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Cavalry Medical 35th ID competition assistance to honored at ...... 07 Armenia . .10 Speedway PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian ...... 16

Volume 50 No. 5 Serving the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, Kansas Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol October 2007 “Terrorist” explosions add realism to disaster exercise By Sharon Watson tion with the University of After nearly two years of preparations “Every disaster is unique and Kansas Medical Center. for a major disaster in downtown Wichita, the more exercises we do, the The event was funded through everything came together on a Friday better we will all work togeth- the University of Kansas Medical morning in October. Emergency respon- er, and the more efficient and Center with financial support ders from around Kansas pulled upon the from the South Central Kansas scene of an explosion at a partially col- effective we will get in our pre- Homeland Security Council. lapsed building. It was approximately 9 paredness and responsive- “This exercise provided south a.m. Oct. 19, the beginning of a disaster ness.” central Kansas emergency respon- exercise designed to provide a realistic Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting ders a tremendous opportunity to event complete with smoke, fire, and work together in what would be a actors portraying victims of explosions set major disaster for the state’s off by terrorists. provided its Expeditionary Medical Support largest city,” said Maj. Gen. Tod The exercise at the northwest corner of System, known as EMEDs, for a mobile Bunting, Kansas Adjutant General Washington and Waterman included more hospital at the scene. Kansas Division of and Emergency Management than 800 responders from 19 surrounding Emergency staff also participated. Director. “It was an excellent counties, including the Kansas Army “Two years ago we had a disaster exer- demonstration of the training our National Guard which provided a UH-60 cise like this in Richmond, Mo., and we state’s responder’s already have Black Hawk to simulate the transportation wanted to bring it to Kansas,” said Dale and of the hard work that has been of victims. The Kansas Air National Guard, Grube, associate dean of continuing educa- put into community disaster plan- ning and response.” 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation The planners of the exercise obviously had no idea their exer- cise would fall in one of the most returns from Iraq deployment challenging years that Kansas emergency responders had ever By Jane Welch by. Some were honking their horns and experienced. Three 100-year Two commercial airplanes, five buses, others got out of their cars to wave at the weather disasters happened from one police patrol car, six police motorcy- Soldiers and show their appreciation. January to July including what cles and 50 riders of the American Legion The driveway into the Expocentre was may have been the most expensive Riders/Patriot Guard are what it took to get lined with U.S. flags, members of the disaster ever for the state, a snow the 200 members of the 1st Battalion, American Legion Riders/Patriot Guard A Kansas National Guard helicopter flies over the and ice storm that hit 44 counties 108th Aviation home to Kansas from Fort Riders and the friends and families of the scene of a “terrorist explosion” during a large- on New Year’s Eve. In May, the Hood, Texas, and delivered to their wel- returning Soldiers. The crowd roared with scale emergency response exercise in Wichita Oct. town of Greensburg was devastat- come home ceremony at the Kansas excitement as the first bus turned into the 22. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Matt McCoy) ed by an EF-5 tornado while other Expocentre in Topeka on Friday, Sept. 14. driveway. parts of the state sustained flood- Kansas, you can’t have too much training The Soldiers, flown into Forbes Field, The buses were parked and quickly ing, and in June, southeast and northeast and preparation for these kind of events,” were greeted by members of the rear emptied of their passengers. The Soldiers Kansas communities were struck with mas- said Bunting. “Every disaster is unique detachment of their unit and members of lined up in formation and were called to sive flooding. and the more exercises we do, the better the American Legion Riders/Patriot Guard. attention. 2nd Lt. Ryan Bernard was told “Although many of the people involved we will all work together, and the more They were then loaded on buses to begin to report to Col. Alan Soldan, the battalion in this exercise also worked in the efficient and effective we will get in our the final leg of their journey home from commander, where he was then promoted response to Greensburg and southeast Iraq to the arms of their awaiting families. to first lieutenant. Bernard’s wife, Brenda (Continued on Page 15) The route took them by the Museum of the Jo, stepped out of the crowd to place his Kansas National Guard, where Kansas new rank on his uniform. National Guard retirees and their fellow After the promotion was complete, Kansas Guardsmen deploy Soldiers held a 20 by 40 foot U.S. flag to Command Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson, the welcome them home from their service. battalion sergeant major, took over the in support of NATO mission Along the route people were stopping their duties of getting the Soldiers ready to cars and waving at the buses as they went (Continued on Page 2) By Staff Sgt. James M. Grosdidier ences – can live in peace if given a Twenty-eight Kansas Soldiers prepar- chance,” Thomasson said. “We are there ing to deploy to the Balkans were hon- to help them get that chance.” ored during a ceremony at Fort. During the deployment ceremony, Maj. Leavenworth, Kan., Oct. 12. The Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, 35th Infantry Soldiers will deploy in support of NATO Division commander, noted that many of peacekeeping missions in Bosnia- the Soldiers supporting the NATO mis- Herzegovina and the Serbian province of sion will be serving with or in close Kosovo. proximity to other 35th Infantry Division The Soldiers will augment or replace Soldiers already in the Balkans. Soldiers at three locations: Sarajevo, “Part of the headquarters of the 35th NATO’s Bosnia headquarters; Pristina, Infantry Division is on its way to NATO’s headquarters in Kosovo; and Kosovo,” said Pierson. “All indicators Camp Bondsteel, the main U.S. Army are that they are doing an outstanding base in Kosovo, said the officer-in- job. I know you will be equally profes- charge of the deploying troops, Lt. Col. sional and proficient.” Danny Thomasson of the 35th Infantry The deploying Soldiers will first go to Division. Fort Benning, Ga., where they will con- While in the Balkans, the troops in duct pre-deployment training. The Sarajevo will support peacekeeping and Soldiers expect to be gone for about a stabilization missions, help integrate year. Bosnia-Herzegovina into eventual mem- The U.S. Army has had Soldiers in the bership in NATO and assist with efforts Balkans since 1995 when the Dayton to apprehend people indicted for war Peace accords were signed, ending ethnic crimes. The troops in Kosovo will con- violence between Serbians, Croatians tinue to promote peace and security. and Bosnian Muslims in the volatile Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation march into the Kansas Expocentre, “All citizens – despite ethnic differ- region. Topeka, for a welcome home ceremony on Sept. 14. (Photo by Jane Welch) Page 2 Plains Guardian • October 2007 Kansas team shares Greensburg lessons with Armenians By Sharon Watson knowing their risks for disaster are great, I Three members of the state’s disaster want to see what possibilities might exist response team who served in Greensburg for donating fire trucks that are no longer following the EF-5 tornado’s devastation, needed here in Kansas to the Armenians,” traveled to Yerevan, Armenia, Sept. 23-29 said Sterbenz. to share lessons learned from the response. “This State Partnership is an incredible The Kansas National Guard has a State opportunity to share knowledge and Partnership Program with Armenia. This resources, and improve relationships allows Kansas and Armenia to share mili- between countries,” Watson said. “Many tary, as well as business, government and friendships have developed between civilian practices to benefit each. Kansans and Armenians due to this partner- The Armenian Rescue Service hosted ship and the information exchange is invalu- the Kansas team for the trip, which includ- able and will benefit generations to come.” ed traveling to the town of Gyumri to Maj. Edward Keller, Kansas National observe of a two-day disaster tabletop Guard, is currently serving in Armenia at exercise and a one-day disaster exercise the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan to coordinate involving a building fire with victims. The the efforts of the program. Part of Keller’s Armenian Rescue Service is a government role is to provide ongoing support for responder that provides the immediate teams traveling to and from Armenia. He medical support needs of the victims on a will serve there through February 2009, at disaster scene and also provides medical which time another Guard member will be transport to local hospitals. assigned to take his place. Keller recently The Kansas team included Lt. Col. returned from a tour of duty in Iraq. He James Culp, of the 184th Air Refueling Sharon Watson (right), public affairs director for The Adjutant General’s works for the Topeka Police Department Wing, who served as the Kansas National Department, answers questions from the Armenian media during an emergency when not deployed. Guard’s commander of military operations exercise in Gyumri, Armenia. Watson was part of a three-person delegation visiting in Greensburg. Dave Sterbenz, Topeka Armenia under the State Partnership Program. (Photo by Maj. Edward Keller) Deputy Fire Chief (retired Oct. 31) served logically advanced, but they were manag- Wichita, Kan. Oct. 13 through 19, which as the incident commander in Greensburg ing just fine with what they had and did a included a week of training prior to the during the first week of the disaster. great job based on what we observed,” event. They attended the training sessions Sharon Watson, public affairs director for said Sterbenz. throughout the week to assist in better the Kansas Adjutant General’s The media were invited to watch the understanding the Kansas response. Department, served as the state’s public exercise and participate in a news confer- Armenian officials have a particular affairs officer in Greensburg the first week ence during the first day’s tabletop exer- interest in disaster preparedness as a result of response, and subsequently in Topeka. cise and again at the disaster site on the of a devastating earthquake that hit the “As we watched the exercise it appeared final day. country in December 1988 claiming more the response is much like ours here in “The reporters were very interested in than 25,000 lives, injuring 15,000 and leav- Kansas,” said Lt. Col. Culp. “The military our feedback related to the disaster exer- ing a half million people homeless. The city provides support to the civilian responders cise, and wanted to know more about our of Spitak was destroyed and damage was just as the Kansas National Guard did in efforts in Greensburg,” Watson said. “It severe to Gyumri and Vanadzor. The earth- Greensburg, so it was a similar response was a great opportunity to share our expe- quake measured 6.9 in magnitude. effort and a well-coordinated one.” riences and to commend them for their dis- “This trip was a tremendous experience, During the trip, the team toured a fire aster planning and for conducting such and one that benefits both Kansas and station in Yerevan, which revealed the exercises. They clearly see the value of Armenia as we share our lessons learned, challenge the fire departments there have this and indicated they travel to the U.S. to our experiences, our processes and our with aging equipment. Many of the fire attend training and various planning con- cultural differences with one another,” Lt. Col. James Culp (left), 184th Air trucks in operation were from the 1980s. ferences throughout the country.” said Culp. Refueling Wing, is interviewed by an “We are fortunate in Kansas in that we Three members of the Armenian Rescue “Having seen what the Armenian Armenian television crew during a disas- have newer equipment that is more techno- Service visited a disaster exercise held in Rescue Team and others work with and ter exercise. (Photo by Sharon Watson) 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation returns from Iraq deployment Continued from Page 1 roads of Iraq. march to the west side of the Expocentre, Soldan went on to say “Your Soldiers where they waited to make an entrance are the finest group of men and women into the ceremony. that I have ever served with. It has been Lt. Col. Duke Hester, the administrative my privilege to be their commander; I’m officer for 69th Troop Command and mas- honored to be standing here as their com- ter of ceremonies for the event, said “We mander.” thank you for coming today to welcome Soldan concluded his speech with the these fine American Heroes.” Hester intro- battalion’s motto “Strength and Courage” duced the official party which consisted of and was answered in turn with a resound- Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, Brig. Gen. ing “Strength and Courage, Sir!” from his Jonathan Small, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Soldiers. Mark Jensen, State Command Sgt. Maj. Small took the podium and said “Before Stephen Rodina, Command Sgt. Maj. you this morning, standing tall and in for- James Moberly and Chaplain (Capt.) John mation, is the finest aviation battalion in Potter, chaplain for the 108th. the U.S. Army, the 1st Battalion, 108th Hester called for the command to be Aviation. Thank you for your service... presented. As the Metallica song “Enter And now to the fine Soldiers of the 108th Sandman” started playing over the sound – it is time to go home. Col. Soldan, take system, Soldan, Peterson and Staff Sgt. charge of your battalion.” Curtis Gile, carrying the battalion colors, When Soldan approached the front of entered the Expocentre. They were fol- the stage and shouted “Dismissed,” a roar lowed by the company commanders: Capt. of approval went through the Expocentre Todd Loughney, Headquarters and Guard retirees and rear detachment Soldiers of the 108th Aviation unfurl the as families rushed from their seats into the Headquarters Company; Capt. Matt American flag in welcome along the road leading away from the Forbes Field air waiting arms of their Soldiers. And in this Jordon, Company A; Capt. Jack McGrann, terminal. (Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson, UPAR) instance that old cliché line from The Company D; and Capt. Dallas McMullen, Wizard of Oz “There’s no place like Company E. million Kansans who aren’t in the audience simultaneously building a battalion area home” couldn’t have been more true. As the rest of the battalion entered, the today to say ‘Thank you.’ Thank you for from scratch without missing a beat. The The Soldiers deployed in April 2006 to cheering and clapping of family members your service. Thank you for your sacrifice.” aviation and ground maintainers enabled their mobilization station at Fort Hood, reached a deafening roar. But Soldan received the most reaction 100 percent mission execution. The main- Texas. In September 2006, the unit Potter gave thanks to God for his “hand from the audience when he simply stated tainers ensured that the mission was exe- deployed to Iraq in support of Operation of protection has kept us safe in training, “Families, your Soldiers are home.” cuted to the tune of nearly 17,000 flying Iraqi Freedom. In Iraq, their mission was travel, and mission.” He thanked their Soldan listed the many accomplishments hours in 11 months. They safely and suc- battlefield circulation of troops and sup- families and loved ones. “They have of the unit during their deployment. The cessfully ensured that the aircraft were plies, combat air assault and the daily air endured a double burden in our absence. 108th Aviation completed 100 percent of ready to fly, every day, all day for 11 movement of VIPs and dignitaries. Bless them with new strength during this their post-mobilization training require- months. The 108th Aviation completed The 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation, head- time of joy and celebration.” ments – the only battalion in the brigade 1,200 missions and successfully navigated quartered in Topeka with companies in Sebelius said that it was her great honor that did. They set the stage at Fort Hood 10 combat engagements. They ensured the Topeka; Salina; Austin, Texas and Boone, to welcome home the 200 Citizen-Soldiers for a successful tour in Iraq. Upon arriving safe movement of 73,000 Soldiers, Sailors Iowa, is an air assault helicopter unit, fly- of Kansas. “I’m here on behalf of the three in Iraq, they assumed the mission while Airmen and Marines, keeping them off the ing UH-60 Black Hawks. October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Penrod assumes HHC command 35th Division departs for Kosovo By Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD teered for the duty. Since the end of the war in Kosovo in Spc. Matthew Williams, Shawnee, said “I June 1999, the separate ethnic groups of thought that the Kosovo mission would be a the region have lived in relative peace, good learning experience. It is the creation although the NATO continues to rotate of a country … and I’ll get to witness it.” peacekeeping forces into Kosovo on a reg- Task Force Falcon received pre-mobiliza- ular basis. The alliance played an exten- tion training in close quarters combat, crowd sive role in the war and is credited with control and communication with civilians. helping bring an end to the fighting and “This task force has met and exceeded peace to the region. every challenge that has been set in front On Sept. 10, 2007, the parade field at of it,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Camp Atterbury, Ind., was filled with fam- Cochran. ily members, fellow Soldiers and well- In their peacekeeping role, KFOR 9 will wishers of Task Force Falcon, as they bid be conducting security operations that will farewell to the 35th Infantry Division. Task help ensure that the country will remain Force Falcon is a multinational task force stable. Kosovo will soon be conducting an comprised of Guard members from 12 election that will help solidify peace in the states and soldiers from six other nations region. that will eventually be linked up to form “The upcoming elections will show how KFOR 9. well the factions of Kosovo will continue “KFOR 9 is a Security Task Force that to move forward in the future,” said Brig. will help provide security for the region of Gen. John E. Davoren, commander Kosovo in a peace keeping roll,” said Maj. Multinational Task Force - East. Jeff Totman, Kansas Army National Task Force Falcon will return home after Capt. Gary Penrod (right) accepts command of Headquarters and Headquarters Guard. “Our mission there will be to a 12-month tour of duty in Kosovo. Since Company, 1st Battalion, 635th Armor. (Photo by Spc. Joseph A. Andaverde) ensure that the Albanians, Serbians and the end of the war in Kosovo, the country other ethnic groups in the country will has held municipal elections in 2000 and By Spc. Joseph A. Andaverde Combat Arms Battalion and continue to have a peaceful place to work and live.” 2003 and nationwide elections in 2001 and Sept. 8, 2007, marked the official interact with Soldiers on a personal level. Task Force Falcon will stop in Germany 2004. Each of these elections were con- change of command of Headquarters and Nelson is now serving as the battalion and link up with the rest of KFOR 9 before ducted under international supervision Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, operations officer. Throughout his time as deploying into Kosovo. Many of the with the conclusion that they were fair and 635th Armor. Capt. Jason P. Nelson was HHC commander, he was proud to say that Soldiers in this group see the mission as a free. The next round of elections is expect- succeeded by Capt. Gary Penrod. Penrod drill strength greatly increased. He diplomacy tool for the military and volun- ed in November 2007. is enthusiastic about his upcoming time as believes that Penrod will do an outstanding commander of the company. job as HHC commander. Penrod has been a member the battalion “He has a lot of knowledge, especially since 1988 and has served in every compa- because of his time as company executive ny of the battalion. Prior to this promotion, officer,” said Nelson. he was serving as the HHC executive offi- Nelson believes some of the challenges cer. Penrod is eager to see the company he has faced over the past 14 months will through the upcoming transition to a carry over to Penrod’s command. Kyle receives Bronze Star By Spc. Chris Baker, UPAR to present the Bronze Star Medal to Kyle, Capt. Abraham L. Kyle received the recognizing him for his valiant service. He Bronze Star Medal for Exceptional merito- has been tracking Kyle’s rehabilitation rious service while deployed in support of process and is pleased at his progress. Operation Enduring Freedom. Kyle per- Bunting noted the importance of the formed as an Embedded Training Team National Guard Embedded Training Teams mentor and developed a Kandak (battal- and the essential role they play in strength- ion) maintenance program for the Afghan ening the Afghan National Army and National Army. National Police Forces. Kyle performed beyond the call of duty, Kyle has 22 years of service and has accompanying numerous combat opera- been with Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 130th tions to assist, mentor, and coach line Field Artillery since 1995. He deployed infantry patrols. While on combat patrol with the battalion to Iraq in 2004 to 2005 south of Qareh Baghi in Andar District, and Afghanistan in 2006. As a result of his Kyle came into contact with enemy forces. exceptional service, Kyle has received the Soldiers of the 35th Infantry Division stand in formation at Camp Atterbury, Ind., During the engagement Kyle suffered an Purple Heart, Global War on Terrorism during a deployment ceremony on Sept. 10. (Photo by Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th injury to the leg by shrapnel from a rocket- Medal, Expeditionary Medal, Iraq MPAD) propelled grenade. His performance of Campaign Medal, Army Commendation duty in a combat zone reflects great credit Medal and the Army Achievement Medal. upon himself, the Combined Security Kyle currently resides in Liberty, Mo., Soldier receives Purple Heart Transition Command-Afghanistan, the with his wife, Kimberly and children, United States Central Command, and the Adam, 15; Tyler, 11; Ripley, 4 and Xander, United States Army. 3. He also has a son, David, 18, who Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting was in attendance resides in Florida.

Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general, congratulates Spc. Sean P. McCoy after awarding him a Purple Heart medal on Wednesday, Oct. 10, for wounds received in action while serving in Iraq. McCoy was wounded Nov. 28, 2004, while serving in Iraq with the 74th Quartermaster Company, a now-deactivated Kansas National Guard unit. McCoy was medically discharged from the Army following his combat tour. The Department of Defense awarded the honor to Capt. Abraham Kyle receives a Bronze Star medal from Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the McCoy on May 3, 2007. (Photo by Stephen D. Larson) adjutant general. (Photo by Spc. Chris Baker, UPAR) Page 4 Plainly Speaking Plains Guardian • October 2007 Veterans and their families deserve honor and support By Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting great news regarding help that will come to Despite the disastrous May 4 tornado in with other flooded communities as well. This Veteran’s Day my thoughts, prayers Kansas Guardsmen via the military emer- Greensburg, the town of 1,500 continues The aftermath of both the flooding and and gratitude are with the families of the gency relief fund donation. Last year, for the to bounce back. State and federal support the tornado are reminders of the importance Kansas Guardsmen first time, Kansans had the opportunity to are helping the town operate and rebuild. of keeping insurance policies up-to-date. who gave their donate to this fund by checking a box on The schools opened this fall with 75 per- Individual assistance is available to many lives for us in Iraq their state income tax forms. As of the end cent of their previous enrollment and are who have been impacted by the severe and Afghanistan, of October, more than $84,000 is available operating in temporary housing. Many stu- storms of 2007; however, in several cases and with our thanks to Kansas taxpayers! The money dents now attending surrounding schools insurance policies did not include flood cov- troops who are donated in 2007 will be available in early are expected to return. erage or had not been updated for higher currently deployed 2008 to help families. Discussions are now underway to equip appraised values. Be sure to check with your and those who As you do your taxes this spring, you’ll Greensburg with some of the best technol- insurance agent regarding your policy if you have previously have another opportunity to help Guard ogy available. In fact, one plan would be aren’t clear about its coverage. deployed. Thank members and their families through a diffi- to provide wireless internet capabilities to Preparing ourselves and others to you for the cult time by donating to the military emer- 95 percent of Kiowa County, and to ensure respond to disasters is a priority for us and tremendous sacri- gency relief fund by simply checking a computers are available to many residents. we’ve been especially busy during the past fices you and your Maj. Gen. box on your tax form. Thank you for con- Unfortunately, within the past couple of couple of months. Wichita hosted two families are making Tod M. Bunting sidering it. months in Greensburg more residents have events, Kansas Preparedness Day in to ensure the free- In an effort to prove we can best train passed away from injuries suffered in the September, and a large-scale disaster train- dom we have in the United States. I want to ourselves and to provide our troops more May tornado. The death toll has risen to ing exercise put on by KU and the South assure you I will continue to do everything time with their families before deploying, 15 from 10 in mid-May. I extend my sym- Central Kansas Homeland Security within my power to make sure you and your we recently implemented the first ever pathies to those who have lost loved ones. Council in October. Approximately 800 families have the support you need. pre-mobilization training of Guardsmen in Our agency spent so much time in people were involved in the exercise/simu- Our Family Programs Office is working Salina, and this will mean the 1st Greensburg following the disaster that we lation involving a terrorist truck bomb. It hard for Guardsmen and their families to Battalion, 161 Field Artillery will have feel a strong tie to the community, and we provided emergency responders invaluable ensure everyone has the information needed Thanksgiving with their families. We are will continue to do whatever we can to hands on training along side other respon- when a loved one deploys. Recent improve- excited about this new training opportuni- provide support as needed to the residents ders. Despite all the actual experience ments have been made, including modifica- ty, as it is one of many changes in training there. responders have received this year due to tions to our pre-deployment training and re- we are making in the state. We are current- In Coffeyville, programs are in place to floods and tornadoes we will continue to integration training and the planned opening ly enhancing our civilian training facilities buy out some of the homeowners whose exercise our ability to respond because we of a Family Resource Center at the Dodge in Salina to provide a place where emer- properties were flooded and also affected can always find room for improvement. City armory, which will mean western gency responders can train together and by the oil spill from Coffeyville I wish you all a very happy Kansas families now have more options. also along side the military to improve dis- Resources, Inc. Thanksgiving. Please be safe and thank Our department recently received some aster response and recovery. The state and FEMA continue to work you again for your service! Soldier to Soldier Retiring Guardsman a shining example of a Citizen-Soldier By Command Sgt. Maj. Steve Rodina the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery was part of a per- on to Houston, where he spent the next Courage, honorable, loyal, dedicated, per- since September 1999. sonal security team several months in a hospital recovering severance, hero, Kansas Citizen-Soldier. What many of you don’t know about for Charles from his injuries. When his unit was due These are just a few words that come to Nathan is that when the 2nd Battalion, Duelfer, the chief to return to Kansas in February 2005, my mind when I think of Spc. Nathan Gray. 130th Field Artillery was mobilized to Iraq U.S. weapons Nathan, despite his injuries, insisted that In the next few weeks, Nathan will he answered the call along with the rest of inspector in Iraq. he be at the ceremony to welcome them receive his retirement from the Kansas his unit. The unit’s mission in Iraq was to The vehicle he was home. Army National Guard. He has honorably provide force protection. On Nov. 8, 2004, riding in was hit by Nathan suffers from back and neck pain served as a Kansas Citizen-Soldier with Nathan was the gunner in a vehicle that a suicide bomber. every day. He can’t run or lift anything The attack instant- over 40 lbs. But that hasn’t stopped him. ly killed the other Nathan was hired to serve as the Welcome them home two passengers in State Command Sgt. Transition Assistance Advisor for The the vehicle, Sgt. 1st Maj. Stephen Rodina Adjutant General’s Department. He served My friends and I attended the celebra- and greet them. I wanted to go over and Class Clinton in this job from November 2006 to August tion at the Kansas Expocentre for the 1st ask if I could give them a welcome home Wisdom and Sgt. Don Allen Clary. 2007, where he helped other Soldiers and Battalion, 108th Aviation Regiment. We hug as a substitute for their mothers. I Nathan was thrown against and out the Airmen re-integrate into civilian life after didn’t know anyone in the group who was just didn’t have the nerve. back door of the vehicle resulting in a deployment. Nathan recently left the returning, but we wanted to go and show I watched the news report of the event traumatic brain injury, shattering his right agency after accepting a job in law support for the Soldiers and their families. on one TV station and was disappointed ankle, breaking his neck in two places, his enforcement, which is his first love. From the very first, our hearts were that they only related one positive out- back in one place, breaking three ribs on Even though Nathan will be retiring stirred as we saw families coming to be come of the troops stay in Iraq while his left side, puncturing his left lung, from the Kansas National Guard he should reunited with their loved ones. When the other outcomes had been listed at the cel- breaking his right hand in two places and not be forgotten. band began playing the wonderful Sousa ebration. burns over 15 percent of his body. He was Nathan should serve as an inspiration to marches, I fought back tears that fell Although my friends and I weren’t the blown 100 feet out of vehicle and was us all. With his quiet determination and later when the Soldiers came marching only ones there who didn’t have a loved almost run over by the humvee that was in perseverance he has come through, even into the stadium and continued to flow one returning, I was disappointed the arena the convoy behind him. That driver suc- though it seemed that the odds were through the speeches right on until after I wasn’t overflowing with well wishers. cessfully avoided Nathan as he lay there stacked against him. left the arena. No matter how you feel about the war unconscious from the trauma of the attack. Nathan is just one shining example of The speeches by the governor and oth- itself, these men and women have sacri- Medics working on Nathan began CPR the fine Kansas Citizen-Soldiers and ers were interrupted many times by ficed. As an American, I think we need and had to revive him three times before Airmen that serve our state and nation standing ovations when they gave an to show them our respect and support he could reach the hospital. every day, without question, without com- accounting of the troops accomplish- whenever we can. Nathan was flown to Germany and then plaint, without falter, without fail. ments in Iraq. So I say thank you, men and women, When the signal “Dismissed” was for being willing to give your all for your given, the reuniting began. After the peo- country. May God bless you and your ple had finally found their family mem- families as you make the adjustments of PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian bers, I saw three Soldiers standing at the being home again. The PLAINS GUARDIAN is published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Guard. The editorial content side by themselves. I wondered if their of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Officer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN are not neces- loved ones were too far away to come Evelyn Beem, Ozawkie sarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Department. News, fea- tures, photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. All photos must be high resolution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertisement will be accepted, nor will payment be made for contributions.

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]).

Circulation: Approximately 15,500 Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Office Commander-in-Chief Public Affairs Office Gov. Kathleen Sebelius Director Adjutant General of Kansas Sharon Watson 785-274-1192 Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting Assistant Director Stephen D. Larson 785-274-1194 Editor Sharon Watson Administrative Assistant Production/Graphics/Writer Jane Welch 785-274-1190 Stephen D. Larson FAX 785-274-1622 e-mail: [email protected] Production Assistant Jane Welch The Plains Guardian may be read online at http://www.Kansas.gov/ksadjutantgeneral/Library/Plains Guardian current issue.pdf For change of address, contact Jane Welch. October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 5 Soldiers compete to represent 1077th ASMD Soldiers the 287th Sustainment Brigade qualify on shooting range By Sgt. Heather Wright was fresh in his mind. He found the first By Spc. Stacy Burns Transportation Company arrived just as the With their heads buried in their study board relatively simple, but didn’t become Every year, every Kansas National heat set in at 101 degrees. guides and newspapers, 287th Brigade complacent, studying diligently. Guard unit goes to the weapons qualifica- The 1077th ASMD commander, Capt. Soldiers refreshed their memories in the Harralson has participated in five boards, tion range. During the August drill, the Jeremy Brandt said, “I was very pleased last few minutes before the Best Individual so she knew what to expect. She read over 1077th Area Support Medical Detachment with our 100 percent participation rate and Soldier and Best Noncommissioned the study guide and stayed on top of current joined with Headquarters and 71 percent individual weapons qualifica- Officer Board on Sept. 9 in Wichita. events. Oesterreich studied the online guide Headquarters Detachment, 169th Corps tion rate. Though I expect no less, I was Recently promoted Sgt. Kenneth Raymond and downloaded relevant audio clips. His Support Sustainment Battalion and trav- impressed with the positive attitudes of all Hare, 2nd Battalion, 170th Maintenance time at the Joint Visitors Bureau in Camp eled to Salina. An advance party from the of our Soldiers despite the high tempera- Company; Spc. Adam Neeley, 772nd Victory, Iraq, helped prepare him for the HHD, 169th CSB set-up camouflage net- tures. Leaders with the HHD and the 778th Maintenance Company; and Spc. Symon board. Oesterreich interacted regularly with ting over the bleachers to aid in heat injury Transportation Company commander did a Lynch, 778th Transportation Company senior noncommissioned officers, officers control. Additionally, they were able to get great job taking the lead in planning the competed for Best Individual Soldier. Sgt. and dignitaries in Iraq. the weapons ready for the main body to event and making adjustments to allow Jennifer Harralson, 778th Transportation One by one, the candidates entered the arrive. training to continue safely in the heat.” Company and Staff Sgt. Jason Oesterreich, room and faced the board. About five The main body arrived Friday night in The 1077th ASMD was able to support 995th Maintenance Company vied for Best hours later, Ryan and the board had an Salina and was up bright and early the medical needs of all Soldiers on the Non-Commissioned Officer. informal after action review with the can- Saturday morning to check out weapons range. The medics realized the potential to The Soldiers were composed and didates and their sponsors before announc- and load the bus. The 1077th ASMD and encounter heat casualties due to the high focused while preparing to meet the ing the winners. They discussed areas in HHD, 169th CSB arrived at the range for temperatures. Only one minor heat casual- Board: Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. John which the candidates excelled, areas they the safety briefing prior to going onto the ty was treated, which was a tribute to the Ryan, Special Troops Command Sgt. Maj. could improve and answered any questions range. The weather was breezy and tolera- safety controls. Every Soldier did a won- Manuel Rubio, 891st Engineers Command the candidates had. ble, but by that afternoon the temperatures derful job of staying hydrated in the envi- Sgt. Maj. Ed Boring and 169th Corps At the AAR’s conclusion, Ryan compli- almost hit a record high. The 778th ronment given to them. Support Battalion 1st Sgt. Pat Cullen. mented the participants. Having won boards for their respective “You all did an outstanding job. It was a units in August and with another month to close call; you were all within a few points study for the Brigade Board, they were of each other.” Oesterreich won Best Non- confident and prepared. Commissioned Officer and Hare won Best Hare served in the Navy before he Individual Soldier and will represent the joined the Army Guard. “Navy Boards are 287th Sustainment Brigade at the State yearly reviews of skills and job knowledge Board this November in Salina. and take three hours to complete,” said The State Board is a four-day event. The Hare, “so I was prepared to study. The Soldiers will be additionally challenged Army Board is a whole different skill set with a physical training test, range qualifi- and format than what I did in the Navy, so cations with only three rounds to zero their it was challenging.” weapon, Warrior Task practicum and the Neeley studied the online guide and Board itself. “picked the brains of his squad and As Ryan said, “We have the best NCOs.” Lynch recently completed Warrior Soldiers in the state. That’s a little pride Leader School, so much of the information from your command sergeant major.” Guardsmen attend Career Fair By Sgt. 1st Class David Miles sentatives and the armor battalion staff. Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 635th Each booth was staffed by the command Armor were faced with some difficult section of the company and a subject mat- Soldiers of the 1077th Area Support Medical Detachment qualify on the shooting decisions. October’s drill was designated ter expert to assist Soldiers in understand- range. (Photo by Spc. Stacy Burns) as the 1st Battalion, 635th Armor and 2nd ing the Combined Arms Battalion transfor- Battalion, 137th Infantry Combined Arms mation and restructuring. The Career Fair Battalion Career Fair. offered an answer to Soldiers’ questions Saturday, Oct. 13 was the beginning of related to their Military Occupational Skill Christie receives medal the unit reorganization process. or location choices. Proximity/Military Occupational Skill Concerns included bonus eligibility, booths were set up to facilitate the decision technician and Active Guard and Reserve process for the Soldiers. Each booth signi- related slots, and Military Occupational fied a unit from the Combined Arms Skill conversions within the Combined Battalion and provided lists of the avail- Arms Battalion. Some Soldiers were wor- able Military Occupational Skills with ried about being close to home and chose rank structure. jobs accordingly. Soldiers who had specif- Representatives at each booth included ic questions regarding Military infantry battalion staff, fire support team Occupational Skill duties were answered trainer, Joint Forces Headquarters repre- by booth operators.

Col. Robert Schmitt, commander, 287th Sustainment Brigade (left) and Lt. Col. Tony Divish, commander, 287th Special Troops Battalion (right), present Maj. Erica Christie with a Meritorious Service Medal. Christie, 287th Sustainment Brigade staff adjutant, was recognized for the contributions she made during her 10 years of service to the 287th Special Troops Battalion, formerly the 174th Supply and Services Battalion, Hays, and its subordinate units. Her first command was of the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment of the 174th. Her second command was with the 323rd Ordnance Company, a unit she “stood up.” They were known as the “Rocket Docs” in recognition of their mission of performing maintenance on missile systems. Additionally, she held all three primary staff officer positions within the battalion. Her exemplary leadership, tireless dedication to mission accomplishment and dedication to excellence is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military, reflecting great credit upon herself, the Kansas Army National Guard, and the United States Army. Christie lives in Wamego with her husband Rick, who is also in the National Guard and Lt. Col. Anthony Mohatt, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 137th Infantry, discusses her son, Jacob. She is employed by Three Rivers Independent Living Center as a transformation to a Combined Arms Battalion with Kansas National Guardsmen department manager. (Photo provided) attending a Career Fair on Oct. 13. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class David Miles) Page 6 Plains Guardian • October 2007 Battery C Soldiers “tackle” 108th Aviation returns to Army combatives training resurfaced apron in Salina By Sgt. 1st Class Steve Ahlstedt training brings all the groups together to By Laura Robertson, Salina Airport “It will be good to have the aircraft and Soldiers of Battery C, 2nd Battalion share a common bond,” he said. Authority personnel back in Kansas because we have 130th Field Artillery are learning what the “We finally have the home station drill When the 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation been shorthanded during Kansas natural Modern Army Combatives Program is all time, the motivation and most importantly, Regiment returned from Iraq to their facility disasters,” said Leger. “It was been a long about. Combatives is comprised of mixed the support of our Battery leadership to at the Salina Airport, they were excited to and interesting year and half with the bliz- martial arts, similar to that seen on the make this thing work. The commander and see that they were getting a newly refinished zards, tornadoes and floods.” Ultimate Fighting Championship. It com- first sergeant get right down on the mat apron in front of their hangar. The new The unit deployed in April 2006 to their bines Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay tai and kali and roll with us,” said Cunningham. “Rank apron surface will reduce maintenance and mobilization in Fort Hood, Texas, and then and is designed to enhance physical and has no place on the mat. Specialists go up operating costs for the Kansas Army deployed to Iraq in September 2006 to mental toughness. against the commander just like any other National Guard Aviation Support Facility. support Operation Iraqi Freedom. It “We’re in the crawl phase at this point,” Soldier. If your technique is not up to par, The apron resurfacing should be finished returned to Kansas in September 2007. said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Ahlstedt, opera- you’re going to tap out. It’s that simple. It in time for the five Black Hawk UH-60s to The will be returning to duty at the tions sergeant for Battery C. “I would real- just makes you want to improve that much return to the facility in mid-November. Aviation Support Facility in November. ly like to see this program take off over the more,” he said. “The new apron surface will be safer for “The work this unit has performed has next training year.” In addition to the crucial life-saving personnel and reduce foreign object dam- been critical in Iraq and they and their “Excellent team building exercise,” said skills learned, combatives also proves to age on our aircraft and others using the air- families can be proud of their service and Staff Sgt. Chip Cunningham, primary com- be a great motivator and another method of port,” said Lt. Col. Dave Leger, Army sacrifice,” said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, batives instructor. “About half the unit physical fitness training. It combines Aviation Support Facility commander. Kansas Adjutant General. consists of Iraqi Freedom veterans and the strength, flexibility, cardiovascular stamina other half consists of new Soldiers and and mental and physical toughness all into attached maintenance personnel. This one event.

The Kansas National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation will enjoy a newly resur- faced apron at the Salina Airport when it returns to duty there in November. (Photo by Lt. Col. Dave Leger) Marysville unit draws crowd By Sgt. 1st Class Chris Foster showed the capabilities and explained the Despite high winds and scattered rain, uses of the vehicles to visitors. approximately 450 people attended an open Crew-served weapons were also dis- house at Rueger Memorial Armory in played, including the M2 .50-caliber Marysville hosted by Battery A, 2nd machine gun, MK-19 40mm grenade Battalion, 130th Field Artillery on Oct. 13. launcher and M249 Squad Automatic Open house events included paintball Weapon. The weapons displays were con- Staff Sgt. Cunningham shows Sgt. Kenneth Mateer the finer points of the rear contests, shooting van, vehicle and weapon ducted by the unit armorer and the Fire naked choke. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Ahlsted) displays and the Kansas National Guard Direction platoon. mobile museum. The most popular event The shooting van allowed younger chil- was the paintball contest. Teams participat- dren to engage in shooting exercises with- Army National Guard flies ed in “capture the flag” games, using straw out risking their safety in the paintball con- bales for obstacles and cover. The teams test. The shooting van was conducted by were comprised of a mixture of civilians the unit’s First Platoon. more than just helicopters and unit Soldiers, allowing the civilians to The Kansas National Guard Mobile By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, UPAR Chief Warrant Officer 5 Wayne Spry, learn small-unit tactics from the Soldiers. Museum featured artifacts from the rich What do you think about when Army detachment commander, said the detach- Vehicle displays featured all of the unit’s Kansas military heritage, ranging from Aviation is mentioned? Most people think ment’s six pilots, two full time and four basic vehicles, including the M1068A3 World War I all the way to Operation Iraqi about rotary wing aircraft, or more com- traditional Guard members, are dual- Command Post Carrier, M985 HEMTT, Freedom. This was the Mobile Museum’s monly, helicopters. Which helicopter rated. That means they are all qualified M998 HMMWV, and M270 Multiple second visit to Marysville. depends on the person’s age. To some, to fly both helicopters, such as the Black Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The high- The Battery A Family Readiness Group visions of the bubble canopied Korean Hawk, in addition to the C-12. light was the MLRS, the most powerful hosted a concession stand, selling hot War vintage OH-13 Sioux comes to mind, With thousands of pilots within the surface-to-surface weapon in the Kansas dogs, chili and soda to benefit the unit’s carrying wounded from the battle field. aviation branch, the fraternity of fixed National Guard’s inventory. Unit Soldiers families. Others will never forget the distinctive wing pilots is very exclusive. Spry said wop-wop sound of the UH-1 (HUEY) they have flown all over the continental Iroquois rotor blades. Of course today, United States. Outside of the United thanks to news coverage, everyone knows States, the detachment has flown to much UH-60 Black Hawks, CH-47 Chinooks, of Central America and parts of South AH-64 Apaches, and OH-58 Kiowa’s. The America. They have also flown to many United States Army names its aircraft in of the Caribbean islands. Spry said that honor of Native American Tribes. this year the unit has had some interest- In addition to these aircraft the Kansas ing missions. Army National Guard has a fixed wing “We flew a couple of four star gener- unit based at Forbes Field, Topeka. The als, normally an Air Force mission, and Kansas State Flight Detachment 37, of then we picked up a classified courier,” the Operational Support Airlift said Spry. “The young private first class Command (OSACOM) flies the C-12 spent the flight just sitting in the back of Huron. The C-12 is the military version the aircraft.” of the twin-engine turboprop Beachcraft As with many units in the Kansas King Air. With a wing span of over 43 Army National Guard, the unit is cur- feet, the C-12 can cruise over 300 miles rently deployed as part of Operation Iraqi per hour for more than 2,000 miles at Freedom. They are providing important altitudes reaching 35,000 feet. With a mission support in a manner far greater crew of two pilots, the C-12’s normal than the detachment’s small numbers mission is carrying up to eight high pri- would indicate. While they are gone, the ority passengers. However, the versatile Soldiers will be missed not only by their aircraft can be used for embassy support, families and friends, but the entire medical evacuation, and light cargo and Kansas Army National Guard Aviation The M270 MLRS and M1068A3 Command Post Carrier are displayed by Battery A surveillance missions. community. Soldiers Pfc. Curtis Stubbeman (right) and Pfc. Derick Maschmeier. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Chris Foster) October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 7 Kansas team vies for honors in 2007 Cavalry Competition By Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD order and execute evolutions in accordance On Sept. 20, 2007, the Kansas National with cavalry drill regulations. The teams Guard Mounted Color Guard competed in are also judged on the ability to interpret, the Annual Bivouac and Cavalry follow and execute directions given by the Competition at Fort Riley. This three-day team leader while maneuvering their hors- event incorporates a combination of class es in a tight formation. competitions from mounted sabers and pis- “Operating a horse in such close quar- tol marksmanship to field jumping and ters is difficult to do because the horse platoon drills. The U.S. Cavalry must be comfortable in those conditions,” Association sponsors this event each year said retired Lt. Col. Edwin Ramsey. and this is the second time that the event “Therefore, the horse must actually trust was held at Fort Riley. the rider.” The U.S. Cavalry Association was cre- Ramsey is a former member of the 26th ated in 1976 by former cavalrymen who Cavalry Scouts, which saw action in the were concerned that the culture and her- Philippines during World War II. Ramsey itage of the cavalry was beginning to led the last horse-mounted cavalry charge diminish. As the modern day cavalryman in U.S. history against the Japanese, then continues to evolve to keep pace with the organized the resistance and fought ever changing landscape of warfare and Japanese forces in guerrilla warfare until technology, these men decided they need- Gen. Douglas MacArthur returned with ed to safeguard the history of the cavalry- forces to liberate the region in 1944. man. The culmination of this three-day affair “We are not re-enactors,” said retired is the Director’s Cup competition. Once Brig. Gen. Phillip Bolte, president of the Members of the Kansas National Guard Mounted Color Guard present arms dur- the scores have all been calculated, the top U.S.C.A. “We are real cavalrymen who did ing the 2007 Annual Bivouac and Cavalry Competition at Fort Riley, sponsored by performers are selected to compete at this not want to see the old tactics disappear.” the U.S. Cavalry Association. (Photo by Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD) event. One member of the KSMCG team “Our major job here is to ensure the had amassed enough points to compete in high level of skills of the cavalryman and members from the Montana and Colorado Military Field jumping which involves a the “Best of the Best” competition, as it is his horse are not forgotten,” Bolte contin- National Guard and a Kansas reservist. rider’s ability to negotiate and jump over known by the participants. ued. “It takes a highly trained Soldier to Over the three days of competition each obstacles. 1st Sgt. Howard Williams of the 1161st get his horse to react in the conditions that contestant is judged as an individual as Every team is judged on horsemanship, FSC in Hutchinson placed seventh in the cavalrymen operated in, as these individu- well as how they work with the team as a fitness of the rider, horse and authenticity Director’s Cup Competition from which als are demonstrating here.” whole. Some of the categories in which and presentation of their uniform. During the National Champion is chosen. Overall, The Kansas National Guard Team is riders are judged are the ability to negoti- the Platoon Drill competition a minimum KSMCG team performed well. This was comprised of Soldiers from the 287th ate and engage targets in close quarters, of eight entrants, under the direction of a the first time that the team has competed Sustainment Brigade and 1161st Forward military horsemanship, where judges grade mounted team leader, must demonstrate in the National Cavalry Competition and Support Company and Airmen from the the horse management skills of the rider as proper execution of commands and the are looking forward to competing again in 190th Air Refueling Wing, as well as prescribed by U.S. military regulations and ability to work in formation, maintain years to come.

The Kansas team executes a mounted maneuver during the competition. (Photo by Retired Brig. Gen. Phillip Bolte, president of the U.S. Cavalry Association, talks to Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD) the Kansas team. (Photo by Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD) Soldiers provide medical services for people of Kosovo By Lt. Col. Rex Johnson and Spc. Tegan MED CAP. Jucera, 35th Division Public Affairs Mayhew said that the MED CAP is a The people of Kosovo gathered in way to help build community trust. A Cernice on Saturday, Oct. 20, to receive MED CAP is one of the ways that the medical care provided by deployed National Guard is providing a safe and National Guard health care Soldiers. These secure environment and helping the people are the Soldiers of Task Force Med and are of Kosovo. part of Kosovo Force 9 (KFOR 9), the “I am overwhelmed by the response most recent deployment to Kosovo led by from the community; how grateful they are the 35th Infantry Division, Kansas National that we are here and that we are helping Guard. There are about 204 personnel from them,” Mayhew said. “They really look the Kansas National Guard on this deploy- forward to seeing us out here and getting ment, including those from the 35th, as any thing they can from us.” well as others who came from other Kansas Mayhew said Task Force Med performed Guard units. a number of services for the community, This was the first Medical Civil such as medical, dental, pharmaceutical Assistance Program (MED CAP) that and optometric. They also gave out gift KFOR 9 was able to run with members of bags filled with soap, toothbrush, tooth- KFOR 8 watching from the sidelines. paste and other hygienic items. Children KFOR 9 officially relieves KFOR 8, led also received coloring books. More than by the 29th Infantry Division, on Nov. 2. 300 people attended the MED CAP. “We are building stability and rebuilding “It’s been great,” said Mayhew. “This is the medical infrastructure for the people of part of why I joined the Army and specifi- Kosovo,” said Sgt. Michael Mayhew, the cally the medical core. It was to be able to Dr. (Lt. Col.) Elaine Berkowitz, Pittsburgh, Penn., Army dentist, examines the teeth non-commissioned officer in charge of the (Continued on Page 8) of an 8-year old Kosovo girl during the Oct. 20 MED CAP. (Photo provided) Page 8 Plains Guardian • October 2007 Kansas Guardsmen rehearse Unmanned aerial vehicles emergency response measures demonstrated at symposium The Kansas National Guard, the Salina University of South Florida and others Airport Authority and the Salina Area spoke on the topic “Joint Operations in Chamber of Commerce hosted the second Constrained Airspace.” annual Kansas Unmanned Aerial System Symposium participants also were able Symposium Oct. 2-4 at the Kansas to see the advantages of the Great Plains Regional Training Institute in Salina. Joint Regional Training Center. The goal Academia, military and business profes- of the center is to provide integrated train- sionals with an aviation interest were ing involving air and ground assets. The invited to share ideas and products and center is ideal for organizations requiring learn about potential applications for a co-located air/ground testing and evalua- unmanned aerial systems in their fields of tion center. The benefit to both govern- expertise. mental agencies and private industries is A wide cross section of speakers repre- the ability to evaluate the results of an senting the Department of Homeland exercise/flight test with all the players Security, FEMA, U.S. Air Force present. Unmanned Aircraft Program Office, The Great Plains Joint Regional Association for Unmanned Vehicle Training Center includes Smoky Hill Systems International, U. S. Army Weapons Range, Kansas Regional Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems Training Institute, Fort Riley and the Redstone Arsenal, Drexel University, Salina Municipal Airport.

Soldiers of the 35th Military Police Company place a humvee at a checkpoint dur- ing an emergency response exercise. (Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson) By Sgt. Michael Mathewson, UPAR police Soldiers provided security at the The Wolf Creek Generating Station, a State Defense Building in Topeka and for nuclear power plant near Burlington, is a the Kansas Emergency Management major supplier of electrical power to the Division’s Forward Staging Area in Coffey region. In November, the facility will be County. 1st Lt. Christopher Coco, the offi- evaluated by the Nuclear Regulatory cer in charge of the MP Rear Detachment, Commission and the Federal Emergency said “The 35th MP Company is now under Management Agency on Wolf Creek’s and administrative control of the 1st Battalion, the State’s ability to respond to a release of 635th Armor. By requesting Soldiers from radiation to the environment. The 35th the battalion, we give the battalion’s Military Police Company, Kansas Army Soldiers a chance to understand the MP National Guard is an integral part of the mission. At the same time, it gives the State’s response to such an emergency. MPs a chance to learn from the combat Two emergency preparedness exercises arms Soldiers. It was a real chance for the were conducted in October to prepare for Soldiers to share their experiences” the evaluation. The Topeka-based military (Continued on Page 10) Appreciation award presented An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle is launched during a demonstration at the 2nd annual to Cabela’s of Kansas City Kansas Unmanned Aerial System Symposium held Oct. 2-4 at the Kansas Regional Training Institute in Salina. (Photo provided) In appreciation of its support of the include a framed narrative of the battle. Kansas National Guard, sporting goods Col. Jim Trafton, deputy chief of staff retailer Cabela’s received special recogni- for Strength Management, and State Medical services in Kosovo tion from the Kansas Adjutant General’s Command Sgt. Maj. Steve Rodina, were Continued from Page 7 Department on Wednesday, Oct. 3. also in attendance at the ceremony. get out all over the world and help people “No one has gone away During a 3 p.m. ceremony in the Cabela’s was nominated for the presen- with whatever they need. This area is in without a little bit, even if Cabela’s store in Kansas City, Kan., Maj. tation by Trafton, who said the company such need of good medical care that it’s Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general, has always been very supportive of the great to be able to be out here to help in it’s just some Tylenol. I presented Dave Lueth, general manager, Kansas National Guard, particularly in its any way that I can.” think they feel that we and Jimmy Lopez, public relations direc- recruiting efforts. Mayhew said Task Force Med was there think their problems are tor, with a framed 150th Anniversary “It started out small back in 2004 and to provide support for the new medical cen- Limited Edition commemorative print, has just sort of grown,” said Trafton. “On ter that opened. The people were able to go real, no matter how small commissioned by the Kansas National race weekends, they allow us to use a part there and see the American doctors, but also they are.” Guard in 2005 to celebrate its 150th of their parking lot and we set up a huge see the local national doctors, as well. anniversary. The print, by noted military military display. They have military appre- “We’re trying to build ethnic unity by Capt. Elizabeth Waterman history artist Dale Gallon, depicts the 8th ciation days, where anyone in the military bringing people of different groups into the Kansas Volunteers at the Battle of can get a discount at the store.” MED CAP and showing them that they can are real, no matter how small they are.” Missionary Ridge during the American “They’ve been really good to us,” get good medical care from an Albanian Waterman said she noticed the best Civil War. The presentation will also Trafton said. doctor as well as a Serbian, trying to just result coming from the optometrist generally build the community.” because people would go in barely able to Mayhew said he was really impressed see and come out with glasses and seeing with how KFOR 8 performed their duties everything. She said the optometrist was and that it would be difficult to fill their handing out old army glasses that were no shoes. He said the MED CAP was only a longer of use. small operation and was limited in what “I know that I’m going to go back and they were able to do. take all those military glasses that I’ve “It’s overwhelming they come to us with received and bring them to be donated so such major problems and we’re just a little that they can use them,” Waterman said. clinic, “ said Capt. Elizabeth Waterman a She said that members of her church nurse for Task Force Med. were going to send some of their old glass- She said she was seeing some of the es. When they arrive, she will take pictures patients and that a lot of the people coming of their glasses being given away to send would be admitted to the hospital if they back to her church. She said the experi- were in America. Even though they were ence has been awesome and taught her not only able to do so much, Waterman felt the to take for granted what she has at home. task force did more than enough. “I take away from this the knowledge of “I think the people appreciate us being how much we’re really needed here,” here because we’re addressing a small Waterman said. “I didn’t really feel that we need that they have, even though they’ve were needed when we first came; I didn’t come with bigger problems. No one has think that we could do anything. Just the Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general, comments on the commemorative gone away without a little bit, even if it’s fact that we are doing an event like this, it print he presented to Cabela’s of Kansas City for the retailers on-going support of just some Tylenol®,” Waterman said. “I shows that we are needed and there’s a the Kansas National Guard. (Photo by Sharon Watson) think they feel that we think their problems reason to be here.” October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 9 Opportunities abound to spread the news about the Guard By Maj. Rick Peat Kansas Army Guard units authorized “The pen is mightier than the sword.” public affairs Soldiers include the 35th This quote is commonly known by people Division, the 105th Mobile Public Affairs world-wide and is rarely disputed. However, Detachment, the 287th Sustainment in an Army where bravado is bred into Brigade, the 102nd Military History every man and women during basic training Detachment, and the Joint Forces and further molded throughout their careers, Headquarters. These are all traditional the “pen” has often been an afterthought guard members. when we plan our operations. We are histor- Additionally, each company-size unit in ically obsessed with the “sword” — the the Army is required to have a Unit Public tanks, the artillery, the machine guns, the Affairs Representative (UPAR) designated bayonet. After all, the “sword” is fundamen- as an additional duty. UPARs play a key tal to our warrior ethos. role in a unit’s community relations and Yet our experiences in Vietnam, Somalia, also in getting the word out on the capabil- Iraq, and other countries has shown us that ities and accomplishments of their unit and mastery of the sword and expertly per- individual personnel — both within the formed maneuvers against our enemies do Guard and to the community, politicians, not assure accomplishment of our campaign and other policy and decision makers that objectives. Time and again we have learned impact the Guard. that it is public opinion, both at home and Some recent operations where Kansas abroad, that dictates our success. National Guard public affairs personnel Our enemies use well-conceived infor- have served include: the 35th Division to mation operations, in coordination with Hurricane Katrina and numerous training terrorism and guerrilla warfare events, to exercises, the 102nd Military History effectively shape public opinion and Detachment to Iraq, and the 184th Air Wing accomplish their strategic objectives. 105th MPAD Soldiers Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson, Sgt. Heather Wright, and 1st Sgt. to Greensburg. The 105th Mobile Public While military public affairs cannot lie or Carl Mar, work public affairs during the opening ceremony for the Rescuer ‘06 Affairs Detachment has been called upon use propaganda like our enemies can, there exercise in Armenia. (Photo by Maj. Rick Peat, 105th MPAD) frequently for deployments including is much more we can do using truth to story, to describe their experiences, and to The public affairs career field is desperate- Operation Enduring Freedom in help the public make more informed opin- communicate their achievements, so that ly short of qualified personnel. In the Afghanistan, Yama Sakura exercise in ions and decisions. their sacrifices are not in vain. Kansas Army Guard, there are 34 public Japan, Rescuer exercise in Armenia, and Our Soldiers in combat are doing every- The military needs men and women who affairs officers and enlisted personnel emergency response to Greensburg and for thing asked of them to win the ground war. know how to use “the pen” as expertly as authorized. Yet according to a recent per- the flooding in eastern Kansas. The 287th We must step up our efforts to tell their a sniper knows how to use his “sword.” sonnel system query, only seven Soldiers Sustainment Brigade and 35th Division pub- have the public affairs Military lic affairs personnel have deployments Occupational Specialty designation. scheduled for Iraq and Kosovo, respectively. The public affairs career field offers Opportunity abounds for Soldiers sin- Soldiers a tremendous opportunity to grow cerely interested in public affairs and hav- and advance, but more importantly offers ing the drive to complete the schools. For them an opportunity to make a positive enlisted there are two public affairs impact in an area of great strategic impor- MOS’s. 46Q is a Print Journalist and 46R tance. Public Affairs professionals, officers is a Broadcast (video) Journalist. The min- and enlisted, are trained to deal with the imum qualification for both MOSs is a GT media, and to create video or print news score of 110 or above, and completion of stories for publication. the DINFOS qualification course. Soldiers often ask why we bother work- For army officers, public affairs is a ing with the civilian media. A 2005 inter- career field. While the officers retain their national survey designed to gauge how branch, qualification for the public affairs people decide what information to trust, career field (46A) is required. The Edelman Trust Barometer, revealed Qualification is obtained by either com- that people don’t believe information pleting the eight-week resident course at unless they see or hear it from multiple the Defense Information School (DIN- sources. The military cannot count on FOS), located at Fort Meade, Md., or by writing our own news stories to get its completing distance learning and a two- story out. Public affairs personnel also week session at DINFOS. DINFOS is a engage media to inform the public, using joint public affairs school—troops from all meaningful and honest dialogue. This military services go to the same school. approach establishes our credibility and Maj. Rick Peat has worked in military Maj. Rick Peat works with an interpreter to interview the first class of cadets to increases the likelihood that the media will public affairs for nine years. He can be attend Afghanistan’s National Military Academy in Kabul during the 105th choose to use our information in their sto- reached for further information about MPAD’s deployment for Operation Enduring Freedom V. (Photo by Lt. Col. Susan ries in addition to, or in lieu of, informa- opportunities in public affairs via email at Meisner, Office of Military Cooperation – Afghanistan) tion from other sources. [email protected]. Technology gives 35th Division world-wide communications By Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes where none exists. Standing outside the 35th Infantry Three Soldiers can set up the VSAT in Division Headquarters building at Fort about 20 minutes. The major components Leavenworth, Spc. Amy Voorhees logged of the VSAT include an indoor case, an on to the Army Knowledge Online Web antenna controller unit and the satellite site without cables or phone lines connect- antenna. The indoor case is normally set ing her to the World Wide Web. Instead, up in a sheltered environment. This case she is able to access the Internet using consists of the power supply, telephone, technology new to the Division’s logistics laptop computer, and a satellite communi- (G-4) section. cations platform. The Very Small Aperture Terminal The antenna controller unit directs the (VSAT) satellite recently acquired by the antenna to the VSAT satellite orbiting division headquarters will allow the logis- above the earth causing the antenna to lit- tics section to deploy in support of civil erally dance around on its mount until it support and other missions while main- locks on the satellite. Up to 100 feet of taining communications anywhere they cable can extend between the satellite need to work. antenna and the indoor case. “Use of the VSAT allows the G4 section “The very small aperture in VSAT takes to have worldwide unclassified voice and its name from the fact that the antenna is data communications anywhere in the 1.2 meters in diameter,” said Hyatt. Larger world once you have satellite coverage antennas are six meters in diameter. and a power source,” said Chief Warrant As the division trains and plans to sup- Officer Patrick Hyatt. “The VSAT will port potential local and regional disasters allow the G4 to do a better job by giving like the tornado that hit Greensburg, communications capability where we don’t Kan., in the spring of 2006, the VSAT have it.” system will bring additional capabilities Spc. Amy Voorhees connects cables to the antenna mount of the very small aperture In civil support operations, the G4 sec- to ensure the division can provide the terminal satellite voice and data communications system. Voorhees is a member of tion could deploy to the site of a disaster necessary support to local law enforce- the logistics section of the 35th Infantry Division Headquarters at Fort and have voice and data communications ment officials. Leavenworth. (Photo by Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes, 35th ID PAO) Page 10 Plains Guardian • October 2007 Kansas Guardsmen bring 731st Medium Truck Company medical help to Armenians continuing their mission at home By Lt. Col. Tim Stevens Senior Airman Olivia Hof, optometry spe- While the troops in Iraq are fighting equipment in Belleville and hauling it to A joint Kansas Army and Air National cialist, 190th Medical Group. The Kansas the War on Terror, the mission at home Salina. The purpose for the convoys var- Guard medical team consisting of a team was joined by two doctors and sever- still has to be done. Equipment still ied from hauling equipment that needed Kansas Army National Guard dentist along al nurses from the Armenian Ministry of needs to be hauled and maintained. repaired to moving equipment across the with five 190th Medical Group members Defense. Peace Corps volunteers and a Troops still need supplies or equipment state to meet a need in another area. deployed from Sept. 15-22 to provide local doctor provided additional assistance. hauled across the state or across the Although the convoys weren’t long, they basic dental, optometric, and public health The humanitarian assistance mission country to prepare for deployment and involved a lot of good training for the care to rural residents in the Republic of was an incredible experience for the team. the 731st Medium Truck Company is Soldiers. Armenia. Armenia and Kansas have partic- “It was a great way to utilize our military continuing to meet that need. Most of the Soldiers remaining here ipated in more than 45 State Partnership training and resources by providing profes- Most of the 731st is running missions want to continue to do the jobs that they Program exchange events over the past sional health care services to those in criti- in Iraq. What amounts to approximately were trained for. “I would rather be out four years, but this was the first ever cal need. The people we served during this one platoon of Soldiers is still in driving,” said Pfc. Krista Knight. humanitarian assistance visit. mission were truly thankful for our visit,” Kansas as the 731st Medium Truck “Even short missions give us the During the humanitarian mission, the said Trevino. Company Rear Detachment. Convoys opportunity to do driver’s training and team visited three rural villages in south- During the three day visit, the team from Detachment 3, Hays, and get some of the new people out on the ern Armenia. The remote villages of treated 80 dental patients, ranging from Detachment 2, Wichita, ran missions to road getting windshield time. Every mile Darbis, Shamb, and Tatev in Sisian Marz pediatric to geriatric cases, and extracted Belleville and Kansas City on Sept. 13 helps improve the skills that they have,” (District) have populations of between 700 105 teeth. Referrals and recommendations and 14. said Staff Sgt. Tim Stoner to 1,400 people and medical services are were provided for services that could not “The Soldiers overseas are doing their Driver’s training and staying mission limited. be administered on the spot. job, but we are continuing the mission ready are priority tasks for the Soldiers at Kansas participants included Lt. Col. The team also examined 223 optometry here at home,” said 1st Lt. Christopher home. New Soldiers are coming into William Hefner, optometrist, 190th patients and distributed 225 pairs of glass- Sanders, rear detachment commander of units all the time. Getting them mission Medical Group; Lt. Col. Martin Powell, es. According to Hefner, “Follow-on care the 731st. ready and refining the skills that they dentist, Kansas Army National Guard; for those patients requiring cataract The convoys included the tasks of learned while at Advanced Individual Capt Ingrid Trevino, public health officer, surgery was arranged with USAID’s picking up equipment from Kansas City Training are an important part of the mis- 190th Medical Group; Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Mobile Eye Hospital that will visit the vil- and hauling it to Topeka and picking up sion here at home. Norling, health technician, 190th Medical lages in the spring of 2008.” Group; Tech. Sgt. Michael Riblett, dental Hof said that it was wonderful to be able technician, 190th Medical Group; and (Continued on Page 14) Guardsmen make history with premobilization training in Salina Approximately 430 Soldiers of the 1st self reliance. Future deployments will fol- Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, Kansas low the lead of the 161st.” National Guard, headed to the Great Plains The Guardsmen will deploy in late Joint Regional Training Center in Salina November to Fort Bliss, Texas, for addi- Oct. 16 to begin pre-mobilization training tional training prior to going to Iraq in sup- for their deployment to Iraq in 2008. The port of Operation Iraqi Freedom in early Soldiers are from Headquarters and 2008. Their mission will include work Headquarters Battery, Wichita; Battery A, with the prison system, providing security, Dodge City; Battery C, Kingman; and the force protection and other duties. 1161st Forward Support Company, “Once again, we see the flexibility of the Hutchinson. Kansas Guard,” Bunting said. “Here we This will be the first time that a Kansas have artillery Soldiers who have been National Guard unit has conducted pre- called to carry out duties other than their mobilization training at the Salina facility primary mission. However, I have every prior to overseas deployment. confidence that these Soldiers accomplish “We are ready to demonstrate our ability these tasks with the same professionalism to train our Soldiers here in Kansas,” said and dedication as they would if they were Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas Adjutant operating their Paladin howitzers. I wish General. “Support from our state leaders them well and God speed.” has made the center in Salina capable of A deployment ceremony will be held increased training and this translates to Nov. 21 at the Bicentennial Center in more time here at our homes in Kansas Salina. The Soldiers were able to spend the Tech. Sgt. Mike Riblett; 190th Medical Group (left) and Lt. Col. Martin Powell, and more readiness for the nation. This is Thanksgiving holiday with their families Kansas Army National Guard (right) perform a dental exam with the assistance of historic and something we have worked before leaving for the additional pre-mobi- an Armenian soldier. (Photo provided) hard to establish and are very proud of our lization training in Texas. Kansas Guardsmen rehearse Hannah selected as Health and Continued from Page 8 the briefing room in Nickell Armory when The Armor Battalion Soldiers, wearing they need to meet with the media. Benefits Support Specialist MP armbands, were given quick instruc- The second group traveled South on US tion in military police operations before 75 in humvees, along with the Mobile David C. “DC” Hannah has been select- said. “Guard members typically have a full joining the mission. Command Post and its support vehicles, to a ed as the Kansas National Guard’s Health time job and family, and some may be The Soldiers were divided into two location on the edge of the contaminated and Benefits Support Specialist. going to college at the same time, so I’ll groups. The first group went to the State area. There, they provided security for the In this position, be able to bridge the gap in their busy Defense Building. Although the State Forward Staging Area. The Kansas Highway Hannah will assist schedules and connect them to help they Defense Building, Nickell Armory and Patrol and other state agencies also operated Guardsmen, may not have known was available to grounds are secured by members of the out of the FSA. The FSA coordinated securi- Reservists and them,” he added. “This will be a rewarding National Guard Facilities Police Force, the ty in and around Burlington. The Mobile their families in opportunity.” MPs secured the entrances to Nickell Command Post also serves as the backup learning about the Hannah, of Oskaloosa, is a former Armory. The controlled access was for the command center in the event of a loss of benefits to which Nebraska National Guardsman and long- news media briefing room in Nickell. There, communication with the SDB. The MPs they are entitled, time supporter of the National Guard. He the media would be briefed by state, Coffey established local security and operated the put them in contact is a member of the American Legion, County and Wolf Creek officials on the cur- vehicle check point at the site’s only with the appropri- American Legion Riders and Patriot Guard rent status of the event. Space was also pro- entrance. There, the MPs had to deal with ate agencies, as Riders. Prior to accepting this position, vided on the Armory’s drill floor for the possible radiation contamination and evac- well as assist them David C. Hannah Hannah was a Medicare Benefit Integrity media to set up their equipment. The MPs uees seeking assistance. in obtaining bene- Investigator for IntegriGuard LLC in checked everyone’s identification against a After the exercise, Spc. Krystal Jolley said fits. These benefits may include vocational Topeka. master list to ensure that only approved per- of her training at the FSA, “I am glad that I rehabilitation, home improvement or struc- He attended the University of Nebraska sons were allowed into the building. am doing this training now so that I will be tural alterations, mental health services and and graduated from the Creighton In the SDB the MPs provided security ready if it should ever be for real.” educational benefits. In addition, there are University School of Medicine Paramedic for the Joint Operations Center, which is Sgt. Danny Cheatham, also at the FSA, benefits available to Soldiers and Airmen Training Program in 1990. In addition, the heart of the state’s reaction to the said, “I know about running traffic control who have not been deployed, such as Hannah completed course work at the event. Here, the state leadership will coor- points, but I am learning a lot about radia- Department of Veterans Affairs home Nebraska Law Enforcement Training dinate the federal, state and county tion exposure.” loans. Center, St. Joseph (Mo.) Police Academy, response to the incident. This year, the “This was great training for the MP’s “As the Guard’s Health and Benefits and the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Joint Operations Center has been busy and cross training for the Armor Battalion Support Specialist, I’ll have the opportuni- Enforcement Administration. with the Greensburg tornado and the Soldiers,” said Coco. “We are ready not ty to help Kansas National Guardsmen, Hannah replaces Nathan Gray, who Coffeyville flood. The MPs also provided only for the graded evaluation, but we are and ensure they have the resources, pro- recently took a position in law enforce- escort of officials between the SDB and ready in the event of a real emergency.” grams and information they need,” Hannah ment. October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 11 Preparedness Day event New program pairs children urges Kansans to take action with Big Brothers and Sisters By Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD lasts one year or the length of the deploy- On Oct. 12, the Kansas National Guard ment. The Guard Big/Guard Little program began working in conjunction with Big is also available to children of Guard mem- Brothers/Big Sisters to create the Guard bers who are preparing for or have recently Big/Guard Little program. This program is returned from deployment. During their geared toward the children of National commitment, the mentor coordinates three Guard Soldiers and Airmen who are to four activities a month with the child. deployed over seas. The kick-off for this “The idea is to put Guard kids with program was held at Nickell Armory in Guard members to be there for them,” said Topeka and involved organizers of various Dezaree Harding, Kansas National Guard other programs within the Guard. State Youth Coordinator. Guard Big/Guard Little is a concept that The program was conceptualized by teams up Family Readiness Groups with Harding and is starting in the Topeka and Big Brothers and Big Sisters and the surrounding areas of the state’s capitol, National Guard. Together, these and other then is expected to branch off into other organizations provide a “mentor” that communities and states around the country. might help fill a void that children may “We are starting off in a small area to feel with the absence of the deployed par- get the program off the ground, then we ent. Kansas is one of the first states in the want to go statewide once we have it all country to participate in this program. ironed out,” said Harding. “Having a family member deployed can As Guard units continue to answer the impact a number of issues at home,” said call to active duty in support of the war on Gov. Kathleen Seblius, backed by Kansas National Guardsmen and first responders Lt. Col. Scott Henry, chief of Workforce terror, programs of this nature will offer from a variety of local and state agencies and private organizations, addresses the Support for the Kansas National Guard. help to the families of Guard members in crowd at a news conference for Kansas Preparedness Day, held in Wichita on Sept. “Having only one person to handle the an effort to put some concerns of deployed 10. (Photo by 1st Lt. Alyson Stockton) everyday trials and tribulations of a house- Soldiers and Airmen at ease. By Sharon Watson have an opportunity to see what the state hold, like paying bills, making soccer To get started in the Guard Big/ Guard Unfortunately, it sometimes takes a disas- and local authorities can bring to them in a practices or other social functions on time, Little program, once a family member has ter close to home to remind us of the impor- disaster,” said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting. as well as caring for the well-being of the been ordered to active duty, the family tance of being prepared for the worst. “And we want to tell everyone about the family, becomes a very trying task for the should contact Dezaree Harding, Kansas Residents of Greensburg are just a few of importance of being prepared to sustain parent left here,” Henry continued. “This National Guard Youth Organizer (785) the Kansans who have seen some of the themselves, their families and their pets for program gives the kids a friend to talk to 364-3544. Guard members who would like worst conditions disrupt their lives in 2007. at least three days following a disaster.” who is in uniform, as the deployed parent to be considered as mentors for the chil- Tornadoes, floods, ice and snow storms have Gov. Kathleen Sebelius was among would be, to show the child and the parent dren of this program should contact changed lives and claimed lives this year, those at the Wichita event reminding that the Guard is still there for them both.” Harding or their local Family Readiness and serve as a solemn reminder of what can Kansans to prepare. Each mentor takes on a commitment that Group organizers. happen to forever impact our lives. “One of the few certainties we have in While some Kansans were prepared to this world is that emergency situations will be self-sustaining for a few days following arise for all of us at one time or another, and the disasters this year, not everyone was. we have certainly seen evidence of that this That’s why Kansas Preparedness Day and year in Kansas,” said Sebelius. “If we make Month in September serve as another plans now to meet those situations like the reminder of what everyone needs to do to Greensburg tornado, the ice storm out west protect themselves and their loved ones: and the flooding throughout the state, and to make a home disaster kit and a home practice our plans, we can lessen the impact emergency plan for the family. these kinds of events have on lives.” This year, the city of Wichita hosted “The three major Kansas disasters this Kansas Preparedness Day for the first year left record-breaking destruction in time, featuring state and local disaster several of our communities, and reminds response vehicles and equipment along us all of the need to be ready for any disas- Main Street. The Sept. 10 event included ter by having emergency supplies on hand displays of vehicles used in Greensburg, and by talking to our families about where the southeast Kansas flooding and the win- to go for help if home is not an option,” ter storms in western Kansas. Previously, said Bunting. Kansas Preparedness Day has been held in For additional information on preparing Topeka on the Capitol lawn. a home kit and emergency family plan, go “We wanted other parts of the state to to www.ready.gov or www.ksready.gov. VA Eastern Kansas Health Care

Systems honored for support Children of deployed Guard members enjoyed an evening of activities at Topeka’s Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adju- been away in a combat zone,” said Nickell Armory with volunteer Big Brothers and Big Sisters during a kick-off for the tant general, presented awards of appre- Bunting. “In those areas, the troops have “Guard Big, Guard Littles” program. (Photo by Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 105th MPAD) ciation to representatives of the VA had to adjust their mindset to one way of Eastern Kansas Health Care System for dealing with the world and now they its exemplary work in helping to reinte- have to make a readjustment to home Family Assistance Center grate Guardsmen into their homes and life again. The readjustments can be communities following long-term challenging for the family, too. Spouses deployments and for outstanding support have had to adjust to new responsibili- opening in Dodge City of the Kansas National Guard. ties and roles, and children have had The Kansas National Guard Family support to our Guard families in the Dodge Bunting made the presentations Oct. many experiences since they last saw Program is expanding its reach into western City area, any military member may seek 23, at the State Defense Building in their deployed family member and Kansas to provide additional support to help there,” said Lt. Col. Scott Henry, Topeka. Receiving the awards were Dr. learned to rely on one parent.” Guard families there. A Family Assistance Chief of Workforce Support for the Kansas Peter Almenoff, Director of Veterans “The members of the VA Eastern Center will open at the Kansas National National Guard. Integrated Service Network 15; Marie Kansas Health Care System have been Guard Armory in Dodge City, Kan., making “This addition of the Family Assistance Weldon, director, VA Eastern Kansas very proactive in helping Guardsmen it the seventh FAC in the state. Center is another recent change that the Health Care System; Warren Hill, asso- and their families make the adjustments Family Assistance Centers and Wing Kansas National Guard Family Program ciate director, VA Eastern Kansas Health when they return home,” Bunting con- Family Program Coordinators handle a Office has made to enhance support for Care System; Dr. Rick Selig, program tinued. “This is the only system in the wide variety of crisis situations for Guard military families throughout the state of director of Operation Iraqi country that sends staff out to the mili- members and their families as well as key Kansas,” said Tonya VanSickle, State Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom tary posts that the Soldiers come home essential services such as identification Family Program Director. “We recently Outreach Team, and Kathy Zima with to, be it in Kansas or another state, so cards, TRICARE (healthcare) information, launched the Guard Bigs and Guard Littles Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation they can get an early start on this financial and legal information, as well as program, a partnership with Big Brothers Enduring Freedom Outreach Team. process of readjustment and reintegra- referral to community services. and Big Sisters to provide mentors to chil- “Even though they may not show it, tion. This award is just a small token of “It’s important to point out that Family dren who have parents deployed. And the readjusting to home, family and commu- our thanks for concern they demonstrate Assistance Centers serve all military fami- Family Program Office has also expanded nity can be a difficult and stressful tran- for the welfare of our Soldiers and their lies regardless of branch of service, support and training to the family volun- sition for some Guardsmen who have families.” whether active duty, Reserve or National teers who work to support each other and Guard, so in addition to bringing more the deployed units.” Page 12 In Recognition Plains Guardian • October 2007

(AHB), Topeka Spc. Jacob MacDougall, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Awards and Decorations Staff Sgt. Dane Baker, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Spc. Charles Malloy, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Kansas Army National Guard 1st Lt. Joshua Urban, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Lance Bedore, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Paul Mason, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS 1st Lt. Jeffrey Wilson, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Shane Black, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Spc. Jason Mathis, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 2nd Lt. Ryan Bernard, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Barry Boswell, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Hammon, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Ashley McClammy, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt 108th Assault Bn, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Robert Coleman, Co A, 1st Bn, Staff Sgt. Richard Bowman, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Thomas Miller, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), BRONZE STAR MEDAL Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joel Gaston, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Derrick Bunch, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Sean Mullis, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Chief Warrant Officer 4 Eric Maxwell, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Tammy Garner, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Col. Alan Soldan, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Spc. Shelly Nixon, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Armon Pollack, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Curtis Gile, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Maj. Kurt Bruggemeyer, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Spc. Heather Raposa, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Mark Shaw, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Larry Gilmore, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Maj. Steven O’Neil, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Christopher Reynolds, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Larry Werneke, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Brandon Inman, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Maj. Mark Wisner, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Spc. Jessica Rohr, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 Timothy Brundage, Co A, 1st Bn, Staff Sgt. Kenneth Johnson, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Capt. Patrik Goss, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #3 (AHB), Topeka Spc. Ricardo Ruiz, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 Steven Hood, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Harold Kinnaman, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Capt. Jeffrey Howell, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Matthew Sharpton, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 Douglas Hoover, Co A, 1st Bn, Staff Sgt. Leo Nickel, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Capt. Matthew Jordon, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 Topeka Spc. Jeddadiah Smith, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Hammon, Co A, 1st Bn, Staff Sgt. Timothy Sullivan, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Capt. Todd Loughney, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #3 (AHB), Topeka Spc. Rocky Summers, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Brandy Nichols, Co A, 1st Bn, Staff Sgt. Shawn Walker, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Capt. John McGrann, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Derrick Taussig, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin Powers, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Staff Sgt. Leo Woosley, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Capt. Dallas McMullen, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 (AHB), Topeka Spc. Ronald Taylor, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Patrick Reynolds, Co A, 1st Bn, Sgt. Clinton Barnett, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. John Potter, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, second award, with #2 Topeka Spc. Richard Tuszkiewicz, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Cortney Rowe, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Sgt. Robert Benson, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Capt. Joseph Toepke, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Spc. Sipriano Vega, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Samuel Sutton, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Sgt. William Bisbee, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Lt. Jesse Thomas, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 Topeka Spc. Michael Vondracek, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Richard Vickers, Co A, 1st Bn, Sgt. Curtis Bowman, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka 1st Lt. Joshua Urban, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 Topeka Spc. Mark West, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Warrant Officer 1 Daniel Fogarty, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Sgt. Jennifer Butler, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Robert Coleman, Co A, 1st Bn, Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Spc. Eric Williams, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Warrant Officer 1 Christopher Willer, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Sgt. Victor Cabrera, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Eric Maxwell, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Ricardo Bonilla, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Sgt. Edward Monteith, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Albert Davis, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Armon Pollack, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Kevin Dean, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Smith, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Sgt. Benjiman Droge, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Larry Werneke, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Justin Humphrey, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. Russell Cote, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. George Dunaway, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 Steven Hood, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Brandon Malone, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. Brian Dale, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Emmanuel Farrar, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kristopher LeMaster, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Topeka Pfc. Justin Schrick, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. David James, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Thomas Fluellyn, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Brandy Nichols, Co A, 1st Bn, (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Richard Segura, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. Derron Lindsey, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Russel Gentry, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Clayton Staton, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Ralph Smith, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. Keith Smith, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Kenrick Hausler, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Command Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Topeka Topeka with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Pfc. Mathew Svovoda, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Staff Sgt. Ricky Williams, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Jacob Higgins, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Sgt. Jeffrey Arnold, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Pfc. Gregory Wagner, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Sgt. Albert Davis, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Gary Hinnant, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Sgt. John Degand, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Sgt. William Gilbert, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Vincent Hobbs, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), ARMY ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL 1st Sgt. Edward Monteith, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. Justin Kaub, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Lisa Kennington, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 1st Sgt. Craig Posch, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #3 Topeka Topeka Sgt. Shane Keene, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Dennis Lawas, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class David Bravi, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Master Sgt. Mark Seats, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. James Kristinant, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Michael Lipp, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Lonnie LaCroix, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Master Sgt. Mickie Watts, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka, with #2 Topeka (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. David Lebbin, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Wade Madden, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Wazir Mohammad, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Sgt. 1st Class Ricky Baldwin, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. Heath Martin, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Debra Maxey, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Michelle Bowman, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. 1st Class David Edington, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka, with #2 Topeka (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Terry Ralston, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Richard McGuire, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Benjamin Cash, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Paul Johnston, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. Warren Scott, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Dannylee Mersch, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Daniel Corkran, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class John Miller, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Sgt. Arlen Sybert, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Walter Miller, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Damon Guyett, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Nelson, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka, with #3 Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Thomas Bean, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Daniel Morgan, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Kenrick Hausler, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class James Nixon, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Stephen Connelly, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Shandi Penland, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Debra Maxey, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class James Peeler, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. David Coon, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Shonda Reed, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Shandi Penland, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Smith, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Topeka, with #2 Topeka Topeka Rgt (AHB), Topeka Spc. Randall Earley, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Charles Shores, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. James Silsby, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Edmond Thorne, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka, with #2 Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Gaberial Figueroa, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. James Silsby, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Amanda Zishka, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class Todd Willbanks, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Brandy Hager, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Dana Smith, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Joshua Blasi, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Lance Bedore, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Troy Hallauer, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. William Stanley, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Melanie Bohn, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Brian Dale, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Topeka Spc. Ryan Kohlman, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. David Tabon, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Stephen Brucken, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Derron Lindsey, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Seth Miller, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Benjamin Taylor, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Joleen Davis, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Staff Sgt. Michael Ritchey, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Topeka Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Bobbie Ontiverous, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Maurice Thomas, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Brent Kammen, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Joshua Latham, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Topeka Spc. Brent Schmidt, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Phillip Vanelsdorf, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Jeremy Lawrenz, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka, with #2 Topeka Topeka PURPLE HEART Spc. Brady Weissbeck, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. Joshua Ward, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Jerry Mitchell, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Sgt. Amanda Zishka, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Jessica Rohr, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Sgt. 1st Class David Edington, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt ARMY COMMENDATION MEDAL FOR VALOR Topeka Topeka (AHB), Topeka Spc. Joseph Boeckner, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Christopher Sheaffer, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Sgt. Shonda Reed, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka (AHB), Topeka Topeka Sgt. Shonda Reed, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Anthony Bowers, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Duane Snelling, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Shelly Nixon, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Topeka Sgt. Benjamin Taylor, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Stephen Burpee, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Derrick Taussig, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka AIR MEDAL FOR VALOR Spc. Joshua Bush, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Cody Taylor, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), ARMY COMMENDATION MEDAL Topeka Topeka Spc. Joleen Davis, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Pfc. Richard Faith, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kristopher LeMaster, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Topeka 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Lt. Randy Klingbeil, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Spc. Jason Drayer, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Pvt. 2 Shane Henderson, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster (AHB), Topeka AIR MEDAL 1st Lt. Kevin Lee, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Dave Fisher, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka COMBAT ACTION BADGE 1st Lt. Jeffrey Wilson, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Spc. Eric Gilbert, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Col. Alan Soldan, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 William Perry, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Spc. Michael Gilbert, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Maj. Kurt Bruggemeyer, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka 1st Lt. Joshua Urban, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Brandy Nichols, Co A, 1st Bn, Spc. Brandy Hager, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Maj. Steven O’Neil, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Robert Coleman, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin Powers, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Spc. Tracey Hall, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Maj. Mark Wisner, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 4 Armon Pollack, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Patrick Reynolds, Co A, 1st Bn, Spc. Tyler Higgs, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. Patrik Goss, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 3 Timothy Brundage, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Richard Vickers, Co A, 1st Bn, Spc. Shon Jackson, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. Matthew Jordon, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Hammon, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Master Sgt. Larry Dew, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Spc. David Kearney, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. Todd Loughney, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kristopher LeMaster, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Greggory Cochran, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Spc. Aaron Keehn, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. John McGrann, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Rgt (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin Powers, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Clinton Goheen, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Spc. Leland Larsen, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. Joseph Toepke, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Patrick Reynolds, Co A, 1st Bn, Topeka Staff Sgt. Mark Adams, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Spc. Jerry Lint, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka 1st Lt. Kevin Lee, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), (AHB), Topeka Topeka Topeka Staff Sgt. Darrell Anthony, Co E, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (Continued on Page 13) October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Kansas Air Guard hosts Armenians for disaster response training By 1st Lt. Alyson Stockton Headquarters Kansas, brings the Armenians though it’s a military asset,” Salmans said. As the ground shook from a training here for specific training events that are The Armenians attended the emergency explosion in Wichita Oct. 19, both hard to replicate or simulate in Armenia. operations center, command and disaster Kansans and Armenians put their training Training focuses on helping them to devel- medicine tracks at the exercise. Armenian into action. op their disaster response, firefighting and Rescue Service Col. Arman Avagyan said Kansas Air Guardsmen hosted four Expeditionary Medical Support System the training supplements regular courses Armenian military members and two inter- (EMEDS) capability and also on providing they attend at an Armenian training center preters for the University of Kansas disas- military expertise to make the Armenian organized through NATO. ter preparedness training exercise from military more integrated and interoperable “Any experience we take from here will Oct. 13 to Oct. 21. with their NATO allies. They even partner be very useful, particularly new procedures The training was one of 17 events the to help develop the Armenian we learned at the 911 emergency call cen- Kansas National Guard will conduct with Noncommissioned Officers Corps. ter,” Avagyan said. the Armenians this year through the “The KU training exercise was a unique Avagyan hopes to return to the United National Guard’s State Partnership opportunity because it showed how the States for training on more modern equip- Program. United States and Kansas would respond to ment and because new questions are Maj. Brent Salmans, State Partnership an emergency and demonstrated how to use always arising. He extended gratitude on Program coordinator at Joint Forces EMEDS in a civilian environment, even behalf of his group for the hospitality Kansas Guardsmen have shown. The State Partnership Program devel- 184th Intelligence Wing oped in 1993 in response to the dissolve of the United Soviet Socialist Republics. The partnership centered on military to military Capt. Tigran Tunyan, the Armenian blazes the cyber frontier relationships, moving on to civilian part- army’s EMEDS officer, familiarizes By 1st Lt. Alyson Stockton nerships. The goal for the future is to pro- himself with how the Kansas Air Guard “It all starts and ends with intel.” vide interface between Kansas and sets up the facility. (Photo by 1st Lt. Those were the words of Maj. Gen. Tod “It all starts and ends Armenian industry. Alyson Stockton) Bunting at the newly-designated 184th with intel.” “Any partnership involves exchange of Armenian Army 1st Lt. Armen Nazaryan. Intelligence Wing’s commander’s call in experience, knowledge and skills and the “We will apply our training not only in the Wichita Oct. 14. Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, application of best practices learned from Armenian military, but in emergency The 184th is entering into the cyber somewhere else, in this case, here,” said response to diasasters.” domain after 70 years of flying more than the adjutant general 13 different airframes. “The Air Force has announced cyber as Awards and Decorations Continued from Page 12 Senior Master Sgt. John Kylen, 190th ARW, Topeka a main mission area,” said Col. Glenn “The 184th Wing looks forward to Senior Master Sgt. John Thomason, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Samuel Sutton, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Master Sgt. Larry Breuninger, 190th ARW, Topeka Zimmerman, a 184th member who serves becoming the largest Intelligence Wing in Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Master Sgt. Mickel Coffin, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Warrant Officer 2 Richard Vickers, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th on the Air Force’s Cyber Task Force. the Air National Guard,” Wing Master Sgt. James Copeland, 190th ARW, Topeka Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Master Sgt. Kenneth Knox, 190th ARW, Topeka “Cyber is not going to be a little gee-whiz Commander Col. Randy Roebuck said. Staff Sgt. Brian Dale, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Master Sgt. Suzanne Mayfield, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka mission function. This is another place we And he’s pleased to see his wing lead other Master Sgt. Scott Moser, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Derron Lindsey, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt Master Sgt. Keith Payne, 190th ARW, Topeka fly, fight and win.” Air Guard units into new missions, just as (AHB), Topeka Master Sgt. Harry Rees, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. Albert Davis, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Why is cyberspace a war fighting they’ve been doing for 70 years. Master Sgt. James Root, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka Tech. Sgt. Alexander Wiley, 190th ARW, Topeka domain? Some of our greatest vulnerabilities “I want to thank you up front for being Sgt. Justin Kaub, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka and our ability to communicate and operate the most adaptable unit in the Air Force AIR FORCE COMMENDATION MEDAL Sgt. James Kristinant, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), reside within it. And, according to the com- and the Air National Guard,” Bunting told Topeka mander of the Air Force’s Air Combat 184th members at a recent commander’s Sgt. Heath Martin, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Topeka Capt. Julie Burns, 190th ARW, Topeka Command, the terrorists already know it. call. Sgt. Arlen Sybert, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Capt. Michelle Nuegent, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka “The terrorists are using cyberspace to The intelligence analysis mission will Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Aldridge, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Randall Earley, Co D, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Senior Master Sgt. Keith Fulton, 190th ARW, Topeka remotely detonate roadside bombs. impact every phase of operations from Topeka Master Sgt. Janet Dunn, 190th ARW, Topeka Spc. Gaberial Figueroa, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Terrorists use global positioning satellites planning air strikes to reducing and assess- Master Sgt. Teresa Fulton, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka Master Sgt. William Gilliland, 190th ARW, Topeka and satellite communications and use the ing collateral damage and enhancing force Spc. Brent Schmidt, Co A, 1st Bn, 108th Avn Rgt (AHB), Master Sgt. Jean Hager, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka Internet for financial transactions, radar protection. Master Sgt. Gina Hastings, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Marvin Hittle, 190th ARW, Topeka and navigation jamming, blogs, and final- In addition to the new intelligence mis- Kansas Air National Guard Master Sgt. Terry Martin, 190th ARW, Topeka ly, overt and covert attacks on our sion area, the wing will also be beefing up Master Sgt. Richard Smith, 190th ARW, Topeka MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL servers,” said Gen. Ron Keys, ACC com- its already existing cyber missions. The Master Sgt. Tracy Vanstory, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Deanna Davis, 190th ARW, Topeka mander. wing has hosted the Air National Guard’s Tech. Sgt. William Haug, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Patrick Sampson, 190th ARW, Topeka The intelligence mission will increase to Network Operations Security Center for Col. Dennis Lawlor, 190th ARW, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Anthony Snyder, 190th ARW, Topeka Col. Deborah Rose, 190th ARW, Topeka three squadrons made up of about 400 per- more than five years, but will add more Staff Sgt. David Benton, 190th ARW, Topeka Lt. Col. Kenneth Folger, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Casy Lang, 190th ARW, Topeka sonnel when fully manned. communications and information technolo- Lt. Col. Jeffrey Hedges, 190th ARW, Topeka Lt. Col. David Olsen, 190th ARW, Topeka Both military and elected leaders are gy specialists to its workforce in the infor- AIR FORCE ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL Lt. Col. Charles Vansloten, 190th ARW, Topeka excited about the new war fighting capa- mation protection area. The plan is to Lt. Col. Jeffrey Zillinger, 190th ARW, Topeka bility this brings to Kansas. Now 184th recruit information technology profession- Maj. Mark Green, 190th ARW, Topeka Maj. Shellie Harmon, 190th ARW, Topeka Lt. Col. Jarrod Frantz, 190th ARW, Topeka Guardsmen are able to directly contribute als from the local community to fill these Maj. Michelle Sweeney, 190th ARW, Topeka Maj. Daniel Skoda, 190th ARW, Topeka Maj. John Waltbillig, 190th ARW, Topeka to winning the war on terror from Wichita. vacancies. Capt. Ryan Strong, 190th ARW, Topeka Capt. Marcus Adinolfi, 190th ARW, Topeka 1st Lt. Kevin Cline, 190th ARW, Topeka “This important new mission expansion “We can bring—through our traditional Chief Master Sgt. Teresa Blanchard, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Master Sgt. Steven Nelson, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Hugh Buchtel, 190th ARW, Topeka is recognition by the Pentagon that the workforce—an expertise that simply does- Master Sgt. Peggy Becker, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Michael Luck, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Jeff Johansen, 190th ARW, Topeka 184th plays a significant role in our nation- n’t exist anywhere else,” Zimmerman said. Chief Master Sgt. Les Money, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Mark Moulden, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Gary Wadley, 190th ARW, Topeka al defense. In this day and time in which Intelligence is at the beginning and end Master Sgt. Dustin Nichols, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Robert Wilhelm, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. David Tomczek, 190th ARW, Topeka we live, it is imperative that our intelli- of every military operation, and for the Senior Master Sgt. Jeff Appenfeller, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Heather Copeland, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Bullington, 190th ARW, Topeka gence units are functioning at the highest 184th Intelligence Wing, this is an exciting Staff Sgt. Benjamin Webb, 190th ARW, Topeka capacity,” said Congressman Todd Tiahrt. new beginning. We Remember... Kansas Army National Guard, Retirements where he was assigned to Staff Sgt. Cory D. Sanchez Headquarters and Headquarters Kansas Army National Guard Pfc. Michael Hull, 137th Trans Co (-), Olathe Battery, 1st Battalion, 127th Field Pvt. 1 Loren Mead III, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Staff Sgt. Cory D. Sanchez, 26, Col. Robert Staiert, HHD, 635th Support Group, Garden City, died June 12, 2007. Artillery, Ottawa. Hutchinson Kansas Air National Guard He retired with over 20 years of Maj. Jeffrey Heinrich, HHC, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth He was born March 3, 1981. Capt. Darryl Duncan, HHD, 169th CSSB, Olathe Lt. Col. Jeffrey Hedges, 190th ARW, Topeka Sanchez was a member of the service. Capt. Steven Grisham, HHC, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth Lt. Col. Anthony J. Mahoney, 184th ARW, Wichita Retired 1st Sgt. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Newton Webber, HQ, 235th Rgt Maj. Dale A. Cope, 184th ARW, Wichita Kansas Army National Guard, (RTI), Salina 1st Lt. Adam J. Steichen, 184th ARW, Wichita where he was a training noncom- William A. Fleming Master Sgt. Donald Marchant, 287th Sustainment Bde, Chief Master Sgt. Hugh Buchtel, 190th ARW, Topeka Retired 1st Sgt. William A. Wichita Senior Master Sgt. Robert D. Anderson, 184th ARW, missioned officer and fire direc- Master Sgt. Kimberly Wendel, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Wichita tion section chief assigned to Fleming, 70, LaCygne, died Aug. Sgt. 1st Class Robert Coble, 226th Eng Co, Augusta Master Sgt. Angel D. Acosta, 184th ARW, Wichita 19, 2007. Sgt. 1st Class Shane Garner, Reg Trng Site-Maint, Salina Master Sgt. Chris A. Bernhardt, 184th ARW, Wichita Detachment 1, Battery A, 1st Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Jones, R&R Cmd, Topeka Master Sgt. Patrick D. Engstrom, 184th ARW, Wichita Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, He was born April 5, 1937 at Sgt. 1st Class Martin Martinson, HHS (-), 2nd Bn, 130th Master Sgt. Clay Hickman, 184th ARW, Wichita Amoret, Mo. FA, Hiawatha Master Sgt. Jennifer L. Kaup, 184th ARW, Wichita Garden City. Staff Sgt. Leon Everhart Jr., Btry E (TA), 161st FA, Great Master Sgt. Brian Kinderknecht, 184th ARW, Wichita Retired Maj. Fleming was a member of the Bend Master Sgt. Daniel L. Lovell, 184th ARW, Wichita Kansas Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Daren Johnson, Det 1, Btry A, 2nd Bn, 130th Master Sgt. Leslie D. Mayeux, 184th ARW, Wichita Rayford D. Blevins FA, Concordia Master Sgt. Donald J. Nolen, 184th ARW, Wichita Retired Maj. Rayford D. where he was a field artillery Staff Sgt. Robert Kern Jr., 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Master Sgt. Carlos R Ortiz, 184th ARW, Wichita senior sergeant assigned to Staff Sgt. Richard Mason, Det 1, 250th FSC, Burlington Master Sgt. Jay Seaman, 190th ARW, Topeka Blevins, 72, Pittsburg, died Aug. Staff Sgt. Ronald McMechan, Det 1, HHS, 2nd Bn, 130th Master Sgt. Steve C. Swiercinsky, 184th ARW, Wichita 19, 2007. Battery B (-), 1st Battalion, 127th FA, Ottawa Master Sgt. Marcus L. Thompson, 184th ARW, Wichita Field Artillery, Pleasanton. Staff Sgt. Kim Stroud, Det 4, 170th Maint Co, Clay Center Master Sgt. Dean S. Tuinstra, 184th ARW, Wichita He was born Sept. 9, 1934, at Sgt. Michael Ligon, Det 2, 778th Trans Co, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Alan B. Arsenault, 184th ARW, Wichita Sweetwater, Okla. He retired with over 26 years of Sgt. Dale Mills, Det 2, 250th FSC, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Kevin A. Boddy, 184th ARW, Wichita service. Spc. Dennis Green, Det 1, Btry C, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Tech. Sgt. Thomas R. Dawson, 184th ARW, Wichita Blevins was a member of the Salina Tech. Sgt. Stephen J. Navrotsky, 184th ARW, Wichita Page 14 Plains Guardian • October 2007 184th’s Flying Jayhawks 184th, civilian partnership make final squadron sortie ramps up medics’ training By 1st Lt. Alyson Stockton less than two weeks I benefited greatly. It Thanks to a partnership with Wichita’s prepared me and gave me the confidence Galichia Heart Hospital, the 184th Medical to jump in and volunteer on tasks needed Group has become a shining example of around the hospital here. the Wing’s vision: Airmen prepared to The military training we do every drill serve their state and country at a moment’s has definitely played a role here. The notice. importance of military training is some- Their training has helped them to thing I will stress on because it involves improve readiness, develop professionally war-time injuries, sensitivity to patients’ and exceed standards within the military emotions and Geneva Conventions, in medical profession. addition to understanding triage. Both Lt. Col. Joel Erskin, 184th MDG com- training opportunities work hand in hand mander, said the squadron partnership will over here. continue indefinitely, as long as Galichia is Jayhawk Flyer: What do your daily willing to support it. His goal is for all 72 duties include? members of his squadron to participate in Carpenter: My daily duties varied on a the training. day-to-day basis, depending on the Senior Airman Ashley Carpenter patients’ injuries. I would do daily care to received training at Galichia before her patients, from bed baths to helping patients deployment in support of Operation Iraqi turn in bed. I also do vein punctures, lab Freedom. She is one of five 184th medical draws, glucose checks, and IVs. I help out technicians serving in Iraq, assigned to the with feeding tubes, nasogastric tubes, mea- 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group’s suring wound vacs, measuring chest tubes, “Tuskegee Medics.” She’s found that the measuring JP drains and taking isolation Galichia training was a helpful supplement precautions. I help patients with gunshot Tech. Sgt. Mike Shields, 184th Air Refueling Wing Maintenance Squadron, watches to her three years’ experience as a medical wounds and improvised explosive device in the foreground with other Kansas Air National Guardsmen as the final KC-135 technician. blasts to lower extremities move around sortie departs McConnell Air Force Base. (Photo by Master Sgt. Conrad Youngblom) “Galichia definitely refreshed me on and walk again. By Maj. DeAnn Barr way behind, deteriorate and vanish. So patient care needed in a hospital, but noth- Also, I help pack wounds, irrigate After 66 years of supporting a flying much is happening that is high tech, we ing can emotionally prepare you for what wounds, do dressing changes, burn care, mission, the Kansas Air National Guard need to keep up with that.” you really do here,” she said. pin care and ileostomy care. 184th Air Refueling Wing, the Flying The final sortie was flown by senior Carpenter granted an e-mail interview Jayhawk Flyer: Do you have a medical Jayhawks, celebrated their final squadron squadron members, many of whom were from Iraq to elaborate on some of the ben- civilian job that also helped prepare you sortie in early September. flying their final flights in the military. efits of this supplemental training. for this deployment? In a ceremony heavily attended by past Chief Master Sgt. Bill Stacey, chief boom Jayhawk Flyer: What did your training Carpenter: No, the only medical and present unit members, Brig. Gen. operator, has over 3,000 hours in the KC- at Galichia involve, and how did it compare schooling I have is through the Air Force Edward Flora, commander of the Kansas 135, and was reflective as he prepared for with the Air Force training you’d gotten? tech school. Air Guard and former 184th Wing com- his final flight. Carpenter: Galichia involved the train- Jayhawk Flyer: Are you there with mander, spoke of the sentiments that were “Today is kind of a sad day. Being a ing I needed to do one-on-one patient care other 184th members? on the hearts of the assembled Jayhawks. boom operator is one of the best enlisted and complete my assigned mission. Before Carpenter: I am here with other 184th “It’s a tough day today for Jayhawks,” jobs – if you can get – and I’m going to coming to Iraq, I had not worked in a hos- members. They were here before me and I said Flora, “but also a day of promise, miss the whole mission.” pital for about three years. Galichia gave met them here. They are Master Sgt. because the people in this room will make Master Sgt. Steve Albers was also a me the opportunity to refresh the skills I Russell Sims, Tech Sgt. Joshua Wiser, the future of the 184th bright.” boom operator on the final flight, and will needed to take care of the American troops Staff Sgt. Derick Tibbetts, and Tech. Sgt. Change is not new to this unit, which as continue flying with an overseas deploy- and Iraqi people. I performed IVs, Foleys James Gregg. recently as 2002 underwent a unit conver- ment before moving onto his next job. (catheters), subcutaneous shots, helped Jayhawk Flyer: Do you feel that the sion from the B-1 bomber to the KC-135 “This last flight with the 184th is the with feeding tubes, blood transfusions, partnership with civilian hospitals could be Stratotanker. The 184th has been an opera- end of an exciting era. I’m looking for- vital signs, basic care and communication beneficial to other military members? tional flying unit since 1941, and regardless ward to writing the next chapter in my with the patients. Carpenter: Absolutely, because of the airframe flown at the time, has won life,” said Albers. While I have been in Iraq I have used all although the hospitals in the civilian and seven Outstanding Unit awards and a host of While the unit lost its flying mission due that I was refreshed on at Galichia and military sectors are on different levels, Air National Guard awards for excellence. to the last Base Realignment and Closure more. For only working at Galichia for they definitely play a role together. Retired Chief Master Sgt. Bernie Commission, its overall strength is grow- Carbon, a former Jayhawk as well as for- ing in the area of intelligence and other Medical help to Armenians mer Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Air new mission areas related to the war on National Guard, thought the occasion wor- terror. 184th Wing Commander Col. Continued from Page 10 standing and interoperability. thy of celebration. Randy Roebuck is certain the Jayhawks to help and have such a significant impact “Working in concert together provided “I think the changes in the missions are are up to the challenge. on some of the villagers. an opportunity for comparing standards of in keeping with the times,” said the 1987 “We continue to train a new generation “It was great to see the older folks and care, treatment models, and a discussion of retiree with 44 years of total service. “If of Fighting Jayhawks to be the best and younger children, who have never had differences,” said Riblett. you don’t keep up, you’re going to fall push the envelope,” said Roebuck. glasses, try on a pair and get this surprised There was time during the mission to look and smile on their face, because now visit and experience the Armenian people, they were finally able to see,” said Hof. land, and culture. Nominations open for Employer Contact with Americans in the region is “I have been fortunate to have traveled to limited, especially visits by U.S. military many places all over the world and Armenia Support Freedom Award personnel. “We were informed that in was one of the most beautiful countries I some of the areas where we would be have ever been to,” Trevino said. The Department of Defense has shares these citizen warriors with their working, we might be the first Americans Kansas was officially matched with opened nominations for the 2008 civilian employers, many of whom pro- that these people would meet,” said Armenia during the fall of 2002 through Secretary of Defense Employer Support vide significant support to their employ- Trevino. “So it was vital to leave them the State Partnership Program (SPP). Key Freedom Award. National Guard and ees who serve in the National Guard and with a good impression. When patients areas of cooperation between Kansas and Reserve members and their families are Reserve. Past recipients of the Freedom first began arriving at the clinic, they were Armenia include peacekeeping operations, eligible and encouraged to nominate Award have provided full salary, contin- quiet and a little unsure. By the end of the medical, disaster response, and education. employers who have gone above and uation of benefits, care packages and day, they were smiling and wishing us well Although the foundation of the program is beyond in their support of military even home and lawn care to families of as they left without a toothache or with a based on military-to-military cooperation, employees. Nominations will be accept- employees fulfilling their military oblig- new pair of eyeglasses.” the partnership includes military-to-civil- ed at www.esgr.mil until Jan. 21, 2008. ation. Military involvement in a humanitarian ian, and civilian-to-civilian exchanges. The Secretary of Defense Employer The Freedom Award was instituted in medical mission was an unexpected role The State Partnership Program links Support Freedom Award is the U.S. gov- 1996 under the auspices of the National for some people. A Peace Corps volunteer National Guard states and territories with ernment’s highest recognition given to Committee for Employer Support of the assisting the team as a translator was sur- partner countries for the purpose of fostering outstanding employers. Guard and Reserve (ESGR) to recognize prised to see the military in her remote vil- mutual interests and establishing long-term The 2008 recipients will be announced exceptional support from the employer lage of Tatev. relationships across all levels of society. in the spring and honored in community. “She was even more surprised to learn Development of economic, political, and Washington, D.C. at the 13th annual ESGR is a Department of Defense that we were in the Guard. She had no idea military ties between the states and partner Secretary of Defense Employer Support agency established to gain and maintain the active duty military performs humani- nations is encouraged by the program. The Freedom Award ceremony on Sept. 18, employer support for Guard and Reserve tarian missions, let alone the Air National National Guard functions as a role model in 2008. service by recognizing outstanding sup- Guard,” said Trevino. demonstrating how a military organization Almost one-half of the U.S. military is port, increasing awareness of the law, In addition to providing needed basic can interact with the citizens and their gov- comprised of the National Guard and and resolving conflicts through informal medical care, the Armenian and American ernment while reinforcing the concept that Reserve. The Department of Defense mediation. participants exchanged information and the military force of a nation is subordinate learned from each other, increasing under- to that nation’s civil authorities. October 2007 • Plains Guardian Page 15 Motorcycle safety classes 190th Air Refueling Wing Medical Group returns from Iraq serve Army and Air riders By 1st Lt. Joe Blubaugh 190th members also had the almost daily By Staff Sgt. Emily Alley Foundation. Eleven members of the 190th Air reminders of the violence prevalent in Iraq. As motorcycles become more popular “We’re the only military installation that Refueling Wing Medical Group recently Hanson said the base the hospital was Kansas National Guard members need to I know of that gives motorcycle driver’s deployed to Balad, Iraq, to provide patient located at was shelled by mortars approxi- be aware that there are requirements that licenses for going through the class,” said care in the Expeditionary Medical System mately twice a week. “In the time we were must be met to ride. Master Sgt. Jeff Johansen, who is a hospital located there. Nine Coyotes have there, there were also three stray bullets On Oct. 10, the 190th Air Refueling Motorcycle Safety Foundation certified returned, while two remain in Iraq. that entered the hospital,” she said. Wing safety office held an additional riding coach. Johansen taught the class The deployment, originally scheduled Despite the dangers, Capt. Phil Stadler, motorcycle safety class on base to accom- with Master Sgt. William Mick. for 41 days, turned into 60 days when the 190th Medical Services Corps Officer, said modate several Kansas Army Guardsmen. The Kansas Army National Guard has 190th was asked to deploy early to provide “the base was relatively safe.” Motorcycle safety training, certified by begun work to emulate the 190th ARW’s overlap for the team they were replacing. Master Sgt. Scott Mick, who served in the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, is motorcycle safety program. The Airmen were also asked to stay longer the ICU ward, was a firsthand witness to required for all riders on military installa- “We are in the process of recruiting than scheduled to facilitate moving the the violence of the war. During one of his tions. Over the past year, the 190th ARW Army National Guard personnel to take hospital from tents to a hardened facility. shifts, an American service member that has trained 29 Army Guardsmen, said the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider While deployed, 190th members were had been injured by an IED passed away Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen C. Rodina. Coach course,” said Rodina. “We intend assigned to the intensive care unit, lab and in the ICU. After a prayer by the chaplain, “We do it because it’s directed,” said on adding these instructors to the 190th patient wards. There were three ICUs and Mick and other medical staff members Chief Master Sgt. Dena Swisher, 190th ARW motorcycle safety program to make wards in the hospital — one for American carefully draped an American flag over the ARW ground safety manager. this a truly joint enterprise and to take personnel, one for Iraqi military and one Soldier. As the Soldier was wheeled out of The training has been mandatory since some of the strain off the Wing instruc- for Iraqi nationals, which included the ICU, the room was called to attention 1996, when the amount of motorcycle tors.” detainees in need of medical care. and the order of present arms was given. accidents spiked, she said. Before that, it Johansen and Mick are eager to work According to Lt. Col. Janet Hanson, “As time permitted, each member of the was only recommended. with the additional instructors in a joint detainees in the hospital presented a staff sat down and dealt with it in their The directive was emphasized this year, program. They suggest it would also be unique set of challenges. own way,” said Mick. “I was not prepared when Maj. Gen. Tod M. Bunting, the adju- beneficial for the Army to provide addi- “The whole time the detainees were in to do that particular task when I deployed. tant general, sent a memorandum to tional training facilities in other areas of the facility, they had to be blindfolded and It was an honor to be a part of it, even Kansas National Guard units. The memo- the state. Although Topeka is an easily restrained and they always had to have a though the circumstance was heart- randum clarified the Kansas National accessible location, instructors would be guard with them,” she said. “This was not wrenching.” Guard motorcycle policies, including the able to come to the class, instead of requir- only for the safety of the medical teams, but In all, Hanson said the deployment was mandatory motorcycle safety course and ing all members to commute. Mick sug- also for the safety of the Iraqi nationals that as positive an experience as it could be, riding gear. gests Army Guard units open facilities in were receiving treatment at the hospital.” given the situation. Stadler added that it Lt. Col. Christopher Gnagi, 190th ARW Salina or Hutchinson for the convenience In addition to the fast pace of the facility was “a million dollar experience you chief of safety, said the 190th ARW has of military members from those areas. and working in and around detainees, wouldn’t pay a dime for.” maintained an outstanding motorcycle “The Army is spread across the state, safety program, even before the directive. while the Air Force is concentrated in “We’ve gone above and beyond the Topeka and Wichita,” Mick said. requirements by becoming certified by the “The bottom line is they have to get this state,” said Swisher. training, regardless of who teaches it,” said What makes the 190th ARW’s program Johansen. unique is its direct affiliation with the Anyone who holds a military ID, includ- Kansas Division of Motor Vehicles, she ing retirees and dependents, are eligible for said. Students who complete the motor the class. safety program with the 190th ARW are “Everybody in that class is there to eligible for a Class M driver’s license and ride,” said Johansen. “It’s not about rank are certified through the Motorcycle Safety or branch.”

Eleven members of the 190th Air Refueling Wing Medical Group worked out of this Expeditionary Medical Support System hospital in Balad, Iraq, during a 60 day deployment earlier this year. (Photo by provided) Fitness trail opens at Forbes By 1st Lt. Joe Blubaugh cost of the trail is estimated to be less 190th members looking for a safe than $10,000 when finished. “We were place to run or walk on base now have a also able to get some very valuable train- new option. The 190th Civil Engineering ing for our engineering and design (CE) Squadron is putting the finishing teams,” said Green. touches on a fitness trail, located south- The project also provided another east of the headquarters building. opportunity to build relationships with our The fitness trail, which was designed Army counterparts. “The 891st (Engineer and built exclusively by CE, is made of Battalion) let us borrow a 10-ton vibrating recycled concrete and asphalt and cov- drum roller, which helped keep our costs Master Sgt. Jeff Johansen demonstrates safety techniques during a motorcycle safe- ered by a limestone surface. “We adopted down, as well,” said Green. ty class recently held at Forbes Field. (Photo provided) a limestone screening process that is Maj. Doug Chase, 190th being used on a large number of new Environmental Officer, was able to civilian trails,” said Maj. Mark Green, secure a $5,500 National Public Lands Explosions add realism 190th Engineering Officer and Project Day grant to plant native grasses and Continued from Page 1 designed the exercise, incorporated this Engineer for the trail. “It is a more for- wildflowers along the trail. “This is first preparedness and responsiveness.” aspect to teach first responders the impor- giving surface for your body and easier and foremost a fitness trail,” said Chase, A unique aspect of this exercise involved tance of looking for signs of additional on your knees.” “but we also want it to be a demonstra- several days of classroom and hands on explosions when they arrive on the scene The trail is the result of a 190th tion of native plants in Kansas.” The training starting Sat. Oct. 13, preparing par- of such an event. Facility User Board recommendation and 190th was one of just 39 locations to ticipants for the Friday disaster drill which “We’re really proud of how everyone Base Safety’s long-standing desire for a receive the grant this year. went on through the night and into Saturday worked together to make this event possi- safer place for members to walk and run. There is more work planned in the to provide a more realistic training. Training ble including the city of Wichita and “One of the first issue’s brought to my future for the trail, including a concrete included ten profession-specific tracks such Sedgwick County,” Grube said. “We’ll be attention as Chief of Safety by those who trail that will be constructed to connect as emergency operations center, incident looking for grants and other funding exercise regularly was the need and the trail to the fitness center as well as command, law enforcement, fire, public opportunities to provide additional exercis- desire for a dedicated and safe walking distance markers so folks can keep track health, and public information. es like this in the future.” track,” said Lt. Col. Chris Gnagi, Chief of their miles. Unlike real events this year in Kansas, The University of Kansas is working of Safety for the 190th ARW. “Eventually, we also want to include the scenario provided an opportunity for with the Kansas National Guard on a pos- Because the trail was designed and physical fitness stations and a stretching responders to be involved in a disaster sible disaster exercise in Topeka in 2008 constructed by 190th members with a location,” said Green. “We think people caused by terrorists. Rescue Training which could incorporate aspects of the dis- large sum of recycled materials, the total are really going to like it.” Associates, a Florida-based company that aster exercise in Wichita. Page 16 Plains Guardian • October 2007 35th Division honored at Kansas Speedway event By Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes Brigade (STB) in Blue Springs, Mo. The National Guard Racing Team Qualifying rounds for the Yellow arrived in a big way at the Kansas Transportation 300 lasted until 1 p.m. The Speedway in Kansas City, Kan., Sept. 29 National Guard car started the race in the as race car driver Casey Mears, the 35th ninth position. Infantry Division patch featured promi- Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, division nently on his jumpsuit, drove the National commander; Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Guard GMAC Chevrolet Monte Carlo #24 Taylor, division sergeant major; Spc. in the Yellow Transportation 300 Busch Christopher Harris and Spc. Amy Pelsor Series race. toured the inside of the car transport trail- Thirty-three Soldiers from the 35th ID er. Harris is with the 35th STB in St. gathered at the National Guard Bureau Joseph, Mo. Pelsor is with the Intelligence GMAC tour bus parked amongst a display Section of the 35th ID in Kansas City, Mo. of Kansas National Guard vehicles, includ- Mears spoke to Soldiers from the 35th ing a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, in the ID and then autographed the die cast cars parking lot of Cabela’s, east of the for the Soldiers. Speedway. The display also included Master Sgt. David Miller, 35th ID plans Mears’ National Guard Chevrolet #25 car, section, was excited for the opportunity to Mears’ Nextel Cup Series car. take part in the race day events. “This is Soldiers participating in the day’s events my first time doing something like this. were able to sit in the NGB tent in the I’m a huge NASCAR fan,” Miller said. Hospitality Village, where they could see Pierson and Taylor presented Mears with the entire raceway. Soldiers also received a a commanding general’s coin and Mears souvenir bag that included a 35th ID ball reciprocated by presenting one of his coins cap, a red T-shirt emblazoned with a pic- to Pierson. The 35th Infantry Division patch marked the hood of the National Guard GMAC ture of the National Guard GMAC #24 “This race is a great opportunity for the Chevrolet #24 for the Sept. 29 Yellow Transportation 300 Busch Series race at the Chevrolet above the 35th ID insignia and a National Guard, for Soldiers to be seen in Kansas Speedway. (Photograph by Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes) die-cast National Guard GMAC #24 deco- uniform,” Pierson said during lunch at the rated to honor the 35th ID. hospitality village. ters, watched the finish of the Nextel Cup Mears in the 35th ID National Guard “I’ve never been to a NASCAR race “There are plenty of down home Series final practice for drivers participat- GMAC Chevrolet #24 finished third before,” said Spc. Robert Gilmore before American folks at this event who appreci- ing in the LifeLock 400 the next day. behind drivers Matt Kenseth in the Arby’s the race. “It’s awesome and should be a ate what we do,” Taylor said. “They appre- “This is my first race. I’m not a huge Ford #17 and the winner Kyle Busch in good experience. I expect to take plenty of ciate our service. I have never had so fan, but I’ll watch it on TV. I’m thrilled to the Spectricide/Lowes Chevrolet #5. pictures. I’m looking forward to going to the many people thank us for our service.” be here,” said Foster. “I did not realize [the Despite the third place finish, it was a pit lane, definitely one for the photo album.” Following lunch, Pfc. Amber Barber and race] was so big of a spectacle.” good day at a good race for new and old Gilmore is a member of the Detachment Pfc. Alan Foster, from the judge advocate “I married into it [NASCAR],” said NASCAR fans in the 35th ID. 1, Company A of the 35th Special Troops general’s section of the 35th ID headquar- Barber. “I watch the races with my hus- Three 35th ID Soldiers were treated to a band and his family.” repeat experience the following day for the The Soldiers had pit passes and were Nextel Race. Armed with pit passes, able to line up with the National Guard Foster, Harris, and Pelsor watched Mears Racing Team for the National Anthem race to a fourth place finish in the National before the 3:30 p.m. start of the Yellow Guard GMAC Chevrolet #25 at the Transportation 300. Lifelock 400. Joint State Conference in April Three National Guard organizations will Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting will deliver a team up in April to present the Joint State State of the Guard presentation on Saturday, Conference in Topeka, April 11-13 at the April 11. On Sunday, a Memorial Service Ramada Inn downtown. and Family Awards breakfast will be held. The National Guard Association of A golf tournament and clay shoot are Kansas, Kansas National Guard Family planned for Friday. Childcare will be pro- Program’s Office and the Employer Support vided during the conference in conjunction of the Guard and Reserve office will all par- with youth program activities. ticipate in the conference. National Guard More information will be available at officers may attend Officer Professional www.kansas.gov/ksadjutantgeneral and Development during the conference. http://ngaks.org/.

Casey Mears autographs a die-cast model of his racing car for Master Sgt. David Miller. Mears drives the National Guard GMAC Chevrolet #24. Miller is with the plans section of the 35th Infantry Division at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. (Photograph by Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes)

Parents contribute to guidebook P A I D PRSRT STD PRSRT U.S. Postage Permit No. 1

By Sgt. 1st Class Tommie Cleveland, interested in contributing to the book. Augusta, Kansas UPAR “The response from the families of the The parents of several members of the 731st was great,” said Sanders. “There are 731st Medium Truck Company contributed pictures on the front of the guidebook of to a guidebook for parents of deployed two Soldiers from the 731st with their par- Soldiers. ents. And inside are quotes from numerous The guidebook, “Our Sons Our parents of Soldiers from the 731st. My Daughters A National Guard Parent’s families were really excited about this. I Guide to Deployment,” by Paula Sumrall, am very proud of the participation that the is a new resource available to Guardsmen families of the 731st showed in helping and their families. The book covers numer- make this nationally published guidebook ous topics, from a predeployment checklist a reality. It will be a great resource for to humorous stories from their children Soldiers’ parents for many years to come.” overseas. There are chapters on emergency Quoted in the book are Regena notification, Employer Support of the Hommertzheim, mother of Pfc. Ashlee Guard and Reserve and Post Traumatic Hommertzheim; retired Chief Warrant Stress Disorder. Officer 4 Ronald Mullinax, father of 1st Sumrall is the Transition Assistance Lt. Mark Mullinax; Bonita Mead, mother Advisor at the National Guard Bureau and of Sgt. Terry Mead and Sgt. Jerry Mead wife of Maj. Gen. Michael H. Sumrall, and grandmother of Spc. Cassie Mead Blvd. 2800 Topeka OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL Adjutant General of Kansas

Assistant to the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of (Arkansas National Guard), and Anita Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka, Penalty For Private Use, $300

Staff for National Guard Matters. Rhodes, mother of Sgt. Brian Dear. ARMY THE OF DEPARTMENT Stacy Sanders, 731st Family Readiness The guidebook is available on the KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL Group coordinator, says that she has been in National Guard Web site. Sumrall is also communication with Sumrall since March. planning an updated version and is looking AND AIR OF THE ARMY FORCE DEPARTMENT Sumrall asked for names and email address- for contributions from families of es of parents of Guardsmen who would be Guardsmen.