Contents Departments From the Commander ............................................ 3
Guard News......................................................... 6-9 ► 635th RSG gets new patch ......................... 6 ► Honoring retired service members .............. 7 ► Hall of Fame ................................................ 8
Features
he Kansas Sentinel is an authorized, official publication of the Kansas Army National Guard. It is published to provide command and public information about the KSARNG and its Soldiers, at home and deployed. It is published by the 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, out of Topeka, Kan. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and subjects, and do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Army. This publication does not supersede information presented in any other official Army or Department of Defense publication. The Kansas Sentinel reserves edited rights to all material. Published works may be reprinted, except where copyrighted, provided credit is given to the Kansas Sentinel and the authors. Distribution of the Kansas Sentinel is electronic. The submission of articles, photos, artwork and letters is encouraged. Please address to:
Retirees stay involved ....................................... 4 Veteran’s employment bill ................................. 4 HHC welcomes new commander...................... 5 Dold promoted to brigadier general ................ 10 Best warrior competition ................................. 12 161st Field Artillery open house ...................... 14 Media competition awards .............................. 15 Combatives refresher...................................... 16 Unit Christmas food drive................................ 17
On the Cover Kansas National Guard Soldier zeros his M16 rifle before qualification at the 2012 Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition, Great Plains Joint Training Center Salina, Kan., Nov. 1-3. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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Editor, Kansas Sentinel, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 2722 SW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66611 Telephone: 785-274-1896, or by e-mail at: phillip.d.witzke.mil@mail.mil Assistant Adjutant General-Land Component: Brig. Gen. Eric Peck Publisher Maj. D. Matt Keane, 105th MPAD Commander Editors Capt. Michael Sullivan Capt. Benjamin Gruver Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett Spc. Jessica Haney Graphic Design and Layout Capt. Michael Sullivan Capt. Benjamin Gruver Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett Spc. Anna Laurin Spc. Jessica Haney
FROMTHE COMMANDER
I want to recognize the hard work and dedication of all the Soldiers in the KSARNG that currently are meeting all the standards for fitness in passing the APFT and meeting height/weight standards. I encourage each of you meeting these standards to bring your battle buddy who struggles to meet these standards along with you in meeting both of these critical standards. Each one of us has to pay close attention to meeting these standards every day by ensuring that we focus on doing a little each day to improve our fitness. I approach this by getting up every morning and immediately doing at least fifty pushups and fifty sit-ups, both to help me meet the APFT standard and to keep my core and upper body strength. As busy as each of us are, it makes sense that doing something first thing in order to get the task done. I urge each of you to find some time in your schedule to do some pushups and sit-ups. You might be surprised at how good this will make you feel once you get into this routine. I also make time at least three times a week, with a goal of every other day, to perform some kind of aerobic exercise, running, walking, bike riding or in inclement weather getting on the elliptical machine at the local armory. Once again, by performance of the exercise early in the day, it is much more likely that this important task will not be put off until there is no more time to accomplish it. It keeps my energy levels up each day I perform aerobic exercise and my doctor keeps commenting about how good my health - particularly my heart health - is for my age. The final reason is one of our shared military values that we are able to
meet all of our professional duties. We figured out quickly in Afghanistan that everyone in our unit had to be in good shape for moving around in the mountains with all of our individual equipment, weapons and ammunition. If we couldn’t, we would place all those with us in danger. I really enjoy being able to do many of the activities I do in working and playing at my farm so I have additional incentive to get out routinely and run, walk or bike. I know each of you can find some time to get thirty minutes of aerobic exercise a few times a week just as many of your busy leaders do each week. There is also a critical enabler for meeting each of these standards, and that is nutrition. What and how we fuel our bodies is critical for having the energy to perform all of the requirements we face as Soldiers. You have heard the saying “you are what you eat” and this saying is true. Current studies show that what we eat not only impacts our current health but has immense impacts as we age. Some dietary practices impact us at the base genetic level. The critical thing for us as Soldiers is to understand the impacts of our diet on our ability to maintain ourselves. The connection to our ability to perform the physical and mentally demanding tasks even on such basic professional skills, such as accurately firing our individual weapons, draws a link between nutrition, physical fitness and our profession. Nutrition and fitness are lifestyle choices that we make when we choose to be military professionals. As leaders each of us must set the example for our fellow Soldiers. Command Sgt. Maj. Moberly and I have been out visiting you during home station training and we plan to continue visits during drills as we look forward to seeing you in the field later in the year at Annual Training. Take care of yourselves, your battle buddy and your family as we continue to address our professional challenges.
Very Respectfully,
Eric Peck Brig. Gen. Eric Peck Kansas Army National Guard Commander Assistant Adjutant General-Army
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Guard news
Guard keeps retirees involved, in the loop By Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general of Kansas, hosted this year’s Annual Status of the Guard Briefing for retirees at the Nickell Armory, Topeka, Kan., Nov. 4, 2012. The purpose of the brief was to update Kansas National Guard’s retirees on the status of the Army and Air National Guard. Tafanelli began by talking about awards, missions, construction, recruiting, training and other highlights of the year. He then went on to discuss the challenges and the Guard’s future. Although the future may contain some changes, Tafanelli was still very proud of what the Guard has been able to accomplish. “There has never been a mission we’ve been asked to accomplish that we could not do,” said Tafanelli. Tafanelli’s presentation was followed by a question and answer session. “The biggest benefit is keeping the retirees engaged,” said Maj. Julie Burns, the administrative officer for the adjutant general and a member of Joint Forces Headquarters. “With this briefing they get to see exactly what the Guard has done and Tafanelli’s mission for the future.” “This brief is about recognition and the opportunity to keep the retirees involved. The retirees are a great asset to the Kansas National Guard,” said Burns. “Even though they are no long enlisted or commissioned they still remain an important voice of the Guard’s community and lifestyle.”
Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli answers questions about different topics covered in the Annual Status of the Guard Briefing for retirees at the Nickell Armory, Topeka, Kan., Nov. 4, 2012. Photo by Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Senate starts year with veterans employment bill By Rick Maze Army Times
Helping veterans find jobs is one of the top legislative priorities for Senate Democrats. One of the first 10 bills introduced in the 113th Congress is a measure that seeks to get more veterans hired for civil service jobs; provide federal grants to encourage employers to hire veterans as first responders; expand small-business loans; and strengthen employment and reemployment rights. It also extends for two more years the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program, or VRAP, that provides up to one year of GI Bill benefits to certain unemployed veterans so they can learn a new marketable skill. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman and co-sponsor of the bill, said his panel “will be looking very seriously at how to improve veterans’ employment and training programs.” The bill’s chief sponsor is Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nevada, the Senate majority leader. Many of the ideas in it are neither new nor created by Democrats. For example, Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Florida., the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman and the chief architect of VRAP, has also talked about extending the life of the program, which so far has helped about 90,000 veterans learn a new skill. Miller said in December he wanted to see the program’s first-
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year results before proposing an extension. The Senate, however, has moved ahead to open the program to another 100,000 people, with 50,000 slots to open in 2014 and another 50,000 in 2015. The Reid bill also requires a single federal website to give veterans information on all federal programs involving employment, unemployment and job training.
The bill also: • Provides $250,000 to be used for grants to hire veterans as law enforcement officers and for priority hiring for federal law enforcement jobs. • Requires every federal agency to consider giving preferential treatment to federal contractors who have work forces made up of at least 5 percent veterans. This would apply to all contracts valued at $25 million or greater. • Strengthens federal enforcement of employment and reemployment rights for veterans, including more oversight to determine when employers have a pattern of resisting full compliance with the law. Repeat violators would be barred from receiving federal contracts.
169th HHC, 169th CSSB welcomes new commander By Pfc. Brandon Jacobs, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Capt. Andrew S. Tapley took command of the Kansas Army National Guard’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 169th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion during a change of command ceremony Dec. 2, 2012, at the National Guard armory in Olathe, Kan. Capt. Angela M. Gray relinquished command to Tapley during the ceremony. Gray assumed command of HHC, 169th CSSB in 2010 upon her return from deployment in Iraq with the 287th Sustainment Brigade. During her three years in command, Gray guided the unit to earn several different awards, including the James F. Rueger achievement award, 2011 Unit of the Year award, 2011 Volunteer of the Year award and the 2011 Family of the Year award. “Without good Soldiers I would not have made it through,” said Gray. “I had a blast as the HHC commander, even on the days when it wasn’t so fun and those days weren’t that many.” “Captain Gray did a great job facing several tough challenges during her command,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Lt. Col. Matthew J. Bedwell, battalion commander of 169th Combat J. Bedwell, battalion commander of the 169th CSSB. Sustainment Support Battalion, passes the company guidon to “She excelled in those challenges and developed a tight Capt. Andrew S. Tapley, incoming commander of Headquarters command team.” and Headquarters Company, 169th CSSB, as part of the change of Tapley takes command of the HHC, 169th CSSB command ceremony held at the Olathe, Kan., armory, Dec. 2, 2012. after serving as the operations officer for the 731st Photo by Pfc. Brandon Jacobs, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Transportation Company. “Captain Tapley is an experienced officer with big He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in liberal arts from boots to fill,” said Bedwell. “However, my selection of him Excelsior College. His military education includes Transportation indicates faith that he will do a good job.” Officer Basic and Quartermaster Captains Career Course Phase I. Tapley has previous experience with the 169th CSSB, as he Tapley lives in Manhattan. In his full-time position, he is the served as a chaplain assistant with the unit in 2002. Kansas Readiness Sustainment Maintenance Site property book “I am no stranger to the 169th and have witnessed the offi cer at Fort Riley, Kan. progress Captain Gray’s leadership has made,” said Tapely. “I’m Capt. Angela M. Gray grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this progress.” Gray enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard in 1995 Capt. Andrew S. Tapley as an automated logistical specialist in 234th Signal Company, Tapley enlisted in the Kansas Army National Guard in Clinton, Iowa. She was commissioned in 2003 through the 2002 as a chaplain assistant with the 169th CSSB in Olathe. He Reserve Offi cer Training Corps program at the University of was commissioned in 2004 through the Kansas National Guard Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. Officer Candidate School in Salina, Kan. In 2005, she transferred to the Kansas Army National Tapley was assigned as the executive officer for the Guard. She was a maintenance platoon leader in Det. 1, 714th Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th Infantry Maintenance Company, Clay Center, Kan. Gray then transferred Division. He deployed to Louisiana and served in the Emergency to Det. 1, 778th Transportation Company (HET) as a maintenance Operations Center for Hurricane Katrina. Tapley deployed in platoon leader and then as the executive officer. She deployed in 2005 with the 635th Regional Support Group in support of support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 287th Sustainment Operation Enduring Freedom as the theater port liaison. He Brigade in 2008 as the brigade commander’s personal security then deployed with the 35th Infantry Division in 2006 as the detachment officer in charge. Upon return from deployment, she HHC executive officer and unit movement officer in support of Kosovo Force 9. Tapley was assigned to the 137th Transportation took over as the HHC, 169th Company commander. Company as a platoon leader in 2008. In 2011, Tapley was She holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in psychology. Her assigned to the 731st Transportation Company as their operations military education includes Ordnance Officer Basic Course and officer. Transportation Captains Career Course.
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Guard news Soldiers of Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery pose in front of an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System after their re-patch ceremony held at the armory in Holton, Kan., Dec. 1, 2012. The ceremony was one of 16 that took part of the larger ceremony conducted by 635th Regional Support Group where their Kansas sunflower patch was replaced with the new distinctive 635th RSG patch. Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
635th Regional Support Group re-patching ceremony By Sgt. Michael H. Mathewson, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
In a ceremony conducted simultaneously in 16 Kansas National Guard armories Dec. 1, 2012, Soldiers of the 635th Regional Support Group removed their Kansas sunflower patch and replaced it with the new distinctive 635th RSG patch. The 635th RSG, commanded by Col. John Campbell and Command Sgt. Maj. Ed Boring, is headquartered in Hutchinson, Kan. The 635th consists of the 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery; 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery; 250th Forward Support Company; 1161st Forward Support Company and Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 635th Regional Support Group. Being a new unit, only coming about in 2005, the 635th did not have its own distinctive unit crest or shoulder patch. Therefore, the units have been wearing the sunflower patch of the Kansas Army National Guard. The design of the new shoulder patch and crest was the responsibility of the U.S. Army’s Institute of Heraldry. The institute researches the history of the main unit and linage of the units that have been linked to it. Official approval of the patch was made June 18,
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2012; the crest was approved March 29, 2006. The patch will now be worn on the left shoulder of Soldiers assigned to the 635th RSG and its subordinate units. “The Soldiers now have a patch that sets them apart from the rest of the state,” said 1st Sgt. Kevin Rieschick, first sergeant of Battery A, 2nd Bn., 130th FA, resident of Pittsburg, Kan. “As a first sergeant, it is great to stand before a unit that has everyone back from deployments.” Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 635th RSG, Hutchinson, hosted the main re-patching ceremony. Soldiers of the 1st Bn., 161st FA conducted their ceremony in Dodge City, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Kansas City, Kan., Lenexa, Liberal, Newton, Paola, Pratt and Wichita. Soldiers of the 2nd Bn., 130th FA conducted their ceremony in Abilene, Clay Center, Hiawatha, Holton, Kansas City, Marysville and Ottawa. Battery A, 2nd Bn., 130th FA was called to attention on the drill floor of the Holton armory. With one of the unit’s M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, the U.S. Army’s light multiple rocket launcher, as a back drop, the Soldiers watched the video prepared for the ceremony. The video explained the history and traditions behind shoulder
Sgt.1st Class Wade Cormier, 1st platoon sergeant of Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery, places the new 635th Regional Support Group patch on the left sleeve of Spc. Aaron Ewing, an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System driver with Btry. A, 2nd Bn., 130th FA, during a re-patching ceremony held at the Holton armory Dec. 1, 2012. The Holton ceremony was one of 16 separate locations that took part of the larger ceremony conducted by 635th RSG in Hutchinson, Kan. Photo by Sgt. Michael Mathewson, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
patches and explained the significance of the new 635th RSG patch. Following the video, 1st Lt. Chris Koochel, the executive officer of Btry. A, and resident of Olathe, Kan., removed the sunflower patch from Rieschick and re-patched it with the new 635th RSG patch. Koochel and Rieschick, re-patched each platoon sergeant’s patch. The platoon sergeants in turn re-patched the squad
leaders, who in turned re-patched every member of their squad. This continued until every member was wearing the new patch. “It is a great day to be in Alpha and the 635th RSG,” said Koochel. “It is great that we now have a distinctive patch that the Soldiers can be proud to wear.” The 635th RSG’s new patch is a trapezoidal cloth insignia with a buff and scarlet background and an ultramarine
blue border. In the center is a five pointed blue star. The star suggests the command and control aspect of the group with five major elements of logistics-maintenance, supply, transportation, facilities and service. The buff color represents the support units and the scarlet represents the 35th Division Artillery. The blue represents knowledge, power, integrity and seriousness of its ability to command.
Honoring retired service members By Spc. Robert I. Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
The Kansas National Guard recognized its recent retired members and their spouses for their service during the Adjutant General’s Joint Forces Headquarters 2012 Retirement Recognition Dinner at the Ramada Inn in Topeka, Kan., Nov. 3, 2012. Honorees included retired Col. Cliff Silsby and wife Susan, retired Col. Jose Davis and wife Jacquelyn, retired Col. Donald Davidson and wife retired Master Sgt. Marcella Davidson, retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Rosanna Morrow, retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Ronald Reed and wife Joan, retired Command Sgt. Maj. John Ryan and wife Wanda and retired Command Master Sgt. Danny Walker and wife Jennifer. Each retiree was awarded a plaque with all of Kansas’ unit crests and the dates of the retiree’s service. Each spouse received a single dark pink rose of appreciation, signifying the sacrifices they have made for the Kansas National Guard. Davis said he felt the honor was truly his and is proud to have been a part of the Kansas National Guard. “The recognition and plaques are not important,” said Davis. “Rather, it is the services that I have rendered over the past three decades that has the true gratification.” Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general of Kansas, thanked the retirees for their contributions of effort and leadership over the years to make the Kansas National Guard a much better place. Some words of leadership were offered to future and current Guard members on what it takes to have a successful career and how to strengthen the Guard as a whole. “I would ask that Soldiers remember to do their best out of a sense of service and don’t do anything just for the recognition,” said Morrow. “As long as you are doing the right thing for the right reasons, you will be successful. Success will manifest a sense of pride that will give you satisfaction and the strength to continue.”
The Kansas National Guard recognized recent retirees at the Joint Forces Headquarters Recognition Dinner at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center in Topeka, Kan., Nov. 4, 2012. Photo by Spc. Robert I. Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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Guard news
Museum of the Kansas National Guard
Retired Command Chief Master Sgt. Roger K. Wilson accepts a Kansas National Guard Minuteman Statue from Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, Kansas adjutant general, in honor of being inducted into the Museum of the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, Topeka, Kan., Nov. 4, 2012. Wilson was one of three honorees to be inducted. Photo by Spc. Jessica Haney, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
By Spc. Jessica Haney 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
The Museum of the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame inducted three new members Nov. 4, 2012, Ramada Inn and Convention Center, Topeka, Kan. The three inductees were retired Maj. Gen. Philip B. Finley, retired Col. Robert “Lyn” Smith and retired Command Chief Master Sgt. Roger K. Wilson. Together, they have a combined service record with the military of more than 115 years.
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Finley, a White City, Kan., native, started his career at Kansas State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture and was commissioned a second lieutenant in artillery through KSU’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Through his military career, Finley served multiple leadership roles with the Seventh Infantry Division while on active duty, the 89th Division, 110th Ordnance Battalion, Headquarters and Headquarter Detachment and State Area Command to
name a few. Finley served as the adjutant general from 1987 until his retirement in 1990. His hard work and dedication can still be seen throughout Kansas, from the United States Property and Fiscal Office building in Topeka, to significant modifications at both the 190th and 184th Air Wings. Finley and his wife, Jackie, have been married for 60 years. They have two children. “I want to thank all of you for coming to see me inducted in the Hall of Fame,” said Finley. “It makes me
Hall of Fame inducts three Guardsmen humble; it makes me proud.” Smith, from Wichita, Kan., began his career on the active duty side of the military. His service included a tour in Vietnam with both the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) and the 1st Battalion, 137th Infantry Division and 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry. Smith has received many awards during his more than 39 years of service, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart for combat injuries, the key to the city of Wichita, a Bronze Medal of Outstanding service from the Sedgwick County Sheriff and the Sedgwick County Community Enrichment Award. Smith and his wife Patricia have three children and nine grandchildren. “This is one of the most meaningful things I can think of happening to me during my career,” said Smith. “This is such a great honor.” Wilson served more than 40 years in the military. In 1990, he deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, where he received a Bronze Star for his service. Wilson became the first state command chief master sergeant in 1998, the highest enlisted position in the Kansas Air National Guard. During his time as the state command chief master sergeant, Wilson was responsible for advising commanders and staff on mission effectiveness, professional development, military readiness training, utilization, health and the morale and welfare of the enlisted Airmen of Kansas National Guard. He worked tirelessly to personally recognize the efforts and accomplishment of all Airmen. He and his wife, Juanita, live in Topeka, Kan. “It is a great honor and I accept it for every person I’ve ever served with,” said Wilson. The inductees were presented with a certificate of induction to the Hall of Fame, a Minuteman statue and a pin. The criterion to be nominated for induction in to the Hall of Fame is not based on military rank or length of service. Primary consideration is given to those that served in the Kansas National Guard beyond the requirements of their routine duty, through the devotion of the nominee’s own time and energies for the improvement of the organization. Secondary consideration is given to community service that has brought increased respect or appreciation for the Kansas National Guard from citizens in the community. In addition, consideration is given to wartime records and performances during periods of federal service distinctly resulting in credit to the Kansas National Guard.
Retired Col. Robert “Lyn” Smith accepts the Kansas National Guard Minuteman Statue from Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, Kansas adjutant general, in honor of being inducted into the Museum of the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame Nov. 4, 2012, at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, Topeka, Kan. Photo by Spc. Jessica Haney, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Retired Maj. Gen. Philip B. Finley accepts a certificate recognizing his induction into the Museum of the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame from Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, Kansas adjutant general, Nov. 4, 2012, at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, Topeka, Kan. Photo by Spc. Jessica Haney, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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Dold promoted By Spc. Jessica Haney 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott Dold, the chief of staff of the Kansas National Guard, received his rank Jan. 5, 2013, during a promotion ceremony at Nickell Armory, Topeka, Kan. “There is nothing as an officer up here that we earn without the Soldiers and Airmen who have served,” said Dold. “I am humbled to stand up here and represent the Soldiers who have sacrificed. As officers, those are who we are here for.” Dold also thanked his daughters, Kennedy and Crosby, for keeping him humble and honest. For the ceremony, Dold’s daughter Crosby sang the national anthem. Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general of Kansas, was part of the ceremony and had a few words to say about Dold’s promotion. “I’m not going to review the outstanding background of 10 KANSAS SENTINEL
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Scott. It speaks for itself,” said Tafanelli. “But I want to tell you about this man. Simple things tell a lot about the character of a person and that’s true for Scott Dold as well. He took on the path of facing and tackling tough problems, outstanding mentorship to those he commanded, and always putting mission and team before himself. Traits that I’m sure were instilled in him and his brother from an early age. “His experience, leadership and the integrity I just described are the very reasons why he is exactly the right person to wear the rank of brigadier general,” he continued, “and to help lead our Guard family through the tough challenges ahead. He has my complete faith and trust, and I ask all of you to support him and follow his example in the years ahead.” Dold joined the Marines in 1983, serving as a tank platoon commander, adjutant, headquarters company commander and a logistics officer. He saw service in a variety of assignments and locations across the globe, including Korea, Japan, Thailand and the Philippines.
Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott Dold, Chief of Staff for the Kansas Adjutant General’s Department, Topeka, Kan., unfurls his general officer flag with the assistance of Command Sgt. Maj. Scott W. Haworth, Kansas National Guard command sergeant major, during Dold’s promotion ceremony Jan. 5, 2013, at Nickell Armory, Topeka, Kan. Photo by Spc. Jessica Haney, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
to brigadier general He graduated with a degree in political science and history from the University of Kansas, and in 1990, he graduated from KU School of Law. He then joined the Air Force and served as a judge advocate. In 1994, Dold joined the Kansas Air National Guard. He deployed in military and peacekeeping operations in support of operations in Iraq, Bosnia and Kosovo, and was also involved with domestic homeland security activities. During his time in the Kansas National Guard, Dold has served as senior legal advisor/judge advocate general to the adjutant general, commander of the 190th Air Refueling Wing’s Mission Support Group and as director of staff for the Kansas Air National Guard. He also commanded the state’s 73rd Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction). During his time as commander, the 73rd CST successfully responded to real world incidents and was repeatedly recognized as the nation’s most proficient team, setting many national records. As chief of staff, Dold is the principal executive assistant and advisor to the adjutant general. He manages the National Guard
military functions of the joint staff Army and Air National Guard and joint military program operations throughout the state. In this role, Dold manages and directs all joint staff programs that prepare the state for contingency operations in a federal or state emergency including man-made disasters and natural disasters or federal military mobilizations. He is responsible for the integration of the Kansas Army and Air National Guard forces for homeland security missions and in support of emergency management response needs. Dold is responsible for overseeing Kansas National Guard leadership who direct personnel functions, intelligence capabilities, operations, logistics, strategic plans and policy, information technology, training and resource management. In addition, he is responsible for coordination of intra-staff issues with all divisions of the Adjutant General’s Department. Dold is married to Jean Younger of Hays, Kan. They live in Lawrence and have two daughters, Kennedy and Crosby.
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Kansas National Guard Soldiers
Spc. Leonardo Flores, a cannon crewmember with Battery A, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, of Edmond, Okla., shoots an azimuth with his compass using the cheek method at the Day Land Navigation lane as he competes for Soldier of the Year at the 2012 Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at the Great Plains Joint Training Center in Salina, Kan., Nov. 1-3. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
M16 rifles were used in different events at the 2012 Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition. The competition consisted of an Army Physical Fitness Test and height/weight weigh-in, day and night land navigation, a six-mile road march in full combat uniform with a 35 lb backpack and M16 rifle. As well as testing on 12 warrior tasks, a written essay, a written exam, M16 zero and qualification, an unannounced mystery event and appearance board, at the Great Plains Joint Training Center in Salina, Kan., Nov. 1-3, 2012. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Witzke, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Inset: Staff Sgt. Jonathan Lofgren, an air crewman with Company D, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment, of Olathe, Kan., plots grid coordinates on a map at the Day Land Navigation lane as he competes Nov. 1-3 for Noncommissioned Officer of the Year during the 2012 Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at the Great Plains Joint Training Center in Salina, Kan. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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contend for title of Best Warrior By Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Top Kansas Army National Guard Soldiers from across the state converged at the Great Plains Joint Training Center Salina, Kan., Nov. 1-3 to compete in the 2012 Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition. Split into two categories, four junior enlisted Soldiers battled for Soldier of the Year and three noncommissioned officers contended for NCO of the Year. Each competitor was selected to represent their command at the state competition based on their demonstrated performance and potential through a series of competitions conducted at the company/battery, battalion and brigade levels. All six major commands were presented by competitors in the noncommissioned officer (corporal to sergeant first class) and Soldier (specialist and below), including 35th Infantry Division, 69th Troop Command, 635th Regional Support Group, 287th Sustainment Brigade, 235th Regiment and Joint Forces Headquarters. The annual event is designed to promote “esprit de corps” throughout the Kansas Army National Guard and recognize the Soldier competitors who demonstrate commitment to the Army
values and embody the warrior ethos. The noncommissioned officers and Soldiers competed in three days of events starting with the Army Physical Fitness Test and height/weight weigh-in, day and night land navigation, and a six mile road march in full combat uniform with a 35 lb backpack and M16 rifle. Day two consisted of testing on 12 warrior tasks, a written essay, a written exam, M16 zero and qualification, an unannounced mystery event and appearance board. “The competition was both mentally and physically challenging and all competitors performed very well and proudly represented their respective commands,” said Command Sgt. Maj. James Moberly, senior enlisted of the Kansas Army National Guard. A recognition ceremony was held day three where Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, assistant adjutant general and commander of the Kansas Army National Guard – Land Component, passed out plaques and congratulated everyone on making it to the state competition before finally announcing the over-all NCO and Soldier of the Year. Spc. Joshua Joynt, an infantryman of Company A, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment, took home Soldier of the Year. “I was surprised to hear my name called,” said Joynt. “It could have been
any of the four of us. It was a great competition. The other competitors really brought forth and we made each other work. I like to believe that the stress that we put on each other with our performances was a great motivating factor. What pushed me along was knowing that they were out there doing the best that they can, so I had to put my best effort in also.” Sgt. Stephen Levins, a cannon crewmember of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery won NCO of the Year. “Most Soldiers like competition, to compete and try to be the best,” said Levins. “This competition means a lot to me personally. In 2011, I was Soldier of the Year for Kansas and took second at regional. My goal is to make it past regional and make it to the national competition.” Levins and Joynt will represent the Kansas Army National Guard at the National Guard Bureau Region V regional competition to be held during the spring of 2013 with competitors from seven states representing more than 60,000 assigned enlisted personnel. “Congratulation to these outstanding Soldiers on their accomplishments,” shared Moberly.
Brig. Gen. Eric Peck (left), assistant adjutant general and commander of the Kansas Army National Guard – Land Component, and Command Sgt. Maj. James Moberly (right), senior noncommissioned officer of the Kansas Army National Guard, pose with Spc. Joshua Joynt, Soldier of the Year and member of Company A, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry, and Sgt. Stephen Levins, NCO of the Year and member of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. The Soldier and NCO of the year was determined at the Kansas Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition that was held at the Great Plains Joint Training Center in Salina, Kan., Nov. 1 through 3, 2012. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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161st Field Artillery hosts open house By Capt. Benjamin Gruver 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
No worries, nothing to fear, the Paladin with the 155 mm cannon seen from the backyards of the citizens of Paola, Kan., and from drivers passing by on Hedge Lane was not actually firing anything. The artillery piece was in fact on display Nov. 3, 2012, for the folks of Paola to get a chance to see it up close along with their local National Guard unit during the open house of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery. Residents also had the opportunity to try their luck on a mechanical bull and scale a climbing wall. Static displays, crew served weapons and other military equipment were also on display. “We do the open house to bring in the public, bring in potential recruits and give them an opportunity to see what we do,” said Staff Sgt. Hendrick Rijfkogel, a member of Battery B. “They get to see some of our equipment and talk to the Soldiers.” Rijfkogel said it helps the unit to develop a good relationship with the public. “If there is a state mission or a disaster or something like that, those are the people that are going to see us out and about,” said Rijfkogel. For Soldiers of the battery, it has been quite a while since they’ve had the opportunity to be involved in their local community, recently returning from deployment to the Horn of Africa. “When you are gone for a year, the community doesn’t see the armory used as regularly as it used to be,” said Capt. Jeffrey Mann, commander of Btry. B, “so they might be wondering what is going on, where did these guys go.” Mann said the open house helps the battery let the community know that they are back and want to support the community in whatever way they can. As new commander of the battery, Mann explained he is on the lookout for new ways to engage leaders of the Paola community and recently took the time to meet with the guidance counselors of the high school. “We spoke with them about what we 14 KANSAS SENTINEL
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Spc. Andrew Kopaczewski, a member of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, of Topeka, Kan., shows off the Paladin M109A6 155 mm Artillery System to a local kid during his unit’s open house in Paola, Kan., Nov. 3, 2012. The Kansas Army National Guard Armory was open to the public. Activities for the public including a rock climbing wall and mechanical bull riding. Photo by Capt. Benjamin Gruver, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
offer the community,” Mann said. “The armory can be used as a testing facility and we can also offer a [cannon] to shoot for high school football games … when the home team scores a touchdown.” Mann wants the community to know that the armory is an available resource to them, but also explained the open house served more than one purpose. For one, recruiters were on hand and two possible leads were secured at the event, but even more important than filling the unit ranks, according to Mann, was the opportunity for training. The battery stores one of its howitzers at the armory for the Soldiers to train, something the artillerymen value . “This is where the magic happens as far as I’m concerned,” said Rijfkogel. “Granted, it takes a whole lot of other people to make this thing function, from your maintenance to your fire direction to all your support personnel, but this is ultimately the end result to fire this.” Many of the recent deployments for
field artillery units have been to support missions doing other things, not allowing them to maintain the artillery skills the Army originally trained them for. “Getting back on the gun after three-and-a-half years and being deployed is definitely preparing me for [annual training],” said Spc. Andrew Kopaczewski, who recently returned from back-to-back deployments. “I don’t want to be that guy who shows up not knowing what to do.” Kopaczewski enjoyed not only the opportunity to train on the equipment, but also to do it in the setting of the open house. He enjoyed answering questions and letting them get a close and personal look at one of his favorite things. “It makes it a fun setting when you open it up to everyone and it is not so strict,” said Kopaczewski. “You can sit and talk and chit-chat and go over stories that you had and just get to know everyone better.”
Kansas Guard wins multiple media awards By Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett Public Affairs Office
Kansas Guard members from public affairs units and visual information took home multiple awards in the 2011 National Guard Bureau Media Contest and Major General Keith L. Ware Public Affairs Communications Competition. Each year the National Guard Bureau holds a Guard-wide media contest for public affairs personnel, unit public affairs representatives and Department of Defense/ NGB civilians. Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson earned praise for work judged among the top Army National Guard broadcasters. He was awarded first place for his radio spot production – “Disaster PSA,” and second place for his television spot production – “Kansas Division of Emergency Management Zombie Preparedness PSA” in support of the Visual Information Office. Hanson also received first place in the television information program category for “Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame Inductee, CW4 (Ret) Steven D Evans” produced on behalf of the 35th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office. Tech. Sgt. Jake Meyer of the Visual Information Office also placed in the Air National Guard categories, winning first Place in television spot production for “Disaster kit,” first place in radio spot production for “Zombie PSA,” and second place in graphics animation for “Deployments for the KSNG.” 2nd Lt. Matt Lucht, commander of the 184th Intelligence Wing Public Affairs Office and videographer for the Adjutant General’s Department Public Affairs office, received accolades for winning second place in television news report for “161-FA Conducts Field Training at Fort Riley,” and third place in television sports report for a “Friendly Game of Rugby.” The videos, graphics and radio clips were judged against hundreds of multimedia products the NGB Public Affairs Office received from Army and Air Guard units deployed across the world as well as the United States. The winning entrants distinguished themselves for technical excellence, creativity and effectiveness in getting their message out to their audience.
Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, the adjutant general of Kansas, presents Staff Sgt. Mark Hanson, the visual information manager of the Kansas National Guard, with a plaque awarding him first place for his television information program “Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame inductee, CW4 (Ret) Steven D. Evans” in the 2011 Army National Guard Media Contest Sept. 4. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Barnett, Public Affairs Office
First place winners received plaques; second and third place were given certificates. First-place finishers of the NGB media contest advanced to their respective military service branch’s media competition in early February. Hanson advanced to the Army-wide Major General Keith L. Ware Public Affairs Communications Competition and received second placed for his television spot production “Zombie Preparedness PSA” and second place for his radio spot production “Disaster PSA.” Hanson and the visual information office created the zombie video and disaster radio clip for the Kansas Division of Emergency Management as part of their campaign “If you are prepared for zombies. You are prepared for anything.” Hanson’s videos were judged against hundreds of broadcasts that the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs received from Army units in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Korea, Haiti and Hawaii including the United States. Military journalism can be traced back to the early days of command information during World War I, where hand- and type-written news was spread
by couriers to Soldiers in combat zones. Bureau of Public Relations was then established in February 1941, triggering the development of the Office of the Chief of Information, Department of the Army. Under this new department, the Command Information Division and its mission to prepare and define policies for Army Command Information was developed.
To view all of the National Guard’s videos, go to: www.kansastag. gov/NGUARD. asp?PageID=484
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Maj. Matt Keane (top) and Capt. Michael Ogle of the 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment participate in one-on-one combatives training at Topeka High School in Topeka, Kan., Jan. 5, 2013. Photo by Spc. Robert Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment reviews combative training By Spc. Robert Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Members of the 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment brushed up on their combative training at Topeka High School in Topeka, Kan., Jan. 5, 2013. The class began with Staff Sgt. Eric Reichert and 1st Sgt. Merle Amrine teaching the basic need for combative training. “Combative training relays directly to battlefield experience,” said Reichert, Recruiting and Retention noncommissioned officer, Company B, Hutchinson, Kan. “It gives the Soldier the confidence to go into a scenario and be successful.” “In an ever changing wartime environment, we are no longer able to identify who the enemy is,” said Reichert. “By the time we know the intentions of an individual on the battlefield they may be too close to bring fire.” “When operating in civilian environments you never really know what you will encounter,” said Maj. Matt Keane, commander of the 105th MPAD. “It is not always a life or death situation. Combatives training allows the Soldier to have another tool.” Outside of combat, having a warrior 16 KANSAS SENTINEL
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mind set can be very beneficial to Soldiers. “Combative training’s core tenants are to close the distance, dominate position and finish the fight,” said Reichert. “Those tenants can be applied in a larger picture to everyday life with being able to have confidence in yourself, putting yourself in the best position to succeed and having the mental ability to follow through.” Keane offered advice to members of the Kansas National Guard on the
importance of remembering to conduct this training. “Combatives training is a perishable skill and the techniques evolve over time. Refresher training is necessary to stay current,” said Keane. “A commander does not need to schedule the whole 40hour level one certification. It’s valuable training no matter what kind of unit you are in.”
Sgt. Joe Leroux and Pfc. Brandon Jacobs of the 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment receive instructions from 1st Sgt. Merle Amrine over military combatives at Topeka High School Jan. 5, 2013. Practicing combatives allow members to be prepared for hand-to-hand combat in an ever changing mission environment. Photo by Spc. Robert Havens, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Giving back to the community as a family By Spc. Anna Laurin 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Company B of the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment celebrated the holidays with a Christmas dinner, held at the American Legion Thomas Hopkins Post 4, Wichita, Kan., Dec. 8, 2012. The event was open to the unit’s Soldiers and families. Invites were also extended out to other major influences of the unit such as Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas-Land Component, Command Sgt. Maj. James Crosby, the state chief of staff command sergeant major, and Sgt. Maj. Jay Jackson, from the 35th Infantry Division, all who had worked with members of the unit on previous missions. “It is important to have a Christmas dinner,” said Capt. John Laurin, commander of the Company B, 2nd CAB, 137th Infantry Regiment. “To come together as a family, brothers in arms, to celebrate another year of service and express gratitude for all that we have.” The unit used this chance to celebrate the coming year as a family, as military unit with missions and tasks the citizens of the state and nation depend upon. Company B also used this time to think of others in need. All service members and families were asked to bring in donations of perishable foods or toys for Toys for Tots. “Donating back to Wichita means donating to the public who we interact with on a daily basis and who show tremendous support for us during times we are called to duty,” said Staff Sgt. Jason Williamson, training noncommissioned officer, Company B, 2nd CAB 137th Inf. Reg. “As a Kansas unit we are here for this community as Soldiers and citizens, and anything we can give back to the community is great.” The company continued its night with family introductions, wise words from influential guests, and unit awards and promotions. At the end of the night there was a collected total of more than 130 pounds of donated food and 75 toys for Toys for Tots. Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the Joint Forces Headquarters KansasLand Component, re-enlists Staff Sgt. Benjamin Walker during the Company B, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment annual Christmas dinner held in Wichita, Kan., Dec. 8, 2012. Photo by Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Company B, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment included a food and toy drive at the annual Christmas dinner, Dec. 8, 2012, at the American Legion Thomas Hopkins Post 4, Wichita, Kan. All invited unit members and families were asked to bring in donations of nonperishable food which totaled in a collection of more than 130 pounds as well as 75 toys for Toys for Tots. Photo by Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Staff Sgt. James Stiverson, a member of Company B, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 137th Infantry Regiment serves dinner to Brig. Gen. Eric Peck, commander of the Joint Forces Headquarters Kansas-Land Component at the unit’s annual Christmas dinner, Dec. 8, 2012, at the American Legion Thomas Hopkins Post 4, Wichita, Kan. As a twist in the Christmas dinner the senior noncommissioned officers served the junior enlisted and guests. Photo by Spc. Anna Laurin, 105th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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