New Mexico Minuteman - Spring 2010 - Keep Trees

Page 3
State selects
new CSM
Page 15
New Mexico Adjutant General visits
COB Adder
Page 23
Beyond the
call of Duty

Governor
Bill Richardson
Bob Ulin
Publisher
Justin Ritter
Graphic Designer
The Adjutant General
Maj. Gen.
Kenny C. Montoya
Public Affairs Officer
Lt. Col. Jamison Herrera
Editor
Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez
Public Affairs Specialist
2nd Lt. Tabitha Baker
Contributors
150th Fighter Wing Public
Information Office
2251 Air Guard Rd. SE
KAFB, N.M. 87117
Public Information Officer
1st Lt. Brian Raphael
200th Public Affairs Detachment
47 Bataan Blvd.
Santa Fe, N.M. 87508
Commander
Capt. Elizabeth Foott
ON THE COVER: Soldiers
from the 1115th Transportation
Company of the New Mexico
National Guard converse as a
Black Hawk Helicopter fl ies by
Feb. 3 at Camp Adder, Iraq.
U.S. Army Photo: Spc. Cory Grogan
Marie Lundstrom
Editor
Chris Kersbergen &
Darrell George
Advertising Sales
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no way connected with the New Mexico Department of
Military Affairs, or the New Mexico National Guard, under
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and military members of the New Mexico Department
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not necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the
state of New Mexico, the U.S. Government, Department
of Defense or the New Mexico National Guard.
The appearance of advertising in this publication,
including inserts or supplements, does not constitute
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Mexico National Guard or AQP Publishing, Inc. of the products
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Spring 2010
C O N T E N T S
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Gold Wing Riders visit Air Guard
920th Outkast
Beyond the Standard
Third graders make valentines for deployed troops
Youth ChalleNGe
Beyond the call of duty
Health Matters
Cheers to the Kids
Showing their support
2010 Enlisted Association Conference
Awards • Promotions • Retirements • Change of Commands
New Mexico History
www.nm.ngb.army.mil
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Army Guard selects new command sergeant major
State selects new CSM 3▼
Welcom home Det. 44 4▼ Aviation assets ready to support local firefighting 5▼
515th assumes command during TOA 6▼
NMARNG NCO and Soldier of the Year 7▼
H1N1 Stay informed to stay healthy 8▼
MPs get in the holiday spirit
State Partnership planning moves forward
Military Day honoring those who have served
El Pinto recognized with F-16 Incentive Flight
Green or Red?
Did you know...?
Mechanics keep New Mexico unit mission-ready
New Mexico Adjutant General visits COB Adder
16 Guard enhances behavorial health services
Taos feeds Taos
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status, physical handicap, political affi liation or any other
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.
Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by
the Offi ce of Public Affairs, Joint Force Headquarters –
New Mexico, New Mexico Department of Military Affairs.
All photographs and graphic devices are copyrighted to
the New Mexico Department of Military Affairs unless
otherwise indicated.
All submissions should pertain to the New Mexico
National Guard and are subject to editing. Contributions
and reader comments should be sent to:
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Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 1
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Army Guard selects new
command sergeant major
By Spc. Darron Salzer
National Guard Bureau
Army National Guard
ARLINGTON, Va. – Command Sgt. Maj. Richard J. Burch
of the Nebraska National Guard has been named the new
command sergeant major of the Army National Guard, Guard
offi cials announced this week.
He is scheduled to arrive here in February and says that he
is looking forward to the experience. “It’s a huge honor for me
to be selected by the leadership of the Army National Guard,”
said Burch. “With that honor comes responsibility. I’ve never
been one to shirk responsibility. I’ve probably always sought
out more responsibility.”
Burch, who has been in the Army National Guard for over
30 years, has worked in several different career fi elds, including
quartermaster, recruiting and retention, human resources,
and with an Area Support Group.
“I’ve got a diverse background that I can bring forward and
be able to positively impact the future of the Army National
Guard, the future of the Soldiers, and the challenges that they
may face as they meet their career goals,” he said.
Burch said he looks forward to working with the Soldiers
and noncommissioned offi cers of the Army National Guard
nationwide, because “we have a lot to offer this great nation.”
As the top enlisted Soldier in the Army National Guard,
Burch is in a position to continue the Army National Guard’s
success, and to ensure that all members are continuing their
own successes.
“I am now the senior enlisted advisor for the director of the
Army National Guard, and with that position title comes the
responsibility to act on the behalf of all the enlisted Soldiers
and noncommissioned offi cers of the Army National Guard,”
he said.
Burch also said the Army National Guard needs to not only
ensure that it continues to maintain its mission focus, but to
take into account a Soldier’s welfare, which includes family
readiness, Soldier preparedness, and personal and professional
growth.
One thing that Burch says he hopes to accomplish is to
work with the Army to integrate the Army National Guard
2 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
Command Sgt. Maj. Richard J. Burch.
into the Army Career Tracker system. “The integration of the
(Army National Guard) into (this) system will allow us to take
credit for what we have already done,” Burch said. “The Army
Career Tracker system provides a place where Soldiers can
go and track the things that they have done, not only in the
military, but on the civilian side as well, such as college and
universities.”
Meeting career goals is important for Burch, but like so
many Soldiers today, he struggled initially to fi nd his place
among the ranks early in his career. “When I fi rst enlisted,
I wasn’t real sure what my plans were in the Army National
Guard,” he said.
“Within three to four years of being in the Army National
Guard, my whole outlook changed. I put myself into high gear
and pushed myself to do what I needed to do.”
Burch said it’s also important to focus on your family and
spouse. “You have to fi nd a balance that allows you to continue
to progress on the professional side, but maintain the
appropriate levels on the personal side as well. If you can’t
fi nd that balance, have someone to go to, such as a mentor
to help you fi nd that balance.”
From his perch as the new top enlisted Soldier in the Army
National Guard, Burch has some advice for those in the junior
enlisted ranks.
“Seek out those opportunities, because if senior noncommissioned
offi cers know where you want to go, they can help
you get there and provide you with potential expectations that
you might see along the road that you’ll have to fulfi ll,” he
said, adding: “Finding a mentor along the way is important
as well.”
Burch said in his early days he looked to his company
commander. “There were a few others along the way that also
helped me to sustain that mind set and my drive to move
forward.” That drive has helped to propel himself to this new
position. “I’ve had plenty of challenges, and it’s been a great
ride so far,” he said. “I hope it continues.”
Photo: Courtesy of the Nebraska National Guard

State
selects
new CSM
By Staff Sgt. Anna Doo, 200th PAD
A Change of Responsibility ceremony
took place Dec. 17, 2009 at the Regional
Training Institute in Santa Fe, N.M. The highest
full time enlisted position in the New
Mexico National Guard, the state command
sergeant major, changed from Command
Sgt. Maj. Richard Bryant to Command Sgt.
Maj. Kenneth R. Adair.
Hundreds of New Mexico Air and Army
National Guardsmen fi lled the room at the
Regional Training Institute to welcome in
the newest state command sergeant major.
In attendance were numerous retired command
sergeants major including the fi rst full
time state command sergeant major, Command
Sgt. Maj. (ret) Charles J. Yardman and
Command Sgt. Maj. (ret) John Torres, whom
was the fi rst state command sergeant major
appointed by the current Adjutant General,
Maj. Gen. Kenny C. Montoya.
Bryant, who served the state as the leader
of the enlisted members for over a year and a
half, spoke of his term as a highlight in his long
caree. “Being your state command sergeant
major has been one of the most rewarding
positions that I have ever had the opportunity
of holding…I want to thank you for entrusting
me with our Soldiers and our Airmen.”
Moving on to be the Recruiting and
Retention command sergeant major, Bryant
offered some words of advice to his successor.
He told Adair to care for the New Mexico
National Guard’s greatest asset; the Soldiers
and Airmen.
In closing, Bryant called on the motto for
the Guardsmen of the state saying, “Going
Beyond the Standard is the standard for all
New Mexico National Guardsmen.”
Bryant’s wife, Command Sgt. Maj. Elizabeth
A. Bryant, commented on her husband’s
strength and integrity.
She said, “I am very proud of Richard and
the difference he made while serving in the
position of state command sergeant major.
His professionalism and true caring for our
Soldiers is what I admire about him most.
Outgoing State Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Bryant and incoming State Command Sgt.
Maj. Kenneth Adair stand ready to pass the noncommissioned offi cer sword.
He has risen to many challenges in both his
career and his health, and he has always
come out on top because of his attitude and
winning spirit. He continuously goes the
distance in anything that is required of him
always placing the needs of our Soldiers and
our Guard fi rst. He is the epitome of a true
NCO. But most importantly he is and always
will be a hero in my eyes.”
The stage was set for the new state command
sergeant major to rise to the challenge
of leading more than 3,400 enlisted troops of
the New Mexico National Guard. Adair stood
up and accepted the challenge before him with
dignity, pride and his signature enthusiasm.
Adair said, “[Maj.] Gen. [Montoya] thanks
for your trust and confi dence in me to carry
the sword. It’s about service, it’s about honor,
and it’s about loyalty, integrity, duty and selfless
service. When I put on this uniform everyday,
that’s how I see myself.”
He added that commitment is paramount
in the Guard as well as the perception that
Guardsmen are ambassadors for the U.S.
Adair said that together, as one team, one
fi ght, the entire Guard will continue to accomplish
missions.
Adair concluded with a story from his initial
training.
“I remember as a private in basic training I
was asked if I knew my fi rst general order, and
I said roger that. ‘I will guard everything within
the limits of my post and quit my post only
New State Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Adair is pinned
by his son Kyle Adair during the Change of Responsibility.
Adair began his term as the state command sergeant major
by joining the 515th Combat Sustainment and Support Battalion
in Iraq for the duration of their deployment.
when properly relieved.’ That’s what I promise
you [Maj.] Gen. [Montoya], I will guard everything
within the limits of my post and quit my
post only when properly relieved,” he said.
Adair began his term as the state command
sergeant major by joining the 515th
Combat Sustainment and Support Battalion
in Iraq for the duration of their deployment.
In his absence, the command sergeants
major of the state are rotating through the
leading enlisted position to ensure a smooth
transition and the upkeep of the welfare of
the Soldiers and Airmen.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 3
Photos: Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez, State Public Affairs, JFHQ
“That’s what I promise you
[Maj.] Gen. [Montoya], I will
guard everything within the
limits of my post and quit my
post only when properly relieved.”
– Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth R. Adair

Welcome Home Det. 44
By 2 nd Lt Tabitha Baker, State Public Affairs
Tears from family and friends fi lled Cutter Aviation Facility in Albuquerque, N.M., as the New
Mexico National Guard’s Detachment 44, Operations Support Airlift Command Soldiers returned
home March 4, 2010, after a yearlong deployment in Iraq.
After the Soldiers fl ew from Balad, Iraq, to Fort Benning, Ga., and home, they were welcomed
by Maj. Gen. Kenny C. Montoya, the Adjutant General, and Brig. Gen. Jack Fox, the Deputy
Adjutant General, as they eagerly exited the plane to be reunited with their families.
While deployed, the unit conducted aviation operations, including
intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions
throughout Iraq.
“It was a long deployment – a lot of hours in a very dangerous
country. I’m glad we brought everybody back,” said Chief Warrant
Offi cer Paul Marquez. Like many other New Mexico Guardsmen,
this was the third deployment for Marquez.
The Guardsmen were thankful for all the support they got from
their communities and the New Mexico National Guard during the
months of their deployment.
“It was awesome to have this much support from New Mexico
and the National Guard,” said Marquez.
Detachment 44 is the fi rst to return home of fi ve units currently
deployed from the New Mexico National Guard. All units currently
deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan are scheduled to return home in
the upcoming months.
4 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010

NEW MEXICO ARMY NATIONAL GUARD
AVIATION ASSETS
READY TO SUPPORT
LOCAL FIREFIGHTING
Story and photo by Col. Timothy Paul, State Aviation Safety Offi cer
The New Mexico National Guard Company C., 171st
Aviation Regiment and Detachment 2, 812th Medical
Company completed the Water Bucket Training and have
been re-certifi ed by the United States Forest Service for
use in aerial fi refi ghting operations Feb. 16-17, 2010.
In order for the National Guard to assist in fi ghting
fi res they must be certifi ed annually by the USFS, the
lead federal agency.
The training consists of a fi ve hour ground school
refresher and fl ight check in which each pilot, crew chief
and medic must demonstrate profi ciency in a variety of
different types of water drop scenarios.
Additionally, the USFS reviews the Aviation training,
equipment, maintenance and quality control processes.
The Army Aviation Support units exceeded the standards
in all areas and are ready to assist local, state and
federal agencies in fi ghting wild fi res.
A New Mexico National Guard UH-60A aircraft conducts water bucket
training Feb. 16-17, 2010. The training is to re-certifi ed Company C.,
171st Aviation Regiment and Detachment 2, 812th Medical Company
for use in aerial fi refi ghting operations.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 5

New Mexico National Guard
515th assumes command during TOA
By Spc. Maurice A. Galloway, 17th Fires Brigade
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
BASRA, Iraq – “No attacks on Bucca and
no successful attacks on coalition forces in
the Bucca operational environment on our
watch. That was our battalion’s mission,
and through your efforts, we accomplished
that mission perfectly,” said Lt. Col. Brad
S. Anderson, commander, 2nd Battalion,
127th Infantry Regiment.
Anderson relinquished operational control
of Camp Bucca to Lt. Col. Kenneth A.
Nava, commander of the 515th Combat
Sustainment Support Battalion during a
transfer of authority ceremony held on
Camp Bucca Jan. 10.
Once home to about 20,000 prisoners,
Camp Bucca, located just short of the
Kuwaiti border, was Iraq’s premier holding
facility for persons suspected of crimes.
The facility remained opened until September
2009.
Now the base will serve as a strategic
strong point for U.S. and Iraqi Security
Forces as they carry on the continued
partnership until the eventual drawdown of
U.S. Forces in Iraq.
“I am very happy to transfer operational
authority of Camp Bucca today,
because it means that we are on our way
home,” said Anderson. “To the Soldiers
of 2/127th Infantry, you have all done an
exceptional job. You should return home
proud of your accomplishments, proud of
your service and proud of this
fi ne battalion,” he added.
The Wisconsin National
Guard unit deployed to Iraq with
the unique mission of transporting
the remaining detainees
from the camp’s prison into the
custody of the Iraqi Police as
stated and agreed upon in the
security agreement between
the U.S. and Iraq.
This transfer of authority ceremony
is among the fi rst under the
new U.S. Forces-Iraq and begins
6 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
the drawdown of U.S. troops
to 50,000 remaining in the
country by September.
The 2/127th Infantry Regiment,
and the 132nd Brigade
Support Battalion composed
of Wisconsin and Michigan
Guardsmen who provided
logistics for the 2/127th, is
replaced by a single unit,
the 515th Combat Sustainment
Support Battalion, a
Present, Arms! Commanders of the various units bring their Sol-
National Guard unit based diers to present arms during the transfer of authority ceremony
in New Mexico.
from 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, and 132nd Brigade
The 515th CSSB, com- Support Battalion to 515th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion
on Camp Bucca Jan. 10.
manded by Nava, is tasked
with an unfamiliar role here
in Basra province for a
combat sustainment support battalion.
“We fi nd ourselves doing a nonstandard
mission for a CSSB. We want to thank the
Soldiers from the 2/127th, 132nd BSB and
the 17th Fires Brigade for the excellent transition
they have provided us,” Nava said.
Jokingly Nava said that he appreciated
the unit’s diligent efforts to mark all the
land mines for them as they begin their
mission in Bucca.
“The Soldiers of 515th are ready to
continue the work here on Camp Bucca
alongside our friends at Safwan and Umm-
Qasr,” Nava said.
Lt. Col. Kenneth A. Nava, right, commander,
515th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion,
and Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth R.
Adair, 515th Combat Sustainment Support
Battalion, uncase the battalion’s colors and
assume command.
“The Soldiers of Task Force 515th are ready to
continue the work at Camp Bucca,” said Lt. Col.
Kenneth A. Nava, commander, 515th Combat
Sustainment Support Battalion, during the fi nal
words of his speech to all who attended the
transfer of authority ceremony.

NMARNG NCO and Soldier of the Year
Story and photos by Spc. Charles Martinez and Pfc. John Montoya, 200th PAD
Two New Mexico Soldiers outpaced all others during this
year New Mexico Army National Guard’s Noncommissioned
Offi cer and Soldier of the Year Competition Jan. 8-10, 2010 in
Las Cruces, N.M. They demonstrated their abilities in the Army
Physical Fitness Test, land navigation, weapons qualifi cation
and Warrior Training Tasks in order to be known as “the best of
the best.”
Each competitor was required to go before a board of command
sergeants major to demonstrate their individual knowledge
in order to be selected the most outstanding NCO and Soldier.
Sgt. 1st Class Reuben CdeBaca was selected as the 2010
NCO of the Year and Spc. Michael L. Garcia was selected as the
2010 Soldier of the Year.
CdeBaca, who represented the 615th Transportation Battalion,
is a prior winner of FORSCOM’s Soldier of the Year Competition
in the early 90’s.
CdeBaca said his greatest motivation was to lead by example
by showing his fellow Soldiers it can be accomplished. He plans
on passing his knowledge of the experience to other Soldiers in
his unit and encouraging them to compete in the years to follow.
Sitting before a board is a good opportunity and experience
for Solders to better themselves physically and mentally, said
CdeBaca.
Other NCO competitors included: Staff Sgt. Davis Jeffery,
226th Military Police Battalion, Staff Sgt. Elliot Franklin, 515th
Regional Training Institute, Sgt. Jake Farmer, 717th Brigade Support
Battalion, and Sgt. Docklure Stephanus, 1/200th Infantry
Battalion.
Garcia, who represented the 1/200th Infantry Battalion out of
Las Cruces, N.M. said the most diffi cult part of the competition
was sitting before the board.
“Keeping your bearing during the questions on the boards
was most diffi cult,” said Garcia. “Everything else you’re by yourself
and its self tasking.”
Competitors for the 2010 Soldier of the Year included: Spc.
Cory Taylor, 615th Transportation Battalion, and Spc. Levi
McDaniel, 226th Military Police Battalion.
Both winners dedicated themselves to winning the competition
both physically and mentally.
“You have to train physically, because something could
happen unforeseen, like bad weather and cold temperatures,”
said CdeBaca. “Study all the information that’s going to be given.
The more you’ve studied and the more confi dent you are that you
know most of the answers to the questions, the less nervous you
are going to be.”
CdeBaca and Garcia are scheduled to represent the New
Mexico National Guard at the Regional Soldier of the Year competition
in Hawaii later this year.
Garcia said he is prepared for the competition, but will continue
to train hard for the regional competition.
Spc. Michael L. Garcia, 1/200th Infantry Battalion, receives a plaque from
State Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Bryant for winning the 2010 Soldier of the
Year Competition in Las Cruces, N.M. Jan. 10, 2010.
Sgt. 1st Class Reuben CdeBaca, 615th Transportation Battalion, receives a
plaque from State Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Bryant for winning the 2010
NCO of the Year Competition.
“I plan on training intensely and just doing a lot of dry drills,”
said Garcia.
Garcia’s advice to anyone who may consider competing in the
Soldier of the Year competition next year is, “Study, study, study!
Be up on your PT, practice your land navigation and remember
your basic fundamentals of your marksmanship.”
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 7

H1N1
Stay informed
to stay healthy
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Roberto Bilbao, 150th FW
New Mexico National Guard has a full supply of H1N1 vaccine for guard members.
Beginning with the month of January, the Medical Groups from both the New Mexico
Air and Army National Guard set up work stations throughout the state and vaccinated
more than 2000 guard members for the H1N1 virus.
The H1N1 vaccination is an addition to the seasonal fl u shot and is mandatory for
guard members with the exception of pregnant servicemembers and members with
a waiver for medical conditions.
The 150th Medical Group Deputy Commander, Maj. Cynthia Hale, commented
“We’re (Air Guard) going to offer the vaccine during the UTAs (drills) and our goal is
to get the New Mexico Air National Guard 100% immunized with these two infl uenza
vaccines.”
Along with the 150th medical clinic, the New Mexico Army Medical Detachment
is being pro-active in ensuring all of the servicemembers understand why the vaccines
are mandatory and are ready to answer any questions on what we need to do
to stay healthy during the fl u season.
The deadline to get the H1N1 vaccination is April 30, 2010.
The information below will guide you on your way to a healthy fl u season.
Get vaccinated.
* Vaccination is the best protection against the fl u.
* Infl uenza is spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of
infected people.
Take every day actions to stay healthy.
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
* Throw the tissue in the trash after using. If no tissue is available, cough into your
sleeve as opposed to your hand.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water. Do this for approximately
20 seconds. It is the friction of your rubbing the soap and
water between your hands. If soap and water are not available,
use an alcohol-based hand rub.
* Avoid touching germ entry points: eyes, nose, and mouth.
* Stay home if you get sick and limit contact from others to avoid
infecting them.
Stay Informed.
* Knowing the facts is the best preparation. Identify sources you
can count on.
* Important phone numbers:
New Mexico Vaccine and Infl uenza Hotline: 1-877-304-4161 (H1N1)
Spanish Language Infl uenza Hotline: 1-800-784-0394 (M-F 8-5).
Online Update
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) website at http://cdc.gov/H1N1fl u/
* Local/state information is available at New
Mexico Department of Health at: http://nmhealth.org/
8 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
A vial of H1N1 vaccine.
Staff Sgt. Devon Hilliard, medical technician, prepares
a needle fi lled with either the seasonal fl u or
the H1N1 vaccine
Col. Andrew Salas grimaces as he receives his inoculation of fl u vaccine
from Maj. Deanna Wolf. Photos: Staff Sgt. Roberto Bilbao

Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 9

MPs get in the holiday spirit
By Spc. Jarod Bryan, Det. 2, 126th MP Company
The Soldiers of Detachment 2, 126th Military Police Company,
exemplifi ed the Army value of selfl ess service while assisting at the
El Caldito Soup Kitchen in Las Cruces, N.M., in December.
The kitchen serves hot meals fi ve days a week, sack lunches
on Saturday, and depending on volunteer support, may serve a
hot meal on Sunday. To fully operate the kitchen requires at least
12 persons.
Instructing the Soldiers on how to successfully operate the
kitchen was retired Lt. Col. Gabe Anaya, vice president of the
board of directors. According to Anaya, who has also volunteered
for the past 10 years, the El Caldito Soup Kitchen thrives on the
support of volunteers, and that individual donations are their biggest
supporters.
Spc. Shawn Armitage, who peeled and mashed potatoes and
helped serve drinks, said, “It feels good to give back to the community.
That’s part of the reason I joined the Guard.”
The MPs arrived at 7:30 a.m. and served a total of 154 local
residents from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
“We usually get here around 7:30 and fi nish just in time to
serve at 11:30. You guys did the job in half the time,” Rose Maire
10 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
State Partnership Partnership planning
moves forward
By By Maj. Maj. Anthony Anthony O. O. Guerrero, Guerrero, Southern Southern Command Command Traditional
Traditional
Commanders Commanders Activities Activities Coordinator
Coordinator
Members of the Costa Rican Coast Guard and
Police Force, the commander and executive offi cer
from the Offi ce of Defense Representative, and members
from the New Mexico National Guard continued
to strengthen their State Partnership Program through
an annual Partnership Planning Conference held in
Albuquerque, N.M., Jan. 6-10, 2010.
The State Partnership Program is a national diplomatic
program that links U.S. states with other nations
to promote regional security, humanitarian assistance,
peacekeeping and counterdrug operations.
The major objective of the conference was to
develop future events that will help enhance the security
cooperation and partnership New Mexico and
Costa Rica share since the program began in 2006.
The keynote speaker was the Adjutant General of New
Mexico, Maj. Gen. Kenny C. Montoya, who welcomed
the Costa Rican delegates to the state of New Mexico.
Spc. Kevin Wilkinson and Spc. Marcellus Oliver have fl ashbacks to
basic training as they wash dishes while Sgt. Donald Payne dries them
in the background.
Levasseur, a local volunteer who advised the troops, said about
the Soldiers’ hard work.
The patrons seemed very excited to see the service members.
“This is the best it’s been in a while,” said one of the regulars as
he left the building.
“Thanks, National Guard,” exclaimed another.
The conference discussed topics such as counterdrug
operations, police professionalization, air safety,
border patrol operations, crime prevention programs,
combat life saver courses and the Costa Rican Police
Academy.
The delegates were then taken to the Mexican
border where they were given a demonstration of
contraband detection and identifi cation by New
Mexico Guardsman who are strategically located
along the border.
Delegates were also treated to a historical orientation
between their country and the roots of New
Mexico at the New Mexico Natural History Museum in
Albuquerque, N.M.
The New Mexico National Guard and the country
of Costa Rica will continue to develop their partnership
based on mutual respect, common heritage, and
shared goals for the benefi t of both partners.

The New Mexico National Guard has a
vital role in Military Appreciaiton Day every
year. Representatives from every program
in the New Mexico Guard is at the legislature
to provide information for veterans
and legislators to better understand what
the National Guard is doing for the citizens
of New Mexico and the Nation.
This year, Brig. Gen. Jack Fox, Deputy
Adjutant General, was one of the key
speakers along with Secretary of Veteran
Affairs, John Garcia. Fox’s speech was a
great opportunity to let the legislators know
about the Guard’s state and federal misison.
Fox’s strong message restated the
role of the Guardsmen, the Citizen-Soldier.
“The New Mexico Guard has 4,000
Guardsmen, since Sept. 11 we have had
4,000 Guardsmen deploy.” Fox stated.
MilitarY DAY
HOnoring those who have served
By 2nd By 2 Lt Tabitha Baker, State Public Affairs
nd Lt Tabitha Baker, State Public Affairs
Every year New Mexico holds Military Appreciation Day at the Legislature.
Veterans from around New Mexico representing every war since World War
II, make the trip to show their gratitiude and to discuss recent legislation that
affects all veterans and service members alike. Side by side, generations of
veterans come together from all services to celebrate this day including the
New Mexico National Guard.
Fox wanted the legislature to know
exactly how hard the Guardsmen work and
the sacrafi ce that they make for their state
and country.
One of the Guard’s missions is to train
for future deployments while still ensuring
they are ready at a moments notice to
help the citizens of New Mexico in a time
of need. Fox used the Ruidoso fl oods and
Hurricane Gustav as prime examples of
the Guard’s loyalty and duty to their state.
“The 920th Engineer Company who was
training for a deployment to Afghanistan,
knowing in less than a year they would
be at War, stopped trianing to go help the
fl ood victims in Ruidoso, N.M. The Company
spent weeks cleaning up streets
and builings, helping the community of
Ruidoso get back on their feet. Later that
year, as the deployment got closer, they
were called again, this time on Labor Day
weekend to assist the state of Louisianna
with Hurricane Gustav. In less than a day
the Guardsmen were on their way to help
the citizens during their time of need.”
Fox later presented an award to 1st Lt.
Rafael M. Garcia. Garcia was awarded the
New Mexico Medal of Valor, which is given
by the Governor of the State of New Mexico
for going above and beyond the call of duty.
Garcia received the award for rendering
fi rst aid at the scene of a roll over accident
that saved the life of Gianna Volpe.
Garcia’s award was a testament to his
deeds and a reminder to the legislators,
veterans and citizens of New Mexico of
what the Citizen-Soldier is.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 11

El Pinto recognized with F-16 Incentive Flight
By Staff Sgt. Kathy Mullins, 150th Fighter Wing
El Pinto Restaurant Director of Operations,
Jim Garcia, and owner, Jim Thomas
were invited by the Employer Support for
Guard and Reserve Program to participate
in an incentive fl ight in an F-16 at Kirtland
Air Force Base.
Garcia and Thomas accepted the invitation
and began the required training to
participate in the fl ight.
Garcia said he vastly underestimated
the necessary preparation for the fl ight. “I
consider the sound of the jet as the sound
of freedom,” said Garcia. “What struck
me the most was the amount of pride the
Guardsmen have in doing their jobs, the
amount of detail and no cutting corners.
The trainers were so dedicated, I appreciate
the precision that is [accomplished] to
do this [mission] everyday.”
Garcia, a strong supporter of the New
Mexico National Guard, has national
pride for his country and people. He has
visited the White House, attended state
dinners and had lunch on Air Force One,
but, according to Garcia, the fl ight on an
F-16 with New Mexico National Guard Taco
pilot, Lt. Col. Joel “Gus” Harris, is better
than all of that.
“I feel honored, I feel like Forrest Gump,
more than honored,” said Garcia. “I didn’t
ask for any of this, but this is the best day of
my life as far as the ‘cool factor’ goes. I’m
telling you, today was way better than visiting
the White House or even being on Air
Force One. The sheer power of the deadly
machine [F-16] and the total confi dence
12 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
and the calm way Lt. Col. Harris
[goes about his job], it is easy to see
why [as a nation] we are respected,”
Garcia said smiling broadly.
Because Garcia’s outstanding experience
fl ying with Harris, Thomas requested
to fl y with him too.
“Flying in an F-16 was the funnest thing
I have ever done in my life! The F-16 was
so fast and was an amazing experience!”
Thomas said.
Thomas said he was so excited to fl y
on an F16 that he could hardly sleep the
night before.
“We have always supported our military
employees, we continue to pay and
take care of their families [when they are
deployed]. If customers come in and want
to ship our salsa and chili to their military
member, we donate the product sent to
APO addresses. We are proud of our salsa
and chili just like the military are proud
to serve. We received a letter from one
member that said the highlight [of their
tour overseas] was the ‘Iraqi quesadilla’
made with crackers and cheese from their
MREs [meals ready to eat] and our salsa.
The smallest thing can be a big thing when
somebody believes in you and cares,”
Garcia said.
El Pinto recognizes Airmen, Soldiers and
civilians for their outstanding accomplishments
and continuing efforts for defending
freedom and the American public.
El Pinto Restaurant has donated
approximately 600 gallons of salsa and
chili sauce to Soldiers
and Airmen
deployed to Iraq
and Afghanistan.
Lt. Col. Joel Harris,
F-16 pilot, Jim Thomas,
owner of El Pinto restaurant,
and Jim Garcia,
Director of Operations
for El Pinto, poses for a
picture next to an F-16
Fighter Jet after Thomas
received an Incentive
Flight fl own by Harris.
Jim Garcia gives thumbs up as they return from
his incentive fl ight on an F-16 in December.
Lt. Col. Joel Harris, F-16 pilot, explains to Jim
Thomas, El Pinto Restaurant owner, how to
properly operate the Multifunction Display Panel
in an F-16 Fighter Jet during an Incentive Flight
Feb. 18, 2010.
Photos: Master Sgt. Paula Aragon, 150th Fighter Wing

GREEN
OR RED
?
El Pinto Restaurant donates salsa to deployed troops
By Sgt. Maj. Brenda Mallary, 93rd Troop Command
El Pinto Restaurant of Albuquerque, N.M. donated 1500 pounds of salsa and chile sauce to the New Mexico National Guard
Soldiers currently deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Members of the National Guard sorted, packed and mailed the salsa and
chile sauce for the deployed Soldiers to enjoy a little hometown fl avor during their meals.
Did you know…?
By Master Sgt. Paula Aragon, 150th Fighter Wing
The New Mexico Army National Guard has a hidden jewel
which every Soldier should be aware of, it is called the Distance
Learning Program. DLP is designed to help Soldiers achieve their
training needs without traveling long distance and has sites at the
following locations in New Mexico; Roswell, Las Cruses, Gallup,
Farmington, Rio Rancho and Santa Fe.
DLP offers many courses including; Professional Military Education,
MOSQ training, cumulative training, and Professional Education
Course provides classes as well.
A feature offered by DLP is Video/Telecommunication, also
known as VTC. This tool is available for courses, commander’s
call, meetings and any sort of telecommunications needed
to converse from one area to another. VTC is a cost effective
means of communicating both in and out of state and can also
be used to keep a line of communication open for families and
their deployed Soldiers.
Another element available is the audio conference. This facet
allows multiple users such as commanders, managers and Soldiers
to communicate with higher commands or from unit to unit
simultaneously, saving time and money for the government.
Each location offers a multi-faceted learning environment to
meet the Soldiers’ educational needs. Most of the classrooms
have 42” high defi nition televisions, printers for classroom work
and computer work stations which allow Soldiers to immerse
themselves in course work.
The DLP is managed by Mr. Benny Aragon and Mr. Dennis
Myer. Their offi ce is located on the fi rst fl oor at the New Mexico
National Guard Headquarters building in Santa Fe. If you have
questions regarding the program or would like to schedule a VTC,
they can be reached at (505) 474-1785.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 13

Mechanics keep New Mexico
unit mission-ready
By Sgt. Candace Westlund, 41st IBCT Public Affairs
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE
ADDER, Iraq – With the high number of
miles the Army’s mine-resistant ambushprotected
vehicles log on the roads in
Iraq, the mechanics with the New Mexico
National Guard’s 720th Convoy Security
Company, from Las Cruces, N.M., at COB
Adder work overtime to keep their unit’s
vehicles fully mission capable.
The 720th mechanics, with 1st Battalion,
186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 13th Sustainment
Command (Expeditionary), work in
the motor pool, but because the unit is
shorthanded, they also go on missions.
Spc. Brent Pirtle, a mechanic and Las
Cruces native, has served as a mechanic
for six years. “I have been tasked out to
be a gunner and a driver on missions
here,” Pirtle said.
14 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
“It is like maintaining
a successful
relationship. You get
to know the vehicles
very well and if you
treat them right they
will never give you
a problem.”
— Spc. Brent Pirtle
He said he was proud to have had no
serious breakdowns on the road. If any
incidents occurred during a mission,
they have been fi xed by the mechanics.
“It is like maintaining a successful relationship,”
Pirtle said. “You get to know the
vehicles very well, and if you treat them
right, they will never give you a problem.”
Members of the 720th Transportation Company
of of the New Mexico National Guard place a turret
on an MRAP, Feb. 3, at Camp Adder, Iraq. The
720th TC is assigned to the 41st Infantry Brigade
Combat Team of the Oregon National Guard.
There is no higher level of maintenance;
everything is performed at the
unit level. “There is civilian support, but
we can do in one day what they do in one
month,” Pirtle said.
The 720th CSC mechanics are trained
to work on each kind of MRAP the unit
has. Pirtle said the maintenance is implemented
differently on each type of truck,
but the parts are the same, so it is easy
to learn each system.
Spc. Juan Barela, a mechanic from
Santa Rosa, N.M., said, “Without us, they
don’t roll.”

New Mexico Adjutant General visits
COB Adder
By Sgt. Candace Westlund, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs
CAMP ADDER, Iraq – Soldiers from the 720th
Convoy Security Company and the 1115th Transportation
Company of the New Mexico National Guard,
attached to the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team
of the Oregon National Guard, were visited Feb. 3 by
the New Mexico Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Kenny
Montoya, of Albuquerque, N.M., at Contingency
Operating Base Adder.
The morning was fi lled with a breakfast and town
hall meetings, where Montoya addressed his Soldiers
with words of inspiration.
“I want you to be true to yourself,” said Montoya.
“The person that I sent here – I need you to still be
that person when you come home.”
Montoya asked his Soldiers to be proud of their
shoulder sleeve insignia, as well as their combat
patch earned with the 41st IBCT. He said that they
should be proud to represent their unit and proud
of being able to work under a great brigade with
the leadership of Col. Dan Hokanson, the 41st IBCT
commander from Keizer, Ore.
“I wish you could be me for a day, and understand
how proud of you I am,” said Montoya.
“I want you to be true to
yourself. The person that
I sent here, I need you to
still be that person when
you come home.”
Maj. Gen. Kenny
Montoya, stands
at the bottom of
the Ziggurat of Ur
Feb. 3 with Soldiers
from the 720th
Transportation
Company.
— Maj. Gen. Kenny C. Montoya
After Montoya addressed his Soldiers,
he called upon every level of
leadership from platoon sergeant to
team leader to introduce their Soldiers
and talk about the good work
being done in their unit.
“You know your Soldiers best,”
Montoya said. “I want to hear about
them from you.”
Staff Sgt. Laurence Long, from
Rock Springs, N.M., said, “He is our
general, he looks after us; he told us
from the beginning he had our backs,
and coming out here now proves it.”
After lunch, the 720th CSC provided
escort security for a tour of the Ziggurat
of Ur. The tour was organized by the
Task Force Guardian chaplain, Lt. Col. Ron
McKay, from Jacksonville, Ore.
The tour included the Ziggurat, an ancient
Sumerian tribute to the moon god Nanna, the
palace ruins, ancient tombs, and the Prophet
Abraham’s house.
Standing in front of
Abraham’s house, Montoya
told his Soldiers, “I
am humbled to be here
at the Ziggurat with you.
I have truly been blessed
in life, and my biggest
blessing is all of you.”
The Adjutant General
for the New Mexico
National Guard, Maj.
Gen. Kenny Montoya,
walks through an arch
in Abraham’s house
during a Feb. 3 visit to
the Ziggurat of Ur at
Camp Adder, Iraq.
Photos: Spc. Cory Grogan
The Adjutant General for the New
Mexico National Guard, Maj. Gen.
Kenny C. Montoya, shakes hands
Feb. 3 with Soldiers from the
1115th Transportation Company of
Taos, N.M., during a visit to Camp
Adder, Iraq, where his Soldiers
are currently serving with the 41st
Infantry Brigade Combat Team of
the Oregon National Guard.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 15

Guard enhances behavioral health services
By 2 nd Lt Tabitha Baker, State Public Affairs
The New Mexico National Guard Family Support Program offers
ongoing and pro-active behavioral health services for Guardsmen
and their families. There are two kinds of services, the Director of
Physiological Health (also known as the Psychological Health Program)
and the Military Family Life Consultant program.
Both programs are free to Guardsmen and their family members,
but focus on different areas. The MFLC concentrates on life skills and
military lifestyle topics. The program does this by providing shortterm,
problem solving counseling services for situations resulting
from commonly occurring life circumstances. All counseling services
are private and confi dential with no records kept.
The program also provides briefi ngs at command sponsored
family days including yellow ribbons, deployment support meetings,
reintegration programs, and conferences discussing topics that effect
Guardsmen and their families including anger management, stress
management, marital/family issues, grief and loss, coping skills, confl
ict resolution, deployment and separation and reunion stressors.
The MFLC is an integral part of pre and post deployment to ensure
all is done for families as they go through these diffi cult times.
The Psychological Health Program, the second program offered,
is on a diagnostic level. The program was initiated by the National
Guard Bureau Jan. 2009. It includes issues dealing with resiliency,
combat related stress (including PTSD), suicidal thoughts, risky
behaviors, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and violence
When a Guardsman comes to PHP they are assessed by a clinician
who then refers them to the appropriate service that can provide
the help they need. The Clinician can follow up for a year to ensure
the individual and/or family members are getting the support needed
to battle the issue at hand. This program is confi dential, though a
record is kept for clinician use only.
The program also offers leadership training, wellness education,
and critical incident management services.
You can see the effects of this training with the initiative that Maj.
Gen. Kenny C. Montoya, the Adjutant General, introduced last Spring
called the Wellness Road Show. The emphasis for this program is to
travel the state visiting armories during drill weekends and conducting
COMPARISON OF SERVICES
Confi dential services
Individual, couples, family short-term counseling
Counseling services to children, extended family members
Psycho-educational groups
Documentation of services
Referral services
Focus on TBI/PTSD/SA/Suicidality
Participation in pre and post deployment programs
Consultation to command
Outreach to community/ military instillations
Crisis intervention/ risk assessment
Use formal screening/ assessment tools
16 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
half -day classes addressing clinical issues. After the class, Guardsmen
are broken up into small groups with one to two clinicians to
address issues on a more individual level.
Both programs have shown to be a vital and integral part of the
New Mexico National Guard, especially when so many Guardsmen are
deployed. This is evident with the additional services both programs are
performing before, after and during deployments to assist families with
issues while their Guardsman is deployed. During this past Christmas
both programs were involved in mid-deployment workshops for families
of deployed Soldiers spanning from Gallup, Las Cruces, Albuquerque,
Roswell and Santa Fe. During this time the programs helped families
cultivate holiday stress into happiness. The MFLC also worked with the
youth of family members deployed to ensure issues were addressed
regarding youth and ensure a happy holiday season for all ages.
Both programs are now involving more civilian clinicians to ensure
the best care is given and to build a reputable database when referring
Guardsmen and families to other clinicians through out the state.
They have done this by having clinical sessions that train clinicians on
military culture to ensure they understand the issues that Guardsmen
and family members go through while at home with everyday issues
or during deployment.
The PHP and MFLC consist of two Clinicians. Stephanie McIver
who works for the MFLC and Kathleen Rollason for PHP. Both clinicians
work very closely together and will ensure all Guardsmen get
the help and support needed for them and their family.
“It doesn’t matter if you are at drill or active duty guard. We are
here all the time for the Guard and their families,” says Rollason.
Rollason went on to say it is imperative to breakdown the stigma
that the military has had in the past where you are considered weak
if you talk about psychological issues, that you are not living up to
the military standards. These two programs though are stopping this
persona in its place and showing that there is no shame in issues that
military members go through throughout their careers.
“Everyone has bumps in the road, it is imperative that we bounce
back or grow.” Rollason said.
Rollason and McIver are available any time 365 days a year.
MFLC DPH
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Kathleen Rollason can be reached at
(505) 204-8312 or email at:
Kathleen.rollason@ceridian.com
Stephanie McIver can be reached at
(505) 554-4698 or by email at :
Stephanie.d.mciver@healthnet.com

Every year around the holiday season
people think of ways to contribute to their
communities, whether it is making donations
to local charities, volunteering at soup
kitchens or directly assisting those less fortunate.
Over 24 years ago Jim Ulmer founded
the successful organization known as “Taos
Feeds Taos” and partnered with the New
Mexico National Guard with the intention of
helping people in his community.
Taos Feeds Taos is a nonprofi t organization
that distributes food baskets to
over 1,000 needy Taos County families
before Christmas, said Ulmer. The organization
is only possible with the help of all
community members. Donations received
range from non-perishable foods to cash
donations used to purchase hams, fruits
and vegetables. People can also volunteer
their time and effort to help fi ll boxes.
TAOS FEEDS TAOS
By Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez, State Public Affairs, JFHQ
Among those volunteering this year
and all previous years were New Mexico
National Guard Soldiers. The National
Guard has been involved with Taos Feeds
Taos since the beginning of the program
thanks to retired Lt. Gen. Edward Baca,
then Adjutant General of New Mexico.
“Since I started this organization, the
National Guard has always volunteered to
assist,” said Ulmer. “If you call the Guardsmen
they’ll come and do it. They are a part
of our community too.”
Soldiers from around the state have
helped by filling and distributing boxes,
assisting families to their vehicles, and
transporting food to surrounding communities
served by Taos Feed Taos for
distribution.
“We are seeing more participation from
the Guard every year,” said Ulmer.
The New Mexico National Guard worked
alongside many other agencies and community
groups to continue what was
started 24 years ago. The local schools,
churches and grocery stores provided
many volunteers and goods to ensure the
program’s success.
“It is amazing to see the number of supporters
grow each year from teenagers to
senior citizens, all of them inspired by the
tradition and service to their community
that began over 20 years ago” said Capt.
Tony Cordova, commander of the 1115th
Transportation Company.
Taos Feeds Taos provided for 100 more
families this year totaling 1,100 families.
“Taos feeds Taos is a reminder of
what a community can do when they
work together to get something done,”
said Cordova.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 17

Gold Wing Riders visit Air Guard
By Staff Sgt. Kathy Mullins
The Gold Wing Riders Association of Albuquerque donated $1065.00
in Wal-Mart gift cards to the New Mexico National Guard Family Support
Program. The gift cards were distributed throughout the state to deserving
Airmen and Soldiers for the holidays.
Russell F. Shupe, Troop Rider Education
coordinator, said he was trying to think of
some way that he and his fellow club members
could do something for Guardsmen.
Rather than collecting canned foods and
ending up with “16 cases of creamed corn,”
Shupe said he contacted Therese Sanchez,
the 150th Family Support coordinator, with
the idea of donating Wal-Mart Gift Cards for
deserving members for the holidays. After
much planning, Shupe and Sanchez came
up with a way for the GWRRA members to
deliver the gift cards and personally see
Guardsmen in action.
The GWRRA had two local chapters that
braved cold December weather to come
and show their support for the Air National
Guard.
The group was admired as they rode
onto the Guard complex, parking their
bikes next to the hangar. The group was
ushered into the briefi ng room where Lt.
Col. Bill Shuert began a 30 minute briefi ng
on the 150th Fighter Wing and the current
missions for the group.
Shuert explained, “Guard pilots fl y just
as many hours as their active duty counterparts
and that Guard members were
‘Citizen-Soldiers.’ Just like those present,
they love their freedom; they just choose
18 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
to do something about it.”
Vice Wing Commander, Col. Andrew
Salas, gave the group what he called a
“Big Taco welcome.”
“Thank you for what you do in the com-
munity, our hearts go out to you,” Salas
said earnestly to the group.
Major Ryan McGuire, a fellow Harley
Rider and F-16 pilot, gave a breakdown
of the personnel and shops assigned to
the 150th Fighter Wing and a brief history
of the F-16.
McGuire received a cheer as he stepped
up to the podium telling the group, “You give
us the opportunity to show off what we do.”
The group then split into two groups and
began their tour of the 150th Fighter Wing.
They were shown the engine shop, the Hush
House and the maintenance hangar. They
then observed Incentive Flight recipient
Jim Garcia, of El Pinto Restaurant, and his
pilot, Lt. Col. Joel Harris, as they performed
several fl y-bys. The group then reunited to
pose pose in front of an F-16 F-16 for pictures.
Chapter Director, Jim White said, “To be
honest, I I was stunned at the response of
the 150th towards us. Maybe because of
my background in Law Enforcement, (and
quite possibly because there is still a little
callousness callousness left in me from that), I really really
expected a colder reception from them.
These are combat hardened fi ghter pilots
and their support crews who have seen
some of the worst that combat has to offer.
But I soon connected the dots and realized
that these folks are us. They are the people
we see every day, at work, in our daily travels
from place to place, our neighbors, our
friends, but all are ‘us’: Every one of them
were genuinely happy to see us. This is a
relationship, a ‘Kinship.’ In the words of
one Lt., ‘I would like very much to see (us)
grow as GWRRA members and members
of our community here in Albuquerque.’”
As the tour was completed, the GWRAA
presented Certifi cates of Appreciation to
Salas, Shuert and 1st Lt. Brian Raphael,
the public information offi cer.
Shupe and the GWRAA showed the
men and women of the 150th their gratitude
as citizens knowing they are working
to protect and defend their freedom.

December brought snow and ChristChristmas decorations to Afghanistan, yet the
920th Engineer Company continues construction
projects almost nonstop. With
New Year’s resolutions for the 920th to
include project completion and building
an even greater reputation for our outstanding
work, the 920th still found time
to celebrate the holidays.
Celebrations around Afghanistan went
from low key fi reworks via parachute fl ares
at Orgun-E, to an all night party at Sharana
including a casino, bubbly cider and
dancing until after midnight. And thanks
to all the support from the home front with
care packages and Christmas stockings,
the mail clerks, Spc. Joseph McNamara
and Spc. Antonio Galindo, have been up
to their eyeballs in boxes to route to Soldiers
in fi ve different locations throughout
Regional Command East.
Once back to work on after the New
Years celebrations January 2nd, it was full
speed ahead as usual for the Outkasts.
For 1st Platoon at Forward Operating
Base Warrior, the holiday month of December
is met with success and celebration.
Staff Sgt. Angelo Lovato, and the rest of
1st Squad, continues their Afghanistan
tour with their fi fth convoy this month.
Along with successful convoying, the
ongoing improvements are moving along
nicely, despite two days of snow delay. The
Hesco perimeter is nearing completion with
over two miles completed. Moreover, ground
920th
Outkast
Story Story and and photos photos contributed contributed by by Task Task Force Force Builder
Builder
Sgt. 1st Class Walker
and members of the
4-2 Kandak Battalion,
Engineer Company
of the Afghan
National Army.
preparation has begun for the proposed airstrip
with grading and compaction being done
throughout the site.
For the Soldiers stationed at FOB Warrior,
despite being away from home for the
holidays, spirits and moral remain high as
they remain committed and ready to complete
the mission.
It’s hard to ignore all the holiday cheer
surrounding 2nd Platoon at Sharana Air Field
in December, twice weekly there is Advent
services at the chapel, Christmas music
playing at the PX, caroling, picture taking
with Santa, candle light midnight mass,
unwrapping presents Christmas day, New
Year’s Eve casino night, and a midmonth
United Service Organizations show featuring
comedian Dave At-tell, tennis legend
Anna Kournikova, and Billy Ray Cyrus, 2nd
Platoon manages to spend time taking care
of business. This month, their work included
completing drainage improvements and
paving a parking lot for new equipment with
the fi nest Afghan gravel.
3rd Platoon fi nishes reconstruction
and expansion at Combat Outpost Zurok,
just north of Orgun-E, which has been an
ongoing effort since July. Now with most
of the platoon back at Orgun-E, the castle
shaped bunker has received a facelift and
is even thicker and stronger than before.
Likewise, the combat patches worn by
920th Soldiers have undergone some
changes in the past month. Task Force
Timberwolf (372nd Engineer Brigade),
replaced the 168th Brigade last month
therefore, awarded their own patch in ceremonies
at Orgun-E and Sharana.
The second week of January brought
U.S. and ANA bulldozers pause while cutting a new
road through a wade near Khier Kot Castle to let a
MRAP with mine roller pass by.
First platoon and more snow at Forward
Operating Base Warrior, Iraq.
great success on perhaps the Company’s
biggest venture to date. Soldiers from
all platoons combined to work together
with the Afghan National Army. Operation
Golden Road had the Engineers keeping
supplies and equipment moving through
rough terrain by keeping routes traffi cable.
Working alongside the ANA engineers
proved to be as challenging as it was
rewarding for both sides.
The Afghans provided additional manpower
and equipment while the Americans
provided technical assistance and
training. As the engineers were keeping
traffi c moving, our great mechanics kept
us moving and also assisted the ANA with
maintaining their trucks. This joint effort will
allow the ANA to eventually become self
suffi cient and also shows the residents of
Paktika Province the good things their army
is doing for them. Hopefully the road repairs
will last until it’s time for the local farmers to
bring their rice and bean crops to market.
The 920th’s protection during this week
long mission was also a joint operation,
with American infantry working alongside
their ANA counterparts to keep the region
free of improvised explosive devices along
the 40 kilometer route. The infantry are so
happy with the additional work done at the
two FOB’s, that the Outkasts will likely be
invited back for more upgrades.
It may be hard to believe, but Company
Headquarters is already starting paperwork
to have us all home in just a few
more months.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 19

Beyond the Standard
By Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez,
State Public Affairs, JFHQ
Five New Mexico National Guardsmen
went “Beyond the Standard” when
they marched 60 60 miles miles in in treturous terrain
through the Niagara Peninsula in three
days to mentor military academy students
on things like communication, problem
solving and camaraderie.
Master Sgt. Eric Giles, Sgt. 1st Class
Guillermo Marez, Staff Sgt. Kevin Johnson,
Staff Sgt. William Davi and Spc. Joshua
Cunningham were chosen to participate in
the Robert Land Academy Fall Exercise in
Canada Oct. 5-7, 2009.
The Robert Land Academy has been open
for over 28 years and is a highly structured
Canadian private military boarding school
for boys in grades 6-12. The Fall Exercise
that each student must complete is a three
day, 60 mile right of passage march.
“The New Mexico National Guard sends
soldiers every year as part of a mentorship
program started by (Brig.) Gen. Fox,” said
Giles. “This year (Brig.) Gen. Fox asked
me to get a team together to participate in
the fall exercise.”
Giles said he knew that the exercise
would be challenging and he would need
the best New Mexico has to offer.
“There were certain things I looked for
in the Soldiers I was going to take,” said
Giles. “They needed to be physically fi t,
mature, patient and they had to have
values. They needed to portray what they
would be teaching the kids.”
20 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
Being physically fi t was essential to
complete the exercise, said Johnson. The
fi rst day of the exercise the Guardsmen
and cadets marched around 26 miles and
20 miles the second day.
“The students are broken up into teams
for the fi rst two days of the exercise,” said
Johnson. “The teams compete against
each other while participating in team
building exercises. Master Sgt. Giles’ team
won and broke the school’s record for distance
marched in the least time.”
According to Johnson, the third day was
a team building day throughout the whole
academy. Teams took turns and worked
together to pull a cannon the remaining14
miles. It took six people to pull the cannon
and two people to steer it.
The cannon is fi red at the end of the
60-mile march as a celebration of the completion
of the exercise and as a remembrance
of the War of 1812, said Davi.
Although the cadets were the ones
being challenged to learn, these New
Mexico Guardsmen learned some valuable
information about the area’s history
and geography.
The second night everyone stayed at the
only fort that fl ies a British fl ag, said Giles. At
the fort, there was a curator that explained
the history of the fort in the War of 1812.
“I learned a lot about the War of 1812
and how dedication is a value that spans
over other nations,” said Davi. “This multinational
exercise displays that dedication,
and gives us a chance to maintain and
improve our relationships.”
As part of maintaining the international
partnership between Canada and New
Mexico, the academy holds a competition
among all cadets to vie for only eight
sponsored spots to travel to New Mexico
and participate in the Bataan Death March
every year and have the opportunity to
see the importance of their American mentors’
history.

New Mexico National Guard
Third graders make valentines for deployed troops
By Maj. Xavier D. Miller, 226th Military Police Battalion
Central Primary School third graders in
Bloomfi eld created Valentine’s Day cards
in December for New Mexico National
Guard troops deployed to Iraq and
Afghanistan. This activity was part of their
“Character Counts” curriculum, which
teaches students trustworthiness, respect,
responsibility, fairness, citizenship and
caring. The students designed the cards
as their own special way to show they care
about the Soldiers.
What the students didn’t know was that
they would get an instant reward for their
caring act. The day they made their cards,
six High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled
Vehicles – commonly called Humvees –
from the Farmington Armory drove onto
the Central Primary School campus to
surprise the caring students. Soldiers
representing Detachment 1, 1116th Transportation
Company, the newly formed
919th Military Police Company, and the
one-year-old 226th Military
Police Battalion took part in
displaying the vehicles and
entertaining about 300 students
with questions about
their jobs in the Army.
The Soldiers picked up
about 200 Valentine’s Day
cards, and prepared them
for delivery to our Soldiers
in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The cards were split up and
sent to four deployed units: 920th Engineer
Company in Afghanistan; and 515th
Combat Sustainment Support Battalion,
1115th Convoy Security Company and
720th Convoy Security Company in Iraq.
Central Primary principal Karen Smith
and school social worker Sharon Cooke
encouraged the event by coordinating
with the Farmington Armory to ensure the
support for this effort.
Seventeen students
from Central Primary
School pose for a
picture in the back of
a HMMWV during a
surprise visit to the
school in December.
(Inset) Valentine’s Day cards, created
by Central Primary School third graders,
are ready to be sent to troops in Iraq
and Afganastan.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 21

22 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
Youth ChalleNGe
class 18 underway
By Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez, State Public Affairs, JFHQ
The New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe
Academy class 18 began their two-week
pre-challenge phase at the Onate Complex
in Santa Fe, N.M., Jan. 15, 2010.
With the help of Soldiers in the New
Mexico National Guard, the academy was
successful at transitioning 54 candidates
into cadets before they left for Roswell, N.M.,
to complete their 22-week resident course.
During their stay in Santa Fe, the candidates
were challenged
physically and mentally in an environment
that encouraged camaraderie, leadership
and responsibility.
The candidates had the privilege of
learning several basic common skill tasks,
in addition to completing confi dence- and
team-building exercises.
Upon completion of the academy, cadets
can graduate with a GED, accrue up to 18
college credit hours and a have the necessary
skills to be a productive citizen.
Congratulations Class 17
The New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe
The New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe
Academy graduated 97 cadets at the
Roswell Convention and Civic Center Center Dec.
11, 2009. Upon graduation, each cadet
had to complete a one-year plan in which
they had the choice of entering the work
force, joining the Armed Forces or continucontinuing their their education in college. The cadets
will continue to complete their 12-month
post-residential phase where they return
to the “real world” and continue on a positive
path to success.
Photo: Sgt. Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez,
State Public Affairs, JFHQ

BEYOND THE
CALL OF DUTY
Story and photos by Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez,
State Public Affairs, JFHQ
Today’s New Mexico National Guard
Citizen Soldiers serve our nation and our
state with the utmost professionalism.
On Interstate 40 near Moriarty, 1st Lt.
Rafael M. Garcia, 1209th Area Medical
Detachment, exemplifi ed what a Citizen
Soldier is when he stopped to assist with a
multiple vehicle accident Nov. 9, 2009.
Garcia said he came upon the accident
and immediately began to assist New
Mexico State Police offi cers on the scene
with life saving medical techniques he
acquired while serving as a combat medic
in the New Mexico National Guard.
“We [Danny Lopez and Gwynn Doland,
two friends of Garcia’s] were driving
between Edgewood and Moriarty when we
saw the two crushed vehicles on the side
of the road,” said Garcia. “It was Gwynn’s
idea to stop, and we immediately agreed.
When I talked with the state police I asked
if there was an air medevac en route and
if they had identifi ed a landing zone. After
that, I went to both cars to do a triage of the
accident when I noticed the female in the
second car wasn’t breathing.”
Gianna Volpe was traveling back to the
University of Missouri in Columbia, when
her vehicle rolled approximately six times
down a slight embankment, said Garcia.
Volpe was trapped upside down in the
mangled vehicle and was not responsive
to Garcia.
“The car was on its roof so I had to
low crawl in through the passenger side
window to get to her,” said Garcia. “One
of the cops cut the seat belt to free her
while I held onto her to ensure she didn’t
fall. After she was free, I pulled her by her
pants with one hand, while holding her
neck with my other hand. I placed her on
her back and removed her jackets from her
face. I opened her airway so I could start
CPR, and she started shallowly breathing
on her own.”
Garcia remained with Volpe and maintained
cervical spine precautions and
monitored her breathing until the Moriarty
Fire Department and ambulance arrived.
When they arrived, Garcia worked with
the paramedics to put Volpe in a cervical
spine collar and place her on a backboard
in order to remove her from inside
the vehicle.
Volpe suffered from a broken neck, a
fractured scapula, broken ribs, a lacerated
liver, a punctured lung and a collapsed
lung. Garcia’s quick reactions saved
Volpe’s life, and his experience as a medic
prevented her from being paralyzed.
“I graduated as a physician’s assistant
from the University of Utah, which is
where I learned a lot about medicine and
the human body. Knowing how to safely
remove an injured person from a vehicle
without causing further damage, I learned
while in combat medic school at Fort Sam,”
said Garcia.
After returning to Albuquerque, Garcia
received an emotional phone call from
Volpe’s mom thanking him for his civic
duty and dedication to saving her daughter’s
life. Garcia made several trips to the
University of New Mexico Hospital to see
Volpe and her mother throughout their stay
in New Mexico.
“Her mom was at the hospital every day
by her daughter’s bed,” said Garcia. “One
Brig. Gen. Jack Fox, deputy adjutant general,
awards 1st Lt. Rafael M. Garcia, 1209th Area Medical
Detachment, the New Mexico Medal of Valor.
(Left) 1st Lt. Rafael M. Garcia demonstrates how to
properly administer an IV during a training exercise
at the Wyoming Armory in Albuquerque, N.M.
visit, Danny and I decided to take her mom
to dinner and try to give her mind a break
from everything that was going on.”
Volpe and her mother have returned
to New Jersey where she will continue to
recover from the accident.
“I have talked to them a few times since
they left, and Gianna is doing a lot better,”
said Garcia. “I plan to keep in contact with
them and hopefully get the opportunity to
go to New Jersey and see them.”
Garcia, who currently works as a physician
assistant at the Presbyterian Hospital,
is also actively involved in his community.
He was raised in Encino and graduated
from Vaughn High School, where he
returns every year to do free physicals for
the students there.
“I grew up with four brothers, and every
year my parents had to pay $30 for each
brother to get a physical. With fi ve children,
it got expensive,” said Garcia. “By
going back to my hometown and helping
the kids in my old high school, it is my way
of giving back to the community that gave
so much to me.”
Garcia was awarded the New Mexico
Medal of Valor, the highest state award,
for saving the life of Gianna Volpe. Garcia
is the epitome of today’s New Mexico
National Guard Citizen Soldiers.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 23

health matters
Reaching your New Years Resolution
“A healthy body is a guest chamber for the soul: a sick body is a prison.” — Francis Bacon, Sr.
It is that time of year again. The New
Year starts, and we promise or resolve to
do something to improve and make some
kind of signifi cant change in our lives. The
term “resolution” is broadly associated
with making such commitments on New
Year’s Day.
There are as many different types of
resolutions as there are people. A prime
example of one common resolve is to make
a diligent effort to go to the gym and lose the
20 pounds that have haunted us for most of
our lives. “This is the year I will shed those
pounds,” we vow. So we go to the gym and
start out with a bang, but then the soreness
sets in, followed by the downward spiral.
“I will just take a day off so I can let
my body rest.” Many people are guilty of
saying this, but then one day turns into two
days, than three days and so forth. Then
before you know it, you have not stepped
foot into the gym for a few months. Sound
familiar?
Such research says that if you do something
for 19 days it will become a habit, but
most people will not make it to the tenth day
much less the nineteenth. Perhaps a different
approach is needed. For example, if a
good goal is to lose 20 pounds, start with
losing a pound a week. Granted this is a
much smaller number, but this short-term
goal is more quickly reached than the entire
20 pounds.
Here are some ways to reach
the goals set as New Year’s
resolutions:
1. Aim low. As noted above, try to lose one
pound a week. Once the target goal of
one pound is met, try visualizing another
pound lost for the following week.
24 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
2. Don’t overachieve. Many of us can
be overachievers and attempt several
resolutions for the year. This has the
potential to consume you. It’s a recipe
for disaster. Pick one resolution and
work on that – you will have better
success.
3. Ask for help. Friends, co-workers, and
family are vital to keeping resolutions.
Telling people your intentions and
resolution will help you solidify your
goal. Remember, there is no shame in
asking for help in order to reach your
resolution’s goal.
4. Reward yourself. If the resolution is
to not buy unneeded items, to curb the
urge, reward yourself by buying a hot
chocolate at the mall. This way you can
enjoy your beverage and pat yourself
on the back by walking away from
those items.
5. Wait until spring. Who says you have to
begin at the fi rst of the year? Pick a time
that will work for you. If you enjoy the
outdoors, pick May for your start time.
The weather is nicer and more motivating
than a cold, dreary winter day.
6. Always use moderation. Most people
have a tendency to lean too much one
way or the other. Once you realize the
imbalance, do what you need to fi nd
your center point and re-focus.
Remember to use your support group to
get you through the rough days. Make small
changes to help you attain your fi nal goal.
When you do reach your goal, continue
making strides; or next year, you may fi nd
yourself re-committing to the promise you
made this year! Know your limits and ability,
but most of all have fun!
By Master Sgt. Paula Aragon, 150th Fighter Wing
Mango-Peach
Smoothie
INGREDIENTS
• 1 peach, sliced
• 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup vanilla soy milk
• 1/2 cup orange juice, or as needed
DIRECTIONS
Place the peach, mango, soy milk and
orange juice into a blender. Cover, and puree
until smooth. Pour into glasses to serve.
Nutritional Information
Amount Per Serving Calories: 105 |
Total Fat: 1.3g | Cholesterol: 0mg
Courtesy of allrecipes.com
Servings Per Recipe: 2
Amount Per Serving
• Calories: 105
• Total Fat: 1.3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 29mg
• Total Carbs: 22.3g
• Dietary Fiber: 1.7g
• Protein: 2.5g

Chief Warrant Offi cer Lawrence Jiron, Director of Information Management, smiles as Lane Colsen, son of Chief
Warrant Offi cer Lonnie Colsen, plays at the Presbyterian Hospital children’s ward.
Showing Their Support
The New Mexico Adjutant General, Maj.
Gen. Kenny C. Montoya, State Chairman for
Employer Support for Guard and Reserve,
Budgie Green, and the Executive Vice President
from Applied Research Associates
Incorporated, Frank A. Maestas, look on as
the Chief Executive Offi cer and President for
Applied Research Associates Incorporated,
Robert Sues, signs the National Letter of
Support on Jan. 13, 2010. The National
Letter of Support is statement employer’s
sign pledging their support to the National
Guard and Reserve Members.
Photo: Sgt. Suzanna Dominguez,
State Public Affairs, JFHQ
Cheers to
the Kids
By Wendy S. Franchell, 44 Army Band
New Mexico National Guard
Warrant Offi cers gathered at the
Presbyterian Hospital children’s
ward in Albuquerque, N.M. to present
children and their families with a
bit of holiday cheer in December.
Upon arrival to the hospital, warrant
offi cers warmed the halls decorating
trees and rooms with festive
decorations.
Afterwards, they loaded their
sleighs with toys and traveled from
room to room delivering hugs, well
wishes and toys galore to patients.
It was a brighter day for both the
warrant offi cers and patients that
were away from home during the
holidays.
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 25

New Mexico National Guard
Enlisted Association Conference
HOSTED BY
717th Brigade Support Battalion
Conference Dates:
April 16-17, 2010
Location: Ruidoso, N.M.
WIN a 2010
Harley-Davidson FLHX & Trailer
26 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
2010
See your 1st Sgt.
to purchase a chance
to win this beauty
$20.00 a Ticket

WARRANT OFFICER
EARNS HIS CW4
AWARDS • PROMOTIONS • RETIREMENTS • CHANGE OF COMMANDS
Moving Up and Moving On • January, February & March 2010
TWO GUARDSMEN
PROMOTED TO COLONEL
In a pinning ceremony at the New Mexico Army National Guard
Regional Training Training Institute on the Onate Complex in Santa Fe,
Lt. Col. Michael Michael G. La Belle, deputy for clinical services, Medical
Detachment, and Lt. Col. Luis Eres, deputy USP&FO were promoted
to the rank of colonel Jan. 21, 2010.
In a New Mexico Mexico National Guard tradition tradition La Belle, who was pinned
by his daughter Jami Jami and Col. John Collins, the state surgeon; and
Eres, who was pinned by his wife Sally and and daughter Marla, were
accepted accepted by the the Army Army and Air National Guard colonels, who each
commented on their outstanding outstanding contributions as leaders, mentors
and and professionals, and welcomed them them into their ranks.
Photos: Sgt Suzanna Dominguez, State Public Affairs, JFHQ
COLONELS
PROMOTED
TOGETHER
Col. Joe Romero and his
wife Dinorah Romero pose
with Col. Alfred Perez and
his wife Veronica Perez
after both men were promoted
to the rank of colonel
during a ceremony
held at the New Mexico
Army National Guard
Onate Complex in Santa
Fe Feb. 11, 2010.
GRIEGO
ASSUMES
COMMAND
Lt. Col. Leo Griego
accepts the 2nd Battalion,
515th Regional
Training Institute guidon
from Col. Bump, 515th
RTI commander, as outgoing
commander Lt.
Col. Michael Martinez
watches during a Change
of Command Ceremony
Feb. 7, 2010.
Chief Warrant Offi cer Delfi n
Medina is pinned by his wife
Yolanda Medina Feb. 12,
2010, at the Onate Complex
in Santa Fe, N.M. Medina’s
daughter Pricilla and son
Chief Warrant Offi cer Mario
615TH GETS NEW CSM
Medina were also present for
the promotion ceremony. Command Sgt. Maj. Andy Maestas addresses troops with his family present
Feb. 7, 2010, during a Change of Responsibility Ceremony for the
615th Transportation Battalion at the National Guard armory in Las Vegas,
N.M.. Maestas brings 36 years of experience as a logistician along with a
recent deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Photo: Pfc. John Montoya, 200th PAD
Spring 2010 / New Mexico National Guard 27

New Mexico’s contribution during during WWII
By Spc. Charles Montoya, 200th PAD
When the sun rose over the Land of
Enchantment on the morning of Dec. 7,
1941, there was nothing to indicate this
day would would be different than any other.
When When the sun set, there was no doubt.
Thousands of of miles away on the the
island of Hawaii, bombers from Japan’s
naval forces forces struck a a devastating devastating blow blow
to to the American military military forces forces stationed
there. Among the thousands who were were
killed killed that day were Ivan Lee Block
from from Glorieta, Clarence Edward Buhr Buhr
from from Raton, Holger Holger Earl Sorensen from
Española, William Spurgeon Walters
Jr. Jr. from Tucumcari, Oren Sumner from
Albuquerque, and Wayne and Nicholas
Livers, brothers from Belen. These
seven men never saw the sun set that
day. They perished, with over 2,000 of
their shipmates on the USS Arizona,
and were some of the fi rst casualties
of World War II. They all were from the
state of New Mexico.
On April 18, 1942, 16 bomber planes
destined for Tokyo took off from the
USS Hornet in the North Pacifi c. The
fi rst to launch was piloted by James H.
“Jimmy” Doolittle and among the crew
was Roswell native Paul J. Leonard.
According to the book “I Could Never
Be So Lucky Again,” when Doolittle
crashed after bombing Tokyo, it was
Leonard who tried to cheer him up.
“They’re going to make you a general
… and they’re going to give you
the Congressional Medal of Honor,”
Leonard said.
When Leonard was killed in Algeria
in 1943, Doolittle lamented, “I found
what was left of Paul. It was his left
28 New Mexico Minuteman / Spring 2010
hand off at the wrist, with a wristwatch
still in place. This was all that remained
of the wonderful boy who had tried to
cheer me up in China in my saddest
moment… His loss was my greatest
personal tragedy of the war.”
One of the most beloved war correspondents
was Ernie Pyle, an Indiana
native who called New Mexico home.
This roving reporter went into the fi eld
and the front lines to bring the stories of
American service men home. He slept,
marched and ate with the Soldiers earning
the title, “the GI’s own reporter.” He
sent daily dispatches from the front
and spent time in Italy with the 120th
Engineer Battalion of the New Mexico
National Guard. He loved meeting Soldiers
from New Mexico.
“It was good to get back to those
slow-talking, wide and easy people of
the desert, and good to speak of places
like Las Cruces, Socorro and Santa
Rosa. It was good to fi nd somebody
who lived within sight of my own picket
fence on the mesa,” said Pyle.
He won the Pulitzer Prize in 1944
for his writing and it was his desire to
return to New Mexico to live when the
war was over, but unfortunately he was
killed in 1945 by a Japanese machine
gun. He was one of the few civilians
to receive the Purple Heart, and his
home in Albuquerque was made into a
branch library.
From Pearl Harbor to the end of the
war, New Mexicans took part in every
major campaign in every theater of the
war. They served in all of the armed
forces and performed any job that
was needed to win. From single individuals
to battalions, they were recognized
with every military decoration
their country bestowed. At least eight
Medals of Honor, 13 Distinguished
Service Crosses and 15 Navy Crosses
were associated with New Mexicans.
The scientifi c efforts to build and test
the atomic bomb, which brought the
war to an end and ushered in the
atomic age, took place here also. Not
to be forgotten were loved ones and
families back home who bought war
bonds hoping their efforts were for the
greater good.
All accomplishments of New Mexicans
in World War II, including women
in uniform, are too great to account in
detail here. Most of the veterans have
already passed on, and more are lost
every day. Those that are still among us
are in their eighties, if not older.
Their actions were epitomized by
President Bill Clinton in 1994. “Today,
many of them are here among us,’’
Clinton said. ``Oh, yes, they may walk
with a little less spring in their step, and
their ranks are growing thinner, but let
us never forget that when they were
young, these men saved the world.’’
The legendary defenders of Bataan
would earn the description, “First to
fi re, last to lay down their arms,” for
their heroic stand during the bombing
of the Philippine Islands on the same
day that Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Their legacy is carried on today by
those wearing the uniform of the New
Mexico National Guard.