THE PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF THE 108TH TRAINING COMMAND

“First in Training” Vol 39.1 SPRING 2015

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From the Commanding General

They were trying to glean best They asked many questions recently) they were very interested practices in an attempt to better about the USAR and naturally I in that as well, particularly their support their Reserve Soldiers. responded with answers using female Soldiers. I explained that I invited Command Sgt. Maj. the 108th as examples. Chile male Soldiers are prohibited Luther Thomas, U.S. Army Reserve has not sent support to Iraq or from looking at or talking to Command Sgt. Maj., to join me Afghanistan and they wanted to Afghan women due to cultural on the trip given many Allies know about combat missions, norms, so we were missing out don’t have a strong NCO Corps. so I told them about Task Force on information that the females We provided three briefings Marshall and Task Force Beast. They might have provided. So in order on Army Reserve 101, were intrigued at the high level to engage the female populace Training and Education of of training and support that we the American Army established the USAR, and Benefits and provide to the total Army mission. teams to develop trust-based Incentives within the USAR. They were interested in knowing and enduring relationships The Chileans have a small more about the process used to with the Afghan women, and number of Reserve Soldiers (about train Navy Sailors to be Soldiers at also to train some of them 2500) and plan to double that Fort Jackson. To date, TF Marshall as Soldiers in their Army. number by 2018. Currently there is has trained just over 9000 Sailors. Lastly they were interested no separate Reserve Component. I also talked about TF Beast and in ROTC Scholarships and how The Reserve Soldiers are housed the support they have provided the 104th provides support to By Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser and fed while on duty, but are not toward the NATO Training Mission the ROTC mission. We explained Commanding General paid for their Duty, and must buy in Afghanistan. We explained that their support to the Universities 108th Training Command (IET) their own uniforms and equipment. the objective of the mission is by providing adjunct faculty, as Recently I was afforded Regardless they are happy and to provide training, advice and well as Cadet Summer Training. the opportunity to visit the proud to serve alongside their assistance for the Afghan security There are no ROTC Universities in country of Chile. While serving active duty brethren. The CSA told forces and institutions, but will not Chile, only the Military Academy, as the Deputy Department me that he recently initiated an involve combat actions. Thus far, which you must attend in order of the Army G2, I developed insurance plan for them in the case the 108th Training Command has to become a general officer. a professional relationship of accident, so their Families would provided a total of 471 Soldiers in This visit was a terrific with their equivalent of our be cared for, and they are now support of this mission. Currently opportunity to showcase stories of Chief of Staff of the Army, studying our USAR incentives to we have 33 Soldiers down range. our great Soldiers as examples of who was the Chilean Attaché determine how they can upgrade We talked about the female Drill our steadfast support to the Army at the time. He invited me to their support to their Reserve Sergeant mission there in 2012, mission. It reminded me how Chile to discuss the processes Soldiers, as a bona fide part of developing the first Afghanistan proud I am of all that you do every and procedures we have in their defense force. Thomas and female Officer Candidate School. day in support of our mission. the U.S. Army Reserve, and our I felt very fortunate to have all Given Chile has no female senior relevance to the greater Army. the benefits we do in the USAR. leaders (law prevented it until First in Training! Spring 2015 Contents 108th Training Command (IET) • Charlotte, NC • Vol. 39, No. 1 Spring 2015

From the Commanding General 3 From the Command Sergeant Major 5 From the Command Chief Warrant Officer 6 Football Army Strong! 8 Changing the Game: Army All-American Bowl 2015 10 STAND-TO! Female Drill Sergeants 12 Soldier Spotlight: Staff Sgt. Margaret Diacheysn 13 Traditions 14 Drill Sergeant Graduates 15 Training Command Leadership Provides Army Reserve Insight to Chilean Army 16 Drill Sergeant for Life 18 U.S. Soldiers Mentor Chicago Youths 20 The Command Visits Puerto Rico 21 Third Brigade Soldiers Earn the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge 22 Boss-Lift at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base 24 Third Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) Holds Best Warrior Competition 26 Veterans Memorial Park Dedication Ceremony 26 Supporting Primary Missions 27 Army Reserve Council on Accreditation Visits the 108th 28 Unit Ministry Team 30 A Legendary Symbol of Pride 31 ‘Iron Men of Metz’ Commemorate 70 Years of Liberation 32 Families: Our Greatest Resource 34 Reservist Builds Mentors, Promotes Minority Advancement in New York 36 Lt. Col. Lydia Prusik Retires from Service 37 Drill Sergeant Graduates Ranger School with Top Honors 38 Clemson University Celebrates Military Appreciation Day 39 Norwegian Foot March Breaks Record With Over 700 Participants 40 Hiring our Veterans — Carolinas Healthcare System 42 Golden Griffons Hold Retirement Ceremony 44 Change of Responsibility 46 Do You Want to be a Unit Public Affairs Respresentative? 48 Chaplains Corner: Things to Remember 49 Soldier’s Gold Mine 50 Third Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) Changes Command 52

108th Training Command (IET) 95th Training Division (IET) Commanding General Commander Maj. Gen. Leslie A. Purser Brig. Gen. Daniel J. Christian Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert J. Riti Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill COVER: Senior Johnny Fraiser of Princeton High School in North Carolina. Deputy Commanding General Public Affairs Officer Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET),Public Affairs Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty Vacant Public Affairs NCOIC INSIDE COVER: Army Reserve Drill Sgt. of the Year, Staff Sgt. Christopher Croslin speaks Command Chief Warrant Officer Chief Warrant Officer 5 Karen Kay Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Anton with Johnny Frasier during the TeamWest walk-through practice in preparation for the Email: [email protected] 2015 Army All-American Bowl. Croslin, as well as Sgt. 1st Class Sara Schultz, Army Reserve Chief of Staff Career Counselor of the Year, are serving as Soldier mentors to the 100 High School Col. Daniel M. Arkins 98th Training Division (IET) seniors selected to participate in the 15th Annual ArmyBowl held in San Antonio, Texas, Chief Executive Officer Jan 3. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET),Public Affairs Commanding General Vacant Brig. Gen. Michaelene Kloster CORRECTION 108th Training Command Public Affairs (IET) Command Sgt. Maj. Public Affairs Officer Command Sgt. Maj. Grady Blue Jr. Drill Sgt. Christopher Croslin’s name was mispelled in the Lt. Col. Mark Baucom Public Affairs Officer cutlines of the bottom two photos on page 10 in the Winter Email: [email protected] 2nd Lt. Adam W. McMahan Public Affairs Specialist /Griffon Editor Email: [email protected] issue of The Griffon. Mrs. Deborah Williams Public Affairs NCOIC Email: [email protected] Staff Sgt. Sarah E. Hubbard Public Affairs AGR NCOIC Email: [email protected] To coordinate news coverage, contact the 108th Training Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton Command Public Affairs Office - 704-227-2820 ext. 4235 Email: [email protected] 104th Training Division (LT) Deputy Public Affairs Officer Commanding General Deadlines: Summer, April 24th 2015 and Fall, July 31, 2015 Maj. Tracey Frink Brig. Gen. Darrell J. Guthrie Email: [email protected] Command Sgt. Maj. The Griffon is published four times a year and is an authorized publication for members of the Army. Contents of The Griffon are not necessarily the official Command Sgt. Maj. Juan M. Loera Jr. views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the 108th Training Command (IET). The appearance Public Affairs NCO of advertising in this publication, including supplements and inserts, does not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Staff Sgt. Deidra Jackson Public Affairs Officer Knight Communications, Inc. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or Email: [email protected] Maj. Alex Johnson patronage without regard to the race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit fac- tor of the purchaser, use or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print Sgt. Javier Amador Email: [email protected] advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Griffon is an unofficial publication authorized by AR360-1. Editorial content is prepared, Email: [email protected] Public Affairs NCOIC edited, and provided by the Public Affairs Office of the 108th Training Command (IET). The Griffon is published by Knight Communications, Inc., 10150 Mallard Creek Road, Suite 201, Charlotte, NC, 28262 — a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army, under exclusive written Sgt. Kenneth Scar Vacant contract with the 108th Training Command (IET). Material for publication may be submitted to: PAO, 1330 Westover Street, Charlotte, NC 28205-5124. Email: [email protected] THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 5

From the Command Sergeant Major

we’re not identified by a number to workout. Continue to lead from CSM Robert Riti on a jersey but a name tape on our the front and continue to do the uniform ‘U.S. ARMY’. things that make the 108th Training First in Training I want every member of this Command the superior command it is. command to be proud of what they do. I expect each and every one of you to approach each and every day with a positive and professional attitude. Don’t just do the minimum amount of your assignment like the average person because you are far from average, but look to exceed what needs to be done and assume areas of greater responsibility. Isn’t that what we require of our Soldiers, to exceed the standard? These days in which we are facing downsizing and cutbacks shouldn’t be a concern to those of us By Command Sgt. Maj. who do our jobs. We’re asked to do Robert Riti more with less and my response to 108th Training Command (IET) that is “Too Easy”. After watching one of the NFL The World War II era was teams come from behind and considered the Greatest Generation advance to the Super Bowl, the sports of all time because when the country announcer made a comment saying, was fighting wars on different “can you imagine how they must feel, continents, the American people to be part of a winning team like that”. came together and did everything Yes, I do know exactly how that possible to support the War Effort. We feels because I’ve been part of a also need to come together because winning team for thirty-seven years, we have to make it happen and once The U.S. Army. again, there are no obstacles we can’t We are a team that does not accept overcome. Be proud of being part of second place. Every time we are the greatest team on earth. given a mission, task or assignment, Wear your uniform with pride we focus on successfully completing and represent the U.S. Army with it. We’re a team that does not allow distinction. The way you present obstacles to get in the way of us yourself also serves as a recruiting reaching our goals and objectives. And tool for Soldiers who also want to we’re a team that has more heroes reach their maximum potential. We than anyone can count. also need to ensure that the image We lead from the front and always we project is a professional one ensure the example we set is one that displays a physically fit Soldier. that will serve as a role model to our Physical fitness should be part of subordinates. We live by a set of Values our everyday schedule, even if it that can never be compromised and means waking up at zero-dark-thirty 6 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015

From the Command Chief Warrant Officer The Lost Art of Mentorship the line and raise my right hand. “After all,” so I was told, “It’s only one weekend a month and two Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to weeks a year for six years plus two in an inactive status. Think listen, and a push in the right direction. nothing of it because the time would go by quickly.” And so it has. — John C. Crosby Thirty-four years later, the journey has been, and remains, a level of personal achievement. mentorship. Soldiers are watching cycle of periods of cluelessness The importance of mentorship you; therefore, you are a mentor and aimlessness followed by cannot be overstated. Over two by the way you demonstrate your enlightenment and direction. I thirds of the Army Reserve total attitude, your competency, your have had a variety of mentors losses are manageable. More than commitment, your professionalism, along the way; role models, 50% of non-prior service Soldiers your compassion – to name just preceptors, coaches, advisors, leave the Army Reserve before the a few attributes of leadership. confidants, and counselors; from fourth year on a six-year contract. While a clear-cut definition of all walks of life and consisting of Mentorship is touted not only as ‘mentoring’ is virtually nonexistent, superiors, peers, and subordinates. the bulwark against these losses; scholars agree that it is a process, These mentors were not but also, as the crucial component it is relationship based and it appointed by memorandum. They of leader development. Mentorship always involves communication. were people whom I observed. I can build confidence, generate The major function of mentoring By Chief Warrant Officer took an interest in them because esprit de corps, increase efficiency is to stimulate growth in specific Karen Kay they exuded enthusiasm, self- and quality of work and make an skills, behaviors or attitudes; to Command Chief Warrant Officer confidence and competence. I organization and individuals more help a mentee recognize actions 108th Training Command (IET) saw in them was what I aspired resilient. Books a million, articles and the consequences of actions; to become and I tried to emulate galore and publications abound and to set and attain objectives If there were a Soldiers’ Yearbook them. I sought them out for with a variety of mentorship required for success. Franchise of sorts and if such a yearbook guidance, and I appointed myself methodology, yet the ranks Growth Partners lists the Top 10 had been published in 1982 when their protégée. There were others cry out for lack of mentors. Qualities of a Good Mentor as: I enlisted in the Army Reserve, who took the time to correct, Mentorship seems to have 1. Willingness to share skills, I would have been named, “The coach, and encourage me. They saw evolved into an appointed duty Soldier Least Likely to Succeed.” I in me what I didn’t see in myself. knowledge, and expertise. comprised of those who wait to 2. Demonstrates a positive was clueless, aimless and really They gave me a nudge to accept be appointed as a mentor and didn’t have a plan other than to a challenge or set a goal. Then attitude and acts as a assigned a mentee and those positive role model. serve a short stint in the military they gave me their confidence who wait to be selected as a and then get on with my life. and supported my stretch as I 3. Takes a personal interest in mentee and assigned a mentor. But the mentoring relationship. In fact, as I remember, that was reached forward to grasp a higher that is so far from the reality of how I was recruited. Just sign on 4. Exhibits enthusiasm in the field. 5. Values ongoing learning and growth in the field. 6. Provides guidance and constructive feedback. 7. Respected by colleagues and employees in all levels of the organization. 8. Sets and meets ongoing personal and professional goals. 9. Values the opinions and initiatives of others. 10. Motivates other by setting a good example. If we are to lead and grow leaders to serve in the Army, we must develop these qualities in ourselves. We need to become more self-aware and less self-absorbed. The future of the Army as a profession hinges on our reclaiming the lost art of mentorship. Mentoring Resources: Best Practices: Mentoring for the US Officer of Personnel Management https://www.opm.gov/policy- data-oversight/training-and-

12/31/15 development/career-development/ bestpractices-mentoring.pdf http://franchisegrowthpartners. com/mentoring 12/31/15

8 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 FOOTBALL ARMY STRONG!

Photo essay by: Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

A great number of fleeting with every loss. comparisons have been made In the end, one team in regards to football and war. stands victorious on the Two opposing teams line field. Celebrating having up on the field. Each fighting conquered the enemy: for a small piece of real estate earning a glorious victory in a sequence of smaller to the roar of thousands of battles. Each hoping to reach adoring fans. The enemy the objective: the end zone. heads to the locker room, By virtue of the game defeated, but already looking itself, violence grips every forward to the next battle. play. Helmets crash together. That is where the Soldiers fly through the air comparison stops. in a selfless effort to stop the It was said throughout the opponent. Spectators watch week leading up to the 2015 in angst at each grueling Army All-American Bowl in effort to move a small, San Antonio, that in football, lifeless, pigskin ball just 100 if you lose, you live to fight yards down the battlefield. another day. In war, that’s Tacticians pace the not always the case. In war, sidelines, like generals on the it takes a team of Soldiers all battlefield, nervously awaiting living up to the Army values; the outcome of each play. They loyalty, duty, respect, selfless duel with the hope of busting service, honor, integrity, and through that last six inches to personal courage. All of them gain the advantage over the fighting as one team! All of opponent. Their confidence them fighting ‘Army Strong!’ growing with every gain; THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 9

Players from the East and West teams entertain the crowd with an action-packed, high- scoring grudge match at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Jan. 3, 2015. The West team won this year’s contest 39-36. Held annually since 2001, the Army All-American Bowl brings 96 of the nation’s top high school football players and 125 of the top high school band students together for one week to showcase their skills and represent the Army. Soldier mentors from the Army and Army Reserve stay with All-American players for a week prior to the game to teach players Army values: Loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs 10 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Changing the Game: Army All-American Bowl 2015

“I was able to see for myself just how important training really is,” said Derrius Guice, West team wide receiver and 2015 Army Bowl MVP. “Being able to do something over and over, exactly the same way, is an important skill, and it’s something everybody in the Army can do.” The Army All-American Bowl is the nation’s premier high school football event. It makes it possible for the most extraordinary players and band members from across the country to be recognized and awarded for their achievements on a national scale. It also gives the participants a chance to showcase their exceptional skills against Army Reserve Drill Sgt. of the Year, Staff Sgt. Christopher Croslin speaks with Brady White and Trent Irwin of Orange County, California dur- other players of their own caliber, ing the TeamWest walk-through practice in preparation for the 2015 Army All-American Bowl. Croslin, as well as Sgt. 1st Class Sara Schultz, which prepares them for what Army Reserve Career Counselor of the Year, are serving as Soldier mentors to the 100 High School seniors selected to participate in the 15th they will experience in the next Annual ArmyBowl held in San Antonio, Texas, Jan 3. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs phase of their careers; college.

By Pvt. Travis Terreo best on the field, but now they are 205th Press Camp Headquarters surrounded by players on their own SAN ANTONIO, Texas — As level. This is how they get better. the players step from the tunnel How they get prepared for college.” into the glaring light, they squint, Even with their incredible briefly allowing their eyes to adjust. skill and poise, however, the Once they are able, they slowly participants don’t do it all alone. look around, taking in the sights; On the first day of their arrival, all the screaming fans, the jumping, participants are introduced to a yelling cheerleaders and jumbled handpicked group of dedicated, mass of steel overhead that is disciplined and professional the stadium’s dome. This is the Soldier Mentors, whose words and 2015 Army All-American Bowl. actions display each of the seven The Army Bowl is an annual Army Values; Loyalty, Discipline, event that brings the nation’s Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, top high school football players Integrity and Personal Courage. and band members together “Our respect for the Army has to showcase their skills. Upon only grown,” said John Gustin, father arrival, the football players are of West team linebacker Porter split into two teams, East and Gustin. “It is inspiring to see their West, though the band members dedication and professionalism.” come together as a single unit. As the title suggests, the Soldier Every participant shares a desire Mentors acted as guides and role to win, but every one of them models to the young athletes and also has at least one more thing band members throughout their in common; the experience. 2015 Army Bowl experience. “Most people just watch the Wherever the participants went, game on TV, but there’s so much whatever they did, whether it was more to it than that,” said Army practices, skills competitions, or Reserve Drill Sergeant of the seminars, the Soldier Mentors were Year and Army Bowl Soldier working, learning, and playing along Mentor Christopher Croslin. with them every step of the way. “These kids come here as high “My favorite part was getting school students but they leave as hands on with everyone and really something more; mentors. After getting to see their personalities,” this, young kids from all over will Croslin said. “You just don’t get to look up to these guys and they see that at dinners and seminars. will have to carry themselves with Once I was able to get in there respect and professionalism.” with them, and really get to All of the Army Bowl participants know them, it was cool because gather in San Antonio, many with I got to see that football really their Families in tow, one week does breed the values that we, as prior to game day. The mass of Soldiers in the Army, seek out.” complete strangers, band and Much of the wisdom imparted athletes alike, then forge themselves by the Soldier Mentors was into well-oiled machines with intentional; such as the importance a singular purpose; success. of the Army Values and how “This is a great opportunity for important it is to be a good role Army Reserve Drill Sgt. of the Year, Staff Sgt. Christopher Croslin speaks with Johnny Frasier these kids,” said Ultimate Fighting model for those who look up to during the TeamWest walk-through practice in preparation for the 2015 Army All-American you. Some, however, was not. As Bowl. Croslin, as well as Sgt. 1st Class Sara Schultz, Army Reserve Career Counselor of the Championship Hall of Famer Year, are serving as Soldier mentors to the 100 High School seniors selected to participate Forrest Griffin. “These guys are the old adage goes, the Soldier Mentors led by example. in the 15th Annual ArmyBowl held in San Antonio, Texas, Jan 3. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian used to being the biggest and the Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET),Public Affairs THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 11

Members of the Old Guard showcased their skills with bayonetted Springfield rifles on the field of the Alamodome during a pregame performance for the 2015 Army Bowl in San Anto- nio, Texas. The Army All-American Bowl brings 96 of the nation’s top high school football players together for one week to showcase their skills and represent the Army. Players from the East and West teams entertain the crowd with an action-packed, high-scoring grudge match at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Jan. 3, 2015. The West team won this year’s contest 39-36. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs “I just hope the Army keeps a huge boost for these kids.” the kind of one-on-one contact, said All-American Band alto sax doing this for these kids,” said The All-American Bowl is also experiences and conversation player PJ Scott. “What I found, Coach Greg Davis, Ennis High a unique opportunity for those with Soldiers that is unrivaled though, were great, caring, just School, Ennis, Texas. “I never knew involved to see the individual almost anywhere else. beautiful people who came here that the Army cared so much about Soldiers of the Army from a new “I came here expecting to to help. They showed us the true football and about these kids. This perspective. This game and the find big, strong, mean Army meaning of respect and honor.” is an honor, it’s humbling and it’s events surrounding it, provide guys just trying to recruit me,”

THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 13

Soldier Spotlight Staff Sgt. Margaret Diacheysn

By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs FORT JACKSON, S.C. — “You would make an awesome drill sergeant!” A friend, who also happened to be a recruiter, spoke those words to Army Reserve Drill Sergeant Candidate, Staff Sgt. Margaret Diacheysn, C Company, 2/413 Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET), in 2010 when she was thinking of coming back into the Army Reserve after a brief break in service. And after four years of patience, this registered nurse and mother of six, found herself in the middle of her second week at the Drill Sergeant Academy conquering an obstacle that after 20 years of combined active and reserve service in the Army, had never experienced before, Victory Tower. “I am so glad this part is over. When I came in, in 1994 at Fort McClellan, Alabama, it was a hot summer day and it rained. So they canceled the Army Reserve drill sergeant candidate, Staff Sgt. Mar- confidence course for garet Diacheysn, C Company 2/413 Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) conquers Victory Tower during safety reasons. Since then, week two of her training at the U.S. Army Drill Ser- I’ve never been in a unit geant Academy. Diacheysn, who works as a registered that has gone repelling. nurse, decided to make the leap to become a drill ser- That was the scariest thing geant after serving a combined 22 years in the active I’ve ever had to do. I am component Army and Army Reserve. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET) absolutely petrified of Public Affairs heights,” Diacheysn said. “At the same time I’m I don’t think they understand the glad I did it. For me this is exactly importance of the discipline and how the privates will do it and now traditions. I think that’s important I will be able to relate. I really see for us to hold onto and I want to the value in us doing all of this. “ show them that those things matter. Diacheysn originally planned on If we let those traditions go then commissioning in the Army Reserve we’ve lost them forever,” Diacheysn as an officer in the medical corps. said. However, after learning she needed So with Victory Tower far behind more than an Associate Degree, her, Diacheysn now sees no need to the M.P. with a deployment in give up her dreams and goals for the support of Operation Iraqi Freedom future. under her belt decided to take full “I’ve been a nurse for eight years advantage of the education benefits and I love it. Being a nurse on the of the Army Reserve and took on civilian side and being a Soldier in the challenge of becoming a drill the Army Reserve both have their sergeant. equal parts that I enjoy. My one “My hope is that I will make a major goal though, is to someday good drill sergeant. A compassionate become a nurse for the Army drill sergeant that reaches out to Reserve as well.” the new recruits. A drill sergeant After showing the grit and that Soldiers can relate to. I want determination to conquer her fears to make them understand that the at the tower, she left little doubt in Army is a good place to be and that the minds of her peers, nor her Drill discipline helps. Since I’ve been in Sergeant Leaders, that she would my unit for so long I’ve seen a lot one day achieve that goal. of the privates come through and 14 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Traditions

A tradition is a belief or behavior passed down within a group or society with symbolic meaning or special significance with origins in the past. Traditions are the blue print of the Army’s culture. It’s what gives Soldiers a sense of pride in the way we walk, talk and wear our uniforms. Our vocabulary, beliefs, and established practices are inherited from generation to generation. Molding us into the Soldiers we are today. Embodying the way we learn, lead and fight. Whether it’s a courtesy or custom everything ties into tradition. Saluting being a privilege not chore, the way a Soldier calls “At Ease” when an NCO of superior rank walks in a room, ceremonial duties, and unit mottos are just a few traditions. So you ask, who sets the stage for these traditions to be carried on? Who are the leaders that instill such pride and carry the torch of passing down these traditions to new recruits every day? DRILL SERGEANTS! Becoming a drill sergeant was a Drill Sgt. Angela M. Major graduated from the U.S. Drill Sergeant School at Fort Jackson, South Carolina on Dec. 10, 2014 carrying on her Family military tradition. Courtesy photo notion that first crossed my mind many years ago as a young child watching him come home from the next morning, he was already brothers and sisters, six of us and then as a young Soldier. My a long day of training Soldiers in gone, starting his work day before enlisted in the military. Out of that first impression of a drill sergeant Basic Training and setting his Drill sunrise. six, two of us continue to serve. was my father, (Ret) Sgt. 1st Class Sergeant Hat on the table. Then Joining the military is a tradition I shipped off to basic training as Miguel A. Santiago. I still remember before we woke up for school in my Family. Out of my seven soon as I graduated high school. THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 15

To this day I still remember my drill sergeants. The footprint they left on my military career is undeniable. From the discipline and pride they instilled to the hard work and dedication they passed on to me. Looking back, I see the sacrifice those drill sergeants made, as well as my father; working long hours away from their Families to ensure we were trained properly and molded into Soldiers. This took patience, discipline, determination and drive. All the attributes I saw in my father when he was blazing the trail. They provided us with the essentials necessary to graduate basic training and be successful in our military careers. Drill sergeants help build the foundation to a Soldier’s future. After all, drill sergeants are the standard barriers and subject matter experts. After arriving at my first duty station, I realized just how much my drill sergeants influenced me. I excelled early. After my initial contract I took a break in service, then joined the Army Reserve within two years, vowing to be steadfast in making a difference. Last year the opportunity to become a drill sergeant presented itself. I transferred to the 98th Training Division (IET), 5/18th Regt., Echo Company, Hickory, North Carolina, and immediately began training in their Drill Sergeant Prep Training Program. This program ensured I was prepared to successfully complete my training at The United States Army Drill Sergeant Academy (USADSA). Earning the Drill Sergeant Hat was no easy task. To hold one of the highest honors of a noncommissioned officer there is a rite of passage. The Drill Sergeant Leaders at the USADSA had a vast array of knowledge and experience which they poured into all the candidates. They were passionate about the training and demanded that we give our very best throughout the strenuous nine weeks of training. In the end, the reward and sacrifice were worth every minute. I graduated Dec.10th, 2014 alongside my peers. Now it’s our turn to leave a footprint and pass on traditions. To make a difference in lives while serving in such a prestigious position is an honor and privilege. I’m looking forward to molding recruits into Soldiers and passing on to them the very values that were passed to me through drill sergeants and other motivated leaders. To those whose served before me, my battles that serve alongside me and to the future Soldiers who will serve long after we are gone, “THIS WE’LL DEFEND.” 16 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Training Command Leadership Provides Army Reserve Insight to Chilean Army

Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General, greets members of the Chilean Army delegation in Santiago, Chile, Jan. 13, 2015. Purser and Command Sgt. Maj. Luther Thomas, Army Reserve Command Sergeant Major visited Chile at the request of the Army of Chile Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Humberto Oviedo, to discuss the capabilities and limitations of the Army Reserve. Photo courtesy of the Army of Chile

By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton uniforms. While the United States joint exercises and have provided responsibility,” Purser added. 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs has three components in the active assistance to other countries within In addition to the briefings and a At the request of the Chilean component Army, Army Reserve the Southern Command area of formal roundtable discussion, Purser Army Commander- in-Chief, Gen. and National Guard, Chile only has Humberto Oviedo, 108th Training one of these, it’s active component,” Command (IET) leadership traveled Purser said. to Chile to discuss cooperation During the trip, Purser and building and talk about education, Thomas briefed approximately 150 training, benefits and incentives as it of the Chilean Army leadership on applies to the Army Reserve. the basics of the Army Reserve in Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, 108th a briefing titled Army Reserve 101. Training Command (IET) Afterwards the briefing was opened Commanding General, and Command up for discussion from various Sgt. Maj. Luther Thomas, Command members of the Chilean staff. The Sgt. Maj. of the Army Reserve, visited questions covered a wide range of Santiago, Chile Jan. 11-14, 2015, and topics from age requirements in met with Gen. Oviedo and other the Army Reserve to the role of the Chilean Army leadership providing Army Career Counselor. insight and lessons learned on the “They are looking for best Army Reserve structure. practices in how we established “This international engagement our own Army Reserve. Although gave us an opportunity to showcase they cannot conform to our our capabilities as well as better tactics, techniques and procedures, understand their needs. Right now they are searching for a way to Chile doesn’t have a truly structured better formally establish their own Reserve force in support Reserve component; they have Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General and Command more of a militia type organization. of their Army missions. They are primarily a homeland defense force Sgt. Maj. Luther Thomas, Army Reserve Command Sergeant Major, tour the headquarters Individual Reserve Soldiers don’t building of the Army of Chile in Santiago, Chile, Jan. 13, 2015. Purser and Thomas visited Chile receive a pay check and they must although they do participate with at the request of the Army of Chile Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Humberto Oviedo, to discuss pay for their own equipment and the U.S. Southern Command in the capabilities and limitations of the Army Reserve. Photo courtesy of the Army of Chile THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 17 and Thomas were afforded the opportunity to tour some of the Reserve facilities and speak with different Soldiers in both the active and reserve components. Purser said, “I was amazed at their selfless service and sense of duty. Given there is no funding to pay them and they buy their own equipment, they struck me as being totally loyal and dedicated to their mission and their country.” Among the many reasons for establishing a Reserve component by Chile was cost effectiveness. The U.S. Army Reserve is credited for providing 20 percent of the active Army’s force for a cost of about six percent of the budget. Oviedo, whose tenure as Chilean Army Commander-in-Chief ends in 2018, plans to double his current reserve force to right at 5,000 Soldiers. In all both Purser and Thomas agreed it was a very productive encounter. Thomas said he took away from this visit that the Chilean Army would like to build a stronger and more capable Reserve force. “They want to learn how the U.S. Army Reserve mans, trains, equips and deploys. They want the best understanding possible of our capabilities and just what Members of the Chilean Army 1st Inf. Regiment welcome Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General, to their Army Garrison in Santiago, Chile. The 1st Inf. Regiment is the oldest unit in the Chilean Army. Purser and Command Sgt. Maj. Luther makes us the best in the world,” Thomas, Army Reserve Command Sergeant Major, were in Chile at the request of the Army of Chile Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Humberto Thomas said. Oviedo from Jan. 11-14, 2015, to discuss the capabilities and limitations of the Army Reserve. Photo courtesy of the Army of Chile 18 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Drill Sergeant for Life By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs FORT JACKSON, S.C. — On a cold and cloudy January morning, a lone drill sergeant prepares a spot on the foundation of a single building. His tools: A level, a drill and a screwdriver. He carefully measures then drills into the brick and mortar of the seemingly impenetrable foundation. He stands back, eyes his work and turns four small screws that attach a single brass plaque to the wall. But this Soldier is no ordinary drill sergeant. This Soldier is a Drill Sergeant Leader at the prestigious U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. The wall he chose is on the foundation of the headquarters building of the school. And the plaque that he hangs bears the name of one single Soldier whose accomplishments not only to the Army, but his community, are worth remembering. The name is none other than that of the late retired Command Sgt. Maj. William Raleigh Hyman, the Command Sgt. Maj. Lamont Christian, U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy Commandant and Valerie Hyman, widow of retired Command Sgt. school’s first enlisted commandant. Maj. William “Bill” Hyman, unveil a plaque during the dedication ceremony in Bill Hyman’s honor at the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy at Fort During a ceremony at the school Jackson, South Carolina, Jan. 15, 2015. The headquarters building of the academy was dedicated to Hyman, who retired honorably from the Jan. 15, 2015, friends, Family, former Army in 1975 after more than 21 years of service, Jan. 15, 2015. Hyman served two tours in the Vietnam conflict and is credited as being the first and current drill sergeants, as well as enlisted commandant of the Army’s Drill Sergeant Academy. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs three of the original Drill Sergeant Leaders gathered to pay tribute to a man whose whole life revolved around service: Service to the nation and service to his community. “This is a memorialization and a dedication of the building here at the Drill Sergeant Academy to one of the first leaders of the Drill Sergeant Program,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Lamont Christian, U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy Commandant. “We want to recognize former drill sergeants like Command Sgt. Maj. Hyman for not only the impact they had on the Drill Sergeant Program but the Army as a whole,” Christian said. Hyman, who enlisted into the Army in 1953, served more than 21 years before retiring at the rank of command sergeant major in 1975. He served two tours in Vietnam during that time. After completing his service to the military, he went on to work for the Kershaw County, South DS for Life-Army Reserve Drill Sergeant Leader, Staff Sgt. Ryan Price, U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy, hangs a plaque in memory of Carolina, Sheriff’s Department and retired Command Sgt. Maj. William “Bill” Hyman on the wall of the headquarters building at the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy on Fort later served as a municipal judge for Jackson, South Carolina. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs the town of Elgin, South Carolina, for 26 years. He was named the original Drill Sergeant Leaders was whose lives Hyman had touched shaping and creating the future of Elgin Citizen of the Year in 1996. present at the ceremony and worked spoke, the congregation moved this country as a judge in his local But of his many accomplishments, closely with Hyman during the Drill outdoors to that spot where the community. By having this building his widow, Valerie Hyman, said the Sergeant Program’s inception in 1964. young Drill Sergeant Leader at the named after him, his memory will one he loved the most was being a “If you took the definition of a Drill Sergeant Academy hung the continue to live on forever.” Soldier. Valerie and William, or Bill Soldier and placed it below a picture, plaque of the old commandant. So the cloth was removed and as he was known, were married for that picture would be that of Sgt. “This is an opportunity for the the freshly-hung plaque bearing the 52 years until his death in 2010. Maj. Hyman,” Jones said. “He was all Family to be able to share with the name of the original drill sergeant “He loved it! The Army was his about the standards. He wouldn’t rest of the Army and the world the standard bearer was unveiled. whole life. He went in at a very young tell you to go get a haircut, but he impact that this man had. Sgt. Maj. And in that moment the skies age, and that’s all he wanted to do. would give you a safety lecture and Hyman was not only a good father, cleared and nothing was ever more One of the guys who served with tell you he was going to put his Soldier and noncommissioned officer. evident. For his Family, community him told me the other day that he foot up your butt if you didn’t go In retirement, he was a Soldier for and the Army, Command Sgt. Maj. was the perfect Soldier, and he was. get one! That was just his way.” life,” Christian said. “After the Army, he William “Bill” Hyman will continue I miss him terribly,” Hyman said. So at the conclusion of the worked with the community doing to live on as a drill sergeant for life. Ernest Jones, one of the school’s ceremony and after all of those what he did as a drill sergeant by

20 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 I Hear you Calling: U.S. Soldiers Mentor Chicago Youths on March Toward Manhood

By Sgt. 1st Class Michael Sauret 416th Theater Engineer Command Public Affairs CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY — It’s a university campus, but this past Friday night, Chicago State University sounded more like a basic training base. Military chants filled the January night air as Army Drill Sergeants and other Soldiers led groups of Chicago youths into cadence. “I hear you calling! Calling for me!” one group sang, doing their best to keep military step for the first time in their life. Except, these young men and boys were not signing up to join the Army. They’re on a journey toward manhood, and the Army was there to help them on their march. Approximately 20 U.S. Army Soldiers served as mentors to 100 youths from the Chicago area during the Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend hosted on the Chicago State University campus Jan. 23-25. “Our boys get to experience and see manhood firsthand with Staff Sgt. Dennis Howard, an Army Reserve drill instructor with the 2-330th Infantry Battalion, One Station Unit Training, roams among a United States Army Soldiers group of 100 Chicago teenagers from single-parent homes during the Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend hosted at Chicago State Univer- because, as my father always says, sity the weekend of Jan. 23-25. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michel Sauret a boy without a male role model is like a an explorer without a compass,” said Brandi Harvey, daughter of Steve Harvey and executive director for the Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation. The youths ranged in age from 14 to 18, all of them raised by a single mother or guardian. More than 3,000 applications poured in to take part of this weekend, but only few could be selected. The foundation also runs the same program in Dallas and one tailored to young ladies in Atlanta. “You guys are proving that even as husbands and fathers and Soldiers, that you still give of your time and your talent to better serve and uplift them as they climb … That’s what manhood is all about. It’s about doing the things you say you’re going to do. Being a standup man in your community,” said Brandi Harvey. Even though several Soldiers traveled from other states to volunteer, half of the mentors are Army Reserve Soldiers from units in the Chicago area. All of the mentors were black Soldiers who could show the mentees first-hand Staff Sgt. Dennis Howard, an Army Reserve drill instructor with the 2-330th Infantry Battalion, One Station Unit Training, leads a march of the success they, too, could have Chicago teenagers during the Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend hosted at Chicago State University the weekend of Jan. 23-25. Approxi- in life. Their ranks ranged from mately 20 U.S. Army Soldiers served as mentors throughout the weekend. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michel Sauret specialist to full-bird colonel, each hoping to share personal life and lot about life in general … (The Though new to this mentoring student loans and tuition costs. Army lessons with the students. Army) molds you and it teaches experience, Abrams was familiar His mother and aunt raised “I can identify with a lot of the you how to take instructions, how with the CSU campus. He’s an Abrams, so he had to learn about kids that’s coming here because, to complete the mission, and I ROTC cadet there working on a manhood from other sources. just like them, I grew up with use that in everyday life,” said Sgt. bachelor’s degree in community “I learned from TV shows, from one parent, grew up with my Brian Abrams, an Army Reserve health. He hopes to commission what I would see just on the mother. Didn’t have a father … Soldier with the 863rd Engineer as an officer once he graduates, streets. How to court a woman. The army values teach you a Battalion, living in Berwyn, Illinois. which will help pay off his How to open up a door for a THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 21 woman. How to look a man in his eyes ... So I was excited that I was accepted to do this. It’s really an honor because I’m looking at me, younger. If I had somebody talk to me then, probably I would have graduated college already,” said Abrams, who is 25. Another Army Reserve Soldier who could identify with the boys is Spc. Nicolas Laboy, an information technology specialist for the 416th Theater Engineer Command. He turned to his uncle and grandfather as key male figures in his life, but he didn’t have a way of paying for college until he joined the Army after high school. Now, he’s working toward a degree in computer engineering. “The Army really changed my life … Growing up, I was always told, ‘You’re not going to be able to do this. You’re not going to be able to make it doing that.’ … Going into the Army got me confident in myself that I actually am smart. I actually can do something with my life,” said Laboy, who is 21. Laboy’s age actually worked in his advantage. He said he was Staff Sgt. Dennis Howard and Sgt. 1st Class Keith Penn, both Army Reserve Drill Instructors with the 2-330th Infantry Battalion, One Sta- tion Unit Training, talk to Devonte Matthews, 15, during the Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend hosted at Chicago State University the able to connect with one of the weekend of Jan. 23-25. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michel Sauret boys who didn’t identify with some of the older Soldiers. “They are the greatest gift you’ll “You have to build a trust with mentoring weekends. kids some wisdom and some ever have in this life. That’s what “These Soldiers that are knowledge about life and about your mentees, and have trust in they are. They are your beloved your group. So that’s a big part that here today are not only fathers opportunities to wear this uniform. mother. Now you owe her your but they’re leaders. They have So I think that’s going to be I want to bring here,” he said. “I life. Without her, you don’t exist know what you’re going through. experience, so they’re going to critically important for these kids.” … You owe your dying breath. have an opportunity to give these I’ve felt the same way you felt … It is your obligation. First rule And this is where I’m at now.” of a man is to honor and adore The weekend was filled your mother,” said Harvey. with team building exercises, At one point in the speech, motivational speeches and Harvey had the boys write resources for those seeking down their career ambition on The Command Visits education or career opportunities. a piece of paper. He joked with On Friday, Soldiers taught the some students who were “too students basic Army “drill and small” to become linebackers, ceremonies” movements as a way “too short” to become power Puerto Rico of instilling unity upon them. Later forwards. He challenged them that evening, Steve Harvey had all to look beyond professional them write their goals on a piece sports as the only golden career. FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto of paper and made no qualms “Quit thinking: running, jumping, Rico — During the month of about the hardships they face, but singing, dancing,” he told them. November, the 1st Battalion, charged them to overcome them. “The most dangerous and powerful 389th Regiment, 98th Training “I have a lot of men in here tool you have is your mind.” Division (IET), conducted their who have volunteered to help me Thinking and hard work annual Army Physical Fitness show you how to get something, were the only keys to shaping a Test (APFT) where 51 Soldiers and more importantly how to be successful man, he said. Harvey of 54 taking the test passed it. something. But, you’ve got to work admitted he was successful Additionally, Maj. Gen. that … You ain’t the only ones not because he’s the funniest Leslie Purser, 108th Training who don’t have a relationship comic, but because he’s one of Command (IET) Commanding with your father. It’s millions of the hardest working people he General and Command Sgt. young men just like you, and they knows. He wakes up at 4:00 a.m. Maj. Rocci DeRezza, command turn out just fine,” said Harvey. daily and works through the sgt. maj. of the 108th Training During a two-hour speech weekends to uphold his success. Command (IET), visited the that was as passionate as it was That’s a schedule the Army is battalion and took the APFT filled with Harvey’s comedic familiar with. Now they were with the Soldiers. During the month of November, the 1st spirit, Harvey pressed hard on here, volunteering a weekend As part of their visit, Purs- Battalion, 389th Regiment, 98th Training the boys to think differently. they could be spending at home er and DeRezza, conducted Division (IET), conducted their annual Army He helped them envision their a meeting with the battalion Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Maj. Gen. Leslie relaxing. Instead, they chose Purser, commanding general and Command future and let go of whatever not only to serve their country, leaders and a Town Hall with Sgt. Maj. Rocci DeRezza, command sgt. maj. bitter past they may have had. but their very community. all Soldiers. During the Town of the 108th Training Command (IET), also He started by pointing them to “(Some people) think that Hall, Purser and DeRezza were participated. Photo by Staff Sgt. Mendez the back of the room, where 100 anybody can join the Army. That able to listen to the Soldiers Virkarina, 98th Training Division (IET) mothers sat watching and listening the Army is a place of last resort. concerns and experiences in as intently as their boys. Those We all that are wearing this the battalion and leadership. last year. One of the battalion ac- women, Harvey admitted, cannot uniform clearly know that’s not A Battalion command brief was complishments is the continued show their sons how to be men. the case,” said Sgt. Maj. Christopher presented to Purser and Derezza support for the Puerto Rico Army But if these youths want to be Irving, with the Fort Knox in order to show them the battal- National Guard Language Center men, they better start loving their Human Resources Command. ion accomplishments during the in Fort Allen, Juana Diaz. mothers and not holding them This is Irving’s second responsible for their circumstances. time serving in one of these 22 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Third Brigade Soldiers Earn the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge

By 3rd Brigade great opportunity to work together 104th Training Division (LT) for a common goal - to earn the badge,” said Capt. Sundin, HHC HERNDON, Va. — Throughout Commander. the 2014 summer months, Soldiers A German liaison must host and from HHC, 3rd Brigade, 104th also be present for the event to be Training Division (LT), competed official; this is the biggest hurdle. for the German Armed Forces Soldiers from various units from Proficiency Badge. The GAFPB is a the Virginia, Washington DC and German award that is awarded to Maryland areas competed for the Soldiers able to complete the First badge from the German liaisons Aid Course, NBC Test, 11x10 meter office in Herndon, Virginia. Events sprint test, flexed arm hang, 1000 were conducted from Fort Meade, meter run, M9 pistol qualification, Maryland all the way down to Fort 100 meter swim and a ruck march. Belvoir, Virginia. Out of the nine Soldiers “The swim was by far the most that started, four were able to difficult part of the test. We had to successfully earn the badge. swim for 100 meters in our ACU’s The badge is one of the few with PTs underneath, once the authorized foreign awards that swim was completed, we had to U.S Soldiers can wear on ASU’s. take off our ACU top and bottom Participants have a year in which and throw it out of the pool. This to successfully complete all the event is where I saw the most awards in order to receive either failures because most of us assume Soldiers of the HHC 3rd Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT), strive for the German Armed the Gold, Silver or Bronze medal. we can jump into the pool and Forces Proficiency Badge. Photo by Capt. Carl A. Sundin, 3rd Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT) “The GAFPB program was a swim for four minutes straight“, great experience; over the six said Capt. Rivera. month period, we were able The culminating event was the from HHD, 3rd Brigade, alternated “I had a great time and would to collaborate as a team in Ruck March in which Soldiers had carrying the Guidon throughout highly recommend any Soldier that environments and exercises not to carry a 33lb ruck for 12 km the entire event and together has the opportunity to compete typical of a BA weekend. The in 120 minutes. Esprit de corps completed the ruck within the for the badge to just go for it,” said process was challenging, fun and a was evident when the Soldiers allotted time. Maj. Gunning.

24 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Boss-lift at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base

Fifty-two guest employers and eight Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve committee members boarded the KC-135 refueler as part of the United States Air Force Reserve’s 916th Air Refueling Wing Bosslift. Photo by Master Sgt. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs

By Master Sgt. Deborah Williams Carolina Employer Support of the and employment. “This is why Gen. Mabry E. “Bud” Martin, and 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs Guard and Reserve chairman. “We we brought you here, to this a member of the North Carolina Seymour Johnson Air Force are a Nation that cannot defend place, to get on this aircraft, to Military Affairs Commission, is Base, Goldsboro, N.C. — The itself based on our standing force watch these men and women appointed directly by Governor day started early for employers alone. The only way that we can do the great things they do in Pat McCrory to work on behalf selected to take part in the United adequately secure our national defense of our Nation,” Bogle said. of the military. The commission States Air Force Reserve’s, 916th defense is with a strong Guard “You will come away impressed. coordinates directly with the Air Refueling Wing’s Boss-Lift. and Reserve. That’s where you They bring extraordinary military in North Carolina to They all met at the Heritage come in; where you become value to the workplace.” provide recommendations to the Hall to receive their badge that partners in our National Defense.” The 52 guest employers from Governor and General Assembly guaranteed them a ride on the He outlined three things that across North Carolina were on the sustainability in such areas KC – 135 refueling tankers. normally lead military service accompanied by eight ESGR as infrastructure and agriculture. Welcome comments were members to separate from the committee members. Retired “Our commission is appointed provided by Ron Bogle, North service: Family, the Soldier himself Army National Guard Brigadier by the governor to support our USC Degrees. USC Faculty. USC Quality. Online. THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 25 military by sustaining what we have and grow, whether logistically by bringing in DOD, supply companies or by using grants and bonds to support our private-public partnership,” Martin said. “We are a joint military in this state, with a military economy second only to agriculture. The military uses a lot of agriculture in their training.” The excitement was growing as the time grew near to load the bus for the trip to the air field. “I am really excited to be here. I hardly slept at all. When my employee recommended me for this, I was honored. I had no idea this was going to happen and I have always thought highly of Charlene [Lynch]. For her to nominate me, means a lot,” said James McGowan, employer at the North Carolina Department of Transportation Charlotte Appraisal James McGowan, an employer at the North Carolina Department of Transportation Charlotte Appraisal Office, gets badge number14 for a Office. Master Sgt. Charlene Lynch guaranteed seat on the KC-135 refueler. McGowan was recommended by Master Sgt. Charlene Lynch, a Reserve Soldier in the 108th Train- is a Reserve Soldier in the 108th ing Command (IET) located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Photo by Master Sgt. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs Training Command (IET) located in Charlotte, North Carolina. could be flown until 2040. After a safety briefing, everyone At the conclusion of the flight, loaded the buses for their everyone ate lunch at the Woods adventure aboard a KC-135 refueler, Auditorium for a final discussion sometimes described as a flying and parting bags supplied with gas station. The KC-135 was the lots of information by the ESGR. U.S. Air Force’s first jet-powered It was unanimous with the refueling tanker and replaced employers that the experience the KC-97 Stratofreighter. The left a lasting impression. KC-135 was initially tasked to “It was an awesome trip! I got refuel strategic bombers, but was to see a lot of stuff I had never used extensively in the Vietnam seen before. It was amazing! I Conflict and later in wars such as really appreciate everything you Operation Desert Storm, to extend guys do. It is amazing that you the range and endurance of U.S. are able to do this and have a tactical fighters and bombers. regular job. Thank you for this The KC-135 entered service with opportunity,” McGowan said. the Air Force in 1957; it is one of six military fixed-wing aircraft with James McGowan, along with 52 other over 50 years of continuous service guest employers and eight Employer with its original operator. The KC- Support of the Guard and Reserve com- mittee members, rode the buses to the 135 is supplemented by the larger flight line. Photo by Master Sgt. Deborah KC-10 aircraft. Despite increased Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), maintenance costs, studies Public Affairs conclude many of the aircraft

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palmettocollege.sc.edu 26 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Third Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training SUPPORTING Division (IET) Holds Best Warrior Competition By Cadet Bryce Linna 3/415th Regt., 95th Training Division (IET) PRIMARY MISSIONS SPOKANE, Wash. — The 3rd Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET), held its annual Best Warrior Competition (BWC) on 15 Nov. Four Soldiers participated in the competition; Staff Sgt. Matthew Konsbruck, Sgt. 1st Class Richard Martin, Spc. Justin Baker and Staff Sgt. Travis Carney. The competition was comprised of the last APFT score of each par- ticipant; weapons assembly and functions check on the M-9, M-16, M-249 and M-240; an oral board in front of the sergeant major and four first sergeants; EST weapons quali- fication on the M-16; Drill Sergeant Modules for the Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY) candidates; and a written exam. The winners are: Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY) Sgt. 1st Class Richard Martin, NCO of the Year (NCOY) Staff Sgt. Matthew Kons- bruck and Soldier of the Year (SOY) Spc. Justin Baker. These Soldiers will be representing the 3rd Battalion during future competitions. Konsbruck said, “I’m honored in getting the privilege to compete at a battalion level competition. De- spite last minute changes, the com- petition was educational, and I look forward to continuing and compet- ing at the next level. I wish my fel- Staff Sgt. Travis Carney of C Company, 3rd Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET), competes in the weapons assembly and low competitors the best of luck. functions check on the M-9, M-16, M-249 and M-240 during the Best Warrior Competition held in Spokane, Washington on Nov. 15. Photo THIS WE’LL DEFEND!” by Cadet Bryce Linna, 3/415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) Veterans Memorial Park Dedication Ceremony

Pictured left is the new Veterans Memorial Park monument. Pictured right, the JOINT Firing Line at the Veterans Memorial Park Dedication Ceremonial Events in Jamestown, New York (from L to R): Senior Chief Petty Officer (SCPO) Anderson (USNR), Staff Sgt. Swanson (NYANG), Staff Sgt. Dahlberg (USAFR), Senior Chief Petty Officer (SCPO) Himes (USNR), Staff Sgt. Peeno (USMC), 1st Sgt. Bull (USAR) and Drill Sgt. Jeter (USAR). Courtesy photos

JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — The Soldiers of 1-390, Sgt. Jeter, E City of Jamestown Veteran’s Co, Canton, Ohio, 1st Sgt. Bull, D Memorial Park Commission Co, Gerry, New York and Lt. Col. requested the assistance of Wright, Commander 1-390, assisted Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, the Chairman of the Veterans 390th Regiment, 4th Brigade, Memorial Park Commission, Mr. 98th Training Division (IET), Ron Cotton, in developing the branches of the service and their Dedication ceremonies key note in the Veterans Memorial Park final dedication ceremony and reserve components (Reserve speaker was Maj. Gen. (Retired) Dedication Ceremonial Events formulation of a JOINT firing line. and National Guard) that are Barclay Wellman, former held Saturday November 8, 2014 in The firing line consisted of U.S. currently serving. commander of the 98th Training Jamestown, New York. Military members representing all The Veterans Memorial Park Division (IET). THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 27 SUPPORTING PRIMARY MISSIONS SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 413th Reg- iment, 95th Training Division (IET), from San Diego, California, recently conducted a successful Modern Army Combatives Program for near- by Army Reserve units. During the November Battle As- sembly, Delta Company’s NCOIC, Staff Sgt. Charles Denney, also sup- ported by Staff Sgt. Ray Mata, Sgt. Omar Munoz and Sgt. Daniel Garcia, led a Modern Army Combatives Pro- gram (MACP) Level 1 Certification Course. This was a highly motivated class composed of the following units: the 314th Military Intelligence (MI) Battalion, 382nd Military Police (MP) Detachment, and 6252nd U.S. Pictured above and to the left: Army Hospital (USAH). The event Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, was held on 17-20 Nov., at the Army 413th Regiment, 95th Training Reserve Center in San Diego, Cali- Division (IET), was crucial in fornia. The course graduated 12 assisting the JROTC Drill and Soldiers, all who gave 110% starting Ceremony Competition in with warm ups, then body posi- December. Courtesy photos tions, drills and strikes. Pictured below: Delta Company, This is just one of Delta Com- 2nd Battalion, 413th Regiment, pany’s primary missions. They also 95th Training Division (IET), from support training to units in the sur- San Diego, California, recently rounding area. During first quarter conducted a successful Modern Battle Assemblies, in addition to Army Combatives Program for Delta Company successfully par- nearby Army Reserve units. Cour- ticipating in multiple events com- tesy photos prised of certifying 12 Soldiers from 314th MI BN in the MACP Level 1, they were crucial in assist- ing the JROTC Drill and Ceremony Competition in December. Future events will provide successful re- cruiting for additional drill ser- geants. The Delta Company Commander, Capt. Gabriel Nunez, said the fol- lowing, “Running programs like this is a win-win for our unit. It hones the skills of our drill sergeants, who during IET will be called upon to assist in Combatives training. It gives us a great opportunity to ad- vertise who we are and what we do, and we have been successful in recruiting Drill Sergeant Candidates by hosting events such as these. Lastly the unit’s Soldiers, that we trained, gain an important required certification.” 28 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Army Reserve Council on Accreditation Visits the 108th

The 108th Training Command (IET) Army Reserve Family Programs accreditation process concludes with a group photo. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs

By Mrs. Deborah Williams to champion quality of services. Military Family Readiness professionals. 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs “These two units were identified Program Accreditation includes the “The COA shows solidarity of CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The by USARC to be the pilots based accreditation of Family readiness support throughout the command. 3rd Medical Command and the on previous expertise in the services provided to active duty, The senior volunteer is at the 108th Training Command (IET) accreditation process. After using it Reserve and National Guard service highest level to provide oversight as Army Reserve Family Programs with the Active Army Component, members and their dependents. the manager for Family Programs to were the first sites selected by we are now bringing it to the table MFR program accreditation was partnership with the 3rd MEDCOM USARC’s Council on Accreditation with the Army Reserve to make it a developed in collaboration with and the 108th Training Command,” Family Programs Accreditation pilot better process,” said Patricia Hollis, the Department of Defense and in said Howard J. Henderson, Family program. Accreditation is one of the Family Programs Director for 3rd consultation with military and other Program Director for the United means by which the agency strives MEDCOM Deployment Support. national human service experts and States Army Reserve Command.

Brig. Gen. Ray A. Royalty, deputy commanding general, 108th Training Command (IET), Linda Talley and Howard J. Henderson, Family Program Director for the United States Army listened to representatives during the USARC Council on Accreditation for the 108th Fam- Reserve Command, gave valuable information and feedback for the Family Programs Ac- ily Programs. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public creditation process. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Pub- Affairs lic Affairs THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 29

“The critical piece for Lt. Gen. Talley and Mrs. [Linda] Talley is the USARC creditors to be a part of the USARC accreditations because it validates Family Programs and how they serve Soldiers and Families. That is why Mrs. [Linda] Talley is here, along with OSD, to oversee the process and the way forward for the future of the Army Reserve Family and how they work their programs with Soldiers and Family,” Henderson explained. The Council on Accreditation partners with human service organizations worldwide to improve service delivery outcomes by developing, applying, and promoting accreditation standards. It envisions excellence in the delivery of human services globally, resulting in the well-being of individuals, Families, and communities. The Standards for Military Family Readiness Programs are divided into three parts: • Administration and Management Standards • Service Delivery Administration Standards The 108th Training Command (IET) Army Reserve Family Programs was one of two units selected by USARC’s Council on Accreditation for the Family Programs Accreditation pilot program. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs • Service Standards Programs must demonstrate individuals and Families. Standards walk through the door, you can be accredited by an outside agency, implementation of both the development is a continuous see Family Programs. It is in a and passing with flying colors. Of Administration and Management process that relies on an inclusive, perfect location for the unit, instant the 300 areas that were examined, and the Service Delivery consensus building methodology accessibility, not hidden or out of we had only seven very minor Administration Standards to ensure the standards remain site. Not all units do that. For me to adjustments to make. [Linda]Talley because they encompass aspects relevant in an ever-changing field. walk right in and go to the Family recognized the 108th at the recent of operations that apply to all The Family Programs is an Programs is phenomenal,” Linda USAR MSC two star huddle for this programs regardless of the services important part of the military and Talley said. accomplishment and used us as an provided. Additionally, programs it is obvious at the 108th Training The 108th has a legacy of great example for others to follow. Great must demonstrate implementation Command (IET). support to our Families. work by our Family Programs of specific Service Standards that “Maj. Gen. Purser sends a great “We proved that once again by team!” said Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, reflect the services it provides. message to the Soldiers and being the first Family Program to 108th Training Command (IET) The Council on Accreditation Families in this command. As you Commanding General. is an international, independent, nonprofit, human service accrediting organization. Founded in 1977 by the Child Welfare League of America and Family Service America (now the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities), their mission is to partner with human service organizations worldwide to improve service delivery outcomes by developing, applying, and promoting accreditation standards. The Council on Accreditation’s Military and Family Program Accreditation is the only accreditation process and standards that were developed in collaboration with the Department of Defense and consultation with military and other national human service experts and professionals to reflect the unique programming of military Family Programs “This accreditation is part of the regulation, Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI). By asking for accreditation from an outside dealer sends a message to Congress that we are serious about Family Programs serving the Soldier,” Howard said. The Council on Accreditation accredits more than 2,200 organizations and programs serving more than seven million 30 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Unit Ministry Team By Mrs. Deborah Williams 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs FORT JACKSON, S.C. — Chaplains from the 108th Training Command (IET) and the three divisions began the UMT Senior Leader Strategic Planning Conference at the 81st Regional Support Command on Nov. 12. Opening remarks by Chaplain Kenneth Alford and a question and answer session by the 108th Deputy Commanding General Brig. Gen. Ray Royalty kicked off the conference. The lessons had already started before the classes began. Alford expressed, “that by just taking a short walk you can learn about great life lessons. I was walking with Chaplain Lozano this morning and learned a few things as we went along.” Royalty also talked about lessons learned from a retired chaplain friend, “I wanted to know what it felt like to be a chaplain and there was some discouragement. My friend said sometimes you are Opening remarks by the 108th Chaplain Lt. Col. Kenneth Alford and a question and answer session by the 108th Deputy Commanding put in a box, marginalized by the General Brig. Gen. Ray Royalty kicked off the conference. Photos by Mrs. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs corporation, or by the bureaucracy or by the institution making it Military. When you take your eye tougher today than 25 years ago.” off the war, you come up short. We Royalty offered words of have got to be ready.” encouragement, “There are those Physical Training started the out there today trying to shut training day off early every morning. us down as a Nation, but we There were a lot of classes to have to stay at it, be persistent. include; Emergency Response, In my mind, my assessment, the Command’s Budget Analysis Trend, Nation is moving away from the Cultural Awareness-Millennium spiritual side. Just living it, I see us Generation and Sharp, just to name becoming more sector, our Army a few. There was also some time trying to do what our society allotted in the busy schedule for a is doing so I see our chaplains Chaplain Museum Tour. becoming more of a counselor Chaplain Ann Tang, 108th Training instead of spiritual advisors.” Command (IET) Chaplain felt the “Counseling is a piece of it, training was a success. an important piece of it and I “I thought that the UMT training appreciate every single one of you.” went well for the divisions. “Your mission is important to the They were able to get the useful 108th and the Army. I spent some information they needed, especially time with WWII Vets and the stories for the future TDA and IDT travel and sacrifices are hard to imagine,” budget, as well as putting faces to said Royalty, “We are part of a Great the names,” said Tang.

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By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton Christian added. organizations that don this particular 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs The Drill Sergeant Course consists piece of headgear - from law of nine weeks of intensive training enforcement, to corrections officers, FORT JACKSON, S.C. — For with long days, longer nights and to park rangers - none wear it with citizens making the leap from civilian a ridiculous amount of stress. greater distinction than the U.S. Army life into military service by way of Noncommissioned officers at the Drill Sergeant. the Army, one symbol of excellence course are trained to master every “Once again, historical social stands above all and exemplifies all skill that a new Soldier coming into changes are being made as we move of the qualities those future Soldiers the Army is expected to perform. toward removal of gender specific desire to acquire- the drill sergeant. Drill Sergeant Candidates at the United For those that complete the titles, labels and restrictions in our For aspiring Drill Sergeant States Army Drill Sergeant School are fit- training, the day they receive the Army. As a military, we have worked Candidates at the United States Army ted and issued their hats just days before hat symbolizes that they have very hard to achieve an inclusive graduating from the prestigious course. Drill Sergeant School at Fort Jackson, The female version of the Drill Sergeant finally achieved that standard of shift in uniform nomenclature, South Carolina, that symbol is the Hat came into existence in 1972 as a beige excellence they have desired to occupational specialties and Drill Sergeant Hat. version of the Australian bush hat, when emulate for so long. now small unit infantry courses,” “It’s amazing! It’s pretty surreal. six noncommissioned officers from the Sgt. 1st Class Jordany Urbano, Christian said. This is the first thing that civilians Fort McClellan, Alabama, became the first a mobilized Army Reserve Drill No matter what your view of females to successfully complete the Drill see when they step off that bus. In Sergeant Course. It was later changed to a Sergeant Leader at the United States these two versions of the legendary psychological terms it symbolizes green color in 1983 but retained its gen- Army Drill Sergeant School said, headgear, be it the Montana Peak discipline. It almost has a legend to eral design. The difference in the male “This hat means that you are the campaign hat or the Australian it,” said Army Reserve Sgt. Enrique and female Drill Sergeant Hat versions has best at what you do. You are a leader, bush hat, they both have two traits Hernandez, 98th Training Division become a topic for contentious debate in a mentor and the epitome of a in common - they both command recent years. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian (IET). Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), professional Soldier. You can’t take discipline and demand excellence. Hernandez, was one of 97 Public Affairs away the excitement of graduation As a side note, the United States noncommissioned officers who were because that means you’ve finally Army Center for Initial Military fitted with the coveted headgear just finished everything you have to do, Training, or USACIMT, has initiated a one week before graduation at the later changed to a green color in but for a lot of the candidates here Drill Sergeant Hat survey that will be Drill Sergeant School. Together they 1983 but retained its general design. this lets them know they’ve made it. I available in the near future. make up less than 18 percent of the The difference in the male and think for most of them this day is just For more information about total Army force that is even qualified female Drill Sergeant Hat versions as good if not better than graduation. becoming a drill sergeant with the to be a drill sergeant. has become a topic for contentious It certainly was for me.” United States Army or Army Reserve “I was honored to be selected for debate in recent years. The campaign hat is a universal, please go to http://www.army.mil/ this position. It shouldn’t change you. “The time has come to provide iconic symbol of authority. Of all the drillsergeant/. I’m not going to let it change me. the initial entry Soldier with the I still have to perform my primary immediate facial recognition and mission, and that is to take care of perspective of what and who a drill Soldiers. But the hat is a symbol and I sergeant is, not a female or male drill am proud to have it,” Hernandez said. sergeant, but a drill sergeant. A drill The olive drab headgear worn by sergeant who happens to be male male drill sergeants today has a flat or female. One standard issue Drill brim, Montana Peak and bears a gold Sergeant Hat for all drill sergeants disc of the Great Seal of the United will aid in this continuous, inclusive States on its front. Infantry Soldiers transition,” said Command Sgt. Maj. wear an infantry blue disc under the Lamont Christian, Commandant seal. Drill sergeants first wore this hat at the United States Army Drill in 1964 as a way of distinguishing Sergeant School. themselves from those whom they “The Army female Drill Sergeant were charged with transforming Hat came about during a period of into Soldiers. It has been their proud historical social changes needed to symbol ever since. highlight the presence of women The female version of the Drill in the Army. Women have served Sergeant Hat came into existence proudly as noncommissioned officers in 1972 as a beige version of the and drill sergeants for more than Australian bush hat, when six 40 years. As we move forward we noncommissioned officers from the will ensure females continue to be Fort McClellan, Alabama, became the respected equally with their male first females to successfully complete counterparts as premier teachers, JACKSONVILLE the Drill Sergeant Course. It was coaches and mentors in the Army,” UNIVERSITY LIVE HERE. LEARN HERE. LEAD HERE.

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By 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower 95th Training Division (IET)

METZ France — In November, Soldiers of the 95th Training Division (IET) headquartered at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, traveled to Metz, France to participate in the 70th Anniversary Commemoration of the Liberation of Metz during World War II. Fourteen World War II Veterans of the 95th Training Division and their Families, and other dignitaries also attended the events. Among the 95th Division Soldiers in attendance were Brig. Gen. Daniel Christian, commanding general of the 95th Training Division (IET), Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill, the division’s most senior enlisted Soldier, and the Color Guard comprised of drill sergeants currently serving in the division. The distinguished guests included retired Maj. Gen. James Archer, president of the 95th Division Association. The 70th Anniversary Commemoration was held over several days to show appreciation and honor to the members of the then-95th Infantry Division who fought several battles in 1944 to end the hostilities and return the Brig. Gen. Daniel Christian, 95th Training Division (IET) Commanding General, lays a wreath at the American Eagle Memorial in Metz, city of Metz and the Lorraine region France on 22 Nov. 2014. Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower, 95th Training Division (IET back to the citizens of France. The first ceremony was held on Thursday, Nov. 20, in the city would spend 20 minutes sitting American Eagle Monument, the Christian with the wreath laying. of Maizieres les Metz where the on the fender in the freezing rain location where the first lives were During the evening ceremony, Soldiers of I Company, 377th and snow then rotate to the back lost in the liberation effort. During Veterans and dignitaries of Metz Infantry Regiment, 95th Infantry for other Soldiers to warm them. this ceremony the 95th Division’s traveled to Boufflers Square to Division seized the fortified Brieux Later that day the 95th Division Color Guard and the French Color plant a North American Oak Château. During the ceremony, contingent travelled to Metz where Guard marched together. The Tree at the Lafayette Statue, former Private Ceo Bauer delivered they attended a religious ceremony ceremony dignitaries, Christian, followed by a concert played by a speech about two fallen Soldiers at the Synagogue of Metz held by Archer and Lt. Gen. Patrick Ribayrol, the Lorraine National Symphony who fought alongside him during the Jewish community to honor the military governor of Metz, honoring the Liberators of Metz this battle. He was there to represent the Soldiers of the division. placed wreaths at the monument. and French-American friendship. them and their Families. A school The next morning, a Blake Fuller, a foreign exchange The 95th Division Color Guard was built near the battle for Brieux commemoration was held at the student from Georgia Tech, assisted and Veterans visited the grave site Château and children from the school, who attended the ceremony, carried American and French flags in their hands. The children lined up along the street and greeted the Soldiers and Veterans with handshakes and high-fives. Another ceremony held the same day was located in the city of Woippy, France, where all the attendees were greeted by Mayor Francois Grosdidier and many city residents. The next day, the 95th Training Division Soldiers and Veterans were given a tour of the motor pool of the Club Lorrain de Vehicules Militaria Allies 95th I. D. U. S. by the club president, Tehirry Becker. The Veterans were also given a tour in the restored World War II vehicles. World War II Veteran, Tony Vittiglio, recalled the story of his unit driving vehicles night and day with only blackout lights from Saarlauten, Germany, to Bastogne, Belgium. There was a Soldier sitting on each fender of Color Guards of the United States and French Armies post the Colors during the morning commemoration, held at the American Eagle the vehicles to direct the drivers Memorial in Metz, France on 22 Nov. 2014. The American Eagle Memorial is the location of the first lives lost in the liberation effort of Metz. when driving at night. Each Soldier Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower, 95th Training Division (IET) THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 33

Brig. Gen. Daniel Christian, 95th Training Division (IET) Commanding General, and Retired Maj. Gen. James Archer, 95th Infantry Division Association President, pay respect to the St. Brig. Gen. Daniel Christian, 95th Training Division (IET) Commanding General, and Com- Nabor monument during a ceremony marking the 70th Anniversary of the Liberation of mand Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill, 95th Training Division (IET) Command Sgt. Maj., greet school Metz in Metz, France, this past November. Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower, 95th Training children at Mazieres Les Metz, France. A contingent from the 95th Training Division was Division (IET) invited to Metz, France this past November to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the liberation of the city. The 95th Infantry Division, now the 95th Training Division (IET), was instrumental in the liberation of the city during World War II and became known as the ‘Iron Men of Metz.’ Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower, 95th Training Division (IET)

the freedom France now enjoys. lineage is strong and we cannot “We are indebted to the Veterans forget the Soldiers who came for their heroism and the pursuit before us so that we can continue of freedom on foreign soil. Our that legacy for future generations to come,” Christian said.

Staff Sgt Keri Thomas, 95th Training Division (IET), greets Anthony Duno and his daughter at the reception in Maizeieres les Metz, France. Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary Hightower, 95th Train- ing Division (IET) of Medal of Honor recipient Staff Soldiers of the 95th Division Sgt. Andrew Miller on Nov. 24. After walked the same grounds of the wreath-laying ceremony, retired Metz, Woippy and Crehange, the Col. John Komp told the story of Veterans reminded us of the fight how he personally requested Miller for freedom and the lives lost for be transferred to his unit after hearing that he graduated first in his class during bazooka training. The last event was a trip to Sarrelouis, France, where Roland Henz, the mayor of the city, greeted the Soldiers of the 95th Division. At Sarrelouis, World War II Veteran Paul Madden Jr. told a story about how his battalion helped seize the bridge. Archer said this was his third time attending the commemoration of the anniversary of the Liberation of Metz, which is held every five years. He said this was the most compelling and emotional of the three. “The emotion was more than I have seen at the last two reunions because I think these Veterans feel in their hearts this is probably the last opportunity they are going to have to come where their combat was and to honor their comrades that didn’t make it home,” Archer said. Christian said that as the current 34 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Families: Our Greatest Resource

By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

ORLANDO, Fla. — “We’ve all heard Gen. Odierno’s closing comments to his speeches: the strength of our nation is our Army, the strength of our Army is our Soldiers, and the strength of our Soldiers is our Families. There is no Soldier who has become successful without the support of a caring Family. The large presence at this Yellow Ribbon event is proof of just how much they care,” said Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General. The Army Reserve Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program is designed to provide resources to Soldiers and their Families throughout every phase of deployment. But for the Families of Soldiers from the 108th Training Command (IET) deployed as Task Force Beast in Afghanistan, the greatest resource provided to them at a recent event in Orlando was each other. “If it weren’t for the Yellow Ribbon events, I wouldn’t have the support network that I do. Our Soldiers were pulled from all across the country for ”Speed dating” gives vendors at the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program the opportunity to pitch their service in one minute or less. this deployment. I was able to meet What started in 2007 by the Minnesota National Guard, has since grown throughout the entire National Guard and Army Reserve. The everyone in our group during the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program provides resilience training to service members and their Families as well as raising awareness of the numerous programs available to all deploying service members. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), first event. We do a weekly check- Public Affairs in that I really look forward to. I can discuss issues that arise and I always get a great response. Through the “Yellow Ribbon wasn’t an option Yellow Ribbon, I realized that I am the first two deployments because not alone and it helps,” said Jessica my husband and I weren’t married. Garza, the spouse of a deployed I didn’t know what this was all Reserve Soldier now dealing with about but I gave it a try and it’s deployment stress for the first time. been a huge help. I’ve met some “Having a connection with great friends through this program everyone and meeting people who serve as my support group. who are on the same level and just This was my first opportunity to knowing that they are going through participate in Yellow Ribbon and it’s the same struggles as me makes it been a great benefit,” Langley said. easier. Even though we live far apart, The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration we keep in contact, whether it’s program was originally the brainchild through email or a phone call. I’ve of the Minnesota National Guard and made some great friends through was known as Beyond the Yellow this program and in the military Ribbon program. The concept quickly once you make a friend, you’ve got spread throughout the entire National a friend for life,” Garza added. Guard and in 2008 congress mandated Jessica’s friend Mary Langley, that the Reserve component offer now dealing with her third the program to all deploying service deployment agreed. members and their Families.

Family members visit one of the many vendor exhibitions at a Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program event held in Orlando, Florida. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 35

What originally began as seven I have ended up serving as a conduit For each event, service providers manager for the 143rd Sustainment events, Yellow Ribbon has gone between the Families and the and vendors are brought together Command (Expeditionary) through several revisions until it was different resources. Sometimes the under one roof and given the and retired Navy Chaplain. finally streamlined into the program Families will want to know how to opportunity to present their “I was anticipating something it is today, offering Soldiers and their get in touch with different resources product directly to each service completely different when I took Families a total of four events: one pre- such as Military One Source or member and their Families, each this job. But I have to say the deployment, one during-deployment, Family Programs and we try to in their own unique way. Reserve component has done a and two post-deployment events. point them in the right direction,” “With active duty service great job of getting me out and The goal of the program said Laquiton Hare, Yellow Ribbon members you have a captive about and talking to people. It’s is to provide resources for Reintegration program contractor for audience. They are told to be there important but a lot of people don’t deploying Soldiers and their the 108th Training Command (IET). and they are there. With Family see the importance until something Families throughout the entire “There’s a great deal of detail that members it’s a little bit different happens. Events like this help. It deployment; from the notification goes into bringing all this together especially on the active duty side. It’s gives you a proactive approach to of deployment to long after the but I love it. When I deployed we hard to bring all of those Families some difficult subjects,” Felder said. Soldier has returned. Among the didn’t have Yellow Ribbon. We had together. With the Yellow Ribbon No matter how you look at it, many services offered are resilience Family Readiness Groups and things you have the opportunity to bring one thing everyone involved in the training, Tricare benefits, budgeting like that but this helps bring all all of those Families together and it Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program and financial service training. the benefits and services that are works. This is my first experience agreed on, from Family member “My primary mission is to help available to the Soldiers and their with the program but it work’s to program contractor to vendor; organize the different events, but Families directly to them. It takes and I like it,” said Gerald Felder, Yellow Ribbon helps build upon our there’s been quite a few times when out the guess work,” Hare said. suicide prevention program Army’s greatest resource, Families. 36 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Reservist Builds Mentors Promotes Minority Advancement in New York

By Major Jordan Brehove underrepresented urban youths, indications that these high school Academy many mentees do not 4/415th SROTC PAO and Region 3 OIC Gussenhoven got creative. The students are good candidates for have the role models they need, NEW YORK, N.Y. — One of the CUNY joined with the civic ROTC enrollment. In fact, two of and this hopefully helps.” U.S. Army’s newest senior ROTC organization, 100 Black Men of the Eagle Academy graduates are The program is still in its programs stood up just a few years America, to bolster a mentorship already ROTC cadets at CUNY and infancy; beginning in the fall of ago at City University of New York program for high school students. one graduate is enrolled at West 2014, but the value is already (CUNY). Part of the programs The CUNY cadets would stretch Point. being realized. Army Cadets are mission is to find the leaders from their leadership muscles and Armed with a great idea that learning community involvement a diverse group that may not have helps the community and the and building their leadership skills. previously been exposed to the ROTC program, but severely Minority high school students are military. The U.S. Army also stands resource constrained, CUNY getting valuable and actionable to gain a lot from leaders forged looked to the 4/415th SROTC of mentorship from others that at CUNY. In fact, before CUNY the 104th Training Command for have been in their same shoes. ROTC was disbanded in 1972, it assistance. The 4/415th provides The military is working with the commissioned a young lieutenant reserve officer and NCO support who would become one of the to priority ROTC programs along most notable military leaders of our the East coast of the United States, time, General Colin Powell. and CUNY was in need. Maj. James Hendon from the 4/415th SROTC Building a new program and First Sgt. Gregory Ellis (USAREC) shares his driving enrollment was a challenge Bn, Region 3 was able to heed that military insights with students at Eagle call. Hendon, an experienced officer that fell to the professor of Academy for Young Men. Photo by Tina M. military science, Lt. Col. Richard Beller, USAREC, Public Affairs with deployments, a leader in the B. Gussenhoven. One of the more minority community and a graduate Maj. Jordan Brehove, experienced ROTC Battalion of multiple Ivy League universities, 4/415th SROTC, over- mentor high school students at seemed to be the perfect candidate. sees USAR support Commanders, Gussenhoven, Maj. James Hen- to university ROTC (previously led Fordham University the Eagle Academy for Young Men, He accepted the challenge, and in Bronx, New York. In addition now in addition to teaching courses don, 4/415th programs in New ROTC), is now in the process SROTC, dedicates York, New Jersey and of growing a small program by to helping the community, this at City College of New York (part every other Sat- Pennsylvania where increasing enrollment. could be a great way for CUNY to of the CUNY system), he takes bi- urday to work- adjunct faculty are ing with mentors encouraged to devel- In trying to promote the increase enrollment in the years weekly trips on Saturday’s to the ahead and expose students to the Eagle Academy for Young Men (CUNY cadets) and op cadets via class- prospect of military leadership to their mentees (Ea- room instruction as value of military service. There are where he oversees the young gle Academy high well as more creative mentors, college student cadets school students). methods. Courtesy from CUNY who mentor high- Courtesy photo photo school students. Hendon guides the mentors who are often only a few years older than their mentees. community Hendon estimates that the hand in hand. The CUNY is program has drawn about 40 likely to get more qualified mentors and 50-60 mentees. candidates. This is all possible Each Saturday brings one-on- by the leadership and teamwork one mentoring as well as group of various civilian and military discussions featuring different parties as well as support from themes ranging from self-discipline the 4/415th. When asked if he or time-management to the more thought it is proving successful, sensitive and timely topic of Hendon modestly said, “Kids come interacting with police. Hendon for different reasons. The fact that said that for the mentees, “This is a [so many] students keep coming free space. Somewhere you can go willingly means something. Their and not be judged. Outside of Eagle actions speak for themselves.”

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Learn more about the benefits and services Jefferson College offers veterans and active military members at www.jchs.edu/veteran-active-military-member-resources THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 37 Retiring from Service

Brig. Gen. Michaelene A. Kloster, 98th Training Division (IET) Commanding Gen- eral, friends and Soldiers of the 98th Training Division (IET) were present to wit- ness the retirement of Lt. Col. Lydia Prusik at Fort Benning, Georgia. Photo by 2nd Lt. Adam McMahan, 98th Training Division (IET)

By Staff Sgt. Sarah Hubbard 98th Training Division (IET) FORT BENNING, Ga. — On January 10, 2015, a retirement ceremony was held in honor of Lt. Col. Lydia Prusik. She was received in the presence of Brig. Gen. Michaelene A. Kloster, commanding general of the 98th Training Division (IET), friends and the Soldiers of the 98th Training Division (IET) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Prusik began her career by entering the Military Police Corps as a private and progressing to a commissioned officer in 1982. In 1987, she became a Platoon Leader supporting the 209th Field Artillery leaving only to further solidify her career supporting the 98th Training Division (IET). Pruisk was honored with Certificates of Appreciation from Chief of the Army Reserve, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Talley and President Barack Obama, along with a Meritorious Service Medal for her distinguished performance of 40 years of service. She is held in the highest regard by her staff and the commanding officers in both the 98th Training Division and 108th Training Command. Her mentorship of both NCOs and officers she has served with will carry on after her departure as a testimony to her professionalism and highest standards of moral character.

dependable 38 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Drill Sergeant Graduates Ranger School with Top Honors

By Wallace McBride Fort Jackson Leader wife would think if I go to Ranger School,” he said. quit. It was my ‘Come Vitug said his responsibilities as FORT JACKSON, S.C. (Nov. 20, to Jesus’ moment.” a drill sergeant did not allow him 2014) — About five weeks into Ultimately, Vitug not time to prepare for the physical Ranger School, Staff Sgt. Matthew only finished the course, and mental rigors of Ranger School. Vitug was ready to surrender. but graduated with It might not have mattered if he It was during the second stage honors. He said it meant had, though, because the physical of the program, dubbed the more than just crowning challenges had little in common Mountain Phase, that Vitug said he a three-year stint as a with the physical training tools began to doubt his ability to follow drill sergeant at Fort found elsewhere in the Army. through on his plans to become a Jackson. It also meant Some of the physical training Ranger. The Mountain Phase takes realizing a professional exercises are actually considered place miles away from civilization goal he’s envisioned obsolete today, he said. That at Camp Merrill, located near Karri Vitug pins the Ranger tab on the uniform of her before joining the Army. didn’t stop the instructors Dahlonega, Georgia. He was tired, husband, Staff Sgt. Matthew Vitug, during his graduation “I’ve been trying to from demanding the best hungry and, during the night, fatigue from Ranger School Nov. 7, 2014, at Fort Benning, Geor- get into Ranger School from their Soldiers, though. was beginning to take its toll. gia. Staff Sgt. Vitug was an honor graduate in his class. since about six months “I remember looking back But fatigue alone wasn’t He just completed his tour as a drill sergeant with Fort after I became a drill and thinking, ‘We’re in TRADOC. what haunted him. Jackson’s 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment. Cour- tesy photo sergeant,” said Vitug, They have to stop.’ But there’s no “I started missing my kids who is assigned to the repetition where they have to stop,” and wife,” he said. “We had 2nd Battalion, 60th he said. “There’s no exercise they been walking, and it seemed to sing some of the songs from Infantry Regiment. can or can’t do. They have their like forever. Every step I took I the Disney film, songs he had Vitug said professional and own way of weeding out the weak.” wanted to quit. I started thinking sung for his young daughter. personal obstacles were preventing The nature of the challenges about my kids and remembered “There was this grown man him from participating in the elite varied throughout the 61-day watching ‘Frozen’ before I left.” singing songs from ‘Frozen’ in the school, located at Fort course, but were While making his way through middle of the night,” he said. “And Benning, Georgia. A always exceptionally the darkness, Vitug said he began I started thinking about what my chance encounter challenging. with Fort Jackson’s Unsurprisingly, commanding general Soldiers began to changed that, though. wash out almost Vitug said he met immediately. The Maj. Gen. Bradley class began with 386 Becker during people, he said, 31 Victory Forge, an graduated straight extended exercise through; 85 Soldiers that caps Army Basic graduated in all. Combat Training. “I don’t think “He recognized that there’s a way to I was a third-year drill prepare for the ‘suck’ sergeant and asked Staff Sgt. Matthew Vitug, a of it,” Vitug said. “The me why I was doing former drill sergeant with rucksacks were just Fort Jackson’s 2nd Battalion, a third year,” Vitug 60th Infantry Regiment, was ungodly -- the winter said. “I told him it was among the top graduates at packing list was 110 for Ranger School Ranger School recently. Pho- pounds and 160 ... and that nobody to by Wallace McBride, Fort pounds, depending wanted me to go.” Jackson Leader, Public Affairs on your place Becker personally within the platoon. I signed off on didn’t prep for that Vitug’s request to here. My time as attend the school, he said. a drill sergeant didn’t allow Vitug, whose military me the time to prepare.” occupational specialty is military The first day was a shock, he policeman, received the enlisted said. The majority of the Soldiers leadership award in his class. who wash out of Ranger School do “I could not be more proud so during the first four days, but of Staff Sgt. Vitug, though I am Vitug said he was surprised when not surprised by his superior people began to drop out of the performance at the U.S. Army program within minutes of being Ranger School,” Becker said. rousted out of bed on the first day. “Ranger School is the Army’s “The whole day I saw people premier small unit leadership getting dropped, for lack of school, and Fort Jackson has some attention to detail or quitting,” he of the Army’s very best NCO said. “It was pretty insane, but it leaders. Vitug is a perfect example wasn’t much different than what of the high quality NCOs we we do as drill sergeants, providing have training and developing our organized chaos to a private. next generation of Soldiers. Not It was just amplified for us.” only did Vitug complete one of He said the tone changed the Army’s toughest schools, he radically on the last day of testing. stood out as the best of the best.” “It was like we’d joined a Vitug said he appreciated the brotherhood,” he said. “The guys commanding general’s support. who were inflicting this hell upon “It was definitely a cool us were suddenly calling us by our experience for General Becker names. They were trying to guide to take a shot in the dark on us, telling us what our obligations this non-infantry, non-combat- are now that we’re Rangers. It arms guy who just wanted to should be something we embody.” THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 39 Clemson University Celebrates Military Appreciation Day

By Sgt. Ken Scar 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs CLEMSON, S.C. — South Carolina’s Clemson University celebrated its latest Military Appreciation Week Nov. 18 - 22, which included non-stop recognition and honors for past and present service members - keeping in place a long tradition of honoring our military that began with the very founding of the school in 1889. Beginning with the first graduating class of 1896, more than 10,000 Clemson men and women have served in the armed forces. Many have been highly decorated for their service and sacrifices, including Aquilla J. Dyess, recipient of the Medal of Honor for acts of heroism against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, Feb. 1 and 2, 1944. Adding to those roots, several Clemson alumni were captured and held as prisoners of war in conflicts from WWI to Vietnam. But most notably, 485 Clemson alumni have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. The names of those 485 heroes are carved permanently in 485 stones that comprise Clemson’s Clemson University’s Scroll of Honor is a circle comprised of 485 stones with the names of each Clemson alumni Scroll of Honor, a beautifully landscaped monument who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country etched into them. The university’s gigantic football stadium, Memorial Stadium, can be seen in the background. It was named in honor of the 485. Photo by Sgt. Ken Scar, 108th erected across the street from Memorial Stadium, the Training Command (IET), Public Affairs gargantuan football venue named for those revered 485 that the Clemson Tigers play their home games in. This year’s Military Appreciation week included training and events for student Veterans, the opening of a new Student Veterans Resource Center, a golf tournament to fund an endowment for student Veterans, and multiple recognitions and honors to Veterans past and present, most particularly Vietnam Veterans, during the Clemson Tigers’ game against Georgia State on Nov. 22. During half-time,of the game, more than two dozen Vietnam Veterans and their Families from every service branch were saluted during a ceremony on the infield. Afterwards, the Clemson Reserve Officers’ Training Corps’ elite drill unit, the Pershing Rifles, conducted an Honors ceremony for the fallen Clemson University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps’ elite drill unit, the Persh- at mid-field. ing Rifles, leads the Military Appreciation The 80,000-seat stadium went Day parade down Fort Hill Street before stone still during a moment of the Clemson versus Georgia State game at Memorial Stadium, Nov. 22, 2014. Photo silence to honor those who have by Sgt. Ken Scar, 108th Training Command given the ultimate sacrifice. (IET), Public Affairs

A U.S. Army Special Forces Soldier flies into Clemson University’s Memorial Stadium with the National Colors and the game ball during opening ceremonies for the Clemson versus Georgia State game Nov. 22, 2014. The game was part of Clemson’s annual Military Appreciation day which included non-stop honors and recognition for Veterans and active military service members. Photo by Sgt. Ken Scar, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs 40 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Norwegian Foot March Breaks Record with Over 700 Participants

By Sgt. Katherine Forbes 120th Public Affairs Detachment EVANSVILLE, Ind. — While residents of Evansville, Indiana, slept through the early morning hours, Soldiers and civilians assembled on the campus of the University of Southern Indiana. The 700-plus participants of the 13th Annual Norwegian Foot March prepped their ruck packs in the campus gym. After the safety brief and route guidance, the first heat gathered at the starting line. At 7:30 a.m. sharp a cannon fired and the ruck-marchers began the 18.6-mile timed race Nov 1. The Norwegian Foot March began in 2001, said Dr. Nils Johansen, an advisor at the University of Southern Indiana and founder of the march. Dr. Johansen wanted to bring an event to the Reserved Officer Training Course at USI that could benefit the school and all participants. The Norwegian military offered a badge for a foot march that simulates the experience of a Norwegian Soldier in the field. The badge, which started in 1915, can be earned by carrying a 25-pound pack across 18.6 miles in the allotted time. The time limit for this race is 4.5 hours for any male 34 years or below. The time limit increases for ages Four Soldiers from Alpha Company, 1/398th (BCT), 95th Training Division (IET), participated in this year’s 13th Annual Norwegian Foot above 34 years and for females. March event for the first time; Staff Sgt. Todd Church, Staff Sgt. Nathaneal Stewart, Sgt. William Harrison and 1st Lt. Robert Madden. “The badge comes in bronze Courtesy photo the first time you do it,” said Johansen. “Silver after four times assistant professor of military and gold medal after eight times.” science at USI, leads the ROTC Today, Maj. Christopher Dalrymple, cadets in organizing this growing event. He points out reasons for the

“To have an opportunity like this so close to home was hard to pass up. I had to complete it at least once” 1st Lt. Robert Madden, Alpha Co, 1/398th (BCT), 95th Training Division (IET) said. All four Soldiers from the 95th completed the 13th Annual Norwegian Foot March in the specified time for their age group, but the bigger feat was that all the participants came together to donate approximately 4000 pounds of food to the Veterans in need. Courtesy photo THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 41 One of the big motivations for registrants is the appeal of the badge one can earn. growing numbers of participants. many participants packed their “This year’s extraordinary rucks with canned goods. At because it’s another record the end of their 18.6-mile hike breaking year,” he said. “It has more they unloaded their packs and than doubled, tripled, quadrupled donated it to a Veterans homeless since the start. In the humble shelter in Evansville, Ind. beginnings we would only have “It was the Veterans of Foreign about 10 to 15 participants. War’s idea,” said Larry Lightburne, Now we’re sitting at over 700.” a cadet commander with the One of the big motivations USI ROTC. “It’s going to a good for registrants is the appeal cause and it actually meant a of the badge one can earn. lot taking that weight out right “It’s an accomplishment to have at the end of the ruck and a Foreign Service medal that’s getting to donate it to charity.” authorized to wear on the ASUs,” Earning a medal and giving to said Dalrymple. “It’s a chance to charity give the event weight, When 1st Lt. Robert Madden, Alpha Co, 1/398th (BCT), 95th Training Division (IET), first earn something that’s unique in but the deeper draw is the sense heard of the Annual Norwegian Foot March event he wanted to get as many of his Soldiers as he could to enter as a team building event. “It was an event that would test us physically the military that you can’t find of accomplishment and support and mentally as individuals to see what we were made of, what we could accomplish and anywhere else. You get a Foreign the event gives each Soldier and to help out local Veterans in need. Not to mention that we are authorized to wear a Foreign Service medal from Norway. civilian that crosses the finish line. Service Medal from Norway on our Army Service Uniform.” Courtesy photo Where else do you get that?” “You gotta do it at least once,” In addition to the growing said Lightburne. “It teaches you a numbers of participants, the lot about yourself, what you’re able march is also growing in to do. It’s an incredible experience community service. This year and it’s only getting better.” 42 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Hiring our Veterans-Carolinas Healthcare System

Carolina HealthCare System proudly recognizes teammates who have served and are serving in the military. Photo by Mrs. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs By Mrs. Deborah Williams reputation as the finest fighting That is what the Carolinas on their shoulders and those who 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs force in the world – both in HealthCare System has done for came before us. Employees and CHARLOTTE, N.C. — There is strength and in character. That’s three consecutive years. Today was employers from CHS took time out no doubt that our Veterans have why it’s important – in fact the third Veterans appreciation of their busy schedules to reflect paved the way for our military’s imperative – that we remember breakfast. Today was a time to on the sacrifices and commitment them always. remember that our freedom rests of all who have served. THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 43

This network of hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, urgent cares and practices, employs over one thousand four hundred Veterans, thereby committing to the men and women who serve. The Army Reserve possesses 70 percent of the Army’s capability for logistics, 60 percent of the medical assets, 30 percent of the engineering capabilities, and 100 percent of the Training Commands. Guest speaker Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, commanding general of the 108th Training Command (IET), stated, “We are very grateful to the community and their show of patriotism for our servicemembers. The sacrifices that servicemembers, Families and employers make are great.” “It is a distinct privilege to serve our community, our Families, and our employers. As we reflect on our blessings and commemorate this important day, I want to say thank you to all the servicemembers that served and sacrificed and to those that continue to protect our freedoms for future generations,” said Purser. Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, commanding general of the 108th Training Command (IET), was the guest speaker at the Carolinas HealthCare Many services were available System’s Veterans appreciation breakfast. Photo by Mrs. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs to assist servicemembers such as the ESGR and the USO. The ESGR honor given to servicemembers at is a Department of the Defense this event.” agency that seeks to promote a Lydia Crutchfiled, a RN working culture in which all American in Human Resources for over 37 employers support and value the years, said “I love the military and military service of their employees. enjoy working with them. Ms. They also assist uniformed Plousha works hard to ensure this servicemembers in understanding event happens every year.” their rights and responsibilities Debra Plousha Moore, Chief under the Unformed Services Human Resources Officer and Employment and Reemployment Executive Vice President, opened Rights Act (USERRA). They are and closed the ceremony with a available at www.ESGR.mil. farewell and one final request that Staff Sgt. Tonya Smith, 108th everyone “take the card placed Training Command (IET), is an at your table that says “We Salute employee of CMC Main, “I really You” and write a special note to a enjoyed the presentation and Veteran that will be mailed by us.” 44 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Golden Griffons Hold Retirement Ceremony

The 108th Training Command (IET) Deputy Commanding General, Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty, presented the American Flag, in addition to the awards, signaling an end to the military careers of the retirees. Photo by Sgt. Javier S. Amador, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs

By Sgt. Javier S. Amador farewells to their fellow service the arrival of the official party The unit’s deputy commanding 108th Training Command (IET) Public members during an emotional followed by the posting of the general, Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty, Affairs retirement ceremony held Sun., Colors, the playing of the National presided over the ceremony CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Five Nov. 16 at the 108th Training Anthem and an invocation by the during which awards were Soldiers shared their fondest Command (IET) Headquarters. unit chaplain, Lt. Col. (Chaplain) presented to the retiring Soldiers memories and said their final The ceremony began with Kenneth L. Alford.

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800-334-1203 www.alliancetractortrailer.com THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 45 honoring them for their dedication and service throughout their careers. Combined, the retiring Soldiers have contributed 140 years of service to their country. During their allotted time to speak, some of them, such as Master Sgt. Michael A. Roulhac, were unhappy early in their careers and were not sure if they would continue to serve, much to their surprise. “Back in 1973 when I joined the Army, I had no intention of staying. In fact, during my four-year enlistment, I swore I would never shine another pair of black shoes or black boots. That’s truly how I felt,” said Roulac, “About a year later a good friend of mine asked me if I had ever considered joining the Army Reserve and I said no, I never considered the Army Reserve, so I enlisted in the Army Reserve and A Family member, of the retiring Soldier, was presented with a bouquet of flowers before each retiree gave a motivational and emotional speech about I’m still here.” their time spent in the military. Photo by Sgt. Javier S. Amador, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs Col. Conrad – 41 years A. Holbert Jr. years • Lt. Col. Christopher C. Black – acknowledged those who had 28 years • Sgt. Jessica Rombach – 11 come before him and contributed • Col. Michael C. Freeman – 30 years to his success as well as the years • Master Sgt. Michael A. Roulhac Soldiers he had worked with and led during his career. “For those who have passed this gate before me, I thank you for your service and your mentorship and leadership along the way,” said Holbert, “To the Soldiers, thank you for your professional support, your friendship and your continued service to this great nation. Col. Michael C. Freeman thanked Family members for their support and the sacrifices they made in supporting their Soldiers as they served their country. “Thirty years is a long time in the Army Reserve and there is no way I could have done the things that I have done without my wife,” said Freeman. Royalty expressed his thanks as well as the gratitude of the unit and the Nation. “This is a very significant day for those preparing to retire and their Families but it is also a significant day for those that you have impacted along the way, some directly and some indirectly, some which you may not have noticed and we are grateful for what you have done,” said Royalty. The ceremony concluded with the retiring of the Colors and playing of the Army Song and Retirement Medley signaling an end to the military careers of the retirees: • Col. Conrad A. Holbert Jr. - 30 46 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com Change of Responsibility

By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton and for good reason. It worked. It 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs inspired a nation of young people FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — to become their best by entering Responsibility of the Golden into military service. The Army Griffons changed hands between allows us to be whatever we two men with almost seven want to be. You just have to want decades of experience between it bad enough. Today is proof. It them, Nov. 15. certainly worked for me,” said Riti. Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, “But ‘be all that you can be’ commanding general of the 108th sometimes takes a lot more than Training Command (IET), hosted a personal desire. It takes leaders Change of Responsibility Ceremony that take the time to mentor their on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Soldiers, to put them on the road where Command Sgt. Maj. Robert to success, to keep them on track.” J. Riti assumed responsibility Representatives from the from Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. 95th, 98th, and 104th Training Derezza. Divisions were present at the “Former Sgt. Maj. of the ceremony, which included Army Julius Gates said it best. ‘A the traditional passing of the noncommissioned officer’s job noncommissioned officer sword. is not easy and we expect a lot The sword is symbolic of the from those who are selected to “razor sharp” leadership that lead, train, and care for the best COR -4-Command Sgt. Maj. Soldiers in the Robert J. Riti speaks to the Soldiers of the 108th Training world.’ I expect Command (IET) at the Change nothing less of Responsibility Ceremony from Command held at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Sgt. Maj. Riti. He Riti assumed responsibility of represents every the command from Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci Derezza at the Soldier in this ceremony hosted by the 108th command. It’s his Commanding General, Maj. Gen. responsibility to Leslie Purser, Nov. 15. Photo by ensure they are Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, properly trained, 108th Training Command (IET), disciplined Public Affairs and ready to accomplish any mission the Army has to offer,” said Purser. Representatives from the 95th, 98th and 104th Training Divisions were in attendance at noncommissioned officers add to the 108th Training Command (IET) Change of Responsibility Ceremony held at Fort Camp- Riti, a native of Yonkers, New bell, Kentucky. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert J. Riti assumed responsibility of the command York, brings nearly 37 years of the modern American warfighter. Dating back to 1840, the sword that from Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. Derezza at the ceremony hosted by the 108th Command- experience to the 108th and to this ing General, Maj. Gen. Leslie Purser, Nov. 15. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th day, lives by the six words the Army was worn by sergeants in battle Training Command (IET), Public Affairs made a household name in 1980. for over 70 years now represents “Be all that you can be was the the passing of responsibility from weapon in combat during conflicts American War has now become a Army’s slogan for about 21 years one noncommissioned officer to like the Civil War and Spanish- symbol of tradition and leadership. another. What once was used as a THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 47

were the commandant and deputy commandant of the United States Army Drill Sergeant School, Command Sgt. Maj. Lamont Christian and Sgt. Maj. Edward Roderiques Jr., as well as Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis J. Woods, U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training Command Sgt. Maj. Of the many achievements under DeRezza’s tenure, one of his most memorable includes Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. DeRezza bringing the One Army School speaks to the Soldiers of the 108th Train- System to the U.S. Army Drill ing Command (IET) at the Change of Re- Sergeant School. The One Army sponsibility Ceremony held at Fort Camp- School System establishes bell, Kentucky. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian common standards for individual Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs training between the active Army, Army Reserve and National Guard. “I have been here for three “To me it’s about leadership. years to this very day and it’s been By passing that sword to the an honor serving with the 8,500 commander, who in turn passes Soldiers in this command. As I’ve it to the incoming command sgt. said many times before, we do maj., you are entrusting them, one thing and we do it well - train as the senior noncommissioned Soldiers. Together, we achieved officer in the unit, with the training, some great accomplishments welfare and well-being of every and there is no doubt that enlisted Soldier, warrant officer, and Command Sgt. Maj. Riti and the officer in that unit,” said DeRezza. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert J. Riti draws the traditional noncommissioned officer’s sword 108th Training Command will at the 108th Training Command (IET) Change of Responsibility Ceremony held at Fort Among the many distinguished continue that legacy long after Campbell, Kentucky. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, 108th Training Command (IET), guests present at the ceremony I’m gone,” added DeRezza. Public Affairs

CAROLINA CAT AND LIFTONE are thankful for all of the men and women who have served our country! We are continuously seeking the best and brightest to join our team! We have locations in NC, SC, GA, AL, and TN, and have needs in such areas as: Equipment Technicians Sales Operations Management Administrative Support

Please visit our website www.carolinacat.com for a full listing of open positions and training programs! 48 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com Do You Want to be a Unit Public Affairs Representative?

As the 108th Training Command (IET) reduces its structure, it will be difficult for the Public Affairs Staff to visit each brigade, battalion and company to cover news events. Public Affairs is the responsibility of commanders and Soldiers alike. The PAO can assist with the Unit Public Affairs Program (UPAR), which allows a Soldier to be the additional eyes and ears for your unit and the PAO. By volunteering you will assume the duties of UPAR as an additional duty. Do you enjoy taking pictures? Do you enjoy writing? As a Unit Public Affairs Representative (UPAR) you will take pictures of newsworthy events and submit them along with stories to the 108th Training Command or Division Public Affairs for review and possible submission in The Griffon, as well as the command or division web site. Are You? • Familiar with your organization • Independent & dependable • Able to communicate well Are you able to? • Publicize unit participation in community projects or activities. • Serve as the public affairs Andre E. Anton Public Affairs – Maj. Alex point of contact for your unit. Soldiers should contact their [email protected] Johnson • Maintain contact with the division Public Affairs Office for [email protected] 108th Training Command (IET) additional info: • 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Office • 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs – 2nd Lt. Adam W. Or contact Mrs. Deborah Public Affairs – Sgt. 1st Class McMahan Williams or Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth [email protected] Hamilton, 108th Training or Command (IET) Public Affairs at Staff Sgt. Sarah E. Hubbard deborah.p.williams8.mil@mail. [email protected] mil, or kenneth.b.hamilton.mil@ mail.mil phone 704-227-2820 ext. •104th Training Division (IET) 4235/4087 for more information. THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 49 Chaplains Corner Things to Remember By Chaplain Ken Alford He leads in the wilderness (an of ministry in 2002. Since then, command, a navy installation Are there things you struggle to unforgiving desert experience) … I have served over six years of chapel and countless Soldiers remember? To humble… Test… To know what mobilization or deployment, along with Family members along the I am reminded of the new pastor is in your heart ... God not only with a large number of active days way. I now consider myself very during his first baptism. According provides by means of his presence in between. privileged to serve the 108th to his faith tradition, he was but he also provides by leading us In my chaplain role, I have Training Command headquartered trying to remember the difference with purpose in our experiences. served an area support group, a in Charlotte, North Carolina. between what he would say for He provides by showing these quartermaster battalion, a terminal God has given me lessons in all a baptism compared to what he things about ourselves as well as transportation task force, a military these experiences and I choose would say for a communion. When about himself. intelligence brigade, a joint to remember, at this time, HOW he nervously put his baptismal A little later in this context, mobilization brigade, a very active he has provided for me. God bless candidate under the water, he we learn that God actually is the installation chapel on JBLM, a base the 108th and thank you, Maj. mistakenly quoted Matthew 26:27 source which gives His children camp chapel management office, Gen. Purser, for extending me the and said, “Drink ye all of it.” wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). “And numerous regiments in ROTC, privilege of being your Command The experience of the most you shall remember the Lord your an expeditionary sustainment Chaplain. recent Super Bowl game reminds God, for it is He who gives you me of good things to remember. power to get wealth ….” Lessons come from everything we The story is recorded in my encounter. For various reasons, software library of a will that was situations like that remind me that opened on October 12, 1950, a good thing to remember is that in Norristown, Pennsylvania. It you can’t save face if you lose your revealed that many residents of that head! I think that is enough said district, who named their babies about that experience. after their Family doctor, had been I recently came across four remembered by him. Because things, among many others that Dr. John Beans Carrell never had are not explicitly stated, that God any sons of his own, he showed a wants us to remember. I am only special fondness for babies named going to share one in this article after him. When he died at the but I hope it encourages you. age of 99, he left $100 to every Perhaps you would like to put child delivered by him and given them on your checklist. his name. This was at a time when In Deuteronomy 8:2, the Lord $100 was a significant provision. told the children of Israel this: According to his adopted daughter “And you shall remember that the Elinor Morgan, one Family of out Lord your God led you all the way of every 14 Families in the district these 40 years in the wilderness, named one child John B. Carrell. to humble you and test you, to Note that God also associates know what was in your heart, his name with his children and whether you would keep His provides for his Family that is commandments or not ....” called by his name. I am Chaplain Ken Alford. I am your new command chaplain and I’m trying to fill the very big shoes of retiring Chaplain (Col.) Ralph Gore. Very briefly, I have over 30 years of pastoral and preaching experience. I have planted churches, started schools, co- raised six children and rescued ministries throughout that time. My military career began in 1977 when I attended basic combat training at Fort “lost in the woods” in the state of misery. I still hold grudges against the drill sergeants I have talked with a lot of people that gave me my formative — I mean a lot — who are in need weeks in the army… Actually, The right now. One thing God always Lord provided some of my most gives us is encouragement to fundamental principles of ministry remember HOW God provides for at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri us. during the 6.8 weeks I attended He is willing to provide for his basic training there. people through his presence and My original MOS in the army was his identification with us. If you 91J — physical therapy technician. belong to him, He provides by I got out of the Army in 1980 and virtue of the fact that He is YOUR established my career and Family God. over the next 18 years. In 1998, my This is just assumed in the wife and I met a Chaplain recruiter passing reference made in the at a pastors and wives retreat in words “the Lord your God.” Cannon Beach Oregon. I entered We also see in this passage that the Army Reserve in 1999 as a chaplain. I completed my doctor 50 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015

13 Apr 15 19 Jun 15 Phone number 15 Jun 15 21 Aug 15 Dates available (lined up 13 Jul 15 18 Sep 15 with Echo mission dates) Fort Jackson, South Carolina Duty Location Desired Start Date End Date Mr. Andrews will put you in 9 Feb 15 17 Apr 15 touch with the proper Division G3 26 Apr 15 3 Jul 15 representative to facilitate your tour. 11 May 15 17 Jul 15 20 Jul 15 25 Sep 15 IG 3 Aug 15 9 Oct 15 “The discipline which makes the Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri Soldiers of a free country reliable in Start Date End Date battle is not to be gained by harsh 25 Feb 15 8 May 15 or tyrannical treatment. On the 3 Jun 15 14 Aug 15 contrary, such treatment is far more 2 Sep 15 13 Nov 15 likely to destroy than to make an army. Notes: It is possible to impart 1. Interested and available instruction and to give commands Nuggets to keep you informed female DS are not limited in such manner and such a tone to performing an ADOS-RC of voice to inspire in the Soldier tour with the Echo mission no feeling but an intense desire to assigned to their BN/BDE/DIV obey, while the opposite manner an ADOS-RC tour aligned with an as long as they meet their unit and tone of voice cannot fail to   Echo mission at Fort Jackson, Fort AT mission and any NCOES excite strong resentment and a Leonard Wood, and Fort Sill where requirement first. desire to disobey. G3 gender integrated BCT missions 2. Volunteers for female DS The one mode or the other of are conducted. You must meet the ADOS-RC tours must complete dealing with subordinates springs Female Drill Sergeants ADOS-RC eligibility criteria for ADOS-RC tours. Tour of Duty requirements and from a corresponding spirit in the Tour Opportunities in Support of Listed in this article below are meet qualifying ADOS-RC tour breast of the commander. He who FY15 Echo Missions. the dates for the Echo missions criteria. feels the respect which is due to assigned to the 108th Training If you are interested, contact others cannot fail to inspire in TRADOC requires four female Command. Volunteers need not Drill Sergeants (DSs) for each Mr. Trent Andrews, 108th them regard for himself, while he serve for the entire 10 week Training Command (IET) at: who feels, and hence manifests, Echo mission company increment. period. We are soliciting female DS [email protected] with disrespect toward others, especially Currently there is a shortage of volunteers for ADSO-RC tours to the following information: his inferiors, cannot fail to inspire qualified female DS in the 108th support the Echo missions. Training Command to meet this Full Name hatred against himself.” requirement in an AT status alone. Fort Sill, Oklahoma Unit (BN, BDE, Div) Start Date End Date UIC (Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield in an address If you are a qualified female DS, you are a candidate to volunteer for 16 Mar 15 1 May 15 E-mail address to the Corps of Cadets, August 11, 1879.) THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 51

52 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 Third Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET) Changes Command for the 495th Support Battalion- Montana National Guard. He was then assigned to be Support Platoon Leader 1st Battalion 803rd Armor-Washington National Guard. Following these assignments, Garrity served as an Executive Officer, OCT/ HHD Commander, S4, HHD Commander S1, DCO and Group Commander. His variety of assignments has certainly provided valuable leadership experience for Garrity. The ceremony took place in the assembly hall of the Armed Forces Reserve Center (AFRC) on Fairchild AFB. The ceremony was attended by members of the 3rd Bn/415th Regt/95th Training Division (IET), the During a Change of Command Ceremony held in the Armed Forces Reserve Center, Fairchild Air Force Base, Lt. Col. Devin P. Garrity wives and Family members of assumed command of the 3rd Battalion, 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET), on 14 Sept., from Maj. Ryan T. Smith. Photo by Cadet the incoming and outgoing Bryce Linna, 3/415th Regt., 95th Training Division (IET) commanders, guest speaker Col. John F. Sweeney, and other By Cadet Bryce Linna influential guests. During 3/415th Regt., 95th Training Division (IET) the ceremony, both Garrity SPOKANE, Wash. — and Smith gave inspirational During a Change of Command speeches that illustrated they Ceremony held here, Lt. Col. are truly dedicated to being Devin P. Garrity assumed commissioned officers of command of the 3rd Battalion, the United States Army. 415th Regiment, 95th Training The 3rd Bn/ 415th Regt/ Division (IET), on 14 Sept., 95th Training Division (IET), from Maj. Ryan T. Smith. is privileged and excited Garrity has served in to have Garrity as the new numerous positions during commander, and would also his time in the National Guard like to wish good luck to and the Reserve. His first their previous commander, assignment was platoon leader Smith, with his career.

THE 108TH GRIFFON ASSOCIATION INVITES YOU TO THE Fourth Annual Soldiers and Families GOLF TOURNAMENT Sept. 21, 2015 — Pine Island Country Club, Charlotte, NC The 108th Griffon Association is sponsoring the event and wants to invite you to participate or become a sponsor for this worthwhile endeavor. Proceeds are to be used to: • Provide educational scholarships for Army Reserve Soldiers and members of their families • To promote family readiness and provide assistance to deployed Army Reserve Soldiers’ families • Provide assistance to Soldiers injured in action through existing charitable The 108th Griffon Association is a North Carolina non-profit 501(C)(3)corporation made up of past and present members of the 108th Training Command, a two-star Army Reserve Command with headquarters in Charlotte, NC and subordinate units spread across the US, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

For more information on the tournament, or to be a sponsor, contact The Griffon and ask for Bob Boardman at 866-761-1247 THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 53 SUPPLEMENT Resources for the SECTION Transitional Military Family

MTR 56 10 Leadership Lessons to Live By 59 Why Military Veterans Should Consider Franchising 60 Hire. Connect. Develop.

Travel USA 61 Three Rivers, Lake Kaweah, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 62 Alabama Food, Festivals and Fresh Gulf Airy 64 Wet ‘n Wild Orlando the Perfect Place for Families to Share the Rush! 66 Set Your Sights On Summer Fun At Universal Orlando® Resort 68 Plenty of fun in the ‘heart’ of North Carolina 62 69 Discover Historic Hendersonville, NC 70 Upcountry South Carolina 66 72 — Savor the Seasons 71 Military Appreciation Days at Myrtle Beach 72 Fun for the family in Dolly’s hometown Sevierville 73 Chattanooga – Take Me There! 74 Cedar Hill — lots to do in this Texas town 76 Family friendly adventure in Historic Wytheville 77 Music in the Air 77 Virginia Zoo Adventure 73 74

BLOGS • ARTICLES • VIDEOS Career Advice Resumé Tips Career Fairs Hot Jobs For Military Top Military Employers Dare Foods, Inc. Thanks Our Soldiers Joining Forces Info For Their Service and Sacrifice Visit www.thegriffon108.com/ Dare Foods, Inc. Spartanburg, S.C. 800-265-8255 military-transitions 54 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com 2014 Griffon Association Summary

Become a Member not receiving line of duty payments. The 108th Griffon Association Since they had difficulty working, Visit www.108thgriffonassoc.com completed another very successful they were being threatened with to become a member, find scholarship year. However as our membership loss of their homes or other ages, in order to continue our good financial problems. We distributed applications and keep up with upcoming events. works over the long term, the $4,500 to those Soldiers at their May 2 — Picnic at Latta Plantation association needs more help from request, which was successful both retirees and current Soldiers in in tiding them over, until their TBD — Reconnect Event at Ft. Jackson the form of active memberships. To financial situations stabilized. Sept. 21 — Fifth Annual Golf Tournament get back up in the 300+ members In addition to these individual we had five to six years ago, we payments, we also recommitted Nov. 7 — Carolinas Freedom Foundation Breakfast initiated some plans to positively to several groups, which we felt Nov. 8 — Charlotte Veterans’ Day parade affect that and the new 108th were carrying on great work on Training Command Commander behalf of soldiers and veterans and CSM have provided us help in and who we wanted to support. our efforts to the extent permitted We gave $1,000 to Purple Heart volunteers from the association scholarship giving as in the past. by regulations. Although we met Homes, which is a Statesville, N.C. joined together to host 84 golfers on with some success, we are still not based non-profit, which helps a bright, sunny day perfect for fun Upcoming Events where we need to be. Currently disabled soldiers acquire new in support of a worthwhile cause. Your board met recently and we have 122 life members and 68 homes or remodel existing homes The 208th Army Band provided scheduled the spring picnic for 2 yearly members, plus one honorary to accommodate their individual military music during registration May 2015. We will have the picnic member for a total of 191 as of Dec. needs for handicapped accessible and played the National Anthem and at Latta Plantation, a place of 3, 2014. I ask each of you who must housing. We also provided $1,000 the Army Song as the Colors were historical significance in Northern have several friends who are eligible to Veterans Restoration Quarters, presented by the Statesville High Mecklenburg County near Charlotte. for membership, to contact them, a Asheville, N.C. based non-profit, School Junior ROTC Color Guard. In addition to a good meal and encourage them to join and send which working through ABC As happened the first three reacquainting with old friends, we them a copy of the membership Christian Ministry provides job years of the tournament, golfers will have an interesting presentation application, which Wally will send training, housing and counseling were treated to a box lunch, dinner and there will be a WWII out to you with the picnic letter and drug/alcohol treatment (as after the round and numerous demonstration and encampment or they can join on the website, necessary) for homeless Veterans opportunities on the course to for us to visit. Please place the event www.108thgriffonassoc.com. Annual from across North Carolina. We win prizes provided by sponsors on your calendar and make plans to membership is only $10, which contributed $1,000 to Operation to include closest to the pin on attend with family and bring a new is a small sum for anyone, and the Restoration, the third Veterans’ par 3s, longest drive for men and member too. We will get out more organization needs the support to Stand Down for upstate South women, winning a car and a golf information on the picnic to the keep up its good works. You can also Carolina jointly sponsored by the cart for a hole in one on two of the membership shortly and information become a life member for only $108. VA and the American Legion as well par 3s as well as prizes at the end will also be on the website. Thanks for the help in this vital area. as other veterans’ organizations. for two net flights for first, second We are also looking forward to We also gave $1,000 to the Iredell and last place. Golfers opened their another Reconnect event at Ft. Helping Soldiers and Families County Veterans Council, a N.C. wallets again to buy mulligans and Jackson sometime in the spring This year, we continued to live veteran’s group working to feed red tees, participated in a 50/50 and/or fall, which is sponsored by by our motto, which is “Be a Patriot, homeless vets and the Charlotte raffle and a silent auction, which the S.C. American Legion. We will Help a Soldier.” Helping Soldiers USO location at the Charlotte contributed not only to the fun but not know the exact date until a and Families in need and Veterans airport, which serves thousands the fund for Soldiers and Families. few weeks in advance but will let who have served in the past is really of service members each year. All of this hard work, fun everyone know as soon as we know. just an ongoing service that started and generosity resulted in over For those who have attended in the when we all first swore our oath. Annual Picnic $15,000.00 net being raised by past, this is a great opportunity to Membership and participation in On May 31, 2014, over 40 Griffon the association for support of re-visit the 108th’s second home. the Griffon Association is an easy Association members and guests Soldiers and Families from across Our Fifth Annual Golf Tournament and good way to give back even if attended the annual picnic held the 108th Training Command will take place on the 21st of you live a long way from Charlotte. at Cowpens National Battlefield, spectrum, including Soldiers and September, 2015. For you golfers In 2013, as a result of our Third Cowpens, South Carolina. Attendees Families from the 95th, 98th and who have not been able to attend Annual Soldiers and Families included the current 108th Training 104th subordinate Divisions. The in the past, please plan to bring a golf tournament, we raised over Command Commander, MG Leslie association is very pleased to be team this year and we always need $20,000.00 benefiting Soldiers Purser and her husband. Participants able to provide needed resources some help from non-golfers for and Families, which was our best joined in a tour of this Revolutionary for Soldiers and Families trying registration etc. For those of you year ever. During 2014, your board War battlefield led by a park to take advantage of educational who participated in 2014, we look distributed much of that money for ranger of the Cowpens National opportunities, funds for Families forward to seeing you again in 2015. what they determined were worthy Military Park, which was the under financial stress as a result of In 2014, members of the causes and to benefit soldiers and location of a pivotal battle moving a Soldier’s deployment, funds for association attended as guests at families. We received 14 scholarship towards Guilford Courthouse and financial assistance to Soldiers who the Carolinas Freedom Foundation’s applications (the most ever) and ultimately Yorktown. We also had have been wounded or injured in Freedom Breakfast the Friday we distributed $7,000 in the form a briefing by the 108th Training the line of duty, support for Family before Veterans’ Day. Although of seven $1,000 scholarships to Command G-3 and a barbecue Support activities such as funds for we had planned to, we did not children of 108th and subordinate lunch with all the trimmings. care packages and phone cards to march in the Charlotte Veterans’ command Soldiers and Griffon deployed Soldiers and support for Day parade on that Saturday as members. We were very pleased Golf Tournament other charitable organizations who the 108th Hqs did not participate that we received applications and On September 22, 2014, the support Soldiers and Veterans. because of sequestration financial picked winners from all subordinate 108th Griffon Association held its limitations. Those two events units (95th, 98th and 104th) of the 4th Annual Soldiers and Families Scholarship Applications Due take place in 2015, on the 6th Training Command as well as retiree Golf Tournament at Pine Island Looking forward to the (Breakfast) and 7th (Parade) of Family members from the 108th. Country Club in Charlotte, coming year, Griffon Association November and we hope to have In addition to our scholarships North Carolina. With the help of Scholarship applications are due increased participation among our process, we received applications solicitations by employees of Knight by April 1, 2015. A copy of the members in the Charlotte area. from three Soldiers who had been Communications, publisher of The application along with the address I will end on an appeal for your injured either on annual training Griffon, and after months of work to mail it and accompanying help in getting more members or another training event or while by members of the Board and other documents is also on our website, signed up among your friends and deployed. Because of delays in association members, who obtained www.108thgriffonassoc.com. acquaintances. Thanks for everyone’s paperwork processing they were sponsors, donors and golfers, We hope to continue the level of continuing support. Hooah!! Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 55

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© 2015 Xcel Energy Inc. | 15-02-527 | 02-15 56 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com 10 Leadership Lessons to Live By

If you’re a leader, be it of three So here are 10 leadership lessons — and they know it. It’s a never- people or 3,000, it’s your flat-out re- that you can add to your playbook ending job and you can never slip 4) Create a Rallying Cry sponsibility to not just go into work to make it a very good year -- for up. every day and improvise around you, and for the team you lead. I’ve always found that defining the latest crisis or email flurry or 2) Over-Communicate an enemy is very helpful. Define a competitor that’s coming employee meltdown, but to go into 1) Get In Their Skin It’s your job to com- after you. Rally the team work every day with a cohesive From the day you become a lead- municate your mes- around every win plan of action about how you’re go- er, your biggest role is to build trust, sage, your values, you have against ing to lead. Otherwise, why would respect and support from your what’s right them, every new anyone follow you, except that they team. A mutual respect. As long as about what’s product you simply have to? they deliver, you will support them happening, introduce that’s That’s no good. and stand up for them in every way and what’s better than wrong — theirs. Make over and that competitor over and come alive over again. as your true There can enemy and you’ll be no lack of see your team transparency. galvanize around Everybody has to beating them and be on the same page. winning in the marketplace. Even when you’re ready to gag over the message, you have 5) Realize Personnel Actions to keep communicating it. Speak Louder Than Words 3) Follow-Up Relentlessly When you pick someone for a Just because you say something new job, you are defining what’s once, it doesn’t mean it’s going to important. Managers love to give happen. Too often, managers think, speeches about how their new ini- “Hey, I told my team what to do.” tiative is the most important thing Then they come back a week later in the world. But then they put and nothing has happened. Yes, whatever warm body happens to your job is to set the direction. But be available in charge of it. Nothing you also have to make it your mis- could be worse. When you make a sion to follow up — relentlessly — personnel appointment, you’re do- to see that things are moving in the ing much more than any speech right direction. see LEADERSHIP LESSONS page 58

58 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com Leadership Lessons Cont’d from page 56 you could ever give. The people in the organization already know who the star performers are. And matching those stars with the proj- ects you claim are important is absolutely critical for your credibility and the trust you want to build. 6) Embrace the Generosity Gene I happen to believe that every good leader loves to give raises to people. They are thrilled to see their employees grow and be promot- ed. They are turned on by their success. Good leaders understand that they are only as good as the reflected glory of their people — and so they give until it hurts. 7) Fight Bureaucracy Remember how much you hated bureaucracy from the bosses above you when they wanted this “i” dotted and this “t” crossed? Guess what? You’re now the leader. Don’t let bureaucracy creep into your place. Just because it’s yours doesn’t make it any prettier than when it was someone else’s. Get rid of clutter. Bureaucracy slows things down and speed is one of the best competitive advantages you can have. 8) Find a Better Way Recognize that in business, somebody out there is always doing something better than you are. Your team can get insular and come to believe they’re already doing everything right. Your job is to ask, “How can we do it better? Where can we find someone doing it better?” Finding a better way of doing things every single day can become so much more than a slogan. It can become a way of life and make your group stand out above the rest. 9) Own Hiring Mistakes Look, you’re not the only person in the history of the universe who has ever made a hiring mistake. Once you understand that hiring is hard work and you’ll surely have missteps along the way, realize that you’ve got to deal with mistakes fast and compassionately. Recognize that it was your fault that the fit didn’t work and get on with it. The team will respect you more. The hire you dealt with fairly will respect you more. And your superiors will reward you for your candor and willingness to own up to your error. 10) Dig into Crises Without doubt, crises are going to erupt in your career. You’ll have someone do something wrong or have to face into a violation some- where in your organization. To make matters worse, when you first hear about it, you’re not going to get the whole story — after all, you’re the boss. You’re only going to get the tip of the iceberg. Un- derneath the surface is a very big piece of ice. Your team will come to you and feed you, piece by piece, a slow-drip expose of the cri- sis. Your job is to dig deep, early and fast, to get it all to the surface. Be candid. Recognize there are no secrets anywhere. Get the right people involved immediately. And you will see a swifter resolution to problems that people all too often try to brush under the table. Jack Welch is Executive Chairman of the Jack Welch Management Institute at Strayer University. Through its Executive MBA program, the Jack Welch Manage- ment Institute provides students and organizations with the proven methodolo- gies, immediately actionable practices, and respected credentials needed to win in business. Jack hired thousands of military officers during his career for their exceptional intelligence, leadership and motivation skills. To learn more about the Jack Welch MBA, visit http://jackwelch.strayer.edu. Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 59 Why Military Veterans Should Consider Franchising

Recognizing that military vet- team to manage day-to-day opera- makes it possible for those with a they may have to overcome. This erans are a valuable addition to a tions and create a family business passion for entrepreneurism and skill is very important to a self-em- franchise network, 70 percent of that can be passed down to future strong desire to succeed become ployed franchise owner who must franchisors are reported to have generations. In addition, not only successful, regardless of their prior have the discipline to implement recruited veterans in the past 12 does the structural foundation of industry experiences. However, it is his or her business plan on a daily months, according to the Inter- the franchise system resonate with up to the franchisee to implement basis because they are their own national Franchise Association’s military veterans, but the skills they the processes in place to see the boss and his or her success lies in 2014 Veterans in Franchising developed in the military trans- positive results. their own hands. Progress Report. Since 2011, more late well into franchise ownership, than 203,000 veterans have started which positions military veterans Discipline Training careers in franchising with more for success as franchise owners. In the military, veterans learn the A strong training program is than 5,600 becoming franchise importance of creating a plan and owners. In addition, an IFA study Leadership adhering to it despite obstacles see FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP page 60 found that one out of every seven Leaders are naturally bred in the franchise opportunities is owned military and are often put in situ- and operated by military veterans. ations where they have to make What makes franchising such an ap- split-second decisions. Working in pealing industry for military veter- such a high pressure environment ans? puts things into perspective as a Those in the armed forces are franchise owner and makes it easier used to spending extended peri- to tackle difficult business deci- ods of time away from home taking sions. orders from superiors. When the time comes to retire from military Operations service many want to spend time Military veterans are used to fol- with their family and those with an lowing directions and procedures. entrepreneurial spirit may dream of Franchises have a successful track business ownership where they are record because they have proven their own boss. Franchising is the procedures in place for owners perfect solution for these veterans to follow, a blueprint to owning a because they have the flexibility to thriving business. This systematic set their own hours, hire a support approach to business operations 60 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com Hire. Connect. Develop. Courtesy USAA states, countless job searches and two challenging transition presented at USAA headquarters in San Antonio. trips back to college — to earn both itself in 2013 when her family moved During the summit, employers from She’s a veteran who separated from an MBA and a master’s in information to San Antonio. “It took me seven across the Southwest learned how the Air Force in 2006. She’s a military systems. months to find a job,” she says. to create or expand veteran-hiring spouse who spent seven years Even armed with those advanced The door that finally opened to programs for their companies. persevering through four moves, four degrees, Elizabeth D’Angelo’s most her was USAA’s new Veterans for This was the first of several IT (VetFIT) program, which seeks regional workshops Disney plans veterans with information technology to bring to select cities. USAA CEO backgrounds and trains them to Gen. Joe Robles Jr., ABC News’ Bob develop Java software. D’Angelo had Woodruff, and James Schmeling, co- no experience as a developer, but founder of the Institute for Veterans VetFIT’s intensive program taught her and Military Families at Syracuse the coding skills she needed. University, are just a few of the In March 2014, she was accepted participating speakers. into the VetFIT program. Four According to the Department months later, D’Angelo was hired as of Labor, 1.5 million service a full-time software developer and members will be transitioning integrator at USAA. to civilian life over the next five “Here is what USAA understands years, underscoring the urgency better than most employers: On of veteran hiring initiatives. To that paper, veterans’ job skills might not end, USAA is eager to share both seem like the exact fit,” D’Angelo says. the hurdles it has overcome and “But we are quick learners, highly the successes it’s achieved on this adaptable, and we all share the same front. USAA has hired more than core value: We work until the mission 8,700 veterans and military spouses is complete.” from 2006 through June 2014. That message is one that USAA and The organization’s goal is that 30 The Walt Disney Co. Veterans Institute percent of all new hires be made up shared Aug. 19 during the Texas of veterans or military spouses. Veteran Hiring Best Practices Summit

Franchise Ownership who are franchise owners because Cont’d from page 58 they are accustomed to immediate crucial to one’s success, regardless implementation with instant results. of their past experience, whether in franchise ownership or on Support the battlefield. These continuing The support system found in education training programs ensure franchising is comparable to the that soldiers and owners are always military and the beauty of the one step ahead of the competition. franchise system is that owners These training programs are are never alone. In franchising, advantageous for military veterans “you are in business for yourself, not by yourself” and there is always somebody to ask for advice. The support system found in a franchise consists of owners who can share their personal expertise and a corporate office that provides additional support for owners in the form of training, marketing, technology and more. Military veterans interested in franchising should use the IFA’s VetFran Toolkit (www.vetfran.com/ toolkit) initiative as a resource to learn about different franchising and support opportunities available such as financial incentives, training and mentor programs. More than 645 companies participate in this recruitment program, which has partnerships with the White House Joining Forces Initiative, VFW, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Small Business Administration, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and others. Tim Courtney, CFE is Vice President of Franchise Development and Ambassador of Veteran Affairs at CruiseOne®, the nation’s leading home-based travel agent franchise. In operation since 1992, CruiseOne is a member of VetFran and proudly supports military veterans. It is consistently recognized by leading industry publications as a military-friendly franchise. For more information, visit www. CruiseOneFranchise.com/veterans. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 61 Springtime Events Three Rivers, Lake Kaweah, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks In rural, peaceful Three Rivers, on April 18. that active-duty military cur- So shake off those winter blues! Bring Lake Kaweah, and Sequoia and • Chow down on deep-pit BBQ rently enjoy free passes into the family and come enjoy our beauti- Kings Canyon National Parks, you and experience our 65th An- all national parks, including Se- ful countryside along with our two gor- can be as lazy or as busy, as you nual Lions Team Roping as we quoia and Kings Canyon. This geous national parks, for some amazing like! For the active and the not so celebrate traditional cowboy pass is also being honored by Springtime R&R! For questions or more active, here’s a taste of the many skills on April 23-26. The 26th the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- information, go to http://threerivers.com/ things you can do and events you is Family Day which includes neers at Lake Kaweah. or email us at [email protected] may attend this Spring: Cowboy Church, along with • Take in our Spring wildflowers, pig scrambling and barrel rop- as you wind your way through ing for children. the countryside, during the • Say “Farewell to Spring” with Discover ~ Explore ~ Enjoy three day South Val- We honor our military for the job that they do ley Artists and invite them to visit our military friendly Studio Tour. destination for their R&R. March 20- The Sequoia Foothills Chamber’s annual 22 Hero Appreciation Months Program (Jan.- March) gives our military and their families a • Celebrate 20% discount on lodging, retail, restaurants and services. with us as • Camping and Hiking we honor a Explore the Tulare County emap, • Snowshoe Walks the interactive guide to our county: pair of Iraq • Horseback Riding http://www.tularecountyemap.com/ War Veter- • Cross-Country Skiing ans, along • Art Festivals, Concerts with a Vet- • Square Dancing 877-530-3300 eran who • Boating and Fishing served in [email protected] Vietnam. This ad sponsored by Comfort Inn & Suites- Three Rivers. Listen to their stories, and help yourselves to free beer, wine, soup, home- made bread, and dessert. March 27 • Pack a pic- nic lunch, and watch the hilarious Bathtub Race on March 28 — or better yet, register to form a Team and enter the Race yourself! more food, fun and fabulous art, as 1st Saturday Three Rivers • Enjoy your Hero Appreciation and the Redbud Festival run to- Months 20 percent off “Thank gether on May 2. You” discount. It is good for lodging, services, retail and din- • Put on your dancing shoes for a ing through March 31. day of country music, bluegrass, folk and alternative, at the an- • Go Whitewater Rafting on nual Three Rivers Music Festi- the Kaweah River. val. Date TBD. • Fish and enjoy water sports, in • Spend the Memorial Day week- our rivers and on Lake Kaweah. end with us and visit the Gen- • Celebrate “Mother Earth” with eral Grant Tree! This hand- food, fun and fabulous art, dur- some sequoia located in Kings ing 1st Saturday Three Rivers, Canyon National Park is a living April 4. shrine dedicated to the memo- ry of those who gave their all, • Groove to traditional jazz at in service to our nation. our 42nd Annual Jazzaffair. This three day festival runs April 10- • “A River Runs Through it” car- 12 with a pre-festival kick-off ries the day on June 6, as 1st on April 9. Saturday Three Rivers puts on still another festival of food, fun • Help your children earn their and fabulous art. Junior Ranger badges on Junior Ranger Day! Sequoia National • Join Kings Canyon National Park, April 18. Park in celebrating its 75th An- niversary, with a Rededication • Relax and enjoy chamber mu- Ceremony at the General Grant sic performed by violin virtu- Tree on June 20. oso William Hagen, via Three Rivers Performing Arts Institute, • Last but not least: Don’t forget 62 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Alabama Food, Festivals and Fresh Gulf Air Alabama’s 32 miles of pristine located on what’s known to locals as transformation. Life seems to slow history at historic Fort Morgan beaches on the Gulf of Mexico set Pleasure Island. For visitors reaching down, and worries melt away. and the local museums. And for the scene for vacation memories the island, that first glimpse of the This family-friendly beach shoppers seeking the perfect that last a lifetime. The cities of beach side condos and smell of the destination has seen generations souvenir, the island’s many boutiques, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are fresh Gulf air set in motion a sort of return year after year, and with so souvenir and specialty shops are much to see and do, it’s no wonder. perfect for treasure hunting. Beyond the beautiful beaches, Seafood is the star of the dining there’s a wide variety of activities scene in Gulf Shores and Orange and attractions for all interests Beach, and an abundance of and ages, including a number of restaurants feature the fresh, local acclaimed festivals. And, of course, seafood for which the area is plenty of fresh Gulf seafood. known. Area chefs and restaurants To experience the sights, sounds have garnered attention for their and tastes of the coast on a grand use of local cheeses and produce scale, plan your trip during one in creating their culinary delights, of spring’s festivals and events. and several are included in the The well-known Hangout Music Alabama Department of Tourism’s Festival (May 15-17) features three list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama days of music on six stages with Before You Die”. Restaurant varieties more than 70 bands. Boaters don’t range from relaxed to upscale want to miss The Wharf Boat with choices for every dining style, and Yacht Show (May 19-22), the including waterfront locations, largest in-water display of any boat open-air restaurants featuring show along the upper Gulf Coast. live entertainment, and family- Sample mudbugs during the City of friendly options with children’s Gulf Shores’ inaugural Waterway play areas, making many of them Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival (April 18), or cruise on down for the Bama Coast Cruise (April 23) in Orange Beach. While the beaches and festivals are reason enough for a trip to the Gulf Coast, they’re only part of the story. From zip lines and water parks to golf courses and fishing charters, there are entertainment choices and activities for everyone. For nature enthusiasts, there are miles of walking and biking trails, dolphin cruises, diving or snorkeling opportunities and more. History buffs can step back in time and explore the area’s rich TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2014 • 63

destinations of their own. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a wide selection of accommodations from waterfront beachfront condos and national hotel chains to private beach houses and full-service resorts. Whether planning a romantic getaway or large family reunion, there are options for travel parties of any size. Plan Your Escape and visit GulfShores. com to learn more about Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. While there, be sure to request a copy of the 2015 vacation guide, a 96-page magazine that features a photographic tour of the area, and includes complete listings of accommodations, things to see and do, and great places to eat. 64 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Wet ‘n Wild Orlando the Perfect Place for Families to Share the Rush! Wet ‘n Wild, Orlando’s premier and prepare for a turbo-charged nearest participating military base on your first day of visit. water park, sets the standard adrenaline rush the whole ITT or ITR offices to purchase Restrictions apply. for thrills and over-the-top family can enjoy. Its full throttle discounted Wet ‘n Wild admission Open year-round with pools heated excitement with more world-class acceleration with no brakes tickets and enjoy all of Wet ‘n in the cooler months; Wet ‘n Wild is attractions and more multi-person allowed! Encounter a splashing Wild’s multi-person rides. Tickets located on International Drive, less slides than any other water park dose of group therapy on the are eligible for a FREE upgrade to than a mile from Universal Orlando in Central Florida. Families will Brain Wash™ or experience a a “Length of Stay” pass, allowing Resort. For updated hours and make lasting memories while deep space adventure that’s light for unlimited admissions for 14 information, visit WetnWild.com or call sharing in a wide variety of water years from ordinary on The Black consecutive days from your first 407-351-1800. park adventure together. Hole™: The Next Generation. At visit. Upgrade must be completed Share the laughs, share the Wet ‘n Wild you’ll find more high- screams, and share the rush on speed, seriously twisted, multi- the all new Aqua Drag Racer™. person adventures that appeal to Standing six stories tall and thrill-seekers of all ages. featuring four parallel racing Now your family can lanes, guests will take their place experience all that Wet ‘n Wild at a starting line 65 feet high has to offer for less. Visit your

66 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Set Your Sights On Summer Fun At Universal Orlando® Resort

Pulse-pounding thrill rides. Jaw-Dropping Theme Parks shows, movie sets and attractions favorite myths, legends, cartoons, One-of-a-kind entertainment. Universal Studios Florida® is that make you feel like a star. children’s tales, comic book heroes Unforgettable dining. Spectacular the world’s premier movie and TV Right next door is Universal’s and movies. From high-speed resort hotels. Universal Orlando® based theme park, a real motion Islands of Adventure®, where you roller coasters to state-of-the-art Resort has everything you’re picture studio where you can go can step into the worlds of your 3D rides to unique water rides to a looking for if you’re making beyond the screen, behind the summer vacation plans. It’s perfect scenes, and jump right into the for adults and perfect for families. action of some of the greatest films Universal Orlando has something and TV shows ever created. You’ll to offer guests of all ages. find an incredible array of rides, TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 67 thrilling stunt show, epic adventure awaits around every corner. The Epicenter of Awesome. Universal CityWalk® There’s more than just theme park excitement at Universal Orlando Resort. Sitting between both theme parks is CityWalk®, featuring the best in casual and fine dining, live music, movies, shopping, even miniature golf. It’s the one place where the dining tastes of every member of the family and entertainment everyone can enjoy all intersect. Spectacular Resort Hotels Universal Orlando’s on-site resort hotels are all within walking distance of the theme parks and CityWalk®, and complimentary transportation is also available. Families will enjoy staying at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which has a fun 1950’s and 60’s beach resort theme. In addition to standard rooms this value-priced hotel features family suites that sleep up to six, complete with kitchenette. You’ll enjoy two massive swimming pools including a lazy river, plus a 10-lane bowling alley. Best of all, for a limited time U.S. Service Members can get two days free with the purchase of a 1-Day Park-to-Park ticket (restrictions apply).

Promote We Welcome All Military Personnel for R&R

your Make your reservations online at: www.BiloxiBeachResortRentals.com military or call today 888-748-2228 Stay in Biloxi’s Best We accept all TAD/TDY travel Beachfront Condos! and Per Diem Rates destination in

Beau View Ocean The Griffon! Club Sienna Legacy Towers Sea Breeze Call us at 866-761-1247 68 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Plenty of fun in the ‘heart’ of North Carolina

Welcome to the gently rolling private collection of Harley- hills, river valleys, forests and ridges Davidson® motorcycles in the of Randolph County, the geographic country “heart” of North Carolina! From the • Seagrove, the handmade pottery Uwharrie Mountains in the west to capital of the U.S. the Deep River Valley on the east, • Linbrook Heritage Estate, home of Randolph is a county where potters Linbrook Hall, one of the largest have always been more common privately owned homes in the than doctors, and for many years a Southeast county that permitted no sales of • Kersey Valley Spookywoods, alcoholic beverages yet fostered named in the 2014 Top 10 the racing spirit of NASCAR by Spookiest Haunted Attractions in running moonshine along its back the U.S. by USA Today. roads. It is the birthplace of Naomi The North Carolina Zoo, the Wise, immortalized in the traditional nation’s largest natural habitat American ballad performed by Doc zoological park, delivers fun with Watson; NASCAR legend, Richard family and friends, face-to-face animal Petty; professional baseball player, encounters, enchanting outdoor If you love live entertainment catch and Native Sons Vineyard, which faces Joe Frazier; and photorealist painter, art, and glorious gardens. In 2014, a summer concert at Bicentennial WOW, Caraway, and Daves mountains Susan Harrell whose artistic 3-D there was a baby boom at the zoo! Park or Ramseur Lake; or a concert or with expansive views that have relief murals are now featured in Births included four lion cubs, three play at the newly renovated Sunset captured the cameras of professional downtown Asheboro and Commerce baboons, a chimpanzee, and an otter Theatre in downtown Asheboro, photographer, Dan Routh. Square in Randleman. The area is pup. The birth of the lion cubs marked home of the 2015 Sunset Cultural also home to World Professional Bull the first time in eight years that lions Series. Sports and Racing Riding Champion, Jerome Davis; were born at the park. The otter pup’s Our area is home to semi- New York Times Best Selling Author, birth was the first otter birth in the Outdoor Fun professional sports, and various Jerry Bledsoe; 2013 National Senior zoo’s 40 year history. The zoo also Leave the stress of the city behind recreational tournaments including Games gold medal winner, John Q. secured three cougar kitten siblings and discover one of North Carolina’s the Bank of the Carolina’s JV Holiday Pugh, Jr.; Colonel Guy Troy, modern and a baby bobcat who became two remaining historic covered Classic, now the largest JV basketball pentathlon gold medal winner, 1951 orphans after their mothers were bridges, the Pisgah Covered Bridge. tournament in the U.S., the John Pan-American Games; and World Skeet killed. Other young animals at the zoo Experience the thrill of a lifetime on Blewett III Memorial North-South Shoot Champion, Craig Kirkman. include two gorillas that are two years Richland Creek ZipLine and Canopy Shootout at Caraway Speedway, and Not only is Randolph’s location the old, and five chimpanzees under the Tour, voted a Top 100 Expo Adventure; the 2015 American Legion Baseball very heart of the state, but its locals age of five. and Kersey Valley, North Carolina’s Southeast Regional Tournament. welcome visitors with a heartfelt only aviation themed zip line. Hike generous spirit and North Carolina’s Festivals and Events America’s oldest mountain range, the Golf trademark southern hospitality! Celebrate with us at each year at Uwharries. Fish along 100 miles of Play some of the area’s most Christmas on Sunset, in downtown beautiful shoreline on Randleman beautiful golf courses including the Museums and Attractions Asheboro, the Bush Hill Heritage Lake; or have “Dinner at the Dairy” at 7th Hardest Course in America, Tot Find what’s in your heart by Festival in Archdale, and the Seagrove Goat Lady, first place winner of the Hill; Holly Ridge, one of the Piedmont exploring an assortment of museums Pottery Festival — all chosen as a 2012 American Cheese Society Awards Triad’s finest 18-hole public courses; and attractions unequal to any other Top 20 Event in the Southeast by the for the “Best Smoked Goat Cheese” in Asheboro Country Club, set in the area of North Carolina! Southeast Tourism Society; and Liberty North America! beautiful Caraway Mountains; and • Petty Enterprises Historic Antiques Festival, voted the Best Asheboro Municipal, a public course Site, birthplace of 10 NASCAR Antiques Show in the Mid-Atlantic Vineyards and Wineries designed by the famed Donald Ross in championships Region. Tour Zimmerman Vineyards, 1935 — all located within an hour’s • American Classic Motorcycle located on more than 140 acres at drive from Pinehurst, home of some Museum, including the largest Arts and Entertainment the foot of beautiful Mount Shepherd; of America’s finest golf courses. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 69 Discover Historic Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville, known as The National Register of Historic Places. Summer evening concerts country and blues. The sounds of City of Four Seasons, offers cool Historic Flat Rock is home to several showcase traditional mountain fiddles and banjos playing at the mountains and warm southern attractions such as: The Flat Rock music, square dancing, folk, blues Street Dance have been a part of hospitality. Hendersonville is Playhouse, State Theatre of North and country Monday nights and Henderson County’s heritage for located in Western North Carolina, Carolina; the Carl Sandburg Home oldies rock and dancing Friday 95 years. These concerts are held 22 miles south of Asheville, in the National Historic Site; and St. John in nights. The concerts are held early June through mid August. Blue Ridge Mountains on a plateau, the Wilderness Episcopal Church as under the stars at the Visitor Experience Rhythm and Brews 2200 feet above sea level. concerts each month Hendersonville is ideally from April through located for exploring town September each and country with varied year in downtown attractions, festivals, cultural Hendersonville. and recreational activities, Henderson County historical sites, golf courses, wineries and breweries family activities, a historic provide tours and downtown with unique tasting rooms, to sample shops, excellent restaurants, mountain grown and quality antique stores. selections. Henderson Henderson County offers County is home to many diverse attractions, Burntshirt Vineyards, all located within a few Saint Paul Mountain blocks, to a few miles of Vineyard, and Southern downtown: these include Appalachian Brewery. the Henderson County Sierra Nevada Brewing Farmers Curb Market, Jump Company opened their Off Rock scenic overlook, new east coast brewing, Historic Johnson Farm, bottling and distribution the labyrinth in Holmes operation, in Northern Educational State Forest, the Henderson County. waterfalls in Dupont State Tours, a restaurant, Recreational Forest, the tasting room and Western North Carolina Air other experiences are Museum and the Historic Sierra Nevada Brewing Company opened their new east coast brewing, bottling and distribution operation, in Northern available to the public. Henderson County Hendersonville Depot. The Visitor Center, Historic downtown located at 201 South features interesting architecture, well as many unique specialty shops. Center, located on Main Street in Main Street in downtown delightful shops, museums, and The Garden Jubilee Festival downtown. Music On Main Street Hendersonville is open Monday- locally owned restaurants. The is a two-day festival, held on showcases a diverse lineup of Friday from 9 am-5 pm; Saturday, serpentine street features planter Saturday and Sunday, of Memorial musical talents, from rock and roll Sunday and holidays from 10 am-5 boxes brimming with seasonal Day weekend in Downtown to beach music. Monday Night Live pm. visit historichendersonville. flowers and trees. Downtown Hendersonville. This is a great features a diverse line-up of folk, org or call 800-828-4244. hosts many activities, as well as, art opportunity for gardeners to speak shows, an antique show, car shows, with experts at the garden clinics and parades throughout the year. and gather tips and advice. Garden The Historic Village of Flat Rock Jubilee stretches eight blocks of began when families from South Main Street with over 260+ vendors Carolina’s Low Country came to Flat selling handmade arts and crafts, Rock to escape the sweltering heat plants and items to enhance your and the epidemic of yellow fever outdoor living area. Local and and malaria. South Carolina’s Low regional nurseries will be selling Country gentry affectionately called thousands of annuals, perennials, Flat Rock, The Little Charleston of vegetables, herbs and hard to find the Mountains. The entire district plants on every block of the festival. of Flat Rock is included in the 70 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Upcountry South Carolina — Savor the Seasons A land of rugged mountains, Southern Living Magazine’s “Top provides outdoor recreation areas with shelters, a campground, scenic lakes, rushing whitewater 40 Things every Southerner amid the beauty of the Blue lake fishing and trails. rapids, majestic waterfalls, quaint should do” is to raft the National Ridge at the Jocassee Gorges. Stop to visit the overlook at small towns, and intriguing Wild and Scenic Chattooga Caesars Head State Park which history — South Carolina’s River. Enjoy guided whitewater has long been known as one Upcountry is a favorite outdoor rafting and float trips on the of the best views in South adventure and family vacation premier whitewater rafting Carolina. It is stunning as you destination. Spring brings river in the Eastern U.S. with stand atop the outcropping blooming Daffodils, Azaleas and Wildwater Rafting in Long and gaze at the Blue Ridge Dogwood Trees and warm days. Creek. While you’re there, try escarpment and Piedmont with Summer means it’s time to hit another one of their adventures the mountains of North Carolina the water — our freshwater and fly through the trees and and Georgia as a backdrop. lakes tempt boaters, swimmers, over a lake on a canopy tour! anglers and paddlers. With If you would rather admire nearly 150 waterfalls in the area, rushing water instead of a hike on a warm day is the “riding” it, you are in the perfect destination. Fall begins right place. South Carolina’s a wonderful, colorful display Upcountry features some of throughout the region when the most beautiful waterfalls the leaves change from green to in the Southeast, including the orange, red and yellow. During the highest series of waterfalls in winter, enjoy hiking the numerous the Eastern United States. Visit Upcountry trails with unobscured www.SouthCarolinaWaterfalls. views during the day, followed com to find out more about by nights around the fireplace the area’s waterfalls. in a cozy, mountain cabin. If flat water is more your Here are a few suggestions speed, then you can’t do any for some spots in the “Don’t better than Lake Jocassee, said The park features lakefront Are you an angler? Bring your miss” category when you to be “one of the most beautiful camping, hiking, picnicking gear. You can fish for rainbow visit the Upcountry. mountain lakes in the nation.” and vacationing in the park’s and brown trout, redeye and Devils Fork State Park is located contemporary mountain villas. largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish Raft, Camp and Vacation along the southwestern shore Another great stop while and more on the Chattooga, The number one item on of Lake Jocassee. This park you’re in the Upcountry is Chauga or Middle Saluda Rivers Keowee-Toxaway State Park. and also on Lakes Jocassee, This 1,000-acre park features Keowee and Hartwell. outstanding rock outcroppings So, whether your idea of a and wonderful views of the vacation is high adventure or just Blue Ridge Mountains. A large relaxing and taking a peaceful rental cabin in a wooded area walk along a waterfall trail, the features an upper deck porch Upcountry has something for you. overlooking Lake Keowee and Start planning your next visit to a private floating courtesy dock. the Upcountry at www.UpcountrySC. Other facilities include picnic com or call 800-849-4766 for a free Upcountry Visitors Guide. Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 71 TRAVEL USA Military Appreciation Days at Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach celebrates during Military Appreciation Vietnam-era helicopters (all sizes) The Grand Strand Patriot Alliance Military Appreciation Days during Days and the Vietnam Veterans coming in for a two-week display recognizes Memorial Day with the month of May with a full 50th Anniversary recognition. during May. The helicopters will speakers, the Missing Man Table schedule of activities and events. • Iraq and Afghanistan be at the Convention Center, and an honor guard salute. The Army veteran J. R. Martinez is Veterans Tribute – May 2 in the parade and at the Family public is cordially invited to attend Grand Marshal for the Military • Veterans and Friends Picnic, so you won’t miss them. this and all other events, as we say Appreciation Days parade Golf Outing – May 14 The exhibits are free, thanks “thank you” to our Military men on Sat., May 16, which also is • Myrtle Beach Pelicans to the North Carolina Vietnam and women and their Families. Armed Forces Day. Martinez Baseball Game – May 14 Helicopter Pilots Association, For more about Myrtle Beach’s was severely wounded during a • Myrtle Beach Pelicans Vietnam which has preserved these birds. 2015 Military Appreciation Days, tour of duty in Iraq in 2003. His Veterans Card Set Application Come sit in one yourself! including the Vietnam Veterans recovery took 34 months, but • Vietnam-Era Education At 11:00 a.m., Mon., May 25, 50th Anniversary, the exhibits, today he is a successful actor, Sessions for Students – May 15 everyone is invited to attend the the Ocean Boulevard Parade, the author, motivational speaker • Military Appreciation Days Memorial Day Remembrance Family Picnic, or any of our events, and winner of Dancing with Dinner Dance – May 16 Ceremony on the Plaza at the call 843-918-1014 or email us at the Stars. You’ll have a chance • Agent Orange Quilt of Tears Myrtle Beach Convention Center. [email protected]. to meet J. R. Martinez at the and Vietnam Memorial Family Picnic, after the parade. Wall – May 14-16 Military Appreciation Days • Military Appreciation begin Sat., May 2, with the Iraq Days Parade – May 16 and Afghanistan Veterans Tribute, • Family Picnic, Exhibits, sponsored by Rolling Thunder SC3. Music, J. R. Martinez Everyone’s invited to welcome and more – May 16 home these men and women • Memorial Day Remembrance and thank them for their service Ceremony – May 25 during this informal event, at 12:00 • M.O.A.A. Grand Strand Golf p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at St. Tournament – May 25 John the Baptist Greek Orthodox These month-long activities Church, 33rd Avenue North. are sponsored by the City of For 2015, Military Appreciation Myrtle Beach and PGBA, LLC, as Days recognizes our Vietnam a “thank you” to our dedicated veterans on the 50th anniversary service men and women and their of the Vietnam War. Myrtle Beach families. The celebration includes is working with Chapter 925 active duty military personnel, Grand Strand, Vietnam Veterans reserves, the National Guard of America, to thank these vets and veterans from all service for their service. Exhibits include branches. During May, military the Agent Orange Quilt of Tears personnel and their families also and traveling Vietnam Memorial can look for discounts to area Wall, both of which will be on restaurants and attractions. display Thursday, Friday and Our gratitude is evident during Saturday, May 14-16,on Ocean the big Ocean Boulevard parade Boulevard, between Eighth and Family Picnic, Saturday, and Ninth Avenues North. May 16. Pease join us for lunch The Military Appreciation Days prepared by the Omar Shriners Parade steps off at 10:30 a.m., Chefs. The picnic is free for all Sat., May 16 and travels Ocean Military and Veterans, along Boulevard from 27th Avenue North with their Families, courtesy of to Ninth Avenue North, where PGBA, LLC. Headlining Saturday exhibits, helicopters and more afternoon is the Andrew await at the big Family Picnic. Thielen Big Band with a live Entries for the 2015 parade are show. Also featured are military being accepted now. We expect exhibits, kids’ activities and this year’s parade to be one of more, including the Veterans the biggest and best ever! Here Beard and ‘Stache Beach Bash. are some of the other activities As a special treat, we have six 72 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Fun for the family in Dolly’s hometown Sevierville singer’s bronze statue in downtown Sevierville before making the five minute trip to her nearby Dollywood theme park, Dollywood. Great Events Sevierville hosts great events year-round. But one of our favorites is the annual Bloomin’ BBQ and Bluegrass festival (May 15 an 800-square mile stretch of & 16, 2015). This two-day deciduous forest, visitors to the event is perfect for the whole family park can view early settlements and features 50 of the nation’s top and homesteads and enjoy hiking, BBQ cook teams, five stages with fishing, picnics, and more. live music and plenty of arts and crafts. Catch bluegrass concerts Nestled in the foothills of the Aviation. Sports fans will love going Outlet Shopping from Lonesome River Band, Fiddlin’ Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville, to a baseball game at Tennessee There are more than 100 high Carson Peters, Sierra Hull, Flatt Tennessee is a value destination Smokies Stadium, where The end name brand outlets like Coach, Lonesome, Steep Canyon Rangers perfect for the whole family! Read Tennessee Smokies are the AA Michael Kors and Lenox at Tanger and more. Admission is free and so on to learn why. affiliates of the Chicago Cubs or Outlet Center Sevierville. Add to are the concerts thanks to great playing a round or two at the all- that a huge selection of specialty sponsors. For great festival lodging Great Attractions new Sevierville Golf Club. boutiques, flea markets and antique deals and more information about Sevierville’s great attractions offer malls and you realize that Sevierville Bloomin’ Barbeque and Bluegrass, something for every member of the Great Smoky Mountains is one awesome city for shopping! call 888-889-7415 or visit us online family! Visit one of America’s finest America’s most visited national Explore the 88,000 square foot at www.BloominBBQ.com. small zoos, Rainforest Adventures, park, Great Smoky Mountains Smoky Mountain Knifeworks, race around at NASCAR SpeedPark National Park, is less than 12 miles featuring cutlery, kitchen gadgets Lodging Options go kart track and watch history take from Sevierville and is free to and relics where you can even buy More and more people are flight at the Tennessee Museum of enter and enjoy. Encompassing ancient fossils. Then shop your way discovering that Sevierville is through more unusual outlets — the place to stay in the Smoky everything from Russell Stover’s Mountains area. With a convenient chocolate outlets to Beef Jerky location, exciting attractions and outlets are found in Sevierville! plenty of new lodging options, staying in Sevierville is more Dolly’s Hometown convenient than ever. While in Sevierville be sure and With natural beauty all around, see all things Dolly. Sevierville is plenty of outlet shopping and more Dolly Parton’s hometown and many family fun than you can pack into visitors stop for a photo with the a week — Sevierville will have you coming back for more. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 73 Chattanooga – Take Me There! Chattanooga is the Gateway to done by an eye-witness to the 1863 enjoy great BBQ at Clyde’s on Main, request a walking tour brochure at Tennessee and is nestled along the Chattanooga battles located in the where you’ll find musicians galore. [email protected]. Love banks of the beautiful Tennessee NPS Visitors Center across the street Coming in 2015, Puckett’s Grocery, local arts and crafts? Check out the 4 River and surrounded by the from Point Park. If time allows, a Nashville staple, is bringing a Bridges Art Festival every April at the spectacular scenic beauty of the head down to the Chickamauga part of music city to the riverfront First Tennessee Pavilion on Reggie mountains and the Cumberland Battlefield at Fort Oglethorpe to near the aquarium. Chattanooga White Blvd. The month of April also Plateau. You will enjoy a newly see the new movie presentation has a variety of musicians that brings out our Sunday Chattanooga revitalized green riverfront city, first “Death Knell of the Confederacy” at call it home from the 1920’s great Market from 11:00 a.m.-4:00.p.m. class attractions, great Southern the NPS visitors’ until the end of the year. Visit hospitality, rich Native American and center and then www.chattanoogamarket.com. Civil War history, outdoor adventures head out to drive If the great outdoors is more and locally owned restaurants and the oldest and your style, don’t miss the outdoor cafes, a thriving arts and music largest National adventures like kayaking, paddle- scene with plenty of annual festivals Military Park in boarding or canoeing right in and events that offer year-round fun. the USA. Many downtown. You are only a 15 Located right off of Interstates military leadership minute drive to hiking trails, I-24; I-59 and I-75, you can park your classes have made mountain biking or rock climbing car and check out the FREE Electric the pilgrimage to indoors and out at places like Shuttle that runs in a continuous the Chickamauga the High Point Climbing Center loop for 14 blocks from the Chattanooga where a short lesson can have you Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal National Military scaling the Pit or climbing three Station Complex to the Tennessee Park established stories. Check them out at www. Aquarium Plaza. There are over in 1889 to study highpointclimbing.com. Didn’t 40 stops in-between most nights the generals that Chattanooga Choo Choo Dome Lobby. Photo courtesy bring your bike? Use our Bike Share until 11:00 p.m. There are a ton served there during Chattanooga CVB Program where $6.00 gets you of LEED certified green buildings the Civil War. 24-access to over 30 stations and including the only movie theater in If you enjoy music, then check Bessie Smith, the Empress of 300 bikes. Then, just 45 minutes the USA and the only platinum auto out our 9-Day Riverbend Music Blues, to Clyde Stubblefield, lead away, you can whitewater raft manufacturing plant in the world Festival for less than $50 for all nine drummer for James Brown to on the Ocoee “1996 Olympic” — Volkswagen North America — nights every year in June. With over today’s top R & B legend, Usher. River or, if you dare, jump off where the VW Passat is currently 100 acts on five stages you will You’ll also find a cool art scene Lookout Mountain’s west side being made and where the new love this award-winning festival. in Chattanooga and it starts in the in a hang-glider made for two. SUV will roll off the line in 2016. You will find this year’s acts at 1900s Bluff View Art District with Whatever thrills you, we think you Want to see for yourself? Tours are www.RiverbendFestival.com. Want two great restaurants, a coffeehouse, will find it in Chattanooga Tennessee. available Monday through Friday. something more intimate? Main art gallery, three Bed and Breakfast For more information check out www. Contact VW at www.vwtours.com Street and the new entertainment homes, a free sculpture garden and ChattanoogaFun.com or email Shelda We guarantee to provide you district at 14th Street will be the largest collection of American Spencer Rees at ssrees@chattanoogacvb. and your family with a vacation perfect for you. Check out Track art in the southeast at the Hunter com if you are interested in bringing that you will talk about for years to 29 mentioned in Rolling Stone Museum of American Art.There is your military reunion to Chattanooga. come. Here are a few great things Magazine as the best new venue a large collection of outdoor art Email Reunion Specialist Chris Petro not to miss: our Riverfront District in the South (www.track29.co) or around every corner and you can at [email protected]. includes the Tennessee Aquarium, the world’s largest fresh-water aquarium; a 3D IMAX© Theater; and one of the best children’s museums, the Creative Discovery Museum, for ages two to 11. You can take a stroll or bike on our 13-mile RiverWalk, check out the $8 million renovation at the famous 1909 Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal Station and Hotel Complex, or while away an evening at a Chattanooga Lookouts Baseball game on Hawk Hill downtown. Then enjoy a prime-rib dinner and music on the Southern Belle Riverboat or take a ride on the high-speed 55 m.p.h. catamaran known as the River Gorge Explorer or splash down in the early morning in a Chattanooga Duck, a WWII amphibious military vehicle for a fun river ride to remember. Historic Lookout Mountain is only 15 minutes away from downtown Chattanooga with a whole new list of things to do from riding the steepest Incline Railway in the world, to going underground to see a 145 foot waterfall at Ruby Falls to walking through award- winning gardens at Rock City Gardens. Experience the Battles for Chattanooga Museum presentation on the battles of 1863 and stroll the National Park Battlefield unit at Point Park. www.lookoutmountain.com. Don’t miss the 13’ x 30’ painting 74 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Cedar Hill — lots to do in this Texas town

Cedar Hill is located on the highest elevation in North Texas and offers breathtaking views of Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park. Combining the outstanding natural environment with quality restaurants and retail development, Cedar Hill is where opportunities grow naturally. Cedar Hill is less than 20 minutes from downtown Dallas and 40 minutes from downtown Fort Worth and a 30 minute drive from DFW International Airport or Dallas Love Field. Cedar Hill offers a wonderful quality of life to its residents and fun attractions for visitors. Besides the 2,500 acres of City Parks, Cedar Hill State Park is nearly 2,000 acres of natural scenic beauty located on 7,500 acre Joe Pool Lake. Historic Penn Farm, campsites, over 100 miles of shoreline, water based recreation activities on Joe Pool Lake, hiking trails, and mountain bike trails make the park a major attraction for people from all over and the most visited state park in Texas. Dallas County is the only county in the nation to house multiple Audubon Centers, and Cedar Hill is proud to have one in its back yard, Dogwood Canyon

Visit Us for These Exciting Events!

• Walk the Light Arts Festival, the 3rd Saturday of every March, features artists of all art genres displaying and performing their craft inside local businesses, in Pioneer Park and on the streets of Historic Downtown Cedar Hill. The event is devoted to celebrating artists, and all art forms, by providing a unique venue for their art to be shared and enjoyed. Attendees participate in the creative process through interactive art installations, performances and exhibits. Admission and nearby parking is free. • Cyclists from around the state and beyond head to Cedar Hill the 2nd Saturday of May each year for Rotary International’s Head for the Hills Bike Rally. The annual event allows the Rotary Club of Cedar Hill to maintain youth programs and make direct donations to local charities, sponsor summer day camp scholarships, and respond to other immediate needs in the community. All the club’s charitable efforts are funded by this one event and paid back to the community 10 months out of every year. • June brings summer concerts with Music in the Park at the Valley Ridge amphitheater the first four Fridays of the month. There’s something for everyone with a different style of music featured each week. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax under the stars while enjoying the FREE concerts. Performances begin at 8 p.m. • The Merrell Down and Dirty Obstacle Race rolls into Cedar Hill State Park for some trail-blasting fun the second Sunday of June. The event features two courses with 20+ obstacles including an awesome kids’ race for ages 4-13. With help from thousands of athletes across the nation, the family- friendly event has raised over $200,000 for Operation Gratitude to send care packages to deployed U.S. Military. • For over 75 years residents, past and present, have gathered in Historic Downtown for the annual Old Settler’s Reunion and Country Day on the Hill. The settlers gather around the square on Friday for Bingo, prizes, live musical entertainment, a light supper and the crowning of the King and Queen of the Hill. Your $5 donation benefits local charities. The annual event fires up again Saturday with a parade, theFUMC 5K Mission 5K Fun Run, over 100 craft vendors, food, activities, contests and live entertainment on three stages through the entire day. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 75

Audubon Center at Cedar Hill. The center is situated on 205 acres of Dogwood Canyon, which contains the widest variety of rare species in North Texas with plants and animals from east, west, and central Texas converging there. Of course, when it is time to relax at the end of the day, there is plenty of shopping and dining in Cedar Hill as well. For more information on visiting Cedar Hill, check out www. visitcedarhilltx.com. 76 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com TRAVEL USA Family friendly adventure in Historic Wytheville Director, Wytheville Convention and Visitors Bureau the history of the nation with many scenic drive between locations. festival, there are many special or series You want to get away and relax, have interesting events, legends, and Few communities can tout being events that are held at attractions some quality time with your family or characters along the way. Wytheville the birthplace of a First Lady. The and parks throughout the area. embraces its heritage with over Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace friends. You want a location that not Beagle Ridge Herb only has the seclusion of a rural area, five historical museums honoring Museum tells the story of a Wytheville but the amenities and convenience medicine, the Civil War, and polio’s daughter who married the 28th Farm and Flying Flowers of a large one. You want to emerge unique impact on the area. President of the United States, This attraction includes a two- in natural beauty with an abundance The Great Lakes to Florida Highway Woodrow Wilson. Her influential acre herb display garden, a walk- of recreational opportunities for all Museum depicts the mid-20th and controversial life is chronicled through butterfly house, four and a ages and intensity levels. You want century era with its unique look at in artifacts from her childhood to half miles of nature trails, acres and to be absorbed by the authentic transportation. A self-guided historic her years in the nation’s capital. acres of beautiful property and the experience of a community rich walking tour showcases local history Several mansions dating to the new Serendipity, a special event in heritage and regional culture. from pre-Civil War times until today. The 1800s also offer a historical glimpse building. From spring to fall, Beagle You want to visit the small region’s only African American Heritage into some of the first families of the Ridge holds a variety of public special town located at a convenient Museum has an emphasis on education region and their parts in the growth events including Lavender Thyme in crossroads — Wytheville, Virginia. through photographs and exhibits. of Southwest Virginia. The legend June, Monarch Tagging in September Five locations on the Virginia Civil and lore surrounding these locations and Garlic Thyme in October. Rich in History War Trails mark the route of Toland’s offer many interesting stories about The history of the area patterns Raid in 1863 and offer a beautiful the area’s first affluent citizens. Big Walker Lookout and BW Country Store New Hotel Hosting a variety of heritage and Continuing the tribute to the culture events throughout the year, Big town’s most famous offspring, a new Walker Lookout and BW Country Store hotel has recently opened across is a natural and man-made attraction the street from the First Lady’s and store located on a National Forest birthplace within the historic district. Scenic Byway just a few minutes from The Bolling Wilson Hotel is a unique Wytheville. Showcasing the beauty upscale boutique property with 30 of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it is rooms on three floors. The restored an affiliate location of the Crooked historic hotel takes its themes from Road Music Trail. From May through the great loves that were a part of Mrs. October, each Saturday and Sunday, Wilson’s life. A restaurant, Graze on a variety of artisans and musicians Main, and rooftop venue, The Perch, bring an authentic experience compliment the full-service property. to this mountaintop location. Special Events New River Trail State Park A great way to see the flavor and As one of the most visited state authenticity of the area is through parks in Virginia, the New River Trail the many festivals and special events State Park is a cornerstone of outdoor that are held throughout the year. recreation in Southwest Virginia. The following activities fill the spring, Throughout the year, this facility holds summer, and fall with a wealth of a variety of programs and special interesting, enjoyable, and educational events. Held in September, the New opportunities for the entire family. River Challenge has become Virginia’s premier long-distance triathlon. The Chautauqua Festival challenge has a 40 mile bike ride, 12 This eight-day event has an over 25 mile kayak leg and half marathon year history of providing entertainment. along southwestern Virginia’s 57-mile- All events are free and held in the long New River Trail. Participants center of Wytheville throughout the can either choose to compete solo day and into the evening. Included or in teams of two or three. in each day’s schedule are crafts and classes, art displays and food, with every Downtown Wytheville evening topping off with bands in the Car cruise-ins and outdoor concerts open air atmosphere of a beautiful public park. Besides this multi-day see HISTORIC WYTHEVILLE page 78 TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 • 77 Music in the Air Virginia Zoo Adventure If you stand in the center of Galax, Galax Leaf and String Festival Journey to mysterious places behind-the-scenes tour; it’s a close Virginia, and listen closely, past the Showcasing all types of the creative inhabited by exotic animals from encounter of the animal kind! sounds of a busy downtown, you can culture, the Leaf and String Festival around the world. Discover giraffes, Feed a giraffe or paint with the hear it. The notes play on the breeze, gives a glimpse into a diversity of orangutans, tigers, wallabies and elephants — plenty of behind-the- no matter the season. It’s the sound of local and regional talent. Held on June more! Board the Norfolk Southern scenes tours are available to choose decades of music ingrained into the 13 and 14 this year, the downtown Express train for an expedition to from. Prices vary, and reservations soul of the community. area will be full of music, artisans Asia — Trail of the Tiger or Africa’s and prepayment are required. Why is this small Southwest and food vendors. Following each Okavango Delta. Watch the red For those who wonder what Virginia city proclaimed the “World afternoon of outdoor music, the event panda as it climbs through the trees happens at the zoo after it closes, Capital of Old-Time Music”? Perhaps, moves into the Historic Rex Theater just above your head. Go nose-to- we offer overnight Zoo Snoozes, it is the fact that generations have to continue the nightly entertainment. nose with a prairie dog from your where you can share the night life insured this important part of their own underground viewing bubble. with our animals. Activities include Appalachian heritage is handed down Smoke on the Mountain Stroll through themed gardens or a live animal presentation, tour of from old to young. There’s only one word to sum get wet in one of the Zoo’s water the zoo, behind-the-scenes tours, up the special event held in July fountains. wildlife games and craft projects. Old Fiddler’s Convention — delicious. Authentic southern Since 1935, Galax has been the The Virginia Zoo, open year Zoo Snoozes for Boy and Girl barbecue with “altitude” fills the round, provides education and Scouts even include badge projects. home to the Old Fiddler’s Convention, streets of the downtown on the one of the most prominent traditional entertainment for people of all The Virginia Zoo hosts a number third weekend of July (17-18). The ages. In fact, the zoo is home to of special events throughout the music contests in the United States. competition is the official Virginia Each August, hundreds come to more than 400 animals on 53 year, as well, including Zoovies — a state barbecue championship. Teams beautifully landscaped acres. The perfect evening activity for families, play in Felts Park, and thousands of the best barbecue competitors come to listen. Musicians as old as Virginia Zoo’s enriched exhibits providing a safe, fun and kid- from across the country vie for the encourage the animals’ natural friendly environment for enjoying the convention itself or barely old bragging rights that winning this enough to hold an instrument sit side- behavior, and provide information a movie outdoors with some of event brings including a spot in about their habitats, what they eat your favorite summer foods and by-side and play and sing and learn. The Memphis BBQ Network World The number of steps made by those and their worldwide conservation beverages. Championship Barbecue Cooking status. You can even book a wedding who get up and flatfoot or tap their Contest. For spectators, it’s a chance feet along with the melodies would Visiting the Virginia Zoo is a or family reunion, hold a company to sample some of the best food of fantastic thing to do with family picnic or throw a special birthday surely circumference the globe. This the South while enjoying the festival year’s 80th anniversary on Aug. 3-8, and friends, and it’s a terrific value. party at the zoo. atmosphere that includes music, Admission is $11 for adults, $9 for Join the 500,000 people each 2015 will be as rich in tradition as it crafts and children’s activities. was the very first year. children (ages two–11), and $10 for year who visit the Virginia Zoo! Music is not the only thing that Trail on Tracks seniors (62+). Children under two The Virginia Zoo is located at get in FREE! Admission with a valid makes a trip to Galax worth the drive, Less than a mile from the center of 3500 Granby St. in Norfolk. For more military ID is $10 for adults. there are an abundance of events downtown Galax, visitors can access information, call 757-441-2374 or visit If you’re yearning for a more throughout the spring and summer the 57-mile New River Trail (NRT). www.virginiazoo.org intimate experience, book a for relaxing family-friendly activities. Part of a state park by the same name, NRT follows an abandoned railroad HoustonFest right-of-way. A variety of recreational Held the first Friday and opportunities are available from Saturday each May (May 1-2, 2015), hiking and biking to horseback riding HoustonFest honors the legacy of and camping. The waters of the New one young man, Houston Caldwell, River provide premiere fishing and who had a passion for the growth of boating experiences. Contrary to its musical heritage and a commitment name, the New River is believed to be to community service. This year’s the second oldest river in the world schedule of performers includes and one of the few that flows north. It Marty Stuart, Doyle Lawson and parallels 39 miles of the NRT. Quicksilver, Steep Canyon Rangers, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Living History Time, The Chuck Wagon Gang, The Nearby, Matthew State Forest offers Church Sisters, and many more. The recreational activities on a 566 acre music is the best and brightest of area. Hiking and biking trails afford the time. The proceeds give back by challenge and beauty. The Matthews benefiting a local fire department. see MUSIC page 78 78 • THE GRIFFON • Spring 2015 www.thegriffon108.com ADVERTISER INDEX 84 Lumber 45 Canadian Pacific Rail 42 Galax VA 77 Old Dominion 33 AAFMAA 59 Capitol Technology University 58 Gardner-Webb University 49 Palmetto College 24 Alabama, The University of 29 Carolina Cat 47 Geico 19 Patriots Point 71 Alamogordo NM 61 CDA Technical Institute 41 Great Smoky Mountain Railroad 68 Petersburg VA 78 All South Federal Credit Union 30 Cedar Hill TX 74 Greater Valley Area 62 Russell County AL 62 Alliance Tractor Trailer 44 Celadon 35 Griffon Assoc. Golf Tournment 52 Sequoia Foothills CVB 61 American Sentinel 60 Charter One 5 Gulf Shores & Orange Beach 63 Sevierville TN 72 American Uniform Sales 37 Chattanooga CVB 73 Haywood County Smith Transport 38 Aqua Beach 71 Columbia-Greene CC 38 Hotel Motel Association 69 South Dakota State University 50 Ashford University 36 Comfort Inn & Suites- Three Rivers 61 Heart of NC 57 SouthWest CC 41 Averitt Express 31 Corban University 37 Henderson County Tourism 69 St Joseph’s College 39 Avis Rentals 6 CruiseOne 59 Holland 51 St. Francis College 51 B.R.A.N.C.H. (IPA) 5 Dean College 42 Home School Foundation, The 56 St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital IBC Ball State University BC Embry Riddle University 11 Howard University 47 Stafford VA 76 Bedford VA Tourism 78 Emerald Coast CVB 65 International Schools Stand To 12 Biloxi Beach Resort Rentals 67 Everglades University 5 Professional Truck Driving 58 State Farm 37 BJs Wholesale Club 23 Exelon 43 Island House 62 Strayer University 56 Bryan College Station TX 75 Farmers Insurance 22 Jacksonville University 31 Sullivan University IFC California National University 30 Front Royal VA 76 Jefferson College 36 Sunoco Logistics 14 Kent County, MD 64 SUNY Delhi 53 Music Cont’d from page 77 Lee County FL 64 TA/Petro Careers 39 Lookout Mountain TN 72 Living History Farm showcases agricultural like in the early 1900s Tarelton State 50 through demonstrations, workshops, special events and environmental Louisiana College 50 Town of Mount Pleasant 71 education. Marist College 48 Trinity Washington University 44 Beautiful Courses Mary Baldwin College 56 Tupelo MS CVB 67 Conveniently located to the activities already mentioned, the area Massanutten Military Academy 31 also includes several nine and 18 hole golf courses with breathtaking Universal Orlando 66 views of the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Resort locations McKendree University 43 University of Colorado Denver 33 nearby offer a full service golfing experience. McKinney TX 74 University of Nebraska For more information, call 276-238-8130 or visit www.VisitGalax.com. Mercyhurst 47 Online Worldwide 46 Midway College 14 University of Tennessee 17 Remembering Their Valor, Fidelity and Sacri ce Mississippi College 34 Upcountry SC 70 Mohawk Valley CC 47 USAA 7 Discover The National D-Day Memorial, Utah Valley University 58 overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains NASM 11 and the town that lost the most citizens National Firearms Museum 41 Virginia Zoo 77 per-capita in the United States at D-Day. The Memorial honors the Americans and Navy Federal Credit Union 15 Visit Gainesville 66 all of the Allied forces involved. Near The Wet N Wild Orlando 64 Memorial is Thomas Jefferson’s retreat New York Chiropractic College 22 Poplar Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Noranda Aluminum 43 Wildwater 70 Smith Mountain Lake and the Booker T. Washington National Monument. North Carolina A&T University 48 Wytheville VA 76 Now Open Daily! NYIT 60 Xcel Energy 55 Ocean Corporation, The 40 Yellow Ribbon Program 3 Bedford Welcome Center • Bedford, VA 877-447-3257 • www.visitbedford.com Historic Wytheville Cont’d from page 76 are just a few of the activities you Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre will find on the streets of the historic Every eight weeks, a new Broadway- district in Downtown Wytheville. As caliber production graces the part of a revitalization effort begun in stage. Following a four-course meal, recent years, the events held on Main Wohlfahrt Haus presents musicals Street offer a glimpse into the pure that showcase many different types of fun that can be had, no matter the music from classic to contemporary Visit Petersburg, Virginia season, in this small town atmosphere. as well as feature huge production numbers with unforgettable dancing. Garden Week in Virginia, Revolutionary War Reenactments, Museums, West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery These family-friendly productions are Friday For The Arts, Historic Petersburg Half Marathon Race, Sporting Events Located on a beautiful family farm, presented in matinee and evening and the Petersburg Chamber Barb-Q Festival too! West Wind has many ongoing events times throughout the entire year. throughout the year, including their Visit www.petersburgva.gov for more information, popular summer concert series For more information about everything that runs from June to October. the area has to offer, contact the Wytheville or call 804-733-2400 today! The attraction showcases local Convention and Visitors Bureau, 877-347- and regional music as well as 8307, or visit www.VisitWytheville.com. homegrown and home-crafted wines. Be the force behind the cures.

SHARE THE EXCELLENCE...FROM BENCH TO BEDSIDE AND BEYOND.

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Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recipient, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve of the Department of Defense, 2014. Named to Fortune magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, 2011-2014. Named the nation’s best children’s cancer hospital by U.S. News & World Report, 2010. Named the nation’s No. 1 pediatric cancer care hospital by Parents magazine, 2009. Ranked in the top 10 best places to work in academia by The Scientist, yearly since 2005.

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