MILESTONES

Retirements

123rd Airlift , Kentucky , Louisville, Ky. Vol. XVII, No. 3 ¥ April 7, 2001 Air Guard delivers on Bosnia mission KyANG supports Operation Joint Forge while being inspected

By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor Chief Master Sgt. Bobbie Brawner of the 123rd Maintenance Squadron also received an MSM during the retirement cer- RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany— emony March 3. Brawner spent more than 26 years in the Members of the Kentucky Air Guard joined KyANG. forces with another Air Guard unit and ac- Col. Bill Leslie awards Chief Master Sgt. Michael tive duty troops here in December to fly Geoghegan of the 123rd Medical Squadron the Meritori- supplies to multinational peacekeepers in ous Service Medal during a March 3 retirement ceremony KyANG Photos by Bosnia as part of Operation Joint Forge. held on the flightline. Geoghegan served more than 24 Aircrews, maintainers and support per- years in the KyANG. Tech. Sgt. Mark Rines sonnel from ’s and Kentucky’s 123rd Airlift Wing supported the operation through March 4, when they were 123rd Airlift Wing replaced by personnel from other Air Public Affairs Office Guard and active-duty units. Kentucky Air National Guard During the deployment, KyANG crews 1101 Grade Lane flew more than 150 sorties, delivering ap- Louisville, KY 40213-2678 proximately 2,500 passengers and 410 tons of cargo throughout Europe. OFFICIAL BUSINESS Both Air Guard units also participated in a three-day Expeditionary Operational Readiness Inspection to evaluate their mis- sion readiness. The Ohio and Kentucky airmen began ar- riving at Ramstein in early December to work alongside their active-duty counter- parts from Pope Air Force Base, N.C. The Pope contingent packed up Feb. 17, however, leaving operations to the Ohio- Kentucky team. Such intermingling of active-duty and Air Guard members is now the norm around the world, said Lt. Col. Mark L. Stephens, a pi- lot in the Ohio Air Guard and the commander Photos by 1st Lt. Dale Greer of Delta Squadron, also known as the 38th TOP: Delta Squadron members load cargo on a C-130 Hercules Ramstein Air Base in Airlift Squadron (Provisional). support of Operation Joint Forge. “The concept of the Air Guard as ‘week- BOTTOM: A Kentucky Air National Guard C-130 taxies into Ramstein following an end warriors’ is no longer accurate in today’s airlift sortie.

EORI results Air Force,” Stephens said. Stephens said two factors are driving the “The Total Force is definitely a reality, • SEE STORY, PAGE 4. particularly since Desert Storm.” See BOSNIA, page 4 The Cargo Courier, 8 April 7, 2001 COMMANDER’S CALL AIR FORCE NEWS Wing focuses on being powerful, harmonious National Guard remembers fallen airmen eedless to say it is great disagree it is alright as long as the disagree- By Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Wedeking the entire country. service with a rendition of “Amazing to be back! There is no ment is based on fact, or an honest opinion. Public Affairs “Today, we come together in this magnifi- Grace,” the crowd flowed outside to watch other job I would rather Honesty brings trust and without trust true cent church to remember and to honor good four Air National Guard F-16 N have than to serve as the communication does not happen. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.—Tears and men who lost their lives doing something Fighting Falcons from Richmond's 192nd Commander of this unit. “Harmonious” also means that everyone tributes punctuated three memorial services they believed in to their core—serving their Fighter Wing roar over the church. A single To have the opportu- in the 123rd feels comfortable and a real in Virginia and Florida, held March 10 and country, their state and their communities," fighter peeled off in the “missing man” for- nity to lead this great organization once is a part of the wing. This means embracing all 11, that honored 21 members of the National Gilmore said. mation. great honor, and to get to do it a second time members regardless of gender, race or reli- Guard who perished in a March 3 military “The pain of this tragic loss has touched Friends of the deceased airmen ex- is more than I can stand. gion. If one person feels left out because of airplane crash in rural Georgia. far more than communities in Virginia, pressed the hope that the memorial services My most important task as Commander their gender or color of skin, we have failed Governors from both states in which the Florida, North Carolina and Georgia.It has will start of the healing process for the thou- is to define, and communicate what we want to achieve our vision. units are located, personally offered their touched the nation.” sands of people who are still feeling the the 123rd Airlift Wing to be. Management This unit is a reflection of our commu- condolences. Letters, including one from Families also heard messages of condo- pain. gurus call this setting the vision for the or- nity and we should mirror community de- President George W. Bush, a former Texas lence from the nation’s leaders, including two Other dignitaries included Virginia U.S. ganization. Those of you who have been mographics if we are to recruit and retain Air National Guard fighter pilot, were read letters read by Ad- Sen. John Warner, Deputy Secretary of De- around for a few years have heard it before; into the 21st century. to those who mourned. jutant General Brig. Gen. Claude A. Will- fense Paul Wolfowitz and Gen. Michael but I think it is important to define and com- It is a given that the 123rd is a military An estimated 4,000 family members, iams, who hosted the service. Ryan, U.S. Air Force chief of staff. Lt. Gen. municate it again. organization; but I included it in our vision friends, military people and other dignitar- “We mourn together with their loss,” Wil- Russell Davis, chief of the National Guard The vision for the 123rd is simply this: statement because it is central to what we ies poured into the cavernous Rock Church liams read from Bush's letter. “They personi- Bureau, and Maj. Gen. Paul Weaver Jr., di- “A powerful, harmonious military orga- do. Not long ago the military aspect of the in Virginia Beach, Va., on March 10 to pay fied the term ‘citizen-soldier.’” rector of the Air National Guard, also at- nization, comprised of proud citizens, dedi- Col. Michael Harden ANG was downplayed because our society their respects. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld tended. 123rd Airlift Wing Commander cated to the profession of arms, prepared to was going in a different direction. We talked Nearly 1,000 attended services March 11 stated in a letter to the families that the citi- Every branch of the U.S. armed forces successfully wage war, and provide world about acting like a business, had gatherings in airplane hangars in Lakeland and Jack- zen-airmen and soldiers would be remem- was represented. class service to community, state and na- we decide to dedicate ourselves to be the best instead of formations, and generally sonville, Fla. bered. “These were true patriots serving our Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki tion.” that we can be. We must constantly strive to downplayed the idea that we were a mili- The 18 Air National Guard civil engineers country,” he said. “Their contributions will said all service leaders were genuinely con- This is a short and simple statement of take care of business and have our “stuff to- tary organization. People join the 123rd be- from Virginia’s 203rd RED HORSE Engi- not be forgotten.” cerned for the families and troops. what each member of the Thoroughbred gether” if we are to have the immediate cred- cause they like the military, and they want neering Flight and the three Army Guard During the 90-minute Virginia memorial, Three pairs of Army boots and camou- Express should want to make this wing be- ibility necessary to become “powerful.” to do military things. aviators from Florida’s 1st Battalion, 171st families viewed poster-sized photographs of flage helmets were prominently displayed come. Because I want everyone in the wing “Harmonious” simply put, means that ev- We must always strive to honor our mili- Aviation C-23 Sherpa detachment were re- their loved ones. Red baseball caps bearing next to memorials for the 18 Air Guard to fully understand this vision; this column eryone is in tune with each other. For the tary traditions and responsibilities. People membered at all three services. the 203rd RED HORSE Engineering Flight members at Virginia Beach. over the next several months will break it 123rd, it should be in everything that we do, may join the unit for the educational ben- The Army Guard flight crew was trans- logo and personal items were also on dis- In Jacksonville, Gov. Jeb Bush compared down into its various parts and explain what and be aimed at achieving our vision and ac- efits, the money or the travel; but they will porting the one officer and 17 enlisted mem- play. their deaths to those who died during the I mean. complishing our objectives. only stay if we focus on and live the tradi- bers back to Virginia following two weeks The families were presented shadow Civil War battle at Gettysburg, Pa. The first phrase I would like to explain is This does not mean that everyone acts the tional the military values of duty, honor, and of annual training at , Fla. boxes containing folded U.S. and Virginia “They leave a legacy for all of us to re- “A powerful, harmonious military organi- same, has the same personality, or comes from country. Virginia Gov. James Gilmore III told the flags and the citizen-airmen’s ranks, ribbons member,” Jeb Bush said. “You should know zation.” In this context, the word “power- the same background or culture. Next month I will focus on the next families at Virginia Beach that their losses and awards. Members of the unit made those that this duty and this sacrifice was not ful” means that the 123rd, and every mem- It means that when disagreements occur, phrase. I ask for you support, and again it from one of the worst peacetime tragedies boxes by hand. something that was just thrown away. They ber in it, is respected and listened to when they are resolved in favor of the wing mis- is great to be back. Thanks Loads! in the National Guard's history has affected After a solitary bagpiper concluded the are an inspiration for all of us.” he or she goes on a deployment, to a con- sion and not some personal agenda. The key ference or simply calls his Air Force coun- to this harmony is open and honest commu- terpart. We can only garner this respect if nication. Tell folks what you mean. If you Bush visits base as president This funded Air Force newspaper is published for mem- Wing Commander...... Col. Michael Harden By Tech. Sgt. Sean E. Cobb bers' needs and concerns, said Capt. Dennis G. Scarborough, bers of the military services. Contents of The Cargo Cou- Wing Public Affairs Officer...... 1st Lt. Dale Greer 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs assistant director of operations and a mem- rier are not necessarily the views of the U.S. Government, Cargo Courier Editor...... Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler ber of a group that met with the president. the Department of Defense or the Air Force. , Fla—President George W. “We talked primarily about housing, pay raises, the defense The editorial content is edited and prepared by the pub- Bush visited here March 12, his first official visit to an Air Force budget and overseas issues,” he said. “(The president) listened lic affairs office of the 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air installation as president. carefully to us and expressed support for taking care of the mili- National Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville, How to contact us ☎ He toured base facilities, discussed the defense budget and tary and our families.” Ky. 40213-2678. talked about quality-of-life issues with Air Force people and After these messages, Bush had another message for the ser- If you have a story idea, photo or article to submit, stop their families. vice members around the world. by the public affairs office, room 2117 of the Wing Head- Phone: (502) 364-9431 “One part of the budget I submitted to the Congress is a pay “I’m proud of the men and women who wear our uniforms,” quarters Building. Deadline for the next issue is May 4. E-mail: [email protected] raise for those who wear the uniform,” he said. “I believe by Bush said. “I look forward to shaking your hands and looking focusing our mission we can improve morale — but I know by you in the eye and thanking you for serving America. An electronic version of the Cargo Courier is available at the Kentucky Air Guard’s Web site — www.kyang.ang.af.mil paying folks more we can improve morale as well.” “For those of you who I don't get to look in the eye and say The president seemed genuinely interested in military mem- thanks for serving America—thanks for serving America!”

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 2 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 7 KyANG NEWS KyANG NEWS

Chaplain distributes encouragement cards Wing seeking KyANG night with the River Bats individuals to By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler ing into the stadium delivering a ceremo- By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor nial baseball, which will be used to throw Cargo Courier Editor build mini C-130 out the first pitch. Once again, Kentucky Air Guard members Also, a 25 member honorary KyANG More than 3,000 encouragement cards The Kentucky Air National have an opportunity to take part in a special baseball team will be introduced prior to were distributed to deployed members of Guard is considering building a evening with a local sports team. the game, said Frymire. the Kentucky and Ohio Air Guard who mini C-130 and is looking for The Louisville River Bats and KyANG are “The team is a diverse mix that will fea- participated in Operation Joint Forge at individuals interested in helping. teaming up for Operation River Bats, to take ture at least one member from each unit on Ramstein Air Base, Germany thanks to the Both those with the necessary place at Slugger Field during the team’s game base,” he said. “Members will ne dressed efforts of five women from Parkland Baptist building skills and those willing to against the Durham Bulls on June 9 at 6:15 in various uniforms; some will wear blues Church here in Louisville, Ky. provide manpower in any area are p.m. and whites, and others woodland or desert The cards, which were handmade by the needed. The event will allow unit members and BDUs and flight suits. group, feature art work, bible verses and Photos of a mini C-130 will be their families to join together for a fun-filled The recruiting office will also give seat information on how to contact deployed displayed on bulletin boards evening, said Lt. Col. Rich Frymire, event or- cushions away to the first 1,000 patrons to chaplains, said Lt. Col. Tom Curry, a outside of the dining hall during ganizer. enter the stadium gates. chaplain from the 123rd Airlift Wing. April and May drills. Sign-up “This is a great opportunity for wing mem- Promotion packets will be distributed to “These ladies worked on this project sheets for volunteers will also be bers to go out to the game and have a good current Guard members during the April every Thursday, four to five hours for more posted. time,” he said. “This special evening will be UTA, while retirees will receive informa- than three months, to show support for the For more information, contact full of excitement for everyone in atten- tion in the mail. Organizers hope to sell deployed troops,” Curry said. Senior Master Sgt. Rose Farquhar dance.” more than 1,000 tickets, which are now on “This is a very patriotic group, and many at ext. 4645. The events begin with a C-130 Hercules sale for $6. of the ladies have family members in the aircraft fly-by to be followed by members of For more information, contact Frymire armed forces, so they understand the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron parachut- at ext. 4589. the stress that (deployed troops) are Bosslift scheduled under,” he said. “These ladies were de- Tech. Sgt. Bill Lewis/KyANG for May lighted to make the 3,000 cards so the Wilma Price, who led the group from Parkland Baptist Church in making en- people in the military could be encouraged couragement cards, receives a plaque March 4 from Col. Bill Leslie, former Kentucky employers will have and have something from back home.” 123rd Wing Commander, and Lt. Col. Tom Curry, wing chaplain. an opportunity to see military active duty, National Guard and Reserve training firsthand May 16 to 18. Promotions, retirements & separations Kentucky Air National Guard The bosslift will begin with a visit to the Kentucky Air National Guard base, then a flight to and The following individuals have been ¥Joseph Holt, The following individuals promoted to the rank indicated as 123rd Logistics Sq. have separated from from San Diego, Calif., to visit members of the Kentucky Air Guard the Kentucky Air National Guard: military facilities there. and reservists of The following individuals Highlights of the event will the Air Force: have retired as members of include tours on Navy ships, a tour ¥Staff Sgt. Robert Akridge, the Kentucky Air National Guard of the Mexican border with the 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. AIRMAN (E-2) and reservists of Border Patrol, and a tour of Coast the : ¥Staff Sgt. Christopher Baker, ¥Jesse Nash, 123rd Special Tactics Flt. Guard Operations. 165th Airlift Sq. ¥Staff Sgt. Gwendolyn Bishop, ¥Senior Airman Paul Blackburn, The registration fee is $75, ¥Timothy Zozula, 165th Weather Flt. 123rd Operations Gp. which includes a dinner reception 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. ¥Master Sgt. Douglas Briscoe, ¥Staff Sgt. Joseph Cambron , Wednesday evening and lunches. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 123rd Maintenance Sq. Lodging cost are separate and will SENIOR AIRMAN (E-4) ¥Tech. Sgt. Mark Ellegood, ¥Staff Sgt. Terence Cecil, be approximately $13 per night. 123rd Logistics Sq. 123rd Logistics Sq. ¥Erika Caduff, Seating is limited to 40 partici- ¥Senior Master Sgt. Larry Franklin, ¥Tech. Sgt. Timothy Cruse, 123rd Services Flt. pants. All participants must be 123rd Communications Flt. 205th Combat Communications Sq. ¥Raymond Moore, capable of walking and climbing ¥Master Sgt. Mark Hagan, ¥Staff Sgt. Larry Daugherty Jr., 123rd Logisitics Sq. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 123rd Maintenance Sq. and will be asked to sign a waiver ¥Mark Black, ¥Tech. Sgt. Edward Rachford, ¥Senior Airman Billy Fields, of liability. 123rd Aircraft Generation Sq. 123rd Logistics Sq. 123rd Aerial Port Sq. For more information, contact Steve Bullard, executive director of STAFF SERGEANT (E-5) ¥Staff Sgt. Douglas Sharp, ¥Staff Sgt. Anthony Foll, Tech. Sgt. Bill Lewis/KyANG 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. the Kentucky Employer Support of Col. Michael Harden, 123rd Airlift Commander, joins River Bat mascot Buddy Bat and ¥Master Sgt. Gorman Walters, ¥Staff Sgt. Gary Hampton, ¥Gregory Ledford, the Guard and Reserve, at (502) Chris Sobczyk, River Bats promotions manager, at Louisville Slugger Field. 123rd Medical Sq. 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 491-4737.

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 6 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 3 KyANG completes OperationOperation JointJoint ForgeForge 1st EORI

By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor

Members of KyANG completed their first Expedi- tionary Operational Readi- ness Inspection successfully at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, in February. Already deployed in support of Operation Joint Forge, the airmen were tasked to continue their normal routines and handle real-world situations while being inspected. The inspection was considered an “over-the- shoulder” work review to ensure the unit is was mis- sion-ready. The sections which were evaluated all did an excellent job, said Col. Bill Leslie, 123rd Airlift Wing com- 1st Lt. Dale Greer/KyANG mander during the EORI. ABOVE: Capt. Teddi Steil and Chief Master Sgt. David Delano, EORI inspec- “I am extremely pleased tors from , check the life support gear. with the outcome. All our hard work, training and LEFT: Staff Sgt. John Waldrip, a propulsion technician from the Kentucky enthusiasm really paid off.” Air Guard, performs maintenance work on a C-130 at Ramstein. The inspection team, Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG which was composed of Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG evaluators from the Air Mobility Command Inspec- Bosnia ABOVE: Master Sgt. Bill Raby, Continued from Front Page a loadmaster from the tor General’s office at Scott Ohio Air Guard, reviews his Air Force Base, Ill., con- reliance on the Air Guard: A downsized active-duty force and a high opera- checklist before takeoff. cluded that KyANG had tions tempo. Both factors are, however, hardly recent developments. earned its combat readiness In fact, the Ohio and Kentucky units have deployed to Germany at least LEFT: Members of the Kentucky validation. eight times since the mid-1990s to provide airlift services in Bosnia- and Ohio Air Guard work “Overall, we just did really Herzegovina. together to prepare a well,” Leslie said. “I am very Stephens said operations like Joint Forge offer advantages for everyone C-130 Hercules for an airlift sortie. proud of our people and because they provide an opportunity for the seamless integration of active- couldn’t be more pleased.” duty and reserve-component forces. The three-day inspection Both parties, he said, bring unique assets to the table. evaluated aircraft mainte- “Many of the people in the Guard came off active duty and can draw on 20 nance, aviation packages, or 25 years’ experience,” Stephens said. personnel, public affairs and “I think the active-duty side enjoys working with us because of that depth the wing’s chaplains. of experience. And we certainly enjoy working with our active-duty counter- parts in real-world missions.” 1st Lt. Dale Greer contributed information for this article. Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 4 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 5 KyANG completes OperationOperation JointJoint ForgeForge 1st EORI

By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor

Members of KyANG completed their first Expedi- tionary Operational Readi- ness Inspection successfully at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, in February. Already deployed in support of Operation Joint Forge, the airmen were tasked to continue their normal routines and handle real-world situations while being inspected. The inspection was considered an “over-the- shoulder” work review to ensure the unit is was mis- sion-ready. The sections which were evaluated all did an excellent job, said Col. Bill Leslie, 123rd Airlift Wing com- 1st Lt. Dale Greer/KyANG mander during the EORI. ABOVE: Capt. Teddi Steil and Chief Master Sgt. David Delano, EORI inspec- “I am extremely pleased tors from Air Mobility Command, check the life support gear. with the outcome. All our hard work, training and LEFT: Staff Sgt. John Waldrip, a propulsion technician from the Kentucky enthusiasm really paid off.” Air Guard, performs maintenance work on a C-130 at Ramstein. The inspection team, Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG which was composed of Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG evaluators from the Air Mobility Command Inspec- Bosnia ABOVE: Master Sgt. Bill Raby, Continued from Front Page a loadmaster from the tor General’s office at Scott Ohio Air Guard, reviews his Air Force Base, Ill., con- reliance on the Air Guard: A downsized active-duty force and a high opera- checklist before takeoff. cluded that KyANG had tions tempo. Both factors are, however, hardly recent developments. earned its combat readiness In fact, the Ohio and Kentucky units have deployed to Germany at least LEFT: Members of the Kentucky validation. eight times since the mid-1990s to provide airlift services in Bosnia- and Ohio Air Guard work “Overall, we just did really Herzegovina. together to prepare a well,” Leslie said. “I am very Stephens said operations like Joint Forge offer advantages for everyone C-130 Hercules for an airlift sortie. proud of our people and because they provide an opportunity for the seamless integration of active- couldn’t be more pleased.” duty and reserve-component forces. The three-day inspection Both parties, he said, bring unique assets to the table. evaluated aircraft mainte- “Many of the people in the Guard came off active duty and can draw on 20 nance, aviation packages, or 25 years’ experience,” Stephens said. personnel, public affairs and “I think the active-duty side enjoys working with us because of that depth the wing’s chaplains. of experience. And we certainly enjoy working with our active-duty counter- parts in real-world missions.” 1st Lt. Dale Greer contributed information for this article. Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler/KyANG

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 4 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 5 KyANG NEWS KyANG NEWS

Chaplain distributes encouragement cards Wing seeking KyANG night with the River Bats individuals to By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler ing into the stadium delivering a ceremo- By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor nial baseball, which will be used to throw Cargo Courier Editor build mini C-130 out the first pitch. Once again, Kentucky Air Guard members Also, a 25 member honorary KyANG More than 3,000 encouragement cards The Kentucky Air National have an opportunity to take part in a special baseball team will be introduced prior to were distributed to deployed members of Guard is considering building a evening with a local sports team. the game, said Frymire. the Kentucky and Ohio Air Guard who mini C-130 and is looking for The Louisville River Bats and KyANG are “The team is a diverse mix that will fea- participated in Operation Joint Forge at individuals interested in helping. teaming up for Operation River Bats, to take ture at least one member from each unit on Ramstein Air Base, Germany thanks to the Both those with the necessary place at Slugger Field during the team’s game base,” he said. “Members will ne dressed efforts of five women from Parkland Baptist building skills and those willing to against the Durham Bulls on June 9 at 6:15 in various uniforms; some will wear blues Church here in Louisville, Ky. provide manpower in any area are p.m. and whites, and others woodland or desert The cards, which were handmade by the needed. The event will allow unit members and BDUs and flight suits. group, feature art work, bible verses and Photos of a mini C-130 will be their families to join together for a fun-filled The recruiting office will also give seat information on how to contact deployed displayed on bulletin boards evening, said Lt. Col. Rich Frymire, event or- cushions away to the first 1,000 patrons to chaplains, said Lt. Col. Tom Curry, a outside of the dining hall during ganizer. enter the stadium gates. chaplain from the 123rd Airlift Wing. April and May drills. Sign-up “This is a great opportunity for wing mem- Promotion packets will be distributed to “These ladies worked on this project sheets for volunteers will also be bers to go out to the game and have a good current Guard members during the April every Thursday, four to five hours for more posted. time,” he said. “This special evening will be UTA, while retirees will receive informa- than three months, to show support for the For more information, contact full of excitement for everyone in atten- tion in the mail. Organizers hope to sell deployed troops,” Curry said. Senior Master Sgt. Rose Farquhar dance.” more than 1,000 tickets, which are now on “This is a very patriotic group, and many at ext. 4645. The events begin with a C-130 Hercules sale for $6. of the ladies have family members in the aircraft fly-by to be followed by members of For more information, contact Frymire armed forces, so they understand the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron parachut- at ext. 4589. the stress that (deployed troops) are Bosslift scheduled under,” he said. “These ladies were de- Tech. Sgt. Bill Lewis/KyANG for May lighted to make the 3,000 cards so the Wilma Price, who led the group from Parkland Baptist Church in making en- people in the military could be encouraged couragement cards, receives a plaque March 4 from Col. Bill Leslie, former Kentucky employers will have and have something from back home.” 123rd Wing Commander, and Lt. Col. Tom Curry, wing chaplain. an opportunity to see military active duty, National Guard and Reserve training firsthand May 16 to 18. Promotions, retirements & separations Kentucky Air National Guard The bosslift will begin with a visit to the Kentucky Air National Guard base, then a flight to and The following individuals have been ¥Joseph Holt, The following individuals promoted to the rank indicated as 123rd Logistics Sq. have separated from from San Diego, Calif., to visit members of the Kentucky Air Guard the Kentucky Air National Guard: military facilities there. and reservists of The following individuals Highlights of the event will the United States Air Force: have retired as members of include tours on Navy ships, a tour ¥Staff Sgt. Robert Akridge, the Kentucky Air National Guard of the Mexican border with the 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. AIRMAN (E-2) and reservists of Border Patrol, and a tour of Coast the United States Air Force: ¥Staff Sgt. Christopher Baker, ¥Jesse Nash, 123rd Special Tactics Flt. Guard Operations. 165th Airlift Sq. ¥Staff Sgt. Gwendolyn Bishop, ¥Senior Airman Paul Blackburn, The registration fee is $75, ¥Timothy Zozula, 165th Weather Flt. 123rd Operations Gp. which includes a dinner reception 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. ¥Master Sgt. Douglas Briscoe, ¥Staff Sgt. Joseph Cambron , Wednesday evening and lunches. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 123rd Maintenance Sq. Lodging cost are separate and will SENIOR AIRMAN (E-4) ¥Tech. Sgt. Mark Ellegood, ¥Staff Sgt. Terence Cecil, be approximately $13 per night. 123rd Logistics Sq. 123rd Logistics Sq. ¥Erika Caduff, Seating is limited to 40 partici- ¥Senior Master Sgt. Larry Franklin, ¥Tech. Sgt. Timothy Cruse, 123rd Services Flt. pants. All participants must be 123rd Communications Flt. 205th Combat Communications Sq. ¥Raymond Moore, capable of walking and climbing ¥Master Sgt. Mark Hagan, ¥Staff Sgt. Larry Daugherty Jr., 123rd Logisitics Sq. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 123rd Maintenance Sq. and will be asked to sign a waiver ¥Mark Black, ¥Tech. Sgt. Edward Rachford, ¥Senior Airman Billy Fields, of liability. 123rd Aircraft Generation Sq. 123rd Logistics Sq. 123rd Aerial Port Sq. For more information, contact Steve Bullard, executive director of STAFF SERGEANT (E-5) ¥Staff Sgt. Douglas Sharp, ¥Staff Sgt. Anthony Foll, Tech. Sgt. Bill Lewis/KyANG 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. the Kentucky Employer Support of Col. Michael Harden, 123rd Airlift Commander, joins River Bat mascot Buddy Bat and ¥Master Sgt. Gorman Walters, ¥Staff Sgt. Gary Hampton, ¥Gregory Ledford, the Guard and Reserve, at (502) Chris Sobczyk, River Bats promotions manager, at Louisville Slugger Field. 123rd Medical Sq. 123rd Civil Engineers Sq. 205th Combat Communications Sq. 491-4737.

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 6 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 3 COMMANDER’S CALL AIR FORCE NEWS Wing focuses on being powerful, harmonious National Guard remembers fallen airmen eedless to say it is great disagree it is alright as long as the disagree- By Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Wedeking the entire country. service with a rendition of “Amazing to be back! There is no ment is based on fact, or an honest opinion. National Guard Bureau Public Affairs “Today, we come together in this magnifi- Grace,” the crowd flowed outside to watch other job I would rather Honesty brings trust and without trust true cent church to remember and to honor good four Virginia Air National Guard F-16 N have than to serve as the communication does not happen. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.—Tears and men who lost their lives doing something Fighting Falcons from Richmond's 192nd Commander of this unit. “Harmonious” also means that everyone tributes punctuated three memorial services they believed in to their core—serving their Fighter Wing roar over the church. A single To have the opportu- in the 123rd feels comfortable and a real in Virginia and Florida, held March 10 and country, their state and their communities," fighter peeled off in the “missing man” for- nity to lead this great organization once is a part of the wing. This means embracing all 11, that honored 21 members of the National Gilmore said. mation. great honor, and to get to do it a second time members regardless of gender, race or reli- Guard who perished in a March 3 military “The pain of this tragic loss has touched Friends of the deceased airmen ex- is more than I can stand. gion. If one person feels left out because of airplane crash in rural Georgia. far more than communities in Virginia, pressed the hope that the memorial services My most important task as Commander their gender or color of skin, we have failed Governors from both states in which the Florida, North Carolina and Georgia.It has will start of the healing process for the thou- is to define, and communicate what we want to achieve our vision. units are located, personally offered their touched the nation.” sands of people who are still feeling the the 123rd Airlift Wing to be. Management This unit is a reflection of our commu- condolences. Letters, including one from Families also heard messages of condo- pain. gurus call this setting the vision for the or- nity and we should mirror community de- President George W. Bush, a former Texas lence from the nation’s leaders, including two Other dignitaries included Virginia U.S. ganization. Those of you who have been mographics if we are to recruit and retain Air National Guard fighter pilot, were read letters read by Virginia National Guard Ad- Sen. John Warner, Deputy Secretary of De- around for a few years have heard it before; into the 21st century. to those who mourned. jutant General Brig. Gen. Claude A. Will- fense Paul Wolfowitz and Gen. Michael but I think it is important to define and com- It is a given that the 123rd is a military An estimated 4,000 family members, iams, who hosted the service. Ryan, U.S. Air Force chief of staff. Lt. Gen. municate it again. organization; but I included it in our vision friends, military people and other dignitar- “We mourn together with their loss,” Wil- Russell Davis, chief of the National Guard The vision for the 123rd is simply this: statement because it is central to what we ies poured into the cavernous Rock Church liams read from Bush's letter. “They personi- Bureau, and Maj. Gen. Paul Weaver Jr., di- “A powerful, harmonious military orga- do. Not long ago the military aspect of the in Virginia Beach, Va., on March 10 to pay fied the term ‘citizen-soldier.’” rector of the Air National Guard, also at- nization, comprised of proud citizens, dedi- Col. Michael Harden ANG was downplayed because our society their respects. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld tended. 123rd Airlift Wing Commander cated to the profession of arms, prepared to was going in a different direction. We talked Nearly 1,000 attended services March 11 stated in a letter to the families that the citi- Every branch of the U.S. armed forces successfully wage war, and provide world about acting like a business, had gatherings in airplane hangars in Lakeland and Jack- zen-airmen and soldiers would be remem- was represented. class service to community, state and na- we decide to dedicate ourselves to be the best instead of formations, and generally sonville, Fla. bered. “These were true patriots serving our Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki tion.” that we can be. We must constantly strive to downplayed the idea that we were a mili- The 18 Air National Guard civil engineers country,” he said. “Their contributions will said all service leaders were genuinely con- This is a short and simple statement of take care of business and have our “stuff to- tary organization. People join the 123rd be- from Virginia’s 203rd RED HORSE Engi- not be forgotten.” cerned for the families and troops. what each member of the Thoroughbred gether” if we are to have the immediate cred- cause they like the military, and they want neering Flight and the three Army Guard During the 90-minute Virginia memorial, Three pairs of Army boots and camou- Express should want to make this wing be- ibility necessary to become “powerful.” to do military things. aviators from Florida’s 1st Battalion, 171st families viewed poster-sized photographs of flage helmets were prominently displayed come. Because I want everyone in the wing “Harmonious” simply put, means that ev- We must always strive to honor our mili- Aviation C-23 Sherpa detachment were re- their loved ones. Red baseball caps bearing next to memorials for the 18 Air Guard to fully understand this vision; this column eryone is in tune with each other. For the tary traditions and responsibilities. People membered at all three services. the 203rd RED HORSE Engineering Flight members at Virginia Beach. over the next several months will break it 123rd, it should be in everything that we do, may join the unit for the educational ben- The Army Guard flight crew was trans- logo and personal items were also on dis- In Jacksonville, Gov. Jeb Bush compared down into its various parts and explain what and be aimed at achieving our vision and ac- efits, the money or the travel; but they will porting the one officer and 17 enlisted mem- play. their deaths to those who died during the I mean. complishing our objectives. only stay if we focus on and live the tradi- bers back to Virginia following two weeks The families were presented shadow Civil War battle at Gettysburg, Pa. The first phrase I would like to explain is This does not mean that everyone acts the tional the military values of duty, honor, and of annual training at Hurlburt Field, Fla. boxes containing folded U.S. and Virginia “They leave a legacy for all of us to re- “A powerful, harmonious military organi- same, has the same personality, or comes from country. Virginia Gov. James Gilmore III told the flags and the citizen-airmen’s ranks, ribbons member,” Jeb Bush said. “You should know zation.” In this context, the word “power- the same background or culture. Next month I will focus on the next families at Virginia Beach that their losses and awards. Members of the unit made those that this duty and this sacrifice was not ful” means that the 123rd, and every mem- It means that when disagreements occur, phrase. I ask for you support, and again it from one of the worst peacetime tragedies boxes by hand. something that was just thrown away. They ber in it, is respected and listened to when they are resolved in favor of the wing mis- is great to be back. Thanks Loads! in the National Guard's history has affected After a solitary bagpiper concluded the are an inspiration for all of us.” he or she goes on a deployment, to a con- sion and not some personal agenda. The key ference or simply calls his Air Force coun- to this harmony is open and honest commu- terpart. We can only garner this respect if nication. Tell folks what you mean. If you Bush visits first Air Force base as president This funded Air Force newspaper is published for mem- Wing Commander...... Col. Michael Harden By Tech. Sgt. Sean E. Cobb bers' needs and concerns, said Capt. Dennis G. Scarborough, bers of the military services. Contents of The Cargo Cou- Wing Public Affairs Officer...... 1st Lt. Dale Greer 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs 95th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations and a mem- rier are not necessarily the views of the U.S. Government, Cargo Courier Editor...... Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler ber of a group that met with the president. the Department of Defense or the Air Force. TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla—President George W. “We talked primarily about housing, pay raises, the defense The editorial content is edited and prepared by the pub- Bush visited here March 12, his first official visit to an Air Force budget and overseas issues,” he said. “(The president) listened lic affairs office of the 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air installation as president. carefully to us and expressed support for taking care of the mili- National Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville, How to contact us ☎ He toured base facilities, discussed the defense budget and tary and our families.” Ky. 40213-2678. talked about quality-of-life issues with Air Force people and After these messages, Bush had another message for the ser- If you have a story idea, photo or article to submit, stop their families. vice members around the world. by the public affairs office, room 2117 of the Wing Head- Phone: (502) 364-9431 “One part of the budget I submitted to the Congress is a pay “I’m proud of the men and women who wear our uniforms,” quarters Building. Deadline for the next issue is May 4. E-mail: [email protected] raise for those who wear the uniform,” he said. “I believe by Bush said. “I look forward to shaking your hands and looking focusing our mission we can improve morale — but I know by you in the eye and thanking you for serving America. An electronic version of the Cargo Courier is available at the Kentucky Air Guard’s Web site — www.kyang.ang.af.mil paying folks more we can improve morale as well.” “For those of you who I don't get to look in the eye and say The president seemed genuinely interested in military mem- thanks for serving America—thanks for serving America!”

The Cargo Courier The Cargo Courier 2 April 7, 2001 April 7, 2001 7 MILESTONES

Retirements

123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air National Guard, Louisville, Ky. Vol. XVII, No. 3 ¥ April 7, 2001 Air Guard delivers on Bosnia mission KyANG supports Operation Joint Forge while being inspected

By Staff Sgt. Amy Ziegler Cargo Courier Editor Chief Master Sgt. Bobbie Brawner of the 123rd Maintenance Squadron also received an MSM during the retirement cer- RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany— emony March 3. Brawner spent more than 26 years in the Members of the Kentucky Air Guard joined KyANG. forces with another Air Guard unit and ac- Col. Bill Leslie awards Chief Master Sgt. Michael tive duty troops here in December to fly Geoghegan of the 123rd Medical Squadron the Meritori- supplies to multinational peacekeepers in ous Service Medal during a March 3 retirement ceremony KyANG Photos by Bosnia as part of Operation Joint Forge. held on the flightline. Geoghegan served more than 24 Aircrews, maintainers and support per- years in the KyANG. Tech. Sgt. Mark Rines sonnel from Ohio’s 179th Airlift Wing and Kentucky’s 123rd Airlift Wing supported the operation through March 4, when they were 123rd Airlift Wing replaced by personnel from other Air Public Affairs Office Guard and active-duty units. Kentucky Air National Guard During the deployment, KyANG crews 1101 Grade Lane flew more than 150 sorties, delivering ap- Louisville, KY 40213-2678 proximately 2,500 passengers and 410 tons of cargo throughout Europe. OFFICIAL BUSINESS Both Air Guard units also participated in a three-day Expeditionary Operational Readiness Inspection to evaluate their mis- sion readiness. The Ohio and Kentucky airmen began ar- riving at Ramstein in early December to work alongside their active-duty counter- parts from Pope Air Force Base, N.C. The Pope contingent packed up Feb. 17, however, leaving operations to the Ohio- Kentucky team. Such intermingling of active-duty and Air Guard members is now the norm around the world, said Lt. Col. Mark L. Stephens, a pi- lot in the Ohio Air Guard and the commander Photos by 1st Lt. Dale Greer of Delta Squadron, also known as the 38th TOP: Delta Squadron members load cargo on a C-130 Hercules Ramstein Air Base in Airlift Squadron (Provisional). support of Operation Joint Forge. “The concept of the Air Guard as ‘week- BOTTOM: A Kentucky Air National Guard C-130 taxies into Ramstein following an end warriors’ is no longer accurate in today’s airlift sortie.

EORI results Air Force,” Stephens said. Stephens said two factors are driving the “The Total Force is definitely a reality, • SEE STORY, PAGE 4. particularly since Desert Storm.” See BOSNIA, page 4 The Cargo Courier, 8 April 7, 2001