April 2015 Edition

April 2015

Georgia Wins the

Regional Best

Warrior

Competition Plus: Outstanding Chaplain of the Year | 648th Change of Command | Pre-accident Plan Training

Contents ISSUE: April 2015

cover story

w w w. g e o r g i a g u a r d . c o m

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Features 03| Military Child of the Year

A Georgia teen is honored to be a finalist for the 2015 Military Child of the Year Award.

10|Outstanding Chaplain of the Year

Major Thomas Bowman, the wing chaplain for the 165th Airlift Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, received the 2014 Samuel Stone Award for Outstanding Air National Guard Chaplain of the Year.

13| Leaders Ride For Safety

Georgia Guard leaders take motorcycle safety refresher course to begin the new riding season.

15| Air Dominance Center Change of Command

Lietenant Col. Manny Haldopoulos takes command of the Air Dominance Center.

18| Airman of the Year

Senior Airman David, an aircraft structural mechanic from the 116th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was named the 2014 Outstanding Airman of the Year for both the 116th Air Control Wing and also for the Georgia Air National Guard.

20| Pre-accident Plan Training

05| Regional Best Warrior

Georgia Guard Soldier and NCO win the Regional Best Warrior Competiton in the Virgin Islands.

News 04| Earth Day: and the National Guard

Georgia Guardsmen observe Earth Day and hear how the Guard is conserving energy and resources.

11|648th MEB Change of Command

Lietenant Col. John Gentry Jr. became the fourth commander in the history of the Columbusbased 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade.

14| 201st HRF Change of Command Colonel Wallace E. Steinbrecker assumes command of the 201st Homeland Response Force.

Georgia Guardsmen of the 1-185th Assault Helicopter Battalion conduct inter-agency training with Barrow County emergency services.

columns

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07| Historic Battle Review

Appomattox Court House: The End of an Army.

12| Book Review

True North: “Discover your authentic leadership”

by Bill George.

16| Chaplain’s Corner The importance of character.

17| NCO Notepad

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13 14 06

What to do to retain Soldiers.

21| Around the Guard

Georgia National Guard Commander-in-Chief Gov. Nathan Deal Adjutant General Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard State Public Affairs Director Ltc. Thomas Lesnieski State Public Affairs Officer Capt. William Carraway Operations NCO Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown Editorial Staff Managing Editor Sgt. Ashley Sutz Creative Director Desiree Bamba Contributors Desiree Bamba Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown Capt. William Carraway Capt. Greta Jackson Capt. John Pirtle Lt. Col. Dave Simons Sgt. Chris Stephens Savannah Morning News 116th Public Affairs Contributing DOD Organizations 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 116th Air Control Wing Public Affairs Office, Army National Guard Unit Public Affairs Representatives, Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs Representatives, Georgia State Defense Force Public Affairs.

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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.

April 2015 | 2

Military Child of the Year Award

S t o r y b y : D e s i r e e B a m b a | P u b l i c A f fa i r s O f f i c e | G e o r g i a D e pa r t m e n t o f D e f e n s e

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Georgia teen was honored as a finalist for the 2015 Military Child of the Year Award.

Her mother, Capt. Sharlene Tayler, who works in recruiting and retention for the Georgia National Guard, nominated Arial Jenkins, 16, for the Operation Homefront honor.

Operation Homefront presented the award to one outstanding military child from each branch of the armed services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and National Guard — at a special recognition ceremony April 16, 2015 in Washington, D.C. This is the first year that the National Guard had its own category.

More than 1,000 children and teens were nominated for the five awards.

Arial Jenkins was one of five finalists to represent the National Guard.

Operation Homefront staff interviewed each finalist, and award recipients were chosen by a panel of judges including senior retired service members, senior spouses, members of Operation

3 | The Georgia Guardsman

Homefront’s Board of Directors and other leaders in the military support community.

Kara Coleman, Child and Youth Services Director, Georgia National Guard Family Programs, strongly recommended Arial for the Military Child of the Year Award.

“Arial is a young lady who has faced her own challenges head on and has used this strength to embrace her role as a leader to advocate for her peers who share similar military challenges,” said Coleman. “I am convinced that an award such as this to a young lady such as Arial is an investment in our future and our community.”

Coleman has worked with Arial and has seen her commitment to serve as a role model to the Guard youth at the State Youth Council.

There is no doubt that being a military child is difficult.; however, having a parent in the military also provides a built-in role model.

“Arial juggles her many responsibilities as a student, an active participant in school and a leader within the National Guard Bureau,” Coleman stated. “Her dedication and commitment to community, state and country is a model for development of our young heroes and future leaders.

Earth DAy: And the Georgia National Guard

Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

Photos by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

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eorgia Guardsmen crowded into the foyer of the Clay National Guard Center Wednesday, April 22, 2015 in observance of Earth Day. First observed in 1970, and currently celebrated in over 200 countries, Earth Day provided Guardsmen the opportunity to learn about environmental stewardship at home, and to hear how the Guard is conserving energy and resources.

“We want people to understand the significance of Earth Day and take this opportunity to see what difference they can make,” said Dania Aponte, director of environmental programs for the Georgia Guard’s Construction Facilities Management Office.

Aponte and other CFMO employees provided information on the Georgia Guard’s environmental programs and distributed maple saplings for Guardsmen to plant at home. The saplings, and the information packets were designed to plant a seed of awareness and action. The aggregation of many small steps can have a big impact and Guardsmen were encouraged to seek opportunities to save energy through small actions such as smart lawn-watering practices, heating and cooling measures and lighting techniques.

In his Georgia Army National Guard environmental policy statement, Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard, Georgia’s Adjutant General, outlined his vision for a National Guard that maintains readiness while minimizing negative environmental impact.

“I am committed to protecting and conserving today’s natural resources for tomorrow’s Soldiers and citizens of Georgia,” noted Jarrard.

In addition to informing Guardsmen on smart energy and water use in furtherance of environmental policy, the CFMO advises commanders on energy use, conducts quarterly training for unit environmental compliance officers and maintains an awards program to incentivize unit environmental programs.

In 2013, CFMO initiated audits of all Guard facilities to establish patterns of energy use and to recommend energy management procedures and retrofits. Some corrections, such as occupancy sensors, were easily implemented into existing structures. New structures, such as the Cumming Regional Readiness Center for the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade; the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s Macon Readiness Center; and the Atlanta Readiness Center, home to the 3-108th Cavalry, incorporate the latest technological advances in construction materials.

Kathy Norton, energy manager for the CFMO notes that through these consumption measures, the Georgia Guard has reduced its energy consumption by 30 percent since 2003.

One of the most visible and recent success stories of the CFMO’s environmental stewardship program is the exterior lighting at the Clay National Guard Center. This project is projected to reduce energy consumption at CNGC by approximately 300,000 kilowatthours of electricity per year, representing a total energy savings of approximately $690,000 over the life of the project and pay for itself within 14.5 years. Light-emitting diode technology allows for more watts per lumens than existing high intensity discharge (HID) types of lighting (high pressure sodium, metal halide, etc.) and requires much less maintenance because the lamps do not ‘burn down’ like HID lighting. Therefore, savings are twofold.

When it comes to renewable energy, the Georgia Guard is continuously upgrading. Five Georgia Guard facilities across the state currently have solar power arrays. Four additional solar projects are under construction. Military construction projects, like the motor pool at the new 48th IBCT readiness center in Macon, incorporate solar panels when possible.

April 2015 | 4

Georgia Guard Soldiers Take Home The Win Story by: Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

5 | The Georgia Guardsman

Photos by: Sgt. 1 st Class Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

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eorgia Army National Guard Sgt. Samuel Shuler and Spc. John Pettas claimed the title of Best Warrior at the National Guard Region III Best Warrior Competition, held in the U.S. Virgin Islands April 2023, 2015. Ten National Guard states sent representatives to the Region III Best Warrior Competition.

“Competitions like Best Warrior keep young Soldiers competitive and strong.” said Phillip Stringfield, Command Sgt. Major of the Ga. Army National Guard. “It provides another way to keep their warrior tasks proficient and prepare them to move to the next level.”

The competition began Monday, April 20 at 4:30 a.m. with an Army physical fitness test, consisting of timed pushup, sit-up and run events. Following the APFT, competitors competed in a timed six-mile march, while carrying a 35 pound ruck sack. Competitors began the ruck march on level ground, side by side, but were quickly separated by a steep incline that many of the competitors named “the beast.” Both Pettas and Shuler finished first in the six-mile ruck march.

Pettas finished the ruck march in 1 hour and 44 minutes while Shuler completed the event in 1 hour and 41 minutes.

“I did not expect the ruck march to be that intense, but it was extremely difficult,” said Shuler, a Soldier with the Cedartown-based Troop A, 108th Cavalry. “I’m honored to be able to represent my unit and my state, as well as my family name.”

Competitors were evaluated in many areas including: individual weapons qualification, essay writing, weapons reassembly, call-for-fire and land navigation.

Upon completing the land navigation course, the competitors were informed of a surprise event. This “mystery event” turned out to be a triathlon. Soldiers completed a 200 meter swim, one mile run and three-mile bike race without

prior knowledge or practice. Despite the surprise, Shuler and Pettas finished second in the non-commissioned officer and Soldier category, respectively.

After two grueling days of mentally and physically challenging events, the bruised and sore competitors were left with a final event: the appearance board, in which the Soldiers would be judged on military bearing, military knowledge and tactical knowledge. Competition was tight going into the board appearance, and this final event would prove decisive in the overall contest. Pettas described the experience following his board appearance: “This competition pushed me beyond the limits I thought I had,” said Pettas, an infantryman with the Lawrencevillebased Company A 1st Battalion 121st Infantry Regiment.

The performance of Shuler and Pettas in the board event sealed their first place finishes as best non-commissioned officer and best Soldier for Region III Best Warrior. Pettas won best Soldier by 21 points while Shuler’s victory as best non commissioned officer was by a five-point margin. Sgt. Shuler’s father, who attended the competition, described his emotions after witnessing his son’s performance: “I’m very proud of my son, because he always pushes as hard as he can and tries to do his best in everything,” said Sgt. Shuler’s father, Steve Shuler. Colonel Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard, also expressed pride in the accomplishment of Georgia’s Best Warriors.”

“After watching Shuler and Pettas compete in our state competition I was not surprised to see them both win the regional competition. These two Soldiers are super examples of the Warrior Ethos,” said Carden.

Shuler and Pettas will travel to Utah in June to represent Georgia and Region III at the National Best Warrior Competition.

April 2015 | 6

Appomattox Court House: The End of an Army

By Capt. William Carraway Military Historian Georgia Army National Guard

Final Meeting of the Armies Three Federal brigades composed of veteran Soldiers of Maine, Michigan, Massachusetts, New York and Pennsylvania stood in ranks in the mud of fresh rain along the Lynchburg Richmond Road. Their eyes were trained to the north and the approaching Confederate column. From his position on the extreme Federal right, Brig. Gen. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain had the best view of the approaching enemy column. Lauded for his defense of Little Round Top at Gettysburg, Chamberlain, a college professor turned Soldier, had been wounded six times in four years of conflict. Still in pain from his most recent wound at Lewis’ Farm, March 29, 1865, Chamberlain would later recall the approach of the Confederate Column: “Ah, but it was a most impressive sight, a most striking picture, to see that whole army in motion to lay down the symbols of

war and strife, that army which had fought for four terrible years after a fashion but infrequently known in war.”

At the head of the Confederate column, Maj. Gen. John B. Gordon of Georgia, rode with his head low to his chest. Like Chamberlain, Gordon’s service had been marked by extreme violence of action. Wounded six times in combat, Gordon had risen from company-grade to corps command and had commanded the last action involving the Army of Northern Virginia near the town of Appomattox Court House.

As the Confederates approached the Federal formations, the minds of Chamberlain, Gordon and all participants must have considered the course of events of the previous four years, and perhaps those of most recent memory.

Prelude to Surrender On March 25, 1865, Gordon had commanded the Confederate assault on Fort Steadman, General Robert E. Lee’s last desperate attempt to break the siege of Petersburg.

Following the failure of that assault, Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant had launched a series of general assaults, crippling Confederate

Wilmer McLean house, site of The Surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia.

7 | The Georgia Guardsman

resistance while probing for the last great assault. Determining that Lee’s right was weak, Grant dispatched Federal troops to attempt to turn the flank. Sensing Grant’s intent, Lee shifted what little forces he had available to attempt to block the Federals at Dinwiddie Court House on March 29, 1865. There, Confederate infantry under Maj. Gen. George Pickett drove back Federal probing actions. In the midst of the fighting, Chamberlain was wounded in the arm and chest but stayed at the front of his formation.

Though initially successful, Pickett was compelled to withdraw to the cross roads of Five Forks. There, on April 1, 1865, Federal forces under Maj. Gen. Phillip Sheridan routed the defenders. Known as “The Waterloo of the Confederacy, the disaster at Five Forks ended Lee’s hopes to hold Petersburg.

Abandoning Petersburg on the evening of April 2, 1865, Lee’s main body began the retreat west in four columns.

His disparate elements skirmished with Federal cavalry and infantry until concentrating at Amelia Court House April 5, 1865. Lee had hoped to find supplies and rations for his famished army at Amelia Court House but the meager supplies present were inadequate to feed his rapidly dwindling army.

Prevented from turning south by Federal cavalry, Lee continued to march west, and on April 6, 1865, his army was divided and routed at Sayler’s Creek, where nearly two corps and eight Confederate generals were captured. Viewing the carnage from a nearby hill Lee remarked “My God! Has the

army been dissolved?”

Appomattox On April 8, Brig. Gen. George Armstrong Custer’s cavalry captured 25 guns and supplies of the Confederate Third Corps at Appomattox Station. The Confederate artillery, fighting without infantry support, were no match for Custer’s fresh riders. Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Oliver Ord’s infantry, marching through the night, reached Appomattox Court House, blocking Lee’s progress to the west.

At dawn, April 9, 1865, Confederates under Maj. Gen. John B. Gordon marched south through Appomattox Court House. Their lines parted around the court house and reunited in a field opposite the homestead of Wilmer McLean.

Marching further south, the Confederates reached a hill were they engaged and drove back Federal cavalry. This brief victory perhaps prompted the final Rebel Yell of the Army of Northern Virginia. But presently, Ord’s Federal Infantry sealed the breach and the Confederates were compelled to retreat back through the town.

Colonel Charles Venable of Lee’s staff rode to Gordon with a message: Could he hold? Gordon replied, “Tell General Lee I have fought my corps to a frazzle, and I fear I can do nothing unless I am heavily supported by Longstreet’s Corps.”

Lee, was crestfallen at Gordon’s message and is reputed to

April 2015 | 8

have replied “Then there is nothing left for me to do but to go and see General Grant and I would rather die a thousand deaths.”

Surrender Lee arrived first to the proposed surrender site – the home of Wilmer McLean. Immaculately dressed in full regalia, Lee waited for the arrival of Grant who hurried to the scene in his mud-spattered field uniform. Grant began the meeting by recalling their mutual service in the Mexican War decades previous. Lee, unable to recall meeting Grant before, instead inquired what terms Grant was prepared to offer. Grant’s terms were generous. Officers could keep their side arms.

The men could keep their horses and mules which would be desperately needed for agrarian enterprise back home. None of the Confederates would be imprisoned, rather, each man would receive his parole after agreeing to never again take up arms against the United States.

After agreeing to the terms, Lee bade Grant farewell and rode from the McLean House. Federal Soldiers began to cheer but were silenced by Grant who remarked, “The Confederates were now our countrymen, and we did not want to exult over their downfall.”

April 12, 1865 Gordon’s horse drew near Chamberlain’s assembled brigades. Chamberlain, sensing the gravity of the situation remembered, “At such a time and under such conditions I thought it eminently fitting to show some token of our feeling, and I therefore instructed my subordinate officers to come to the position of ‘salute’ in the manual of arms as each body of the Confederates passed before us. At the sound of that machine like snap of arms… General Gordon … instantly assumed the finest attitude of a Soldier. He wheeled his horse facing me, touching him gently with the spur, so that the animal slightly reared, and as he wheeled, horse and rider made one motion, the horse’s head swung down with a graceful bow, and General Gordon dropped his swordpoint to his toe in salutation.”

Gordon ordered his own men to return the salute and the tattered Confederate ranks snapped muskets to the carry position. Thus, the belligerents of four years of bloody constraint greeted one another in one mutual display of respect.

Presently, the Confederate ranks formed, fixed bayonets and stacked arms. Onto these stacks were placed cartridge boxes, and then, reverently, the battle flags which they had carried over hundreds of blood-stained battlefields.

Chamberlain observed the emotional parting of men and their colors, “Bayonets were affixed to muskets, arms stacked, and cartridge boxes unslung and hung upon the stacks. Then, slowly and with a reluctance that was appealingly pathetic, the torn and

99 || The The Georgia Georgia Guardsman Guardsman

tattered battleflags were either leaned against the stacks or laid upon the ground. The emotion of the conquered soldiery was really sad to witness. Some of the men who had carried and followed those ragged standards through the four long years of strife, rushed, regardless of all discipline, from the ranks, bent about their old flags, and pressed them to their lips with burning tears.”

For the better part of a day, nearly 30,000 troops passed, stacked arms, and divested themselves of nearly 100 battle flags. The Army of Northern Virginia was no more.

Chamberlain recalled the parting of the Soldiers: “…every token of armed hostility having been laid aside, and the men having given their words of honor that they would never serve again against the flag, they were free to go whither they would and as best they could. In the meantime our army had been supplying them with rations. On the next morning, however, the morning of the 13th, we could see the men, singly or in squads, making their way slowly into the distance, in whichever direction was nearest home, and by nightfall we were left there at Appomattox Courthouse lonesome and alone.”

Epilogue Chamberlain and Gordon both had prosperous post-war careers and both served as governor of his respective state.

Chamberlain was elected to four one-year terms as Governor of Maine and then served as president of Bowdoin College. In 1893 he received the Medal of Honor for his actions at Gettysburg 30 years previous. At the age of 70, Chamberlain volunteered for Spanish American War service.

He died in 1914 at the age of 85 from the effects of a wound received in Petersburg, Va. in 1864. He was the last Civil War veteran to die from combat wounds.

Gordon served a term in the U.S. Senate from 1873-1879.

He served as Georgia’s Governor from 1880-1884 and in the U.S. Senate from 1891-1897. He died in 1890 at the age of 71 and is buried in Oaklawn Cemetery in Atlanta. Fort Gordon is named in his honor.

This concludes the civil war battlefield series which has been a feature since january 2012.

Outstanding Chaplain of the Year

M Story by:

L t. C o l D av e S i m o n s | G e o r g i a A i r N at i o n a l G ua r d

ajor Thomas “Brannon” Bowman, the wing chaplain for the 165th Airlift Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, has received the 2014 Samuel Stone Award for Outstanding Air National Guard Chaplain of the Year.

Bowman also serves as the lead chaplain for several geographically separated units of the Georgia Air National Guard including units at Hunter Army Airfield, Brunswick and Savannah International Airport.

Bowman was commissioned in 2009 at the age of 43 as a chaplain. Assigned to the Savannah-based airlift wing, he has been a fixture serving the spiritual needs of the men and women of the unit. Bowman became the wing’s first fulltime chaplain in 2012 and has been responsible for the “Wingman” anti-suicide program and the “Strong Bonds” program designed to keep marriages healthy.

“Chaplain Bowman is an integral part of the Georgia Air National Guard, investing in people’s lives and providing friendship, guidance and spiritual support,” said Brig. Gen. Jesse Simmons, assistant adjutant general, Georgia Air National Guard. “He does not approach his office as a job but rather an extension of himself as he leads by example with exemplary character and self-sacrifice.

Sometimes our Airmen experience significant difficulties, especially dealing with the stress of deployment, and the strain can take a toll on families. Chaplain Bowman is committed to seeing families grow strong and remain united despite the strain that serving in the military can bring. We are fortunate to have a man of great faith and dedication among our ranks.”

“My husband, Technical Sergeant Gregory Summers of the 165th Security Forces Squadron, and I attended the Strong

Bonds conference led by Chaplain Bowman,” said Tech. Sgt. Wendy Summers of the 165th AW finance section. “We looked at the experience as a way to spend time together and renew our relationship. Chaplain Bowman led us with humor and humility, encouraging us to keep the lines of communication open and relying on faith during hard times. We are grateful for his genuine interest in the personal lives of airmen and their families,” As a chaplain, Bowman deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom serving a tour at the transit center at Manas, Kyrgyzstan. As the base chaplain, he served a critical role, providing spiritual support to men and women of many countries who were deploying into and returning home from Afghanistan. He also served as a base chaplain in support of Operation Deep Freeze at McMurdo Air Station in Antarctica.

Bowman is ordained by the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) and is ecclesiastically endorsed by the Presbyterian and Reformed Commission on Chaplains and Military Personnel. He is a graduate of Birmingham Southern College with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a Masters of Music from Auburn University, and a Masters of Divinity from Birmingham Theological Seminary.

He has completed the Reserve Commission Officer Training at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, the Basic Chaplain Course at the Air Force Chaplain Corps College at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, as well as the Squadron Officers School via correspondence.

The award was named after the late Chaplain Samuel Stone who was the first recorded chaplain to serve in the militia of colonial America. It is awarded each year to a chaplain for leadership and job performance, significant self-improvement, and base/community involvement.

April 2015 | 10

648th MEB Changes command

Story by Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

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eorgia National Guard Lt. Col. John Gentry Jr. became the fourth commander in the history of the Columbusbased 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade in a ceremony held on the grounds of the National Infantry Museum April 11, 2015. Gentry assumed command from Col. Randal Scott Carter who has commanded the 648th MEB since March 2013.

“Colonel Carter’s accomplishments as the MEB Commander and throughout his career are truly phenomenal,” said Col. Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard.” As the MEB commander, Col. Carter did not wait for a mission. He aggressively went after missions that made Georgia’s MEB the best in the nation. Under his leadership, the MEB deployed the 878th Engineer Battalion, the 848th Engineer Company, 1-214th Field Artillery Battalion, and the 876th Engineer Company.”

Carden described Carter as a “lifelong mentor and friend.” He recalled first meeting Carter during the 1991 rotation of the 48th Infantry Brigade at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California, when Carter was an infantry company commander, and Carden, a young platoon leader. Carden remembered then Captain Carter for his willingness to mentor him as a lieutenant.

In addition to shaping the career trajectory of the Georgia Army National Guard’s commander, Col. Carter’s influence on the Georgia Guard will be felt for years to come thanks to an enduring legacy of leader and resource development. From a rotation as commander of the 2nd Battalion 121st Infantry to his four year tenure as commander of the 122nd Regional Training Institute, Carter has shaped leaders and Soldiers at all levels of the organization. He oversaw the relocation of RTI from

11 | The Georgia Guardsman

Macon to Marietta and facilitated the addition of military police, transportation and military intelligence schools at the institute.

Having built leaders, Carter next sought to build facilities.

As the construction facilities management officer for the Georgia Guard, Carter helped secure more than $500 million dollars in new construction. As he retires after more than 34 years of military service, Carter leaves the Georgia Guard with the best and most modern infrastructure in its history.

Lietenant Col. John Gentry Jr, incoming commander of the 648th MEB brings his own impressive command credentials to the Hydra Brigade. In his 24 year military career, Gentry served in the 214th Field Artillery and later commanded the 1st Battalion 118th Field Artillery Regiment. He has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan and currently serves as the deputy J1 (personnel officer) at the Georgia National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters.

“Lieutenant Colonel John Gentry is an accomplished leader,” said Carden. He has the leadership, knowledge and determination to take the MEB to the next level.”

The 648th MEB is one of 21 maneuver enhancement brigades in the total Army force structure. With an authorized strength of 1,600 Soldiers, the 648th MEB is structured to support combatant and joint task force commanders with specialized support units. It demonstrated this capability during a 2012 deployment to Kabul Afghanistan where the MEB provided mission command, security and support operations for the nearly 9,000 U.S. and coalition forces operating in the capital region. The 648th has additionally developed successful training and support relationships with the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea as well as the Third Corps based in Fort Hood, Texas.

Photo by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

Professional Development

reviews of books that teach us about our craft By: Sgt. 1st Class Gerard Brown | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense Tr u e N o r t h : “ D i s c o v e r Yo u r Authentic Leadership” is a book written

by Bill George. The author of this book takes a different ap p r o a c h w h e n i t comes to leadership models that are commonly referenced in other books that focus on leadership.

Mr. George suggests when managing large organizations, there is no set path to leadership or any defined template to use

for a leadership model.

“There is no such thing as a instant leader,” said Bill George.

The books central theme gravitates around defining an authentic leader as a leader that has the ability to use his or her own experiences with both challenges and success and use them to benefit the organization as a whole. The author suggests that by leaders overcoming challenges throughout their lives as well as careers, they are able to transfer those experiences into the areas of purpose, practice of core values, passion, committed relationships and self-discipline which in the end, assists the organization as whole.

George, a Harvard Business School professor and former Medtronic CEO, conducted interviews with 125 managers such as from Palm co-founder Donna Dubinsky and Daniel Vasella, CEO of Novartis. From these interviews, the author shows how these managers were knocked off their standard career paths through personal tragedies, regrets and failures, yet still succeeded by finding their authentic leadership.

Mr. George breaks down True North in three distinct

sections. The first section is focused on anecdotes from CEO’s who describe how they achieved their level of success while others discussed how they lost their way. The author describes how Kevin Sharer, chairman of Amgen, learned patience and humility after he realized that leaving General Electric for MCI was a mistake and how Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric would not allow him to come back.

In the second portion of the book, Mr. George breaks down the five components that leaders use in developing their authentic leadership. The five components consist of purpose, practicing solid values, heart, relationships and selfdiscipline. This section touches on authentic leaders being self-aware and knowing their authentic self ’s.

The third section of the b o ok fo cuses on the empowerment of the people that are in your circle of influence. This section goes into areas where mangers had to motivate their subordinates during extremely dire times.

In this book, Mr. George focuses more on managers embodying their authentic form and style of leadership compared to becoming the perceived organization’s ideal leader. This book can be beneficial to members of the Georgia National Guard. Exercises at the end of each chapter can assist them as leaders by evaluating their priorities and practices, but also through understanding how to achieve their authentic leadership style.

“Any of us can figure out ways to drive a business for two years and make a boatload of money and move on. That’s not leadership. That’s playing a game. Leadership is leaving something lasting, whether it is how you treat your people or how you deal with a problem,” said Bill George.

“

There is no such thing as an instant leader April 2015 | 12

Leaders ride for safety

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Story by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

he G eorgia Army National Guard, in partnership with Dobbins Air Reser ve Base, hosted the first motorcycle rider skills refresher course of the new riding season on a cloudy April morning. The first students in line for the course represented the senior leadership of the Georgia National Guard.

Colonel Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard, two brigade commanders and other senior leaders participated in the “dust-off ” safety training event to refresh their skills and send a message to all riders in the National Guard. This collaborative training program is sponsored by the Clay-Dobbins Joint Motorcycle Safety Council.

“Everyone has time for safety,” said Col. Reginald Neal, commander of the Macon-based 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and a motorcycle riding coach. “No matter how many years you have been a rider, no matter how busy you are, you can get something out of this class.”

Colonel Jeffrey Dickerson, commander of the Cumming-based 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, echoed Neal’s sentiment.

“This is my second time taking this course,” said Dickerson, a 2008 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic rider with more than 10-years’ experience. “The skills you learn here can save your life.”

The ‘Basic Rider Course 2’ is a one-day class that uses scenariobased training to reacquaint motorcycle riders with braking, turning and responding to real-world traffic situations. The course is intended for the experienced rider to brush up on riding skills.

The ‘Basic Riders Course 1’ is a three-day course available for new riders and is designed to instill safe driving practices. These courses

13 | The Georgia Guardsman

are available free of charge through the Georgia Guard.

“This training would cost you $250 to complete as a civilian,” said Lt. Col. John Till, safety director for the Georgia Army National Guard. Till also notes that Soldiers who complete the motorcycle training courses can receive a rider’s safety vest free of charge.

Leaders enrolled in the motorcycle refresher training lauded the value of the course for all Soldiers, both financially and as a means of saving lives. Nationwide, motor vehicle deaths are a leading cause of death for Soldiers, Guardsmen and the general population. According to federal Department of Transportation statistics, in 2012 there were 4,927 motorcycle deaths compared to 4,630 in 2011. While motorcycles represent only 3 percent of all vehicles registered in the United States, motorcycles are involved in 15 percent of total highway fatalities.

To combat these grim statistics, the U.S. Army established the progressive motorcycle program. Described in chapter 11 of Army Regulation 385-10, the program requires motorcycle safety training before operating a motorcycle and within 180 days of returning from a deployment. Refresher training is required every five years, though experienced Georgia Guard leaders who ride recommend annual refreshment training.

Carden, a life-long motorcycle rider, spoke of the importance of the motorcycle safety training from the saddle of his 2006 Harley Davidson Heritage Classic.

“Most fatal motorcycle accidents involve self-taught or buddytaught riders,” said Carden. “Proper training saves lives! Perishable skills require practice just like marksmanship and land navigation.

We are allocating resources to make training available to our Soldiers because we care about their safety.”

Photo by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National guard

201st Homeland Response Force change of command

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Story by: Sgt. Chris Stephens | 124th MPAD | Georgia Army National Guard Hazard six is on the net and ready to receive traffic.”

That was the message new 201st Regional Support Group, FEMA Region IV Homeland Response Force, commander Col. Wallace E. Steinbrecher had for the Soldiers and leaders of the unit after he took command from Col. Vernon C. Atkinson II during a ceremony at Clay National Guard Center April 18.

Steinbrecher takes over a unit that accomplished many missions under Atkinson, to include, the response during the winter storms of February 2014, in which the Georgia National Guard was called to active duty to support the snowstorm that hit the metro-Atlanta area.

“I’m more than honored to take this position and more than looking forward to it,” Steinbrecher said. “In my short time around the Soldiers in this unit, what I’ve found is that this unit is as tight and strapped as I’ve seen in my 33 years of service.”

It was Atkinson who played a large role in the readiness of the unit after taking over when it was in its infancy.

“I’m proud of the way we’ve been able to integrate our state force, FEMA, GEMA and Air Force into our overall mission,”

Photo by: Sgt. Chris Stephens | 1 2 4 th MPAD | Georgia Army National Guard

Atkinson said. “We’ve truly become one of the best Homeland Response Forces in the country.”

In addition to Georgia the 201st RSG/HRF supports other states in Region IV, which include Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina.

That statement could not have been more true than at the recent Vigilant Guard training exercise throughout South Carolina.

Members of the 201st RSG/HRF, supported South Carolina, ensuring that should a disaster ever strike, they would be ready to answer the call.

“This unit is capable of even bigger and better things,” Atkinson said. “Everybody is looking for solutions and looking to get the job done.”

As Steinbrecher moves into command, there is a lot he still has to learn, but he said he is more than ready for the challenge of leading the Homeland Response Force.

“General Douglas MacArthur said that an officer is just as good or bad as those under him,” Steinbrecher said. “We have many challenges that we must meet and we’re going to be prepared to meet those challenges.”

April 2015 | 14

Air Dominance C e n t e r Gets New Commander

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S t o r y C o u r t e s e y o f S ava n n a h M o r n i n g N e w s

n just more than a year at the helm of the Georgia Air National Guard’s Savannah combat training facility, Air Force Col. Thomas Grabowski has overseen large changes.

During his tenure, the Savannah Combat Readiness Training Center switched missions to focus primarily on combat training for fighter jet pilots, changed its name to the Air Dominance Center, hosted scores of fighter units in widescale training exercises, and battled through substantial personnel cuts.

And even through that period of great change, the Air Dominance Center has thrived, said Air Force Brig. Gen. Jesse Simmons, the commander of the Georgia Air National Guard.

Grab owski “has b e en tenacious, transparent … and he has led from the front, he hardly sleeps and has the mind of a marketing executive,” Simmons said Friday at the facility at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport during a ceremony in which Grabowski relinquished command of the unit to Col. Emmanuel Haldopoulos.

“He has been the perfect person for the Air Dominance Center at this time in its history.”

15 | The Georgia Guardsman

Grabowski, who will move to Robbins Air Force Base and serve as vice commander of 116th Air Control Wing, thanked the men and women of the Air Dominance Center for making his tenure successful.

“I don’t know during my 30 years in the Air Force of a unit that was gutted by 50 percent and then doubled their production, re-engineered their entire strategic plan and mission statement and went from a Cold War-defunct training center to a cuttingedge, fighter-integration training base,” Grabowski said. “None of that was me. All I did was run around and be your cheerleader.

You guys are unprecedented awesome, and I salute each and every one of you.”

Haldopoulos, Simmons said, was an easy choice to take command of the Air Dominance Center as it continues to innovate in fighter pilot training.

“We would not let just anyone take over this Air Dominance Center,” Simmons said. “We need this unit to continue moving forward, to continue to find better, more positive ways to move our nation’s warriors forward into combat, and to keep them prepared. “(Haldopoulos) is a proven leader with many accolades with recent command under

his belt.”

T h e n e w c o m m a n d e r, w h o w a s promoted to colonel during the ceremony, comes to Savannah from Robbins AFB, where he most recently served as the deputy commander of the 116th Operations Group of the 116th Air Control Wing. Throughout his career he’s served as a pilot in B-1 Bombers and an E-8C JSTARS. The new assignment, Haldopoulos said, is an exciting opportunity “in a wonderful location.”

“The mission here, in transition as it is, and as successful as Col. Grabowski, my predecessor, has made it — I can’t wait to continue in his footsteps and take it to the next level,” he said. “He and all the people that work along with him have done an amazing job.”

In the coming months the Air Dominance Center will host several fighter jet exercises.

“You’re going to see an increase,” Haldopoulos said. “You’re not going to see probably the huge amount of aircraft (at one time), but more of a reduced number of them more frequently.

“That’s my forecast for the next two years.”

Chaplain’s corner

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By: Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirtle | Georgia Army National Guard ecently, I was at breakfast when another officer I knew approached me. She saw me and we sat down together to enjoy a brief respite after PT and before the work day began. She said, “Hey, Chaplain, I better eat with you. I need some of what you’ve got.”

It’s not uncommon for other Soldiers to quip that they’re in need of some informal

mentoring or wisdom regarding issues we all face.

So, we began to talk. This w a s a m o n g my favorite ways for conversations to begin. I’m of the view that God br i n g s p e o p l e’s paths together for specific purposes.

Solomon writes, “The heart of man p l a n s h i s w a y, but the LORD establishes his steps,” (Pr 16:9).

“So, how’s the running coming,” I asked. I had heard her speak of her running successes earlier, so I thought it appropriate to pursue her interests. “Fine,” she said. “I have another half-marathon this weekend.” And so it began, a conversation about our respective running regimens, other types of physical fitness, and other topics familiar to all of us who wear the uniform.

Soon, however, our conversation topic changed. We transitioned from physical fitness to spiritual fitness. We got on the topic of character, of the invisible attributes that make us who we are.

“Why is it,” we asked one another rhetorically, “that some high-profile leaders have failures of character? ” I told her of a recent sermon at my church wherein I told the congregation, “Our biggest battles in life are not physical (health vs. sickness), financial (who has not known these?), or even intellectual. Rather, our biggest battles are spiritual. They are issues

of character.”

She nodded, and began to cite specific examples with which we were both familiar-of people who may have felt unaccountable when it came to their character. We even referenced how we are flooded with news of leaders who “fall.”

For the last fourteen years as a civilian, I taught english. One of my favorite fiction writers is William Faulkner. In his Nobel Prize acceptance speech, he said that the only thing worth writing a b out w a s “t h e human heart in conflict with itself.” Faulkner was saying what we all know intuitively—that all good stories are fundamentally about the spiritual battle between good and evil.

St o r i e s a re n o t ju st f i l l e d w it h characters, but a b out t h o s e p e o p l e’s character, about their spiritual composition.

Their spiritual composition— their character— drive them. We k n o w Ha m l e t’s c h a r a c t e r, a n d At t i c u s F i n c h’s character because we see what makes them who they are.

In our climate as Guardsmen and Airmen, we’re inundated with calls to ethics training, resilience, ethical decision-making, etc. Underlying all of these areas, however, are issues of character, of what constitutes the fiber of us as individuals.

These are existential questions that affect the way we live.

They are rooted in the moral fabric of the way we’re designed. Your Chaplain Corps is here to lead in educating (and more importantly, modeling) in this area. Through conversations like the one I had recently, by listening and coming alongside one another, we sharpen one another (Pr 27:17).

Our character is who we are in the dark. When no one is looking, we are most ourselves. Let us be found faithful and true in our character.

April 2015 | 16

A Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip Stringfield State Command Sergeant MajorGeorgia Department of Defense

NCO Notepad Words of wisdom from one to another

17 | The Georgia Guardsman

s we continue to press forward into fiscal year 2015 we must be familiar with and accept deviations that are frequently affecting us, not only as the Georgia Army National Guard but as a nation as well. Change is something that does not tread lightly for many people but with a irrepressible frame of mind, it can be handled in a productive way. Force management has been a concern for many service members of late and is still a future concern for many young warriors today. My goal as the Command Sergeant Major of the Georgia Army National Guard is to certify that every single Soldier has been offered an opportunity for upward mobility and allowed a fair chance at career progression. The success and retention of outstanding Service Members should be the top priority of every single leader within our ranks.

Too often we, in the Georgia Army National Guard, find ourselves losing vital members within our ranks. This decreases our strength as a defensive force and weakens morale for the brave souls willing to join the Georgia National Guard team. So how do we combat such loss?

How do we encourage those currently serving to maintain motivation and stay in uniform?

We can start by educating the Soldiers who are a part of our current force. It is our job to ensure they have the proper training and military education to advance in their desired career field. It is also our job to ensure that they are aware of and understand their benefits outside of this uniform. This is not only a motivating tool but shows our Soldiers that we care about their overall wellbeing.

Sometimes just letting Soldiers know that you care about their career and will do the very best you can to help them get to where they would like to be is enough to keep them standing strong in this uniform.

After we educate Soldiers on what they can do to optimize their military careers, make certain they have an opportunity to utilize their education. Give them an opportunity to practice what they have learned and showcase their many talents. After all, what is education without experience to support it?

Once they have displayed their abilities, DOCUMENT IT! I cannot stress the importance of NCOERs and productive performance counseling sessions. If we as leaders are not tracking our Soldiers’ progress we are doing them a disservice. We are shorting them on a potentially amazing military career. We have to make sure that we are helping our junior leaders track their progress and correct any actions that may hinder them from progressing.

The bottom line is our junior leaders are most important to our organization. Without them‌ there is no organization. Continue to mentor, encourage, and guide our younger generation today so that we may enjoy and celebrate a successful future tomorrow.

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My goal as the Command Sergeant Major of the Georgia Army National Guard is to certify that every single Soldier has been offered an opportunity for upward mobility and allowed a fair chance at career progression.

GEorgia Airman of the year

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Story by: 116th Public Affairs | 116th Air Control Wing | Georgia Air National Guard t’s one thing to just do the assigned job, but going above and beyond is what makes someone outstanding.

Senior Airman David, an aircraft structural mechanic from the 116th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, did just that, and in January, was named the 2014 Outstanding Airman of the Year for both the 116th

A i r C o nt r o l Wing and also for the Georgia Air National Guard.

According to the award submission, it was his job performance during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2014 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom that set David apart from the rest of his peers. “ H e accomplished two things that have never been done before,” said his supervisor.

“He was able repair the ejection seat from a B-1B Lancer and also a fuselage that had taken ground fire.”

In addition to the ejection seat and fuselage repairs, David’s efforts during the deployment resulted in the evacuation of more than 80 patients, the movement of 3,000 personnel in and out of the area of responsibility, and the saving of $84, 000 in procurement costs.

David said the deployment was an eye-opening experience and he had to quickly adapt to working on different aircraft than what he is used to.

“Over the 90 days, I relied on his training and the guidance of those with more experience,” he said.

According to his supervisor, Master Sgt. Ryan, 116th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, David’s personality and job performance were what set him apart from the rest along with an unmatched

ability to work with others.

“David’s work ethic and innovation have streamlined many processes and saved hundreds of man hours,” said Ryan. “Not only has it saved time, but it has also greatly reduced error rates and established new standards of excellence.”

That sentiment was echoed by several of David’s co-workers, including Tech.

Sgt. Todd.

“He takes anything we throw at him. The supervision here has great confidence in David’s ability,” s a i d To d d .

“He’s proactive in his training, developing his skills every chance he can get.”

David said he was honored to win for the wing but was shocked when he received a p h on e c a l l from his chief, congratulating him being selected as the state winner.

Superior leadership, job performance, community involvement and personal achievements are all part of the criteria OAY nominees must demonstrate.

In addition to his outstanding job performance achievements, David is also an active member in the local community.

Last summer, David assisted in a playground refurbishing effort at Camp Vinson Valley in Byron, Georgia. He also worked as a volunteer for the 2014 Little League World Series held in Warner Robins, Georgia.

“I have an overwhelming sense of gratitude for leadership trusting me and putting me in positions to be successful,” said David.

David will go on to compete at the National Guard Bureau level.

(Last names have been omitted for security purposes)

Photo by: Tech. Sgt. Regina Young and Master Sgt. Roger Parsons | 1 1 6 th ACW | Georgia Air National Guard

April 2015 | 18

19 | The Georgia Guardsman

Joint Pre-Accident Plan Training exercise

Story by: Desiree Bamba | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense Force

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eorgia Guardsmen are constantly training to ensure that they are “Always Ready.” This continues to stay true as Soldiers from Company C, 1-185th Assault Helicopter Battalion train with local emergency management agencies in Winder, Georgia.

The 1-185th and Barrow County emergency services responded to a mass casualty exercise scenario involving a UH-60 Black Hawk crash landing at Fort Yargo State Park, Camp Twin Lakes. The Barrow County emergency services office coordinated first responders on scene during the event.

“The training is a requirement for us every year,” said Col. Vernon Atkinson, domestic operations officer with the Georgia National Guard joint staff. “We have to check our crash plan processes, and it is good that we can work together with local agencies to be prepared for a scenario such as this.”

The pre-accident plan exercise allowed the Army aviation unit and Barrow County to test their emergency response procedures.

As a part of the scenario, a fuel spill was simulated around the aircraft. Firefighters moved more cautiously to render the area safe before rescuing the crew.

With the area secured, firefighters quickly transitioned to removing the Soldiers from the aircraft and aiding injured civilians in the area. The Soldiers and civilians presented a variety of

Photos by: Desiree Bamba | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Department of Defense

symptoms to the first responders who had to evaluate and treat the injuries.

Barrow County emergency personnel used neck and spine stabilization equipment after removing Soldiers from the aircraft.

A spinal injury can present many challenges to first responders who may have to cut or remove pieces of an aircraft before freeing an injured patient. Pilot seats of the UH-60 Black Hawk are designed to fold back in case of such emergencies so the pilot can escape from the side of the aircraft in the event of a crash landing.

“The exercise allowed us to go over and improve our policies and procedures in the event of an emergency,” stated Penny Clack, Barrow County EMA Coordinator. “It tested our skills to make sure we ensured the lives of those affected by the simulated crash.”

Life Flight also responded to the scenario to airlift a crewmember and other injured personnel to aid quickly.

Members of the 201st Regional Support Group’s Air National Guard medical staff helped evaluate Barrow County emergency services during the inter-agency mass casualty exercise.

Barrow County first responders and 78th Aviation Troop Command Guardsmen held an after-action review to discuss the safety exercise. Evaluators noted the quick response from Barrow County personnel who would be instrumental in saving Soldiers’ lives in the event of a real aircraft emergency.

“All in all, the exercise was a great experience and we worked well together,” Clack said. “ It allowed us to work with organizations that we do not work with on a day to day basis.”

April 2015 | 20

Around the Georgia Guard Joint task force change of command Joint Task Force 781st CBRNE held a change of command ceremony where Maj. Stephen Tucker received command from Lt. Col. Mike Maddox.

118th Field Artillery Change of Command Georgia Army National Guardsmen of the 1st Battalion 118th Field Artillery Regiment assemble for the battalion change of command ceremony. Fort Jackson, the oldest standing fort in Georgia, was manned by the 118th FA’s predecessors, the Chatham Artillery, during the War of 1812.

21 | The Georgia Guardsman

National Guard Chaplain Trainng More than 30 Ga. Army National Guard and Ga. State Defense Force, chaplains and chaplain’s assistants reported for three days of ethics training at Clay National Guard Center. The training took place under the mentorship of National Guard Bureau and Ga. DoD senior chaplains. The focus of the training event for all chaplains and chaplain assistants was ethics, providing vision and direction for the unit ministry teams and religious support teams.

Georgia State Defense force Award The annual Georgia State Defense Force Award was presented by Colonel Rusty Hightower, GSDF Chief of Staff, to c/Maj. Adams for his outstanding leadership, academic achievement and dedication to the high physical, moral, and mental standards of the Georgia military tradition.

April 2015| 22

Regional Best Warrior Competition Georgia Guard Soldiers fight hard to win

Public Affairs Office Georgia Department of Defense 1000 Halsey Ave. Bldg. 447 Marietta, Ga. 30060