Jenkins be- 284th prepares Civil Air Patrol comes Kansas for first over- cadets attend re- Guard state seas combat gional encamp- PlainsPlainschaplain . . . .7 GuardianGuardianmission . . . . .10 ment ...... 17

Volume 55 No. 1 Serving the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, Kansas Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol January 2012 Fighting Jayhawks awarded the Bronze Star By 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht ployment. Lt. Col. James Culp, com- of Augusta, Kan., were presented the ent the Bronze Star for service and 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs mander of the 184th Civil Engineer award by Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the achievement above and beyond, it is truly Three members of the 184th Intelligence Squadron, and resident of Wichita, Kan., adjutant general. a special event,” Tafanelli said. “I would Wing, Kansas National Guard, were recently and Master Sgt. Homer King, a member of “The Bronze Star isn’t handed out often like to congratulate each of the recipients honored for their achievements while serv- the Civil Engineer Squadron, and resident and when we have an opportunity to pres- today for all their hard work, effort and ing in Afghanistan. The ceremony took place sacrifice upon earning the Bronze Star Dec. 3, 2011, in Hangar 41, crowded with award.” family members, friends and co-workers. Culp and King were deployed in support Master Sgt. Clint Bradfield, first sergeant of Operation Enduring Freedom from of the 184th IW Medical Group, and resi- March to August 2011. Under Culp’s com- dent of Sedgwick, Kan., was recognized for mand, the squadron completed projects being awarded a Bronze Star Medal for his that were essential to the operations of service with the second Kansas Agribusi- their area. ness Development Team from January 2010 “I was really thankful that I went,” Culp to January 2011. said. “My team wanted to go and was able While deployed, he supported 75 to make a huge impact on the mission.” Agribusiness Development Team missions While in Afghanistan, the 184th Civil and two combat missions. He was also at- Engineer squadron completed 166 projects tached to the 101st Airborne Division for totaling $76 million. The squadron also security support as a combat medic during completed nine complete Master Plans; in- his deployment. stalled 182 tents, averaging one per day; “My job as a medic is to take care of in- supported 18 forward operating bases; com- jured personnel and I didn’t feel like I did pleted 130 off-site missions and supported anything extraordinary other than what I five operations. was trained to do,” Bradfield said. Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general, and Col. John Hernandez (right), Col. John Hernandez, commander of the Two members of the 184th Civil Engi- commander of the 184th Intelligence Wing, present the Bronze Star Medal to Master 184th Intelligence Wing, complimented the neer Squadron, 184th Intelligence Wing, Sgt. Homer King for his outstanding achievements while deployed in support of Op- Airmen for their achievements. “When you were also awarded the Bronze Star medal eration Enduring Freedom in 2011. (Photo by Master Sgt. John Vsetecka, 184th In- look at the contributions of you and all of for extraordinary service during their de- telligence Wing Public Affairs Office) (Continued on Page 11) National Guard gets seat Secretary of State receives at Joint Chiefs of Staff ESGR Patriot Award By Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill dent Barack Obama signed legislation that By Chuck Bredahl take this step to support our men and National Guard Bureau includes a provision adding the chief of Employer Support of the Guard and women in uniform.” The chief of the National Guard Bureau the National Guard Bureau to the Joint Reserve “It is refreshing to see not only private is now a statutory member of the Joint Chiefs. The Kansas Committee for Employer sector employers being nominated for the Chiefs of Staff. The provision, part of the fiscal year Support of the Guard and Reserve, an My Boss is a Patriot Award, but state lead- With the stroke of a pen, the same 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, agency of the Department of Defense, pre- ers being nominated, as well,” said Mick month the nation’s oldest military institu- ushers in a change some National Guard sented an ESGR Patriot Award to Secre- Allen, Kansas Chairman for ESGR. “Sec- tion celebrated its 375th birthday, Presi- historians have called the most significant tary of State Kris Kobach on Thursday, retary Kobach is an example of a state development since the Militia Act of 1903 Jan. 5, 2012. During the ceremony, leader that has a genuine concern for the codified the modern day dual-status struc- Kobach signed the ESGR Statement of men and women who serve, not only in ture of the Guard. Support. the Kansas National Guard, but in all “We are grateful for the efforts the exec- “Our Guard members couldn’t do what branches of the service. His leadership in

PAID utive and legislative bodies have gone to they do without the support of employers,” supporting the men and women who serve PRSRT STD PRSRT SALEM, OR in placing the chief of the National Guard said Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the ad- is an example for all state leaders to fol- U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT NO. 178 PERMIT Bureau on the Joint Chiefs of Staff,” said jutant general. “We are grateful to all low.” Air Force Gen. Craig McKinley, the chief Kansas businesses and organizations who (Continued on Page 9) of the National Guard Bureau. “We look forward to working alongside the other Joint Chiefs to provide our na- tion’s senior leaders with a fuller picture of the non-federalized National Guard as it serves in support of homeland defense and civil support missions,” McKinley said. The provision is part of a federal law that has for the last half-century annually specified the Defense Department budget. The 2012 National Defense Authoriza- tion Act authorizes $670 billion in spend- ing for Defense Department programs and Energy Department nuclear weapons programs. Other provisions of the bill that affect the National Guard include re-establishing the position of vice-chief of the National Guard Bureau at the three-star level while rescinding the two-star position of director of the NGB’s joint staff.

2800 Topeka Blvd. 2800 Topeka The bill also requires that National OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL Adjutant General of Kansas

Topeka, Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka, Guard general officers be considered for Mick Allen, Kansas chairman for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, Penalty For Private Use, $300 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY THE OF DEPARTMENT command of Army North and Air Force presents Kris Kobach, secretary of state for Kansas, with the ESGR Patriot Award NATIONAL GUARD OF KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL North and authorizes funding for the Na- and asks him to sign the ESGR Statement of Support for the state of Kansas at a cer- tional Guard State Partnership Program. emony in Topeka, Kan., Jan. 5, 2012. (Courtesy photo) DEPARTMENT AND AIR OF THE ARMY FORCE DEPARTMENT Page 2 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Nangahar University plowing ahead for Afghanistan By 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn ating Base Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan, Dec. two years ago with the goal of supporting officer in charge of the agriculture section Agribusiness Development Team 4 20, 2011, to participate in a graduation cer- local Afghan agricultural professions in of- of ADT 4. “This is what makes some of us Members of the Kansas Agribusiness De- emony for a class of 46 students. fering a program of agricultural study to optimistic about the successful transition velopment Team 4 gathered with distin- The Nangahar University agricultural local Afghan students. from coalition forces to the Afghan gov- guished guests at the Research and training program was conceived by the This is the final time that an ADT will ernment.” Development Farm outside Forward Oper- Kansas Agribusiness Development Team play such a heavy role in the Nangahar The graduation ceremony included com- University’s curriculum. Nangahar Univer- mencement speeches from Richardson sity Dean of Agriculture Mohammed Asif Bawary and Mohammed Ismail Dawaltzai, Bawary and other facilitators of the aca- Laghman director of Agriculture, Irrigation demic institution have demonstrated that and Livestock. they are more than capable and willing to As the students mingled with the ADT, take the lead role of furthering the educa- many asked questions about farming in tion of their country’s young people. Kansas and many requested to have pic- “What they learn today will affect their tures taken with the Soldiers. future,” said Lt. Col. Russell Richardson, “What are ADT’s plans for Afghanistan,” Kansas ADT commander from Hamlin, asked one of the students at the end of their Kan. “These graduates have the capability day’s classes. to help train the farmers of Afghanistan. A member of the U.S. Department of They can become teachers, businessmen or Agriculture, Dr. Eric Grant, stepped up to future government employees.” answer the question, “We are here to Agricultural professionals are responsible teach you, so that you can teach your for providing the instruction while the ADT countrymen,” said Grant. “And you can supports them with training, resources and dictate what you do with these re- expertise. The Nangahar University agricul- sources.” tural training program is a recurring 11- During the 11-week course of study, stu- week course that brings about 30 dents receive instructions specific to Lagh- A graduate of the Nangarhar University 11-week Agriculture Training Program re- agricultural students to the Mehtar Lam Re- man province in the following classes: drip ceives his certificate from Mohammad Ismail Dawaltzai, Laghman Director of Agri- search and Development Farm and the or- irrigation, plant production, crop disease, culture, Irrigation and Livestock, while members of the Kansas Agribusiness chard in Zio Haq to learn sound agricultural marketing, soil science, gardening/orchard- Development Team 4 form a receiving line to extend their congratulations, Dec. 20, methodology. ing, artificial insemination, pruning/graph- 2011. (Photo by 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn, Agribusiness Development “These students are enthusiastic, opti- ing and designing of orchards, greenhouse Team 4) mistic and bright,” said Capt. Todd Stuke, operations, canning and winter feed mixing. Kansas National Guard Military Funeral Honors Team needs you By Rod Moyer a team in Topeka, Leavenworth, Wichita used by the Old Guard at Fort Myer/Ar- ficed and given so much for their country. Kansas Honor Guard coordinator and Iola, Kan. lington National Cemetery. With the operation tempo that the MFH During the past five years, there has been During the period when deployments by Soldiers who volunteer for the program team is conducting, it is important to recruit an important entity of the Kansas Army Na- active duty were extremely high, the De- and training receive pay that amounts to half new members for the teams. In addition to re- tional Guard that is continuing to grow. partment of Defense was mandated by Con- a day’s drill status pay. They also receive cruiting new drill status, AGR or technicians, There is little fanfare and the Soldiers sup- gress to ensure every state had a National one retirement point for every day they the program would like to recruit armories to porting this team do not wear name tags. Guard MFH team. Kansas came on board work. The requirements for Soldiers to earn stand up a team. At present, the 2nd Battal- They quietly go about their business ensur- in 2006. the “Honor Guard” tab are 40 hours worth ion, 130th Field Artillery units in Hiawatha ing that every veteran receives proper hon- The requirements to be a member of the of training and testing. In order to retain the and Abilene, Kan., have teams already ors. This team is the Kansas Military MFH team are high. In order to qualify for “Honors Guard” tab, the members are re- trained and are performing services. The goal Funeral Honors Team. the team, the Soldier must make height quired to perform 10 services per year. is to have teams at every armory around the What started with a handful of Soldiers and weight and pass the Army physical fit- Kansas currently has drill status Soldiers state to ensure all veterans, regardless of their performing 14 services the first year of ex- ness test. Prior to this year, once the Sol- who are dedicated to performing services. location, will receive honors. istence has grown to a team that has six dier was deemed qualified to join, there They do receive pay, but if you ask them, If you or your organization is interested full-time Soldiers and more than 30 drill was a 40-hour course that had to be they will tell you they do it because of the in becoming a member or team, please con- status, Active Guard and Reserve or mili- passed. The reason for higher standards is sense of honor and pride of doing some- tact Rod Moyer, state coordinator, at 785- tary technicians performing more than 100 because the MFH team follows the same thing that is so vitally important to families 274-1520 or Sgt. Nick Churchill at funerals per month. The MFH program has standard operation procedures that are by honoring past veterans who have sacri- 785-174-1208. 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery officers encourage future leaders By 1st Lt. William Joest 10 with enrollment into ROTC at KU or KSU. 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery “We as leaders need to invest into our fu- Many Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, ture leaders so they are set up for success in 161st Field Artillery Regiment, Kansas their career,” said Chuber. “This is partly Army National Guard, attended or plan to why our military is so dynamic and the best attend University of Kansas or Kansas State trained in the world.” University for their Army Reserve Officer Draffen began her military career during Training Corps programs. her senior year in October 2008 and was Both universities played a pivotal role commissioned May 2010 into the Kansas developing many of the leaders currently Army National Guard, Forward Support deployed to the Horn of Africa. Four battal- Company, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Ar- ion officers received their commissions tillery Regiment. She deployed with FSC 1- through KU: Capt. William Chuber, 2nd Lt. 161st FA to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. Kelly Draffen, 2nd Lt. Joe Kinsey and 2nd While deployed, Draffen continued to serve Lt. Tom Townsdin. Chuber and Draffen are with FSC 1-161st FA as the officer in currently deployed to Camp Lemonnier, charge of flight line force protection. Djibouti, in support of Combined Joint “ROTC is structured to develop not only Task Force – Horn of Africa, while Kinsey a military leader, but also better students and Townsdin recently graduated from the and citizens,” said Draffen. “ROTC built a Field Artillery Basic Officer Leadership mentorship program designed to help Course at Fort Sill, Okla. cadets with their military studies, as well as Chuber began his military career at KU their academic class work.” Army ROTC in the fall of 1999. Following She noted that time management is a key graduation from Field Artillery Officer Former and future University of Kansas cadets of the 1st Battalion, 161st Field Ar- skill instilled in the leadership training Basic Course, Chuber was stationed at Fort tillery show off their Jayhawk pride while deployed to the Horn of Africa. (From left to process and one of the easiest to apply to Riley, Kan. Chuber left active duty to join right) - Front: Spc. Travis Lamer, 2nd Lt. Kelly Draffen, Spc. Zachary Carroll and Spc. academic studies. Draffen hopes to con- the Kansas Army National Guard’s 35th In- Philip Loth. Back: Spc. Travis Roberts, Spc. Brandon Patillo and Capt. William Chu- tinue building a stronger relationship be- fantry Division and started working at the ber. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Chris Indermuehle, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery) tween KU Army ROTC and the 1-161st KU Army ROTC program as a military sci- Even during his deployment, Chuber con- tively seek out Soldiers who attended that FA. She plans on applying for an instructor ence instructor. While at KU, Chuber was tinued to support Cadet Command’s mission college to act as a school liaison. position with an ROTC program after she notified he would be reassigned to the 1st of guiding and developing future officers “It is crucial the Soldier gets accurate in- returns to Kansas. Battalion, 161st Field Artillery as the new for the U.S. Army. Chuber counseled 32 formation on a college—everything from Those seeking more information on Battery B commander. He worked at KU Soldiers deployed to CJTF-HOA about their the application process, tuition and fees, de- ROTC should contact the school ROTC ad- for two years before being placed on orders educational opportunities and choosing an gree programs, student life and so on,” said missions and scholarship officer: Lt. Col. in preparation for the battalion’s deploy- area of study. He informed each Soldier Chuber. “I want to make the Soldier as in- John Clark at University of Kansas, tele- ment to Africa. While deployed to the Horn about ACT/SAT exams given at Camp formed as possible so there is no question phone (785) 864-1113; or Maj. James of Africa, Chuber is responsible for camp Lemonnier. If a Soldier was considering a they made the right choice for their future.” Porter at Kansas State University, telephone security operations. school unfamiliar to Chuber, he would ac- Of the 32 Soldiers Chuber assisted, he aided (785) 532-5173. January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Coyotes prep for Operational Brevity - the soul of Twitter By 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht portant because it allows us to address is- Readiness Inspection Public Affairs Office sues that Kansas Soldiers and Airmen have, While attending conferences, meeting while tracking to see how effective our By Capt. Joe Blubaugh be done in full protective gear. with coworkers or even out in the commu- messages are at reaching you. 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs “I had the responsibility to check large nity, many times you will hear “Are you on Third, Twitter allows you to track what Office areas around two buildings,” said McNutt. Facebook?” or “Get more info on our Face- others are saying about you. If anyone Nearly 150 members of the 190th Air “It was very tiring being in our gear multi- book page.” mentions your name in a post, that post will Refueling Wing deployed to ‘Japan’ as part ple times for more than an hour.” More and more Soldiers, Airmen and appear on your account. This allows you to of an exercise to help prepare the wing for Even though it was an exercise, there are military organizations are adopting social address bad information or rumors. an Operational Readiness Inspection still real-world efforts that go into moving media as a way to communicate. Social Fourth, you can stay connected easier be- (ORI). The mock deployment, which was 150 personnel from Kansas to Mississippi. media gives everyone the opportunity to cause of the nature of Twitter. Unlike other actually held in Gulfport, Miss., featured McGregor said the wing’s support func- share opinions, interests, pictures, videos social media sites, Twitter can only be 140 multiple scenarios that put Coyotes in tions all did an excellent job in making sure and more. While Facebook is a big contrib- characters, meaning that you don’t have chemical suits and protective masks for the exercise went off without a hitch. “All utor to the social media highway, Twitter is long posts that you have to read to stay extended durations. of the supporting agencies did a wonderful another tool that is used or should be con- connected. The Operational Readiness Exercise job of getting us there and back…handling sidered for use. As with other social media tools, you (ORE) was designed to prep the wing for the rooms, meals and transportation.” President Barrack Obama is the first U.S. have to be careful about what you say and the next ORI, which is currently scheduled In addition to the training, McGregor president to embrace social media. When breaking operational security. Several for June 2014. In particular, the 190th eval- wanted his fellow Coyotes to have fun campaigning in 2007, he was able to raise celebrities have found the pitfalls of using uation team wanted this two-day ORE to while increasing camaraderie. millions of dollars and gain support by using Twitter. Ashton Kutcher tweeted an off- focus on communication up and down the “Team building is a natural byproduct of social media and technology. Obama still hand comment about the Pennsylvania chain of command. these types of exercises,” he said. uses his Twitter account to reach the public. State University sex scandal and received “We wanted to work the command and That is exactly what happened for Mc- The leadership of the Adjutant General’s some unfriendly re- control functions heavily,” said Lt. Col. Nutt. In addition to learning more about her Department, Kansas Division of Emer- sponses. This forced Scott McGregor, the wing Exercise Evalua- job and how to operate in a war-time sce- gency Management and the Kutcher, the first ac- tion Team chief. “We also wanted to get nario, she said she really enjoyed meeting Kansas National Guard count to get one mil- some new members exposure to the de- and working with people she did not know see the bene- lion followers, to ployed ORE environment.” prior to the exercise. fits and are re-evalu- While command and control training While designed to exercise the wing, the also using ate how was the main focus of the exercise, Mc- ORE is also a busy time for the evaluation Twitter to he should Gregor was also hoping to refresh mem- team, which was made up entirely of 190th inform use Twitter. bers on Mission Oriented Protective members. The elaborate scenarios required and gather Also, former Posture levels and give them the opportu- intense planning and forethought in order feedback from U.S. Repre- nity to complete their missions in a simu- to work certain areas and accomplish the their followers. sentative An- lated toxic environment. stated objectives, said McGregor. The team Before thony Wiener Being able to demonstrate the ability to must be in sync and communicating effec- signing up was forced to survive simulated attacks while still com- tively so that exercise inputs and injects are and using Twit- resign his po- pleting the wing’s missions is critical dur- made at the appropriate time. ter, you have to un- sition after ing an ORI. Senior Airman Tyisha McNutt, McGregor was pleased with both the derstand what it is tweeting an 190th Operations Support Flight, served as evaluation team and the wing and thought and how it can be inappropriate picture, a post-attack reconnaissance team member the ORE was a success. “I think the low used. Twitter is a mi- intended for one of his during the ORE. It was her responsibility to key and nonthreatening level of this exer- croblogging tool that allows female followers, that was methodically search a predetermined area cise was exactly where it needed to be for you to post comments in 140 char- posted to all of them. Al- following an attack to make sure it was the 190th at this place and time in our run acters or less. As with other social media ways remember that social clear for other members, a job that had to up to the 2014 ORI.” sites, you set up who you want to commu- media is called “social” for a reason. The nicate with by following people or gaining information or pictures that you post can followers. Millions of people are using be, and usually are, read by hundreds of Twitter, so finding friends, organizations or people, regardless if they are your “friends” topics of interest is extremely easy. or not. Twitter has several benefits that many Things to keep in mind about using Twitter: other social media tools don’t. First, Twitter 1. Don’t post classified information. has the ability to connect to other social 2. Don’t post casualty information before media sites. This makes the process easier the next of kin has been notified. to get your message out to your followers 3. Don’t post information protected by the simultaneously. With a few clicks, you can Privacy Act. send a message out on your Twitter ac- 4. Don’t post information that is for official count, your Facebook page or many other use only. social media sites. 5. Don’t post personally identifiable infor- Second, Twitter has built-in tools to track mation. how your message was received. For exam- For Soldiers, Airmen and military organi- ple, have you ever wondered how many zations, Social media is fast becoming a people actually read your posts? Twitter al- popular way of communicating. If used lows the user to track how many people properly, Twitter can help fill the gap left by clicked on your message and how many other social media sites. But always pay at- people reposted your message. For the tention to the information that is released be- Kansas National Guard, this feature is im- cause social media is “social,” not private.

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Airman 1st Class Lexi Green (right), Senior Airman Tyisha McNutt (center) and volunteer providers, visit Tech. Sgt. Denton Stafford (left) prepare to cordon off an unexploded ordinance dur- ing the Operational Readiness Exercise, held in Gulfport, Miss. (Photo by Master www.giveanhour.org. Sgt. Allen Pickert, 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office) Page 4 Plainly Speaking Plains Guardian • January 2012 A new year full of challenges and opportunities ahead for 2012 By Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli gon cuts of a half a trillion dollars over 2010. Current projections indicate that we sure we are best prepared to deliver The Adjutant General the next 10 years. may see up to an additional 40 percent re- needed capabilities. The new year presents a number of chal- However, if Congress fails to address re- duction in our fiscal year 2012 homeland • Shared use facilities – We must pursue a lenges to our organization, but also many quired spending cuts outside of defense as security grant funds. long-term strategy that encourages the opportunities as we part of the budget deficit agreement and au- This reduced federal funding trend is ex- construction of shared use, resilient, low seek new partner- tomatic cuts occur, defense budget cuts will pected to continue as the federal govern- maintenance facilities between all levels ships, utilize im- more than double to $1.2 trillion. ment focuses diminished resources on of government. proving As you might imagine, there is consider- high-population urban centers, leaving • Expansion of public/private partnerships technologies and able disagreement on how best to transform Kansas and many other states with fewer – We must significantly enhance and for- continue working the military to best address 21st century resources for homeland security. malize the inclusion of the state’s private closely together to threats such as cyber-attack, transnational Time of Transformation sector partners in public safety/homeland keep Kansans safe. terrorism, nuclear proliferation, the use of For the past year, we have been thor- security collaboration. Since 80 percent The most notable biological agents, and the U.S. economy’s oughly examining our organizational struc- of critical infrastructure (energy produc- challenges of 2012 ability to sustain expensive national secu- ture, our infrastructure, our staffing, and tion, food production, transportation, so far are the fed- rity infrastructure and programs. There are our business processes in light of the budg- communications, financial networks, eral budget cuts an- calls for a smaller force, much less active in Maj. Gen. (KS) etary challenges in our future. Additionally, etc.) resides in the hand of the private nounced in January large-scale land wars, but more active in Lee Tafanelli we have developed some guiding principles sector, inclusion makes sense and will by the Department limited conflicts or problems areas. for Kansas’ future public safety/homeland become increasingly important for every- of Defense, along with the tight state The future role of the National Guard, security actions to ensure we are best or- one involved. budget we’ve been working with for the with its unique dual mission of fighting the ganized to deal with future problems, are • Maximize Kansas assets – We must in- past few years. nation’s wars and protecting the homeland, structured to maximize sustainability, and crease utilization of Kansas-based assets Our department has been aggressively is an ongoing point of discussion. The Na- are focused on long versus short-term bene- (universities, private sector, military fa- analyzing what’s ahead externally and in- tional Guard has proven itself as an opera- fit to the state. These principles include: cilities) that can be valuable to public ternally, constantly scanning the horizon for tional force that is ready, relevant and • Identify essential functions (core capabil- safety/homeland security. emerging threats and trends that we must accessible when called upon. At one-third ities) – We must clearly identify essential Going forward, we will use these princi- prepare to face. the cost of its active component counter- public safety/homeland security needs ples to ensure that our actions are coordi- The following lays out the road ahead for part, it is a cost effective solution. for the state, given budget restraints. This nated, strategic and focused on providing us, based on the information we have today. Homeland Security/ must be the first step in re-engineering Kansas with dependable and sustainable National Guard Emergency Management organizational structures to best meet fu- capabilities. Over the next decade, the Department Similarly, homeland security profes- ture public safety/homeland security After a decade of war, our Soldiers and of Defense will reduce its force structure sionals have seen a 25 percent reduction challenges. Airmen are still deploying and still per- dramatically. President Obama’s new na- in our fiscal year 2011 federal homeland • Analyze future trends – We must conduct forming valiantly. The men and women of tional defense strategy is based on Penta- security grant funding from fiscal year thorough analysis of potential future en- the Kansas Division of Emergency Man- vironments to determine the likely types agement and Homeland Security continue of budgets, emerging threats, demo- to stand watch, endlessly coordinating and Warrant Officer Corps in review graphic trends, etc., that Kansas will face preparing for the unthinkable, and respond- By Chief Warrant Officer 5 Hector Vasquez 2. A Warrant Officer Strength Mainte- in the years ahead. ing quickly when it occurs. State Command Chief Warrant Officer nance Program was developed with the • Transform organizational structures – We We remain committed to finding As we enter the new year, I would like help of the Recruiting and Retention must transform organizational structures solutions and opportunities amidst the to thank you all for your continued serv- Battalion, the Kansas Regional Training and existing business practices to make challenges. ice and the sacri- Institute and the 1st Battalion, 108th fices that you Aviation Regiment. This program ex- and your fami- plains the process in becoming a war- Soldier to Soldier lies make. I rant officer and explains the duties and would also like responsibilities of each group that was A New Year, A New Beginning! to thank those mentioned above. This pamphlet will By Command Sgt. Maj. John Ryan wonderful it was to see how George Bai- Soldiers and Air- serve as a guide for Soldiers interested Joint Forces Headquarters ley, played by James Stewart, was beset by men who are in becoming a warrant officer and will I hope each of you had a great holiday many challenges and how he met each one currently de- include examples of memorandums that season. I was head on. For example, how he did the right ployed protect- are required for the packet. This pam- able to take some thing when Mr. Gower put the wrong ing our great phlet is currently in the staffing process time off and medicine in the prescription and would nation and are and I hope to release it soon. Command Chief spend it with my have poisoned the patient. How he risked not with their Warrant Officer 5 3. We also conducted a Warrant family and his life to save his brother when he broke families right Hector Vasquez Office/Officer/ROTC symposium in grandchildren through the ice. How he stayed home from now. Less than November. We had 15 Soldiers express (always a de- college to run the family business after his one percent of Americans today choose to interest in becoming Warrant Officers. light). During my father died and the compassion he showed serve this great country and many of the To date, there are still over 30 warrant time off, I was to the people of Bedford Falls. I also no- population do not know the sacrifices you officer vacancies, so if you’re inter- scanning through ticed how his wife, Mary, played by make, but without you all we couldn’t ested, please contact the Warrant Offi- the channels on Donna Reed, was always supportive. enjoy the liberties that we do every day. cer Strength Manager, Warrant Officer the television and In the end, George was able to see So again, Thank you. Command Sgt. Maj. 1 Sam Bonham; 785-817-3197 or came across the what Bedford Falls would have been like I want to briefly point out some of the John Ryan [email protected]. classic movie, if he had not been there doing the right achievements that was made within the 4. Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gary Nisker, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” things. As leaders, we can do or not do Kansas Army National Warrant Officer the National Guard Bureau Command As I watched it, I began to think how (Continued on Page 8) Corps this past year: Chief Warrant Officer, was the guest 1. The Senior Warrant Advisory Council speaker at the Kansas National Guard was implemented. With this council we Association Warrant Officer luncheon. Practice winter driving skills developed a Warrant Officer Mentor- He updated us with progress made con- ship Program that focuses on the men- cerning the new warrant officer promo- By Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marvin Terhune Four wheel drive just meant you were fur- torship of candidates through senior tion system. Safety Office ther from the road when you got stuck. warrant officers. (Continued on Page 5) I was reading an article on winter driving My point is this: When was the last time tips. It was a very good article on how to you went to an empty parking lot covered prepare your vehi- in snow and ice and “practiced” winter cle by cleaning all driving skills? How does your car handle? PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian of the windows and Practice accelerating and then hit the even mentioned to brakes. Which way does your car pull? Did The PLAINS GUARDIAN is published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Guard. The editorial content carry a winter sur- your vehicle turn into a bobsled if your of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Officer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN are not necessar- ily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Department. News, features, vival kit in the brakes locked up and you did not “tap” photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. All photos must be high res- olution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertisement will be accepted, nor will trunk. What jumped them? When you did accelerate, which way payment be made for contributions. out to me in the ar- did your car want to go? Practice turning The deadline for all submission is the first Wednesday of the month: February, April, June, August, October and December. Submissions may be e-mailed to Jane Welch ([email protected]). ticle was how to and hitting your brakes and then accelerate Circulation: Approximately 16,000 control your vehi- through a turn. Does the back end of your Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Office cle when weather car want to come around on you? Public Affairs Office conditions create With today’s front wheel drive, all-wheel Commander-in-Chief Director Chief Gov. Sam Brownback Sharon Watson 785-274-1192 driving hazards. Warrant Officer 3 drive and anti-slip technology all vehicles Adjutant General of Kansas Assistant Director Those thoughts re- will handle differently. The best thing that Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli Marvin Terhune Stephen D. Larson 785-274-1194 minded me of when you could do is practice these skills with all Editor Public Information Writer Sharon Watson Jane Welch 785-274-1190 I was learning how to drive. of your family members that are licensed Production/Graphics/Writer FAX 785-274-1622 How did we learn to drive in the snow drivers. Stephen D. Larson e-mail: [email protected] and ice? I don’t know about you, but I Controlling your vehicle is the number Sgt. Jessica Barnett Videographer 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht 785-274-1195 learned from experience. If you got stuck one thing that a driver has to do. Every- Production Assistant you knew what the conditions were that you thing else that we do, or don’t do (driver Jane Welch Staff writer Sgt. Jessica Barnett 785/274-1191 could not get out of. You learned the limita- distractions) is aimed at assisting us to do The Plains Guardian may be read online at tions of your vehicle and what it could do the number one thing! Practice makes http://www.kansastag.gov For change of address, contact Jane Welch. for you, or in some cases, could not do. perfect! Be safe! January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 5 Start the new year with a plan! Annual retiree update briefing By Capt. Amy Blow nutrition information to Soldiers and Air- By Sgt. Jessica Barnett do is be an ambassador for the Kansas Na- Occupational Health Manager men struggling to meet Army and Air Force 105th Mobile Public Affairs tional Guard and, more importantly, tell the Every year many Americans head into Physical Training Program Height and Kansas National Guard retirees joined to- National Guard story. the month of January with a hope for doing Weight standards as part of the Adjutant gether for a retiree briefing at Nickell Ar- “You run into groups of people fre- “something” better, General’s Remedial Physical Training Pro- mory, Nov. 6, 2011, hosted by Maj. Gen. quently who don’t even realize what the whether it is better gram. The thought was, if Soldiers and Air- (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general. Kansas National Guard is, how long we health, less stress or men can refresh their memory of basic During the event, retirees were briefed on have been around, what we have done, who just general nutrition concepts or even learn them for the latest actions and initiatives of the we are and what we do on a daily basis. thoughts about the first time, they could have better suc- Kansas National Guard. To start the brief- That is a constant education that we need to being more positive cess in adopting a lifestyle to support better ing, Tafanelli showed a short video encom- do and I can’t think of anyone better in our when conducting overall health and wellness. The informa- passing the Kansas Guard from its communities to be our ambassadors and tell their daily activi- tion was provided through weekly, one beginning to today. the Guard stories other than our retirees.” ties. The gyms be- hour live sessions over the lunchtime, to The retirees also heard from Brig. Gen. “I have been away for a couple of years, come full and the anyone with access to DCO. Eric Peck, commander of the Kansas Army so it was nice to come in and get a short diet craze begins! During the first week, a small group of National Guard, and Brig. Gen. Keith briefing on where the Guard has been over Unfortunately Capt. Amy Blow employees participated in the live session, Lang, chief of staff of the Kansas Air Na- the past year, where it is presently and though, by mid-February the gym crowding but it wasn’t long before many employees tional Guard, on events that have happened where they look to be in the next couple of and dieting is not as noticeable, which across the state “tuned in” for the live dis- over the past year from each component. years,” said retired Lt. Col. Craig Fox. leads us to believe the newness of the New cussions on topics ranging from water con- “As General Bunting used to say about “This gives us a feeling when we go out Year has started to fade once again. sumption guidelines, to advice on being retirement checks, that it’s just really a re- and talk to the community with a better un- Obesity is on the rise in adults and chil- smart dietary supplement consumers. tainer fee,” said Tafanelli. “What I am derstanding of the current mission and dren throughout the nation. As National Group diversity evolved, as well, starting going to ask each and every one of you to where it is going in the future.” Guard employees, we have responsibilities with members of the Army Guard, then to other Americans do not have when thinking the Air Guard and very quickly grew to in- about our overall health and wellness. As a clude state employees of the agency. The term of our employment, we are expected participation from all of our agency em- to be ready to go at a moment’s notice to ployees is what made the program possible! assist our community and nation in its time This year, be part of the growing num- of need. bers to join in on the concept of “preven- National Guard employees are generous tion.” You can become healthier for people and naturally want to serve. How- yourself, your family and your team here at ever, sometimes it is our own health needs work with some education and determina- that we forget in the process. tion. If you missed the series and want to The key to achieving and maintaining a refresh your knowledge on basic nutrition healthy weight isn’t about short-term di- principles, the Powerpoint slides are posted etary changes. It’s about a lifestyle that in- to the agency website at cludes healthy eating, regular physical www.kansastag.gov/STATEHRO.asp?PageI activity and balancing the number of calo- D=436. All of the lessons have been saved ries you consume with the number of calo- on DCO as recorded sessions and are avail- ries your body uses. able if your organization would like to Organizations all over the country are present them in a group format or through leaning towards preventive medicine in the independent study. form of company-wide wellness programs. Diet and exercise are not concepts meant Research shows education and planning go to be chosen as one or the other. It is the a long way in helping people adopt health- combination that is crucial for us to truly ier lifestyles to feel better and be more pro- become healthy and well. Future health ductive in their daily lives. promotion topics will be provided through In October 2011, a new education series DCO sessions throughout the year, so look Brig. Gen. Keith Lang, chief of staff of the Kansas Air National Guard, speaks to was launched via Defense Connect Online. for the reminder messages and advertise- Kansas National Guard retirees during the annual retiree briefing at Nickell Armory, The 10-lesson program “Basic Nutrition for ments to be posted. Nov. 6, 2011. (Photo by Sgt. Jessica Barnett, 105th Public Affairs Detachment) Everyday” was developed to provide basic Grow the good. Education equals action! Warrant Officer Corps in review Continued from Page 4 Council and ensure that topics brought As we reached the end of the year, I up for discussion are given due attention. began to look into topics that I want to In my last article, I mentioned that I work on in 2012. Some of those items have been thinking of ways to generate include: more involvement and interaction among 1. Looking into the possibility of establish- Kansas Army National Guard warrant offi- ing a Warrant Officer Hall of Fame. cers, both technicians and aviators. So, I 2. Placing a warrant officer brick at the Mu- decided to establish a Warrant Officer’s seum of the Kansas National Guard. We call. The first Warrant Officer’s call will have ordered a brick and it is in the en- be held in Topeka on Feb. 17. The intent is graving process. Once the engraving is for us to interact as professionals, but in a complete, the brick will be placed at the casual atmosphere. I have seen many good museum during a dedication ceremony. ideas and many problems solved as a re- 3. Since October, I’ve been working with sult of these interactions, plus it allows us Chapter 303 of the USA Warrant Officer to break the monotony of our everyday Association at Fort Riley. I’m trying to routine. I’m taking suggestions for other develop a partnership with this organi- places for future meeting. Why Call Us? zation that will allow us to pool our In every issue of the Plains Guardian I We are here to help. We have all served in uniform for the United States Military. Some knowledge, expertise and resources to try to give out helpful advice to junior members of our staff have served in combat missions while others have served in sup- help with mission accomplishment warrant officers. Now is a good time to porting and peacekeeping missions. However, we are all Veterans of the United States throughout the Active, Reserve and Na- update your biographies, Interactive Per- Military and we are all here to help the men and women who are currently serving or tional Guard components. Chapter 303 sonnel Electronic Records Management have served in the National Guard and Reserve. is dedicated to supporting local commu- System and Officer Evaluation Report Services Provided nities and will also be giving out college support form. You have to be proactive in Our toll free peer support line 1-855-838-8255 (VET-TALK) is available 24 hours a scholarships to students whose family maintaining your record, because if you day, 7 days a week for National Guard and Reserves service members. Call now for: members are warrant officers. As a war- don’t, no one else will. By updating your Veteran Peer Support rant officer, I believe the USAWOA is a records at one time you can better track Every single one of our Peer Counselors is a Veteran. good organization worth looking into, and update the schools and training you Ongoing Support and I would like to encourage all Kansas have received the past year. Promotion We follow up when you need us to do so. National Guard warrants to support boards are looking over your records and A Wide Range of Referrals Chapter 303. if you don’t update your records or Officer We will try to help with legal, housing, medical, psychological and other needs. 4. I will begin visiting units with the War- Evaluation Reports, then you can be over- It’s okay if you want to stay anonymous, or don’t want to give us any personal informa- rant Officer Strength Manager starting looked because you don’t meet promotion tion when you call or chat with us online. Connect with someone who understands and this spring. These visits will focus on re- requirements. can help. cruiting Warrant Officers within the same Finally, if you know of any warrant offi- 1-855-838-8255 (VET-TALK) units where vacancies exist. I will also be cer news, such as promotions, graduations, www.vets4warriors.com talking to the current warrants to discuss retirements or changes that affect warrant any issues that they might be challenged officers and you would like to see them in with to see how I can assist them in the the Plains Guardian, please send them to field. me at 785-274-1903 or 5. I will also continue to refine the Advisory [email protected]. Page 6 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Guardsmen gain applied suicide intervention skills By Sgt. Jessica Barnett Soldiers in 2010 to suicide. Since 2001, sta- Public Affairs Office tistics show a significant increase in sui- Soldiers and Airmen of the Kansas Na- cides within society, not just the military. tional Guard gathered, Dec. 13 -14, 2011, at “Suicide numbers are continuing to grow the Nickell Armory in Topeka, Kan., for Ap- in the military,” said Chaplain (Capt.) John plied Suicide Intervention Skills Training. Potter, ASIST instructor and chaplain. “One ASIST training helps Guardsmen feel thing that isn’t always brought out in those more comfortable, confident and competent figures is the large number of people that in helping to prevent the immediate risk of have never deployed and are suicidal. It’s suicide in the military. Approximately 30 not always a deployment-related issue or a Guard members participated in this two- combat-related issue. Many reasons people day, highly interactive, practice-oriented are suicidal are common things at home, re- workshop. garding a relationship that is no longer in The ASIST workshop overall teaches sui- existence, someone having financial prob- cide first aid, on helping a person at-risk lems, losing a job or can’t find a job. That’s stay safe and seek further help. actually at the very high end of why people “We are providing immediate suicide are suicidal.” prevention,” said Sgt. Shawn Evans, ASIST “Two years ago, 60 percent of the people instructor for the Kansas National Guard in the Army that completed suicide had and Tricare Reserve Select manager for never deployed,” said Potter. “Last year, it Joint Forces Headquarters. “One of the ex- was still 55 percent versus 45 percent. So, amples we use in class is if you come there is still a majority of people that have As part of the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, Chief Master Sgt. Lynn across someone having a heart attack, never gone down range, but are having McConnell, a personnel systems manager for Human Resources in Joint Forces you’re not going to do heart surgery, you normal stresses of life. So again, it can Headquarters, role plays a scenario as she tries to stop Sgt. Michael McClellan, a are going to do CPR to sustain them until happen to anyone. Suicide is an equal op- chaplain’s assistant and ASIST instructor, from committing suicide by jumping off a you can link them to permanent resources.” portunity offender.” bridge as one of their class assignments for the training held at the Nickell Armory, ASIST goes beyond the annual ACE By completing the ASIST course, stu- Topeka, Kan., Dec. 14, 2011. (Photo by Sgt. Jessica Barnett, Public Affairs Office) training all Soldiers and Airmen receive dents are able to help bridge the gap be- ence, whether it’s another Soldier in their successful.” which teaches the basics of knowing the tween people at risk and mental health unit that has attempted or completed sui- A State Suicide Prevention Program pol- signs and symptoms of someone who might professionals. The people around each cide or a family or friend in the same situa- icy will be in effect in the near future stat- be contemplating suicide. Through the other in everyday setting are going to be the tion,” said Evans. ing a new additional duty for a staff workshop students are taught to implement first to notice any trends or changes that After learning how to implement the sargeant or above as a suicide prevention a suicide intervention model which goes might lead toward suicidal thoughts. Hav- three-step intervention model, students had officer for each Kansas Army National more in-depth than ACE training. ing servicemembers that are trained to be to role-play different scenarios to get a feel Guard company along with a requirement In the two day, 15-hour workshop stu- more cognizant of such behaviors will help for what they might encounter in a real situ- of two ASIST-certified personnel at mini- dents learned to look for the invitations for the Kansas National Guard. ation. Many times this helps get the classic mum per company. help and the proper ways in responding. “I have gotten positive feedback from the mistakes out of the way, like wanting to get Currently, the Kansas National Guard has The three-step model helps the students students that are now ASIST certified,” said someone off the bridge before understand- certified 100 people since the fall of 2010 perform an intervention of a person at-risk Potter. “Because it changes how you see ing their mindset and thoughts. It is human and has five ASIST trainers. A follow-on by connecting, understanding and then as- things, it changes how you hear things. So a instinct to want to fix things and stop them refresher course will be conducted this year sisting the person considering suicide in- comment that could be made during drill right away. for those already certified. It is recom- stead of jumping straight in. weekend, now all of a sudden is that person “Role playing was the best part,” said mended every two years. The main goal is to try and have them at risk? Yes or no. They might be more Chief Master Sgt. Lynn McConnell, a per- Four to five ASIST courses will be con- admit they are having suicidal thoughts by willing now to find that Soldier and pull sonnel systems manager for Human Re- ducted in the 2012 fiscal year. If you are in- exploring the reasons they want to die, them aside and ask them questions and find sources in Joint Forces Headquarters. “It terested in having a course conducted at helping them see the reasons to live, com- out what is going on. I hear that more fre- makes me start to think, ‘Okay yeah, this your unit during drill or annual training or ing up with a safe plan and escorting them quently once people do take the class.” actually can happen.’ There are some good in attending one already scheduled, please to professionals. Many of the servicemembers chose to at- steps to take and things to think about when contact Sgt. Michael McClellan at (785) ASIST is a vital tool in training first re- tend the class due to previous experiences you are trying to talk somebody down at 274-1514 or [email protected]. sponders. In 2010, the Army National they have encountered in the military or such an emotional level of that magnitude. All state and federal employees of the Ad- Guard surpassed active duty suicide rates. their civilian life. It has helped me realize that, if we follow jutant General’s Department and Kansas The Kansas Army National Guard lost three “Most of them have had some experi- the steps in the model, we would be most National Guard are welcome to attend.

KANSAS NATIONAL GUARD Detachment 37th Aerial Sensor Resources for Service Members and Families in need or in crisis.

Operations team observes from above KSNG Hotline: 1-877-HLP-KSNG (1-877-457-5764) MILITARY ONESOURCE SUICIDE HOTLINE 1-800-342-9647 www.militaryonesource.com 1-800-273-TALK (8255) CHAPLAIN MILITARY FAMILY LIFE CONSULTANTS (MFLC) Providing religious, spiritual and general life counseling. CONSULTATION SERVICES 100% confidential. Provides complimentary, confidential consultations to Servicemem- bers and their families. The services covered include but are not lim- State Chaplain ited to: anger management, stress related issues relationships, Chaplain (Lt. Col.) David Jenkins finance, children acting out and problems at school. Office: (785) 274-1515 Cell: (785) 213-4742 Cell #2: (785) 438-9145 Adult MFLC [email protected] John Kriss 190th ARW Chaplain Cell: (785) 289-3386 Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Oliver Bergeron Youth, and Child MFLC Office: (785) 861-4001 Cell: (316) 210-7956 John Merritt DSN: 720-4001 [email protected] Cell: (785) 217-6518 [email protected] 184th IW Chaplain Personal Financial Counselor MFLC Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Terry Williams Debt/credit issues, budgets, saving and investing Office: (316) 652-9601 Cell: (316) 304-2306 Doug Spencer [email protected] or [email protected] Cell: (785) 250-9713 [email protected] Full Time Support Chaplain Chaplain (Capt.) John Potter Psychological Health Program Office: (785) 274-1515 Cell: (785) 220-9480 [email protected] Kansas State Director of Psychological Health Full-Time Support Chaplain Assistant Pat Herrera-Thomas Sgt. Michael McClellan Cell: (785) 338-6951 [email protected] Office: (785) 274-1514 Cell: (785) 215-4067 190th ARW Director of Psychological Health [email protected] Robert Johnson EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF THE GUARD AND THE Office: (785) 861-4792 Cell: (785) 217-7325 RESERVE (ESGR) DSN: 720-4792 [email protected] Days are flying by for Detachment 37, Operation Support - Aviation (OSA) 184th IW Director of Psychological Health Command, which deployed Aug. 13, 2011, to Afghanistan. The unit, which con- Helping resolve conflict between employers and servicemembers and Jeri Kennedy sists of six pilots and two aerial sensor operators, is part of a six state Intelli- locate companies who are hiring Guard members and Reservists. Office: (316) 759-8901 Cell: (316) 617-6401 Chuck Bredahl DSN: 743-8901 [email protected] gence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance combat mission. Their unit, Task Mobile: (785) 217-4828 Office: (785) 274-1559 TRANSITION ASSISTANCE ADVISOR PROGRAM (TAA) Force ODIN-Afghanistan utilizes C-12 aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. [email protected] Helping Service Members access Veteran Affairs’ health ODIN (observe, detect, identify, neutralize), a largely classified U.S. Army pro- FAMILY ASSISTANCE OFFICE care services, benefits and employment assistance. gram was first created in 2006 for use in Iraq. The Task Force deploys manned Provides information on and referral to essential services, Howard Steanson including: Financial Assistance, Legal Referral, Follow-Up Mobile: (785) 806-4179 Office: (785) 274-1188 and unmanned aircraft to spread an intelligence and surveillance blanket over and Outreach [email protected] the area of operations, providing real-time intelligence to ground troops while Elizabeth Visocsky Hiawatha: Cherie Herlinger (Coordinator) Mobile: (785) 817-2960 Office: (785) 274-1129 keeping watch for insurgents planting roadside bombs and disrupting insur- (785) 806-1761 [email protected] [email protected] gent operations. When asked what a typical mission involves, Chief Warrant Iola: David Fehr (785) 806-1756 [email protected] AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS PROGRAM MANAGER Officer 5 Ron Jackson, stated “Although I cannot elaborate on our specific Wichita: Renee Henry 190th ARW: Adrienne Dickey mission I can say ODIN provides a valuable service to the Soldiers on the (785) 806-1754 [email protected] Office: (785) 861-4940 Cell: (785) 806-1252 Great Bend: Darla Shuey DSN: 720-4940 [email protected] ground.” With more than four months completed of their tour, the eight Sol- (785) 213-3012 [email protected] 184th IW: Hilari Delarosa diers have a combined 2,128 combat hours flown. The unit is slated to return Salina: Tammy Alsup Office: (316) 759-7092 Cell: (316) 617-8043 mid-summer of 2012. (785) 806-9842 [email protected] DSN: 743-7092 [email protected] These resources are for all KSNG servicemembers and their families regardless of their duty status. January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 7 State chaplain retires after 28 years of service to God and country By Pfc. Anna R. Laurin 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment There was standing room only Jan. 8, 2012, as Chaplain (Col.) Don Davidson gave his last speech as the state chaplain for the Kansas National Guard, at the Joint Forces Headquarter Nickell Armory in Topeka, Kan. His wife, retired Master Sgt. Marcella Davidson of the Kansas Air National Guard, family, friends and co-workers were present to show their appreciation for the time Davidson has spent as a compassionate chaplain dedicated to helping his fellow servicemembers. The atmosphere was full of gratitude, endearment and a sense of sadness knowing that a beloved chaplain has retired and would no longer be serving in uniform. Davidson retired with more than 28 years served as a chaplain in the Kansas National Guard. Along the way, he made many friends, including members from his first unit, the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery. Davidson believes that the best years of a chaplain’s career are the years of being a battalion chaplain. “The battalion chaplain is the guy who is most closely associated with Soldiers and has an opportunity to meet with and to spend time, one-on-one, with as many Soldiers as possible,” said Davidson. “The best ministry in the Army is on that battalion level. My first eight years were with the 2-130th in Hiawatha. I really loved being with them and still consider myself to be a part of that family. That’s my first battalion, always will be. I had a very strong connection and still do.” Chaplain (Col.) Don Davidson, Kansas National Guard state chaplain, receives a picture of a High Mobility Ar- Serving with Soldiers of the battalion may have been one tillery Rocket System from Lt. Col. Chris Burr during his retirement ceremony at Nickell Armory, Jan. 8, 2012. of Davidson’s favorite memories from the many moments Burr, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, presented the photo on behalf of the battalion, where he has from over the years. Davidson had served as chaplain early in his Kansas National Guard career. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson, “A long, long time ago I got the opportunity to lead a 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs) single Soldier’s retreat to Berchtesgaden, in Bavaria, As a Soldier and a chaplain, Davidson brings a new as- quote or one comment that makes any sense to anybody,” Germany,” said Davidson. “I remember having the pect of the spiritual perspective to others. said Davidson. “There, there, it will be alright.” chance to lead a very short prayer service ... in the Aus- Even in the scariest of situations, Davidson strived to be Davidson understands the relationship Soldiers have be- trian Alps. You really feel like you’re on top of the world that fellow Soldier in whom servicemembers could come to tween having religious or spiritual beliefs and being a Sol- because the scenery is just absolutely unbelievable.” when they needed a friend. During deployments, Davidson dier on the frontline and how having those beliefs can ease “I remember just stopping there and thinking to my- saw this position as a supportive friend more important the mental stresses of being a Soldier. self, ‘OK, does it get any better than this?’ That was just than ever. “If you really believe in the benevolence and grace of an a wonderful experience being clear up there, the air is so “I’m there, too,” said Davidson. “We wear the same almighty God, if you really believe that we are not alone in clean and it’s so beautiful. There were a lot more mean- boots, and we go the same places. How much does that this world, that there is a higher power looking over our ingful moments with Soldiers, at extreme times in lives, mean to a Soldier who has been deployed, to talk to a chap- shoulder and helping us. If you really believe in that kind families, babies being born, and people dying and all the lain who has literally walked in the same steps, who has of grace, then to say to somebody in the worst moment of things that happened in the cycle of life, but for me that been to the same places, who understands what it’s like to their life, ‘There, there it will be alright,’ says all that you was just a real meaningful moment.” be away from family?” need to say.” Davidson dedicated his career to being a supportive When counseling a Soldier or giving advice, Davidson is As Davidson handed over his authority and acknowl- figure in every Soldier’s life. From the beginning, passionate about pastoral care and knows that there is one edges his retirement, family, friends and co-workers gave being a chaplain was all about serving Soldiers, being phrase that gives hope to those in doubt. him a standing ovation. The Kansas National Guard wel- with them, being with units and having a purpose for “Anybody that knows me will probably tell you that comed a new chapter, as Chaplain (Lt. Col.) William David Davidson. when it all comes down to pastoral care there is only one Jenkins takes over as state chaplain. Lt. Col. Jenkins becomes Kansas National Guard state chaplain By Sgt. Jessica Barnett Prior to his current assignment, Jenkins 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment served the 1st Battalion, 635th Armor; 1st Chaplain (Lt. Col.) William David Jenk- Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment and ins became the state chaplain for the was brigade chaplain for the 35th Division Kansas National Guard at a transfer of au- Artillery and the 635th Regional Support thority ceremony, Jan. 8, 2012, at Nickell Group. Armory, in Topeka, Kan. Jenkins was deployed in support of Stabi- During the ceremony, Chaplain (Col.) lization Force 13 and 14 as the deputy com- Donald Davidson put on the official state mand chaplain in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He chaplain’s stole for the last time as Maj. later served as deputy command chaplain Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli took it and placed for the 377th Theater Support Group in it upon Jenkins’ shoulders signifying the Kuwait and in 2007-2008 was the com- transfer of authority over the Kansas Na- mand chaplain for Kosovo Force 9. tional Guard’s Chaplain Corps to him. Jenkins’ military awards include the Meri- Davidson is retiring from the military, torious Service Award with three oak leaf having served 28 years in the Kansas clusters, the Army Commendation Medal National Guard. with one oak leaf cluster, the Army Achieve- “Chaplain Jenkins, we welcome you and ment Medal with three oak leaf clusters and your experience to the command team,” several other medals and ribbons. said Tafanelli. “I know we have significant Jenkins is an avid gardener and can be challenges ahead, but I can think of no one seen in his neighborhood on daily runs with better equipped to handle those challenges the family basset hound, Penelope. and lead us, and set the force up spiritually Jenkins is married to Mary Anna. They to meet our needs in the future as we face Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general, places the official state chaplain’s have two grown children, Tim, a graphic some very difficult and challenging times. stole over Chaplain (Lt. Col.) David Jenkins’ shoulders as he entrusts to him the spir- designer who resides in Wichita, Kan., and So, again, welcome and congratulations on itual welfare of the Kansas National Guard’s servicemembers and Chaplain Corps Anna, a teacher with the Auburn-Washburn this assignment and certainly, on behalf of during a transfer of authority ceremony at Nickell Armory, Topeka, Kan., Jan. 8, School District in Topeka. the Kansas National Guard, we all look for- 2012. (Photo by Pfc. Anna R. Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) The day Jenkins was announced to be the ward to working with you.” servicemembers and their families.” gree in Bible Ministries from Manhattan next state chaplain, will forever be a high- During the ceremony, Jenkins thanked Jenkins was born and raised in Fredonia, Christian College in 1978 and his Master light of his career. Davidson for his efforts in strengthening Kan., and was the command chaplain of of Divinity degree from Phillips Graduate “I felt honored to be asked to be the the Chaplain Corps during his time as the the 35th Infantry Division, Kansas Army Seminary in Enid, Okla., in 1984. He com- state chaplain. As a chaplain it is the pin- state chaplain. National Guard. pleted clinical pastoral education in 1983 nacle in terms of being able to serve, to “The Kansas National Guard chaplaincy Jenkins resides in Topeka, where he and received certification in family sys- maximize experience,” said Jenkins, “es- is stronger than it has been in years,” said serves as bereavement coordinator for tems therapy at the Menninger Institute in pecially in terms of training and mentoring Jenkins. “Chaplain Davidson has left a Grace Hospice. As a pastor of the Disciples 1986. of the younger chaplains, subordinate solid legacy to build upon. I hope to use my of Christ, he has served churches in South- He is currently a Doctor of Ministry stu- chaplains and chaplain assistances, and to experience from multiple deployments in eastern Kansas. He is currently a candidate dent at the University of the South at Sewa- build a strong state National Guard, Army ways that will continue to strengthen our for Holy Orders in the Episcopal Church. nee, Tenn., and will graduate from the U.S. and Air. I feel very honored to be given chaplaincy as we care for Kansas Guard Jenkins received his Bachelor of Arts de- Army War College in July 2012. that opportunity.” Page 8 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Headquarters trains on the Equal Opportunity News: latest protective chemical gear Mentor the leaders of the future Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson how to conduct decontamination of them- By Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sandra Lashley mentored someone in their career, that Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment selves and their equipment using M291 State Equal Employment Manager knowledge walks out the door with them. Joint Forces Headquarters UPAR skin decontamination kits and M295 Indi- Mentoring is defined in many different Mentoring is critical in enabling the The Headquarters and Headquarters De- vidual Equipment decontamination kits. ways. One definition is “a relationship be- Kansas National Guard to continue to grow tachment, Joint Forces Headquarters, Both kits allow decontamination through tween an experienced person and a less ex- and to thrive. It is a way of paying back to Kansas National Guard, conducted Chemi- physical removal and absorption of chemi- perienced person for the the National Guard and cal, Biological, Radiology and Nuclear, cal agents. Volunteers demonstrated how to purpose of helping the “A single conversation paying forward to those training during drill weekend, Jan. 7 and 8, use the M291 pad to clean their hands and one with less experi- Soldiers coming after 2012. Members of the 73rd Civil Support exposed skin. They then illustrated how to ence.” –Cicely A Richard across the table with a you with the experience, Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction) con- clean their face from contamination while This seems to be the wise man is worth the knowledge and other ducted the training for the detachment. still wearing the mask. typical definition of men- benefits received during On Saturday, the detachment drew their “I have spent the last few years in re- toring. I would argue on month’s study of your career. M40 protective masks for the weekend’s cruiting where we do not receive much the point of who it helps. books.” Leaders must mentor training. Members of the 73rd CST ensured hands on training with this type of equip- It does indeed help the - Chinese Proverb their subordinates to that each mask fit properly and was sealed ment,” said Staff Sgt. Kelly Perry, supply one receiving the mentor- help them accomplish air tight by using testing equipment that sergeant for information management, from ing, but it also benefits the the work assigned but hooked up to the mask. This process took Wakarusa, Kan. “For example, this is the one providing the mentoring and in the long also to develop the leaders of the future. about five minutes for each Soldier. Once first time that I have seen the new decon run benefits the Kansas National Guard. There is a belief held by some that knowl- fitted, the Soldiers of the Headquarters staff packets. I am enjoying this training.” The person mentoring is challenged to re- edge is power, but when you do not share carried their masks for the rest of the day. The final station trained Soldiers on how member and to research the questions asked your knowledge gained from experience On Sunday, the detachment went through to transfer from a contaminated protective by the less experienced person. Throughout there is a void left when you are gone. Our three training stations. In sequence, the suit to a clean one while still wearing the a person’s career they are exposed to a lot of goal should be to leave the National Guard training started with performing preventive M40 protective mask. This is a demanding information and experiences that can’t be moving into the future. maintenance on the M40 protective mask. task. The goal is to keep the Soldier with found in a book or documented anywhere. Do not hide the footprints you have made They were instructed on how to do operator contaminated clothing from being reconta- Once that person retires where does that in- and paths you have already blazed. Mentor level disassembly and repair of the mask. minated while putting on a clean protective stitutional knowledge go? If they have never like you are retiring tomorrow! After the masks were reassembled, they suit. Members from a chemical team or completed DA Form 2404 Equipment In- company would assist the contaminated spection and Maintenance Work Sheet not- servicemember in removing their contami- Kansas teen receives Civil Air ing any problems that needed attention. nated protective clothing. The servicemem- “It has been over a year since I have ber is then assisted in putting on a clean Patrol’s highest cadet honor trained with my protective mask,” said Sgt. protective suit By Command Chief Master Sgt. James ment opportunities and prepares them for Tina Rios, an accounting technician with This requires practice and coordination Brown, Kansas Air National Guard success in college and career. the United States Property and Fiscal Of- between both the contaminated Soldier and On Jan. 19, Brig. Gen. Keith Lang, chief Chaverin’s Spaatz Award achievement fice, from Topeka, Kan. “I am glad that we the Soldiers assisting him. Soldier practice of staff of the Kansas Air National Guard, required more than four years effort, 17 are having this training.” with the new protective suits is hard to and State Command Chief Master Sgt. grade promotions, leadership schools and The second station trained Soldiers on come by, so any training is good training. James Brown of the Kansas Air National the successful completion of a rigorous Guard, presented the Carl A. Spaatz Award four-part exam consisting of a challenging to Cadet Nate Chaverin of Lenexa, Kan. physical fitness test, an essay exam testing The Spaatz Award is named in honor of his moral reasoning, a comprehensive writ- Carl “Tooey” Spaatz, the first chief of staff ten exam on leadership and a comprehen- of the U.S. Air Force. sive written exam on aerospace education. Chaverin is the 1,818th Civil Air Patrol Col. Rich Almeida administered the final Cadet to achieve the prestigious Spaatz Spaatz test to Chaverin in December at award since its inception in 1964. Founded Whiteman Air Force Base. in 1945, the Civil Air Patrol has grown to Chaverin serves as the cadet commander 65,000 civilian volunteer members serving for the Kansas City Composite Squadron our communities as the Official Auxiliary and is active in encouraging the cadets of the U.S. Air Force. CAP’s three-fold under his leadership to grow and reach their mission delivers air and ground search-and- full potential. Chaverin has also been rec- rescue, cadet programs, and aerospace edu- ognized as a National Merit Scholarship cation to communities nationwide. CAP’s semi-finalist and finalist applicant and has unique cadet program provides teens chal- volunteered 300 hours a year in our com- lenging leadership and character develop- munity through CAP.

Sgt. Shawn Wise, a financial management technician with Headquarters and Head- quarters Detachment, Joint Forces Headquarters, is assisted with taking off his con- taminated chemical suit by an instructor from the 73rd Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction) during drill at the Nickell Armory in Topeka, Kan., Jan. 8, 2011. (Photo by Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment Joint Forces Headquarters UPAR) Soldier to Soldier A New Beginning! A New Year Continued from Page 4 and getting the right things done. the right things. Well, this is not Bedford Falls and we are As I watched the movie I began to think not George Bailey. However, this is a classic how George Bailey could have been a movie that we can learn from. In this current (Left to right) State Command Chief Master Sgt. James Brown of the Kansas Air leader in the Kansas Army National Guard environment of decreasing budgets, everyone National Guard and Brig. Gen. Keith Lang, chief of staff of the Kansas Air National as a noncommissioned officer. The things may not be able to attend school and we may Guard, present the Carl A. Spaatz Award to Cadet Nate Chaverin of Lenexa, Kan., we, as noncommissioned officers (leaders), not get everything we need to maintain the with his squadron commander, Maj. Cathy Metcalf, by his side at the Westside Fam- should be doing are the same. force the way we have been able to in the ily Church in Lenexa, Jan. 19, 2012. (Photo by Dan Chaverin) We should serve with selfless service, past. We need to be tracking our Soldiers at doing for others (our Soldiers). We should the name tape level to ensure they are med- make sure our Soldiers are getting to the ically ready, Military Occupation Specialties Join the Civil Air Patrol right schools so they are ready for the next qualified, Noncommissioned Officer Educa- step and meet the mission. We should be tion System qualified and meet the standards. The Kansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is looking for working with our Soldiers to make sure This will ensure the Kansas National Guard, teens 12 to 18 years of age and adults to join our current they meet the Army Physical Fitness Test, remains a relevant, ready and reliable force volunteers in our important missions. height and weight and periodic health as- able to meet any challenge or mission that The Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. sessment. Our Soldiers don’t know what we are given. Go to www.kswg.cap.gov they don’t know and it is up to us to ensure This is a New Year, a new beginning. for a Civil Air Patrol Squadron near you. that our Soldiers are doing the right thing Now go do the right thing! January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 9 War and Peace quilters adopt deployed unit Security Forces By Spc. Mandy Ebert, UPAR personally cared about. the group has seen that the house received 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment Thus far, 83 quilts have been made and quilts. They have also made quilts for return from When it comes to preparing for deployment, shipped to members of Company D, 1st homeless veterans in Wichita. All of the there is a long list of things a Soldier needs to Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment. quilt recipients come to them solely by Afghanistan take. Now that list includes a handmade quilt Deploying Soldiers aren’t the only ones word of mouth. By Tech. Sgt. Emily F. Alley from the ladies of the War and Peace Quilters. receiving this kind of special attention. Their work is funded entirely through do- 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Connie Lamascus, who answers to the Lamascus listed many other groups to nations. Items such as cotton or polyester Office loving nickname of Grandma Hugs, had which they have provided quilts. material, single-double knit material, A group of deployed 190th Air Refuel- been quilting regularly with a group of “We have made quilts for veterans of sewing thread, special patriotic material, ing Wing Security Forces members women when a fellow quilter, Beverly Al- World War II, Korea, Vietnam, service- batting, crochet thread for tying, straight safely returned from Afghanistan in mid- statt, commented that she’d heard of other members who are now serving, children of pins and sewing machine needles are neces- October. groups making quilts for Soldiers. servicemembers, Gold Star Mothers [moth- sary to keep the operation in order, not to The 18 Airmen provided security at That was enough of a spark for Grandma ers of Soldiers killed in action], Iraqi Free- mention the cost of shipping each quilt. Bagram Airfield and their responsibilities Hugs. Lamascus and others from a group for- dom and Desert Storm.” In light of all this, when asked what the included supervising the automated secu- merly called the Brethen came together under The group has made and are giving quilts quilters needed most, Grandma Hugs said, rity system, guarding gates and runways the name War and Peace Quilters. When to the Veterans Affairs hospice at Robert J. “Prayers that we continue to have the strength and responding to incidents. these women of faith began, they were mak- Dole Medical Center, Wichita, Kan. They and health to keep on making the quilts, would Originally, their tasking would have ing quilts with no designated recipients. make red, white and blue ones specifically be nice. We are ‘gently aged’ ladies. We will taken them off-base. They began training “When we started, two ladies were con- for them. They also gave 32 quilts to the continue making them as long as we can.” for outside-the-wire missions. During cerned that we would make quilts and have VA nursing home. For information about War and Peace pre-deployment training, however, the no one to give them to,” recalled Lamascus. Two homes have been built in Emporia, Quilters or to donate, go to www.warand- group was re-tasked to secure Bagram Then a conversation with retired 1st Sgt. Kan., for returning veterans that need a peacequilters.blogspot.com or find them on Airfield. John Degand, a former member of the 1st place to live. One houses 14 women and Facebook. “Everyone wants outside the wire ad- Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment, changed ventures,” said Master Sgt. Mark Peter- that. Degand and Lamascus worked together son, who said some of his Airmen were and she knew he had been deployed, so she disappointed to have a change in mission. presented him with the gift of a quilt. “But they maintained a good attitude and Little did she know that one thing would that goes a long way.” lead to another and one day Degand asked Staff Sgt. Brian Beatty still got the her if the War and Peace Quilters would chance to put his training to use while on make quilts for all the Soldiers in his unit. a routine patrol on the runway at Bagram “When…he asked and I answered yes, he Airfield. then said ‘You know there are 130 of He was driving when a rocket exploded them?’ It was very silent at my end [of the about 20 feet from his vehicle and hit an phone] then out of my mouth came ‘We will aircraft. Beatty pulled his truck around make them one at a time!’ “ she recalled. and gave emergency medical treatment to That’s what they did. Through the help of another staff sergeant by putting a tourni- Staff Sgt. Patrick Crawford, a member of quet on his gashed leg and dressing his Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1- neck wound. 108th Avn., a list of names was compiled and Beatty said the staff sergeant had just quilts were handmade and sent one at a time been promoted that day. They found his to the Soldier they were specifically designed new rank had fallen off his uniform and for. Many of the quilts are rich with senti- was laying, covered in blood, on the mental value and include aspects of that Sol- ground. With Beatty’s help, the staff ser- dier’s life, such as their civilian jobs, favorite geant was able to get quick medical treat- sports teams, hobbies or interests. The crafty ment and was doing fine. quilters have stitched everything from an in- “He didn’t hesitate,” said Master Sgt. tense green Ferrari, proud Puerto Rican flag The women of War and Peace Quilters display their pride by simultaneously sewing Brett Higginbotham, the senior enlisted and heartfelt memorial quilts just to make a quilt together. The War and Peace Quilters provide patriotic quilts for deployed security forces member on the deploy- sure that each Soldier feels that he or she is Soldiers. (Courtesy photo) ment. “It’s the type of thing I’d expect from any of them. We did stellar work.” Higginbotham explained that in Secretary of State receives ESGR Patriot Award Afghanistan, particularly in the security Continued from Page 1 requirements of the law. forces career field, accidents can be com- The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard The mission of the Kansas Committee of the Employer Sup- mon. However, none of the members of and Reserve conducts an awards program designed to recognize port of the Guard and Reserve is to promote public understand- the 190th Air Refueling Wing Security employers who support a strong National Guard and Reserve ing and employer support of the critical role of the Kansas Forces Squadron were hurt. force. Employers qualify for recognition when they practice lead- Guard and Reserve components to advance national interests “We had professionalism, we stayed ership and personnel policies that support employee participation and protect our nation’s security and gain and maintain active motivated and did phenomenal work,” in the Guard and Reserve. Patriot Award nominations may come support from all public and private Kansas employers for the Higginbotham added. “To come out with- only from National Guard and Reserve members or their spouses. men and women of the Kansas National Guard and Reserve as out anybody getting hurt, I couldn’t be The ESGR Statement of Support Program seeks to inform and defined by demonstrated employer commitment to employee happier.” educate employers about their rights and responsibilities to their military service. The deployment was not what they had employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, and to For more information about ESGR Employer Outreach Pro- originally planned on, but it was a job recognize and reward employers who go “over and above” the grams and volunteer opportunities visit www.esgr.mil. well done. Topeka Eagle Composite Squadron promotes first Cadet/Airmen Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson mander for cadets and preparations were Topeka Eagle Squadron, Civil Air Patrol made to start the program. It took at lot of The Topeka Eagle Composite Squadron effort from a number of people to make it of the Civil Air Patrol promoted its first all come together. Cadet/Airman. A Civil Air Patrol compos- In October, the first six prospective ite squadron is one that has both cadet and cadets started to meet at the Kansas Army senior members. The Topeka squadron National Guard’s Nickell Armory. Of the started its cadet program after a break of six, Adrian Appelhanz was the first to com- several years. plete all the tasks required for advance- Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of ment. On Dec. 19, 2011, Lt. Col. Michael the U.S. Air Force, is a nonprofit organiza- Madden, squadron commander, with the as- tion with more than 61,000 members na- sistance from Cadet Appelhanz’s father, tionwide. CAP, in its Air Force auxiliary Jason, promoted Appelhanz from role, performs 90 percent of continental Cadet/Airman Basic to Cadet/Airman, with U.S. inland search and rescue missions as a date of rank of Nov. 14, 2011. tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordina- In the same ceremony, Appelhanz was tion Center and was credited by the presented the Gen. J. F. Curry Award for AFRCC with saving 113 lives in fiscal completing Phase I of the cadet program. year 2010. The award was named for Gen. J. F. Curry, The spark for restarting the cadet pro- an Army Air Corps officer, selected as the gram came when Christopher Smith, a Civil Air Patrols’ first national commander. physics teacher at Topeka West High He served in this capacity from December School, joined the squadron. As a teacher 1941 to March 1942. Cadet/Airman Basic Adrian Appelhanz is promoted to Cadet/Airman by his father and a pilot, he wanted to be involved with Even though Appelhanz was the first, he Jason Appelhanz (left) and Lt. Col. Michael Madden (right), squadron commander young men and women through a cadet will not be alone. Other cadets will soon of the Topeka Eagle Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol, Dec. 19, 2011. (Photo by program. He was named the deputy com- follow in his footsteps for their first stripes. Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, Topeka Eagle Squadron, Civil Air Patrol) Page 10 Plains Guardian • January 2012 A young 284th prepares for first overseas combat role By Master Sgt. Matt McCoy PAK Energy Systems, a North Carolina de- 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs veloper of light-weight batteries used to run Office battlefield equipment. Over the course of three days in Novem- Once the training at Smoky Hill came to ber in Salina, Kan., the 284th Air Support an end in October, the 284th spent a few Operations Squadron loaded six cargo more weeks at Camp Shelby, Miss., con- planes with heavy equipment and headed ducting battle drills. Upon completion of toward the west coast. The aircraft took off those drills, the squadron was set to move from Salina Regional Airport bound for the to the final phase of their training at Fort National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Irwin before heading overseas. Calif., where the 284th linked up with the On Nov. 19, 2011, members of the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Ohio squadron began loading a C-17 from the National Guard. The training completed 183rd Airlift Squadron, Mississippi Air Na- their final preparations for the brigade’s de- tional Guard with Humvees and trailers. ployment in support of Operation Enduring Col. J.J. Hernandez, commander of the Freedom. Although it only took three days 184th IW, was on location to show his sup- to load and leave, the squadron has spent port for the squadron. Members of the much more time preparing for their first 184th Logistics Readiness Squadron and combat mission since their activation in the 134th Air Control Squadron were also 2009. on hand to help the 284th carry out joint in- “People think we just go out and drop spections of vehicles and equipment. bombs,” said Staff Sgt. Cameron Carlson, a Tech. Sgt. Carl Denuna, 284th Air Support Operations Squadron, augmented from “It may seem like another working week- tactical air control party. “I don’t think they the Georgia National Guard, responds to small arms fire during convoy patrol train- end, another nagging task, until you see the realize everything it takes to get to that ing at Smoky Hill Weapons Range. (Photo by Master Sgt. Matt McCoy, 184th Intelli- Humvees being loaded on a C-17. That’s point.” gence Wing Public Affairs Office) what it’s all about,” said Hernandez. The 284th ASOS is a tenant unit of the During their training at Smoky Hill months is to fulfill the requirements from “There are thousands of variables that go 184th Intelligence Wing while stationed in Weapons Range, part of the Great Plains our deployed parent unit,” Arnold said. into a deployment like this and that is Kansas during peacetime operations. As the Joint Training Center in Salina, the unit Throughout their training, the unit had where the rest of the wing comes in.” 184th IW has evolved, it’s picked up vari- members experienced a variety of learning support from expert equipment operators As a former B-1 bomber crew member, ous missions with many different roles. The opportunities. They conducted combat life- representing various organizations, includ- Hernandez has gone through many training 284th embodies the diverse operations of saver training, weapons qualifications, heli- ing Rockwell Collins, the National Guard exercises throughout his career. the wing, being one of many squadrons copter insertion and extraction, Improvised within it with unique capabilities. Explosive Device defeat lane training and

Members of the 284th Air Support Operations Squadron loaded equipment onto a C- 17 at Salina Regional Airport Nov. 19, 2011. The Mississippi Air National Guard of- Staff Sgt. Alejandro Saldivar, 284th Air Support Operations Squadron, augmented fered a C-17 from the 183rd Airlift Squadron to pick up and deliver the Airmen and from the Indiana National Guard, loads ammunition prior to firing his weapon dur- their equipment to Fort Irwin, Calif. (Photo by Maj. DeAnn Barr, 184th Intelligence ing a predeployment training exercise at Smoky Hill Weapons Range in October Wing) 2011. Approximately 40 Tactical Air Control Party members trained on the Common Pre-mobilization Training Assistance and “I’ve been to Red Flag, Silver Flag, and Remotely Operated Weapon System. (Photo by Master Sgt. Matt McCoy, 184th Intel- Evaluation team, as well as other support other training, but they were nothing like ligence Wing Public Affairs Office) organizations. With the experts on hand, the the war fighting exercises these airmen are The 284th began putting their team to- vehicle rollover training. The squadron team was able to ask questions and work out about to receive at the NTC.” gether for this deployment in June 2010. trained with many weapons systems on dif- any malfunctions before heading down “This was a tremendous undertaking,” he The mission and location of the deployment ferent types of terrain and learned various range. continued. “This training saga, now in its changed four times before being finalized, tactics while incorporating close air support “If I can’t be with them in Afghanistan, I final phase, graduates into combat and making planning for training, personnel and missions. can sure be with them while they’re train- that’s something few in the Kansas Air Na- equipment requirements extremely difficult. “Everything we’ve done for the past two ing,” said Laura Thiel, president of Medi- tional Guard have done before.” “One of the biggest challenges to over- come was keeping the guys motivated,” said Senior Master Sgt. Matt Foote, the squadron’s superintendent. “When the mis- sion changes like that, it’s easy to get frus- trated and lose focus.” The unit is so young that the manning and training hasn’t caught up with the re- quirements, as it takes four years to fully train a joint terminal attack controller. This forced the squadron to pull resources from five other units across the United States. Once the team was built and the mission was set, training kicked off in late Septem- ber 2011. Most of the training was con- ducted in Kansas. “That’s what makes the 284th unique,” ex- plained Lt. Col. Michael Arnold, director of operations for the 284th ASOS. “Our training facilities are located on Smoky Hill. Most ASOSs go to Army locations for training.” Not only does the local training keep troops with their families longer, it reduces extensive traveling costs. “We did all kinds of stuff with a lot of Members of the 284th Air Support Operations Squadron prepared themselves for responding to dangerous attacks while con- help from outside agencies and we did it all ducting convoy patrols at Smoky Hill Weapons Range near Salina, Kan. The training was part of predeployment exercises during right here in Salina,” said Lt. Col. Gary November 2011 as they prepared for combat in Afghanistan. (Photo by Master Sgt. Matt McCoy, 184th Intelligence Wing Public Nash, commander of the 284th ASOS. Affairs Office) January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 11 Sergeant Major of the Army visits Soldiers in Africa By Spc. Michelle C. Lawrence an idea - relearning what it means to be a professional.” all the time. It’s a constant challenge for Soldiers to be true 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery UPAR Chandler explained how in some aspects, Soldiers are to themselves and the uniform they wear, he added. The 14th sergeant major of the Army made his first trip the same as any professional in the world and the devotion Chandler emphasized the importance of professional to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Dec. 16, 2011, visiting Sol- to professionalism engenders trust among Americans. pride and how it’s everyone’s responsibility to maintain diers with Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and “The American people implicitly trust you because you high standards. He said he tries leading by example, not other units. wear this uniform to support the (U.S.) Constitution and direction. As the senior enlisted member of the Army, His visit afforded him the opportunity to discuss various defend the American people in our nation’s wars,” he said. Chandler wants to be remembered for taking care of the important topics with Soldiers stationed there. “They believe you’re going to do what’s right.” Soldiers who come after him. The future of the Army “I want to talk to you about what’s going on in the Army Maintaining the trust of the American people is what de- rests with them. and where it’s going in the future,” said Sergeant Major of fines a Soldier as a professional, Chandler said. A Soldier “I try to do what is right and take care of Soldiers and the Army Raymond F. Chandler III. “We’ve been working must have character. They do what they are supposed to do their families,” Chandler said. “You’ll decide my legacy, not me.” Chandler also noted part of being professional was main- taining a professional appearance and physical fitness. He encouraged Soldiers to break the mold of physical fitness and push themselves to new heights. An ongoing challenge the Army faces is developing and improving the fitness level of all its Soldiers, said Chan- dler. He would like to move away from a physical fitness test to a physical readiness test. A physical fitness test measures specific areas of a Sol- dier’s body, while the physical readiness test measures muscle strength and endurance of the entire body. The battlefield today requires Soldiers to be dynamic, focus- ing on challenges presented to the entire body and mind, he said. He emphasized appearance and fitness have everything to do with professionalism. His goal is to de- velop a fighting force capable of handling any possible situation that may arise. “This is the standard,” he said. “And this is all about meeting a standard that’s even more difficult.” While meeting the Army standards is a cornerstone of professionalism, there are still other aspects to consider when developing a Soldier, Chandler said. Soldiers’ development is about commitment, selfless service and confidence, he said. Chandler added that he wants every Soldier to fulfill the obligation they signed up for – to realize they, personally, come last and to gain the Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond F. Chandler discusses what his post duties entail with Spc. Charlie Beuttel, confidence to do their job right. 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, of Pomona, Kan., as they look out from the tower overlooking an entry control “I hope the younger generation of Soldiers took away the point on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Dec. 16, 2011. Chandler visited with Soldiers at a variety of work sections on intent of his part on professionalism,” said 1st Sgt. Steven the camp and at the Djibouti port. (Photo by Spc. Michelle C. Lawrence, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery Sprawka, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. “We need to UPAR) get back to the basics and be professional Soldiers.” Ambitious new market sells hope to locals of Gerdy Katz By Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani that there really is not much in the way of The Gerdy Katz villagers are expected to and more of a pull-back of advisors and Combined Joint Task Force - Afghanistan commercial, particularly commercial agri- take this development on their own to ex- U.S. forces here, so in the coming months Just off the busy Afghan Highway 7, near culture, products in this part of the district,” pand it as their village grows. The future is the Afghans are pretty much going to be on the village of Gerdy Katz, a little market said Phil Blake, USDA agricultural advisor. in their hands. their own. We see this as a perfect opportu- has emerged out of the dust and debris. Al- “This is really the perfect place in this “The most important thing here is this nity for them to stand up for themselves though small, the shop is bursting with western part of the district to have a facility district has now been declared transi- and stand up the business here that is al- promise and hope for the villagers. where we can have a diversity of products.” tioned,” said Blake. “We are seeing more ready proving to be successful.” The market is only the most recent, albeit At the moment, the humble market can essential, addition to a list of achievements only boast having poultry selling services, the Kansas Agribusiness Development tailoring services and fresh locally grown Team and their Afghan counterparts have produce. It holds the potential for growth to worked to reach together. other areas. Two years ago, the ADT cleared 10 “We were recently funded to set up a Jaribs, roughly 50 acres, of land, adjacent micro-dairy here,” said Blake. “This will be to a combat outpost. That initiative resulted the only place in this part of district where in a boom of farming and agriculture green- people can stop and pick up fresh cheese houses, a well-supplied irrigation system and yogurt-milk products.” and a citrus fruit tree and nut tree orchard. All of the perishable products for the Roughly 120 farmers were trained in green- local villages were brought in by trucks in house technology, soil analysis, drip irriga- the past. Before the market, getting fresh tion, pest management and animal products was not cost effective. husbandry. “We go to Jalalabad or Mehtar Lam city so The culmination of all these projects was we spend more money as a transportation the ribbon cutting ceremony of the market, cost,” said Kahn, referring to the way they owned and operated by Wasir Kahn, a used to conduct business. “For example, one local. Kahn and his team of laborers kilogram of sugar you buy (at) 100 Afghani, worked hard to see the fruits of their labor but we spend 300 Afghani here for trans- evolve to a business that would help bring portation cost, so one kilogram was almost hope to their district. 400 (Afghani). Now (that) you (can) buy the Lt. Col. Russell Richardson (far right), commander of the Kansas Agribusiness De- “Because it’s close to the highway, the sugar here, the transportation cost will sever.” velopment Team 4, joins members of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and people of Kabul and Jalalabad, they want to The market has already been a success the USDA to take a moment to speak with Wasir Kahn, the proprietor of a new mar- buy something from here, so we have mar- story just by being there. Locals can enjoy ketplace, just before the ribbon cutting ceremony near Gerdy Katz, Afghanistan, ket here,” said Kahn. the benefits of fresh products, but not have Dec. 3, 2011. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani, Combined Joint Task Force - “One of the keys to this marketplace is to dig as deeply into their pockets. Afghanistan) Three Fighting Jayhawks awarded the Bronze Star Continued from Page 1 in this room that a reduction of even five minutes would be was a project that was much needed. At points, we would your civil engineering team, improving the capability to a godsend, so well done.” stop working to allow it to be used. Once they would take operate unmanned air systems, that is a direct contribution The 45-minute reduction was due to the 15 Airmen of the off, we would continue the work.” of the war effort. That’s a direct contribution of actions en- 184th Civil Engineer Squadron making history. They were The Bronze Star Medal was established in 1944 for gaged and enemy threats neutralized.” able to complete a $17 million, 454,000 square feet heliport any person who, while serving in any capacity in or with “Some of your work reduced the response time of close at Kunduz. The completed heliport is the largest in Air the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast air support call by 45-minutes,” Hernandez continued. Force civil engineer history, which allowed a faster response Guard of the United States, after Dec. 6, 1941, distin- “That is a 45-minute reduction of time for air support to time for aerial support. This project was challenging for the guishes, or has distinguished, himself by heroic or meri- help our ground troops under fire. I don’t know, no one has squadron, but one that King will remember his entire life. torious achievement or service not involving ever shot at me, but I think that I can speak for our Soldiers “It was rewarding to be part of history,” King said. “It participation in aerial flight. Page 12 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Kansas National Guard combat medic covers Horn of Africa By Staff Sgt. Stephen Linch back to her unit and received the unex- Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa pected news that she would be deploying. “I wanted to make my dad proud.” “I happened to call my unit … out of The pen struck the paper leaving her sig- nowhere they said ‘By the way, we are nature – Michelle C. Lawrence – above her going to Africa next year and you are going father’s, she recalled. with us,’ “ said Lawrence. Weeks later, on her 17th birthday, she be- After the initial shock, Lawrence said she came the third generation of her family to was excited to deploy to Africa. raise her right hand and recite the Oath of “I was pretty much pumped,” said Enlistment, said Spc. Michelle Lawrence, a Lawrence. “I had never been outside the U.S.” combat medic with the 35th Military Police A year after the phone call, 20-year old Company, currently serving as a unit public Lawrence arrived at Camp Lemonnier, Dji- affairs representative for the 1st Battalion, bouti, and once again received unexpected 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army Na- news. tional Guard. The mission she was assigned to had one “That was her goal (to join the Army Na- too many people. Although she was a com- tional Guard). That’s what she wanted to do bat medic, she was being reassigned to and I wasn’t going to stop her,” said John meet the needs of the battalion and would Lawrence, her father, a resident of Dighton, be working as a unit public affairs repre- Kan., and a U.S. Army veteran. sentative. A little more than three years after join- “I didn’t know anything about public af- ing the Kansas Army National Guard as a fairs. I didn’t know how to write a story. I combat medic, Lawrence is covering the ef- didn’t know how to take a good photo. I forts of Soldiers deployed to Africa thanks didn’t even know how to use one of these to a vacancy within the unit and leadership cameras,” Lawrence said. who realized her potential. Upon being assigned to the 1-161 FA “Specialist Lawrence is one of a select public affairs office, Lawrence was placed few very influential public affairs represen- in the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of tatives in my battalion achieving my com- Africa public affairs office as the battalion’s munication plan,” said Lt. Col. Thomas public affairs liaison with the task force. Burke, commander of the 1-161 FA. “I It was there that a U.S. Air Force staff knew coming into this mobilization that sergeant, skilled in public affairs, helped communication with our military support- her tell the story of the Kansas Army Na- ers, the general public in the state of tional Guard Soldiers serving at Camp Kansas and employers was vital to main- Lemonnier and throughout the African con- Kansas team a national leader taining both public support for the mission tinent, she said. By Maj. DeAnn Barr notification and is to be embedded in the Great Plains Joint Training Center state’s Joint Operation Center. Public Affairs Office The Kansas team, comprised of Shep- The Services Command and Control herd, Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Bob Team, Joint Forces Headquarters and Bledsoe and Senior Master Sgt. Pete Kansas Air National Guard, commanded by Tavares, collectively bring 40 years of Air Maj. Trent Shepherd, briefed state leaders National Guard experience to the table, and in early December. The National Guard Bu- wasted no time in employing their special- reau has their eye on the team as one to em- ties following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. ulate. Within hours of notification the team was “Our FEMA team is taking the lead na- deployed to the region and redefined aus- tionally in developing the regional FEMA tere conditions, setting their diverse serv- team’s primary focus and mission. We are ices experience in motion. As the first briefing that mission and seeking accept- FEMA team to deploy outside the contigu- ance of it on a broad scale, to include incor- ous United States, their experience is help- porating it into our Joint Operation Center. ing shape the future mission statement for NGB A1 is following our lead on this, so it all the teams. is definitely a big deal,” said Lt. Col. Greg “I am most proud of how this team has Platt, operations officer of the Great Plains come together so quickly and excellently,” Joint Training Center in Salina, Kan. said Shephard. “Within the first year of our The need for this team was uncovered in team coming together, we were deployed the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when down to Haiti and Puerto Rico to support officials struggled to define jurisdiction Operation Unified Response. We were one Spc. Michelle Lawrence, a combat medic with the 35th Military Police Company, over locating, recovering and identifying of two teams out of 12 deployed because currently serving as a unit public affairs representative for the 1st Battalion, 161st victims. Federal officials maintained that we were the only two teams indicating we Field Artillery, adjusts her camera settings at Camp Lemonnier, June 30, 2011. ultimately body recovery was a state func- were trained up and ready to go. Even (Photo by Master Sgt. Dawn Price, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa) tion, one that most states were ill-equipped today, the staff at National Guard Bureau and employer support for the Soldiers.” “I don’t think I would be where I am to accomplish on a mass scale. looks at us and describes us as one of the Lawrence wrote stories highlighting what now if he had not taken me under his wing The result was the creation of 12 Joint benchmark teams.” U.S. Soldiers did in countries such as Tan- like he did. He took time out of his day off Forces Headquarters Services Teams in Look for this deployable, quick response, zania, Rwanda, Mozambique, Burundi and of his work schedule to teach me photogra- each of the FEMA regions. Their role is to Sustainment Services Staff designed to Kenya. phy and how to write,” said Lawrence. provide deliberate crisis planning for Na- augment major commands, Joint Forces “They tell the story of how relationships Ever since learning the tricks of the tional Guard forces for food, water, shelter Headquarters and Joint Task Forces as an with our counterparts are going beyond the trade, Lawrence has been highlighting what and fatality management support. The team integral part of future disaster planning skills of building partner nation capacity. Soldiers deployed to Africa are doing, said is capable of deploying within 28 hours of packages. Soldiers from both countries are learning Sgt. Daryl Davis, the public affairs office, that both countries want peace, stability and noncommissioned officer in charge for the Annual report is now online better futures for ourselves and our chil- 1-161 FA. dren,” said Burke. “Specialist Lawrence “Within a short period of time she began The 2011 annual report of the Adjutant General’s Department is now available on- tells how working together, we can strive to to churn out remarkable articles and pho- line. The interactive pdf version of the report can be accessed by clicking the link meet that goal.” tos,” said Davis. “She is always willing and found on the Adjutant General’s Department home page. The URL is “Lawrence does a great job of telling the very capable of handling all assignments. http://kansastag.gov story from the Soldier’s perspective,” he She even volunteered for several others and The report, compiled by the Public Affairs Office of the Adjutant General’s de- added. continues to impress.” partment, details the events and activities of the Kansas National Although she receives praise for her sto- According to her father, it is no surprise Guard, Kansas Division of Emergency Management, ries and photos, Lawrence never thought Lawrence has proved capable of serving Kansas Homeland Security and the Civil Air Patrol she would be serving her country as a jour- her country outside of her skill set as a over the past year. nalist or a photographer. combat medic. Included in the report is an overview Lawrence looked forward to becoming a “That is the way Michelle is,” he said. of the year’s events, a brief history of combat medic and serving her country. “She will go after any task with the best of the agency, information on deploy- Although she was inspired by her father to her ability and not complain.” ments and homecomings, legislative become a Soldier, it was her mother, a nurse, Her beliefs probably have a lot to do with measures that affected the Kansas Na- who led her to become a combat medic. her diligence and work ethic, he said. tional Guard and other divisions of the agency, “My mom is a nurse. I have always wanted “President Kennedy made a statement … reports from each of the agency’s officer and Na- to help people like she does,” said Lawrence. ‘Ask not what your country can do for you. tional Guard units, fiscal information and a map showing the location of each Na- It was while attending advanced individ- Ask what you can do for your country,’” tional Guard unit within the state. ual training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, to said John Lawrence. “I believe in that The report and map are interactive with links from each of the major commands become a combat medic, Lawrence called whole heartedly. I think Michelle does too.” information to its location on the map and vice versa. January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Agribusiness Development Team 4 gains new lieutenant colonel By 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn mentors throughout my career.” Agribusiness Development ADT troops embody the counter-insur- When Maj. Ron Boyer of Liberty, Mo., gency mission of today’s Army. Their pri- first came to Eastern Afghanistan, he mary mission is to create sustainable found himself the new guy. agricultural projects in Laghman With the official unit commander de- province, to promote economic growth, layed in the United States, Boyer stepped teach better farming techniques and re- in and took responsibility, accepting the verse the deforestation and scorched earth authority transfer of the outgoing Lagh- policy that the former Soviet Union left in man Province Agribusiness Development its wake two decades ago. Team mission commander. After his promotion, troops prodded “My first thought was that I wish I had Boyer for his advice to others considering been part of the team from the beginning following in his footsteps. so I would have had better knowledge of “I enjoy what I do very much and I the team,” said Boyer, discussing his ini- would recommend a military career to tial reaction to finding out he would de- most everyone,” said Boyer. “My advice ploy the team into Afghanistan. is to make sure you are prepared for the “Fortunately, we had been together for next step, but do not be in a hurry for your about seven weeks when I found out, so I next position or promotion. Work hard, had integrated pretty well by that time.” solve your boss’s problems and take care For his continued support of the U.S. of the Soldiers you work with and the pro- Army and the ongoing mission, Col. Joel motions and accolades take care of them- Ward, commander, 45th Infantry Brigade selves.” Combat Team, promoted Boyer to lieu- Col. Joel Ward (right), commander of tenant colonel Nov. 1, 2011. the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, “It was good to get promoted,” said promotes Maj. Ron Boyer to lieutenant Boyer, after many unit members and other colonel Nov. 1, 2011, at Forward Opera- inhabitants of the base congratulated him. tion Base Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan. “I have been fortunate to work with some (Photo by 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza- outstanding Soldiers, noncommissioned Pangburn, Kansas Agribusiness Devel- officers and officers. I have had excellent opment Team 4) TriWest presents Kansas National Kansas Guard members give Guard Foundation with check thanks to vets in Topeka area By Sgt. Jessica Barnett their families in a number of ways. Funds By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson ing hands and sharing stories, Wulfkuhle Public Affairs Office donated to the foundation provide financial Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment said, “I enjoyed the experience of being TriWest Healthcare Alliance presented a support for programs including camps for Joint Forces Headquarters UPAR with all these brave people. I wish that I check for $10,000 to the Kansas National children of Guard members, trainings for Veterans Day was the idea of Emporia could do more. We should all be honored Guard Foundation, Dec. 5, 2011. family members, as well as the deployment resident Alvin King. Formerly known as by those who have come before us.” Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the adju- and transitioning home process. Armistice Day after the Armistice ended Later in the day, ManorCare Health Serv- tant general, and Janelle Hood, president of TriWest Healthcare Alliance partners with the fight on the Western Front, Nov. 11, ices was visited by other members of the the Kansas National Guard Foundation, ac- the Department of Defense to support the 1918. In 1954, Congress changed Armistice Kansas Guard. Master Sgt. Richard cepted the donation on behalf of the health care needs of 2.7 million members of to Veterans Day, due to a campaign led by Heuertz, Senior Airman Tiffany Kubie and foundation. America’s military family. A Phoenix-based King to expand it to celebrate all veterans. 1st Lt. Dyann Berglund met the veterans in “We’re grateful for TriWest’s willingness corporation, TriWest is URAC accredited, Therefore, Veterans Day is a good day to their dining facility. The residents told of to go above and beyond to assist our troops without deficiencies, in Networks, Utiliza- honor all men and women who have ever their experiences, mainly from World War and their families,” said Tafanelli. “This tion Management, Disease Management worn the uniform. II. Some of the nonveterans spoke of their donation comes at a time when there are and Case Management. TriWest provides On Veterans Day 2011, members of the memories of Dec. 7, 1941, and what it was many needs within the Guard and we want access to cost-effective, high-quality health Kansas National Guard visited veterans in like to see so many go off to war. After the do everything we can to support them and care in the 21-state Tricare West Region and nursing homes in Topeka and the surround- certificates of appreciation were passed out, their families in their willingness to sacri- is the 2007 Tricare Region of the year. Tri- ing communities. Many of these visiting the residents were served lunch. One of the fice to serve our country.” West is a proud Corporate Team Member of Soldiers and Airmen are themselves veterans staff members also received a certificate for The Kansas National Guard Foundation America Supports You. Visit of Operation Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. his service. supports deploying Soldiers, Airmen and www.triwest.com for more information. Maj. Alma Whitelaw, Chief Warrant Of- “I am happy that I am able to attend this ficer 2 Susan Brown, Master Sgt. Lewis event,” said Kubie, who was visiting her Shedd, Master Sgt. Lucretia Williams and third nursing facility of the day. Master Sgt. Cindy Woulfkuhle greeted the “I did not serve in the military, but since veterans in residence at McCrite Plaza, I have joined the Civil Air Patrol I feel Topeka. The staff had assembled the veter- close to those who wear the uniform. I am ans into a dayroom for a brief ceremony. glad that I was able to be here,” shared The national anthem was sung and a poem Berglund. read. Each veteran was called by name and “I am glad that I had the chance to be presented a certificate of appreciation. here with these members of ‘the Greatest After handing out the certificates, shak- Generation,’ “ said Heuertz.

On behalf of TriWest Healthcare Alliance, Ray Dalton, service area director (center) presents (from left to right) Debbie Doyle, Kansas National Guard Foundation board member; Janelle Hood, president of the Kansas National Guard Foundation; Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general and Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Haworth, state command sergeant major, a check for $10,000 to the Kansas National Guard Foundation Monday, Dec. 5, 2011. (Photo by 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht, Public Affairs Office) Follow us on the web www.kansastag.gov www.facebook.com/KansasNationalGuard

www.facebook.com/Kansas-Division-of-Emergency-Management Tech. Sgt. James Mayfield, a member of the 190th Air Refueling Wing, Kansas Air www.twitter.com/KSAdjutantGen National Guard and resident of Topeka, Kan., recognizes the sacrifices of a veteran www.twitter.com/KansasEmergency by handing him a certificate of appreciation for his military service at the Brewster Place Retirement Community, Nov. 11, 2011. (Photo by Jane Welch, Public Affairs www.twitter.com/KansasGuard Office) Page 14 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Rwandan, U.S. soldiers conduct leadership course at academy By Spc. Michelle Lawrence Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa A team of Soldiers from the 1st Battal- ion, 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army Na- tional Guard, recently returned from a 10-day mission to Gako, Rwanda, where they conducted a company grade and non- commissioned officer course with the Rwanda Defense Force. The course consisted of sharing different leadership skills that enhance the soldiers’ understanding of what it means to be a leader and how to take care of and com- mand their troops. According to Capt. Kevin Cadena, 1-161 FA, the course was attended by 51 noncom- missioned officers and 20 officers, who were split down the middle into two pla- toons with no regard to rank. Each platoon then “built three sections with an overall platoon sergeant and leader,” said Cadena. 1st Lt. Benjamin Ronning, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army National Guard, assists Rwanda Defense Force team “Each section had a leader and was broken leaders by giving them guidance during a trust-building exercise at the Gako Military Academy in Gako, Rwanda, Oct. 14, 2011. down into different teams, giving multiple During the exercise, team leaders used voice commands to guide blindfolded soldiers. Ronning travelled to Gako with a team of soldiers the opportunity to lead.” Soldiers from the 1-161 FA for a company grade and noncommissioned officer leadership course. (Photo by Sgt. David Dean, During the course, everyone was given Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa) the chance to experience all the roles, from from the RDF soldiers who knew multiple a soldier following orders to a leader pro- languages. viding direction. “Learning and having the instruction in Multinational collaboration on “It might have been a lieutenant as the multiple languages presented some chal- mortar systems training team leader, a staff sergeant as the squad lenges,” said Cadena. “But once we all leader and a sergeant as another team picked up a few of the key words, the com- leader with lieutenants under them,” said munication between everyone wasn’t much 1st Lt. Benjamin Ronning, 1-161 FA. of an issue. The RDF soldiers appreciated “They rotated roles the whole time to give us trying to communicate in a language everyone a chance.” they were more comfortable with. It en- Along with learning the different leader- hanced the friendships we established dur- ship roles within a platoon, the RDF and ing the course.” U.S. soldiers were able to share soldiering The friendships forged between the RDF skills such as land navigation and situa- and U.S. soldiers supported the Combined tional training exercises, despite the lan- Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa mission guage barrier. statement. “We used about five languages through- “We felt we followed through with en- out the training,” said Cadena. “We con- hancing partner nation capability, one of versed in French, Kirwanda, English, the pillars of the CJTF – HOA mission,” Swahili and a slang of Kirwanda and said Cadena. “The RDF soldiers were very Swahili.” gracious and receptive during the course. I According to Ronning, they overcame would gladly participate in another mission the language barrier by learning commands like this, whether it is back to Rwanda or in French, using hand signals and learning moving forward to another country.” Sgt. Bounma Chanthalangsy (center), a member of the 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, serving with Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, discusses mortar operations with members of the Djiboutian Armed Forces in Ali Ouney, Djibouti, Oct. 24, 2011. The mortar familiarization class reviews key compo- nents of firing a mortar, including placement of aiming poles, using hand and arm signals and effective mounting. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Renae Saylock, Com- New retirement and military service bined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa) links available on agency website

New links have recently been added to the Adjutant General’s Department website (www.kansastag.gov). On the home page of the agency website there is now a link for retirement services and for obtaining military records.

The retirement services links includes helpful information for retired and soon to be retired servicemembers. Information on the website contains: • Information about our new retiree database • The events calendar will have upcoming retiree briefings and other applicable events. • The links page - link to sign up for Army Echoes or USAF Afterburner. A MUST for all retirees! Link to the Retired Pay Calculator and to DFAS to change benefi- ciaries, change direct deposit, etc.

The military records link includes information to request your military records. To request your records a Standard Form 180 needs to be filled out. Once the form is complete it needs to be either faxed to 785-274-1004 or mailed to the Kansas Na- tional Guard Military Archives, 2800 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, Kansas 66611. Nor- mally it takes two to three weeks to receive your records once the request has been received. Contact Bev Lemman at 785-274-1099 if you wish to speak to Military Archives directly.

In an effort to keep our retirees better informed on what is happening in the Adju- tant General’s Department, the Public Affairs Office has put together an e-mail dis- tribution list. Individuals on this distribution list will receive agency news releases, death notifications, Guard member retirements, invitations to changes of command, deployments, ceremonies, etc.

If you would like to be added to the list please e-mail your request to Jane Welch at [email protected].

Also if you are a retired Guardsmen and are not receiving a free copy of the Plains Guardian at your home, please contact the Public Affairs Office at 785-274-1190 to be added to the mailing list. January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 15 Correctional and law enforcement officers train with 35th MPs Members of the Lansing Correctional Facility’s Building malfunctions, wind changes, lighting conditions, etc., to circle. This ensured that the weapons sites were set for Entry Team, the Topeka Correctional Facility and the change the environment in which the shooter has to operate. windage and elevation according to the individual users Shawnee County Sheriff’s Department were able to utilize This data allows the operator the ability to see where the needs. Once the M-4/M-16 carbines were at their zero, the the Kansas National Guard’s ETS 2000 firearms training rounds fired are striking the target, where the shooter’s officers had to complete a qualification course in which system thanks to the cooperation of the 35th Military Po- point of aim was, and the shooter’s reaction times from they had to engage 30 timed pop-up targets from 25 all the lice Company. This was the first time that this particular when the target was presented to when they finally engaged way out to 300 meters from three separate positions (prone system was used by civilian personnel. the target. This allows the supported, prone unsup- Correctional Officer Jason Colobong is the team leader operator to make corrections “One of the most valuable assets that can ported and kneeling). for the Lansing Correctional Building Entry Team. to firing habits, making bet- Officer pride was on the Colobong is also a specialist with the 35th MPs. ter marksmen without the be had in a training environment is where line and it was obvious as “I had used the equipment a few times before with the cost of having to purchase multiple agencies can come together in each officer strove to outdo 35th MPs,” said Colobong. “One of the most valuable as- the 1,000+ rounds which the previous shooters. sets that can be had in a training environment is where mul- each shooter fired. the sharing of experiences, ideas and Once all of the qualifica- tiple agencies can come together in the sharing of Aside from the marksman- general information.” tions were completed, the experiences, ideas and general information. That made the ship training focus of the - Correctional Officer Jason Colobong tactical training began in use of the ETS 2000 a perfect training opportunity for all EST 2000, it also presented full swing. Officers were involved.” scenarios where the officers tasked with firing from be- Prior to using the facility in Topeka, Kan., Colobong and had to interact with on-screen actors, giving them com- hind ballistic shields and successfully engaging targets, Correctional Officer Mike Abbott were given a one-day mands which they are taught in training. These actors even off handed. They were made to engage targets from a crash course on how to operate the equipment by Staff Sgt. would place the officers in situations such as domestic dis- profile position, where they would face sideways to the Raymond Jowers, noncommissioned training officer for the turbances, robberies, large scale disturbances, felony traffic screen and then step and pivot towards the screen, having 35th MPs. Abbott learned to operate the weapons system stops, etc., all of which tested the observational skills of the to acquire and fire accurately to a target as if they were while Colobong learned the computer. This made it possi- officers, as well as their knowledge of the Use of Force making an entry into a hostile room. This exercise was ble for Abbott to spend the day firing on the EST 2000 Continuum. As an added obstacle, the system operators are done on both left and right sides, forcing them to adapt to while Colobong activated one scenario after another, learn- able to escalate and de-escalate the actor’s responses, al- different situations. Tactical officers need to understand ing the various settings. Abbott’s marksmanship proved to lowing the scenario to change seamlessly so that officers and appreciate the difficulty of successfully utilizing a be so precise that Jowers remarked he would be hard- would not be able to predict the actions of the actors and firearm after being stressed, so they were taken in small pressed to beat him. therefore have to react purely on observational skills and groups to one corner of the room and made to perform complex joint exercises in their full gear for one minute to spike their heart rate and breathing. The officers, in gear, performed one-four count jumping jack, one pushup, one leg raise, one pushup to the standing position, then repeated as quickly as possible for one minute. Those officers were then immediately sent to engage targets in a reactive shoot- ing range, with instructions to only perform head shots. The officers were also tasked with successfully engaging targets which would move towards them as well as side to side at various distances. They also had to engage multiple targets at once, training their peripheral vision and they had to engage the same target with multiple points of aim, in rapid fashion. Once all of the tactical drills were completed, it was time for the situational exercises to begin. The officers were placed in various scenarios, which included hidden weapons that they had to detect and questionable intentions of the interviewee. These situations truly tested the offi- cer’s knowledge of when deadly force was justified and opened up discussion into different facility policies, as well as state and federal guidelines. By the end of the day, the hostage rescue officers had ex- pended over 6,000 rounds of ammunition; had a healthy understanding of tactical firing principles; renewed their confidence in personal knowledge of the justification of deadly force; engaged in healthy, boisterous, competition; and made new friends in other agencies. “This training was beneficial to all involved,” said Jow- ers. “The benefits gained from being exposed to the current training trends, problems to overcome and general atmos- phere which their civilian counterparts are currently experi- encing. This not only helps to keep their own training up to Three members of the Lansing Correctional Facility Building Entry Team train at the state of the art Army vir- date but opens possible avenues for Soldiers that may need tual shooting equipment, EST 2000, with the help of the Kansas National Guard’s 35th Military Police Com- employment with some of these agencies.” pany. (Photo by Correctional Officer Jason Colobong, squad leader, Lansing Correctional Facility Building The training benefited Colobong not only in his civilian Entry Team) job but in his Guard job as well. “Since being trained on it I The EST 2000 firearms trainer is a computerized system their training. was asked to run through and set up and test fire every with a projection wall several feet across. Real weapons are The training began with each officer having to qualify weapon and hold basic marksmanship training for the rest hooked up to a pneumatic system designed to operate the with a 9mm. Their task was to successfully engage a mini- of the 35th MPs,” said Colobong. bolts in the weapons, providing realistic recoil when the mum of 17 out of 30 silhouette targets that would pop up “The ETS 2000 is a cost efficient way to maintain our weapons are fired. Laser designators attached to the behind partial cover and in random places ranging from Soldier’s individual weapon skills,” said Jowers. “By doing weapons allow the computer system to track each weapon’s five to 25 meters out. Once that was completed it was time training with outside law enforcement/correctional officers point of aim at all times and allows the system operator to to “zero” the rifles in, the tactical officers had to fire upon a it also gives us the opportunity to mentor relationships with monitor each shooters status. This makes it possible for the silhouette that was 300 meters out and land five consecu- these civilian agencies. It is a win-win situation on both operator to insert a wide range of variables such as weapon tive rounds in a tight pattern inside of a two inch diameter sides and we plan on doing more of it in the future.” Chinese virus targets Department of Defense Common Access Card By Andrew Tilghman ager for AlienVault who published detailed have used information about new drone vide further details,” she told Military Army Times Staff writer technical information about the attack. technology and pictures of unmanned Times. A Chinese-based cyber attack is targeting The attacks are a variant of a virus, or aerial vehicles, he said. Blasco said the virus is linked to a “com- the Defense Department’s Common Access malware, known as “Sykipot” The hackers behind the virus mand and control server” that appears to be Cards with technology that could steal in- and date back as far as can access military based in China; some flaws buried deep in formation from military networks while March 2011, systems only as the code revealed Chinese language charac- troops and civilians work at their desks, re- Blasco said. long as an infected ters, suggesting that only a Chinese speaker searchers say. The new Sykipot user’s card remains would be able to launch it. The new cyber weapon apparently can strain specifically logged into a system. Defending against attacks using this tech- get inside individual computers after users targets the technol- Pentagon spokes- nology is extremely difficult. The best way unwittingly open a standard pdf email file. ogy used to support woman Air Force Lt. to keep military networks secure is to train Once embedded, it logs the users’ key- the Pentagon’s CAC Col. April Cunningham troops and civilian employees not to open strokes to obtain personal identification system and the emails declined to comment on any unfamiliar files or email attachments, numbers or codes associated with that card seeking to spread it often the details published by Blasco said. and user, according to AlienVault, a Silicon are disguised as official AlienVault. Many military officials are eager to begin Valley-based cyber security firm. military or government “We are aware of re- widespread use of smart phones, tablets and “Basically, they are able to steal the PIN communications, Blasco said. ports regarding this matter and take these other wireless devices, but cyber security and then they can get access to whatever To lure defense workers to open the in- type of reports seriously. However, due to experts caution that such technology can be they want,” said Jaime Blasco, the lab man- fected attachment, some of the emails operational security, we are not able to pro- more vulnerable to cyber attacks. Page 16 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Kansas City Army National Guard recruits spread holiday cheer By Pfc. Brandon Jacobs Soldiers reacted aiding their community,” 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment said Spc. Nicholas A. Stewart, a recruit Seven days before Christmas, recruits from Lee Summit, Mo., who will be train- from 1st Platoon, Company A, Recruit Sus- ing to become a Black Hawk helicopter me- tainment Program Battalion, Lenexa, Kan., chanic. “I was proud and impressed to see spent the day helping Kansas City’s hungry. the Soldiers’ attitudes.” More than 30 Soldiers in training re- Harbor Light Village does its part to give ported to the Salvation Army Harbor Light back to servicemembers. Through a part- Village in Kansas City, Kan., Dec. 17, nership with the Veterans Affairs Hospital, 2011, where they helped sort and stock Harbor Light Village maintains a 42-bed re- hundreds of cans and boxes for distribution covery program for veterans with mental to food pantries across the Kansas City health issues, such as substance abuse. Re- Metro area. cently they opened two, eight-bed apart- “The National Guard is all about serv- ments for female veterans to stay. ice,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steven T. Griffin, a The recovery program provides veterans recruiter and organizer of the event. “It’s a with a case worker, schooling and up to a community-based organization.” two year stay. Over the course of four hours, the re- “We provide them with what they need to cruits sorted four pallets of food and boxed succeed, as long as they follow the rules another two pallets by food groups. and are trying to get better,” said Bryan “They’re a great group of individuals Chenault, the facilities manager of the Sal- ready to serve their community and coun- vation Army Harbor Light Village. try,” said Griffin. “Selfless Service, one of Although they weren’t there very long, the Pvt. Christina McQuinn, a recruit with 1st Platoon, Company A, Recruit Sustain- the core Army Values, is very important to recruits’ presence made an important impact. ment Program Battalion, and resident of Chilicothe, Mo., checks expiration dates on the National Guard.” “They did a week’s worth of work in four cans to be sorted at the Salvation Army Harbor Light Village located in Kansas City, Many of the recruits who participated hours,” said Chenault. “It’s so great to see Kan., Dec. 17, 2011. The food bank ships food to hundreds of food pantries and soup agreed that the event was satisfying. Soldiers helping out at home, as well as kitchens across the Kansas City Metro Area. (Photo by Pfc. Brandon Jacobs, 105th “It made me feel good seeing how the overseas.” Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) 190th’s Operation Coyote Claus enjoys a successful first year By Tech. Sgt. Emily F. Alley “Santa represents the idea of giving, so ‘Coyote Claus’ and Marsh went shopping for the items, many of the stores 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office represents the generous spirit of the 190th,” said Dickey. even offered them discounts. Children were given sets of Three families from the 190th Air Refueling Wing had a It was not just members of the 190th, however, who sup- clothes and socks. Christmas dinner and presents because of the generosity of ported the families. Outside organizations approached “We hit every area. It wasn’t just for kids. There were other Wing members and the community. Dickey requesting to sponsor a military family for the holi- things for adults. They got family games, they got towels if “I was really happy to be a part of it,” said Airman 1st days, as well. that’s what they needed,” said Dickey. Class Sarah Marsh, who helped coordinate the program. Many groups, such as the American Legion, Veterans of She also collected food for the families, such as potatoes, “It’s one thing to give, but these were people who needed Foreign Wars, Osage City Middle School and even a plastic pies, vegetables, ham and a turkey. Each family also re- it, deserved it and they appreciated it.” surgeon, contacted her. ceived a $100 gift certificate to a grocery store. With the The families are kept anonymous, but are members of Aurora Plastic and Hand Surgery of Lee’s Summit, Mo., two meats and gift certificate, Dickey hoped the families the wing who have experienced challenges over the past donated nearly $1,400 worth of gifts, groceries and a holi- had leftovers and supplies to last after their Christmas din- year, such as unemployment and medical problems. day meal to the program. Lt. Col. Eric Shoenberg of the ners were over. Many sections within the 190th adopt families independ- 190th Medical Group works for the surgeon’s office and She was impressed with the generosity that made Coyote ent from the wing, but Adrienne Dickey, Airman and Fam- was instrumental in connecting the office with the 190th Claus possible. ily Programs Manager, organized Coyote Claus because and Operation Coyote Claus. “What’s been most rewarding is seeing how much this she was inundated with requests for families to sponsor. Families were given gifts and groceries, as well as practi- was appreciated. It’s nice to see not tears of frustration, but She chose the name to reflect generosity. cal items like toothbrushes and toothpaste. When Dickey tears of joy.” 190th Air Refueling Wing celebrates the Military families board holiday season in style with family “Holiday Express” By Tech. Sgt. Emily F. Alley By Sgt. Jessica Barnett 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office Public Affairs Office Capt. Jack Sparrow was one of several captains at Forbes More than 230 Kansas National Guard members and Field during the December drill, but he wasn’t wearing his their families rode in a holiday-themed vintage passenger Air Force uniform. Sparrow, a clown, and a road train known as the “Holiday Express” that departed from runner–the Topeka hockey team mascot–were among the Amtrak depot in Topeka, Kan., Dec. 9, 2011. dozens of characters, volunteers and vendors that greeted As a tribute to men and women of the Armed Forces, Airmen and guests at the wing’s 2011 holiday party. BNSF Railway offered a “Holiday Express” train ride to The families were also visited by St. Nick himself. military members and their families to show their apprecia- “Santa was very friendly and Mrs. Claus was beautiful,” tion for their service and sacrifices. This year, the train said Capt. Janet Peterson, chief of intelligence at the 190th toured six states including the Dakotas, Illinois, Kansas, Air Refueling Wing, after she stepped off the stage to visit Minnesota and Wisconsin. them. The vintage passenger train took them for a 90-minute More than 500 Airmen and family members braved a train ride. During the ride, refreshments were served and cold, wet day to enjoy the party. Activities included free children had a chance to visit with Santa, who handed out a massages, video game tournaments and face painting, as special Holiday Express ornament. well as many activities for younger children. Holiday “We recognize the sacrifice and service that the men and snacks, drinks and entertainment from a local dance acad- women in uniform make,” said Andrew Johnsen, assistant emy and Girl Scout troop helped keep the holiday spirit vice president, State Government Affairs for BNSF. “But high. we also recognized that, sadly, the families of those men “I love the holiday party,” said Master Sgt. Lucretia and women that are in service wearing the uniform over- Williams, 190th Civil Engineering Squadron. “My kids are seas make a tremendous sacrifice and, unfortunately, their grown up, so I bring my grandchildren.” sacrifices are all too often overlooked. So, this is a way for Williams’ grandson, A.J., asked Santa for a remote con- our railroad to acknowledge the sacrifices those families trol airplane. make, to hold our heads high and proud to say ‘Thank you’ This year’s party was supported by two local Junior Re- to the troops.” serve Officers’ Training Corps detachments from Topeka Special guests on the train also included Gov. Sam High and Topeka West High Schools. More than two Brownback and Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the dozen teenagers provided assistance from serving food and Kansas Army National Guard and commander of the Great running video game tournaments to helping keep young Plains Joint Training Center, who visited with the service- children safe on the inflatable obstacle courses. members and their families. “The dedication and hard work of the JROTC cadets af- Following the return, Janelle Hood, president of the forded our members the opportunity to enjoy the party,” A 190th Air Refueling Wing member’s daughter deco- Kansas National Guard Foundation, accepted a check from said Adrienne Dickey, Airman and Family Readiness Pro- rates her foam stocking ornament with purple glitter at BNSF for $10,000 to the nonprofit foundation. gram Manager and the event’s planner. In past events, al- the annual 190th ARW holiday party during their De- “We appreciate the many years of support from BNSF,” most all volunteers working at the party had been 190th cember drill weekend. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mandy said Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general of the members or their families, which meant they couldn’t Johnson, 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs) Kansas National Guard. “The $10,000 donation will go to- enjoy the party to its fullest. rected to adult Airmen and their spouses. This was ward programs to assist our Guardsmen and their families, Many of this year’s activities were designed for younger Dickey’s first year to plan the wing’s holiday party and she and the train ride was a very special treat for everyone able children, said Dickey. She chose activities designed to ap- said she’d received compliments for how well it went. to participate. Thank you to BNSF for going the extra mile peal to children, while next year’s event will be more di- She’s confident she set the bar well…for her first event. this holiday for our troops and families.” January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 17 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment conducts change of command By Sgt. Jessica Barnett to lead the great Soldiers of the 105th MPAD, award-winning media outlets for the Class and was commissioned as an Air De- 105th Mobile Public Affairs and I look forward to executing this detach- Kansas Army National Guard,” said Wal- fense Artillery Officer. Upon graduating Changes awaited the 105th Mobile Pub- ment’s important mission in support of the lace. from the academy, he attended and was lic Affairs detachment as they gained a Kansas Army National Guard,” said Keane. Maj. D. Matt Keane named Honor Graduate for the Air Defense new commander along with many new “I am proud of the Soldiers in the unit, Maj. D. Matt Keane graduated from the Officer Basic Course at Fort Bliss, Texas. Soldiers. who are personally invested in the unit and United States Military Academy at West In 2003, Keane reported to Battery B, 1st In a change of command ceremony Dec. helped bring the unit into the multiple Point as a member of 2002’s Bicentennial Battalion, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regi- 3, 2011, Maj. Michael Wallace passed the ment, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He unit guidon, signifying change of command served as an avenger/stinger platoon leader, authority of the 105th Mobile Public Af- deploying to Kirkuk, Iraq, in support of Op- fairs Detachment, to the new commander, eration Iraqi Freedom II. Keane spent eight Maj. D. Matt Keane, at Nickell Armory in months leading convoys and patrols and Topeka, Kan. Lt. Col. Tom Barnett, com- then left his platoon to serve as the 2nd mander of Joint Forces Headquarters, Table Brigade Combat Team Iraqi Security of Distribution and Allowances Battalion, Forces Officer. was the senior reviewing officer of the cer- In 2005, he was assigned as the 25th emony. Combat Aviation Brigade’s Air Defense A change of command ceremony is a Airspace Management Cell Officer. time-honored tradition that extends back to In 2006, Keane deployed to Tikrit, Iraq, the time of the Roman legions. The cere- with the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, mony calls attention to the continuing lead- supporting OIF 06-08. He served as the ership and unit identity, despite changes in brigade training, force protection and plans individual authority and symbolizes the officer until April 2007. transfer of command responsibility from Keane took command of Headquarters one individual to another. This transfer is and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, formally represented by passing the unit 25th Combat Aviation Brigade in May 2007 guidon, from the outgoing commander to and redeployed the company from Iraq to the next senior commander to the new com- Wheeler Army Airfield, Honolulu, in Octo- mander. ber 2007. Upon leaving command in 2008, The 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detach- Maj. Michael Wallace (right), outgoing commander of the 105th Mobile Public Affairs he attended the Air Defense Captain’s Ca- ment is a unit assigned under the Headquar- Detachment, passes the unit guidon to Lt. Col. Tom Barnett, commander of Joint reer Course at Fort Bliss and received the ters and Headquarters Detachment, Joint Forces Headquarters Table of Distribution and Allowances Battalion, during the course’s top two honors for leadership and Forces Headquarters, in Topeka. 105th Mobile Public Affairs change of command ceremony at Nickell Armory, Dec. 3, proficiency in tactics, while also complet- “I am honored to be given the opportunity 2011. (Photo by Capt. Benjamin Gruver, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) (Continued on Page 19) Civil Air Patrol cadets attend regional encampment Guardsmen By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson off, the two planes headed west. Center located at Salina, Kan. There they and CAP 2nd Lt. Hayley Wier This was a training mission for the air- had a chance to fire a variety of small arms help lay Civil Air Patrol UPARs craft crews. The first training event was for in multiple target situations in a real first Civil Air Patrol members from coast to the aircraft to arrive at the same place in the person video game. wreaths in coast recently travelled to Salina, Kan., for sky at the same time, altitude and heading. Maj. Carolyn Franz, the Kansas Wing the Kansas Wing Winter Encampment, Dec. This happened near Dodge City, Kan., Drug Demand Reduction administrator, honor of vets 26 to Jan. 2, at the Great Plains Joint Train- where the flight met up with a B2 Stealth taught classes to help cadets learn about the By Sgt. Jessica Barnett ing Center. Nearly 250 CAP members gave Bomber based out of Whiteman Air Force advantages of a drug-free lifestyle. The Public Affairs Office up their Christmas vacation to attend the Base, Mo. week ended with a drill competition, dining Members of the Kansas National Guard encampment. In all, members came from There is a viewing position on either side out and pass in review parade. Honor Guard participated in the sixth an- 17 states and all eight of the Civil Air Pa- of the refueling boom operator. The cadets Led by cadet commander Cadet Lt. Col. nual Wreaths Across America Day to honor trol Regions. were allowed to lie beside the boom operator Brandon Doubrava, a staff of nearly 50 veterans at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery Training close to 150 cadet basics was and watch the bomber fly up to the tanker. cadets worked tirelessly to ready the basics in Manhattan and Leavenworth National the top priority during the eight-day event. Although, with so many cadets they were to the standard required for graduation. Cemetery during the holiday season, Dec, Activities included classroom sessions on only allowed about 30 seconds, but that was “This encampment never would have 10, 2011. Civil Air Patrol and U.S. Air Force topics, enough time to take a lot of pictures. been possible without the incredible staff I The Kansas National Guard Honor aerospace education and emergency serv- After about one hour, the aircrafts sepa- have,” said Doubrava. “I am very grateful Guard supported the Kansas Veterans’ ices. In addition, cadets trained in drill and rated. The bomber continued its mission and honored to have served with them all. Cemetery ceremony with one Soldier to ceremonies, completed daily physical fit- play “Taps” and the Leavenworth National ness training and participated in three rota- Cemetery ceremony with a firing party of tion days where they navigated an obstacle three Soldiers. course and completed a National Rifle As- Seven ceremonial wreaths were placed to sociation rifle marksmanship program. remember all servicemembers and prison- Guest speakers, such as Salina airport man- ers of war/missing in action to honor their ager Gunner Wiles, visited the encampment sacrifices. These ceremonies were simulta- and spoke to the cadets. neously conducted at more than 600 partic- The rotation days were supported and ipating locations across the nation in made possible by Saint John’s Military conjunction with the 20th anniversary of School. The school allowed the CAP to use wreaths from Maine being donated and its obstacle course, indoor rifle range and placed on headstones at Arlington National dining facility. The 1st Battalion, 108th Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Aviation Regiment out of Salina provided More than 400,000 wreaths were placed UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter orientation nationwide this year by more than 150,000 flights for part of the cadets and the 190th volunteers as part of the Wreaths Across Air Refueling Wing at Forbes Field in America. Topeka provided KC-135 orientation flights Cadets of the Civil Air Patrol climb aboard a KC-135 for a flight refueling mission Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit for the rest of the cadets. conducted by the 190th Air Refueling Wing, based out of Forbes Field, Topeka, Kan., organization founded to continue and ex- On Dec. 28, 100 of the cadets and senior as part of the Kansas Wing Winter Encampment, Dec. 28, 2011. (Photo by Sgt. pand the annual wreath laying ceremony at member sponsors flew on a refueling mis- Michael H. Mathewson, Civil Air Patrol UPAR) Arlington National Cemetery begun by sion conducted by the 190th ARW. and the tankers turned east. They would fly The Basics at this encampment were an Maine businessman, Morrill Worcester, in “This is my fourth encampment. I have over Wichita, then to Butler before return- amazing group. It was a memorable experi- 1992. Their mission is to remember, honor done two in Oklahoma and now this is my ing to Topeka. ence for all who attended.” and teach. second in Kansas. This year I am a flight On the return flight, senior member Will In addition to the encampment, emer- WAA pursues its mission with nation- leader and am having a great time,” said Roberts, from Oak Ridge, Tenn., spoke of gency services training, Honor Guard train- wide wreath-laying events during the holi- Cadet 2nd Lt. Patrick Arnold, a resident of the encampment. Roberts was serving as ing and a Region Cadet Leadership School day season and year-round educational Oklahoma. the Training, Advising and Counseling Of- occurred in the same location. Eight cadets outreach inviting all Americans to appreci- This was Cadet Airman Austin Coe’s and ficer or senior advisor to the cadets who honed their leadership skills by working on ate our freedoms and the cost at which they Cadet Airman Basic Dillon Meyer’s, first were running the encampment. Roberts was essays, classroom presentations, speeches, are secured. encampment. The Missouri residents were at the encampment with three of his 11 chil- drill and physical fitness. Led by Col. Re- The next Wreaths Across America will looking forward to the flight, but Coe really dren. The two 15-year-olds and one 13- gena Aye, Region Cadet Leadership School be held Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012. enjoyed the “drilling and eating.” year-old were engaged in other activities director, participants each took a turn lead- If you would like to sponsor a wreath The group flew in two KC-135Rs. The and were not on the flight. ing the group for a day in addition to work- for 2012, or would like more information flight was lead by Maj. Brian Budden, the Simultaneously, back in Salina, cadets ing on projects. The cadets hosted several about events planned for your community, Topeka Squadron’s deputy commander for and seniors were able to fly in UH-60 leaders during the event who shared their please call Gwen Seymour at (785) 717- operations for the Civil Air Patrol. The Black Hawk helicopters. The remainder of experiences and expertise, including Brig. 3050 for Manhattan or Deborah Williams youngest cadet in each aircraft was allowed the cadets utilized the small arms training Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the Kansas at (913) 758-4105 for Leavenworth, or go to sit in the cockpit for takeoff. After take- simulator at the Kansas National Training Army National Guard. to www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Page 18 Plains Guardian • January 2012 Sgt. Paul Olson, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Stewart Buttel, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Sgt. Adam Schuetz, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Erik Eagles, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Awards and Decorations Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Nakia Hearlson, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award KANSAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Kenneth Kumle, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Bronze Star Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Nathan Criswell, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Paul Olson, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Col. Howard Wheeler, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Shawn Eller, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Adam Schuetz, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Jason Nelson, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Ernest Kratina III, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Maj. Terence Hankerson, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka 1st Sgt. David Miller, ADT #3, Topeka Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Joshua Karmann, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Nathan Criswell, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka Senior Airman Jerling Hidalgo-Mendez, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Brad McGregor, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Shawn Eller, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Master Sgt. Eric Kaltenborn, ADT #3, Topeka Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Patrick Moran, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rathbun, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Robert Pugh, ADT #3, Topeka Armed Forces Reserve Medal Spc. Dylan Richardson, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Purple Heart Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Joshua Karmann, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Senior Airman Jerling Hidalgo-Mendez, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Brad McGregor, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Patrick Moran, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka, with Bronze Combat Infantry Badge Spc. Dylan Richardson, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Meritorious Service Medal Hourglass Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Maj. Raymond Gillett, HHD, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with Staff Sgt. Timothy Schloetzer, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka Kansas National Guard Commendation Ribbon 1st Oak Leaf Cluster device Maj. Shannon Nicklaus, HHC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola, with 1st Staff Sgt. Brandon Schultz, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” Combat Action Badge Oak Leaf Cluster device Staff Sgt. Marc McCully, R&R Bn, Topeka Capt. Rodney Seaba, HHC, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, Kansas City, Sgt. Paul Olson, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Sgt. Elissa Millan, R&R Bn, Topeka with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Capt. Randy Stookey, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Col. Howard Wheeler, ADT #3, Topeka KANSAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD 1st Sgt. Kirk Gibson, HHC, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, Kansas City Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka Meritorious Service Medal Master Sgt. Stephen Ahlstedt, Btry C, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Abi- Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Maj. Jason Nelson, ADT #3, Topeka lene, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Capt. Eric Deeds, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Laurinda Garland, HQ, 69th TC, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Capt. Robert Melton, ADT #3, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Stacey William, 184th IW, Wichita, with Master Sgt. Aaron Lindsey, R&R Bn, Topeka Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Rodney Moyer, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with 1st Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Larry Endecott, 184th IW, Wichita Oak Leaf Cluster Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Lucas, HHC, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka Air Force Achievement Medal Kansas City Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device 1st Sgt. David Miller, ADT #3, Topeka Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka Army Commendation Medal device Sgt. 1st Class Frederick Herrick Jr., ADT #3, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Theodore Schmitt, 184th IW, Wichita Senior Airman Jerling Hidalgo-Mendez, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rathbun, ADT #3, Topeka Airman 1st Class Jeni Douglas, 190th ARW, Topeka with “M” device Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Jeffrey Crysler, 102nd MHD, Topeka, with 6th Oak Leaf Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka, with “M” device Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka Cluster Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Wesley Massaro, ADT #3, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Overseas Service Ribbon Staff Sgt. Matthew Slater, ADT #3, Topeka Cluster Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Retirements Maj. Robert Parvin, 1979th CCT, Topeka, with 4th Oak Leaf Staff Sgt. Gregory Zuercher, ADT #3, Topeka Cluster Col. Howard Wheeler, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Nathan Blair, ADT #3, Topeka Kansas Army National Guard Maj. Michael Wallace, 105th MPAD, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. Stewart Buttel, ADT #3, Topeka Leaf Cluster Maj. Wesley Massaro, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Erik Eagles, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Darrin Daugherty, 35th Div, Fort Maj. Robert Wood, HHC, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, with 2nd Maj. Jason Nelson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Nakia Hearlson, ADT #3, Topeka Leavenworth Oak Leaf Cluster Capt. Eric Deeds, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Kenneth Kumle, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Raymond Gillett, HHD, 635th RSG, Capt. Eric Deeds, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Ernest Kratina III, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka Hutchinson Capt. Robert Melton, ADT #3, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Leaf Capt. Robert Melton, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Shannon Nicklaus, HHC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Cluster Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Adam Schuetz, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Maj. Avoyd Colvin Jr., HHD, 635th RSG, Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka, with 2nd Oak 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka Hutchinson Leaf Cluster 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Maj. Dennis Paxton, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka 1st Sgt. John McMahan, Btry A, 1st Bn, 161st FA, 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka award Spc. Nathan Criswell, ADT #3, Topeka Dodge City Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen Patterson, JFHQ KS-LC, Sgt. Maj. Terence Hankerson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Shawn Eller, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Aaron Lindsey, Det 2, Rec and Ret Bn, Topeka, with 7th Oak Leaf Cluster 1st Sgt. David Miller, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka Salina Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. John McLean III, HHC (-), 2nd CAB, Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bowser, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Eric Kaltenborn, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka 137th Inf, Kansas City Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Hernandez, R&R Bn, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bowser, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Rodney Moyer, HHD, 635th RSG, Sgt. 1st Class Frederick Herrick Jr., ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Frederick Herrick, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Joshua Karmann, ADT #3, Topeka Hutchinson Sgt. 1st Class Carl Herring, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Carl Herring, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Brad McGregor, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Robert Robinson, JFHQ KS-LC, Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rathbun, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Patrick Moran, ADT #3, Topeka Topeka Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka, Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Master Sgt. Monte Sheets, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Walter Thew, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Dylan Richardson, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class David Acostaluciano, 2137th FSC, Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Walter Thew, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka Manhattan Staff Sgt. Timothy Schloetzer, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Elton Bender, RTSM, Salina Staff Sgt. Brandon Schultz, ADT #3, Topeka, with 4th Oak Staff Sgt. Robert Pugh, ADT #3, Topeka, 4th award Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Boschee, Btry A (-), 2nd Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. Timothy Schloetzer, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Bn, 130th FA, Marysville Staff Sgt. Matthew Slater, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Brandon Schultz, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Combat Medical Badge Sgt. 1st Class Michael Dickmeyer, HHC (-), 2nd Staff Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Matthew Slater, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award CAB, 137th Inf, Kansas City Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. 1st Class Paul Heater, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Sgt. Nathan Blair, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Gregory Zuercher, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. 1st Class Jody Henson, RTSM, Salina Sgt. Stewart Buttel, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Nathan Blair, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. 1st Class Francis Sheeley Jr., Det 1, Btry A, Sgt. Nakia Hearlson, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Stewart Buttel, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bowser, ADT #3, Topeka 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Concordia Sgt. Kenneth Kumle, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Erik Eagles, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Senior Airman Jerling Hidalgo-Mendez, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Gary Stillings, HHC (-), 2nd CAB, Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Nakia Hearlson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award 137th Inf, Kansas City Sgt. Paul Olson, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Kenneth Kumle, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Overseas Service Bar Sgt. 1st Class Edward Sullivan, Btry B, 2nd Bn, Sgt. Adam Schuetz, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award 130th FA, Holton Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Terry Townsend, JFHQ KS-LC, Spc. Shawn Eller, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Paul Olson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Topeka Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Adam Schuetz, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Col. Howard Wheeler, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. 1st Class Tate West, HHC (-), 2nd CAB, 137th Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka, Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka Inf, Kansas City Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Doris Westbrook, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Maj. Wesley Massaro, ADT #3, Topeka, 4th award Staff Sgt. Jason Baetz, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Spc. Patrick Moran, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Dustin Williams, ADT #3, Topeka, Maj. Jason Nelson, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Staff Sgt. Anthony Beckler, 1161st FSC, Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka, Capt. Eric Deeds, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Hutchinson Spc. Dylan Richardson, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Nathan Criswell, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Capt. Ernest Kratina III, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Staff Sgt. Scott Klingman, 778th Trans Co, Great Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Shawn Eller, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Capt. Robert Melton, ADT #3, Topeka, 4th award Bend Senior Airman Jerling Hidalgo-Mendez, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Timothy Gannon, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Ricky Schafer, FSC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka, 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Robert Schlink, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Army Achievement Medal Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka, 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. Jason Dewitt, 731st Trans Co (-), Great Bend Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka, Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd Sgt. William Hilmes, 287th SB, Wichita Spc. Joshua Karmann, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award award Sgt. Jeffry Howard, 242nd Eng Co, Coffeyville 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Spc. Brad McGregor, ADT #3, Topeka, 4th award Sgt. Maj. Terence Hankerson, ADT #3, Topeka, 4th award Sgt. Sylvia Klingbeil, 35th Inf Div Band, Olathe Cluster Spc. Patrick Moran, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award 1st Sgt. David Miller, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Sgt. Stephen Obeirne, 226th Eng Co, Augusta Master Sgt. Jorge Jacobs, ADT #3, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka, Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Tommy Olivas, Det 1, 226th Eng Co, Leaf Cluster Spc. Dylan Richardson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Master Sgt. Eric Kaltenborn, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Pittsburg Sgt. 1st Class Eric Kaltenborn, ADT #3, Topeka, with 6th Oak Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bowser, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Leaf Cluster Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Frederick Herrick, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Kansas Air National Guard Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka, with 1st Oak Sgt. 1st Class Carl Herring, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Leaf Cluster NATO Medal Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rathbun, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Col. Kyle Garrison, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka, with 6th Oak Leaf Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka Lt. Col. Lloyd Hatfield – 184th IW, Wichita Cluster Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Chief Master Sgt. Richard Meador, 190th ARW, Staff Sgt. Robert Pugh, ADT #3, Topeka, with 4th Oak Leaf Col. Howard Wheeler, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. 1st Class Walter Thew, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Topeka Cluster Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Senior Master Sgt. Kelly Innes, 190th ARW, Sgt. Erik Eagles, ADT #3, Topeka Maj. Jason Nelson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Robert Pugh, ADT #3, Topeka, 6th award Topeka Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Eric Deeds, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Timothy Schloetzer, ADT #3, Topeka, 4rd award Master Sgt. Pat Cochran – 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. Chase Taylor, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Ernest Kratina III, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Brandon Schultz, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Master Sgt. Michael Molter, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Jason Cook, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Robert Melton, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Matthew Slater, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Master Sgt. Kevin Nutter, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Nathan Criswell, ADT #3, Topeka Capt. Christopher Sanders, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, ADT #3, Topeka, 5th award Tech. Sgt. Guadalupe Gonzalez, 184th IW, Wichita Spc. David Golden, ADT #3, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Gregory Zuercher, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Cluster 1st Lt. Benjamin Pimpl, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Nathan Blair, ADT #3, Topeka, 3rd award Spc. Travis Hofer, ADT #3, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Richard Kane, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Maj. Terence Hankerson, ADT #3, Topeka Spc. Joshua Karmann, ADT #3, Topeka 1st Sgt. David Miller, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Brad McGregor, ADT #3, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Master Sgt. Michael Crist, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Cluster Master Sgt. Eric Kaltenborn, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Trung Nguyen, ADT #3, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bowser, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Frederick Herrick, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award The winds that blow through the wide Spc. Chad Orton, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rathbun, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Spc. Thomas Sureau, ADT #3, Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Sgt. 1st Class Brent Rose, ADT #3, Topeka Cluster Sgt. 1st Class James Swafford, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award sky in these mounts, the winds that Senior Airman Brent Garrison, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Walter Thew, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Pfc. Cody Robbins, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Ryan Pierce, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Robert Pugh, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award sweep from Canada to Mexico, from National Defense Service Medal Staff Sgt. Timothy Schloetzer, ADT #3, Topeka Staff Sgt. Brandon Schultz, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Staff Sgt. Matthew Slater, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award the Pacific to the Atlantic - have Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd Staff Sgt. Robert Williams, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award award Staff Sgt. Gregory Zuercher, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Nathan Blair, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award always blown on free men. Global War on Terror Service Medal Sgt. Stewart Buttel, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Erik Eagles, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Sgt. Nakia Hearlson, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award ~Franklin D. Roosevelt Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Kenneth Kumle, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award 1st Lt. Brian Knipp, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Richard McKinley, ADT #3, Topeka, 2nd award Chief Warrant Officer 2 William Davis, ADT #3, Topeka Sgt. Shawn McNickle, ADT #3, Topeka January 2012 • Plains Guardian Page 19 105th MPAD changes command U.S. servicemembers pick up Continued from Page 17 Service Battery, 1st Battalion, 161st Field ing his master’s degree at the University of Artillery, as well as serving as the intelli- trash as part of ‘Djibouti Pride’ Texas at El Paso. Keane then became the gence officer and counter-fire officer. He By Staff Sgt. Stephen Linch Camp Lemonnier commanding officer. assistant professor of military science at was an aerial observer and intelligence spe- Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. James Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind. cialist for the 35th Division Artillery; am- Hundreds of Djiboutian, coalition and Davis, Combined Joint Task Force – Horn Keane left active duty in December munition officer for the 1st Battalion, 127th U.S. servicemembers, as well as local resi- of Africa command senior enlisted leader, 2010 and transferred directly into the Field Artillery; weapons storage inspector dents, came together outside the Camp echoed Hurst’s sentiment, saying “When Kansas Army National Guard. Shortly and joint military affairs executive officer Lemonnier fence line to clean up the area we talk about building partner nations, this after 10 months of service with the Judge in Bosnia, as well as other assignments at Nov. 5, 2011. is where it starts … coming outside the gate Advocate General’s office, Keane ac- home and abroad. Participants collected and removed trash and showing that we are part of the Dji- cepted command of the 105th Mobile Pub- Wallace’s awards and decorations include from the Djibouti-Ambouli International boutian community.” lic Affairs Detachment. the Combat Action Badge, the Schutzen- Airport perimeter road as part of a road Although this is the first road beautifica- Keane’s awards and decorations include schnuer (from Germany), the Meritorious beautification effort called the Djibouti tion effort in recent history, it will not be the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Pride Initiative. the last. Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Na- Army Commendation Medal with three oak “Beautifying the area around Camp “This is just the beginning of the Djibouti tional Defense Service Medal, the Iraq leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Lemonnier is just a part of being good neigh- Pride Initiative,” Hurst said. “It is going to Campaign Medal, the Global War on Ter- Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National bors,” said U.S. Navy Captain Scott Hurst, be a continued effort.” rorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, Defense Service Ribbon with one star, the Combat Action Badge, the Ranger Tab, Global War on Terrorism, Global War on the Army Parachutist Badge and the Air As- Terrorism Expeditionary, Outstanding Vol- sault Badge. Keane is currently pursuing unteer Medal, Air Force Longevity Medal, his law degree at the University of Kansas, Air Force Professional Military Education Lawrence, Kan. Medal, Kansas Meritorious Service Medal, He is married to the former Jessica Kansas Commendation Medal, Virginia Weible of Ames, Iowa, and the couple has Commendation Medal, NATO Article 5 and two sons, Billy and Johnny. Non-Article 5 medals, the Pecs Medal and Maj. Michael L. Wallace many other domestic and foreign awards. Maj. Michael L. Wallace is currently at- Wallace is an award-winning journalist tending Command and General Staff (Kansas Press Association) for his work as School in Fort Leavenworth, Kan. He has an editor for the Augusta Daily Gazette, a been the commander of the 105th MPAD Keith L. Ware winner from the National since 2007, when he returned from a one Guard Bureau and a former Billie E. Fuqua year Southwest Asia deployment as the award winner. public affairs officer for the 377th Theater He started Kansas’ largest county news- Support and the 635th Regional Support paper, the Butler County Chronicle, where Commands. he was publisher and chief editor. In his Wallace joined military service in 1977 civilian life, Wallace is a novelist and a with the Air Force. In 1988, he changed to council member for the city of Augusta. the Kansas National Guard, graduating He has been married to his wife, Teresa, Sgt. Bangone Sihongheune, a administration noncommissioned officer with the 1st from the Officer Candidate School, Salina, for 32 years and they have three children, Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army National Guard, picks up trash outside Kan., in 1990 as part of class 34. Lenora, Katina and Heath. They reside in Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, during a Djibouti Pride Initiative Nov. 5. Sihongheune, During his career, he has commanded the Augusta, Kan. along with more than 200 Camp Lemonnier servicemembers, volunteered to be a part of the road beautification effort. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Stephen Linch, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa) Technician and AGR Employees of the Adjutant General’s Department, Capt. Aleshia Bedore and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the 102 employees who made the 2011 Combined Federal Campaign fundraiser a huge suc- 2nd Lt. Schafer takes top honors cess. Your collective contributions of $30,488 set a new agency record! Your gen- By Maj. DeAnn Barr ment that is important, but making what erosity will make it possible for individuals of our community to receive valuable Great Plains Joint Training Center you want to do achievable by recognizing services in their time of need. Additionally, various not-for-profit organizations na- Public Affairs Officer that it is not one overwhelming task or tionally and internationally will be able to continue their work of providing assis- 2nd Lt. Georgia Schafer, information project and then working towards your de- tance and services. technology officer for the Great Plains Joint sired end state one step at a time,” said Your contributions will go a long way toward turning hope into reality, thus mak- Training Center in Salina, Kan., graduated Schafer. “I have also come to appreciate the ing a difference in your neighbor’s life, your family’s life and your life. in November 2011 from the Signal Basic power of a positive attitude. Accepting the Thank you for your contributions! Officer Leadership Course at Fort Gordon, unavoidable situations you find yourself in Ga., as the Distinguished Honor Graduate. and then working to improve them tends to Sincerely, Schafer’s cumulative grade point average produce positive results. I also believe in Lt. Col. Tony Divish of a 99.11 percent ranked her first out of 76 completing jobs correctly the first time.” Combined Federal Campaign Coordinator lieutenants; the class average was 90.85 for the Adjutant General’s Department percent. Additionally, she was presented the Squier Award for academic excellence. In addition to her academic efforts, she also Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery served as the class personnel officer during the entire 16-week course, ensuring accu- welcomes new commander rate student information dissemination, per- sonnel actions management and management of various rosters. She pro- vided coordination for major administrative events, pay and administrative issues dur- ing her free time. Schafer’s leadership skills impressed her peers and cadre alike and contributed greatly to the successes enjoyed by the class. She was nominated as a finalist for the Kilbourne Leadership Award as a result of her hard work, dedication and outstand- ing leadership qualities. Schafer graduated from the Kansas Army National Guard Officer Candidate Course as a Distinguished Graduate in August 2010. She enlisted in the Army National Guard in January 2006 and is often asked how she has accomplished so much in a short time. On Oct. 10, 2011, Capt. Jonathan Hines (right), assumed command of Battery A, “I think it is not the overall accomplish- 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, relieving the outgoing commander, Capt. Phillip Morris (left). The formal ceremony was held Nov. 5, at the Holton armory. The battalion commander, (center) Lt. Col. Christopher Burr, took the battalion colors from Morris and then passed the guidon to Hines. Morris took command of Battery A during the Multinational Force and Observers deployment in Egypt, March 2010, and guided the unit through the recent transition to the new High Mobility Artillery Rocket System artillery system. Hines comes to Battery A from his position as the battalion intelligence officer. Morris will move to the battalion headquarters in Hiawatha, Kan., as the battalion fire direction officer. (Photo by Sgt. Russell Z. Richards, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery) Page 20 Plains Guardian • January 2012 PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian 2nd Combined Arms Battalion Kansas ADT earns combat patch helps extended Guard family By Capt. Rodney D. Seaba By 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn Afghanistan, four have deployed to Kuwait, Administrative Officer, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment Agribusiness Development Team 4 two to Bosnia and many have deployed to On Nov. 18, 2011, members of the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regi- On Nov. 26, 2011, members of Kansas other humanitarian, noncombat tours. ment’s full-time staff volunteered to serve as a local cleanup crew for Teresa Trafton, Agribusiness Development Team 4 formed “I earned my first combat patch in 1990 widow of retired Col. James Trafton. To honor the memory of retired Col. Trafton, the Sol- ranks at Forward Operating Base Mehtar during Desert Shield, Desert Storm,” re- diers assigned to the Kansas City and Lenexa armories volunteered to rake leaves, trim Lam, Laghman province, Afghanistan, to called Capt. Todd J. Stuke of Topeka, Kan., bushes, remove unwanted objects and provide any required repair work. Additionally, the put the 1st Cavalry patch on their right and ADT 4 officer in charge of the agricul- Soldiers cleaned out gutters, hung Christmas lights and hauled away brush. sleeve, designating them as veterans who tural section. “I was a Stinger gunner as- Trafton is considered a member of the 2-137th Inf. Reg. family, so the Soldiers wanted have served in a theater of combat. signed to the 4th Battalion, 5 Air Defense to make themselves available to her for whatever her needs were. When they arrived, it “For Soldiers, earning the right to wear a Artillery Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, was clear that she had a plan, which made the day go by so much faster. It was really like a right shoulder patch is a rite of passage Fort Hood, Texas. It was an honor for me big party. The Soldiers had a great time and it was very rewarding for them to have been earned through hard work,” says Maj. Car- then to be a member of the 1st Cav, and able to assist Trafton the way they did. lin G. Williams executive officer for ADT that honor still remains as I serve in “We are glad to give, back to the Trafton family after their years of commitment to the 4, and resident of Olathe, Kan. “These guys Afghanistan.” state and our battalion,” said Capt. Adam Johnson, assistant operations officer for the 2- have earned it.” Along with the honor of donning their 137th Inf. Reg. “Today was only a token of our appreciation.” Of the assigned ADT 4 Soldiers, 34 have new combat patches, four Soldiers were deployed before, four are veterans of promoted. Desert Storm, 27 are Operation Iraqi Free- “Being promoted overseas is an experi- dom veterans, three have deployed in sup- ence that Soldiers will remember for the port of Operation Enduring Freedom in rest of their lives,” said Williams, as he

Members of the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment pose for a picture with Teresa Trafton, widow of retired Col. James Trafton, after helping her with some household chores at her Kansas City residence, Nov. 18, 2011. (Capt. Rod- ney D. Seaba, Administrative Officer, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment)

During a formation held Nov. 26, 2011, members of the Kansas Agribusiness Devel- opment Team 4 receive the 1st Cavalry combat patch. (Photo by Maj. Carlin Salina businessmen recognized Williams, Kansas Agribusiness Development Team 4) Command Sgt. Maj. Greg Kober sponsored by the Kansas Search and Rescue Great Plains Joint Training Center Working Group, Kansas Division of Emer- Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the gency Management, Adjutant General’s De- 134th Air Control Squadron Kansas Army National Guard and com- partment, Great Plains Joint Training Center, mander of the Great Plains Joint Training Crisis City and the Kansas Fire and Rescue welcomes home 80 Airmen Center, recognized two local businessmen Training Institute. This was one of the few By 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht in Salina, Kan., Nov. 18, 2011. Dennis times that all seven disaster regions within Public Affairs Office Hronek, general manager of BFR Metals, Kansas collectively trained to the same stan- Approximately 80 Airmen from the 184th Intelligence Wing’s 134th Air Control and owner Mike Heath of Heath Salvage dards. The turnout was approximately 180 Squadron returned to Wichita, Nov. 17, 2011, after having been deployed to Southwest were recognized for their contribution of participants and instructors. Asia for five months. The 134th ACS arrived at Hangar 41 at McConnell Air Force Base, 12 vehicles used during the fourth annual The vehicles were used at Crisis City in where family members waited to welcome them home with open arms. Kansas Technical Rescue Conference at multiple training scenarios for responders “It wasn’t anything like I thought it would be. It was pretty calm, but fast paced at the Crisis City. Peck presented each of them to get hands-on training in extricating vic- same time,” shared Airman 1st Class Boston Ford, a deployed member of the 134th ACS, with a Kansas plaque and the Kansas Adju- tims from simulated accidents. Classes in- about his first deployment. tant General’s coin for their contribution to cluded Vehicle and Machine Rescue Level Lt. Col. Christopher Mills, commander of the 134th ACS, was very pleased with the the conference. Two, Search Operations, Advanced Rope mission’s success. Search and rescue professionals from Rescue, Technical Rescue Rigging and Ad- “We had a lot of young deployers and everyone was focused on the mission. We took across the state met in Salina, Kan., from vanced Shoring Operations, and culminated care of a lot of maintenance projects and left the place better than when we got there.” Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, 2011, for the fourth an- with a simulated tornado strike incorporat- Maj. Gen. (KS) Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general, joined Col. John Hernandez, com- nual Kansas Technical Rescue Conference, ing all the venues. mander of the 184th Intelligence Wing, to welcome the Airmen home. “I know the efforts that you made in support of the combatant commander there cer- tainly made a difference and we couldn’t be more proud of you,” said Tafanelli.

Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the Kansas Army National Guard and com- Approximately 80 Airmen of the 134th Air Control Squadron stand in formation mander of the Great Plains Joint Training Center, presents a plaque to Dennis during their welcome home ceremony in front of family and friends at Hangar 41 Hronek, general managerof BFR Metals, for his contribution to the fourth annual at McConnell Air Force Base, Nov. 17, 2011. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Af- Kansas Technical Rescue Conference held at Crisis City in Salina, Kan. (Photo by fairs Office) Command Sgt. Maj. Greg Kober, Great Plains Joint Training Center)