VOL 02, ISSUE 01

JANUARY 10, 2016

HELICOPTER MAINTAINING LLC GUNFIGHTER THE GUARD PROMOTED SEVERAL STATES 3666TH SUPPORT PINNING CEREMONY COMPETE IN INAGURAL MAINTENANCE COMPANY HELD FOR BRIG. GEN. APACHE FLY-IN TRAINS IN IOWA JOHN E. HOEFERT TAG’S PRIORITY: NO ONE GETS LEFT BEHIND That’s like losing half a platoon, half a flight reach everybody. Sometimes it can be challenging or an entire detachment in one month. That’s 24 to stay in touch with other Guard members between patriots leaving behind their teammates, families drill, but it’s essential to the unit and crucial to the and friends. individual in need. None of us is more or less important than the It’s important to remember how critical each of other. That message could not be truer now as we you is to the team. If you’re not sure if someone in face a time of year that we’ve had challenges in the this organization thinks your service is critical, call past with mitigating suicide and making sure that me. I mean that. I want that to be at every level, we reach out to every member of our team. I think but if the only place you know to call is there, call it’s important, not just at this time of year, but for me. We’ll figure out a way to get someone out to the entire year to remind every Soldier, Airman make sure that we address your needs and make and civilian employee here in the Arizona National sure that we pick up all of our Soldiers and Airmen. Guard that each of you is valuable to the team. I We’re not going to have anyone left behind. would just reach out to every commander, to every MAJ. GEN. MICHAEL T. MCGUIRE firstline supervisor and every first sergeant that Article by The Adjutant General, AZ National Guard you make a personal connection with every Soldier MAJ. GEN. MICHAEL T. MCGUIRE In October 2015 more than two dozen Guard and Airman in your flight, platoon, company or The Adjutant General, AZ National Guard members lost their lives to suicides, accidents and squadron. If we each reach out to three or four illnesses. Airmen or Soldiers in our organization we could

CHAPLAINS COLUMN: AFFINITY he year was 2007, the I use the word “affinity” on purpose. We’ve with America’s principles – striving to make it a place was Mehtar Lam, all seen the “John 3:16” banners at sporting peace-harboring, human rights-loving, freedom- TLaghman Province, events, maybe have channel-surfed past a Billy promoting place on our globe. Afghanistan and the globe was creeping up on Graham crusade on television – “… for God so And this was the thought toward God’s affinity. that “most wonderful time of year” – Christmas. loved the world …” Many of us know or have In the person and work of His Son, Jesus, God left The division (then the 82nd Airborne) chaplain’s heard somewhere that God is love, and God loves the glories (comforts?) of Heaven, the most perfect office had decreed Operation Santa’s Sleigh: you. But do we know what it means to celebrate place with no warts at all, to set this broken world every Forward Operating Base, Combat Out Post, that “most wonderful time of year?” Even more right with Himself. In a bent and broken world, Fire-Base or even hasty fighting position that specifically, my question to the men and women God comes and offers true peace, Designer-infused was temporary home to a platoon-sized element who protect our great nation and our state, do you expression of His image (human rights), and or greater was going to have at least a Christmas know that your calling echoes the work of God, lasting/eternal freedom. Chapel service offered to them. All rotary air assets Himself? Not only is your “being” (yourself, your I may not have an explicit “bible verse,” rather were dedicated to transporting Religious Support essence) created “in the likeness and image of God” its more my inferences from what I read in ancient Teams to remote grid coordinates throughout the but also what you do imitates a portion of what He scriptures, but perhaps it is that God has a certain theatre of operations. has done. Let me explain. enjoyment, a closer alikeness … a particular affinity My chaplain assistant and I conducted seven I am without apology an “American in His love of our troops. As the season of cheer chapel services in 48 hours. Amusing thoughts exceptionalist” – America, warts and all, is a gift to moves into the distant rearview, the holiday spirit aside, I do distinctly remember sitting in our FOB’s the globe from humanity’s Creator. While typeset has come upon us and begins to fade, consider His makeshift, Bushmaster Chapel with Task Force and space don’t allow me to elaborate here on offer in light of your service. As uniform-wearers, Diamondback. It was one of our slower spots in all that this means, suffice it to say, America is a we may have an “inkling” more than many of what the daily battle-rhythm. While maybe not a full- place like no other. It may not be heaven, but at a it is that Christmas meant. Would you receive such blown epiphany, the thought struck me about our minimum, it’s a pretty comfortable place to exist. a “Gift”? Soldiers, our servicemembers of all branches, and Our service members suit up and send themselves the affinity God may have for them before, during into harm’s way. For our unit – the storied 1-158th Article by and after mission execution and this is whether IN Bushmasters. Our men and women time and MAJ. CHRISTOPHER MELVIN they “know” Him or not or are even particularly again have left the comforts of home, America, to 198th RSG Brigade Chaplain religious or not. travel to broken nations to “fix” it or “make it right”

01 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD COMMAND & CHAPLAIN The Adjutant General speaks about one of his most important topics, COMMAND STAFF staying in touch with your fellow Soldiers or Airmen to prevent suicide. The chaplain writes about affinity. Commander CPT. JOHN DECKER

1 1ST. SGT. MIKE MAJOR GUARD NEWS First Sergeant In this issue, the AZ ARNG LCC is promoted to brigadier general; AZ ARNG general retires after 39 years; Vietnam Vets get a well deserved Command 1ST LT. MACARIO welcome home; guard member wins her fight with cancer and more. Information MORA 3 Officer PHOTO STORY South Carolina National Guard takes home the top team award in the inaugural AH-64D Apache Gunfighter Fly-in helicopter competition in STAFF Marana, Arizona, featuring guard units from seven states. 13 Senior Editor SGT. 1ST CLASS PHOTO STORY / COVER PHOTO DARYL MADRID The 3666th Support Maintenance Company take their training halfway across the country to Camp Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center in SGT. RICK HOPPE Johnston, Iowa. Layout Editor 15 Photo Editor STAFF SGT. ADRIAN UPCOMING EVENTS BORUNDA Spend some quality time with your family this winter or take time to unwind after the holidays by taking advantage of one of the many Social Media SPC. ABRAHAM events Arizona has going on, from Strong Bonds to film festivals. MORLU

19 STAFF SGT. BRIAN BOOK REVIEW Staff Writer Stephen W. Sears illustrates the the tactical prowess commanded by BARBOUR confederate generals to prove victorious at Chancelorville, read how he did it in this quarters’ book review! Staff Writer SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY

20 Staff Writer SGT. REBA BENALLY TRAVEL & LEISURE One of the best ways to get the most bang for your buck while attempting a stay-cation is to visit any of the 22 National Parks here in Staff Writer SGT. AMBER BOHLMAN Arizona. Read about one of those parks only hours away. 21 Staff Writer SPC. LIZ SMITH BEST SQUAD - 158TH CSSB FTX ON THE COVER To nominate Guardsmen for the Rough Rider, please contact the 123rd MPAD PHOTO BY STAFF SGT. BRIAN BARBOUR

PV2 SAUL CARRASCO PFC. JESUS DIAZ Arizona Spc. Matthew J. King, a native of Scottsdale, PFC. JARED VOORHEES SPC. RIAN GREENWALT Ariz., and an allied trades specialist uses SPC. FRANK ALLEN SPC. KATELYN LIDDELL a metal inert gas welder to fuse two sheets of steel Sept. 22, 2015 at Camp SPC. ROGER CONANT SPC. JACOB RHODES Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center in Johnston, Iowa. Conitnue the story on SGT. BRANT BOBBY SGT. MICHAEL RESTREPO page 15. STAFF SGT. BRYN CLEMONTS

The Rough Rider is an unofficial magazine published under provision of AR-360-81 for the Arizona Army National Guard by the 123rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 5425 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008-3425. The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Department of the Army or the Arizona Army National Guard. Any unsolicited submissions will be subject to revision due to space limitations, security, accuracy and propriety.

facebook.com/123rdMobilePublicAffairsDetachment VOLUME 02: ISSUE 01 123rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Phoenix, Arizona @123rdmpad 123rdmpad Commercial: 602-267-2789 DSN: 853-2789 email: [email protected] @123rdmpad youtube.com/123rdmpad www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD GUARDSMEN ON AZ ARNG LCC PROMOTED TO THE STREET BRIGADIER GENERAL WE ASK GUARDSMEN WHAT THEIR NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS ARE.

SPC. RODOLFO GARCIA “My New Years resolution is: I plan on finishing school, and I plan on doing that by staying focused.”

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael T. McGuire, the Adjutant General of the Arizona National Guard, administers the oath of office to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. John E. Hoefert, land component commander for the Arizona Army National Guard, during a ceremony Oct. 18 in Russell Auditorium at Papago Park Military Reservation in Phoenix.

Arizona Army National Guard Land Component Hoefert described his promotion to brigadier Commander Brig. Gen. John E. Hoefert was promoted general as “a humbling experience.” and reaffirmed his oath of office in a ceremony held in “For all of you here today, my promotion to the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, Soldiers brigadier general would not have been possible and Airmen from the Arizona National Guard, on without the impact you have had on my life and Papago Park Military Reservation, Oct. 18. military career … and I remain forever grateful,” Hoefert joined the Arizona National Guard in Hoefert said. 2001 and has since served in several key positions to Hoefert took the opportunity to share his SPC. HANNAH WHITNEY include command of the 852nd Rear Area Operations leadership philosophy and call for the organization’s “I don’t have a New Years resolution Center and the 158th Maneuver Enhancement leaders to focus on taking the time to know their because I try to better myself each Brigade. Hoefert has served as the Land Component Soldiers, understand their Soldiers, and motivate and and every day.” Commander since April as a traditional guardsman. mentor their Soldiers. “It is so critical that we have a Citizen Soldier “It’s about caring for people,” Hoefert said. leading the Arizona Army National Guard, which is Hoefert graduated from Central Washington the labor force and largest component of this agency University in 1989 with a bachelor of science degree in [DEMA], and will be for as far as the eye can see,” said flight technology and was commissioned through the Maj. Gen. Michael T. McGuire, the adjutant general of Reserve Officer Training Corps Program in Ellensburg. Arizona. He also holds a Master of Strategic Studies degree from Hoefert’s wife, father and daughter had the honor the U.S. Army War College. Throughout his career, of pinning on his new rank, while his son participated Hoefert has participated in numerous operational from out of state through video chat. McGuire and domestic response efforts from Operation Noble presided over the ceremony and administered the Eagle to Operation Jump Start. In 2010, he deployed oath of office to Hoefert. as a Theater Observation Detachment Officer, Center “From the ranks of the Arizona Army Guard we for Army Lessons Learned, 4th Brigade, 3rd Infantry have an officer who is professional, who understands Division, and Ramadi, Iraq. SPC. TYLER JOHNSON integrity, valor, honor, discipline and loyalty and “My New Years resolution is to go to exudes it in everything he does,” McGuire said of Story by college, and I’ll do that by keeping Hoefert. “He’s a guy that we look at and say, ‘this is a SGT. 1ST CLASS MONETTE WESOLEK focused and keeping my priorities guy who can stand proudly in front of this formation Photo by straight.” as the Army commander and every Soldier will STAFF SGT. BRIAN BARBOUR proudly look to him for guidance.’”

03 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD AZ ARNG GENERAL LEAVES LEGACY OF MENTORSHIP, LEADERSHIP

Arizona National Guard Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Powers, presents Brig. Gen. John Burke with a Minuteman statue as a token of appreciation on behalf of the Arizona Army National Guard during his retirement, Nov. 8. Brig. Gen. John Burke’s retirement from the Arizona Army National Guard marks the end of a 30-year military career.

The Arizona National Guard bid farewell to the troops and to be able to reach out to them as a that when your character is tested, responding with Brig. Gen. John E. Burk in a retirement ceremony command team and that’s been such an honor and honor and integrity in word and deed for the good here Nov. 8, celebrating the general’s contributions a privilege,” said Dr. Nanci Burk. “Today, while of the organization is hard, but the right thing to during his 30-year military career. that marks the end of his 30 years, that’s something do. Personal and professional resilience is required. Burk began his military service in June of 1985 we hope to continue.” Leadership is about doing the hard right over the in the active duty Army as an enlisted Soldier and Capt. Mike Thorlin who served under Burk at easy wrong, and if it were easy, everyone would do commissioned four years later in July 1989. He the brigade level 10 years ago and more recently it. I know our organization has great leaders and joined the Arizona National Guard in 1997. as his aide-de-camp describes his experience potential leaders. Take the time to mentor future Maj. Gen. Michael T. McGuire, the Adjutant working for the general as a “huge growing and leaders and when a Soldier or Airmen says to you, General of the Arizona National Guard presented development opportunity” and says he is grateful “Hey, Sir or Ma’am, do you have a minute?” Say Burk with the Arizona Distinguished Service for the mentorship. “Yes!” every single time, as a 5, 10, or 15 minute Medal. “Being an aide-de-camp I was in a position career development conversation makes a world “We are honored to recognize General Burk for to learn, observe and watch. At each point [of of difference to our Service Members and I enjoyed his over 30 years of dedicated service to both the my service under him] he has been really good every conversation I had like that over the years; I state and the nation,” McGuire said. about, and more into, development and fostering will remember them well.” Leadership is not foreign to Burk as his positions leadership while educating his younger officers as of responsibility over his tenure included multiple opposed to looking at them strictly as a resource,” Story by commands, Chief of Staff of the Southwest Border Thorlin said. “It’s very much a two-way street.” CAPT. MATTHEW MURPHY Security Mission, Deputy Inspector General, Sharing his final thoughts on leadership and Photo by Director of Operations of the Joint Staff and mentorship in an emotional and bittersweet good SGT. 1ST CLASS MONETTE WESOLEK Director Joint Staff. bye, Burk said, “I learned a lot about leadership in His time as a general officer has also had a a 30-year career and about the leader I am. What profound impact on his family. I learned is that listening, building great teams, “The last few years of him in the general position and creating a positive command climate while has been such a benefit for us to be able to serve leading with honor and integrity is essential. And,

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 04 VIETNAM VETERANS RECEIVE WELCOME HOME CELEBRATION 50 YEARS LATER

Vietnam veterans talk during a welcome home event at the Arizona Wing Commemorative Roger Pollard, an officer with the military advisory command – Vietnam, speaks Air Force Museum in Mesa ,Nov. 8. Soldiers from the Arizona National Guard Medical with fellow a Vietnam veteran during a welcome home event at the Arizona Wing Hold Detachment welcomed the veterans 50 years after the first combat Commemorative Air Force Museum. military unit engaged in a combat role in Vietnam.

Arizona National Guard Soldiers attended a members were advised to change into civilian and remembers the flight into Travis Air Force Base welcome home event for Vietnam-era veterans clothes before landing on United States soil to in a plane full of service members returning from at the Arizona Wing Commemorative Air Force Vietnam. Museum in Mesa, Nov. 8. “The pilot came on the speaker and said we The Soldiers from the Medical Hold Detachment were one hour out from landing and he suggested welcomed these veterans 50 years after the first we change out of our uniforms and into civilian United States combat military unit engaged in a clothes because protestors were at the gate,” combat role in Vietnam. I WANT TO MAKE Pollard said. “We are happy to come out and support Operation Welcome Home and other similiar our fellow veterans,” said Sgt. 1st Class Amber SURE WHEN veteran supportive organizations are important Larussa, detachment sergeant for MHD. “Some because service members should never have to of our Soldiers in MHD can’t do traditional VETERANS COME endure what Vietnam Veterans were subjected to military training so this is nice to come out and be coming home from the war. productive in the community.” HOME TODAY THEY “Now even though Vietnam era veterans were Featured speakers included author Mark Berent, ARE TREATED WITH not treated with respect when they arrived home, a combat pilot in SE Asia and author, Roger Parrish, they have insured troops coming home from Iraq a combat pilot in Vietnam and two-time flight THE DIGNITY AND and Afghanistan are treated better than they were leader of the demonstration treated. I want to make sure when veterans come team the Thunderbirds, and Roger Pollard from the RESPECT WE WERE home today they are treated with the dignity and Arizona Wall Project. respect we were not afforded.” “Vietnam era veterans endured a long war, the NEVER AFFORDED. This event completed a mission by finally loss of battle buddies and then came home to an giving some Vietnam Veterans the welcome home ungrateful nation,” said Pollard, an officer with the they deserve. military advisory command – Vietnam. Pollard said Soldiers either returned home to avoid the negative comments hurled by anti-war Story and photos by protests and hecklers or to complete apathy and protestors. SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY refusal to acknowledge the war. Many service Pollard returned to the U.S. in December, 1971,

05 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD AVIATION GUARDSMEN WITH F COMPANY 1-168TH DEPLOY TO KUWAIT

Guardsmen of the 640th Aviation Support Battalion, Arizona Army National Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Powers, Arizona Army National Guard command sergeant major, gave Guard, stand in formation during their deployment ceremony as Col. John the 168th an Arizona flag to fly while deployed overseas during their deployment ceremony Oct. 2. Hoefert, the Land Component commander, gives his remarks Oct. 1.

Arizona National Guardsmen said goodbye to significant than another,” the governor said. “Each The 168th is providing tactical air traffic control family and friends at farewell ceremonies in Marana time a Guardsman is sent away, the impact on the and ground control approach radar services in Air Park and Papago Park Military Reservation Oct. support of Operation Inherent Resolve for their 1 and 2 as they leave home for deployments to the year-long deployment. Middle East. Both units had family in attendence to help send The 640th Aviation Support Battalion ceremony them off. Both units received an Arizona flag to on Oct. 1 was held at the Army Aviation Support take with them to their forward deployed locations Facility No. 2 in Marana, Arizona, and the 168th EACH TIME A to represent the Arizona National Guard. Air Traffic Services Heavy sendoff was Oct. 2 at the GUARDSMAN IS Each unit provides critical mission skills to both Army Aviation Support Facility No. 1 in Phoenix. communities here at home with domestic support The Soldiers trained for months to get to this SENT AWAY, THE missions like fighting forest fires and abroad point. Families and friends attending the 640th’s provinf troop and medical transport while deplyed. emotional ceremony watched on as balloons IMPACT ON THE Both the 168th and the 640th continue the decorated the hangar and Patriot Guard Riders ongoing mission of the Arizona National Guard to stood vigilantly holding American flags. MISSION, ON HIS serve the citizens of Arizona and defend the country “We are really proud of him for serving his abroad when called upon, and the deployments country,” said Laura Duncan, wife of Sgt. Benjamin OR HER FAMILY, ON illustrate the Arizona National Guard lives up to its Duncan, a member of the 640th, who is already motto: Always ready, always there. planning how to stay in touch. OUR COMMUNITIES Over 11,000 Arizona National Guardsmen have “We’ve practiced our Skyping, just in case we AND ON ARIZONA IS been called to federal active service since Sept. 11, have Internet over there,” Sgt. Duncan said. 2001. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael McGuire, the JUST AS GREAT. adjutant general of the Arizona National Guard, Story and photos by presided over the 168th’s ceremony, which featured STAFF SGT. ADRIAN BORUNDA remarks by Arizona Gov. and views of Camelback Mountain through open hangar doors. mission, on his or her family, on our communities “No single deployment is any less or more and on Arizona is just as great.”

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 06 THREE HUNDRED SOLDIERS HONE WARRIOR SKILLS DURING FIELD TRAINGING EXERCISE

Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Madrid instructs a squad on calling in a medical evacuation during Spc. Teresa Lovato, a cook with the 3666th Maintenance Company, returns fire from the 158th Combat Sustainment Support Battalions field training exercise near Florence, her position during her squad’s lane on how to select a hasty fighting position. Ariz., Nov. 6. The exercise consisted of 16 training scenarios that challenged Soldiers and junior leaders in basic Soldier skills.

The 158th Combat Sustainment Support first lieutenants,” Schroeder said. combat casualty care), reacting to direct fire and Battalion spent three days conducting squad The FTX lanes consisted of Soldiers preparing other troop saving techniques Soldiers need in training exercises at Florence Military Reservation, a situation report, initiating a medical evacuation battle. Nov. 5-8, 2015. “It’s about trust. There’s a few ways to build Seventeen squads from the battalion’s eight trust – over a long period of time, or in a field units marched through 16 different training environment. When Soldiers see leaders doing what scenarios that challenged Soldiers and junior they’re doing you build trust and you empower leaders in basic Soldier skills. The battalion’s them to be more, do more,” said Command Sgt. roughly 300 Soldiers participated in varied events WHEN SOLDIERS Maj. Aaron Buelow, senior non-commissioned such as suicide prevention, media engagement officer for the 158th CSSB. training and react to contact. SEE LEADERS One of the classes was on how to build a hasty “The purpose of this exercise is to remind fighting position and finding good cover and members of the battalion that they are Soldiers DOING WHAT concealment. first. Whatever rank they hold is secondary,” said “This is a skill level one task and every Soldier Lt. Col. Erik Schroeder, 158th CSSB commander. THEY’RE DOING should know this. So, this training helps to fine tune “The training event is an opportunity to get back YOU BUILD TRUST those skills,” said Sgt. 1st Class Dwyane Thompson, to basics – troop leading procedures, Army warrior platoon sergeant with 366th Maintenance Company tasks, [battle] rehearsals and operating in an austere AND YOU EMPOWER and instructor for the hasty fighting position lane. environment.” “Teaching these lanes helps to do the same The weekend exercise took squads through THEM TO BE MORE, thing as well as instill confidence and experience in the desert paths while officers and senior the instructors as leaders.” noncommissioned officers worked together DO MORE. instructing the lanes. The training focused on a Story by small number of Soldiers per iteration of FTX lanes. SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY “The end-state is that we are strengthening the Photos by leadership of the core of our battalion, who are request, reporting to higher, reacting to an SGT. 1ST CLASS ROBERT FREESE sergeants, staff sergeants, second lieutenants and unexploded device, evaluating a casualty (tactical

07 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD CSM RETIRES AFTER DECADES OF SERVICE

Brig. Gen. John E .Hofert, Land Component Commander, Arizona Army Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Powers, Arizona Army National Guard Command sergeant major, . National Guard, presents the Legion of Merit to Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel presents retiring Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Almendarez with the Enlisted Sword, on behalf of Almendarez during his retirement, Nov. 7. Almendarez retired after nearly 40 the Arizona Army National Guard’s Sergeants Major Council, for dedication to the enlisted Soldiers years of service in the Arizona Army National Guard. and the Arizona Army National Guard.

After 39 years of service in the Arizona National of increasing responsibility, culminating as the clerk, operations platoon sergeant, first sergeant Guard, Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Almendarez senior personnel operations sergeant major. and senior personnel sergeant major. He also was honored during a retirement ceremony at served as the command sergeant major for the Russell Auditorium here, Nov 7. 198th Regional Support Group and 158th Combat Army Land Component Commander Brig. Sustainment Support Battalion who he mobilized Gen. John Hoefert recognized Almendarez with with to Kuwait. the Legion of Merit Medal, given for exceptionally “It has been a great honor to serve with National meritorious conduct in the performance of IT HAS BEEN A Guard Soldiers and Airmen because as my favorite outstanding services and achievements, in a room saying goes, they are ‘Always Ready, Always filled with Almendarez’s peers, family and friends. GREAT HONOR There,’” Almendarez said. It is one of only two medals issued as a neck order, Throughout his military career, Almendarez the other being the Medal of Honor. TO SERVE WITH has attended many military education schools, At the ceremony he was also presented with including the Sergeants Major a Presidential Certificate of Appreciation for NATIONAL GUARD Academy, Department of Defense Support of service in the Armed Forces of the United States, a Civil Authorities Course, Casualty Notification/ certificate of appreciation from Arizona Governor SOLDIERS AND Assistance T3 Course and Military Personnel Douglas A. Ducey and a certificate of appreciation ARMEN ... Officer Orientation Course for his wife Susie Almendarez. His wife said the retirement is bittersweet Hoefert expressed appreciation for Almendarez’ because they have always had the guard in their exceptional leadership, dedication to duty and life and she is proud of his accomplishments but is outstanding technical and tactical expertise during looking forward to their next phase of life. the ceremony. “This uniform has given me mentorship, “When I think of the definition of Command friendship and teamwork I could not have gotten Story by Sergeant Major, I think of my friend CSM anywhere else,” Almendarez said. SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY Almendarez,” Hoefert said. Almendarez has held duty assignments at Photos by Since 1984, Almendarez has worked full time various organizations throughout the state. He SGT. 1ST CLASS MONETTE WESOLEK for the Arizona Army National Guard in positions has served as military police, squad leader, unit

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 08 ARIZONA SOLDIER CONQUERS CANCER

Pvt. Simon Nichols, a cable systems installer-maintainer with the 158th Maneuver Pvt. Simon Nichols, holds up a certificate of achievement as she celebrates the end Enhancement Brigade, with her husband moments after their wedding ceremony on Feb. of her chemotherapy Aug. 14, 2015. Nichols credits the support of her unit for helping 22, 2015. Three days later she was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. her stay motivated through treatment.

Arizona National Guard Soldiers expect to needed anything, donate money and help her find Walgren said. She manifests the highest ideals of face battles, but one Soldier is in a battle she never resources. being a Soldier – courage, spirit and a steadfast expected. desire to win not only the nation’s wars, but her Three days after marrying her high school own personal battle, he said. sweetheart, Pvt. 2 Simona Nichols, a cable systems “It’s an honor as a chaplain to nurture and care installer-maintainer with the 158th Maneuver for all of our Service Members who fight these two- Enhancement Brigade, was diagnosed with stage front wars,” Walgren said. two breast cancer. Her grandmother is a breast THIS HAS BEEN A Nichols advised others facing major medical cancer survivor, but her mother lost her battle with issues to reach out to their unit and tell them what cancer at a very young age. JOURNEY THAT I you need. “Hearing those words, ‘You have cancer’ really “For me it’s the little things like telephone calls, played a toll on me. Immediately, I feared the worst NEVER IMAGINED I written messages and getting the drill newsletter for my three children,” Nichols said. that helped me feel included and not forgotten,” Nichols is in a battle for her life as she faces WOULD BE ON, AND Nichols said. breast cancer, but she is not doing it alone. IT HAS TAKEN ME Nichols embodies the extraordinary resiliency She had only been in her unit for two months that has carried so many other Arizona Guard when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, but THIS TIME TO TRULY members through extremely difficult hardships. her unit rallied around her, Nichols said. “This has been a journey that I never imagined I “I am amazed at how supportive my unit has LEARN WHAT LIVING would be on, and it has taken me this time to truly been because they really didn’t know me; I went learn what living day by day is,” Nichols said. to two drills and then started treatment,” Nichols DAY BY DAY IS. said. “They have visited me at my house and Maj. Story by Bradley Walgren [158th MEB Chaplain] came to the SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY hospital when I was in the intensive care unit.” Courtesy photos Nichols said even though she was a new Soldier “I barely knew these people and this made me her unit reached out to her, everyone from her realize I was in a good unit.” squad leader to upper leadership, to see if she Nichols is an inspiration to everyone in the unit,

09 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD ARIZONA GUARDSMEN RUCK FOR LIFE: DECIDE TO LIVE, LET GO OF THE PAIN

Arizona Guardsmen march during the 2nd Annual Ruck For Life Oct. 14, Over 80 Soldiers, Airmen and civilians prepared their rucksacks in the 52nd St. Armory on Papago 2015 at Papago Park Military Reservation. The Ruck For Life is a three-mile Park Military Reservation before the start of the 2nd Annual Ruck For Life on Oct. 14. ruck march that promotes suicide prevention and awareness.

With the sun still hidden below the eastern Nicole Parrack, a military police woman. She one another. Simply starting a conversation like horizon, Arizona guardsmen prepared tables, stood with her fellow guardsmen and civilians as that can save a life. check-in lists and traffic cones for the second the guest speaker, Andrew Jones, delivered his “I heard a lot of talk out there about someone annual Ruck For Life, a three-mile ruck march comments shortly before stepping off to start the they knew,” Parrack said. “It’s important that we at Papago Park Military Reservation to promote ruck. let our Soldiers, families and friends know that suicide prevention and awareness. Everything there is an answer and there is a way to find help looked like a normal military set up for an event and suicide is really not the answer.” of this type, except for the blank puzzle pieces and The impact on a friend, family member or colored markers strewn on one table. FOR SOLDIERS OUT coworker can have a multitude of effects on those Airmen, civilians and family members signed in left behind, an endless ripple of reactions that can and made their way to the puzzle piece table. They THERE WHO MIGHT be used for good. wrote the names of those they’ve known who have “It was sad but it was also a wake-up call, we sadly taken their own lives on the pieces. NEED HELP, JUST need to start paying attention to the people around As the nearly 80 event participants filed out us,” Parrack said. “They were people that were of the 52nd Street Armory, backpacks filled with ASK. close to us, and we had no idea it was coming.” canned goods to donate to service members in need, For some, the hardest action is simply asking for they took a puzzle piece from the table, almost one help. Knowing that help is available with one call for every participant. The lives represented by each “Our goal here, our mission here is to always or text can make a huge difference. puzzle piece is what they would take out on that choose life,” Jones said. “Don’t be afraid to ask “For soldiers out there who might need help, ruck march – those names in their heads and in about suicide. If you feel like someone is struggling, just ask,” Frazier said. “I know that’s a hard step, to their hearts. if you feel like someone needs that, ask them.” actually be able to ask someone for help, but that’s “It’s something that allows us to go out there But asking isn’t where the work ends, Jones the first step. People are going to be there to help and think to yourself and remember those who we said. “That’s when you take them by the hand and you.” have lost to suicide,” said Army 1st Lt. Kimberly you guide them, you help them – they are your Frazier, Suicide Prevention program manager for brother, your sister – you help them.” Story and photos by the Arizona National Guard. The message of outreach underlined the event. STAFF SGT. ADRIAN BORUNDA One of the Soldiers rucking was Army Sgt. Guardsmen of all ranks greeted and got to know

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 10 COMBAT MEDICS RECEIVE TRAINING FROM LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Staff Sgt. Faron Moody demonstrates the proper way to Staff Sgt. Faron Moody, a medic with the 996th Area Support Medical Company inserts a intravenous needle into the insert an intravenous needle into a dummy arm during his arm of a dummy during the training with the Honor Health Military partnership. training with civilian medical personnel with Honor Health.

A fast response to a medical emergency is a skill to build a relationship where an exchange of skills certification to military medical personnel, but that must be continuously sharpened, whether it is happens. those military medics and nurses don’t get the a medic on the battlefield or a medical team in an “When you think of a medic, many times they opportunity to interact with patients like they do emergency department. are performing a very high level of care in the field with the program here. This particular training Honor Health has partnered with local military and many times the civilian staff is learning from doesn’t offer certifications, but members leave with members since 2004 to help them continue their the military as well,” Larson said. real world training, explained Portante. medical training, either in the simulation lab, with Larsen explained that military members get an Since 2007, 2,500 military member professionals high fidelity mannequins, or side-by-side with opportunity to work with cutting edge medical have passed through here for training, some more civilian medical personnel in the trauma center. equipment and medical technology. They are also than once because they enjoyed it according to “The injuries that military personnel are able to share their experiences from working in less Portante. exposed to here are very similar to those they see than pristine conditions with civilian personnel. “These military members are thirsty for on the battlefield, things like burns, crush factor, The program’s goal is to provide an environment knowledge. They are very respectful,” Portante a shooting or a blunt force trauma,” said Todd that offers training and technology to potentially said. “They learn, and they soak it all up like Larson, Director of Community Partnerships with save lives of those in combat. sponges.” Honor Health. “Our mission is that we’re not going to leave Before anyone leaves they have a survey they Since these types of injuries are similar to those anyone behind, and we’re going to save everyone have to fill out, and the general consensus is the seen in a combat environment, makes this training that we can save,” Larson said. training is well liked, Portante added. Military beneficial to military members. There are 15 classes a year and each class has a members tell them good and bad things, and they Not only are there side-by-side opportunities combination of 10 nurses and medics. Respiratory try to incorporate what they want, by adding things for military members in the hospital trauma center, therapists, pharmacy, and radiology specialists are they ask for. there is also a simulation lab available. also able to register for these classes. Besides being “We do a lot of good things, and I want more of “The simulation lab provides the opportunity open to a variety of personnel in different medical the local people to come in and use this,” Portante [to practice] inserting IVs, trauma medicine, fields, the training is free of charge to military. said. applying a tourniquet, hemorrhage control, burn “We don’t ask for money from the military. [treatment], all the various things we can try to We don’t charge them to show up here. There is Story and photos by replicate in the human body in a true training another place the Army goes to, Rush Hospital in SPC. LIZ SMITH environment and not just a simulation,” Larson Chicago, which charges $3,000 for two weeks,” said. said Lenore Portante, Military Office Supervisor for The training also offers opportunities for Honor Health. hospital staff to learn from military personnel and Hospitals such as Rush in Chicago provide

11 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD AZNG HOSTS CONSTRUCTION CAREER DAYS FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS, GUARDSMEN

The Arizona National Guard hosted the 13th annual Arizona Construction Career Days at Papago Park Military Reservation, Nov. 5 - 6. More than 55 community partners provided hands-on construction-related experience to 1,897 high school students from 75 schools located in 13 Arizona counties.

The Arizona National Guard hosted the 13th Inc., has a four-year apprenticeship program hands-on experience such as operating construction annual Arizona Construction Career Days Nov. 5 for young adults that can lead to jobs as project equipment, wood working, project management and 6, at Papago Park Military Reservation here. engineers and field supervisors. and constructing brick walls. More than 55 community partners provided “It is fun digging holes and working on hands-on construction-related experience to 1,897 machines. It makes it more interesting when we high school students from 75 schools located in 13 get to have a hands-on feel of the equipment,” said Arizona counties. Dwaine Keltner, an Agua Fria High School student. The Adjutant General of Arizona, Maj. Gen. ... IT IS A LOT “I always wanted to do construction but after Michael T. McGuire, emphasized the important seeing all of the displays, I want to do it more.” symbiotic relationship the Arizona National Guard OF BRIGHT Sarmiento said the event organizers want the maintains with employers in the community. students to know they can have a bright technical “It’s important for our industry leaders and MINDS WORKING future in construction. elected leaders to know the mental, spiritual, “It’s not just hard work, it is a lot of bright physical, and emotional welfare of our formations TOGETHER TO minds working together to achieve a common goal is founded on the idea that guardsmen can have as a team,” Sarmiento said. employment and a job they can count on that is ACHIEVE A Public and Private Construction Industry productive in this economy in Arizona and then can leaders, elected officials and military leaders met on be called to serve and have a place to be returned COMMON GOAL AS the first day of the event to highlight the important to,” McGuire said. “That why this program is so A TEAM. roles public-private partnerships play in support important to me.” of secondary education, construction workforce “Today is about bridging a connection between development and the Arizona National Guard. the youth and construction companies,” said Rose Ann Canizales, president of the Association for “We want students to know in construction they Story by Construction Career Development. “We want them will be surrounded by intelligent, bright problem SGT. CRYSTAL REIDY to feel comfortable to talk to industry leaders about solvers that will help them succeed,” said Enrique Photo by apprentice programs, careers and their future Sarmiento, Building, Information and Modeling CPT. MATTHEW MURPHY goals.” manager with McCarthy Building Companies. For example, McCarthy Building Companies, During the expo, students participated in

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 12 SOUTH CAROLINA TAKES TOP CREW IN APACHE GUNFIGHTER FLY-IN he South Carolina National Guard took “Competition by its very nature makes the home the top performing team award for the organization more capable, stronger and a better Tinaugural AH-64D Apache Gunfighter Fly-in warfighter,” he said. “Now more than ever we have helicopter competition Nov. 6, during a closing the ability to use a citizen-soldier construct to meet ceremony at Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, the nation’s defense needs.” Arizona. While the personality profile of a typical Apache Seven states sent their best company-grade Apache pilot naturally aligns with competition, the greatest pilots and maintenance support personnel to the benefit of the first-of-its-kind event was not the quest desert of to participate in the four- to win bragging rights for the team’s home state, but day competition, which consisted of graded gunnery rather the exchange of ideas and learning that took and flying scenarios. Arizona, Idaho, Missouri, North place during the week, said Capt. Andrew Jewkes, of Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Utah competed in the Utah National Guard. the training exercise designed to build unity of effort Throughout the exercise, pilots and crews had and camaraderie among the National Guard Apache the opportunity to share combat experiences, best helicopter states. practices and lessons learned. The Gunfighter Fly-in events increased the Chief Warrant Officer 2 George Protzman, of the readiness of the National Guard Apache community South Carolina National Guard top Gunfighter team, to respond to missions at a moment’s notice and said that his most valuable takeaway was “just sitting provide “forces that are capable of fighting and down and having that casual conversation” about winning the nation’s wars,” said Maj. Gen. Michael T. what has worked for each crew in the past. McGuire, the adjutant general of the Arizona National This year’s inaugural event participants expressed Guard. anticipation for another Gunfighter Fly-in competition “You’re coming in with intention to win, so you’ve in the future. done things ahead of time to make sure you’re ready “As soon as we get home, we’re going to start to show up and be competitive,” McGuire said. training for next year,” Protzman said. “This is not unlike you are when you hit the ground running for your pre-mobilization training getting Story by ready to deploy forward.” MAJ. CANDACE PARK McGuire said the participating states left the competition better at their mission than when they arrived.

13 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD Three AH-64D Apache helicopters take off from Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, Ariz., Nov. 4 during the Gunfighter Fly-In competition.

Spc. Ryan Santana, an armament specialist with the Arizona Army National Guard, inspects the M230 mm chain gun on an AH-64D Apache at Silverbell Army Heliport on their way back from the Gunfighter Fly-In competition Nov. 4.

Spc. Aarron Newman, an armament specialist, carries a Hellfire missile as his team redistributes ammunition after arming AH-64D Apache helicopters Nov. 4 at Silverbell Army Heliport.

Two Apache AH-64D helicopters stage at the arming point at the Silverbell Army Heliport Nov. 4.

Members of the South Carolina National Guard’s 1-151st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion receive the Top Gunfighter award for their performance during the inaugural Gunfighter Fly-in AH-64D Apache helicopter competition Nov. 2-6 hosted by the Arizona National Guard at Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, Ariz. The first-of-its-kind event brought together the best company-grade Apache crews in the National Guard from seven states for the training event that also served as a forum for the exchange of ideas and best practices in the National Guard Apache helicopter community.

Gunfighter Fly-in competition participants take a group photo in front of AH-64D Apache helicopters Nov. 6 at Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, Ariz.

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 14 MAINTAINING THE

ARIZONAGuardsman wearing heat resistant gloves service GUARD equipment. “The maintenance my Soldiers and a flame resistant coat, flips down his do is an important necessity in the Guard because if Awelding mask before sending a flurry of not properly maintained, equipment expenses can orange and violet sparks into the air as he uses a become a great cost to the Arizona Army National metal inert gas welder to fuse pieces of steel together. Guard as a whole.” On the other side of the camp, a mire pit thick The armament section has small arms and artillery with mud and calf-high water, a light medium tactical repairers who work on weapons ranging from the M9 vehicle sits lodged in muck as two Soldiers drag a pistol to the hulking 155mm howitzer. thick, steel-braided cable out from their recovery Soldiers in the radio communication security and vehicle to wench the stuck vehicle free. electronic section handle anything from fixing Single The Soldiers are members of the Arizona Army Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems, more National Guard’s 3666th Support Maintenance commonly SINCGARS, to calibrating night vision Company; a unit capable of providing a multitude of goggles. services ranging from vehicle maintenance to radio Within the service and recovery section there are repair. mechanics who operate recovery vehicles and the “The mission of the 3666th SMC is to provide allied trades specialists who can weld, machine and field maintenance on an area basis,” said Capt. Jaime fabricate. North, 3666th commander. “The allied trades deals with all your fabrication Made up of more than 150 Soldiers with 17 trades,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Raymond Baxter, different military occupational specialties, the 3666th “welding, machining, woodworking, canvas repair, SMC has the ability to support a variety of missions auto body and painting.” from tool fabrication to vehicle recovery. Baxter said when equipment is broken it is The unit is composed of different sections; brought to the shop where allied trade specialists however, everything starts at the 3666th SMC’s repair it by welding or fabrication. company headquarters section, which works the When mechanics are working on equipment that logistical operations. requires a special tool, instead of ordering that tool, “Our maintenance control is the hub of the which could take months to the mechanics, allied company,” North said. “Missions come through there trade specialists can sometimes fabricate the that tool and are sent out to each of the different sections by or part according to Baxter. work order.” With it’s various sections specialized in different North said other 3666th SMC sections areas of maintenance, the 3666th has the ability to include automotive, service and recovery, radio assist units with maintenance their needs. communication security and electronics, armament “When Guard units in Arizona and states like and ground service equipment. Alaska need help with their generators, vehicle The different sections allow the 3666th to service services, gauging weapons, wrecker support and many different pieces of equipment within the Army. other maintenance needs, the 3666th is ready and Wheeled vehicle mechanics in the automotive willing to assist,” North said. section can work on a wide assortment of different vehicles, while construction equipment repairers in Story and photos by the grounds maintenance section maintain equipment STAFF SGT. BRIAN BARBOUR like graders and bulldozers. “Equipment needs to be maintained, and, when it breaks, it needs to be repaired, said 1st Lt. Trevelyn Gillaspie, 3rd platoon leader in charge of ground

15 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD Photo STORY

(From Left) Sgt. Stephanie N. Tortora, Pfc. Layman and Spc. Kenneth C. Weatherspoon, generator mechanics with the 3666th Support Maintenance Company in Phoenix, work on (From left) Spc. Jacob D. Rhodes, Sgt. 1st Class Justin M. Gregg and Pvt. John Ames, a 10-kilowatt generator Sept. 18, 2015 at Camp Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center in with the 3666th Support Maintenance Company in Phoenix, troubleshoot a maintenance Johnston, Iowa. issue using a rugged computer called a Maintenance Support Devise Version 3.

Arizona Army National Guard Soldiers in the 3666th Support Maintenance Company work on tactical vehicles Sept. 19, 2015, at Camp Dodge Joint Maneuver Training Center in Johnston, Iowa.

Arizona Army National Guard Spc. Roger A. Conant III, a native of Surprise, Ariz., and a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 3666th Support Maintenance Company, secures a safety chain to an M1078 medium size tactical vehicle before towing it during their training mission Sept. 21, 2015. During the recovery mission Conant and another Soldier Sgt. Michael M. Muñoz, with 3666th Maintenance Support Company and native of Peoria, used a winch to remove the stuck vehicle from mire pit before towing it back to their Ariz., solders in a replacement circuit breaker for a radio amplifier Sept. 21. workshop.

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 16 Sgt. Mark R. Permentor, a wheeled vehicle mechanic and native of Morenci, Ariz., hauls a tow chain out to an M1078 medium size tactical vehicle during a training recovery mission Sept. 21, 2015. Sgt. Mark R. Permentor and Spc. Roger A. Conant III connect chains to an M1078 medium size tactical vehicle before pulling it out of a mire pit with a recovery vehicle during a training mission Sept. 21.

Arizona Army National Guard Soldiers from the 3666th Support Maintenance Company in Phoenix, load onto an Air Force C-130 Sept. 26, at 132nd Fighter Wing base in Des Moines, Iowa to head back home to Arizona. STRONG BONDS FINANCIAL PEACE ZOO LIGHTS

The strong bonds workshop is for your entire This nine week course on stewardship is offered Due to rain outs from El Nino, Zoo Lights will family, at any stage of life, to build and maintain in three locations listed below. Through video stay open an extra five days at value ticket price. great connection, communication and conflict- teaching, class discussions and interactive ZooLights, powered by SRP EarthWise Energy, resolution skills, as well as foster successful and group activities, this plan will show you is a magical experience guaranteed to illuminate positive attitudes within your family. Free – how to get rid of debt, manage your money, your holiday season. Watch for; Several new hotel, meals, snacks and materials are provided spend and save wisely, and much more. 3-D light sculptures featuring stingrays, flowers, at no cost to soldiers and their families. Come hummingbird and tiger, Search for the new join our casual, fun environment and learn Option 1 - Marana, Starting Tuesdays 2-D butterflies and lion cubs, Enjoy two new new tools that build cohesive relationships, January 12 - March 8, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Music in Motion shows featuring music from confidence and improve communication. the movie Polar Express and Winter Palace by Option 2 - Casa Grande, Starting Thursdays Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Longer hours – 5:30 – December 5 through January 14 at January 14 - March 10, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 10:30 p.m. www.strongbonds.org. Contact Chaplain (MAJ) Chris Melvin at 602.267.2921 or Contact Chaplain (CPT) John Lockhart More info at: http://phoenixzoo.org/event-items/ [email protected] [email protected] zoolights/

BALLOON FEST. FILM FESTIVAL PLAY FACTORY

The three day Havasu Balloon festival and At the Sedona International Film Festival, This hands-on play factory, aimed at kids 10 fair is jam packed with tethered balloon rides active duty, guard and veterans pay members or younger, offers three levels of educational fun an Art Village, face painting, dog shows, great price with a military ID. We’re pulling out all and an awe-inspiring climbing maze. Located bands and entertainers on the main stage, paper the stops to make this the greatest celebration in the historical Monroe School building, its balloon launching, a carnival, musical and of the best in independent film from around the alumni include painter Jackson Pollock and theatrical groups, classic cars, remote control world: February 20-28. From features to shorts, celebrates play in a way that’s fun for kids and planes, untethered balloon rides, Night Glow, documentaries to animation and foreign films to adults. There’s a tricycle car wash, a room for delicious food in the food court, and much student films, you will be treated to a cinephile’s fort-building, an art studio with free crafts and more! From State Route 95, East on Mesquite dream ... nine full days and more than 160 films! a castle to paint. Avenue, South on Lake Havasu Avenue and Recognized by filmmakers and audiences as West on McCulloch Boulevard to the event. one of the top festivals in the nation, the 22nd Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Anniversary edition will continue it’s tradition. 215 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. For more information, visit www.havasuballoonfest. $11; $10 seniors; free admission for babies under 12 com or contact Marquita McKnight at 928.453.3232 For more information go to months. For more information, call 602.253.0501, or or [email protected] www.sedonafilmfestival.org visit childrensmuseumofphoenix.org.

19 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD BOOK REVIEW: CHANCELLORSVILLE William Glenn Robertson rightly asks in his considerable damage with the Union suffering 17,304 and places the blame of his defeat at Chancellorsville review of Stephen W. Sears Chancellorsville, “is casualties to the Confederate’s 13,460. The most not on Hooker but on his subordinates. another massive study of Chancellorsville necessary?” notable and devastating of the Confederate losses was Gary W. Gallagher in his review of Sears’ work Robertson asks this question because as he writes, Gen. Stonewall Jackson. illustrates Sears’ intent in the beginning of his review “Since the end of the campaign, analytical accounts Nevertheless, as Robertson writes, “Lee had when he copies Sears’ passage “Primary sources of Chancellorsville generally have reached the same restored the status quo and his army seemed previously unavailable or unused cast a great deal of judgments on the performance of the opposing invincible.” Hooker was quickly disgraced, and new light on this campaign …” Sears believed that commanders.” The universal consensus among President Abraham Lincoln continued to search for his book would set the record straight on what he felt historians is that Gen. Robert E. Lee outclassed Union the general who would lead his Army of the Potomac. was a history of the battle that had been distorted by Gen. Joseph Hooker. historians who derived too much of Hooker had recently replaced Gen. their information from the soldiers who Ambrose Burnside as the commander fought in the battle. of the Army of the Potomac. The Nowhere in Sears’ book is his Union was still recuperating from thesis more clearly stated then when the Fredericksburg campaign in 1862 he contends that the battle was indeed when President Abraham Lincoln Lee’s finest campaign but that Lee “was decided to make the change. Hooker, repeatedly blessed with astonishingly whom James McPherson in Battle Cry good fortune.” Furthermore, Sears of Freedom describes as having openly contends that Joseph Hooker wasn’t expressed interest in Burnside’s failure the “morally weak braggart so often to gain command of the Army himself, described but as an able officer who was considered to have many moral by all rights should have defeated flaws. However, as Robertson writes, Lee.” Sears lays heavy blame on many “President Lincoln gambled that of Hooker’s subordinates who didn’t Hooker’s vaunted fighting skill would follow through on the general’s orders. overcome his fondness for intrigue Sears contends that had they in fact and produce a decisive victory in the implemented Hooker’s battle plan then eastern theater.” And to Hooker’s the Union would have been victorious. credit, he was able to quickly turn the Sear’s knows the Army of the morale of the Army around and fix the Potomac better than perhaps any many logistical issues that plagued the other historian in recent memory, . but, though his revisionist history of President Lincoln had been for Chancellorsville is insightful and well sometime willing to overlook moral written, he’s ultimately unconvincing flaws in his generals who he deemed when trying to frame the battle for willing to fight, having suffered anything other than what it was – a through Gen. George B. McClellan’s Southern triumph and legend maker tentativeness for years. Hooker, for Lee. having earned the nickname Fighting Daniel E. Sutherland puts it best Joe, seemed to be the fighting general when reviewing Sears’ Chancellorsville Lincoln had hoped to lead his Army for the New York Times, “The lesson of of the Potomac. Initially, Hooker Chancellorsville is this: It is one thing appeared to validate Lincoln’s gamble to formulate a grand, even brilliant by producing a plan that would have, battlefield plan. But victory belongs to if implemented successfully, placed those who seize it.” Hooker did a great the Union Army in an advantageous job to improve the Army of the Potomac position to take the Confederate and provided a great battlefield plan capitol of Richmond, Virginia without at Chancellorsville, but ultimately he heavy casualties. This is the consensus of most historians, so, again, fought defensively when he should have taken the However, as William Garret Piston writes in why another history of Chancellorsville? offense with superior numbers. So, Sears’ thesis, his review of Sears’ Chancellorsville the battle Sears provides a well written history of though well thought out and well written, is more of a is, “Generally considered Robert E. Lee’s finest Chancellorsville that goes into depth about the tactics novelty, but also a welcomed counter to the historical campaign.” Despite being outnumbered two to that both sides employed, but it’s his “depiction of consensus. one on May 1, 1863 by the Army of the Potomac, by Joseph Hooker [that] might be called revisionist.” May 6 “Hooker’s army had withdrawn across the Sears’ thesis focuses on the positive aspects of Book review by Rappahannock in defeat.” However, both sides took Hooker’s brief command of the Army of the Potomac 1ST LT. MACARIO MORA

Volume 02 Issue 01 | January 10, 2016 | THE ROUGH RIDER 20 EXPLORE YOUR ARIZONA NATIONAL PARKS Traveling as a military member in the civilian world has its perks. Some places offer discounts that helps ease off the piggy bank, but some places offer free passes. As the ringing of the word ‘free’ echoes through your soul, the National Park Service offers annual park passes to our service members with a valid military identification. Throughout our beautiful state alone Arizona has 22 national parks and monuments to utilize the pass. Most parks in Arizona help preserve ruins and artifacts of the ancient people who once roamed the Southwest. One of the most intriguing cliff dwellings is located in the Tonto National Monument just minutes from Roosevelt Lake. If you’re driving from Phoenix, the routes alone have some breathtaking scenic views and almost a three- hour drive. The Tonto National Monument tourist center is tucked away in the Tonto Basin just off of highway 188. But you will see that the trip is well worth the time and effort. This location has two cliff dwellings. The lower cliff dwelling is a site that is half amile right behind the center, which is obvious to see in The Tonto National Monument is tucked away in the Tonto Basin west of Roosevelt Lake, which is located Northeast of the Valley. However, the Monument is a short 2-hour drive from the greater Phoenix Metropolitan area. the parking lot. Although the trail is well paved and strollers are accepted be pre-pared for some leg-day PT. The beautiful cactus, wildlife and cliffside are enough to stop every few feet to soak in and take occasional photos. Several benches and trash cans are also posted throughout the trail. If you are not on a guided tour, short videos and a small museum are located in the tourist center which ex-plains the history of the dwellings. The 700-year-old dwelling is a sight to see with a spectacular view of Roosevelt Lake. Visitors are allowed to roam throughout the ruins and see how the Salado inhabitants lived centuries ago. The upper cliff dwelling is a three-mile hike from the tourist center and can only be accessed with a park ranger. Please call ahead of time to schedule your guided tour. The Tonto National Monument is one of the many parks we as military members can visit with our com-plementary annual military pass, which can be issued at the tourist center. So pack up the dependents, camel back and MRE’s and start exploring our beautiful Arizona.

For more information, please visit: http://www. nps.gov/tont/index.htm or call: (928) 467-2241

Article and photos by Saguaro cacti tower over the surrounding and throughout the entire Tonto National Monument. SGT. REBA BENALLY

21 THE ROUGH RIDER | www.dvidshub.net/unit/123MPAD The Tonto National Monument preserves two ancient 700-year-old cliff dwellings that were inhabited by the Salado people from roughly 1250 to 1450. Though the dwellings became a monumnet in 1907, park rangers didn’t staff the Monument until the mid-1930s. Considerable damage to the dwellings occured during this period by tourists and pot hunters.

The Salado people used a mano, or hand stone, to grind corn and other food materials. The Tonto National Monument received more than 30 thousand visitors per year in 2015, This display can be seen inside the lower cliff dwelling. but visitation has increased in the new fiscal year. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter takes off from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. during a spectacular sunset Mar. 3, 2014. Photo by Master Sgt. Andrew J. Moseley. for a chance to have your photo featured in the Parting shot, please send submissions to: [email protected]