August 2015
From Private
to General Thomas Carden receives star Plus: GMI Graduation | 278th Military Police Annual Training | And so much more
Contents ISSUE: August 2015
cover story
w w w. g e o r g i a g u a r d . c o m
09
Features 06| OCS Graduation
The Georgia Military Institute commissions nine graduates.
07|25 Days in the Gulf
The Georgia National Guard and Hurricane Katrina.
14| Carden Gets Promoted
16| Georgia Air Guard in Korea
Colonel Thomas Carden is promoted to Brig. Gen. in the Georgia National Guard.
Georgia Air Guardmen during the Korean War.
News 05| Operation Northern Strike Team Joint STARS participates in Operation Northern Strike.
09| 278th MP Annual Training
The 278th Military Police train at Fort Gordon.
13| Atlanta Readiness Center
The Georgia National Guard conducts ribbon cutting at Atlanta Regional Readiness Center.
06
13
columns
03
03| Chaplain’s Corner Never accepting defeat.
10| Book Review
“Start With Why” by Simon Sinek. A book that insists we focus on the “why” not the “what.”
11| Blast from the Past Paratroopers make historic jump.
15| NCO Notepad
16
1 | The Georgia Guardsman
Chief Master Sgt. McPherson’s welcome letter.
17| Around the Guard
Georgia National Guard Commander-in-Chief Gov. Nathan Deal Adjutant General Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard State Public Affairs Director Lt. Col. Thomas Lesnieski State Public Affairs Officer Capt. William Carraway Operations NCO Master Sgt. Gerard Brown
Editorial Staff Managing Editor Desiree Bamba Contributors 2nd Lt. Jeffrey Bezore Master Sgt. Gerard Brown Capt. William Carraway Pvt. Alexander Davidson Staff Sgt. Carol Lehman
Chief Master Sgt. Reginald McPherson
Sgt. Elliot Minor Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons
Sgt. Ashley Sutz
Contributing DOD Organizations 124th Mobile Public Affairs D e t a ch m e nt , 1 1 6 t h A i r Control Wing Public Affairs O f f i c e , A r my Nat i o n a l Guard Unit Public Affairs Representatives, Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs Representatives, Georgia State Defense Force Public Affairs.
Georgia National Guard Channels
Flickr
Youtube
Facebook.com/GeorgiaGuard Flickr.com/GaNatlGuard
Twitter.com/GeorgiaGuard Youtube.com/ GeorgiaNationalGuard
Disclaimer The Georgia Guardsman is published monthly under the provisions of AR 360-81 and AF 6-1 by the Georgia Department of Defense Public Affairs Office. The views and opinions expressed in the Georgia Guardsman are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army, Air Force or the Adjutant General of Georgia. The Georgia Guardsman is distributed free-of-charge to members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard, State Defense Force and other interested persons upon request. August 2015 | 2
I will Never A c c e p t D e f e at
Story by: Master Sgt. Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense “One team one fight”, or “Soldiers taking care of Soldiers” are common phrases used in the military, especially when it comes to aiding different units or even different branches during difficult situations. More often, this reference is used when comparing the military’s fight against a common enemy, but in this case, two National Guard states came together to aid Sgt 1st Class Chris Bradley with his fight to walk again. Sergeant 1st Class Bradley was involved in an accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. The severity of the injury left only one option for Bradley and his family: seek treatment at 3 | The Georgia Guardsman
Photo by: Master Sgt. Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
the Shepherd Center located in downtown Atlanta. The facility is one of the nation’s top rehabilitation hospitals for both spinal cord and brain injury and was the best option for Bradly to be able to walk again. A call from the Kentucky National Guard came to the chaplain’s office at the Clay National Guard Center to see if the Georgia National Guard had a Chaplain that could assist one of their Soldiers. Without a moment’s hesitation, Chaplain Pirtle stepped forward to assist the Soldier during this rough period. Interesting enough, Chaplain Pirtle attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville Kentucky, while also being a chaplain candidate in the Kentucky National Guard. Injuries similar to those incurred by Sgt. 1st Class Bradley normally take two years to fully heal and as of 90 days, he is showing great progress. “Bradley has come a long way,” said Maj. Bill Draper, full time operations chaplain for the Kentucky Army National Guard. “He has never thought of himself as a victim and has always had a ‘this is what I am going to do’ type of spirit.” At the time of the accident, Sgt. 1st Class Bradley was a recruiter for the Kentucky National Guard. For his previous jobs included both infantry and field radio operator. The end of this year will mark his 18th year of military service to his country, 15 of those years were in the Kentucky National Guard and the remaining three were during his enlistment in the Marine Corps. The road ahead will be a long one for Sgt. 1st Class Bradley, but his goal is to walk out of the hospital on his own. During his multiple visits to the Shepherd Center, Chaplain Pirtle spent time with Bradley during rehabilitation sessions as well as praying with him and his family, but it did not end there. Chaplain Pirtle went beyond his technician duties and continued to spend time with both Bradley and his family after hours. By doing this, he was able to clearly see the improvements made by Bradley in re-learning basic motor skills such as holding a fork again, dress himself and standing on his own. “I always wanted to encourage Sgt. 1st Class Bradley, but every time I left, I found myself encouraged by his spirit, his attitude and mostly his passion to overcome.” said Chaplain Pirtle, regional care chaplain for the Georgia National Guard. “I often felt I was ministered to, just by being around both him and his wife and their journey to recovery.” “Obtaining my independence during this process was one of the most rewarding moments,” said Bradley.
Chaplain Pirtle was recognized by the Kentucky National Guard for his selfless service in taking care of one of their own. He was awarded the Kentucky Commendation Medal and was commissioned an Honorable Kentucky Colonel, by the Governor. “As I have gone through this process, it has been refreshing to see someone in an Army uniform, because it made me feel like I was right back in the military,” said Bradley. “The banana bread that Chaplain Pirtle’s wife brought was also amazing and meant a lot.”
“Chris’s wife is part of the guard just as my wife is par t of the guard.” These two guard families are wedded just based on the virtue of both of us being in the guard.” - Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirtle
Chaplain Pirtle’s wife also answered the call and wanted to be part of the rehabilitation process. “Chris’s wife is part of the Guard just as my wife is part of the Guard,” said Pirtle. These two Guard families are wedded just based on the virtue of both of us being in the guard.” Though Sgt. 1st Class Bradley will be leaving the Shepherd Center soon to head back to Kentucky to continue his rehabilitation, the bond that was formed between the two will continue despite the distance. August 2015 | 4
JSTARS brings manned wide-area view to jointforce combat exercise
T
Story by: Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons | 116th ACW | Georgia Air National Guard
eam Joint STARS joined military forces from more than 20 states and four coalition countries, providing manne d, b att le management, command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities during the Northern Strike 2015 combat training exercise from July 20-31. The exercise, hosted by the Michigan National Guard, combined air and ground combat scenarios the U.S. military has been involved with the past several years. Flying out of Robins Air Force Base, JSTARS aircrews completed multiple missions focused on the counter insurgency environment incorporating F-16 Fighting Falcons and A-10 Thunderbolts, while supporting Soldiers, Marines, and Airmen on the ground. Working with a liaison officer from the 116th Air Control Wing, aircrews from the 461st ACW and Army JSTARS provided real-time tracking information to air and
5 | The Georgia Guardsman
ground forces helping them find and identify simulated enemy forces. “Being able to look commanders in the eye and let them know what we can do for them, I’ve seen our role in Northern Strike grow the past three years.” said Maj. Bradley Webb, an air battle manager and senior director with the 116th ACW, Georgia Air National Guard. According to Maj. Aaron Pulcifer, mission crew commander with the 461st ACW, the wartime environment today is comprised of smaller groups of insurgents hiding within the civilian population, versus a traditional mass force on force war. “JSTARS is particularly valuable in these [insurgent] types of scenarios because of our ability to view such a wide area of the battlefield with Airmen and Soldiers in the seats making real-time decisions and overcoming technological challenges on the fly.”
Photo by: Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons | 1 1 6 th ACW | Georgia Air National Guard
New GMI OCS Graduates
N
Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard ine graduates of the Georgia National G u a r d ’s G e o r g i a Military Institute were commissioned as second lieutenants during a ceremony at the Clay National Guard on August 8, 2015. The ceremony marks the culmination of 18 months of rigorous academic and physical training for the officers who will now assume leadership positions throughout the State. “This course tested us beyond our limits,” said 2nd Lt. Daryl Vince Padgett Jr. of Atlanta. “Getting two hours of sleep a night, working all month between drills on academics and leadership… we developed a lot of respect for each other.” The traditional Georgia Guard Officer Candidate School class commits to 18 months of training during drill weekends and two summer annual training events. Once accepted into the OCS program, candidates are subjected to a series of academic challenges and arduous tasks to test them both physically and mentally. “GMI provides 241 hours of academic instruction in phase II alone,” said Maj. Davis R. Varner, senior trainer and OCS company commander. “During phase II, (Officer candidates) drill from July to January and receive instruction and practical exercises before testing. From February to May, training concentrates on warrior training and battle drills. The course culminates in the two-week field intensive phase III exercise.” Of the sixteen candidates who initially began the 18 month journey only nine remained for the final two-week field exercise. The new lieutenants reflected on the course of training at the graduation ceremony. “(OCS) was easily the hardest thing I have ever done,” said 2nd Lt. Scott Tinney of Suwanee, a veteran of more than a decade of service and multiple deployments. For 2nd Lt. Marsha Williams of Jesup, the lessons learned over the course of OCS will have direct impact on her unit leadership. “ Thes e 18 mont hs showe d how resilient we are,” said Williams. “In 18 months we had jobs, families, things that
could have deterred us from our goals, but we persevered. We can pass the lessons of resiliency on to our Soldiers.” Three officers were singled out for excellence at the ceremony. Second Lt. Tinney was recognized as the outstanding leadership graduate and was presented wit h t he G e org ia Guard’s Er icks on Trophy. Second Lt. Darrin Torrey of Atlanta received the award for outstanding academic performance while 2nd Lt. Clessie Simmons III of Hephzibah stood out for physical fitness performance by achieving the highest overall score in the Army physical fitness test. The officers of OCS Class 54 come from a diverse leadership background. While some entered the Georgia Guard as officer candidates the majority have prior enlisted experience and are veterans of overseas deployments. The new officers will follow careers in Army branches such as Infantry,
Photo by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
Chemical, Military Police and Finance. The Georgia Military Institute, part of the Georgia National Guard’s 122nd Regional Training Institute has served as an officer candidate school for the Georgia Army National Guard since 1961. Initially established in Marietta in 1851, GMI provided military instruction until 1864 when it was burned during the advance of the Federal armies of Maj. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman. In 1961, GMI was reestablished by the Georgia Army National Guard in Macon. In 2008 the institute returned to Marietta as part of the 122nd RTI. GMI is administered by the Georgia National Guard’s 122nd Regional Training Institute. In July 2012, the 122nd RTI was recognized in as an institution of excellence, The institute is one out of just 26 schools to achieve the title out of all training institutes in the 54 state and territories.
August 2015 | 6
25 Days in the Gulf: The Georgia National Guard and Hurrican Katrina
Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard Prelude At 6:15 a.m., Aug. 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina made landfall on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Katrina lashed the Gulf States with 145 mile per hour winds devastating more than 90,000 square miles. By late afternoon, the streets of New Orleans were flooded from storm surge and breached levees. On Aug. 30, 2005 with flood waters rising in New Orleans and widespread suffering in coastal communities, the governors of Mississippi and Louisiana requested assistance from Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue. Before the day was out, the first Georgia Guardsmen were on the ground in New Orleans. The First Days: August 30-September 2, 2005 Beginning August 30, 2005, the Georgia Guard’s 131st Aviation Detachment, flying CH-47s out of Savannah, Ga., and the UH-60 Black Hawks based at Dobbins Air Reserve Base provided crucial airlift capability in the desperate attempt to repair broken levees. Carrying bundles of sand bags, these Georgia aviators helped seal the breach. At the same time, helicopters, equipped with bambi buckets, dropped water over burning structures throughout New Orleans. Some of the most gripping images of the Hurricane Katrina response involved the rescuing of trapped citizens from the rooftops of New Orleans. Georgia Guard aviators of the 148th Medical Company rescued hundreds of desperate citizens with their hoistequipped UH-1 Iroquois helicopters. Forming Task Forces While Guard aviators flew nonstop in the skies over New Orleans and Biloxi, Miss., Georgia Army National Guard units were assembling into response task forces at armories across Georgia. At the time, nearly 4,000 members of the 48th Infantry Brigade were deployed to Iraq in the largest combat deployment of Georgia Guard troops since World War II. Nevertheless, members of the 48th Brigade’s rear detachment reported for duty. At the Griffin armory alone, 44 vehicles assembled on Sept. 1, 2005. These vehicles, and personnel from the rear detachment of the 48th Infantry Brigade would join elements of the 265th Engineer Group and 201st Service and Support Battalion to form Task Force 265 and TF 201, then staging at Oglethorpe and Fort Gillem. By Sept. 3, 2005, TF 265 and TF 201 reached Camp Shelby, Miss. Continuing south, TF 265 established its headquarters in Harrison Central High School, in Harrison County, and assumed command and control for relief operations in the Gulfport and Biloxi area of operations with TF 201 in support. The 265th directed operations of more than 850 Georgia Army and Air National Guardsmen, along with Guardsmen and civilian relief organizations from other states. To the west of TF 265, the 110th Combat Support Battalion, operating out of Kiln, Miss., was responsible for providing support to the western sector of the Mississippi Coast. The 110th sector in
7 | The Georgia Guardsman
Hancock County included Bay St. Louis, Waveland, Long Beach and Pass Christian which were virtually destroyed when the eye of Hurricane Katrina passed over them. By Sept. 3, 2005, more than 1,000 Georgia Guardsmen were contributing to relief operations in Mississippi. The Georgia Guard task forces in Mississippi were organized under Task Force Cyclone, with Guardsmen from 11 states. In addition to patrol missions, Guardsmen manned relief centers, established communication nodes with local first responders, and distributed relief supplies. During one eight-hour shift at a point of distribution in Gulfport, nine members of Troop E, 108th Cavalry distributed 12 tons of ice, 10 tons of bottled water, 32 tons of food and supplied 4,000 vehicles. In addition to the Army and Air Guardsmen involved in relief operations, communications capabilities provided by the Dobbinsbased 283rd Combat Communications Support Squadron and 224th Joint Communications Squadron, proved decisive in allowing thousands of Guardsmen to communicate and coordinate efforts on the ground. New Orleans West of TF 110’s area of operations, the Georgia Army National Guard’s military police and Air National Guard’s security forces deployed to Saint Bernard’s Parish near downtown New Orleans. Moving by ground convoy, the Guardsmen arrived in New Orleans on September 2, 2005. Initially, the MPs and SPs were deployed Photos Courtesy of: 1 6 1 st Military History Detachment | Georgia Army National Guard
to help restore order and operate control checkpoints to prevent looting. Later, as the floodwaters receded, Georgia Army National Guardsmen of the Kennesaw-based 190th MP Company, the Monroe-based 178th MP Company conducted search and rescue operations. Joining them were security forces from the Georgia Air National Guard’s Savannah-based 165th Airlift Wing and 116th Air Control Wing, based in Warner Robins, Ga. Together, the Airmen and Soldiers of the Georgia Guard, operating out of Jackson Barracks, helped civil authorities restore order, attended to the grim detail of searching for survivors and recovered bodies from flooded homes. Georgia Air National Guard In addition to the myriad of Georgia Army National Guard aviation assets, the Georgia Air National Guard dispatched C-130s of the 165th AW. These aircrews, already veterans of combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, carried Guardsmen, relief workers and supplies into damaged areas. Additionally, the Guardsmen assisted in the evacuation of injured and ill citizens. Some of these evacuation flights were to Dobbins ARB in Marietta, Ga. The Georgia State Defense Force Answers the Call When evacuees reached Dobbins they were received by volunteers of the Georgia State Defense Force. Nearly 200 Ga. SDF volunteers answered the first call for volunteers on Aug. 29, 2005. Working tirelessly, Ga. SDF volunteers unloaded hundreds of New Orleans evacuees while Ga. SDF medical teams assessed and cared for the patients, many of whom were in wheel chairs. The ability of
the Ga. SDF to mobilize trained volunteers at a moment’s notice was a key part of the Georgia Guard’s hurricane response. Retrograde By Sept. 9, 2005, power and water service was largely restored in Biloxi and Gulfport. Four days later, local businesses were resuming normal hours of operation. Guardsmen continued to conduct patrols and operate points of distribution for relief supplies. By that time, aviation units had begun to rotate back to Georgia. Ground elements would begin to withdraw in the coming days. On Sept. 23, 2005, members of TF 110, returned to Georgia. They were the last Georgia Guardsmen on the ground as part of Operation Vigilant Relief. Reflecting on Hurricane Katrina, Maj. Gen. David Poythress, Georgia’s Adjutant General, praised the efforts of the entire Ga. Department of Defense. “As soon as we were called, we put helicopters in the air and troops on the road to Louisiana and Mississippi,” said Poythress in Dec. 2005. “Georgia Guardsmen were instrumental in saving lives, distributing supplies and searching for those trapped in their homes by rising waters. Just as important, your all-volunteer Georgia State Defense Force mobilized to assist evacuees who were flown to Dobbins Air Reserve Base. It was truly a team effort.” For more images of the Georgia Guard Hurricane Katrina repsonse, visit the Hurricane Katrina album on the Flickr page of the 161st History Detachment https://www.flickr.com/photos/ georgiaguardhistory/sets/72157657418643850
August 2015 | 8
278th Military Police Conducts Annual Training Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
A
UH-60 Black Hawk flares on final approach scattering dust over the waiting armored convoy. With crew-served weapons and dismounted rifles trained to provide 360 degree security, the convoy waits for the Black Hawk’s passengers to disembark. Upon receiving the clear from the aircraft crew chief, the passengers walk briskly from the aircraft and are received into the convoy whose members expertly direct them to their designated vehicles. Within moments, the passengers are secured and the convoy is on the move. Upon arriving at their destination, vehicle commanders dismount and direct the guests to their location all while maintaining internal control and radio contact with higher command. This mission could have been conducted at any combat outpost in Afghanistan or other location during wartime conditions, but for the 31B (Military Police) personnel of the 278th MP Company, this exercise is part of annual training at Fort Gordon, Ga. The 278th MP Company honed their ability to perform key military police functions during combat deployments to Iraq in 2008, and Afghanistan in 2013. During their 2013 Afghanistan deployment, the 278th MPs performed security operations in Afghanistan, but the 31B function set also encompasses police intelligence operations, law and
9 | The Georgia Guardsman
order functions, as well as maneuver and mobility support. The annual training exercise allowed the 31Bs to practice providing security to high-value personnel, critical site security and mounted combat patrols. Newer members of the unit trained under the watchful eye of combat veterans. Some of these veterans would be recognized that day for their contributions during the 2013 Afghanistan Deployment. Among those recognized were 1st Lt. Grace Sigunga and Sgt. 1st Class Ernest Soria of the 278th MP. Sigunga served as a platoon leader and later executive officer while Soria performed duties as a platoon sergeant. Both Soldiers were presented with the Bronze Star Medal by Col. Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard; Col. Wallace Steinbrecher, commander of the 201st Regional Support Group and Lt. Col. Erik Andersen, commander of the 170th MP Battalion. Both Sigunga and Soria credited the Soldiers of the 278th MP for the awards. “We would not be here today if not for our Soldiers, they did all the work,” said Sigunga. “They worked hard, they did not have a lot of time to adjust from Camp Shelby to Afghanistan, but they started working as soon as they hit the ground.” Soria agreed with Sigunga’s assessment.
“Like the LT said, we wouldn’t have been able to do it without our Soldiers, but also, our leadership, our XO, there’s no way we would have succeeded.” Also recognized were Sgt. Fatimah Hasan Reed, Sgt. Lamar O’Sullivan, Sgt. Cody Matthews and Pfc. Sean Carhuff, who received the NATO Medal. Sgt. Fatimah Hasan Reed also received the Army Commendation Medal. Before the ceremony ended, Col. Steinbrecher presented a command coin to Spc. Heather Lynn Redwine for going above and beyond expectations of performance during the annual training period. While the awards ceremony provided a brief respite from annual training tasks, it was soon time to return to the high operational tempo as the guests were escorted to the airfield for the approaching Black Hawk. The MPs conducted the patrol and security operation professionally. Soria noted that the key to success of the unit in combat and in training was the quality of Soldiers in the unit. “The best thing about the place is our Soldiers, and our leadership,” said Soria. You can’t be successful without good Soldiers.”
Photos by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
Professional Development
reviews of books that teach us about our craft
F
By: Sgt. Ashley Sutz | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense rom Seth Godin, the author of the famous book, “Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable”, comes a book about the tribal nature of humanity and the ever present need for leadership in the age of communication technology. Godin defines a tribe as a group of people, large or small, who are connected to one another, a leader, and an idea. Since the beginning of human civilization, people have been seeking out these groups for a tribe in which they belong. With the advent of the Internet, the geographic barriers that have existed for millions of years have been wiped away, bringing a whole new age to the idea of tribal culture. Today, humans can connect across miles, languages and cultural divides over a shared topic of interest. This connection has redefined business, politics, and the ways we interact with the world around us, but it has not erased the need for individuals to lead. For every tribe there are leaders driving people toward their common goals. In the military, we’re as connected today as we’ve ever been. As Guardsmen, we’ve been historically separated by geography 28 days a month, only getting face time during drill weekends. Now that we have the ability to influence one another at a whole new level, how will we leverage that power? Godin dispels the myth that “leadership is for other people”, by highlighting unlikely leaders present in an array of fields and disciplines. As Godin points out in this book,
“All they have in common is the desire to change things, the ability to connect a tribe, and the willingness to lead.” Since every Soldier, Airman, Sailor or Marine is a leader of some kind, TRIBES can be a resource for all military service members across the board. This book provides the motivation to really explore the ways in which each of us can impact our tribe and develop ourselves as the leaders we are meant to be. It’s not an easy task, but developing leadership within our ranks is essential to providing the nation with the best defense possible. As military leaders we must envision our organization as better than it is, and push toward that direction. Godin explains, “The secret of leadership is simple: Do what you believe in. Paint a picture of the future. Go there. People will follow.” At 172 pages, TRIBES is a short read. Unlike many books on leadership, Godin’s aim doesn’t seem to be teaching the reader how to lead; instead it’s more about inspiring every person to find the strength within themselves to see themselves as leaders and follow through.
“
All they have in common is the desire to change things, the ability to connect a tribe, and the willingness to lead. August 2015 | 10
B l a s t from the past E l i t e U n i t M a k e s F i r s t Parachute Jump Story By: Sgt. Elliot Minor | 124th MPAD | Georgia Army National Guard
August 16, 2015 marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of an airborne test platoon at Fort Benning, Ga. In celebration of 75 years of airborne history and tradition, the Georgia Guardsman looks back at airborne history in the Georgia Guard which began on a brisk November day in 1988. Sergeant Elliott Minor of the 124th MPAD was present for the first jump of the 122nd Long Range Surveillance Unit, then part of the 78th Troop Command. His story and images are reprinted here. FORT STEWART, Ga. November 5, 1988 – Members of Georgia’s new long-range surveillance company made their first unit jump in November, gliding down from helicopters high above Fort Stewart’s Taylor Creek Drop Zone. At least one man landed in a tree and several touched down in puddles, but they didn’t seem to mind. The airborne Soldiers are members of an elite new Georgia Army National Guard unit that drills in Cartersville and Summerville. Staff Sgt. Mike Maples, making his first jump in 21 years, said he felt a little nervous,
11 | The Georgia Guardsman
but after stepping out of the helicopter at 1,500 feet, there was no turning back. “I h a d my doubts about whether I would go out that door,” said the 40-year old Maples, a Vietnam Veteran. Sixty-seven members of Company H, 122nd Infantry Long Range Surveillance Unit (LRSU) boarded helicopters at Fort Stewart on November 5 and jumped foot the first time. “It’s a proud t ime for t his unit,” noted Capt. Al Fracker, 37, the company commander. “This is what they joined the unit for.” Fracker, a Norcross salesman, said the unit attracts men who like to “live on the edge.” Some are Vietnam combat veterans, including former Green Berets, Rangers and paratroopers, but many are still in their teens and early 20s. They wear maroon berets, setting them apart from regular guard units. All members have to possess leadership qualities. They have to meet physical fitness standards that are 25 percent higher than for
regular Soldiers, and they have to become airborne qualified. In addition, all sergeants and officers have to attend the Army’s grueling 58-day ranger school and up to five weeks of long-range surveillance training. “Because of the reputation of the unit, there are a lot of people who want to join,” said Fracker. “If people can’t meet our standards prior to joining, they have to show me they can meet those standards.” It’s one thing to wear the beret,” he explained. “It’s another to go out and make the sacrifice to keep it.” Maples said parachuting hasn’t changed much, despite his long absence. “I still hit just as hard as ever,” he said. A p ower plant op erator wit h t he Tennessee Valley Authority in Oak Ridge, Tenn., Maples went through the Army’s jump school at Fort Benning in 1967, but was sent to Vietnam and had no opportunity to jump. Last fall, when the surveillance unit was organized, he transferred from the Tennessee
The November jump was the 57th for Corporal James Armstrong, 24, a former ranger at Hunter Army Airfield near Savannah. “It’s always a challenge every time you go up,” said Armstrong, a University of Georgia business management major. Armstrong said the surveillance unit attracts highly motivated people who want to serve in a challenging military job while also pursuing civilian careers.
“The airborne Soldiers are members of an elite new Georgia Army National Guard unit that drills in Cartersville and Summerville.”
National Guard. The company is one of only five Army LRSUs – three of them are in the Guard. The unit’s 197 members are trained to survive for long periods behind enemy lines while taking part in intelligence-gathering missions. The information they collect is sent back to friendly forces in coded radio message.
While they are trained to use helicopters, boats, and airplanes to reach their objectives, the reconnaissance specialists also have to stay in top physical condition so they can reach their targets by foot, if necessary. Maples likes the company because its members train hard and would take part in special missions if mobilized.
Photos by: Sgt. Elliot Minor | 1 2 4 th MPAD | Georgia Army National Guard
It was the sixth jump for Private David Archer of Cartersville. “When you go out, it takes your breath away,” said Archer. “You feel relief knowing that the chute is open.” Staff Sgt. Shelton Hatten, 40, of Baxley hadn’t jumped in five years. “At the count of four I felt a slight opening. At the count of six, my feet went over my head,” he said describing the opening of his parachute. “I hit hard,” added 2nd Lt. Steve Coker, 26, a platoon leader. Coker, a Macon native, is a student at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville. “We are the eyes and ears of the Army,” he added. “We infiltrate and send information back. End Note: Lt. Col. Ken Hutnick, then a Staff Sgt. added his reflections on the jump. “It is hard to believe that the jump was almost 27 years ago,” said Hutnick. “That unit was filled with so many great Soldiers, NCOs, and officers, many of whom went on to do great things and have outstanding careers. We had very little equipment, very few experienced jumpmasters, and most paratroopers had not jumped in years. But we took our time and did it right. The unit was formed from scratch in 1987 and it took almost 18 months to pull all the pieces together to conduct that first airborne operation. From those first few airborne operations, the unit quickly built a solid nucleus of experienced jumpers, jumpmasters, and pathfinders. The unit has come far over the past 28 years and has much of which to be proud. The faces may have changed, but the heart of those original Georgia Guard paratroopers continues on in the Soldiers of today.” Vi e w more i mage s f rom t he historic LRS jump on the Ga National Gu ard’s Hi s t or y F l i c k r : http s : / / w w w. flickr.com/photos/georgiaguardhistor y/ albums/72157657409760892
August 2015 | 12
Atlanta Regional REadiness Center
G
Story By: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard eorgia Guard Soldiers, leaders and community supporters gathered at the new Atlanta Regional Readiness Center Atlanta for a ribbon cutting ceremony formally dedicating the building and welcoming the community for tours. Lieutenant Col. Michael Lipper commander of the 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry, welcomed guests to the 65,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art training, office and support facility, which serves as headquarters for the squadron. “Thank you to the neighbors, state and local officials for being here today,” said Lipper. “It means a lot to have the support of the community in which we serve, and we never forget how important that is to us as an organization.” Ground was broken on the ARRC in November 2012. Over the course of construction, more than 21,500 cubic yards of granite had to be blasted to make room for the building site. Despite the obstacles, the Burns and McDonnell construction team completed the project on time, Guardsmen began occupying the ARRC in September 2014. In addition to an 8,300 square-foot assembly area designed to assemble nearly 200 Guardsmen, the ARRC features a physical fitness training area and a 2,000 square-foot kitchen designed to double as a community shelter for citizens and emergency workers in the event of a natural disaster or local emergency. Community members who toured the ARRC not only got a chance to view the facility but were able to speak to Soldiers and learn about the capabilities of the 3-108th Cavalry and get up close to equipment and vehicles such as the Armored Security Vehicle,
13 | The Georgia Guardsman
which the squadron first fielded in 2014. The high-mobility vehicles, trucks and ambulances in the motor pool represent an asset to the local community in times of emergencies as noted by Lipper. “As a National Guard unit we have a very important state mission,” said Lipper, reiterating the importance of the armory’s local presence. “During emergency operations we answer to the governor and serve the people of the state of Georgia. In recent winters our Soldiers have rescued stranded motorists, given the public a place to shelter, and even helped deliver a baby and transport the new family to a local hospital during an ice storm.” The total construction cost for the facility was $14.29 million. Seventy five percent of cost, nearly $11 million, was provided by the federal government while the state of Georgia invested $3.5 in the project. The ARRC includes numerous advancements in building technology to ensure efficient energy use. The facility boasts motion-sensing lights, high-efficiency windows, heating and air conditioning equipment and plumbing fixtures to reduce gas, electrical and water consumption. Reflective roofing materials were installed to reduce cooling requirements, and it was constructed using volatile organic compound finishes to maintain indoor air quality and a healthy work environment. “Ten years ago, when I first took company command, we joked that there were no two matching chairs in the entire Georgia National Guard,” said Lipper. “To look across the state and see the quality of each new or renovated armory now is a testament to the investment into the facilities and the Soldiers who train in them.” Photo by: Sgt. Ashley Sutz | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense
Carden promoted to BG
C
Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard
olonel Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard was promoted to brigadier general during a ceremony before friends, fellow service members and family at the headquarters of the Georgia National Guard. Carden’s wife Charlene, son Kyle and daughter Kendall pinned Carden with his new stars of rank, as did Sgt. 1st Class (Ret) Jimmy Jordan. In 1989, Jordan pinned Carden with his second lieutenant bars following his graduation from the Georgia Military Institute. “I am honored and humbled to be able to serve the Soldiers and families of the Georgia Army National Guard,” said Carden. Speaking before the pinning ceremony, Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard, Georgia’s Adjutant General, praised Carden’s three decades of service to the Georgia Guard. Today is a great day for the Carden family, said Jarrard. “But it is an even better day for the Georgia Army National Guard.” As commander of the Georgia Army National Guard, Brig. Gen. Carden is responsible for the directing, coordinating, organizing and stationing the more than 11,000 Soldiers of the Georgia Army Photo by: Pvt. Alexander Davidson | Georgia Department of Defense
National Guard in order to ensure readiness to perform state and national missions. Brigadier General Carden has held a number of key positions in the Georgia Army National Guard; most recently as the chief of staff and previously as the deputy chief of staff for operations. Brigadier General Carden commanded the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade and the Georgia Army National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion. He has also served as the Georgia Army National Guard deputy chief of staff for personnel, operations officer for the 122nd Rear Operations Center and as the executive officer for the 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment. Additionally, Brig. Gen. Carden served as the operations officer for the 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment. While serving in this capacity, he deployed to Bosnia Herzegovina as part Operation Joint Forge. In 2005, Brig. Gen. Carden deployed to Iraq as the effects coordinator for the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Brigadier General Carden’s military decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Parachutist Badge and the Combat Infantry Badge. Brigadier General Carden graduated from Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus with a Bachelor of Science in History. He later earned a Master of Arts in human resource management from Webster University in St. Louis, Mo. And a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the Army War College.
August 2015 | 14
I Chief Master Sgt. Reginald McPherson State Command Chief Joint Force Headquarters
NCO Notepad Words of wisdom from one to another
15 | The Georgia Guardsman
would like to thank my Guard family for their professionalism and hospitality as I have begun my new duties in this great organization. As I continue to meet with our members and visit our units, I would like to lay out some of the goals and themes I have been discussing with leadership and our enlisted force. I need each and every person in our organization to be mindful of who we are, and what we do! Regardless of your status or rank in the Georgia National Guard, you are an integral part of this organization. The standard should be, and will be, nothing less than “Excellence”. Today’s environment is saturated with individuals with their own agenda. The differences between those of us who wear the uniform and our civilian counterparts is our standard of living, and the fact that each of us made a decision to forfeit certain things in order to serve. This lifestyle, and the standard by which we live and serve, is not for everyone, nor is it designed to be. As an organization, we are here to serve our nation, our state and our organization, regardless of the capacity. The Adjutant General has entrusted in me the careers and futures of the enlisted men and women of our great institution. I boldly accept this challenge with no reservations. Hence forth, excellence will be the only acceptable standard for this organization. I promise not only to hold the entire enlisted force to a standard of excellence, but that I will do everything within my power to ensure that this standard has universal application to every member of the Georgia National Guard, myself included. Please know that in my plan, we will focus on excellence. This applies to the way we interact with our customers, internal and external. It also applies to the way we “don” and wear our uniform and in the way we communicate with each other. Regardless if you are a peer, superior or subordinate, respect for all, and service to our great state and country is part of our standard. “Excellence.” Anything less is unacceptable. In conjunction with our standard of excellence, I need every supervisor to communicate clearly their own expectations to their subordinates. We must make every effort to minimize or eliminate the chaos that applies to an individual not having a “vector” as to what is expected of them as it applies to: job performance, advancement, behavior, mission and role in this organization. If expectations are not fully understood and clearly communicated they cannot and will not be lived up to. We will let our enlisted folks know exactly what is expected of them. I know if we do this they will deliver.
“
I promise not only to hold the entire enlisted force to a standard of excellence, but that I will do everything within my power to ensure that this standard has universal application to every member of the Georgia National Guard, myself included.
Georgia Airmen During the Korean War Story by: Second lt. Jeffrey Bezore Public Affairs Office Georgia Air National Guard
T
he Korean peninsula has long served as an area of concern for our country. The recent events in the Demilitarized Zone only serve to remind us of the constant threat we face from the Kim Jong-un regime. Since the midway point of the 20th century we have been committed to the defense of our ally South Korea. One thing that has not changed over that time is the Air National Guard’s ability to take the fight to the enemy’s doorstep. Sixty-five years ago, almost 80 percent of the entire Air National Guard was activated, including three Georgia Air National Guard units, in preparation the Korean War. This marked a watershed moment in the history of the Air National Guard because wartime readiness would become a major issue over the course of the War and would later lead to a restructuring and a modernization of the Air Guard. The 116th Fighter-Bomber Wing, 128th Fighter Squadron and the 158th Fighter Squadron were among the units activated in the Georgia Air National Guard. These units would later prove to be exceptional flying units and change the trend of under-prepared Air Guard units that hindered the War efforts. The fighter squadrons were initially equipped with the F-80C Shooting Stars and later received the new F-84E Thunderjets. The 158th Fighter Squadron deployed to Japan in July 1951. It was one of six mobilized Air Guard fighter squadrons that saw combat in the Far East during the Korean War. Stationed at Misawa Air Base, the 158th deployed for short periods of time to the austere forward operating location at Taegu Air Base in the Republic of Korea where it flew dangerous ground attack missions against enemy supply lines and troops in the field. Starting in February 1952, the 158th also participated in Operation High Tide, an experimental combat air-refueling project conducted by the Air Force. In July 1952, the unit left federal service and returned to state control after completing its required 21 months of active duty. The Georgia Air National Guard distinguished itself during the Korean War. Colonel Philip Coleman, former 158th Fighter Squadron commander, became a Double Ace after shooting down four MIG-15s over North Korea; he had previously shot down six Japanese Zero Fighters in China during the WWII. While we continue to pay close attention to the DMZ, we can rest assured that the Air National Guard is always on mission and is ready to respond with a proven warfighting force.
Photos by: Georgia Guard History Office
August 2015 | 16
Around the Georgia Guard Air force north commander visits Team JSTARS Lieutenant Gen. Etter from Air Force North visits with Team JSTARS and tours the E-8C aircraft at Warner Robins Air Force Base.
1-121st Infantry Changes Command The colors of the 1st Battalion 121st Infantry are dipped in salute during the playing of the national anthem at the battalion change of command ceremony at Stone Mountain.
2-121st Infantry Regiment Changes Command Colonel Reginald Neal, commander of the 48th Infantry Brigade reviews the assembled troops of the 2nd Battalion 121st Infantry Regiment. With him are Lt. Col. Anthony Fournier, outgoing battalion commander; and Lt. Col. Andrew Heymann, incoming battalion commander.
17 | The Georgia Guardsman
Soldiers Graduate Argosy Masters Program The first class of Georgia ‎National Guard graduates received a Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University.
Successful Drop Two G-11 cargo parachutes slow the descent of a palletized HMMWV after release from a C-130 cargo plane during the first successful heavy drop operation conducted by an Army National Guard unit. Georgia Guardsmen of the 165th Quartermaster Company assembled the pallet on which the HMMWV is mounted, conducted the rigging and parachute packing and certified and inspected the load.
August 2015 | 18
Securing the LZ 278th MP Soldiers Conduct Annual Training
Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense 1000 Halsey Ave. Bldg. 447 Marietta, Ga. 30060