[_ Worldwide missions of Ohio Air Guardmembers showcased during visit by lieutenant governor PAGES 10-11 Photo by MSgt. Kim Frey, 121st Air Refueling Wing. Army Aviation undergoes overflaul SSG Larry Gladman (seated) and SSG Dale O'Hare, 1-137th Aviation, work on a UH-1 'Huey' utility helicopter at the Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Columbus. Gladman is a former member of 2-107th Cavalry, which officially moved to North Canton in January. For more about the restationing of aviation assets, see page 19. Contents iGMRD Winter 1999/2000 Volume 24, No. 1 FEATURES 14 Baseball, banzai, beyond The Buckeye Guard is published quarterly by Ohio Guard 37th Infantry the Public Affairs Office, Ohio Adjutant General's Department, 2825 W. Dublin Division veteran remembers Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789, his unit's involvement in (614) 336-7000. The views and opinions WW II Pacific campaign. expressed in the Buckeye Guard are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army and Air Force or the Adjutant General of 16 Embracing technology Ohio. The Buckeye Guard is distributed free to Army calls on ONG to help members of the Ohio Army and Air National in developing revolutionary Guard and to other interested persons at their request. Circulation is 19,000. computer battle simulator.

ADJUTANT GENERAL'S DEPTARTMENT 21 A family affair Brothers share committment, State Commander-In-Chief Gov. Bob Taft passion for military, in same

Adjutant General Lebanon-based unit. Maj. Gen. John H. Smith

Assistant Adjutant General, Anny Amanda Wood is first in 21st Brig. Gen. Ronald G. Young century to enlist in National Assistant Adjutant General, Air Guard as her recruiter, SSG Maj. Gen. Paul J. Sullivan Robert Hooper, looks on. See page 7. Command Sergeant Major, Anny Photo by SFC Bob Mullins, HQ STARC ( • ). Command Sgt. Maj. Michael 0 . Howley DEPARTMENTS Senior Enlisted Advisor, Air Command Chief Master Sgt. Earl Lutz 2 Command focus Brig. Gen. Young discusses PUBLICATION STAFF new Army Guard program. Director, Public Affairs Capt. Neal E. O'Brien 3 Feedback from the field Deputy Director, Public Al'flllrs Ms. Denise Varner 4 National news Associate Editors Mr. Steve Toth Staff Sgt. Diane L. Farrow 6 Citizen spotlight Photo by SGT J .R. Lewis, HQSTARC(·) Editorial Assistant Toledo guardmember one of first Ms. Mimi Myers '. Ohio contingent visits guardmembers to celebrate new century. supporting U.S military operations Contributors Army/Air National Guard Journalists in Europe, Southwest Asia. ANG Visual Information Specialists 23 Guarding against drugs See page 10. Unit Public Affairs Representatives

24 Buckeye briefs Guardmembers and their families are encouraged to submit any articles meant to ABOUT THE COVER: A member of inform, educate or entertain Buckeye Guard 26 All about people the 179th Airlift Wing, Mansfield, readers, including stories about Interesting guides in a C-130 'Hercules' transport Guard personalities and unique unit training. 28 Guardmember benefits aircraft at an air base in Seeb-North, E-mail us at [email protected]. Deadlines are: Oman. The 179th deployed to Southwest Asia in support of the Winter, October 15 Spring, February 15 southern no-fly zone over Iraq. Photo Summer, May 15 by SGT J.R. Lewis, HQ STARC (-). Fall, July 15 Log on to the Ohio National Guard website to learn more about the organization. Command focus Strength campaign plan key to success

us to assist the recruiting command in finding new soldiers, retain our great soldiers in uniform who are already members of our team and reduce the attrition through non-ETS losses. hen Anny Chief of Sta ff Absents Without Leave and transfers to other reserve compo­ WGen. Eric Shinseki pon­ nents are unacceptable. Leaders at every level, especially first-line dered the state of recruiting in NCOs, must take charge! the Army, he determined that We have extensively surveyed recruits and soldiers to learn "every soldier in the Army is a why they join and why they stay. Our feedback indicates that we recruiter." I am determined to take have the best package of benefits currently on the market. Our 100 the chief of staff at his word, percent scholarship program and all of the other incentives however, here in Ohio, we also available make this the best time to join and stay in the OHARNG. must remain focused on retaining It is vital that we work hand in hand with our recruiters to find the soldiers we have invested our new soldiers. The Blue Streak Program gives each soldier $100 or time and energy in during their more for each referral resulting in an enlistment. A soldier in the 2- BY BRIG. GEN. RONALD G. YOUNG term ofenlistment. l 74th Air Defense Artillery (Avenger) Battalion recently received ASST. ADJUTANT GENERAL, ARMY We have reached a point $1,250 for recruiting new soldiers. The recruiting ribbon and 20 where the active participation of STPA points can be earned for two new enlistment referrals. every member of the Ohio Anny Guard is needed to improve our First impressions last. We must fully integrate new soldiers into personnel readiness situation. Ohio bas experienced a tremendous the unit and mentor them. It is the first-line leader's responsibility amount of force structure turmoil over the past I 0 years. The to sponsor and mentor a new soldier. All leaders in the officer and deactivation and reorganization of many of our units has had a NCO chain of command need to execute an aggressive sponsor­ demoralizing effect on our soldiers and undermined our retention ship program, making new soldiers feel welcome. efforts. The first step to stabilizing our force structure and protect­ All soldiers must be accountable for their individual responsi­ ing our units, is improving personnel readiness. bility and loyalty. Going AWOL is unacceptable and must be Looking at our own personnel readiness situation in the Ohio dealt with decisively. We must return to the basics of military Army National Guard, we determined a three-pronged approach discipline and standards that are enforced in basic training: be on that emphasizes recruiting, retention and reduction of attrition to time, in the correct uniform, prepared to train hard. be the best attack plan. The result of that approach is "Buckeye Awards are important. Leaders at every level must take time to Force 21," our strength management campaign plan. recommend deserving soldiers for the awards they earn through To ensure we do not become overrun with unnecessary paper­ hard work, mission accomplishment and professional excellence. work, the plan eliminates regulations, reduces required reports to Employer support is critical to our success. We can reduce higher headquarters and focuses energy into a single source employer tension by recognizing them as part of our team, but document for clear communication • most importantly, by ensuring and vigorous execution. But the they understand your commit­ success of our campaign plan rests ment to the Guard. Appreciation on the shoulders of each soldier certificates, lunch and a tour at from the time of enlistment into the E the armory during drill or at unit. It starts with the recruiter who annual training, or a Jetter from puts the soldier into the unit, and moves to the battle buddy who the commander are just a few ways we can gain their support. shepherds the new soldier through their early drill days. It relies on "My Boss is a Patriot" nomination applications have been sent the first-line leader who will make that initial impression of the out in previous editions of the Buckeye Guard, and are also leadership commitment we've made. available on-line at www.ncesgr.osd.mil. Our current situation is challenging but not insurmountable. The Finally, our famil ies are truly why we serve. Protecting them economy is in overdrive, and we have stiff competition from and their future is what drives us to endure, sacrifice and commit civilian businesses and other services. But our greatest challenge everything to winning. We need to continue thanking and is mentorship. Only six percent of potential recruits ages 17-21 recognizing them for their sacrifice as part of the Guard family. have a parent who has served in the military. This is why we must Our nation relies more than ever on its citizen-soldiers to each find a young adult to mentor and convince them of the shoulder the burden of national defense. Recently, the 49th tremendous opportunities available in the OHARNG. Our greatest Annored Division, Texas National Guard, took command of source of referrals, and thus recruits, are our soldiers. No amount Operation Joint Guard, the peacekeeping mission in Bosnia. Over of advertising dollars can replace the one-on-one relationship that the next two years, the 28th (Pennsylvania) and 29th (Virginia) takes place when one of us talks to a peer about joining the Guard. Infantry Divisions will follow the 49th, making this the first use of Our mission is clear- achieve l 00 percent strength. Resourcing these National Guard divisions since World War IL Unit combat decisions made at the strategic level are based on unit combat readiness and effectiveness are measured first and foremost by readiness, which comes from having combat-ready soldiers. I 00 percent assigned, qualified aod highly motivated soldiers. To We are short qualified and available soldiers. The three under­ get there requires the effort of every soldier. pinnings of the campaign plan are mutually supporting and require Together, we will win. •

2 lBUCKEYE GUARD WINTER 1999 / 2000 Feedback from the field

Artlde on guardmember's put themselves through the rigors ofOhio's ficerand a leader. Not only will you earn Officer Candidate School? A typical day at greater respect from your friends and accidental shoodng raises OCS involves waking up at 5 a.m. to begin fam ily, but you will also gain a greater safety quesdons with reader an action-packed day of physical training, respect for yourself. If you are inter­ I found the article about Bravo Company, inspections and academic classes. Every ested in learning more about the OCS 6 I 2th Engineer Battalion soldiers using com­ minute of the day is utilized until lights out program, there is an orientation March bat lifesaver (CLS) skills disturbing. at 11 p.m. OCS is not for everyone, but for 25-26 at the I 45th RTI, in building 920. Do not get me wrong, when I first read the those who want a challenge and want to This is an informational meeting and article I was impressed with the calm and grow both personally and professionally, it you do not have to make a commitment professional actions is worth it. at that time. taken by the soldiers There are plenty of benefits of If you know that you want to attend assisting another attending Officer Candidate Officer Candidate School, your first step wounded soldier. School. Ifmoney is your motiva­ is to let your unit know and attend the But, then I began to ~--· tor, then it is good to know that orientation. The first drill is April 1-2. For think about why a candidates receive an adminis­ more information, you can call the RTI at jammed weapon was trative promotion to staffsergeant (614)336-6448. allowed to leave the (E-6) for pay purposes for the OC DON FLOWERS range. duration of the program. In addi­ HQ STARC (-),COLUMBUS It is my under­ tion, candidates who are eligible standing that a sol­ forthe Montgomery G. l. Bill can Soldier seeking twins In dier encountering a receive a "Kicker" of $3 50 a month jammed weapon on a after completing the Phase I an­ Guard for l"fwlns Daysi range should have nual training during the first year I am a 19D (cavalry scout) course attempted to clear "Lifesaving skills help of the course. manager-instructor at the 145th Regi­ the weapon through avert AT disaster" But there is more to OCS than ment, Regional Training Institute, lo­ the proper misfire appears on page 29, Fall just money. The objective of the cated at Rickenbacker Army Enclave. I procedures. Ifthe in­ 1999 Buckeye Guard OCS program is to teach individu­ have 4-year-old twin daughters, and our dividual cannot clear als who want to become officers family has attended 'Twins Days' in the mi sfire, the weapon is left at the firing in the Ohio Army National Guard to take Twinsburg the past 4 years. point until NCOs (noncommissioned of­ initiative, think clearly, take orders as well Last year at the parade, I got the idea ficers), part of the range detail, try to clear as give them and be able to set the example to enter the Ohio National Guard in this the weapon. If they cannot clear the mis­ for the personnel they will lead. year's parade, scheduled for Aug. 4-6. fire, the weapon is left at the firing point The 145th RTI provides the means for Twins Days is the world's largest and range control is notified to send out commissioning using the same program of annual gathering of twins. Every Au­ personnel to handle the weapon. All of instruction and evaluation requirements as gust since 1976, twins, supertwins and this information should have been given dictated by the Army Infantry School at parents of the same from around the to the soldier during a safety briefing be­ Fort Benning, Ga. Completion of the pro­ world descend on this small town just fore entering the range. gram results in a federally recognized ap­ south of Cleveland for a weekend of Doing realistic training and going to live­ pointment to the rank ofsecond lieutenant. socializing, celebration and fun. fire ranges is good. All soldiers benefit from There is so much to learnatOCS. Not only I am looking for any interested Ohio this unless thoughtless acts occur, resulting do you learn about yourselfand how others Guardmembers who are either twins in in the injury or death of a soldier. SAFETY perceive you, but you also learn about the Guard or have children that are twins always needs to be priority one during any leadership and management skills while to attend this year's Twins Days and training activity. gaining a greater understanding of how the ride an Ohio National Guard twins float SPC C HRIS AGUILAR Army works as a whole. in the "Double Take" parade beginning HllC, 1-107TH ARMOR BATTALION, STOW Candidates receive academic classes in at 9 a.m. Aug. 5, which is a Saturday. tactics, engineering, communications, op­ Anyone interested should contact me erations, combat service support, leader­ by phone at work ( 614) 891-6600 ormo­ Officer Candidate School ship, artillery, training management, land bi le (614) 496-2270 or by e-mail at provides challenges1 rewards navigation and intelligence. [email protected]. An exciting and rewarding opportunity Feedback and evaluation are a critical SFC MICHAEL M. BLANKENSHIP exists in the Ohio Army National Guard. Ohio partofleadership development. The Teach, 145TH REGIMENT, RTI, COLUMBUS currently needs about 70 men and women to Assess and Counsel (TAC) Staff evaluates serve as junior officers in a variety of posi­ leadership. TAC officers observe, instruct Correction tions throughout the state. One way to be­ and correct candidates in all non-academic In a news brief and photo that ran on come a commissioned officer is through the activities by informing them of their per­ page 24 ofthe Fall 1999 Buckeye Guard, state's Officer Candidate School (OCS), of­ sonal weaknesses that need improvement StaffSgt. Walter Mihalik, an Ohio Army fered at the 145th Regiment, Regional Train­ in order for the candidate to become a more National Guard recruiter in the Young­ ing Institute, located at Rickenbacker Army competent officer. stown area, was identified by an incor­ Enclave, Columbus. OCS is not easy, but there is a certain rect first name. But why would anyone in their right mind prestige that comes with becoming an of-

WIN TER 1999 / 20 0 0 BUCKEYE GUARD 13 National news

tween March and July. gress for a $29 I. I billion defense purse. The first 10 designated teams This is a $13.5 billion increase over the are completing training and are actual fiscal 2000 defense authorization. scheduled to come on line in AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE April of this year in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, California, Mas­ Government travel card now sachusetts, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wash­ required for service members ington. Cragin said the teams Federal employees, including military mem­ consist of22 full-time members bers, no longer will be able to use their per­ of the Anny or Air National sonal credit charge cards for authorized ex­ Guard. The personnel selected penses while on official government travel. for these additional teams will Use of the government Visa travel card undergo 15 months of rigorous by all federal employees becomes manda­ individual and unit training, and tory May 1, according to revised policies then will be evaluated for opera­ dictated by the Travel and Transportation tional certification. AMERICAN Reform Act of 1998. FORCES PRESS SERVICE The act created the requirement to enable the government to take advantage of re­ Cohen puts halt to bates from charge card companies, and to help track travel expenditures, Defense mttlng Guard more Department officials said. Defense Secretary William Defense Department employees will be Cohen has deferred plans that required to use the government travel card would have cut another 25,000 primarily for hotel costs, car rentals and air personnel from the Anny Na­ travel. AIR FORCE PRINT NEWS Departmentotoetensephoto. tional Guard and Reserve. These Washington National Guardmembers, The 1997 Quadrennial Defense All military personnel to be shown taking apart an air regulator, are among Review had recommended re­ more than 200 guardmembers nationwide who serve component cuts of up to trained on homosexual polldes have received training to respond to incidents 45,000 personnel. Reductions of The DepartmentofDefense has approved Involving weapons of mass destruction. 17,000 in the Anny National service plans to train military personnel in Guard and 3,000 in the Army the intricacies of the "don't ask, don't tell, DoD tabs Ohio to receive Reserve have already been completed. don't harass" homosexual policy. Charles Cragin, principal deputy assis­ Service members will receive training in one of addltlonal WMD tant secretary ofdefense for reserve affairs, the policy at all levels of professional mili­ ClvD Support Teams said three factors prompted deferment of tary training. They will also receive periodic The Department of Defense an­ the cuts. First, the Anny is currently con­ "refresher" training at their units. AMERI­ ducting a redesign of National Guard divi­ nounced plans Jan. 13 to form 17 more CAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil sions. Second, DoD had scheduled to be­ Support Teams, including one in Ohio, gin the process ofconducting another QDR Guard adopts official song in January 200 I, which will provide another bringing the total nationwide to 27. "And when my country calls me - from opportunity to analyze existing force struc­ The teams, originally called Rapid As­ within orfrom afar-I'll befirst to answer; tures and future requirements. Third, DoD sessment and Detection teams, would Proud to be the Guard. " is highly dependent on reserve component deploy and assist civil first responders forces for operations throughout the world. in the event of a weapons of mass de­ A three-minute ballad that resonates with "Wecouldn'tdo it without them," Cragin struction incident, said Charles Cragin, the history and the spirit of America's citi­ said. "They are critically important, and in principal deputy assistant secretary of zen-soldiers and airmen- from Concord many instances they have at least a majority defense for reserve affairs. Bridge to Desert Storm-has been adopted of core competencies needed in ongoing The federal government will train, as the National Guard's official song. operations." AMERICAN FORCES PRESS equip and develop doctrine forthe teams, "I Guard America" is a song written and Cragin said. The teams will always work SERVICE performed by country singer and songwriter in support of civilian agencies and un­ 2001 budget by James Rogers, a Tennessee Army Guard less federalized will remain under the marked 3.7 soldier in the 1970s, that has been endorsed control of the host state governors. percent federal pay raise by top leadership at the National Guard Other new teams will be based in The president's proposed fiscal 2001de­ Bureau. Rogers, 50, wrote the song for and Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, fense budget calls for a 3.7 percent military donated it to the Tennessee National Guard Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, and civilian pay hike, proposes eliminating in 1990. The Enlisted Association of the Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, New out-of-pocket off-post housing expenses National Guard ofthe United States made "I Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina and and aims to fix the military health system. Guard Ameiai-ca" its official song in August Virginia. They will come on line in 2001 be- The Clinton administration is asking Con- 1998. ARMY NEWS SERVICE

41BUCKEYE GUARD WIN TER 1999/ 2 00 0 Top Air National Guard enlisted NORTH CANTON man to bring about changes Command ,. .. By Maj. Ann Coghlin our people," he said. profile 178th Fighter Wing The aptitude knowledge test- which will allow recruits to bypass three-level schools ...... ,. nlisted members of the Air National if they already have the skills needed for • ·I' EGuard have the top guy going to bat for their career field- is being implemented. •••-- -~ them, working issues that will improve their Contracting and security forces are the first career in the Guard. two aptitude tests that will be written, ex­ ~ ~~ :" Command Chief Master Sgt. Gary panding to safety, vehicle maintenance and . ... ~.·:: ·.;. _~ . Broadbent, the Air senior enlisted advisor computer operator school tests next, .::..:.:.:--···· at the National Guard Bureau, Washington, Broadbent said. "This is not something that D.C., visited Springfield's l 78th Fighter will happen ovemight...but we' re on the COL Matthew L. Kamblc Wing during the unit's January's drill. right track." 37th Armor Brigade Broadbent briefed He acknowledged the probelms with get­ unit members on ting to technical school slots in a timely Age: 43. various issues of manner, buthe said the Bureau is dilligently Occupation: Director of Plans, concern. "There's working the issue at the national level. Operations, Training and Military great stuffgoing on Another initiative Broadbent is working Support, Ohio Army National Guard. for enlisted folks in currently is to give wing-level commanders I grew up In: Girard, Ohio. the Air National the authority to "float" E-9 billets. What this When I was little I wanted to be: a Guard," he said. means is that ifa billet is tied to an Air Force professional athlete. One big change Specialty Code career field and the person­ My favorite time of year Is: that can be imple­ nel with that AFSC are not ready to be summer. mented immedi­ promoted because of incomplete profes­ The one thing I treasure most Is: ately is that the low­ Broadbent sional military education, time-in-grade or my family-wife and two sons. est enlisted grade service requirements, the commander My favorite junk food Is: Hostess on a manning document will be staff ser­ should be able to float the billet and let Ding Dongs. geant. Also, under the new enlisted grades senior master sergeants who are eligible My biggest pet peeve Is: policy, 3 ,800 technical sergeant slots, 3,800 compete for the promotion. intolerance. master sergeant slots and 400 senior master Broadbent said that Air National Guard­ sergeant slots will be added Guard-wide. wide, chief vacancies have been as high as My favorite recreational Chiefs will continue to be two percentofthe 300 at any one time. He said his goal is to activities are: golf and reading. total force, or about 2,000 slots, he said. have a proposal in place for leadership to If I could travel back In time, I Broadbent strongly em­ review by June. would: want to have dinner with phasized his beliefs on The command chief Gen. George C. Marshall and take force management. "Pro­ joined the Air Force in counsel with him. mote only those who are Broadbent strongly 1974, serving four years If I won $20 million In the lotto I deserving- it should as a fuels specialist. He would: retire my wife, invest my never be a give away. emphasized his served fu ll-time in the money and then report for duty. Keep credibility in the pro­ beliefs onforce New Hampshire Air Na­ The older I get, the more I: appre­ gram," he said. tional Guard from 1979 ciate individual contributions to our The exceptionaipromo­ management. through 1997, then was organization's many successes. tion program adds slots "Promote only those assigned the senior en­ When I retire, I want to: be the for chief and senior mas­ listed advisor, 1st Air greatest grandpa in America to my ter sergeants for each who are deserving-it Force, before taking his grandchildren and play golf. state based upon its Air should never be a current position. If I could leave today's National Guard popula­ As senior enlisted guardmembers with one piece of tion. Ohio fared well, get­ give away. Keep advisor to Maj. Gen. Paul advice it would be: You are ting three additional chief Weaver, director of the America's "quiet" heroes who must and three additional se­ credibility in the Air National Guard, wake up every day to win that day's nior slots. This three-year Broadbent is respon­ program, " he said. fight through your personal devel­ test program is in its sec­ sible for all affairs con- opment, contribution to your ond year. cerned with the enlisted National Guard Bureau is working to fi­ personnel ofthe more than 100,000-member organizations and willingness to nalize an enlisted feedback program soon. Air National Guard. share the burden of leadership that The Ohio Air Guard will have the option to For more information on the command will ensure your unit successfully continue its F eedback360 program or adopt chiefs initiatives, check out his website at accomplishes its mission. the new one. "It's all part of taking care of http://airguard.ang.af.mil/ccc/index.htm.•

WIN TER 1999/200 0 BU CKEYE GUARD 15 Citizen spotlight

on New Year's Day," King said. So she packed her laptop and digital camera, and turned the trip into a working vacation. A contact from The New York Times also asked that she send a photo of the first sunrise to the newspaper for publication. Of course, that photo was shot several hours after the much-awaited strike of Guardmember spends midnight. And the Fijian celebration was New Year's Eve on nothing like the New Year's traditions found in America. international date line The island resort where King' s group stayed hosted a party on a grassy embankment next to the rocky coast­ line. "We sat in a circle and watched ritual dancing and singing of the Fiji natives," she said. "There was a feast with roasted pig, chicken, fish, lots of rice and other food. " Right before midnight, we were given candles to hold and a prayer was said." While that event ended some­ what quietly- with simple hugs rather than obnoxious noisemakers- the

Courtesy photo. group returned to the shore the next TSgt. Lori King enjoys the tropical paradise of the Fijian island of Taveuni. day for a second celebration at 6 p.m. "That was midnight here (in America), Story by StaffSgt. Diane L. Farrow collector of globes and maps. "This was so we had the countdown and sang HQ STARC(-) her dream, to be at the first place to tum 'Auld Lang Syne. '" 2000. She's been planning (the trip) for Since the I 80th meridian divides any people who don't about six years," King said. Taveuni in two, the north side of the ordinarily celebrate New "Anytime the subject came up at a island held its New Year's celebration Year's Eve made special party or get-together, a few more of us another six hours later. "So we could plans this past holiday to welcome in decided, 'Hey, I want to be there too! "' have celebrated three times," King said, the year 2000-a blow-out party at a she said. King also thought the event "but we were just too tired." downtown hot spot, a romantic would provide a great photo opportunity King is planning to retire from the evening at an upscale hotel or even a for the Toledo Blade, where she's military in July. She leaves with many celebration at home with extended employed as a staff photographer. awards for her exceptional skill as a family invited. The technical sergeant's photojournal­ photojournalist, including the prestigious But one Ohio Guardmember can ism career began in the military in 1979 National Guard Bureau Journalist of the stake a claim to fame that few can while serving eight years on active duty Year for 1994. She will be greatly missed match-she literally witnessed the in the Army. She joined the Ohio Army by the staff of the Buckeye Guard.• dawn of the new millennium. National Guard in 1987 Tech. Sgt. Lori King, 180th Fighter and later transferred to Wing, agreed two years ago to travel the Air Guard. Being in with a group of friends to Taveuni, the a reserve component third largest of the Fiji islands. Their allowed her career as a goal was to be the first to celebrate the freelance photographer tum of the century. to grow, shooting "The l 80th meridian (global longi­ assignments for various tude line) cuts diagonally through the organizations such as island, one of only five pieces of land the Associated Press. it touches," King said. The line is also "Since New Year's known as the international date line­ was 18 hours earlier in which designates the start of a new Fiji, the Blade wanted to calendar day, she explained. "Standing run some of my photos astride the 180th meridian, you have one leg in today and one in yesterday." Fijian women welcome The whole idea began with King's in the new year with friend, Teeny Guynes, an avid traditional song and dance of the islands. Photo byTSgl. Lori King, 180th Fighter Wing.

61BUCKEYE GUARD WINTER 1999 /2000 Few problems RECRUITING AND RETENTION for Guard with Y2K rollover By Diana Kelly Army News Service

The Y2K bug may not have been around I for the New Year's weekend, but the active Army, National Guard and Reserve were. The Army Operations Center stood up a Y2K crisis action cell at the Pentagon from Dec. 30 through mid-day Jan. 4. The cell monitored installations worldwide and com­ municated with major command Emergency Operations Centers. More than 7,000 National Guardmembers were on duty nationwide. The Guard staffed operations centers in all 50 states, the Dis­ trict ofColumbia and four U.S. territories on At one second past midnight Jan. 1, Ohio Adjutant General Maj. Gen. John New Year's Eve. National Guard mjlitary H. Smith swears In Amanda L. Wood, who Is believed to be the first National police helped patrol the streets in Washing­ Guard enlistee of the 21st century In the continental United States. ton, D.C., ready to help civilian police con­ trol crowds and traffic. Other guardmembers Y2K brings nation's first Guard recruit to Ohio remained on standby at armories to help deal with potential civil disturbances that Story and photo by ition, in addition to a $5,000 enlistment never occurred. Sgt. 1st Class Bob Mullins bonus and Montgomery G.l. Bill ben­ Miriam Browning, the Army's Director HQSTARC(-) efits. Wood said she plans to attend for Information Management, said less either Ohio State University or Colum­ than six minor Y2K-related problems were he Ohio Army National Guard bus State Community College, and major reported Armywide over the New Year's Twasted little time combating the Y2K in journalism. weekend. These did not affect any Army recruitment challenge as it enlisted the "My goals in the military are to do operations, she said. In fact, they were first soldier of the 21st century shortly whatever job I am assigned and do it not severe enough to be monitored at the after the stroke of midnight Jan. I . well," Wood said. "Both my grandfa­ Department of the Army or Department of Columbus native Amanda L. Wood, a thers, my father and my uncle were in the Defense level, and were fixed within a day 1998 graduate of Briggs High School, Army, so I decided to join for both the or two, she said. became the first enlistee in the National educational benefits and to serve my It was widely reported in the news media Guard, and perhaps the entire armed country." that a DoD ground-based computer sys­ services, for the new millennium in the She has been assigned to Head­ tem, which relays information from satellite continental United States. quarters and Headquarters Com­ intell igence, had failed for a number of The swearing-in ceremony was per­ pany, 1-13 7 Aviation Battalion, Co­ hours over New Year's Eve. Officials said formed one second after midnight Jan. 1 lumbus. Basic training was sched­ the computer system belonged to the Na­ by Maj. Gen. John H. Smith, adjutant uled to begin for Wood March 1 at tional Reconnaissance Office and was not general for Ohio. Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. an Army asset. Taking advantage of the new Ohio After basic training, Wood will attend All 191 Army installations reported green National Guard Scholarship Program, her advanced individual training at Fort on Y2K, which meant that their power, wa­ Wood will receive a scholarship which Lee, Va., where she will train to be a ter, computers and facil ities on and off post will pay 100 percent of her college tu- petroleum supply specialist.• reported success in terms of rolling over with the Y2K bug, Browning said. The first Army installation to success­ 200 I, and the period from the end offebru ­ DoD. I'd like to thank everybody in the fu lly pass into the new mi llennium was ary to the beginning of March in 2001. Army: military, civilian, contractors, active, Kwajalein Island in the Pacific. The last was "The Y2K bug should not be a serious Reserve and Guard; they did an absolutely Johnston Atoll, also in the Pacific, on the network or computer problem in the future, super job over the past couple of years in other side of the international date line. because we took a lot of steps to fix it," making sure that the Army had no prob­ Those in between passed through the mil­ Browning said. lems," Browning said. "Everyone who had lennium just as smoothly. "It was a very good success story in a hand in fixing Y2K needs to be Upcoming is the rollover from 2000 to terms of internal cooperation within the congratulated."•

WINTER 1999/2 00 0 BUCKE YE GUARD 17 BEST OF THE he best soldiers, airmen, nocommissioned and junior commis­ BUCKEYE STATE sioned officers in the Ohio Anny and Air National Guard for T the past year were chosen from among the 15,000 men and women who serve in units throughout the Buckeye State. For 1999, the Anny Guard honored a traditional soldier and NCO of 1 the year, and an Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) NCO of the year. Ann} Guard personnel were evaluated on their knowledge of military subjects, leadership, Anny programs and current events. Candidates also were judged on personal appearance, military bearing, self-confidence and wear of the Anny uniform. The Air Guard selected an airman, NCO, senior NCO, first sergeant and second lieutenant of the year. Air Guard personnel were evaluated in performance, professional skill, knowledge and leadership.

Ohio Army National Guard

Traditional Soldier of the Year - Spc. Eric J. Moorehead Medical Specialist, Det. 6, State Area Command, Columbus

Spc. Eric J. Moorehead is assigned to Detachment 6 (Medical), State Area Command. Moorehead j oined the Ohio Army National Guard in December 1994 immediately fo llowing his service on active duty as a flight medic. His last duty assignment before entering the Ohio Guard was at Fort Riley, Kan. Moorehead graduated in May 1998 from the College of Mount Saint Joseph ' s, located in Cincinnati, with a bachelor's degree in nursing. He c urrently works as a nurse fo r Shriners Bum Hospital in Cincinnati. Moorehead currently is pursuing a commission as an Army National Guard Nurse Corps officer. He is single and enjoys hunting, fi shing and outdoor sport activities. He resides in Erlanger, Ky.

Traditional NCO of the Year - Staff Sgt. Glenn A. Fisher Finance Specialist, HHD, State Area Command, Columbus

Staff Sgt. Glenn A. Fisher is assigned as a finance specialist for Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, State Area Command, Columbus. Fisher joined the Ohio Army National Guard in June 1998 afte r serving in the Marine Corps Reserve. Fisher is also employed as a fed eral technician-a military pay clerk- with the Ohio Adjutant General 's Department in Columbus. He recently graduated from Franklin University in Columbus with a bachelor's degree in business administration. Fisher is currently pursuing a direct commission as an Army National Guard finance officer. He enjoys playing football, softball and reading. Fisher and his wife, Diane, reside in Grove City.

AQR NCO of the Year - Staff Sgt. Robert J. Hooper Recruiting and Retention NCO, Del. 4, State Area Command, Columbus

Staff Sgt. Robert J. Hoope r is assigned as a recruiting-retention noncommissioned officer in the Columbus area for Detachme nt 4 ( Recruiting Command), State Area Command. Hooper joined the Ohio Army National Guard immediately fo llowing three years of active-duty service as a calvary fi ghting vehicle crew member. His last duty assignment was at Fort Bliss, Texas. Prior to his tour as an AGR recruiting-retention NCO, Hooper was assigned to Company C, 1- 107th Armor, Stow, as an Ml Abrams armor crew member. He has worked as a recruiting-retention NCO since January 1998. Hooper is currently wo rk ing on a bachelor's degree in history from Kent State University. He is single, and enjoys golfing and skiing.

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

81BU CKEYE GUARD WI NTER 1999/2000 Ohio Air National Guard '

Airman of the Year - Airman 1st Class Erin M. Grass In formation Specialist, I 78th Fighter Wing, Springfield

Airman Isl Class Erin M. Grass was born at Travis Air Force Base, Cali f. She attended Beavercreek lligh School and excelled in academics while participating in softball, band, color guard and choir. After graduating high school in 1998 at age 17, she enlisted in the Ohio Air National Guard and left for basic training. Upon completion of basic training, Grass began technical training as an information manager helper at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. Grass is a volunteer member of the Airman-NCO Advisory committee, the Force Management Team and works on the I 78th's base beautification project. Grass has completed her freshman year at Ohio State University, and plans to major in public relations.

NCO of the Year - Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey C. Wandell Food Services NCO, 200th Red Horse Squadron, Port Clinton

Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey C. Wandell was born in Elmira, N.Y. He graduated from Horsehide High School, where he was active as a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol. After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served for IS years on active duty. Wandell then joined the Ohio Army National Guard in 1991, and later transferred to the 200th Red Horse Squadron in December 1993. He was appointed as the point of contact for the transition of the Airman Leadership School from Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base to Camp Perry. Wandell is employed by ARAMARK Correctional Services as the food service director for the Medina and Huron County jails. He continues to be active with the Civil Air Patrol, with more than 32 years of service.

Senior NCO of the Year - Senior Master Sgt. Christopher E. Muncy Operations Manager, 251 st Combat Communications Group, Springfield

Senior Master Sgt. Christopher E. Muncy, a resident of Cedarville, is the operations manager for the 251 st Combat Communications Group. Muncy was born in Dayton, and graduated from Carlisle High School in Carlisle. Muncy entered the Air Force in 1978 and attended the telecommunications operations course at Shepherd Air Force Base, Texas, where he was an honor graduate. Muncy serves on the Ohio Senior NCO Council. lie is also the lead instructor-administrator of the Satellite NCO Academy's program at Springfield. He also has been an Airman Leadership School instructor and faculty advisor in both Ohio and West Virg inia, and was the director for the 33rd Air National Guard softball tournament, held last year in Dayton.

First Sergeant of the Year - Master Sgt. Margaret J. Washington Support Group First Sergeant, I 79th Airlift Wing, Mansfield

Master Sgt. Margaret J. Washington, a resident of Mansfield, is the first sergeant of I 79th Support Group of the I 79th Airlift Wing. She was born in Mansfield and graduated from Mansfield Madison I ligh School. She entered the Air National Guard in 1979 where she was an administrative assistant for the l 79th Combat Support Flight. She was acting first sergeant for I 0 years. She has been the first sergeant of the I 79th SG for the last two years. She is a Total Quality Management instructor, coordinator and curriculum advisor. She also coordinates and executes family day luncheons. Washington is a learning disability math teacher­ intcrvention specialist at Madison Junior lligh School. She also is a scuba instructor.

Second Lieutenant of the Year - 2nd Lt. Kimberly Norman Military Personnel Officer, I 78th Fighter Wing, Springfield

Second Lt. Kimberly L. Norman, a resident of Enon, is a graduate of Greenon High School in Springfield, and Antioch University. She enlisted in the 178th in 1987 and was commissioned in 1998. As an officer in the wing's l 78th Military Personnel Flight, Norman developed and conducted a comprehensive survey to help recognize areas for improvement in base weight management programs. She also initiated a recognition program for new members where their photographs are taken, printed and presented to them at the time of enlistment. Initiatives supported by Norman enabled l 78th recruiters to increase enlistments by 54 percent from last year. Norman and her husband, Chris, also a member of the I 78th, have two children- Bailey, 6, and Jacob, 3.

Compiled by Command Chief Master Sgt. Earl Lutz and Master Sgt. Ea/nor Grey, Headquarters, Ohio Air National Guard.

WINTER 1999 / 2000 BUC KEY E GUARD 1 9 hio Lt. Gov. Maureen O'Connor led an eight-day I Air National Guard visit to military installations in Ger- many, Oman and Hungary shortly before the Christmas holiday. The Dec. 12-19 visit allowed vari­ ous Ohio military and civic leaders to geta firsthandglimpseofthe Guard's global mission. Members of the del­ egation included Ohio's lieutenant governor; Civilian Aide to the Secre­ tary ofthe Army William Willoughby; state Rep. Rex Damsschroeder; Ohio Adjutant General Maj. Gen. John Smith; EmployerSupportoftheGuard and Reserve state Chair Phil Gubbins; 1796 a Columbus television station news crew; and other Army and Air Na­ tional Guardmembers and civilians. The tour allowed the delegation to observe and meet Ohio National Guardmembers supporting the ac­ tive-duty military at Ramstein Air Base and Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base, Germany, and Seeb-North air­ port, Oman. The television crew docu­ mented the trip for a series of news stories on television station WBNS (Channel l 0), and taped holiday greetings from airmen and soldiers to their families back home in Ohio. Because of media coverage, the general public is aware of the in­ creasing number of contingencies requiring guardmember support worldwide, however, the lieutenant governor said that seeing the men and women of the Guard in action really makes a difference. "Seeing how well the Guardsmen do their mission, especially in sup­ port ofthe active-duty military com­ ponents, especially in Germany and Overseas command visit Oman, reinforces the value ofa strong National Guard within the state struc­ demonstrates Ohio Guard's ture," O'Connor said. At their first stop, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, the delegation was briefed on the Air National Guard's contribution to operations in Europe. More than 12,000 AirGuardrnembers performed more than 636,000 days of work in the European theater in 1999 alone, which equates to 2,540 man years of added work force. STORY AND PHOTOS BY SGT J .R. LEWIS, HQ STARC(-) From Ramstein, the group flew to Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base, Ger­ many, to visitthe l2lstAirRefueling Wing of Columbus. With their KC- Aircrew members of Mansfield's 179th Airlift Wing prepare to fuel a C-130 'Hercules' transport 135 refueling aircraft, flight crews aircraft at the Seeb-North, Oman airport. reflleled NATO E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system

10 8 UC KEYE GUARD WINTER 1999/ 2 0 0 0 (AW ACS) aircraft flown by inte­ ABOVE: Ohio Lt. Gov. Maureen grated multinational crews. There, O'Connor checks out the cockpit the delegation learned the impor­ of a MIG-29 Fulcrum jet during a tance of weather surveillance, com­ tour of Kecskemet Air Base, mand, control and communications Hungary. RIGHT: Cameraman Jeff assets, and keeping them refueled Sheerer tapes aircraft footage and in the air. at Ramsteln Air Base, Germany. The next stop was Seeb-North Airport, Oman, where members of Albatross. The senior-ranking Mansfield's l 79th Airlift Wing had members of the delegation were aircrew, maintenance personnel, also given the chance to meet with medics, security police and other several members ofthe Hungarian career field specialists deployed in military and defense network in support of Operation Southern order to discuss the future relation­ Watch-which monitors the airspace ship of the partnership, since Hun­ south ofthe 33rd parallel in Iraq. The gary is now a member of NATO. unit's C-130 "Hercules" mission was According to Chief Warrant Of­ to transport people, equipment and ficer Jim Vanas, Ohio Guard plans supplies throughoutthe Middle East. andsecurityofficerformilitarysup­ The trip ended with a visit to Hun­ port operations and an integral part gary, where the delegation witnessed of the Ohio-Hungary partnership, the fruitsofOhio's Staq: Partnership these meetings were successful in Program with the European nation. establishing a dialogue for pos­ The program, which is part of the sible future interaction. DepartmentofDefense's Military to "These meetings reinforced Military Contact Program, partners Ohio'scommitmenttoHungaryand the National Guard in various states its journey in meeting the respon­ with emerging democracies ofCen­ sibilities of NATO admittance," gary relationship, and said the ben­ tral and Eastern Europe and the newly V anas said. "Our strategy for Ohio efits in such programs are numerous. independent nations of the former National Guard engagement with "I'm a firm believer in thinking Soviet Union in an effort to bolster Hungary remains realistic, mean­ globally, and our relationship with these nations' national security and ingful, cost effective, and it fo­ other countries presents us with helpthemeammembershipinNATO. cuses on the choices that the Hun­ economic opportunities because The delegation visited Hungary's garian Defense Forces make." these countries, in tum, buy Ameri­ 59th Tactical Air Wing at Kecskemet O'Connor met with Zoltan can products," she said. "From a Air Base, and was treated to both Martinusz, Hungary's deputy state humanitarian point of view, we also static and aerial displays of the infa­ secretary ofdefense policy, to dis­ have an obligation to help these mous MiG-29 Fulcrum and the F-39 cuss the future of the Ohio-Hun- countries."•

WINTER 1999/ 2000 BUCKEYE GUARD 11 Photo by MSgt. Dennis Koeninger, 9th AES. LEFT: Gov. Bob Taft (right) talks with SSgt. Jason Williams, a ground radio journeyman, during the 123rd Air Contol Squadron's send-off ceremony Dec. 7. ABOVE: Former President Carter(center) visits unit members Feb. 5 in Kuwait. Photo by Christine Santiago Foos, Adj. Gen. Dept. Public Affairs Office.

pictures than the legal limit," be said of all • the photos of his wife and kids that he was Christmas ID Kuwait taking to Kuwait. The seven-year veteran officer said the Blue Ash~ 123rd Air Control were forced to celebrate Christmas and other Cincinnati Police Department was support­ holidays earlier than usual. ive by continuing pay and-perhaps more Squadron supports southern Ohio Gov. Bob Taft and First Lady Hope importantly- benefits, especially his fam­ no-fly zone over Iraq Taft visited members oftbe !23rd during a ily health insurance. Staff Sgt. Jason Dec. 7 send-off ceremony. The Tafts were Peckiney, aerospace ground equipment joined at the ceremony by U.S. Reps. Rob (AGE) specialist, and Master Sgt. Dennis Story by Maj. Ann Coghlin Portman and Dave Hobson. Swingley, satellite communications techni­ 178th Fighter Wing "It's a sacrifice for guardmembers and cian, are Cincinnati police officers who also their families to be separated during the deployed with the I 23rd. "They (the Cincin­ etermined to do their duty and con­ holidays," Gov. Taft said. "Hope and I felt nati PD) bent over backwards to accommo­ fident that they would do a profes­ it was important that we let them know we date the three ofus being deployed once it D sional job-but with a few reser­ appreciate all they do for Ohio and our was official we were going," Moran said. vations about leaving home for four country, and that Ohioans appreciate their Airman Dennis Williams, a supply spe­ months-members ofthe Ohio Air National sacrifices this holiday season." cialist,joined the unit in April 1999. He had Guard's I 23rd Air Control Squadron, Blue Master Sgt. Pat Moran, acting I 23rd first returned from basic training and technical Ash, deployed to Kuwait in December with sergeant, said the advance notice given to school and intended to enroll as a full-time a motto of, "One Team, One Fight!" the unit last September allowed for plan­ student, using the new Ohio National Guard The unit is part of an Aerospace Expedi­ ning and for families to get used to the idea Scholarship Program, which pays I 00 per­ tionary Force ( AEF) in support ofthe south­ of the deployment, even if they didn' t nec­ cent of a guardmember's tuition at a state­ ern no-fly zone over Iraq. The unit's mis­ essarily accept the timing- December supported college or university. sion while there is to conduct radar surveil­ through March-and length of the four­ "The deployment came at a good ti me for lance, communication and data link opera­ month deployment to Ali Al Salem, Kuwait. school. When I found out about the de­ tions in the Southwest Asia theater of op­ Moran said in December that the hardest ployment, I cancelled school for the win­ erations. The unit's taskings range from part of the deployment probably was going ter," Williams said. As a single guy, bis coordination ofmid-air refueling to survei 1- to be spending time away from his daughter parents are bis closest family. An only lance for violations of the no-fly zone. Casey, 3, and twin sons, Kyle and Kody, 18 child, Williams said that bis father was Seventy-three members ofthe I 23rd, aug­ months. "The duration away from the kids handling the deployment pretty well, but mented by 27 members of the 109th ACS, will be the toughest thing. The holidays his mother was having a more difficult time. Salt Lake City, left the Greater Cincinnati­ away will be tough, but my kids are every­ The unit came up with a slogan of, "One Northern Kentucky International Airport thing," be said. Team, One Fight!" during the days prior to shortly after 8 p.m. Dec. 12, beginning a 20- A Cincinnati police officer on the civilian their deployment. In the spirit of their new hour flight and ending a very emotional side, Moran took two weeks vacation prior slogan, about 20 of the male airmen bad week at home for some. In the days prior to to the Dec. 1 report date and spent it with his their beads shaved. deploying, guardmembers prepared at the family. He also made videos and audiotapes "It kind of.started and everyone joined in unit during the day and spent time with for the kids to watch and listen to while he after some egging on," said StaffSgt. Chris family and friends in the evenings as they was deployed. "l' m probably carrying more Spurrier, a ground radio operator.

12 lBU CKEY E GUARD WINTER 1999/ 2000 Senior Master Sgt. Gary Rowland even troops and the job they did preparing to from life preserver material. parted with hi s mustache that had adorned deploy, especially since they would be gone "Keep (the orange ribbon) in your left his upper lip fo r the past 30 years. "Lieuten­ during the holidays. The biggest challenge pocket. Itisasymbolofthecare for military ant Colonel (Norm) Poklar( l 23rd ACS com­ of the call-up would be trying to get every­ members and the support of your fami lies mander) was the first in the chair and we one working together and concentrating on by Operation Orange Ribbon," Lambing followed suit," Rowland said. An opera­ the mission, he said. People were taking on said at the Dec. 7 ceremony. "Goodbye, tions superintendent, Rowland joined the extra responsibility to get ready. Godspeed, and we'll be here when you get Guard in May 1980 and became a federal "People stepped forward to do jobs they back!" technician in 1984. He fe lt the advance weren'tnecessarilytrainedforandexceeded The unit was activated under the Presi­ notice of three-and-a-half months came a everyone's expectations," Poklar said. dential Selective Reserve Call-Up. Under little too soon because it made the whole There was a lot ofcomm unity support of this policy, reserve forces can be called to process seem to drag out. "People had been the troops as they prepared to deploy. The active duty for up to 270 days. This is the ready to go for the last six weeks (prior to VFW presented 220 prepaid phone cards to first call-up ofan Ohio National Guard unit deployment)," he said. Moran so the troops of the l 23rd could call for duty in Southwest Asia under the PSRC. Rowland said he felt the experience would home, especially during the holidays. Ohio units have been previously called up be positive once it started. "It's (going to In addition, Operation Orange Ribbon is to support operations in Bosnia. be) a great learning experience. Having ev­ still out in full force, with a new focus. The Coalition forces have been supporting eryone together forthree-and-a-hal f months organization, founded by Cincinnati woman the southern no-fly zone since the end of will allow fo r lotsoftraining. Crosstraining Ellen Lambing during Operations Desert the Persian GulfWar in early 199 1. TheAEF fo r the four operations positions will be Shield/Storm, continues the mission ofs up­ concept evolved to support the high opera­ done. It will be very good on morale." porting the troops and their fami lies. tions tempo that today's military maintains. Added Poklar: "There's a real sense of Lambing gave each deploying member a It incorporates units from the active Air pride to be called on to do something in a poster oftbe downtown Cincinnati skyline Force, the Air National Guard and Air Force real-world mission that we've trained for." backed by the Ohio River, a certificate of Reserve to support contingency operations The commander said he was proud ofh is appreciation and an orange ribbon made around the world.• 179th AW sees action in Southwest Asia also ansfield's l 79th Airlift Wing became one of the first "The hub of M players in the Air Force's dynamic structuring forthe 21st power in the 763rd century. The unit deployed two C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft was the people and more than 200 airmen fora 90-day rotation in Oman, Sep. 28 who executed the to Dec. 28, in direct support of Operation Southern Watch, mission safely and enforcing the southern no-fly zone over Iraq. successfully ev­ The I 79th AW was the lead unit of a two-unit package, eryday," said sharing the rotation with the 123rd Airlift Wing, based in McCue, referring Louisville, Ky. to deployed air­ The I 79th and the I 23rd were the first Air National Guard units men with such to deploy to Oman under the new Aerospace Expeditionary special skills as lin­ Force (AEF) concept of organizing personnel, aircraft and guist, contracting, equipment. This structuring allows the Air Force to better communications, Courtesy photo. conduct military operations around the world while relieving finance, security Members of the 179th Airlift Wing, the ever-increasing operations tempo demands on its active pol ice, aircrew op­ Mansfield, pose for a photo during their and reserve personnel. erations and main- deployment late last year to Oman. While deployed in theater under the command of the 763rd tenance. Expditionary before Airlift Squadron, the units flew 343 sorties "The 763 EAS Camelbacks took great pride in leading all (missions) totaling 486 hours, airlifting 1,122 passengers and theater airlift squadrons in tons of cargo airlifted every month 896 tons of cargo. Tours averaged 18-22 days, with several and hours flown," McCue said. "We were able to perform with members deploying for tours of30 days or more. a l 00 percent reliability everyday due to our superb ANG "The first ANG deployment under the AEF concept would maintenance team. Our mishap-free safety record is a direct not have gone as smoothly without the help ofour active-duty reflection ofaircrew training and constant safety awareness by counterparts,"said the I 79th's Maj. Gary McCue. Lt. Col. Carl all squadron members." Hunter, 763rd EAS commander, was instrumental in establish­ McCue said the 763rd EAS has set high standards for airlift ing a good working relationship between active and reserve and expeditionary forces deployed around the world. The personnel. "The Air National Guard could not have picked a Camelbacks were praised during a visit by Secretary of Defense more professional and receptive first commander," said McCue, William S. Cohen. "If it happens in Southwest Asia, then the who served as the 763rd operations officer while in Oman. 763rd must be there too," he said. ADJUTANT GENERAL'S The 763rd EAS became a formal expeditionary airlift squadron DEPARTMENT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE in January 1999. Known as the Camelbacks for cargo hauling throughout the Saudi Arabian peninsula, the unit consisted of EDITOR'S NOTE: Maj. Gary McCue, 179th Airlift Wing, 84 professional active-duty and Air National Guard personnel. contributed to this article.

WI NTER 1999/ 2000 BUCKEYE GUARD 13 New Georgia, Bougainville and Luzon. "When rjoined the Ohio Guard in 1939 From baseball to r was assigned to the brigade's commum cations platoon," Collins recalled. "My job was to string telephone wire between the brigade switchboard and the head­ quarters of the brigade's two subordinat banzai charges infantry regiments." Collins was a hard worker and a natura 1 1 leader. Within a year he rose to the rank Buckeye Division veteran of technical sergeant and later became platoon sergeant. Collins' brigade was one of two infantry brigades in the Ohio shares wartime experiences National Guard's 37th Infantry Division, known as the "Buckeye Division." BY SGT ANTHONY C. MELDAHL. CO. C, I ISTll AREA SU PPORT MEDICAL BATTALION In September 1940, the draft was reintroduced in the United States and President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered NEW GEORGIA the Ohio National Guard's 37th Infantry Division to active duty for a year of n 1939, a 19-year-old Columbus boy, intensive training at Camp Shelby, Miss. Gene Collins, joined the National In October of that year, Collins and IGuard so he could play baseball. thousands of other Ohio Guardmembers Collins' high school buddy was shipped out to Mississippi. Collins' playing on the Ohio National Guard's brigade commander, Col. Robert S. 74th Infantry Brigade team, the Briga­ Beightler, was chosen to command the diers and Collins didn't want to get left activated Buckeye Division and was out of the action. But only in his wildest promoted to the rank of major general. dreams could the tall, soft-spoken youth " At Camp Shelby, the 37th was have imagined just how much action was changed from a square to a triangularize( in store for him. division," Collins said. This meant that Within a year Collins would find the two brigades- the 73rd and the himself called to active duty and then ?4th- were eliminated to streamline the thrown into combat with an inexperi­ command structure, he explained. Collin ~ enced, green U.S. division against battle­ and other personnel of the two brigade hardened Japanese troops. As a cavalry headquarters companies were used as thto reconnaissance scout, Collins would nucleus for a new unit, the 37th Cavalry experience as much danger and intense Reconnaissance Troop. action as few other combat soldiers ever The United States would enter the war did. His experiences ranged from long­ on Dec. 7, 1941 , marked by the Japanese range infantry patrols deep behind bombing of Pearl Harbor. Two months Japanese lines to commanding a tank and spearheading the 37th Infantry Division's drive across the Philippine MARCH 1942-Colllns wears his newly Island of Luzon. Collins fought with the Issued" Army cavalry uniform at 37th in all three of its major campaigns- Courtesy photo Indiantown Gap, Pa.

14 J BU CKEY E GUARD WINTER 1999/2000 the Japanese who considered the JULY 1943-American jungle a great equalizer. The thick soldiers trek five miles vegetation and the proximity of the taking the wounded to a combatants prevented the Americans medical clearing station from making good use of their artillery on New Georgia. support. The Japanese frequently infiltrated Guadalcanal by February the front lines and at one point in the 1943 in a great defensive battle cut off and surrounded the battle fought by U.S. land, air Buckeye Division's leading regiment, and naval forces. the 148th Infantry. Collins' cavalry "In the spring of 1943, I scouts were called into action and shipped out with the 3 7th distinguished themselves, fighting as Cav Recon Troop to infantry soldiers against infiltrating Guadalcanal, where the entire Japanese who had set up road blocks division was preparing to on the supply road leading up to the take part in an offensive front. drive up the Solomon Islands On a previous occasion, some of chain," Collins said. In mid­ Collins' friends in another platoon had July 1943, Collins saw his discovered an atrocity committed by first combat on the island of infiltrators. "They found a medical New Georgia. "Our mission station of the 43rd Infantry Division," was to drive west along the Collins said, "(where) all the patients south side of the island to had been bludgeoned to death with capture the Japanese airfield bayonets, as they lay helpless in their at Munda." A second cots and stretchers." division, the 43rd Infantry News of this grisly incident soon Courtesyphoto Division, composed mainly spread to all of the U.S. soldiers on the ofNational Guardsmen from island and the hatred and disgust it later, the 37th Cav Recon Troop was shipped New York, would fight on their left flank invoked motivated the men to fight on. to Indiantown Gap, Pa. There the troop along the coast. The island fell on Aug. 5, 1943. received its vehicles and most of its officers, War in New Georgia was different from The 37th shipped back to many of whom were cavalry officers from Fort anything else Collins experienced in the Guadalcanal for rest and training. Riley, Kan. Collins and the other soldiers were Pacific. Collins described the terrain as "Once we got back on Guadalcanal, we issued their distinctive cavalry unifonns, "covered with rain forest jungle so thick gained a new appreciation for what we complete with riding breeches and tall leather that it was nearly impossible to establish had learned on New Georgia," Collins riding boots. The troop trained intensively on a front line in any nonnal sense of the said. " We learned some valuable mechanized patrol work using annored cars, meaning." Both front line and sectors lessons and utilized them for ourselves motorcycles and trucks. between platoons, companies and and the new replacements. The 37th Infantry Division " I realized that previ­ was originally slated to fight ously our training in Europe, but plans were .•. Collins' friends .... ''found a medical station consisted of rampaging changed in 1942 when the ... (where) all the patients had been bludgeoned around, flopping our­ Japanese drive through the to death with bayonets.... selves down behind trees. Solomon Islands to " News of this grisly It ends up that in real Guadalcanal threatened the incident. .. motivated the men to fight on. combat in the jungle you lifeline from the United don't run too much," he States to New Zealand and Australia. While battalions were quite fluid. "The density remarked. "You try to move as stealth­ the Battle ofGuadalcanal raged, the Buckeye of the vegetation made it difficult at times ily and quietly as possible. On occa­ Division was shipped first to Auckland, New to keep visual contact with soldiers just a sion you'd have to run, but as a nonnal Zealand, and then to Fiji, providing a defense few yards away," he said. tactic you're not running because you force in case the Japanese were able to The fighting was close in, between can't see as much when you're moving advance. The Japanese were defeated at small groups. This situation was ideal for fast."•

WINTER 1999 / 2000 BUCKEYE GUARD 115 Ohio's Training Through Technology team serves as testbed for 'revolutionary' training simulator Embracing Technologv Story by StaffSgt. Diane L. Farrow HQ ST ARC(-)

uring Operation Desert Storm, military commanders Dwere able to conduct corps­ level war games through simulation. With the lives of thousands of ser­ vice members hanging in the bal­ ance, strategic decisions were made based on the various courses of action that were played out during computer-simulated battles. The minimal loss of life during actual battlefield operations of that war secured the credibility of com­ puter-simulated battlefield plan­ ning, rehearsing and training. Over the course of the last 10 years, all the services have invested in an increased number of training aids, devices, simulators and simu­ lations (TADSS). The Ohio Army National Guard too, continues to add to its arsenal ofcomputerequip­ ment and software that enhance skills in marksmanship, air defense artil­ lery, armor, field artillery, mainte­ nance and staff-command training. During its pursuit ofa new desk­ top simulation trainer, the Buckeye State seized an opportunity to be­ come a major player in "revolution­ izing the way platoon, company and battalion operations are planned, rehearsed, coordinated and syn­ Department of Defense photo illustration. chronized," said Lt. Col. Dan Allen, team chiefof the Ohio Army Guard's been available at battalion, the commander can pull in main­ Army desktop simulation Training Through Technology company and platoon level tenance, engineers and all the training tool which, All en team. Allen and bis team agreed to by just using a personal com­ major players to participate and said, "just didn't meet our troubleshoot and make recommen­ puter. coordinate operations through needs." dations on the development of "With OneSAF, a battalion use of the simulation. Back in February 1999, OneSAF, what is planned to be the commander will be able to "Then the company com­ Allen was senttoDA's Simu­ base archi tecture for all future bat­ download a current map of manders can take it to the pla­ lation, Training and lnstru­ talion-level and below simulation where they wi 11 conduct com­ toon, and to each soldier, so men tation Command programs. bat operations (via satellite), they can see the terrain, see the (STRICOM) to train-up on "While the focus (ofTADSS) up battalion staff will load both vehicles to their left and right, ModSAF. He said it took four to now has been on training, enemy and friendly units and and identify risk spots and key days in the classroom just to OneSAF will impact the future of capabilities, and they will work terrain through simulation." learn how to use it. "It was actual battlefield operations," be through the different sce­ But OneSAF is a work in very complicated, labor in­ said. According to Allen, the kind narios until the best course of progress. Its "Build A" release tensive and it would not work ofwargaming capabilities used dur­ action is identified," Allen ex­ was basically a revival using our existing technolo­ ing Desert Storm have never before plained. What's key is that ModSAF, a Department of the gies." It required UNIX sys-

16 lBUCKEYE GUARD WINT ER 1999 / 20 0 0 terns, while the Ohio Guard is wanted them to break set up in a Microsoft Windows down their company col­ l:;TCDahAllen NT operating system environ­ lective tasks into four­ (ljght) works ment, he explained. hour blocks of instruc­ Wltll CP-1'. Jeff " It just was not a very realis­ tion," Allen said. These Suver, 134th FA, tic approach to training, espe­ would provide baselines during a test run cially fo r reserve components," for future testing, begin Of~. he said. " The success factor T building training pack­ was looking at was the ability ages for Ohio soldiers for our soldiers to train at their and present STRI COM units, using existing equipment, with scenario-based rec­ in four-hour blocks." ommendations. While there were 30 students Ohio received Build B in the class, All en was the only in December, and, in mid­ service member. "Since l was January, the testers met the only one wearing green, the at Beightler Armory in instructors asked me every day Columbus, ready to load what I thought (about and test their training ModSAF)," he said. Allen scenarios. ended up writing a five-page "(OneSAF) provides a letter explaining why he would great opportunity for not recommend the use of young officers to go Photo by Todd Cramer. Adj. Gen. Dept. Photo Lab. ModSAF in O hio-and through a mission," said STRICOM wanted a copy. I st Lt. Michael Hatfield, A Bat­ of testing Build B, the TTT or even change our tactics, we " We need the users' input on tery, 2- l 74th Air Defense Artil­ team realized OneSAF still has need to build three or more what they would like to see and lery, McConnelsvi I le. "They can a long way to go. "We came model s and behaviors to sup­ how they want to use it," said develop a battle plan based on up with more than 140 recom­ port the new system. Maj. Jim Vaglia, STRJCOM pub­ terrain and threat data, and they'll mendations that we consoli­ "By building OneSAF," he lic affairs officer. "The National learn to brief the commander. dated to 86 for STRICOM," explained, "we will only have Guard has missions that the Watching the scenario play out Allen said. to build one model and field regular Army does not, such as " Builds A and B are not the one simulation- this will re­ homeland defense and domes­ objective OneSAF simula­ duce the li fe cycle costs for the tic preparedness. ff we get their Ohio'.

WINTER 199912000 B UCKEYE GU ARD 117 SPC Chad Wilson (from left}, CDT Trav is Wilson and 1 LT David Wilson are bonded as brothers and soldiers in the same unit.

and a future career as a game warden. "I went to Wright State University (in Dayton) for a quarter before I enlisted. I A Family Affair reali zed I needed the change in my li fe. The Guard helped discipline me at school and helped my parents out with tuition." Brothers continue tradition in Guard The youngest Wilson claims that all brotherly rivalries are left at home during Story and photo by Sgt. J.R. Lewis jargon to confuse Tom C lancy (none of drill weekends, and competition is HQ STAR C (-) the three uses "yes" or "no," but rather fri endly (a sentiment echoed by both of "check" or "roger" and " negative"). A his brothers, although all three wore the hree brothers, three soldiers, one closer look at each brother reveals same sheepish grin as they made the unit. The Wilson brothers of differences but an overall unanimous claim). In fact, because of their busy TTroop B, 2-107th Calvary, dedication to the Ohio National Guard. schedules, drilling with the Guard is often Lebanon, are making the Ohio Nati onal THE SPECIALIST a fami ly reunion. Guard a fa mily affair. "Honestly, we' re all in school, and this is All three were honor graduates from pc. Chad Wilson is a soldier any the only time we get to see each other." basic train ing and have continued S platoon leader would want to have in successfully in the Guard ever since. It his command. Bright-eyed and idealistic THE CADET only seems fitting that the youngest about the Guard, the communications nce the middle child, always the brother is enl isted, the middle brother is speciali st can' t help but smi le when he Omiddle child: Cadet Travis Wilson a cadet and the oldest is working through talks excitedly about his future in the finds himself between his older and the officer ranks. And it should come as enlisted ranks. But Wilson's optimism is younger siblings in a unique way. While no surprise that all three were born on tempered with an extensive working the middle ground between enlisted base while their fa ther was a standout knowledge of the Guard for which he soldier and commissioned officer is often soldier in the Army, at one time holding credits hi s fa ther and siblings. confusing fo r cadets, Cadet Wilson finds the honor as the youngest staff sergeant " I feel I have a better overall picture of himself in the unique position to identi fy in the Army. how the Guard works," said the 20 year­ with his brothers. Each brother is enthusiastic about old soldier. " I credit that to my brothers "Being in between the enlisted and being a soldier. Each keeps his hair and my dad. They're all good sources fo r officer ranks, I can communicate with buzzed short, sits with enough posture questions about the military." both of my brothers easier," he said. " I' m for an entire platoon, displays neat Like his older brother Travis, Spc. Wilson the middle kid, so I' m used to it." uniforms even after a weekend at the credits the Guard with settl ing him down Cadet Wilson said that having two rifle range and exhibits enough under­ and helping him focus on his studies at brothers in his unit " raises the stakes a standing and appl ication of military Hocking Technical College near Athens, little bit," and that the bond of soldiering

181BUCKEYE GUARD W INTER 1 999/2000

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ combined with the bond of family increases their closeness despite their geographic FORCE STRUCTURE separation. Cadet Wilson joined the Guard after his second year of college and is currently Army Guard's air assets wrapping up an elementary education degree at Wright State University. The pursuit of an education degree has put him undergo restationing in the classroom for student teaching and, like many other guardmembers, "Consolidating the assault battalion Wilson said his military experience is a at Rickenbacker without a correspond­ great help in his civilian li fe. ing shift of aviation assets to North " It's scary how close teaching is to Canton would have created a signifi­ the military," he said. " It's almost li ke cant imbalance of force structure and my classroom is my platoon. The aviation support requirements between principal is the CO (commanding the two existing facilities," Ceneskie officer), and we work together to keep explained. To resolve this, Troops D, E the troops moving forward." and F of the 2nd Squadron, I 07th Cav­ alry, with their 16 AH- I Cobra attack THE LIEUTENANT helicopters and their associated avia­ he oldest brother in many families tion maintenance assets have been Department of Defense photo. Thas the tendency to be a " papa restationed at North Canton. bear" and watch out for hi s younger he alignment ofCo. A, 1-13 7th A via­ This stationing plan results in 27 util­ siblings. While he does admit to caring Ttion Battalion with an active duty ity aircraft being located at about the best interests of his brothers, I st unit of the 101 st Division has set in mo­ Rickenbacker- to include 15 Black Lt. David Wilson insists that favoritism is tion the restationing of nearly all the Hawks-and 25 aircraft at North Can­ not an option. aviation assets in the Ohio Army Na­ ton- a mix of 16 Cobras and nine Hueys. " It's 100 percent professional I 00 percent tional Guard. "This was the most significant re-orga­ of the time," he said. "There's no good old Since its inception in 1996, Co. A's nization of the aviation structure in Ohio boy system between us. lf anything, we're primary mission has been to transport since the Aviation Restructuring Initia­ more strict during drill because we know personnel and equipment with the 15 UH­ tive inactivated three aviation battalions we're being watched." i utility helicopters, or"Hueys," assigned and activated the current 1- 13 7th Assault And according to 1st Lt. Wilson, this to the unit. Early in fiscal year 1999, the Battalion in 1996," Ceneskie said. professionalism carries over after drill when Department of the Army selected Co. A The official restationing date for the the three brothers, each using a different as one ofsix National Guard assault com­ affected units was Jan. 16. The units ac­ perspecti ve of the military gears at work, panies to round out an active component complished the majority oftheequipment conduct their own version of an after assault battalion; this is in addition to relocation during December, taking ad­ action review. their 38th Infantry Division mission. vantage ofthe mild weather and the avail­ "We see the Guard from different levels," This means that the unit's Hueys will ability of personnel to perform invento­ he said. "So when a drill is over, we can be replaced with UH-60 Black Hawks, the ries and move equipment in an annual relax and discuss how things went from Army's standard utility helicopter, ac­ training status. completely different points of view." cording to State Aviation Officer Col. Although some soldiers intend to com­ Being the oldest of the three Wilson Craig Ceneskie. "Hueys are no longer mute in order to stay with their old units, brothers, 1st Lt. Wilson has memories that fielded in the active Army, so Company the majority will switch units to remain in must seem like dreams to his younger A had to be modernized to meet its dual the same geographic location. This will brothers, images that might hold the key to mission requirements," he said. As a re­ result in a significant number of both the Wilson brothers' fascinati on and sult, the priority and readiness require­ officers and enlisted soldiers requiring attraction to the military. ments for the entire battalion have in­ some sort of initial qualification or MOS "Some of my very first memories were of creased. (military occupational specialty) transi­ us three kids watching my dad in a convoy In order to facilitate the training and tion training to become qualified in this rolling out to the field," the lieutenant mobilization preparedness of Co. A, the new assignment. recalled. adjutant general agreed with a recom­ "We expect short-term negative impact Now, as a new generation of Wilsons mendation to consolidate all ofOhio's I - in terms of MOS qualification and unit goes out into the field, new memories are I 37th Battalion units at Rickenbacker strength, but we expect to fully recover in being created. Army Enclave in Columbus. Since 1996, approximately two years," Ceneskie said. " I think our time at this unit will be Co. A and the Headquarters Company "Our goal is long-term success." something that one day down the road we have been located at Rickenbacker and The last AH-I Cobra was flown from can look back at and say, ' Hey, do you supported by Army Aviation Support AASF #2 at Rickenbacker to AASF # I at remember when .... "'• Facility#2, while Co. D, Command A via­ North Canton Jan. 25. The first Black tion, and Co. E, Aviation Unit Mainte­ Hawks were scheduled to arrive in mid­ EDITOR'S NOTE: After completion ofthis nance, were both located at North Can­ February. ADJUTANT GENERAL'S DE­ article, Cadet Wilson earned his commis­ ton and supported by AASF # I . PARTMENT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE sion as a second lieutenant.

W IN TER 1 99 9 /20 0 0 BUCKEYE GUARD 119 Photos by Todd Cramer, Adj. Gen. Dept. Photo Lab. LEFT: Mike Viemeister (center) exchanges sergeant's shoulder epaulets for second lieutenant's with the help of his wife, Phetmany, and COLAI Faber, OHARNG deputy chiefof staff for personnel. ABOVE: SGT Brian Pfeffer (left) takes his commissioning oath from his commander, MAJ Thom HaidetofHHDSTARC. Heading 1nI the right DIRECTION New opportunities arise with direct commission program Pfeffer will work in the HQ STARC( -) direc­ torate oflogistics until attending his officer Story by Steve Toth vice support," said Maj. Jonathon Bailey, basic course in September. Adj. Gen. Dept. Public Affairs Office OHARNG procurementofficer. " It's something I've always wanted to While a direct commission appointment pursue in the Guard-I've been enlisted for hen Sgt. Mike Viemeister pinned does offer an alternative to more traditional 14 years, and I think I can contribute further on the gold bars ofa second lieu­ commissioning programs such as National to the organization as an officer," he said. Wtenant Dec. 23, it marked a new Guard Officer Candidate School and ROTC His rank was put on by Col. Greg Wayt, opportunity to become an officer in the at colleges and universities throughout OHARNG chief of staff, and Maj.Thom Ohio Army National Guard. Ohio, OHARNG leaders stress that the di­ Haidet, HHD STA RC commander. Viemeister received the first direct com­ rect commission program is not meant as a "(Haidet) was very instrumental in get­ mission in recent history in a branch other replacement for OCS. "Ifyou have the op­ ting my paperwork through," Pfeffer said. "I than legal, medical or clerical. portunity to attend OCS, you should do so wasunderadeadlinetogetitdone." Jan.12 "He's paved the way, and hopefully because of the increased leadership train­ was Pfeffer's 35th birthday, which would there will be more to follow in his foot­ ing it provides," Bailey said. have made him too old to be commissioned steps," said Col. Al Faber, who adminis­ Already possessing a bachelor's degree, by NGB regulations. tered the oath to Viemeister, helped put Viemeister was not eligible for the ROTC "Thedirectcommission program is a great the new rank on the new officer, along program. He said since he met the criteria for tool to identify qualified enlisted soldiers with Yiemeister's wife, Phetmany. the direct appointment, he applied. who are looking to become officers without "I look forward to this obligation," said A soldier must have at least two years of going through OCS or ROTC," Haidetsaid. Viemeister, 28, of Columbus. He is now honorable active service (including tradi­ Bailey said that as officer slots are filled, assigned to the 372nd Maintenance Com­ tional guardmembers) in any military through the direct commission and other pany, Cleveland, and will attend Quarter­ branch; possess a bachelor's degree; have programs, NGB will eventually stop ap­ masterOfficerBasicCourseatFortLee, Ya. a minimum of one year active status in an proving the direct commissions; so poten­ Previously, direct commission appoint­ authorized position in an ARNO unit; be tial candidates need to act quickly on this ments were open only to branches that qualified with a military occupational spe­ opportunity."For those soldiers who are traditionally pull their officers from the cialty that translates into a basic branch; considering a direct appointment, I encour­ professional civilian ranks of doctors, and, be a maximum of 32 1/2 years old , or age you to be prompt with your predetermi­ dentists, nurses, lawyers and the clergy. up to age 35 with a waiver from NGB. nation and application packet documenta­ Through new National Guard Bureau There must also be an authorized posi­ tion," he said. • policy, direct commissions are now avail­ tion vacancy in the branch which the sol­ able to all basic branches in the Ohio dier is applying. EDITOR'S NOTE: Prior to application, it Army Guard due to a shortage of second Sgt. Brian Pfeffer, a supply sergeant with is recommended that soldiers complete the lieutenants statewide. Headquarters and Headquarters Detach­ Primary Leadership Development Course "It's a good initiative. There's a great ment, State Area Command, Columbus, fol­ or have a st,rong recommendation from need for lieutenants in all branches-com­ lowed Viemeisteras a directcommissionee their company commander. For more in­ bat arms, combat support and combat ser- on Jan. 11 . Branched Quartermaster Corps, formation, call (614) 336-7187.

J BUCKEYE GUARD WINTER 1999 / 2000 269th designs new field communications system Story and photos by Capt. Paul Harrison 178th Fighter Wing

ough it never deployed, an Ohio Guard unit that's been on alert under a Presi­ Tidential Selective Reserve CalI-up for the past nine months put its time to good use by taking on an ambitious, high-profile project that filled a much-needed technological void in the combat communications community. The 269th Combat Communications Squadron, Springfield, has originated what is affectionately known as RAMTEC, or Rapid Modular Tech Control- a state-of-the-art, mobile, "Ma Bell" and Internet service pro­ vider combined- intended for field use. Since January 1999, engineers, tech con­ trollers and a host of maintenance personnel have been designing, engineering and test­ ing a viable alternative to the soon-to-be obsolete TSQ- 1 I I- the former"hub" for field communications. This heavy, expensive and technologically antiquated system was slated to be replaced by the Theatre Deployable Communication package, or TDC. But due to budgetary and delivery-schedule con­ straints, TDC has yet to be fully fielded into Unit Systems Engineer Maj. Rob Moser (left) explains some features of RAMTEC to the Air Force communications environment. SrA. Jason Craycraft, satellite communications-wide band technician. This created a need for a stepping stone which could link the old with the new, ac­ half the airlift (three-and-a-half pallet posi- unit held in November. RAMTEC was fully cording to Master Sgt. Joe Hessel, Air Force tions versus eight). Moreover, the Air Force integrated with the rest ofthe unit's commu­ advisor for the 269th. has pulled depot support for the TSQ-11 1, nication systems (old and new) and proved "RAMTEC boasts several advantages and it is very costly to maintain with unit its capabilities by handling everything it over the old TSQ- 111 ," said Hessel, whose level funding." was tasked with, including secure and background is in combat communications "It's also fu lly compatible with Army and unsecure message traffic, local area net­ tech control. "From a logistical standpoint, it civilian telecommunications," said Tech. Sgt. working and voice communication. This all is far smaller and lighter, requiri ng less than Mike Schierloh, 269th satellite communica- took place while using a variety oftransmis­ tions-wide band technician. Historically, the sion media-such as satellite, microwave, ability to accommodate digital and analog line-of-site and copper wire. signalsforvoiceanddatatrafficprovedtobe In May, the 269th plans yet another test a challenge, he said. "But with RAMTEC, the ofRAMTEC's enhanced functionality dur­ necessary conversions are done automati- ing a 50-hourexercise by providing an inter­ cally, creating a seamless interface. face between a tactical switch and its com- "This is a huge plus for tech controllers mercial counterpart. And in keeping with and our customers," he said. today's ever-changing mission require- Though the majority of the unit members ments, RAMTEC's modularity wi ll be spli t were released many months ago from the to accommodate two communication sites PSRCobligation(whichended fortheunitin simultaneously, which is impossible with February), Schierloh- along with several the TSQ-111 that it is replacing. other combat communication technicians- Maj. Rob Moser, systems engineer for the stayed on working toward the production of 269thandRAMTEC'sdesign engineer, likes RAMTEC packages. To date, the Air Force the deployable versatility aspect of it. "It's has ordered 15 for its combat communica- lean and mean- you only have to take to the tions missions. field the components necessary for that Probably the most conclusive field test so mission. I think this should make for a viable far was during a recent 30-hour exercise the interim solution that will enable us to better serve our customers." TSgt. Scott Smith adjusts a cable on a Although designed to be integrated into RAMTEC satellite terminal during a the TDC, the future role ofRAMTEC has yet November exercise. to be determined.•

WI N TE R 1 9 9 9 / 2 0 0 0 B U C K E Y E G U AR 0 l21 The group then visited such places as clothing issue, where more than 900 airmen a week are outfitted with their first issue of military clothing. They also were able to spend some time with a drill instructor, visit a dormitory and eat lunch with soon-to-be basic training graduates. The tour also in­ cluded a visit to various Air Force technical schools-recruiting, services and security forces, which featured a demonstration of the training of security police dogs and a simulated firing range. But the tour didn't stop there. The educators also visited the new "Warrior Week" training camp where airmen learn skills crucial to living in a field environment. There, educators had a chance to walk though the obstacle course. Donnie Strine, a counselor for Madison Junior High School, said the tour was ben­ eficial to the educators. "The whole thing is very interesting," he said. "From the classes to the technical An airman (left) in her sixth week of basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, schools ... even eating with the trainees. I discusses her experiences during lunch time with one of mid-Ohio's educators. think most kids want discipline. The Guard has a lot ofdifferent opportunities to offer." In the end, the educators went away with [ducating the [ducators: a new understanding of what their neigh­ bors in blue actually do. Air Guard unit shows local teachers, guidance "The Guard is a real viable option for educating yourself," said Kristi Kadlec, counselors, principals all about basic training Knox County Career Center counselor. "I Story and photos by ship skills, responsibility and things that appreciate the professionalism of all the 2nd Lt. Shannon Scherer can help them in their everyday lives. people we've met and their ability to explain 179th Airlift Wing "The Guard is the greatest part-time job what it is they do. In fact, I talked to my you can ever get," said Green, set to become daughter for over an hour last night about t is no secret that the Ohio National commander of the l 79th in March. "We joining the Guard.''• Guard supports education. Deciding it need your help in spreading the word." I was time to educate the educators in the As the educators boarded the C-130 "Her­ local area about the Guard, the leadership of cules" transport aircraft for Texas, they the l 79th Airlift Wing, Mansfield, recently took one last look at Ohio's snow-covered took a contingent of high school teachers, terrain and strapped themselves in for the principals and guidance counselors to the long and loud five-hour flight. However, place where it all begins for an airman. when the plane landed in 7 5-degree weather As one of many community outreach at Kelly Air Force Base, Texas, the group programs with which the 179th is involved, seemed to instantly appreciate the l 79th' s this year's tour helped mid-Ohio area edu­ mission of transporting people and cargo. cators gain an understanding of the Na­ The group began their tour of Lackland tional Guard by visiting Lackland Air Force with a briefing from the Col. Michael "Boots" Base, Texas, home ofbasic military training Miller, 37thTraining Wing vice commander. for all Air Force personnel-active-duty Miller stressed Green's prior message and and reserve component. said, "it is important for us to talk with each The Jan. 23 trip included 18 civilian edu­ one of you because you can get the word cators and 11 Air Guard members who have out about the good opportunities the Air benefited from the Ohio National Guard Force has to offer." Scholarship Program, which helps pay all or Miller went on to tell the group that more part ofa guardmember's college tuition. than 25,000 people were living, working or Col. Rich Green, l 79th AW vice com­ training at Lackland that very minute. And mander and one of the unit members who since the 1940s, Lackland had produced SSgt. James Rabel (right), a basic training went on the trip, used the time with the more than five million ainnen. instructor, shows educators one of the educators to tout the benefits of the educa­ "We tell you our story," Miller said, "be­ obstacles that trainees must conquer as tional opportunities available to members cause we know you are very influential in part of their 'Warrior Week' culmination ofthe Guard, in addition to learning leader- these young people's lives." exercise at Lackland.

22 1BUCKEYE GUARD W I NTER 199 9 / 20 00 Guardin against drugs

continuous instruction. by the drug, or to stay awake through an If you a would like to hours-long "rave" party. implement Higher Ground The operation did involve the delivery into your Adopt-A-School of a vehicle containing the drugs from a plan, contact 1st Lt. Phil port in New Jersey. The vehicle was deliv­ McGonagill, Drug Demand ered via trailer through the New Jersey Reduction administrator, counterdrug program to Ohio. This at(614)336-7002orsendan counterdrug operation is still on-going, e-mail to mcgonagillp@ therefore more details can't be dissemi­ tagoh.org. ILT PHIL nated at this time. MCGONAGILL, DRUG DE­ Once delivered, Ohio drug enforcement MAND REDUCTION OFFICE agents allowed the suspects to claim the vehicle, at which time they were arrested Female TFAM In for trafficking. This case not only high­ lights the increased prevalence ofEcstasy search of coaches in Ohio, but also the involvement ofhigh­ The call is out for about level organizations. All oftbe suspects in 20 highly motivated female this case are foreign nationals. guardmembers interested You say you haven't beard of Ecstasy Photo by 1LT Phil McGonagill, DDR Office. in being Cadre for a poten­ before? You're not alone. Many of the Students at Highland High School, located in nothern tial all-female Teen Educa­ designer drugs, which target teenagers Ohio, recently participated in a Higher Ground seminar tion And Motivation and college students, are so new most of facilitated by Ohio National Guardmembers. (TEAM) camp, scheduled the detectives investigating the case aren't for July 21-29 in Perry that familiar with the drugs. Highland High students keep County. Personnel needs consist of: In an attempt to assist law enforcement, 1 the CDTF is distributing a course on CD­ reaching for 'Higher Ground 1 - officer in charge (01 to 03) ROM that helps identify different drugs, The Ohio National Guard ethics-based 1 - noncommissioned officer in charge (E6 to ES) their various street names, and effects on character education program, Higher 3 - 4 cooks (E1 to E5) the users. The course was developed by Ground, is taking root in schools through­ 3 - 4 medical personnel (E1 to E5) the Army Military Police school. The CD­ out Ohio. 10 - 12 general instructors (E4 to E6) ROMs are available to any law enforce­ Built upon the Josephson Institute of ment agency or community-based organi­ Ethics' Six Pillars ofC haracter-trustwor­ TEAM assists high school-age youths zation at no cost. thiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, in developing leadership skills and self­ The Ohio CDTF recently acquired a new caring and citizenship- the program ad­ discipline while learning about drugs, alco­ piece of equipment called an ion scanner, dresses ethical decision-making, conflict hol, sexuality and a better quality of life which basically analyzes the particles left resolution and the impact of one's actions though education. Currently, two camps on the outside of containers or packages on one's self and others. Because of the are conducted each summer for high school­ thought to contain illegal drugs (think program's flexibility, the Guard has been age males. electronic drug dog). This technology will abl.e to incorporate Higher Ground into the One day of instruction will be provided be of tremendous benefit in supporting curriculum of Adopt-A-School. by cadre of the male TEAM Camp in Perry the Ohio State Highway Patrol, U.S. Cus­ High land High School, in Sparta, was the County on July 21. Female candidates with toms Service, U.S. Postal Service and the location ofa one-day Higher Ground semi­ experience as drill instructors are a plus. Drug Enforcement Administration. nar coordinated by Ohio Army Guard Sgt. Pay will be in an Active Duty Special Work The CDTF is currently working to de­ 1st Class Rodney Ruehrmund, an area re­ (ADSW) status. velop a standard operating procedure for cruiter, and his staff of instructors. Interested personnel should contact 1st this equipment. It is anticipated that the For the day's events, students were di­ Lt. Phil McGonagill at(614)336-7002, or by ion scanner will be ready for operational vided into six groups. Instructors covered e-mail at [email protected]. ADJU­ use this spring. a bevy ofcharacter-related topics. At lunch TANT GENERAL' S DEPARTMENT PUBLIC On a national level, the CDTF recently time, the groups watched Guard helicopter AFFAIRS OFFICE merged with the Army Substance Abuse pilots Lt. Col. Larry Hart and Chief Warrant Program. This merger represents a trend Officer MichaelHoffuerlanda UH-1 "Huey" Counterdrug operadons work to combine all efforts related to eliminating fl awlessly on the 50-yard-line ofthe school's illegal drugs into one section. In addition football field. At day's end, students par­ to end feelings of Eatasy to conducting the urinalysis program for ticipated in a Six Pillars skit competition, The Ohio Counterdrug Task Force re­ the Army National Guard, the substance with the winners receiving T-shirts. cently assisted federal law enforcement program will also start developing training Higher Ground has reached students in agencies in the Columbus area with seizing and programs to educate guardmembers other high schools and middle schools such a large amount oftbe drug Ecstasy. Ecstasy and their families on how to identify pos­ as Medina, Toledo Woodward, Start, Waite, is a synthetic (designer) drug that acts as sible substance abuse and what to do Libbey, Elgin, Mt. Gilead, Bellaire and both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. Users about it. LT COL ROBERT BAYLOR, MILI­ Marion Franklin. It can be presented in sometimes take Ecstasy for the sense of TARY SUPPORT BRANCH many formats, from one-day sessions to well being, the sensory distortions caused

W I N TE R 1 9 9 912 0 0 0 B U C K E Y E G U A R D 123 Bucke e briefs The entire exer­ Not your nonnal drill cise successfully The medics of Headquarters and Head­ demonstrated the quarters Company, I - I 48th Infantry Com­ two units' ability pany, Lima, gathered at the usual location to perform and on Nov. 6 for the usual first formation. But survive in a real­ what seemed to be shaping up to be the world crisis. "We same regiment ofearly morning dissemina­ pe rformed out­ tion of information from the first sergeant standingly in ev­ and other noncommissioned officers was ery way, leading about to take an interesting and educa­ up to the ORI ex­ tional twist. ercise, during and On that November morning, Dr. Tom after the exercise Kneadler, faculty member in the depart­ due to the com­ ment of ecology, evolution and organism bined efforts of biology at the Ohio State University-Lima everyone," said branch campus and Lima Technical Col­ Col. Richard lege, set up and provided a lab session for Courtesy photo. Brazeau, 200th unit members involving a human cadaver. SSgt. Brenda Moore (left), inventory inspection specialist for RHS commander. With this unique training, unit medics the 200th RED HORSE Squadron, conducts weapons sign-out Both RED HORSE participated in lecture and lab on all body during the unit's Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI). units conducted systems and obtained a better understand­ combined train- ing of organ locations and their proximity, 200th RED HORSE shows ing exercises, once each in Ohio and Penn­ with emphasis on possible damage and sylvania leading up to the ORI. "These complications from projectile weapons. For true colors during ORI exercises enabled everyone to build very Being ready to deploy is the name of a handful of medics this experience only good camaraderie between our unit (the reinforced training from civilian occupa­ the game for most military units. Dur­ 200th) and our sister unit (the 20lst)," ing a recent weeklong Operational tions, but for the majority it provided the Brazeau said. MSGT EAL OR GREY, HQ first look at the insides of a human aside Readiness Inspection (ORI) exercise, OHANG I SSGT TONY UNUM, 200TH RED from pictures previously seen in textbooks. members of the 200th RED HORSE HORSE SQUADRON Squadron, Port Clinton, had the chance Knoedler packed the basics of two col­ lege quarters in anatomy and physiology to show just how ready they are to be at called upon. Students become leaders into a 45-minute lecture and a 45-minute Both the 200th RHS and its counter­ Springfield NCO Academy hands-on cadaver lab. This training was provided at no cost to the unit or the Ohio part, the 201 st RED HORSE Flight, lo­ The Air National Guard Satellite NCO cated at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., par­ Academy will start on June 20 at the Guard. SSG URLIN o. MATHEWS II, HHC, l- ticipated in the exercise. Springfield Airport. The class will run ev­ 148TH INFANTRY BATTALION These types of units specialize in ery Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to l 0 p.m. rapid runway repair, airfield lighting, through Sept. 21. Students will finish the 178th recruiters have record quarry operations and well drilling. course by attending a two-week NCO Acad­ year, tops among peers The exercise began with a simulated emy final phase Sept 25-0ct. 6 at McGhee­ Truly caring for individual recruits and deployment to a bare base in Turkey, Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tenn. doing the basics led to a record setting half­ according to Capt. William Gieze, the Satellite program students must meet stan­ year for the recruiters of the I 78th Fighter 200th assistant squadron commander. dard NCO Academy requirements. All tech­ Wing, Springfield, and an increase to the Within the first 24 hours, the 200th nical sergeants, and staff sergeants with at highest unit manning in the state. horsemen built the base from the ground least eight years time in service, are eligible. For fiscal year 1999, the recruiting office up and made preparations for the arrival The class is a combination of satellite ofMasterSgt. Mike Patrick and Tech. Sgts. of an F-16 fighter squadron. Members instruction from the Air Education and Train­ Rob Williams and Pam Daulton enlisted 126 set up tents for housing and a command ing CenteratMcGhee-Tyson ANGB, home people compared to 82 in fi scal year 1998- post, as well as dining, supply, vehicle station instructor-guided discussion, CD­ in the second half alone, they recruited 86. maintenance, security, communica­ ROM-based lessons and student hands-on Second Lt. Kim Norman, director ofper­ tions, services and water purification participation. The course counts as nine sonnel for the l 78th Mission Support Flight, detachments within the first six hours of semester college credit hours. said the recruiters earned recognition in the exercise, he said. The deadline to apply is April 21. Inter­ both of the "Hard Charger Award" catego­ At the same time, the horsemen had ested airmen should contact their unit train­ ries for the fourth quarter. This was a na­ to build the infrastructure, barrier sys­ ing managers. For more information, con­ tional and regional competion for effective tem and lighting for the runway while tact Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Muncy recruiting (placing recruits into critical ca­ sustaining terrorist attacks, Gieze atDSN346-2305,commercial (614)327-2305 reer fields)and general recruiting (all enlist­ said. or send an e-mail to christopher.muncy@ ments). All three recruiters received the Members wore their chemical warfare ohspri.ang.af.mil. SMSGT C HRJSTOPHER designation ot:.Top Performers in both cat­ suits and protective masks during the MUNCY, 25 1ST COMBAT COMMUNICA­ egories- the l 78th had the only recruiting different levels ofsimulated conditions. TIONS GROUP team in the nation to place all three recruit-

241BU CKEYE GUARD WINTER 19_9_9_/ -20_0_0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- ers in both categories, let alone as Top Wearing their pride Performers. "Their dedication and professionalism on their Intakes shows," Norman said. "They truly care Several crew chiefs of the about their enlistees. They're not just out I 80th Fighter Wing, Toledo, there to get the numbers, they are inter­ wanted to give something ested in end-strength for the Ohio Air Na­ back to their respective com­ tional Guard and the Air National Guard. munities for their support and Challenged by Assistant Adjutant Gen­ dedication to the Guard. And eral for Air Brig. Gen. Paul Sullivan, Patrick, recently, they did just that. Williams and Daulton also nabbed the Duringtheunit'sDecember fourth quarter award for the state. They drill, mayors from three north­ enlisted the most airmen, beating the other west Ohio towns were pre­ Air units in the state and earning a dinner sented with certificates dedi­ Photo byTSgt. Scott Ridge, 180th Fighter Wing. with their spouses courtesy of the general. cating one of the unit's F-16 The 180th Fighter Wing's TSgt. J. Michael Lapoint, MAJ ANN COGHLIN, 178TH FIGHTER WING "Fighting Falcon"jet airplanes a sheet metal-corrosion control specialist, applies to each of their respective lettering honoring the northwest Ohio village of Family Readiness Conference communities. Delta on to one of the unit's F-16 fighter jets. ready for reglstradons About 75 people rallied in the wing aircraft hanger to celebrate the Competing for chartty The 2000 Ohio National Guard Family unit's appreciation to the villages of Delta, This year's Combined Federal Cam­ Readiness Conference will take place April Bowling Green and Swanton. The name of paign, which raises money for local, state 14-16 at the Wyndham Hotel, Dublin. each town now is displayed in vinyl letter­ and national charities, took on a new feel The purpose of this conference is to ing on the intakes of the three F-l 6s. The for Ohio Air National Guard units. In­ familiarize guardmembers and civilian vol­ crew chiefs from the three towns stood with stead ofju st setting goals and raising the unteers with the State Family Readiness their respective mayors at the ceremony. money for the sheer humanitarian aspect, Program, train volunteers as family support Delta Mayor Don Gerdes described the Ohio units were positioned to compete group leaders and improve personal and dedication as "an honor for the village." He against each other for the sake ofcharity. fami ly preparedness in order to enhance added that he was impressed with what Maj. Gen. Paul Sullivan, assistant adju­ overall readiness ofthe Ohio National Guard. congressional representatives have done tant general for Air, said it would be a Army Guard unit commanders and their for the base and the community. good idea to encourage some friendly Family Support Group military liaisons are "It feels like coming home. It's a great competition among Ohio's Air units. strongly encouraged to attend. honor. We appreciate the initiative taken to The l 79th took a whole new approach In appreciation ofthe "Yearofthe Family make this happen," said Bowling Green in organizing its campaign for 1999 by 2000" theme promoted by National Guard Mayor Wesley Hoffman, himself a retired cashing in on the hype and excitement of Bureau,April'sconferencewill be all inclu­ Air Force B47 pilot. professional wrestling. As part of the sive ofthe families. Children's activities wi II Crew chiefs from Delta were Master Sgt. competition, the Mansfield Post Office be planned for the entire weekend. Gary Swartz, StaffSgt. Brian Schart, Tech. challenged the wing to see who could The deadline for registration is April 3. Sgt. Gary Byers, Tech. Sgt. Rick Schweitzer, donate more. For more information, contact Chief War­ Tech. Sgt. Alan Graber and Flight Chief The unit sent its representatives (Mas­ rant Officer Carmen Coventry at (800) 589- Senior Master Sgt. Bob Cain. Tech. Sgt. ter Sgt.) Mark "Wingman" Wolfenden 9914 or(6l4) 336-7l 92. CW2CARMENCOV­ Mike Z uve r and Staff Sgt. Frank and (l 79th CommanderCol.)Don"Stone ENTRY, STATE FAMILIY READfNESS OF­ Zbierajewski represented Swanton, and Cold" Eby to meet (acting Mansfield FICE from Bowling Green were Tech. Sgt. Mike Postmaster) Jim "Male Man" Green at a Aring and Senior Airman Dan Slater. press conference. The event turned ugly Guardmembers prepare Helen Jones, a Delta Village council mem­ as shouts, and chairs, were hurled across supplies headed to Kosovo ber and president of the Delta Chamber of the room, but in the end laughs, cheers The 200th RED HORSE Squadron, Port Commerce, presented the Delta crew chiefs and open wallets prevailed. Clinton, recently collected more than 400 with personalized coffee mugs. Mansfield took the top honors in per pounds of supplies to send to the children Senior Master Sgt. Bob Cain, flight chief capita contributions by members, col­ in Kosovo. The 200th' s collection effort ran and aircraft mechanic supervisor, said the lecting nearly $95 per full-time employee. from after its November drill through mid­ hometown lettering project included a com­ But this is certainly not the story ofa lone December. petition for the design and logo. winner. Because of the generosity ofall Lt. Col. Richard L. Brazeau, 200th RHS "We wanted to have the aircraft repre­ the Ohio Air Guard units, this year's commander, said the supplies will have an sented by someone in the village, someone contributions were up by nearly 15 per­ immediate impact with the children in who could take pride in the aircraft, who cent over last year's. Overall, Ohio Air Kosovo. With the winter months that were maintains the appearance of the jet (the Guardmembers donated $98,429. ahead for these Kosovar children, the sup­ crew chiefs)," Cain said. "It's also good for "We put a different spin on raising plies that were sent could possibly provide visitors touring the base because the towns money," Sullivan said. "And I think the comfort and hope of better times to come. are a point of interest they can relate to." units had fun with it." 2ND LT SHANNON SSGT ANTHONY J . UNUM, 200TH RED SSGT JOSEPH POIRIER, I 80TH FIGHTER SCHERER, 179TH AIRLIFT WING HORSE SQUADRON WING

WIN TER 1 9 99 / 200 0 BU CKEYE G UARD 125 all about People

Retirees honored Four men who shared three common threads gained a fourth on Jan. 8 at the Air Force Museum, lo­ cated at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton. Their longevity in mil itary service, membership in Headquarters, Ohio Air Na­ tional Guard, and close re­ tirement dates set in mo­ tion " Dining under the Wings," a celebration for four honorees ready to Photoby180thFighterWingVisuallnformat1on. hang their hats after Serv­ Col. HarryW. Feucht(right) presentsstate Rep. lynn E. ing a total of 130 years in Olman with a U.S. flag flown over Northern Iraq. the military. Col. WilliamL.Howland, Toledo Air Guard executive assistant officer for Headquar­ ters, retired Dec. 5 after40 years in military honon Olman with flag service. Chief Master Sgt. James W. Mock, Symbolizing the I 80th Fighter Wing's Sr., state human resource advisor, with 27 appreciation for unwavering support, years of military service, transferred to the Col. Harry W. Feucht presented state Air Force Reserve Individual Mobilization Rep. Lynn E. Olman, ofthe 5 lstDistrict, Augmentee program last September. Col. J. with a U.S. flag that was flown over Dwight McEntire, executive officer fo r Head­ Northern Iraq during Operation North­ quarters, with 31 years of military service, ern Watch. will retire March 30. Command ChiefMaster The fl ag was on board the ai rcraft of Sgt. Earl W. Lutz, senior enlisted advisor, Air Force Brig. Gen. Bob D. DuLaney, as will retire in June; currently, he has 28 years he new his first mission since becoming in military service. U.S. co-commander of the Joint Task "These four people have touched the Force. DuLaney 's mission was launched entire Air National Guard. I know them all," by 180th Fighter Wing crew chiefs and said Adjutant General Maj. Gen. John H. flown with I 80th pilots, making ita pre­ Smith, the event's keynote speaker. "Each mier example of the Air Force's total of them have devoted themselves to the fo rce concept. success of others ... an endeavoring quality "I consider (the presentation of the of leadership." flag) one of the most significant honors More than 50 awards, certificates, tro­ that could be paid to me as one of your phies, letters of recognition and the like elected representatives," wrote Olman were presented to the honorees. Their wives in a letter to Feucht."Al I Americans and received gifts for their staunch military sup­ especially the citizens ofnorthwest Ohio port, and the 555th Air Force Band, Toledo, owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to provided entertainment during the dinner. the men and women of the l 80th who MSGT EALNOR GREY, HQ OHANG have placed themselves in harm's way to assure freedom that we too often take DoD honon Ohio justices for granted. The Department ofDefense recently hon­ "(The flag) shall occupy a prominent ored the Supreme Court of Ohio for its sup­ place in my office as a constant reminder port of National Guard and Reserve mem­ ofthe sacrifices made by the 180th." bers. This was the I 80th 's third deploy­ The defense department's National Com­ ment to lncirlik,Turkey , since the end of mittee for Employer Support of the Guard the Gulf War. The mission ofOp eration and Reserve recently presented each jus­ Northern Watch is to enforce the north­ tice of the court with the "My Boss is a ern no-fly zone in Iraq and monitor Iraqi Patriot" award, which publicly recognizes compliance with appropriate United Na­ employers who support employees serving tions Security Council resolutions. LT in the reserve forces. Certificates and lapel COL CAROLE ALLAN, 180TH FIGHTER pins were presented to each of the seven PFC Todd Loni, Troop B 2-107ii CAV W ING justices. lnltlel Entry Training, Fort Knox

26 1BU CKEYE GUARD WIN TE R 1999/ 2000 Thomas Brandt, marshal of the Supreme Trcnfoming la! to art Court for the last 12 years, nominated the While most artists take a full court for the award. Brandt also serves paintbrush to canvas to express in the Ohio Army National Guard. cws themselves, Master Sgt. David THOMAS BRA OT, HQ STA RC (-) Bear takes chainsaws and picks to large blocks of ice, creating Ohio recognizes fallen ainnan graceful figures that can add An airman first class who was chosen to elegance to any occasion. carry the Ohio flag during graduation from And though ice sculptures basic training died just five days before the can't withstand the test of time scheduled commencement ceremony. like most works of art, it takes On Sept. 12, Airman I st Class Micah just as much skill and imagina­ Joseph Schindler tion to attain the desired result. died from heat Bear, food service supervi­ stroke, complicated sor for the 121stAirRefueling by overhydration Wing, Columbus, pulls a 300- and pre-existing pound block of ice out of the Photo by 121s t Air Refueling Wing Visual Information. medical conditions. freezer two hours before he MSgt. David Bear stands in front of the Redtail He died two days starts. "When the ice has tem­ Angels Dining Facility at Rickenbacker Airport, after collapsing near pered, I draw out the image I where one of his ice sculptures was displayed. the endofa5.8-mile want on paper; then I begin to road march at shape the block of ice," Bear said. out to be a passion," he said. "I stumbled Lackland Air Force Using a 16-inch chainsaw, Bear carves a into what I love." SPC MICHELLE MOR­ Base in San Anto- Schindler rough outline of his chosen design. "The GA , HQ STARC (-) nio. outline is something like the vague shape a Attracted by the Ohio National Guard's child would cut out of paper with scissors." 121 st ARW historian aids college tuition assistance program, Before long, Bear begins choosing from his Schindler joined the I 23rd Air Control nine chisels to carve out the details of the Hurricane Floyd victims Squadron, located in Blue Ash, on March sculpture. In October, Tech. Sgt. Jackie Slemmer, 2, 1999. In Bear's hands, blocks of ice have trans­ historian for the 121 st Air Refueling He participated in several unit training formed into Cinderella's carriage, nativity Wing, Columbus, lent a helping hand to assemblies and graduated from Roger Ba­ scenes and Santa's reindeer and sleigh. It is the victims of Hurricane Floyd in North con High School with honors before leav­ the eagle, however, with its out-stretched Carolina. She volunteered to go out on ing for basic training on Aug. 5. wings, that's a favorite among fellow service national assignment with the American The airman represented the high stan­ members. "l have carved eagles for many Red Cross as a di saster coordinator. dards of both his unit and the Ohio Air military events," he said, including Air Na­ She worked logistics and damage as­ National Guard with his academic perfor­ tional Guard Day at Andrews Air Force Base sessment at the Red Cross Headquarters mance during basic training; he had previ­ and the Redtail Angels Dining Facility dedi­ in Smithfield and visited numerous sites ously been selected as honor graduate for cation at Rickenbacker Ai rport, Columbus. along the coast. " I saw lots of downed his class. His sculptures also add sparkle to events trees and power lines, high water and Schindler was slated to attend two differ­ he caters for Bath and Body Works Corpo­ damaged bridges, but the most startling ent military schools: the basic electronics ration, where he works as director of food sight was seeing homes on top of cars," school at Lackland and the satellite commu­ services. Bear credits his military training Slemmer recalled. Houses had been lifted nications school at Fort Gordon, Ga. He was with leading him to his present civilian occu­ off their foundation by the floods and scheduled to return home sometime in May pation and to his ice sculpting hobby. had set down on nearby cars, she said. 2000. When Bear enlisted in the Ohio Air Na­ Victims of the hurricane were glad to Schindler is remembered for his tional Guard in 1980, he was given a choice: see the Red Cross emblem, according to love of music and laughter. He be­ " I could become a cook or a Slemmer. " People were pleased with our gan strumming a guitar at age 12 cop. I chose to become a non-discriminatory giving-the Red and played the trumpet in his cook," he said. After enjoy­ Cross gave assistance no matter what school's marching band for three ing the Air Force's food ser­ your background, no matter what your years. According to his family and vice training so much, Bear financial history," she said. friends, he was also a born enter­ decided to attend the Cincin­ She also helped dispense food, cloth­ tainer- a natural at joke-telling and nati Culinary Arts Acad­ ing and furniture, and helped coordinate performing impersonations. emy, wherehefirstcarved temporary housing. Representing the entire Ohio Na­ from ice. Slemmer said she worked a minimum of tional Guard, Adjutant General Maj. Bear is still happy with 12 hours a day, spending her only free Gen. John H. Smith conveys his the decision he made 20 time eating and sleeping. But she wasn't deepest sympathy to family and years ago. "Cooking turned complaining, " It was worth it to help friends. MSGT EALNOR G REY, HQ those in need." TSGT GREG RUDL, OH ANG One of Bear's 12 1ST AIR REFUELING WING eagle sculptures, finely carved from a block of ice. w I NTE R 1 9 9 9 / 2 0 0 0 B u c K Ey E G u A RD I 27 uardmember Benefits

New educational programs authorized customers. Visitors are not al­ they were in an official duty status. lowed to purchase commissary goods, of­ U.S. Rep. Stephen Buyer, who serves on wDI lnaease opportunities ficials said, and only visitors accompanied the House Armed Services Committee, is for Army service by an authorized shopper are the chairman of the Subcommittee on Mili­ Two new pilot programs designed to allowed to be in a store. tary Personnel, and also a lieutenant increase educational opportunities for Commissary officials colonel in the Anny Reserve. Through Americans who serve in the Army and maintain the right to his sponsorship, Congress passed to open up new recruiting markets were spot check for unau­ Public Law I 05-261 directing announced in February. thorized people in the General Services Ad- The two pilot programs are "GED their stores. ~ ministration to in- Plus-theAnny'sHigh School Comple­ "The new visitors -...... -' elude members of tion Program" and "College First." Both policy allows access to the National Guard and programs will run through Sept. 30, 2003. the benefit for patrons who "'- Reserve in the GSA air­ '"GED Plus, the Army's High School otherwise might be inhibited ' fare contract. Completion Program' and 'College First' from using what is rightly theirs," John Executives from sev­ are in keeping with the Army tradition of F. McGowan said. McGowan is chiefexecu­ eral airlines in the Civil Re­ providing outstanding military and ci­ tive officer for the Defense Commissary serve Airlift Fleet program heartily sup­ vilian training opportunities to soldiers Agency. ported the bill's passage. DEFENSELINK and offering America's youth a proven For instance, commissary officials said, route to success, teamwork and self­ shoppers have asked if they could bring in Miiitary unlfonns available improvement," Secretary of the Army relatives visiting from out of town rather through Internet catalog Louis Caldera said. " We expect these than making them wait in the car. Shopping for military uniforms can be two programs to expand significantly "This policy was established as an en­ as easy as browsing the Internet. Cata­ the benefits we offer the quality young hancement to the quality oflife ofo ur com­ logs from the Army and Air Force Ex­ men and women who serve this nation missary patrons," DeCA spokesman Timo­ change Service are available worldwide with pride." thy C. Ford said. "Many patrons, both for authorized customers, instantly, at "GED Plus- the Army's High School active-duty and retired, have complained www.aafes.com. The Internet catalog pro­ Completion Program" will be open to as about having to leave a visiting mother, vides shopping convenience regardless of many as 6,000 non-high school gradu­ father, brother, niece or other family mem­ the customer's location. ates annually- about4,000 active com­ ber at home or waiting in a carwhile making In addition, Air Force military clothing ponent and 2,000 reserve component routine grocery purchases. catalogs have a variety ofo ptional uniform recruits- who score in the top half of Commissary officials added that installa­ items and accessories from which to choose. the country on the Armed Forces Quali­ tion or higher-level commanders may still Though identical in product selection, the fication Tests and who score in the top require ID checks for entry because the electronic catalogs do not replace the paper 75 percent on the Assessment of Indi­ policy allows exceptions due to security versions, still available in clothing sales vidual Motivation test. The Army will concerns. stores or by calling (888) 768-3204. AIR sponsor applicants to complete an at­ Currently serving guardmembers as well FORCE PRI T EWS tendance-based General Educational as all military retirees are eligible to utilize Development program while the indi­ commissaries on military bases. In Ohio, a vidual serves in the Army's Delayed comissary is located at Wright-Patterson Vete~ small businesses Entry Program. Air Force Base near Dayton. For informa­ now eligible for federal help "College First" offers college-bound tion or store hours, call (937) 257-7420. President Clinton signed the Veterans men and women the option to enlist, AMERJCAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE Entrepreneurship and Small Business De­ attend college, then serve a term of velopment Act of 1999 last fat 1, designed to service in the U.S. Army. The Army is Reservists ellglble to fly to help veterans, particularly the disabled, allowing participants to attend college develop small businesses. for up to two years while the individual drills at federal contract rates Clinton noted the bill also includes mea­ serves in the Army's Delayed Entry Military reservists, who travel by air to sures to minimize impact on small busi­ Program or in a drilling reserve status. and from their weekend drills, can now buy nesses when owners or essential employ­ Individuals in the Delayed Entry Pro­ tickets at government contract rates as of ees who are reservists are activated. gram also will receive a monthly allow­ Oct. I. This benefits reservists by giving "By providing loans, loan payment de­ ance of $150. ARMY NEWS SERVICE them greater flexibility and potential cost ferrals, technical and managerial assistance savings when traveling to perform military for these citizen-solders, we can help en­ ClvDlan guests now aDowed duties. sure that they do not have to risk their at base commissaries Reservists traveling to and from their livelihoods while they risk they lives," Thanks to a recent change, autho­ weekend drills are required to pay for their Clinton said. rized customers can now bring guests in own transportation. The General Services For more information, contact the local while they shop at most commissaries. Administration City Pair travel contract with district Small Business Administration of­ Under the policy, identification cards the airlines previously excluded members fice, listed in tqe blue government pages of are checked at the checkout lane instead of the Reserve and National Guard from the phone book. AMERICAN FORCES ofthe door. This still limits purchases to using the government fares even though PRESS SERVICE

28 lBU CKEYE GUARD WINTER 1999/ 2000 Wealth of information awaits at touch of keys

Story by Steve Toth the Ohio National Guard Scholar­ Adj. Gen. Dept. ship Program, which pays all or Public Affairs Office part of a guardmember's college tuition for a six-year enlistment. concise, more than 200- The ONG public website also year history of the Ohio provides links to the Ohio Army A National Guard; ben­ and Air National Guard websites, efits and job opportunities for cur­ as well as many unit-level websites. rent and potential members; recent An interesting and useful feature events regarding the ONG; how to ofthe Ohio Army Guard's website. attend college tuition-free .... located at www.oh-tagnet.com/ All of this information and more Army, is a statewide job site map. is available on the Internet at When one clicks on a particlular www.oh-tagnet.com, the public unit, basic unit information is dis­ website of the Ohio Guard and played, as well as the types of Adjutant General's Department. mi litary occupational specialties The ONG public website began that personnel in the unit employ. in 1997, according to Officer Can­ If a current soldier or potential didate Don Flowers, a visual infor­ recruit is interested in a specific mation specialist with the Ohio skill, be or she can see what units Army Guard's directorate ofinfor­ have those type slots and where mation management. Flowers is the the units are located. "webmaster" who updates and "I believe that people are more in maintains the design and content of tune with the aspect of obtaining the ONG public site, the Ohio information immediately," said Photo by Todd Cramer, Adj. Gen. Dept. Photo Lab. Army Guard website and the Army Master Sgt. Ealnor Grey, a public By logging on to www.oh-tagnet.com, one can cruise the Ohio Guard's Intranet system. affairs specialist with Headquar­ National Guard public website as well as link to sites for the Ohio "It's original intent was sup­ ters, Ohio Air National Guard. Grey Anny and Air National Guard and individual units within the state. posed to target younger people, is the webmaster for the Air Guard what questions they would have public site, www.oh.ang.afmil. members' use. Conceived in Janu­ available flights, electronic forms on the National Guard, and whom "Our site is so informative, that ary 1999, TAGNet, which stands and job opportunities. Grey said to contact if they wanted informa­ ifsomeone would just take the time for "The Adjutant General's Net­ she also envisions on-line chat tion about joining," Flowers said. and look through it, they can learn work," isaccessabile onlyon com­ rooms so that airmen and officers in "Now, the focus has gone from a a lot about the Ohio Air Guard." puters at Army Guard armories the same career fields could con­ recruiting effort to more of a gen­ Grey said the public can learn about and installations connected to Ohio duct private, on-line discussions eral public website." such things as the community in­ Guard computer networks. The about their professions. But, the website still does get its volvement of Air Guardmembers TAGNet features a searchable "We want to make the (Air share of recruiting leads. Flowers and the economic impact ofeach of phone directory of full-time em­ Guard)webpagemoreuser-friendly said people who may be reluctant the four major flying units in Ohio. ployees in the Army Guard, fed­ for the members," Grey said.• to call recruiters to find out about "Our goal now and in the future eraljob postings and information in the Guard probably appreciate the for the website will be recruiting," areas such as training, logisitcs, For any questions or comments low-pressure atmosphere ofcruis­ Greysaid."We'regoingtobetalk­ personnel and recruiting. abouttheONGpublicwebsite, Ohio ing the Internet. "I've received sev­ ing more about educational ben­ Grey said the Air Guard is work­ Army Guard public website or eral responses from people who efits including the Scholarship Pro­ ing on development ofa ''members TAGNet, or to inquire about hav­ said they wouldn't have joined the gram. We'll also feature opportu­ only" section ofthe public website, ing an Army Guard unit website Guard without seeing the web nities for various deployments in similar to the Army Guard's linked to the ONG public site, send page," he said. the Air Guard." T AGNet. Each Air Guardmember an e-mail to flowersd@oh­ Currently, the ONG public While both the public and would have a personal password to arng.ngb.army.mil. For questions website also features information guardmembers can use the public gain access to the site. or comments about the Ohio Air on qualifications for membership, websites, the Army Guard also has She said the members-only site Guard website, send an e-mail to and educational benefits, including an Intranet site specifically for its may feature information on space ea/[email protected]. BULK RATE U.S. Postage PAID Columbus, OH IGUARD Permit #3754 The Ohio National Guard 2825 W. Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43235-2789 OFFICIAL BUSINESS