wood movies of today. Hughes is a member of the security fo rces squad­ ron at Mansfield's I 79th Airlift Wing. "We have the typical grenade launch­ ers and M-16 rifles," Hughes said. "But we also have starlight scopes for our weapons and a thennal imager that can see the heat of a person through a con­ crete wall." With these "props," security forces personnel might seem like modern day action heroes, but the reality is their image is sometimes tarnished by a mis­ conception of their jobs. "We're trying to get rid of the rent-a­ cop mentality people have of us," said Senior Master Sgt. Bruce Durr, security forces manager. " We are not security guards. We provide the military police functiQn for the Air Force." But you may be wondering what's the difference. Security forces does not just

16 1B UCKEYE GUARD WINTER 2000 / 2001 check your identifica­ SSgt David Rexrode tions, but we have to enforce them, so we tion at the gate and is­ positions a claymore look like the bad guys." sue you a parking pass. mine during annual But in Mansfield, base personnel have a They are responsible training in Alpena, Mich. chance to try their hand at the sometimes for the security of the notorious job. Jn as little as two weeks, aircraft, base property and people. What used to members ofany career field at the l 79th can and personnel. be a six-week technical be trained as security forces augmentees. To protect these as­ school expanded to a 25- Because of the high demand for security sets, security forces week academy a few years forces- to support Air Expeditionary Forces, have teams for virtu­ ago when security police to augment active duty and to provide secu­ ally every type of situ­ became security forces. rity for high profile events- there some­ ation. A hostage nego­ Maj. Joseph Wendling, times can be a shortage of personnel to tiations team deals with I 79th security forces com­ protect home station. adverse situations, a mander, said the change "We train people in basic apprehension sniper team provides specialized levels of forced individuals to be more widely trained. and investigation, search techniques and fire­ protection against hostile actions, and a Phoe­ lnstead of specializing in air-ground defense arms," Wendling said. nix Raven team protects aircraft in high-risk or combat arms, all members had to become Currently, more than a dozen 179th mem­ areas. They even have specialized training more generalized, familiarizing themselves bers assist the security fo rces squadron as for members in interrogation and verbal with all aspects of the job. augmentees. judo. "There's a lot of diversity in this job," The 60 members of the security forces "Instead of using force you learn to talk retired Master Sgt. Elvin Burnell said. squadron work as a tight-knit group to se­ your way out of situations," Hughes said. Wendling said many people think security cure the people and property of the 179th "We're trained in a lot of diplomacy, and forces are out to harass people or destroy Airlift Wing. Their training has taught them how to control people and situations us ing personal property. "People don' t understand to be diplomatic yet tough. With the in­ verbals." what we do. They think we're bullies or creased threat of domestic and international Theirtraini ng begins at Lackland Air Force power hungry, but sometimes that just has to terrorism, their job is often a ceaseless, and Base, Texas, at the U.S. Air Force Security be a part of the job." sometimes thankless, effort. Forces Academy. Would-be security forces Durr said the officers don't always like the "Sometimes we're annoying when we specialists undergo a rigorous 25-weekacad­ job they have to do and know it doesn' t write tickets," Hughes said. "But the best emy program where they learn everything always make them the most popular people part of this job is that we serve others. We there is to know about protecting property on base. "We don' t write the base regula- serve and protect."•

WI NTER 2000 / 2001 B UCKEYE GUARD 117 The Changing Face of the Guard By Master Sgt. Ealnor Grey HQ, Ohio ANG ne of the ways the Ohio Air Na­ tional Guard diversifies its senior 0 officer and enlisted ranks is by promoting women who are qualified for Photo by PFC Haraz N. Ghanbari, 196th MPAD the upper levels of leadership. In the past few months, the OHANG for yourself and map a career path. When you Col. Nancy August, executive officer for gained its first woman colonel- Nancy achieve a goal that also happens to be a ' first,' Headquarters, Ohio Air National Guard, M. August- and the I 21st Air Refueling the outcome takes on a new connotation," works at her office in Columbus. Wing, Columbus, promoted two women August said. "The focus changes to being to chief master sergeant- Lois J. Peterson the first woman and with that comes respon­ portunities," August said. "Ifl were to take a and V icki J. Householder. sibilities for presenting a professional image position based on gender and not performance, All three women have been trailblazers of women in the mi litary. The impact is it would have a negative impact not only on me, in the Ohio Air Guard, in respect to their beyond you as a person, it impacts all career but other women in the Air Guard as well." career paths and job duties. women in the military." As executive officer, August directs the Being first is the norm for August, Beginning her military ca- activities and requirements reer in the Air Force in 1967, for the headquarters staff, executive officer for the Ohio ANG who ''When you achieve a was promoted to colonel in October in her August was one of the first serves as representative of traditional guardmember position. women to serve overseas. In goal that also happens the chief of staff and assis­ "As an individual, you set personal goals 197 1 she was among the first tant adjutant general for Air, women assigned to the Stra­ to be a 'first,' ....the fo­ and is the supervising offi­ tegic Air Command at Minot cial for Toledo's 555th Air Air Force Base,N.D. She was cus changes to being Force Band. among the first women to en­ the first woman and Promoted last August, list in the National Guard, Peterson is the first woman one of the first five women to with that comes re­ chief for the 12 1st. Cur­ be commissioned in the ANG sponsibilities for pre­ rently the logistics squad­ at McGhee-Tyson Air Force ron unit career advisor, Base, Tenn., and was one of senting a professional Peterson also has 24 years only two women officers in image of women m experience in inventory the state when she joined the management. 180th Fighter Wing, Toledo. the military." Peterson said her initial In 1994, August became the goal was to retire from the first woman to lead a squad­ - Col Nancy August, OHANG Air Guard as a master ser­ ron- the 180th Mission Sup­ geant. She took the senior port Squadron. courses fo r the retirement points, but they also In her civilian career, August is employed made her eligible to be promoted to senior with Owens-Coming Corporation. Through­ master sergeant three years ago. "Be prepared out both her military and civilian careers and have your requirements met, because you August said she has made it a point not to never know what openings w ill come up," she make gender an issue. " I have been very advised. ... careful not to let gender interfere with my Peterson worked eight years for the 12 1st as

Photo by MSgt Kim Frey, 121st ARW career goals. It's important to earn the op- a supply technician, work experience that she

18 BUCKEYE GUARD WI NTER 2000/2001 said helped her obtain her current full-time PAVING INROADS TO SENIO'R ENLISTED RANKS position with the Defense Supply Center­ Columbus, where she has been an item man­ ager for the past 15 years. Her civilian and military jobs are interre­ HENDERSON 'ENGINEERS' PERSONAL lated. In her military occupation she is the customer receiving the products and ser­ vices, and in her civilian position she provides retail services for the military customers. erna Henderson joined the Ohio tarian mission in Central America. She Peterson said her Air Guard experiences VArmy National Guard in 1976 be­ later became the NCOIC of the team that have been positive. " I met my husband, I got cause she was looking for a change. She deployed. When guardmembers returned my military and civilian jobs, and I got to see had a steady job and a good salary, she in the fall that year, she becametheNCOIC Europe all because of the Guard," Peterson just needed something different. of the reconstruction team that was re­ said. With seven brothers and sisters-one sponsible for the return of all property Householder, chief of 121 st Base Ser­ in the Army, one in the Marines and one from the New Horizons effort. vices, was promoted in November. She in the Air Force-there was a strong "When we brought all of the equipment smiled while discussing her new rank. "Who military connection in her family. back, there was a lot that didn't belong to would have ever thought there would be Henderson's fa- Ohio. It all had to be inventoried and women chiefs? I believe Tdid my job over the ther, a World War inspected then dispatched to the correct years, I've always worked for great people II veteran, wanted place," Henderson said. She truly enjoyed and I've been fortunate that way," she said. her to go into the the job and the challenge. But now, ac­ In 1985 all flying wings received a re­ Air Force. Fortu­ cording to Henderson, she has "the best quirement for one full-time technician posi­ nately for the job in the entire Army." tion in charge of base services. Householder Ohio Army Na­ In April 2000, Henderson was selected was hired for the position, and was instru­ ti ona I Guard, as command sergeant major for the 2 l 6th mental in creating and defining the standard Henderson had Engineer Battalion, headquartered in operating procedures for the wing's base met a military po­ Hamilton. services. l ice (MP) re­ "After reviewing all of the applicants, I In addition to dining facility responsibili­ cruiter and been felt Command Sergeant Major Henderson ties, other duties include mortuary services, impressed by his Henderson was the best, most qualified person for the billeting, morale recreation and welfare "shiny boots and uniform," she said with position," said Rogers, who currently is (MRW), and the wing's honor guard. a laugh. Her decision was made. commander of the 2 I 6th in his traditional Preparing for a Unit Training Assembly Henderson joined an MP unit and, to guardmember position. "Her supervisors (UTA) weekend is a minor task compared to her delight, found she knew a couple of and co-workers gave her outstanding, her daily and weekly responsibilities. House­ the soldiers, including one of her high glowing remarks." holder schedules all activities for the dining school teachers. She enjoyed the time Henderson said she is proud to hold the facilities; manages the MWR funds and bil­ she spent, but after her three-year enlist­ position, not because she is the first woman leting for deployed unit members; and coor­ ment ended, she decided not to re-up. in the state to reach command sergeant dinates the food, menus and servicemem­ "I loved the military structure and major, but because she is a hard working, bers who prepare meals during the unit de­ discipline and being part of the organi­ dedicated soldier. ployments. zation, but I was ready to get out," she "Nicaragua was the first opportunity I Householder joined the Air Guard 21 years said. Her first sergeant had other ideas. had to work in direct contact with her and ago for college tuition assistance and planned "He told me that I was one of the young observe her work ethic, leadership abili­ to get out after her initial enli stment. "(But) soldiers who had her act together and ties and organizational skills," Rogers said. I got a full-time job, I liked my work, and I that if l re-enlisted I would probably be "For the past 18 months or so, she has liked the people I worked with," she said. an NCO before the year was out," lived up to all my expectations." "The rest is history."• Within five months, Henderson be­ Henderson said she evaluates how well ' came a noncommissioned officer and she serves by the opinions and attitudes of EDITOR'S NOTE: Currently, there are enjoyed the place she found for herself the soldiers in the 2 16th. five women chief master sergeants in the as a junior leader. She soon quit her "I' m in a position where my primary Ohio Air National Guard. Two are assigned civilian job and went to work full time goal is to make life better for my sol­ to the I 80th Fighter Wing- Laurie K. Liebich for the Ohio Army National Guard. diers," she said. " I want to create an atmo­ in the medical squadron and Claudia J. Twenty-two years later, during the sphere where all of the soldiers feel im­ Jones in the logistics squadron. Cindy L. week, Henderson is the operations ser­ portant and know that they are a member Rasuleigh is assigned to Mansfield's 179th geant major for the OHARNG's deputy of the team." • Airlift Wing Medical Squadron. chief of staff for logistics and her re­ Many drill weekends are spent at the Jn addition, after this article was written, sponsibilities cover the entire realm of units ensuring that the battalion's NCOs August attained another milestone in Ohio logistical support. are taking care of their enlisted soldiers. Air National Guard history when she be­ In March 1999, Henderson, working "We want to make sure all of the sol­ came the first woman to be named a support for Lt. Col. Alan Rogers, was part of the diers are gainfully employed and are per­ group commander in February, at the 180th lead task force that prepared all of the forming constructive training that keeps Fighter Wing, Toledo. property and equipment for Exercise them coming to drill," Henderson said. New Horizons, a large-scale humani- SPC MICHELLE MORGAN, HQ STARC (-)

WINTER 2000/200 1 BUCKEYE GUARD 119 he Ohio National Guard played a significant role in Operations National Guard During Desert Storm Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In all, more than 1,600 Ohio On Aug. 2, 1990, Iraq launched a sudden invasion of the Tcitizen-soldiers and -airmen left their jobs, homes and families , small, oil-rich emirate of Kuwait at the head of the Persian donned uniforms and answered their country's call to duty. Some Gulf. By occupying Kuwait, Iraq's Saddam Hussein were activated by their unit, some volunteered as individuals. Some hoped to increase his stature as an Arab leader and his deployed overseas, some remained stateside. Two Ohio National control over the world's oil supplies. Within days, a Guardmembers died. All who served did so with pride and honor. United Nations coalition headed by President George H.W. Bush formed. Allied war aims were clear: Hussein Ohio Army National Guard (1,050) was to withdraw from Kuwait and allow the full restora­ 323rd Military Police Company Germany tion of the Kuwaiti government. On Aug. 6, Bush announced Operation Desert Shield, 324th Military Police Company Saudi Arabia the buildup of allied forces in the Gulf. Placing a large 337th Personnel Service Company Fort Leonard Wood , Mo. force in Saudi Arabia would be impossible without the 641st Quartermaster Detachment Saudi Arabia reserve components, so on Aug. 22 Bush called up 838th Military Police Company Saudi Arabia guardmembers and reservists in the largest mobilization 1485th Transportation Company Saudi Arabia since the Korean War. Between August 1990 and the end of Operation Desert 1486th Transportation Company Saudi Arabia Storm on Feb. 28, 1991, a total of74,8 I 5 National Guard 1487th Transportation Company Saudi Arabia soldiers and airmen entered active duty. More than 42,000 5694th Engineer Detachment (Fire Fighting) Saudi Arabia Guard men and women served in the Persian Gulf, while 32,000 others trained and performed support missions in Ohio Air National Guard (594) the United States, Europe and elsewhere. From the day 121st Security Police Flight Bahrain Desert Storm began on Jan. 17 to end of the fighting six weeks later, the Guard presence in Saudi Arabia grew 121st Services Flight McDill AFB , Fla. from 23,000 to 37,000. 160th Air Refueling Group Saudi Arabia 160th Security Police Flight Stateside (various) Ohio Does Its Part 160th Services Flight Stateside (various) For some Ohio Guardmembers, participation in Opera­ 160th SAC Clinic Stateside (various) tion Desert Shield began as early as August 1990. Within 178th Civil Engineering Squadron Moody AFB, Ga. a week oflraq's invasion of Kuwait, most of the aircraft 178th Tactical Hospital Cannon AFB, N.M. assigned to the 160th Air Refueling Group were provid­ 178th Services Flight Holloman AFB, N.M. ing refueling support to forces deploying overseas; after 178th Security Police Flight Home Station an official call-up in late December, about 40 percent of the unit deployed to Jeddah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where 179th Medical Services Squadron United Kingdom/Andrews AFB, Md. it joined other Guard and Reserve units to become part of 180th Civil Engineering Squadron Nellis AFB, Nev. three provisional wings. 180th Security Police Flight Home Station "The loss of unit integrity was disappointing, but ev­ 180th Services Flight Travis AFB, Calif. eryone realized it was required by operational necessity," said retired Col. Joseph C. Carr, then l 60th deputy com­ mander for maintenance. Other Ohio units began receiving alert notifications from In Memoriam National Guard Bureau in November- adding to the num­ Spc. Brian K. Spackman, 324th Military Police Company. ber of units which were activated during the holidays. Born on Jan. 13, 1969, Brian K. Spackman joined the Guard in The 121 st Security Police Squadron departed Colum­ September 1986. Before his unit was activated, Spackman was bus on Dec. 20, arriving in Bahrain on Christmas Day; studying culinary arts at the University of Akron and was a qualified their job was to provide airbase defense at Shaikh lsa Air food inspector for the State of Ohio. On Jan 14, 1991, shortly after Base. Ohio's Army Guard deployed three of its military his unit reported to their mobilization station, Fort Bragg, and just police units, with the 324th and 838th MPs landing in one day after his 22nd birthday, Brian suffered a fatal heart attack Saudi Arabia in mid-February,just days before the ground during a physical fitness test. war started. "We knew we {the 324th) were going to get called up," Sgt. Mark J. Gologram, 838th Military Police Company. said 1st Sgt. Edward Swaney, now 46. "At first, we started An active Army police officer from July 1986 to July 1989, Mark J. as a guard escort company. Almost immediately we Gologram joined the 838th in May 1990. He was a freshman at the moved out and prepared to pick up prisoners of war- University of Akron and was planning to return to active duty as an 2,000 to 2,500 at a time, with only 40 MPs to watch them." officer. On March 18, Mark was driving his military vehicle down Other units that 8eployed into the Southwest Asia Dodge Highway-a narrow, heavily traveled road in Saudi Arabia­ theater included the l 485th, 1486th and l 487th Transpor­ when he collided with another military vehicle. He was killed instantly. tation Companies- which transported equipment, am-

20 B u c K e y e G u A RD wI N T E R 2 0 0 0 I 2 0 0 1 mumt1on and supplies; the 64lst Quartermaster Detach­ lice Company, Youngstown, was the last Ohio National ment-which performed water purification missions in north­ Guard unit to be released from active duty, returning home west Saudi Arabia near the Iraqi border; and the 5694th on Sept. 7, 1991. Engineer Detachment-which conducted aircraft crash and Though orange ribbons remained a prominent sight rescue missions in northern Saudi Arabia, Kuwait City and until the last servicemember returned from the Gulf, Basrah, Iraq. The remaining units included in the call-up elaborate homecoming celebrations prevailed throughout served at home station or at other active-duty sites, both the Ohio and the nation. Operation Welcome Home Ohio stateside and abroad. Their duties ranged from personnel and its military parade revitalized the meaning of Veter­ and medical services to civil engineers and security police. ans Day Nov. 9, 1991, as the celebration paid homage to the state's veterans of all wars. A Hero Among Us The return leg of a refueling flight Gulf War Syndrome Still a Mystery Feb.13, 1991 , duringOperationDesert Storm proved to be the most danger­ Even while Ohio citizens celebrated the return ofDesert Storm veterans in late 1991 , reports of a mysterious "Gulf ous part of the mission. War Syndrome" circulated the entire nation. While most Ohio Air National Guard ChiefMas­ veterans dismissed any troubling symptoms after they ter Sgt. Teny K. Kerr was the first to returned from the Gulf, health problems continued to react to a fiery explosion in the galley escalate even as the Departments of Defense and Veterans area of a l 60th Air Refueling Group KC-135 aircraft. Despite sustaining Affairs established programs to address the enigma. The "Ohio Desert Storm Research Report," completed second-degree bums on his face and Kerr in November 1997, stated that eight major areas of symp­ losing 25 percent of his hair, Kerr toms emerged during the study: respiratory problems, used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire and allow the rest digestive problems, joint/muscle problems, skin prob­ of the crew to implement emergency procedures to safely lems, vision problems, chronic fatigue/pain/sensitivity land the plane. Kerr was the last person to exit the plane, after problems, circulatory problems and cognitive functioning ensuring the fire was completely out. problems. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his gallant efforts and, in celebration of the Air National Guard's Year The report also said that veterans dealing with post­ GulfWar health concerns were confronted with two other of the Enlisted Force in 1999, a conference room at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., was named in Kerr's honor. major problems: symptoms that could not be diagnosed and the differing VA policies in terms of treatment of veterans and billing of services. Ohioans Display Overwhelming Support Though a single cause for Gulf War Syndrome is highly One of the most vivid memories of the Persian Gulf War unlikely, some symptoms have been linked to the misuse is the symbolic color of orange, representing the care, love of pesticides and low-level exposure to chemical agents. and support provided to families ofdeployed servicemembers. Additional information can be obtained at the Gulf Link Though the founder of Operation Orange Ribbon, Cincin­ website, www.guljlink.osd.mil, or questions can be di­ nati resident Ellen Lambing, died of ovarian cancer last rected to the Office of the Special Assistant to the Secre­ August, the IO-year anniversary of the war brings back the tary of Defense for Gulf War Illness at (800) 497-6261.• memory of the campaign and her inspiration. In 1991, Lambing explained to Buckeye Community members come out in droves to Guard journalist Sgt. Lori King that the ap­ WELCOME welcome home Ohio troops from the Persian Gulf. prehension she felt a.bout her son being on the HOME' U.S.S. Eisenhower in the Gulfled her to pray, and the campaign was the message she re­ ceived back. "The color orange just flashed in my mind, and I knew it was the right thing to do." What started as a local campaign turned into an international show of support for the troops who served during the Gulf Crisis. A total of200 Orange Ribbon Groups were established throughout the country, while six others were organized overseas. "I didn't want to see another Vietnam, where the troops were forgotten," she said. Lambing envisioned the orange ribbons sig­ nifying safety for the troops wherever they were, while yellow ribbons traditionally sym­ bolize a safe return. The 838th Military Po-

WINTER 200012 0 0 1 BUCKEYE GUARD 121 Former POW recalls ill-fated mission, Iraqi prison Story by Maj. Ann Coghlin Fortunately, their aim wasn't that good," 178th Fighter Wing Roberts said. Technically, one is still a combatant while parachuting down. or one member of Springfield's I 78th After Roberts hit the ground, he was Fighter Wing, the l 0-year anniversary swarmed by civilians before the local Fof Desert Storm brought back memo­ military captured him. ries he'd much rather forget. "For the next two-and-a-half days, it Lt. Col. Mike " MR" Roberts, then an was pretty much constant interrogation," active-duty fighter pi lot assigned to the 6 I 4th he said. "It was always the same thing­ Tactical Fighter Squadron, became a pris­ who are you, where are you from, what's oner of war when an SA-6 missile exploded the next day's target, etc." near his jet and lethally damaged his F-16. Interrogations were characterized by "On the third day of the war (Jan. 19, intimidation. "They would bring me into 1991), we were tasked (with) the first day­ a room blindfolded, hands cuffed behind light mission to downtown Baghdad," Rob­ my back. You couldn't see who was do­ erts recalled. ing the interrogation, but it was an En­ Initially, his unit had targeted strategic glish-speaking guy with a couple of'help­ sites such as chemical storage facilities and ers.' If they didn't like your answers or runways; its mission to downtown Baghdad didn't think you were answering fast was quite different. A package consisting of enough, the helpers would hit you upside Photo by MSgt Teresa Kinter-Buford, 178th Fighter Wing 64 F-16s, eight F-15s, eight F-4G Wild the head with hands, fists, whatever, and Weasels and a couple of EF-1 l Is set their and saw it coming up right underneath his use a cattle prod every now and again," he sites for the Republican Guard's headquar­ airplane. "I had just enough time to try and said. ters, the air defense headquarters building overshoot the thing. It didn't hit me." Roberts said he was confident they and an oil refinery on the city's east side. Roberts said ifthe guy behind him hadn't were not going to kill any of the POWs "The target I was specifically supposed to said anything, "It would have smacked me." since he knew there were others being be dropping on was the air defense head­ Though he was able to get some distance interrogated too and he had heard no gun quarters building," Roberts said. from the missile, it still fused on the belly of shots. Roberts and some other prisoners "We're coming from south to north out of the aircraft. When the Russian-made SA-6 were moved a couple times before March Saudi Arabia. As we got to just south of missile stopped seeing closure on his F- 1, when they were told they would be Baghdad, the weather covered up our tar­ 16- because he had successfully evaded freed as a part of a peace agreement. gets," he said. " By the ROE (rules of en­ it- it exploded, throwing shrapnel all over. The POWs were taken to a hotel, turned gagement) we couldn't drop on any target in Thinking the bump he felt was a shock over to the Red Cross and prepared to town unless we could- no kidding- see wave from the supersonic missile and that leave Baghdad. "Breakfast was served on the target. The package commander called he had again escaped unharmed, Roberts a porcelain plate with an orange slice and for us to drag out. realized the extent of the damage as he tried parsley. It was toast with marmalade and "Just as we started to tum back out and go to head out. "Lights started flashing in the a hard boiled egg. Earlier, they fed us out south to our... secondary target, the bad guys cockpit. The airplane started to pitch over. I of what looked like dog bowls," he said. realized that we were there." tried pulling the stick and nothing hap­ All the allied forces' POWs boarded a Because the Weasels had already left the pened. l looked over my left shoulder and plane to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, while all area to refuel, Roberts said the Iraqis felt saw smoke just billowing out from under­ former U.S. POWs were taken to Bahrain. safe turning on their radar. Weasels put neath the left wing of the airplane." Following thorough physicals, the Air down HARMs (high-speed anti-radiation At this point, he decided it was time to Force POWs were flown to Andrews Air missiles) that hone in on signals emitted by eject, but not without second thoughts. "For Force Base, Md., to be reunited with their surface-to-air missiles and destroy them. just a second I thought about what was families, and for more medical tests and "So when the F-4Gs left... they just started waiting for me down there. I thought about debriefings. turning everything loose," he said. riding it in, but then survival took over and Andrew Michael Roberts, who was then Though Roberts evaded the first missile I reached down and pulled the handle. two-weeks old, got to meet his dad for the that was shot at him, he wasn't so lucky the "I remember the canopy leaving and go­ first time. He was born on Feb. 21, 199 1, second go-round. ing up the rails, peeking out of the seat and while his dad was a POW. "Thoughts of Roberts said he was trying to see the just starting the face-forward fall towards Patty (his wife) and the baby gave me a missile that was detected on his F-l 6's radar the ground," he said. As he got closer to the reason to look forward to getting out." warning receiver, and was further alerted by ground, he could see about 200 people wait­ Roberts flew about 45 missions during the pilot behind him who called out, "SAM ing on him- many with AK-47 automatic Desert Shield and was shot down on his (surface-to-air missile) launch!" rifles. "They actually started shooting at third mission of Desert Storm. He re­ "That's coming at me," he said. "I gotta me. I could see these combat tracers coming ceived the POW medal, the Distinguished find this thing." So he rolled upside down at me and hear the bullets zinging through. Flying Cross and the Purple Heart.•

22 B U C K EY E G U AR D WI N T E R 2 0 0 0 I 2 0 0 1 Guarding against drugs

broken down into segments devoted to OhioReads making impact pronouncing letters, words and phrases, to partner Beightler reading and a practical exercise. Armory in Columbus " I believe it's a good cause," said Col. with a local elemen­ Dean Boling, director of human resources tary school under the for the Adjutant General's Department OhioReads program. and another regular tutor. "It's a good "It is this type of opportunity to have an impact in an area civic-minded com­ that we don't traditionally have an oppor­ munity service that tunity to be involved." continues to bond the The adjutant general has authorized full­ Ohio National Guard time guardmembers and employees to vol­ with the local com­ unteer up to two hours per week in lieu of munity," Smith said. their regular assigned duties. Though they "Often we become so normally cannot be in a paid status when engrossed in our daily tutoring, traditional guardmembers can endeavors that we for­ earn retirement points in an Active Duty get our obligation to Special Work (ADSW) status. the community. "OhioReads is the latest in the evolu­ " In reaching out in tion of the Ohio Guard's Adopt-A-School Photo by Todd Cramer, Adj. Gen. Depl Pholo Lab this manner, we program," said Lt. Col. Robert Baylor, Col Dean Boling spends 30 minutes each week tutoring 5- present ourselves as Ohio National Guard counterdrug coordi­ year-old Tuere Bartlett as part of the OhioReads program. role models and im- nator and the liaison with South Mifflin part our values, mor­ who coordinates the volunteer Guard tu­ Story by Steve Toth als and standards to the children." tors. "But OhioReads is geared more Adj. Gen. Dept. Public Affairs Office Every Wednesday morning, about 30 specfically toward getting the reading volunteers from Beightler board a yellow skill s ofstudents to improve, with the goal ive-year-old Corey Winton sprinted school bus destined for South Mifflin. of improving proficiency testing." down the hallway at South Mifflin "I think there's a need for it," Dreiman Another challenge that presents itself to FElementary, located on Columbus' said. "Many of these kids don't have any many of the tutors is that for some of the east side, much like he would on any day kind of pre-school experience where they students at South Mifflin, English is not when he's changing classrooms and no begin to pick up reading skills. So I'm necessarily their native language. teachers are looking. trying to help fu lfill those needs." "To even get (the students) to talk to But he picked the wrong day to be run­ The time he spends each week with the you is an accomplishment," said Nancy ning in the hallway, for today was Wednes­ kindergarten students is both rewarding Flanagan, a retired teacher who serves as day, and there were about 30 more sets of and worthwhile, Dreiman said. one of the OhioReads site coordinators at adult eyes in the building. " Corey is a bright kid, he understands South Mifflin. "They need individual at­ "Stop running in the halls," boomed a the exercises we do and understands the tention when learning language. With a man's voice. Winton stopped dead in his stories we read," Dreiman said. "And he's full classroom, a teacher can't do that." tracks and went to the floor on his knees excited to see me every week, and I' m Teachers said beyond improving read­ out of surprise. However, as soon as he excited to see him." ing, the program fosters relationships with looked up and recognized who was speak­ Tutors spend 30 minutes each with two positive adult role models. The military ing to him, his look ofsurprise soon changed students each week. Sessions are usually uniforms don't hurt the effect either. to joy and a smile crept over his small face. "I don' t think many children have the "Hey, my tutor told me to stop running in For information on how ~ opportunity to talk with an adult one-on­ Ohio Guardmembers or • • • the hall s," Winton relayed to a classmate 0 one, with that adult's undivided attention, walking by in a i'nore orderly fashion. entire units can become even at home," said Pat Jeffries, a kinder­ involved in OhioReads &\,(' "That's right, get in here," the man said garten teacher at South Mifflin. "This is with a grin. Their rapport was evident, as and partner with a local the one time for 30 minutes a week that a school, phone Lt Col Corey stood up promptly and entered the Robert Baylor at (614) 336- child has an adult's full attention. And it classroom to work with his tutor, retired 6426 or send an e-mail to helps the children develop self-esteem Col. Richard Dreiman, the assistant quar­ [email protected]. because they know that another adult cares termaster general for the Ohio Adjutant about them." General's Department. The Guard's first OhioReads endeavor Dreiman is a volunteer tutor who goes to appears to be reaping rewards already. the school once a week to work one-on-one "Hopefully this will have an impact on with kindergarten students as part of the the direction (the students) take in their Ohio Reads program, Gov. Bob Taft's com­ lives," Smith said. "I cannot stress enough mitment to education and developing the importance of these encounters in children's reading skills. letting the children see us for who we are In October, Maj. Gen. John H. Smith, and what we do."• state adjutant general, announced his plans

W I N T E R 2 0 0 0 I 2 0 0 1 B U C K E YE G U A R D 123 Bucke e briefs

guished himselfor herself gram since the mid- I 980s. In addition to by exceptionally merito­ conducting its annual food drive, this year rious conduct in the per­ the unit provided volunteers and its armory formance ofservices. PFC to serve as a collection and distribution H ARAZ • GHA BARI, point for food and toys for more than 600 196TH MOBILE PUBLIC AF­ underprivileged families in a two-day FAIRS DETACIIMENT period. "One of Ashtabula County's greatest Military Intel blessings is our own National Guard de­ tachment, ready and willing to assist us," society forms said Evelyn Schaeffer of Catholic Chari­ The Ohio (Buckeye) ties of Ashtabula County. "'Share Your chapter of the Military In- Christmas' and Catholic Charities of Photo by PFC Haraz N. Ghanbari, 196th MPAD telligence Corps Associa- Ashtabula County are immensely grateful SSG Kevin Mettler (center), the top Ohio Army Guard tion has formed recently. to be able to call on the Guard." A COM­ recruiter for 2000, shares a laugh before cutting the The first general member­ PA Y, l-107TH ARMOR/237TH FSB PUBLIC cake with BG Ronald G. Young (left), assistant ship meeting is scheduled AFFAIRS adjutant general for Army, and L TC Jim Lawson, to take place in the April­ OHARNG recruiting and retention manager. May time frame at a loca- tion in the Columbus area Making a difference to families Banquet celebrates year's to be determined. The meeting is open to The Ottawa County Family Resource any military personnel or intelligence pro­ Care-A-Van, and the 2 I 2th Missile Main­ best Army Guard recruiters fessionals who are interested. tenance Company and Detachment I, 3 72nd Army Guard recruiters from across For more information on MICA, write Maintenance Company, located in Port the state recently held their annual Re­ to: P.O. Box 1I7, Richmond, Ohio 43944- Clinton, joined together for a Kids Caring cruiting and Retention Command 0117; or send an e-mail to Maj. Kirk for Kids campaign for Make-A-Difference A wards Banquet to honor those who Zecchini at [email protected] or Day last October. have made the greatest contributions Master Sgt. Bob Marsh at msgmarsh@ Guardmembers helped collect and sort toward meeting and exceeding the aol.com. MICA, OHIO CHAPTER COMMU­ nearly 8,000 used clothing items donated by elementary school students in Ottawa strength mission for the Ohio Army Guard. NICATIONS The highlight of the evening was the County. Clothing was sold to less fortunate presentation of the Chiefs 50 Award fami lies for $1 per bag or$ I per coat. The and a Legion of Merit award. Guard soldiers provide hope $716 that was raised went to the Care-A­ StaffSgt. Kevin Mettler, ofthe South­ It's 7 a.m. on a cold December morning. Van 's Emergency Fund, which further eastern Ohio recruiting area, received All is quiet except for the rumble of two helps those in need with clothing, food, the Chiefs 50 honor. The top annual Ohio Army National Guard "deuce-and-a­ medicine and housing support. OTTAWA recruiting and retention award, it recog­ half' trucks. It's that time again for volun­ COUNTY FAMI LY RESOURCE CARE-A-VA ' nizes the one noncommissioned officer teers from Alpha Company, l-107th Ar­ COMMU ICATIO S from each state who has made the great­ mor Battalion, and Bravo Company, 237th est contribution to end strength for his Forward Support Battalion, both located Ohio BMV eliminates extra or her state during the fiscal year. in Newton Falls, to get themselves geared "Since being assigned to the Recruit­ up to help the Center of Hope, where they fees for most military plates ing and Retention Command, Staff Ser­ will unload a year's worth of contribu­ The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles geant Mettler has consistently performed tions, food, clothing and toys for less for­ Feb. 12 waived its $10 additional fee for above mission in an area that histori­ tunate families. military plates including the Ohio National cally was under mission," said Maj. This year, as in the past six years, Guard, U.S. Armed Forces Reserves, U.S. Daniel B. Jones Sr., Northern Ohio Re­ guardmembers lent a helping hand to the Armed Forces Retiree or honorably dis­ cruiting and Retention officer-in-charge Center of Hope. charged veteran, and Pearl Harbor. and banquet coordinator. "It's an honor to work with soldiers, Ohioans who wish to purchase military Mettler resides in Roseville, with his friends and brothers li ke these volunteers," plates for the first time must show they are wife, Anissa Ann, and children, Cortney, said Sgt. I st Class Tony Perez, one of the in good standing by issuing proper dis­ Dakota and Colton. Guard volunteer coordinators. "The Guard charge papers or a letter from their com­ A special recognition was presented is not just a weekend a month and two manding officer. The military license plates to retired Master Sgt. Charles 0. Jack­ weeks in the summer, it's the above and can be issued to passenger vehicles, non­ son, former noncommissioned officer­ beyond that no one really gets to see. There commercial trucks, motor homes, house in-charge of the Akron-Canton recruit­ is no thought of reward or special favors, vehicles and non-commercial trailers. ing area. Jackson received the Legion of just a fee ling of wanting to help others and The elimination of the $ I 0 fee was made Merit, the highest peacetime award. to promote the Guard in a positive light. possible with the passage of Senate Bill The Legion of Merit is awarded to a These soldiers have done just that." (SB) 232, which also includes a section memberofthe U.S. armed forces orofa Members of Detachment 2, 237th FSB, which allows Purple Heart recipients to friendly foreign nation who has distin- Ashtabula, have helped the Ashtabula obtain Purple'i-leart license plates for any County's "Share Your Christmas" pro- vehicle they own.

24 B U C KE Y E G U A R D W I N T E R 2 0 0012 0 0 1 Previous legislation waived the fees for Monument plates featuring Grenada, Vietnam, WWI, WWII, Persian Gulf, Panama, Lebanon, honors airmen Korea, POW, Purple Heart recipient and People gathered on disabled veteran. O HIO BU REAU OF MO­ Nov. 11 to pay trib­ TOR VEHICLES ute to the Tuskegee Airmen who were Wishing, washing for more stationed at Lockbourne Army charitable success in 2001 A ir Base, now The second annual Make-A-Wish Wash Rickenbacker, from is scheduled for May 19 at various Wal­ 1946 to 1949. Marts and Sam's Clubs throughout Ohio. Held on Veterans Last May the Ohio National Guard raised Day to remember and $4,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation honor the service and of Ohio through this charitable car wash. sacrifice that all vet­ Organizers need help again this year. erans have made for Photo by SSG Richard E. Niehe, 37th Armor Briigade Last year car washes at some locations had our country, the trib­ The 37th Armor Brigade leadership recognizes AGR NCO to be canceled because of a lack of volun­ ute was marked by of Year SSG Susan Skrzynski (fourth from left), Traditional teer support. the unveil ing ofa me­ NCO of Year SSG William Cousins and Soldier of Year This year there are 21 locations in Ohio morial to the Tuskee- SPC Thomas DeMange at the annual brigade ball. that need staffed: Dayton, Beavercreek, gee Airmen, which Lebanon, suburban Cincinnati, Xenia, features the Tuskegee Airmen logo on a Balls recognize 'Dragon' Hilliard, Tuttle Crossing (Columbus), black granite stone. It is located at the Easton (Columbus), Lewis Center, corner of Alum Creek Drive and Port Road Brigade, St. Barbara Reynoldsburg, Marion, Norwalk, Canton, at Rickenbacker International Airport in More than 300 members and guests Akron, Ashland, Zanesville, McConnels­ Columbus. 121 ST AIR R EFUELING WING of the 37th Armor Brigade gathered vi lle (furniture store), suburban Cleveland, PUBLI C AFFAJRS Nov. 11 for the eighth annual brigade Medina, Athens and Toledo. ball at the Hyatt Regency in down­ Volunteers are asked to work at the car Tank gunnery? No problem town Columbus. Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. David wash anytime from 10:00 a.m. to 3 :00 p.m. Tanlc gunnery season is now under way Thomas recognized Spc. Thomas The event is open to Ohio National Guard for some members of C Company, soldiers, airmen, retirees, friends and fam­ DeMange of Company C, l-147th l-147th Armor Battalion, Greenville. Sol­ Armor Battalion, Greenville, as bri­ ily. The first 10 volunteers at each site will diers trained in preparation for the Tanlc gade soldier of the year; Staff Sgt. receive a yellow Make-A-Wish T-shirt to Crew Gunnery Skills Test, also known as William Cousins of Company A, l - wear with BOU bottoms or civilian attire. TCGST, at the Ohio Army National Guard This is an opportunity to once again 148th Infantry Battalion, Xenia, as armory in Oxford. brigade traditional noncommissioned show support fo r this charity that helps Most members of the unit had not been Ohio's children. on tanks since last July, when the company officer of the year; and Staff Sgt. Su­ san Skrzynski, ofD etachment 2, Com­ Contact Sgt. I st Class Tim O'Neal by returned from annual training at Camp phone at(614) 336-7432 or send an e-mail pany B, 237th Forward Support Bat­ Ripley, Minn. Training at Oxford provides SFC talion, Ashtabula, as Active Guard/ to [email protected]. a unique opportunity for the tankers, since T IM O'NEAL, DET. 4, HQ STARC Reserve (AGR) NCO of the year. there are no tanlcs at the Greenville armory. Unit members said they were confident T he annual observance of St. Barbara's Day was held on Dec. 9 at Wadsworth students become that the tankers would be ready for the gunnery cycle when they performed the the Officers Club of the Defense Sup­ guardmembers for day ply Center-Columbus. Members and TCGST in March at the Armor Training Headquarters l-l 07th Armor Battalion, guests of the l -l 34th Field Artillery Center in Fort Knox, Ky. Stow, was visited by 12 students from Battalion, Columbus, and the 2-l 74th The unit broke down into groups and Wadsworth Central Middle School on a Air Defense Artille ry Battalion, school-sponsored field trip in January. conducted a team-building competition, which included a ti med relay disassembly McConnelsville, gathered to pay trib­ Students trained with the guardmembers ute to the patron saint of all artillery. and assembly ofvarious weapons systems, on use of night vision equipment, compass Lt. Col. Philip C. Lootens, l -134th orienteering, and communications and as well as a tank track block relay race and a game of "capture the flag." commander, and Lt. Col. Michael D. movement in tactical vehicles. Bish, 2- l 74th commander, led the The unit will be traveling to Camp Ripley They were shown a video on life at basic "Buckeye Redlegs" in their celebra­ again this year for annual training, where training and highlights from the battalion's tion. Sgt. Noah Mayberry was named tank crews will be evaluated on their most recent annual training at Camp Gray­ l-l 34th soldier of the year and Sgt. proficiencies of identifying, engaging and ling, Mich. The students also were named David McQuaide garnered the2-1 74th destroying probable enemy tank, tank-like honorary Ohio Guardmembers by the unit. NCO of the Year award. SSG RIC H­ and troop targets. SPC TONY L. BAKER, SGT ERIC KORBEL, 1-107TH ARMOR BAT­ ARD E. NIEHE, 37TH ARMOR BR IGADE COMPANY C, l-147TH ARMOR BATTALION TALION

.,.,.. 2000 / 200' '"""' ,,.., I " all about People Unit presents first Air Medal The engineering team built "flood­ Maj. Joseph P. Maslar earned the resistant medical clinics that will also serve first Air Medal in the modem history as emergency operations centers during of the l 80th Fighter Wing, Toledo. future natural disasters in the province." Due to Operation Northern Watch, Brunot said the Vietnamese people, and the unit flew enough combat sorties in the Cambodians with whom he worked, a theater of operations for pilots to appreciated the work the U.S. military is earn the Air Medal solely based on doing for their countries. their service with the l 80th. Army Reserve Maj. James K. D' Arienzo, "!am very proud to have earned this the mission officer in charge of the South­ award. l feel this is a reflection on the east Asian project, said the role of the U.S. unit as a whole," Maslar said. military "has changed significantly over Maslar set himself apart from oth­ the years .... These ers while participating in sustained missions provide aerial flights as an F-16 pilot and mis­ our engineers tech­ sion commander while stationed at nical experiences in Incirlik Air Base, Turkey from April 7 designing struc­ tures, bridges and to Oct. 3, 1999. SRA VICKEY COLLI S, roads under condi­ 180TH FIGHTER WING tions that vary sig­ n i fican tl y from Engineer uses skills abroad what they typically Most of the time, Douglas Brunot experience in the designs roads and bridges for the city Brunot U.S. and often offer of Akron. But recently he used his chall enges in the engineering skills to help rebuild way of available materials and construc­ Vietnam. tion practices." Photo by Rosanna Grey Brunot is part of the first U.S. mili­ Projects such as this one, D' Arienzo SFC Steven Shephe rd shows off some tary engineering team to help the South­ said, are a "sincere expression ofgood will military gear to a Sullivant Elementary east Asian nation since the end of the from the people of the United States to the School student and the rest of her class. Vietnam War more than a quarter- countries in which we (conduct) them." century ago. Brunot returned from Southeast Asia in Guardmember educates A 35-year-old civil engineer with the mid-February. JIM CAR EY, AKRO BEA­ Design Division of Akron's Engineering co JOURNAL students about veterans Bureau, Brunot is also a captain in the Ohio Veterans Day offered the opportunity Army National Guard. Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame for Sgt. I st Class Steven Shepherd, Troop Through the Guard, he worked with the B, 2-107th Cavalry, Lebanon, to share U.S. Pacific Command Humanitarian As­ honors community heroes his military experiences with elemen­ sistance Mission earlier this year to design Being honored by one's peers is always tary school students. and construct two health clinics in Viet­ a nice surprise. For Brig. Gen. James Shepherd took in pictures, fie ld gear nam. The mission also is helping neighbor­ Abraham, it was a humbling reward for his and a family history that dated back to ing Cambodia with the construction of five years of dedication and concern for coun­ the Civi l War to share with the students bridges. try and citizenship. in Rosanna Grey's fourth-grade class at Brunot was the only Ohioan attached to Abraham, former Ohio assistant adju­ Sullivant Elementary School in Colum­ the mission. Last July and August, he and tant general for Army, was recognized bus. The chi ldren were allowed to wear fourother members ofthe team spent nearly along with 18 other veterans for his out­ some of the gear and have their faces a month in Southeast Asia on the first part standing service to community in Novem­ camouflaged. of the mission. In late January, the team ber at the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame "The students were extremely pre­ headed back to Vietnam to continue work. induction ceremony. pared and had done a great deal of re­ Brunot has been in the Ohio National "This award reflects on all the people search on this important holiday. The Guard for I 0 years. He is commander of who are dedicated to this country and pa­ classroom was decorated to honor Vet­ the recently activated 191 st Engineer Com­ triotism," Abraham said. "I'm very thank­ erans Day, and the students were very pany (Dump Truck) based at Rickenbacker fu l, this is a great honor." excited about the event," Shepherd said. Airport in Columbus. The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame was "We talked about patriotism, the flag, Brunot said he volunteered for the over­ started in 1992 by former Gov. George military veterans and held an open dis­ seas work because he wanted to help the Voinovich as a way to recognize Ohio cussion on all these subjects. Ms. Grey Vietnamese people. "It is very exciting," veterans for the service they give back to put forth a great deal of effort to honor he said. their communities after honorable military veterans while educating her students." The humanitarian mission was organized service. Currently, Ohio has the only Vet­ COM PA YB, 2-1 07TH CAVALRY PUBLIC after what Brunot described as a "1,000- erans Hall of Fame in the country. AFFAIRS year flood that hit Hue province in Novem­ Abraham:"" along with two other Ohio ber 1999." Army National Guardmembers, Maj. Gen.

26 B U C K EYE G U AR 0 WI N T E R 2 0 0 0 / 2 0 0 1 J. Ronald Bowman, former commander of Two students earn Guard ous collapsed building. the 16th Engineer Brigade, and James Two civilian contractors were in the Wallace, a sergeant with the I 12th Medi­ Bureau YOFAM scholarships process of dismantling a building lo­ cal Battalion (Clearing Company) in National Guard Bureau designated the cated at the Ravenna Army Ammuni­ Westerville in 1946-49, were inducted into year 2000 as the "Year of the Family." As tion Plant when it collapsed on them the class of2000 with other veterans from part of the celebration, a Year of the Fam­ Oct. 28, 1999. World War II, Korea, Vietnam and even ily (YOF AM) Scholarship contest was Porter imme­ the Civil War. sponsored, with $18,000 in scholarship diately entered While their military service was a quali­ money available for children of 13 Air and the building to lo­ fying factor for nomination, their outstand­ 13 Army Guardmembers nationwide. cate the victims, ing service to their community and state is Of 26 total scholarships, the Ohio Na­ assisted by Spc. what got them inducted. A committee re­ tional Guard garnered two winners: Jenni­ John McGuire views more than I 00 nominations from fer Lidke of Bellevue, daughter of Master and Pvt. Andy across Ohio each July. They select no more Sgt. Dennis Lidke, Headquarters and Head­ Dubois. T hey than 20 candidates for induction, with final quarters Company, l- l 37th Assault Heli­ found the men approval by the governor. copter Battalion, Columbus, and Rita Lon­ and administered gan, of Akron, daughter of Sgt. 1st Class The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame is co­ Porter first aid to the sponsored by the Governor's Office of John F. Longan, Company B, 3-l 26th v1ct1ms until Veterans Affairs and the Ohio Veterans Aviation Battalion, North Canton. NA­ more medical help could arrive and the Home. Ohio Army National Guard Col. T IO AL GUARD BUREAU FAMILY PRO­ men could be evacuated. Unfortunately, Christine Cook is director of the Ohio GRAMS OFFICE the victims later died from their injuries. Veterans Home and helps oversee the Ohio At the time, Porter was NCOIC of the Veterans Hall of Fame. Ohio airmen net national medic section at Ravenna that was pro­ "The Hall of Fame is one of the best viding support in conjunction with the programs I've been involved with while environmental awards return of personnel and equipment from here at the Ohio Veterans Home," Cook Members of four Ohio Air National Task Force Esteli in Nicaragua. SSG T .J. said. "It recognizes veterans for what they Guard units received national recognition M ILLER, DET. I, COMPANY D, 137TH give back to the community, and I think during the ANG Environmental Training AVIATION (A VIM) anytime you recognize veterans it's a good Workshop Feb. 15 in Gulfport, Miss. thing." The annual workshop provides re-certi­ Recruit donates college Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Director fication for environmental managers to Shannon Scherer said it is not unusual to ensure compliance with federal regula­ savings to high school see a significant National Guard presence. tions and standards. Not every high school senior decides "The National Guard has always been LeRoy Edwards Ill, state environmental to give away hat fhis savings. But Jason known as citizen-soldiers," she said. specialist forthe 121 st Air Refueling Wing, Askins, a student at Lima Central Catho­ "These people were there when their coun­ Columbus, received the Recycling Award lic High School, did just that. try called them to defend freedom, and for Individual Excellence and the State Askins, also a newly recruited mem­ they came back to build and grow the Environmental Employee Award. Master ber of Company C, 1- 14 7th Armor Bat­ communities they live in. They truly are Sgt. Wi ll iam W. Bice II ofthe l 78th Fighter talion, Lima, donated $1,000 to his remarkable people." O HIO VETERA s Wing, Springfield received the Bioenvi­ school on Dec. 8 to help with the school's HALL OF FAME COMMU ICATIO S ronmental Engineering Technician Award. capital campaign, a fund-raiser to pay The 2000 Voluntary Achievement for upgrades to the school. Award was given to six Air Guardmembers: As a member of the Ohio Army Na­ Master Sgt. Michael J. Stichter and Staff tional Guard, Askins does not have to Sgt. Michael J. Welch of the 179th Airlift worry about college tuition with the Wing, Mansfield, and Maj. Jeffery A. Ohio National Guard Scholarship Pro­ Lewis, Master Sgts. Craig Donnelly and gram, which pays I 00 percent of tuition Donald E. Phi ll ips, and Tech. Sgt. Chad J. costs at a four-year public university. Helriggle of the 220th Engineering Instal­ " l just thought I could afford it with lation Squadron, Zanesville. MSGT (working for) the Guard," he said. "I EALNOR G R EY, HQ, OHIO ANG think the school could better use it." He has worked in the family business, Soldier receives recognition TJ's Pizza, for about I 0 years and has been saving his money for the past two for bravery, quick actions or three, he said. Photo by Todd Cramer. Adj. Gen. Dept. Photo Lab Staff Sgt. Ed Porter of Detachment I, Askins said he hopes his donation Retired OHARNG MG J. Ronald Company D, l 37th Aviation (AVIM) , helps people realize that his school needs Bowman (center) receives a plaque North Canton, recently was presented with the funds and everyone should pitch in. marking his induction into the Ohio the Ohio Distinguished Service Medal with "I thought it might encourage other Veterans Hall of Fame from COL Valor for his leadership and actions in people to give," he said. VALLY FIN EY, Christine Cook (left), director of the providing medical assistance to men who THE LIM A NEWS Ohio Veterans Home, and Gov. Bob Taft. were injured and trapped inside a danger-

WI NTER 2000 / 2001 BUCKEYE GUARD 127 guardmember Benefits Reservists have commissary veterans field representative for the Veter­ obtained from VA or most mortgage com­ ans of Foreign Wars office in Washington, panies. On this form, the veteran lists all challenge for 2001 VA guarantees loans for refinancing and periods of military service. VA verifies the Officials with the Defense Commis­ purchasing homes-including condomini­ periods listed and then issues to the veteran sary Agency are issuing a challenge to ums and manufactured homes. a certificate of eligibility that officially reserve component members in 2001 - Another benefit that VA offers the pur­ confirms his eligibility status. The veteran shop regularly in the commissary and chaser is the option of not is then able to ap­ they guarantee that families will save making a down payment on proach a mortgage more than $2,000 in grocery costs dur­ the home, according to Chuck company to begin the ing a 12-month period. Owen, senior real estate loan process for qualifying The key for unlocking the door to officer for Armed Forces Bank to buy a home. ARMY savings is the Commissary Privilege at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. EWS SERVICE Card (DD Form 2529) issued annually Owen said the only required to reservists by their units. investment is a "funding fee," SGLI coverage The card contains 24 blocks to record a one-time cost that the veteran dates of the 24 authorized visits during doesn't have to pay up front. sees increase the calendar year. Personnel who have "You can either pay the fee Servicemen's Group not received their Commissary Privi­ at once or finance it into the Life lnsurance(SGLI ) lege Card should contact their unit. loan amount," he said. automaticall y in­ Neither commissaries nor the Defense Owen said the fee varies creases to $250,000 Commissary Agency issue the cards. from 2.75 percent of the loan amount for a for all members effective April I with the "Gray area" reserve component per­ first-time purchase to 0.5 percent of the premium increasing to $20 per month. sonnel- those who have retired from loan when the owner refinances. Members desiring a reduced coverage the reserve components and will be Gardner said mortgage companies also must submit a new Veterans Affairs SGLV entitled to retired pay at age 60, but who benefit due to the loan's protection factor. Form 8286, after April l. are not yet 60- also need the Commis­ "With a VA guarantee, the company is Other new additional SGLI options and sary Privilege Card in order to take protected against loss up to the amount of monthly deduction rates (in parentheses) advantage of their 24 annual commis­ the guarantee ifthe borrower fails to repay are as follows: $210,000 ($ 16.80); sary visits. Commissary Privilege Cards the loan," he said. $220,000 ($17 .60); $230,000 ($18.40); and for "gray area" personnel are mailed According to Gardner, to be eligible for $240,000 ($ 19.20). UN ITED STATES PROP­ annually from locations where their a VA loan a member of the Guard or ERTY AND FISCAL OFFICE FOR OHIO military personnel records are retained. Reserve must have completed six years of Commissary patrons purchase items service, have been discharged under other Program offers scholarships at cost plus a 5 percent surcharge, which than dishonorable conditions or currently covers the construction of new com­ be serving. to public service-minded missaries and the modernization of ex­ Gardner said the process for applying Students considering a career in local, isting stores. DEFE SE COMMISSARY for a VA-guaranteed loan is relatively state or federal government could earn up AGE CY PUBLIC AFFAIRS simple. First the veteran submits VA form to $1,000 for college through the Public 26-1880, or "Request for Determination of Service Scholarship Program. VA extends home loan Eli gibility and Available Loan Guarantee The program has been offered since 1985 Entitlement," to a local VA office. Along by the Public Employees Roundtable, a program for reservists with this form the veteran will need to nonprofit organization that promotes in­ National Guardmembers and reserv­ submit hi s or her discharge form , or a terest in public service careers. ists now have until Sept. 30, 2007, to statement of service if still serving. This year I 0 to 12 $500 and $1,000 apply fo r the Department of Veterans Gardner said VA Form 26- 1880 can be scholarships will be awarded. The $500 Affairs home loan guarantee. scholarships will be awarded to part-time "Our objective, though, is to make graduate students. ONGSP APPLICATION DEADLINES this a permanent option for reservists," Deadline for applications is May 18, said Mike Cline, executive director for Fall term, July 1 Undergraduate and graduate students can the En listed Association of the National Spring semester/Winter quarter, Nov. 1 apply. Applicants must have a 3.5 grade Guard of the United States. Spring quarter, Feb. 1 point average in all college work and are Started in 1992, the VA loan guaran­ Summer term, April 1 required to submit a two-page essay dis­ tee program was originally intended to It is the sole responsibility of a studenU cussing their specific career goals and vi­ expire in 1999. Since then, it has re­ guardmember to turn in a completed application sion for the future. Scholarships will be ceived two extensions: One to 2003, to the Ohio National Guard Scholarship awarded in late July. Program office, located at the Adjutant General's and just recently to 2007. Department. 2825 West Dublin Granville Road, For more information or an application: Cline said there's a great push- not Columbus. Ohio 43235-2789, by the deadlines visit www.theroundtable.org on the only in his organization but in VA as listed above. Internet; mail a self-addressed, stamped This must be done prior to each term a student well- to permanently extend the pro­ attends school. envelope to Public Employees Roundtable, gram for reservists. P.O. Box 75248, Washington, D.C. 20013- For more information, call (614) 336-7032 or According to Bob Gardner, national toll-free (888) 400-6484. 5248; or carJ (202) 927-3650. AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE

28 1B UC K E Y E G U A R D W I N TE R 2 0 0 012 0 O 1 Refueling wing leads aircraft recovery training By Tech. Sgt. Greg Rudi 12 Jst Air Refueling Wing

omewhere, a military aircraft skids off a runway and plows to rest in a muddy Sfield. Incoming planes are diverted as the runway is closed. Emergency crews race out Aircrew and passengers evacuate the crippled bird. The remaining problem is how to quickly get this multimillion dollar aircraft out of the mud, back on the ramp and into a hangar for repairs without damaging it any further. While a ditched automobile simply requires a tow truck and a cable hook-up to the vehicle's underside, pulling on the landing gear of a $50 million aircraft would only add to the plane's existing damage. Rather, a slow and careful process is required. At the forefront ofthis responsibility for the 121 st Air Refueling Wing is Master Sgt Ed Noce of the unit repair and reclamation shop. He recently helped put together the fourth Canadian Air Force and U. S. Air National Guard Crash Recovery Exercise, held at Davis­ Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. The exercise hosted about 58 students from recovery operations)," Noce said. "I approached it Personnel tether an F-15 jet to the the Canadian and U.S. Air Forces, as well as as a safety factor ... (the military) trains me on ground to stabilize the aircraft so It can two from the German Luftwaffe. Two mem­ everything else, why not on this?" be raised on top of lifting bags. bers of the British Royal Air Force also at­ In order to put the exercise together, Noce had to tended the exercise, wanting to observe the find a location with aircraft with which to practice. exercise was significant because "this was the latest techniques in aircraft recovery. With 12 The aircraft graveyard at Davis-Monthan AFB first time that a C-141 or any other aircraft of instructors on hand, the airmen went through proved to be a suitable site with plenty of out-of­ this size has been moved in this manner." The numerous recovery exercises using mothballed service planes. He also took the lead in making travel Starlifter is 168 feet long, with a 160-foot planes like the C-141 Starlifter, C-130 Her­ and lodging arrangements, and creating training wing span and maximum take-off weight of cules. F-15 Eagle and KC-135 Stratotanker. scenarios for participants and instructors- all on a 343,000 pounds. "There's no other exercise like it in the budget that was almost non-existent. "It seems strange, but before you can lift an entire world," said Noce, who, along with a "We are spearheading this effort," said Tech. Sgt. airplane, you must tie it down to stabilize it," counterpart from the Canadian air force, was Philip Lovejoy, I 21st fuel systems technician and said Noce, describing one of the first steps in instrumental in creating the first exercise in a past participant of the exercise. "Ed took it upon the process. 1997. Before, there were only conferences himself to develop some sort of annual training for "You have to find the center of gravity (CG) with book work and discussion-no hands-on this type of recovery, because there was nothing of the aircraft with plumb bobs and then training. (else) in place." maintain that CG during the entire move," "We have an Air Force directive that says The basic process of recovery begins by assess­ Lovejoy said. every unit will have the capability (to conduct ing what attitude (position in relation to the land­ He described an episode at a past exercise scape) the crippled aircraft is in where the nose of the plane being raised had and what type of damage it has. changed its intended position by only eight Next, large, black airbags are inches. "Because the plane had shifted, it placed on platforms made of crib­ pinched and punctured one of the airbags. The bing (a stack of heavy wooden entire recovery had to be aborted. planks). These are positioned un­ 'The whole concept behind this (exercise) der the aircraft in key areas and is to train for (aircraft recovery), be prepared, then the airbags are slowly inflated. have the equipment, and hopefully.. . never Once the aircraft has risen suffi­ have to use it," Lovejoy said. ciently, sledges (vehicles with low "We are on the cutting edge of this because runners used for transporting of Ed Noce, who saw a need and developed a loads) are placed underneath the program." wheels. Running on rails, the The 2000 exercise was Noce 's last as he is sledges move the aircraft back to taking a new position in the wing. The reins the runway and then into the han­ are now in the hands ofTech. Sgt. Glenn Davis, gar for repairs. of the repair and reclamation shop, who will According to Noce, the 2000 coordinate all future exercises.• PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Columbus, OH IGUARD Permit #3754 The Ohio National Guard 2825 W. Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789 OFFICIAL BUSINESS