Brigade Soldiers Receive Combat Honors Atop

Contents Vol. 1, No. 9 September 2009 4 French soldiers learn combat life-saving skills 6 Beans and Bullets 8 Local Afghans weigh-in on presidential election 9 Medical support provides critical need 10 Brigade Soldiers receive combat honors atop Afghan summit 12 108th Cav learns the art of Fast Ropes 14 Brigade, others celebrate women’s right to vote 16 165th firefighters set national record for excellence 18 Did you know? A look at Georgia Guard history 19 Bulldogs wear sticker honoring 48th Infantry 20 Guardsmen take part in annual combatives competition 21 The Georgia Guard launches new Web site 22 169th Soldiers deploy 22 New commander for the GSDF band 23 Airmen return home to eager families 24 Atlanta Motor Speedway selects Army widow to serve as Grand Marshal

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National Guard Correspondents 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team COL Hoffman Interview CSM Dover and LTC Neal Combined Joint Task Public Affairs Office Army National Guard Unit Public Affairs in Afghanistan Force Phoenix Transfer of Officers and Representatives Authority Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs BG Maria Britt speaks at Family Readiness Conference banquet Officers and Representatives Reverend and Mrs. Forrester receive award The Georgia Guardsman is published Ruth Lee Receives Outstanding Service Award monthly under the provisions of AR 360- Aurie McMullen Receives Volunteer Service Award 81 and AF 6-1 by the Georgia Department of Defense Public Affairs Office. The views Courtney Richards Receives Outstanding Service Award and opinions expressed in the Georgia Tina Brants Receives Special Appreciation Award Guardsman are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army and Air Force MG Terry Nesbitt interview in Afghanistan or the Adjutant General of Georgia. The National Guard Association of the United States Georgia Guardsman is distributed free Rep. Jim Marshall to members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard, State Defense Force and Brig. Gen. Lawrence Dudney other interested persons at their request. Rep. Jim Marshall Visits Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix Lt. Col. Thomas Bright Send comments, SGT Clara Dady interviewed at 1st Battalion, 169th GSAR REGT suggestions, articles, photos deployment ceremony or other contributions to: Lisa Vincent interviewed at 1st Battalion, 169th GSAR REGT deployment [email protected] ceremony Updated news and information Chief Warrant Officer Ladson and Family on the Georgia DoD can be Sgt. 1st Class Brock and Beth Brock viewed at www.gadod.net Congressman John Barrow and Capt. Merrick 1st Lt. Downey 169th General Support Aviation Regiment deployment ceremony, Part 1 169th General Support Aviation Regiment deployment ceremony, Part 2 Youth Challenge Academy PSA 4

French Soldiers learning combat life-saving skills Story and photos by SPC Jennifer C. Eddy CAMP PHOENIX, KABUL, Af- CJTF Phoenix IX PAO ghanistan, Aug. 21, 2009 – Members of French army detachment Unit Epidote 24, graduated today from a four-day Combat Lifesaver (CLS) training course conducted by Army medics of the Surgeon Cell, Headquarters Company, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT). Life saver training teaches Soldiers who are not medics how to treat injuries during combat. A combat lifesaver is trained in various techniques to stabilize wounds which include, but are not lim- ited to, blast injury, severe bleeding and penetrating chest injuries. “As a Combat Lifesaver course instructor, I teach my students that there are three types of people,” said SGT Stephanie N. Wam- mock, of Macon. “There are people who will live, treated or not, and then there are the people we train for, the ones who,

CPT Antoine Naulet of French army detachment Epidote 24 (standing left) proudly shows off his work of administering an intravenous needle to SGT Stephanie N. Wammock of Surgeon Cell, Headquarters Company, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. 5

with our help, we can save. And, there basic, simple steps are what sends a are people who will die no matter what father home to his wife and children.” we do,” she said. For an American CLS instructor, Wammock, one of two instruc- educating foreign service members in tors assigned to teach the class, is a Army techniques can be exceptionally licensed practical nurse (LPN) in the rewarding. “The French were so moti- fields of trauma, women’s surgery and vated and attentive during the training obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) because it was so new to them,” said at the Medical Center of Central Geor- Wammock. gia. SFC Mark Southerland, a fellow Epidote service members don’t CLS instructor and biomedical elec- usually have the opportunity to learn tronics manager at Piedmont Fayette these skills – they’re only taught basic Hospital, has previously deployed to first aid by the French military. “Un- Bosnia and Iraq, and learned from his less you are a French doctor or medic, French students that, “It’s important it is forbidden to insert intravenous for us to know what skills they have needles, nasal tubes, or needles in the before we go out in the field with chest,” said Premier Maitre (master them. sergeant) Laurent Lecrivain of the “Teaching them gave me the oppor- French navy, who is attached to the tunity to gain insight into their coun- French military’s Epidote 24. “For me, try’s military medical culture,” said it’s very important to have this train- Southerland. “I learned what kinds of ing… it’s necessary.” medical treatments and systems their Epidote 24 members learned how to doctors and medics receive. secure an open airway, how to insert “I, for one, would like to see more a nasopharyngeal airway (nasal tube); coalition training. It opens up your how many breaths-per-minute is con- perspective to the different cultures sidered a normal rate of respiration, you’re fighting along side,” he added. and how to insert an intravenous nee- “It’s a lot like Army Basic Combat dle (IV) into the body to boost blood Training; it breaks down the stereo- volume by replenishing fluids. types you once had.” “This training is what saves people’s lives,” said Wammock. “These 6

Beans and Bullets Teaching Afghans a new way to manage supply issues Story by SPC Jennifer C. Eddy ANP hasn’t fully developed that yet,” CJTF Phoenix PAO said 1LT William Gaefcke, of the 48th CAMP PHOENIX, Afghanistan, IBCT. “Even instilling some of the Aug. 20, 2009 — Leaders from the basic functions is a challenge because Afghan National Police (ANP), Re- Afghanistan only has 15 percent pow- gional Police Advisory Command er throughout the country.” (RPAC), Kabul, and coalition forces In addition to technological hurdles, met here recently to address logistical the Afghan supply system has histori- obstacles, as well as countering fraud- cally relied on techniques developed in ulent activity in the supply system, and the Soviet-era, such as hoarding sup- the implementation of more accurate plies that can be meted out at a later record keeping. time, Gaefcke added. This was the first meeting of its “In the Soviet supply system, they kind between the key ANP and RPAC (Soviets) would come in with a truck- leadership of the 48th Infantry Bri- load of stuff that they would dump off gade Combat Team (IBCT) and 33rd at a warehouse, and say, ‘This is all IBCT. Afghan and American officials the stuff you are getting for the win- see this type of meeting as imperative ter,’ and they wouldn’t be back for six to building the national police force months,” said 1LT Bryan Addington, into a well-trained, equipped and self- another 48th Brigade officer. “For the sufficient force. Afghans, it was feast or famine, and During the meeting at the Kabul they had to develop the technique of City Police Center (KCPC), com- hoarding to survive.” mander LTG Abdul Rahman spoke for While the objective of RPAC Sol- the ANP saying, “We need supplies diers is to help the Afghan Police and equipment, but also cooperation move away from stockpiling supplies, from each other if we are to establish they are finding that they must still a good system.” The lack of equip- adapt to it. ment includes computers, among other “We incorporate the Soviet style things. “In most cases they have to into the mentoring process, we don’t write things down because they don’t disregard it whatsoever,” said Gae- have computers,” said COL Anthony fcke. “We take something they’ve Libri of the 48th IBCT. “When you already learned and add to its founda- ask for a long list of weapons it might tion.” take them hours to write that list.” Another apparent challenge is “Our reporting typically requires fraud. It takes hard work, communica- spreadsheets, databases and some tion and patience for Regional Divi- form of logical organization, and the sion Advisory Command (RDAC) Sol- 7

CWO 2 Robert Stiner of Nahunta (center) demonstrates to Afghan National Police how to properly inventory weapons by serial number. (Contributed photo) diers and Afghan Police to establish and have arrested those involved.” enough trust to accurately spot fraud In addition to aggressive action with in the ANP ranks. “When you against fraud, the recent increase in take lists from KCPC and compare it the total number of PMTs has yielded to what police districts (PDs) actually some benefits. have there are a lot of shortages,” said “When I led Team 3 with the 33rd CPT Robert J. Martin, RDAC Police IBCT, I had 10 ANP PDs,” Adding- Mentor Team (PMT) 8 leader. “I don’t ton explained. “We never really had a know why that is; it could be because chance to sit down and thoroughly dis- someone at the district took the stuff cuss what they had. Now there are 11 and sold it, or it could be that KCPC teams, each team has two or three dis- directors haven’t updated the informa- tricts and they can spend all day there tion in awhile.” or even come back the next day. “No doubt, there is fraud out there, “A quarter of our job is tedious ad- and when we identify it, we fix it. The ministrative paperwork and training ANPs have a desire to work with us them in how to use their system,” he and fix the problem.” added Libri. added. “If we don’t teach them how “The Afghan government, and those in then we’d be doing their job for them charge of the Afghan National Police, and we’d never leave, we’d be here have taken action 100 percent of the forever.” time when we have identified fraud 8

Left: A young Afghan boy shows his support for presidential candidate Abdullah Abdullah in the Mir Bacheh marketplace. Local Afghans weigh-in on presidential election Story and photos by SPC Jennifer C. Eddy MIR BACHEH, Afghanistan, Headquarters in Kabul, near the U.S. CJTF Phoenix IX PAO Aug. 21, 2009 — On the outskirts of embassy. Kabul, it was business as usual for lo- Fear wasn’t the only deterrent for cal residents and shopkeepers the day some local voters. Trust was also an after the Afghan presidential election. issue. Some voters were appreciative Most area residents interviewed of coalition forces, but were still skep- said they felt safe and content on elec- tical about how the elections were run. tion day. “There were no ‘accidents’ in “Some people voted 5, 6, 10 times; the area,” said Shafiq, a shop owner in there’s no way to track it with the the local market. “It was good, and I ink,” said Moheyedin, a local resident, felt pretty safe. referring to the vote-tracking method “At the last elections there were of dipping voters’ fingers in indelible only two polling areas in the district,” ink to indentify them as having cast said Shafiq, “now, there are 12. Unfor- their votes. “They should be given tunately, there wasn’t a huge turnout individual identification so there is no because of the car bomb a few days voter fraud.” ago.” Even as some questioned aspects That suicide car bombing, com- of the day’s events, others felt that the ing on Aug. 15, .according to Re- fundamentals of a successful election uters News Service, killed seven and were present. “Each voter was able wounded another 100. The bomber to vote for the candidate they wanted, apparently targeted the International and it was an election for the people,” Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said Maruf, a salesman. 9

Medical Support provides critical need Story by MAJ Matthew Way Talerico. It was part of a larger plan CAMP PHOENIX, Afghanistan, to counter Taliban influence in Moashi Aug. 12, 2009 — Medical Soldiers where, on nearby roads, coalition forc- from Forsyth’s Company C, 148th es had earlier discovered Improvised Brigade Support Battalion, 48th In- Explosive Devices (IEDs). to a medical professional. Afghan fantry Brigade Combat Team, recently The CMA missions create training doctors took the lead in treating pa- accompanied members of Combined opportunities for mentor teams while tients and providing prognoses. The also providing criti- process is designed to maximize Af- cally needed medical ghan government participation and care to hundreds of interaction with local leadership. Afghans. As part While in Mosahi, medical profes- of new efforts to sionals treated more than 300 Afghans maximize Afghan-to- of all ages in less than five hours. The Afghan interaction, medical assistance often leaves the medical personnel medical teams exhausted from the work behind the constant flow of patients, but, as Reabe scenes when advising noted, “it is always rewarding, though, local doctors on pro- because each CMA we conduct, we’re viding care. “These always able to assist several people in are all key elements critical need of care.” in helping Afghan forces mature to a level where they can assume complete An Afghan Man and child await their opportunity to see control of civil as- doctors during the Civilian Medical Assistance visit at the sistance missions,” Village of Mosahi. (Contributed photo) said Reabe. This particular Joint Task Force Phoenix’s Police mission started early with a 90 min- Mentor Team 3 (PMT) to the village ute convoy to the village. When it of Mosahi in the southern portion of arrived, the team set up a treatment Kabul Province to conduct a Civilian area and pharmacy while an Afghan Medical Assistance (CMA) mission. Army delegation informed the village This mission marked the culmina- elders that the medical clinic was tion of several days planning and coor- open for business. dination by the police mentor team led As people seeking treatment ar- LTC Robin DeLeon examines a Afghan by 1LT Jonathan Reabe and Company rived, they were searched by Afghan boy from the Village of Mosahi. (Contrib- C medical personnel led by CPT Anna police, as a precaution, and assigned uted photo) 10

‘Higher recognition’ Brigade Soldiers receive combat honors atop Afghan summit Story and photos by LTC Gretchen E. Harbin the 48th’s best Soldiers. 48th IBCT PAO In the course of their normal, daily CAMP PHOENIX, Kabul, Af- duties, they face any number of life ghanistan, Aug. 14, 2009 - Earlier and death situations. But, on this day, this year, most of the more than 2,000 they endured a different, more physi- members of Macon’s 48th Infantry cal challenge. Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) pre- The obstacle, this time, wasn’t pared for the mission of mentoring and human in nature, but one of Mother training the Afghan army and Afghan Nature. Mount Gharib Ghar, or “The National Police. Ghar,” as the Soldiers call it, isn’t just At the same time, there were some any mountain. in the brigade training for a slightly Rising out of the landscape near the different, equally challenging and pos- capitol city, The Ghar begins its ascent sibly even more dangerous task. at about 6,100 feet above sea level and They are the Soldiers of the Com- rises to an altitude of 7,245 feet, with bined Joint Task Force (CJTF) Phoe- the climb up at nearly eight-tenths of nix IX Personal Security Detachment a mile. (PSD). On any given day, they have The mission on this particular the job of protecting BG Larry H. day was to climb The Ghar and join Dudney, the CJTF commander, mem- Dudney at the summit. The general bers of his staff and any VIPs who wanted to personally recognize these visit here. All were hand selected from elite Soldiers in a symbolic combat patching ceremony. Awarding and wearing the combat patch has been an Army tradition since 1918. The placing of the patch - in this case, the 48th IBCT flash and thun- derbolt - on the right arm recognizes a Soldier’s participation in combat operations.

SPC Nicholas Brannan (left) and SSG Steven Archer, both Personal Security Detach- ment members, display the detachment guidon. 11

World Wars. The 48th also deployed to Bosnia in 2001 as part of Stabilization Force IX and to Iraq in 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. “You carry on that lineage today with your service here,” he added. “Be proud of who you are and where you come from, and carry that pride with you where ever you go...you’ve earned it.” After receiving his combat patch, PSD team member SPC Roswell McLarin, felt his right shoulder, and said, “I know I’m proud to wear this, SPC Roswell McLarin of the CJTF Phoe- and to be in an organization that has nix Personal Security Detachment, such a distinguished history.” shows off his newly awarded combat It was obvious to everyone standing patch. there on that summit, on that particu- Showing off the patch that signifies lar day, that McLarin’s sentiment was their combat service with the 48th and shared by his teammates. CJTF Phoenix IX, the Soldiers of the PSD now are part of a very long and distinguished line. “The 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team has a long and proud history,” Dudney recalled during the ceremony. “It’s a heritage that dates back to1825.’ Since its inception, the brigade has been involved in numerous deploy- ments, including the Indian Campaign, the American Civil War and both

Soldiers from the Task Force Phoenix IX, and members of Combined Task Force Phoenix Personal Security Detachment gather on Mount Gharib Ghar to receive their combat patches. 12

108th Cav learns the art of Fast Ropes Georgia National Guard According to Army Training Circu- Public Affairs Office lar 21-24, FRIES is employed by small CHARLIE BROWN AIRPORT, units to insert and extract from an area Atlanta – There are times when get- where aircraft cannot land using a ting into or out of an area means doing helicopter, in this case a UH1N-Huey. so by the fastest method possible. And With FRIES, groups of three people depending on the place you want to leave the aircraft by a rope secured to get into, or out of, a helicopter, a long, a stabilization bar extending outward long rope and a whole lot of daring from inside the cabin. most likely will be your only option. Each team member – upon com- That’s why Soldiers, like those of mand – grabs the rope, wraps his feet 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry, sta- around it, swings out and heads for the tioned here, make it their business to ground. know how to do that, do it right and do “Quite a rush when you think it safely. about,” one of the 3rd Squadron troop- Recently troopers of 3rd Squad- ers said with a wide grin after his ron, Georgia’s equivalent to an Army fourth time. Ranger company got together with On the other hand, SPIES provides members of the Georgia State Patrol a form of extraction over short dis- (GSP) Special Weapons and Tactics tances. In this situation, a specially Team and a GSP aviation crew to designed rope is connected to the train – and qualify – using the Fast helicopter – either through the hoist Rope Insertion-Extraction (FRIES) hole in the bottom of the cabin floor or and Special Patrol Insertion-Extraction directly to the bottom of the aircraft, (SPIES) systems. as was the case with the GSP Huey. Some among the 3rd Squadron re- Each team member is connected to the ceived their first-time qualifications, rope, and dangles freely as the aircraft while others refreshed their skills. For moves. the GSP SWAT team and aviators, it This method, according to the was an all too infrequent opportunity troopers and the training circular isn’t to train with a Georgia Army Guard recommended for infiltration because unit. team members are exposed the entire As private and commercial aircraft time. took off and landed nearby, the troop- “And we all know what kind of ers and SWAT team went about the havoc that can wreak on a team trying business of first simulating getting out to get out of enemy territory,” another of the helicopter while it was on the trooper said, just before he and four ground. Eventually the Huey took to others were gently picked up and tak- the air, and circled the grassy enclave en skyward for a short trip around the where the group held its training. training area.

A 3rd Squadron, 108th CAV trooper seems to dangle in mid-air as he heads for the ground in a safe, but hurried fashion after leaving the GSP UH1-N helicopter hovering above him. 13

Members of 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry and the Georgia State Patrol Special Weap- ons and Tactics (GSP SWAT) Team run out and inspect the rope on which they’ll leave the GSP helicopter during training.

While their helicopter hovers several feet above the ground, 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry troopers prepare to make one of the more than 20 descents done during Fast Rope Training. Soldiers of 3rd Squadron, 108th CAV “hit the ropes,” and make their way to the ground where they’ll await their chance to do it again and again to get it right before the training ends. 14

Brigade, others celebrate women’s right to vote Story by SGT Tracy J. Smith chaplain, and COL Vida D. Longmire, 48th IBCT Public Affairs joint operations personnel director for CAMP PHOENIX, Kabul, Af- Combined Security Transition Com- ghanistan, Aug. 26, 2009 – Among mand-Afghanistan were guest speak- the Pashto people there’s a proverb ers at Combined Joint Task Force that embraces the journey toward free- Phoenix Headquarters. dom for these storied people; Qattara Longmire saluted the contribu- Qattara, darya mesha! (Drop by drop, tions of women in the audience, and a river is formed.) pointed out that it was the profes- Its intent is to show how a small, sionalism of women during World seemingly insignificant action can be War I that prompted Congress to pass, the catalyst necessary for affecting and send to the states, the Nineteenth change. Amendment to the Constitution for Members of Ma- ratification. By the summer of 1920, con’s 48th Infantry the amendment, which guarantees a Brigade Combat citizen’s right to vote, regardless of Team (IBCT), gender, was added to the Constitution. along with other “I was surprised to learn,” said American service- Longmire, “that we’re not the first men and women, country to allow women the right to and their coalition vote, that was New Zealand in 1893,” partners, took time Longmire told her audience. “I was from battlefield really surprised to find out that, in operations here to 1918, Germany and the Russian Fed- participate in this eration, both granted women the right year’s Women’s to vote before the United States. It Equality Day. The was no coincidence that this right to “day” honors the vote was granted following the brav- contributions of ery of the women that served in the women throughout Army, Navy and Marines.” history in the fight Some 30,000 women served with for women’s rights. the Army and Navy Nurses Corps, CPT Ester Gant, and as the doors to the military were the Georgia Army opened ever so slightly they served Guard’s first female in Europe. The nation’s second high- 15

est honor, the Distinguished Service anne Williamson, Gant declared that, her vote. Cross, was awarded to three of these “When we are liberated from our own “I want to suggest to you that God 30,000 “trail blazers,” and more than fear, it automatically liberates others.” voted us women in from the beginning 20 were awarded the French Croix de Fearlessness continued as the focus of time,” she said, referencing inter- Guerre. of her speech as she referenced the preted scripture. “I’m glad that I am Longmire said her history lesson Bible story of the Hebrew general Al- a woman. I am glad we have the right made her feel a bit old as she recalled Baraq, whose name in Arabic means to vote.” her youngest sister being a Women’s “lightning.” In the back of the room, SPC Dani- Army Corps enlistee, but her [Long- According to the Book of Judges, elle Bentley, a 48th IBCT logistics mire’s] 28 years in the Army gave her he wouldn’t take his 10,000 Israelites specialist, said she was in awe of special insight into change. And the into battle without the counsel and Gant’s and Longmire’s accomplish- changes have been positive. presence of Deborah, the prophetess ments, but more so their ability to “Changes in the way women are and heroine of the Old Testament. encourage. employed in the Army and changes Deborah, for whom Al-Baraq named Bentley, a full-time college student in human rights all around the world his army, foresaw the death of the and a single parent, was happy to learn have made a difference,” she ex- Canaanite commander, Sisera, at the from these “ladies of the battlefield,” plained reflecting on her 1981 enlist- hand of a woman, Jael. The prophecy and never imagined she would be re- ment. “Back then, women were only was realized, and Jael’s act of courage sponsible for the education of others. allowed to do a select number of jobs. and foresight won the war against the She is assisting the Afghan National We were only allowed to have certain Canaanites for the man of lightning. army (ANA), comprised mostly of types of commands. Now we make a “The battle was won because a men, learn to be accountable for their difference everyday.” woman thought hard, strategically and supplies and their Soldiers. Most im- Gant agreed that military women deliberately about what needed to be portantly, she’s teaching them what have, indeed, come a long way. She, done so an army would be victorious,” she took away from the luncheon — too, felt the challenges of working Gant told her audience. “This is how independence. in an all male environment, and like women think. “For a while, the ANA didn’t have those before her, she was determined “To work cohesively so that we be- any type of structure in how they went to succeed. She even went so far as to come one strong unit, one strong fam- about their jobs, so we are helping to call women in the military the “jewels ily, one strong force to be reckoned create that structure. The entire 48th of freedom.” with,” she said. Brigade is…how can I put it,” thinking “When you get a good woman, you Engaging the crowd, Gant had all about what she’d just learned, “putting get a good weapon and a force to be women stand and, in an act of solidar- its mark on history.” reckoned with,” Gant said. Taking a ity with their Afghan sisters, raise the quote from author, and lecturer, Mari- symbolic finger that would validate 16

165th firefighters set national record for excellence Story by Capt Amy Sandbothe, men and women not only meet the Photo by SSgt Mary Marchese definition of courage, they exceed it to 165th Airlift Wing Public Affairs such a degree other fire departments SAVANNAH — Most firefighters honor them. Their courage is fed by will discuss their job description with their training, and their training shines great pride. Running into a burning through each time the alarm sounds. building when most are running out of For their work, the men and women it is incredibly brave and admirable. of the 165th Airlift Wing Fire De- Running into a burning building, partment were recently awarded the however, is somewhat of a light duty Air National Guard Fire Chiefs As- assignment for the firefighters of the sociation Fire Department of the Year 165th Airlift Wing, and is considered Award, also known as the CMSgt an appropriate vacation activity. Re- Edward W. Wolbert Award. The 165th cently, one firefighter ran into a burn- is the only department in the nation to ing building to rescue an occupant have received this honor three times, while on his honeymoon in Key West, and it achieved this in less than a de- Fla. The mayor of Tybee Island, Jason cade. Buelterman, was so impressed by the This past year, the 50 firefighters as- heroic actions taken by the Tybee resi- signed to the 165th responded to more dent that he declared Aug. 29th “Law- than 350 alarms, including 140 medi- rence Edgerly Day.” cal emergencies and 22 motor vehicle For more serious assignments fire- accidents. The unit was nominated fighters in the 165th run towards air- for the Georgia Medal of Valor for its craft filled with thousands of gallons members’ brave actions in responding of jet fuel. They run forward knowing to the Imperial Sugar Refinery explo- there’s little possibility of escape if an sion in February 2008. explosion oc- The award was presented in Dallas, curs, and they Texas, during the Department of De- train physi- fense Fire and Emergency Conference cally each day in August. More than 10,000 firefight- to ensure they ers from across the nation attended, can run as fast and fire trucks lined city blocks farther as possible in than the eye could see. order to protect Not only did the department receive others. These the annual award for the most out- 17

standing department, Garrett Bodaford mander, said “I am always proud to received the Air National Guard Fire see the men and women of our unit Chiefs Association Civilian Firefighter rewarded when they achieve mission of the Year Award, also known as “The success to the degree these folks have. Chief Wayne Farrar Award.” Bodaford The firefighters’ avid determination was among the first emergency responders to arrive at the Imperi- al Sugar Refinery, and quickly volunteered to become the department’s training officer when the opportunity became available in 2008 Col Todd Freese- man, Mission Support Group commander noted, “Attending the awards ceremony really drives home the importance the national achievements of this department. We see its consistent level of excellence on a daily basis, and to personally witness it receive the national attention it truly de- serves, is very mean- 165th Airlift Wing firefighters extinguish flames from an engine fire during a training exercise. ingful for the department and the 165th Airlift Wing.” and commitment to achieve more, and Lt Col Salvador Sancheztroche, to become better assets to the base and Civil Engineering Squadron com- community, is truly inspiring.” 18

Did you know? A look at Georgia Guard history him on the inside. Articles in the is- The new magazine was free and sue included the Army Day parade in was distributed to all Georgia National The first Guardsman (then named Macon by units of the 121st Infantry, Guard units, and published “in the The Georgia Guardsman) magazine the second annual encampment of the interests of Georgia Guardsmen spe- was published and distributed in May 108th Anti Aircraft Artillery Brigade, cifically, and to serve as a permanent 1949 and was an official publication unit news from around the state, and historical record of National Guard of the National Guard Association of among the photographs a picture of a activities.” Georgia. The association financed the Piaggio P-166 Flying Boat assigned to approved monthly magazine in the in- the 158th Fighter Squadron. terest of the Georgia National Guard. The 1958 Report of the Adjutant CPT Harold E. Kite, commander of Its first managing director was MAJ General noted that, due to officers the 201st Ordnance Medium Mainte- Homer Flynn. being called to active duty for the Ko- nance Company, made the news when rean War (1950-1953), the he won the 200-mile, caution-free association did not have NASCAR National Daytona Beach- sufficient revenue to con- Road Course stock car race with a new tinue the magazine’s pub- world record. Kite, a Georgia Army lication, and in the spring National Guardsman from East Point, of 1951 ceased its produc- in his first start, averaged 81.75 miles tion. The Report adds that per hour driving a 1949 Lincoln. He the magazine was popular completed the race in 2 hours, 26 min- enough to press for con- utes and 30 seconds, and was awarded tinued publication under a trophy and $1,000. state financing. Kite joined the Georgia National The Adjutant General, Guard in May 1947 as executive of- MG Ernest Vandiver, au- ficer of the 201st, and became its com- thorized the Public Infor- mander in February 1948. In late sum- mation Office to produce mer 1950, he moved to the inactive the magazine in a similar roll of the National Guard. Kite was a format, and in November World War II veteran, serving with the The initial annual subscription rate 1951 The Guardsman was published. 1st Armored Division Tank Regiment was $2.25, or twenty-five cents a copy In his initial message, Vandiver and the Armored Ordnance Mainte- until the start of 1950 when the annual wrote, “This is The Guardsman – an nance Company. rate was reduced to $2. A page in the entirely new publication sponsored Kite continued to compete in NAS- February 1950 magazine invites offi- entirely by the Department of Defense, CAR races in the following years, cers of the Georgia National Guard to Military Division, for the enlighten- though without the success of his join the association for $3 a year, “of ment of the officers and men of the first race. His NASCAR race in 1965 which $2 goes for a one year subscrip- Georgia National Guard. The Guards- was tragic in that he did not survive a tion to The Georgia Guardsman, the man will be independent of the Na- crash. He was 43. official publication of the association.” tional Guard Association of Georgia, *photo is from The Georgia Governor Herman E. Talmadge’s and will be separate and distinct from Guardsman, February 1950 magazine. picture was featured on the May 1949 its former publication, The Georgia cover, with a letter of support from Guardsman…..” 19

Bulldogs wear sticker honoring 48th Infantry Article and photo courtesy of the Uni- wrote. “A thought that I had to honor do P. Morales. versity of Georgia Sports Information those soldiers and families whom The Georgia staff made the deci- ATHENS — The Georgia Bulldogs have paid the ultimate sacrifice while sion to place a sticker on the helmet of wore a helmet sticker to honor the serving the 48th IBCT, the state of every Georgia player for a particular Georgia-based 48th Infantry Brigade Georgia and the U. S. is this: I wanted game. Combat Team (IBCT) during the to know if coach Richt and the uni- Last summer, Richt was among a UGA game against South Carolina on versity would consider sewing on the group of five college football coaches Saturday, Spt. 12. The 1-inch by 1.5- 48th IBCT patch on No. 48 during this who toured, and visited, with U.S. inch sticker is a replica of the combat football season?” troops in Germany and throughout the team’s shoulder sleeve insignia. The 48th IBCT Soldiers who have Middle East. “When I heard that the 48th was been killed in action are: 1SG John D. “After that trip, I certainly have a from throughout the state of Georgia, I was excited about the opportunity,” head coach Mark Richt said. “Hope- fully, this is a sign of our appreciation for all the men and women who are serving and for their families. We owe them all the support we can give.” About the honor, COL Lee Dur- ham, 48th commander said, “As the commander of the 48th Brigade, I am proud to be associated, and serve, with the quality of Soldiers in the Georgia Army National Guard. To have a great program like the University of Georgia honor their service is truly humbling. I know it means a great deal to all the Soldiers here in Afghanistan and to their families at home, be they UGA fans or not; on Saturday we all rooted for the Bulldogs.” Richt was originally contacted this summer via email by LTC John Gen- try, a member of the 48th who also serves as the director of Oconee Coun- Blair; MAJ Kevin M. Jenerette; SFC greater appreciation for their sacri- ty Parks and Recreation Department. John C. Beale; SGT Brock H. Chav- fice,” Richt said. “To be there, and see “To date, we have lost seven sol- ers; SGT Issac L. Johnson, Jr.; SGT them face-to-face ,was definitely an diers in the line of duty,” Gentry Jeffery W. Jordon; and SGT Raymun- eye-opening experience.” 20

Guardsman take part in annual combatives competition Story by LTC Brock Gaston a great experience for all of our com- State Training Officer petitors who took this competition on FORT BENNING, Aug. 30, 2009 short notice. – Two Georgia Guardsmen finished This was Gaston’s second competi- in the top five of their categories in tion in as many weeks, having earlier the Army National Guard Combatives competed in the World Master’s Judo Championship held here. This national Championships in Atlanta. He fought competition pitted teams in hand-to- in the under 100 Kilos weight class for hand combat. brown belt competitors and took the SGT Kenneth Silver Medal in that event. Jackson and SFC “All of our fighters did a great job,” Erick Green success- said Gaston, “ and put in some hard fully fought their way training in a short period of time to be into the matches for ready for this competition. They are third place. to be commended for their hard work, Jackson, at 155 dedication and determination stepping pounds, was up first on the mat with some really tough for Georgia. He was fighters from other states.” able to nimbly work Georgia will field a team to com- his opponent into a pete again in March 2010 where we submission late in expect to be a force to be reckoned the first round with with in the team competition. Any SSG Robert Taylor watches as Cadet Ryan McCormick a triangle choke. He Soldiers interested in training to com- and Airmen 1st Class Kyle Drain compete in the consola- was awarded the 3rd pete in March are encouraged to con- tion championship Aug. 1 at Smith Fitness Center, at Fort Benning (Photo by Rachel L. Watkins, The Bayonet) Place Medal for his tact Gaston, 560th BFSB XO and State hard fought perfor- Training Officer at 678-569-3952 or mances during this two-day event. e-mail [email protected]. Green fought for the 3rd Place mil. Medal in the 205 and up weight class. The tournament was hosted by He battled his way in a hard fought the Army National Guard Warrior match and lost by submission late in Training Center (WTC). The fighters the second Round. He was awarded competed in a graduated set of rules a fourth place finish. His finish was that required skills in ground fighting, astounding considering he had only striking and submission techniques. trained for about two weeks before the The objective of the competition competition. was to motivate individual Soldiers to The team from Georgia was com- train their warrior tasks and drills, re- prised of the following Soldiers: LTC act to man-to-man contact and inspire Christopher Voso (205>), LTC Brock Guard units around the U.S. and its Gaston (205>), SFC Erick Green Territories to support their Soldiers in (205>) and SGT Kenneth Jackson the arena of Combatives. Competitors (155). All Georgia fighters made it to were able to match their skills against the intermediate rounds. the best fighters in the National Guard. The team was coached by local The competition pitted fighters in Haganah instructor Misha Novitzky, a seven set weight classes with a modi- doctorate student at Georgia Tech and fied double elimination tournament a mixed martial arts expert. This was format. 21

The Georgia Guard launches new Web site Enhanced resources on gadod.net include online photo gallery, streaming media, and new stories about Georgia’s Soldiers’ and Airmen. Georgia National Guard direct access to all these resources Public Affairs Office for all audiences. And if a user is not browsing the Internet for engaging sure exactly where to look for specific ideas and images. ATLANTA, Sept. 9, 2009— The information on gadod.net, the newly Design team newly redesigned Web site of the developed site-wide search engine will The Web team, led by LTC Beth Georgia Department of Defense went help. Thelen , Ken Baldowski and Beryl live Sept. 9 on the World Wide Web. A feature of gadod.net’s homepage Diamond, has been developing the Gadod.net aims to extend the reach is the National Guard Bureau widget, new design over the past year, working of the Georgia Guard by serving a which provides images and infor- with staff to better support the Georgia broad audience of Soldiers’, Airmen, mation on the NGB website (www. Guard’s multifaceted mission. and members of the general public ng.mil). It can take visitors quickly to “This new design was created spe- interested in the events and people of the latest news from NGB. cifically for our online audience of the Georgia National Guard. The new The site’s Video Gallery features a both general visitors and traditional Web site features expanded content flash video player, that will showcase guardsmen,” says Perry. “Packed with and streaming media, photo galler- video packages from the Public Affairs high-quality videos, news and stories ies, units, and deployment news. The Office as well as from the 124th Mo- that will be constantly updated, the redesign incorporates bold colors and bile Public Affairs Detachment. Web site will help make the site more graphics, and completely new naviga- The Photo Gallery provides users attractive and accessible to a global tional tools. access to photos taken by Georgia’s audience of all ages and backgrounds.” “Our online visitors will now ex- public affairs staff. Visitors will be perience a more vibrant and seamless able to download the hi-resolution ver- view of the entire Georgia Guard and sion of the image for per- its deep online resources,” says SPC sonal use. Michael Perry, project developer for The Publications gives gadod.net. “In the same way that the visitors a place where they creation of the dod.state.ga.us united can download state pub- all of our news information in one lications like the Georgia physical location, the redesign of the Guardsman and the air dod.state.ga.us site creates a new home Guard’s The Boars Tale. in cyberspace for the wide-ranging re- The Georgia Guard’s sources of the Guard. online resources are as Content deeper and more acces- diverse as the visitors who sible use them. Gadod.net serves In addition to a searchable news Guardsmen, families and catalogue and other online research the general public. The site tools, the new Web site offers users will also appeal to mem- stories related to the jobs of Soldiers bers of the general public and Airmen in the Georgia Guard. The who may know little about site is organized to provide quick and the Guard but simply enjoy 22

169th Soldiers deploy HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD SAVANNAH, Sept 1, 2009-More than 100 Georgia Army Guardsmen from Detachment 1, 1st Battalion, 169th General Avia- tion Regiment, were honored by family, friends and fellow Soldiers during a departure ceremony at Army Air Facility No. 3. The 169th then headed to Fort Sill, Okla. for post- mobilization training. After completing its training there, the unit will deploy for a year to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as part of Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix. Once in country, crew members of the 169th’s CH- 47 Chinook helicopters will partner with the Alabama Army National Guard to support ground troops and deliver humanitarian aid wherever needed. This is the second time the Soldiers of the 169th have supported Operation Enduring Freedom. Previ- ously, the 169th air crews flew more than 7,500 combat From the left, Sherry Adamson, two-year-old Jeremiah and hours without loss of life or aircraft. In 2005, not long five-year-old Abby Kate, say goodbye to WO1 Jeff Adamson after their return, 169th air crews, the unit immediately and other Citizen Soldier’s of Savannah-based Detachment 1, 1st Battalion, 169th General Aviation Brigade. Adamson went into domestic operations supporting Hurricanes is among the more than 73 Guardsmen who left for Fort Sill, Katrina and Wilma relief efforts. and twill deploy for a year to Afghanistan. Moore takes baton at GSDF Band Story by CPL Diane Hawkins-Cox, cessors. Moore retired from the Army 105th GSDF Band following nearly 22 years service with The 105th Georgia State De- six Army bands and the Armed Forces fense Force Band has performed School of Music. He excelled as a dozens of events but its most French horn player, drum major and recent performance was person- composer/arranger. al -- the change-of-command Moore said he focus on increas- ceremony for the band itself. ing the band’s capabilities so it can On July 25, 2009, CW3 also perform as several smaller musi- Glenn Moore took command of cal groups – woodwind choir, brass the band from 1LT John Miller, ensemble, jazz band, and ceremonial who has been promoted to cap- band – in order to increase the band’s tain and is now in the communi- versatility. cations detachment of the 911th Toward this effort, Moore led a 105th Band first sergeant, SSG Calvin Wal- Support Battalion. brass ensemble this past Memorial droup, preparing to assist BG Jerry Bradford Chief Moore is the band’s Day, at services in Fairburn to great (GSDF Commander) transfer the staff of leader- fourth commander, and is build- acclaim and rave reviews. ship from CPT John Miller to CW3 Glenn Moore. ing on the success of his prede- 23

Airmen return home to eager families Story and photo by Justin Burrows Barrow. Savannah’s WTOC-TV Capt Will St. Clair said he wanted SAVANNAH — On a weekend that to eat some good BBQ and watch families get together around the grill some Georgia football. and say goodbye to summer, these But just having them home is what families gathered to await the arrival matters the most. of their loved ones. “Regardless of how you feel about “The first thing I know I’m going to the conflict itself you just have to love do is run up and give him a hug,” said Ayana Johson. The 165th Airlift Wing Airmen and 224th Joint Communications Squadron returned home from their recent deployment to Iraq. And while it’s a joyous day for the waiting families, their presence means that much and more to the men and women in uniform returning home. “There’s so much support behind the scenes that people don’t see. The community, the kids, the extended family, and we really need to recognize all of them because no Airman does it by him- self or herself. It’s everybody that has to help out,” said Maj Charlie West. “It’s just great to have them Family members wave flags while they await the return of their Airmen. home in their loved ones arms today,” said Lt Col Deborah Nazimiec. our Airmen and Soldiers. These are And as most of the tears were true American heroes. They’re serving wiped away and frenzy of hugs ended, all of us by what they are doing,” said there was a common theme on what Maj Gen Scott Hammond, Georgia Air these Airmen missed the most and Guard commander. what they planned to do next. “And that makes this reunion one “The food, the people, and most of we all share together.” all your family,” smiled MSgt Jamal 24

Atlanta Motor Speedway select Army Guard widow to serve as Grand Marshal HAMPTON, Aug. 20, 2009 – The the Degree Brand team heard her hus- widow and family of fallen Georgian band’s courageous story. Guardsman John Beale were honored Crystal not only represented her recently as they helped kick off the late husband on race day, but also the running of the “DegreeV12 300” at the families of many other wounded and Atlanta Motor Speedway. departed American Soldiers. Crystal Beale of McDonough “We were honored to host Crystal hserved as grand marshal for the race. Beale as our grand marshal for the De- Beale’s husband, SFC John C. Beale, gree V12 300,” said Ed Clark, Atlanta died June 4 in Kapisa, Afghanistan, at Motor Speedway president and general age 39, from wounds suffered from an manager. “Crystal’s presence will not only serve as a memorial to her husband, John, but also to all of Ameri- ca’s heroes who have been lost serving to protect our freedoms.” A native of Riverdale, John C. Beale served in the United States Army from 1989 through 1994, and was deployed in Operation Desert Storm. He returned to service in 2005 with the Army National Guard. In a civilian role, John served the Clayton County Water Authority, and was active in the authority’s youth programs. He also enjoyed assisting with career days at local schools. Married since 1990, The Beales moved to McDonough in 1997 where they resided with their two children, Christopher and Ca- IED and small arms fire. lye. “My husband would be very happy “We had the forbidden conversation with our community if he knew the about what would happen,” said Crys- level of outpouring and support,” said tal, describing a pre-deployment con- Crystal. “Being selected is very hum- versation with her late husband. “He bling, and it was a very big surprise. told me, ‘You guys will be taken care of My children are ecstatic and we’re through the military and even our com- honored to be able to participate.” munity.’ I never could have imagined Beale was selected to serve as Grand all the support – it’s been amazing. My Marshal for the Degree V12 300 after husband would be very proud.”