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Volume 14 , Number 2 March-April 2005

2004's top enlisted, pages 5, 6 Fighting 69th fights on, page 22

New York reflections on Operation Iraqi Freedom's second anniversary

GUARD NOTES

Guard TimesPage2

Nyack College offers new military degreeprogram to New York guardmembers

Nyack College, Nyack, N.Y., is offering assistance for Military Personnel tocomplete their bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management through an acceleratedAdult Degree Completion Program.

The program offers students the opportunity to earn their bachelor’s degree in aslittle as 14 months by attending class only one night a week.

Students must have earned at least 60 transferable college credits from an accreditedcollege or university.

Tuition Assistance is available through the college. Military experience may beused to earn college credit. Visit Nyack College online at www.nyackadulted.org.

Some prepaid phone cards better than othersLoved ones who purchase prepaid phone cards may think they’re sending deployed

troops a big stockpile of calling minutes, but that’s often not the case.Many cards are for stateside use only, according to Judd Anstey, public affairs

specialist, Army and Air Force Exchange Service.In contrast, the Military Exchange Global Prepaid 550- and 200-unit phone cards,

part of the “Help Our Troops Call Home” program, offer lower per-minute rates thanother prepaid cards, including AT&T prepaid cards sold by other retailers, Ansteysaid. “It’s the best value out there,” he noted.

More information about the Military Exchange Global Prepaid Calling Card isavailable by calling (800) 527-2345.

Commentary by Staff Sgt. Greg Moore2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry

SARANAC LAKE—There are no longer generators running, armored vehiclesrumbling or mortars exploding, and the roar of the silence is deafening to me. What Ihear at night now is the gentle breaths released from the perfect lips of my sons, thesame lips that I cannot kiss enough. The lips that make my eyes fill with tears everytime they touch my cheeks.

My release from Fort Drum came earlier than expected, so, when I pulled into mydriveway at noon, the house was empty. I dropped my bags inside and walked alonethrough the rooms, soaking in the images and smells that had been only a memoryduring 10 months in Iraq.

My oldest son’s first-grade teacher had been wonderful to me while I was away. Shee-mailed school updates and pictures almost weekly. So, when I popped my head intoher classroom, she came running and gave me a welcome-home hug.

“Easton is practicing a song. Why don’t you surprise him?”My heart was racing. I followed the sound of the piano and the little voices singing,

then stood and watched. Trickles of love and pride started involuntarily down mycheeks as I listened to my son. He had gotten so big. The anticipation built as I waitedfor him to see me.

The little girl next to him was the first to notice the uniformed man standing in thedoorway. Her eyes grew wide and her mouth fell open.

“Easton! Easton...your daddy’s here,” she said in an electrified whisper.My son’s head snapped around. The excitement and disbelief on his face is something

I will never forget. I motioned him to me and he ran into my open arms. There was nohiding my tears, and I didn’t care to. This was the day I had waited for.

I choked out my words of love and hung on to this boy who had cried so many nights,who said he didn’t care if he got any other presents for Christmas—he only wanted hisDaddy to come home. This boy who had used all his wishes on me. He kept pulling hishead back from my shoulder to look at my face. Cheers rose from the other kids andteachers.

Hand-in-hand, Easton and I stepped outside and drove to the other side of town. I hadanother little boy to catch up with. When I went inside he was napping. “Marshal,wake up. I have a surprise for you,” I heard his day-care provider say.

He came out with his head on her shoulder. When he looked up his eyes grew wideand all signs of sleepiness disappeared. “Daddy,” he exclaimed in pure excitement ashe fell forward into my arms. My heart ached with love.

I was complete again. I had my boys. And there have never been more perfect wordsspoken to me than, “I love you, Dad.”

It may take my wife and children a long time to realize that, while I look the same, Iam not the same person who said good-bye to them many months ago. I will never bethe same again—thankfully so.

Each day, I am acutely aware of what makes me happy, and what it is I do that makesother people happy. Walking “point” through the volatile streets in Iraq helped me seethis much more clearly, and I will make every effort to preserve that awareness for therest of my days.

When I look through my photo album I think about the men I served with, and learnedto count on, who are no longer by my side. The men who had their bodies pierced bythe hatred of terrorists, men who left their last breaths in a place far away. Great mendoing a job that allows this noble country the freedoms it deserves.

I have seen the dark side of humanity and it has forever changed me. As I sit here inmy house, with the sun streaming through the windows, I look out and see the boughs ofthe evergreens blowing in the breeze.

There are no armed guards on the roof. No sandbags. I don’t call in grid coordinatesof my whereabouts any more. Mission briefs have been replaced by wonderfulcommunication between two parents. As I drive through town, I am alone; with noturret and no gunner above me. I don’t have to scrutinize every pile of dirt, everyplastic bag to check whether it may explode. Amazingly, I am safe. ❏

A SoldierA SoldierA SoldierA SoldierA Soldiercomescomescomescomescomeshomehomehomehomehome

DoD announces new health care benefitA new health care plan, with coverage comparable to that enjoyed by federal

employees, became available on April 25 to eligible members of the National Guardand Reserve and their families, Defense Department officials announced at thePentagon.

The new plan, called Tricare Reserve Select, serves as a bridge for reservecomponent members entering or leaving active duty who are not covered by civilianemployer or other health insurance plans. It applies to all reserve componentpersonnel who have been activated since 9/11 and who agree to continued servicein the Selected Reserve. The coverage will be applied retroactively, officials said.

Reserve component personnel and their family members are eligible for benefits 90days prior to activation and for up to six months after demobilization, DoD officialssaid. For every 90 days of active duty service, Guard and Reserve personnel areeligible for one year of Tricare coverage for a modest fee.

This change offers a more comprehensive benefit for transition back to private life,and, importantly, the it provides opportunity for those who have served in contingencyoperations to obtain Tricare coverage on a longer term, at very attractive rates.

More information on Tricare Reserve Select is online at www.tricare.osd.mil/reserve/reserveselect. If you can’t find your answer there, then call Sgt. 1st ClassErin Connell, N.Y. Division of Military and Naval Affairs, 518-786-4807.

Freedom Team Salute to recognize Army’sextended family of supporters and veterans

In a recent Pentagon ceremony, the Army kicked off its Freedom Team Salutecampaign designed to recognize those who support Soldiers’ service and veteranswho have served. The FTS package includes an “Army of One” lapel pin, an officialArmy decal, a letter of appreciation signed by the Army chief of staff and thesecretary of the Army, and a letter of thanks signed by the chief of staff and thesecretary.

Francis Harvey, secretary of the Army, said the goal of the campaign is to recognizethose who make Soldiers’ service possible.

“Our Soldiers could not answer their noble calling without the support of spouses,parents, relatives, teachers friends and employers,” Harvey said.

Soldiers wishing to recognize someone can visit:www.freedomteamsalute.army.mil.

Guard Times Page3

Spc. Kristen Potter, 642nd Military IntelligenceBattalion, New York Army National Guard, guardsthe bridge to the Iraqi Army and Police trainingbase at Forward Operating Base Danger, Tikrit,Iraq. The battalion is part of Task Force Liberty,which is conducting security and stability operationsin North-Central Iraq. Potter is from Lexington, N.Y.Photo by Staff Sgt. Raymond Drumsta.

Commentary by Lt. Col. Paul FanningGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS,Latham – America sent its forces towar out of concern for additional attackson the homeland, including the possibleuse of weapons of mass destruction. Apost Cold War Army, which was stillengaged in Operation EnduringFreedom, in Afghanistan, could notaccomplish the mission without reservecomponent combat elements. In thevanguard of the force were NYNGmembers–the very citizen Soldiers andAirmen who, for years, responded toemergencies at home, prior to 9/11.And who, from the very first moment,and throughout the weeks and months ofour national nightmare, had gone toGround Zero, had gone to the state’sairports and nuclear power plants andhad guarded New York City’s bridgesand tunnels and train stations infulfillment of their oath and the NationalGuard mission. This full-circle of duty,from Ground Zero recovery support athome to combat action abroad, iswithout precedent or equal in ournation’s history.

The second anniversary of the launchof Operation Iraqi Freedom, in March2003, went almost unnoticed by the NewYork National Guard this year.

Instead, the focus was on unitsreturning from theater, a plethora ofFreedom Salute ceremonies and at leastone more memorial service for aSoldier who had given his life for hisnation.

For NYNG, Operation Iraqi Freedomhas brought historic challenges,accomplishments and sacrifice notexperienced by the state’s forces sinceWorld War II.

The first in a series of activations ofthousands of NYNG Soldiers andAirmen for wartime service began in

New York reflections onOIF second anniversaryA legacy of courage, service and sacrifice

January 2003, in the wake ofmonumental levels of state active dutyfollowing 9/11 and federal activationsof hundreds of NYNG troops forOperation Noble Eagle’s homelanddefense missions. Having successfullyperformed unprecedented recovery andsecurity operations at home, NYNGwent to war in Iraq along with activeduty, Guard and Reserve forces of otherstates. They performed brilliantly.

From Ground Zero to the SunniTriangle

Two military police companies, a truckcompany, a transportation detachmentand a rear area operations center werethe first units called up. Severalcompany-level infantry platoon leadersfrom the 27th Brigade voluntarilytransferred to the Florida Army NationalGuard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade to deployas part of their initial assault teams.

By the summer of 2003, other elementswere receiving their call-up warnings.The first of two NYNG infantrybattalions was mobilized in the fall, andsoon a steady flow of warning orders,readiness weekends and call-ups sweptthe state.

Two field artillery batteries werecalled up, augmented with armor unitsand converted into military police todeploy to theater. Maintenance andother support units were called up, aswell as a second infantry battalion withsupport elements. But the biggest wasyet to come.

In May 2004, for the first time sincethe Korean War, a National Guarddivision headquarters was called up,mobilized and deployed to a war zone. Itwas something no one expected wouldever happen again. NYNG’s 42nd

Infantry “Rainbow” Division was sent tothe front lines in the cause of freedom.

Historic Sacrifice and EffortAt press time, 16 members of the New

York Army National Guard had fallen inthe line of duty. Dozens of Soldiers hadbeen wounded. For the Guard,conducting casualty affairs operationswas something no one had done ingenerations. Now, National Guardmembers were learning the differencebetween casualty notification andcasualty assistance. Flag-draped coffinswere coming home. Military honorswere being rendered at emotionallycharged memorial services and funerals

across the state. The pain was shared.The youngest Soldier to fall was age 20,and the oldest Soldier was 49. In theirhonor-roll ranks was a Ground Zerofireman and at least three immigrantSoldiers, including New York’s firstGuard Muslim casualty.

At home, military family membersgathered in unit support groups to assistone another and try to cope with the newrealities that separation and war hadbrought them. The community respondedin heartfelt and often kindled ways toreach out to their hometown warriorsand their families. The National Guardwas bringing America into the fight withthem, one community at a time.

Thousands of Soldier care packageswere mailed. Yellow magnetic ribbonsdecorated cars, trucks and mini-vans.Veterans and civic groups held rallies.The media focused coverage andattention to the war efforts, both at homeand abroad.

Operational issues, presented to thechain of command, were monumentaland included personnel, training andlogistics. After years of serving andtraining primarily as the nation’sstrategic reserve, in the words of Lt.Gen. Stephen H. Blum, Chief, NationalGuard Bureau, the Guard had become “afull operational force,” where“homeland defense was job one andoverseas deployment was homelanddefense, in depth.”

Supporting deployed units, supportingunits being called up, welcoming unitshome, ensuring that other units stoodready for possible activation was allpart of the challenge. This includedkeeping track and taking care of each

OIF has brought historicchallenges,accomplishments andsacrifice not experiencedby the state's forcessince World War II.

Supporting deployedunits, supporting unitsbeing called up,welcoming units home,ensuring that other unitsstood ready...was all partof the challenge.

and every Soldier for federal service orfor response to the next state emergency.For Soldiers asked to bear the burden offighting and suffering, no amount oftraining would ever prepare them forwhat they faced.

AccomplishmentsThe list of contributions and

accomplishments of deployed NYNGpersonnel grows daily. From convoyescort and area security to combataction; from training Iraqi police andIraqi National Guard to rebuildingvillages, schools and hospitals, and,evacuating sick or injured Iraqi childrenstateside for medical care, NYNGSoldiers and Airmen have earned, and

continue to build on merit a tremendousrecord of achievement.

These National Guard Soldiers andAirmen return home as a whole newgeneration of veterans, members ofAmerica’s all-volunteer military. Theybear right-shoulder combat patches,Combat Infantryman’s Badges, PurpleHeart Medals, Bronze Star Medals andcombat zone stress. They are returning tofamilies, jobs and communities thathonor and thank them. Unlike previousgenerations of veterans, these returningwarriors are treated very differently.Surely, America’s 9/11 experience andthese troops’ Ground Zero service is acontributing factor. But along with that,these veterans are benefiting from whatour previous veterans taught thecommunity—to support their troopsregardless of politics, to be grateful tothem and honor their service, which wasfreely given on behalf of all.

As the Global War on Terror continuesto unfold, communities are once againexamining the role of the warrior in ourculture, and, in the process, sorting outfact from popular fiction. For many, aHollywood image is giving way to theicon of a citizen Soldier, a hometownfigure, one who takes personalresponsibility and places the safety,security and defense of the nation, stateand community ahead of everything else.The ultimate history of Operation IraqiFreedom, when eventually written, issure to reflect this legacy. ❏

Guard TimesPage 4

Assistance programscontinue for guardmembersBy Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS, Latham—New York National Guard membersshould know about the multitude of assistance programs, benefits and funds entitled to themand their families, said Charles Phillips, DMNA special assistant here recently.

They need to be aware of relief or “help” agencies that families can contact if they needassistance, said Phillips.

In addition to Patriot Plans I, II and the recently released Patriot Plan III, which providesnumerous benefits to NYNG and Reserve members, there are many public and privateagencies that offer services and funds. Family Readiness and Support Offices across NewYork are a prime sources of information. Some, including the Naval Militia Relief Society,may even help pay for car repairs, heating bills and food bills.

Some programs and funds come and go, so, regular contact with local family supportoffices is beneficial, said Patricia Jensen, State family program assistant here.

Family Readiness Groups & State Family Program Officewww.dmna.state.ny.us/dmna/family/family.html1-877-715-7817 or 518-786-4774

Family Readiness Groups are officially sanctioned National Guard volunteer organizations,which provide information and education to military families. The Unit Family ReadinessGroup provides a support network for all families—especially during periods of separation.The State Family Program Office oversees more than 90 New York Army National Guardreadiness groups and six Air National Guard readiness offices. The State Family ProgramOffice can refer you a local group.

Patriot Plan IIwww.dmna.state.ny.us/members/patriot2.htm/

There are numerous benefits and protections through the Patriot Plan. The Patriot Plan wascreated to provide a broad array of benefits and enhanced protections to New York’smilitary personnel, including military reservists and National Guard members. The Plan isdesigned to assist troops and their families who face potential hardships as a result of theiractive duty service. The majority of the provisions apply only to residents of the State ofNew York.

New York Division of Veterans Affairs1-888-VETS NYSwww.veterans.state.ny.us

The New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs along with county and city veterans’service agencies are ready to assist and help determine specific benefits. Some benefitsinclude compensation for service-connected injuries or diseases, health care, educationbenefits and home loans.

Naval Militia Relief Society518-786-4774 or 1-877-715-7817

For more information call the State Family Program Office.

Military One Sourcewww.militaryonesource.com

Military One Source is an information and referral Service. It is designed to help deal with“life’s issues.” Their consultants are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 daysa year. You can call in and speak to a consultant stateside: 800-342-9647, overseas: 800-3429-6477 or overseas collect: 1-484-530-5908. Their customizable website has avariety of helpful information including: • Online articles, worksheets and suggested reading lists• Educational materials: booklets, CDs and audiotapes (no cost to you)• Locators (summer camp, child care, etc.)• Interactive toolsTheir website allows you to personalize a homepage, bookmark favorite pages, articlesand resources and sign up for monthly newsletters.

USA Careswww.usacares.us1-800-773-0387

USA Cares helps servicemembers and their families deployed across America and aroundthe globe. They provide financial assistance to families who have a Soldier, Sailor,Airman, Marine, Coastguardsmen or Merchant Marine on active duty or mobilized. Theirassistance center has English, Spanish and German speaking operators who are availableto share questions, including questions about the military. If you are requesting financialassistance, they have an application page on their website.

Veterans of Foreign Wars & American Legionswww.unmetneeds.com1-866-789-6333

All Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts and American Legions offer assistance to all militaryfamilies. Since 2003, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, through the VFW Foundation, hasprovided millions of dollars of support to Americans serving in harm’s way. Helping easethe financial burdens of our military families in need is the mission of their Unmet NeedsProgram.

The Salvation Army, Home Front Assistance518-786-4774 or 1-877-715-7817

Please contact the State Family Program Office for current programs.

Elks Army of Hopewww.operationhomefront.org/Help/help_volunteer_hope.shtml(866)-ELK-VETS (355-8387)

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A. assist families who have hada father or mother called to active duty with the military reserve or National Guard. TheElks alumni, comprised of carpenters, electricians, mechanics, plumbers, attorneys,doctors, accountants, teachers and professional people and tradesmen of every type are atthe ready to help families of those called to serve our nation.

United Waywww.national.unitedway.org/518-786-4774 or 1-877-715-7817

Your local United Way Offices offer assistance to military families through their MilitaryFamily Assistance Centers–please contact the State Family Program Office for the closestcenter to you.

Red Crosswww.redcross.org, or www.redcrossneny.org518-458-8111

The Red Cross provides emergency communications that link both active duty andcommunity-based military with families, access to financial assistance, counseling andassistance to veterans. Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services personnel work innearly 900 chapters in the United States, on 74 military installations around the world andwith our troops in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Air Force Aid Society(Active Duty Status Required)www.afas.org1-877-715-7817 or 518-786-4774

The Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) is the official charity of the U.S. Air Force. It promotesthe Air Force mission by helping to relieve distress of Air Force members and their familiesand assisting them to finance their education. It is rooted in the original Army Air Corpsand the World War II Army Air Forces, whose members wanted to “take care of their own.”Through the years, AFAS has become increasingly effective in helping individuals withpersonal emergencies— as well as extremely useful when used by commanders to helpsolve personnel problems in their units. ❏

Guard Times Page 5

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCES HEADQUARTERS,Latham—Being “all that you can be” canhave its challenges, especially whencompeting against the best Soldiers in theNew York Army National Guard. For sevenSoldiers here, being New York's best meantrising one step closer to the best in theNation.

The New York Army National Guardrecently picked its top three enlisted Soldiersof 2004.

A five-member board selected the Soldiersfrom representatives across the state.Candidates underwent a series of tests,including an exam, a physical fitness test andan appearance board. Two Soldiers weresent on to the First Army’s NortheasternRegional competition, from there, oneSoldier was selected to compete at the FirstArmy Regional in July.

“In every organization there are a fewindividuals who are truly outstanding, saidCommand Sgt. Maj. Robert VanPelt, who

NYARNG awards its top enlisted personnel for 2004

Traditional Soldier of the YearSpc. Anthony J. Lechanski, IIBravo Company152nd Engineer Battalion

Traditional NCO of the YearSgt. Travis C. MuhlnickelHeadquarters Company, 1st Battalion,108th Infantry

AGR NCO of the YearStaff Sgt. Kevin L. ConklinDelta Company, 1st Battalion105th Infantry

holds NYARNG’s top enlisted position. “Iam proud and honored to serve with theseSoldiers and applaud their achievements.”

The Soldiers are: Traditional Soldier ofthe Year, Spc. Anthony J. Lechanski, 152ndEngineer Battalion; TraditionalNoncommissioned Officer of the Year, Sgt.Travis C. Muhlnickel, 108th Infantry; ActiveGuard Reserve NCO of the Year, Staff Sgt.Kevin L. Conklin, 105th Infantry.

Muhlnickel, a human resource specialist,is from Auburn. He has six years militaryservice, all with the 108th. He works full-time as the infantry’s career counselor.

“The written portion was very tough,” saidMuhlnickel. He encouraged all Soldiers to

take on the challenge of the competition ifoffered the opportunity.

Conklin, a infantryman, has more than eightyears military service, which includes sixyears active duty in Korea and Fort Brag,N.C., and more than two years with Deltacompany, 1st Battalion of the 105th. Hishometown is Chemung. He is a full-timetraining NCO for the 105th.

“It was a great experience,” said Conklin.Conklin and Lechanski moved on to

compete at the First Army’s NortheastRegional in Warwick, R.I., this spring. There,Lechanski was chosen as a top Soldier in theNortheast.

Conklin said that, although he was not

chosen there, he enjoyed meeting his peers.Lechanski, a combat engineer lives in

Buffalo, and he is currently pursuing anelectrical engineer degree at the Universityof Buffalo.

“It was challenging,” said Lechanski aboutthe selection process. He contributes hissuccess to the 152nd’s mentoring and training.

Lechanski will compete at the First ArmyBoard in Fort Stewart, Ga., on August 7,which encompasses Soldiers from all stateseast of the Mississippi including active dutyArmy bases.

“The competition gets tough there,” saidVanPelt. “But no matter what happens atFirst Army, they are all already winners.” ❏

“I am proud and honoredto serve with theseSoldiers and applaudtheir achievements.”

—Command Sgt. Maj. Robert VanPeltNYARNG Command Sergeant Major

Best of the best: New York Army National Guard's 2004 Soldier of the Year candidates and board members, from right, Command Sgt. Maj. Justin Cappon, Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Tynan, Spc.Randy Greene, Sgt. William Cody, Spc. Billy Jo Bush, Staff Sgt. Kevin Conklin, Spc. Anthony Lechanski, Sgt. Travis Muhlnickel, Sgt. Neil Rhinevault, NYS Command Sgt. Maj. Robert VanPelt, Command Sgt.Maj. Dave Piwowaski. Photo courtesy of NYS Command Sgt. Maj. Robert VanPelt.

Guard TimesPage 6

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS,Latham—The New York Air NationalGuard recently announced its outstandingAirmen of 2004.

“These six Airmen represent the finest ofour enlisted personnel in New York,” saidState Command Chief Master SergeantHardy Pierce, Jr.

Pierce visited and thanked each Airmanat their respective commands this Spring.He said that they were recognized as

2004's best in New York AirNational Guard announced

outstanding Airmen through theirleadership, commitment to excellence,initiative, professional competency anddevotion to their missions.

“These Airmen are the best of the best inNYANG,” he said. “They are inspirational,to say the least.”

Additionally, the Enlisted Associationof the National Guard recognized theAirmen at an annual State banquet inSaratoga Springs on April 30. There, theAirmen were invited to attend EANG'snational conference at Orlando, Fla., thisAugust. The Airmen are:

Honor Guard Program Manager ofthe Year Tech. Sgt. Thomas L. WhitemanNortheast Air Defense Sector, Rome

Airman of the YearSenior Airman Rebecca A. Chamberlain107th Air Refueling Wing, Niagara Falls

Noncommissioned Officer of the YearMaster Sgt. Danny Doucette105th Airlift Wing, Newburgh

Senior Noncommissioned Officer of theYear Master Sgt. Mark J. Mann109th Airlift Wing, Scotia

First Sergeant of the YearSenior Master Sgt. David W. Kolb109th Airlift Wing, Scotia

Honor Guard Member of the YearSenior Airman Christopher G. Nickel106th Rescue Wing, Westhampton Beach

By Guard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS, Latham—RearAdm. Robert A. Rosen, Commander, New York NavalMilitia, recently announced the recipients of the 2004Josephthal Awards here. The militiamen received theirawards at April ceremonies.

The Josephthal Awards are presented annually to NYNMmembers who made exemplary contributions to the Militiaand are therefore “Militiamen of the Year.” The awards arepresented under the provisions of the late Rear Adm. LouisM. Josephthal, NYNM. The awardees are:

A member serving, or has served, with the NavyReserve

Chief Petty Officer Bachorz served with distinction as thenewest editor of the Naval Militia News. Bachorz providedhis personal time to accomplish the editing, formatting,production and delivery of the Naval Militia News, aquarterly publication. During the Republican NationalConvention, Bachorz additionally served as a recorder forthe Joint Task Force Operational Command Center here.Bachorz makes himself available to the Joint OperationsCenter here and recently completed training to become aliaison officer at the State Emergency Management Office.Bachorz has been a NYNM member for 24 years.

New York Naval Militia hails Militiamen of the YearA member serving, or has served with, the MarineCorps Reserve

Master Gunnery Sgt. Cioppa serves with USMCR MarineAir Group 49, Bravo Detachment, Newburgh. There, heserves as an instructor and advisor in weapons of massdestruction, counter terrorism and hazardous materialprograms, which benefit both Marine Corps and Militiatraining. Cioppa regularly volunteers his personal time,travel and expertise to the Militia.

A member serving, or has served with, the CoastGuard Reserve

Chief Walker has been a NYNM member for six years.Walker is assigned to the Naval Militia’s Initiatives Staff,where he helps promote the image of the NYNM and thenaval service. Over a span of many years, Walker hasconscientiously organized, and participated in, a number ofrecruiting activities, military ceremonies and patriotic events.Walker is an active volunteer at the Destroyer EscortMuseum, aboard the USS Slater in Albany.

A member serving with the military emergencyboat service

Lt. Kalisz distinguished himself while serving as AssistantOfficer-in-Charge of the Military Emergency Boat Service.

He has been a NYNM member for 37 years. He demonstratespersonal leadership, administrative capabilities,technological expertise and devotion to duty in majorprojects, which heightens MEBS mission capabilities. ❏

NOTE: Naval Militia staff contributed to this article.

Marine Corps Militiaman of the YearMaster Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Cioppa

Guard Times Page 7

Spc. Wai P. LwinAge 27, QueensHeadquarters Company1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment

Killed when an improvised explosivedevice detonated near his militaryvehicle in Baghdad, Iraq on March 2,2005.

Two Fighting 69th

Soldiers killed inIraq patrol

By 1st Lt. Anthony Bucci and Capt. Sandi Van Wormer174th Fighter Wing

SYRACUSE—Staff Sgt. Celio Castiblanco drew a standingovation on Feb. 13 after pinning on a Bronze Star Medal formeritorious service while engaged in ground combat inAfghanistan.

Castiblanco received his medal from Brig. Gen. Robert A.Knauff, Vice Commander, New York Air National Guard ata ceremony here.

In Afghanistan, Castiblanco and his team, Special ForcesOperational Detachment Alpha, came under hostile fireduring a 2003 assault on an enemy headquarters.

Castiblanco said the three-hour fight came after five monthsof little enemy resistance.

“I just knew something was going to happen. I can’t explainit, I could just feel it,” said Castiblanco.

Just prior to their attack, Castiblanco’s vehicle crashedinto a large ditch tossing its four members out. As bulletsbegan to fly, they took cover, but Castiblanco realized that hehad to get back to the vehicle’s radio to coordinate airsupport. The Humvee was nose-first in the ditch, andCastiblanco noticed that the radio antenna was separatedfrom the unit, making it unusable. Still under fire, he realizedhe must repair the antenna. He began to strip away the wirecasing to reconnect it.

New York National Guard Airman earns Bronze Star MedalIt was pitch dark, but “somehow I could see what I was

doing, there was a light. I don’t know where it was comingfrom,” said Castiblanco.

He was able to repair the antenna, and called in air support.He moved to an observation point to locate enemy positions,

direct aircraft to target and call in mortar fire. He then movedto a position formerly occupied by enemy troops, receivingmachine gun and sniper fire. Engaging the enemy with hisassault rifle, his team flanked enemy positions. He thencoordinated a medical evacuation for a wounded teammember.

Continuing to coordinate air support, Castiblanco directedhelicopters and A-10 Thunderbolts to enemy locations,which fired rockets, five-hundred pound bombs and thirty-millimeter strafing fire. Later that evening, he directed anAC-130 Hercules Gunship to hostile positions.

Special Operations Team Alpha confirmed more than fiftyenemy troops unaccounted for and presumed killed.

“It was the first time I was in a situation like this, but I knewwhat I had to do and did it,” said Castiblanco.

Back in Syracuse, Staff Sgt. Castiblanco is the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of Weapons and Tacticsfor the 274th Air Support Operations Squadron here. He hasdeployed for two overseas combat tours–the one that earnedhim the Bronze Star Medal and a second tour from July-November 2004. ❏

Staff Sgt. Celio Castiblanco, 174th Fighter Wing, receives theBronze Star Medal from Brig. Gen Robert A. Knauff, ViceCommander, New York Air National Guard on Feb. 13.

Spc. Azhar AliAge 27, FlushingHeadquarters Company1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment

Killed when an improvised explosivedevice detonated near his militaryvehicle in Baghdad, Iraq on March 2,2005

By Spc. Brian SchroederTask Force BaghdadMaj. Cathy SweeneyGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCES HEADQUARTERS, Latham—Soldiers gathered here March 8 to celebrate the life of twofallen brothers in arms. Spc. Wai Lwin and Spc. Azhar Ali,1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment HeadquartersCompany scouts gave their lives in support of bringingdemocracy and peace to Iraq.

Lwin and Ali were both immigrants to the United States.Lwin, a Buddhist from Burma and Ali, a Muslim fromPakistan both loved being Soldiers and both felt thatserving in the Army was the best way they could show theywere Americans, said Capt. Christopher Danielscommander, 69th Headquarters Company.

“They knew what the absence of freedom was likebecause of the lack of freedom from their childhoods,” saidDaniels.

Lwin, 27, and Ali, 27, were killed by an improvisedexplosive device that detonated close to their Humveewhile on patrol.

Other members of their platoon said the Soldiers wereinseparable, always seen together, whether they wereeating, relaxing or preparing for their next mission.

“These guys were best friends,” said Sgt. Jason Olmo,squad leader. “You could not separate them.”

Lt. Col. Geoffrey Slack, commander, 69th InfantryRegiment, said Lwin and Ali’s bravery and courageexemplified the tradition of the Fighting 69th. In Baghdad,on March 8, Slack read the Rouge Bouquet; a poem writtenby Joyce Kilmer after the 69th suffered its first, multiplecombat deaths during World War I:

Comrades true, borne anew, peace to you!Your souls shall be where the heroes areAnd your memory shine like the morning star.Brave and dear,Shield us here.Farewell!

On March 4, Governor George Pataki said in a statement:“All New Yorkers join in mourning the losses of Spc.Azhar Ali and Spc. Wai Lwin, who were killed in actionwhile serving in Iraq. These two courageous Soldierswere immigrants who came to New York to embracefreedom and opportunity here. Ali emigrated from Pakistanto make Flushing his home, and Lwin’s family emigratedfrom Burma to settle in Queens. Ali and Lwin not onlyembraced freedom, they were willing to put their lives onthe line to defend it. Their bravery and selfless service toour State and our nation are in keeping with the finesttraditions of the National Guard, and they will always beremembered.”

“On behalf of all New Yorkers, we extend our deepestsympathy to their families, their friends and their fellowSoldiers of the Fighting 69th during this difficult time,”concluded the Governor.

Lwin's parents, Thein and May Lwin and his brother,Khant Phylo, and his sister, YuYu Wai, survive him. Hewas buried at Long Island National Cemetery with fullmilitary honors.

“We have given our son to the military, and our son didhis duty and gave his life to the military. Whatever memorieswe have of him, we wanted him to be near us, in ourhometown,” said Lwin’s father, who continued his reflectionsaying his son died doing what he loved the most.

Lwin’s medals include the Purple Heart Medal, BronzeStar Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal,Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War on TerrorismService Medal, Global War on Terrorism ExpeditionaryMedal, Army Service Medal, National Defense ServiceMedal, N.Y. Medal of Valor and the N.Y. DistinguishedMedal of Service.

Lwin was posthumously awarded citizenship to the UnitedStates.

Ali was a resident of Flushing. He attended John Bownehigh school before joining the 69th Infantry Regiment in1998. He is buried at a Muslim cemetery in Long Island.

Ali’s medals include the Purple Heart Medal, BronzeStar Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal,Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War on TerrorismService Medal, Global War on Terrorism ExpeditionaryMedal, National Defense Service Medal, Korea DefenseService Medal, Army Reserve Component AchievementMedal, N.Y. Medal of Valor, N.Y. Defense of LibertyMedal, N.Y. Distinguished Medal of Service, N.Y.Conspicuous Service Cross, Army Service Ribbon and theArmy Overseas Service Ribbon. ❏

Immigrant Soldiers' American spiritcelebrated at home and abroad

A specialist with the 204th Engineer Battalion is welcomed home from Operation Iraqi Freedom II onMarch 5. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Johnson.

Guard TimesPage8

By 2nd Lt. Amy FiresGuard Times Staff

WALTON—The community lined the streetshere in a welcome home parade for about 30Soldiers of the 204th Engineer Battalion onMarch 5. It was a cold, wintry Saturday, but alarge crowd was on hand to welcome hometheir Soldiers.

A quick formation was called, excitementlingered and families looked eager to embraceloved ones. 1st Lt. Geraldo Sinscalchi, 204th

Platoon Leader, called the Soldiers to attentionand handed unit authority over to RearDetachment Commander, Capt. DavidHumphrey, which completed the transfer fromfederal to state authority.

The Soldiers deployed to support OperationIraqi Freedom. They were attached to the 133rd

Engineer Battalion, Maine Army NationalGuard, where they were stationed in Mosul,Iraq. Their jobs involved civil engineer projects

Army Engineers home from Operation Iraqi Freedomincluding road and building construction.

In the town of Diyanah, the engineers built anew road for local, Iraqi citizens. Three culvertswere additionally constructed to divert waterfor the city.

Speaking of the deployment, Sinscalchi, saidthe best part was, “making different friendsthrough the various civil engineer missions.”

“I am really proud of these Soldiers, theyhave accomplished a lot during theirdeployment,” said Col. Randy Lambrecht,Director of Operations, N.Y. Joint ForceHeadquarters and former 204th Commander.“They will take a much needed break with theirloved ones,” said Lambrecht.

Lambrecht boasted that, true to National Guardculture, the strong loyalties of these Soldierswould bring their return to drill and begin unitreconstitution.

These Soldiers will prepare the unit for it’scontinuing commitment to take care of America,said Lambrecht. ❏

By Master Sgt. Corine Lombardo42nd Infantry Division Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASEDANGER, Tikrit, Iraq—Soldiers of TaskForce Liberty deployed into Iraq betterprepared for the mission than theirpredecessors, and they continue to strengthentheir capabilities each day.

In addition to a full complement ofindividual body armor, which includes

Kevlar helmets and eye protection far greaterin capability and numbers than any priortroop rotation into theater, Task Force LibertySoldiers’ greatest strength is its armorprotection for its fleet of Humvees. Humveestransport the vast majority of Soldiers on theroads of Iraq.

The greater majority of all Humvees inNorth Central Iraq have either level-one,two or three armor protection.

Level-one armor for Humvees are those

vehicles produced at the factory with all theprotective measures installed. Thesecontinue to arrive in theater and are issued tounits as rapidly as they are received. Sincearriving in Iraq, Task Force Liberty hasadded over 200 level-one Humvees, analmost 25 percent increase in capabilitiesover the preceding division.

Level-two armor is provided as an add-on-armor kit in the Army supply chain. TaskForce Liberty logistics and maintenanceSoldiers in North Central Iraq continue everyday to add these kits to the balance of theirvehicles.

Level-three armor, depicted so frequentlyas welded metal plates, is designed to protectSoldiers against improvised explosive

devices (IEDs), the most lethal weapon usedagainst troops here. While less effectiveagainst direct fire attacks, the armor protectsSoldiers against IED shrapnel andfragmentation.

Currently, Task Force Liberty holds morethan 70 percent level-one or level-twoHumvees for combat patrols and combatlogistics patrols. As the availability of level-one and level-two armored vehiclesincreases fewer level-three vehicles areemployed.

While staging in Kuwait, Task ForceLiberty Soldiers installed much of their add-on-armor. All vehicles received necessaryarmor installations before moving into Iraq.

“Once they get up north, their commandersdesignate which vehicles will be out on theroad, all the time, doing patrols,” said Sgt.First Class Kenney, platoon sergeant andchief of the 699th’s Service and Recoverysection. He said armor levels depend on themission.

Task Force Liberty Soldiers helped to weldlevel-three armor to their vehicles, Kenneysaid. He sees the armor installation as anotherexample of Soldiers adapting in order toaccomplish their missions.

The posture for armored vehicles is equallyimpressive for the fleet of heavier trucks;those used for logistics movementsthroughout the area of operations. Althoughno level-one protection is available for theArmy’s heavy trucks, level-two add-on-armor kits currently supplement the armorbeing used. These kits are now in the supplysystem and are being installed.

“I could not be more pleased with theperformance of our logisticians in providingthe men and women of Task Force Libertythe best possible force protection of thefleet,” said Maj. Gen. Joesph J. Taluto, TaskForce Liberty Commander, adding “evenbefore this add-on-armor program achievesits pinnacle, 80 percent of our fleet providelevel-two or level-three protection .” ❏

Task Force Liberty Soldiers rollon with up-armored vehicles

Task force Liberty Soldiers on patrol in Iraq with up-armored Humvees. Photo courtesy of the 42nd Infantry Division.

Guard Times Page9

By 2nd Lt. Amy FiresGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCEHEADQUARTERS, Latham–Family and friends sprang from thedrill floor here on Feb. 10 when 25Soldiers of the 56th PersonnelServices Battalion came home aftera yearlong tour in Iraq supportingOperation Iraqi Freedom II.

One Soldier walked quickly overto his wife’s side. Other membersunpacked duffel bags anddeployment items from their bus,which brought them from FortDrum. Their unpacking and

Iraq mail handlers return to sendersdemobilization work seemsminuscule to the amount of workthey did overseas.

The Soldiers were deployed onDecember 2003 and spent 2004receiving and distributing mailthroughout Iraq; they moved over60 million pounds of mail forSoldiers and civilian contractors.

“They did it 25 percent fasterthan the group before them,” saidLt. Col. Ed Passineau, BattalionCommander.

Additionally, the Soldiersvolunteered as armed guards forthe civilian trucks that kept theirmail moving.

Passineau said the Battalion flewmore mail than it trucked, whichallowed them to increase delivery.

The 56th worked from two Iraqworksites: their main location atBaghdad International Airport anda secondary worksite in Balad.

“Everyone got along and workedvery well together,” said Sgt.Jeffrey O’Rourke, who worked atthe Balad worksite.

All Soldiers returned home safe.And once the Soldiers arrived here,all bets were off, and their familymembers and friends surroundedthem before a formal welcomehome ceremony could be given. ❏

The daughter of Staff Sgt. Roland Wellsawaits the arrival of her father.Photos by Staff Sgt. Mike R. Smith

Spc. Theresa R. Young and Master Sgt.Joseph R. Cioffi arrive to awaitingfamilies and friends.

By Guard Times Staff

NEW YORK CITY, NEWBURGH,BUFFALO–More than 300 Soldiersassigned to the New York Army NationalGuard’s 1st Battalion, 258th Field Artillerytriumphantly returned home in Marchfollowing months of active duty in Iraq.

Soldiers of Bravo and Charlie batterieswere called up in January 2004 and given themission to retrain as military police anddeploy to the combat zone in Iraq for nearlya year of service. Since military policecompanies are larger than field artillerybatteries, dozens of Soldiers from theWestern New York-based 1st Battalion, 127th

Armor were mobilized with the New YorkCity and Newburgh-based Soldiers to fillthe teams.

These valiant Soldiers completed anodyssey of both State and Federal activeduty that began, for most, on the morning of9/11. Many of have the distinction of beingamong the only military personnel to have

Field artillery troops come marchinghome from Sunni Triangle, OIF II

served both at Ground Zero and in the SunniTriangle as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Family members, relatives and friends wereat the armories to welcome them home froma 15-month active duty tour, including morethan nine months on the ground in Iraq. TheSoldiers traveled by commercial bus fromFort Dix following nearly a week of out-processing.

During their tour of duty the Soldiers helpedtrain more than 10,000 Iraqi policemen. Theyprovided security at the Baghdad PoliceHeadquarters and also performed more than250 reconnaissance and surveillance patrolsthere.

During the period of August through October2004, the Soldiers received incoming rocketand mortar fire daily and, during a firefightwith insurgent forces, unit Soldiers helpedrescue three Iraqi student policemen whowere seriously wounded. During one two-week period, the Soldiers were involved inthree separate firefights, were attacked byimprovised explosive devices on threeoccasions, captured significant weaponscaches and captured and detained more thantwo-dozen insurgents.

One Soldier of Charlie Battery, Sgt. JosephBehnke from Brooklyn was lost on Dec. 4,2004 as a result of a vehicle accident. ❏

Myers Tells National Guard generals total-force concept workingBy Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. —Theexperiences in the war on terrorism,especially in Iraq and Afghanistan, showthat “the total-force (concept) is working,”the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff saidto a meeting of state adjutants general hereApr. 1.

Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers told thegathering that the concept especially “worksoverseas, where the rubber meets the road.”

Myers said it was important he attend themeeting, first to thank the state adjutantsgeneral for their leadership, but mostly tohear their concerns. The chairman said he

can only fight for the needs of the adjutantsgeneral in the Pentagon if he knows theirconcerns and is armed with facts.

An adjutant general is the top official ineach state’s National Guard. Representativesfrom 45 adjutant general offices attended theconference, sponsored by Air Force Gen.John Handy, the commander of U.S.Transportation Command. Representativesfrom U.S. Army Forces Command and theU.S. Coast Guard also attended.

Myers told the generals that while changeshave been made, more lie ahead. He saidDoD must look for more creative ways tomobilize and use the reserve componentsand that this year’s Quadrennial DefenseReview will point the way to even more

change.And this is important, he added. “We have

got to come out of this as robust as we wentin,” Myers said. “Innovation will becomethe coin of the realm.”

The adjutants general appeared to beworried about recruiting. One told thechairman the numbers he is seeing are like a“fire light” in the cockpit. Another generaltold the chairman that the good economy isaffecting recruiting in his state.

All, however, seemed pleased with theretention picture. After the meeting, oneadjutant general said the retention situationin units that had deployed to Afghanistanwas better than that of the units that had notdeployed.

“Some of that is financial — the reenlistmentbonus is tax-free if you do it in a combat zone— but most of it is because these soldiersflat enjoyed serving together,” the officersaid. He added that other AGs noticed thesame tendency.

The generals asked Myers aboutmobilization notification time, medical anddental reserve readiness, and the politicalsituation in Iraq and how that affects forcelevels needed in the country.

Myers thanked the generals for theirobservations and questions. He said thereserve components are important toAmerica, not only for their combat power,but because with every armory and airfield,they help tie Americans to their military. ❏

Spc. Christopher H. Chatfield returns home in Newburgh on March 18. Photo by Spc. Dennis Gravell.

Guard TimesPage10

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS,Latham—It’s a unique rank and tradition,which dates back to 1896, and Soldiers areincreasingly looking at the perks of joiningthe long line of technical experts calledArmy chief warrant officers.

The New York Army National Guard(NYARNG) is currently calling throughoutNew York for applicants into its warrantofficer program.

Commissioning warrant officers andretaining warrant officers is needed to meetthe Army’s ongoing need for highlyspecialized experts and trainers, said ChiefWarrant Officer 3 Jacqueline O’Keefe,Warrant Officer Recruiter.

A recent Army News Service report saysthat transformation, along with retirement,creates an Army-wide need for candidatesin 45 chief warrant officer specialties.

“The New York Army National Guard isalways looking for quality Soldiers,” saidO’Keefe.

O’Keefe says that a proactive approachto appointing chief warrant officers is takento support both operation tempos and anageing warrant officer force.

"To earn a warrant officer appointmenttakes many months,” said O’Keefe. Eachcandidate’s qualifications and militaryoccupational specialty is unique to eachvacancy applied for.

Interested candidates are encouraged tovisit the NYARNG chief warrant officerwebsite, at www.dmna.state.ny.us, and readthe current vacancy list under WOPM.

“If they can’t find what they’re looking forthere, call 518-786-4889, or e-mailjacqueline.okeefe@ny.ngb.army.mil, and Ican let them know if we have what they’relooking for,” said O’Keefe, who added,drill location depends upon the specialtyand vacancy filled.

“They will know the unit they join beforethey begin the (appointment) process.” Sherecommends that Soldiers discuss specificqualifications and vacancies with her beforethey start the process.

In some instances, an affiliation bonus of$6000 is available to warrant officersleaving active duty and signing up with theNew York National Guard. There is also anaccession bonus available to newlyappointed warrant officers in the sameamount. ❏

WarrantOfficercareersavailable

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

STRATTON ANGB, Scotia—Soldiersand Airmen from across New Yorkdemonstrated a key response capabilityof the State’s civil support team whenthey airlifted an entire response unit andits equipment from Scotia to NiagaraFalls.

The 2nd Civil Support Team airliftedfrom Stratton Air National Guard Baseon a 105th Airlift Wing C-5 Galaxy to theNiagara Falls Air Force Reserve Stationon March 7.

The airlift and exercise tested theCST’s mobility and response to aradiological attack in Western NewYork.

There, the CST trained with localcivilian and air-base emergencyresponse personnel through classroomtraining and briefings on March 8including a March 9 scenario-basedWMD exercise. Their basic mission wasto support first responders during thesuspected radiological event.

“We have the ability to deploy theentire unit and its capability anywhere inthe nation in a matter of hours,” saidCapt. Richard Nunziato, CST DeputyCommander, who has been on the teamsince June 1999.

Nunziato explained that deploying theentire unit by air is an annual requirementfor all of the nation’s 32 CST teams. Thiswas the first time since 1999 that theCST airlifted in a C-5 Galaxy.

Stewart Air National Guard Base, the

Terror response unit airlifts,State joins in response exercise

only Air National Guard Mobility Wingwith the C-5 Galaxy, the nation’s largestmilitary aircraft, flew the mission. It’saircrew coordinated with baseoperations and aerial port flights of the109th Airlift Wing and the 914th AirliftWing to ensure proper loading ofresponse-team equipment, whichincluded seven vehicles and two trailers.

“Cooperation between the 105th AirliftWing, the 109th Airlift Wing and the914th Airlift Wing was key,” saidNunziato. It was a joint training event, hesaid.

Their unmarked, dark-blue vehicles andtrailers had to be weighed beforeloading. Once guided into the cavernous

cargo compartment of the C-5 Galaxy,Stewart ANGB loadmasters prepared theaircraft for flight.

“We have flown several other times, onthe C-130 Hercules, for training and topre-deploy for high profile eventsincluding the 2004 U.S. Open in LongIsland,” said Nunziato, who says priorcoordination and pre-planning is the keyto successful training and operations.

The CST is a federally funded NewYork National Guard unit. It wasdesigned to augment local and regionalterrorism response capabilities in eventsknown, or suspected to involve, thehostile use of chemicals, biological orradiological agents. ❏

CST Commander, Maj. Matthew Cooper, speaks with civilian responders in Niagara Falls.

CST and their equipment responded from Stratton Air National Guard Base, Scotia, and were prepared for airlift by the 109th Airlift Wing Aerial Port Flightthere. They airlifted from Scotia on a 105th Airlift Wing C-5 Galaxy, landed and off-loaded at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station (above). Additionally,photo and video support was provided by the 107th Air Refueling Wing's Multimedia Flight.

Guard Times Page11

By 2nd Lt. Amy FiresGuard Times Staff

FORT DRUM—Tracked vehicles driveinto work-bays, mechanics and techniciansmove about locating parts and searchingthrough computerized manuals. This is theaverage scene at the Maneuver AreaTraining and Equipment Site, here.

Rebuilt combat maintenance siterunning like a well oiled machine

Soldiers who work at MATES accountfor, maintain, repair and issue selectedequipment from M1 Abrams tanks toBradley fighting vehicles and armoredpersonnel carriers for Army NationalGuard units. It’s the largest MATESfacility in New York, and it serves a five-state region: New York, Pennsylvania,Vermont, New Jersey and Massachusetts.

MATES maintains communicationequipment, crew-served weapons andbasic service-issue items using an 18building facility. It additionally maintainsmore than 1,100 combat track vehicles,and its technicians have receivednumerous accolades and support from themajor Army commands it serves.

Recently, the facility was rebuilt. Stateof the art equipment is now in place and ismission ready. The facilities’ 130 Federaltechnicians had a functional say in thelayout and ergonomics here.

Compared to the old facility, there ismore workspace. Forklift wings have beenadded where hallways were previously“worked around.” The Carpentry Shop isupdated along with the Canvas and RepairShop and the Machine and Body Shops.There is also an updated physical fitnessroom.

“This is where our future is going,” saidCol. Peter V. Ingalsbe, MATES Director.Ingalsbe explained that, with betterfacilities, new and increased missions areexpected.

And they are open for business,preparing a steady stream of Soldiers andequipment for deployment and annualtraining. Tanks are rolled into work-bayswhere technicians can access computer

manuals and the Internet. Lubricants andcompressed air hoses are convenientlylocated at each work-bay. Work-bayfloors are heated, and air circulation isspecialized.

“This is the first time where we’ve hadsomething nice,” said Sgt. 1st ClassWilfrid Ashlaw, technician.

After moving into the new facility, thePennsylvania Army National Guard calledupon MATES to support a fleet of 16 M2Bradley Armored Fighting Vehicles, 16M1A1 Abrams tanks and 12 CommandPost Carriers, on a tight deadline for ascheduled PAARNG deployment. Theequipment filled 18 out of 20 work-bayshere, and the job required more than 70percent of the site’s workforce.

“It is truly the Soldiers who make thismission a success,” said Chief WarrantOfficer Richard Friess, Deputy Directorof Logistics here.

NYARNG technicians put the rebuiltfacility to the test, working extended daysand weekends to complete the mission onschedule, all the while tending to localrepair and maintenance work. They gotthe job done, still repairing equipment asit rolled away from the work-bays.

“This is another success story for theNational Guard,” said Ingalsbe. ❏

Armored vehicles undergo repair and maintenance work at the recently refurbished Maneuver Area Training and Equipment Site, Fort Drum. Photos by Sgt. Dennis Gravell.

Sgt. Charles E. Hardy, MATES technician, works on an M1 A1 Abrams tank at Fort Drum.

Guard TimesPage12

Vicky Buchanan, mother of Spc. Anthony M. Buchanan, Delta Company, 2ndBattalion, 108th Infantry Division, is presented a 17 inch minuteman statuette forrecognition as Charlie Company’s "Key Center of Influence." Mrs. Buchananprovided outstanding support to Charlie Company Soldier's during their OperationIraqi Freedom II deployment . Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Petibone.

A Soldier of Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Division receives the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medalfrom Lt. Col. Mark Warnecke, Commander, 2-108th, on April 17 in Rome.

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A HHC 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Division Soldier stands on stage during aFreedom Salute ceremony on April 24 in Utica.

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

BUFFALO, GLENS FALLS,ROME, UTICA, CAMPSMITH—More than 650 NewYork National Guard Soldiers,along with their families,friends and employers, werehonored for their service infive separate Freedom Salutesthis spring.

Since the terrorist attacks of9/11, the Soldiers were heavilydeployed in either state orfederal active duty forOperation Iraqi Freedom andhomeland defense, includingservice at Ground Zero andprotecting airports and nuclearpower facilities.

Their sacrifices andaccomplishments aremonumental. Of their group,three were killed in action andnearly 30 were awarded thePurple Heart Medal. Of nolesser regard, numerous Bronze

Freedom Salute eventsheld for New York ArmyNational Guard units

Star Medals, ArmyCommendation Medals, GlobalWar on Terror Medals and NewYork State Meritorious ServiceMedals were awarded for Iraqiservice and homeland defense.

The Freedom Salute Campaignis one of the largest ArmyNational Guard recognitionendeavors in history. TheNational Guard Bureau inWashington, D.C., launched thecampaign nationwide as a wayto recognize members of theArmy National Guard forservice during OperationsNoble Eagle, EnduringFreedom, and Iraqi Freedomand to thank their spouses,children, and employers for thesupport they have shown totheir Soldiers.

Each Soldier received anencased American flag, a lapelinsignia, a commemorative coinand certificate of appreciation.

“This is a well deservedtribute to Soldiers who gave somuch to this great nation and totheir families and employerswho have supported them,” saidthe Army’s second highest incommand, Gen. Richard A

Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of theArmy. Cody attended theFreedom Salute ceremony ofCharlie Company, 2ndBattalion, 108th InfantryDivision in Glens Falls onMay 1. He awarded medals andshook hands with all 104Soldiers in attendance. Codytold a crowd of Soldiers,families and friends that theyhad reconnected America withits Army in a way not seensince World War II and thatthey were “shining examples ofAmerica’s patriotism.”

“In the face of great adversity,these Soldiers never quit andthey never accepted defeat,”said Cody.

Freedom Salutes were alsoheld for Delta Company, 2-108th on April 17 in Rome, for1st Battalion, 127th ArmorRegiment on April 23 inBuffalo, for Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 2-108th on April 24 in Utica andfor Alpha Company, 2-108th onApril 30 at Camp Smith.

Soldiers’ spouses werepresented with a NationalGuard honoree lapel insignia.

Political and public figuresfrom surrounding communitiesand outside New Yorkparticipated in the ceremoniesincluding Thomas Hamill, acivilian contractor, takencaptive in Iraq, whose rescuewas aided by Charlie CompanySoldiers.

Each Soldier was provided amedallion and acommemorative lapel insigniato recognize one person whoprovided outstanding support,to them and their family, duringtheir mobilization. In addition,all units presented framedAmerican flag prints to selectcommunity groups in support oftheir mobilizations. Anotherspecial award, a 17-inchMinuteman statuette, was

presented to each unit’s "KeyCenter of Influence," whichacknowledged their outstandingsupport to Soldiers andfamilies.

Vicky Buchanan, mother ofSpc. Anthony M. Buchanan,was presented the statuette asDelta Company’s KCI.

“When I found out, I wasshocked,” said Buchanan.

Buchanan supported DeltaCompany Soldiers during theirIraq deployment. She shippedcare packages and raised fundsthrough their family readinessgroup. “It means a lot to me,”she said.

Additional Freedom Saluteceremonies are scheduledthroughout this year forNYARG units. ❏

Guard Times Page13

1st Battalion, 127th Armor Regiment Soldiers sit with awardsreceived at their Freedom Salute ceremony in Buffalo on April 23.Photos by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle.

Gen. Richard A. Cody, Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, awards medals to Soldiers of Charlie Company,2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Division at a Freedom Salute ceremony on May1 in Glens Falls.

This is a well deservedtribute to Soldiers whogave so much...and theirfamilies and employerswho supported them.”

Soldiers sing the Army song at their Freedom Salute ceremony in Buffalo.

Families and friends of 1st Battalion, 127th Armor Regiment Soldiers applaud.

Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th InfantryDivision's Freedom Salute (above) on May 1 inGlens Falls. A Charlie Company Soldier (right)shakes hands with the Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Thomas P. Maguire, Jr. Each Soldierreceived an encased American flag (below).Photos by Staff Sgt. Mike R. Smith.

1st Sgt. Michael J. Hammann receives the BronzeStar Medal at his Freedom Salute ceremony.

—Gen. Richard A. CodyVice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army

Army PromotionsPage14

COLONELBOBECK, MICHAEL, E, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQBRESNAHAN, MICHAEL, R, HQ 53D TRP CMDBURKE, MARK, F, HHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVCOSTAGLIOLA, MARIO T, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)

LIENTENANT COLONELBURCH, ROGER, L, HHC 3RD BDE 42ND ID (M)CLEAVELAND, DENNIS, S, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT HQDEELEY, DENNIS, C, HHC (-) 27TH IN BDEGRIMSLEY, BERNARD, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQMALLIN, MICHAEL, W, HHC 1-101ST CAVALRYNATALI, MICHEL, A, 42 HHC HVY DIV FWD 2OLSEN, ERIC, W, HHC (-) 27TH IN BDESTEWART, MALCOLM, M, DET 1 HHB 42 DIVARTY

MAJORDIEHL, ROY, M, 42 HHC HVY DIV FWD 2FANOSCHULTZE, JOHN, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQGONYO, JAMES, C, HQ 53D TRP CMDHUTZ, ANDREW, G, HHC 42 IN DIV (-)SWEENEY, KATHY, M, DET 2 NYARNG ELEMENT JF HQ

CAPTAINALAM, SAMSUL, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQERAZO, JANET R, DET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUPGOURLAY, WILLIAM, M, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORGREEN, JEFFREY, A, HHC 27TH INF BDE INF OPS AUGKENNIFF, THOMAS, A, HHC 42 IN DIV (-)KNOWLES, DENNIS, H, CO D 1-127TH ARMORMILLER, BRYAN, E, HHC 642D MI BATTALION

FIRST LIEUTENANTGAYNOR, HOLLIS C, CO D 1-127TH ARMORKETCHUM, DARREN J, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNMASTEN, JOSEPH E, HHC 642D MI BATTALION

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 4HUMPHRIES, NEAL, L, CO B 3-142D AVIATION

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3FIORILLI, JAMES, W, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)PARSELS, DAVID, A, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMOR

MASTER SERGEANTARBOLEDA, AMABLE, DET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUPCONROY, WILLIAM, T, DET 1 105 MP COGARRIS, EDWIN, L, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPHEROLD, HUGO, DET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUPNIEVES, LUIS, R, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPOQUENDO, MANUEL, A, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SP

SERGEANT FIRST CLASSCARRERAS, JULIO, JR, 258 FA BN 01 BTRY B REAR NYCOVEY, ASA, D, HHD 342D FWD SPT BNFORD, DAVID, D, TROOP E 101ST CAVALRYHART, THOMAS, F, HHC 42D INF DIV UNIT AUGHEBELER, HOWARD, L, 222D MILITARY POLICE COHOLMBERG, ALFRED, E, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNHOWELL, RYAN, 145TH MAINTENANCE COJAEB, CHARLES, R, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNJAWORSKI, PAUL, H, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COMARKHAM, BRIAN, K, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNMARTINEZ, EDUARDO, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPMCCOLLISTER, JOHN, H, 105TH MP COMCKEOWN, WILLIAM, J, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYMOSS, CURTIS, L, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPNOBEL, ERIC, L, 222D MILITARY POLICE COPEREZ, JUAN, HHD 206 CORPS SPT BNPROTSKO, GREGORY, J, 101 AR BN 01 DET 1 HHCRIZZI, FRANK, A, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BNROBERSON, AUGUSTUS, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)ROONEY, GEORGE, M, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)SPANTON, RONALD, W, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)STARK, MATTHEW, J, TROOP E 101ST CAVALRYSTEELE, MICHAEL, M, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)SYLVAIN, NANCY, A, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQWILSON, JOHN, A, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)

STAFF SERGEANTBELTON, ARCHIE, B, HHC (-) 27TH IN BDEBROWN, CHAD, E, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COBRYANT, ALICIA, A, HHC 642D MI BATTALIONDOLPH, JAMES, D, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)DUARTE, KRISTIN, W, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)FITZGERALD, GERALD, J, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)FLOREZ, EDWIN, A, 145TH MAINTENANCE COFROHLICH, RICHARD, A, DET 1 105 MP COGILLERAN, KIMBERLY, L, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)GRODNICK, WILLIAM, F, 27TH SPT CTR (CORPS RAOC)HEERAN, MATTHEW, J, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)HERNANDEZ, STEVE, A, 222D MILITARY POLICE COJONES, BETHANY, L, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQKING, RICHARD, W, 1108TH ORDNANCE CO EODLONGO, KIMBERLEY, A, 29 AG HHD PSC FWDLUCAS, RYAN, R, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)MESHENBERG, WALTER, N, HHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVMONTROIS, JAMES, F, CO B(-) 642D SUPPORT BNPALMER, STEPHEN, F, 466TH MEDICAL CO AREA SPTPIZARRO, ALVIN, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYPOTTS, DOMINICK, M, HHC 3RD BDE 42ND ID (M)ROGERS, TIMOTHY, J, CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITESMITH, JAMES, E, TROOP E 101ST CAVALRYSWAIN, JERRY, J, HHD ENGINEER BDE 42 IDTAYLOR, LASHANA, M, 102D MAINTENANCE COTRAYLOR,ROXANNE, 105TH MP COTUPPER, KEVIN, J, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)VANWIE, THOMAS, M, 105TH MP COVEGA, HECTOR, 442D MILITARY POLICE COVILARDO, KEVIN, D, 2ND CIVIL SUPPORT TEAM (WMD)WOODWORTH, ROGER, A, HHC 642D MI BATTALION

SERGEANTADAMS, JARROD, P, CO B 152D ENGINEER BNALBRIGHT, THEODORE, L, H & S CO 204 ENGR BNARROYO, MIGUEL, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)BATISTA, KELVI, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)BERARDI, PETER, J, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)BLAKE, ANDRE, G, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)BORTLE, ADAM, J, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COBOURNE, ANDREW, T, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPBRADSHAW, BRIAN, S, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPBRATTEN, TROY, D, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)BRODERICK, PATRICK, L, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPCADY MORGAN, P, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COCAHOLO, ORLANDO, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPCASTLE, JENNIFER, L, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)CEVALLOSGOMEZ, ALEX, R, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)COLLIER, JOI, K, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)COOK, BRENT, JEREMY, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPCOTRICH, THALIA, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COCRABTREE, LINDSAY, M, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COCRYSLER, CHRISTOPHER, R, HHC 642D MI BATTALIONDANDREA, JOHN, CO B 152D ENGINEER BNDIAZ, EDGAR, 442D MILITARY POLICE CODUNN, BERNARD, CO C (-) 204TH ENGR BNECCLESTON, DALLAS, D, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYEDGHILL, JOSEPH, R, 719 TRANS CO (MDM TRK CGO)ERICKSEN, JASON, S, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPFAVO, DANIEL, P, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)FIRTH, PATRICK, J, 1156TH ENGR CO PORT OPENINGFLEISCHHAUER, JAMES, A, RECRUITING AND RETENTION CMDFU, JESSE, CO E 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)FULLER, RYAN, M, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COGARCIA, GALO, A, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPGEHRING, BRIAN, D, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)GORDNIER, JOHN, W, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORGRAVELLE, DENNIS, R, 138TH PUBLIC AFFAIRS DETACHMETGUYETTE, CLIFTON, A, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNHARDY, CHARLES, E, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNHOLMES, MILLORD, B, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPHUMPHREY, JOHN, P, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPINGRAM, OLDEN, T, CO B 1-127TH ARMORJUDGE, MICHAEL, H, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQKELLY, WILLIAM, D, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)KLEPFER, STEVEN, W, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORLAKEMAN, STEVEN, L, HHC 1-101ST CAVALRY

LASTELLA, JOHN, T, 42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)LECLAIR, PERRY, W, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNLESLIE, SCOTT, C, RECRUITING AND RETENTION CMDLEWIS, TRAYON, R, 1569 TC CO MED TRK FWDLUDWIG, ROBERT, T, CO C (-) 204TH ENGR BNLYONS, RICHARD, G, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORMACY, WILLIAM, C, 69 IN BN 01 HHC FWDMAIELLA, DANIEL, P, 69 IN BN 01 HHC REARMAIOLO, DAVID, J, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)MARCANO, PEDRO, E, DET 1 107TH MILITARY POLICE COMCGHIE, JASON, M, DET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)MCKIRCHY, SHAWN, P, DET 20 OPER SPT ALFT CMDMCMILLAN, JEFFREY, C, CO B 152D ENGINEER BNMCRAVIN, FABIAN, B, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)MELENCIANO, MIGUEL, A, 1569 TC CO MED TRK FWDMELLGREN, ALY, C, 466TH MEDICAL CO AREA SPTMITCHELL, REGINALD, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPMURRAY, FREDERICK, G, 107TH MILITARY POLICE CONELSON, DAVID, J, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPOLES, JOHN, W, 1156TH ENGR CO PORT OPENINGORTIZ, AMICAR, O, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COPAPP, MICHAEL, A, 442D MILITARY POLICE COPARDY, ERIC, M, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)PERKINS, KRISTEN, L, 442D MILITARY POLICE COPIECZYKOLAN, MARIUSZ, CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITEPOGACNIK, ANDREW, W, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)PRINCE, WESLEY, H, CO C (-) 204TH ENGR BNPRYOR, TROYE, A, 642 CS BN CO B REARREBOY, MARK, W, HHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORREPSHER, MILTON, H, CO B (-) 204 ENGR BNRIVERA, MARCOS, A, DET 1 107TH MILITARY POLICE COROBLES, EDWIN, 133 OD CO MAINT NONDIV DSRODRIGUEZ, JESUS, M, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPRODRIGUEZ, OSCAR, G, 249TH MED CO AIR AMBULANCE (-)ROGERS, JOHN, V, DET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)ROST, DAVID, W, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)SANCHEZ, MILTON, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPSANDS, JASON, E, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COSANTIAGO, ROBERT, 133 OD CO MAINT NONDIV DSSANTOS, JOSE, A, 442D MILITARY POLICE COSCHNEIDER, DAVID, D, HHD ENGINEER BDE 42 IDSTABLER, SEAN, M, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)STROJIL, RICHARD, V, H & S CO 204 ENGR BNTHEIS, KELLY, L, 1156TH ENGR CO PORT OPENINGTHOMPSON, CHRISTOPHER, J, RECRUITING AND RETENTIONTORRES, RADAMES, HHC 642D MI BATTALIONVASQUEZPEREZ, WILLIAM, J, 258 FA BN 01 BTRY C REAR NYVAZQUEZ, FRANCISCO, NYARNG ELEMENT JOINT FORCE HQVEIHDEFFER, MICHAEL, S, HHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVWAI, ELEANOR, DET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUPWHITE, JAMES, J, CO B 152D ENGINEER BNWILSON, JACOB, T, DET 1 107TH MILITARY POLICE CO

SPECIALISTAGUILAR, MARIA, M, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)AISEL, JOHNATHAN, W, HHC (-) 1-108TH INFALEGRE, EMEL, L, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPALSTON, JOSHUA, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNAUSTIN, JUSTIN, T, 29TH PERSONNEL SERVICE DETAVILES, TOMAS, A, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)BRAUN, MICHAEL, J, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFCHEETHAM, JARROD, L, HSC 642D SUPPORT BNCOLEMAN, GARY, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)CONWAY, HEATHER, M, MEDICAL COMMANDCOUNTRYMAN, DAVID, W, CO B(-) 642D SUPPORT BNCOX, ASHLEY, M, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNCRUZ, ALEXIS, 1569TH TRANSPORTATION COCRUZ, ERICK, J, CO B 1-108TH INFCURTISS, MICHAEL, B, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYDELOSH, JOHN, P, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)DEUTSCHMAN, STEPHEN, R, HHC (-) 27TH IN BDEDILLARD, STARTASHA, M, DET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUPDINKINS, SHAHNAZ, C, 206 CS HHD CSB FWDDUDZIAK, COLIN, J, HHC (-) 1-108TH INFFARQUHARSON, RICARDO, F, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)FREDRIKSEN, DANIEL, E, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)GARRISI, JAMES, M, HHC 642D MI BATTALIONGORMAN, MORGAN, J, CO B(-) 642D SUPPORT BN

Army Promotions Page15

Happiness is coming home: Sgt. James C. Parks, 1st Battalion, 108th Infantry Division, is welcomed homeby friends and family on March 25 at the Masten Avenue Armory, Buffalo. Nearly 60 soldiers of Detachment 1, Bravo Companycompleted more than 14 months of federal active duty and nearly a full year “Boots on the Ground “ in Operation Iraqi Freedom. TheSoldiers moved into the U.S. Central Command Area of Operations thus beginning nearly a year of intense duty near Baghdad, Iraqwith the Army’s 1st Cavalry Division. They participated in numerous combat patrols, engaged the enemy on many occasions, capturedinsurgents and seized weapons caches. Five Soldiers were wounded and Sgt. David Roustum, West Seneca, was killed in actionduring an attack by enemy forces in November 2004. Photo by Sgt. Matthew Johnson.

HALL, JAMES, M, DET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)HUMPHREY, SCOTT, D, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BNHUTCHINS, MICHAEL, K, 29TH PERSONNEL SERVICE DETJASKOWIAK, JEREMY, J, CO B 1-108TH INFJOHNSON, CLINT, M, DET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)KANG, BYUNG, G, 37 FI DET REAR NYKIM, GEONG, U, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)KULIKOWSKI, ANDREW, L, 258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPLAFFOSE, ANNETTE, N, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BNLEQUE, JOHN, J, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)LOVELESS, JOSIAH, M, HSC 642D SUPPORT BNMAPHIRI, BAHOLO, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)MCDONALD, SEAN, R, CO B 1-108TH INFMCGHIE, ROHAN, A, CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITEMENDEZ, OSCAR, E, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYMERIWETHER, JOSHUA, R, CO D 1-105 INFMONGERSON, RIENER, J, CO B 1-108TH INFMOORE, GREGORY, L, 69 IN BN 01 DET 1 HHC REARPAGE, DELBERT, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)PARKS, JASON, M, 108 IN BN 02 HHC REAR NYPINEDA, JENNIFER, HHD 27TH FINANCE BNQUE, JESSA, 1427TH TRANS CO MEDIUM TRUCKREGOLINO, ANTHONY, R, CO C 1-105 INFREILLY, JOSPH, A, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)RICHARDSON, NATALYA, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNRICKARD, AMANDA, D, 145 OD CO MAINT FWDRIVERA, PABLO, A, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYRIVERA, PETER, G, 258 FA BN 01 BTRY C REAR NYROBERTS, JAMAL, N, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)RODRIGUEZ, RAMIREZ, N, CO B 1-108TH INFSACCHITELLA, DANIEL, A, 1427TH TRANS CO MEDIUM TRUCKSANCHEZ, BRIAN, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNSARAFIN, NICHOLAS, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)SHREVE, RICHARD, I, CO A(-) 427TH SPT BNSMITH, EBONY, C, DET 1 CO C 204TH EN BNSPENCE, NICHOLAS, G, 69 IN BN 01 CO A REARSPICCI, SARAH, B, 29 AG HHD PSC FWDSTILSON, MARK, E, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)SYKES, RONALD, R, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)TAYLOR, WILLIAM, E, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)TIRADO, ADAM, 145 OD CO MAINT DS REARVALDES, ANTHONY, CO B 342D FWD SPT BNVENDITTOULI, MARCUS, P, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)VULTAGGIO, CARL, M, HHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVWALKER, JONATHAN, R, 107TH MILITARY POLICE COWATSON, TERICA, P, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BNWELLS, MONICA, M, HSC 642D SUPPORT BNWETZEL, MICHAEL, T, 145TH MAINTENANCE COWONG, YUEN, H, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)ZERVOS, DAMIEN, J, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)

PRIVATE FIRST CLASSAIKEN, STEVEN, K, DET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)ARACENA, GILBERTO, J, 69 IN BN 01 HHC REARBAGGATTA, STEVEN, P, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYBLONCOURT, JOSEPH, L, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)BOLDEN, KEVEN, L, HHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVBRISEE, JOHN, J, HHC 1-105TH INFBRODERICK, JERMAINE, O, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)BROWN, JOSEPH, M, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNCHAVARRIA, CHRISTIAN, J, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)DESTEVENS, JOSHUA, M, HHC (-) 1-108TH INFDEVOID, MICHAEL, E, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BNDUBOIS, JOSEPH, R, 1156TH ENGR CO PORT OPENINGDURNEY, JESSE, D, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)EDWARDS, RYAN, T, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)ELLIOTT, JERRY, A, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)FITZGERALD, SCOTT, HHC 42 IN DIV(-)GARNER, CHRISTOPHER, J, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYGENTILE, THEODORE, W, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)GEORGOPOULOS, DIONYSIA, HHD 27TH FINANCE BNGONSALVES, KAI, A, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYGRAAP, JOSHUA, R, HHC 152D ENGINEER BNHASENSTAB, JOSEPH, M, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)HATLEE, SHANE, J, 42 IN CTR REARHURLEY, JOSEPH, J, CO B 1-108TH INFJAYNE, ROBERT, E, H & S CO 204 ENGR BNJONES, TABITHA, L, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BN

KHAMURZOV, RUSLAN, M, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)KRUG, SALVATORE, C, CO C(-) 638 SPT BNKUMAR, AVINISH, HHC 107TH SUPPORT GROUP (-)LEON, JUAN, C, 69 IN BN 01 CO B REARLOPEZ, DEL VALLE, M, HHC (-) 1-108TH INFLORA, MIGUEL, A, 1569TH TRANSPORTATION COMCCANN, CHRISTOPHER, K, CO C 642ND MI BNMCGEEVER, AMANDA, M, 204TH ENGINEER DETACHMENTMCGURN, JAMES, J, DET 4 42D MP COMCPHEE, JAMES, L, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNMORRIS, JOHN, W, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFMULLER, JOSEPH, L, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)NIELSEN, KRISTIN, N, CO C(-) 638 SPT BNPANTANO, JAMIE, L, CO C (-) 342D FWD SPT BNPRATT, CODY, J, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFREYNOLDS, ASHLEY, D, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)RIOS, HERNANDO, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)RIVERA, ANTHONY, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYRIVERA, FRANK, JR, CO C 1-105 INFRUBINO, JOSEPH, A, AV HHC DIV AV BDE REARRUSSETT, JACOB, C, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFSANDERS, FRANK, L, 1427TH TRANS CO MEDIUM TRUCKSCHOEHEIT, MATTHEW, D, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)SENGER, CHRISTOPHER, R, CO C 3-142D AVIATIONSIDDIQUE, AMMAD, A, 29TH PERSONNEL SERVICE DETSINDONE, LISA, M, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNSLAYTON, SHANE, W, 1427TH TRANS CO MEDIUM TRUCKSUAZO, ELVIS, R, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)SWAIDNER, BRIAN, P, CO B 1-108TH INFTAISEY, COLIN, P, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFTAVARES, JOSHUA, P, AV HHC DIV AV BDE REARTEZENO, ELIJAH, K, 427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)TORRES, ORLANDO, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNTSUTSUMISHITA, TOMOHITO, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFWILLIAMS, BAMBI, 1427TH TRANS CO MEDIUM TRUCKWILLIAMS, MARCUS, K, 642 CS BN HSC REARZHU, SHARON, HHD 27TH FINANCE BN

PRIVATEACOSTA, PABLO, HHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)ADAMS, PATRICK, M, CO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)AGUAYZA, DIANA, G, 642 CS BN CO B REAR

ALLEN, LANCE, R, HHC(-) 3-142D AVIATIONBENJAMIN, THOMAS, P, CO C 1-127TH ARMORBRINDOU, YOVAN, J, CO A 342D FWD SPT BNBRISTOL, BRENT, M, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNCARD, JOSHUA, D, DET 1 HHC 1-127TH ARMORCHAPMAN, QUENTIN, T, 204TH ENGINEER DETACHMENTCHRISTIAN, CHRISTOPHER, DET 1 CO C 342D FWD SPT BNCLEMENT, JONATHAN, R, SERVICE BATTERY 1-258TH FADANIELS, JASON, A, CO C 3-142D AVIATIONDAVID, SCOTT, A, HHC (-) 1-108TH INFDESILVA, LEOPOLDO, A, 642 CS BN CO B REAREDMONDS, BRUCE, L, AV HHC DIV AV BDE REARFARMER, JOSHUA, R, 222D MILITARY POLICE COFERNANDEZ, CHARLES, A, CO C 1-105 INFFRANZ, DIANA, C, CO C (-) 342D FWD SPT BNGILLMORE, JOHN, M, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFGRUMAN, FELIX, HHB 1-258TH FIELD ARTILLERYHENNING, KEITH, 222D MILITARY POLICE COHYLTON, GERALD, A, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)JARRELL, ANTON, L, 1569TH TRANSPORTATION COJONES, MARCUS, A, CO B 101ST SIGNAL BNLARAWAY, CHARLES, A, HHC 1-105TH INFLAURENT, PATRICIA, CO C (-) 342D FWD SPT BNLEGGETT, DARREN, M, CO C 1-69TH INF (M)LLAMAS, BIENVENIDO, HHD 342D FWD SPT BNMEEK, MICHELLE, M, DET 1 CO C 342D FWD SPT BNNAVARRO, NADINE, E, AV HHC DIV AV BDE REARPALANSKY, PAVOL, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)PORTERFIELD, ZACHARY, K, DET 1 HHC 1-127TH ARMORRAMOS, ERIC, J, CO E 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)RANDEL, AMANDA, L, HHC 101ST SIGNAL BNREBMANN, CANDY, L, HHC 152D ENGINEER BNROBERTUCCI, NICHOLAS, P, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYRODRIGUEZ, EDWARD, CO E 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)RODRIGUEZ, JOSE, L, CO C 1-105 INFRUIZ, JOSEPH, B, CO E 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)SCELIA, MICHAEL, P, CO D 1-101ST CAVALRYSTEIN, CHARLES, E, CO A 1-127TH ARMORTITKA, AARON, J, CO A 101ST SIGNAL BNVANDISH, PAUL, A, CO C (-) 1-108TH INFVELAZQUEZ, MORALES, J, CO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)WOOD, ROBERT, J, CO C 101ST SIGNAL BN

Army ReenlistmentsPage16

101 AR BN 01 CO D REARSSG NOVOA, BERNIE102 OD CO MAINT FWD 2SPC BROWN, ANIYAHSPC KNIGHT, HAWKINSSPC LLOYD, PETERSPC MORGAN, KEITHSPC SANDIFORD, REGINALDOSPC SCOTT, LEAHSGT TORO, LUISSFC TUMMINGS, CHARLESSPC VASQUEZ, HERICKSSG LONDON, TOM102D MAINTENANCE COSFC MICKENS, ALLEN105TH MP COSGT FRAY, ROBERTSPC IMBURGIA, STEPHENSPC LANGE, KEVIN107TH MILITARY POLICE COSSG BREWER, JAMESSSG BROADBENT GALESGT HERRINGSHAW, CINDYSFC JANDZIO, THEODORESGT MCKINNEY, JAMESSGT WHITTAKER, BRADLEY107TH SUPPORT GROUPSGT CORDERO, LINO108 IN BN 01 AASLT A COSPC HEWITT, BRANDON108 IN BN 01 AASLT D CO FWDSFC MCENROE, ERICSPC WHITTINGTON, RICKY108 IN BN 01 CO B FWD 2SPC BAKER, JOHNSPC GROMLOVITS, BRIANSGT PARRIS, KEITHSPC WILSON, CHARLES108 IN BN 02 AASLT CO ASGT ANDREWS, PATRICKSGT ARLEQUIN, JOSESPC BELL, RICHARD ,SPC ESTERGUARD, ZACHARYSFC GROSS, JEFFREYSPC HOOVLER, PAULSPC KASTANIS, JAMESSPC KIRKMAN, JASONSGT MACHULSKI, JOSEPHSGT MEDINA, EDGARSPC MORRISON, MICHAELSPC MORSE, GEOFFREYSFC OBRIEN, MICHAELSGT REALE, GIUSEPPESPC REID, DOUGLASSSG SERRANO, ANGELSPC STERN, PHILLIPSGT WARNER, KYLE108 IN BN 02 AASLT CO BSPC AKIN, JOHNSGT BROWN, TODD ,SPC CHARPENTIER, JUSTINSGT DELAMATER, JEFFREYSPC EARLE, JOSHUASPC GATES, DAVIDSGT GOHEENS, JAMEYSPC GOSSELIN, DARRINSPC GUYNUP, CHRISTOPHERSPC HARP, WILLIAMSPC HOLMES, SHANESGT HUNTINGTON, ANTHONYSGT KLEWICKI JASONSSG LAW, JAMESSSG LEDUC, JEREMSPC LIBERTY, RYANSSG MADER, MICHAELSGT MEYER, JASONSPC MUNN, BENJAMINSPC NUGENT, JEREMYSPC RENADETTE, JEREMYCPL RICKSON, SHAWNSPC RODRIGUEZ, STEVENSPC ROUSSEAU, DANIE

SSG TAVERNIA, WILLIAMSPC WILLIAMS, BRIAN108 IN BN 02 AASLT CO CSGT AMEZQUITA, ALVINSGT CONYNE, PETERSPC GEISLER, SHADRACHSGT JENKINS, BILLYSGT LORESTO, BASILSGT LYNCH, MICHAELSPC MCGILLIS, TIMOTHYSPC MIRVIS, ALEXANDERCPL MITCHELL, BRADSSG MOORE, GREGORYSPC PLERCHEE, JOHNSPC PRITCHARD, TIMOTHYSPC REID JANHOISPC RODRIGUEZ, RAMONSPC ROOT, WILLIAMSSG SERAFIN, DAVIDSGT SPRINGER, JASONSSG WARD, KEITHSPC WILSON, RORYSPC YEAGER, STEVEN108 IN BN 02 AASLT CO DSSG BENNETT, RONALDSPC LAMB, AARONSPC PEZZULA, MICHAELSPC SUITS, GORMANSGT SWANCOTT, RICKYSSG WALKER, JOHN108 IN BN 02 AASLT HHCSSG AIKEN, JOHNSPC ALVORD, MARCSGT ASCHENBRENNER, LAWRENCESPC BALBEN, PHILIPCPL BENNETT, RICHARDSGT BYRNE, JOHNSPC CORYEA, JOHNSPC DANN, JESSESPC DAVIS, BRYANCPL DUNKLEY, JAREDSPC FELIO MARC, JAMESSPC FRANKLIN, GREGORYSGT GUARNO, PHILIPSFC HARWOOD, CHARLESSPC HUMPHREYS, JOHNSGT INGERSON, FRANKSPC MAZAL, LAWRENCESFC NEVINS, CHRISTOPHERSFC NICHOLS, ERIKSPC OLEARY, JOSHUASGT PERSON, EDWARDSPC RENADETTE, JASONSPC RENADETTE, TREVORSSG RICHARDSON, RICHARDSGT ROBERTS, WESLEYMSG SECOR, KENNETHSPC SUAREZ, FRANKIESGT VANNOSTRAND, ERICSGT WENTZE,L STEVEN108 IN BN 02 HHC REAR NYSPC BAXTER, DAVIDSPC BERGEN, PETERSGT COBURN, ROBERTSPC COLARUSSO, DAVIDSGT DANIELS, KENNETHSPC DARGAN, DAVIDSGT DEGROTE, MICHAELSSG HUBER, MICHAELSSG JACKSON, EARLSGT LATOUR, WILLIAMSGT LEVEY, CHRISTOPHERSGT LOCUST, MICHAELSPC MALLOY, HANSSPC MERCADO,JAVIESPC REED, JEREMYSSG ROACH, ROBERTSPC ROCHE, SHAWNSGT ROUGEUX, BRIANSGT SERIO, JESSESPC TYSON, TERRENCESPC WEAVER, GARY

SSG WEIMER, DANIEL10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION DETSPC HASKINS, LANDON1156TH ENGR CO PORT OPENINGSPC FAUST, NICOLASSPC HRONCICH, CHRISTOPHERSPC PROVONCHA, CHRISTIANSSG SINCLAIR, GREGORYSPC WHITNEY, ARNOLDSSG WORKMAN, STEVEN133 OD CO MAINT NONDIV DSSGT ALEXANDER, JUNIORSGT BROWN, ELIZABETHSGT CONCEPCION, RAFAELSPC CORREA, JUANSGT CRUICKSHANK, URIAHSPC EUSEBIO, EDUARDOSPC GONZALEZ, ALEXANDERSPC HAMILTON, ASTONSGT HAYDAK, DOUGLASSSG LUCCHESE, BENEDETTOSPC MCCLEAN, LEROYSPC MENESES JOSEPHSPC REYES, JOSESPC TAPPER, OMARSGT TRAVIS, SCOTTSPC UCETA, FRANKLINSGT WASHINGTON, EDITHSGT WHITE, ADOLPHUS138TH PUBLIC AFFAIRS DETSGT WHEELER, THOMAS1427TH TRANS CO MED TRUCKSPC BROWN, BRIANSFC MAYNARD, MARCSGT WHEELER, TIMOTHYSPC HORN, DANIEL145 OD CO MAINT DS REARMSG MACK, HENRYSPC RAMOS, LUIS145 OD CO MAINT FWDSPC CALDERON, JUANSPC COLON, CECILIOSPC MARTINEZ, JOSEPH1569TH TRANSPORTATION COSFC BELL, GREGORYSPC LIAUTAUD, LINDASSG MITCHELL, DARLENE199TH ARMY BAND (-)SSG CONTINI, DEBORAH1ST BATTALION 142D AVIATIONSSG BEARDSLEY, JOELSFC BROWN, PERRYSFC HYATT, ROBERTSPC MARINACCIO, NICHOLESPC SPENCER, CHRISTINE204 EN BN CO A DET 2 FWDSSG BROCCOLO, MICHAELSPC GOLDMAN, VINCENTSPC GUTIERREZ, HERSONSPC MURRAY, JERMAINSSG ORTEGA, PATRICIOSGT RIOS, FAVIAN204 EN BN CO A FWD2SGT ALEXANDER, NICHOLESGT BENSON, TYSONSGT GAROFALO, DOMENICOSGT HILTON, ARTHURSPC HUGUES, VINCENTSPC MCENTEE, FREDSPC NUSSER, EDWARDSPC VERNOLD, WILLIAM206 CS HHD CSB REARSPC FRAZIER, KENNETH222D MILITARY POLICE COSPC CREGG, JONATHANSGT GIRVIN, JEFFREYSGT PALMER, KEVINSSG WILSON, JOHN2427TH TRANS CO MED TRUCKSGT GUGA, JOHN249 MD CO AIR AMBL REARSGT HUGHES, TIMOTHY

258 FA BN 01 BTRY B REARSSG RAMDASS, CHETRAMSPC GARDNER, EARL258 FA BN 01 BTRY C REARSPC BORGELLA, LUDWIGSGT JOHNSON, MARKSSG NIBBS, GARTHSPC PANORAPANORA, SEGUNDOSPC PEREZ, ROBERTOCPL WRIGHT, JOHNSPC BARRASS, JOHNSPC JACKSON, FRANKLINCPL SINGH, DEOSFC WEEKES, NIGEL258 FA BN 1 BTRY B 155 SPSGT ARVELO, IVANCPL BOND, FRANKSPC DAMATO, JOHSPC FERTIG, JAY,SGT JIMENEZ, WELLINGTONSGT JOHNSON, ERICSSG LAIRD, DERRELSPC MCGUIRE, PHILIPSPC MELHADO MICHAELSGT OTWAY, IANSGT PHILLIPS, KENTONCPL REEVES, STEVENSPC RENTAS, MICHAELSPC RICHARDS, DANIELSPC RIVERA, LUISSGT RODRIGUEZ, MELVINSGT SCOTT, TIMOTHYSGT SOTO, RAYMONDSSG STOKES, PAUL1SG TIERNEY, LARRYSGT TORRES, WILLIAM258 FA BN 1 BTRY C 155 SPSPC BENDETTI, DANIELCPL BYNOE, TERENCECPL DELGADO, ROBERTCPL DORSAINVIL, PETERSONSGT DOUGLAS, PATRICKSGT FERNANDEZ, JULIOSPC FERNANDEZ, RAFAELSPC FORDLEY, MICHAELSSG GUTIERREZ, GEORGESSG MCKAY, JOSEPHSGT MITCHELL, REGINALDSSG MITHU, JAGGANMSG OQUENDO, MANUELSGT RICHARDS, ALLENCPL ROCKE, JASON27TH SUPPLY AND SERVICES BNMSG GANDINO, WILLIAM2ND BN 106TH REG (RTB)SSG STEED, DAVID37TH FINANCE DETSPC MELENDEZ, JOSE42 HHC HVY DIV FWD 2SGT LORD, APRILLYNN42 HHC HVY DIV REARSPC BARROW, MONALISSASPC MORA, LEON42 INFANTRY DIVISION DETSSG DUNNE, STEPHENSSG KOVACS, FRANK427TH MAINTENANCE CO (DS)SPC HANAVAN, ERICSSG PAQUETTE, MICHAELPFC TEZENO, ELIJAH KARRIEM42D INFANTRY DIV BAND (-)SFC MCDONALD, PETERSFC WILSON JOHN466TH MEDICAL CO AREA SPTSPC COLLINS, JOHNSGT GEERTGENS, DANIELSPC KENYON, KELLY4TH FINANCE DETSGT MCCOY, DANIEL56TH PERSONNEL SER BNMSG BAXTER, JOHNSGT BECKER, CHRISTOPHER

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SPC CONLIN, JAMESSGT CRUZ, JUANSFC ORMISTON, ANDREWSPC OROURKE, CHRISTOPHERSGT PAIGE, EDWARDSPC YOUNG, THERESA642 CS BN HSC REARSFC HOWARD, DONALDSPC QUINONES, EVERSPC NAGELL KIMBERLY69 IN BN 01 CO A REARCPL MAGUIRE, JEFFREY69 IN BN 01 HHC FWDSGT MACY, WILLIAM69 IN BN 01 HHC FWD 2CSM BRETT, GEORGEMSG MCDONNELL, JOSEPH69 IN BN 01 HHC REARMSG GERKE, WILLIAMSPC GULARTE, YANSGT SAWTELL, EDWARDSSG WALLACE, DANIELSGT WARREN, DZHANTAM719 TRANS CO (MDM TRK CGO)SPC MAYNARDRICHARDS, ROWANSPC MORILLO, SERGIOSPC SARVIS, GLENDA7TH FINANCE DETSPC MORALESFEBUS, CARLOSSGT RAMIREZ, IVETTE827TH ENGR COSGT ABOUSAID, ELIASSPC DAVIS, DARNELSPC EDWARDS, DANNYSFC FRICANO, MARKSGT GAWRONSKI, TIMOTHYSFC KALINOWSKI MICHAELSGT KING, PAULSPC MONDOUX, MATTHEWSPC MORGAN, RUSSELLSPC POMPEO, TIMOTHYSPC ROTH, CHRISTOPHERCPL VASQUEZ, JOSEAV HHC DIV AV BDE REARMSG WALSH, MARYCAMP SMITH TRAINING SITESPC HUTCHINGS, KATHRYNSGT PIECZYKOLAN, MARIUSZSFC WARREN, CHRISTOPHERCO A (-) 1 BN 105 INFSGT LEE, SEUNGCO A 101ST SIGNAL BNSGT ADAMSON, NORMANSSG BEBEN, TIMOTHYSPC BRAMBLE, NEKETASPC CULLEN, ROYSPC FERNANDEZ, CHRISTOPHERCO A 1-127TH ARMORSPC INWOOD, ARRONCO A 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)SGT ARROYO, MIGUELSSG BROWN, MICHAELSPC FLORES, KENNETHCO A 342D FWD SPT BNSPC HUSBANDCLARKE, SHEERVONSPC PAGE, CHERYLCO A(-) 204 ENGR BNSPC MOODY, WAYNECO A(-) 427TH SPT BNSPC BEVONA, CATHARINESPC CANNAN, JASONSGT MCDONALD, AMYSPC SMITH, CHARLESCO B (-) 204 ENGR BNSGT ADRAT, JOHNSPC LEHR, TINA,SGT MAZZARESE, PHILIPSGT SHAUGHNESSY, RICHARDSGT TROWBRIDGE, RICHARDSPC WILSON, JAMESCO B 101ST SIGNAL BNSSG BURGOS, HECTOR

SPC CACERES, MELVINSSG GALLAGHER, DAVIDSPC WILLIAMS, ANDRECO B 1-108TH INFSPC MCCLAIN, ASHUNTICO B 1-127TH ARMORSPC DIETZ, JOHNCO B 152D ENGINEER BN1SG FOOS, MARTINSGT MCMILLAN, JEFFREYCO B 1-69TH INFANTRY(M)SGT ATHANS, PETERSPC KLOTZBACH, STEVENSPC MAPHIRI, BAHOLOSPC MARRERO, LUISSPC MILES, DONNELLSGT MUNRO, JAMESSSG NICHOLS, WALTERSPC SCAPPATICCIO, JOHNSFC SEIFERT, THOMASSGT SHARP, PATRICKSSG SMITH, DAVIDSSG VANOSDEL, KRISTOPHERCO B 3-142D AVIATIONSGT MUNZ, CHRISTOPHERCO B(-) 642D SUPPORT BNSSG NASSAR, FARAHSPC PARKER, KEVINCO C (-) 1-108TH INFSSG OJEDA, RICHARDCO C (-) 204TH ENGR BNSPC CARMONA, ANDYSGT DELGADO, MARIOSPC FERNANDEZ, MIGUELSFC JONES, BRADSPC RAMIREZ, JOVANNYSGT WEEKES, DANIELCO C 1-101ST CAVALRYSGT WILLSEY, SCOTTCO C 1-105 INFSPC BARAHONAGOMEZ, CARLOSSSG GOODRIDGE, SEANSPC MATOS, HECTORSGT MCALOON, WILLIAMSPC RAMPERSAD, KRISCO C 1-127TH ARMORSGT GREENE, CHADCO C 1-69TH INF (M)SGT OLSON, DUSTYCO C(-) 638 SPT BNSPC MARQUEZBONUSO, LISASPC PENA, PABLOSGT RAMNARINE, KUMARSPC SULLIVAN, EVECO D 1-101ST CAVALRYCPL SMITH, MICHAELCO D 1-105 INFSFC PALASZ, RICHARDSPC TANNER, RAYMONDCO D 1-127TH ARMORSGT DINGY, KENNETHSSG WEIR,JERRYCO E 1-69TH INFANTRY (M)SPC DELANCEY, DARRELL1SG ORTIZ, ELOYCPL SANTIAGO, MIGUELDET 1 CO C 1-108TH INFSSG WASHBURN, THOMASDET 1 CO C 204TH EN BNSPC FLOREZ, EDWINSGT KUWORNU, FRANCISSGT MOODIE, PAULSGT ORTIZ, JESUSDET 1 CO C 342D FWD SPT BNSGT HOLMES, WANDASGT JACKSONBAPTISTE, MARJORIDET 1 HHC 107TH SUPPORT GPMSG HEROLD, HUGOSPC JEANFRANCOIS, MICHAELSGM KLIPP, PHILIPSPC LENDORE, MICHELLESSG SOTO, JAIME

DET 1 HHC 1-127TH ARMORSGT CASE, STEPHENMSG TREVERTON, PATRICKSGT WATERS, ROBERTSGT WIECHEC, JASONDET 1 HHC 1-69TH INF (M)SFC ANDRYSIAK, THEODORESGT BAILEY, CHARLESSPC BROWN, MATTHEWSGT BURRIS, VINCENTSSG KERSHAW, BRYANSSG KINSEDAHL, JOHNSGT LEE, DAVIDSGT ME, DEREKSPC MULVEY, RICHARDSGT RIOS, MIGUELSGT RUSSO, JON,SPC SITANGGANG, JASONSGT VENERECE, RONALDDET 1 HHC 27TH IN BDESGT CALORDINO, SCOTTDET 2 CO B 638 SPT BNSGT LIANG, SI CHUANH & S CO 204 ENGR BNSGT HEGGIE, PETERSGT MCMURRAY, JEREMIAHSPC RAMIREZ, RAFAELSGT RILEY, WILLIAMSPC SMITH, DALESPC STONE, KRISTENHHC (-) 1-108TH INFSPC FAIRBANKS, SCOTTSPC HERBIG, BRIANSPC KOVACH, JOHN,SGT MUHLNICKE, TRAVISSPC PERRY, CLYDEHHC (-) 1-127TH ARMORSGT COIA, JEFFERYSGT CORREA, RADAMESSSG CRUZ, RICHARDSGT GORDNIER, JOHNSGT MEINCKE, MATTHEWSPC PAYNE, WILLIAMSGT REBOY, MARKSFC RUSSO, JOHNHHC (-) 27TH IN BDESGT DUERR, KENNETHSPC JEWELL, SCOTTSGT SMITH, LAURASPC TAYLOR, ANGELIAHHC 1-101ST CAVALRYSGT BALDWIN, EDWARDSPC HICKS, ROBERTSGT PERALTA, SAMUEHHC 1-105TH INFSFC ADRIAN, MICHAELSFC BRISEE JOHNSGT KIERNAN, KENNETHSGT KINNEAR, KRISTOFERSPC LEO, DAVIDSGT SHAPPY, PHILIPSSG SHEA, BRIANSGT WILKES, DAVIDHHC 27TH AREA SUPPORT GPSFC JACKSON, TIMOTHYSPC PLOURDE, SHAWNHHC 3RD BDE 42ND ID (M)SPC MARRARA, KATIEHHC 42 IN DIV(-)SFC GOSKA, FLOYDSFC JEFFERS, BURGOSSSG TOBIN, DANIELHHC 642D MI BATTALIONSPC FACHKO, SHANESGT JONES, RICHARDSFC LANGLEY, SCOTTMSG LARA, JOHNSPC NUTTY, ARNESFC OWEN, DAVIDSGT PEREZ, GLADYSCPL SEYMOUR, ELAINESGT SMITH, CRAIG

SGT WESTERLUND, STEWARTHHC AVN BDE 42 IN DIVSGT MORENO, NELSONHHC(-) 1-69 INF (M)SGT CHARLES, LENONSSG CHIARENZA, MELCHIORRESSG DUNN, CHRISTOPHERSPC LEQUE, JOHNSSG LUO, QIYUSPC MOLINA, ARTEMIOSGT MURRELL, JERIEMESGT OLMO, JASONSGT RIVERA, BENAVIDESSSG RIVERA, FELIBERTOSPC SANDERS, ANTHONYSSG SERRANO, DAMASOCPL WILKINS, MICHAELHHC(-) 3-142D AVIATIONSPC BETHEA, SHAWNSFC ZUPAN, NICHOLAS,HHD 104TH MILITARY POLICE BNSGT MORRISSEY, CHRISTOPHERSPC RODDY, NATHANHHD 206 CORPS SPT BNSSG ODUSANYA, OLAHHD 27TH FINANCE BNSSG UTSEY, JOHNHHD 342D FWD SPT BNSPC CEPEDARODRIGUEZ, ALVINHHD 369TH CORPS SPT BNSGT ARROYO, RAYMONDSGT FERNANDEZ, JOSESSG PABON, ALEXANDERMSG STILLWELL, ARTHURHHD 369TH WATER SUPPLY BNSPC THOMAS, JACQUELINEHQ 53D TRP CMDSGT CRUZRAMOS, CYNTHIAHQS 106TH REGIMENT (RTI)SFC HAWKER, NATHANSGT HERNANDEZ, STACEYSFC MENDEZ JAIMEMSG SPISSO, JOHNHSC 642D SUPPORT BNSGT KNISELY, MARKMEDICAL COMMANDPFC BROWN, JONATHANNYARNG ELEMENT J FHQSSG FREDERICKS, SEANSSG BEL, KATHLEENSSG COLE, LAURASSG HARRELL, MELISSASFC TREMBLAY, MARKCSM VANPELT, ROBERTRECRUITING AND RETENTION CMDSFC EVOY, WILLIAMSSG FERNANDEZ, NESTORSGT FLEISCHHAUER, JAMESSFC HOYER, RICHARDSFC JORDAN, JOHNNYSGT KHAN, NAIEEMSGT LESLIE, SCOTTSFC STEINBACHER, CHRISTOPHERSERVICE BATTERY 1-258TH FASPC FLUD, WILLIETROOP E 101ST CAVALRYSGT ANDERSON, LEABURTSPC BOWMAN, JAMESSPC BYERWALTERS, STEVENSGT CAPPETTA, THOMASSSG DAVIS, ROBERTSPC EDMONDS, ROBERTSPC FLOOD, CHRISTOPHERSFC FLOOD, DONALDSFC FORD, DAVIDSSG FRANCZEK RICHARDSPC KENDALL, KENNETHSSG MASTERS, PATRICKSPC MCANN, DAVIDSPC MORSE, JOHNSFC STARK, MATTHEW

Air Guard PromotionsPage18

COLONELDESKINS, DAWNE L 174 MSFHOWARD, GORDON W 174 MSF

MAJORROY, MUKESH N 105 MSF

CAPTAINBRATHWAITE, KEVIN O 105 MSFCAMPO, JOHN J 107 MSFCOLE, MARCIA L 174 MSFFAULK, THOMAS J 106 MSFFOTHERINGHAM, RICHARD J 174 MSFMARVEL, JACOB G 109 MSFPETTIT, DANIELLE M 106 MSFSUSI, DUANE A 105 MSFVALLIMONT, LYNN S 105 MSFWEINLEIN, SHARON M 109 MSF

FIRST LIEUTENANTJUDGE, JOHN J 107 MSFNOWAK, PETER A 107 MSFSHAD, BRIAN C 109 MSF

SECOND LIEUTENANTCULLEN, SHAUN R 106 MSFPICCOLO, MARGARET 106 MSFWULFFERT, MARK T 105 MSF

CHIEF MASTER SERGEANTBOSWELL, JAMES B 174 MSFCHICO, THOMAS W 109 MSFDISILVESTRO, JOHN E 105 MSFFIX, ROBERT A 107 MSFJOHNSON, CRAIG C 106 MSFJORDAN, JOHN C 105 MSFTERPENING, PAUL R 109 MSF

SENIOR MASTER SERGEANTCERBONE, JOSEPH L 105 MSFDAVIES, JOHN C 106 MSFDICK, EDWARD J 105 MSFGILETTE, JAMES W 105 MSFGRAHAM, JOEL R 174 MSFHAYES, WILLIAM C 105 MSFKENNEDY, ANDREW B 109 MSFKOLB, DAVID W 109 MSFKREIDLER, CHARLES W 106 MSFPARKER, CHARLES D 106 MSFRICKERT, CHRIS J 109 MSFSHEEDY, TIMOTHY J 109 MSF

MASTER SERGEANTAYERS, CLINTON O JR 174 MSFBELL, RONALD J 105 MSFBOYEA, RAYMOND V 109 MSFCECCHINI, THEODORE J 106 MSFCURRAN, THOMAS M 105 MSFDOUCETTE, DANNY R 105 MSFDUNN, GERALD D 174 MSFDWYER, MARC J 174 MSFGIBSON, DONNA Y 105 MSFGRIFFIN, ASHE K 109 MSFJANACK, BRIAN E 174 MSFLAMONT, PATRICK O 174 MSFLANE, TIMOTHY M 174 MSFLUTZ, MICHAEL C 105 MSFMCGOVERN, JOHN E 105 MSFMOSCHITTA, THOMAS S 109 MSFPETERS, LINDA M 174 MSFPILLION, JAMES F JR 174 MSFRAUCH, ROBERT L JR 105 MSFRICCARDI, MICHAEL JR 106 MSFROBINSON, EDGAR C 105 MSFROUNDS, BRUCE H 174 MSFSAVOIE, CHIKENA L 174 MSFSIMON, ROBERT K JR 106 MSFSULLIVAN, DAVID W 105 MSFTIRADO, EDWARD 106 MSFTREFZGER, MICHAEL F 109 MSFWEIS, ROBERT 106 MSFWILLIAMS, KENNETH B 109 MSFWOOD, CRAIG W 105 MSF

TECHNICAL SERGEANTALVARADO, WILLIAM 105 MSFBARCOMB, ELEANOR S 109 MSFBARRETT, TIMOTHY J 105 MSFBETTI, DAVID NMI 174 MSFBOOTH, JOHN E 174 MSFBREWER, BRIAN P 109 MSFCORTI, DARRELL F 105 MSFCRUMP OWENS, SHANNA I 107 MSFDEBYSINGH, VISHWATTIE 106 MSFDENNEE, GREGORY G 174 MSFDEVITO, KAROLYN A 109 MSFDEWEY, ANDREW G 105 MSFDODGE, DOUGLAS A 107 MSFDORTONO, ANTHONY G 105 MSFFITZGERALD, PATRICK J 109 MSFFRACALOSSI, DOMENIC A 105 MSFFUSCO, ANTHONY L III 109 MSFHEFFNER, ROBERTA E 174 MSFJOHNSON, DUANE S 106 MSFKURZDORFER, MICHAEL V 107 MSFLANGENFELD, NICKOLAS P 107 MSFMEHLROSE, MATTHEW J 105 MSFMENEC, NICHOLAS J 174 MSFOGBURN, BENJAMIN P 109 MSFOHAGAN, MICHAEL P JR 106 MSFPANIS, JESSICA M 109 MSFPOWELL, JOHN M 174 MSFRICKS, DAVID R II 109 MSFROMO, PHILLIP M 174 MSFSCHALLER, DAVID G 107 MSFSNYDER, DUSTIN E 109 MSFSOMMERS, MARC A 105 MSFSTONE, SUEANN 109 MSFTIFFANY, ADAM R 107 MSFTORRES, JUSTO E JR 105 MSFTORRES, MARITZA 105 MSFWIGGINS, DARRELL L 174 MSFZELIPH, COLLEEN T 109 MSF

STAFF SERGEANTAYMAT, DAVID 109 MSFBADMAN, SHAWN S 174 MSFBARNES, CYNTHIA A 105 MSFBAROUD, AYSHAH J 105 MSFBENINTENDE, PAUL B 109 MSFCAMPBELL, JENNIFER L 107 MSFCARDINEAU, DANIEL P 106 MSFCARLSON, KERRIE L 107 MSFCARROLL, AUSTIN P 105 MSFCECCHINI, JUSTIN S 107 MSFCOYNE, ERIC J 106 MSFCUCCHI, MELISSA A 109 MSFDAVIS, CHARLES B 105 MSFDILIBERTO, JAMES A 105 MSFDUTCHER, CHRISTOPHER P 174 MSFENDRES, JESSE J 109 MSFFINKLE, EUGENE A 106 MSFGUSTIN, JANNA L 106 MSFJOWERS, BERNARD O 174 MSFKIRKUM, RICHARD S 174 MSFLAGOWSKI, ROBERT JOSEPH 107 MSFLANTRY, JAMES P 174 MSFMARTIN, TERRA A 109 MSFMULLER, JONATHAN T 105 MSFPALCZYNSKI, JEREMIAH P 174 MSFREED, CRAIG D 174 MSFRHONE, DEWAYNE O 105 MSFRUDAT, RAYMOND C 109 MSFRUTHERFORD, JASON S 174 MSFRYMER, DAVID 106 MSFSELETSKI, JERARD M 106 MSFSERRANO, LUIS A 106 MSFSHEPHARD, TERICK V 105 MSFSMITH, HENRY R JR 109 MSFTHAXTON, RICKY 105 MSFTIBBITTS, PAUL M 174 MSFTUGGLE, CHRISTOPHER M 107 MSFTURNER, MONICA A 174 MSFVERETTE, TERRENCE L 105 MSFWARNER, MATTHEW G 174 MSFWATSON, RYAN M 174 MSFWEAVER, MICHAEL J 174 MSF

SENIOR AIRMANALTAMIRANO, RICHARD M 106 MSFARMSTRONG, BRADLEY C 109 MSFBENCOSME, SHEILA N 106 MSFBENJAMIN, FRANK W II 105 MSFBIGELOW, CORY C 107 MSFBOYER, JEFFERY J 107 MSFBROWN, SCOTT L 174 MSFCALLIHAN, JOSIAH E 174 MSFCOLE, JASON C 174 MSFCORROW, KELLY MARIE 174 MSFCULLIPHER, TIMOTHY C JR 174 MSFDAMON, PATRICIA M 174 MSFDRAGOTTI, MICHELE M 105 MSFFISHER, JOSHUA M 109 MSFFLYNN, JOSHUA J 106 MSFGRANGER, MATTHEW T 106 MSFGROM, CHRISTOPHER VERNON 174 MSFHAFFNER, DAVID H 105 MSFHAYNES, BRYAN L 174 MSFHUDSON, TRAVIS S 109 MSFJOHNSON, FRANCIS M III 107 MSFKABAT, MICHAEL W 106 MSFKNUTSON, PETER B 109 MSFLAHRS, VALERIE A 107 MSFLEE, BRADLEY JAMES 174 MSFLIN, ENOCH H 105 MSFMANOY, ANNE M 105 MSFMARTIN, MICHAEL J III 105 MSFMCDONALD, HEATHER R 105 MSFMCKIBBEN, JONATHAN C 107 MSFMILLER, TONIA M 174 MSFMURPHY, KEVIN M 109 MSFPASSAGE, KRISTOPHER K 174 MSFPERGOLA, ROCCO J 106 MSFPOLZELLA, RACHEL A 107 MSFSCHENCK, ERIC W 174 MSFSTANHOPE, BRANDY L 109 MSFSWANICK, KATIE M 107 MSFTOMLINSON, JESSICA L 109 MSFWALKER, SCOTT A 174 MSFWEEKES, MARK ELLIOT 174 MSFWHIPPLE, BRYAN DAVID 174 MSFWILCOX, TRAVIS W 174 MSF

AIRMAN FIRST CLASSCACCIATORE, ANDREW NMI 105 MSFCOLA, DANIEL M 105 MSFCOTY, JENNIFER L 174 MSFDIAZ, BRANDON J 105 MSFFLANAGAN, BRIAN J 105 MSFFLATEAU, STEPHEN J 107 MSFFROST, JAMIE L 107 MSFLEISER, KELLIE N 107 MSFMACDONALD, JAMES D III 174 MSFMALAMAS, DANIELS J 105 MSFMCGINNIS, TYLER J 105 MSFMORROW, SCOTT E 174 MSFORA, CRISDEN C 105 MSFPAFK, NEIL L 107 MSFSCHWACK, DAVID C 106 MSFSIMMONS, DENISE M 105 MSFSIMMONS, LEWIS D 174 MSFSPADAVECCHIA, JOSEPH A 106 MSFWHITE, DOUGLAS J 109 MSF

AIRMAN BASICBARCOMB, ANJULI S 109 MSFBAUER, CHRISTOPHER M 107 MSFCROCKER, ANDREW W 107 MSFMARTIN, STEFFAN D 174 MSFMILLER, MICHAEL P 109 MSFPANGBURN, WILLIAM D III 174 MSFRODRIGUEZ, YAMAYRA 109 MSFRUST, DEREK MICHAEL 174 MSFSALCE, ALCIDE 106 MSFSHEPARD, KAYLEIGH M 105 MSFSNEED, CORINNA M 107 MSFSURWILLO, AMANDA K 105 MSF

Guard Times Page19

“Most [sketches] have an Antarctic theme;some have titles like ‘Extreme Altitude’ or‘Raven Gang.’"

—Senior Master Sgt. Fredrick BochenekFlight Chief, 109th Airlift Wing

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

STRATTON ANGB, Scotia—The 109th

Airlift Wing’s C-130 Hercules are notedfor their good looks. In fact, they win topinternational honors.

“This is the best looking aircraft I haveever seen,” remarked a competition judgein 2000, just before the Wing won itsthird of four “Best Kept Aircraft inShow” titles at the Royal InternationalAir Tattoo in England, beating out morethen 150 aircraft, from over 30 countries.

Now, adding style to looks, the AircraftMaintenance Squadron and theMultimedia Flight here startedpersonalizing the Wing’s aircraft withnose-art in November 2004.

They recentlydecorated their eighthaircraft. On aircraft#493, winner of the2004 ConcoursD’Elegance, the nose-art is a duck, in flightcap and goggles withassisted takeoffrockets attached to itsback, its facestraining as therockets propel it. Onanother aircraft, theTwin Towers risebehind an Americanflag and ghostly baldeagle.

“The Air Forceallows commanders topersonalize theiraircraft in this way,”said Senior MasterSgt. FredrickBochenek, flight chief.

Bochenek took on much of the artwork,sketching the designs in his spare time.He said that the Wing’s crew chiefs, 14 inall, provided the main ideas and themes.The group reviewed a few preliminarysketches to keep the artwork simple andfocused.

“You try not to get too detailed, thatmakes it complicated,” said Bochenek.

To bring each crew chief’s concept tofinished nose-art, Bochenek started bypenciling a light outline, which he filledand shaded with color. An average sketch

Hercules gets aNose Job in Scotia109th Airlift Wing C-130Hercules tattooed with uniquePolar mission nose-art

took three to four hours to finish. Thesketches were then forwarded to theWing’s commanders for approval.

“Not everyone will know what eachsketch means,” said Bochenek. He saidthe collection is similar in size and style,but the individual sketches are unique toeach aircraft’s mission and history. TheWing’s central mission is Polar airlift inGreenland and Antarctica.

“Most [sketches] have an Antarctictheme; some have titles like ‘ExtremeAltitude’ or ‘Raven Gang,’” saidBochenek, who added that six aircraftremain.

In the nose-art titled “Raven Gang,” ananimated raven—the historical trademarkof the 139th Air Squadron here, whichreceived the name from it's early ski-birdmissions to Greenland—hovers abovethe Antarctic ice fields with skis, skipoles, tattered cap and scarf. He has aproud yet comically anxious look to hisred-eyed and gold-toothed face.

Themed nose-art has been added to theWing’s aircraft before.In 2003, a special 9/11nose-art was addednationwide to selectAir Force aircraft andremoved after alimited time. Butunlike the 9/11 nose-art, the project here isa permanentpersonalization, muchlike an aircraft’sidentification numberor city name.

“It’s part of [theaircraft’s] heritage,”said Col. Max DellaPia, wing commander.“It gives each[aircraft] a bit ofuniqueness, almostlike a personality.”

Della Pia said thatadding the nose-artallows crew chiefs,

whom are assigned personalresponsibility for aircraft upkeep andmaintenance, to display pride in theirplanes.

“Hopefully it enhances the spirit of theWing and its mission,” Della Pia said.He went on to say that he enjoyswatching the imagination and creativityof the entire nose-art team. “It’s fun tosee those using their gifts to share withthe Wing.”

Once the commanders approved afinished sketch, the Multimedia Flight

scanned it into an electronic document.Senior Airman Brett Bouchard, theWing’s graphic specialist, used desktoppublishing software to add borders andbackgrounds and enhance as needed.Then, the finished nose-art was printedonto a large, vinyl sticker, which wasapplied on each C-130 Hercules’ nose,aft of the aircrew door.

“We attached the first stickersnot knowing how they wouldreact to the extremetemperatures ofAntarctica,” saidBochenek, whoboasted that they

Nose-art for 109th Airlift Wing, LC-130 Hercules aircraft # 491. By SMSGT Fredrick Bochenek

Nose-art for 109th Airlift Wing, LC-130 Hercules aircraft # 493. By SMSGT Fredrick Bochenek

Senior Master Sgt. Fredrick Bocheneksketches aircraft nose-art from his officeon Stratton Air National Guard Base. Photoby Staff Sgt. Mike R. Smith.

“held up real well,” even when exposedto temperatures as low as 50 degreesbelow zero.

“They are part of our aircraft’s historynow,” he said.

The nose-art team hopes to complete allaircraft this summer. ❏

Guard TimesPage20

By 2nd Lt. Amy FiresGuard Times Staff

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS,Latham—International Earth Day 2005was celebrated on April 22.

An “earth-wide” event, Earth Day focusesconcern and mobilizes support for theenvironment. It can showcase the U.S.Military’s daily commitment towards

RememberingEarth Day 2005

environmental stewardship and can serveas an annual focus on environmental issues.

The Army’s message this year was“Sustaining the Environment for a SecureFuture.”

Earth Day “reflects our commitment tomeet the current and future needs ofSoldiers, their families and the Nationthrough the sound stewardship ofenvironmental resources,” said Chief ofStaff, Gen. Peter Schoomaker andSecretary of the Army, Francis Harvey intheir 2005 Earth Day message.

“The American Soldier stands at thecenterpiece of this effort. All militaryservice members deserve a healthy

environment in which they and theirfamilies can live safely,” they said.

The focus of Earth Day should includeeducation and awareness, saidSchoomaker and Harvey. Everyinstallation has something unique to offerby utilizing environmental awareness,energy conservation, natural resourceconservation, pollution prevention, wastemanagement and restoration. This is howthe National Guard integratesenvironmental compliance into its dailymissions.

We must nurture the environment, withan eye toward partnerships, so ourneighbors understand and support our

mission, said Schoomaker and Harvey. EarthDay is an opportunity to rededicate theArmy’s partnership with the community,sustaining and securing the futureenvironment. “Success requires that we alldo our part.”

The Army should lead the way in organizingand implementing environmental programs,Army Environmental Center officials say.This means programs should enhancetraining and operations while protecting theenvironment.

The Army website, at http://aec.army.mil/usaec/, provides householdrecommendations on improving theenvironment and its Earth Day Message. ❏

By Kathleen FitzpatrickCourtesy of Southampton Press

WESTHAMPTON BEACH—Two Pave Hawk helicoptersfrom the Air National Guard at Gabreski Airport here wereflying through the Appalachian Mountains in a snow squallSunday morning. The windshield wipers were broken, andthey were flying too slowly to keep ice from forming on thewindshield; they had virtually no visibility. The team wasforced to turn around and find another route.

“Unfortunately, I’ve never been involved in a rescue on abalmy July afternoon,” said Director of Operations Lt. Col.Gene Sengstacken of Bethpage, who has been with the AirNational Guard for 23 years. “We would have been of no useto anyone if we were forced to land because of that storm.”

Lt. Col. Sengstacken, a pilot, was one of 12 airmen of the106th Rescue Wing called in to rescue people stranded byflooding after torrential rains flooded the only road leadingto Mashipacong Island and surrounding areas near theDelaware Water Gap in New Jersey. As river waterscontinued to rise, nearly covering some of the houses in thearea, the two teams airlifted out six people, two dogs, and acat.

The 106th’s mission is to provide air rescue support forcivilian humanitarian rescues and combat search and rescueduties. This was the unit’s 302nd save.

Governor George Pataki was among the many whocongratulated the 106 Rescue Wing on a job well done.

“I want to commend members of the 106th Rescue Wingand State Police for the critical role they have played in thisweekend’s rescue operations,” Governor Pataki said.

Congressman Timothy Bishop also expressed his gratitude.“The 106th has once again proven itself to be a tremendous

asset to this nation,” he said.The guardsmen were on their last day of a four-day training

program, and were flying out to Gardiners Island for drillswhen they were called back to base. A call had come in fromthe Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Langley AirForce Base, Virginia at about 9:30 a.m., requesting assistance.They headed back to Gabreski to refuel and gear up. With theengines still running, they loaded up the aircraft, and werebriefed about the situation: A family of five was trapped attheir house on a peninsula by the rapidly rising NeversinkRiver. The 106th Rescue Wing had been specificallyrequested for the mission by Sussex County Sheriff E.S.Danielson.

An HC-130 Hercules was dispatched to the area to act asan airborne command and control vehicle, along with twoHH-60 Pave Hawk helicopters staffed with pararescuejumpers known as PJs. PJs are highly trained combat medicsand can provide emergency medical care if required.

Although New Jersey State Police and Cape May CoastGuard were also requested, trouble with radio transmissionprevented them from hearing the call, said Lt. Col.Sengstacken.

The helicopter crews stopped in New Jersey to pick upSheriff Danielson and a New Jersey State Trooper, whoknew exactly where the people were, and helped guide the106th through inclement weather to the rescue sites.

Sengstacken said that communicating over the radio, whilealways a struggle, was particularly challenging during thisrescue.

“There were so many people on the same frequency that itwas difficult to hear what we needed to hear,” he said.

As they travelled to the site, the weather worsened quickly,and they had to abandon their charted course and turn around.

“As we passed the city and came to the mountains, westarted to run into severe weather conditions,” saidSengstacken. “We tried to find a valley, but there wereseveral snow squalls.”

The pilot admitted to being a bit nervous—and losing sight

of the other helicopter was a concern as well.“It’s like driving on an expressway with the fog rolling in,

except that on an expressway you don’t have to worry aboutmountains,” he said. “You don’t know where there are wiresor if somebody has built a tower-and you’re flying information with another aircraft. You don’t want to lose eachother.”

Once they turned around, they located an airport, landed,and contacted their base at Gabreski for an update on thesituation. It had not improved; the water was still rising andpeople were still trapped.

They flew south and then west around the mountains tocircumvent the storm. “We followed a road up towards PortJervis,” he said. “That allowed us to land.”

Sengstacken estimates that they lost about 40 minutesattempting to get around the weather. By the time they pickedup Sheriff Danielson and the State Trooper, the river wasrising on both sides of the family’s property, but there wasenough room to land the helicopters—between corn fieldsand a small orchard—and have the PJs escort the family onboard the two Pave Hawks, pets and all.

Although they were overwhelmed and frightened, the familyof five, their two dogs and their cat, were all okay, and didnot need medical attention.

“They were wet, cold and tired,” said Sengstacken.The Pave Hawks brought them to the Montague Town Hall,

which was being used as the center for rescue operations.Their next stop was to answer a call from firefighters whowere having difficulty reaching a man trapped on his deck byflood currents and rising waters. One of the Pave Hawkslowered a PJ for a rescue hoist. The PJ put the man in aharness, clipped the man’s harness to his own, and held ontohim as they were both pulled back up.

“We thought we may have to rescue the firefighters as well,but they signaled to us that they were okay,” he said.

They dropped the man off at a nearby school on higherground and returned to town hall.

After refueling, they returned to town hall and stand at alertuntil dusk. But after about 40 minutes of waiting around, theteam decided to patrol the river, in case people were trappedwho were unable to get to a phone. After searching for a fewhours and not finding anyone, they returned to base at dusk inorder to be ready to go at first light.

They were asked to stand down on Monday morning, andheaded back to Gabreski, said Sengstacken. They werehappy to return home, and very tired, he said.

“It felt good to be back,” he said, but admitted he lovesbeing part of the rescue unit.

“It’s an exciting role,” he said. “We’re such a uniquerescue unit. We work with so many different variables thatyou will never see in any other profession.” ❏

106th Rescue Wing Airmen stay atop rescue mission

A 106th Rescue Wing HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter hovers over aflooded home. Photo courtesy of 106th Rescue Wing.

“There is a small percentage of peoplewho make life miserable for a lot of people.The only way to stop them is to kill them.There’s no other way about it. They arehard-line extremists and are not going togive up their cause.”

The citizen soldiers might be the perfect fitfor the current stage of the U.S. occupation.Two years after toppling Saddam Hussein’sregime, the goals for Task Force Liberty aredecidedly grass-roots: tamping down astubborn insurgency while training Iraqisoldiers and police to do the job themselves;molding dysfunctional local governments intoresponsive and productive entities; andenabling elections scheduled for October(to ratify the new Iraqi constitution) andDecember (to choose a national congress).

The guardsmen and reservists, who makeup 13,000 of the 23,000 soldiers in TaskForce Liberty, bring diplomatic and otherreal-life skills to the game.

“Back in the ’90s, it would have been anissue,” said Maj. Teresa Wolfgang, areservist and company commander with the411th Civil Affairs Battalion, assigned to3rd Brigade Combat Team. “The first Gulfwar changed that. A lot of the reservists andguards here have prior active duty. We nowhave a smaller active-duty force, especiallyin my field — civil affairs. We have peoplewho have been deployed two or three times.

“If you lined them up, could you reallytell?” she asked, referring to active andReserve soldiers. “We all have our combatpatches. We all have to go to the sameschools.” ❏

Used with permission from Stars and Stripes, a DoDpublication. Copyright 2005 Stars and Stripes. Do not reprintwithout express permission.

National Guardmembers,Reservists, who make up13,000 of the 23,000 Soldiersin Task Force Liberty, bringdiplomatic and other real-lifeskills to the war

Guard Times Page21

By Charlie CoonStars and Stripes Mideast Edition

BAQOUBA, Iraq—Most do not wearcamouflage for a living. But they’re notinexperienced.

“That’s what makes the Guard unique,”said Sgt. 1st Class Robert Hawkins. “You’vegot a pool to draw from. We’ve gotmechanics, engineers, plumbers, cops,construction workers.”

Most of the 42nd Infantry Division’s TaskForce Liberty are not full-time soldiers, butrather members of the Army National Guardor Army Reserve. In February, the 42nd IDtook responsibility for control of north-central Iraq from the 1st Infantry Division,which had served there for a year. Itscommander, Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Taluto, hasoverall command of activities and of active-duty units deployed to the area.

The guardsmen and reservists say they’vegot what it takes to make progress in acountry where 8 million people voted onJan. 30 but attacks by insurgents continue totest the resolve of the new Iraq.

“There is irreversible momentum; this isn’tgoing backward,” Taluto said in a Februaryinterview with Stars and Stripes.

Citizen Soldiers bringunique skill to Iraq By Terri Lukach

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON—The global war on terror has created a new paradigm for thenation’s National Guard and Army Reserve warriors, the Defense Department’ssenior reserve official said here today.

No longer a strategic reserve, today’s Guard and Reserve are “true operationalforces” that are making a critical difference in Iraq and other places around the world,Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs Thomas Hall said during aninterview with the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service.

Hall recently returned from a tour of U.S. forces and facilities in Qatar and Kuwait,where he met with more than 2,000 personnel in nine locations.

Of the total 1.4 million active duty forces, Hall said, 1.2 million—or 46 percent ofthe total force—are Guard or Reserve personnel. Today, 178,000 are currentlyserving in some capacity in the global war on terror. About 400,000 have beenmobilized since 9/11.

“That tells you we are using the Guard and Reserve in unprecedented ways,” Hallsaid. But while the number is large, he said, it represents only 35 percent of the Guardand Reserve, which means 65 percent are not being used. Stress on the force, he said,is primarily a result of “low density, high-use” career fields. “We are not out ofpeople, but out of balance,” he said. “So we are rebalancing.”

The Army is adding more military police and civil affairs personnel and convertingother personnel, such as artillery, into more needed skill sets, he explained.

Hall said the military also must ensure that the Guard and Reserve are integrated intothe overall force, with the same training, the same pay, and the same personnel system.

He also praised Congress for authorizing expanded Tricare health coverage lastyear for Guard and Reserve personnel. He explained that service personnel and theirfamilies now are eligible for benefits 90 days prior to activation as well as for up tosix months after demobilization.

As for recent reports that the services are unable to meet their recruitment targets,Hall said it was important to get to “ground truth” on this issue. At the end of 2004,all components, with the exception of the Army Guard and Reserve, had met their end-strength goals, Hall said.

Hall said the military has put additional recruiters in the field, as well as in theaterto ensure that those who want to reenlist are able to do so. Up-front incentives are alsoimportant, he said, noting that Congress has authorized a $15,000 tax-free retentionbonus.

Hall praised the pride, dedication and sense of purpose he observed in the troopsduring his visit to Qatar and Kuwait. There were no “sour faces,” he said. “When yousee men smiling and happy doing their job, it’s something you can’t fake. Sure, they’drather be at home,” he said, but they take pride knowing “they are doing what they weretrained to do.” ❏

Global war on terror createsparadigm for Guard, Reserve

Deputy Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. David Sheppard, presents U.S.Ambassador to South Africa Jendayi Frazer with a signed photofrom Governor George Pataki.

By Maj. Richard SlomaState Partnership Coordinator

SOUTH AFRICA—The Deputy Adjutant General, Brig.Gen. David Sheppard, paid a visit to New York’s partnershipcountry, South Africa, on March 17 and 18.

His visit included a meeting with the South AfricanAmbassador, Jendayi Frazer. Sheppard additionally metwith senior leaders of the South African National DefenseForces. Accompanying him were Col. Harry McDonough,Joint Staff Civil Affairs here and Maj. Richard Sloma, StatePartnership Program Coordinator here. The group visitedSouth Africa’s Joint Operations Command, Defense ReserveForces, Defense Foreign Relations and Air Transport andMaritime Systems.

Capt. Timothy Coleman, then the New York NationalGuard’s Bilateral Affairs Officer in South Africa, coordinatedthe meetings. Coleman is a member of the 105th Airlift

Partnership with South Africa growingWing, in Newburgh. He served as BAO at the Office ofDefense Cooperation, U.S. European Command, SouthAfrica, since January 2004 and returned to New York in lateMarch. Maj. John “Omar” Bradley replaces him. Bradley isa KC-135 pilot, assigned to Air National Guard Headquartershere. He will serve as BAO for two to three years.

This year, NYNG Soldiers and Airmen are expected toconduct four bilateral engagement activities with their SouthAfrican counterparts including two C-130 Herculesfamiliarizations with members of the 109th Airlift Wing andthe 106th Air Rescue Wing and two events in South Africainvolving Aviation Safety and Environmental Operations.

New York and South Africa have been SPP partners sinceAugust 2003. The program aligns States with countriesaround the world. It fosters mutual interests and establisheslong-term relationships across all levels of society. NewYork was the first state to have an SPP relationship on theAfrican continent. ❏

Guard TimesPage22

Sgt. Dennis Gravelle138th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

LEXINGTON ARMORY, Manhattan—It’s an honorthey have held for more than 150 years. Soldiers of the69th Infantry Regiment lead the St. Patrick’s Day Paradethrough Manhattan on March 17. With many of theregiment’s Soldiers in Iraq, they marched in smallerranks but those left behind led the parade, all the same.

Governor George E. Pataki visited the parade’sleaders at their Lexington Avenue Armory during this244th annual ceremony.

“I have never been prouder to march than I was today,behind the soldiers of the 69th Infantry – the veterans,new unit members and rear detachment carrying on oneof New York’s finest traditions on behalf of theirbrothers in arms, serving overseas,” Pataki said.

The 69th was among the first New York Army NationalGuard units to respond to the 9/11 World Trade Centerattack and, consequently, supported numerous homelandsecurity operations in New York City since.

The 69th is currently on active duty, supportingOperation Iraqi Freedom, attached to the 256th InfantryBrigade (Mechanized) from Louisiana.

The 69th is sometimes referred to as the “Irishregiment” since it was formed largely from the Irishimmigrants who called lower Manhattan home during themid-19th century.

Maj. Gen. Thomas P. Maguire, Jr., stated, “While the

NYC infantryregiment marcheson traditions

unit’s ethnic and racial backgrounds have changedthroughout the years to reflect New York’s current andwidely diverse population, the pride these Soldier’shave in the unit’s Irish heritage have not diminished.”

The 69th was formally established in 1851 as the “IrishVolunteers.” They fought with distinction in major CivilWar battles, from Bull Run to Appomattox. In 1917, theSoldiers were chosen by then Col. Douglas MacArthur

to join the 42nd Infantry “Rainbow” Division, the famedmulti-state National Guard division.

“Today, my visit to this historic armory is an evenmore inspiring honor as the Soldiers of the 69th Infantryagain find themselves on the front lines—fighting toensure that the seeds of freedom and democracy are notpoisoned by the forces of tyranny and terror,” theGovernor said. “God bless the brave soldiers of theFighting 69th this Saint Patrick’s Day and all of ourtroops defending freedom across the globe. And Godbless their families back home, waiting anxiously fortheir swift and safe return.” ❏

Fighting 69th Soldiers on March 17. Photo by Sgt. Dennis Gravell.

By Guard Times Staff

LEXINGTON AVENUE ARMORY, Manhattan—SixSoldiers from the 69th Infantry Regiment received thePurple Heart Medal during an awards ceremony here onApril 23.

The Soldiers were home on convalescent leave,undergoing medical care and elected to receive their medalsbefore friends and family members.

Their regiment was mobilized in May 2004 and deployedas part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Serving with the 256thInfantry Brigade (Mechanized) of the Louisiana ArmyNational Guard, under the command of the Third InfantryDivision, their regiment engaged insurgent forces numeroustimes. Several Soldiers were killed in action and othersseriously wounded since entering Iraq last fall.

Fighting 69th

Soldiers awardedPurple Heart Medal

Pfc. Richard Cornier, Roosevelt Island, was wounded inearly December 2004 while conducting a routine mountedpatrol; an improvised explosive device detonated beneathhis military vehicle, causing it to flip. Two of his fellowSoldiers were killed and another seriously wounded.

Cpl. John Cushman, Farmington, sustained shrapnelwounds when an IED detonated beneath his military vehiclewhile on patrol.

Spc. Anthony Gilkes, Brooklyn, was wounded in Januarywhile patrolling his assigned sector in Iraq; an IED detonatedbeneath his military vehicle.

Sgt. Adrian Melendez, Bronx, sustained injuries whileconducting patrol on Dec. 3, 2004; an IED detonatedbeneath his Military vehicle.

Spc. Daniel Swift, Yonkers, sustained injuries whileconducting patrol on Nov. 29, 2004; an IED detonatedbeneath his military vehicle. He applied first aid to hisfellow Soldiers before attending to his own wounds andused his own body as a shield to prevent further harm fromcoming to them.

Sgt. Felix Vargas sustained injuries while conductingpatrol on Nov. 29, 2004; an IED detonated beneath hismilitary vehicle.

The Purple Heart Medal is the oldest military decorationin the world in present use and the first American awardmade available to the common soldier. While it is unknownhow many residents of New York State have received thisaward, more than 123,000 have been eligible since thebeginning of World War II. ❏

Sgt. Adrian Melendez (right), 69th Infantry Regiment, was one of sixSoldiers to receive the Purple Heart Medal from Brig. Gen. MichaelC. Swezey, Commander, New York Army National Guard April 23.Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steven Petibone.

Giving thanks and support to the 69th: Louisiana Army National Guard Soldiers present their Stateflag at the Lexington Avenue Armory on March 10 to the 69th Infantry Regiment along with the families of those who have been killedor wounded in the Global War on Terror. Senior military and elected officials, families and friends attended the St. Patrick's Daybenefit, it was hosted by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and corporate sponsors. Photo by Staff Sgt. Mike R. Smith.

Guard Times Page23

By 2nd Lt. Amy FiresGuard Times Staff

REGIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE,Camp Smith—A rain-soaked day did notdampen the spirits of 22 officer candidatesduring the New York Army NationalGuard’s 52nd Officer Candidate Schoolhere this spring.

Through teamwork, the current officercandidates are one month away from theircommissions as second lieutenants, andthey have attended three of four trainingphases.

“The bottom line here is, can you, doyou, want to make a difference?” saidCapt. Bill Hart, OCS Commander, here.He stressed that OCS needs experiencedSoldiers, grades E-4 through E-6, whowant an Army leadership challenge.

“OCS allows Soldiers to find theirleadership style,” said Hart.

Twenty-two OCS Soldiers began phase-zero here on April 2004, utilizing twodrill weekends; there, Soldiers must have

Future leaderstrain diligently tobecome officers

90 college credit hours, pass the Armyphysical fitness test, have a Secret securityclearance, and complete a full physical.(OCS prerequisites are laid out in ArmyRegulation 140-50, Officer CandidateSchool, Army Reserve.)

Their next phase, phase-one, was heldfor two weeks at Camp Rell, Conn. There,the Soldiers learned basic combatleadership skills including landnavigation, platoon and squad leadershipand communications.

Phase-two, the longest phase, wasconducted through one year of weekenddrills. During these drills, candidatesattended entry-level classes on militaryintelligence, supply, combat servicesupport, fire support, counseling and manymore military topics.

The training changes regularly.Sometimes Soldiers rappel on their drillweekend, sometimes they attend weaponstraining or visit the obstacle course atWest Point, which includes the “slide forlife.” They also attended combat, water-survival training.

To build teamwork and camaraderie, theclass negotiated an obstacle course here,which includes a variety of challenges andmissions, during their “Sandhurst” event inApril. Teams constructed and crossed arope bridge, which spans a narrow stream.Then they crawled through a culvert andran uphill to a wall obstacle. They musthelp each other over the wall. The teamwith the fastest time trained first on theirfollowing drill.

The class is scheduled for phase-three inJune. It is held at Fort Benning, Ga, and itwill test their leadership. For two-weeks,Soldiers are given leadership positionsand direct squads and platoons.

“Each Soldier is steeped in infantrytactics and goes to Fort Benning with moreconfidence than any other state in ourregion,” said Hart. “A field trainingexercise is conducted one month prior toarrival.”

Looking toward phase-three, manySoldiers spoke about getting through OCSsuccessfully and finishing their branchqualifications.

“In OCS there are situations where wegive our all, and then some,” saidcandidate Jerry Steckmeister. Forexample, Steckmeister said that he gave100 percent on his road marches,believing he would rest at the end, but his

"The bottom line here is,can you, do you, want tomake a difference?"

—Capt. Bill HartOCS Commander, Camp Smith

group received another mission and had to“reach deep down inside” to drive on.

“I’ve learned that strength is your friend,but endurance is your best friend,” saidcandidate Mike Domenic. “This is the type

of program that makes you growthroughout.”

For further information on OfficerCandidate School, please contact Maj.Brian DeReamer at (914) 788-7429. ❏

Officer Candidate Mike Domenic conducts field training during the New York Army National Guard’s52nd Officer Candidate School this spring. Below: the 52nd Officer Candidate School class.

Officer candidates conduct field training at CampSmith. Photos by Pvt. Timothy Tamburello.

About Guard Times

The Guard Times is published bimonthly usingfederal funds authorized under provisions of AR360-1 and AFI 35-101 by the New York StateDivision of Military and Naval Affairs and the NewYork Army and Air National Guard Public AffairsOffice. Views which appear in this publication arenot necessarily those of the Department ofDefense, the Army, the Air Force or the NationalGuard Bureau.

The Guard Times has a circulation of 25,000 andis distributed free to members of the New YorkState Militia Force and employees of the Divisionof Military and Naval Affairs.

Governor George E. Pataki, Commander in ChiefMaj. Gen. Thomas P. Maguire, Jr., Adjutant GeneralKent Kisselbrack, Director of Public AffairsLt. Col. Paul A. Fanning, NYARNG , EditorStaff Sgt. Mike R. Smith, NYANG, Assistant Editor

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Guard TimesPage24

By Staff Sgt. Mike R. SmithGuard Times Staff

NEWARK, N.J.— More than 20 NewYork Air National Guard Airmen returnedhome from Newark International. Airporton April 7 after participating in the U.S.Department of Homeland Security’s “TopOfficials 3” exercise.

Medics from the 139th AeromedicalEvacuation Squadron and an LC-130Hercules flight crew with the 139th AirSquadron, Stratton ANGB, Scotia,provided medical staging and simulatedmedical airlift in one of five full-scale,Congressionally directed, weapons of massdestruction exercises that took placethroughout Connecticut and New Jersey.

The medics worked with local civilianresponders, law enforcement andemergency medics to process more than 70patient volunteers from the U.S. CoastGuard Academy, according to Lt. Col.Mary Brandt, 139th AES commander. Thepatients were prepared and evaluated forC-130 airlift from a temporary medicalstaging facility setup in an aircraft hangar.Additionally, the group provided trainingon various aeromedical systems.

The one-day exercise included asimulated biological attack with resultinginjuries spreading to nearby counties.

As part of the exercise, people in NewJersey, Connecticut and Washington, D.C.,conducted a planned scenario, HomelandSecurity officials said.

A total of 10,000 people from 27 federalagencies, and more than 200 government aswell as private sector organizationsparticipated, said Michael Chertoff,Homeland Security secretary. ❏

Aeromeds join in Federalhomeland security exercise

An Airman with the 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron evaluates a patient for LC-130 transport at TOPOFF 3 in Newark, N.J.

The 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron in Newark, N.J. Photos by Tech. Sgt. Christine Ford.