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e h T The Militiaman Aerial duel in Big Sky country

Ground Zero fl ag arrives in

CSM Norris gives fi nal salute Contents The Iowa Militiaman fl ag travels 4 to Little Sioux Campground Summer 2009 by 2nd Lt. Brandon Cochran The Adjutant 132nd FW face off against Brig. Gen. Tim Orr 6 Montana F-15 aircraft by Sgt. 1st Class Duff E. McFadden Public Affairs Offi cer Fort Dodge Airmen build Maj. Michael Wunn 8 teamwork in Badger Country by Master Sgt. Mike Battien 135th MPAD Commander Capt. Tim Mills Iowa Gold Star M1 Military Museum Insert Editor Providing aid for original 1st Sgt. Duff E. McFadden 11 western Iowa Honor Flight by Sgt. Chad Nelson Writers/Photographers 2nd Lt. Brandon Cochran 2nd Lt. Laura K. Walker OCS/WOC graduation Master Sgt. Mike Battien 16 by 2nd Lt. Laura K. Walker Sgt. Chad Nelson Pvt. 2 Jennifer Montagna Wounded warriors return Justin Cato 18 by Pvt. 2 Jennifer Montagna The Iowa Militiaman is an unoffi cial publication authorized under the provisions of AR 360-81. It is published by the Regular Columns Public Affairs Offi ce and is printed four times annually. 3 TAG Sends News and opinions expressed in this publication are not neccessarily those 12 Through the Ranks of the of Iowa, or the Department of the Army. 13 From the Education Offi ce 15 Address all submissions to: Chaplain’s Corner The Iowa Militiaman

On the cover -- F-16’s from the Iowa National Air Guard’s Public Affairs Offi ce 132nd Fighter streak through Montana airspace 7105 NW 70th Ave. seeking out F-15’s from the Montana . Johnston, Iowa 50131-1824 Iowa’s smaller, more maneuverable F16’s, provided “dis- or e-mail: [email protected] similar air-combat training” for the Montana Air National Guard’s 120th Fighter Wing. (Iowa National Guard photo) The Iowa Militiaman 2 Summer 2009 Our new mission, vision and customer focus As part of my the boxes below. transition into of- I created an Iowa fi ce, I met with all National Guard the senior leaders “Campaign Plan,” from the Army and which focuses our Air National Guard, efforts and energy both offi cer and Non- through a series of Commissioned Of- priorities, focus ar- fi cers. It was during eas, and key process- this meeting that I es. It is important to presented my leader- all members of the ship and command Iowa National Guard philosophy for the that they understand future. our organization’s I want every lead- six priorities (See er to know our new below). mission statement, Since taking of- our new vision state- fi ce, we have made ment, and our new several changes to customer focus. our organization. These are listed in We have hired a new Government Rela- tions Offi cer who is responsible for synchro- TAG Our new Mission nizing all the state and federal legislative is- sues and initiatives. “The Iowa National Guard trains, As I assume command of the Iowa National mobilizes, deploys, sustains Sends Guard, you need to know this organization and reconstitutes units; Brig. Gen continues to be strong, “Iowa Strong.” We Providing ready forces in defense Tim Orr continue to remain at the top of many mea- The Adjutant General of our nation, state, and community” sured categories and near the top in all the rest of them. Our new Vision Granted, we have room for improvement, “An organization of excellence, but you will fi nd organizational excellence dedicated to providing a ready, scattered throughout this state. We have been full spectrum, joint capable force, blessed over the years with great leaders who serving our Nation, State, and provided the leadership and created the con- Community” ditions and standards to allow us to grow and achieve our benchmarks. Our Customer Focus “Do what is right to take care TAG Sends of Soldiers, Airmen and their Families’ needs” continued on page 15

The six priorities of our organization * Maintain our organizational readiness (Center of Gravity) * Provide trained war fi ghters and Airmen * Develop Soldiers, Airmen and leaders * Care for Soldiers, Airmen, families, and employers * Provide a joint domestic response * Adapt and transform to the operational force The Iowa Militiaman 3 Summer 2009 by 2nd Lt. Brandon Cochran On Wednesday, September 2, approximately 60 Iowans viewed a 17-foot by 32-foot reminder from Sept. 11, 2001, a day of infamy Ground zero not yet eight years in America’s past. Made possible by the United States Emergency Chaplains (USECC), the Ground Zero fl ag paid a visit to the fl ag trek enroute to the Little Sioux Boy Scout Camp in Little Sioux, Iowa. The product of USECC’s 2008 9-11 outreach project, the fl ag, initially saved by offers a construction engineer at Ground Zero, was conserved through the meticulous work of Greensburg, Kan. residents. USECC works with Police, Fire and EMS agencies around the country in time of disaster. hope, Every year on the anniversary of 9/11 they do an outreach and rebuild somewhere in the country that was hit by disaster. This year, they are escorting the Ground Zero reconciliation Flag through Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska, with their fi nal stop at the Little Sioux Boy Scout Camp. In 2008 this camp was hit by a tornado and four Boy Scouts lost their lives.

The Iowa Militiaman 4 Summer 2009 in the rescue efforts. Members of the Iowa The product of USECC’s National Guard team worked throughout the 2008 9-11 outreach project, night, providing exhaustive the fl ag, initially saved support before being released at 4:15 a.m. to by a construction engineer return home. at Ground Zero, Following a moment of silence, taps was was conserved through played. Brig. Gen. Timothy Orr, the Adjutant the meticulous work General of Iowa, began the ceremony with of Greensburg, Kan. residents. opening remarks to the assembled Boy Scouts, service members, military and civilians. Orr Escorted to the second fl oor mezzanine touched upon the events that dominated the by a host of Emergency Medical Service summer of 2008 –severe tornados and historic workers, fi refi ghters, police offi cers, Boy fl oods. Scouts, veterans, and Iowa National Guard As he refl ected upon the teamwork exhibited servicemembers, the 9-11 fl ag was lowered by state workers, Iowa National Guard over the railing in solemn remembrance of members, and civilians during those times those who suffered at the hands of terrorism, of hardship, he reminded the scouts how, as well as unpredictable natural disasters. they too, make a difference. By comparing Among those participating in the event were the Scout oath and law to the Iowa National 11 Iowa National Guard members, both Army Guard’s warrior ethos, Orr noted how one and Air, who were involved after a tornado percent of those wearing a uniform, whether ripped through the Little Sioux Boy Scout military or civilian emergency responder, Camp. On June 11, 2008, Troop C, 1st Troop, started in the Boy Scouts. Subsequent remarks 113th Cavalry Dismounted Reconnaissance were rendered by Iowa Chet Culver unit out of Le Mars, Iowa and Company D, and USECC Director Steve Holden. Forward Support Reconnaissance Company, The Iowa State Capitol was one of several 334th Brigade Support Battalion out of Sioux stops across three states for the USECC City, Iowa, were mobilized to the Little Sioux convoy. The fl ag arrived at Little Sioux Boy Boy Scout Camp. Scout Ranch on September 3 to conduct Both units provided search and rescue USECC’s annual 9-11 outreach project. support, while members of the Iowa Air This year’s project, an open air chapel on the National Guard’s site where the four scouts lost their lives, was provided generators and lighting units to aid dedicated on Sunday, September, 6.

The Iowa Militiaman 5 Summer 2009 F16’s/F15’s face off in aerial duel over Montana

By 1st Sgt. Duff E. McFadden operational and mission ready by 2010. Montana is a long way from California’s Lt. Col. Troy Havener, who goes by the Miramar Navy Air Station, made famous in call-sign “Da’Nob,” was one of three Iowa the 1986 movie “Top Gun,” but the action in pilots to have had fl ight time on the F15. For the “The Big Sky” state was just as intense for Havener, a member of the Iowa Air National two Air National Guard fi ghter wings the past Guard since 2002, that opportunity came about summer. while serving as an active duty Air Force pilot Pilots from the ’s at Kadena Airbase in Okinawa. 132nd Fighter Wing, with their smaller, more Having an insider’s knowledge of the maneuverable F16’s, were more than happy opponent’s aircraft, Havener said he generally to provide “dissimilar air-combat training” for knew the things that go on in their cockpit pilots of the Montana Air National Guard’s and the order in which they happen, allowing 120th Fighter Wing throughout Eastern him the chance to present them problems and Montana airspace. realistic oppositional tactics they may not While the 120th fl ew the F16 for many years, otherwise face. the “Vigilantees” began conversion to the “We had the opportunity to orchestrate older, larger, two-engine F15C fi ghter jet in tactics that we knew would give them good January. training,” Havener said. “We gave them as The bottom line, however, is the training many different situations as we could, fl ying provided by the Iowa fi ghter wing will assist at supersonic speeds at 50,000 feet and then the Montanans in becoming F15 combat down as low as 500 feet in meeting them. The Iowa Militiaman 6 Summer 2009 “We gave them a full spectrum of training,” the strengths and weaknesses of the F16” said he said, with a smile. “We helped them push the Harbart. “I discovered the F16 has mostly envelope and showed them new and different strengths, including a good air-to-air weapon things with their aircraft and its capabilities.” system. While the Iowans were giving the Montana “The Montana pilots have come a long way pilots all they could handle, the Iowans were in their transition to the F15, but they also have also benefi tting from the hands-on experience. a bit more to do to develop their profi ciency Besides the great weather and airspace, the in deploying against smaller, more agile 132nd augmented this invaluable training with fi ghters,” he said. deployment preparations. Both crews faced two fl ight missions each The Iowans deployed six aircraft and day. Those fl ying in the morning session began 75 Air Guard personnel to Great Falls, their morning brief at 6:30 a.m. and then took including administration support, life support, to the Montana skies. Following the mission intelligence specialists, and maintenance would be a full instrumental debriefi ng, support. complete with graphics, until 1-2 p.m. The For 1st Lt. Jon Harbart, a nine-year Air afternoon session’s prefl ight brief would begin Guard veteran, the trip was his fi rst such at 10:30 a.m., with a 5-6 p.m. debriefi ng. “deployment,” but one he’ll never forget. The air wings would meet in four-ship “For the fi rst time ever, I got to dogfi ght versus two-ship, or four-ship versus four-ship against a different jet fi ghter, while learning scenarios, depending on whether they were fl ying Defensive, or Offensive Counter Air missions. In any case, the Iowans were responsible for replicating the latest enemy fi ghter tactics. The Iowa and Montana air wings got to know each other pretty well during their June 2008 deployment to , . After the two states began discussions on the possibility of conducting such an exercise, Montana asked for Iowa’s assistance once the units returned stateside.

A maintenance crewmember gives a “thumbs up” to Lt. Col. Andy Uribe after completing a DACT mission against the Mon- tana Air National Guard (Iowa Na- tional Guard photo by Sr. Master Sgt. Eric Peterson). The Iowa Militiaman 7 Summer 2009 Test Squadron builds up leadership, bonds, at Wisconsin’s Volk Field Story and photos by Commander, Lt. Col. Robin Hosch, felt Master Sgt Mike Battien it was time to get away and develop More than 100 Fort Dodge-based Airmen much-needed relationships between of the 133rd Test Squadron spent their the Airmen in a neutral environment. annual training at Volk Field, Wisc. to “We defi nitely tried to break up the build stronger bonds, develop leadership sections. The section is the one place I know in their younger members and perform they know everybody and they get along. I their jobs under deployed conditions. want them to get to know other sections and The 133rd is the smallest of the three Iowa- understand their rolls and know ‘How can based Air National Guard units. They specialize in testing and evaluating Ground Theater Air Control Systems (GTAC), including computer software, avionics hardware, communication systems and other mission-critical equipment for both the Air Force and Air National Guard. Since 9-11, their operations tempo has kept the unit so busy Squadron

(Top photo) Sr. Robert Conley (left) and Tech. Sgt. Blaine Kamp take part in a rousing game of “G-TAC Dodgeball.” Sr. Airmen Brian Householder (left) and Dan Gish complete their 1.5 mile run. Airmen are also tested on their physical conditioning with pushups and crunches. The Iowa Militiaman 8 Summer 2009 I assist you and what can you do for me?’” The acting fi rst sergeant, Master Sgt. Clayton That meant developing a week-long plan Mackie, had high hopes for the deployment. “I of physical fi tness training and testing, think this is an opportunity to get some of our morale-building exercises and casual events younger troops out and experience what it’s like meant to foster opportunities for unit growth. to deploy to some place other than Fort Dodge.” The Combined Readiness Training Center “It brings us out here with the people who at Volk Field provides a perfect location to have been doing the leadership thing for accomplish these goals. The 133rd TS shares a awhile. It helps us learn and pick up some “sister-relationship” with the 128th Air Control good stuff so when it’s our turn to lead, we’re Squadron, based at Volk Field, so the settings ready for it,” said Airman 1st Class Nathan are familiar and offer all the physical facilities Ceja-Dare. needed to occupy the Airmen for a week. At the end of the week, these Airmen should A new, tactical Humvee training simulator leave Wisconsin with a greater understanding also gives Airmen a chance to practice vehicle of their own group dynamics and an ability to convoy maneuvers and weapons tactics and positively infl uence the capabilities of Team the Squadron learned a new fi eld-game dubbed Iowa. “G-TAC Dodgeball.” Disguised as a game of dodge- ball with bases and zones, it’s actually a prime method for de- veloping leader-ship skills and tactics. Players are given as- signments by team captains and must serve those assigned (Bottom photo) roles to help defeat Tech. Sgt. Chris the opposing force. Kennedy (Top) In their fi rst day of Airman 1st Class play, squadron lead- Eric Brookway ers were able to see (Left) and Sr. group dynamics Airman Nathan shift from chaotic, Hutter Airmen individual play into had the chance team-based partici- to practice pation. convoy and Another advan- weapons tactics tage of working at in the Humvee Volk Field is the simulator. ability for 133rd Air- (Top photo) Sr. men to work with Airmen Dillin their counterparts Nixon and Josh from the Wisconsin Ratcliff work Air National Guard. with a new Communications satellite data- Maintenance Airmen transmission assembled and tested system. This new satellite sys- new satellite dish tems. Several other was linked to an duty sections were older unit by the able to increase their Airmen, allowing career fi eld knowl- them to train on edge by completing new and familiar missions in a new equipment at the work area. same time. The Iowa Militiaman 9 Summer 2009 National Guard data loss annual HTAEF Armed Forces Forum for Approximately 131,000 Army National Culinary Excellence to recognize and honor Guard members could be affected by a recent outstanding serving in data loss, which occurred when a personal foodservice operations around the world. laptop owned by an Army Guard contractor was stolen. Data included personal informa- Gold Star medallions missing tion on Soldiers enrolled in the Army Nation- Recently, the Gold Star medallion, located al Guard Bonus and Incentives Program. on the front of the Iowa Gold Star Museum, Army Guard members affected by the data and the concrete Gold Star Medallion located loss were notifi ed via First Class mail. The in the rock bed in front of the building were ARNG has taken steps to establish a call stolen. center and website. The call center is open The Gold Star was made of steel and Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 11 measured approximately 24-inches from point p.m., Eastern Standard Time. The toll free to point. It was of course painted Gold. The number is 877-481-4957. Medallion was made of concrete, unpainted The has also set up and 18-inches in diameter. It displayed the a Web page at http://www.ng.mil for Soldiers. National Guard Emblem. The Web Site provides steps on how to check If anyone has information regarding these credit reports, how to guard against identity items, please contact Offi cer Art Hague, at theft and who to call if a Guard member be- (515) 240-3742, or Col. (Ret) Russ Bierl, at lieves any fraudulent activity occurs with his (515) 252-4531. Bierl has offered a reward or her personal information. for information related to the theft.

ESGR awards presented New 132nd FW website unveiled Three Iowa employers received the Iowa The 132nd Fighter Wing at the Des Moines Briefs Freedom Awards in a recent ceremony of- Airport has a new cyber-home. www.132fw. fi ciated by Governor Chet Culver. Dick ang.af.mil will take you to the unit’s new Rue, chairman of the Iowa Committee of the online home and your source for up-to-the- Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve minute information, pictures and video of the (ESGR), and other ESGR offi cials joined in Wing. You can also fi nd important links to the ceremony. Air Force-wide issues and news. Recipients of the 2009 Iowa Freedom The 132 FW posts new material on a regu- Awards included: lar basis so log in frequently to see what the * Large Employer: Decker Truck Lines, Wing is doing right now. Fort Dodge; * Small Employer: The Printer, Inc., Des Holiday greetings being taped Moines; and Three Joint Hometown News Service * Public Sector: Iowa State Patrol Post 14, broadcast teams have begun to tape video Ottumwa. greetings from servicemembers stationed In addition to presenting the Iowa Freedom overseas. The greetings will be aired on com- Awards, Governor Culver signed a Proclama- mercial TV and radio stations in the United tion designating September 14 – 20 as Iowa States throughout the holiday season. Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Video and audio greetings are separated Week. by state, and in some of the more populated states such as California, , Florida and 185th Sr. Airman in food contest New York, stations will receive the tapes or The 2009 Hennessy Travelers Association’s DVDs based upon region. Educational Foundation (HTAEF) Armed People who have family in more than one Forces Forum for Culinary Excellence will be area can do several holiday greetings. held at the CIA’s Greystone Campus in Napa Stations usually begin running greetings Valley, California October 4 – 10. Sr. Airman on Thanksgiving and continue through New Jeffery Demers from Sioux City’s 185 Air Year’s Day. Many greetings air multiple times Refueling Wing, will be among the 25Armed during the holidays and usually on more than Forces honorees serving in foodservice opera- one station, said Erich Schwab, who is coor- tions around the world. dinating the program. Since 2006, the (HTAEF) has hosted the This is the 26th anniversary of the program. The Iowa Militiaman 10 Summer 2009 Vol. No. 5 Summer 2009 Issue No. 3

Museum addition progress report The new 18,000 square foot addition to the Iowa Naval Station Newport Navy base at Newport, R.I., Gold Star Military Museum is now almost completed. was installed through the roof with a giant, 80-foot According to museum director Russ Bierl, plans are set construction crane. to move current exhibits and many new items into the Other new exhibits at the Iowa Gold Star Museum will building addition this fall. include a World War II-era M3 Half-Track, a Vietnam-era The museum anticipatessignifi cant help from the Iowa M113 Armored Personnel Carrier, Liberty National Guard and their volunteers to move the large and Truck and a UH-1 Huey helicopter and a AH-1 Cobra heavy items into the new building. helicopter. The museum plans an Open House and Ribbon Cutting The Museum’s 18,000-square foot addition includes an ceremony April 8-10 and the traditional celebration of the exhibit gallery four times larger than the current gallery, museum’s Memorial Day activities on May 24, 2010. a multi-purpose classroom that will seat 130 people, a One of the museum’s new additions is a periscope large lobby and an expanded library. Funding for the from a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine. $4 million project is through the State of Iowa Rebuild The 42-foot periscope, which was acquired from the Infrastructure Fund. The Iowa Militiaman Summer 2009 M1 settlement of the state in the 1840s, through the Global . An extensive exhibit honors the 34th Infantry Division (“Red Bull” Division), which holds the distinction of serving the most continuous days in combat of any division in the European Theater of Operation during World War II. The museum also contains one of the fi nest military small arms collections in the Army system. The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. Group tours are welcome and available by appointment; contact the museum for scheduling. For additional information or questions about the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, contact the Museum at (515) 252-4531 or visit the museum website at www.iowanationalguard.com. Make plans to visit the new museum addition next year.

(Above) A construction worker toils next to the new submarine periscope. Doyle E. Vande Lunde, Commander of the Iowa WWII Submarine Veterans Association, (left) looks through the newly installed periscope at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum new addition.

Established in 1985, the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is the only federally-recognized repository for military artifacts in the state of Iowa. The mission of the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is twofold: to preserve Iowa’s military history and honor the military service of all Iowans. The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum’s permanent exhibits tell the stories of Iowans who have served in defense of their state and nation, beginning in the early

The Iowa Militiaman Summer 2009 M2 Family fun for everyone

According to Col. (Ret) Russell Bierl, Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Director, guests are encouraged to make their visit to the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum a family outing. One of the many fun events families can take part in at the museum, is taking photos of their children dressed in period military uniforms that are supplied on site. The museum has a number of World War II uniforms, helmets and military headgear for children to try on and to be photographed. This summer, the museum set a record for the number of visitors viewing the exhibits and artifacts. Many of the children who visit the museum with a youth group, often bring their entire family back for a second look. The Gold Star Military Museum will move into their new building addition this fall and will be open on a limited basis in mid-October. The large exhibit gallery will not be open to the public until a later date to be determined.

(Top) Families are encouraged to bring their cameras and take photos of their children wearing military uniforms. (Right) As evidenced by this youth group, children love to view military equipment and hear the stories of how they were used by our soldiers.

7105 NW 70th Ave. Johnston, Iowa 50131-1824 (515) 252-4531 www.Iowanationalguard.com E-mail:goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov

Museum hours Iowa Gold Star Mon. - Sat., 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Military Museum (Except for holiday weekends) Retiree Coffee every Wedneday at 9 a.m.

The Iowa Militiaman Summer 2009 M3 ‘Tag, Identifi cation, M-1940’ A brief military history of the ‘Dog Tag’ by Master Sgt. (Ret.) John Talbott If you’re the curious type, you may have wondered how In October 1938, tests were conducted military issue “dog tags” came about. In fact, if you have for the introduction of new identifi cation your father’s or grandfather’s dog tags, you can fi nd out very specifi c information about their enlistment. tags and in 1940, “Tag, Identifi cation, Women who served in the Women’s Army Auxiliary M-1940,” the offi cial nomenclature Corps (later the Women’s Army Corps), the Army Nurse for the dog tag, was adopted. Corps, and even American Red Cross members all had classifi cations denoted in their serial numbers - and all In 1942, the fi rst tag was suspended on a necklace, documented on their dog tags. 25-inches long, with the second tag on a separate necklace The U.S. military “Dog Tag” was offi cially introduced extension no longer then two and-a-half inches below the over 100 years ago on Dec. 20, 1906. In 1916, a second fi rst. Those fi rst models were made from materials such as tag was introduced to make a pair. On Feb. 12, 1918, rayon, nylon, cotton, and plastic. the Army adopted serial numbers, so as not to confuse Then, in 1943, the fi rst metal chain was introduced, Servicemembers with identical names, serving during the consisting of hooks and catches. It was replaced by the First World War. stainless steel bead type we use today. The vast majority of today’s members of the Armed Serial numbers were in a logical sequence, starting Forces were born after 1967, when the Department of with the Regular Army being assigned the number “1,” Defense decided to replace those serial numbers with followed by the second numeral indicating the individual social security numbers. or Service command. There were nine Corps Areas in In October 1938, tests were conducted for the 1940, under four Army Areas. introduction of new identifi cation tags and in 1940, “Tag, An example would be “11XXXXXX,” for Regular Identifi cation, M-1940,” the offi cial nomenclature for the Army, First Corps, followed by the digits. dog tag, was adopted. National Guard serial numbers started with “20,” with the third digit indicating the Corps Area or Service Command. The Corps Area numbers were in numerical order and included the states assigned to that U.S. Corps. For instance, if you were in the Iowa National Guard, your serial number would start with “20,” then the number “7” for the Seventh Corps Area that included Missouri, , Nebraska, Colorado, Iowa, , North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Corps area numbers began in the eastern U.S. and moved westward. Servicemembers who were inducted via the draft, began with a “3,” then the Corps Area number, and the six- digit number. Offi cers started with an “O,” followed by a hyphen, then the number. For example, Gen. ‘Black Jack” Pershing’s number was “O-1.” Gen. Douglas McArthur’s was “O-57,” and Gen. George S. Patton’s was “O-2605.” Warrant offi cers started with the prefi x “W,” Flight Offi cers with “T,” and Army Specialist Corps with an “S.” WAC members started with an “L “for offi cers, “A” for enlisted and a “V” for warrant offi cers. The Army Nurse corps began with the prefi x “N.” The Army even issued dog tags to American Red Cross volunteers, of whom there were thousands during WWII. They wore different uniforms and insignia and their tag identifi cation was prefi xed by the letters “ARC,” followed A tale of two dog tags - A World War I dog tag is by the number. located on the left, with a World War II dog tag on This brief explanation should pique your curiosity for the right. In 1940, “Tag, Identifi cation, M-1940,” a more in-depth study about military serial numbers and the offi cial nomenclature, was adopted. military “Dog Tags.” The Iowa Militiaman Summer 2009 M4 Physicians assistant provides assist in original western Iowa Honor Flight by Sgt.Chad Nelson for Johnson, however, was witnessing their Since its inception in 2005, the Honor Flight heartfelt reaction upon viewing the World War program has helped more than 17,000 veterans II memorial. of World War II visit that Washington D.C. “It was long overdue,” Johnson said. Even memorial. after all this time, they still carry all those Conceived by Earl Monroe, a physician’s memories.” assistant and former Air Force captain, the She noted how World War II was the largest program thrives on public donations and and most violent armed confl ict in the “history volunteers to help those vets who wouldn’t of mankind. The U.S. lost 400,000 troops, otherwise have the opportunity to visit their with 175,000 of those being National Guard memorial. Soldiers,” she said. “There are approximately three million Besides the WWII memorial, veterans had World War II veterans left in the U.S., who the opportunity to visit other memorials. Two are dying at a rate of 1,200 to 1,500 each former Marines were able to visit the Iwo Jima day,” said Capt. Wendy Johnson, a physicians memorial, while those who also served in the assitant with the Iowa National Guard’s Army visited that memorial. Besides Medical Detachment. the WWII memorial, the veterans were most “Soon, that generation and their fi rst-hand touched by the Changing of the Guard at accounts of history will be lost to us. This trip Arlington National Cemetery. was such a solemn experience for the vets, While observing the memorials, the veterans many of whom were at times moved to tears,” stood in silence, many of them shedding quiet she said. tears as they remembered their experiences Johnson, had an opportunity to assist on an -- little food, no communications with loved Honor Flight serving western Iowa vets in ones, extremely long deployments and all of 2008. their friends who were lost in the war. “Knowing they don’t have much time left, For Johnson, the trip ultimately reminded her it was a great motivation to help them see of the servicemembers who came before her this [memorial],” she said. “Unfortunately, and what they experienced, while illustrating a lot of us forget about World War II and the just how far the military has come. sacrifi ces they made. We don’t really have the Through her volunteering, Johnson was able opportunity to hear their stories.” to see fi rst-hand how much those veterans Johnson spent the day tending to the veterans, appreciated the opportunity to visit a recently ranging from minor scrapes and cuts, to caring erected memorial, honoring some of the for diabetics and those with emphysema. greatest men and women in military history – One of the most rewarding experiences the veterans of World War II. The Iowa Militiaman 11 Summer 2009

Through the Ranks

by Senior Enlisted Advisor Command Sgt. Doyle Norris

This is not the job I Today, while the pace signed up for!!! has slowed somewhat, When I started in this our number one priority position in March of remains preparing our 2002, I thought I knew Soldiers and units for what I was getting into. mobilization. We stay After all, I had been at the committed to this impor- Troop Command level tant task. for 10 years and was Things changed back about as involved in the at the state-level, as well. Guard as any traditional We were building rear Soldier could be. detachments and provid- But later that year, ing more resources to st the entire 1 Battalion, our families. The term th 194 Field Artillery was “contractor” brought on mobilized in support a new meaning as we of Operation Noble sometimes struggled to Eagle. As 2003 arrived, integrate these workers the State was mobilizing units at a record into our force. pace for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Later, Our Soldier and Noncommissioned Offi cer st th the 1 Battalion, 168 Infantry was sent to of the Year program grew from a board Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. appearance, to a four-day, hands-on competition Units were coming and going through a that is second-to-none. We developed a revolving door. We also sent units to Kosovo Freedom Salute program to thank Soldiers and and Egypt. their families for serving their nation in time of war. We automated the Enlisted Promotion “To be successful System and put measures in place to take “the in a position good ole’ boy” selections out of the process. Our Soldier Readiness Process was refi ned to such as the one I have had include all the post-mobilization tasks required the honor to serve, to be completed while in the State. Sadly, we also had to deal with the passing I would say TIME is the key. of some of our Soldiers, who made the Time away from home, ultimate sacrifi ce. We reworked an awards ceremony that was normally conducted during time to do the job right, the visitation period. We honored the service time to listen, and the life of those who are now gone. We not only conducted funerals with full military time early in the morning, honors for our fallen Iowa National Guard time late at night Soldiers, we also conducted the vast majority …time…time…time. It is now time for my wife, Through the ranks kids and grandkids.” continued on page 17

The Iowa Militiaman 12 Summer 2009 What’s New? ESO personnel to any Army or Air Guard unit Effective August 1, a new GI Bill is to provide a detailed briefi ng on all education available. If you served on active duty after benefi ts and services available to members 9/11/2001, you may be eligible for this great of the Iowa National Guard. Working with new benefi t. The Post-9/11 GI BIll brochure Enright can ensure the briefi ng schedule fully has general information and the GI Bill supports a unit’s training schedule. website includes a section on frequently asked questions, as well as the latest available information. Troops to Teachers came into existence From the under Public Law 107-110, the “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.” The aim of the program Education is to attract service members to the teaching profession as a second career. The program’s focus is an emphasis upon quality teachers Offi ce for high-need schools and high-need school districts throughout America. In 2008, the state of Iowa entered into Troops To Teachers a Troops to Teachers consortium and now Would you like to be a teacher? participates in the program. Did you know that Iowa participates in a federal program designed to help you enter Post-9/11 GI Bill Chapter 33 the teaching profession? Did you know that The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 60 percent of Iowa’s teachers are eligible to reports more than 25,000 service members and retire…or will be eligible to retire within the veterans applied for the Post-9/11 GI Bill in next four years? If you’ve ever thought about the fi rst two weeks of pre-certifi cation for the teaching, or of teaching as a second career, new benefi ts program. VA’s online application Troops to Teachers might be of interest to you. system staggered under the weight of the May In order to qualify for the program, you must 1 fi rst-day rush but has since recovered, VA of- be a drilling member of the Iowa National fi cials said. Guard with a minimum of six years of military If you apply for Chapter 33 benefi ts, you service. Nationally, most service members should expect to receive a certifi cation letter who register for Troops to Teachers have more from VA informing you whether you qualify than six years of service. The next question you and at what level. Chapter 33 payments are should ask yourself is whether or not you’d based on cumulative active duty service after extend or commit to serving an additional Sept. 11, 2001. To qualify for maximum pay- three years in the Iowa National Guard. ments including full tuition, a living stipend If you answer, “yes” and you have at and book allowance, requires three more years least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited of active service. institution, you can register for Troops to Initial VA guidance approved Chapter 33 Teachers. Once you register, you may be and the transfer of entitlement to a spouse or eligible for fi nancial assistance in addition dependent for Active Duty (Title 10) status to any other federal or state fi nancial aid- or only. During the week of Aug. 1, 2009, military-based education assistance. however, VA changed this guidance and now Financial assistance can include stipends of reports the Transfer of Entitlement as an up to $5,000 to reimburse the costs associated Armed Forced benefi t. More information on with becoming certifi ed to teach, or bonuses of who is eligible for Transfer of Entitlement $10,000 to those hired to teach in a high-need and how to transfer benefi ts can be found at school. Both the stipend and bonus require a VA.Gov. three-year teaching commitment. For more information about this program, Priority for stipend and bonus money is contact Staff Sgt. Brian Bullock, GI Bill given to those troops who plan on becoming Manager, Education Services Offi ce, Iowa certifi ed to teach in math, science, special . education or vocational/technical areas. If you’d like a unit briefi ng on the new If you have further questions, please visit Chapter 33 program, please contact Maj. Don Proud to Serve Again.com, or contact Maj. Enright, Education Services Offi cer, Iowa Tom Beasley, M-Day Education Services Army National Guard. Enright can dispatch Offi cer, . The Iowa Militiaman 13 Summer 2009 When you are ready, Iowa is ready Last year taught us that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere. From the tornados that deci- mated Parkersburg and surrounding communities, to rising fl ood waters which caused the evacu- ation of over 35,000 Iowans, the summer of 2008 will go down as Iowa’s biggest disaster. Al- though we don’t know when the next disaster will strike, we do know emergencies will happen. It is time to be ready and here are some simple steps to take.

1. Make a plan • Talk with your household members about the primary dangers you face – fi re, severe weather, and fl ooding are disasters in Iowa. Go over two ways to get out of your house and identify an outside meeting place. In the case of severe weather, be sure everyone knows the safe room for your home. • Plan for your pets. Be ready to take them with you and prepare a list of family, friends, boarding facilities and pet friendly hotels. Most public shelters do not accommodate pets. • Think of any special needs you might have including medicines. • Establish an out-of-town relative or close friend who can serve as a communication point if your family is scattered. 2. Make a kit • Have enough water – one gallon per day per person – and food to sustain yourself for at least three days. • First aid kit • Extra clothing and blankets • Flashlight and extra batteries • Unique family needs such as prescription medicines, infant formula or diapers For more tips go to www.bereadyiowa.org. Be ready and you’ll help Iowa be ready.

The Iowa Militiaman 14 Summer 2009 Is this heaven? You’ll fi nd family in the ‘New Jerusalem’ There are many views of what happens to a person when they die. But, strangely enough, except for those who Chaplain’s believe in reincarnation, most religions teach that you go somewhere. There is a name in the Bible that describes heaven. It is the expression, “New Jerusalem,” Corner and it tells us two things about heaven. One, by Chaplain (Col.) Jim Luder it’s new, and two, it’s Jerusalem. So what does it mean that it’s new? Iowa State Chaplain Well most of us like new things – New cars, new houses, new motorcycles, etc. because it’s the town my Father built and my God tells us he will make everything “new.” elder brother Jesus bought with his death on There is nothing that is recycled, refi tted, or the cross. reconfi gured – it is all brand spankin’ new. And everyone who lives there are not With God, it is always new. It never wears cousins, uncles or aunts, but rather siblings – out. We love things that are new. And, in brothers and sisters. Everyone who lives there heaven all things will be new. is family. But it is not only new, it is also Jerusalem. But they are not like my earthly family – I’ve never been to Jerusalem, but Jerusalem because they are all now perfect. is a town. Think about the town you live in and So, no matter where you live now, no matter think of all the good things about it. Go ahead, if you feel a part of your city, town, village, I know it’s easier to criticize than to say things or hamlet. that are nice. There is a city called the New Jerusalem Every city, town, village, and hamlet has where you can go and live forever, because their own particular things about it that people you will be “one of them.” who live there like. You’ll be “family.” A man moved to a small town and after he had lived there for awhile, asked how long it takes for someone to be considered a local. He was answered, “No time at all, so long as your TAG Sends grandfather was born here.” continued from page 3 That’s why I like the town I live in. My grandfather was born here. I graduated from high school here, with a cousin who is the However, it was not by them alone. We got same age. I’ve got relatives buried in all three there by the hard work of captains, lieutenants, town cemeteries. fi rst sergeants, master sergeants, sergeants fi rst In essence, I like the town I live in because class, staff sergeants, and Soldiers who re- I’m one of “them.” I joined the American sponded in teams to accomplish the goals we Legion. My name is on one of the stones of laid out. the Veterans Memorial with my cousin and my As we move forward, I ask all of you to join uncles. with me in redefi ning where we want to go And you know what? I like that. I like be- with the Iowa National Guard and then work longing. They accept my shortcomings and my together to achieve our goals. sins and my personality, because they know On behalf of my wife Suzanne, son Jacob, me. and daughter Elizabeth, we are proud to serve But, just think what’s its going to be like to you in our new responsibilities and we will go to heaven. There, we’ll be part of the New give you 110 percent effort in everything we Jerusalem, we’ll fi t right in. do. Why? We are honored and privileged to serve each It’s not because the New Jerusalem is the and every one of you. town where my grandfather was born. It’s “Warrior Ready”

The Iowa Militiaman 15 Summer 2009 Iowa’s latest OCS/WOC graduates 2nd Lt. Laura K. Walker They will then proceed to their respective There are many reasons a Soldier will BOLC III courses, depending on what branch transition from the enlisted to offi cer ranks. they chose. Some Soldiers join the Iowa National Guard The newly-commissioned warrant offi cers knowing they’d like to go to Offi cer Candidate will continue their training at the Warrant School. Other Soldiers don’t decide until Offi cer Basic Course at various locations, they’ve been in for a few years. depending on what branch they commissioned. Some Soldiers decide they’d like to become technical experts in their fi eld. This thinking Offi cer Candidate School Class 54-09. leads a select few individuals down a new 2nd Lt. Gary Carter Jr., Infantry, Det. 1, route, the route to becoming an offi cer or Headquarters Service Company, 248th Ambulance. warrant offi cer in the Iowa National Guard. 2nd Lt. Brian Clark, Infantry, Co. D, 1st Battalion, On Aug. 16, 20 graduates of Offi cer 168th Infantry. nd Candidate School (OCS) and Warrant Offi cer 2 Lt. James Foley Quartermaster, Co. F (-), th Candidate (WOC) School stood in front of Forward Support Co., 334 Brigade Support Battalion. family and friends and took their oaths of Benjamin Hartweg, Certifi cate of Eligibility, offi ce, or received certifi cates of eligibility. (Delaying Commissioning). The guest speaker for the graduation was Maj. 2nd Lt. Dennis Henrickson, Engineer, 831st Gen. Raymond W. Carpenter. Engineer Co. The ceremony was the culmination of 18 2nd Lt. Jamie Moore, Engineer. 832nd Engineer months of hard work and dedication for eight of Co. the lieutenants, while the other two completed 2nd Lt. Aaron Neely, Ordinance, Co. B, 334th the Accelerated Offi cer Candidate School in Brigade Suppot Battalion. nd eight weeks. OCS began with 56 potential 2 Lt. Jacob Paulus, Ordinance, Det. 1, Co. E, 334th Brigade Support Battalion. lieutenants and over the next 18 months, that Thomas Pottebaum, Certifi cate of Eligibility, number slowly dwindled to the fi nal 10. (Delaying Commissioning). Throughout the course, whether traditional Jonathan J. Ruden, Certifi cate of Eligibility, or accelerated, candidates spent long hours in (Delaying Commissioning.). the classroom learning how to write operation orders and develop leadership skills. They spent many days and nights in the fi eld testing Warrant Offi cer Candidate School their new-found skills and completing multiple Chief Warrant Offi cer 1 John Angier, Aviation, Co. C, 2/147 Aviation. land navigation courses. Ross Aronson, Property Accounting Tech., 67th “Of any school I have been to, military and Troop Command. civilian, none have taught me so much about Jack Canida, Engineer Equipment Repair Tech., leadership in such a short amount of time. I 3655th Maintenance. have grown by leaps and bounds to be the Kevin Copeland, Food Service Tech., 2nd Bri- person I am today,” said 2nd Lt. James Foley gade Combat Team. Warrant Offi cer Candidates trained at Camp Ryan Donkersloot, Information System Tech., Dodge one weekend a month, for seven Headquarters and Headquarters Co., 1034th Combat months, with their fi nal two-week event held Service & Support Battalion. William Fascher, Unit Maintenance Tech. (Light), at Camp Atterbury, Ind. during the summer. 2nd Brigade Combat Team. Some individuals chose to attend the WOC Douglas Griffi n, Engineer Equipment Repair School in Fort Rucker, Ala. This program Technician, 67th Troop Command. condensed all their training into a fi ve-week Casey Hill, Supply Systems Technician. period. Chief Warrant Offi cer 1 John Angier Bradley Johnson, CH 47 Pilot, Co. B, 2nd graduated July 17; Chief Warrant Offi cer 1 Battalion, 211th Aviation. Ryan Donkersloot and Marty Osmundson, Thomas Milleson, Unit Maintenance Tech. graduated Aug. 4, from Ft Rucker. (Light), 2nd Brigade Combat Team. However, training isn’t over for these Marty Osmundson, Utilities Operation and Maintenance Technician, Joint Forces Headquarters commissioned offi cers and warrant offi cers. Joseph Reiter, Unit Maintenance Tech. (Light). For many, their journey is just beginning. James Richardson, Unit Maintenance Tech. The lieutenants will continue onto their Basic (Light). Offi cer Leadership Course (BOLC II), at Ft. Scott Snyder, Unit Maintenance Tech. (Light), Benning, Ga. or Ft Sill, Okla., for seven weeks. 734th Regional Support Group. The Iowa Militiaman 16 Summer 2009 helped end the Civil War by driving Hood and 2nd Cavalry his forces from the vicinity of Nashville. continued from page 19 Brig. Gen. Datus E. Coon’s farewell upon the disbandment of the brigade, General Order No. 11 tells their story very well. large rail depots, 60 locomotives, 500 rail “Veteran Companions: This day the cars, machine shops and fl ouring mills, and a identity of the old Second Brigade is lost, large number of Army wagons.” (Regimental and its unfl inching line, that covered History) This was another serious loss for the our retiring forces at WestPoint and Prairie rebel forces. Station, that saved a disorganized command More time in the saddle followed for the at Okolona, that raised the well-earned cry 2nd Iowa Cavalry. Despite the trials and of victory at Hurricane Creek and Tupelo, tribulations of military life, on March 28, 1864 that presented its unbroken front to Hood’s a suffi cient number of the men reenlisted for advancing hosts at Shoal Creek, Mt. Carmel, another three-year term, thereby allowing the Linville, Lawrenceburg Pike and Franklin, and 2nd Iowa Cavalry to add “Veteran” to the title that taught the world a new lesson in cavalry of their . warfare when it waved its victorious battle fl ag In late 1864, the regiment fell back to on the captured redoubts before Nashville; that Nashville, Tenn. where Gen. George H. unwavering battle scarred line has at last by Thomas, Union Army, was preparing to defend order of your Department Commander been against Gen. John B. Hood, Confederate Army. broken, and in parting I feel proud in giving After preparing his defenses, Thomas decided expression to the heartfelt God speed and to rid the countryside of the rebel army. sincere well wishes mutually exchanged by the On December 15, the Union army advanced offi cers and men of the brigade … while better with the 2nd Iowa Cavalry on the right. This cause for honest pride I shall never have than battle was the greatest battle in which the this: I once commanded the Second Brigade.” 2nd Iowa Cavalry participated and ultimately (Regimental History).

To be successful in a position such as the Through the ranks one I have had the honor to serve, I would say TIME is the key. Time away from home, time continued from page 12 to do the job right, time to listen, time early in the morning, time late at night…time… time…time. It is now time for my wife, kids of funerals for other active duty Iowans. and grandkids. The Headquarters went through a I stand ready to assist the Iowa Guard in any reorganization that gave Iowa a Joint Senior endeavor where I can add anything positive – Enlisted Leader as well as a State Command all they have to do is call. But, they may just Sergeant Major. I want to thank Steve Waller, have to wait until I return from time with my Craig Franken and Louis Wolfgram for wife, time with my family or time by myself. It serving as the State CSM and setting the bar will be nice to mow and trim my yard the way at an extremely high level for professionalism. it should be done, rather than doing it quickly I could have not survived without their because I have another trip to make. invaluable contributions. Iowans can be proud of their National Guard. I also want to thank Jim Clark, Al Slagle and Our young Airmen and Soldiers continue to Gary Garland of the Iowa Air National Guard. amaze me with their performance of duty and They served as the Command Chief Master professionalism. While the news of the day Sergeant of the Iowa Air Guard during my may have you believe something else, I have tenure and I also owe them a debt of gratitude faith in our future with the professionals I have for trying to help me understand the Air Force. come into contact with during this last tour of While this is not the job I signed up for, I am duty. extremely proud of the Iowa National Guard’s Maj Gen Mark Zirkelbach said it best at his accomplishments and the way we have taken retirement earlier this year when he said, “It’s care of Airmen and Soldiers. It has been a lot been an honor to serve.” of hard work. It truly has.

The Iowa Militiaman 17 Summer 2009 Providing a welcome respite in long road to recovery

By Pvt. 2 Jennifer Montagna fi ts, and reintegration into the fi ghting force. Returning home after a deployment can 1st Lt. Bryan Huebsch, who has been with the be the happiest time for a Soldier. Coming unit since July of 2007, works to improve the home because of injuries, though, can make way injured Soldiers are treated. From fi nding it diffi cult to adapt to a regular life. The long health care facilities near warriors’ homes and journey to recovery is riddled with obstacles, families, to organizing “Musters” (conferences including separation from their unit and family. that boost Soldiers’ morale), Huebsch directs In the past, injured Soldiers would often Soldiers towards the tools they need to stay on spend extended amounts of time rehabilitating mission. in recovery facilities far from home. He said the Army hasn’t always been viewed However, the Community-Based Warrior in as having the most effi cient healthcare, and the Transition Unit-Illinois (CBWTU-IL) located CBWTU is striving to improve that. at the Rock Island Arsenal, is attempting to “The CBWTU improves the image of how change all that. The unit’s mission is to place we help our Soldiers,” said Huebsch. He also injured Soldiers, once they become well points out that a Soldier’s stop at Rock Island Col. Larry Heisler enough to travel, in the care of physicians near is not a permanent situation. signs the Army their home. This type of treatment allows them The CBWTU holds monthly Musters, where Warrior Health- to be within their family support network and Soldiers have a chance to meet Army and care Covenant gives them the ability to receive treatment governmental agencies, such as the Employer at the Rock from local physicians and specialists. Support of the Guard and Reserves, to talk Island Arsenal, The CBWTU operates across a six-state about these Soldiers’ options on returning Ill., affi rming the area consisting of Minnesota, Wisconsin, to their civilian jobs, transitional benefi ts commitment of Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, and . The assistance, employment and re-employment, the Arsenal’s CBWTU program currently serves Army state level benefi ts, or even reintegration into leadership to National Guard, Army Reserve Soldiers and. the fi ghting force. the Soldiers and on exception, Active Component Soldiers. To qualify for the program, a solder must families served They work with other Army and govern- have a serious, or severe injury, which would by the CBWTU- mental agencies to support these Wounded require more than 60 days of recovery. There IL. (Contributed Warriors with transitional benefi ts assistance, must also be a recovery center within 50 miles photo) employment and re-employment, state bene- of their home. Master Sgt Earl Harper, Iowa National Guard, was medically evacuated from Iraq in 2007 and became part of the CBWTU. After spending two months at Fort Bliss, Texas, he returned to Iowa in October 2008. Harper said there was a lot of down time at Ft. Bliss, and he didn’t feel like part of a unit. “The medical system seems to be overwhelmed and this program will help improve Soldiers’ care,” said Harper Harper believes being home with a good support system and feeling useful is good for the recovery process. Having since returned to Camp Dodge, Harper said he feels he’s supporting the mission again and once more part of a unit. This, he feels, helps keep his morale high and quickens the recovery process. Through 2008, more than 1,200 Wounded Warriors have entered through the doors of the CBWTU.

The Iowa Militiaman 18 Summer 2009 “An exciting life” Iowa’s 2nd Regiment Volunteer Cavalry by Lt. Col. (Ret) Michael J. Musel the command of Col. Phil Sheridan, met eight Iowa Gold Star Military Museum of rebel cavalry and after an eight- While desperate fi ghting occurred through- hour fi ght, defeated and drove them back, out the Civil War for Iowa’s Second Regiment leaving their dead and wounded on the fi eld” Volunteer Cavalry (2nd Iowa Cavalry), several (Regimental History). of the missions would most likely be labeled Hard fi ghting followed through the end of as “fun” or “enjoyable” by the hard-riding 1862, with the offi cers and men of the 2nd cavalrymen as they busted up the Confederates. Iowa Cavalry always in the saddle during the These men were destined to play a major role, day and often into the night. while serving with the Army of the Mississippi Movie buffs familiar with the movie, “The following the Battle of Shiloh in their area Horse Soldiers,” starring John Wayne as Col. of operations, generally headquartered in Benjamin H. Grierson, are viewing a segment southwest Tennessee and northern Mississippi. of an actual April 1863 Civil War raid that On May 30, 1862, a force including the 2nd included the 2nd Iowa Cavalry as part of the Iowa Cavalry captured Booneville, Miss. and Union force commanded by Grierson. “found standing on the railroad track an engine As the raid began, the 2nd Iowa Cavalry was disabled, 26 cars loaded with10,000 stand of detached from Grierson’s main force and sent arms, 1,000 small and side arms, 800,000 east to cut the Mobile & Ohio railroad which rounds of ball cartridge, 100,000 rounds of diverted the Confederates attention, thereby fi xed ammunition for six and eight pound guns, giving Grierson a free hand to continue his three mounted fi eld pieces, one car of horse march through Mississippi. equipments and team harness, haversacks, Grierson’s raid spread confusion throughout cross belts, and equipment for 10,000 men; the Confederate ranks and provided vital and a large amount of stores. assistance to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant while “The railroad depot was fi lled with he moved his Union Army of the Tennessee commissary stores, 3,000 stand of arms, shells down the Mississippi River past Vicksburg. of a large size, medical stores and 300 kegs and Later, in August 1863, the 2nd Iowa Cavalry barrels of powder. The train and buildings were once again spread chaos and destruction at once set on fi re and everything destroyed, throughout the Confederate infrastructure at thus infl icting great damage to the rebel army Greneda, Miss., where “they destroyed two which had just evacuated its stronghold at Corinth and was in full retreat southward.” 2nd Cavalry (Regimental History) Shortly after this feat of arms, “the 2nd Iowa continued on page 17 Cavalry and the 2nd Michigan Cavalry, under

Sgt. (Ret.) Mark Wiedenhoff, 113th Cavalry from Adel, Iowa, is dressed as an 1865-era “Troop- er” on his horse, Blondie, during the Homecoming Ceremonty for Troop A, 113th Cavalry Regi- ment, at Camp Dodge. (Contrib- uted photo).

The Iowa Militiaman 19 Summer 2009