Citizen Soldiers Flying Overhead
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By: Maj. Will Cox | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard eorgia Army National Guardsmen grew up in their communities and now they conduct mission specific training to be ready to help their fellow citizens or those in need around the world. In May, Soldiers from the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade jumped out of a perfectly good UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter high above Paulding County Airport to maintain their currency and proficiency as Airborne Soldiers who may need to parachute in to accomplish their assigned mission. “The purpose was airborne operation sustainment training primarily focusing on the set up and execution a safe drop zone and pathfinder activities,” said Capt. Gregg Koester, Charlie Troop, 3-108th Calvalry Company Commander. “Our Jumpmasters also conducted proficiency training inspecting parachutes and ensuring the safe deployment of jumpers out of a UH-60 Blackhawk.” The Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army National Guard,
5 | The Georgia Guardsman
Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk Conley visited the jumpers to discuss how proud he is of Guardsmen. “The National Guard is filled with problem solvers just like you. You give us any mission and we will figure out how to solve it,” said Conley. “We have the unique ability to bring both our civilian and military experiences together to solve the most complex problems that face our nation and world today.” Support from their local community and family makes the challenge of managing two careers possible. Paulding County doesn’t just say they support their Georgia Guardsmen they host their training. “We welcome them and love having them here. We feel it is our duty to help them train by providing a safe location that is convenient to the Georgia National Guard Headquarters in Marietta,” said Junie Walton, Paulding County Airport spokes person. “I don’t get the chance to rub elbows with our Soldiers very often, so I love to let them know I am proud they volunteered to serve our country.”