VIKANG NEWS VOLUME 49 ISSUE 1 October 2010

A Few Words From know you may not always agree with the alert, possible deployment of 1 HBCT and 34th ID but we will continue to provide all of them to conducting a major exercise during the MG Larry Shellito you for review on our website, original weekend in late April. We want to www.ngamn.org. Your writing to Congress is give as many officers the opportunity to attend It is with mixed emotions that I write my last working, please continue to do so. I will as possible. Currently, I have letters drafted to article as your Adjutant General. My task of highlight some of the efforts later in this all candidates for Governor asking them to article. speak at our conference. This will give our the day is to submit my application for new governor a chance to meet as many of NGAMN as a retired member. It sounds Next, we had the fortune this year to send their National Guard officers as possible. Hope simple but trust me, it is also eerie. six Army and two Air company grade officers everyone can make it. (see Company Grade reports) to the NGAUS First and foremost, I want to thank all of the convention this year in Austin, TX for It is an honor to serve as your President. membership for your leadership and professional development. There were plenty dedication. You truly are doing the heavy of OPD topics and I will let them discuss in Legislative Report their articles for this newsletter. Talking with lifting for the total force. Over the seven years them, they learned quite a a bit, including Greeting NGAMN members, of my tenure, I have witnessed a hearing from Vice President Biden’s son, who transformation of the National Guard and in is a Delaware national Guardsman, who led If you haven’t heard, there is currently turn our great associations. Our Airmen and one of the OPD topics. We are going to add legislation before the House to elevate the Soldiers have served with distinction. some professional development topics this Chief, NGB (the National Guard’s only four- , specifically, is viewed as a year at our State conference, so commanders star general position) to a permanent seat on the Joint Chiefs of Staff (see NGAUS benchmark state for all reserve components will have the option of sending their officers in a duty status. Legislative Alert # 10-22 at www.ngamn.org and active forces consistently sing our praises. or www.ngaus.org). What a great opportunity Next, the second annual NGAMN to secure a seat at the table for the Guard! I While the view from the top is great, we must scholarship was presented this fall to a highly encourage you to write your elected also be aware that it is perishable. The current deserving student, (see the Scholarship article officials and ask them to support this measure. budgetary state of our State and Nation clearly for details). Yet another great benefit of being forewarns us of leaner times. Our elected a member of NGAMN is the ability to apply We are in interesting times-the DoD and leaders will be faced with competing demands for $500 member scholarship or a $500 Secretary of Defense are taking a hard look at how the military does business, especially for our reduced resources. We must never dependent scholarship to a member and dependent of a NGAMNB member. This year, from a cost standpoint. In short, it’s belt- forget that we are a ‘small fish’ in a very big we received no applications for the dependent tightening time and the SecDef is pushing all pond. Many times in the past this was good in scholarship. chiefs to take a hard look at ways to reduce that it was small numbers in comparison to costs and increase efficiencies. other departmental budgets. On the federal Speaking of benefits, everyone needs to side we must avoid becoming the orphan and check out all the legislative action that has So what does this mean to you? It’s time to once again relegated to hand-me-downs. happened over the past year. A roll up of them get dialed-in to the political process and what’s can be reviewed at happening on Capitol Hill. If you enjoy the http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=621 for benefits that go along with military Minnesota NGAUS has been diligent in more details. They are too numerous to membership or being a veteran and you would keeping our issues in the forefront. The mention, but the few that stand out are the like to maintain those benefits-now is the time demands and performance of our service improvements in mental health, multiple to pay attention. If you appreciate the members has been the catalyst for support – equipment issues, and probably the one that equipment and training your troops receive-or both from the public and private sectors. The most affected our members, gray area retirees’ need better equipment and more training-now support has been unprecedented during my health care benefits. is the time to pay attention. lifetime. Our mission must include our Gray area retirees are those active RC, IRR, One of the easiest ways to stay engaged in continued efforts to keep the National Guard or Retired Reserve “ service member who have the political process and make your voice on our leader’s ‘front burner’. Simply said, received 20-year letter but have not received heard is to subscribe to the NGAUS legislative our nation needs us even more. We are Ready, retirement pay.” Though Gray Area retirees alerts. By signing up you will automatically Relevant, and Reliable . . . slogan words seven receive many benefits, (see receive email alerts on important and timely years ago, reality now! https://www.hrc.army/site/Reserve/soldierservi issues impacting the National Guard. By ces/retirement/grayarea.htm for a complete clicking on the link within, you can read more God bless you and your loved ones! list) health care was not one of them. about the issue and, if you choose, send an Legislation passed this year changed that. This email directly to our elected officials to President’s Report is one of those “good news stories” for the communicate your support. Also, be sure to efforts of NGAUS and members like you. bookmark the NGAMN association website, By MAJ Kent Porter www.ngamn.org, and visit often as the CHANGE IN CONFERENCE DATES: NGAUS legislative alerts and “Write to First off I want to thank all the members for Everyone needs to mark 25-27 March 2011 Congress” tool are always posted right on the the continued improvement in writing down on their calendars for the next state front page of the site. Congress on the NGAUS Legislative alerts. I conference. We changed the dates due to the post-deployment. Also, Mental members to join and participate in the Health Providers are embedded at efforts we put forth. You can join the Thomas Jefferson said “We in America do units during weekend Training organization by visiting the National not have government by the majority. We have through the Military Life Consultant Guard web site at www.ngamn.org you government by the majority who participate.” I Program. can either join on-line via credit card or hope you will choose to participate in the • The Family Care Giver Bill was complete the application in this newsletter political process. approved (S1933). and mail to: • Support was requested to amend the Respectfully submitted, Post 911 GI Bill to include Title 32 NGAMN Maj Brian C. Winter Active Service (S3447). HR5933 bill President-Legislative Affairs, NGAMN addresses AGR better and includes 3530 E. Medicine LK Blvd. distance learning issues. Retired Article • Last year MILCON of $30 million Plymouth, MN 55441 was approved for Army & Air Guard. By Col (Ret) Larry Burda • NGAUS will continue to work on Finally I encourage you to attend our Dwell time care legislation. State Annual conference 25-27 March, A few notes from the Retired Luncheon 2011, to be held in Rochester, MN at NGAUS offers Retired Life Membership Kahler Hotel. Retired luncheon was held Sunday, August 22, for $125. This is a very good value, so 2010, 12:00-2:30 at Austin Convention Center. please encourage membership. Webmaster Article

MN attendees were: Rod Hannula, Larry COL Ray McGill, who is leaving the The association’s website is constantly Burda (Air Delegate), Albin Timm, Tony NGAUS Board, was recognized for 15 being updated and I encourage everyone Johnson, Wayne Becker, Jean McDonald and years of exceptional service. to check it out. Jeri Longfellow. The next NGAUS Conference will be held http://www.ngamn.org The Luncheon began with introduction of August 27-29, 2011 in Milwaukee, WI. distinguished guests, former TAGs, and Retiree Luncheon concluded. We offer online membership, both NGAUS staff members. Then nominations for renewal and new members. A printable Retired Air Representative were called for. A few words from the Executive version in PDF format is available for Michelle Sweeney-KS, Nick Gritty-GA, and Director those who want to mail a check. Ron Wagner of WI were nominated. We heard comments from the three nominees. MN cast By CW5 (Bvt) (Ret)Walter D. Schulz The bylaws are easily found and its vote for Sweeney-KS. Ron Wagner of WI searchable, again available in webpage, was declared the election winner and is the The 132nd NGAUS Conference was PDF and Word formats. It is important for new Retired Air Representative. held in Austin, TX 20-23 August, 2010. every member to read these bylaws so We had total of 58 attendees from MN, they know what governs our association. COL Pete Duffy, Deputy Legislative which consisted of 39 members, 12 Director, was the principal speaker and he spouses 5 guests. Our Officer Professional Every time a new piece of legislation is discussed a variety of legislative issues. Development attendees have wrote great proposed by the National Association a articles, (included in this newsletter) link is placed on our website, enabling you • TriCare for Grey Area Retirees has covering the conference. As you can see to easily send an email to your been approved, but the premiums are by the articles, everyone had a great time. representatives. This important piece is too costly. 2010 premiums are critical to the advancement of the National $388.31/mo for Member-only I’d like to thank our delegates who Guard as a whole, not just the association. coverage and $976.41/mo for took the time and served on the All you need to do is input your zip code Member-and-Family coverage. committees. Thanks to MAJ Kent Porter and your representatives are quickly • Although it currently has no legs, for all his support to the association, and linked to a draft letter, which you can edit, support was requested for a bill to to all Board members, Group Reps (past print, or email. make Grey Area Retirees and family and future) who take time out of their busy dependants eligible for Space A schedules to attend meetings, collect dues The new logo for the organization is in etc. Thanks to MAJ (RET) Carl Madsen the top left corner of the page, and Benefit, same as Active Duty for all his time spent on the web, and printable versions are linked to the image. thanks to Maj Brian C. Winter our Click on the logo and a page will allow Military families. Legislative President for all his time and you to download color versions in several effort spent on our Legislative issues. different formats. • Regarding Equitable Retiree Pay, Legislative issues can be found on our requested support for legislation to web site at www.ngamn.org Please take Information on the upcoming state and allow Reserve Retirement to be time to check them out and voice your national conventions are always front and reduced from age 60 by 1 year for opinion by writing to Congress on these center on the home page. The closer we every 2 years after 20 year letter is issues to ensure that we are heard and that get to those events more information received. our concerns are addressed appears. In years past we have even • Also 90 day service rule reduction for allowed online registration for the state early retirement is not retroactive to Once again this year there will be a conference. This, along with the September 11, 2010-It did not go Holiday dinner at Officer’s membership, is on an encrypted page, to forward because of Pay Go Rule with Club. All officers and retirees are protect your information. entitlements. The only way to action welcome. One of the speakers for the retroactive change might be through event will be Assistant Adjutant General- The Vikang news and all insurance emergency spending authorized by Air BG Tim Cossalter. You will find a information (SSLI) is available through congress. registration form in this newsletter. links on the left side. Contact me if you • Suicide, PTSD, and depression. want to be able to update your group’s Approved effective May 10, 2010, We also need to have a strong page. mental health care for family is now organization. We can build this through available through the VA for 3 years our membership, by encouraging eligible The advertisers on the right have paid detachments from Minnesota and Iowa. Best in southern Iraq and then transitioned to ‘out for the privilege of having their ad on our wishes and GODSPEED their safe returns of cities’ operations in the summer of 2009. home page, please click and visit their from deployments in both theaters of website. We report to each company the operation. Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) Daniel number of clicks, complete with analytics so they can see the value of their Gardner had been recognized as the Air Always growing and transforming in Guard advertisement. If you know of a company Reserve Component Battlefield Weather who wants to advertise on our website, aviation, the helicopter units of the state will Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the have them get in contact with Walt gain another important unit. The new unit is Year. As the senior enlisted member of the Schulz. His contact information, and all an additional medical evacuation detachment Task Force XII and then Task Force 34 st board members, is listed on the contact designated C/1-171 with three more UH-60 weather support team at Joint Base Balad, Iraq page of the website. MEDEVAC helicopters on the way to the state he managed weather support for missions to support the 30 personnel assigned within the We have a presence on Face book as varying from ground convoys to air transport well; unit. These additional airframes will be added of distinguished visitors. to the heavy lift, air assault and medical /www.facebook.com/national.guard.associati evacuation helicopters of the MNNG Lieutenant Casey Brown had been on.of.minnesota enhancing the rotary wing capabilities within recognized as the Air Reserve Component Minnesota. Or look for a face book link on the bottom Battlefield Weather Company Grade Officer of the Year. Lt Brown was the Staff Weather left of the home page. th As always, the 34 Cbt Avn Bde stands Officer for the 10th Mountain and then the 34th I want to thank the association for ready to support units across the Guard in Infantry Division in Basra, Iraq from April to trusting me with the website. It is my Minnesota as well as the citizens of the state October of 2009. His airmen provided direct honor to keep it in good working order. If while building deployment readiness for all support and coordinated with private weather you notice anything you want to add, or federal missions here and abroad. corrections, please contact me at contractors to provide weather support to all [email protected] Army operations in the Multi National Submitted by MAJ Patricia Baker Division-South. Carl Madsen-Major (Retired) Division Separates’ Report The 208th WF received the Distinguished 34th Cbt Avn Bde – In the News By CPT Christopher P. Kline Mission Support Plaque on the basis of the support provided by unit members in a variety For the first time in over five years the th of missions. In addition to the three members entirety of the aviation units in Minnesota was The 34 Red Bulls returned this year from a mentioned above, seven other flight members in the state for training summer 2010. Not successful deployment in Basra, Iraq. BG th served in Iraq (90% of eligible flight members) since early 2005 has the aviation brigade been Elicerio is selected as the new 34 Infantry for a total of 1,398 CENTAF support days. able at annual training to bring to bear the full Division Commander. Special Troops 208th WF members distinguished themselves combat power of the rotary wing assets of the Battalion (STB), 34th ID rolled up its colors and by not only providing outstanding support to a state until annual training 2010 (AT10). COL transformed into the Division Headquarters variety of Army missions, but in their Mike Huddleston, the 34th Combat Aviation Headquarters Battalion (DHHB). LTC Matthew willingness and ability to solve problems Brigade Commander, took full advantage of Vatter assumed command of the DHHB. outside of the “standard” weather support the collocation of his units flying the 34th mission – creating new support procedures, Infantry Division command group on Air Following Conference reports submitted by self training on and testing new equipment, Assault missions, the Marine Reserve OPD (Officer Professional Development) and establishing new coordination procedures Regiment on air movements, and the 1/34th attendees at NGAUS Conference in Austin, TX for private contract weather support as some BCT with MEDEVAC training flights during examples. Additional CONUS missions XCTC. Flying during AT10 totaled over 300 th 208 Weather Flight 2010 NGAUS brought the unit total to 3,252 support days, an flight hours and hundreds of passenger Convention Trip Report average of 163 days per member. CONUS movements in just two short weeks of mission support covered a wide variety of intensive air mission training. Hundreds of th The 208 Weather Flight (WF) sent three missions in short term, quick response additional flight hours were flown supporting unit members to the 2010 NGAUS convention scenarios, including counter-drug assistance, Maple Guardian in Canada and 1/34th BCT at to receive a NGAUS 2009 Distinguished weather support for flood emergency response, for their pre-deployment XCTC Mission Support Plaque. Selection for the trip icing forecasts for C17 crews transporting a event. was based on individual performance and space station module, and even 25% of the recognition – a 208th WF tradition of Beyond training for mission readiness, the flight volunteering on short notice for rewarding efforts that helped the unit achieve 34th Cbt Avn Brigade is preparing two units ORE/ORI augmentation in non-weather roles the group award. rd for upcoming deployments. On November for the flight’s parent Air Lift Wing, the 133 .

27th the MNARNG will see off the B/2-211th Senior Airman (SrA) Ryan Keever had for a second tour in Iraq in four years. The 80 The Distinguished Mission Support Plaque been recognized as the Air Reserve soldier unit will likely be stationed in Western itself is awarded to five outstanding Air Component Battlefield Weather Airman of the Iraq flying the CH-47 Chinook helicopters National Guard mission support (non-flying) Year, primarily as a result of his service in conducting critical resupply and air movement units each year, with a Distinguished Mission Basra, Iraq from April to October of 2009, missions throughout the theater of operation. Support Trophy going to the most outstanding providing weather support to first the 10th The next deploying unit is bound for unit. As such, it is a high honor to receive for Mountain Division and then the 34th Infantry Afghanistan in the early part of 2011; C/2- a weather flight with only 16 members. The Division as the U.S. led Multi National 211th is a MEDEVAC company comprised of experience of receiving the award (and Division-South took over for the British forces swapping coins) with the Command Chief and Commander of the was NGAUS provides an invaluable gave me the insight as to what NGAUS is both impressive and humbling to all three resource through its lobbying and why it’s such an important members – none of whom had attended a abilities and the human resources it organization for any National Guard hires in order to get National Guard NGAUS conference before this. officer to be a part of. I’m looking issues elevated to the highest levels in our representative government. forward to the next year’s conference in In addition to the award ceremony, the Military members in Washington Milwaukee; I fully expect it will be just th 208 attendees participated in the ticketed aren’t able to sell their agendas to as rewarding! events and the hospitality night, taking the publicly elected officials without an opportunity to swap war stories with guard invitation, NGAUS ensures the voice Kurt Steinmetz, 1Lt, MNANG members from across the country. SMSgt of the National Guard is heard at the capital. rd Gardner (having a little more personal military 133 Airlift Wing 2. NGAUS is supported by the highest history than SrA Keever or Lt Brown) also had levels of the National Guard. During Conference Report the opportunity to re-connect with several several of the breakout sessions I friends and associates from past adventures. had the opportunity to hear from By Christopher V. Grupe Flight members also took the opportunity to Gen. Craig McKinley, Lt. Gen. “Bud” Wyatt, and CMSgt Chris explore the local music scene and a few local I had a great opportunity to attend the 132nd restaurants and SMSgt Gardner and his Muncy in an informal, personal setting which provided opportunities General Conference this year for OPD. I’d like significant other took the bus to visit San to hear what our guard leadership is to thank the Maj. Baker and Maj. Porter for Antonio, catching the Alamo and River Walk. thinking about in Washington. They selecting me. The conference was held in the Lt Brown was able to travel to Austin by provided insight into recommended convention center at Austin, TX. We stayed in motorcycle, visiting relatives along the way career paths and rising missions that the Omni hotel which was a short walk to the and catching some curvy roads in Arkansas on will most certainly play a part in the convention center. The hotel accommodations career of today’s officer corp. They the way back. were great and so was the food. were also open to hearing about the

concerns that officers, both Army th SrA Keever and Lt Brown also visited the and Air, had from working in the I arrived on Friday the 20 of Aug. Once I exhibitors, collecting some significant field. It was refreshing to hear that checked in to the hotel I immediately went to information on both new weather equipment they’re still aware that officers the Company Grade Mixer which was held at possibilities and field equipment of potential working the front lines and dealing Scholz Garden. I had a chance to network with interest to the 208th, future funds provided! with airmen and soldiers on a daily other company grade officers from different basis are one of the key components states and territories. The food was amazing to growing a successful organization. All 208th NGAUS conference attendees and I had my fill of BBQ & Texas Brisket. I 3. There are many great private were impressed with the significance and partners in industry that are thought if this was an indicator of future scope of events, appreciated the opportunity to developing products to help the mixers and events, this conference was going attend, and look forward to having a chance to military execute the mission. The to be a blast. return in the future. opportunity to tour the vendor floor provided a great chance to interact On Saturday we did roll call is most Lt Casey Brown with product and software memorable for me. I had the opportunity to developers to get a glimpse into the 208th Weather Flight attend OPD 3 years ago and enjoyed roll call research and development required then and look forward to it. Anything can Minnesota Air National Guard to bring the highest quality equipment into the field. Again, happen at roll call and each state has its own these partners in industry were method of garnering recognition. Some states NGAUS 2010 Conference Article hungry to learn about how their threw candies that were local to their products are actually used and open geographical area; others threw objects that This August I had the opportunity to attend to ideas on how to improve them, had some tie to their state or state motto. the National Guard Association of the United making them more valuable to the Before we had roll call, the Douglas States (NGAUS) national conference in end user. Many of them were MacArthur High School JROTC Drill Team Austin, TX. I’ve only been active in NGAUS excited to share the capabilities of from San Antonio, TX did a great job with for a short time so my intent was to find out their products and glad to demonstrate the effective their ceremony. The TX Governor, Hon Rick for myself why my membership in the employment of these systems. Perry spoke shortly after. I enjoyed listening to organization is important. Why should I be 4. In the end, the biggest benefit of the him and his speech. He spoke highly of the involved in this organization? Here are a few organization is certainly the variety Guard and our reputation for our service things I discovered: of people with different backgrounds locally and abroad. An interesting tidbit of that I had the opportunity to meet. information – he was a former C-130 pilot. It’s 1. NGAUS truly acts as the voice of the There were representatives from all National Guard when working with over the country and territories, both great to see military leadership and veterans our nation’s political leaders. I’ve Army and Air, that I was able to are active in politics and hold high levels of yet had the opportunity to work at a connect with to share commonalities government. Maj. Gen. Bunting narrated an national level for the guard, but and ideas about what it means to be informative power point on where we are, while at the conference I was an officer in today’s National Guard. resolutions (Army & Air), etc. It’s nice to get a introduced to the complex nature of Attending this type of event high level overview of the National Guard and business that takes place in our reinforces the fact that none of us are national capital. Often, I heard operating in a vacuum. our current standing. He mentioned that the many veterans of the Washington Secretary of Defense is looking for ways to D.C. “AOR” speak about the wickets I’m grateful for the opportunity I was trim cost and a way could be to merge the that must be worked in order to get give to represent the 133rd Air Wing and Reserve and National Guard. I think we owe it any agenda through and approved. the State of Minnesota. This conference to the tax payers to consider this option. I’m sure there could be many challenges or hurdles the business aspects. I see the reason and need performance by Rick Trevino, hospitality towards making that happen. to have NGAUS and the benefits they provide night, and the State’s Dinner wrapping it up. to us. NGAUS gives us a voice in politics and During these events we were able to meet Saturday evening’s Governors Reception can enhance our standing within the uniformed many officers from around the country. was great. This was another fine meal with services. Thanks to all for making this trip Texas style entertainment. I was surprised by a possible. The 2010 NGAUS General Conference was visit from my fiancée. CPT Kline had arranged a success and I highly recommend attendance her visit and kept it a secret. We haven’t had Regards, of the 2011 event. I hope to see you in an opportunity to spend much time with each CPT Christopher Grupe Milwaukee. other due to schedules, travel, etc. This was a nice surprise and I was happy she came out for 2010 NGAUS General Conference Submitted by CPT Alvin Graham the evening. The Rodeo was perfect. Jane (fiancée) had a chance to meet with some of This year’s conference in Austin, TX was a the other officers from MN at the hospitality fantastic experience for Company Grade Rally in Milwaukee in 2011 suite. This was another introduction for her Officers. The opportunity to hear from the National Guard’s senior leadership on critical into the Guard family and she likes our culture The National Guard Association annual and everything we represent and proud of us. issues such as the Guard’s role over the next few decades was critical to the formative conference was held in San Antonio, TX this year and what a wonderful event it was. Each day we had the opportunity to development of us Company Grades. In National Guard soldiers and airmen from all network and interact with other officers from addition, the inherent networking with leaders over the fifty states and territories assembled different states. Discussion ranged from and peers from other components and states for a historic weekend of meetings, upward mobility, current state of affairs within during social events was beneficial as it conferences and special events. The theme the National Guard, challenges we face, and allowed us to increase our base of contacts. this year was Texas Formal which meant blue our future. This conference also gave me a jeans, a white western shirt, and a cowboy hat. chance to reach out to other company grade We had the opportunity to attend several We were really a sight to see. Of course, our officers within the MN Guard from different OPD sessions of which I found the session friends from the Cavalry came with their units and attend several OPD sessions. The with NGB Chief, General McKinley, the most Stetsons and spurs and gave the Minnesota most notable for me was our last OPD session interesting. The primary topic of this OPD delegation an air of authenticity. on diversity. It was hosted by COL Berry was the question of the National Guard remaining an Operational Reserve. This Ondra and he brought a different twist or As a company grade officer this was an perspective to diversity. This is a tough subject question strikes me as relevant and not as simple as I had first thought. There are so exciting and thrilling event to attend. Too to talk about or lecture. COL Ondra mixed in a often I learn about new initiatives in the Army sense of humor and provocative thought into many aspects of the question to consider such as what would the ARFORGEN cycle look through a newsletter, online article, or the the discussion. I hadn’t laughed that hard in a Army Times. It was eye opening and long time. I think he could easily do stand-up like, where would deployments occur, and the effects on retention. This is the subject that illuminating to learn where the Army and the comedy as a second profession and do well at National Guard are going through the remarks it. COL Berry also brought a science to the Company Grade Caucus has taken up and there has been a lot of email correspondence of such leaders as: Admiral James A. diversity and hard facts which provoked Winnefeld, Jr., USN, Commander of thought. He had a tough time slot to lecture it on the topic since the adjournment of the conference. NORTHCOM, or General James D. Thurman, was after lunch towards the end of the Commander of FORSCOM, and Major afternoon. If he travels to MN for a lecture I’d The Company Grade Caucus focused on General Raymond W. Carpenter, Chief definitely enjoy listening to him again. elections and our new Area V company grade National Guard Bureau. The hospitality night is always a blast. I rep, CPT Laura Pratt from Indiana, has been true to her word about increasing the Admiral Winnefeld spoke to the audience think the challenge is making it back to your about States’ rights and how it was his room from your initial voyage out. I met two communication channels to the officers in the field. We have received no less than one email intention to turn the NORTHCOM culture company grade officers from the 1-94 CAV away from providing a Joint Task Force, to a from Duluth. Great guys! They helped me a week detailing correspondence with senior guard leadership. state requiring assistance, to a Joint Support understand that squadrons exist beyond the Force. He emphasized the importance of the aviation community. The industry exhibits are always a crowd National Guard in homeland defense and the constitutional and historical perspective of that The finally was the States Dinner. I had put favorite at the convention. As an avid player mission. some time and effort into my Western Attire of Modern Warfare 2 on the Play station 3, I was impressed with some of the newer virtual and so did my battle buddy (CPT Kline). We General Thurman spoke about returning to went all out with the cowboy hats, etc. but combat trainers displayed at the convention. The static displays of some of the newer our roots as an expeditionary force. He were upstaged by the 1-94 CAV guys and their cautioned that we were becoming too Stetsons. The food and camaraderie was great vehicular platforms such as the Bradley Mortar Vehicle were interesting as well. dependent upon contractor assets. He shared a and lasted throughout the evening. This was a concern that the Army was getting too used to great way to finish the conference. The social events were excellent this year. moving into mature theaters pre-set by Army contractors. He urged leaders to train skill-sets This was my second OPD experience with Starting with the Company Grade Mixer at required for moving into areas where little to NGAUS. I was new to the National Guard Scholz Garden, the evenings were packed with no assets are available. He reminded the when I was at my first conference. The past opportunities to enjoy Austin and sport a audience that one failing we have in the Army seven years in the National Guard have been a Stetson. Additional events included the learning experience and helped me understand Governor’s Reception with a Rodeo and a is the tendency to train for the next war with representation were elected and CPT Laura K. concept to hear about, very curious to see how the lessons learned from the past war. Pratt from Indianapolis, IN was elected as our this will play out in the distant future. (Region V) representative. General Carpenter spoke to the company One special guest at the conference spoke grade officers during lunch. He spoke about In parallel meetings, senior Board members to a professional development session. Beau deployments, the ARFORGEN model, and the were elected, as well as a new chairman. Maj. Biden, the attorney general of Delaware and a need for increased soldier care. He spoke Gen. Frank Vavala, the Delaware adjutant captain in the Delaware Army Guard, about the rise of suicides within our ranks and general, was elected to a two-year term as encouraged Guardsmen to feel proud of their the need for every leader to be a soldier sensor. chairman. organization. After his comments he took questions from the audience for over an hour. The Roll Call of States was event was very Despite being the son of Vice President Joe entertaining and educational, if speakers can Biden, he said the military is a great It truly was an honor to be part of the be believed. The next time I attend this event, “equalizer” and told of being deployed to Iraq Minnesota delegation. I urge all of my fellow and for ya'll reference, you may want to wear as a member of the Judge Advocate General officers to join me next year in Milwaukee. safety glasses and a helmet because there are Corps. “I was just another captain,” he said. For golf enthusiasts Milwaukee is only a short things flying everywhere! “And I hope I was a good captain.” I think the distance from Kohler, Wisconsin which is point trying to be made is that it really doesn’t home to no less than five championship level matter “who” you are, when you wear the golf courses. For those motorcycle enthusiasts One of my Professional Development green suit, we all face the same issues while there will be a “freedom ride” next year in sessions I attended, and the most memorable being deployed as well as when we return honor of the ten year anniversary of 9/11. one, was on diversity presented by COL Berry home. Ondra. He put a whole new spin on the Respectfully, concept and made us think of this word in a The annual NGAUS conference is known new light. One key point I took away from this for much more than its business sessions and CPT John G Donovan lecture was that “you don’t have to endorse to the host state came through with flying colors. Joint Forces Headquarters tolerate.” I think in some aspect, that statement The annual Governor’s Reception on Saturday MN brought a sigh of relief for a number of us. I evening included a dinner of brisket and baked Conference Report will let you all make your own assumptions on beans, with a rodeo as after-dinner what this means. He also recommended a entertainment. By CPT Christopher P. Kline number of good books to read. The rodeo was quite the event, and for my I had the privilege to attend the 132nd On the technical side of the house I first one, I got a good taste of the sport when General Conference this year in a TDY status. attended a session focused on “C4I Task Force two cowboys who were tossed from their The conference was held in Austin Texas at (Army).” The caliber of speakers they get for bucking broncs needed medical attention in the the Austin Convention Center with nearly these events is reason enough to attend. You arena. It got even rougher when the bull riding 5,000 attendees in presence. The theme of this get to hear things right from the proverbial started and not one rider was able to stay on year’s event being “The National Guard: “horse’s mouth” on the concepts, and designs for the necessary eight seconds. America’s Solution,” and it quite fitting! of what is coming down the pipe. You get to ask questions and make recommendations on Country singer Ricky Trevino provided Hotel accommodations were great and things will have impact on future generations post-rodeo entertainment before posing for within walking distance to the Convention of soldiers. pictures and signing autographs for Center. There was a bus running looped appreciative fans when the music ended. Some More than 1,500 industry representatives transportation to the conference, but I found it people may have seen Trevino before. He’s were on hand, along with a sprawling trade to be easier just to walk. The only downside to performed with the USO show in Iraq. the accommodations was that attendees were show. From what I have been told, the trade spread between five hotels across the city; it show gets better each year and is a must for I must end on this report with a blurb about would have been nice to be all located at on anyone in uniform who wants to know what hospitality night. To be honest, this event runs site if possible to allow for more could be showing up in the training area or on through the entire conference and is another interactions/networking with members from the battlefield in the near future. I was venue for you to meet and talk to other the different states. particularly interested in all the simulator guardsmen/women in a more relaxed training and brought back a whole lot of environment. This year’s event could be I arrived Friday afternoon and my first literature to review and recommend to my loosely compared to a pub crawl as many objective for the conference was the Company leaders for consideration; especially the kind States joined forces to host activities at various Grade Mixer. Here all Captains and below that can be set up on the drill floor. locations around the city. It was almost like a gather together for camaraderie, food and scavenger hunt with the grand prize being Of interest, Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting was drinks. The event took place at Scholz Garden “finding your way back to your own hotel!” where they served BBQ brisket, chicken, tator never shy about using the chairman’s soapbox salad and peach cobbler. This is a time to meet to push for things such as increased funding The NGAUS Convention was a great your peers form the other states, share war for Guard facilities and a more rapid experience. I will highly recommend and stories and build new friendships. modernization of the Air Guard. Most encourage my peers to attend in the future, as recently, he suggested the Reserve force be well as to be active members of NGAUS. I Next target of opportunity was the integrated with the Guard, which sparked a greatly appreciate the opportunity I was given Company Grade luncheon/caucus. Business wave of mostly supportive e-mails to the to attend the conference TDY. I plan on accomplished while there; company level and Kansan. This was a particularly interesting attending again in the future, which is 27-29 region level representatives for National level AUGUST 2011 in Milwaukee, WI, and yes The Warrant Officer of today is not the Hosted by the Wisconsin National there is a planned Motorcycle ride for all you same as when I entered the Corps 26 years Guard enthusiasts! ago. We were appointed by the Secretary of 134th General Conference the Army based upon a sound level of Sept. 10 - 12, 2012 in Reno NGAUS 2010 Article technical and tactical competence, for most of Hosted by the Nevada National Guard us high school was our highest education level By CW4 Peter Panos and our formal non-technical training, as we 135th General Conference moved up the ranks, consisted of a few 2013 in Honolulu I recently attended the 2010 NGAUS correspondence courses and on rare occasion, Hosted by the conference in Austin, TX as a representative of a two week or so residency course were we the Warrant Officer Corp. One of the 136th General Conference would usually be on the golf course by 1200. requirements for the honor of representing us 2014 in Chicago Thankfully, in 2002 the Army Training and was that I was required to attend Professional Hosted by the Leader Development Panel (ATLDP) focused development briefings provided at the on training and leader development conference. requirements for Warrant Officers as the Army transforms to the Future Force. Future State Conference While I found most the briefings to be interesting and have application to the entire The Warrant Officers Corps has a legacy, a junior warrant and O-grade officers in core value, of the “Quiet Professional”; as attendance, two briefings stood out. The first such, we do not seek promotions or awards. was the EEO brief presented by USAF COL We strive to be the best at what we do. We Ondra Berry of the Nevada Air National strive to better our units and fellow soldiers by Guard. Col Berry challenged the audience to our professionalism and knowledge. While incorporate the principal’s of diversity in their junior warrants need to embrace this legacy lives as well as careers. Colonel Berry and strive to uphold this core value, we as promotes that “every human being is under leaders and mentors for the future of the construction and has unlimited potential. He 2011 NGAMN State Conference Warrant Officer must realize that the next Rochester, MN challenged the status quo in diversity generation of Warrant Officers are looking to Kahler Hotel education and made each participant look at build on our successes. We must therefore be their own bias and preconceived ideas of willing to pass the leadership torch on to them, March 25-27 2011 diversity in a humorous format. Through this and stand by to give guidance and direction humor, he was able to achieve a thoughtful and when needed. 2012 NGAMN State Conference honest discussion on what has typically been a DECC difficult topic for most individuals and The Warrant Officer of today must now take Duluth, Minnesota organizations. the honor and respect we have earned as “The April 27-29, 2012 Quite Professional” to the next level, one of Now, for one of the most disappointing ever increasing responsibility and leadership. 2013 NGAMN State Conference portions of the entire 4-day event, the Warrant Central Minnesota Officer Professional Development event. “Go So, what did I learn from the 2010 NGAUS Location TBD see the exhibits, have lunch and listen to an out National conference? To get involved, you April 26-28, 2013 of touch, self-serving Senior Warrant Officer cannot make change if you are always sitting tell a room full of junior warrant officers that on the sidelines, letting someone carry the only senior warrant officers should be in burden and the complaining when the leadership positions within NGAUS. As I organization does not seem to respond to our chocked on my meal upon hearing this, I concerns. The Warrant Officer Corps has a started to look around the room and, almost to seat on the NGAUS Board of Directors; it is CHANGE OF INFORMATION FORM a person, the look of shock, disgust and just incumbent upon us to use this position to RANK ______plain dismissal was on everyone’s face. Here advance our profession and strengthen our was a senior leader of the Warrant Officer position as the “Quiet Professional” in both the FIRST______Corps who has lost sight of a major benefit of technician and leadership role. the National Guard, we are citizen soldiers, MIDDLE______and we bring a wide variety of skills and UPCOMING GENERAL talents to the table irrespective of our position CONFERENCES LAST______in the National Guard. ADDRESS______We had just heard a very passionate and inspiring brief from Col Mark Jones, Mail to:

Commandant of the Warrant Officer Career NGAMN Collage, about the changing and challenging 3530 East Medicine Lake Blvd. responsibilities of the Warrant Officer in Plymouth, MN 55441 today’s Army and how the Warrant Officer Corps must be prepared to face and even embrace these new responsibilities. 133rd General Conference Aug. 27 - 29, 2011 in Milwaukee

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Exec Dir-CW5 (BVT) (Ret) Walter D. Schulz Alternate Rep-1Lt Troy Hendrickson If you have any questions or opinions about Secretary-Lt Col Donald Dahlquist JFHQ- MAJ Joseph Sharkey something you read in the Vikang Newsletter, Treasurer-COL (Ret) Albin Timm Aviation-MAJ Patricia Baker mail to NGAMN, 3530 E. Medicine Lake Webmaster-MAJ (Ret) Carl Madsen Alternate CPT Shannon Gregory Boulevard, Plymouth, MN, 55441 Company Grade Rep-CPT Jeff Gardner Troop Command-CPT Aaron Oelschlager or e-mail to [email protected] Items are Company Grade Vice-1Lt Kurt M. Steinmetz Warrant Officer-CW2 Keith Schweitzer subject to editing for style, clarity, accuracy, Brigade-1LT David Adams Retired Officers-CW5 (Ret) Richard length and propriety. Alternate Rep-CPT Peter Decrans Hathaway RSG-2LT Cory Johnson Alternate –Col (ret) Larry Burda Alternate-1LT Karly Mangen Legislative Liaison-Maj Brian C. Winter EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS Division/Separates-CPT Christopher P. Kline Legislative Alternate-MAJ (Ret) Carl Madsen Alternate Rep-MAJ John Wisniewski President-MAJ Kent Porter 133 AW/HW-Lt Col Mark Schutta Vice President Air-Col Deon Ford Alternate Rep-Lt Col Paul Jacobsen Vice President Army-MAJ Kip Fondrick 148 FW- 1Lt Christopher Rogge

Militia Insurance Trust 20 September 2010

This past month has been busy with the New York Life’s agreement to issue a new term life plan – The Guardian Plan effective January 1, 2011, the start of enrollments in New York.

We are hopeful that enrollment activities for the NEW “Guardian Plan” will commence on 1 January 2011. Here are some of the key features: • Eligibility: Guard members between age 17 and 50; Dependent spouse and child coverage is also available. • $10,000 Guaranteed Issue coverage available to new guard members who enroll within 90 days of enlistment; $5,000 of Guaranteed Issue coverage for spouses and children. • Coverage amounts maximum is $20,000 on the member and spouse and $15,000 on dependent children. • Coverage continues to age 100 with 50% benefit reductions at ages 60, 70 and 75. • The CSR requirements will remain the same with periodic reviews by New York Life. The Trust has been working with New York Life on developing this new plan for over five years and we are very happy this will be launched in January.

New York National Guard enrollments began in August with Mac enrolling 124. What a great start!!!

Financial Stability - New York Life, a recognized leader in the group insurance field, is one of the largest and most respected life insurance companies in the nation. They consistently receive the highest possible ratings for financial strength from some of the industries principal rating agencies. A.M. Best (A++), Fitch Ratings (AAA), Standard & Poor’s (AAA) and Moody’s Investors Service (Aaa)*.

Austin Jenkins

Disclaimer. “The Vikang Newsletter is published for members of the Association. It is not an official publication. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the Adjutant General, The Minnesota National Guard or the State of Minnesota.”

NGAMN CORPORATE MEMBERS AND SPONSOR MAY ABE FOUND ON PAGE 10 VISIT NGAMN.ORG for more information on our Corporate Sponsors

2011 Membership Enrollment Form

National Guard Association of Minnesota

3530 East Medicine Lake Boulevard

Plymouth, MN 55441

Phone: 763-545-1391 Fax: 763-543-8034

NGAMN.ORG

Name______Rank______

Address______

City______State______Zip______

Home Phone ______Work Phone ______Cell______

Unit Assignment______Group Rep ______

E-mail ______

Amount Due ______(See table below) Make check payable to NGAMN send to address above

To pay by credit card, fill out the following: Check credit card type: Master Card [ ] Visa [ ]

Account Number: ______Exp Date: ______

0-1 0-2 0-3 0-4 0-5 0-6 0-7 0-8 WO1 CW2 CW3 CW4 CW5

State $15 $15 $20 $30 $35 $35 $40 $40 $15 $15 $20 $30 $30

National $30 $45 $59 $72 $85 $108 $123 $139 $26 $35 $46 $59 $73

TOTAL: $45 $60 $79 $102 $120 $143 $163 $179 $41 $50 $66 $89 $103

Associate Member: $10

Newly Commissioned Officer and Warrant Officers receive free membership for period of one year and any portion of the year in which appointed.

Active Life NGAUS Membership: one lump sum payment of $1,000.00 or over two years in four $250 installments.

Active State Life Membership: one lump sum payment of $250

For Retired Officers: NGAUS Life Member $125 State Life Member $50

GROUP REPRESENTATIVES

“1st Brigade” 1LT David Adams “RSG” 2LT Cory Johnson

“Division/Separates” CPT Chris Kline “133 AW/HQ” Lt Col Mark Schutta

“148 FW” 1Lt Christopher Rogge “JFHQ” MAJ Joseph J. Sharkey

“Aviation” MAJ Patricia Baker “Troop Command” CPT Aaron Oelschlager

“Warrant Officer” CW2 Keith Schweitzer “Retired Officers” CW5 Richard Hathaway

“Webmaster” MAJ (ret) Carl Madsen “Legislative Liaison” Maj Brian C. Winter

*** ALL OFFICERS, ACTIVE OR RETIRED AND GUESTS ***

Are Invited To Share Some Holiday Cheer At Our Annual

MINNESOTA NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION

OFFICERS’ HOLIDAY PARTY

FRIDAY, 3 DECEMBER 2010

FORT SNELLING OFFICERS’ CLUB - BALLROOM 395 Hwy 5 and Post Road, St Paul, MN, 55111 Upstairs to the left / Club is Handicap Accessible

ATTIRE is Business / Business Casual

COCKTAILS 1800 hours DINNER 1900 hours

This is a time to renew old friendships and make new ones! JOIN US FOR AN EVENING OF FUN!!

MENU SELECTIONS

Prime Rib 10 oz with Au Jus, twice Baked Potato, Roasted Vegetables, House Salad, Rolls and Butter, Vanilla Ice Cream with Chocolate Sauce and Coffee or Tea / $26

OR

Parmesan Walleye 9 oz sautéed in parmesan bread crumbs, Rice Pilaf, Roasted Vegetables, House Salad, Rolls and Butter, Vanilla Ice Cream with Chocolate Sauce and Coffee or Tea / $26

Please Detach and Return this Reservation Form with Your Check Made Payable To “ NGA-MN Officers’ Fund” by November 23rd.

Name______Guest Name______Address______City______State______Zip______Telephone (____)______Email______

MENU SELECTION: Prime Rib [ ] $26.00 Parmesan Walleye [ ] $26.00

Total amount enclosed (Make check payable to “NGA-MN Officers’ Fund”) $______

Mail to:

COL (Bvt)(Ret) Jeri Longfellow 538 Wildflower Road Burnsville, MN 55306-5293 (952) 435-0632 or email: [email protected]

The VIKANG News National Guard Association of Minnesota 3530 East Medicine Lake Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55441

In this Issue Report from MG Larry Shellito Officer Professional Training Reports by President’s Message MAJ Kent Porter 1st Casey Brown Vice Presidents Report Col Deon Ford CPT John G. Donovan Executive Director’s Report CW5 (Bvt)(Ret) W. D. Schulz CPT Alvin Graham Retiree Report Col (Ret) Larry Burda CPT Christopher V. Grupe Insurance Report Austin Jenkins CPT Christopher P. Kline Webmaster Report MAJ (Ret) Carl Madsen CW4 Peter Panos 34th Infantry Division CPT Chris Kline 1Lt Kurt Steinmetz 34th Cbt Avn Bde MAJ Patricia Baker Change of Address Form Legislative Report Maj Brian C. Winter Holiday Party Form 2010 Membership Enrollment Form Board of Directors