“Stigma” of Crisis City PTSD deters hosts full-scale many from disaster PlainsPlainsseeking help....2 GuardianGuardianexercise ...... 10

Volume 59 No. 2 Serving the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, Kansas Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol April 2015 Kansas National Guard supports inaugural activities By Sgt. Zach Sheely ball was led by Senior Airman Camry Public Affairs Office Gayer, the Kansas National Guard Airman Cannon fire rumbled over the lawn of the of the Year and Sgt. Kevin Davis, Kansas Kansas State Capitol in Topeka and the National Guard Soldier of the Year fol- musical sound of ruffles and flourishes lowed by Tafanelli and his wife, Tammy, filled the dome inside as the Kansas Na- who escorted Brownback and his family. tional Guard provided the pomp and cir- Following the Grand March, the Adjutant cumstance for the gubernatorial General’s Ceremonial Color Guard, under inauguration ceremony Jan. 12, marking the command of State Command Sgt. Maj. the re-election of Gov. Sam Brownback. Scott Haworth, presented the colors during “The men and women of the Kansas Na- the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. tional Guard are proud to serve Governor Originally scheduled to be held on the Brownback and follow his leadership as south steps of the Capitol, the inauguration our commander in chief, as we have with ceremony was moved into the Kansas House every governor since Kansas became a Chamber due to the frigid temperatures. The state,” said Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, 35th Infantry Division Band performed mu- Kansas adjutant general. sical selections under the direction of Chief The Adjutant General’s Department in- Warrant Officer 4 Steve Patterson. cludes the Kansas Army and Air National After Brownback received his oath of of- Guard, Division of Emergency Manage- fice and delivered his inaugural address, ment and Homeland Security, and provides Tafanelli and Lt. Col. Jerritt Curtis, com- administrative support to the Civil Air Pa- mander of troops for the inauguration, es- trol. The Kansas National Guard has ap- corted the governor as he inspected an honor Members of the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Highway Patrol stand at pa- proximately 7,500 Army and Air guard of Kansas Guardsmen and Kansas rade rest in the gallery of the House Chamber as Gov. Sam Brownback delivers his Guardsmen serving throughout the state. Highway Patrol troopers, reaffirming his inaugural address at the State Capitol in Topeka Jan. 12. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Guardsmen were also on hand to escort role as their commander in chief. During the Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) Kansas state officials into Exposition Hall at inspection, a salute battery from the Kansas 75mm towed howitzers. we are still aiming high, to the stars,” the Kansas Expocentre Jan. 10 for the inau- National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 130th Field “Despite every challenge, despite every Brownback said in his address. gural dinner and ball. The procession of the Artillery provided a 19-gun salute fired by difficulty, whatever may come, in Kansas, (Additonal photos on pages 8 and 9) 190th Air Refueling Wing aids presidential visit to Kansas By Sgt. Zach Sheely at the University of Kansas in Lawrence “A lot of people gave up a lot of their Once notified, personnel of the 190th Public Affairs Office Jan. 22. He arrived Jan. 21 and departed weekend to get out here and make this hap- met internally and began coordinating with A presidential visit poses logistical chal- the Sunflower State the next day via Forbes pen,” said Blubaugh. “I had to call people the advance planning teams of Air Force lenges for the host. Between coordinating Field Air National Guard Base in Topeka, at home and ask them to come to the base One, the White House and the Secret Serv- security, vehicles and personnel with the home of the 190th ARW, in his Boeing for preparation and not one time did I hear ice to start making preparations for a safe White House and Secret Service, the prepa- 747, known as Air Force One. even so much as a sigh of disappointment.” and smooth experience. ration can take weeks. “We didn’t get word of the president’s Obama traveled to Lawrence, some 30 “The Secret Service was pleased,” said The Airmen of the 190th Air Refueling arrival until (late last week),” said Maj. Joe miles away, in his presidential motorcade, Blubaugh. “It went really well and on more Wing only had a matter of days. Blubaugh, wing executive staff officer. “It which consisted of nearly 30 vehicles, many than one occasion I heard people talk about President Barack Obama came to was almost noon when I got that phone call of which were shipped beforehand and how great it is to go to an Air National Kansas, his first visit since 2011, to speak and, needless to say, we went into full-on stored at the base. Forbes Field offered the Guard base. They related that to how much scramble mode because it was Martin space to accommodate various vehicles and pride they saw in the Air National Guard.” Luther King Jr. weekend, so we were get- aircraft, including Air Force One and Ma- Obama was scheduled to come to Kansas ting ready to release everyone for a three- rine One, the presidential helicopter, in a se- through Forbes Field in April 2013, but that day weekend.” cure environment. trip was cancelled due to the Boston

PAID It’s not every day that an Air Guard base “It’s easier to bring the presidential en- marathon bombings. While this was his PRSRT STD PRSRT SALEM, OR plays host to the president, so the Airmen tourage, including Air Force One, to a mili- first trip through Topeka, Forbes Field has U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT NO. 178 PERMIT sacrificed much of their time to accommo- tary base because of the built-in security,” hosted Presidents Ronald Reagan, George date their commander in chief. said Blubaugh. H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, along with several First Ladies. After his speaking engagement in Lawrence and before boarding his plane to return to Washington, the president greeted visitors and Airmen of the 190th ARW. Staff Sgt. Erin Oatley, a paralegal with the judge advocate general of the 190th, was tasked with checking in members of the media and visitors. “It was an honor to be here to be able to see President Obama,” said Oatley. “For me, it was an extra bonus to have the op- portunity to meet him.” The president was able to stick closely with his scheduled timeline, a testament to the efforts of the Kansas Air National Guard. “I’m just absolutely amazed at our peo- ple,” said Blubaugh. “We truly have some of the best members of the Air Force right here at the 190th Air Refueling Wing and this wouldn’t have been possible without

2800 Topeka Blvd. 2800 Topeka the hard work that they put in.” OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL Adjutant General of Kansas Topeka, Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka, Penalty For Private Use, $300 President Barack Obama waves goodbye from Forbes Field Air National Guard Scan the QR code with DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY THE OF DEPARTMENT

NATIONAL GUARD OF KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL Base in Topeka Jan. 22 as he boards Air Force One. Obama made his first stop in your mobile device to view Kansas since 2011 to speak at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. (Photo by Sgt. more photos in our Flickr

DEPARTMENT AND AIR OF THE ARMY FORCE DEPARTMENT 1st Class Jeremy Byers, Public Affairs Office) photostream Page 2 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Part one of a two-part series Perceived “stigma” of PTSD deters many from seeking help By Sgt. Zach Sheely “There are intrusive symptoms including Public Affairs Office nightmares, flashbacks or invasive “Not all wounds are visible.” thoughts,” said Gadt-Johnson. “There’s PTSD Journal hyper arousal – can’t concentrate, irritabil- For many service members suffering ity, difficulty sleeping and paranoia. Nega- from post-traumatic stress disorder, simply tive thinking and emotions, including fear, admitting the need for help may be the anxiety, guilt and shame. And finally, most difficult thing they ever do. avoidance. They avoid doing everyday Master Sgt. Lyle Babcock spent nearly things like going to Walmart to avoid feel- 15 months deployed to Afghanistan in sup- ing distress.” port of Operation Enduring Freedom. In Gadt-Johnson said that people who expe- the time since his return, Babcock has rience symptoms in all four categories meet grappled with this personal battle. the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. An Army veteran of nearly 31 years, Bab- “I really didn’t want to admit that I had cock, a management analyst for the human PTSD,” Babcock said. “That was a hard resources office at the Kansas National road for me. I felt, one, I’m decent size… Guard Joint Forces Headquarters in Topeka, I’m a senior NCO. I looked at it as a fail- served from 2012-2013 as the noncommis- ure. It meant you’re weak, or at least that sioned officer in charge of the 102nd Mili- what I perceived it as.” tary History Detachment, documenting the As a seasoned Army veteran, Babcock missions of the U.S. military serving in said he was well-prepared for his time in Afghanistan. His duties included collecting theater and that his personal experiences documents, taking photos and videos, and Master Sgt. Lyle Babcock, management analyst for the human resources office, Kansas there were milder in comparison to many conducting interviews with Soldiers to National Guard, is an Army veteran of more than 30 years. Upon returning from a 15 of the Soldiers he talked to. gather their perspective on the war. month deployement to Afghanistan from 2012-2013, he began to notice changes in him- “I went through some stuff, but not real Those interviews were often the first self. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mark Hanson, Kansas National Guard Visual Information) bad,” he said. “Not like some of these guys time Soldiers had a chance to openly talk Babcock insisted on driving home from ment of JFHQ after a month of leave, his and gals.” about their combat experiences. the airport, scaring everyone in the car. newly-developed hypervigilance and para- But Gadt-Johnson explained PTSD isn’t “I got the real story,” Babcock said. “It “He drove like a crazy person,” Traci noia didn’t mesh well with his co-workers. limited to only those who’ve experienced was neat. Through the process, they started said. “He was tailgating people and driving He cited a time where he “swung on” a co- or seen the worst and it’s not even limited opening up. You could see and feel their really fast, because that’s how they have to worker, merely because she approached to service members or people who have emotions and everything they witnessed drive over there to stay alive – point A to B him unwittingly and startled him. personally experienced traumatic events. and went through.” as fast as you can.” “I had a panic attack. Instant cold sweats “PTSD is a non-discriminatory disorder,” Babcock voluntarily extended his de- What really alarmed Traci, who’s studying and I felt very insecure and unsecure,” he Gadt-Johnson said. “It can affect anyone ployment several months, and looks back for her master’s degree in addiction counsel- said. “I ended up leaving without telling any- who experienced, witnessed or knows positively on his experience, saying that he ing at Washburn University in Topeka, is that one. That’s when I knew something was way someone they care about who experienced “would do it again in a heartbeat,” and her husband couldn’t sleep in bed with her. off. I usually deal with stress well, but I was some sort of trauma event.” even that it was “fun.” “I preferred sleeping on the couch,” Bab- stressed. I was emotional. What the hell just Babcock’s biggest roadblock in admit- However, when he returned home, his cock said. “It felt more secure. Over there, happened and why? What’s going on?” ting that he was experiencing PTSD symp- wife Traci immediately noticed a differ- you go to bed, you know where your gun’s Dr. Chalisa Gadt-Johnson, a licensed toms and seeking support was his concern ence in him. at, and you know where things are at. You psychologist and chief of the stress disor- of how others would view him, particularly “When he came off the plane, he was don’t have to think about it twice. der treatment program at the Colmery- those in leadership. very stiff, still very much in that military “You get back, all of a sudden things are O’Neil VA Medical Center, Topeka, “How would other people perceive it?” ‘mode,’” she said. “He was kind of stand- different and you don’t feel as secure.” describes the four primary clusters of he said. “How would my leadership per- offish. He wasn’t sure how to act or feel.” At work, back in the garrison environ- PTSD symptoms. (Continued on Page 3) Heroes on the Water provides a safe haven for veterans, families By Public Affairs Office kayaking by a niece. During a casual conver- combining my love of kayaking and fishing more than 500 veterans and family mem- Modern life is full of hassles, deadlines, sation in the hallway, Babcock and Welch together was something I was very inter- bers experienced the healing powers of the frustrations and demands. For many peo- discovered their shared love of kayaking. ested in. After I got home, I contacted the program. ple, stress is so commonplace it is a way of Babcock learned of an organization HOW national chapter to volunteer and “The veterans arrive at our events and life. For members of the military, in addi- called Heroes on the Water. HOW is a found that the nearest chapter was in cen- you can see the apprehension on their tion to dealing with the stresses of their 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization head- tral Nebraska, six hours away. faces,” said Welch. “That apprehension daily lives, they have the added stress of quartered in Allen, Texas. HOW’s mission “Instead, I started volunteering with the stays until they are actually out in a kayak serving their country. is to provide healing and rehabilitating Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center in the and then the realization sets in that they are Everyone has their own way of dealing kayak and fishing outings to veterans post-traumatic stress disorder unit. I wasn’t in complete control of that vessel. For with stress – playing video games or sports, from all branches to help them relax, re- at a point where I could admit to myself some of the veterans with post traumatic taking walks or going for a run, spending habilitate and reintegrate. that I was dealing with PTSD so by volun- stress disorder, that is a profound moment. time with friends or other activities. Originally started at Brooke Army Med- teering I could hide behind the mask and “Most of them feel like they control very For Kansas Army National Guard Soldier ical Center in 2007, Heroes on the Water is still help other veterans. little in their lives and now they are the cap- Master Sgt. Lyle Babcock Jr., and Adjutant free to veterans and their families and is “I started taking the veterans fishing on tain of their own ship. Some of them just General’s Department employee Jane Welch, supported by tax-deductible donations. weekends and from that, the idea of start- paddle into the middle of the lake and won’t their method of stress relief – kayaking – led “During my deployment I decided I ing a chapter in Kansas was born.” move, just taking a moment to enjoy the them down a path they never expected. wanted to buy a kayak on my return and I Babcock approached Welch and told her sounds of the quiet around them. Others will When Babcock returned from his deploy- started looking online to see what was out about HOW and asked if she would be will- find a spot and throw out a fishing line, not ment to Afghanistan in 2013 he purchased there,” said Babcock. “That is when I stum- ing to help him start a chapter in Kansas. really caring if anything bites or not. When kayaks for himself and his wife. During the bled across Heroes on the Water. I read “When Lyle told me what the mission for it is time to come in off the lake, the trans- summer of 2013, Welch was introduced to their mission statement and realized that Heroes on the Water was, I was sold,” said formation is amazing. Their eyes are lit up Welch, a public information writer in the and the grins go from ear to ear and they are Adjutant General’s Department Public Af- asking when they can do it again.” fairs Office. “During the time I have worked The Kansas chapter is run by a core group for the agency, I have seen a lot of Soldiers of unpaid volunteers. The backgrounds of the deploy, some multiple times. Deployment volunteers are varied, but they all agree – changes them and they come home and they are doing it to help veterans. struggle to fit back into a life that doesn’t “This program would not exist without the necessarily match the person that returned help and support of our volunteers,” said from deployment. I’ve always felt like I was Babcock. “Our volunteers consist of current on the sideline and wasn’t sure what I could military members, retirees, military family do to help. Volunteering for HOW has given members and other individuals who just me a way to help veterans struggling with have a desire to help our veterans. They have the stress of everyday life.” all stepped up and taken ownership of differ- Babcock submitted the required paper- ent aspects of the program from equipment, work and in May 2014 the Kansas chapter to volunteer coordinator to food donations. was officially established. They held their They all give of their own time to help care first event on June 7, 2014. The event was for and give back to our veterans.” small with only six veterans in attendance. “I began attending events for Heroes on The chapter provides free of charge the Water with my husband Jim,” said Janet everything that the participants need to Kristinat, HOW volunteer. “He struggles enjoy the day and relax: fishing license, with PTSD, so we thought it might be U.S. Army veteran Hugo Murguia, Sedalia, Missouri, paddles his kayak on Lake fishing gear, bait, kayaks, life jackets, food something that could assist him with work- Shawnee, Topeka, Kansas. (Photo by Jane Welch, Public Affairs Office) and drinks. In 2014, the Kansas chapter had (Continued on Page 3) April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Post-traumatic 235th Regiment Culinary Center of Excellence stress disorder Fresh food at a fraction of the cost Continued from Page 2 ceive it? I was worried about the stigma of ‘somebody dealing with PTSD is like a powder keg ready to explode at any time.’ I think that stigma existed (in the Kansas Guard) because the leadership hadn’t made a point of addressing it. Once they started to acknowledge it, the stigma began to erode.” According to Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, Kansas adjutant general, it’s up to every mem- ber of the organization to crush that stigma. “Many people think that they can deal with (PTSD) themselves, so that stigma may even be on them,” said Tafanelli. “They think there’s something wrong with them and they really don’t want to let leaders know. In some cases, there might be leaders who tend to view individuals that are experi- encing some of these difficulties as having some kind of a weakness and it’s really not.” Tafanelli urged those in the Kansas Na- tional Guard who may be dealing with any of the symptoms of PTSD in silence to “Give your chain of command a chance to help you. There’s no sense in suffering or dealing with this on your own.” Gadt-Johnson agreed. “As human beings, we aren’t designed to suffer in isolation,” she said. “From the time we’re born, we thrive on the depend- ency of others. The idea of ‘I’ve got to deal with it on my own’ is counterintuitive to the human species. We want people to know our stories. We want to feel under- Students of the Culinary Center of Excellence, 235th Regional Training Institute in Salina present their freshly-prepared bowls of gravy stood.” for critique. The Soldiers are training to become Army food service specialists. (Photo by Sgt. Theresa Vail, Public Affairs Office) Untreated, someone who has PTSD may eventually collapse and become dangerous By Sgt. Zach Sheely David Medina, course supervisor, his tor Medina. “It’s keeping temperature logs to themselves, their family and co-work- Public Affairs Office dream is to put the responsibility of feeding on the refrigerator, labeling ingredients and ers, but Gadt-Johnson said that a person Walking into the new Culinary Center of Soldiers back into the well-trained hands of sanitizing equipment and cooking areas.” who is living with PTSD doesn’t have to Excellence at the Kansas Regional Training fellow Soldiers. Historically, the Army cook may not be be a prisoner to their symptoms. Institute in Salina, Kansas, is like entering “It’s going to save the Army a lot of the most glorified job in the military, but “If you manage your symptoms, you can the set of a television cooking show. money,” he said. “Contracting is very ex- the Medina brothers entered the Army in go out and live a full, quality life,” she Contestants, or in this case student Sol- pensive. Getting catered meals or going out the job field, and their passion is obvious. said. “PTSD is a part of you, but it doesn’t diers, offer their freshly prepared dish for to a restaurant, that’s a waste of money.” “I don’t like the term ‘cook,’” said David have to be a factor for you.” critique from the judges, eliciting com- Medina. “You can go to McDonalds and be Babcock embodies that notion. ments such as, “Too nutty,” “A little runny” “Serving fresh food a cook. I prefer the term food service spe- “PTSD has been around a long time, and or “This meets the standard.” cialist, because to me that means you care it’s real,” he said. “There are men and The judges, Staff Sgt. Adam Cloyd and prepared by Soldiers in about what you’re doing.” women dealing with it in our organization Staff Sgt. Hector Medina, are the only certi- place of an MRE can save While some military occupational spe- right now and they are not getting the help fied food service instructors in the Kansas cialties do not transfer into the private sec- they need. They’re dealing with it with Army National Guard. Their job is to train approximately $6 per tor, cooking offers many opportunities in drugs and alcohol, by being in a cocoon all future food service specialists from across Soldier.” civilian employment. the time and by taking it out on their fam- the nation in the commercial-grade kitchen. Staff Sgt. Hector Medina “We’re always doing our mission,” said ily or by burying it. But those holes can’t “The Army relies on the sustenance it Sgt. 1st Class Robertson Winters, previ- get deep enough at times and sometimes receives,” said Medina. “Without it, noth- Food Service instructor ously an automated logistics specialist stuff starts to come out.” ing else runs. If you don’t have food, you with the 250th Forward Support Com- But Babcock offered hope. have no energy. It’s important that Sol- Hector Medina echoed his brother’s senti- pany, Kansas National Guard, who is re- “There is help,” he said. diers are getting the right quantities and ment and estimated that “Serving fresh food classifying as a food service specialist. # # # nutritional value.” prepared by Soldiers in place of an MRE can “The thing I like is that you’re not simu- In the next issue of the Plains Guardian, The 28-day food service specialist save approximately $6 per Soldier. It’s more lating, you are actually doing it. There’s a part two will present information on what course features classroom instruction and cost-effective to serve troops fresh food, as lot you can take away from this course, at treatments exist for PTSD. hands-on training at individual cooking opposed to an MRE,” he said. home and in the culinary arena.” stations to train prospective U.S. Army, Students are required to complete two David Medina said that the institute National Guard and Army Reserve food phases, garrison and field food service. The could use more instructors to facilitate the Heroes on the Water service specialists to deliver a standard- students will train on a mobile kitchen course, and he, along with Cloyd and his Continued from Page 2 ized food product for one person to up to trailer and a containerized kitchen for the brother Hector, have big dreams for the ing through it and, at the same time, doing a battalion-sized element. field service portion. culinary institute. something he loves to do. After the first During a typical drill weekend, National Students are taught to read and follow “Why not bring military couples in event, I had already noticed a difference Guard Soldiers may receive food catered recipes and learn simple techniques such as here?” David Medina said. “What a great with him and it was amazing to watch him from a civilian vendor, or be offered a the proper way to chop vegetables, to more way for a couple to be intimate. Bring have a whole new excitement for each day. Meal, Ready to Eat. In garrison and in the- complex disciplines like making a roux. them in here and teach them to cook din- I started out going to support my husband ater, Army dining facilities are operated by But it’s not only about making good food. ner together. Also, some of the kids, why and very quickly turned into an enthusias- civilian contractors. For Sgt. 1st Class “It’s not just cooking the food,” said Hec- not teach them a safe way to make a tic volunteer to assist HOW.” grilled cheese sandwich or macaroni and “Watching the veterans get out and start cheese not from a box?” living again was an eye opener to me,” said The Culinary Center for Excellence of- Babcock. “Starting the chapter was a long fers a glimpse into the future, and a nod to road and involved a lot of work which in- the past when it comes to Army chow, and cluded finding key leadership and volun- David Medina believes this is just the start. teers, fundraising, sponsors, borrowing “We’re headed in the right direction kayaks and all the other details that went here,” he said. “We’re helping save along with each event.” money, doing it the right way. The mili- “I look back now and realize that insan- tary runs on its stomach and in a split sec- ity had a lot to do with it,” said Babcock ond, if there’s not the proper training, you with a smile. “I am amazed at how far we can wipe out a whole unit.” have come and what a difference we have made to the veterans that have come Scan to view through our program.” a feature For more information on the Kansas video on the Chapter of Heroes on the Water visit their Culinary Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ A student at the Culinary Center of Excellence, 235th Regional Training Institute, Salina, Kansas, whisks a gravy roux March 18. (Photo by Sgt. Zach Sheely, Public Center of HOWKansasChapter) or website at Excellence http://heroesonthewater.org Affairs Office) Page 4 Plainly Speaking Plains Guardian • April 2015 Spring is a time for planning and preparation By Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli On a different topic also requiring us to Now is the time to think through what we yourself and have a back-up system in The Adjutant General prepare, Kansas has already seen strong would need to do in advance of a tornado place to assist you, the less impact these As we enjoy the spring season of the storm systems across the state. Every storm striking our home, business or community. storms will have on you and your families. year and anticipate the approaching sum- event in Kansas provides an opportunity to The most important planning we can do is to As an agency, we recently completed an mer, preparations learn and improve how we prepare, respond, ensure we and our families know where to exercise to help get many of our state and of many types are and recover from devastating weather occur- go, what to do, and how important it is to local response partners together to plan and underway. Farmers rences, both as individuals and as an emer- stay calm. Having a family plan is critical. walk through how we can better prepare for have been prepar- gency response agency. While there is a And practicing the plan will only help to fa- and respond to various emergencies. At our ing their fields and tendency to believe “it won’t happen to me,” miliarize everyone with it. An emergency kit training facility, Crisis City near Salina, are planting seeds we must instead consider that “it very well stored in a basement or storm shelter can agencies from around the state came to- which they hope could happen to me” and begin taking the provide the basics to those individuals who gether for a two day disaster drill. (See will yield a bounti- steps necessary to stay safe during the next are affected by a tornado, ensuring they have story and photos, page 10) ful harvest. Fami- tornado, flood or other catastrophe that might the essentials needed until help arrives. This particular exercise involved an ex- lies are affect us. (See related story, page 11.) After a tornado, we often realize how plosion scenario in a downtown area. Hun- anticipating the Preparation is the key and it requires fragile everything is that we rely on each dreds of firefighters, EMT’s and other first end of the school only two things: 1) the belief that it’s nec- day. Whether it’s the heavy filing cabinet responders honed their search and rescue Maj. Gen. year and preparing essary -- recent history in Kansas has where we have always kept our important skills in a realistic setting. Just as important Lee Tafanelli for summer activi- proven this with Greensburg, Chapman, documents or the fire-proof box in the is the training in working within an estab- ties. While we should try to be prepared at Reading, Harveyville and, last year, Baxter closet with our important records, the lished Incident Management structure, de- all times of the year, spring is a good time Springs -- and 2) talking and planning with chances of finding those storage containers signed to be implemented whenever and to take specific steps. your family how to stay safe in the next after the tornado hits may be quite small. wherever disaster strikes and seconds As summer approaches, our Guardsmen storm. So many great resources are avail- Take the time now to gather your vital count. Each opportunity we have to work are preparing for annual training. These ex- able to help with this planning, including a records and other documents, scan them, and with our partners is another chance to en- ercises are a commitment Soldiers and Air- great resource from the Kansas Division of put them on a flash drive or CD in a bank de- sure each responder knows what to expect men make to continue their training and Emergency Management. This includes a posit box or give the flash drive to a family when the event really happens. make sure they are prepared for any call. preparedness challenge at member who lives in a different location. One other thing, with spring nearing an The Kansas National Guard is always pre- www.ksready.gov, which has a simple step Other options include using online storage end and summer arriving soon, many of us pared for a deployment and at any time our we can take each month of the year to get sites, but only consider those that provide will be traveling more, so please take a mo- assistance could be required almost any- our family more prepared, whether at you a secure way to protect the documents ment to update your vehicle’s emergency kit where around the globe. The guard also ac- home, in our cars, or at work or school. you need after a tornado, such as your and ensure you’re ready for a safe and fun- tively assists the state in response to If you read the stories of survivors from driver’s license or your birth certificate. filled summer. With some preparation, it can tornadoes, flooding or other disasters, and events such as the 2007 Greensburg tor- The more you do in advance to protect be the most enjoyable time of the year. is available to assist other states facing nado, it’s easy to see that the actions we similar calamities. Guard annual training is take to prepare before an event are often key to keeping these human and material the very thing that helps us make a lifesav- resources always at the ready. ing decision when it really counts.

Warrior to Warrior Structured Self Development: What does it mean and how does it affect your career? By Sgt. Maj. Dennis Holder utes, skills and actions. JFHQ Operations Structured Self Development – 3: Effec- Structured Self Development has be- tive Oct. 1, 2014, enrollment upon gradua- come a part of the Noncommissioned Offi- tion of Advance Leader Course and cer Education System and the Enlisted promotion to staff sergeant. If you com- Promotion System. SSD is a planned, goal- pleted the military occupational skill por- oriented, learning tion of your ALC after June 1, 2012, you program that rein- were automatically enrolled in SSD-3. If forces and ex- not, and you completed ALC or equivalent pands the depth prior to that date, on Jan. 1, 2013, you and breadth of an should have been auto-enrolled in this individual’s course. SSD-3 replaced the Advance knowledge base, Leader Course (Advance Noncommis- self and situa- sioned Officer Course, now Senior Leader tional awareness; Course) Phase 1 under the old NCOES compliments in- system. This course is primarily focused at stitutional and op- the platoon level. SSD-3 is a prerequisite erational learning; for the completion of Senior Leader enhances profes- Sgt. Maj. Course and must be completed prior to en- sional competence Dennis Holder rollment. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, all staff and meets personal objectives. SSD is sergeants must have completed SSD-3 to comprised of five levels of training: be eligible to be boarded and placed on the Structured Self Development – 1: Upon Enlisted Promotion System list. completion of your Initial Military Train- Structured Self Development – 4: En- ing (Basic and Advance Individual Train- rollment upon graduation of SLC and pro- PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian ing), after Oct. 1, 2014, you are motion to sergeant first class. SSD-4 tasks The PLAINS GUARDIAN is published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Guard. The editorial content automatically enrolled in SSD - 1. Effec- are primarily focused at the battalion level. of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Officer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN are not neces- sarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Department. News, features, tive Feb. 1, 2015, SSD 1 must be complete If you were an sergeant first class on Jan. photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. All photos must be high prior to being enrolled in Warrior Leader 1, 2013, and had not completed SSD-4, resolution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertisement will be accepted, nor will payment be made for contributions. Course and promotion to sergeant. This you should have been auto-enrolled. Effec- The deadline for all submission is the first Wednesday of the month: February, April, June, August, October and December. Submissions course is primarily focused at the team tive Jan. 1, 2014, you must complete SSD- may be e-mailed to Jane Welch ([email protected]). level of common leader and tactical skills. 4 to be boarded and placed on the Enlisted Circulation: Approximately 16,000 It consists of four modules of eight to nine Promotion System list for master Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Office tasks per module which take approxi- sergeant/first sergeant. First sergeants or Commander in Chief Assistant Director mately 80 hours to complete. master sergeants must complete SSD-4 Gov. Sam Brownback Stephen D. Larson 785-274-1194 Structured Self Development – 2: Effec- prior to consideration for sergeant major. Adjutant General of Kansas tive Oct. 1, 2014, enrolled upon comple- Structured Self Development- 5: Enroll- Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli Public Information Writer Jane Welch 785-274-1190 tion of Warrior Leader Course and ment upon promotion to sergeant major. Editor FAX 785-274-1622 promotion to sergeant. Effective Feb. 1, Your ability to complete the appropriate Ben R. Bauman e-mail: [email protected] 2015, SSD 2 will be required before pro- course is paramount to your attendance at a Production/Graphics/Writer Videographer motion to staff sergeant. It produces battle Noncommissioned Officer Education Sys- Stephen D. Larson 1st Lt. Matt Lucht 785-274-1195 Production Assistant competent noncommissioned officers who tem Course and to your being boarded to Jane Welch Staff Writer are qualified squad/section sergeants, the next higher grade. All first sergeants Sgt. Zach Sheely 785-274-1191 Public Affairs Office team/section leaders, evaluators, coun- and full-time members of the Kansas Army Director Command Historian selors, conductors of participants in indi- National Guard should be fully aware of Ben R. Bauman 785-274-1190 Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Byers 785-274-1197 vidual and collective training, and the requirements for enrollment in both The Plains Guardian may be read online at performers/teachers of leader values, attrib- Structured Self Development and NCOES. http://kansastag.gov For change of address, contact Jane Welch. April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 5 Direction, wisdom, tools given at Commanders Conference By Master Sgt. Brent Anders and recruiting. The main efforts for this vital priority. All Soldiers need to know flags, promotions for specialists/corporals 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment priority, at this time, are Soldiers’ Military what is going on and why. Soldiers are to be and below, use of the Enlisted Promotion “You are where the rubber meets the Occupational Specialty Qualification. Sol- contacted between drills to ensure they System, sending Soldiers to Officer Candi- road,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Windham dur- diers need to be fully qualified for the posi- know what to expect and to check up on date School, and the quality of training con- ing his opening comments as he addressed tion they hold within the Kansas Army them to ensure readiness and Soldier care. ducted during drill and annual training. the state’s command leadership of first ser- National Guard. Windham said customer service is part of “Soldiers should be worn out on Sundays geants and commanders at the annual “Improve readiness, but at a minimum proper communication. Soldiers’ percep- and proud of what they’ve done,” said Kansas Army National Guard Professional don’t lose any ground,” Windham said. tions are important and a feeling must exist Moberly. Development Conference, hosted by the “Losing ground is not an option. Other- that state headquarters is responsive to units Although not able to stay for the entire 235th Regiment, Salina, Jan. 24-25. wise, there will be an intervention.” in the field. If this is not the case, the higher duration of the conference, Maj. Gen. Lee “I need you to come away from this Soldier care was described as including headquarters is to be informed immediately. Tafanelli, adjutant general of Kansas, and weekend with some information and tools pay, assistance and training with the De- The importance of customer service in Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Haworth, state that are worthwhile to improve communi- fense Travel System, quality and safety of prompt communication is to work both command sergeant major of the Kansas Na- cations between us and address our estab- training, providing recourses to assist Sol- ways. Windham also said he would be trav- tional Guard, were able to address the large lished priorities,” said Windham, diers in need and ensuring an actively sup- eling throughout the state and checking bul- crowd and provide additional wisdom. commander of the Kansas Army National ported Family Readiness Group. letin boards as well fire extinguishers and “The success of the Kansas Army Na- Guard – Land Component. “One: readi- “Recruit the Soldier, retain the family,” general cleanliness. tional Guard resides in all of you, the com- ness, Two: Soldier care and Three: commu- said Windham. “It’s a package deal. As the Command Sgt. Maj. James Moberly, mand teams,” said Tafanelli. “It’s not about nication.” command team, you own the culture and command sergeant major of the Kansas what is best for the Army or the National Windham described readiness as encom- the climate. When [Soldiers] go back to Army National Guard-Land Component, Guard, it’s about what’s best for the na- passing medical (dental, physical health as- civilian work on Monday, they should have was also present at the conference. He pro- tion.” sessment and shots), equipment (preventive something to brag about. Challenge them vided information and guidance dealing Tafanelli also emphasized the importance maintenance checks and services), individ- and they will grow.” with many subjects, including proper use of of partnerships. ual weapons qualification, and retention Communication was also described as a Split Unit Training Assembly, the use of (Continued on Page 6) Notes from the field desk By Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Byers gathering, midair refueling, advising for- Command Historian eign nations, national stabilization and sup- Allow me to introduce myself as the new porting the United Nation’s mission in the Kansas National Guard command historian. Sinai. A June 6 showcase at the museum As I settle into this will feature displays of contemporary and role, I encourage historic equipment, veteran panels and a you to participate memorial ceremony for those service mem- in museum activi- bers who have given their all during the ties and enhance Global War on Terror. the current Kansas Our museum has a fantastic collection of National Guard his- artifacts from 19th and 20th century con- torical collection. flicts. What the museum does not have is This year, the more current artifacts, especially from Museum of the Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf conflicts, both Kansas National 1990 and the current War on Terror. I encour- Guard is commem- Sgt. 1st Class age you, in the midst of your spring cleaning, orating those serv- Jeremy Byers to consider donating any military memora- ice members who bilia or papers that you have to the museum have served in the Global War on Terror, to enhance the existing collection. Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general of Kansas, provides words of wisdom to the missions they have been engaged in Before you bring materials in, please call command teams at the annual Kansas Army National Guard Professional Develop- and those who have fallen during this 14- me at 785-274-1197 or email me at ment Conference hosted by the 235th Regiment in Salina Jan. 24. (Photo by Master year conflict. Kansas Soldiers and Airmen [email protected] to let me Sgt. Brent Anders, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) have deployed to the Horn of Africa, know when you are coming in and what you Afghanistan, Egypt, Kosovo, Kuwait and are bringing. There are certain materials that beyond during this conflict. Our service need special handling and some restrictions Chaplain’s Corner members have engaged in a variety of mis- on what the museum can accept. How does your marriage rate? sions, including route security, intelligence See you on the High Ground! By Chaplain (Maj.) John Potter toward mutual goals. Joint Forces Headquarters Couples need to focus on each other. I Do you have a five-star marriage? can tell when my wife is upset, stressed out People want to stay at the best hotels and or angry. Most of us know that look or resorts when they travel. These hotels earn phrase from a spouse. These are cues that a five-star rating because they consistently reveal their inner thoughts. They’re signals deliver excellent service, provide great to ask questions, share an encouraging amenities and offer that special touch of word, help around the house, fix a problem, class like little chocolates on your pillow. take the kids for a walk or just listen. Don’t They go the extra ignore the cues and signals that your mile. However, spouse sends you. Take notice. Respond people often settle and act to support each other. for a two or three- Couples need time together. Husbands star establishment and wives are great at making time to dis- because of proxim- cuss problems, schedule school events and ity, cost and time. play taxi service for the kids. While this is We often settle for important, couples also need to spend qual- less instead of ity time together. They need to get away, go striving for the on a date, and make time for their one true very best. love. Don’t lose the fire and energy that This is also true Chaplain (Maj.) brought you to the altar in the first place. in marriage. We John Potter The Kansas National Guard Strong can have a great re- Bonds program can be part of the solution. lationship with quality time together, kind Attend a marriage enrichment weekend and words toward each other and sacrificial use that time to evaluate your marriage and acts of service, but too often we settle for a strengthen your relationship. Check out the mediocre marriage with little strength, sup- resource page at www.strongbonds.org to port or commitment. look at the scheduled events and discover How can we flip the switch? how a few simple steps can improve any Couples need to honestly evaluate their marriage. relationship. Are expectations being met? No matter where your marriage is today, When expectations are not met, we are dis- you can build a stronger relationship that appointed. Disappointment often carries will last for the rest of your life. Make a with it frustration, anger and isolation. If our five star marriage part of reality is less than what we expected, then your life today. the reality equals a disappointed spouse. Share expectations with each other so that Scan the QR code to you are both on the same page and can work visit strongbonds.org Page 6 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Family, friends remember a Turner visits Fort Riley true officer and gentleman By Spc. Anna Laurin “Don liked to test you,” said retired Col. 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Dennis Parry, former chief of staff for the Stories that captured the character and Kansas Army National Guard. “Not only charm of retired Col. Donald Joseph O’Toole did he like what he did to test you, but he were shared by close friends and loved ones liked to see your reaction.” during a memorial service at the Museum of After retiring from the Guard, O’Toole the Kansas National Guard, Topeka, Kansas, was employed by the Kansas Highway Pa- Jan. 10. O’Toole passed away Dec. 30, 2014, trol as a security aide and pilot for Gover- at the age of 91. nor John Carlin, retiring at age 60 in 1983. “Everyone who showed up today is a tes- Among his many military awards, he re- tament to Don’s friendship and his life as it ceived the Secret Service Director’s Award. touched yours,” said retired Col. Wayne He was inducted into the Kansas National Cline, a former instructor pilot and close Guard Hall of Fame in 1991 and received friend who worked alongside O’Toole. the 2001 Governor’s Aviation Honor “I want to start off by saying ‘Thank Award. you, Colonel Don O’Toole.’ I am thankful O’Toole’s son, Col. Michael Joseph for your friendship,” said retired state O’Toole, was commander of the 190th Air Command Sgt. Maj. Vivian Reveles, friend Refueling Wing for a little more than a year and coworker. “I want to thank him for set- when he died in a private plane crash in ting the example for all of us of what a 2003. Donald and Michael O’Toole were good Soldier should be. Colonel O’Toole inducted into the Kansas Army National was truly an officer and a gentleman.” Guard Hall of Fame at the Museum of the O’Toole joined the military in 1943. His Kansas National Guard, where you can see favorite hobby was photography, which their photos hanging one above the other. Lt. Col. Matthew Twombly (left), commander 1st Battalion, 161st Field Ar- became influential in his Army career, and Donald O’Toole is survived by his wife tillery, Kansas Army National Guard, and Brig. Gen. William A. Turner in 1945 he was assigned to Joint Base Ana- of 52 years, Shirley Fulkerson O’Toole; his (right), commandant, U.S. Army Field Artillery School, talk about Paladin costia-Bolling, Washington D.C., where he sister Betty O’Toole Harvill; three daugh- maintenance operations on the M284 howitzer tubes during their visit to Fort established the first base photo lab. ters, Kathleen Zimmerman, Debra Shelin- Riley Jan. 23. Turner served as the officer in charge for the M284 Cannon He joined the Kansas Air National barger and Lori Kelly; daughter-in-law Tube Assessment Team looking at three Paladin battalions on Fort Riley, Guard in 1947 and was commissioned as a Pam O’Toole Trusdale; nine grandchildren Kansas. (Photo by Capt. Charles Ross, 1-161 FA Bn) second lieutenant in 1948. He then at- and 13 great grandchildren. tended flight training at San Marcos Air Those who were fortunate to know such Force Base, San Marcos, Texas, graduating an influential and honorable officer re- Exercise incorporates long-range in 1949. During his career in the Guard he flected on his charisma and recognize the was very influential to the state’s Army standard that he put forth as a pilot, an offi- communication capabilities Aviation program during its period of cer, a friend and a father. On Jan. 10 and 11, section training of the voice communication system.” greatest growth. O’Toole retired as the “Today I would gladly associate myself 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery focused The command post of the future and all state aviation officer in 1979 having with anyone that resembles the character on the annual communications exercise additional digital systems were also used to logged 9,379 flying hours with a total of of Colonel Donald O’Toole,” said Reve- training event. Battalion and Battery B Fire provide the command and staff a common 36 years of service. les. “The aviators that are flying, they Direction Center sections were located at operating picture of the situation. Addition- O’Toole’s passion for his work and fly- don’t know it, but there is an instructor Hiawatha, while Battery A and High Mobil- ally, the Battery B Fire Direction Center ing showed by his dedication to spending pilot flying with them by the name of ity Artillery Rocket System sections were section computers received a required soft- time in the air and passing on his skills to Colonel Don O’Toole. Keep them safe, located in Holton and Marysville. ware upgrade. Although some technical other pilots. Colonel.” Units performed fire mission processing glitches happened during the exercise, Sol- over digital and voice communication using diers were able to troubleshoot and solve the Harris Long Range Communications the problems. system, a high frequency long-range com- Leivan said the 2015 exercise was a very munication that allows the battalion to ex- successful training event. change digital and voice traffic worldwide. “Never before has the battalion been able “Employment of this system expands the to exchange voice and digital message traf- ability of mission command, diminishes the fic over distances spanning 240 kilometers,” barrier of distance between stations and im- said Leivan. proves the readiness of the battalion for its Leivan said upcoming digital sustainment mission essential task list missions,” said training during drills will continue to focus Maj. Chuck Leivan, battalion operations of- on long-range communication to increase ficer. “The Harris LRC is well on the way to proficiency and mastery of the system for all becoming the battalion’s primary digital and Soldiers.

Col. David Leger, Deputy Chief of Staff for Aviation of the Kansas Army National Guard, bottom right, presents an American flag to Shirley Fulkerson O’Toole, widow of retired Col. Donald O’Toole, during his memorial service at the Museum of the Kansas National Guard, Topeka, Kansas, Jan. 10. (Photo by Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

Sgt. Jeffrey Sailor, left, instructs Pfc. Lindsey Hill on processing fire missions on the Commanders conference advanced field artillery tactical data system. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Travis McClain) Continued from Page 5 abilities of the Directors Personnel Readi- “As resources become thinner, we need ness Objective online system and how it to better partner and collaborate to solve can be used to better manage readiness. our issues,” said Tafanelli. All command team members, regardless Many other important topics were pre- of status, can obtain access to this power- sented by a multiple of other Kansas Army ful tool by going through their readiness National representatives. Presentations on noncommissioned officer. Equal Opportunity, Sexual Harassment/As- Departing guidance was provided by sault Response and Prevention, budget Windham as the conference came to a funding, educational benefits, and the close. adapted Army Force Generation/Strategic “When you leave here, work on the Readiness Model were also given. things that you can influence and it will A special presentation was given on the all be good and work out,” he said. April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 7 Airmen win Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition By Sgt. Zach Sheely The day began with an Army Physical Fit- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment ness Test – two minutes of push-ups and sit- Eight National Guardsmen representing ups, and a timed two-mile run – and units from across Kansas faced off at the weigh-in, followed directly by land naviga- Great Plains Joint Training Center near tion, wherein competitors had to locate five Salina, Kansas, March 19-21 in a grueling points on a four square-mile course as fast as competition to determine the Best Warrior in possible using only a map, protractor and the Kansas Army National Guard. compass. Then, during a nearly 12-mile ruck In an upset, the winners weren’t even in march – conducted in accordance with Army the Army. Air Assault standard – each participant, Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Austin and Senior Air- wearing body armor and Kevlar helmet, car- man Dean Johnston, joint terminal attack ried a 35-pound pack over the rolling terrain controllers, 284th Air Support Squadron, of Smoky Hill Weapons Range without Kansas Air National Guard, claimed the being told the distance or time they would be title of Best Warrior in the Soldier (special- walking. Once finished with the ruck march, ist and below) and noncommissioned offi- competitors were given an additional three cer categories, respectively. points to find on the land-navigation course “We are the Kansas National Guard, under the darkness of nightfall – all within which is made up of Army and Air,” said roughly 12 hours. Command Sgt. Maj. James J. Moberly, Day two tested marksmanship, starting command sergeant major, Kansas Army with zeroing and qualifying with the M4 National Guard –Land Component, of the carbine. Next, a “mystery event” included a Airmen winning the traditionally Army- live-fire exercise with the M249 squad au- based event. tomatic weapon, M320 grenade launcher This was the first time Airmen partici- A spent cartridge flips away from an M4 carbine as a competitor takes aim for an- and 12-gauge shotgun as competitors pated in the Kansas National Guard Best other shot during the Best Warrior Competition March 20 at the Great Plains Joint moved from range to range on foot. The Warrior Competition and Moberly ex- Training Center near Salina, Kansas. Eight Kansas National Guardsmen -- including, event wasn’t timed, but only the first four plained that the future model of the event for the first time, two Kansas Airmen -- vied for the title of Best Warrior in the to finish were awarded points. There was will be a joint-service competition. riogrous three-day event that tested the Guardsmen’s physical and mental prowess. also record qualification with the M9 pis- “The Airmen this year were my test sub- (Photo by Sgt. Zach Sheely, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) tol. Then each competitor conducted a call jects,” he said. “Next year we will open the for fire drill and wrote an essay on the sub- competition to the 184th Intelligence Wing facets of Soldier skills and Army doctrine. Regional Training Institute. “It’s a long ject of mentorship. and the 190th Air Refueling Wing.” It’s an exercise in resilience under stress. race. It’s not necessarily about winning The final day, each participant was given The competition pushes contenders to “There’s a lot for these contenders to be each event, it’s how you average.” a written exam and scrutinized on their ap- their limits, testing their mental fortitude, able to know and do,” said Command Sgt. Day one of the arduous three-day event pearance in their service uniform by a physical stamina and knowledge in all Maj. Ricky Matticks, commandant, 235th was the most physically demanding. (Continued on Page 12) Not your typical rodeo By 1st Lt. Matt Lucht where they watched a short video or Pow- 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs Office erPoint, saw a demonstration on the sta- The 184th Intelligence Wing held a tion’s subject and then got some hands-on rodeo during drill weekend in March, but it training with the equipment. wasn’t the kind with cowboy boots and “Any training that you can get hands on is eight-second clocks. It was a one-stop worth more money than having someone sit training rodeo that allowed Airmen the at their desk clicking through computer- chance to gain skills in first aid and chemi- based training,” said Command Chief Mas- cal/biological protection practices to ensure ter Sgt. William Stacey, 184th IW command they are deployment ready. chief. “The stations worked really well and “It’s to get everyone war-fighter ready, the instructors did a great job.” and this meets all the requirements that we Airmen saw the immediate benefits. don’t do on computer-based training,” said “The classes are really detailed in the Master Sgt. Brian Castillo, 177th Informa- orientation of what we have to do,” said tion Aggressor Squadron. “We actually Master Sgt. John Bogart, Civil Engineer have a hands-on portion where everyone is Squadron. “They are going through the required to do a little bit on each section.” very basics with the slides and then they The new training style is mandated by are doing the hands-on portion with the the National Guard Bureau and the organiz- troops. It is a really good program.” ers of the event tried to make the experi- The rodeo met the requirements of eight ence as valuable as possible for the different training subjects in a four-and-a- Security Forces Squadron personnel learn to properly apply tourniquets in accordance participants. The training was conducted at half hour time period. The block of time with the Airman’s Manual during a training assembly in March. The training, called stations in two different buildings. Airmen did take all morning to complete, but saved the Expeditionary Skills Rodeo, was a four-hour session broken up into 15 minute spent about 15 minutes at each station, (Continued on Page 13) workstations. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Maria Ruiz, 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs) 891st Engineering Battalion welcomes new commander By Spc. Robert I. Havens they have always been there and willing to 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment step up to the plate when called on. Soldiers of the 891st Engineering Battal- They’re very loyal and many have been ion welcomed Lt. Col. Kenneth Weishaar here for a long time.” as their new commander and honored out- Weishaar addressed the crowd with the going commander Lt. Col. Eric Blanken- similar sentiments during his acceptance ship during a Jan. 10 change of command speech. ceremony in Iola. “I think Lieutenant Colonel Blanken- The battalion is headquartered in Iola ship has done an excellent job here,” said with subordinate units in Augusta, Cof- Weishaar. “Looking at the reports, we are feyville, Pittsburg and Wichita. in very strong shape and arguably some of “The 891st Engineer Battalion is an the best in the state and this battalion is outstanding organization due to the ef- historically number one or number two forts, dedication and professionalism of across all battalions.” our Soldiers and the support of their fami- “Command is a privilege and I look for- lies,” said Blankenship. “It has been a ward to returning to southeast Kansas and great honor and privilege to command the serving alongside the Soldiers of the 891st engineer battalion and see all their ac- Engineer Battalion,” said Weishaar. “The complishments.” battalion has served the citizens of Kansas Blankenship leaves behind a very and of the nation during numerous state and strong unit for his predecessor. active-duty deployments. The communities, “We have been able to increase the Unit Lt. Col. Kenneth Weishaar, right, receives the 891st Engineering Battalion guidon employers, retirees and families of the battal- Status Report of the 891st,” said Blanken- from Col. Barry Manley signifying his assumption of command of the 891st as Lt. ion have been instrumental in its success. ship. “For the duration of my command, we Col. Eric Blankenship, outgoing commander, looks on. The ceremony was held at the “My goal,” said Weishaar, “is to continue maintained 100 percent for a majority of the Allen County Community College in Iola Jan. 10. (Photo by Spc. Robert I. Havens, to improve an already outstanding battalion time. We have increased in personnel readi- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) to honor those who have paved the way with ness, logistics and administration.” cess to the commanders and first sergeants. work,” continued Blankenship. “The Sol- their commitment and sacrifice – some of Blankenship credited the battalion’s suc- “They are the ones doing the day-to-day diers of this unit are very dedicated and which paid the ultimate sacrifice.” Page 8 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Kansas National Guard supports governor’s inaugura

Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, right, and his wife Tammy escort Gov. Sam Brownback and his family into Exposition Hall at the Kansas Expocentre in Topeka for the inaugu- ral ball Jan. 10. (Photo by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office)

Gov. Sam Brownback, center, swears the oath of office for his second term as Kansas gov Kansaschief of the Kansas National Guard, who provided support for inauguralIna events. (Photo The Kansas Adjutant General’s Ceremonial Color Guard presents the colors at the governor’s inaugural ceremony at the State Capitol Jan. 12. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) “The men and wo National Guard a Governor Brownb leadership as our chief, as we have nor since Kansas Maj. Kans

Scan the QR code with your mobile device to view more pho- tos in our Flickr photostream Senior Airman Camry Gayer, left, Soldiers of the 35th Infantry Division Band of the Kansas Army National Guard play at the State Capitol in Topeka for the governor’s inau- Davis, Soldier of the Year, Kansas N gural ceremony Jan. 12. The official band of the Kansas National Guard performed several musical selections under the direction of Chief governor’s procession into the inau Warrant Officer 4 Steve Patterson, (with baton at right). (Photo by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office) Topeka Jan. 10. (Photo by Jane W April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 9 ion events, providing flash, bang, sound and color

Gov. Sam Brownback, left, Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, Kansas adjutant general, center and Maj. Mark Bruce, acting superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, right, stand and assume their respective commands at the State Capitol in Topeka Jan. 12. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

at the State Capitol in Topeka Jan. 12. As governor, Brownback is the commander in ugural. Zach Sheely, Public Affairs Office) 2015 The dome of the State Capitol in Topeka is reflected in the trombone of a member of the 35th Infantry Division Band, Kansas Army National Guard, during the inaugu- ral ceremony Jan. 12. (Photo by Sgt. Zach Sheely, Public Affairs Office) en of the Kansas proud to serve ck and follow his mmander in th every gover- came a state.” n. Lee Tafanelli, adjutant general

an of the Year and Sgt. Kevin nal Guard, prepare to lead the A salute battery from the Kansas National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery fires a 75mm towed howitzer on the south lawn of ball at the Kansas Expocentre in the State Capitol in Topeka Jan. 12. The Soldiers provided a 19-gun salute as part of the ceremony marking Gov. Sam Brownback’s role as Public Affairs Office) commander in chief of the Kansas National Guard. (Photo by Steve Larson, Public Affairs Office) Page 10 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Kansas Division of Emergency Management Chaos at Crisis City First responders test their mettle in simulated disaster By Steve Larson Public Affairs Office “We were called to an explosion,” said Alan Stoll, Winfield fire chief. “We’ve been working the scene since noon.” Fortunately, Stoll, a member of Kansas Search and Rescue Task Force 5, was not describing a real incident, but the scenario for an emergency exercise at Crisis City, the multivenue training facility near Salina operated by the Kansas Division of Emer- gency Management. Stoll was one of hun- dreds of firefighters, emergency medical technicians, emergency managers and other first responders who came to Crisis City from across the state to test and refine their search and rescue techniques March 31 and April 1 during the large-scale exercise. “This is a drill to improve our skills,” said Stoll, “and come together and work as a team.” Each task force in Kansas is comprised of members drawn from city and county first responders in the region. “Task Force 5 is made up of Great Bend, Newton, Hutchinson, Wichita, Sedgwick County, Winfield and Arkansas City,” said Stoll. “Any time you can bring those teams together, they start functioning as one team instead of individual departments.” For Kassy Dewitt, a member of Phillips County EMS, that diversity is one of the at- tractions of such a large-scale exercise. A crane’s-eye view of rescue operations illustrates the realistic nature of the obstacles facing search and rescue workers on the “My favorite part of the whole scenario is collapsed building venue at Crisis City March 31-April 1 during a full-scale exercise. First responders from across the state took (Continued on Page 11) part in the two-day exercise. (Photo by Sgt. Zach Sheely, Public Affairs Office)

A search and rescue team works to recover simulated victims from a collapsed trench, one of the newest training venues at Crisis City. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Je- remy Byers, Public Affairs Office)

A member of Kansas Search and Rescue Task Force 5 is lowered into a concrete pipe to As in a real-life situation, when time is precious for disaster victims trapped in rub- reach a simulated victim trapped below during a full-scale search and rescue exercise ble, rescue operations continued at night during the exercise at Crisis City March conducted at Crisis City March 31-April 1. (Photo by Jane Welch, Public Affairs Office) 31-April 1. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Byers, Public Affairs Office) April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 11 Kansas Division of Emergency Management Severe weather season is here; it’s time to prepare By Steve Larson or business? Public Affairs Office • Is the emergency kit stocked with Now is the time to prepare. everything we need? Are all the sup- That’s the message the Kansas Division of plies fresh, i.e. is anything past its expi- Emergency Management wants Kansans to ration date? If so, replace it. heed as spring approaches, bringing with it • Does everyone know basic first aid kit? severe weather season. • If we are separated, where will we meet Gov. Sam Brownback signed a procla- to ensure all family members are mation Feb. 25 designating March 2-6 as accounted for? Severe Weather Awareness Week in • How will we communicate with family Kansas. During the week, Kansans were members who are away? Remember, urged to check their emergency kit supplies cell phone service may not be available for their home, office and vehicle, and re- after a tornado. view their emergency plans to make sure Kansans were also urged to take part in the they are prepared for whatever severe statewide tornado safety drill March 3. The weather comes their way. annual drill was an opportunity for all “Even though March through June typi- Kansans to practice their tornado safety cally brings severe storms, tornadoes, and plans at home and at their place of business. flash floods, many people are still caught un- According to the National Weather Serv- prepared,” said Angee Morgan, KDEM ice, 40 tornadoes hit the state in 2014, deputy director. “Being prepared really does- about 40 fewer than the 30-year average of n’t take a lot of time or a lot of money and 80 and the fewest since 1989. There were while the odds are good you won’t need to 27 tornado-related injuries reported, but no use your emergency kit, it’s better to be pre- fatalities. The first tornado was reported Members of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, National Weather pared, just in case.” April 2; the last was on Dec. 14, a reminder Service and Kansas Department of Health and Environment stand in the governor’s Home emergency kits should contain sup- that tornadoes can strike any time of the ceremonial office at the state Capitol Feb. 25 as Gov. Sam Brownback signs a procla- plies for every member of the family for a year. The most tornadoes in one day oc- mation declaring March 2-6 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kansas. (Photo minimum of three days, including: curred May 11 when nine tornadoes were by Sgt. Theresa Vail, Public Affairs Office) • Bottled water -- one gallon per person reported in the state. per day Brownback also signed a proclamation • Non-perishable foods urging Kansans to observe March 4 as Crisis City full-scale exercise • First-aid kit “Flood Awareness Day in Kansas.” Continued from Page 10 Watching the team work, it was evident • Flashlights and batteries “People often don’t think about the dan- to see all the different types of crews that the responders were skilled at their jobs. • Battery-powered or hand crank radio ger of floods,” said Morgan. “On average, have been out to help,” said Dewitt. “Differ- “A lot of the skills these guys work with, and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone floods claim more lives each year than tor- ent teams that are willing to come in from even in this arena, are stuff they use day-to- alert and extra batteries for both nadoes. Just six inches of swiftly moving all sorts of areas to do specialized tasks, to day in their normal firefighting operations,” • Blankets water can knock a person off their feet. help with extrications, or whether it’s climb- said Kleinschmidt, “lifting and moving • Medications More than half of flood-related deaths in- ing buildings or seeing the crane working heavy objects, cutting people out of cars in a • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and volve vehicles. Cars, even SUVs and and having all of that in one area at one vehicle accident – which is no different than plastic ties for personal sanitation trucks, can be swept away by just two feet time, that’s been really special for me.” what they do on a day-to-day basis.” • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities of moving water. The best protection dur- Even though they come from different In addition to being skilled, it was clear • Manual can opener for food ing a flood is to leave the area or your car departments, all of the teams operate under the task force members were enthusiastic • Children’s items (favorite toys, comfort and take shelter on higher ground.” the Incident Command System, a national about their work, which presented a bit of a items, etc.) For a more complete list of items for a emergency response framework that fosters challenge for them. • Pet food home or car emergency kit, go to teamwork, interoperability and “same “Most of the guys who get into this type An emergency plan should answer such www.ksready.gov. Ideas for making an page” thinking. of arena are pretty dialed-up guys, and so a questions as: emergency plan can be found at “Coming from a smaller area, I was lot of times it’s kind of pulling them back a • What is the safest location in my home www.ready.gov/make-a-plan worried to be dealing with such a larger- little bit,” said Kleinschmidt. “These are scale activity,” said Dewitt, “but what I’ve long-duration operations and so we don’t York named chair-elect for learned today is that it doesn’t matter nec- want to waste all of our resources in the essarily about the size, the command sys- first couple of hours. The hardest thing is, tem is still the same, no matter what you if I have 25 guys here, only having 12 guys national EMAC task force do, which is reassuring that what we’re working while I have 12 guys sitting in re- Jonathan York was recently selected as eral other states under the EMAC agree- practicing in the smaller rural towns is serve to take their place, because a lot of the new chair-elect of the Emergency Man- ment to assist with emergency operations also the same thing we’re doing on a what they do is very, very taxing on them agement Assistance Compact Executive in response to hurricanes, wildfires, floods larger scale.” and they won’t last for a long, long time.” Task Force. York is and tornadoes. Even though the gas explosion was simu- Despite the hard, intense work, everyone the Response and As the Response and Recovery Branch lated, the resulting concrete rubble, twisted seemed to agree the exercise was time Recovery Branch director York has oversight of all branch metal and crushed vehicles were all real, well-spent, the interaction useful and the director and EMAC activities, including the communications forcing the search and rescue crews to op- Crisis City training venues were a valuable coordinator for the unit, human services section, public assis- erate in real time with real equipment and a asset for the state. Kansas Division of tance section, regional coordinators, tech- measure of real danger. “It’s hard to do training within your own Emergency Man- nological hazards section, and staff duty “This seems very realistic,” said Josh station sometimes, let alone the involve- agement. officer program. The Response and Recov- Bruggeman, Wichita Fire Department. ment of all the rest of the stations,” said As chair-elect, ery Branch is responsible for interfacing “They do a really good job of putting this Stoll. “Having Crisis City as somewhere York will become with counties before, during, and after an together. It’s about as real as you can get we can pull all of our resources together the ETF chair from emergency or disaster that may be beyond for training purposes.” and have a complete cache (of equipment) March 2016 the capabilities of local governments and “We have to be extremely cautious be- is phenomenal.” Jonathan York through March coordinate state assistance to augment local cause it is a live pile,” said Scott Klein- “It’s definitely a great networking sys- 2017. When York takes office, Kansas will response and recovery actions. York is also schmidt, a lieutenant with the Wichita Fire tem,” said Dewitt. “You’re going to meet become the National Coordinating State, responsible for management of the State Department. “It’s controlled chaos, but it’s people, see the different techniques they and York will serve as the NCS lead for Emergency Operations Center, coordinat- still chaos and so there is some risk man- might use, different perspectives that they 2016. In addition to his responsibilities in- ing the state’s response and recovery ac- agement that goes into this and we try to might have, things that you’ve always done volving EMAC over the years, York has also tions with local governments, state keep a close eye on it.” the same way and they might comment on served as the Region VII lead state represen- agencies, Kansas National Guard, federal “We have added a FEMA-certified it and you learn something from it. It’s very tative on the ETF. agencies, voluntary agencies, and private structural engineer to the team,” said beneficial.” “In the emergency management profes- sector partners. Stoll. “He monitors all of our structures “These guys learn a lot of skills that you sion, there are many initiatives that you A Kansas certified emergency manager, and buildings and shoring to make sure just can’t teach in a classroom, you just feel strongly about and become involved York is also the emergency management our teams are safe.” can’t teach in theory,” said Kleinschmidt. in, whether at a local, state, or national assistance compact coordinator for the state “Currently what they’re doing is what we “They have to get their hands on it and do it. level,” said York. “EMAC is one of those of Kansas. York has served as the lead state call delayering the pile,” Kleinschmidt ex- The nice thing about this type of environ- passions for me. EMAC is one of the representative on the EMAC ETF from plained as the team carefully removed huge ment is it’s always coming at them from a strongest resources that states have to assist 2011-2015 for Region VII states of Kansas, chunks of concrete and crushed vehicles. different angle, so they’re having to think on them to garner additional personnel and Missouri, Nebraska, and Iowa. Prior to “They have access to a certain area where their feet and use all the tools that they have equipment resources to augment disaster joining KDEM in February 2009, York was they know, through their technical search in their toolbox to complete the rescue.” response and recovery efforts.” the emergency management director in with their search cameras and listening de- “I think it’s vital because if something EMAC is a multistate, mutual aid agree- Marshall County, Kansas. A former mem- vices, they have a family of four in a mini- ever does go down, these are the people ment that facilitates interstate assistance in ber of the Northeast Kansas Incident Man- van underneath a bunch of cars. They’re we’re going to be working with,” said response and recovery operations during a agement Team, York responded to the going to utilize a crane and they’re going to Bruggeman. “It’s important to know them, disaster. Over the past decade, Kansas has Greensburg tornado and Southeast Kansas start taking pieces of the pile away so they develop relationships and know that you sent civilian and military personnel to sev- floods in 2007. can work their way down to them.” can trust people. It’s a good deal.” Page 12 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Military Veteran Project, Topeka police deliver cards to wounded Missouri officer By Samantha Foster tions Squadron based in Salina. Topeka Capital-Journal Dumolt said Baldwin has been deployed The Military Veteran Project and Topeka four times in the past 14 years, including police teamed up to show support for a assignments in Africa, Kuwait and Iraq. Missouri police officer and veteran who is Jarboe said Baldwin also serves under recovering after being wounded in the line Police Chief James Brown in Brown’s ca- of duty. pacity as command chief master sergeant MVP director Melissa Jarboe, Topeka of the Kansas Air National Guard. Topeka Police Chief James Brown and five Topeka police Maj. Jerry Stanley, Lt. Scott police officers who also are military veter- Gilchrist, Lt. Joe Perry, and officers Ron- ans traveled to Pleasant Valley, Missouri, nie Connell and Matt Cobb traveled to Feb. 5 to deliver gifts and words of encour- Pleasant Valley with Brown and Jarboe to agement to Pleasant Valley police officer meet Baldwin. Jacob Baldwin, Jarboe said. For the Topeka police officers, Jarboe According to Pleasant Valley Police said, it was encouraging to see a survivor. Chief Mark Dumolt, Baldwin sustained Topeka police lost three of their fellow two gunshot wounds to his face Dec. 13, officers to fatal gunshot wounds between 2014, while conducting a traffic stop on In- December 2012 and September 2014. terstate 35 in southern Clay County. While The visit also proved to be a “great he continues to recover, he hasn’t yet re- morale booster” for Baldwin, Dumolt told turned to work. Jarboe in an email shared with The About two months ago, Jarboe’s organi- Topeka Capital-Journal. Jarboe said the Melissa Jarboe (right), Topeka Police Chief James Brown (center), and five addi- zation, which provides support and assis- Topeka officers and Baldwin connected tional officers meet with Pleasant Valley, Missouri, police officer Jacob Baldwin, tance for veterans, issued a request for quickly, talking and laughing in a display third from right in Pleasant Valley. Baldwin is recovering after being shot twice in people to send get-well cards that could be of “veteran camaraderie.” the face while initiating a car stop this past December. (Photo provided) delivered to Baldwin. Kansas City-area news media reported “We received cards from all over the in late December that a grand jury in- world: the U.K.; Germany; Okinawa, dicted 31-year-old Omar Maria, whom Kansas Guardsmen show grit Japan” and states from across the nation, Dumolt described as a “wanted career she said. criminal,” in Baldwin’s shooting. Maria, In fact, the Military Veteran Project re- who was taken into custody Dec. 14, during grueling competition ceived so many cards for Baldwin — more now faces felony charges of first-degree Continued from Page 7 to take back to their respective units, ac- than 200 of them, including some from assault on a law enforcement officer and board of sergeants major, who asked them cording to Moberly. members of the Kansas Highway Patrol armed criminal action. questions on modern Army doctrine. “This also serves as an external evalua- and Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office — “It is ironic that Officer Baldwin was se- Throughout the event, competitors were tion for me on the quality of training within that delivery of the cards had to be delayed. riously wounded in Pleasant Valley and not tested on various warrior tasks including my subordinate units and what shortcom- Baldwin, who has served for two years in overseas in a foreign country,” Dumolt said assembling and disassembling the M249, ings need to be addressed,” said Moberly. “I the police department, is a veteran of the in his statement. “This is a reminder of calling in a medical evacuation and identi- think this competition is critical to monitor- Air Force and a current member of the how demanding and dangerous the law en- fying and treating battle wounds. ing the readiness of our force and, most im- Kansas Air National Guard, Dumolt said. forcement profession is and the risk our of- “This competition has been years in the portantly, recognizing the top individuals.” He serves in the 284th Air Support Opera- ficers encounter every day.” making,” said Brig. Gen. Robert E. Wind- Windham strongly encouraged all who ham, commander, Kansas Army National love being a Soldier to compete in future Guard-Land Component. “Every year it gets Best Warrior Competitions. Wigal first female colonel in 184th a little better and a little more challenging.” “Everybody that competed is a winner,” At its heart, the Best Warrior Competi- he said. “The competitors are the pride of tion is designed to build morale among the Kansas National Guard, but at the end, competitors, their units and the Kansas Na- there’s only one number one.” tional Guard as a whole. To the number ones, Johnston and “It brings me back to the core of Soldier- Austin, Moberly said, “You better come ing,” said Matticks. “It’s what the basics of back next year with the intent to win.” Soldiering are all about, and I think that’s He then strongly challenged his subor- what really motivates these guys.” dinate unit command sergeants major not Sgt. Michael Meyer, combat engineer, to let the Air Guard win again next year. 772nd Engineer Company, was motivated Winners of the competition at the state by sheer will. Meyer, a 53-year-old native level will go on to a regional event against of Higginsville, Missouri, won his com- winners from neighboring states. Since the pany-level Best Warrior event months official National Guard competition hasn’t prior, and was nearly three times the age of opened to Airmen yet, the two runners-up, most of his fellow competitors. Sgt. Matthew Copeland, tank gunner, Com- “My pride won’t let me stop,” he said. “I pany D, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, can’t quit. I had to talk myself into continu- 137th Infantry Regiment, Emporia, and ing, but once a quitter, always a quitter, so Spc. Karson Zeltwanger, computer detec- I just had to keep moving. I may not win, tion systems repairer, 995th Maintenance but I won’t be last.” Company, Concordia, will represent Ultimately, no competitor quit. Each Kansas in the Region V competition at Fort showed strengths and also learned lessons Leonard Wood, Missouri, in May.

Col. Vonda Wigal watches as her husband David Wigal pins colonel rank insignia on her uniform during a promotion ceremony Feb. 7. Their sons Sam and Blake were also part of the pinning ceremony. Wigal assumed command of the 184th In- telligence Wing Medical Group May 4, 2014. She is the first female colonel and group commander in the history of the 184th IW. “The unachievable has been achieved. I never dreamt I would get to this point and it’s a challenge I do not take lightly,” Wigal said. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Maria Ruiz, 184th IW Public Affairs)

Senior Airman Dean Johnston, left, and Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Austin, joint terminal attack controllers, 284th Air Support Operation Squadron, plot their points on a map of the land navigation course at the Great Plains Joint Training Center near Salina, Kansas, during the Best Warrior Competition March 19. Johnston and Austin won the Soldier and noncommissioned officer categories of the traditionally Army-only event. (Photo by Sgt. Zach Sheely, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Sexual Assault Awareness Month now Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention Month By Capt. Tim Traynor ate an environment intolerant of such be- sional behavior can escalate, leading to These moments are perfect for building Sexual Assault Response Coordinator havior, be it in action, speech or im- an organizational culture where perpetra- strong team bonds without demeaning A quick Internet search for “sexual as- agery. These small steps have a big tors have less fear of being caught, as genders, reinforcing negative stereotypes sault headlines” provides a disconcerting effect. they can push boundaries further and fur- or promoting any sexual or sexualized picture of just how this hideous offense Operating off the principles of the con- ther under the guise of typical office behavior. has permeated positions of trust in tinuum of harm, small interventions can humor. Build esprit de corps by banding to- today’s culture. From the results, no stop a working or social environment Humor is great for an organization. It gether to help those in need. A number of community, age group or socioeconomic from cultivating climate which slowly brings people together and can alleviate events, drives and activities will be hap- status is immune from this cancerous becomes more accepting of inappropriate stress when budgets and manpower are pening locally and nationwide during crime. This truth also extends to our mil- behaviors. Left unchecked, unprofes- shrinking and deadlines are increasing. Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention itary ranks. Awareness is critical in tak- Month. Until then, take a moment to ing a stand against sexual assault and consider taking an active role in doing sexual harassment. your part to combat sexual assault. What Since 2001, the month of April is rec- does that first, instinctive action look ognized nationally as Sexual Assault like to you? Awareness Month. This year, the name is • Contact your local VA or Vet Center changing. The Department of Defense to see what volunteer opportunities now recognizes the month of April as are available Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention • Reach out to your local crisis center Month. The military culture is changing, which may be in need of clothing, recognizing awareness must lead to ac- toiletry items, and more, for assault tion and putting an assertive emphasis on survivors prevention with this year’s slogan “Elim- • If you are currently serving, con- inate Sexual Assault: Know your part. sider becoming a Victim Advocate Do your part.” for your unit Each of us who wear the uniform or If you have an idea not on the list, support those who do, have the responsi- please contact the Joint Forces Head- bility to live out the military values that quarters Sexual Assault Response Coor- stand against such deplorable acts. It is dinator (785) 274-1578; (785) 274-1491 the duty of each service member to cre- or your local veterans center. 0-1-2-3 guidelines help Safety Corner Maintenance = Safety determine drinking norms By Chief Warrant Officer 4 can be corrected by our state maintenance Social proof is a term psychologists use percent of people who consume 90 percent Marvin Terhune employees or contracted out. to describe the fact that people naturally of alcohol also experience 90 percent of the State Safety Officer There are several regulations we are look to those around them for information problems associated with high-risk drink- Why do we have to do maintenance and mandated to follow at our armories and to assist them in determining correct and ing, including legal, health, relationship, fi- inspect our ar- facilities. The Occupational Safety and acceptable behavior. For example, when a nancial and career-ending incidents. mories and facili- Health Administration, National Fire Pro- group of people stands on a street corner The Substance Abuse Program encourages ties? Just as with tection Association, American National looking intently into the sky, the vast ma- all members of the Kansas National Guard to our homes, if you Standard Institute are just a few agencies jority of passersby look up as well. Why? better understand true drinking norms and did not fix broken providing regulatory guidelines to keep They are naturally influenced by the group their influence on others when it comes to items or do peri- our armories safe for the public as well as and taking cues to look to the sky, demon- making decisions about alcohol. The best odic maintenance for our Soldiers. Simple programs such strating the power and influence groups choice to make when it comes to alcohol is the value would as fire extinguisher inspections, have over us as individuals. to follow the 0-1-2-3 low-risk guidelines: soon depreciate. Exit/Egress light inspections are just a The same concept applies to alcohol con- 0 – zero illegal drugs and zero drinks Our armories and few of the many items inspected on a sumption and perceived “drinking norms.” for anyone underage or who suffers facilities are no monthly and annual basis. Assigned Ad- Research has shown that we tend to drink from alcoholism; different. Preven- ditional Duty Safety Officers are a the amount of alcohol that we believe our 1 – one standard drink (0.6 oz of pure tive maintenance Chief Warrant Officer tremendous help to the organization in peers are drinking. However, our ability to alcohol) per hour; and inspections 4 Marvin Terhune maintaining and inspecting items that are estimate our peer’s alcohol consumption is 2 – standard drinks per day if you performed by the mandated by regulation. far from accurate. In the United States, 70 drink on a daily basis and Department of Public Works, annual safety By being proactive in our maintenance percent of drinkers consume only 10 per- 3 – three standard drinks on any one inspections and industrial hygiene inspec- and safety programs for our facilities and cent of the alcohol. This means that the occasion. tions are just a few of the proactive pro- armories, we our saving valuable tax- other 30 percent of drinkers consume 90 If you think you have a substance abuse grams in place to keep our armories and payer dollars and affording the public percent of all alcohol, telling us that heavy problem, or know someone who does, facilities up to date. and our Soldiers a safe environment. drinking is not the norm and that most please contact Dan Pempin, Alcohol and Funding is critical in conducting preven- More command emphasis will be placed drinkers make low-risk decisions. Drug Control Officer, 785-274-1549; tive maintenance. It is at times cheaper to on maintaining our facilities and ar- The few drinkers who are responsible for [email protected] or Brian fix a problem at its onset than wait until the mories this year. Please call the State the majority of alcohol consumption are Scholar, Prevention Coordinator, 785-274- problem overwhelms us. Be vigilant in Safety Office, 785-274-1012, if we can greatly impacted by their decisions. The 30 1557; [email protected] correcting problems or completing work assist with establishing your safety pro- orders at your workplace so that problems grams or safety inspection guidance. Training rodeo contributes to 184th Intelligence Wing readiness Continued from Page 7 was getting the Airmen of the 184th IW each Airman approximately five hours of ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. additional training. Readiness is a top priority for Stacey and “It is time consuming, but doing it all in the wing. one group instead of doing it from a shop- “One of my focus points is readiness, by-shop basis is better,” said Bogart, “espe- and having all of this training done to- cially being hands-on, because it really gets gether allows us to be more relevant and everyone involved with the training.” mission ready,” said Stacey. Volunteers from across the wing pitched Organizers of the rodeo were extremely in to make this event successful. happy with how the training went and also “We have instructors from everywhere,” heard feedback from participants. said Castillo. “They are from the 134th Air “We have gotten nothing but positive Control Squadron, Civil Engineer reviews,” said Castillo. “They love the Squadron, the Medical Group, Security way that it was compressed, it saved time Forces Squadron, 161st Intelligence and still met all the requirements for the Squadron, the 177th Information Aggressor hands-on training. Our goal is to provide Squadron – basically, it is a lot of volun- the best training in the Air National teers from across the wing.” Guard and to tell you the truth, we are al- The entire focus of the training rodeo ready headed there.” “In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather in- side of 24 hours.” Mark Twain Page 14 Plains Guardian • April 2015 Awards and Decorations Guard Soldiers certified for KANSAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD Maj. Warner White, 177th IWAS, Wichita Capt. Richelle Blume, 190th ARW, Topeka Legion of Merit Senior Master Sgt. John Evans, 190th ARW, Topeka automotive service excellence Senior Master Sgt. Brett Higginbotham, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class David Barnes, Co B, Rec & Ret Bn, Wichita, By Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brent Campbell tion at the RTS-M. Chaney serves as the with two oak leaf clusters Regional Training Site - Maintenance course manager for the 91B Wheel Vehicle Col. John Andrew, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth Sgt. 1st Class Marc McCully, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with two oak leaf clusters Sgt. 1st Class Ranie Ruthig and Staff Sgt. Mechanic Military Occupational Specialty Sgt. 1st Class David Miller, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with oak Shawn Chaney, Kansas Regional Training Qualification course. Meritorious Service Medal leaf cluster Sgt. 1st Class Kurt Wassenberg, Co A, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, Site-Maintenance, have been recognized and Soldiers who are scheduled to attend with two oak leaf clusters certified through the National Institute for Wheel Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Lead- Staff Sgt. Patrick Gordon, HHD, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with Lt. Col. Eric Blankenship, HHC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola, with oak two oak leaf clusters Automotive Service Excellence. After suc- ership Course may volunteer to participate leaf cluster Staff Sgt. Eric Reichert, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with oak leaf cessfully completing certification testing as in the ASE credentialing program. Cur- Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brent Campbell, Co C (Ord), 2nd Bn, cluster 235th Rgt, Salina Staff Sgt. Aaron Todd, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with oak leaf an automotive service consultant, Ruthig and rently there are two ASE certification test Master Sgt. Kirk Gibson, 1st Bn, 235th Rgt, Salina, with oak cluster Chaney were required to submit their work exams which are offered to these students. leaf cluster Sgt. Shawna Dunham, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Master Sgt. Michael Guyett, ARNG-MTC, Fort Leavenworth, Sgt. Casey Tefft, HHD, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with oak leaf experience to the National Institute for Auto- Soldiers may choose either the Automobile with two oak leaf clusters cluster motive Service Excellence to verify that their Service Consultant certification exam or Master Sgt. Jodi Melby, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka, with oak leaf cluster knowledge and experience were sufficient to the Diesel Engine certification exam during Sgt. 1st Class Curtis Bowman, 69th TC, Topeka KANSAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD meet the credentialing requirements. their resident training phases of ALC. Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Brown, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Marion Dohle, HHC, 891st Eng Co, Iola, with Air Force Commendation Medal Ruthig, a senior-level instructor with the Soldiers who volunteer for testing must oak leaf cluster Ordnance Corps, is certified to instruct five register with the ASE certification web Sgt. 1st Class Jason Frausto, Co B, Rec & Ret Bn, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Jason Jouret, Btry B, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, Paola different courses at the RTS-M. She serves site and are issued an electronic voucher Sgt. 1st Class Douglas Plummer, KSARNG Training Center, as the course manager for the Wheel Vehi- from the Ordnance Corps Proponent. This Salina Capt. Keith Marshall, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Roy Wellman, 2nd Bn, 235th Rgt, Salina Tech. Sgt. Travis Dugan, 184th IW, Wichita cle Mechanic Advanced Leadership voucher provides access to a comprehen- Staff Sgt. Alan Bansemer, Btry C, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Newton Course. Ruthig also serves as the ASE ac- sive skill assessment too help prepare Staff Sgt. Charles Grange, HHC, Det 1, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, Junction City Air Force Achievement Award count manager for the Kansas RTS-M. them for the ASE exam. This voucher Sgt. Michelle Bond, HHC, 1st Bn, 108th Avn, Topeka Ruthig has been identified as the first RTS- also allows access to an online profes- M instructor in the nation to obtain these sional technician training series geared Army Commendation Medal ASE certification credentials through this towards enhancing the user’s automotive Senior Master Sgt. Collin McGinnis, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Anthony Young, 184th IW, Wichita new opportunity provided by the U.S. knowledge and helps to prepare the Sol- Senior Airman Blake Elliott, 184th IW, Wichita Army Ordnance Proponent. dier prior to the actual ASE exam. The Lt. Col. Christopher Gnagi, 190th ARW, Topeka Airman 1st Class Hunter Thurston, 184th IW, Wichita Maj. Dwayne Byerly, Rec & Ret Bn, Topeka, with two oak Chaney is an instructor-level instructor electronic voucher provides for payment leaf clusters with the Ordnance Corps and is certified to to take the ASE certification exam result- Maj. Penny Jamvold, 190th ARW, Topeka instruct three different courses of instruc- ing in no cost to the Soldier. Clay Center Sgt. Brett Denning, 170th Maint Co (-), Norton Retirements Sgt. Beverly Fortner, Det 1, KSARNG Med Det, Lenexa Kansas Army National Guard Sgt. Scot Leonard, FSC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Sgt. Leon Prather, 250th FSC (-), Ottawa Col. Barry Taylor, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Charles Smith, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth Lt. Col. Edward Keller, 35th ID, Fort Leavenworth Master Sgt. John Meyer, Det 1, Rec and Ret Bn, Topeka Kansas Air National Guard Master Sgt. Bonifacio Purganan, HHD, 635th RSG, Topeka Chief Master Sgt. Bill Angstadt, 184th IW, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Mickeal Blackburn, Det 1, 1161st Senior Master Sgt. Robert Hauskins, 184th IW, FSC, Pratt Wichita Staff Sgt. Charles Grange Jr., Det 1, HHC, 2nd CAB, Senior Master Sgt. Joe McElfresh, 184th IW, 137th Inf, Junction City Wichita Sgt. Tommy Davis, Det 2, 250th FSC, Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Wagner, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Steve Cussins, 184th IW, Wichita From the halls of RTS-M to the shores of San Diego Ordnance instructors Staff Sgt. Kenneth blocks of instruction, the Marines were Hare and Staff Sgt. Shawn Chaney of the able to verify and isolate faults and then Sgt. 1st Class Ranie Ruthig, left, and Staff Sgt. Shawn Chaney of the Kansas Re- Regional Training Site-Maintenance in perform repairs. gional Site Maintence show off their newly minted certificates from the National In- Salina, Kansas, traveled to Camp Pendle- One vehicle in particular had been in a stitute for Automotive Service Excellence (Photo provided) ton, California, in September 2014, to pro- non mission-capable status for 87 days vide Joint Services Maintenance Training with approximately 48 hours of trou- for 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment. bleshooting previously logged. The stu- As facilitators for 14 Marines, the team dents were able to identify a major 35th Infantry Division conducts conducted training on the Family of component failure within the engine and Medium Tactical Vehicle Unit Maintenance subsequently send the vehicle for compo- accelerated training exercise Course, as well as the Automotive Air Con- nent repair/replacement. By Staff Sgt. Jennifer Milnes lowing for further enhancement of their ditioning Recovery Course. With assistance from Hare and Chaney, Public Affairs Specialist battle drills. The FMTV course was 80 hours in the students went through the troubleshoot- Members of the Kansas Army National “Having a scenario that is played out in length, covering the basic operations, trou- ing steps on multiple vehicles within the bat- Guard’s 35th Infantry Division recently real time allows troops to ‘fight the deep bleshooting and repair of the engine, trans- talion, performing equipment repairs which conducted a first-of-its-kind warfighting fight’ using the Fires and Targeting sections mission and electrical systems at the field improved their operational readiness status. exercise to better test and prepare its troops specifically, but also having the air/ground level of maintenance. Marine students re- The 40-hour Automotive A/C Recovery for potential missions. coordination,” said Inskeep. ceived classroom instruction of individual Course covered mandatory Environmental The division conducted the 2015 Santa Coaching mentors from the Army’s 1st component systems, operational theory and Protection Agency Section 609 training and Fe Exercise with a training scenario using a Corps, out of Joint Base Lewis-McCord in troubleshooting procedures. testing, followed by hands-on troubleshoot- live simulation provided by the Global Washington, advised and shared thoughts Upon completion of classroom training, ing and repair of air conditioning systems Simulation Capability, a section of the Na- with members of the 35th on ways to im- they went to the Marines maintenance shop on a variety of wheeled vehicles. tional Simulation Center at Fort Leaven- prove future processes. for hands-on training, troubleshooting and Approximately 10 vehicles were either worth, Kansas. While live simulation “The organizations are about the people, repair of multiple real-world existing non- repaired or parts identified for repair, as- exercises are typically built to span one to the processes, the systems and the struc- mission capable faults on their equipment. sisting the unit with their air conditioning two weeks at a time, the division modified ture,” said Navrkal. “We were able to touch Using knowledge gained from the previous system operational needs. the timeline to complete the exercise in a on all of those with this training and, most single drill weekend. impressively, we were able to advance our “We are the first National Guard division readiness while keeping our Soldiers, to have utilized the Global Simulation Capa- equipment and resources at home station.” bility and complete it within a drill week- Although the simulation only spanned 12 end,” said Maj. Gen. Michael D. Navrkal, hours of operations over a two-day period, commander of the 35th Infantry Division. it involved months of planning, coordinat- “Although the GSC has worked with other ing and using resources within condensed units before, they have typically been active time and budget constraints. duty units or National Guard or Reserve “When you haven’t used this type of units in a longer annual training status.” simulation in this capacity before and you By completing the process in a weekend, have coordination among the unit, the GSC the 35th ID was able to look at their and the Mission Training Complex, there is warfighting functions and how they interact. a lot of communication that needs to hap- Maj. Jason Inskeep, training officer for pen,” said Inskeep. the 35th Infantry Division, noted that one After completion of the exercise and a of the more beneficial aspects of the exer- thorough group after-action review, Inskeep cise was that it provided additional train- is certain that the division can reduce plan- Staff Sgt. Shawn Chaney instructs a classroom of U.S. Marines at Camp Pendleton, ing time for their command staff to operate ning for similar exercises from six months near San Diego, California, September 2014. (Photo provided) through a unit Command Post Exercise, al- to a mere 100-120 day planning cycle. April 2015 • Plains Guardian Page 15 Frantz receives command of 190th Air Refueling Wing By Maj. Joe Blubaugh 117th Air Refueling Squadron and graduated 190th Air Refueling Wing from the Combat Crew Training School at Col. Jarrod Frantz received command of Castle Air Force Base, California, in 1989. As the 190th Air Refueling Wing during a a boom operator, he logged over 900 hours change of command ceremony April 11 at and was part of the first crews to deploy in the unit’s Forbes Field air base in Topeka. support of Operation Desert Shield. He grad- Frantz received command from Col. uated from Washburn University in Topeka Ronald Krueger, who is retiring. Krueger with a bachelor’s degree in business adminis- took command of the wing in May 2011. tration in May 1992. He was commissioned Col. Jay Selanders, commander of the at the Air Guard Academy of Military Sci- Kansas Air National Guard, presided over ence in September 1992 and completed Un- the ceremony that marked the moment dergraduate Pilot Training in December 1993 when responsibility for the nearly 1,000 at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, followed Airmen passed from Krueger to Frantz. by KC-135 Combat Crew Training at Castle "It has been an honor serving my com- Air Force Base, California, in 1994. munity, state and nation in one of the finest Since receiving his commission, Frantz organizations in the United States military," has served as chief of Quality Services, said Krueger. "The men and women of the 190th Logistics Group; executive officer, 190th Air Refueling Wing are extremely 117th Air Refueling Squadron; "A" Flight Col. Jarrod Frantz (right) accepts the 190th Air Refueling Wing unit flag from Col. talented and it has been a privilege serving element leader; "A" Flight commander; Jay Selanders, commander of the Kansas Air National Guard, signifying his accept- as their wing commander." 117th ARS operations officer and com- ance of command for the wing. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mandy Johnson, 190th Air Refu- "I am honored to assume the role of wing mander of the 117th ARS. Prior to receiv- eling Wing Public Affairs) commander for such a great organization ing command of the wing, Frantz served as Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, the 184th Bomb Wing at McConnell Air full of dedicated and talented Airmen," said the 190th Operations Group commander. New Dawn and Unified Protector. Force Base from B-1B to KC-135R air- Frantz. "I will ensure that the 190th Air Re- His professional military education in- Col. Ronald Krueger craft. He served as Maintenance Squadron fueling Wing continues to live up to our vi- cludes Squadron Officer School, Air Com- Col. Ronald W. Krueger received his com- commander and wing vice commander at sion of being the 'Standard of Excellence' mand and Staff College, and Air War mission from the United States Air Force Forbes Field before assuming command of to those we serve." College. He is a command pilot with more Academy in 1990. He attended pilot training the 190th Air Refueling Wing in May 2011. Col. Jarrod Frantz than 4,000 hours in the KC-135 E/D/R air- at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, and later Krueger is a command pilot with more Col. Jarrod Frantz enlisted in the 190th craft and more than 9,400 total heavy jet flew B-1B aircraft with the 28th Bomb Wing than 4,000 hours of flight time. He partici- ARW in August 1985 and served as a crew hours. He has flown more than 75 at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, pated in Operations Sea Signal, Southern chief in the 190th Consolidated Aircraft combat/combat support sorties totaling and the 366th Composite Wing at Mountain Watch, Joint Forge, and Unified Protector Maintenance Squadron while attending the more than 460 hours in direct support of Home Air Force Base, Idaho, prior to joining and has more than 300 hours of combat University of Kansas. In October 1988, he Operations Deny Flight, Joint Endeavor, the Kansas Air National Guard. time supporting Operations Enduring Free- was selected to be a boom operator for the Deliberate Guard, Allied Force, Northern Krueger was instrumental in converting dom and Iraqi Freedom. Responsibility for 69th Troop Command passes to Murdock By Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Barnett, tions officer, HQ, 35th ID; and chief of op- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment erations, HQ, 35th ID. Soldiers, family and friends were on Barnett deployed to Camp Butmir and hand April 11 to witness the time-honored Eagle Base, Bosnia-Herzegovina, as the li- ceremony of the passing colors as Lt. Col. aison officer, Joint Military Affairs, Com- Thomas C. Barnett Jr. turned over com- mander of the Stabilization Force, from mand of the Kansas National Guard’s 69th 2001 to 2002. He also deployed to Camp Troop Command to Col. Roger D. Mur- Bondsteel, Kosovo, with KFOR 9 as the dock at the Nickell Armory, Topeka. operations officer for the 35th Infantry Di- “I served in the 69th from probably a cap- vision and Multi-National Task Force East tain on to lieutenant colonel,” said Murdock, from 2007 to 2008. who has previously served with the brigade. His awards and decorations include the “It is a privilege to come back to it. Meritorious Service Medal with three oak “The Soldiers of the 69th Troop Com- leaf clusters; Army Commendation Medal mand have done an outstanding job, espe- with three oak leaf clusters; Joint Service cially in the last three years,” continued Achievement Medal; Army Achievement Murdock. “I would just like to tell them Medal with six oak leaf clusters; Army Re- ‘Thank you for a job well done.’ I am serve Component Achievement Medal with thankful to have the opportunity to follow four oak leaf clusters; National Defense Serv- Tom Barnett because he has done such a ice Medal with Bronze Star; Armed Forces great job with the unit.” Brig. Gen. Robert Windham (right), commander of the Kansas Army National Guard, Expeditionary Medal; Armed Forces Reserve “The 69th Troop Command has come so entrusts the colors of the 69th Troop Command to Col. Roger Murdock (left), incoming Medal with Silver Hourglass, M device, and far and worked so hard to become what commander, signifying his confidence in his ability to handle the responsibility of com- number 2 device; Army Reserve Component they are,” said Barnett. “I was very proud mand. The ceremony was held in Nickell Armory, Topeka, April 11. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Overseas Training Ribbon with number 2 de- to stand up and talk about what they have Class Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) vice; Humanitarian Service Ribbon; Kosovo accomplished. I’m the commander, giving Manpower. He is currently assigned as the State University. He earned a Master of Campaign Service Medal; Overseas Service directions, but it’s really the Soldiers that deputy chief of staff – Army for the Kansas Science degree in strategic studies from the Ribbon with Star device; Global War on Ter- make things happen.” Army National Guard. U.S. Army War College. rorism; Army Service Ribbon; North Atlantic Barnett will continue his military service Murdock deployed overseas from 2008- Lt. Col. Thomas C. Barnett Jr. Treaty Organization Medal, second award; as the next deputy commander of the 130th 2009 as the operations officer of the 287th Lt. Col. Thomas C. Barnett Jr. enlisted in Army Space Badge; NATO German Gold Field Artillery Brigade in Manhattan, Sustainment Brigade in support of Opera- the Kansas Army National Guard in April Schütenschnur; and other awards. Kansas. tion Iraqi Freedom. 1985 and received his commission as a sec- Barnett’s military education includes the Col. Roger D. Murdock His awards and decorations include the ond lieutenant as a field artillery officer in Field Artillery Advanced Cannon Crewman Col. Roger D. Murdock enlisted in the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service July 1987. Course, Field Artillery Officers Basic Kansas Army National Guard April 25, Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Army Barnett’s Kansas National Guard assign- Course, Field Artillery Nuclear/Chemical 1985, and received his commission as a Commendation Medal with one oak leaf ments include fire direction officer, Battery Targeting Analysis, U.S. Army Contracting second lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers cluster, Air Force Commendation Medal, C, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery; elec- Officer Representative Course, Field Ar- through Wichita State University Reserve Army Achievement Medal, National De- tronic warfare officer, Headquarters, 35th tillery Officer Advanced Course, Multiple Officer Training Corps May 16, 1986. fense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Iraqi Infantry Division; assistant fire support offi- Launch Rocket System Cadre Course, Com- Murdock’s Kansas National Guard as- Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, cer, HQ, 35th ID; Infantry and Armor Ma- bined Arms Service and Support School, signments include platoon leader, 242nd Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, neuver Company Fire Support Team Chiefs, Command and General Staff Course, Ma- Engineer Company; commander, Detach- Army Reserve Component Achievement Detachment 1, Headquarters and Headquar- neuver Control System Operator Course, ment 1, 714th Maintenance Company; Medal with seven oak leaf clusters, Armed ters Battery, 1st Battalion, 127th Field Ar- Command Post of the Future Staff Course, commander, 242nd Engineer Company; lo- Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device and tillery; fire direction officer, HQ, 2-130th Army Battle Command System Staff Course, gistics officer, 891st Engineer Battalion; Silver Service Device, and other awards. FA; battalion fire support chief, 635th Field Artillery Pre-Command Course and Air assistant brigade logistics officer, 69th Murdock’s military education includes the Armor Battalion; CORPS liaison officer, Force Joint Space Operations Course. Troop Command, assistant Engineer Officer Basic Course, Company HHB, 35th Division Artillery; commander, Barnett received a Bachelor of Science intelligence/training officer, 69th Troop Level Pre-Command Course, Engineer Offi- Battery B, 2-130th FA; assistant fire support degree in computer information Command; operations officer, 891st Engi- cer Advanced Course, Command and Gen- coordination officer, Detachment 1, HHB, systems/system analysis from DeVry Insti- neer Battalion; brigade operations officer, eral Staff Course, Reserve Component 35th DIVARTY; operations officer, Head- tute of Technology and a master’s of 69th Troop Command, brigade operations Multi-Functional Combat Service Support quarters and Headquarters Support Com- telecommunications management from officer, 287th Sustainment Brigade; sup- Course, Reserve Components National Secu- pany, 2-130th FA; field artillery intelligence Keller School of Graduate Studies. port operations officer, 287th Sustainment rity Course, and the U.S. Army War College. officer, Detachment 1, HHB, 35th DI- In his civilian career, Barnett is the prin- Brigade; commander, 891st Engineer Bat- He received a Bachelor of Science de- VARTY; effects coordinator, HQ, 35th ID; cipal architect for Product Development talion; director of Operations, Kansas Na- gree in mathematics and a master’s degree operations officer, HQ, 35th ID; operations and Planning at CenturyLink, headquar- tional Guard; and director of Personnel and in engineering management from Wichita officer, HQ, 35th ID; senior space opera- tered in Monroe, Louisiana. Page 16 Plains Guardian • April 2015 PlainsPlains GuardianGuardian Lone bugler plays with honor Kansas Guard helps with annual Easter egg hunt at Cedar Crest By Capt. Kevin Anderson the governor and his family to the commu- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment nity by hosting the event,” said Blow, “and More than 500 local Kansans gathered second, to have the National Guard and March 28 to partake in one of the state’s other agencies have a presence in the com- time-honored traditions, the annual Gover- munity and assist with a wonderful event.” nor’s Easter Egg Hunt. One unit specifically tasked to support the Gripping their Easter baskets, standing event was the 35th Military Police Company, behind the starting line, children eyed the Kansas Army National Guard. The noncom- open fields around the governor’s mansion, missioned officer in-charge for the event waiting for the signal to start under the from the MP Company was Staff Sgt. Kevin watchful eyes of their parents and members Fischer. Fischer worked the event nearly of the Kansas National Guard. eight years earlier as a lower enlisted Soldier and returned to the event this year as a key member of the leadership. “The Easter egg hunt has always been a great event and when I had the opportunity to be involved with it again, I couldn’t pass,” said Fischer. The event provided the MPs with real- world training and honed their military oc- cupational skills. “We got to practice our entry control point, cordon and personal security skills,” said Fischer. While real-world experience and train- ing were the MP Companys’ primary goals for the event, Fischer was quick to point out “the Easter egg hunt is a great way for the National Guard to interact with the community.” It is not unusual for a Guardsman to find his military and civilian careers overlap and such was the case for one of the MP Staff Sgt. Chase Muninger, customer service, 184th Intelligence Wing Comptroller Soldiers at the event. Flight, serves as the only bugler for the wing’s Honor Guard. (Photo by Senior Air- Sgt. Ynacio Bautista is a member of the man Lauren Penney, 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs) Military Police Corps in the Kansas Na- tional Guard, and also a Capital Police offi- By Senior Airman Lauren Penney, cer for the state of Kansas. On the day of 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs the Easter egg hunt, he found himself Being a member of the 184th Intelligence Wing Honor Guard is great responsibility. A Soldier with the 35th Military Police working the event in the latter role. He said Being the only bugler for the honor guard is even more of a privilege. Company stands guard at the Governor’s that there are similarities to the military Staff Sgt. Chase Muninger, financial management technician with the 184th Comptroller Mansion near Topeka March 28 during and civilian aspects of law enforcement Flight, has been an honor guard member since October 2011 and is the only bugler for the the annual Governor’s Easter Egg Hunt. and enjoys the ability of combining his wing. (Photo by Capt. Kevin Anderson, 105th dual careers. Bautista volunteered for the Muninger said, “To be the only bugler, I feel the heat of responsibility in a way different Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) event because he believes it is important way. I feel sorrow when performing and have played for a friend’s funeral that passed who Maj. Amy Blow, a nurse with the 190th for those in the local community to interact was part of the wing.” Medical Group, Kansas Air National with law enforcement personnel. Playing the bugle for the honor guard is a way for Muninger to share his passion of his Guard, was the officer-in-charge for the “The Easter egg hunt builds community instrument and members of the wing. In high school, Muninger was part of the band and event and the primary planner. Planning for trust by interacting with the public in a fun jazz band. His senior year, Muninger received the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award, a trumpet the event began 30 days prior and culmi- and safe environment,” he said. ability award. He also plays the guitar and piano. nated in a wonderful event for the families Although the kids, aged one to six years- Muninger played the bugle for three funerals this past year and said it was an honor to in attendance, according to Blow. Through- old, began scouring out the eggs in the play at funerals for the wing member and member’s family. out the planning process, Blow incorpo- field before Governor Sam Brownback of- Staff Sgt. Maria Sargent, an information technology specialist with the 299th Network rated elements from the Kansas Army and ficially said “Go,” the event went off with- Operation Support Squadron and fellow honor guard member said, “Without Senior Air- Air National Guard, the Civil Air Patrol, out a hitch. Brownback took the time to man Muninger we would have been forced to use an electronic bugle for those funerals. It the Teen Counsel and the Capital Police to thank all of the National Guard and other means so much more to everyone when Senior Airman Muninger plays the bugle, espe- ensure all aspects of the event were prop- units involved in the planning and staffing cially because he plays from his heart.” erly executed. of the event. Even in unfavorable conditions, Muninger plays the bugle without hesitation. Blow said the goal of the event was “That the Easter egg hunt event is so “Senior Airman Muninger played the bugle in the cold when our fingers and toes were twofold. well run and executed” is because of their freezing and he was worried that his lips were too cold to be able to play well,” Sargent “First, to demonstrate the appreciation of hard work, said Brownback. said. “However, the eerie and lovely sound of the bugle as it played those final notes on that freezing day touched and warmed the hearts of every person there.” The respect that Muninger puts in every time he plays is a testament to how much his Squadron sends Christmas cheer fellow wing members and their families mean to him. “Although I am the only live bugler, I’m surrounded by a team of people that I know,” said Muninger. “They are phenomenal to work with and we have a high level of cama- raderie. With that, I feel their support. They are very talented and have shown me every- thing I know as far as routine and steps. Without my teammates there is no team and I am honored to play bugle beside them.” Join the Civil Air Patrol The Kansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is looking for individuals with valid FAA private, commercial or airline transport pilot certificate. The Kansas Wing has three Cessna 182’s and one Cessna 172 waiting for you to fly.

The Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force with three primary missions: • Aerospace education • Cadet programs • Emergency services Cadet Joachim Settanni, Topeka Eagle Composite Squadron, seals a Christmas care Go to www.kswg.cap.gov package that the squadron sent to Haven Behavioral Health Facility, Pueblo, Colorado. The facility’s Post Traumatic Stress Disorder program treats active-duty military per- for a Civil Air Patrol Squadron near you sonnel, veterans, and dependents. (Photo by Patricia Linn, St. Marys, Kansas)