2013 Spring NGAT News by MediaNation

Spring 2013

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS F o u n d e d 1959 • Vo l u m e 5 4 • N u m b e r 1

NGAT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Page 10-12

NGAT Conference Awards

Page 16

BEST WARRIOR COMPETITION

Page 33

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2013-14 Board of Directors President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles Chavers President-Elect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel Quick

contents

Vice-President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Wedel Secretary-Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . Ashley Bloom HQ, TXMF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael Courade

4/ Letter from the President 5/ Members Spotlight 6/ Executive Committee/Outgoing Board of Directors 7/ Incoming Board of Directors 8/ Deployments 10/ Legislative Committee Report 12/ Legislative Priorities 13/ Key Leadership Changes 14/ Conference Photo Gallery 16/ Conference Awards 19/ Scholarship Awards 8/ 136th Airlift Wing Says Goodbye 20/ Conference Winners 21/ ANG Family Program Award 22/ Guard Muster/Membership Update 24/ Around the World with the Guard 26/ Conference Survey 27/ EANGUS Conference/NGAUS Conference 28/ Performance Excellence Awards 14/ NGAT Conference Photos 29/ Soldier/NCO of the Year Awards 30/ Corporate Members 32/ American Heroes Day 33/ Best Warrior Competition 34/ Buffalo Soldiers Honor Generals 35/ Criminal Investigation Training 36/ Around Texas with the Guard 38/ TAPS/Corporate Members and Sponsors 32/ American Heroes Day 40/ NGAT Planning Calendar

ARNG Troops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ambrosio Aguilar 36th ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth Henry 72nd IBCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Les Edwards

Paula Daigle-Hutchins

56th IBCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenn White

Jeremy Amis

36th Sustainment Bde . . . . . Murphy McCardell 36th CAB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ashley Bloom 176th Engr Bde . . . . . . . . . . . . . Delmas Vandine 71st BfSB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Todd Richardson 136th CSB (ME) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ardis Harden HQ, TANG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ian Manire 149th FW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Pollard 147th RW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anita Blue 136th AW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Wedel TX State Guard Rep . . . . . . . Kristopher Krueger Retired Rep – Region I . . . . . . . . . Stan Kitzman Retired Rep – Region II . . . . . . . . . Jerry Horsley Retired Rep – Region III . . . . . . . Buck Allbright Family Readiness Rep . . . . . . . . Alba Villanueva H H H H H H H H H Editors . . . . . . . . . . . . . Theresa Billeck-Zuniga

Laura Bianco

Kathy White

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MediaNation.net Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ray Lindner H H H H H H H H H NGAT News

NGAT HOME PAGE

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www.ngat.org

Austin, TX 78731 (512) 454-7300 1-800-252-NGAT (6428)

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NGAT E-MAIL rlindner@ngat.org rcasias@ngat.org membership@ngat.org insurance@ngat.org ngatnews@ngat.org

On the Cover: Cover features photos from the 54th Annual NGAT Conference held in Dallas, Texas and photos from the 2013 Best Warrior Competition. (Photos by SFC Daniel Griego) NGAT NEWS (USPS 015-752) IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308 Periodicals postage paid at Austin TX 78710 and additional offices POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT NEWS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6803 Members may email address change to: membership@ngat.org

P r e s i d e n t ’ s

R e p o r t

political and legislative environment in which We are almost to the midpoint of 2013, and the even the most seasoned political experts. At our Association operates continues to confound and puzzle and Air’s plans for the Guard. Some Guard the federal level, there is still much uncertainty over the Army sequestration threatens to significantly undermine missions are suddenly being eyed by the active forces, and have warded off a challenge to Hazlewood active and reserve readiness. At the state level, we believe we progressing steadily through the legislative educational benefits, and other Guard-related issues have been Facebook page updated with legislative process, but they have yet to be voted out. We keep the NGAT going on. information — become a friend and keep up with all that is face a tremendous challenge in maintaining we nce, confere the at s remark my As I alluded to during ions. Your new Board of Directors will work and expanding a membership base that spans many generat members, out to new members, seasoned military members, retiring military diligently on finding and exploiting opportunities to reach we will and g evolvin stop not will te associates. As an Association, we new young soldiers and airmen, spouses, and potential corpora ing that everyth and tion e and to tell the story of the members of this Associa do everything in our power to expand our span of influenc a. we do for the state of Texas and the United States of Americ staff tremendous success. The conference committee and the NGAT a was month last ence Confer The 54th Annual NGAT making already are We event. Dallas and tastes of the attendees at the worked hard to add events and breakouts that served the needs A ining. enterta and in Houston will be even more exciting, informative, plans for next year, and the Board is confident that the event efforts Your I can attest that the hospitality suites were quite successful. special congratulations goes out to all the award winners, and these during Even tion. Founda ional Educat NGAT funds donated to the at the silent auction established a new conference record for in ated particip that person every no bounds. I want to personally thank hard economic times, the generosity of our membership has ful success are events session presenters, NGAT staff, and volunteers. These this year’s event: attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, break-out . because of you; your participation is the key to NGAT’s success US national association events of significance. The 2013 EANG ing upcom two t highligh to want I Speaking of participation, ence Confer S NGAU 2013 The 2013. dates for the event are 18-21 August Conference will be held in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The s, meeting both at ber 2013. I would like to see solid Texas representation will be held in sunny Honolulu, Hawaii, from 20-23 Septem website. and you can sign up for both conferences via links on the NGAT ted their assignment on the NGAT Board, and a heart-felt A special thank you goes out to all the directors that have comple you current Board of Directors will strive to continue on with what thanks goes out to our exiting President Justin Perryman. The that efforts the with ed support for the Association. If you are happy started. I also want to thank the membership for your continu tion’s NGAT story to someone that may not be aware of the Associa NGAT has made on your behalf, let someone know. Tell the I can be further, or if there is anything I can do for you, let me know. efforts. If there is something that you feel we need to address to know Get d. involve be to you Association and the Board, and I want contacted 24/7 through the NGAT website. NGAT is your tion. NGAT Associa the in know how you think they are doing as your voice your unit or area representative on the Board and let them , and your tomorrow. NGAT is your organization, your representation stands ready to assist and represent you today and well into to come. H make that voice heard. Here’s to exciting things in the years voice to those that make decisions about your life. Help us

Charles Chavers CMSgt, TXANG President NGAT A few of the NGAT Past Presidents in attendance at the NGAT Conference stop to pose for a photo before the NGAT Advisory Council meeting. Pictured left to right are MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga (06-07), CMSgt (Ret) Bill Maginot (98-99) and LTC Michele Voorhees (09-11).

Past NGAT President LTC Michele Voorhees swears in members of the NGAT Board of Directors. Pictured left to right are LTC Les Edwards, CSM Murphy McCardell, LTC Daniel Quick, CMSgt Charles Chavers, MAJ Scott Wedel, and SGM (Ret) Jerry Horsley.

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m e mb e r s

S P O T L I G H T 136th RTI AUDITORIUM DEDICATED IN HONOR OF the late CSM MILTON W. SIMPSON

STATE GUARD SERVICE RECOGNIZED LTC (TX) Kristopher Krueger, a member of the NGAT Board of Directors, presents the Texas State Guard Service Medal to NGAT Life Member SSG (TX) William R. Miller and SGT Joey H. Baxter at the armory in Bryan, Texas. H

36TH ID PERSONNEL SERGEANT MAJOR RETIRES 36th ID Human Resources and Personnel Administration Officer in Charge, LTC Michele Voorhees, presented SGM Sanoma McDonald with a bronze statue of a Woman in Arms inscribed with “SGM Sanoma McDonald, The Adjutant General CORPS Finest,” at her retirement ceremony held on March 3, 2013 at the 36th ID headquarters. McDonald retired after serving more than 32 years in the Texas Army National Guard. Both are NGAT Life Members. (Photo by SPC Christina Clardy) H

The auditorium of the 136th Regiment (Combat Arms) Audie L. Murphy Regional Training Institute at Camp Mabry, Texas was officially dedicated and renamed in honor of CSM Milton W. Simpson in a ceremony on April 21, 2013. During the time CSM Simpson served in the TXARNG he touched hundreds of Soldiers through his leadership. COL Patrick Hamilton (right), who served as the RTI Commander and had CSM Simpson as his Command Sergeant Major and Commandant, spoke at the ceremony. COL Hamilton assisted Mrs. Gladys Simpson (left) unvail the dedication plaque during the ceremony. Gladys is also an employee of the Texas Military Forces and spoke with grace of CSM Simpson’s love for Soldiers. CSM Simpson was a NGAT Life Member and served over 36 years in the Texas Army National Guard. H

CSM RAYBURN RECEIVES LEGION OF MERIT CSM Larry Rayburn receives the Legion of Merit from the 36th Infantry Division Commander MG James K. “Red” Brown on the occasion of his retirement from the Texas Army National with 35 years of military service. Both are NGAT Life Members. H

KILLEEN HOSTs ARMY MARATHON

NEW NGAT LIFE MEMBER

NGAT Members CPT Jorge Strable, Commander of the 249th Transportation Company, and MSG Jacob Cabrera (right), a member of the HHC 36th Sustainment Brigade, get ready to run the first of its kind Army Marathon on April 21, 2013 in Killeen, Texas. The Army Marathon raises morale, awareness, and support for our injured and critically ill service members from all branches! The Army Marathon took runners from Killeen, just outside Fort Hood, Texas all the way to Temple, Texas. H

Congratulations to JTF-71 (MEB) NCO of the Year SGT Clinton Smithson (center right), who became a life member of NGAT during the recent NGAT Conference in Dallas, Texas! SGT Smithson is joined in the photo by his wife, Brigade Commander COL Lee Schnell (right) and brigade sergeant major SGM Jeff Mayo (left). H

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N GAT EXEC U T I VE C OMMI T T EE

CMSgt Charles Chavers President

CPT Ashley Bloom Secretary-Treasurer

Maj Scott Wedel Vice-President

LTC Daniel Quick President-Elect

YOUR NGAT BOARD OF DIRECTORS MET ON MARCH 21, 2013 TO CONDUCT THE BUSINESS OF THE ASSOCIATION AND TO THE FINALIZE CONFERENCE DETAILS.

N GAT OUTGOI NG DI REC T ORS

H H H Thank You for Your Service H H H

MAJ Justin Perryman NGAT President 2011-2013

SGM (TX) Dewayne Naumann Secretary-Treasurer Texas State Guard H

MAJ Gene Cummins 36th Sustainment Brigade

MAJ Chris Rivera HQ, TXMF

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A Special Welcome TO NGAT ’ S I NC OMI NG DI REC T O R S

CSM Murphy L. McCardell 36th Sustainment Brigade

SSG Michael A. Courade HQ, JFTX

CMSgt (Ret.) Guyler “Buck” Allbright Jr. Retired Rep, Region I

LTC (TX) Kristopher K. Krueger Texas State Guard

SGM (Ret) Jerry Horsley Retired Rep, Region II

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H 1 3 6 T H A I R L I F T W I N G D E PA R T S T O S O U T H WES T A S I A Approximately 70 members from the 136th Airlift Wing departed to Southwest Asia on February 26, 2013 in support of the Air and Space Expeditionary Forces. Representatives from the offices of Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz were on hand to thank the Airmen for their self-sacrifices and answering the call of duty as citizen Guardsmen representing Texas. For many members and their families, deployment is all too familiar. More than half of the service members have deployed multiple times since ‘9-11.’ Despite the cold weather, military and family members waited on the flight line for the Wing’ s C-130 aircraft to take-off with their loved ones on board. As the plane taxied onto the runway, a line of Airmen saluted the aircraft, and family members waved farewell; some with tears and others with sadness.

(Photos by AMN Cody Witsamar)

There was a thankful tone amongst the civilians for the sacrifices of the deploying service members who will be separated from their families for the next 60 to 180 days. H

LOADED AND READY TO GO

STAYING CONNECTED DURING DEPLOYMENT

SAYING GOODBYE IS NEVER EASY

NGAT Life Member LTC Jim Nugent of the 36th CAB kisses his 23-month-old daughter, Sienna, after a deployment ceremony at the Austin Army Aviation Support Facility on February 27, 2013. About 260 soldiers from the 36th Infantry Division deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Members of the HSC 449th ASB are loaded and ready for their long flight to Kuwait. God Speed. CPT James C. Whitmore, a member of HSC 449th ASB, is the next best thing to being there for 7-month-old Liam A. Whitmore as he reaches out for his daddy. Liam watches his dad as he reads him a bedtime story he recorded and mailed home to him from Camp Buehring, Kuwait. (Photo taken by Ruby Whitmore)

(Photo Jan Janner/Austin American Statesman)

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12/11/12 2:58 PM

L e g i s l a t i v e Committee

Report

The NGAT Legislative Committee had a very busy year in FY11-12 and has a full slate of activities planned for FY12-13. Several key legislative goals were secured, and NGAT members were also very active in communicating with our Congressional delegation.

Organization The organization of the Legislative Committee includes the NGAT office staff, the Legislative Task Force, the Resolutions Committee, and the Email/Fax Brigade. The NGAT staff is responsible for organizing and pursuing a year-round legislative agenda and supporting the activities of the other three components. The Legislative Task Force is comprised of volunteers who pay their own way to Washington, D.C. and partner with the leadership of the Texas National Guard in presenting the TAG priorities and initiatives to the Texas congressional delegation. The Resolutions Committee reviews resolutions submitted to the Association by the TXMF, NGAUS, EANGUS, and industry for Association endorsement. The Email/Fax Brigade responds to NGAT legislative alerts and directly lobbies members of Congress as constituents. The Texas National Guard has a Legislative Affairs Office whose mission is to coordinate legislative activities, develop legislative priorities, and to respond to Congressional and state legislative enquiries. The office is headed by LTC Michael Dietz, an NGAT Life member. NGAT has a close working relationship with the staff, and we strive to achieve an integrated and focused legislative agenda. BG William L. Smith, commander of domestic operations for the Texas Military Forces, describes the interior of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter to Daniel Boettger, a member of Texas State Rep. Gene Wuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff, during a tour of Camp Mabry, in Austin, Texas.

In addition to actively working with the Texas Military Forces, NGAT maintains a close working relationship with several key legislative partners; these include the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), and the National Guard Bureau Office of Legislative Liaison (NGB-LL). We closely monitor the legislative work of other key military associations, including the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), and the Air Force Association (AFA). Finally, NGAT works closely with national and state veteran entities to ensure representation of Guard veterans.

(Photo by SSgt Phil Fountain)

legislative task force activities Last fall, NGAT hosted a Congressional Staff Appreciation reception, which was well attended by members and staff. In February 2013, we hosted another Congressional Staff Appreciation reception to reach out to our new members of Congress and their staffs, as well as our returning delegation and staffs. We are coordinating plans to visit Washington D.C. in early spring in conjunction with a proposed visit by Major General Nichols in order to meet with members and staff, and host another legislative reception for the Texas delegation. COL Patrick Hamilton (Left) and COL James Kenyon (right) visit with Rep. Phil Stephenson (center), District 85 during the NGAT legislative breakfast held in late February at the Texas State Capitol.

In February 2013 we also hosted a breakfast reception in the state capitol for new members and their staffs. The reception provided an opportunity for senior members of the Texas Military Forces to meet these people and answer basic Guard questions. We will be following up with visits to each of these offices.

key legislation passed The most significant legislative victory this past year was the blocking of the U.S. Air Force to move the C-130 fleet from Fort Worth. While our role was primarily one of support, the united stand of the Texas delegation sent a clear message to the Department of Defense. There were also small victories in the healthcare arena. New enrollment fees for TRICARE for Life and TRICARE Standard were blocked, as was a move to dramatically increase the TRICARE Prime fees. A 27% cut in Medicare and TRICARE payments to doctors was also stopped, and future annual Rx co-pay hikes were capped at the percentage increase in military retired pay. (See NGAT Legislative Priorities for specific legislative initiatives for this year.)

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email/fax brigade NGAT members have been very responsive in writing to Congress in support of specific legislation. This past year Texas ranked third in the nation in the number of messages sent to Congress through the NGAUS website, for we sent 14,336 messages to members of Congress, an increase of 35% over the previous year. This year we hope to generate over 18,000 messages. If only 1,500 of our members would commit to sending one message a month, we could reach this goal and hopefully achieve some notable legislative successes. Watch for email alerts, or logon to ngat.org to keep informed.

legislative website The NGAT legislative website continues to be the primary means of keeping you informed of critical legislation. We maintain it in-house and depend heavily on utilizing links to other legislative partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites to keep you informed (they have paid staff to follow legislation). We have now added Cap Wiz to our website to make the process of corresponding with legislators more simple and accessible to all. In practice, we will continue to route you to either the NGAUS or EANGUS website for issues of a national nature, but we will draft our own for Texas-related and state legislative issues. H

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

W R I T E TO CONGRESS!

Maj Gen John F. Nichols (left), The Adjutant General of Texas, recently welcomed staff from the Office of the Governor and the Texas Legislature to Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. The state employees were briefed on current activities and were provided a tour of the Texas Military Forces facility. (Photo by SSgt Phil Fountain)

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P r i o r i ti e s

Legisla t i ve

The combination of looming sequestration and another continuing resolution is a nightmare for the National Guard. A recent analysis by the US Army’s Program Analysis and Evaluation branch estimates a $29.59 million negative impact on the TXARNG alone, requiring deferred maintenance, eliminating minor construction, and reduced technician workforce, all of which will seriously erode readiness. The DoD-proposed involuntary furlough of technicians would be devastating to the ANG, resulting in maintenance backlogs, curtailment of critical training, and also jeopardizing personnel retention. In this environment, our emphasis is to avert and avoid any immediate threat to mission and force structure brought about in a move by the active force to use the Guard as a bill-payer. We are committed to enabling the Adjutant General and the two components to do what is necessary to meet the daily evolving challenges. Meanwhile we are seeing threats to existing benefits at both the federal and state level. Please be ready to respond to any call for action that we send out. It is critical that we demonstrate wide-spread support to oppose military benefit changes that are inconsistent with service career sacrifices.

In addition to supporting the federal and state initiatives of the Adjutant General, NGAT is pursuing the following priorities for our members:

FEDERAL H E A LT H

F A M I L I ES

TRICARE: Avert 27% Medicare/TRICARE payment cut and fix statutory formula to improve access to care. Protect against disproportional increases in TRICARE fees. Provide TRICARE Prime coverage to all drilling Guard members.

E D U C AT I O N

Pre-Tax Childcare Expenses: Allow Guard families to pay childcare expenses on a pre-tax basis.

Total Force GI Bill: Raise GI Bill educational benefit rates to cover at least the average cost of a public college education and allow accrual of benefits for reservists who serve multiple tours of active duty up to 36 months.

Employment Program: Fund skill building and employment programs for spouse and family members.

Pre-Tax TRICARE Payments: Allow uniformed services retiree beneficiaries, their family members, and survivors to pay TRICARE enrollment fees and supplemental insurance premiums using pre-tax dollars.

oth e r

r e tir e m e nt

Sequestration: Protect currently serving Guardsmen and retiree benefits against degradation based on sequestration’s arbitrary cuts.

Early Retirement: Credit all post-9/11 active duty service toward Guard early retirement. Reduce the age a retired Guardsman can receive military retirement pay by one year for every two years served after 20 years.

Dental: Provide all Guardsmen coverage under the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) to include an annual dental examination at no cost to the member and full payment by the TDP of any dental treatment needed to bring the member into a Dental Class 1 or 2.

Veteran Status: Secure veteran status for National Guard members entitled to reserve retirement pay.

Duty Points: Remove the annual limit on inactive duty points that can be applied to retirement.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Assistance: Fully fund PTSD/TBI care and research initiatives. Partner with health care entities to seek funding for community-based programs that mitigate, treat, and help overcome the effect of service family post traumatic stress disorder.

Employer Tax Credit: Authorize federal dollarfor-dollar tax credits to employers who make up negative salary differentials of their deployed Guard and Reserve employees. Provide employers a tax credit for compensation paid during the period employees are performing service as members of the Ready Reserve or the National Guard.

Title 32 Benefits Parity: Eliminate the lack of benefits parity between duty performed under Title 10 (federal authority) and Title 32 (state authority) by allowing military service under Title 32 to be creditable for the same purposes as military service under Title 10.

STATE hazl e w ood

tuition a s s i s tanc e

Protect Hazlewood educational benefits from universities attempting to limit or eliminate.

f amily a s s i s tanc e

Restore $1,000,000 to the biennium budget for tuition assistance for the Texas Military Forces.

Require a percentage of the Texas Veteran’s Commission’s Fund for Veteran’s Assistance to be earmarked for members of the Texas National Guard.

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Texas Military Forces Leadership Changes

BG (TX) Donald Prince

COL Darrell W. Dement

Commander, Texas State Guard Air Component

Texas Army National Guard Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel – G1

As a proud sponsor of the 2013 NGAT Conference, we are honored to serve our National Guard service members and their families.

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CSM (TX) Stephen Bell

Command Sergeant Major 71st Troop Command

Senior Enlisted Advisor Texas State Guard

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NGAT would like to thank Creative Director and Designer, Terri Sheets of MediaNation, Austin, Texas for the past 17 years of creative and dedicated service to NGAT. Over the years we have seen our NGAT News magazine and conference programs evolve into an exceptional communication tool to get our message out to our members. We have seen design and format changes as the magazine and conference programs have grown along with the Texas Military Forces. Terri has always exceeded our expectations and helped the NGAT News magazine win many publication awards over the years. In order to better serve our membership, NGAT will now design our magazine and conference programs in-house and will again transform our look in the process. If you are in need of publication design work please visit her website at www.medianation.net. Thanks for the memories, Terri! H

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National Guard

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A s s o c i a t i o n o f Te x a s C o n f e r e n c e Visit www.ngat.org and select 2013 NGAT Conference to download the NGAT Conference Program, view photos from the conference, and play the NGAT â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tapsâ&#x20AC;? video honoring those we have lost this past year.

Mark your ca lendar to join us at the 55th Annual NGAT Conference, March 21-23, 2014 at the Hyatt Regen cy, 1200 Louisia na St, Houston, Te xas. (Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

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2013 NGAT Minuteman award COL (Ret) Francisco Zuniga Colonel (Ret) Francisco Zuniga began his military career as a cadet at the United States Military Academy in July 1984. He was commissioned in May 1988 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. During his service in the United States Army from 1988 to 1999, he served in various position and assignments to include service in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, where he was awarded a Bronze Star for his military service. He served a one-year tour at Camp Doha, Kuwait as the Plans and Operations and Environmental Officer in the Directorate of Public Works. His final assignment in the U.S. Army was as a Project Officer for the Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth Engineer District with duty at Fort Bliss, Texas. COL Zuniga joined the Texas Army National Guard in 1999 and was assigned as the Engineer Staff Officer in the Engineer Brigade Headquarters. COL Zuniga joined NGAT shortly after entering the Texas Army National Guard and became a life member of NGAT on 4 September 2001. He served in the Texas Army National Guard in many different positions of leadership and responsibility and retired from active duty with over 28 years of military service in 2012. COL Zuniga served as the OIC for the 2002 NGAT Conference held in Corpus Christi, Texas, while also performing his duties as OIC, 386th Engineer Battalion. He again served as the OIC for the 2007 NGAT Conference

Past Minuteman recipients join COL (Ret) Francisco Zuniga as he accepts the 2013 NGAT Minuteman Award. (Photo by SFC Allen Schonberg)

held in Corpus Christi, Texas, while serving as the 386th Engineer Battalion Commander. In 2003, COL Zuniga and his wife, MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga, started the NGAT Silent Auction. His personal contributions and monetary donations to the NGAT Silent Auction over the past ten years are priceless. COL Zuniga served as Editor of the NGAT News magazine from the Fall of 2005 until the Summer of 2007. During his tenure, the NGAT News magazine was recognized in August 2006 and August 2007 as the best Combined Association News Magazine by EANGUS. From July 2010 to July 2011, while deployed to FOB Sharana in Afghanistan, COL Zuniga was the key player in obtaining 36 new NGAT members from the 176th Engineer Brigade. COL Zuniga is a life member of NGAUS and has been an active supporter of NGAUS since joining the Guard. He has attended all but four NGAUS conferences since 2001. He has also been a strong supporter of EANGUS, and has attended many EANGUS conferences, as he supports the enlisted personnel of the Texas Military Forces. COL Zuniga is an active participant in the NGAT legislative alert team, and he writes letters to congress on a regular basis. Earlier this year COL Zuniga assisted the NGAT staff with logistical coordination of events at the National Guard Executive Director’s Association Annual Meeting. COL Zuniga’s dedication to duty and untiring support of NGAT and the Texas Military Forces is worthy of the honor of being named the recipient of the 2013 NGAT Minuteman Award. H

(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

Col (Ret) Maritta L. Loo-Sumner

COL (Ret) Paul E. Tressa

Col (Ret) Maritta L. Loo-Sumner received the Davy Crockett Award in recognition of outstanding service to the Texas National Guard and outstanding volunteer work for the National Guard Association of Texas. Col (Ret) Loo-Sumner served over thirty years in the Texas Air National Guard retiring in 2001. Her service was marked by a commitment to excellence, a clear focus on mission, and proven leadership.

The Davy Crockett Award was presented to COL (Ret) Paul E. Tressa in recognition of his dedicated service to the Texas Military Forces and outstanding volunteer work with the National Guard Association of Texas. COL Tressa served our state and nation in the U.S. Army and retired from the Texas Army National Guard with over 30 years of service. Immediately after joining the Texas Army National Guard in 1981, he became a life member of the Association. After retiring from the Guard, COL Tressa served several years in the Texas State Guard.

Col (Ret) Loo-Sumner has long been an active and committed supporter of the National Guard Association of Texas. She became an NGAT life member in August 1981. While in the Air National Guard, she served on the NGAT legislative committee and has been a committed supporter of the NGAT Conference for over 20 years.

COL Tressa has long been a vocal advocate for membership in both NGAT and NGAUS. He has encouraged many Soldiers and Airmen to join NGAT after explaining to them the importance their membership plays in securing their current benefits and benefits for the future. Over the past 15 years COL Tressa has been a dedicated supporter of the NGAT conferences not only by attending, but also as a volunteer at the 2002 and 2007 NGAT Conference held in Corpus Christi, Texas. In 2010 he served on the Texas NGAUS Committee that provided support for the NGAUS Conference held in Austin, Texas.

Her support of NGAT on the national level has been commendable. She has been a continuous attendee representing NGAT at the NGAUS Conference for over the past 10 years. As a life member of NGAUS, she has served on various committees that were instrumental in the advancement of Air National Guard issues in relation to the Texas Air National Guard. In 2010 she served on the Texas NGAUS committee that provided support for the NGAUS Conference held in Austin, Texas. H

COL Tressa’s support of NGAT at the national level has been outstanding. For many years he represented NGAT at the NGAUS resolutions committee meetings for Army issues to ensure that the interests of the Texas Army National Guard were being considered at the national level. H

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juan navarro award

(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

The Juan Navarro Award recognizes outstanding contribution or service to the National Guard Association of Texas of a significant nature.

SFC Allen Schonberg The NGAT Jose Navarro Award was presented to SFC Allen Schonberg in recognition of his outstanding service to the National Guard Association of Texas and the Texas National Guard. SFC Schonberg has served over 22 years in the National Guard, and he currently serves in the 36th Sustainment Brigade in Temple, Texas. SFC Schonberg joined NGAT in July 2004. He became active in the association in 2007 when he was sponsored to attend the NGAT Conference in Corpus Christi, Texas. He quickly got involved with the association. On April 4, 2008 he became a life member of NGAT. Also in 2008, he attended his first of many EANGUS conferences representing members of the Texas Military Forces in Savanna, Georgia. His involvement with NGAT and EANGUS has been continuous over the past 5 years. He has assisted with the NGAT welcome party, registration, silent auction, and awards dinner. SFC Schonberg’s involvement on the national level has been exceptional. His attendance at multiple EANGUS conferences has been at his own expense, and he has been an immeasurable supporter of NGAT. Even during a two year tour in Indiana SFC Schonberg stayed involved in NGAT and EANGUS. He also has been a strong supporter of our legislative writing campaign in writing letters to congressional leaders when we needed our voice to be heard. SFC Schonberg has strong leadership attributes and an unwavering desire to excel. His unselfish service and dedication to the National Guard Association of Texas uniquely qualifies him for the Jose Navarro Award. H

general k.l. berry award

(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

SSGT Mitchell Corbin The General K.L. Berry Award recognizes an act of heroism involving risk of life or personal safety. Major General Berry was a highly decorated veteran of WWII and the first post WWII Adjutant General of Texas. He was a prisoner of war to the Japanese until the end of WWII. During the NGAT Awards dinner, SSgt Mitchell R. Corbin was awarded the General K. L. Berry Award for conspicuous heroism at the risk of personal safety for his actions in the rescue of a passenger from a car who was in immediate danger. SSgt Corbin is a member of the Texas Air National Guard, serving with the 147th Reconnaissance Wing at Ellington Field in Houston Texas, and he is a Life Member of NGAT. On June 1, 2012 while driving on Beltway 8 in Houston, Texas, SSgt Corbin came upon a car that was on its side with the engine compartment on fire. Bystanders were awaiting the arrival of firefighters, but a screaming family member alerted SSgt Corbin that her mother was trapped in the burning car. Acting on instinct and without concern for his safety, he immediately jumped out of his car and directed the nearest toll booth operator to secure a fire extinguisher. He jumped on top of the burning car and attempted to open the car door, but was he was unsuccessful. He then directed a person nearby to try and break out the back window, but still he was unsuccessful in getting the car door open. He then used the fire extinguisher from the toll booth to break out the window of the burning car. After clearing away the shattered glass with his bare hands, Staff Sergeant Corbin reached through the deployed airbags, seized the passenger by the arms, and removed her from the car. While lowering the injured passenger from the car, smoke completely engulfed the passenger area of the car. Seconds after removing her from the vehicle, the vehicle burst into flames. Sensing the potential of further injury to the passenger, SSgt Corbin quickly relocated the passenger away from the burning car and administered first aid. Because the passenger had a weak pulse, SSgt Corbin had her continuously squeeze his fingers to ensure she remained conscious until the paramedics arrived. Upon the arrival of paramedics, SSgt Corbin left the scene. The entire incident was captured on a traffic camera and played in the local media focusing on the anonymous Good Samaritan’s act and the life he had saved. It was not until SSgt Corbin communicated the event to a co-worker that his identity became known and he was recognized for this heroic act. The news story of Staff Sergeant Corbin’s actions initially aired locally, but soon the story gained momentum and aired nationally on Fox News, CNN, and Good Morning America. To watch the video of this courageous rescue go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTA_zuMv0y4/. H

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2 0 1 3 N ational G uard A s s ociation o f T e xa s Educational Foundation Scholar s hip Winn e r s MG Thomas E. Berry Memorial Scholarship Son of COL Walter David Counts, Life Member since June 1971

$5,000.00

Matthew Counts

Len and Jean Tallas Memorial Scholarship Daughter of 2LT H. Lee Burton, Life Member since August 2011

$2,000.00

Erin L. Burton

Lewis King Memorial Scholarship Son of 1SG (Ret) Rene Barboza, Life Member since March 1988

$2,000.00

Andrew B. Barboza

TXNG Retirees Scholarship Son of Maj Gen (Ret) James E. Whinnery, Life Member since May 1987

$1,500.00

Typ Whinnery

1SG Harry E. Lux Memorial Scholarship Daughter of MAJ (Ret) Scott Dorf, Life Member since June 1989

$1,250.00

Shelby Dorf

Everett S. Simpson Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Sarah Counts Daughter of COL Walter David Counts, Life Member since June 1971

CSM John Morgan Memorial Scholarship Life Member since September 2011

$1,000.00

SFC Daniel Griego

LTC Garland Parrish Memorial Scholarship Daughter of SGT (Ret) Laronder D. Snowden, Life Member since January 1989

$750.00

Calandra M. Snowden

USAA Scholarship Son of COL Stanley E. Golaboff, Life Member since October 1991

$700.00

Noah Golaboff

DONATE TO THE NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation has several endowments honoring former members of the Texas Military Forces. Anyone who wishes to donate to any of these endowments or to create one of your own should contact NGAT at 512-454-7300 or mail their donation directly to the Educational Foundation at the below address. All donations are greatly appreciated. NGATEF | 3706 Crawford Ave | Austin, TX 78731-6308

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(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

5 4 t h

C O N F E R E N C E

N G AT

A N N U A L

FUN RUN

nners of the The following are the wi the 54th competitions held during : Annual NGAT Conference

Males

1st Place- BG Len Smith 2nd Place- SFC Daniel Griego 3rd Place- SFC Delmas Vandine

Females

1st Place- MAJ Laura Jane Stephens 2nd Place- COL (Ret) Cindy Smith 3rd Place- LTC Michelle Bryant

GOLF

1st Place

SFC Jason Broyles 1SG Mark Dornbusch SFC Justin Frasier SFC Chris Schrag

2nd Place

COL (Ret) Jim Looney Col (Ret) Seth Junkins COL Robert Crow Maj Gen (Ret) Allen Dehnert

3rd Place

Vilma Saucedo Jason Saucedo Rod Pruitt Okcha Cummings Longest Drive — SFC Justin Frasier Closest to the Pin — LTC Les Edwards

TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT 1st Place — SFC Daniel Griego 2nd Place — 1LT Toby Vira 3rd Place — CPT Nicky Bearb

ERS HOSPITALITY SUITES WINN Division 1st Place - 36th DHHB/36th Infantry Conf & $500 Free Suite Fri & Sat at the 2014 NGAT cers 2nd Place - JFHQ/aka Warrant Offi $300 & f Con T NGA 4 201 Free Suite Fri at the 0 3rd Place - 71st BfSB: $15

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W I N N E R S

(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

NGAT SILENT AUCTION RAISED $8,853

10-Year Auction total is $64,204! Thanks to all our donators and bidders.

PASSPORT WINNER

32” Flat Screen Color TV — SGT Chris Android Tablet — Anita Higgins

Young

NGAT RAFFLE WINNERS Android Tablet — Emma Chavers iPad — Alicia Quine Kuerig — Traci Winkler Acer Aspire One — MAJ David Olson XBox — SSG Michael Courade Kindle — 1LT George Strable iPad — CSM Tony Carter

DoD awards 147th Airman and Family Readiness Program best in ANG

Story By 2Lt Alicia Lacy

The 147th Reconnaissance Wing boasts several accolades already for 2013, and on March 1, the wing added another award to its repertoire. During the Department of Defense Reserve Family Readiness Awards presentation in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon, the wing’s Airman and Family Program Manager, Monalisa Norton, was presented a plaque and certificate naming the program the best in the Air National Guard. “The 147th RW truly exemplifies everything we do inside the Air National Guard to be able to support family readiness,” said Brig Gen James Witham, ANG deputy director. Norton and other volunteers work with airmen and families throughout the wing to make sure families are being taken care of while their airmen are deployed. Norton has been responsible for implementing programs that have had a positive and lasting impact on the members and families of Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base and credits the support from her leadership in the unit. “It takes a whole team to make this office what it is and I’m very fortunate to have that team around me,” Norton said about the support she received from wing leadership. Additionally, Norton said she is able to execute her duties as the program manager because she has lived the life as a military spouse and can relate to the airmen and families here. The Reserve Family Readiness Award recognizes one National Guard and Reserve unit from each of the seven reserve components and the winners are those units with the best programs to support their families.

Monalisa Norton, 147th Reconnaissance Wing’s Airman and Family Readiness Program Manager, and SSgt Holli Yeagley receive the Department of Defense 2012 Reserve Family Readiness award for the Air National Guard. The ceremony was conducted in the Hall of Heroes in the Pentagon on March 1, 2013. (Photo by MSgt Sean Cowher)

The DOD Reserve Family Readiness Awards Program was established in 2000 to recognize the top unit family readiness program in each of the Reserve components. Family readiness programs are particularly important as the United States relies on significant numbers of reservists to serve in critical locations worldwide. Family readiness has proven to be a key component of mission readiness. Robust family readiness programs have enhanced the deployability of guard and reserve units, and they represent a vital link in the support networks for our reserve families. H

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GUARD GUARD MUSTER MUSTER

Membership Update NGAT Annual membership continues to drop. At the end of February 2012, just prior to last year’s annual conference, we had 198 active annual members, 106 retired/former Guard annual members, and 76 TXSG annual members, for a total of 380 annual members. At the end of February 2013, we had 222 active annual members, 80 retired/former Guard annual members, and 35 TXSG annual members, for a total of 337 annual members. We do get a considerable number of people who renew their dues during the annual conference, so current numbers may be slightly higher.

PRESERVE YOUR HERITAGE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS A living tribute to all the men and women of America’s National Guard… Help preserve your Guard heritage… Register today!

Our life membership has backed off after two years of very strong growth. Currently, our life membership stands at 30,625 compared to 30,460 in February of last year. Last fiscal year we had 206 new life members. So far in this fiscal year, we have added 61 new life members. Our membership in national organizations remains overall poor. In NGAUS, our membership percentage remains the worst in the nation. Last year we had only 89 active members and 205 retired life members. In EANGUS, our membership has dropped slightly. At the end of 2012, we had 384 members, compared to 470 at the end of 2011.

The Guard Muster is the permanent register of Guard men and women, past and present, who have been enrolled into the Muster by themselves, or by those who wish to honor them. Names in the Muster are displayed electronically at a computer kiosk located in the National Guard Memorial Museum, as well as online on the NGEF website. Visitors are invited to search for individual records, which display a person’s name, state, unit, place of birth and Guard duties performed.

We encourage all NGAT members to assist us in expanding membership to the next generation of Guard soldiers and airmen. To find out more about membership in NGAT visit our website at www.ngat.org. H

A donation of only $25 is requested for each Muster enrollment, with an additional $15 to include a photograph. The photograph can be added to the Muster at any time, and may be either black and white or color, and no larger than 8”x10”. Anyone who is or has served in the National Guard, the relative of a Guard member, or is a friend or supporter of the Guard is eligible for inclusion in the Muster. To sign up go to www.ngef.org and complete the online registration. 22

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REV1484c_BATLSKIN_TEXAS_NAT_GUARD.indd 1

13-03-25 5:09 PM

AROUND

THE

W O R L D with th MG James K. “Red” Brown, (center) NGAT Life Member and 36th ID Commanding General, proudly stands with six OCS graduates at Fort Benning, GA. Pictured left to right are 2LT Mark Waters, assigned to HHB 1-133 FA, 2LT Sharon Dietz, assigned to 4-133 FA, 2LT Giovanni Valldejuli, assigned to 236 EN CO, 2LT William Okun, assigned to E Co 1-149 AV, 2LT Tyler Hayes, assigned to HHT 1-112 CAV, and 2LT Joshua Schirard, assigned to D Co 3-141 IN. 2LT Waters and 2LT Hayes were recognized as Honor Graduates, finishing in the top 20% of the class academically.

SGT Jay-Jay Janabajal moves through a water obstacle on Kirby Field during the Ranger Training Assessment Course at the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center on Fort Benning. SGT Janabajal is assigned to the 1-143rd Infantry Regiment. (Photo by Ashley Cross)

NGAT Life Member, CW3 Michael Long and his son, Air Force, 2LT Steven Long, ran the “Bataan Death March” (marathon portion) at White Sands Missle Range, NM. CW3 Long finished 24th out of 1638 runners in 3 hours and 57 minutes. 2LT Long is stationed at White Sands Missile Range and this was his first marathon.

All you see are the boots of CPT Jeff Wilson of the 36th CAB as he is flipped over into shallow water in the Overwater Survival Trainer (H.O.S.T.), more commonly known as “The Dunker.” This is part of the Texas aviators pre-mobilizations training conducted at Fort Rucker, AL. Utilizing a simulator, they train and practice how to safely evacuate a helicopter in the event of a water landing.

Congratulations to the two newest Army Aviators in the 36th CAB, 1LT Stephen Fisher (left) and W01 Zachary Rogers (right). Both graduated from Flight School at Fort Rucker on March 21, 2013 and will be returning to the 1-149th ARB in Houston.

PFC (TX) Rachel Carmickle, of the Texas State Guard’s 4th Civil Affairs Regiment, rappels from a climbing tower at the Tarleton Challenge Course during a joint exercise at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. (Photo by PFC (TX) Ryan Stephens)

General Mike Hostage (center), Commander, Air Combat Command, poses with members of the 147th Reconnaissance Wing at the units’ Launch and Recovery Element at Fort Polk, LA. General Hostage visited Fort Polk to see the capabilities the 147th RW brings to Green Flag East, a joint training exercise, and how Airman training is conducted. (Photo by A1C Joseph A. Pagán Jr.) H

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TEXAS

NATIONAL

Fathers and Sons pictured left to right are COL George Conwill (NGAT Life Member), SGT Stephen Conwill, 1LT Andrew Tillman, and LTC James Tillman (NGAT Life Member) meet up and pose for a photo near their camp in Kabul, Afghanistan. The four Soldiers are members of the 136th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and deployed together last fall for a nine-month deployment. (Photo by CPT

GUARD

MAJ Robb Dettmer and 1LT Chuck Gamero of the 56th IBCT, roast peeps in Kandahar City, Afghanistan.

Marvin J. Baker)

SGT Eric Thompson, of the the 56th IBCT, displays the fireman’s carry lift during medical training at FOB Hadrian, Afghanistan. (Photo by Australian Major Chris Linden)

CPT Derek C. Knapp, of Austin, Texas, with Security Force Assistance Team 10, and his Afghan Border Police counterpart discuss security during a shura near the area known as the “Jungle” during Operation Southern Fist III in FOB Spin Boldak, Afghanistan. (Photo by SSG Shane Hamann) Soldiers with the 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team pose for a group photo on the 177th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence at Multinational Base Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, February 21, 2013. (Photo by SGT Jessi McCormick)

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omments C y e rv u S e c n re fe n o 2013 C Work Sessions

4.15/5.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . on ssi Se ing en Op y da Fri 4.37/5.0 ess Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NGAT Breakfast/Busin social functions 4.20/5.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . s itie tiv Ac s Sport 4.57/5.0 Welcome Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.68/5.0 Spouse Luncheon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.58/5.0 Awards Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.32/5.0 UTS (average of all) . . . KO EA BR L NA IO PROFESS exhibit hall

YES 92.1% of respondents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ll? Ha it Visit the Exhib 4.52/5.0 Exhibit Hall rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . silent auction YES 54.2% of respondents ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . on cti Au t en Sil Did you bid in the 4.46/5.0 Silent Auction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . time/family issues YES 81.9% of respondents e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tim se Enough family/spou YES 69.5% of respondents Family friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . % of respondents YES ht children) . . . . . 94.4 ug bro o wh e os (th ly Family friend 88.1% YES ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . lue va od go a s wa ce Conferen 96.3% YES next year? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . d en att to n pla u yo Do

What we take away:

event important networking - The conference is an professional erings â&#x20AC;&#x201D; personal and - Expand breakout off reakouts iree oriented activities/b - More spouse and ret s out conference activitie - Inform you earlier ab the conference ponses received after * Data based on 241 res

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The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) 42nd Annual Conference “Fun at the Falls” Sioux Falls, South Dakota —

Join us in Paradise at the 135th Annual NGAUS Conference Honolulu, Hawaii September 20-23, 2013

“The Heart of America” August 18-21, 2013 Plan now to attend the EANGUS 42nd Annual Conference & Expo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota!

Make plans to join us in Honolulu, Hawaii, at the 2013 NGAUS Conference. Registration forms are located online at www.ngat.org. Texas will be staying at the Sheraton Waikiki where you will enjoy a low hotel rate of $179.00 per night.

Bringing it back to where it all started in 1972! South Dakota’s largest city is tucked away in the Southeast corner of the state located at the junction of I-90 and I-29, making it easily accessible from every direction. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport offers daily, non-stop flights to a number of metropolitan cities and is conveniently located 3.5 miles or a 5 minute drive to your 2013 headquarter facility, the Sioux Falls Convention Center.

Aloha! Come experience the 2013 NGAUS Conference in Hawaii’s island paradise. Outdoor lovers can hike the island’s lush rain forests and coasts, golf the many outstanding courses, and explore coastal and inland road by bike or by car. Waterfalls, volcanic craters, botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuaries are only a few of the tropical wonders waiting for you to experience.

In Sioux Falls you will find all the offerings of a big city with fantastic small town hospitality. From a vibrant historic downtown area to local wineries, arts, theatre, symphony, museums, sporting events and so much more! The cities name sake, Falls Park, is located in the historic downtown area. The 123-acre park features a triple waterfall, visitor information center, 5-story observation tower, café and historic ruins. Falls Park is the must see attraction in Sioux Falls and will host your 2013 Host States Night on Sunday, August 18, 2013.

During the day, you’ll hear from guest speakers from the Pentagon and Congress during business sessions, learn about the state of the Army and Air Force in separate sessions, have an opportunity to attend a variety of professional development workshops, and discover the latest products and services in the largest defense industry trade show that caters to the National Guard.

Registration forms are located online at

www.ngat.org

Spend your evenings with your comrades at various events, including the Governor’s Reception, hospitality night, and the All States Dinner. The NGAUS conference is an excellent place for networking with your peers and for keeping up to date on all that NGAUS is doing to serve its members and the National Guard as a whole. Come early or stay late at the conference and experience amazing marine life in the warm crystal clear waters. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming in waves, and diving over famous coral reefs. Take a cruise off Diamond Head to observe Humpback whale pods. Surf the famous beaches of Waikiki or harness the winds with a kite or windsurfer. From the breathtaking sunrises of Kailua and sunsets on Waikiki beach to the fabulous active nightlife of nearby Honolulu.

Registration forms are available on the NGAT website at www.ngat.org.

Hope to see you there! W W W . N G A T . O R G

2013 TEXAS ADJUTANT GENERAL’S PERFORMANCE EXCELLENCE COMPETITION (TAGPEC) The Adjutant General’s Performance Excellence Competition (TAGPEC) is a competition used to assess the performance excellence practices in the Texas Military Forces (TXMF), to provide actionable feedback to participating units, and to familiarize units with the principles and practices of the Malcolm Baldrige Performance Improvement Criteria with emphasis on strategic planning.

TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD

TEX AS ARM Y N AT IO N A L G U A R D 03-04 Command Level

05-06 Command Level

03-04 Command Level No winner selected

05-06 Command Level

112th Combat Service Support Company

136th Regional Training Institute

T E X AS S TAT E GU A R D 03-04 Command Level

05-06 Command Level 147th Reconnaissance Wing Accepting award left to right: CMSgt Marion Nation, Commander; Col Jack Daniels; and the Adjutant General of Texas, Maj Gen John F. Nichols.

2nd Battalion 39th Composite Regiment Accepting award left to right: COL (TX) Christine DeSocarraz, the Adjutant General of Texas; Maj Gen John F. Nichols; and MAJ (TX) Jeremy Franklin.

Maritime Regiment MG (TX) Manuel A. Rodriguez VII (left), Commander of the Texas State Guard, accepts the award from the Adjutant General of Texas, Maj Gen John F. Nichols, for the Commander of the Maritime Regiment, BG (TX) Robert J. Bodisch.

T E X AS AIR N AT IO N A L G U A R D A I R M E N O F T HE Y E AR

Airman of the Year SrA Tabare Faison 204th Security Forces Squadron

NCO of the Year TSgt Carolyn Tatum 136th Airlift Wing

Senior NCO of the Year MSgt Mike Connelley 273rd Information Operations Squadron

First Sergeant of the Year MSgt Malvin Barge-Rivera 147th Reconnaissance Wing

Honor Guard Member of the Year TSgt Olympia Williamson 136th Airlift Wing

Honor Guard Manager of the Year TSgt David Williams 147th Reconnaissance Wing

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A R M Y NATI ONAL GUARD S OL DIER OF THE YEAR

Soldier of the Year SPC Adam Best 36th Infantry Division

T E XA S S TAT E G U A R D

Senior NCO of the Ye ar SFC (TX) Deborah L. Ra ndolph Texas State Guard

NCO of the Year SSG Dominic Gonzales Team 72nd Infantry Brigade Combat

NSN#: 6505-01-611-2071

Junior Enlisted of the Year SSgt (TX) Samuel W. Sexton Texas State Guard

VA Contract #: V797P-5223B

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2 0 1 3 - 2 0 1 4 N G AT C O R P O R AT E NGAT SALUTES OUR GENEROUS CORPORATE MEMBERS AND SPONSORS WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH TO OUR ASSOCIATION. PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITES LOCATED ON THE NGAT HOME PAGE.

PLATINUM Stanley Black & Decker

GOLD Cobham Aerospace Communications DRS Technologies Navy Federal Credit Union Onsite Health, Inc.* UIC Maintenance & Manufacturing, LLC

SILVER ADS, Inc. Ashford University Cobham Life Support* DHS Technologies EADS North America Harris Corporation LiteFighter Systems Rite in the Rain Thomas Edison State College

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MEMBERS & SPONSORS BRONZE AAR Mobility Systems AM General, LLC American Military University Darley Defense* Deployed Resources, LLC* Humana Military Kaplan College Laser Shot Leading Edge Group Leatherman Tool Group* MetLife-Tricare Dental Program* Northrop Grumman Patriot Taxiway* Perkins Technical Services, Inc* Port-A-Cool Pulse Tech Products Corporation Raytheon Revision Military Sprint The Boeing Company Transhield, Inc. University of Phoenix - Military Division W.W. Williams Logistics* Zanfel Laboratories, Inc

CORPORATE Bellevue University Black Diamond Synergy** Columbia College GT Distributors Mace Enterprises, LLC Peduzzi Associates, Ltd. Tetra Tech/Mead & Hunt Joint Venture** The Parking Spot USAA

PATRIOT SPONSOR Revision Military

*New Sponsor **New Corporate Member

(Photos by SFC Daniel Griego)

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TEXAS MILITARY FORCES HONOR AMERICAN HEROES

Original Story by SGT Suzanne Carter The sun shone bright across the parade field as the Texas Military Forces welcomed current and former service members, their families, and the community to attend the annual Open House featuring the American Heroes Air Show at Camp Mabry, April 20-21, 2013. The two-day military expo featured a variety of events intended to pay tribute to veterans, engage service members with the community, and foster a spirit of patriotism. The main attraction that drew the biggest crowd on Saturday was a reenactment of the Battle of Montelimar, a battle that found the 36th Infantry Division chasing the German Army during its retreat up the Rhone River in August 1944. Other reenactments included living history camps set up to recreate life for soldiers in the Texas Revolution and Civil War periods, including Buffalo Soldiers of Company A 9th Cavalry from Camp Mabry. Reenactors demonstrated weapons used during the Civil War and invited spectators to take part in history by holding and firing black powder reenactment loads from the antique weaponry. The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, a 3/5-scale reproduction of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, drew visitors who wished to pay respect to fallen heroes and who wanted to search for familiar names. Service members from 16 countries including Haiti, Nigeria, Mexico and China, took the oath of citizenship in front of the memorial during a naturalization ceremony, which took place Saturday morning. Another favorite attraction of the weekend was a military helicopter demonstration during which a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pursued a speeding vehicle across the parade field. The chopper simulated disabling the vehicle from the air before Soldiers rappelled from the aircraft and captured the fugitives inside. A parachute team and K-9 search and rescue team also demonstrated their skills and expertise at the parade field on Saturday. The open house featured static helicopter displays and interactive booths from civilian first responders and law enforcement agencies throughout the Austinarea, as well as information booths for service member support organizations, face-painting, and food vendors. H (Photos by Col Connie McNabb)

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TXMF HOST FIRST JOINT-SERVICE BEST WARRIOR COMPETITION The Texas Military Forces hosted the first joint-service “Best Warrior Competition” at the Texas Army National Guard’s Camp Swift near Bastrop, Texas, Feb. 8-10. The three-day long competition pushed competitors to their physical limits through a series of events including a six-mile ruck march, weapons qualification, land navigation, confidence course, and performance board. Rudyard Kipling first characterized the non-commissioned officer as the backbone of the Army in his 1896 poem, “The ‘Eathen.” Since then, this timeless corps of professionals have built and developed the ranks of Soldiers and Airmen to be redoubtable fighting forces. CMSgt Denise Jelinski-Hall, senior enlisted adviser to the chief of the National Guard Bureau located at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA., was on-hand to view the joint-service activities. “One of the many benefits that I’m seeing is soldiers and airmen competing side-by-side, getting to know one another,” said JelinskiHall. “This is important, so when there’s a state natural disaster, a flood, fire, or a tornado, they already know each other.”

Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas Military Forces, CSM Bradley Brandt (left), and the Adjutant General of Texas, Maj Gen John Nichols (right), present trophies to the winners of the 2013 Joint Best Warrior Competition. SrA Nicholas Martin (center left) was named Best Overall Junior Enlisted winner, and SSG Dominic Gonzales was named Best Overall NCO winner.

On April 12, 2013 the Texas Military Forces Museum hosted the Joint Best Warrior Competition awards banquet. During the banquet, SrA Nicholas Martin (147th ASOS, 147th RW) was named the best overall junior enlisted, and SSG Dominic Gonzales (1-113 FA, 72nd IBCT) was named the best overall NCO.

CMSgt Denise Jelinski-Hall (center), senior enlisted advisor to the chief of the National Guard Bureau, views the joint-service activities at the Best Warrior Competition with CMSgt Kevin O’Gorman, command chief for the Texas Air National Guard.

Below are the winners by individual event. All warriors were graded on a total point merit system. H

PHYSICAL CATEGORY Event 8 Mile Ruck March

Best NCO/Jr Enlisted NCO - SSG Dominic Gonzales Jr Enl - SrA Danny Moreno

Mystery Event

NCO - TSgt Francisco Tarango Jr Enl - SrA Danny Moreno

Obstacle Course

NCO - SSG Dominic Gonzales Jr Enl - SrA Jose, Talavera

SKILL CATEGORY Event M4 Qualification

Best NCO/Jr Enlisted NCO - SSG Jace Halbrook Jr Enl - SPC Claude Clinton

M9 Qualification

NCO - SGT Clinton Smithson Jr Enl - SrA Danny Moreno

Day/Night Land Navigation

NCO - SSG Colin Hankinson Jr Enl - SPC Claude Clinton

Warrior Task Training

NCO - SSG Colin Hankinson Jr Enl - SPC Matthew Turnell

INTELLECT CATEGORY Event Essay

Best NCO/Jr Enlisted NCO - SSG Colin Hankinson Jr Enl - SPC Adam Best

Appearance Board

NCO - SSG Matthew Renteria Jr Enl - SPC Adam Best (Photos by SSgt Phil Fountain)

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BUFFALO SOLDIER MUSEUM HONORS GENERALS

(Photo and Story by SFC Allen Schonberg)

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston is a tribute to the African-American military experience. Documents, memorabilia, artifacts, and photographs catalogue the contributions of proud service members in every period of United States history. As the story continues to be written, the museum staff ensures that record of all events are captured, resulting in an outstanding collection. In fact, the collection has grown so much, the museum had to move from its original location. On November 11, 2012, the museum moved to its current location, the Houston Light Guard Armory at 3816 Caroline Street, a historical military site in Houston, Texas. On February 22nd, the museum hosted 22 General Officers representing all 5 military branches of service, both active and retired, at the Buffalo Soldier National Museum’s 13th Annual Black Tie Gala benefitting the restoration of the historic Houston Light Guard Army. This year’s theme was “Honoring Our Generals.”

Photographs and memorabilia from the event will be on permanent display in the museum. H

Pictured are some of the General Officers that were honored at the Buffalo Soldier National Museum’s 13th Annual Black Tie Gala in Houston, Texas. (Photo by SFC Allen Schonberg)

You can leave a legacy and support the Buffalo Soldier National Museum at the same time by buying a brick. Bricks can be dedicated in honor of veterans, individual corporations and/or organizations. Visit their website at www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com to purchase a brick. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is a symbol of American pride that should be enjoyed by all who serve this great country of ours.

Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation Awarded Grant

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The Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation (TXNGFSF) was awarded a Texas Veterans Commission Grant, Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, to provide: emergency financial assistance; short-term TRICARE medical and dental healthcare premiums and/or co-pays; and financial counseling services.

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For more information, contact State Family Programs: Brent Green, Family Assistance Center Coordinator brent.m.green2.ctr@mail.mil or Luann Barron, Administrative Assistant lu.a.barron.ctr@mail.mil “This program is made possible by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families.” www.tvc.texas.gov

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Texas Guardsmen train for criminal investigations The elite investigators of military felonies comprise the Criminal Investigations Division of the Army’s Military Police branch. These Soldiers train to do what no other personnel can: process and evaluate crime scenes pertaining to military personnel. For the 698th MP Detachment (CID), this means refining and perfecting those skills that enable them to safely and accurately deliver justice when the time comes. On March 23, 2013, the detachment got such an opportunity when they engaged in two separate training scenarios that simulated full-scale crime scenes with evidence collection and step-by-step scene processing. The scenarios, held at Ellington Air Field in Houston, Texas, tested the capabilities these agents have been developing for the past year. “This mock crime scene was not only successful, but reinforced the agents’ crime scene skills, enhancing their readiness as CID special agents,” said CW2 Rachel Devere, operations officer for the 249th MP Battalion (CID). The case was an unknown cause of death homicide for the Soldiers to engage and process. The exercise was conducted twice in its entirety, with the unit broken up into teams so that each member had the chance to participate. Throughout the day, they completed sketches, notes, forms and photography to properly document the fictitious incident in accordance with CID standards. “We did a case review of what actually was portrayed in the scenes and went step-by-step through both crime scenes according to the MAC case,” said SFC Dillon Cumpian, the readiness NCO for the 698th MP Det (CID). “The MAC case is what is used at the school house to teach the basics of crime scene processing. It’s based off a former CID case that ended up as a “what not to do example,” said Devere, “MAC case training established the CID standards.” Tasks completed during the exercise included evidence gathering, submitting lab requests, compiling notes and sketches, and triangulation recording. H (Photo by CID Special Agent Scott Kelly)

ngat facility update The Facilities Committee is tasked with planning for the future development of NGAT real property. In February 2012, NGAT purchased the property immediately adjacent to our property on Crawford Ave. The property has a tenant and a lease with a month-to-month extension, giving us predictable rental income and flexibility for future planning. The combined lots give us over 1/3 acre in total real estate, significantly expanding our land footprint. We now have sufficient space to build a new office building after meeting all building code and parking requirements. In December 2012, we contracted with the architectural firm of Fields and Associates to conduct a site survey of our combined properties to determine the allowable size and layout of an office building. The site survey was completed in February 2013, and was presented to the NGAT Board on 4 March 2013. The Facilities Committee will now draft some courses of action regarding building size, design, and funding, and submit these to the Board for consideration.

We are excited about planning a new building, and we look forward to sharing with you our future building plans.

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NGB VICE CHIEF VISITS CAMP SWIFT

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RECRUITERS BRING ELLINGTON TO HOUSTON COMMUNITY

TSgt Kerry Peters, a 147th Reconnaissance Wing Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician, explains how he uses a robot to inspect and disarm suspected explosive devices during a recruiting event in Houston, Texas. (Photo by 2Lt Alicia Lacy)

Former member of the Texas Air National Guard and NGAT Life Member, Lt Gen Joseph L. Lengyel, who is also vice chief of the National Guard Bureau, along with MAJ Dwight Bryan (NGAT Life Member), a member of the 112th CS Spt Co, tour Camp Swift near Bastrop, Texas to learn more about Army operations. (Photo by SSgt Phil Fountain)

MEMBERS OF THE 147TH RECONNAISSANCE WING SUPPORT THE PRESIDENTS INAUGURATION

36TH CAB DONATES TO CAMP SWIFT ROCK GARDEN SPC Alejandro Saracay of HHC 36th CAB painted this stone in the rock garden at Camp Swift to commemorate the brigade’s upcoming OEF deployment. (Photo by SGT Mark Scovell)

LAREDO CELEBRATES GEORGE WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY

As President Barack Obama was being sworn in for a second term, thirteen members of the 147th Reconnaissance Wing Services Squadron were busy working behind the scenes. Nearly 6,000 military personnel from around the country deployed to Washington, D.C. for the inauguration, and those troops would need to be fed. MSgt Robert Keyes, 147th Base Services Manager, and twelve other members of the 147th Services Squadron packed up a Single Pallet Expeditionary Kitchen (SPEK) and travelled to the nation’s capital to help feed some of those troops. The 147th members were responsible for feeding some 1500 personnel during a rotating 24-hour schedule for 6 days. The SPEK is used to prepare Unitized Group Rations (UGRs), which are similar to the Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), that most service members are familiar with, just much larger. A1C Darryl Lee, a services craftsman, said the deployment was a great opportunity and a great learning experience. The 147th members were also sworn in as deputies by the Washington, D.C. Metro Police Department in the event they would be needed to act in a law enforcement capacity. (Photo by MSgt Sean Cowher)

Brig Gen Kenneth W. Wisian, Assistant Adjutant General – Air (right), and General A. Solorzano, representing the Mexican Military, exchange flags at the 2013 International Bridge Ceremony in Laredo, TX on February 23, 2013. The ceremony serves as the “official welcome” between officials and dignitaries from Mexico and the United States by exchanging “abrazos” or hugs, symbolizing goodwill between the two nations. The event is part of a two-week long George Washington Birthday Celebration the city hosts every year. (Photo by SSG Malcolm McClendon)

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JOINT TASK FORCE 71 HONOR MSG TANYA MAYES

G U A R D 36TH CAB USES HIGH TECH TOYS

Joint Task Force 71 (Maneuver Enhancement Brigade) honored NGAT Life Member MSG Tanya Mayes at her retirement ceremony from the Texas Army National Guard after 26 years of faithful service. The ceremony, held at Camp Mabry, celebrated the two and a half-decade career of this senior NCO who has served in Korea, Iraq, Kentucky, Georgia, and Texas.

MAJ Wright 36th CAB has his retina scanned during biometrics training at Camp Swift. The technology is used to identify personnel out on the battlefield and build a database of good and bad guys. (Photo by MAJ Randy Stillinger)

BG SANDERS HONORED AT RETIREMENT CEREMONY THE 136TH FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON SHOWCASE THEIR SKILLS

Disaster Relief Mobile Kitchen Trailer or (DRMKT) is showcased by the 136th Force Support Squadron, Service Flight, on its capabilities of serving more than 500 people an hour at NAS Fort Worth JRB, Texas, Feb. 23, 2013. The DMRKT is operational within 90 minutes after set up.

NGAT Life Member BG Stephen G. Sanders (left) retired from the Texas Army National Guard after more than 32 years of military service. During a ceremony held on February 20, 2013 at Camp Mabry, Soldiers, family, and friends celebrated the general’s career. During the ceremony the Adjutant General of Texas, Maj Gen John F. Nichols, presented BG Sanders with the Texas Superior Service Medal and the Legion of Merit for his exemplary and dedicated military career. (Photo by SPC Christina Clardy)

TXNGFSF RECEIVES $25,000 DONATION FROM CHILDREN OF FALLEN SOLDIERS RELIEF FUND During the NGAT Conference, the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund donated $25,000.00 to the Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation (TXNGFSF). This donation will provide funds for the foundation to provide support for the needs of the members and families of the Texas Military Forces and to sponsor activities and programs that will honor and memorialize their service and sacrifice. A portion of the donation funds will be used to spearhead efforts of the TXNGFSF, including erecting a memorial on the capitol grounds to memorialize National Guard members and their families affected by the global war on terror. The statue pictured above is a replica of the statue that they hope to erect. Pictured left to right are Becky Campbell and Elie Rojas from the Children of Fallen Soldiers relief fund, Assistant Adjutant General — Army MG Joyce L. Stevens, COL (Ret) James Stryker, the adjutant General of Texas Maj Gen John F. Nichols, and TXNGFSF President Brandie Cole. H (Photo by Daniel Griego) W W W . N G A T . O R G

TA P S

(as of 04/11/13) Mr. Raul Armendariz, Life Member #9649, Retired, Brownsville *SFC Ricky W. Barber, Retired, Denison SGT Monroe Benson Jr., Life Member #24089, Retired, Seguin MAJ Kenneth L. Bishop, Life Member #1688, Retired, Arlington CW3 David E. Boutwell, Life Member #8288, Retired, Bosswell, OK LTC William N. Bradberry, Life Member #12356, Retired, Atlanta, GA *Mr. David E. Bryant, Life Member #2990, Retired, Austin SFC Francis L. Burlison, Life Member #6600, Retired, Cleburne Mr. Jimmie D. Cain, Life Member #11479, Retired, Amarillo Mr. Ossie C. Elkins, Life Member #18441, Retired, Humble SGT Kenneth G. English, Life Member #8940, Retired, Alba Mr. Stewart L. Gillespie, Life Member #7533, Retired, Lubbock MSG Donald W. Graves, Life Member #2493, Retired, Hewitt SFC Marjorie (Bartosch) Holland, Retired, Apple Valley, MN *Mr. Marion L. Kuntschik, Life Member #13618, Retired, Gonzales LTC James T. Mathis, Life Member #1002, Retired, New Braunfels SPC Jason T. Mitchell, 1/143 INF Bn, Bridgeport SSG Roberto G. Perez, Life Member #14846, Retired, Poteet SFC Wilson Reyes, 342 EN Co (Horiz Const), Round Rock SSG Fred T. Rojas, Retired, San Antonio SFC James H. Rose, Life Member #1658, Retired, Austin *SFC Gary R. Slaton, Life Member #15723, Retired, Athens *Mr. Larry D. Sandvig, Life Member #6260, Retired, McAllen PVT Jeremy Williamson, Alpha Co, RSP Team 4, Fort Worth SSG Joe S. Ybarbo, Life Member #11224, Retired, Austin

If you are aware of the passing of a current or former National Guard member please notify us by phone, a letter to our office or by email at ngatnews@ngat.org.

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National Guard Association of Texas 3706 Crawford Avenue Austin, Texas 78731-6803

National Guard Association of Texas

NGAT Planning Calendar (As of 1 May 2013)

2013 6

May

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

May

Memorial Day (NGAT Office Closed)

Jun

U.S. Army Birthday/Flag Day

20-21

Jun

NGAT Executive Committee Meeting, Austin

Jul

Independence Day (NGAT Office Closed)

Aug

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

18-21

Aug

EANGUS Conference, Sioux Falls, SD

20-23

Sep

NGAUS Conference, Honolulu, HI

Sep

U.S. Air Force Birthday

Oct

Columbus Day (NGAT Office Closed)

Oct

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

Nov

Veterans Day (NGAT Office Closed)

28-29

Nov

Thanksgiving (NGAT Office Closed)

Dec

National Guardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday

24-31

Dec

Christmas Holidays Observed (NGAT Office Closed)

Jan

New Years Day (NGAT Office Closed)

2014 24

Feb

NGAT Board Meeting, Austin

Mar

NGAT Board Meeting, Houston

21-23

Mar

55th Annual NGAT Conference, Houston