The Hornet - January 2024

JANUARY 2024

FROM INK TO IMPACT

Director of Public Affairs Lt. Col. Ellis Parks Media Relations Capt. Patrick Montandon Community Relations 1st Lt. Timmy Marshburn

WRONG PLACE, WRONG TIME RIGHT SOLDIER

Visual Information Staff Sgt. Brendan Stephens 145th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Tech. Sgt.Mary McKnight Writers/Photographers Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan Staff Sgt. Denné Allen Staff Sgt. Joe Roudabush Sgt. Hugo Gonzalez Spc. Aimee Trinidad

EQUIPPED AND READY

Graphic Design Mr. Travis Getz Social Media Spc. Bridget Pittman-Blackwell

The Hornet magazine is an authorized publication for members of the North Carolina National Guard. Contents of this publication are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the NCNG, United States Government or the Department of Defense. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Public Affairs Office of the NCNG. General comments and suggestions should be addressed to ng.nc.ncarng.mbx.pao@army.mil or call (984) 664-6242. Layout and design by 1st Lt. Timmy Marshburn.

ON THE COVER The 5/113th Field Artillery Regiment conducts mid-day High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARs) equipment movement operations during annual training at Fort Liberty on June 9th, 2023. Soldiers move the pods of the HIMARs to simulate real world training. (U.S. Army Photos by Spc. Bridget Pittman-Blackwell, 382nd Public Affairs Detachment)

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

6 SENIOR MASTER SGT. HALL STANDS OUT AMONGST THE REST

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TRANSFORMING HOMES HONORING HEROES

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MODERNIZATION ACROSS THE FORCE

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

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January 2024 THE HORNET | 01

FOREWORD I am extremely proud to be able to give you the forewords for the rebirth of the North Carolina National Guard’s one and only magazine, The Hornet. The Hornet presents another opportunity for the North Carolina National Guard to share the experiences of our amazing Soldiers and Airmen with our different audiences. The Hornet shall carry the heritage of every Guardsmen that has ever served this great state and serve as a tool to educate and inform our current and future Guardsmen. It shall balance history with current events, it will both enrich and entertain our readers, and it will work as a more traditional medium to show how the North Carolina National Guard is leading the way.

This quarter, I’ve challenged our creative team to focus our efforts on mentorship. Just as Rear Adm. Grace Murray Hooper once said, “You manage things, you lead people.” This is the essence of mentorship; this is what we want our leaders to instill in each one of our Guardsmen.

I have charged every leader in this great organization to find ways to retain and mentor our young Soldiers and Airmen. I understand the best way to grow the force is by growing leaders, and with that understanding we honor the history and secure the future of the North Carolina National Guard.

The strength of the North Carolina National Guard was built on the shoulders of our past leaders but will only remain strong if we mentor our future leaders to be determined, to stay focused, to understand the fight, and to plan efficiently.

I am proud to be The Adjutant General of North Carolina, and I am extremely proud to have the opportunity to lead YOUR North Carolina National Guard.

Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt North Carolina Adjutant General

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Young Hickory: A WWII Novel

by Steven F. Underwood

“Excellent Novel that is historically accurate and a fun read”

Arn’s War: Memoirs of a WWII Infantryman

by Edward C. Arn

“Excellent memoir of a 30th Division Company Commander in WW2”

NAVIGATING EXCELLENCE Elevate your leadership skills with our carefully selected reading and podcast list

In the dynamic landscape of the North Carolina National Guard, leadership and mentorship stand as pillars that not only shape the trajectory of individual careers but also fortify the collective strength of our force. The essence of effective leadership lies not only in guiding troops through the challenges of the present but also in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Mentorship, a crucial companion to leadership, provides a conduit for the transfer of wisdom, experience, and values. As we embark on a journey to cultivate these essential qualities, check out our recommended reading list, and tune into these insightful podcasts that illuminate the principles of leadership and mentorship. The recommendations highlighted in this quarter’s publication were provided

by Brig. Gen. Wes Morrison, Director of Joint Staff.

Modern War Institute Discussions with guests including senior military leaders, scholars, and others who discuss the most important issues related to modern conflict.

War Room Fire Mission! The Siege at Mortain, Normandy, August 1944

by Robert Weiss

“Memoir of Forward Observer on Hill 314 at Mortain, a must read”

Provocative discussions about U.S. national security and defense, featuring prominent national security and military professionals.

School of War This podcast seeks to learn what war teaches.

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Airman 1st Class David Leake, a Defender assigned to the North Carolina Air National Guard’s 145th Security Forces Squadron, fires an M249 light machine gun during an Integrated Defense Leadership Course during a static defense training exercise at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center, Ohio.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Christina Russo

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This has always been about more than producing a North Carolina National Guard Magazine; the ink on these pages cradle the heartbeats of heroes. From the very first page—it's a time capsule, a symphony of accolades, and the essence of the North Carolina National Guard's legacy.

The Historic Flight of The Hornet and the Relaunch 1st Lt. Timmy Marshburn

The Hornet's origin traces back to Sgt. 1st Class Mary Junell's journey through the Content Management Course at the Defense Information School. This course, designed to provide advanced training for Public Affairs service members, delved into the intricacies of layout and design. Emphasizing the importance of tailoring communication to specific audiences, instructors stressed the inclusion of our internal audience – our fellow service members and their families. The culmination of the course, marked by a capstone project, required creating a presentation for units to enhance communication strategies. Little did anyone know, that capstone would serve as the catalyst for the birth of The Hornet, a publication that has since become a vital conduit for the North Carolina National Guard's internal stories and shared experiences.

During the formative years of The Hornet, Junell served as its all-encompassing orchestrator. From meticulously crafting layouts and designs to curating articles, creating infographics, and even producing hand-drawn illustrations that were later scanned and seamlessly integrated, she was involved in every facet.

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Junell and the team’s efforts were acknowledged when The Hornet clinched 3rd place in both the Defense Media Merit Awards and the Defense Media Awards in 2016, followed by a remarkable 2nd place in the Defense Media Merit Awards in 2017, marking a significant milestone in our journey.

Much has evolved, but a steadfast constant endures.

The magazine continues to serve as a canvas for the triumphs, challenges, and aspirations of our dedicated Soldiers and Airmen. It opens a window into their lives, inviting readers on a literary voyage that encapsulates the very essence of the human spirit beneath the uniform. Across hometowns and battlefields alike, the magazine serves as a passport, guiding readers through the diverse landscapes that shape the collective experiences of the North Carolina National Guard.

As we celebrate its past, present, and future, one thing is certain: the North Carolina National Guard Magazine will continue to be the herald of heroes, ensuring that their stories echo through the ages.

What was labor to me was an opportunity for a Soldier to feel proud of themselves, a chance for loved ones to feel less in the dark about their Soldier, and an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of those I served alongside.

- Sgt. 1st Class Mary Junell North Carolina Army National Guard

CONSIDER THIS

(the conversation continues)

Click here for previous publications

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FUELING DREAMS FORGING LEADERS

Elevate Your Future with a TMF Scholarship

Scholarships range from $600 to $10,000 Applications for college students and high school graduates

February 1, 2024 Applications for high school seniors

March 1, 2024

To apply, visit https://ncnga.org/scholarship/

SERVE Recognize your supervisor or employer for their support of your military service

WWW.ESGR.MIL

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Combat Engineers of Bravo Company 236th Engineer Battalion, 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team move into their fighting positions the morning prior to a combined arms exercise during Exportable Combat Training (XCTC) at Fort Stewart Georgia Photo by Sgt. Rene Chavez

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Senior Master Sgt. Hall Stands Out Amongst the Rest Tech. Sgt. Mary McKnight 145th Airlift Wing

CHARLOTTE-DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT BASE, N.C.

Each year the Air National Guard honors four deserving Airmen with the title of Outstanding Airmen of the year. The winners for 2023 were announced on March 19th, and the 145th Airlift Wing's, Senior Master Sgt. Tony Hall, was selected as the Senior NonCommissioned Officer of the Year winner.

To be considered for this award, you must be nominated; to do that, you must go above and beyond.

Hall is the Superintendent of the 118th Air Support Operations Squadron (118 ASOS), and in addition to his primary duties and professional development courses, he is a member of the Senior Enlisted Council, assists with the Junior Enlisted Council, a supports the base’s mentorship program.

Hall has facilitated eight mission changes to tactics, techniques, and procedures by training 60 special warfare operators and support personnel in reconnaissance and strike operations.

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He also crated 22 mission transformation and occupational change plans, standardizing training across six units: significantly advancing combat effectiveness for the Tactical Air Control Party within the Agile Combat Employment operations.

“We work four-by-ten (4 days/10 hours) shifts,” said Hall. “Monday is admin (administrative work) day, Tuesday is sync and sim (training simulator), Wednesday is medical and environmental training, and Thursday we go to the range,” explained Hall. “When I’m not being pulled in different directions, this is 30 to 40 percent of my work week.”

Find your passion and pursue it relentlessly. Don’t let anybody tell you anything else. Figure out what it is that you want to do and try your best to perfect it.

- Senior Master Sgt. Tony Hall North Carolina Air National Guard

Despite such a demanding work schedule, Hall still finds time to serve others. He provides guidance and leadership to over 400 youths across three counties as an instructor for the North Carolina Leadership Organization. Hall is also volunteering his time to the Mecklenburg County Scouts organization as he instructs over 28 scouts on safe climbing techniques.

He is also a lead rifle instructor for the Hickory NC Youth Organization, training 74 youths in safe and effective marksmanship. All of this and he still found time to complete an Organizational Leadership master’s program with a 3.6 grade point average.

As the second in command to the squadron chief, Hall manages himself, other Airmen, and the unit programs; it is no surprise that he’s able to manage life despite such a hectic professional and volunteer schedule. “He does a great job with everything he does,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jeremy S. Mullins, 118 ASOS senior enlisted leader in reference to Hall.

“Senior Master Sergeant Hall is a rock star,” he went on about Hall. “He shows what it means to pursue the Air Force foundational competencies of developing self, developing others, developing organizations and developing ideas. His continual pursuit of growth is contagious, and it brings a new level of excellence to our unit. I would be doing him a disservice if I hadn’t nominated him for this award.”

Unbeknownst to Hall, his servant leadership, hard work and dedication to his troops did not go unnoticed. Yet to him, it is just part of doing his job.

“Our job as leaders is to provide troops with development opportunities,” expressed Hall. “The cool thing about my job is it puts me in a position to lead people. I didn’t think I would be in such a position, so I didn’t put much value in it at first; but being able to lead people is a humbling thing, a servant thing.”

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Class 002-23 at the 139th Regional Training Institute conducts military operations on urbanized terrain, or MOUT, at Fort Liberty, North Carolina.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan China

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SERVING STRENGTH North Carolina National Guard’s First Field Feeding Platoons 1st Lt. Timmy Marshburn

After four years of prepping, the first-ever Field Feeding Platoons in the North Carolina National Guard, the 690th and the 691st Quartermaster Platoons, hit a major milestone. Forget what you know about MREs; these culinary commandos are changing the game, dishing out more than just meals. These mobile kitchens are adding a dash of flavor to troop morale.

Soldiers enjoying a delicious meal in the middle of nowhere—that's the magic of Field Feeding Platoons.

These mobile kitchens aren't just about delivering calories; they're about elevating taste on the battlefield.

From tactical tacos to strategic stir-fries, our troops are getting a culinary experience that rivals some civilian kitchens.

Field Feeding Platoons are the military's answer to onthe-go gastronomy. Operating in the toughest terrains, these mobile kitchens are serving up hot meals, ensuring our troops don’t have to compromise on taste, no matter where duty calls.

Over the last few months, these platoons, led by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton, Sgt. 1st Class Ashley Feimster, Sgt. 1st Class Latanya Behling, and Staff Sgt. Alex Yeniscavich have been incredibly motivated, bringing a taste of home to the front lines and serving hundreds of hot meals to Soldiers across the state.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Martine, the Readiness NCO for the platoons, stated, “all of the teams have had their nose to the grindstone and refuse to fail.” It's not just about food for these Soldiers; it's about providing comfort, flavor, and that feeling of home that only a hearty meal can provide.

From the deserts to the mountains, they are ensuring our troops stay fueled and focused no matter where the mission takes them.

In the grand symphony of military readiness, the North Carolina National Guard's Field Feeding Platoons are hitting all the right notes. As we toast to the rise of battle buffets, one thing's for sure: the North Carolina National Guard is rewriting the script on how our troops fuel up for victory.

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Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Martine

Sgt. Suk Fahnestock, HHC 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team looks through a Long-Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS) at Fort Stewart, Georgia.

Photo by Spc. Isaiah Young

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Soldier Support Services

RUCKSACK To access, visit “Services & Support” on

www.ng.nc.gov

WRONG TIME WRONG PLACE

RIGHT SOLDIER

Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan

In the quiet town of Coats, North Carolina, a place anyone can call “home”, one man's routine brake repair turned into a heroic saga that would make any small town proud. Sgt. Jesse Garcia, a soldier in the 236th Brigade Engineer Battalion, North Carolina National Guard, suddenly found himself in an unexpected and potentially life-threatening situation when the brakes on his truck stopped working in a local parking lot.

As Garcia recounts the events, it becomes clear that fate had more in store for him than a simple brake replacement. The cozy familiarity of Coats, where everyone knows everyone, suddenly transformed into an arena of chaos and danger on that fateful day.

"My brakes failed right as I was leaving the parking lot, and I had to wrestle my truck back into the space. I called my brother, heard gunshots, and everything changed," Garcia shares. His 911 call met a busy line, and his attempts to make an emergency call on his phone failed. Yet, a deep inner pull guided him toward the unfolding turmoil.

"I felt that pull in my spirit again—you need to go over there. I could hear tires screeching. I think like two people ran a stop light,” Garcia recalls. “I could hear screaming and people slamming their car doors," he recalls.

As Garcia approached, he witnessed a startling scene that many people would have run away from: gas pumps abandoned, a gunman with a weapon, and a victim with life-threatening injuries. Without protection or a weapon, Garcia stood undeterred. "I didn't have a plate carrier (body armor). I didn't have a gun. I didn't have anything.

I was just there. I stood in between the victim and the gunman," he explains.

Showcasing a blend of courage and resolve during a very tense moment, Garcia demanded the gunman lower his weapon. His military training, particularly as a Combat Lifesaver (CLS), proved pivotal. Despite not being a medic by trade, Garcia's CLS training empowered him to administer crucial aid that saved a life.

"It's really to help anybody in the military render aid until the medics can get there. The training was a very crucial part of my success through all of this," Garcia emphasizes.

As first responders arrived, Garcia seamlessly transitioned from guardian to collaborator, proving his worth in a crisis. His actions demonstrate the profound impact that military training can have beyond the battlefield, turning everyday citizens into unsung heroes.

"Always Ready" isn't just a motto; it's a way of life for soldiers like Garcia. Through his unexpected journey in a Coats parking lot, Garcia exemplified the readiness, courage, and resilience that define the North Carolina National Guard. His story, a testament to the transformative power of military training, showcases the unwavering commitment of those who answer the call to serve and protect.

CONSIDER THIS

(the conversation continues)

Watch the full interview here

Photo by Sgt. Hugo Gonzalez

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Spc. Oliver Guox, 1-120th Infantry Regiment, shooting an azimuth while conducting a land navigation training competition designed to enhance effectiveness as a Soldier while sharpening their medic skills under pressure during Exportable Combat Training, XCTC, at Fort Stewart, Georgia.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob Deese WWW.NG.NC.GOV

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TRANSFORMING HOMES

HONORING HEROES

1st Lt. Timmy Marshburn In a heartwarming scene that captured the essence of gratitude and community, the moment Staff Sgt. Jared Bowman and his wife Sydney opened the door to their home was nothing short of overwhelming. The transformative impact of "Military Makeover with Montel®" and its dedicated team resonated deeply with the Bowmans.

Staff Sgt. Jared Bowman’s story is one of triumph over adversity with roots tracing back to North Carolina State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in psychology in 2009. His love story with Sydney blossomed into a beautiful family, including their four daughters – Donna, Lucy, Anne, and Evelynne. Little did they know that their journey would lead them to a profound connection with the North Carolina National Guard and a future intertwined with service and sacrifice.

Bowman’s military journey, marked by leadership and excellence, faced a turning point during a training jump in June 2022 that resulted in a severe back injury. Undeterred, Bowman continued to serve, earning accolades to include the Army Commendation Medal and the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge.

His commitment to recovery, both physically and emotionally, reflects the true spirit of a soldier.

Photos by Staff Sgt. Joe Roudabush

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Bowman’s home transformation goes beyond walls and decor; it symbolizes a community coming together to improve the lives of those who have served. "Military Makeover with Montel®" is not just a television series; it's a testament to the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of veterans and their families. Through the generous support of partners, this season's focus on the Bowman family is a heartfelt tribute to their journey – a journey from sacrifice to sanctuary.

Jared shared his sentiments, saying, “I hope that people see this and see the good that people were willing to extend. For us, this seems like it fell out of the sky, but this is what these guys do on a regular basis — ‘Military Makeover,’ Purple Heart Homes, other organizations — that came together to give us this life-changing gift. This is what they’re constantly doing."

His wife, Sydney, echoed these feelings of profound gratitude, expressing, “It’s all been a total surprise. To see it come together, to see the community come together, to see them generously and selflessly give to our family, that’s shocking.

It’s overwhelming for me as the recipient. We don’t have even a way to communicate. There are no words.”

The hosts of the show, Montel Williams, Jennifer Bertrand, and Art Edmonds, joined approximately 200 people gathered on Forest Park Drive to welcome the Bowman family. Among the crowd were notable figures such as Brig. Gen. Cristina Moore, and Hugo, the Charlotte Hornets mascot. Even amidst the awe-inspiring transformation, one of the Bowman’s daughters couldn't resist stealing a hug from the costumed mascot.

Through hugs, handshakes, and high-fives, Montel Williams guided Jared and Sydney through the remarkable changes made to their home throughout the renovation process. The community's outpouring of support and the presence of influential figures added a unique touch to this life-changing event, making it an unforgettable moment for the Bowman family and all those involved in the heartfelt makeover.

Partnering with Purple Heart Homes, an organization founded by combat-wounded veterans John Gallina and the late Dale Beatty, Military Makeover brought the spotlight back to Statesville, where Purple Heart Homes began its mission. John Gallina, CEO and Co-Founder of Purple Heart Homes, shared, "we are proud to be the Official Non-Profit Partner of Military Makeover and bring the spotlight back to Statesville where it all began for Purple Heart Homes and serve the Bowman family."

CONSIDER THIS

(the conversation continues)

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Click here for the full album

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883rd Engineer Company conducts urban breaching operations at Fort Liberty, North Carolina during annual training in support of mobility operations as part of their combat engineer military occupational specialty requirements.

Photo by 883rd Engineer Company WWW.NG.NC.GOV

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Photo by Sgt. Hugo Gonzalez

EQUIPPED & READY Capt. Patrick Montandon Staff Sgt. Anthony Faso, supply sergeant for the 514th Military Police Company, North Carolina National Guard (NCNG), thought he was coming into a typical day of drill duty March of 2023. Things changed quickly as he found himself providing emergency medical care for a fellow Soldier. Faso’s quick response, and the assistance of an Automated External Defibrillators (AED), made all the difference in saving his colleague’s life. This incident, highlighting the importance of AEDs, has bolstered the NCNG’s commitment to modernize and live up to the National Guard’s motto – “Always Ready, Always There.”

Sgt. 1st Class Edward Eakes, the Soldier who received care from Faso reflects on how the combination of a caring colleague, and the technological assist of the AED, made all the difference in preserving his life.

“I had stopped breathing and they started with [cardiopulmonary resuscitation] CPR and hit me a couple times with the AED,” said Eakes. “I’m glad that they rushed in to do CPR and used the machine.

“These are important machines because they help people live longer,” continued Eakes. “Yes, CPR is great, but sometimes you need that jolt to get a heart going again.”

Faso added, “Had that AED not been there, I really don't think we'd be having this same conversation.”

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The NCNG has distributed over 100 new AEDs updated with an extended 5-year lifespan. The devices provide voice-automated instruction so nearly anyone can be walked through properly using them. Col. Christina Henderson, NCNG Occupational Health Nurse and Safety Branch Chief, carefully planned a phased implementation of the equipment based on hazards, number of personnel and other variables, to include a detailed cost analysis.

Henderson described what an AED is and why they are crucial for a safe work environment.

“An AED is an easy-to-use medical device that can restore a normal heart rhythm to someone who has gone into cardiac arrest,” said Henderson. “Receiving immediate CPR and an electric shock from an AED are key factors of survival when cardiac arrest occurs outside of a hospital. AEDs provide instructions to users starting with calling 911, evaluating the heart rhythm, providing a shock if needed, and instructing the user when to start and stop CPR.” NCNG’s installation and subsequent training on the new AEDs is one way the organization continues to prioritize people, readiness, and modernization. A training plan is being developed on their proper use.

Every Soldier matters. Faso expressed how important it is for every Citizen-Soldier and Airmen to be ready when it’s time to act.

“Be prepared for anything that comes because life throws you curveballs. That morning I was not expecting to do what I did, but you have to adapt and overcome.”

The 883rd Spartans conduct one-rope bridge crossings at Salem Lake in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Photo by 883rd Engineer Company

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NC GUARD MODERNIZATION Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan

GUARD READY. READY TEAM.

Dawning upon its 361st year, the North Carolina National Guard finds itself navigating a mission that resonates with centuries of tradition—protecting lives and property within the state and standing firm against the enemies of the United States.

However, this century has ushered in a world starkly different from the Guard's inception, demanding a modernized approach to meet the challenges of an evolving global landscape.

In this new era, a North Carolina National Guard Soldier or Airman is not only prepared to deploy but must also be ready to deter near-peer foreign adversaries. The Guard is adapting to integrate with the National Defense Strategy, emphasizing a divisionbased total force of Guard, Reserve, and Active peers. The landscape is transforming, with modern training facilities taking shape, and a Hub and Spoke model boasting six Regional Training Centers designed to deploy larger units.

"As always, the North Carolina National Guard answered the call," declares Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the Adjutant General of North Carolina, highlighting the adaptability and readiness of our forces. This modernization journey doesn't merely unfold within our borders; it extends globally, encompassing missions with state partnership members across the world, deployments to strategic locations, and exercises fostering interoperability and relationships, as seen in Exercise Rapid Trident.

Equipped with modern weapons, vehicles, and gear, our Soldiers and Airmen stand as a valuable Strategic and Operational Reserve of the Joint Force, poised to defeat and deter any adversary. The reach of the North Carolina National Guard spans not only across the state but also encompasses training collaborations with neighboring states such as South Carolina, West Virginia, Georgia, Arkansas, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana.

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Cyber Shield, the Department of Defense's longest-running unclassified defense exercise, showcases the Guard's commitment to cyber readiness. "Cyber Shield is a critical exercise as it is often the only collective training many cyber units receive," emphasizes NCNG Chief of Cyber Operations, Lt. Col. Seth Barun.

The essence of readiness lies in training at the local level, maintaining a connection to North Carolina's communities, serving as staging areas during emergencies, and retaining the agility to respond to shifts in Soldier and Airman population. "I am excited about the opportunity to renovate, modernize, and expand," shares NCNG Construction Facilities Management Officer Col. Rodney Newton.

The commitment to tough, realistic training is evident in the readiness of our Soldiers and Airmen, evident in their resilience and the quality training they receive. This preparation has proven invaluable, with over 320 Soldiers and Airmen called to state active duty for critical training and emergency responses across the state.

As the North Carolina National Guard strides into the future, it stands as an Always Ready, Ready Team—building on its storied past, training tirelessly today, and remaining primed to deploy for the challenges that tomorrow may bring.

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Soldiers from the 883rd Engineer Company provide a ground guide to 823rd Quarry Team as they conduct rock crushing operations in Elkin, North Carolina.

Photo by Capt. Jeffery Cannon

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THROUGH THE LENS OF HONOR

Photos by Staff Sgt. Joe Roudabush

REMEMBERING SPC. RYAN HAYWORTH

Maj. Gen. Allen Boyette, Deputy Adjutant General, North Carolina National Guard, speaks during a memorial plaque dedication ceremony honoring Spc. Ryan Hayworth, a soldier with Delta company 236th Brigade Engineer Battalion, held at the North Carolina National Guard armory in Burlington, North Carolina, Nov. 4, 2023.

Spc. Ryan Hayworth’s family members stand behind two plaques dedicated to Hayworth’s memory. Hayworth lost his life on Oct. 17, 2021, while on duty with the Knightdale Police Department when his patrol car was struck from behind by a suspected drunk driver.

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Lt. Col. Lindon Rainey, a pilot with the 156th Airlift Squadron, sits in the cockpit of a C-17 Globemaster 3 while departing the Kinston Regional Jet Port in Kinston, North Carolina.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mary McKnight

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NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION

MARCH 22-23, 2024

SHERATON DOWNTOWN RALEIGH RALEIGH, NC