ngat news fall 2014

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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS INSURANCE .............................. 23 56 th ANNUAL NGAT CONFERENCE 13–15 MARCH 2015 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX Founded 1959 Volume 55 Number 4 Fall 2014 NGAT CONFERENCE ................... 20 NGAUS..................................... 15 EANGUS ................................... 14 NEW BENEFIT FOR NGAT MEMBERS AGES 66–75

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NGAT News is the official publication of The National Guard Association of Texas.

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NEWSO F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S

INSURANCE .............................. 23

56th ANNUAL NGAT CONFERENCE 13–15 MARCH 2015 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX

Founded 1959 • Volume 55 • Number 4 • Fall 2014

NGAT CONFERENCE ................... 20

NGAUS ..................................... 15

EANGUS ................................... 14

new benefit for nGAt MeMbers

AGes 66–75

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192% based on 2014 member communications trend survey. 2Forrester Research, Inc., Customer Advocacy 2013: How U.S. Consumers Rate Their Financial Services Firms, November 2013. Use of the term “member” or “membership” does not convey any eligibility rights for auto and property insurance products, or legal or ownership rights in USAA. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change. Automobile insurance provided by United Services Automobile Association, USAA Casualty Insurance Company, USAA General Indemnity Company, Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and USAA County Mutual Insurance Company, San Antonio, TX, and is available only to persons eligible for P&C group membership. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products. © 2014 USAA. 208787-0914

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4C Magazine

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Internal

www.ngat.org 3

4 Letter from the President

6 Members Spotlight

7 Operation Strong Safety

8 TXMF Museum

9 Leadership Changes

10 Water Training

11 TX State Guard Changes Command

12/13 Around the World with the Guard

14 EANGUS

15 NGAUS

16 Salute to Retirees

18 Annual Training Field Artillery

19 Around Texas with the Guard

20 NGAT 2015 Conference Information

21 NGAT 2015 Conference Registration

22 TAPS/Corporate Members and Sponsors

23 NGAT New Life Insurance Policy

24 NGAT Planning Calendar

NEWS

ON THE COVER (left side photos, top to bottom):

SSG Mireya Cruz (center), a member of HHC 71st TIOG and the chairperson in charge of the EANGUS Junior Enlisted Committee, hosted the Senior Enlisted Leader Panel at the EANGUS Annual Conference held in August at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The senior enlisted panel pictured left to right is: CSM Brunk Conley, ARNG-CSM; CMSgt Mitchell Brush, NGB SEA; SGM Mike Schultz, OSD-RA, SEA; and CMSgt James Hotaling, ANG CCM. (Photo courtesy of the Arizona National Guard)

CPT Jacob Patterson asks Maj. Gen. Judd Lyons, the Army National Guard Acting Director, a question at the Company Grade luncheon at the 2014 National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) convention in Chicago, 24 Aug. (Photo courtesy of the Illinois National Guard)

Right Side Photos: (top) NGAT Executive Director, Ray Lindner (left) presents 2LT Cody M. Zamaripa with the NGAT Distinguished Honor Graduate award at OCS Class #57 commissioning ceremony held at the Texas State Capitol. The NGAT Distinguished Honor Graduate award is an engraved clock and a free life membership to NGAT.

(bottom) OCS Class #57 conducts an after action review following training at Camp Swift. NGAT is proud to announce the entire OCS Class #57 are NGAT members!

NGAT NEWS (USPS 015-752) PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT AUSTIN TX 78710 AND ADDITIONAL OFFICES

POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT NEWS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308

MEMBERS MAY EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO: [email protected]

contents2014–15 Board of DirectorsPresident ........................................................... Charles Chavers

President-Elect ........................................................Daniel Quick

Vice President .......................................................... Kenn White

Secretary/Treasurer .............................................Ashley Bloom

Joint Forces Hqs ............................ Michael Courade (Enlisted)

TX ARNG ................................................. Terri Marshall (Officer)

176th Engr Bde.....................................Calvin Jenkins (Officer)

36th Infantry Division .....................Kenneth Henry (Enlisted)

72nd IBCT ........................................ Brian Hildebrand (Officer)

72nd IBCT ................................................Tony Carter (Enlisted)

56th IBCT .........................................................Jet Hays (Officer)

56th IBCT ..................................................... Jim Horn (Enlisted)

36th CAB....................................................Bob Roark (Enlisted)

71st BfSB ................................................ Patrick Harty (Officer)

36th Sustainment Bde ..............Murphy McCardell (Enlisted)

136th MEB .............................................John Crawson (Officer)

HQ, TANG ..........................................Michael Selheim (Enlisted)

136th AW ..................................................Doug Clark (Enlisted)

147th RW ...................................................Anita Blue (Enlisted)

149th FW ................................................. John Pollard (Officer)

TX State Guard Rep .....................Kristopher Krueger (Officer)

Retired Rep - Region 1 .........................................Priscilla Leger

Retired Rep - Region 2 .......................................... Jerry Horsley

Retired Rep - Region 3 ........................................Buck Allbright

Family Readiness Rep ..........................................Miguel Torres

Executive Director ................................................... Ray Lindner

NGAT NEWS3706 Crawford Ave.Austin, TX 78731

(512) 454-73001-800-252-NGAT (6428)

NGAT HOME PAGEwww.ngat.org

NGAT [email protected]@ngat.org

[email protected]@[email protected]

Editor ...........................................Theresa Billeck-Zuniga

Copy Editor ..................................................Laura Bianco

Graphic Designer .........................................Kathy White

Publisher ............................. Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing

FOLLOW US!pinterest.com/ngatx

www.facebook.com/pages/National-Guard-Association-of-Texas-

NGAT/354269962037

twitter.com/NGATX

NGAT News FALL 20144

It is October, and in North Texas we are all enjoying the spectacle that is the State Fair of Texas. Life seems simpler when you can sample the best fried food creations in the nation. You just have to love fall in Texas. As we begin to experience a reprieve from the Texas heat, I wanted to let you know about some of the things your association has been doing over the past few months. First, we need to recognize the efforts that our legislative team has made in our nation’s capitol in an effort to open frank and effective dialogue between our members and our elected representatives. We are still hard at work attempting to protect our Army’s assets here in the state, and Ray and the legislative committees are diligently working to educate our elected officials about the value of a strong Texas Military Force. Last year the Air Force saw the significance of having a strong Air Guard in Texas, and currently we are attempting to highlight the wisdom of maintaining a strong Army Guard presence in the Lone Star State. Our

efforts have been strong, but it seems that the battle is far from over. This past August and September, NGAT representatives from the board of directors, along with some NGAT members, attended the EANGUS and NGAUS conferences in Phoenix, Arizona and Chicago, Illinois. During both conferences, it seemed that the divide between Army/Air and the Army/Air Guard was beginning to widen. During these times of drawdowns and budget cuts, a sense of protecting one’s own interests resonated at both gatherings. It will take a great effort from the enlisted and the officers from both services to not only protect our state’s interests, but to also show the state, nation, and our elected officials that our Texas military is second to none. I cannot stress enough the importance of attending the national conferences as well as our own association conference. These events help educate our members and give each of us a voice in the decision making process that shapes our associations’ futures (both federal and state). On that note, our 56th annual conference will be held in Corpus Christi on 13–15 March 2015. We are hard at work putting together a great event, and I would love to see NGAT have a strong showing in the Texas Riviera. And do not forget that we are still in the midst of our membership drive. Winners from the three different membership-growth categories will all receive hospitality suites in Corpus Christi. Please see your battalion or wing director for more details and for a membership application. Help us grow the association. As always, I want to thank you for your continued support of NGAT. If there is anything I can do for you, let me know.

Charles ChaversCMSgt, TANGPresident NGAT

You never know who will stop by the NGAT office. Recently, we received a visit from MSG (Ret) James T. Densford. He is proud to be NGAT Life Member #85. We also learned that he is the brother of another NGAT Life Member, MG (Ret) Daniel D. Densford, and is the individual that designed our NGAT Life Membership pin (pictured below). Thanks for the memories.

President's Report

NGAT congratulates Lt Col John Pollard, a member of the NGAT board of directors representing the 149th Fighter Wing, on his recent promotion to Lieutenant Colonel. (Lt Col Pollard is pictured with YYork,

a Military Working Dog (MWD) puppy. See page 5 for

more information on the MWD foster program.)

NEW AIR GUARD LIEUTENANT COLONEL

MEET NGAT LIFE MEMBER #85

LTC Kenn White, commander of the 1st Battalion, 136th Regional Training Institute (RTI), shows Maj Gen Kenneth Wisian, deputy adjutant general-Air and commander of the Texas Air National Guard, the layout of a Bradley live-fire range at Fort Hood, Texas on Sept 25, 2014. The range was the last event in the transition of the cavalry scout course taught by the RTI. (Photo by CPT Martha Nigrelle)

RTI TRAINs NEW CALvARy sCOUTs

Do you want your very own NGAT Life Membership pin?

See pages 14 & 15 for information on our $100 Life Membership Special.

See you at the beach!NGAT 2015 Corpus ChrisTi

www.ngat.org 5

15 October 2014

DISTRIBUTION FOR: NGAT Conference Attendee

SUBJECT: 56th Annual NGAT Conference Update

1. The 56th Annual Conference of the National Guard Association of Texas will be held on

13-15 March 2015 at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel in downtown Corpus Christi, Texas.

Most conference events will be held at the American Bank Center. Please make your hotel

reservations directly with the hotel by calling 1-800-843-6664. The hotel rate is $107.00 plus

tax for single/double accommodations. Please make your reservations prior to

20 February 2015 to receive the discounted room rate.

2. All conference participants are invited to attend all sessions of the conference unless it is

noted as a closed session. All conference participants are also invited to attend the NGAT

Annual Business Meeting. The NGAT business session will take place on Saturday, 14

March 2015.

3. Information pertaining to committee meeting times, tentative agenda, appropriate attire, and

administrative instructions is available on page 20 of the NGAT News Magazine and on the

NGAT website at www.ngat.org.

4. NGAT conference registration is now open. Register now for the early bird special and

save some money. The deadline to register for the NGAT conference is 2 March 2015.

Only on-site registrations will be accepted after 2 March 2015, and a $25.00 late fee will

be added to each registration. Meal packages will not be available to on-site

registrations.

5. Scholarship applications are due to the NGAT office by 13 February 2015.

6. All association members and friends of the Guard are encouraged to sponsor a Soldier's or

Airman’s registration and lodging fees for the conference by becoming a Patriot Sponsor. To

become a Patriot Sponsor, simply enclose an additional $350 with your conference

registration fees. All Patriot Sponsors will be recognized in the NGAT Conference Program.

7. We hope to see you at our 56th Annual NGAT Conference, so make sure to reserve your

hotel room and register early.

Respectfully,

Ray LindnerExecutive Director

National Guard Association of Texas

3706 Crawford Avenue Austin, Texas 78731

(512) 454-7300 (TX) 1-800-252-NGAT

FAX: (512) 467-6803 www.ngat.org

Meet YYork... YYork is a Belgian Malinois puppy from the DoD Military Working Dog (MWD) Breeding Program at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The double first letter in his name identifies him as a DoD Breeding Program dog. His entire litter (YY4) have names beginning with YY. His foster parent Col Susan Dickens, TXANG Commander of the 149th Mission Support Group Joint Base San Antonio-Kelly Field Annex, will foster him until late Nov 2014 when he will enter the MWD Puppy Training Program. Foster parents/families make a five-month committment to raise the puppy from ages two-months to seven-months. During that time, the puppy is trained and exposed by the foster family to a variety of different environments. For more information on the Military Working Dog Foster Program, send an email to [email protected]. Foster families must live within a 2 hour drive of Lackland AFB and meet other requirements.

foster a future Hero!

Follow NGAT!

NGAT

SILENT AUCTION

SEEKS DONATIONS

The NGAT Silent Auction is a vitally important fundraising tool for our

National Guard Association of Texas Education Foundation. We are always seeking new support through donated items. Your generous gift of an auction item will help us be able to continue to

offer scholarships and support unit activities.

For more information visit the NGAT website conference

page or call MSG (Ret) Billeck-Zuniga at 512-454-7300.

Your donations to the auction are tax deductable.

The National Guard Association of Texas invites all members of the Texas Military

Forces and NGAT members to attend our

Holiday open House

Tuesday, 16 December 20141030–1330 Hours

For more information, please call 512-454-7300,

email [email protected], orvisit our website at www.ngat.org.

NGAT News FALL 20146

SGM Victor Guillermo, far left, and SGM Lori McLaurin, on the right wearing a medal, proudly stand with their USPFO transportation section following their retirement ceremony recently held at Camp Mabry. Also pictured from left to right are: SFC (Ret) Tom Weatherton, LTC Tom Peterson (Director of the USPFO Warehouse), MSG Antonnia Robinson, SSG Rosalyn Brown, SSG Paul Clark and 1LT Eric Green.

sERvICE THROUGH MUsIC

MAJ Max Krupp, right, and SGT Kythao Le, left, of the 143rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne) pose for a photo with BG Viet Luong following his promotion to Brigadier General at a ceremony held at Fort Hood, Texas. BG Luong’s promotion makes him the first Vietnamese American to receive Flag Rank in the U.S. Military. BG Luong’s family escaped Vietnam when he was 9, shortly before the fall of Saigon.

HIsTORy Is MADE

MSG Erika Stevens, 531st Air Force Band, Band of the Southwest, Texas Air National Guard, shakes hands with former President George W. Bush after singing the national anthem at Las Colinas Country Club in Irving, TX on 2 October 2014.

Stevens sang as part of the opening ceremony during the 4th Annual Warrior Open Tournament. (Photo by MSgt Charles Hatton)

MAJ Mark Zullig, left, a member of the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) attended the annual Transportation Ball in downtown Richmond, VA with CW2 David Mellon, mobility warrant officer out of the 34th ID (Red Bulls) from Minnesota. CW2 Mellon won the 2013 Transportation Mobility Warrant Officer of the Year (Guard and Reserves). He received the award for his outstanding duty-performance while deployed with the 36th CAB in Kuwait.

OUTsTANDING PERFORMANCE RECOGNIZED

Congratulations to the 136th Airlift Wing Recruiting Team for exceeding their goal by recruiting more than 100% this fiscal year. Way to “AIM HIGH!”

TURNING CITIZENs TO AIRMEN

SGM (Ret) Becky Vlasak, left, pins a sergeant first class rank on SSG John Sekula, a member of HHB Intel & Sustain Company, during his recent promotion ceremony held at the USPFO at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas.

MOvIN’ ON UP

ONE LAsT GROUP PHOTO

You never know where you will run into a NGAT Life Member. Recently a group from NGAT attended the EANGUS Annual Conference and ran into SFC Jody Roberts. SFC Roberts is a NGAT Life Member who moved to Indiana and now serves in the Indiana Army National Guard. He was attending the EANGUS Conference to promote attendance for the 2015 EANGUS Conference scheduled to be held in Indianapolis, IN.

NGAT LIFE MEMBERs ARE EvERyWHERE

www.ngat.org 7

On 21 July 2014, Governor Rick Perry ordered the Texas National Guard to deploy up to 1,000 soldiers and airmen in support of Operation Strong Safety with the duty to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety

in detecting and deterring criminal activity in the Rio Grande River Valley. More than 2,200 soldiers and airmen volunteered for the mission, and over 800 have completed required

training at Camp Swift and have been deployed. By mid-October the task force will be fully deployed. The mission is to support civilian law enforcement agencies by performing routine observation and reporting activities, as well as to be a visible presence to deter criminal activity of transnational gangs and drug cartels. On the evening of Wednesday, 17 Sept. 2014,

Texas National Guardsmen supporting Operation Strong Safety along the Texas-Mexico border interdicted a group of drug smugglers walking out of a ridge complex in the Rio

Grande Valley. According to the Guardsmen working, they spotted four people traveling down a known drug trail carrying four packages. Two of the people were carrying rifles, and the other two were wearing tactical gear. The Guardsmen reached out to both the McAllen U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Station and the Texas Department of Public Safety partners for support. The drug smugglers had more than 285 pounds of illegal narcotics with them, which were seized by CBP. The Guardsmen use an array of advanced equipment in conducting interdiction operations in the Rio Grande Valley. The advanced optical equipment allows the operator to view over 10 kilometers to identify potential threats and illegal activity along the southern border. This type of equipment was used in the interdiction of the four people and the subsequent drug discovery. As a separate operation, the Texas State Guard has formed specially trained search teams to assist Brooks County officials with locating human remains of suspected illegal immigrants and has also saved lives of immigrants found stranded in the desert. The deployment is expected to last for up to a year and has already achieved a substantial decrease in illegal border crossings. (Photos by MAJ Randall Stillinger)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TEXAS MILITARY FORCES

285 Pounds of Illegal Narcotics

NGAT News FALL 20148

The Texas Military Forces Museum is about to add two extraordinary aircraft to its already impressive military aviation collection: a CH-34 helicopter (right) and a F84E fighter bomber (top).The aircraft will be displayed at Camp Mabry located in Austin. Several historic aircraft are already displayed on the post’s parade ground, including an F16, F4 and F86, all three of which were transferred to the Adjutant General’s Department of Texas from the National Museum of the United States Air Force. More than 30,000 people visit the Texas Military Forces Museum each year while 20,000 attend the annual Texas Military Forces Open House held at Camp Mabry every April. The F84E was the type of aircraft flown by the 136th Fighter Wing of the Texas Air National Guard during the Korean War. The CH-34 helicopter was assigned to the Texas Army National Guard during the 1960s and 1970s, during which period it was used to regularly

transport President Lyndon B. Johnston. The museum plans to build a major indoor exhibit to house the F84E. The CH34 will undergo an exterior restoration and be displayed on the Camp Mabry parade ground alongside other historic aircraft. These new projects are ambitious and will require support from those interested in preserving this history and these aircraft. The museum is looking for financial donations to assist in bringing the exhibits to life, as well as artifacts related to the service of Texas Air Guard servicemen who fought in the Korean War or Cold War. Everything from uniforms, equipment, photographs, letters, diaries, etc. is needed. Those interested in lending their expertise, time and effort to restoring the helicopter, to reassembling the F84E, to building the exhibit, or in becoming a volunteer tour guide at the museum are welcome to become part of the museum’s team by contacting Jeff Hunt at 512-782-5770 or at [email protected]

www.ngat.org 9

CSM Daniel GarciaCommand Sergeant MajorHHB 36th Infantry Division

CSM Michael BlandCommand Sergeant Major

Training Center Garrison Command

MAJ August MurrayCommander

TXARNG Recruiting & Retention Command

COL David WebbCommander

56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team

Governor Rick Perry congratulates Robert J. Bodish on his promotion to Major General in the Texas State Guard.

MG (TX) Bodish serves as the Deputy Commander, TXSG Garrison Command.

Maj Gen Kenneth W. Wisian (left), Assistant Adjutant General-Air and Commander of the Texas Air National Guard, administers the Oath of Office to David M. McMinn at Camp

Mabry following his promotion to Brigadier General. Brig Gen McMinn will serve as the Vice Commander and

Chief of Staff for the Texas Air National Guard.

MG (TX) Manuel A. Rodriguez VII (right), Commander of the Texas State Guard assists Holly Smallwood with pinning

the rank of Brigadier General on her husband BG (TX) Brian Smallwood during his recent promotion ceremony at Camp Mabry. BG (TX) Smallwood will serve as the commander of

the TXSG Maritime Regiment.

Former wing chaplain for the 147th Reconnaissance Wing, Chaplain

(Lt Col) Mack Praytor, was recently promoted to head chaplain for the Texas Military Forces marking the first time in state history that an Air Force chaplain will serve in this

capacity. The state chaplain oversees more than 60 chaplains and cares for

the spiritual welfare of more than 20,000 Air Force, Army and Texas

State Guard members.

NGAT News FALL 201410

Held 23 Aug 2014, this airborne operation, known as a “water jump,” had a lot of moving parts requiring Texas Army and Air National Guard units, as well as public facilities, to work together to accomplish the training. The Chilean special operations and Texas Army National Guard special operations units have had a cohesive working relationship since becoming state partners in 2008. Their partnership has allowed for a sharing of knowledge and expertise, as well as opportunities like the water-jump training, to gain a working, hands-on experience where everyone learns to function as a unit. This long-term bond fosters cooperation and strengthens international ties between allies.

Members of the Special Operations Detachment - Africa (Airborne) prepare for a “water jump” maneuver on a UH-60 Black Hawk in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Photo by SFC Suzanne Ringle)

MAJ Robert Hites, a member of the Special Operations Detachment - Africa (Airborne), receives the Chilean airborne wings following a joint “water jump” exercise with the Chilean special operations in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Photo by SFC Suzanne Ringle)

Members of the Special Operations Detachment - Africa (Airborne) conduct a joint “water jump” maneuver with members of the Chilean special operations in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Photo by SFC Suzanne Ringle)

Like a scene from an action-packed war movie, the Corpus Christi shoreline witnessed Green Berets leaping from helicopters with parachutes nearly translucent in the morning sun. The special operations Soldiers splashed into the quiet bay below as their chutes billowed above in the breeze. The mission: a joint airborne training exercise joining the Special Operations Detachment – Africa (Airborne) and the Chilean marine special operators in Corpus Christi, Texas aboard the historic USS Lexington Museum.

TEXANS AND CHILEANS

TRAIN TOGETHER

www.ngat.org 11

Major General Jake Betty received his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry in 1973. Upon entering active duty, he was assigned to the 1st 501st Infantry Battalion, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, KY. His assignments included Infantry Platoon Leader, Infantry Company Executive Officer, Recon Platoon Leader, and Battalion S-3 Air. Upon leaving active duty in 1977, he was assigned as Company Commander, C Company, 1-143 Infantry, 36th Airborne Brigade, Texas National Guard. In 1979 Colonel Betty transferred to the U.S. Army Reserves and held various leadership positions including a nine-month deployment from 1997 to 1998 in support of Operation Joint Guard in Bosnia. In February 2003, while serving as the Commander of the 3419th Military Intelligence Detachment, NAS-JRB Fort Worth, TX, he was mobilized to the Defense Intelligence Agency as Chief, Iraq Survey Group, Fusion Center – CONUS in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He retired from the U.S. Army Reserve in 2003 after serving a total of 30 years. Since 2006 Betty has been a member of the Texas State Guard holding a number of leadership positions including Commander of the 8th Regiment headquartered in Houston, and of the Texas State Guard Headquarters J1. He has served on several state active duty missions to include Hurricanes Dean, Gustav, Dolly, Edouard, and Ike. In March 2013 General Betty was selected to serve as Commanding General, Army Component Command. On 1 September 2014 he was selected as Commanding General, Texas State Guard.

Sgt Maj (TX) Bryan BecknelSenior Enlisted Advisor

Texas State Guard

In a change of command ceremony at Camp Mabry on Saturday, 4 October 2014, MG (TX) Gerald “Jake” Betty assumed command of the Texas State Guard (TXSG) from MG (TX) Manuel “Tony” Rodriguez VII. The Texas State Guard, along with the Texas Army National Guard and Texas Air Guard, is a major component of Texas Military Forces under the command of the governor. The Texas Military Forces are commanded by the state’s adjutant general, Maj Gen John F. Nichols. Governor Rick Perry announced in September that Betty would assume command upon the retirement of Rodriguez, who has commanded the TXSG since August 2012. “Over the last two years, MG (TX) Rodriguez has continued to demonstrate the integral role of the Texas State Guard to the Texas Military Forces and the people of the Lone Star State,” said Maj Gen John F. Nichols, Texas Adjutant

General. “Rodriguez has demonstrated his leadership skills and has distinguished himself in mission execution during his time in command.” As part of the change of command ceremony, Betty was promoted to major general and a new Senior Enlisted Advisor, Sgt Maj (TX) Bryan Becknel, took responsibility for the enlisted service members in the TXSG. As commander, MG (TX) Betty will be responsible for the organization, training, and administration of the Texas State Guard, reporting directly to the Texas Adjutant General. Currently, more than 2,200 men and women actively serve in the TXSG, which is divided into four operational components: Army, Air, Maritime and Medical. The mission of the Texas State Guard is to provide mission-ready military forces to assist state and local authorities in times of state emergencies, to conduct homeland security and community service activities under the umbrella of defense support to civil authorities; and to augment the Texas Army and Air National Guard as required.

TEXAS STATE GUARD CHANGES COMMAND

MG (TX) Gerald “Jack” BettyCommander

Texas State Guard

NGAT News FALL 201412

AROUND THE W RLD withYoel Romero (blue gloves)

fought Tim Kennedy on 27 Sept. during a

middleweight fight during UFC 178 at MGM Grand

Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Although Tim did

not win the fight, it was not without controversy.

Tim is a Sergeant First Class in the Texas Army

National Guard assigned to the Special Operations

Detachment - Africa (Airborne). (Photo by

Stephen R. Sylvanie/USA Today Sports)

Members of Special Operations Detachment - Africa pose for a photo with their Canadian counterparts in Quebec City, Canada where they

were conducting language and cultural immersion training.

SGT Marlene Duncan, 100th Mobile Public Affairs

Detachment (right), role-plays as a civilian media

reporter during Operation Saber Junction held at

Hohenfels in Nuremburg, Germany on 10 Sept. 2014.

The 100th MPAD supported 17 countries, including the U.S., with realistic civilian media

coverage giving leadership a better understanding of how to work with civilian media in an operational environment. (Photo courtesy of the 100th

MPAD)

NGAT members attending the EANGUS Conference in Phoenix, AZ ran into the former

Command Chief of the Air National Guard, CMSgt (Ret) Dick Smith (center). Chief Smith

is also a life member of NGAT. Pictured left to right are: SrA Kevin Hannah, SGT Mark Adame, 1SG Allen Schonberg, CMSgt Chuck Chavers and

CSM Donna Balderston.

The people of France dedicated monuments in Vesoul and Saint-Raphaël, Provence-Alpes-Cote D’Azur, France to honor the sacrifices made by our 36th

Infantry Division, Texas Army National Guard Soldiers during Operation Dragoon in August and September 1944.

The 149th Civil Engineer Squadron from 149th Fighter Wing traveled to North Carolina to assist with the renovation of the Tarheel Challenge

Academy’s school facilities and to conduct skills training. (Photo by TSgt Eric Wilson)

www.ngat.org 13

Members of the Texas State Guard 2nd Bn, 8 CA RGT gave a presentation to members of the American Legion Post 164 in

Katy, Texas. The presentation detailed the State Guard’s duties and responsibilities are. Pictured left to right are: SPC (TX)

Verkon, PV2 (TX) Martin, Post Commander Ernie Courmeir, and NGAT Life Member SSG (TX) William Miller.

the TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD

Soldiers and Airmen from the Texas Military Forces attend the Marksmanship Advisory Council (MAC) Region V competition held at Greenlief Training Center

in Hasting, Nebraska. Pictured left to right are: 2Lt Brian Street, MSgt Donnie Hicks, and MAJ John Conley. (Photo by Tanya Lippincott)

LTC (Ret) Marvin Harris (left), proudly stands with his wife Rose and sons Jalen

and Jaren prior to attending the ring ceremony for his son Jalen. Jalen is a “Firstie” attending the United States

Military Academy at West Point, New York.

Joint Terminal Attack Controller with the 147th Air Support Operations Squadron, 147th Reconnaissance Wing performs close air support with a Czech forward air controller during the 2014 Ample Strike exercise in the

Czech Republic.

SGT Justus Densmore, 342 Engineer Company, fires at his target during the 2014 inaugural USAR Small Arms Championship at Camp Joseph T. Robinson, Arkansas.

Densmore helped his team capture 1st place in the overall team competition on 25 September.

Congratulations to MAJ Chong and SSG Dilger who are the Minuteman Brigade’s newest graduates of the Civil Support Skills Course held at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. Pictured left to right are: JTF Commander COL Lee Schnell, SSG Carolina Dilger, MAJ Chol Chong, 6th CST Commander LTC William Phillips, and JTF Sergeant Major CSM Richard Sublett.

NGAT News FALL 201414

During the EANGUS Welcome Party held at the Lucky Strike Bowling Center in Phoenix, AZ, a single elimination bowling tournament was conducted. A total of 18 teams competed, and “Texas In The Gutter” won 1st place. The Texas team pictured above (left to right) consisted of NGAT President CMSgt Chuck Chavers, SrA Mark Hannah, SGT Mark Adame and SSG Mireya Cruz. Also part of the team but not pictured is 1SG Allen Schonberg and MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga. WAY TO GO, NGAT!

Join us at the 44th Annual EANGUS Conference in

Indianapolis, IN, 8-13 August 2015.

NGAT & EANGus Combined Life Membership special!

$210Visit www.NGAT.orG to take

advantage of this special.offer expires 31 December 2014

For a complete list of bylaws changes that were approved, visit the NGAT website under

the EANGUS tab.

More than 1,000 National Guard members from around the country assembled at the Phoenix Convention Center for the 43rd Annual National Conference and Expo of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, or EANGUS. Texas had eight members in attendance with three members on professional development. Elections were held, and EANGUS elected new leadership. We are proud to announce that the new EANGUS President is CMSgt (Ret) John Harris from Louisiana. We said farewell and thank you to SSG Mireya Cruz, a member of the 71st TIOG, for her years of service as the Area IV Director. SSG Cruz elected to run for EANGUS Treasurer, and although she did not win, we congratulate her for the gallant effort she put into her campaign. SSG Cruz will continue to represent Texas on several of the EANGUS committees. The biggest change at the EANGUS Conference was the passing of a bylaws change pertaining to EANGUS life memberships. The bylaw change reads as: life membership shall be made available to those members who shall so elect. The fee shall be payment of ten (10) years of the annual dues’ rate, regardless of age. What does that mean to you? If you’re a life member of NGAT and would like to become a life member of EANGUS, your cost would be $110.00 regardless of your age. Your membership is important to NGAT, so through the end of 2014 NGAT is offering a combined NGAT and EANGUS Life Membership for $210.00. THAT IS A BARGAIN! Better yet, you will be ensuring that your benefits and military interest are being protected. Visit the NGAT website to take advantage of this offer.

www.ngat.org 15

RANK Total PaidO1 $30 $22.50 $200 $100O2 $45 $33.75 $200 $100O3 $59 $44.25 $200 $100O4 $72 $54.00 $200 $100O5 $85 $63.75 $200 $100O6 $108 $81.00 $200 $100O7 $123 $92.25 $200 $100O8 $139 $104.25 $200 $100W01 $20 $26 $19.50 $200 $100CW2 $20 $35 $26.25 $200 $100CW3 $20 $46 $34.50 $200 $100CW4 $24 $59 $44.25 $200 $100CW5 $25 $73 $54.75 $200 $100

$1000 $750.00 One-time payment $1000 $934.50

1st Pmt $187.50 Payment 2-4 $250.00 $125 $93.75

$30

ANNUAL LIFENGAT NGAUS SPECIAL NGAT SPECIAL

$20$20$20$25$25$30

4 Payments over 2 years:

NGAUS & NGAT Dues Specials are only available to members of the Texas Military Forces and will expire on 28 Feb 2015

$30

NGAUS Life - Currently ServingNGAUS Life - Currently Serving

NGAUS Life - Retired

National Guard officers and their families from all 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia met in the Chicago Convention Center to discuss the common challenges that confront the Army and Air National Guards nationwide.

The mission of the annual NGAUS conference is to conduct the business of the association, and in that sense a bit of history was made. MG Deborah Ashenhurst, the Ohio adjutant general, was elected as the first woman to chair the NGAUS board of directors. Your voice in NGAT and NGAUS makes a difference; for example, there was a point in time last year when the Army Guard thought they would

lose all of their AH-64 Apaches. That didn’t happen because you and many other NGAT and NGAUS members made their opinions known on Capitol Hill. Membership in NGAT and NGAUS provides you with a voice here in Texas and on Capitol Hill. By joining with other citizen Soldiers, you strengthen your voice with our state and elected officials. In addition, you will begin coming into contact with other citizen Soldiers in the Texas Military Forces, thus strengthening your link within the Texas Military Forces.

We want you to be a member, so for a limited time NGAT will be offering a

membership discount for enrollment in

NGAUS and NGAT. See the chart below

for more information.

NGAT News FALL 201416

FORMER ARMy LEADERsHIP GOEs TO ANNUAL TRAINING

In July when the 36th Infantry Division was conducting Annual Training at Fort Hood, the 36th Infantry Division Commander, BG Lester Simpson, invited former leaders of the division to come out and see the training that was taking place in the division. Pictured above are some of the former National Guard leadership that attended this event with currently serving Soldiers. (Photos by the 36th Infantry Public Affairs)

ONCE A sOLDIER, ALWAys A sOLDIER

During one of the lifts to the training site when former National Guard leadership visited the 36th Infantry Division’s Annual Training we caught these three Soldiers catching up on old times. Pictured left to right are: CSM (Ret) Bruce Hendry, former NGAT President CSM (Ret) Jeff Merrill, and CSM (Ret) Jim Broyles. This is what 80 plus years of service looks like. SALUTE!!

sFC RICHARD “sTRETCH” ALLEN RETIREs

NGAT LIFE MEMBER sERvING THE COMMUNITy

Our Soldiers and Airmen of the National Guard Association of Texas continue to serve our community long after they are retired. Meet CMSgt Robert Heinrich, life member #3802. We found him selling raffle tickets at the St Mary’s

Catholic Church annual picnic in High Hill, Texas.

The Texas Army National Guard Field Artillery community bid farewell to SFC Richard “Stretch” Allen at his retirement ceremony held in San Marcos, Texas. SFC Allen entered the military on 22 October 1976 and left the National Guard after serving some 38 years of military service. He is a long-time supporter of NGAT, and we are happy to embrace him as a military retiree. SFC Allen is pictured above receiving one of his many retirement gifts from LTC Edward Dextraze (left) at his retirement ceremony.

Do you have a get-together or reunion planned?

tell us about it at [email protected].

www.ngat.org 17

PROUDLY SUPPORTS

LEGION DE LAFAYETTE NGAUS • EANGUS • • AUSA

Eastern States Bill Scot t - Bill .scot [email protected] (828) 4 43-2243

Central States Marvin St. John - [email protected] (816) 914-5812

Western States Ralph Borja - [email protected] ( 740) 590-7054

Corporate Mark Dean - [email protected] ( 740) 753-9100 x2012

Ke vin Carpenter - Ke [email protected] ( 740) 753-9100 X2553

ROCKYMILITARY.COM

statement of ownership, Management, and Circulation

NGAT News FALL 201418

Member of the 3-133rd Field Artillery Regiment recently completed Annual Training at Fort Bliss and the Dona Ana Training Area in New Mexico. The battalion spent the first week conducting refresher training on the M119A3 and learning how to operate the new M777A2. After a week of training, the units had mastered the operation of firing both old and new equipment. During Annual Training the 3-133rd FA was making history by being the first Texas Army National Guard unit to field and fire the new M777A2 howitzer. The M777A2 Lightweight 155 mm Howitzer, simply referred to as the M777A2 or the triple 777, provides direct reinforcing and general support fire to maneuver forces. The M777A2 fires unassisted projectiles to a range of 15 miles and assisted projectiles to 19 miles, but the addition of the digital fire control system enables the weapon to program and fire the improved Excalibur precision-guided munitions to ranges in excess of 25 miles and land within 10 meters of its target. Near the completion of Annual Training, the battalion had over 100 family members, employers, and other guests come to visit the Soldiers in the field on family day. LTC Miguel Torres, 3-133rd FA commander, said the event was the first time the unit had hosted an event of this size, and he was ecstatic to see everyone in

attendance. “Sometimes the families don’t know what their Soldiers do when they come out here,” Torres said. “For a lot of them, this is the first time they’re seeing what they do.”

Members of HHB 3-133rd FA Fire Direction Center prepare coordinates for an incoming fire mission.

Commander of the 56th IBCT, COL David Webb (left), observes a company fire support team from HHB 3-133rd FA calling for artillery fire at Fort Bliss, Texas.

A Btry and B Btry 3-133FA conduct M119A3 Howitzer live fire at Dona Ana Base Camp, Ft Bliss, TX.

(Pictured left) HHB3-133 FA conducts a “powder burn” bringing an end to Live Fire activities.

(Background Photo) Cannon crew members with Battery C, 3-133rd Field Artillery prepare to fire a high-explosive round from an M777A2 howitzer during live-fire training at Dona Ana Training Area, New Mexico. This unit is the first Texas Army National Guard unit to field this equipment.

www.ngat.org 19

FROM BEAUTy QUEEN TO sERGEANT

Lauren Guzman relinquished her crown as Miss Texas USA 2014 on 31 August 2014. This past year she has represented the Lone Star State and served the citizens of Texas as a sergeant in the Texas State Guard (TXSG). SGT (TX) Guzman joined the TXSG in 2007 and is a member of Headquarters Company, 1st Regiment. She holds a bachelor’s degree in forensic science from St. Mary’s University, which she earned while serving in the guard.

OPERATION LONE sTAR

SGT Justin A. Wilton, Texas Medical Command, prepares a patient’s immunization at Operation Lone Star at Ringgold Middle School in Rio Grande City. (Photo by SGT Adrian Shelton)

IT’s ALL IN THE TECHNIQUE

WELCOME TO THE TEXAs sTATE GUARD

Congratulations to 19th Regiment Texas State Guard enlistees sworn in by 2nd Battalion Commander LTC (TX) William Johnson at their first of three basic orientation training weekends. Recruits sworn in are as follows: Jonathan Sims, John Simmons, Maximilian Bradicich, James Miller, Kevin Schmeider and Colton House.

WHAT GOEs UP MUsT COME DOWN

Drop zone support Soldiers with the 36th Infantry Division sprint to two airborne jumpers who nearly collided during an airborne jump during annual training at Fort Hood, Texas. (Photo by SPC Christina Clardy)

GOLFERs RAIsE MONEy FOR TXMF FAMILIEs

The National Guard Association of Texas and the Pine Forest Golf Club in Bastrop, Texas hosted the 1st Annual Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation (TXNGFSF) Golf Tournament. More than eight foursomes competed for some great prizes. Organizers raised $2,400 for the TXNGFSF.

CPT David Jones, center, the battalion medical provider with Headquarters Support Company, DHHB, demonstrates his technique for applying stitches to a laceration using a piece of raw chicken during the 36th Infantry Division’s Annual Training at Fort Hood. (Photo by SPC Christina Clardy)

Send your news and photos to:[email protected]

NGAT News FALL 201420

• Golf Tournament – Shotgun, Florida scramble with low net/low gross competition. The golf tournament is open to both registered and non-registered attendees of the conference. Registration includes green fee, cart, continental breakfast, lunch, and award plaques.

• 12th Annual Silent Auction – Bid on over 200 auction items and take advantage of some great bargains on gift baskets, jewelry, weekend getaways, and tickets to music, sports and other entertainment venues.

• Wine Tasting – Enjoy a delicious variety of Texas wines at our wine tasting. • Spirits Tasting – Come sample tequila and learn a little about the history and

production of the many classic tequila brands. The session will feature several selections displaying a variety of characteristics and flavors.

• Texas Hold’em Tournament – How good is your poker face? Do you have what it takes to go all-in? Then try your luck at the NGAT Texas Hold’em Tournament.

• NGAT Welcome Party – Come enjoy our Margaritaville themed party at Brewster Street Ice House. The Welcome Party menu includes beef and chicken fajita stations with all the trimmings. Live entertainment will be provided. Wear your craziest Hawaiian shirt or muumuu and enjoy your evening with friends.

• Spouse Luncheon – Enjoy a guided tour of the Art Museum of South Texas and lunch at Hester’s Café in the museum. The museum showcases regional fine art, photography, and crafts. For more information on the museum, visit artmuseumofsouthtexas.org. Registration fee also includes transportation.

• Saturday Dinner – Dinner presentations include the Minuteman and Scholarship awards. At this year’s dinner attendees get to choose from three different entrées: coriander pork tenderloin medallions, teriyaki glazed chicken, or grilled salmon with pecan butter. All of the entrees include chef’s choice of seasonal vegetables, iced tea and Starbucks coffee along with salad, starch, and dessert. Please make your entrée selection on your registration form.

• Hospitality Suites will be located at the hotel, and units will compete for “Best Suite” award.

• NGAT Social Lounge – Visit and mingle with friends in a more conversation-friendly environment.

• Enjoyadeliciousbreakfast,fellowship,andprayerduringtheNGAT Prayer Breakfast on Sunday morning.

Join us in Corpus Christi at the nGat ConferenCeThe 56th Annual NGAT conference will be held 13–15 March 2015 at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel and the

American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

reGistration(ONLINE REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE)

All attendees must pay the registration fee. Registration fee is $15.00 per person.

Meal paCkaGes

hotel

• EarlyBirdRegistrationfeeis$95andcloseson30January2015.• RegularRegistrationfeeis$110andcloseson2March2015. (The deadline for meal packages is 2 March 2015. After this date, meals must be

purchased individually as available.)• A$25latefeewillbeaddedtoallregistrationsreceivedafter2March2015.• AllcancellationrequestsmustbereceivedintheNGATofficepriorto 1 March 2015.

• OmniCorpusChristiHotel,900N.ShorelineBoulevard,CorpusChristi,Texas,78401• Makeyourreservationsdirectlywiththehotelat:1-800-843-6664.Makesureto

identify yourself as a member of the National Guard Association of Texas.• Hotelrate:$107single/doubleplustaxpernight.• HotelreservationscanalsobemadeonlineattheNGATwebsite. (NGAT cannot guarantee rooms after 20 February 2015)

WELCOME PARTy: Hawaiian Shirt or MuuMuuNGAT BUSINESS SESSION: Business CasualNGAT DINNER: Army - Class A/Service Dress/Mess Dress; Air - Mess Dress/Service Dress; Civilians - Business Suit/ Evening Formal Wear; Spouses - After-Five Attire.

ConferenCe optional events

reGister online by visitinG the nGat Website at WWW.nGat.orG

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

attire

NGAT CoNfereNCeWelCome PArTy

Join us at the Welcome Party during the NGAT Conference on 13 March 2015.

Wear your craziest Hawaiian outfit and

win cool prizes!

The National Guard Association of Texas Education Foundation

announces its annual scholarship competition. Educational grants for

attendance at a college or university will be awarded to

Active or Life Members of NGAT and/or their spouses, sons, or daughters. The deadline for receipt of all applications is 13 February 2015 in the

NGAT office.

Download an application at www.ngat.org

www.ngat.org 21

Please Army Retired Army Air Retired Air State Guard Check: Spouse Guest _____ # Conferences Attended including this one

Rank:_______________________ Name:________________________________________________________________________Unit:_______________________________________ Email Address:________________________Home Address:_____________________________________________ Daytime Phone:(____)______________________________City/State:_____________________________ Zip:________________ Cell:(____)________________________________________Badge Name:_________________________________ Spouse/Guest Name:___________________________Rank: _____________

Please indicate any special needs (i.e. disability, dietary, etc.) ________________________________________________________

E1-E6: $15 E7-O/CW3: $20 O/CW4-O/CW5: $25 O6-O8: $30 Associate/Retired: $20

Lone Star Package (E1-E6 only) Includes 2 NGAT Meal Packages, 2 Registrations and 2 Nights at the Omni Hotel

$350 ea Attendee Lunch (circle one) LE RL SL Spouse/Guest Lunch (circle one) LE RL SL Deadline

6-Feb-15 Attendee (circle one) B C F Spouse/Guest (circle one) B C F

Hotel Room King Double (NGAT will book the hotel room for this package)

Attendee Registration Fee $15 Spouse/Guest Registration Fee $15

$95 ea

Starting Attendee (circle one) LE RL SL Spouse/Guest (circle one) LE RL SL 2/1/2015

$110 ea Attendee (circle one) B C F Spouse/Guest (circle one) B C F

Friday Welcome Party Attendee Spouse/Guest $35 eaSaturday Breakfast Only Package (at American Bank Center)

FREE$10 ea

Saturday Lunch Only Package LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch

Attendee (circle one) LE RL SL Spouse/Guest (circle one) LE RL SL $25 eaSaturday Dinner Only Package - Please select Dinner Entrée: Beef/Chicken/Fish Attendee (circle one) B C F Spouse/Guest (circle one) B C F $50 eaSunday Prayer Breakfast (Optional Meal) Attendee Spouse/Guest $25 ea

Golf Tournament (Fri) $75 ea Names of Golf Team: Fun Run (Fri) Attendee Spouse/Guest $20 ea

S M L XL XXL S M L XL XXL

TX Hold'em Tournament (Fri) 0900-1200 Attendee Spouse/Guest $30 eaNGAT Wine Tasting (Fri) 1100-1200 Attendee Spouse/Guest $20 eaSpirits Tasting (Fri) 1230-1330 Attendee Spouse/Guest $30 ea

Check Enclosed (Please make check payable to NGAT)Charge my: MasterCard Visa Expiration Date: ____________ Card #: ____________________________________CC Security Code: _______ CC Billing Address Zip Code: _______Name of Cardholder:___________________________________________Signature of Cardholder: _______________________________________

$____________

$____________

NGAT Life Member NGAT Annual Member

The unit you wish to sit with at the Dinner:_________________________________________________________________________

$____________

Donation - NGAT Educational Foundation $____________

$____________

$____________

$____________

$____________

$____________ Non-NGAT Member Breakfast Spouse/Guest Breakfast

Registration - All Attendees Must Pay Registration Fee

Please select Lunch - LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch

Attendee Handicap: ____ Spouse/Guest Handicap: ____

$____________

$____________

$____________

$____________Specify T-Shirt Size:

$____________

$____________NGAT Optional Events (not included in Basic Registration)

$____________Late Fee after 1 Mar 15 (Add $25):

Credit Card Handling Fee (Add 5%):

________________________________________________

Mail to:NGAT, 3706 Crawford Ave, Austin, TX 78731 Fax: (512) 467-6803 Email: [email protected]

ONLINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE AT WWW.NGAT.ORG For Assistance Call 512-454-7300Total (Credit Card):

SubTotal:

$____________

$____________

$____________Total (Check):

NG

AT

Con

fere

nce

Fees

(FREE) Breakfast for NGAT Member

NGAT Junior Enlisted Package (Includes registration)

Please select Lunch - LE - Lunch w/Exhibitors RL - Retiree Lunch SL - Spouses Lunch

Welcome Party, Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Please select Dinner Entrée: Beef/Chicken/Fish

Meal Packages (Registration fee required with all packages)NGAT Meal Package - Sessions, Exhibits, Hospitality Rooms, ( Early Bird thru 1-31-15)

56th NGAT Conference 13-15 March 2015 American Bank Center Corpus Christi, TXConference Registration Form

$____________

SUBTOTAL

_____________________________

Renew Your NGAT Membership Dues Renew my NGAT Membership - NGAT Dues Renewal also available online

NGAT Life Membership Special - Become a life member today for $100.00 - Offer expired 17 Mar 2015

Please select Dinner Entrée: Beef/Chicken/Fish

$____________

$____________

$____________

$____________

ONLY ONSITE REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER MARCH 2, 2015MEAL PACKAGES MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO REGISTER AFTER MARCH 2, 2015 OR ONSITE!

NGAT News FALL 201422

NGAT CORPORATE MEMBERS AND SPONSORS

MSG Cecil K. Baker, Life Member #2120, Retired, Fort Worth

Mr. Brian M. Bennett, Retired, Los Fresnos

BG Howell “Hal” L. Boyd, Life Member #1923, Retired, San Angelo

SPC Charles R. Clarke, CO B (-) 449th ASB, Austin

MSG Raul G. Flores, Life Member #8835, Retired, San Antonio

MSgt Howard H. Gross, Life Member #237, Retired, Huntsville

1SG Thomas L. Harper, Retired, Hutto

COL Milton W. Johnston, Life Member #1760, Retired, Marshall

SMSgt Willie C Maxie, Life Member #16332, Houston

TSgt Kenneth W. McLennan, Life Member #21643, Retired, Katy

Mr. Bennilee J. Pennington, Life Member #2188, Retired, Welch

1SG Mario Quinones Jr., Co B 1-141 INF, Pearland

Mr. Ronnie Ridout, Retired, San Antonio

MSG Patrick E. Roth, Life Member #8220, Retired, Austin

*Mr. Timothy W. Talent, Life Member #14640, Retired, New Boston

SPC James E. Toliver, 712th MP Guard Co, Beaumont

COL Earl C. Wilkes, Life Member #15059, Retired, Austin

If you are aware of the passing of a current or former National Guard member, please notify us by phone, by a letter to our office, or

by email at [email protected].

*Had NGAT Life Insurance

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as of 10/06/14TAPS

wHole life insurAnce Policies Are now AvAilAble for nGAt MeMbers

AGes 66–75Members (including associate members) may now apply for whole life insurance even if they have been discharged or

retired from the Guard.

whole life insurance – Pay the same premium for the rest of your life and accrue a cash value Members age 66–75 may apply Amounts of insurance available: $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, $20,000, $25,000, $50,000, and $75,000 evidence of insurability may be required spouses may be insured Premiums are the same regardless of tobacco usage

UNDERWRITTEN BYAMERICAN EQUITY INVESTMENT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

If interested, please complete the information below and return to:NGAT, 3706 Crawford, Austin TX 78731, FAX (512) 467-6803

PHONE (512) 454-7300 or email [email protected]

NAME ____________________________________________________________________ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________CITY _________________________________ ST __________ ZIP _________________SSN _____________________________ DATE OF BIRTH _________________________DAYTIME PHONE __________________________________________________________

CIRCLE AMOUNT OF INSURANCE DESIRED:$5,000 $10,000 $15,000 $20,000 $25,000 $50,000 $75,000

National Guard Association of Texas3706 Crawford AvenueAustin, Texas 78731-6308

201427 Oct NGAT Strategic Planning Meeting, Austin11 Nov Veteran’sDay(NGATOfficeClosed)27–28 Nov ThanksgivingObserved(NGATOfficeClosed)10 Dec NGAT Legislative Reception, Washington, D.C.13 Dec NationalGuard’sBirthday24–31 Dec ChristmasHolidaysObserved (NGATOfficeClosed)

20151 Jan NewYear’sDay(NGATOfficeClosed)19 Jan MartinLutherKingDay(NGATOfficeClosed)3–5 Feb NGAT Legislative Visit, Washington, D.C.13–15 Feb EANGUSAreaIVMid-Winter,Oklahoma16 Feb President’sDay(NGATOfficeClosed)23 Feb NGATBoardMeeting,Austin12 Mar NGATBoardMeeting,CorpusChristi13–15 Mar 56th Annual NGAT Conference, Corpus Christi

NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXASNGAT PLANNING CALENDAR

(As of 15 October 2014)