April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 1 Flora retires; 35th Infantry “We lost a Link assumes Division con- hero today.” command of ducts joint Col. Jim Kansas Air exercise with Trafton dies National Republic of in turnpike Guard ...... 3 Korea ...... 8 accident ...13

VolumePlains 53 No. 2 Serving the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, KansasGuardian Division of Emergency Management, Kansas Homeland Security and Civil Air Patrol April 2010 NGB chief McKinley tours Great Plains Joint Training Center By Sharon Watson what they need,” Bunting said. for their efforts. he would ask some of his team to come visit Public Affairs Offi ce McKinley expressed appreciation for McKinley told reporters there are po- the site to determine the possibilities. Gen. Craig McKinley, chief of the Bunting’s vision and ability to make the tential opportunities where the Great Plains “I can’t think of a better venue than this National Guard Bureau, visited the Great site a reality. Joint Training Center might provide the best facility right here, right in the heartland of Plains Joint Training Center in Salina, “With Fort Riley, this facility can bring venue for national training needs and said America,” said McKinley. Kan., on March 26. He took an aerial and so much training space to this part of the ground tour of parts of the center and country,” McKinley noted. the new 160-acre site where military and The fi rst joint civilian-military training civilian fi rst responders train together for at the Great Plains Joint Training Center state disaster response. and Crisis City was in June 2009 when the “This is a world treasure out here, very fi eld portion of the Vigilant Guard exercise impressed,” McKinley said. involved a train derailment and building McKinley was invited by Maj. Gen. collapse. Another large-scale exercise is Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant general, planned for July 2010 and will involve a to view the site developed over the past number of military and civilian participants. couple of years and opened for training During his visit, McKinley toured the last summer. Crisis City headquarters building, which The training venue includes Crisis City, is nearing completion. It will provide a a replica of a small city that allows re- second-story observation room for instruc- sponders a more realistic training scenar- tors to watch the various components of io. It includes a rubble pile for a building an exercise unfold. It will also provide collapse and actual overturned rail cars classroom instruction. for a hazardous chemical spill. Additional A group of fi refi ghters involved in venues are being added. a search and rescue exercise greeted “We designed the site after getting McKinley as he got a close-up view of the input from our civilian fi rst responders on rubble pile at Crisis City. He thanked them Kansas fi refi ghters conduct search Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting (left), the adjutant general, and Gen. Craig McKinley, chief of the National Guard Bureau, talk with Kansas fi refi ghters conducting training at Crisis City, located at the Great Plains Joint Training Center in Salina. McKinley and rescue training at Crisis City visited the center in March. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Offi ce) By Maj. DeAnn Barr Search Specialist Training, a Kansas Divi- Great Plains Joint Training Center sion of Emergency Management initiative. Secretary of Defense receives Twenty-fi ve fi refi ghters from across During the fi ve-day training event, stu- Kansas gathered at Crisis City, located at dents learned to locate victims by narrow- the Great Plains Joint Training Center in ing search parameters utilizing equipment award, recalls Kansas roots Salina, March 22 to 26 to attend Technical such as ultrasonic listening devices, spe- By Maj. Mike Wallace present to honor Secretary Gates, includ- cialized search and rescue cameras, search 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment ing former Kansas governor and current robots and GPS locating equipment. Key leaders in the Kansas Army Health and Human Services Secretary, The multitude of venues offered at Cri- National Guard attended the speech given Kathleen Sebelius, Kansas Governor Mark sis City, including the 10,000 ton rubble by Secretary of Defense, Dr. Robert M. Parkinson, U.S. Senator Sam Brownback pile, structure collapse building, land Gates, when he was presented the Dis- and U.S. Representative Todd Tiahrt.

PAID navigation range and classrooms, made tinguished Kansan of the Year Award in “I was surprised on how down-to-earth PRSRT STD PRSRT SALEM, OR the class cost-effective and convenient for Topeka on Jan. 29 by the Native Sons and he was,” said Col. John Andrew, Kansas U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT NO. 178 PERMIT participants. Daughters of Kansas. Army National Guard Chief of Staff. “His “Given its central location, this is soon Numerous political leaders were (Continued on Page 11) to be an incredible training facility,” said Capt. John Troyer from the Sedgwick County Fire Department, an assistant with the course. “The training environment is in close proximity to the overnight lodg- ing. Where else can you stay overnight for $15 and have access to cheap meals?” After 24 years of fi refi ghting experi- ence, Troyer appreciates what the training center has to offer. “Usually everywhere we go to train we have to build our own scenarios and it’s all here. All we have to do is send our people with their personal protective equipment,” said Troyer. The most extensive class to prepare for is the Structure Collapse Technician Course that requires two months to set up each time it’s taught, according to Troyer. Instructors need to arrive days prior to the class in order to assemble tons of concrete

FORCE blocks, cut steel and prepare for the hands- on training scenarios.

2800 S. Topeka Blvd. Topeka 2800 S. Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert Gates received the Distinguished Kansan of the OFFICIAL BUSINESS OFFICIAL Topeka Kansas 66611-1287 Topeka Adjutant General of Kansas Penalty for Private Use, $300 “Here it’s all set up and I can show up Year award in January. During his acceptance speech, Gates displayed his down- DEPARTMENT OFTHE ARMY OFTHE DEPARTMENT

NATIONAL GUARD OF KANSAS GUARD OF NATIONAL and teach. It’s a very labor intensive and cost to-earth Kansas common sense and humor. (Photo by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th DEPARTMENT AND AIR OF THE ARMY DEPARTMENT (Continued on Page 10) Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) Page 2 Plains Guardian • April 2010 “Meet Your Local Heroes Day” Bringing closure: 190th supports MIA recovery mission in Vietnam By Capt. Joe Blubaugh is the responsibility of the research and 190th ARW Public Affairs investigation teams. While the excavations There has been little chance for closure are ongoing, investigation teams are work- for the families of more than 1,300 Viet- ing with Vietnamese offi cials, interview- nam veterans who are listed as Missing in ing witnesses and visiting potential sites Action. Although some of the MIAs have for future missions. been missing for more than 40 years, their Kelly Ray is a retired Air Force linguist service brethren haven’t given up hope of and the team leader for one of the two someday returning them back to American investigation teams on this mission. This is soil and to hopefully provide the closure Ray’s 45th trip to Vietnam as a JPAC mem- so many families are still seeking. ber including his military and civilian trips. Three or four times a year, the Joint Ray’s team scheduled interviews with POW/MIA Accountability Command retired Vietnamese Army veterans that sends a team of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen were witnesses when a U.S. servicemem- and Marines to Vietnam to search for the ber was killed or went missing. During the remains of the missing servicemembers. interviews, the investigation team have JPAC’s mission is to achieve the fullest the witnesses take them to the burial site, possible accounting of all Americans miss- if possible. The investigation team surveys How do you defi ne a hero? Students from Robinson Middle School, Wichita, ing as a result of the nation’s past confl icts. the site and, based on their fi ndings, rec- had the opportunity to answer that question when 184th Security Forces mem- In February, the 190th Air Refuel- ommends site for future excavation. bers joined with other local law enforcement agencies at the Meet Your Local ing Wing was tasked with transporting Ray says the information they gather Heroes Day event. Equipped with two tactical response vehicles and accounts a 25-member advance team and their is taken back to Hickam Air Force Base, of their own experiences ranging from natural disaster responses in Kansas cargo to the Southeast Asian country. Hawaii, where a board reviews the rec- and Louisiana to overseas missions in support of the War on Terror, 184th The JPAC team is comprised of anthro- ommendations and decides whether an members Tech. Sgt. Mark Wall, Staff Sgt. Quentin Morris, Staff Sgt. Jeffrey pologists, linguists, explosive ordinance excavation is warranted. Nicholson and Master Sgt. Bill Cook represented the Kansas Air National specialists, logisticians and medics. The Army Capt. Greg Smith, the leader of Guard. (Photo by Master Sgt. Eric Smith, 184th Security Forces Squadron) advance team works very closely with one of the recovery teams, says a very the Vietnamese government to negotiate small sample of human remains can lead potential excavation sites and sets up lo- to the identity of an MIA. gistical infrastructure so excavations can “We only need a bone fragment the School counselors get up-close begin immediately upon the arrival of the size of a tooth.” If remains are found, they 50-member main body. are transported to Hickam, for further fo- look at 184th Intelligence Wing The full team is actually broken into rensic investigation and DNA extraction. By Capt. Nancy Harper Network Operations Security Squadron, several smaller teams with two distinctive Thanks to new genetic advances, DNA 184th Force Support Squadron getting an opportunity to see the expan- missions. The recovery team’s mission is to extracted from remains can now be com- The 184th Intelligence Wing hosted sive operations fl oor. Another group took conduct excavations, looking for remains pared to blood relatives of MIAs for identi- approximately 100 counselors from local a tour of the 134th Air Control Squadron or equipment of missing servicemembers. fi cation. Smith says a DNA sample doesn’t area elementary, middle and high schools facilities. They were able to see special- Choosing a location for an excavation (Continued on Page 12) on Feb. 12, 2010. ized equipment and visit with some of the Maj. Jesse Sojka, fl ight commander for squadron’s personnel. the 161st Intelligence Squadron, and unit The fi nal group, primarily elementary Joint conference brings Army, Air volunteers welcomed counselors from the school counselors, viewed the wing’s Unifi ed School District #259 and gave STARBASE program facilities and spoke logistics professionals together mission briefi ngs. Maj. Steven Shook with team coordinators to help recruit from the 184th Force Support Squadron school children into the program, which and Tech. Sgt. Justin Moody from the offers Kansas elementary students aca- Chaplain’s offi ce gave testimonials and demic activities to improve their mathe- shared their satisfaction of serving the matics, science, and technical knowledge. local community and country as a Guards- Sojka noted how important the event men and how both their civilian and mili- was to the wing’s mission. tary jobs complement each other. Both are “The intent of the event will be to traditional Guardsman and are employed educate these counselors about the Kansas by the Wichita Public School district as Air National Guard, specifi cally the education administrators. 184th,” said Sojka. “Ultimately, if they Counselors later toured various 184th know people who are considering join- IW units and facilities. The 184th Security ing the military, we’d like the Kansas Air Forces Squadron hosted one group that National Guard to be the fi rst organization concluded with a “hands on” demonstra- they reference.” tion of the Fire Arm Training Simulator, a Shook was also impressed by the coun- weapons program that allows the user to selors’ interests in the wing. “An important practice marksmanship without the use of part of the process is intentionally clarify- real arms or live ammunition. Col. Joseph ing the unit’s role in the community and Jabara, commander of the 184th Mission country while highlighting the opportuni- Support Squadron, escorted the fi rst group ties becoming a Guard member offers indi- of visitors to the SFS offi ces. viduals, both from a benefi ts perspective as Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Mark Looper provides information on Army tactical A second group chose to visit the 299th well as heartfelt personal satisfaction.” communications systems. (Photo provided)

The second Kansas National Guard were formed to develop a more effi cient Sustainment Conference, hosted by the and encompassing reporting and asset 184th Logistics Readiness Squadron, tracking system for decision makers; was conducted Feb. 9 - 11 at McCon- for developing a joint standard operat- nell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kan. ing procedure for conducting recep- This conference brought logisticians and tion, staging, and onward movement operations Soldiers and Airmen together operations for large scale events; and for to discuss and develop plans and proce- further developing pre-planned “capa- dures for conducting joint sustainment bilities packages” for most anticipated functions in domestic operations. support events from the Kansas National Military and civilian subject mat- Guard. ter experts from the Kansas Division Included with the programmed events of Emergency Management delivered in this conference was the opportunity several presentations. These presenta- for the Kansas National Guard logistics tions were focused toward sharing community to develop relationships and management systems between Air Force friendships. This will produce a more and Army sustainment professionals and effi cient and rapid level of response for providing the tools for effi ciently direct- future missions. ing and managing domestic missions to After action comments indicate this support the governor and Adjutant Gen- conference to be very valuable for the par- eral’s Department in times of domestic ticipants. As a result, the sustainment com- Tech. Sgt. Justin Moody, 184th Intelligence Wing, gives marksmanship pointers emergency. munity will continue its efforts to develop to a school counselor from USD 259 trying out the Firearm Training Simulator. In addition, three working groups “jointness” for the citizens of Kansas. (Photo by Capt. Nancy Harper, 184th Security Forces Squadron) April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 3 Flora retires; Link assumes Saint Barbara Society inducts eleven By Maj. Mike Wallace highest standards of the fi eld artillery were command of Kansas Air Guard 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment recognized by induction into the honor- On Jan. 9, 2010, at the Broadview able Order of Saint Barbara. Hotel in Wichita, Kan., the 1st Battal- Those inducted were Maj. Gen. M. ion, 161st Field Artillery of the Kansas Wayne Pierson, Maj. Paul Scofi eld, Sgt. Army National Guard held its annual 1st Class Kenneth Cline, Staff Sgt. Jon Field Artillery Ball and Saint Barbara’s Depiesse, Staff Sgt. David Franco, Staff Celebration, a military honor society of Sgt. Michael Garcia, Staff Sgt. Terry the United States for both the U.S. Army Hillyer, Staff Sgt. Jason Jouret, Staff Sgt. and U.S. Marine Corp. The award is John Lofi ng, Staff Sgt. Brian Reed and named for Saint Barbara, patron saint of Staff Sgt. Michael Yandel. artillerymen. Special recognition was given to Ron- “We do this every year,” said Lt. Col. nie and Connie Bachman, who accepted Thomas Burke, commander of the 1-161 awards on behalf of their son, Sgt. 1st FA, “to honor those Soldiers and spouses Class Travis S. Bachman, who was killed that have shown outstanding attributes in action in Iraq on Aug. 1, 2007. that contributed to the fi eld artillery and The next item on the agenda was to have exemplifi ed the qualities desired in induct members into the order of Molly being an artilleryman or woman.” Pitcher. The Molly Pitcher award is to rec- During the ceremony, Spc. Michael ognize the service and support of spouses Collins was recognized as the Best Indi- to the Kansas Guard member. vidual Soldier, while Sgt. Gregory Torres Those inducted were Mrs. Tammy was identifi ed as the Best Individual NCO Alsup, Mrs. Rebecca Boese, Mrs. Marilyn for the battalion in 2009. Battery A was Brumley, Mrs. Amanda Joan Cline, Mrs. Col. Bradley Link (right) prepares to accept the command fl ag of the Kansas Air identifi ed as having the Best Gun Sec- Kristine Depiesse, Mrs. Rebecca Mattix, National Guard, transferring command from Brig. Gen. Ed Flora. (Photo by Sha- tion for the past year. Artillery members Mrs. Bonnie McGhee, Mrs. Amy Rijfko- ron Watson, Public Affairs Offi ce) that exemplifi ed the fi nest traditions and gel and Mrs. Robin Witzke. Col. Bradley Link has been named to commander of the Maintenance Group, succeed retiring Brig. Gen. Ed Flora as 190th Air Refueling Wing, Kansas Air assistant adjutant general – Air and com- National Guard. Link was responsible mander of the Kansas Air National Guard. for directing all aircraft and equipment The appointment became effective April maintenance support for 12 KC-135R 12. A formal change of command ceremo- aircraft, as well as the quality and quantity ny took place April 26 in Nickell Armory, of training for over 300 airmen, ensuring Topeka, Kan. they were prepared to perform the wing’s “It will take an offi cer with consider- mission to provide worldwide in-fl ight able experience and wisdom to replace refueling for military aircraft of the United General Flora,” said Maj. Gen. Tod States and its allies as directed by the De- Bunting, the adjutant general, “and I have partment of Defense and to support Global every confi dence that we’ve picked the Reach/Global Power for America. right offi cer in Colonel Link. His knowl- Link deployed from March to June edge and insight will prove extremely 2005 as commander, 385th Air Expe- valuable to shaping and carrying out the ditionary Group, based at Incirlik Air command strategy of the Kansas Air Na- Base, Turkey. From November 2006 tional Guard.” to May 2007, he deployed to Baghdad, “Ed Flora has done a tremendous job Iraq, serving as the deputy director of the for the Kansas National Guard and has Air Component Coordination Element, had a remarkable military career,” said Strategic Operations Center, Headquarters Bunting. “We all wish him the best in his Multi-National Force, Iraq. Lt. Col. Thomas Burke hangs the medal refl ecting the induction of the Order of retirement.” Link is a command pilot with over Saint Barbara around Staff Sgt. Michael Yandel’s neck. (Photo by Maj. Mike Wal- Link’s most recent assignment was as (Continued on Page 13) lace, 105th MPAD) A brief history of your “Super Boards” evaluate veterans educational benefi ts Soldiers for promotion By Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke Within the following seven years, By Spc. Angie M. Mooneyham Board and administrative point to create a 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment approximately eight million veterans 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment promotion sequence number, which is as- In almost every military recruiting received educational benefi ts. Of that The Kansas Army National Guard’s an- signed by seniority and vacancy of desired message, money for college or educa- number, approximately 2,300,000 attend- nual Enlisted Promotion Board was held ‘slot’ within each Military Occupational tion is typically listed within the top three ed colleges and universities, 3,500,000 at the Kansas Regional Training Institute, Specialty for the following 12 months. reasons why someone should enlist in that received school training and 3,400,000 Salina, Kan., for three days in February. This year, the board members reviewed particular branch of the Armed Forces. received on-the-job training. By 1951, this Each year, this “Super Board” is held 980 promotable Soldier’s fi les, compared Perhaps the greatest area, in terms of act had cost the government a total cost of to review the fi les of Soldiers eligible for to approximately 1,200 fi les the previous the federal government’s participation in approximately $14 billion. promotion to the ranks of sergeant through year, said Staff Sgt. Cheryl Larson, Joint education, was the GI Bill of Rights. The The effects of increased enrollment to sergeant major. Qualifi ed enlisted non- Force Headquarters. The Enlisted Promo- GI Bill, offi cially known as the Service- higher education were signifi cant. Higher commissioned offi cers of the rank staff tion Board process appeared to function men’s Readjustment Act of 1944, was educational opportunities opened enroll- sergeant and above are chosen to be board more effi ciently and smoothly compared designed to provide greater opportunities ment to a varied socioeconomic group than members in charge of grading promot- to the following year, said Larson. to returning veterans of World War II. The in the years past. Engineers and technicians able Soldier’s fi les based on documents Command Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson, bill, signed by President Franklin Roos- needed for the technological economy verifi ed by their 4100s, such as Depart- senior command sergeant major assist- evelt on June 22, 1944, provided federal were prepared from the ranks of returning ment of the Army photo, awards, trainings ing this year’s Enlisted Promotion Board, aid to help veterans adjust to civilian life veterans. Also, education served as a social and education, along with an additional reported changes are forth coming for next in the areas of hospitalization, purchase safety valve that eased the traumas and ten- score estimating the Soldier’s potential to year’s board for enlisted Soldiers contend- of homes and businesses and especially, sions of adjustment from wartime to peace. improve in these areas. ing for the rank of sergeant fi rst class to education. This act provided tuition, sub- For American colleges and universities, These scores are combined to create a sergeant major. sistence, books and supplies, equipment, the effects were transforming. In almost subjective score which are validated by Peterson says that under new guide- and counseling services for veterans to all institutions, classes were overcrowded. having each Soldier’s fi le graded by three lines, a Soldier’s administrative points continue their education in school or col- Institutions required more classrooms, different board members, whose scores will no longer be considered for the over- lege. The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act laboratories, greater numbers of faculties, must remain within a 100 point window of all score and only the points accumulated included the following: and more resources. Housing facilities each board member’s score. through the Enlisted Promotion Board • The federal government would became inadequate and new building pro- This score is not the only determining count towards promotion. subsidize tuition, fees, books, and grams were established. New vocational factor to overall points towards promo- In addition, the length of time and educational materials for veterans courses were also added. tion, said Sgt. 1st Class Beverly Clayc- grade a Soldier serves in a designated and contribute to living expenses This new student population called for amp, Joint Force Headquarters. Claycamp rank will be increased from a minimum incurred while attending college or differential courses in advanced training said this score is combined with points a of one year to two years. Peterson said other approved institutions. in education, commerce, agriculture, min- Soldier may have accumulated through he feels the increase in time and grade is • Veterans were free to attend the edu- ing, fi sheries and other vocational fi elds administrative points, such as Army an important change, allowing Soldiers cational institution of their choice. that were previously taught informally. Physical Fitness Test, qualifi cations, to have more time in a designated rank • Colleges were free to admit those Teaching staffs enlarged and summer and trainings and education. A promotion to improve on their leadership skills and veterans who met their admissions extension courses thrived. Further, the list is then composed using the total of personal growth as a senior noncommis- requirements. (Continued on Page 13) both points from the Enlisted Promotion sioned Soldier. Page 4 Plains Guardian • April 2010 Recent events bring pride, refl ection and sorrow By Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting GPJTC will have an opportunity to show- Kansas. Thank you for your service and a mand sergeant major. Ryan will offi cially The Adjutant General case the benefi ts of the training venues as job very well done. Much appreciation goes assume his duties in July when Command I was recently honored to host Gen. we participate with the Nebraska National to your families for all they did to support Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson plans to retire. Craig McKinley, the fi rst four-star Na- Guard and many civilian partners in a you while you were away. It’s my pleasure to work with many tional Guard Bureau chief, for a tour of week-long exercise, similar to Vigilant Congratulations to the 30 Unit Public Af- great leaders in the Guard and these men our facilities at Salina. Many of you have Guard 2009. fairs Representatives who went through the have served well. We wish them all the worked very hard to make Great Plains Our success in Salina with Great Plains annual training this spring in Salina to learn best in retirement. Joint Train- and Crisis City depends heavily on our how to better tell our story through photos April was a diffi cult month for the Kan- ing Center and many community partnerships. The Salina and stories. Getting the word out to the sas Guard with the loss of friend, colleague Crisis City a Airport Authority has made it possible to community and the state about what we do and recent 2nd Battalion, 137th Infantry reality and it do so much more than we ever imagined. in the National Guard is a critical part of our Regiment commander, retired Col. James was a proud mo- Gen. McKinley and I had the opportu- success and we look forward to seeing your Trafton. He served his country in Vietnam ment for me to nity to present Tim Rogers, the executive articles in the future editions of the Plains and the military for a total of 37 years. be able to share director, with our fi rst ever Patriot Medal Guardian and on our agency Web site, www. His motorcycle accident on the Kansas what we’ve for his immeasurable support. kansas.gov/ksadjutantgeneral, and social Turnpike on Easter Sunday left us stunned. accomplished. Many of our Guard members will be media sites (Facebook and Twitter). He was enjoying retirement and one thing During the tour, transitioning to and from deployments in the A number of recent retirements have is certain, he knew how to enjoy life, so he a number of coming weeks. We’ll join family members resulted in many leadership changes for would want us to keep on making the most fi refi ghters from Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting in May to wish the best to approximately the Kansas Guard. of every day we have. His wife and four across Kansas 575 members of our 2nd Combined Arms Brig. Gen. Ed Flora, commander of the daughters are in our thoughts and prayers. practiced search and rescue techniques Battalion, 137th Infantry as they leave Kansas Air National Guard, relinquished Our annual fi shing tournament in using specialized cameras at Crisis City’s for the Horn of Africa. Approximately 70 his command to Col. Brad Link. The 184th Burlington at Coffey County Lake was a rubble pile venue. We also presented Soldiers with Company G, 2nd Battalion, Intelligence Wing commander Col. Mi- huge success with approximately 20 boats seven new search cameras, purchased 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support chael Foster, also retired recently, turning on the water making it the largest ever. through funding from the Kansas Division Aviation Battalion) are joining Operation over his command to Col. John Hernandez. We honor the memories of all of our fallen of Emergency Management, to the seven Iraqi Freedom this summer. And a team Col. Joe Wheeler, Joint Force Headquar- service men and women with this event homeland security region representatives. of Soldiers and Airmen recently left for ters chief of staff, retired after 36 years. Col. and we’ll do the same with a Memorial Crisis City was transferred from Joint Afghanistan to serve as the second Kansas Eric Peck, just back from his command of Bike Run for Col. Trafton on May 8 in Force Headquarters to the Kansas Divi- Agribusiness Development team. the ADT, will take over those duties. Leavenworth. With the summer months sion of Emergency Management this We recently welcomed home the 190th Command Sgt. Maj. John Ryan has come greater safety risks with the many spring and Frank Coots was named the Air Refueling Wing and 184th Intelligence been selected as the next Kansas National outdoor activities so I ask everyone to Crisis City manager in April. Coots had Wing from service in Haiti. The civil engi- Guard – Land Component state com- keep safety a priority. been the lead disaster planner for KDEM’s neers were so effective in their missions they Plans and Mitigation section. He has a were able to come home after two months military and emergency management rather than the anticipated four months. A farewell message: background and has proven himself as an We’re also happy to have home Soldiers and effective planner and leader. Airmen who served in Afghanistan as the Remember the important things In July, Coots and the leadership of fi rst Agribusiness Development Team from By Chief Warrant Offi cer 5 Mark edge and always stay true to your own Soldier to Soldier Jensen character and values. It has been my This will be my last article as your privilege to serve and I will carry a spe- command chief. I would like to thank cial pride and esteem into my retirement Individual weapons profi ciency is each of the warrant offi cers in Kan- years knowing I was a part of a corps of sas for your unique and select individuals. noncommissioned offi cer business dedication and I will leave you all with a favorite By Command Sgt. Maj. James Moberly noncommissioned offi cers (battalion professional- story of mine. Please take the time to 69th Troop Command command sergeant major, fi rst sergeant, ism. read it. Training and leading Soldiers is non- platoon sergeant, and squad leader/section As the fi rst ** ** ** commissioned offi cer business and at no sergeant). command An old warrant offi cer stood before a time in our history has our business been The Soldier’s Creed includes the chief war- bleacher full of Soldiers during a safety more critical statement “… trained and profi cient in rant offi cer in class and had some items in front of than it is now my Warrior tasks and drills.” It’s not by Kansas, I can him. When the class began, wordlessly with the current coincidence that Army Warrior Task No. tell you that he picked up a very large and empty high demand 1 is Qualify with Individual Assigned the job has not mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fi ll it placed on our Weapon(s). Marksmanship is fundamental been without Chief Warrant Offi cer 5 with rocks about 2 inches in diameter. Soldiers and to combat, and not just to the infantry or challenges, Mark Jensen He then asked the Soldiers if the jar was units to perform combat arms community. Soldiers not but it has full. They agreed that it was. both state and only need to know how to shoot, they also been rewarding and satisfying. The So the crusty old warrant offi cer federal mis- need to be trained to shoot accurately and National Guard and our nation currently then picked up a box of pebbles and sions. I chal- consistently – this is noncommissioned face enemies with many faces, some we poured them into the jar. He shook the lenge all non- offi cer business. can touch and some we cannot. It will be jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled commissioned Command Sgt. Maj. Training standards are low when it through the efforts of patriots like Kan- into the open areas between the rocks. offi cers to step James Moberly comes to rifl e marksmanship. Typical cur- sas warrant offi cers that these adversar- He then asked the Soldiers again if the up and ensure rent training strategies have not evolved to ies will be overcome. jar was full. They agreed that it was. that all of our match the demands and environments we As the future causes our country and The Chief picked up a box of sand and Soldiers are properly trained on their as- place our Soldiers in regardless of their our military to change, I encourage you, poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand signed individual weapons and lead them MOS and are potentially positioning our the warrant offi cer, to remain steadfast to fi lled up everything else. He then asked by ensuring they are properly qualifi ed Soldiers for failure. The micromanage- the values and practices that have identi- once more if the jar was full. The Soldiers by enforcing the correct conditions and ment approach to ranges can result in Sol- fi ed you as the catalyst that keeps us responded with a unanimous “Yes.” standards. In the last edition of the Plains diers who do not learn to do what needs to strong. Continue to be the “go to” guy or The Chief then produced two cans of Guardian, Command Sgt. Major Manuel be done when it counts – when the stress gal, seek opportunities for more knowl- (Continued on Page 6) Rubio addressed “Four Vital Traits for is on. We still rod weapons on and off of NCOs.” I want to take this opportunity the range – true marksmen know this is to expand on all of these traits, especially a cardinal sin when handling weapons. technical and tactical profi ciency with More importantly, when Soldiers are Plains Guardian The PLAINS GUARDIAN iss published under the provisions of AR 360-1 360 1 for the personnel of the Kansas National Natio Guard. The editorial regards to weapons profi ciency within the deployed, there isn’t a safety noncommis- content of this publication is the responsibility of The Adjutant General’s Department PA Offi cer. Contents of the PLAINS GUARDIAN Kansas Army National Guard. sioned offi cer present to rod their weapons are not necessarily the offi cial view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of the Army or The Adjutant General’s Depart- ment. News, features, photographs and art materials are solicited from readers; however, utilization is at the discretion of the editorial staff. Noncommissioned offi cers are the pri- to ensure they are clear. They are required All photos must be high resolution and include complete caption information, including photographer’s name and rank. No paid advertise- mary trainers of enlisted Soldiers, crews to use clearing barrels or fi eld expedient ment will be accepted, nor will payment be made for contributions. and small teams and must provide and safe locations and clear their weapons to The deadline for all submission is the fi rst Wednesday of the month: February, April, June, August, October and December. Sub- missions may be e-mailed to Jane Welch ([email protected]). enforce standards-based, performance- standard. Circulation: Approximately 15,500 oriented, mission-focused training. We We require Soldiers to keep their Printed under contract with the U.S. Government Printing Offi ce have all heard the statement “train as you weapons “pointed up and downrange,” but Commander in Chief Public Affairs Offi ce Gov. Mark Parkinson Director will fi ght.” This isn’t just a neat sounding when deployed there are only two accept- Adjutant General of Kansas Sharon Watson (785) 274-1192 slogan, it is a fact. We must ensure that all able positions to carry their rifl e, the low- Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting Assistant Director Soldiers, regardless of unit of assignment ready or high-ready. Muzzle awareness is Editor Stephen D. Larson (785) 274-1194 or MOS, are trained on the fundamentals the most important because there often is Sharon Watson Administrative Assistant Production/Graphics/Writer of weapons profi ciency and trained for no clear down-range as the Soldiers are in Jane Welch (785) 274-1190 Stephen D. Larson today’s diverse operating environment. a 360-degree environment. The micro- FAX (785) 274-1622 Production Assistant email: [email protected] When shortfalls in individual and crew- management of ranges takes responsibility Jane Welch served weapons training, qualifi cation from the individual Soldier and creates a The Plains Guardian may be read online in PDF format and/or profi ciency are found, it must be fear of live ammunition. We must strive to http://www.Kansas.gov/ksadjutantgeneral. Click the link on the home page. For change of address, contact Jane Welch regarded as a failure on the part of the (Continued on Page 7) April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 5 “The bride was lovely in her Army Combat Uniform while the groom wore...” By Staff Sgt. Sara Bigelow, Staff Sgt. relationship. The sergeants were engaged Curtis Brown, and Spc. Adam Brown soon after their arrival at the United States Unit Public Affairs Representatives Army – Europe training area of Hohen- When Jennifer and Ryan were mar- fels, Germany. ried in August 2006, the dominant color The couple chose to be married during schemes for their wedding were lovely their deployment to honor their relationship shades of camoufl age green. Their atten- and the circumstance in which they met. dants’ accessories included M9 and M16A2 “We wanted to do something special, assault rifl es and M9 9mm handguns. that no one back home could ever do Jennifer and Ryan Cornelius are again,” Jennifer said. “Our wedding was sergeants in the Kansas National Guard. an experience, not just for us, but for our Their wedding took place while both friends in our companies, too.” were deployed to the former Serbian The wedding was conducted by a province of Kosovo. Sgt. Ryan Cornelius United Nations Mission in Kosovo civil- deployed with the 24th Medevac Kansas ian administrator in the stark former East- Army National Guard and Sgt. Jennifer ern European civil administration building Butler was with Company D, 1st Bat- in Uroševac/Ferizaj, a town located just a talion, 104th Aviation Attack supporting few miles west of Camp Bondsteel where the AH-64A Apache Attack helicopters they were stationed. with the Pennsylvania National Guard. Their unit leadership worked with them Their civilian marriage ceremony was to gain approval of the brigade command- witnessed by three of their battle bud- er for their marriage to be conducted. dies, who were authorized by the Kosovo Sgt. Ryan Cornelius and Sgt. Jennifer Butler were wed in August 2006 while de- After pre-marriage counseling conducted Force – Multinational Brigade East Task ployed to the former Serbian province of Kosovo. (Photo provided) by the task force chaplain on Camp Force Falcon commander. The witnesses The sergeants met during their pre- saw Ryan while he was eating ice cream Bondsteel, and two months of delays for also had the additional duty as the secu- mobilization training that was conducted with a fork. Jennifer says that she offered paperwork and mission essential activities rity detail for the couple. at Fort Hood, Texas. There Jennifer fi rst Ryan the use of a “cootie free spoon.” they were fi nally able to be married. The They soon became friends and as their chaplain was unable to attend the marriage Three-man team documented deployment progressed so did their (Continued on Page 7) military activities in Afghanistan Serving his country, serving the future By Spc. Amanda Gruber, Sgt. 1st Class gional Command East, located along the Sgt. Robert Diebert, Pfc. Kellie McKee wall, helping scouts of all ages learn to Tammy Lutze and Sgt. John S. West Pakistan border. and Pfc. Rochelle Rodriguez climb and rappel. After Jared crossed over Unit Public Affairs Representatives “One of the most dangerous areas in Af- After serving his country in Iraq; Spc. to the Boy Scouts, Williams became an A three-man team from the Kansas ghanistan was known as “Ambush Alley” Chancy Williams came home in February assistant scoutmaster to his son’s troop, Army National Guard recently returned because this area was ideal for an ambush 2005, and began volunteering his time to the Triconda District Boy Scout camping from a one-year deployment to Afghani- from the enemy,” said Gonzales, noting the Boy Scouts of Salina, Kan. chairman and a unit commissioner for four stan documenting U.S. military activities that “Ambush Alley” was located in the Growing up in Dallas, Texas, he was different units. He started going on every in that nation. Regional Command East area. involved in the Boy Scouts himself, joining campout that didn’t confl ict with his drills The Kansas Army National Guard’s There was also another area that was the Cub Scouts when he was eight years in the Army National Guard. 102nd Military History Detachment, primed for enemy attacks because of the old. He earned the Webelos badge and Ar- “The reason why I love volunteering comprised of Maj. Damon Frizzell, Gard- lay of the land. The area was known as row of Light and then crossed over to Boy is to be a good role model to some of the ner, commander; Staff Sgt. William Mc- the K G Pass. This area was surrounded Scouts at age 11. He stayed with the Boy kids that don’t have enough of them,” said Ginnis, Wichita, and Sgt. Gilbert Gonza- by mountains on both sides of a road that Scouts until the rank of Star Scout. Williams. “I love the scouting values.” les, Topeka, returned from Afghanistan ran directly between them that gave the While he was deployed, Williams’ son He believes that the National Guard in June 2009. This team was the only enemy an advantage from overhead. Jared joined the Cub Scouts as a Tiger helps him with teaching the children military historians in country from June “I was told that this area was not able Scout. His wife, Shannon, stepped up respect and showing them discipline and 2008-June 2009 and the only military to be held by any NATO forces until the and started volunteering in the scouting structure. Currently, Williams is assigned history team to deploy to Afghanistan American forces arrived,” said McGinnis. program, fi rst as a den leader, then as the to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, since 2002. There are only 25 such teams “After the arrival of our forces, we were committee chair. 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery and military-wide — one active duty, fi ve able to capture and hold this area. The When Williams returned from deploy- works full-time as a technician for Joint National Guard and 19 Army Reserve. Americans are the only force to ever be ment, he started going with his son to the Forces Headquarters, Topeka. The primary mission focus for this able to do this in the history of all wars den meetings. Soon he was asked to be Scouting is one of the important inter- team was to compile documents, critical that have taken place in this country.” the song and cheer chairperson. The next ests in this family because they do it as a data and military artifacts, and to conduct The units identifi ed for interviews and year he became the advancement chair. family. “It’s important for our family to interviews throughout Afghanistan in sup- the collection of data were determined He attended den meetings, helped with spend together and I feel like the scouts do port of the 101st Airborne Division. This by logistics, air assets, importance of a couple of Cub Scout day camps, even that for us. We also get out in the com- information was forwarded to the Center battle and other factors. Units selected to helping to run a few and went camping munity and make a difference to the kids for Military History and to the Center for interview and to collect data from were with the pack several times a year. He vol- that need someone to look up to like when Army Lessons Learned to enhance mili- approved by the director of Manpower unteered to get trained to run the climbing I was a kid.” tary data collected throughout history and and Personnel and then the chief of staff. to help future Soldiers to be more success- During this deployment, the 102nd ful on the battlefi eld. Military History team conducted more than Choreographic skills spill The team’s focus was on the Re- (Continued on Page 6) over to military job

By Col. Jerry Hanson, Spc. Stephanie team routines in 2007, the same year Hodges, Spc. Shanna Washington and she enlisted in the Washington National Pvt2 Molly Williams Guard as a supply specialist. As a supply Supplies dancing in the military specialist her tasks are to effectively, world are choreographed throughout a effi ciently and fl awlessly coordinate the theater of confusion and dilemmas. movement of supplies. Just as one would Spc. Daisy Salvalsa, a logistics sup- on a stage and during a performance, no ply specialist, practices this art for the mistakes, keeping organizations, indi- Kansas Army National Guard, and incor- viduals moving in group formations and porates this skill in her civilian life. time effectively. “I always remember dancing ever Her fi rst year in service was with since I was little,” said Salvalsa. “I never Company E, 181st Aviation, Washington had any training. However, during my National Guard. Later, she transferred to fi rst competition I won fi rst place.” the Kansas Army National Guard’s 35th Salvalsa started competing in dance Military Police, furthering her college as a sophomore at Ephrata High School education at Fort Hays State University. on a school dance team and branched She is majoring in interior design with out to include choreographing dance (Continued on Page 6)

The stories on this page were written by Kansas Guardsmen attending the 2010 Unit Public Affairs Representative class. The class is conducted one weekend Members of the 102nd Military History Detachment pause for a photo with un- each March to provide instruction on writing news releases and stories, taking identifi ed civilian contractors from India at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. From photographs, interacting with the news media and other aspects of public af- the left are Staff Sgt. William McGinnis, Maj. Damon Frizzell and Sgt. Gilbert fairs the representatives need to know to carry out this important duty. Gonzales. (Photo provided) Page 6 Plains Guardian • April 2010 Second Kansas Agribusiness Development Team deploys to Afghanistan A joint Kansas Army and Air National Guard team of approximately 60 person- “This focus is simply to nel were honored during a ceremony on help the Afghans help Jan. 14 as the second Kansas team to themselves, through the deploy to Afghanistan as an Agribusiness improvement of the agri- Development Team. The ceremony was held in Building 365, Kansas Regional cultural ecomony.” Training Center in Salina. Col. Michael Dittamo “It only makes sense that Kansas ADT #2 commander would be a part of such critical mis- sions as this one since agriculture is the backbone of our state’s economy,” said ththan ththose ttypically i ll undertaken d t k bby citizen iti Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas adjutant soldiers. general. “We are sending Guardsmen who “This focus is simply to help the work in the agriculture sector here and can Afghans help themselves,” said Dittamo, share their knowledge with the Afghan “through the improvement of the agricul- people, while still being able to protect tural ecomony. While focusing on the soft and fi ght, if necessary.” skills of mentoring and development with The team, commanded by Col. Michael our Afghan partners, the ADT retains a Dittamo, took over for the fi rst Kansas strong sword able to defend against and ADT team that deployed in March 2009 defeat our enemies.” and returned to Kansas in March 2010. “These Soldiers are ready,” he contin- Col. Michael Dittamo (right) commander of Agribusiness Development Team #2, “These right here are the fi nest of ued. “These Airmen are ready… they’re and Sgt. Maj. Dennis Holder receive a Kansas fl ag from Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas and the fi nest of America,” said ready to execute a mission. I have faith the adjutant general, to fl y over the team’s headquarters in Afghanistan. (Photo by Bunting. “You won’t go anywhere in your and confi dence that the Ag Team will be Staff Sgt. Tim Traynor) life and see better Soldiers and Airmen.” more than capable of carrying the day in Bunting presented a Kansas fl ag that Afghanistan and excelling.” had fl own over the Kansas Statehouse to ADT # 2 will work in conjunction Springtime safety begins Dittamo charging him to fl y it over the with the Provincial Reconstruction Team, team’s headquarters in Afghanistan. USAID, U.S. Department of Agriculture, “There is nothing more important than the State Department and other agencies with the proper protection this fl ag,” said Bunting, “You will take in Afghanistan’s Laghman Province to By Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Marvin Terhune tinted lenses. A face shield could also be this fl ag and you will fl y it, not as the fl ag assist in building capabilities for increased State Safety Manager added with safety glasses to afford added of Afghanistan, but as a symbol to anyone agricultural production, training and Springtime has fi nally arrived in Kan- protection especially when operating a who comes around that there are Kansans services, and improving the safety of food sas. With the change of seasons, we move “weed whacker.” in this area that have put their lives at risk and other agricultural products that are our activities Hearing protection is a must for operat- to help you fi nd a better way.” produced and distributed to the Afghan outside to begin ing anything with an engine. A good rule “With sword or plow. That’s our mot- people. They will also assist in the de- lawn work and of thumb is that if you have to raise your to,” said Dittamo, explaining it was meant velopment of sustainable agriculture and plant gardens. voice to speak over the noise, then you to evoke an image of the citizen soldier, other related enterprises that will increase The “spring probably require hearing protection. Foam leaving his plow in the fi eld and taking the economic well-being of the Afghans. clean up” is an earplugs are a good choice or, for ease, up arms to defend his country, as well as The Kansas National Guard is per- annual right of “Mickey Mouse” earmuffs are an option. an allusion to Bible verses that speak of forming this mission in partnership with passage into the Gloves should be used whenever “beating one’s sword into a plowshare and Kansas State University over a three-year new season. handling items creates a hazard. Remem- moving toward peace.” period to build continuity and relation- This year, let ber when using fertilizers, weed killers or Dittamo also said the motto is a re- ships with local and regional Afghan us all start out other chemicals to read the manufacturer’s minder the mission is somewhat different individuals and leaders. on the “right Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 “Material Safety Data Sheet” that is post- foot” that in- Marvin Terhune ed on the label of the product or available 102nd Military History Detachment cludes protecting from the store, when requested. Select the Continued from Page 5 running for any cover I could fi nd.” ourselves while we are working. The best correct type of glove for the job. 35 missions and more than 500 interviews, At another time, during a visit to way to start is to have a small inventory of Enjoy your activities this spring and took more than 6,000 photographs and another forward operating base, Frizzell personnel protective equipment available, remember to protect yourself and your collected in excess of 500 gigabytes of encountered an attack involving mortar including eye, hearing and hand protection. family by using personnel protective electronic data. While collecting this infor- and rocket fi re. Eye protection is easily obtained by the equipment! mation in Afghanistan, there were many “I was packing to move to another lo- purchase of safety glasses with clear or Be Safe! enemy mortar and rocket fi re attacks on the cation and the attack began,” said Frizzell. forward operating bases this team visited. “When the Soldiers that were involved When the team fi rst arrived in country in returning fi re actually operated the Chief Corner: A farewell message these attacks really got their attention. equipment, the vibration would cause the Continued from Page 4 your life. If you spend all your time and However, by the time they were ready to fi llings in their teeth to become loose and beer from under the table and proceeded energy on the small stuff, you will never leave Afghanistan, the attacks became, in they would have to visit the dentist.” to pour the entire contents into the jar ef- have room for the things that are impor- Gonzales’ words, “no big deal.” The collection of the data from this fectively fi lling the empty space between tant to you.” “At one point, the ammunition dump deployment will be benefi cial to the 101st the sand. The Soldiers laughed. “Pay attention to the things that are was hit by incoming mortar fi re and when Airborne Division, the Soldiers in the unit, “Now,” said the Chief, as the laughter critical to your happiness. Play with your it exploded I thought ‘Man, that was really their families, and the Kansas Army Na- subsided, “I want you to recognize that children! Take time to get medical check- close!’” Gonzales recalled. “When I fi rst tional Guard, preserving valuable military this jar represents your life. The rocks are ups. Take your partner dancing. There got to Afghanistan, I would have been history for future generations. the important things – your family, your will always be time to go to work, clean partner, your health and your children – the house, give a dinner party and fi x the things that if everything else was lost and disposal.” only they remained, your life would still “Take care of the rocks fi rst – the be full.” things that really matter,” he concluded. “The pebbles are the other things that “Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.” matter, like your job, your house, and your One of the Soldiers raised his hand and car,” he said. “The sand is everything else. inquired what the beer represented. The small stuff.” The Chief smiled. “I’m glad you asked. “If you put the sand in the jar fi rst,” It just goes to show you that no matter he continued, “there is no room for the how full your life may seem… there’s pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for always room for a couple of beers.” Choreographic skills spill over Continued from Page 5 won fi rst and second place in 2007 for an emphasis on architecture and a minor individual drill down, in the following year in business. a second place medal, the Washington State Salvalsa enjoys choreographing and Dancer for the Liberty Bowl in 2007 for the dancing to hip hop and other forms of half-time show, State Academic Champion dancing. Medal and captain her senior year 2008. Although she is no longer a member Salvalsa says, “With the skills ac- of the Ephrata Dance Team she continues quired and experiences attained through Sgt. Gilbert Gonzales, 102nd Military History Detachment, caught up on some to assist in choreographing performances, being in logistics for the Army National sleep during a Chinook fl ight to Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Gonzales was part of a and other small activities, helping her Guard, as well as dance techniques and three-man team documenting U.S. military activities in Afghanistan, a task that hometown community. abilities, I hope to one day have my own entailed many hours of fl ight time across the country. (Photo provided) Throughout her high school career she dance studio.” April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 7 Guardsmen compete for Soldier, Noncommissioned Offi cer of the Year By Spc. Angie M. Mooneyham this march in record time of two hours and 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment 30 minutes. As the fi nal night of the competition As the day continued, with a quick drew to a close, a lone Soldier franti- lunch and a fresh change of bandages cally assembled an M-249 light machine for the blisters, the Soldiers completed gun amid the shadows cast from the dim a seven-point course along with land headlights of a government van. Slumped navigation. inside were other Soldiers, exhausted Weapons, weapons and more weapons from the previous days, yet anxious for were in store for day three as the Soldiers the morning hours to arrive with the an- traveled to the range. The Soldier’s mis- nouncement of the NCO and Soldier of sion was not to qualify, but to zero their the Year Award. M-16 and to hit more targets than their The Noncommissioned Offi cer and fellow Soldiers. Soldier of the Year competition were held Then on to the special event, where the simultaneously at the Kansas Regional Soldiers demonstrated their warrior tasks Training Institute, Salina, Kan, for four by dragging a 180 pound dummy and stra- days in November 2009. tegically fi ring at a target with an M-16 Command Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson rifl e and 9mm handgun while running a was the senior command sergeant major designated course. overseeing the event. He said that, in Once the special event was concluded, prior years, competitors would just appear the Soldiers were tested on their overall before review boards and answer ques- knowledge of weapons by disassembling, tions. Sgt. Chase Taylor runs during the 12-mile ruck march as part of the Noncommis- trouble shooting and reassembling numer- “For the last three to four years they sioned Offi cer of the Year competition, held in Salina last November. (Photo by ous weapons ranging from a .50 caliber have made it event-driven and board Spc. Angie Mooneyham, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) machinegun to a 9mm. driven,” said Peterson. Soldiers who battled for the Soldier of Kyle Wyres, 772nd Engineer Company. The Soldiers also explained how To qualify for the either competition, the Year were Spc. Colton Carlson, 995th For Noncommissioned Offi cer of the year to capture and detain a hostage, were each battalion conducted their own pre- Maintance Company; Spc. Roberto Ravelo, the competitors were Sgt. Chase Taylor, quizzed on their familiarization of combat liminary boards to determine a representa- Company E, 1st Battalion, 108th Avia- Detachment 1, Headquarters and Head- life-saving techniques and demonstrated tive, along with an alternative, who then tion; Spc. Michael Collins, Battery B, 1st quarters Company, 2nd Combined Arms how to detonate a mock claymore mine. competed at the state board, said Peterson. Battalion, 161st Field Artillery and Spc. Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment and The competition concluded on day four Sgt. Adler Ladewig, Detachment 2, Battery with a Class A Board inspection and the A, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. announcement of this year’s NCO and The Soldiers had begun the competi- Soldier of the Year recipients. Sgt. Chase tion with a little friendly rivalry between A. Taylor was named the Kansas National one another for the highest scores in nu- Guard’s Noncommissioned Offi cer and merous events, starting from the moment Spc. Kyle Wyres was the Kansas National they in-processed, followed immediately Guard’s Soldier of the Year. with a standard Army Physical Fitness Both Soldiers will compete tirelessly Test, concluding the day with a 25-ques- through the blisters and the brass for the tion exam and essay. regional titles at the Louisiana Regional Day two, the longest and most chal- Training Institute in June 2010. Soldiers lenging day for most Soldiers and their from Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Ar- feet, consisted of a 12-mile road march. kansas, Louisiana, Texas and Oklahoma Soldiers were allotted three hours to will contend for the chance to advance to complete the march while carrying a 35 the National Guard Bureau, followed by pound ruck sack and a standard Army- a competition for the ultimate title of the issued M-16 weapon. Ravelo completed Army Soldier and NCO of the Year. Soldiers wed in Kosovo Continued from Page 5 Their marriage survived seven months due to other mission requirements. of separate accommodations while sta- Spc. Kyle Wyres performs a functions check on a Mk 19, 40mm grenade launcher Their marriage, by this authority, can- tioned together at Camp Bondsteel. during the Soldier of the Year competition. (Photo by Spc. Angie Mooneyham, not be repeated today, since Kosovo is “It was a long seven months until Ryan 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) now an independent country, no longer and I could live under the same roof,” Jen- under direct United Nations Mission in nifer said with a smile. Kosovo control. Jennifer and Ryan wanted to settle in “Our marriage certifi cate is in three Pennsylvania after their return from active different languages (Serbian, Albanian duty, but Ryan soon felt the call to return and English) and it took three interpret- to his home state of Kansas. Today they ers, before it could be offi cial,” described live in Abilene, Kan., with their children Jennifer. A copy of their license remains Noah, 8 and Zoiee, 2. Both continue to on fi le with the U.N. and a hand written serve in the Kansas National Guard, Jenni- civil record remains with the new civilian fer with the the 1st Battalion, 108th Avia- government of Ferizaj. tion and Ryan with the171st Medevac. Weapons profi ciency Continued from Page 4 form functions checks and correct ensure safe training of our Soldiers while malfunctions on their assigned using initiative to instill confi dence in our weapon(s), Soldiers. • Changes magazines smoothly in all We must ensure that our Soldiers aren’t conditions without losing magazines just qualifi ed to the minimum standard, and but that they can effectively engage tar- • Can perform proper Preventive gets under stress. Army Warrior Task 1 – Maintenance Checks and Services on Qualify with Individual Assigned Weapon all assigned weapons, optics, night – also requires that Soldiers demonstrate vision devices and aiming lights, their ability to handle their weapons com- to include identifi cation and proper petently, confi dently and safely. Noncom- reporting of defi ciencies and ensur- missioned offi cers must ensure that their ing that defi ciencies are corrected in Soldiers are able to: a timely manner at the proper level of • Perform tasks and handle their as- support. signed weapon(s) without negligent We must and can do better with the discharges, overall weapons profi ciency within the • Correctly clear their assigned Kansas Army National Guard. Ensure weapon(s) without coaching, that you know and understand the correct • Correctly move between weapon standards. statuses (green, amber, red), Our Soldiers have performed magnifi - • Constantly display muzzle, safety- cently and without fail on every mission selector and trigger-fi nger awareness, assigned since 9-11, let’s take it to the • Can disassemble, assemble, per- next level. I’ll see you at the range! Page 8 Plains Guardian • April 2010 Joint exercise tests U.S. and Korean military, strengthens friendships By Cadet Sherridan M. Franklin worked on every day,” said Lt. Col. Dave 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs Johnson, division operations offi cer. “Ka chi gap si da.” In English, it means A small team conducted a one-week “We go together” and signifi es a very deep site survey in Korea in January. commitment. “The site survey was critical to the Approximately 135 Soldiers from the success we experienced preparing for this 35th Infantry Division Headquarters, Fort deployment,” said Johnson. “We actually Leavenworth, Kan., gained great apprecia- walked the ground we would use during tion for this mantra when they deployed to the exercise and met the people we’d be Camp Long, South Korea, March 4, 2010, working with.” to conduct Operation Key Resolve with Communication in multinational the First Republic of Korea Army. operations can be challenging. Korean Operation Key Resolve is an an- augmentees to the U.S. Army are used as nual high-profi le joint military exercise interpreters to facilitate communication conducted by U.S. and ROK forces. It between U.S. units, the ROK Army and is designed to enhance readiness and the Korean civilians. Eight Korean augmen- ability to defend the Republic of Korea tees were assigned to the 35th ID and and strengthen the alliance between the were crucial to the success of the division. two nations. The exercise provided valu- “One of the differences of working with able training to South Korean and 35th another army is that they don’t always ID service members and improved the understand what is written or said, so the ability of allied forces outside of Korea to interpreters are needed,” said Lt. Col. Eric quickly integrate into the Combined Forc- Staff Sgt. Antwoin Eischle, from the U.N. Command Security Battalion, briefs J. Ford, a 35th operations offi cer. “The es Command should an incident occur Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson and other offi cers and sergeants major from the 35th Korean Augmentees did an excellent job, that threatens the ROK. As a combined/ Infantry Division, on the layout of the Joint Security Area at Panmunjom and sur- that’s why they’re there. They did it well.” joint exercise, Key Resolve involved all rounding area of the demilitarized zone. U.S. military personnel who are not as- Sgt. Youngsuk Jung, Korean augmen- branches of the United States and ROK signed to the Joint Security Area are required to wear civilian clothing when tour- tee with the Army Liaison Team, said de- militaries. ing the demilitarized zone. (Photo by Lt. Col. Rick Peat, 35th ID Public Affairs) spite having occasional minor issues, joint Formerly called Reception, Staging, Soldiers made up the advance party that Guard units plan two to three years ahead forces in Korea get along well because Onward Movement and Integration, the left on Feb. 28 to receive and analyze for overseas training. The 35th ID had they truly care about each other. exercise was renamed three years ago to the classifi ed operations order from the just under three months to plan for this “Sometimes it’s not that easy to get refl ect the transition to a ROK-led pro- First Republic of Korea Army headquar- exercise. The division replaced January along with Americans because we have gram that will be complete in 2012. Key ters. The advance party also prepared the and February’s two-day drills with two some differences in our cultures,” Jung Resolve focuses on crisis management, exercise area in the command bunker so four-day drills to complete all the required said. “But I think the forces in Korea care maneuver and sustainment of forward that the main body could hit the ground training and Soldier readiness processing about each other and even though there forces during wartime situations. running. The main body assembled at 35th in time. are differences, we make a great team.” Eleven 35th Infantry Division Sol- ID headquarters for fi nal preparations on “Starting with notifi cation on Dec. 16, Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, the diers left ahead of the main body on Feb. March 2 and deployed on March 4. it was a non-stop process that the staff (Continued on Page 9) 23 to set up life support services for the The division received notifi cation main body and to coordinate for the ar- to participate in Operation Key Re- rival of the advance party. Twenty-one solve on Dec. 16, 2009. Normally, Passing the baton highly symbolic By 1st Lt. Jason Boothe resents a symbol of importance and 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs status among military leaders,” said To formally launch the 35th Infantry 1st Lt. Choong Seong Kim, Korean Division’s participation in Operation army interpreter for Jung. Key Resolve, Gen. Seung Jo Jung, First “It was an honor to receive on Republic of Korea Army commander, behalf of all the Soldiers I have presented Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, commanded in the past 40 years and commanding general of the 35th Infantry it was a ceremony I won’t forget,” Division, with an honorary Ji-hwi-bong said Pierson. (Commander’s Baton) on March 8, Operation Key Resolve 2010 is 2010. an annual joint combined exercise Originally designed as an ornament designed to demonstrate support for used to display status among military the Republic of Korea against for- leaders in Korea, the baton is a symbol eign aggression. It exercises the al- of command authority and responsibility liance’s ability to accept U.S. forces in the Korean Army given to new com- from outside of Korea. How these manders of battalion or larger size units forces are met at the airport, joined 35th Infantry Division staff conduct a joint planning meeting with offi cers from during their assumption of command with their equipment and integrated with the First Republic of Korea Army. The First Republic of Korea Army served as the ceremony. Korea-based units to carry out combined 35th ID’s higher headquarters during the Operation Key Resolve exercise held in “In the past, the baton often contained operations is evaluated. The exercise March 2010. (Photo by Lt. Col. Rick Peat, 35th ID Public Affairs) a sword for self-defense, but today rep- ended March 18, 2010.

Gen. Seung Jo Jung, First Republic of Korea Army commander, presented Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, commanding general of the 35th Infantry Divi- Capt. David Osborne, commanding general’s aide de camp, coordinates command sion, with an honorary Ji-hwi-bong (Commander’s Baton) on March 8, 2010. group commitments with 1st Lt. Jeung Kim from the 1st Republic of Korea Army. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Ki-Chang Lee, Republic of Korea Army) (Photo by Lt. Col. Rick Peat, 35th ID Public Affairs) April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 9 Mayor’s Cell provides foundation for 35th Division’s success By 1st Lt. Jason Boothe allowed the operation to run smoothly. 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs Part of that effort rested on the shoulders In today’s Army, having an effi cient of the advance party. Mayor’s Cell is an integral part of running The advance party was a group of an operation successfully. The Mayor’s soldiers that traveled to Korea prior to the Cell mission is often under-appreciated rest of the unit to arrange for basic neces- and even more often, misunderstood. sities to be met. They set the groundwork Great Mayor’s Cells receive little atten- so the rest of the unit had a place to eat, tion. sleep and operate upon their arrival. The Mayor’s Cell functions as a nerve “The advance party arranged for bar- center to the non-maneuver side of the racks, cots to sleep on, cell phones and division in wartime and during exercises vehicles,” said 1st Lt. Jessica Aguinaga. like Key Resolve. The Mayor’s Cell pro- “(We) also set up the medical clinic and vided essential support functions during coordinated with the dining facility to set the division’s March 4 to 21 deployment up hours for Soldiers to eat.” to Korea for Operation Key Resolve. The Any sergeant major or fi rst sergeant in Mayor’s Cell mission included medical, the Army will tell you that feeding troops staff duty and personnel accountability, as in the fi eld is one of the unit’s highest well as nonessential tasks such as arrang- priorities. Due to the continuous 24 hour ing transportation for troops on Morale operation that Key Resolve demanded, Welfare and Recreation trips to Seoul, the Mayor’s Cell also had two soldiers Korea. Key Resolve is a U.S.-Republic of whose sole focus was to provide food for Korea joint exercise held annually on the Sgt. Michael Mann, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th Infantry Di- the night shift. These Soldiers regularly Korean Peninsula involving all branches vision “Mayor’s Cell” dishes up midnight chow for Soldiers on the night shift dur- ensured that a hot meal was made and de- of the military. ing Operation Key Resolve. The dining facility on Camp Long was closed at night, livered to those soldiers who did not have The mission of the Mayor’s Cell ap- so 35th ID cooks prepared a midnight meal and brought it to the exercise area for the opportunity to eat during the regular pears simple on the surface, but is actually them. (Photo by Cadet Sherridan Franklin, 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs) dining facility hours. wide-ranging and complex when viewed One of the Mayor’s Cell’s key functions ing more serious than an ear-infection,” “We prepared 60 meals a night and from the inside. was to provide medical aid and support to Horsch said. took it over to them,” said Spc. Kevin “The Mayor’s Cell is the life support the 35th ID Soldiers and Korean augmen- The Mayor’s Cell also provided trans- Kirkwood, a cook for the 35th ID. “After for the division that provides crucial logis- tees to the U.S. Army at Camp Long. portation, when needed, for emergency we served them, we waited about two tics for mail services, food, housing, etc.” Maj. Cristal Horsch, a 35th ID physi- services. During the exercise, two Soldiers hours to make sure everyone had a chance said Sgt. 1st Class Ron Sutton, noncom- cian’s assistant attached to the Mayor’s received Red Cross messages that resulted to eat before we brought the food back missioned offi cer in charge of the Mayor’s Cell for Key Resolve, said there were very in an early departure for emergency leave and cleaned up.” Cell. “However, most of the time is spent few medical situations during the divi- from Korea. The Mayor’s Cell success- Making sure the Mayor’s Cell staff had taking care of Soldier issues and ‘putting sion’s time at Camp Long. fully coordinated efforts and provided what they needed to perform their jobs out fi res’.” “Luckily, we had no injuries and noth- transportation to get these Soldiers to the was the responsibility of Capt. Todd Lav- airport and back home to be with family. ery, Mayor’s Cell offi cer in charge. Getting the 35th ID to Korea and back “Our job in the Mayor’s Cell is to sup- home took a huge effort. Plans had to port the Soldiers so they don’t have any- be made for transportation to and from thing to worry about but the mission,” said Korea, the basic necessities of food and Lavery. “If we can do that, then we’ve shelter and a myriad of other details that helped the division complete its mission.”

Sgt. Richard Smith, a Soldier with 35th Infantry Division Headquarters, Fort Leavenworth, Kan., coordinates for the return home of a Soldier on emergency leave during his shift in the Mayor’s Cell. (Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Boothe, 35th ID Public Affairs) Maj. Cristal Horsch, a physician’s assistant with the 35th Infantry Division Head- quarters Mayor’s Cell, checks a Soldier during a follow-up visit to sick-call. The 35th ID Mayor’s Cell was the nerve center of the division during their deployment Joint exercise strengthens friendship to the Republic of Korea March 4-21, 2010, for Operation Key Resolve. (Photo by Continued from Page 8 pating in Key Resolve in Korea. 1st Lt. Jason Boothe, 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs) commanding general for the 35th Divi- Brig. Gen. Alex. E. Duckworth, 35th sion, said the exercise is essential to ROK Infantry Division deputy commanding Korean documentary features national security and demonstrates a deep general, said, overall, the exercise was a commitment to a U.S. ally. success. Not only did the division accom- “The Koreans live under the constant plish its goals and expand its capabilities, 35th Infantry Division threat of aggression from the north,” said the real world exercise gave all the Sol- By Lt. Col. Rick Peat mentary to present to the Korean people Pierson. “To the First Republic of Korea diers who participated a chance to hone 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs how the U.S. and Israeli reserve systems Army, this exercise is about protecting the their Soldier skills outside of the armory. The 35th Infantry Division will be work as compared to the present and pro- lives of their families and the existence of “NCOs need to know how to move live featured in a Republic of Korea documen- posed Republic of Korea reserve systems. their country. To us, it is a demonstration of formations instead of icons,” Duckworth tary about a United States reserve compo- The documentary fi lm crew consisted our deep commitment to a very close ally said. “Going through the thought process nent unit participating in Operation Key of four people: a producer, cameraman, to help them protect their families and their of what to do with weapons, personal Resolve 2010. writer and interpreter. Also helping to country.” hygiene, feeding plans, sleep plans and “We are honored to have been selected host the fi lm crew and to interpret was The 35th ID is also the subject of a movement plans; all those things you from among many reserve component units the Korean Army’s liaison offi cer to Fort ROK government documentary fi lm. don’t get when you move icons. So any- participating in Key Resolve/Foal Eagle Leavenworth, Lt. Col. Yoonkap Lim. Chosun Illbo, the Korean Daily News, time we get to get out of the armory and 2010,” said Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, According to the producer, Chung is producing a four-part documentary get away from our comfort zone and get 35th Infantry Division commander. Intaek, the documentary will be broadcast featuring the U.S. National Guard and the put in new environments where we have The Republic of Korea’s government in May 2010, consisting of four one-hour Israeli Reserves in an effort to change the to adapt is great.” would like to reduce the size of their ac- shows. The fi rst segment will feature the ROK’s reserve system. The Korean fi lm Soldiers from the 35th Infantry Divi- tive component military and bolster their 35th ID preparing for Operation Key Re- team visited Kansas to capture 35th ID’s sion made the 15-hour fl ight back home reserves. However, when they announced solve at home station in Fort Leavenworth, preparations for the Key Resolve deploy- and were reunited with their families these plans, their public responded unfa- Kan. The second segment will feature the ment and also fi lmed the division partici- March 21. vorably. They commissioned this docu- (Continued on Page 11) Page 10 Plains Guardian • April 2010 190th Civil Engineers draw on Greensburg experience in Haiti By Tech. Sgt. Emily Alley set up Expeditionary Medical Support. 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs “Having set up EMEDS in Greensburg, After a hot, dusty day of clearing de- we hit the ground in Haiti better pre- bris, building tents and doing jobs they’ve pared,” said Master Sgt. Casey Batterton, trained for years to perform, civil engi- who is a structures supervisor from the neers from the 190th Air Refueling Wing 190th ARW who served in both locations. stopped for dinner with other members of “We did mock set ups, a lot of training, the 24th Expeditionary Civil Engineering but Greensburg was the fi rst real world Squadron. Lt. Col. Mark Green, com- situation for us to use EMEDS,” recalled mander of the civil engineers in Kansas as Master Sgt. Brian Wohletz. well as the 121-person squadron in Haiti, Now, the current mission for the 190th joined his Airmen. ARW is also humanitarian. Wohletz The civil engineers hadn’t had a day described the perspective he’s gained off since they arrived in Haiti. Their wea- from helping in both the United States and riness was apparent, even under a stun- Haiti, “I feel fortunate to have a part in ning blood-red sunset. They pulled apart helping people who need it.” their MREs. Construction has several elements- Green paused and said slowly, “It’s heavy equipment, power production, been continuous, one long day since and many others - and it takes planning we’ve gotten here.” to coordinate all of those specialties. Their accomplishments in Haiti are not Greensburg also gave the civil engineers a unfamiliar. After the town of Greensburg realistic expectation of how quickly they was fl attened by a tornado a few years ago, could begin operations in Haiti. The medi- Kansas guardsmen were there, with a hu- cal team who took over EMEDS spent Civil engineers with the 190th Air Refueling Wing assemble an Expeditionary manitarian mission, to clear the roads and (Continued on Page 12) Medical System hospital in Haiti to provide space and equipment for doctors treat- ing medical emergencies in the earthquake-striken nation. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Firefi ghters train at Crisis City Emily Alley, 190th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs) Continued from Page 1 Technical Search and Rescue Special- intensive class, and using the facilities at ist Instructor Lt. Walter Lewis from the Coots selected as Crisis City manager the Great Plains makes it so convenient and Orlando, Fla., Fire Department served as Frank Coots has been selected as man- “Together, we will fulfi ll our vision of cost-effective for the state,” said Troyer. an instructor for the course at Crisis City, ager of Crisis City, a joint training facility Crisis City as the world-class training Additionally, the state’s seven Re- as well as in many other locations across located at the Great Plains Joint Training facility of choice specifi cally designed for gional Councils can send smaller groups the country. Center in Salina those who respond to our citizens in times of students to training without having to “I would absolutely come back to train that offers mul- of crisis.” fi ll a class within their own region. This here,” said Lewis. “The venues it offers tiple training Prior to accepting this position, Coots is more cost-effective and the savings is are going to be fantastic when they are all venues for law was a disaster planner for KDEM’s passed on to local departments in reduced completed. Nobody else offers the civilian enforcement, Plans and Mitigation section, where he overtime and schedule backfi ll for off-site and military joint training that the GPJTC search and res- was responsible for working with all training. has and in a national disaster you are go- cue, emergency local emergency management directors “The opportunity for fi re, rescue and ing to have that combination. Training in response and and coordinators to develop and update hazardous material training are huge here a joint environment prepares you better other profes- county emergency operations plans, local and we look forward to joint training with for the real world.” sions in both continuity of operations plans, and the our military partners,” said Troyer. the military Vulernable Populations Planning System and civilian Frank Coots for deployment statewide. During state arenas. Crisis disaster emergencies, Coots serves as the City is operated by the Kansas Division of emergency services branch chief or logis- Emergency Management, a division of the tics section chief, as needed. Adjutant General’s Department. “Frank possesses the right combination “I am excited by this opportunity to of emergency management and military work with true American heroes: our fi rst experience,” said Angee Morgan, deputy responders, National Guard servicemen director, Kansas Division of Emergency and women, and industry partners from Management. “These abilities are critical across America’s heartland,” said Coots. to the successful operation of Crisis City.” Camera will make the job a little safer

Capt. John Gertzen of the Salina Fire Department uses a search and rescue cam- era during a training session at the Crisis City training facility in Salina. (Photo by Maj. DeAnn Barr, Great Plains Joint Training Center)

A fi refi ghter from the Mission Township Fire Department, representing the Northeast Kansas Regional Council, accepts a Searchcam 3000 from Bill Bru- baker, Northeast Regional coordinator, Kansas Division of Emergency Manage- ment, a division of the Adjutant General’s Department. At left is Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general and director of KDEM and Kansas Homeland Security. At right is Angee Morgan, deputy diretor of KDEM. KDEM purchased eight of the cameras for the state’s Search and Rescue Task Forces. These units will be used to view void spaces or hazardous atmosphere areas for victims. One camera was given to each regional working group to de- Firefi ghter 2 John Irsik and Lt. Jason Bennett, Garden City Fire Department, cide which location would have possession. The eighth camera will be shared by receive instruction during a fi ve-day Technical Search and Rescue course held at Lawrence Fire and Kansas University Fire Rescue Training for training assign- the collapsed structure facility at Crisis City in Salina in March. (Photo by Maj. ments. (Photo by Sharon Watson, Public Affairs Offi ce) DeAnn Barr, Great Plains Joint Training Center) April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 11 Fallen Kansas Guardsmen inducted into NCO Hall of Fame By Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke Smith. “Our honorees were not just Sol- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment diers. They chose to be patriots.” In an emotionally charged and somber “Our honorees chose to be patriots be- ceremony, the inaugural induction of the cause they wanted to serve and defend not Kansas Army National Guard Noncom- only their country, but our way of life,” missioned Offi cer’s Hall of Fame was said Smith. “Just like our forefathers who conducted April 18, 2010, at the Kansas were part of the militia in the colonies and Regional Training Center, Salina, Kan. answered the call when the call was made, Ten soldiers who gave the ultimate our honorees answered the same call when sacrifi ce in the Global War on Terror com- disaster stuck. They were always there. prised the inaugural class. For many, it They were ready to serve.” was an honor that evoked both heartache This year’s inductees were: and pride as the inductees were memori- Sgt. 1st Class Clinton Wisdom en- alized, marking the establishment of the listed Nov. 4, 1986, into Headquarters and Noncommissioned Offi cer’s Hall of Fame. Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 130th “This was the right thing to do,” said Field Artillery. In January 2004, Wisdom Command Sgt. Maj. Glenn Peterson, state deployed with Battery B, 2nd Battalion, command sergeant major, Land Compo- 130th Field Artillery in support of Op- nent. “The Noncommissioned Offi cer Hall eration Iraqi Freedom. While providing of Fame will be here for all to bear witness security for a convoy during combat opera- to in the future. This place started our Non- tions in Baghdad, Iraq, Wisdom, with valor, commissioned Offi cers Academy. So, it is a gave his life protecting the convoy from a fi tting place that we are able to display our vehicle-borne improvised explosive device. Janet Wisdom and Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting unveil a plaque inducting Widsom’s hus- Soldiers and give them a place of honor.” Sgt. Don Clary enlisted in Febru- band, Sgt. 1st Class Clinton Wisdom, into the Noncommissioned Offi cer Hall of Fame. The brainchild of Command Sgt. Maj. ary 2000 with Detachment 1, Battery B, Wisdom was one of the fi rst two Kansas National Guardsmen killed in the line of duty John Ryan, 235th Regiment, the Hall of 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery. He during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During the ceremony, all Kansas Guardsmen killed Fame will be a place where outstanding deployed in January 2004 in support of in the line of duty since 2004 were inducted into the NCO Hall of Fame. (Photo by Sgt. noncommissioned offi cers who have made Operation Iraqi Freedom. While provid- 1st Class Phil Witzke, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) signifi cant contributions can be recog- ing security for a convoy during combat Lutters lost his life when his vehicle was 2005, Berry was awarded the Soldiers nized and serve as an example and as operations in Baghdad, Iraq, Clary, with struck by a vehicle-borne improvised Medal, when at great personal risk, he inspiration to others. valor, gave his life protecting the convoy explosive device. pulled a driver from a burning vehicle ac- Nothing could be truer of the inaugural from a vehicle-borne improvised explo- Sgt. Jessie Davila enlisted in May 2004 cident. Berry then deployed with Battery class of inductees. All gave their lives in sive device. into Detachment 1, Battery B, 1st Battal- B, 1st Battalion and 161st Field Artillery defense of freedom during operations in Sgt. Derrick Lutters enlisted in No- ion, 161st Field Artillery. Davila deployed in October 2005 in support of Operation either Iraq or Afghanistan and serve as a vember 1998 into Detachment 1, 170th September 2005 with Company A, 2nd Iraqi Freedom. He died during combat solemn reminder of the kind of sacrifi ces Maintenance Company. In December Battalion, 137th Infanty in support of Op- operations when he was struck by an Soldiers make on a daily basis. 2004, he deployed with Company A, 891st eration Iraqi Freedom. While on combat improvised explosive device. “Our honorees, I believe, understood Engineer Battalion in support of Opera- patrol in Iraq, Davila lost his life when Sgt. Courtney Finch enlisted in August fully what their duty was,” said retired tion Iraqi Freedom. While on a bridge a vehicle-borne improvised explosive 2002 into Headquarters and Headquarters State Command Sgt. Maj. Warren “Bud” and road reconnaissance combat mission, device exploded near his vehicle. Company, 35th Infantry Division, Kansas Cpl. John Wood enlisted in October Army National Guard. In June 2006, he Korean documentary features 35th ID 1988, joining Company D, 891st Engi- deployed with the 714th Security Forces Continued from Page 9 National Defense will be able to coordinate neer Battalion. In September 2004, Wood in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His 35th and other reserve component units for the fi lm crew to be allowed into First deployed with the 891st Engineer Battal- death was not combat-related. participating in the exercise in Korea from Republic of Korea Army headquarters.” ion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. 1st Class Travis Bachman enlisted March 8 through 20. The third and fourth Brig. Gen. Alex E. Duckworth, 35th Wood volunteered to extend his deploy- in November 1993 into Battery A, 1st segments will cover the Israeli system. ID deputy commanding general, said the ment and was attached to Headquarters Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. In June Due to the highly visible nature of documentary was a good opportunity for and Headquarters Company, 110th Engi- 2006, he deployed with the 714th Security this public documentary and the level of the Republic of Korea to see exactly how neer Battalion, Missouri Army National Forces, in support of Operation Iraqi Free- open access to the 35th ID, the Korean a great National Guard division runs. Guard. Wood lost his life during combat dom. While on a combat security patrol, documentary project required approval at “It’s interesting that the Koreans are operations when his vehicle was struck by Bachman lost his life when an improvised the highest levels. The approvals included looking at how other reserve branches an improvised explosive device. explosive device exploded near his vehicle. the Offi ce of the Secretary of Defense, the work and it’s good that they’re taking an Master Sgt. Bernard Deghand enlisted Cpl. Ronald Schmidt enlisted in Janu- Department of the Army’s Offi ce of the opportunity to interview experts,” Duck- in September 1986 into Company D, 2nd ary 2007 into Battery C, 1st Battalion, Chief of Public Affairs, 8th Army Com- worth said. Battalion, 137th Infantry. He deployed 161st Field Artillery. In October 2007, he manding General, National Guard Bureau, The Korean fi lm team spent fi ve days to Afghanistan in January 2006 with a deployed with the battalion in support of the Adjutant General of Kansas and the with the 35th ID during February at Fort Kansas Army National Guard Embedded Operation Iraqi Freedom. Schmidt died Commanding General of the 35th ID. Leavenworth, preparing for their deploy- Training Team in support of Operation while assigned as a vehicle gunner during According to Maj. Jungbum Hur, ment to Korea for Operation Key Resolve. Enduring Freedom. While conducting a combat patrol. National Guard Bureau liaison offi cer to They also covered the unit during the combat operations as part of Operation Nominations for future Hall of Fame in- 8th Army Headquarters, the 35th ID was exercise in March in Korea. They returned Mountain Fury, Deghand lost his life to ductions can be made in writing to the State chosen to be featured in the documentary to Kansas in April to gain additional video hostile enemy small arms fi re. Command Sergeant Major, Land Compo- because “their mission is ‘high-vis’ and of National Guard mobilization training, Staff Sgt. David Berry enlisted in April nent. Nomination information is available they have an internal PAO to coordinate covering the 2nd Combined Arms Bat- 1986 into Detachment 1, Company E, via the chain of command or by contacting with U.S. Forces Korea, 8th Army and talion, 137th Infantry Regiment preparing 1st Battalion, 137th Infantry. In February the Land Component sergeant major. Republic of Korea. Also, since they will for deployment to the Horn of Africa at be supporting the First Republic of Korea the Great Plains Joint Regional Training Army, the Republic of Korea Ministry of Center in Salina and at Fort Riley. Gates recalls Kansas roots Continued from Page 1 the honest and emotional way he deliv- speech really impressed and motivated ered his speech. I really enjoyed what he me and I was very pleased to fi nd out that had to say.” his Kansas common sense still seems to State Command Sgt. Maj. Scott be with him, even after all the years he’s Haworth said Gates’ speech was one spent in Washington, D.C., away from his of the most touching he had ever heard home state.” because he realized the close ties the two Gates acknowledged the state’s 149th share. birthday as he accepted the Distinguished “It’s ironic,” said Haworth, “to fi nd out Kansan Award in a speech speckled with how small a world it is. I never realized humorous anecdotes. it before, but his family had relocated to “In Topeka,” said Gates, “unlike Pratt, Kansas, where he was raised, so he Washington, you are unlikely to see a is like a neighbor. I suppose a lot of those prominent person walking down Lover’s kids named Gates I went to school with Lane holding his own hand. Washington, are his relatives. It makes me feel good to after all, is the place where those traveling see that even if you are from a small town, the high road of humility encounter little such as Pratt, and you live in a state that heavy traffi c.” most of the world thinks is a nondescript “It is impressive to see a cabinet mem- state, such as Kansas, that with hard work, Master Sgt. Roy Cummins is interviewed by a Korean documentary fi lm team ber give such a heartfelt and emotional education and drive you can be a good about his experiences in the National Guard and at Operation Key Resolve. The summary on their native roots here in infl uence in how our country is governed documentary about the U.S. reserve system prominently features the 35th Infantry Kansas,” said Col. Robert Windham, and benefi t our society to become better.” Division. The fi lm team covered the division preparing for the deployment at home commander for the 635th Regiment. To view Secretary Gates’s speech in its station and participating in the actual exercise in Korea. The documentary will air “You could tell the love he has for Kan- entirety, visit website; http://www.defense. on Korean TV in May. (Photo by Lt. Col. Rick Peat, 35th ID Public Affairs) sas and really came to understand him in gov/speeches/speech.spx?speechid=1415. Page 12 Plains Guardian • April 2010 Strong Bonds help hold Army families together By Staff Sgt. Michael Green and Cadet that although it’s only from Friday night Sherridan M. Franklin through Sunday around noon, the getaway 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs is enjoyable and refreshing. The Army National Guard Strong “This has been a wonderful experi- Bonds program, sponsored and endorsed ence,” said Dawn Moler of Coffeyville, by unit chaplains, believes the number one Kan. after a weekend retreat with her hus- obstacle to Warrior readiness is a poor fam- band, Sgt. Roger Moler. “We both feel a ily bond. The program encourages stronger sense of refreshment – rebirth – whatever relationships by providing weekend retreats you want to call it, in our marriage and for Soldiers and their spouses to combat commitment to each other. I will encour- the strain of deployments and family sepa- age every military couple I know to attend ration that the Army adds to marriages. these retreats.” Strong Bonds events attempt to enhance Potter said spouses are encouraged communication between Soldiers and their to go out on a date, spend quality time spouses in order to strengthen marriages together and enjoy themselves as part of and help Soldiers serve with greater confi - the retreat’s homework. dence on the battlefi eld. Chaplain (Capt.) The Strong Bonds program is designed John Potter, the full-time Joint Forces as a preventative measure against the Support Chaplain in Topeka, Kan., has strain Army life can have on families. sponsored Strong Bonds events since 2005 It not only helps spouses develop better and said the retreats are especially focused communication, but also gives them a on those preparing to go overseas or for support channel through the chaplains and those who have recently returned from a sponsors who are available for counseling. Staff Sgt. Diana Starr and Scott Starr practice the speaker-listener technique deployment. The focus is on the Soldiers’ Potter said 93 percent of couples who taught at the Strong Bonds seminar. (Photo provided) reintegration into their family. have attended Strong Bonds events report and he encourages other Soldiers to attend port Chaplain assistant. Participants in the weekend retreat say signifi cant improvement in their marriages a retreat. “Travel and lodging are taken Soldiers interested in the program can care of by the Strong Bonds program contact the State Chaplains Offi ce, their unit funds and units may also be able to put chaplain or go to www.strongbonds.org for Law school selects Guardsman Soldiers on orders for these events,” said more information or to register for any of for promotional campaign Sgt. Michael McClellan, Joint Forces Sup- the four retreats held each year. By 1st Lt. Jason Boothe fi nd someone better to represent us than Adjutant general presents Kansas 35th Division Public Affairs Sgt. Vu-Peck. She is competent, confi - When the Washburn University School dent, and personable. She is what we want National Guard Patriot Medal of Law recently decided to promote itself, Washburn students and faculty to think of Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, Kansas conceived, Tim has been a good friend they wanted to put their best foot forward. when they think of the National Guard.” adjutant general, presented the fi rst-ever and supporter of the Kansas National In doing so, they selected Sgt. Hanh Vu- The road to success has not been Kansas National Guard Patriot Medal to Guard. This medal is just a small token of Peck, a 35th Infantry Division Soldier, to an easy one for Vu-Peck. Simultane- Tim Rogers, the recognition he deserves for his many be photographed as part of Washburn’s ously working towards both her law and executive direc- efforts on our behalf.” recruiting campaign. Vu-Peck appears master’s degrees, she is putting herself tor of the Salina Included in the dignitaries who wit- on a bookmark distributed as part of the through college by taking full advantage Airport Author- nessed the presentation was Gen. Craig school marketing program. of a Reserve Forces Scholarship through ity, during a McKinley, chief of the National Guard Vu-Peck , whose photo was taken dur- the National Guard, Army ROTC and the brief ceremony Bureau, who was in Salina to tour the ing oral arguments in one of her law school Post-9/11 GI Bill. on March 26. Great Plains Joint Training Center. classes, was chosen after she responded Vu-Peck was born in Saigon, Vietnam, The citation In addition to supporting the center, the positively to an ad for students willing to in 1984. She is the fi fth of six children. Her accompanying Salina Airport Authority is involved in the appear in a Washburn recruiting effort. family moved to the United States in 1994, the medal said Governor’s Military Affairs Council. Rog- “I received a school-wide email look- when she was nine. After settling in Dodge the award was ers’ citation also makes note that Rogers ing for a mix of students throughout the City, Kan., it took Vu-Peck one year to presented for Timothy Rogers “…has facilitated the Salina Municipal population willing to be used in photos in learn English. Later, while attending Dodge Rogers’ “im- Airport to function seamlessly as a for- the school’s advertising campaign,” Vu- City High School, she studied and became measurable support to Great Plains Joint ward operating location for Canadian and Peck said. fl uent in French, allowing her to study Training Center and the Kansas National U.S. military personnel using the Great While she has spent the last four years abroad in France from 2002 to 2004. Guard.” Plains Joint Training Center facilities and at the Kansas Army National Guard’s She intends to work in the fi eld of “When you’re trying to accomplish a ranges.” Other support initiatives include 35th ID as a human resources specialist, International Relations or International project as large and comprehensive as the the construction of a weapons storage Vu-Peck is hoping to transfer to the Staff Law. Currently in the Simultaneous Great Plains Joint Training Center, you area, hot arm area (a safe area to arm Judge Advocate Offi ce in Topeka. Those Membership Program in the Kansas Army need to have someone in your corner will- munitions prior to take off) and additional at the 35th ID who know her are not National Guard, she is attending Wash- ing to work with you to get the job done,” hangar that will enhance the capabilities surprised that Washburn chose her over so burn University School of Law and is said Bunting. “Long before the center was of the Kansas National Guard. many others. also enrolled in the University of Kansas “I think Washburn made an excellent Army Reserve Offi cer Training Corps. 190th supports MIA recovery mission choice in picking Vu-Peck,” said Lt. Col. Vu-Peck is on course to graduate and be Jon Shafer, Vu-Peck’s supervisor at the commissioned as a second lieutenant in Continued from Page 2 promise to bring home its fallen.” 35th ID. “We would be hard-pressed to May 2010. have to be from an immediate family mem- The importance of the JPAC mission ber - a nephew, niece or grandchild’s DNA was not lost on the members of the 190th. will be able to provide enough evidence to “I think people forget that we still have ser- make a positive identifi cation. vice members over there and their families Smith says it is critical that blood still miss them,” said Westergren. “While I relatives of MIAs provide a DNA sample might not be the team they send over to lo- for comparison. “Unfortunately, we have cate the remains, or the team than recovers remains that we can’t identify because we the remains, or identifi es them, I was a part don’t have a DNA sample from their rela- of the team that made that possible.” tives.” More information about providing Ray says it is the best feeling in the DNA samples can be found on the JPAC world when they make a positive identifi - Web site at www.jpac.pacom.mil. cation and reunite the servicemember with Each of the missions last approximate- their family. “This is the most rewarding ly 45 days, but that is a small sacrifi ce job I have ever had - I couldn’t think of for Smith. “This is America keeping its doing anything else.” 190th Civil Engineers in Haiti Continued from Page 10 EMEDS in Haiti. As her team had fi n- two days setting up one tent before CE ished, the medical commander approached arrived. The Kansas Guardsmen set up a them and declared, “Do you realize what functional EMEDS in a matter of hours. you’ve just done? You’ve built a hospital.” The team was more thoroughly self- Green is proud of the adaptability of suffi cient in Haiti. They had to provide his Airmen, “They’ve learned how to their own power, their own water. There better evolve into a productive team,” he Sgt. Hanh Vu-Peck, whose image appears on a bookmark (right) distributed as was no home improvement store they said. “It’s rewarding to me, as a com- part of a promotional campaign by the Washburn University School of Law, is a could drive to if they forgot supplies. mander, to see how well they respond. human resource specialist with the 35th Infantry Division. (Photo by 1st Lt. Jason Master Sgt. Carren Christianson, We’ve proven we’re not only valuable for Booth, 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs) from the 190th ARW, described building domestic response, but also international.” April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 13 Wheeler retires after 36-years: “It was never like having to work” By Maj. Mike Wallace, National Guard now employ. David listened to what they had to say.” over the years, such as platoon leader, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment “But, I’ve been lucky. There’s a secret “I look back on all the people I’ve executive offi cer, personnel staff offi cer, Serving for more than 36 years in the I have to tell, I’ve never really worked, trained and have a good feeling on seeing senior TAC offi cer, engineer equipment military, Col. David “Joe” Wheeler, the because I’ve always enjoyed what I’ve how many are doing great with their jobs offi cer, assistant operations offi cer, com- Kansas National Guard Joint Chief of done—so it was never like having to and their careers,” Wheeler continued. mander, personnel offi cer, intelligence Staff, retired and was awarded the Legion work. I surrounded myself with good “Also, the Guard has been good to me— offi cer, deputy commander, joint opera- of Merit and given numerous other ac- noncommissioned offi cers and staff and it’s paid for all my travel and education—I tions offi cer and chief of staff for the land colades for his achievements during a guess it was meant to be. My mom can component, Kansas Army National Guard ceremony held for him by the Adjutant tell you, when I was only eight-years-old, before his last assignment. General of Kansas, Maj. Gen. Tod M. I was digging foxholes and playing Army, Besides OCS, he attended many Bunting, at the Nickell Armory in Topeka so I guess it was destiny.” military schools—Engineer Offi cer Basic on Saturday, April 10, 2010. Wheeler followed his father’s foot- Course, Recruiting and Retention course, “We’re losing one of the crutches that steps for a military life by enlisting in TAC Offi cer Training Program, Engineer the Kansas National Guard has had for 36 the Army on Feb. 28, 1974, as a crawler Offi cer Advance Course, Command and years,” said Bunting. “We are extremely tractor operator. A year and a half later, he General Staff College, Nuclear/Biological/ lucky that Col. Wheeler put on this uni- decided that he would become an offi cer, Chemical Offi cer’s Course (where he was form 36 years ago, because he’s left an getting his commission from the Offi cer the Honor Graduate), National Security indelible and impressionable mark on the Candidate School on June 19, 1976, and Course, the United States Army War Col- Kansas National Guard.” accepting the position as platoon leader, lege and many others, while still earning Wheeler was awarded the Legion of Company D, 891st Engineer Battalion. a Bachelor of Science degree and two Merit for his distinguished accomplish- He served in numerous other positions master’s degrees. ments throughout his career. According to the Secretary of the Army, Lt. Gen. “We lost a hero today” Thomas G. Miller, Wheeler deserves the award for his character and energy that Col. James Trafton dies in traffi c motivated his subordinates and estab- lished a reputation for excellence, Soldier accident on Kansas Turnpike care and mission accomplishment for all to emulate. By Stephen D. Larson comes along, but Jimmy was a one of a Wheeler also received a certifi cate Public Affairs Offi ce kind guy and his loss is immeasurable.” of appreciation from President Obama Three volleys of rifl e shots cut through It was a sentiment echoed time and expressing thanks and appreciation for his the air. A trumpet played the ringing, sol- again by those who knew him. commitment and dedication. emn notes of “Taps.” A United States fl ag “It is a great loss, not only to the men Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson sent a was carefully and women of the Kansas National Guard, letter of acknowledgement and stated that and respect- but to the entire state and entire country,” he knew that Wheeler’s family had also fully folded and said Lt. Col. Anthony Mohatt. “We lost a sacrifi ced much for the state and nation’s presented. hero today.” security during Wheeler’s 36 years of ser- Col. James Among those he served with, Trafton vice. He thanked them and said that they, Trafton proudly was remembered as a skilled and dedicat- and Wheeler, with their dedicated service served his ed leader, keenly interested in the welfare and spirit, would leave a lasting impres- country for 37 of his troops. sion with all those Wheeler served with. years, starting “With Colonel Trafton, it didn’t matter Wheeler, in his known humble man- as an infantry what task he was handed,” said Maj. Steve ner, spoke at the end of the ceremony. He Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting presents the Le- platoon private Denney, “he embraced it with great vigor commented on how things have worked gion of Merit medal to Col. David “Joe” in Vietnam and Col. James Trafton and enthusiasm.” out during his career. Wheeler during a retirement ceremony culminating his “Anyone would greatly work for him “I was ‘joint’ before ‘joint’ was cool,” honoring Wheeler on April 10. (Photo combat career with a tour of duty in Iraq because they knew that if they needed Wheeler said, referring to the team rela- by Maj. Mike Wallace, 105th Public Af- as commander of the Kansas National something from him as a commander, tionships that the Kansas Army and Air fairs Detachment) Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 137th Infantry. he would speak to that private or that Along the way he earned the Legion of specialist,” continued Denney. “I prob- Merit, two Bronze Stars, four Meritorious ably haven’t met a commander that cared Veterans educational benefi ts Service Medals, two Combat Infantry- for his soldiers more that what Colonel Continued from Page 3 Post 9/11 Montgomery GI Bill, which man’s Badges—an achievement he was Trafton cared for his.” student population was no longer limited came into effect recently. The Post-9/11 particularly proud of—and numerous But as much as his professionalism as a to those between the ages of 18 and 23. GI Bill provides fi nancial support for other awards. Trafton retired from the leader, Trafton’s measure was marked by Veterans were eager to learn and had a education and housing to individuals with Kansas National Guard in 2008, looking the kind of man he was. greater sense of maturity, in comparison at least 90 days of aggregate service on forward to his retirement years of spend- “I believe that Jim infl uenced everyone to the traditional student. Finally, the idea or after Sept. 11, 2001, or individuals dis- ing more time with his family, hunting, he met in a positive way,” said Col. Cliff that higher education was a privilege of charged with a service-connected disabil- fi shing and riding his motorcycle. Silsby, who was a long-time personal friend. the well-born elite was fi nally shattered. ity after 30 days. You must have received But what war could not do, a turnpike “He was a personable, down-to-earth Changes in the Bill an honorable discharge to be eligible for accident did. James Trafton died April 5 as person that was a colonel, but didn’t act By the end of the initial period pre- the Post-9/11 GI Bill. the result of injuries sustained in a motor- that way,” said Mohatt. “He wasn’t real scribed by the original legislation in 1957, As of Aug. 1, 2009, the Post-9/11 GI cyle accident on Easter Sunday. fl ashy or proper and concerned about the bill had been stripped in the Veterans Bill is effective for training. Approved Attended by family, friends and fellow that stuff. He was more concerned about Adjustment Act of 1952. Under the new training under the bill includes graduate soldiers and accorded the full military people and taking care of that.” law, the government no longer paid tuition and undergraduate degrees, and vocation- honors he earned, Trafton was laid to “When you have a great man like Colo- directly to institutions of higher learning; al/technical training. All training programs rest on April 8 at Leavenworth National nel Trafton pass away, it not only touches veterans instead received a fl at fee of $110 must be offered by an institution of higher Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kan., taking his the people that he served with, but the which was to go toward their education. learning and approved for GI Bill ben- place among the honored dead of genera- people that are around the whole state.” Korean veterans returned home only to efi ts. Additionally, tutorial assistance, and tions before. Trafton was preceded in death by fi nd that the benefi ts they believed they licensing and certifi cation test reimburse- And he was remembered. his grandmother, Alma Etheridge, and were entitled to had been slashed. ment are approved under this bill. “We said goodbye to as good of a his mother, Mary Ellen Reeves. He is By the time of the Vietnam War, The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay your guy that you could ever know today,” survived by his wife of 17 years, Theresa benefi ts had been diminished to almost tuition based upon the highest in-state said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant Trafton; daughters Sonia Krafels and her non-existence and the price of a college tuition charged by a public educational general. husband, Jeffrey, Fort Worth, Texas; Susan education had skyrocketed. Some nine institution in the state where the school “There’s no way that you could replace Trafton, Salina, Kan.; Maegan Trafton, years after the end of the Vietnam War, in is located. The amount of support that an someone like Jimmy Trafton,” said Topeka, Kan; Elizabeth Trafton, Kansas 1984, Mississippi Congressman Gillespie individual may qualify for depends on Bunting. “You just hope that another one City, Kan. and fi ve grandchildren. V. “Sonny” Montgomery revamped and where they live and what type of degree reintroduced the GI Bill. This bill has they are pursuing. The bill also offers Link assumes command of KSANG since been known as the Montgomery GI some service members the opportunity to Continued from Page 3 War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Bill, but those earlier provisions wouldn’t transfer their benefi ts to their dependents. 5,400 hours of fl ight time. His mili- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, last long as the cost of education contin- Future articles will delve into the ap- tary awards and decorations include Armed Forces Service Medal, Humanitar- ued to escalate, making it obsolete within plication process to activate your benefi ts the Bronze Star, Air Force Meritorious ian Service Medal, Air Force Overseas a few years. While federal assistance pro- and take a look at some of the programs Service Medal, with six oak leaf clusters, Ribbon Short, one oak leaf cluster, Air grams provided some relief for the general available outside the Montgomery GI Bill Air Force Commendation Medal with oak Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with student population, the Montgomery GI and Post 9/11 GI Bill. leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Gold Border, Air Force Longevity Service Bill was failing to provide adequately When there are questions about your Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Award Ribbon with fi ve oak leaf clusters, for veterans. This, coupled with the large educational benefi ts you should always Outstanding Unit Award with four oak Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 1 “M” infl ux of personnel following the heinous defer to the experts in the State Education leaf clusters, Combat Readiness Medal device, hour glass device, Kansas Nation- acts of September 11, 2001, only exacer- Offi ce. Their information can be found on with fi ve oak leaf clusters, National De- al Guard State Emergency Duty Service bated the problem. the Kansas Knowledge Online Web site fense Service Medal with one device, Iraq Ribbon and the Kansas National Guard To compensate, Congress adopted the (https://www.ks.ng.mil/) Campaign Ribbon with one device, Global Service Medal with one device. Page 14 Plains Guardian • April 2010 35th Infantry Division Association hosts annual reunion in Topeka By Master Sgt. Michael L. Pomes had important ties to France. Kennedy with the French Order of the organize dinners and receptions to honor 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs Topeka Mayor Bill Bunten read a Legion of Honor for his service in France American visitors to the city of Orleans. Attendees at the President’s Reception proclamation to honor the 35th Infantry during World War II. Established in 1802 “Orleans was a quiet area in World at the 35th Infantry Division Associa- Division and the 35th Infantry Division by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of War II,” said Rozet. “We take care of the tion Reunion in Topeka got to witness Friendship Societies during the 92nd Honor is France’s highest military honor. visitors as they travel from Normandy to something that had not been seen since Reunion of the Association. “More than 65 years ago, you gave eastern France.” World War II. “Whereas, the 35th Infantry Division, your youth to France to liberate us. To us, Veterans of the 35th Infantry Division “We’ve not seen so many colors and so United States Army, was activated in 1917 you are heroes,” said Brejot to Kennedy. and their families make up many of the many generals since the end of World War at Fort Doniphan, Okla., serving on the Kennedy enlisted in the 137th Infan- visitors who travel through Orleans. II,” said retired Maj. Gen. Jack Strukel, Western Front of Europe in World War I try and mobilized with the 63rd Infantry Also sponsored by the NIA, the Shield president of the 35th Infantry Division and was again called to active duty during Division, where he saw action in France of Sparta – Heroine of the Infantry, is Association. World War II with service in the European and Germany. Following World War II, awarded to spouses who have made signifi - Colors on the stage included those of Theater of Operations,” Bunten began he returned to the 35th Infantry Divi- cant contributions to the Infantry. Retired the current 35th Infantry Division Head- reading from the proclamation. sion through its deactivation in 1963. He Capt. Sam O’Brien, Des Moines, Iowa, quarters at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and Bunten distributed copies of the Procla- joined the 69th Infantry Brigade, became 320th Infantry Headquarters, had intended of the 134th, 137th and 320th Infantry, as mation to Pierson; Marilyn Jensen, Denver, the commanding general in 1970 and to present the Shield to his wife, Carolyn, well as 110th Medical Battalion. Besides Colo.; Paula Baker, Norman, Okla., and retired in 1976. at the President’s Reception. Instead he Strukel, general offi cers in the audience representatives of three 35th Infantry Divi- Strukel awarded Chan and Rozet with presented the award to his daughters, Cathy included Maj. Gen. M. Wayne Pierson, sion Friendship Societies that had traveled the Order of St. Maurice. Sponsored by and Cynthia, because of his wife’s illness. Maryville, Mo., current commander of from France. Jensen and Baker serve on the National Infantry Association, this “Carolyn has been true and faithful in the 35th Infantry Division; retired Maj. the Association’s International Liaison award is given out to members who have support of her husband Captain Samuel G. Gen. Phil Finley, Colby, former Kan- Committee. Andree Chan and her husband, served with distinction with the Infantry O’Brien (Infantry) who served with valor sas adjutant general and member of the Maruice, La Meauffe, France, received the or have demonstrated signifi cant support and distinction during World War II and 69th Infantry Brigade; retired Brig. Gen. proclamation for Santa Fe in Normandy. for the infantry. then for a time in the Army Reserves,” Edward Gerhardt, Topeka, 35th Infantry Claude Rozet, Orleans, received the proc- Chan has kept alive the memory of said Strukel. “She has also been a strong Division and retired Brig. Gen. Thomas lamation for the Association France-USA the Americans who died in Normandy by supporter of the 35th Infantry Division J. Kennedy, Topeka, 35th Infantry Divi- (Etats-Unis) and Yann Renaud, St. Martin erecting monuments to the 35th Infantry Association.” sion and 69th Brigade. De Bonfosse, received the proclamation Division at 12 places in and around St. Lo, The fi nal award of the evening went to Flags of three nations completed the for 35th Division in Normandy. These most notably by having a plaque placed a Soldier “who said he’d never get one,” display on the stage. Members of the color and the other Friendship Societies honor on the Wall of Charlemagne at St. Lo. said Strukel. guard from Wa-Ta-Se American Legion Post the memories of the members of the 35th “I was seven years old when the James Graff, Middletown, Ill., 134th 410, Mayetta, carried fl ags of the United Infantry Division who fought and died Americans came and remember how Infantry, received the Order of St. Maurice States of America, France and the Prairie in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg by things were under the Nazis. I will never for serving as a president of the 35th In- Band Pottawatomi Nation to the stage at the erecting monuments and escorting tours of forget the Americans,” Chan said. “Thank fantry Division Association in the past and beginning of the President’s Reception. veterans and family members to the battle- you, forever.” writing a book entitled, “Refl ections of a The presence of the national fl ag of fi elds where the Division fought. Rozet was eight years old when the Combat Infantryman -- A Soldier’s Story France became an important clue for Col. Jean-Claude Brejot, French Americans liberated France. Now the of C Co. 134th Inf. 35th Div.” things to come during the reception. Many Liaison Offi cer at Fort Leavenworth, president of a society that promotes Following the award presentations, the of the awards to be presented that evening presented retired Brig. Gen. Thomas J. French-American friendship, he helps reception concluded with a dance.

KANSAS ARMY NATIONAL GUARD Oak Leaf Cluster Maj. David Young, JFHQ KS-AC, Topeka Legion of Merit Awards and Decorations Capt. Jeremy S. Jackson, 184th IW, Wichita Maj. Johnnie Gallegos, GLO Team #6, Topeka Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Kenneth E. Hampton, JFHQ Senior Master Sgt. Troy Kyle, JFHQ KS-AC, To- Master Sgt. Timothy Staver, GLO Team #6, Topeka KS-LC, Topeka, with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster peka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Randy Bole, GLO Team #6, Topeka 1st Sgt. John C. Conover, Co C, 2nd Bn, 137th Inf, Master Sgt. Troy Hultgren, 190th ARW, Topeka Lenexa, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Col. David Joe Wheeler, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Meritorious Service Medal Master Sgt. David M. Kennedy, HHC, 2nd Bn,137th Air Force Commendation Medal Chief Warrant Offi cer 5 Mark Jensen, JFHQ KS-LC, Inf, Kansas City, with 4th Oak Leaf Cluster Topeka Master Sgt. Rodney R. Prosser, 235th Regt, Salina Sgt. Maj. William D. Buck, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Sherman P. Crawford, Btry C (-), 1st Bn, 161st FA, Kingman, with 1st Oak Leaf Bronze Star Lt. Col. Roger D. Murdock, HHC, 287th SB, Cluster Col. Derek Rogers, 190th ARW, Topeka Wichita, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. 1st Class Linda A. Rocha, HQ, 235th Regt Lt. Col. Craig M. Brenton, HHC, 2nd CAB, 137th Capt. Adam Johnson, Co A, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, (RTI), Salina Inf, Kansas City Lawrence Maj. Tamra Buettgenbach, 190th ARW, Topeka, with Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Ross J. England, JFHQ KS- Army Commendation Medal 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Col. Mark Stevens, GLO Team #6, Topeka LC, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Capt. Todd N Handling, 184th IW, Wichita, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Stephen Craig, Det 1, HSC, 891st Eng Bn, Capt. Kimberly Rhoden, 190th ARW, Topeka Garnett Senior Master Sgt. Clifford Archer, 190th ARW, Retirements Sgt. Orlando Garcia Velazquez, 137th Trans Co Maj. Adam Krein, 635th RSG, Hutchinson Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Kansas Army National Guard (-), Olathe Chaplain (Capt.) John R. Potter, JFHQ KS-LC, Master Sgt. Timmy A. Burget, 184th IW, Wichita Lt. Col. Lee Keffer, JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Paul Helton, 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Topeka Master Sgt. Todd R. Daniels, HHC, 2nd CAB, 137th Chief Warrant Offi cer 4 Gary Lacore, Det 1, Co C, Sgt. Terry Jones, 250th FSC (-), Ottawa Master Sgt. Rodney Moyer, 635th RSG, Hutchinson Inf, Kansas City 1st Bn, 171st Avn, Topeka Sgt. John Mattingly, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Sgt. Shane Beardsley, Btry A, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Master Sgt. Daniel Larson, 190th ARW, Topeka Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Kenneth Hampton, JFHQ Sgt. Hilton McLamb Jr., JFHQ KS-LC, Topeka Dodge City, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Tech. Sgt. David Finnemore, 190th ARW, Topeka KS-LC, Topeka Sgt. Steven Perkins, Det 1, 242nd Eng Co (Horz), Sgt. Anthony M. Landon, Rec & Ret, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Jamel Francis, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. Maj. William Buck, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Winfi eld Tech. Sgt. Jason Murphy, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Sgt. Todd Schainost, HHC, 891st Eng Bn, Iola Sgt. Kevin Pickrell, 35th ID Band, Olathe Army Achievement Medal 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. James Buttenhoff, Det 1, Btry C, 2nd Sgt. Clint Pierce, 242nd Eng Co, Coffeyville Senior Airman Christopher Wolf, 190th ARW, Topeka Bn, 130th FA, Salina Sgt. Michael Retoff, 772nd Eng Co (MAC), Master Sgt. Harvey Deatherage, HHD, 635th SG, Pittsburg Air Force Achievement Medal Hutchinson Sgt. Steven Thompson, Det 1, Btry B, 2nd Bn, Master Sgt. Roy Hosier, Det 1, HSC, 891st Eng 130th FA, Holton Master Sgt. Terry C. Goscha, 635th RSG, Hutchin- Bn, Garnett Sgt. Jerry Young, 2137th FSC, Manhattan son, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Carl Mar, 105th MPAD, Topeka Master Sgt. Theodore Neises, 2137th FSC, Kansas Air National Guard Meritorious Service Ribbon Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Doviak, 190th ARW, Manhattan Col. Kerry Taylor, 190th ARW, Topeka Topeka, with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Rodney Prosser, HQ, 235th Regt Lt. Col. Thomas Ballou, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Richard R Champagne, 184th IW, (RTI), Salina Lt. Col. Joe Knowles, 190th ARW, Topeka Wichita, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Linda Rocha, HQ, 235th Regt (RTI), Maj. Nina Draffen, 190th ARW, Topeka Master Sgt. Eldon Jackson, 190th ARW, Topeka, Salina Maj. James Findley, 190th ARW, Topeka Lt. Col. Russell E. Richardson, 2nd Bn, 130th FA, with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Paul Wilson, HHC, 287th SB, Wichita Chief Master Sgt. Leslie Money, 190th ARW, Hiawatha Tech. Sgt. George Hart, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class David Miles, 69th TC, Topeka Topeka Maj. Kyle T. Chansler, 1st Bn, 161st FA, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Karen E Riley, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. 1st Class Donald Roberts, JFHQ KS-LC, Senior Master Sgt. John C Foster III, 184th IW, 1st Lt. Charles M. Ross, 635th RSG, Hutchinson 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster Topeka Wichita Sgt. 1st Class Christopher S. Lucas, JFHQ KS-LC, Tech. Sgt. Steven Zimmerman, 190th ARW, Topeka, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Schlingmann, HHC, 287th Senior Master Sgt. David Gogian, 190th ARW, Topeka with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster SB, Wichita Topeka Sgt. Jessie J. Lawrence, Co E, 2nd CAB, 137th Inf, Staff Sgt. Holly Baker, 190th ARW, Topeka Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Williams, Rec & Rec, Topeka Senior Master Sgt. Deborah L Hooper, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. William Mesmer, 190th ARW, Topeka, Staff Sgt. Yancy Ballard, Btry C (-), 1st Bn, 161st Wichita Spc. Dru L. Payne, Det 1, 137th Trans Co, Topeka with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster FA, Kingman Senior Master Sgt. William Mukes, 190th ARW, Staff Sgt. Stanislaus V Saiz, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Forrest Cook, Det 1, HHS, 2nd Bn, Topeka Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Staff Sgt. Joshua Stuchlik, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 130th FA, Try Master Sgt. Keith Adams, 190th ARW, Topeka Chaplain (Capt.) John R. Potter, JFHQ KS-LC, 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Staff Sgt. James Edwards, KSARNG Med Det, Master Sgt. William M Phillips, 184th IW, Wichita Topeka Senior Airman Aaron Boddy, 190th ARW, Topeka Lenexa Master Sgt. Jean Robinson, 190th ARW, Topeka Senior Airman Douglas Fisher, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Thomas Etherton, Det 3, 250th FSC Master Sgt. Mark S Schulke, 184th IW, Wichita KANSAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD Senior Airman Alison Hastings, 190th ARW, Topeka Sabetha Master Sgt. Steven Tremblay, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Wade Jacobson, Det 2, HHC, 2nd Bn, Master Sgt. Carolyn Wilson, 190th ARW, Topeka Meritorious Service Medal Kansas Achievement Medal 137th Inf Regt, Junction City Tech. Sgt. Gerard L Ast, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Randall Musick, 2137th FSC, Manhattan Tech. Sgt. William Fishman, 190th ARW, Topeka Staff Sgt. Kenneth Rivera, HHD, 169th CSSB, Tech. Sgt. Jamel Francis, 190th ARW, Topeka Olathe Tech. Sgt. Debra Gaunt, 184th IW, Wichita Staff Sgt. Sonny Shoptese, Co B, 2nd CAB, 137th Tech. Sgt. Tony Glidewell, 184th IW, Wichita Col. Joel Darbro, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st Oak Master Sgt. Paul H. Arnold, 184th IW, Wichita Inf, Wichita Tech. Sgt. Maggie Large, 190th ARW, Topeka Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Frank W. Cook, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. Preston Blackburn, 1161st FSC, Hutchinson Tech. Sgt. David Smith, 184th IW, Wichita Col. Kathryn Hulse, JFHQ KS-AC, Topeka, with 2nd 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Sgt. Eugene Buchheister, 35th MP Co, Topeka Tech. Sgt. Marshaun Winston, 190th ARW, Topeka Oak Leaf Cluster Master Sgt. Eric R. Smith, 184th IW, Wichita, with Sgt. Lance Carver, Co A, 2nd CAB, 137th Infantry, Staff Sgt. Brian Coppage, 190th ARW, Topeka Col. Martin Sellberg, JFHQ KS-AC, Topeka, with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster Lawrence Senior Airman Perry W Seibert, 184th IW, Wichita 1st Oak Leaf Cluster Maj. Christopher Hill, 190th ARW, Topeka, with 1st April 2010 • Plains Guardian Page 15 287th Sustainment Brigade receives Army Unit of the Year award By Staff Sgt. Greg Zuercher pened that were solved by the FRG before 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment it reached me as a concern. When it did, it Whenever people work together for the arrived as a problem solved, well before I greater good of their objective – putting had to get involved.” team above individual achievement – one “We had the fi nest resources we could character trait that stands out above all oth- tap into that we never had before on previ- ers is that no one cares who gets the credit. ous deployments,” he continued. “From That certainly can be said of the 287th Sus- the newsletters, the phone tree, all the tainment Brigade, which was honored as hours put in by a central core of ladies – it the Army Unit of the Year at the 2010 Joint was the right thing to do to take care of Conference held at the Wichita Hyatt this Soldiers. It was all about taking care of March. Col. Robert Schmitt, commander Soldiers.” of the 287th, said it was a total team effort, Serving on three previous deployments and credited much of the unit’s success to before the 287th’s tour in Iraq, Schmitt its Family Readiness Group. said the communication on this deploy- “It was the fi nest FRG I’ve ever ment was the best he has ever experienced. worked with,” said Schmitt, who led the “It was far better than the 2005 one. At unit’s deployment to Iraq from October that time we had no newsletter – just email 2008 to September 2009 at Operation to stay clued in with our families,” he said. Base Adder. “I don’t know how you could He also thanked all the family readiness do any better. Our FRG had the best qual- group volunteers on behalf of his Soldiers. ity, inclusiveness, and communication The commander of the 287th Special Beth Harper accepts the Newsletter of the Year Award for the 287th Sustainment than anyone could hope for. Everyone Troops Battalion, Lt. Col. Tony Divish, Brigade from Col.. Robert Schmitt (right), commander of the brigade, and Maj. showed concern for the whole military said it was hard work, attention to detail, Gen. Tod Bunting, the adjutant general. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Greg Zuercher, 105th family – the extended family as well as and contributions from everyone that led Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) the core families. So many things hap- to the unit’s successful year. “Beth Arpin deserves a lot of credit. organizations are inter-connected, meaning She did a lot of work on the newsletter that they value contact with families and Swann selected as top Kansas Guardsman and kept it a family, not a unit newsletter. provide activities so that there is something I’m glad to have people like her,” he said. for everyone. “We had Soldiers and fami- The newsletter contained photographs lies spread out all over Kansas, the country, along with articles, as well as birthdays and its territories,” said Duggins. “There and anniversary dates of each Soldier. was a high degree of commitment to keep “They helped leadership remember,” track of everybody, to let them know what said Divish. “I know on two occasions it was going on, so they could take care of helped bail out Soldiers to remember their each other. So much of this award has to do anniversaries. A big part of the newsletter with the volunteers.” was communication. The amount of man The Army Volunteer of the Year award hours devoted to putting the newsletter went to Schmitt’s wife, Theresa. He also together would be like a second job. It gave credit to Jewel Murdock, the treasurer made my job easier.” of the 287th’s FRG; Susan Duggins, wife of The administrative offi cer for the 287th, Dana Duggins, and Sgt. 1st Class Samantha Lt. Col. Dana Duggins, noted that great Weir, who helped on the military side. Awards ceremony honors volunteers By Spc. Stephanie Hodges within the families, which became nota- 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment bly imperative with our unit deployed,” Kansas National Guard Family said Arpin. Programs hosted its annual Volunteer The Frontier Award was presented to Awards Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency volunteers who contributed signifi cantly Spc. Joseph Swann (center), was named Outstanding Kansas National Guardsman Hotel in Wichita on March 28. The to an activity or a group of activities that at the 2010 Joint Conference in Wichita. He received the award from Maj. Gen. awards ceremony demonstrates appreci- generated an environment that elevated Tod Bunting, the adjutant general, and Brig. Gen. John Davoren, commander of ation and recognition to Kansas National the quality of life within their unit. This the Kansas Army National Guard. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Greg Zuercher) Guard volunteers, families and friends award requires a minimum of 50 service By Staff Sgt. Greg Zuercher – I wake up, do PT (physical training) in for signifi cant achievement and service volunteer hours, but not more than 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment the morning, serve the funerals and PT in to the Kansas National Guard Family 199 hours. The recipients were Skylar He had no idea that as a boy taking mu- the afternoon, if time permits.” Program. Any person having served a Dickey, Chris Divish, Alicia Foster, sic lessons he would be following a trail Conducting more than 500 funeral period of time in support of the Kansas Sharon Halsig, Jessica Herlinger, Jean that would lead him to the highest award services a year, as many as fi ve services a Family Program and benefi ting morale, Hirsh, Janet Kristinat, Whitney Kristinat, possible for an Army Guardsman. day, takes up the majority of Swann and his cohesion and esprit de corps of the ser- Jewel Murdock, Patti Phillips, Lt. Col. Spc. Joseph Swann, from Topeka, has fellow Honor Guard Soldiers’ duty time. vice members and families of the Kansas Jon Shafer, Tyler Shafer, Danni Stallbau- followed just such a path. Swann was “It is a great privilege and honor to National Guard is eligible for awards. mer, Sheri Taylor and Paula Zielke. named the Outstanding Guardsman at the serve the veterans,” said Swann. “It’s not “Volunteers bring to Family Programs The Pioneer Award was presented 2010 Joint Conference held at the Wichita about you — it’s about your duty serving an abundance of talents and gifts for that to volunteers who displayed a commit- Hyatt this March. the veteran and their families.” we are truly grateful,” states Michelle ment, not only to the unit, but also to Enlisting in the Kansas Army National Proud of his Kansas’ team sixth place Williams, State Family Program Readi- the morale and cohesion of the families Guard as a member of the 35th Infantry fi nish at the annual honor guard drill com- ness assistant, “We are pleased to have within the unit and requires a minimum Division Band in March 2005 after his petition, Swann noted that there are 54 an opportunity to recognize these talents of 200 service volunteer hours, but not freshman year at Washburn, Swann’s Honor Guard teams, from all 50 states and and countless hours of service each more than 499 hours. The recipients decision was infl uenced by Chief Warrant several territories. Most do not get chosen volunteer has devoted.” were Kimberly Abbey, Brenda Bernard, Offi cer 3 Steven Patterson, who happened for the annual event. The Newsletter of the Year Award Nicole Boucher, Senior Airman Justin to be the commander of the 35th ID Band, The opportunity to observe, compete was presented to the 287th Sustain- Burget, Susan Duggins, Staff Sgt. Sarah as well as Swann’s music lesson teacher. against and visit with Soldiers of the Old ment Brigade and accepted by Beth Mendez and Stacy Sanders. Comparing him to a proud father Guard, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, Arpin, Family Readiness Group The Horizon Award is presented witnessing his own son succeed, Swann who perform the funeral and ceremonial chairperson of 287th Headquarters and to volunteers who have distinguished said Patterson is “very happy, excited and details for the military district of Wash- Headquarters Company. The award themselves in such a manner as to be proud of me.” ington, was a highlight for Swann and his recognized the unit for producing and invaluable to the success of the Kansas Serving full time as a Soldier and bugler honor guard team. maintaining the best Family Readi- Family Program. The Horizon Award in the Kansas National Guard Military “They are the best of the best. They all ness Group newsletter during the 2009 requires a minimum of 500 documented Funerals program since July 2008, Swann look the same. They set the standard we calendar year. The Family Readiness service volunteer hours. The recipients credits Patterson and Rodney Moyer, the strive for,” said Swann. Assistant assembles a board of at least were Beth Arpin, Marie Delong, Theresa state coordinator of military funerals honor Swann is fi nishing up a four-year three individuals outside of the Family Schmitt and Kay Scott. program, for much of his success. degree and is on track to graduate from Program Offi ce to vote on the nomi- “The Family Programs Offi ce has “I served a long time as an M-day Washburn in December 2010 with a bach- nated individuals. Each board member truly reached thousands of family (traditional) Soldier with the band,” said elor of arts in music. He aspires to make a votes anonymously and turns in the fi - members across the state because of Swann. “It was through Chief Patterson full time career in the military. nal results to the State Family Program each volunteer,” said Williams. “Their that I became involved full time in the “Right now, the Guard is my home and Offi ce through the Family Readiness hard work and relentless dedication in honor guard as a bugler.” they take good care of me,” said Swann. assistant. support of our program, their units and “All I’ve tried to do is to be the best I “I’m very grateful and honored to be “Our newsletter was a key element in the families of all service members have can possibly be,” said Swann. “I just do my selected for this award. Being honored is dispersing vital information and resources made a positive and inspiring impact on job – I wasn’t even looking for this award – more about being around Soldiers – it’s a and producing a sense of community the Kansas National Guard.” it came to me... I just go about my business family to me.” PagePlains 16 Guardian Plains Guardian • April 2010 Lending a helping hand

Spc. Timothy E. Stewart, Manhattan, Kan., a member of the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment, Kansas National Guard, helps set up items for a Soldier’s Pantry at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo. Stewart is serving with his unit as part of the multinational peacekeeping force in Kosovo. The pantry, a project of the camp’s Junior Enlisted Council, takes items donated for Soldiers’ use and organizes them into a free “mini-mar- ket” where Soldiers can get toiletries, magazines, DVDs and other personal comfort items they need. “I did a similar thing in college, so this reminds me of home,” said Stewart. “My involvement in JEC gives me an opportunity to work with Soldiers from other units to organize events, be a voice for my peers and, of course, have fun.” (Photo by Sgt. Joshua Dodds, 116th Public Affairs Detachment) Hernandez assumes command of 184th Intelligence Wing The Kansas Air National Guard an- Wing. nounces that command of the 184th Intel- A graduate of the University of Kansas, ligence Wing in Wichita, Kan., has passed Hernandez was commissioned through the from Col. Mi- Air Force Reserve Offi cer Training Corps chael C. Foster in 1985. Following training as an aircraft to Col. John J. maintenance offi cer, he subsequently Hernandez. The transferred to the U. S. Navy. After com- change of com- pleting Naval Flight Offi cer training in mand ceremony Pensacola, Fla., he served with the Pacifi c took place April Fleet electronic warfare community. 11 at McConnell In 1995, he joined the 184th Bomb AFB. Wing, Kansas Air National Guard. A Foster has Navigator and Air Intelligence Offi cer, he been a member held qualifi cations in the B-1B, EA-6B, of the Kansas Col. John Hernandez ERA-3B, and F-4N aircraft. Hernandez Air National has served in a variety of positions with Guard for over 15 years and served the Wing including 127th Bomb Squad- in the role of Wing Commander since ron Flight commander, 161st Intelligence March of 2008. Hernandez was previ- Squadron commander and 184th Intelli- ously the 184th Intelligence Group gence Group commander. Commander at the 184th Intelligence He is married with three children. Special Troops Battalion shows support for Special Olympians More than 170 athletes and cheerlead- hosted the tournament and cheerlead- ers received a special treat on March ing competition March 18-20 at Gross 18, thanks to the Kansas Army National Memorial Coliseum. Guard’s 287th Special Troops Battalion. Members of the Leavenworth team re- The members of the Wichita Special ceived an additional treat, as members of Olympics team, who were participating in the 287th STB and the American Legion a basketball and cheerleading tournament Riders provided them with a motorcycle To register for 2010 Kids Camp, go online to in Hays, received a catered lunch courtesy escort through Hays to the Coliseum. http://kansastag.ks.gov/AdvHTML_Upload/Kids camp invite 2010.pdf of the STB and one of its subordinate Master Sgt. Ray Palmer, 287th STB To register for the 2010 Teen Camp, go online to units, the 731st Medium Truck Company. operations noncommissioned offi cer, an http://kansastag.ks.gov/AdvHTML_Upload/teen camp invite 2010.pdf The meal, which was hosted at the Hays active supporter of the Special Olympics, armory, was catered by the local Kentucky said the motorcycle escort is one of the Print and fi ll out the form. Mail the completed form and payment to: Fried Chicken courtesy of the Wild West most enjoyable aspects for the Special Fest Committee. Olympics team members. The Wichita athletes took part in a This marks the fi rst year the 287th STB Kansas National Guard Family Program Offi ce three-day tournament involving more has been able to directly support the Kan- c/o Mary Nesbitt than 1,600 athletes and coaches from sas Special Olympics, but the unit hopes 2800 SW Topeka Blvd. across the state, with more than 150 to continue to foster the growing relation- Topeka KS 66611 games played. Fort Hays State University ship in the coming years.