Summer 2010 - STATES - The National Guard

On the Cover
EAST FREETOWN, Mass. – Pfc. Daniel L. Bain, a carpenter
from Lowell and member of the 180th Engineer
Detachment Fire Fighters, Massachusetts National Guard,
helps stranded citizens across the almost impassable
Beech Bluff Road in East Freetown, April 2, 2010. Bain
and 180th are working in support of Operation Rising
Water (Army photo by Spc. Alfred Tripolone III, 65th
Press Camp Headquarters).
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Features
Massachusetts National Guard
Gives Flood Assistance to Local Communities . . . 7
Activated Chemical Troops
Get Visit from Top State Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Royal Jordanian Air Force Members Train at Otis . . 9
Engineers to Deploy to Afghanistan . . . . . . . . . . 10
101st FA Medic Provides Care at Car Accident . . . 12
Detention Facility Transferred to Iraqi Control . . . 13
National Guard Celebrates the
373rd First Muster at the Salem Common. . . 14
In the Spirit of Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Massachusetts Governor Signs
Tax Legislation to Help Reservists. . . . . . . . 17
Friend of 102nd Continues
Model Aircraft Donations to Wing . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Dual Military Spouses: a Challenge in Itself . . . .19
Oldest FA Battalion Takes Charge at Camp Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Massachusetts Guard Soldier Becomes U.S. Citizen . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Partners for Prosperity. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Operation Total Warrior
Prepares the Total Force . . . . . . . . . . . 24
102nd Honored as Diversity Hero . . . . . 24
Celtics and Soldiers Host Black History Event for Students . . . . . . . . 25
Guardsman Aids Critically Injured Motorist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Departments
Command Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Service Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Short Takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
www.ma.ng.mil
This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Massachusetts National Guard. Contents of this magazine
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Guard Bureau or the Massachusetts National Guard.
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of Defense, the National Guard Bureau or the Massachusetts National Guard.
The Nation’s First 1

Command Message
Don’t Let Drugs Damage Your Career
By Col. Richard C. Nagle, Deputy Chief of Staff –
Operations, Massachusetts Army National Guard
The Massachusetts National Guard Substance
Abuse Program’s mission is to strengthen the
overall effectiveness of the National Guard’s
total work force and to enhance the health and
combat readiness of its service members.
The Substance Abuse office is responsible for
the testing and education of service members
in the Massachusetts National Guard. This
includes training unit prevention leaders. UPLs
are responsible for conducting the required
monthly 10 percent testing at the unit level and
providing the service members in their unit
with drug education as well as advising the
commander on the Substance Abuse Program.
The Substance Abuse office also notifies units
when a service member tests positive and
provides contact information for state certified
substance abuse counseling centers.
Many service members don’t understand the
ramifications of testing positive. Once a service
member tests positive, he/she is processed for
separation and a nontransferable flag is initiated.
This means that no favorable actions can be
Staff Sgt. Corey R. Choruzek, squad leader, 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment,
holds a new M1161A1 hand grenade simulator during a demonstration here of the
more environmentally friendly training grenades, March 19, 2010 (U.S. Air Force
photo by Senior Airman Eric Kolesnikovas).
initiated, and the service member cannot transfer
out of his/her current unit of assignment.
Favorable actions include promotions and
awards, and the service member cannot be put
on Active Guard Reserve or Active Duty
Operational Support orders. A stop is also put
on any tuition assistance money the service
member has received or is currently receiving
or any bonus that would be paid out. If a
service member is discharged from the National
Guard for substance abuse, the service member
can also expect to pay back any benefits
that were received such as bonuses and tuition
assistance.
The current and future operational tempo of the
National Guard has focused command emphasis
on creating a healthy and efficient force by
minimizing the effects of alcohol and drugs.
The Massachusetts National Guard’s first quarter
of fiscal year 2010 has shown a 1.5 percent
decrease over fiscal year 2009 in service
members testing positive. Our goal is to get the
number of positive drug tests to zero.
Leaders are expected to educate their service
members on the effects of a positive drug test
Col. Richard C. Nagle, Deputy Chief of Staff –
Operations, Massachusetts Army National Guard
and ensure that they are aware that illicit drug
use won’t be tolerated.
If you have any questions or need assistance,
please contact Staff Sgt. Adam Berg or Tech.
Sgt. Beverly Duhamel in the Substance Abuse
office. ✯
Having a Blast on the Cape
By Lt. Col. Jack McKenna, Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
CAMP EDWARDS, Mass. – Staff Sgt. Corey R. Choruzek, squad leader,
1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment, pulled the pin on the resurrection
of pyrotechnic training here March 19, 2010, when he demonstrated the
new M1161A1 hand grenade simulator.
The demonstration at Tactical Training Base Kelley was the first time in
over 12 years that pyrotechnics have been used on Camp Edwards.
Witnessing the display were Fox News correspondent Molly Line, Brig.
Gen. Thomas J. Sellars, Commander, Massachusetts Army Guard, and
Col. Francis M. McGinn, post commander.
The event proved that the M1161A1 has a loud report and flash that
comes close to replicating the real thing.
“It is important to use these in training – it provides more realistic combat
training,” said Choruzek.
In May 1997, in an effort to protect the sole source Cape Cod aquifer, the
Environmental Protection Agency suspended the use of all pyrotechnics
at or near the training range and impact area.
In a letter addressed to McGinn March 24, 2010, the EPA authorized the
limited use of the M116A1 for a two-year period.
The Massachusetts Army National Guard will be the first organization to
use these new devices. ✯
The Nation’s First 3

Service Member Spotlight
Army Spc. Jessie HernandezCruz, a medic assigned
to the 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade,
Massachusetts Army National Guard displays some
of the equipment in her aid bag March 20, 2010.
HernandezCruz was awarded the Army Achievement
Medal for assisting a Soldier during a medical
emergency on a weekend drill.
By Army Staff Sgt. James C. Lally
HHC, 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
READING, Mass. – An Army medic received the
Army Achievement Medal for assisting a Soldier
during a medical emergency on Camp Curtis
Guild here March 20, 2010.
Army Spc. Jessie HernandezCruz, a medic
assigned to the 26th Maneuver Enhancement
4 Minuteman Summer 2010
Poised Under Pressure:
Medic Recognized for Providing
Emergency Medical Care
Brigade, Massachusetts Army National Guard,
was recognized for her efforts in stabilizing a
fellow Soldier who experienced a medical
emergency during a drill weekend.
Medics are primarily responsible for providing
emergency medical treatment, limited primary
care and health protection, and evacuation from
a point of injury or illness. On the battlefield,
they administer emergency medical treatment
to casualties. Whether or not they have any
experience is of little consequence when an
emergency arises and a fellow Soldier is counting
on them for help.
Impressed by HernandezCruz’s actions, Staff Sgt.
Melissa A. Souza, a military police operations
sergeant with the 26th, recommended her for
the award. Souza said, “I thought it was important
to recognize her because although she is a
medic and helping a Soldier in need may be
considered her duty, she’s young and this was
her first real-world medical emergency. Helping
a stranger is easy; helping someone you know
can be nerve-racking and sometimes downright
scary. She stayed calm, did what she had to do,
and maintained control of the situation in spite
of the chaos. It was very impressive to see a
19-year-old Soldier work under that kind of
pressure.”
When faced with a distressing situation like a
medical emergency, time and again people react
by calling for a first responder. Recollecting the
incident, Souza said, “A young Soldier came
running out of the latrine screaming that someone
was not OK. I remember it becoming very
chaotic. I grabbed the first medic I saw, which
was Spc. HernandezCruz, while I ran out to my
vehicle to grab my medical aid bag. She came
“I thought it was important to recognize her because although
she is a medic and helping a Soldier in need may be considered her duty,
she’s young and this was her first real-world medical emergency.
Helping a stranger is easy, helping someone you know can be nerve-racking
and sometimes downright scary. She stayed calm, did what she had to do,
and maintained control of the situation in spite of the chaos. It was very
impressive to see a 19-year-old Soldier work under that kind of pressure.”
– Staff Sgt. Melissa A. Souza, 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
to me without hesitation, and I directed her to
the male latrine. She ran in and immediately
took control of a very chaotic situation. Spc.
HernandezCruz and other medics were able to
stabilize the Soldier to be transported to a
medical facility,” said Souza.
Recognizing the magnitude of HernandezCruz’s
efforts, Souza said, “When these kinds of situations
happen, I think it is important to remember
the training we receive and be able to act with
calmness and poise in a time of chaos. As noncommissioned
officers, we are trained to stay
calm in order to keep our Soldiers calm and
make good decisions. This skill is not something
that is taught in a day; it is learned over
time. For a Soldier who graduated basic training
and advanced individual training only a year ago,
it was impressive to see this young Soldier act
as if she has been doing this her entire life. She
will make a great noncommissioned officer, and
it was my pleasure to recommend her for the
Army Achievement Medal,” said Souza.
When the incident happened, HernandezCruz
was on a break between briefings during her
unit’s February drill. When the routine training
event was disrupted by a call for help,
HernandezCruz assessed the situation calmly
before reacting. She recalled, “I heard someone
call for a medic, and I looked around to see if
anyone was responding because I was unsure
whether it was an actual emergency. Then whoever
it was said that it was not fake and that it
was a real-life emergency,” said HernandezCruz.
Like many other medics, HernandezCruz was
modest about taking credit for what she viewed
as just doing her job; however, she was apparently
moved enough to set out on a path that
may have changed the course of her own life.
Discussing the event and her plans for the
future, HernandezCruz said, “I’m proud of myself
even though I feel like I shouldn’t be rewarded
because I’m a medic, but I’m happy about it. It
was the first time I had to respond to something
like this and it made me more confident in my
abilities. I know what I want to do now; I want
to study medicine as a civilian career.”
By reacting quickly to conduct her mission,
Spc. HernandezCruz lived up to the tradition of
the 26th “Yankee Division,” a tradition reflected
in her unit’s motto by always being “Ready
to move!” ✯

Senior Airman Travis Miller
By Senior Airman Matt Benedetti, 104th Public Affairs
BARNES AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mass. – Senior Airman Travis Miller joined the
Air Force later in life than most of his colleagues in the medals technology shop at the
104th. Being a 29-year-old enlistee is never easy. However, Miller had always been
keenly aware of a family military legacy that ultimately influenced his decision and
compelled him to enlist in his grandfather’s former unit.
Miller’s grandfather, Tech. Sgt. Charlie Samson, was a tail gunner on the B-24 “Miss
Behave” during World War II. A veteran of several dangerous missions, including the
raid on the Ploesti oilfields in Romania in 1943, Samson also served as a Guardsman at
the 104th from 1956 to 1977.
Miller, a metals technology craftsman, has been a unit member for close to three
years. His duties include the manufacture and repair of equipment metal parts using
conventional machining and welding methods. Miller enjoys his work. “The opportunity
to complete so many different types of aircraft repairs and supporting other shops
allows the F-15 to be ready when called upon. I get to meet unit members throughout
the various squadrons on base,” he said.
The earnest Airman is grateful to Master Sgt. Peter Lupien who became a mentor to
Miller before retiring. “He guided me in the right direction to help me become an all around
experienced machinist,” he said.
The Becket native is very active on base and is a member of the 104th FW Crash Damages
Disabled Recovery Team. As a cub master for a local Cub Scout Troop, he devotes
considerable time to philanthropic efforts. ✯
The Nation’s First 5

Massachusetts National Guard Gives
Flood Assistance to Local Communities
By Army Staff Sgt. James C. Lally
Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
LEXINGTON, Mass. – Massachusetts National Guardsmen
filled approximately 4,000 sandbags at the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation – Highway Division here
March 29, 2010, in an effort to provide support to local
communities anticipating flooding from heavy rainfall.
Soldiers worked through the night filling, palletizing and
delivering emergency sandbags to the Massachusetts
towns of Littleton, Bridgewater, Tewksbury and Millbury.
Soldiers and Airmen worked with the Massachusetts
Emergency Management Agency in general relief efforts
across the state.
The Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National
Guard, Army Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter said, “The men
and women of the Massachusetts National Guard are
eager to assist the citizens of the commonwealth. The
commonwealth can rely on our diverse capabilities, our
strategically located units, and our quick response during
times of need.”
Army 2nd Lt. Danielle Golden, platoon leader, 125th
Quartermaster Company, Massachusetts Army National
Guard, supervised Soldiers filling sandbags in Lexington.
Golden, who normally works as a state corrections
officer, shared her feelings about helping citizens of the
commonwealth, “This is my first state mission since I
joined the Guard a little more than six years ago. Any
Soldier that gets to be a part of a mission like this at least
once is lucky.”
Army Staff Sgt. Ross E. Bandy, 272nd Chemical Company,
Massachusetts Army National Guard, said, “I am a Navy
veteran, and I have a friend in the Guard who helped out
during the 2008 ice storm. After seeing him, I thought I’d
join and help some people out.”
Army Pfc. Victoria Beauchesne passes a sandbag to Pfc. John Mazzeo at the
Massachusetts Department of Transportation – Highway Division in Lexington,
Mass., March 29, 2010. Both Soldiers are from the 272nd Chemical Company,
Massachusetts Army National Guard (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. James C. Lally).
Pvt. Carey A. Clarke and Army Pfc. Matthew J. Ohman from the 272nd Chemical
Company, Massachusetts Army National Guard, work together filling sandbags at
the Massachusetts Department of Transportation – Highway Division in
Lexington, Mass., March 29, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. James C. Lally).
The Massachusetts National Guard’s 79th Troop Command in Rehoboth
coordinated the movement of filled sandbags from Lexington to areas
designated by MEMA. The initial tasks MEMA assigned to the National
Guard were completed successfully.
With the region braced for potential flooding, the Guard prepared to
render further assistance by strategically placing additional equipment
and forces for quick reaction. The Massachusetts National Guard was
authorized to activate up to 1,000 Guardsmen if necessary. ✯
The Nation’s First 7

Activated Chemical Troops Get Visit
from Top State Leaders
Soldiers Called Up for Emergency Relief
Receive Thanks from State Governor, Senator
U.S. Sen. Scott Brown of Massachusetts pulls a filled
sandbag from an automated sandbagging machine
March 30, 2010, at the Lexington Department of
Transportation site while visiting troops from the
272nd Chemical Company, Massachusetts Army
National Guard, supporting Operation Rising Water.
Massachusetts Guard members from across the
commonwealth have been activated in an emergency
response to flooding occurring all over the state
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jerome Bishop).
8 Minuteman Summer 2010
By Spc. Nicholas Michaud
65th Public Affairs Operations Center
LEXINGTON, Mass. – Soldiers of the 272nd
Chemical Company of the Massachusetts Army
National Guard, tasked with filling sandbags
in support of Operation Rising Water, were
surprised March 30, 2010, by visits from top
Massachusetts officials.
Gov. Deval Patrick and U.S. Sen. Scott Brown,
on site at the Lexington Department of
Transportation to receive briefings on the operation,
also checked on the Soldiers’ well-being
and offered words of support. Upon arrival,
Patrick was briefed by the commander of the
79th Troop Command, Lt. Col. Paul Landry.
Following the briefing, Patrick inspected the
sandbagging operations and provided a briefing
to the media.
“As usual, the National Guard has stepped right
up,” said Patrick to members of the media, “and
been total professionals from the beginning.”
Throughout his visit, Patrick walked among the
troops and offered his thanks to the Soldiers.
The members of the National Guard are doing a
fabulous job, said Patrick in an interview he
provided to members of the 65th Public Affairs
Headquarters.
“I want to make sure everyone is adequately
supplied and getting the food and rest they
need,” said Patrick during the interview.
Brown, recently elected to the U.S. Senate from
Massachusetts, stopped by to offer his support
to the troops. Brown, also a Lt. Col. in the
Massachusetts National Guard, lent a hand in
the production of the sandbags by personally
stepping in and making a few.
“When I was younger we used to make them by
hand and now they have the machine from
Range Control at Edwards,” said Brown.
As a morale booster, Brown provided coffee and
doughnuts to the tired troops. Before, during
and after his briefing with the media, Brown
took the time to personally thank every member
of the Massachusetts National Guard working at
the Lexington DOT site. ✯
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, second from right, and Secretary Mary Elizabeth Heffernan, Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, meet with Soldiers from
the 272nd Chemical Company, Massachusetts Army National Guard, at the Lexington Department of Transportation during a visit to the site March 30, 2010. Soldiers
from the 272nd were activated, along with other Massachusetts Guard members, in support of Operation Rising Water, the commonwealth’s response to the continuing
flood emergency (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jerome Bishop).

Story and photos by Air Force Capt. Evan C. Lagasse
102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
OTIS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mass. – Five members of the Royal
Jordanian air force visited Otis Air National Guard Base for three weeks,
Jan. 25 to Feb. 12, to train with the Precision Measurement Equipment
Laboratory team here.
The main focus of the training was on measuring and calibrating various
bore sight fixtures for the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
“We’re getting hands-on training on the calibration of bore sight fixtures
which are done for the alignment of the F-16. We had difficulty understanding
the complicated measurement procedures, so we came over to
Otis Air National Guard Base to get training, and then we’ll be able to do
these complicated measurements by ourselves,” said Royal Jordanian air
force Lt. Col. Nalby Lbzo, RJAF calibration laboratories officer in charge.
The Otis PMEL facility supports various airframes, more than 15,000
items, and provides calibration, repairs, research and development to the
field. It is the only Type II C lab in the Air National Guard, which means
the lab has a room maintained at a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit, plus
or minus one degree, but the facility wasn’t the only reason they were
selected to train the Royal Jordanian air force.
“We were asked by the Air Force to help train the Jordanians on the F-16
bore sights not only because we are the only Type II C lab in the Air
National Guard, but because we have the expertise,” said Todd Morey,
PMEL lab supervisor.
Much of that expertise comes in the form of PMEL Technician Timothy
Yousey. He used to be an instructor at the U.S. Air Force’s PMEL school
house located at Keesler AFB, Miss., and was assigned to teaching the
RJAF members how to calibrate the bore sight fixtures.
“When you’re calibrating the bore sights, a lot of it is about feel, so it
helps to have someone with more than 20 years of experience [Yousey]
Timothy Yousey, top right, Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory
technician, watches Royal Jordanian air force Lt. Col. Nalby Lbzo calibrate an F-16
Fighting Falcon bore sight, Feb. 9, 2010, using techniques learned from Yousey
during the Royal Jordanian air force members’ three-week training visit to Otis Air
National Guard Base, Mass.
Top photo: Royal Jordanian air force Lt. Col. Nalby Lbzo calibrates an F-16 Fighting
Falcon bore sight at Otis Air National Guard Base’s Precision Measurement
Equipment Laboratory Feb. 9, 2010.
showing you how to approach the measurement rather than just pushing
your way to the measurement,” said Morey.
The main goal of the training was to assist the RJAF in becoming self
sufficient with bore sight fixture calibration so they can accomplish the
work “in house” and eliminate the need to send parts to the United States.
“This will tremendously affect our air force because right now we don’t
have the capability of training or the capability to calibrate these fixtures
by ourselves. Now we should be able to do these measurements by
ourselves in Jordan,” said Lbzo.
As with most military endeavors, detailed coordination, planning and
support from senior leadership were essential to make this training
partnership a reality, a fact not lost on the participants.
“The support of our leadership and proper funding is imperative to make
these types of training partnerships a reality. We would like
the spirit of cooperation to continue between the two countries,” said Rick
Lawrence, PMEL superintendent. ✯
The Nation’s First 9

Engineers to Deploy to Afghanistan
By Army Sgt. James C. Lally, Massachusetts National
Guard Public Affairs
MILFORD, Mass. – The Massachusetts National
Guard held two separate send-off ceremonies
Feb. 19, 2010, for more than 160 Soldiers in
Brockton and Pittsfield, Mass.
The two groups that make up the 379th
Engineer Company were housed in different
armories located on opposite sides of the state;
therefore, their send-off ceremonies were held
separately in consideration of their families,
friends and supporters.
The 379th Engineer Company’s armory is in
Bourne, Mass., but their ceremony was held at
Massachusetts Gov. Deval L. Patrick, state Sen.
Benjamin B. Downing and state Rep. William
Pignatelli observe a performance of the “Star
Spangled Banner” at a send-off ceremony for the
379th Engineer Company in Pittsfield, Mass.,
Feb. 19, 2010.
Denyce Joslyn-Sommers listens to a speech at a
send-off ceremony for her brother-in-law, Army Sgt.
1st Class Frederick J. Sommers, 379th Engineer
Company, Massachusetts Army National Guard, at
the Massasoit Conference Center in Brockton, Mass.,
Feb. 19, 2010.
10 Minuteman Summer 2010
the Massasoit Conference Center in Brockton.
Detachment One’s armory is in Pittsfield Mass.,
and their ceremony was held at Taconic High
School there. The unit is designed to function
independently because of their varied mission
capabilities, such as providing route clearing
for transport and repairing, maintaining, and
constructing air and ground communication
systems.
Together as one unit, the 379th received yearlong
mobilization orders to deploy to Afghanistan in
support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Gov. Deval L. Patrick and Secretary of the Office
of Public Safety and Security, Mary Elizabeth
Heffernan, attended both ceremonies to show
their support for the Soldiers and their families.
During his speech, Patrick observed the mood
of the Soldiers and their families during the
ceremonies when he said, “There’s a mixture of
pride and anxiety – you can see it on the faces
of the families if you look around the room.”
Army Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, The Adjutant
General, Massachusetts National Guard,
delivered the same message to both groups
when he said, “You will be in our thoughts and
prayers every day, and more importantly, we
will remember and support your families.”
Amy Christian, whose husband is deploying with
the 379th out of Pittsfield said, “I really enjoyed
the ceremony. I thought it was nice that the
governor came out for it.” ✯
Army Sgt. Bre Travers, 379th Engineer Company,
Massachusetts Army National Guard, shakes hands
with Massachusetts Gov. Deval L. Patrick at her sendoff
ceremony at the Massasoit Conference Center in
Brockton, Mass., Feb. 19, 2010.
Members of the 379th Engineer Company, Massachusetts Army National Guard, listen to a speech by
Massachusetts Gov. Deval L. Patrick at their send-off ceremony at Taconic High School in Pittsfield, Mass., Feb.
29, 2010. The company plans to provide oversight of engineer missions to repair, maintain, and construct air and
ground communication systems; provide route clearing for transport; and force protection (U.S. Army photo by
Sgt. James C. Lally, Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs).

101st FA Medic Provides Care at Car Accident
By Army 2nd Lt. Jordan A. Breau
1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment
KABUL, Afghanistan – Negotiating the busy
streets of Kabul city can be a challenge to the
most experienced of drivers. In a city that lacks
proper driving rules, training and precautions,
vehicle accidents are bound to happen.
One of the police mentoring teams from the 1st
Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment, was on
their way to meet with the local Afghan National
Police force when they noticed a red Toyota,
packed with passengers, swerving out of control.
After being run off the road by another vehicle,
the Toyota veered sharply to avoid hitting a child
who was walking down the busy street. In the
effort to avoid hitting the child, the vehicle
struck a concrete pillar alongside the roadway.
The police mentorship team from the 101st
responded immediately to the accident. They
secured the scene, and Pfc. Gary Reagan, a
medic, ran to the crash with his interpreter.
Reagan surveyed the damaged vehicle for
passenger injuries and identified three of the six
people as injured. He quickly began providing
medical aid to those inside the crumpled vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle sustained a broken
wrist, and another passenger sustained a
broken nose and head wounds.
The medic applied the skills he acquired in
school and from the hours of training he received
from his medical platoon sergeant, Sgt. 1st Class
Joseph Rebello, to properly assess and treat
the wounds.
Reagan began treating the wounded wrist
immediately, resetting and wrapping it, then he
treated the broken nose. A small crowd of locals
watched attentively as Reagan continued to
provide medical treatment.
“It felt great to use the training and skills I have
learned to help out the Afghan people. I really
felt I had made a difference today,” said Reagan.
“We are here to help make this a more secure
and stable environment. By providing basic aid,
it’s the first step in winning over the people and
gaining their respect.”
The small crowd grew into a full spectacle as
Reagan finished treating the injuries.
Through his interpreter, Reagan advised his
patients to immediately go to the nearest
hospital and receive further medical attention.
The patients expressed their thanks for receiving
treatment.
Having provided emergency assistance, Reagan
and the other members of the mentorship team
got back into their vehicles and continued their
mission. ✯
12 Minuteman Summer 2010
Pfc. Gary Reagan, a medic with the 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment, Massachusetts National Guard,
renders aid to a local man injured March 24, 2010, in a car accident here (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Douglas
Richardson).

Detention Facility Transferred to Iraqi Control
211th Military Police Battalion
Plays Important Role in Detainee
Operations and the Responsible
Drawdown of U.S. Forces in Iraq
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Daniel C. Maes
211th Military Police Battalion
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The Taji Theater Internment
Facility and Reconciliation Center was officially
transferred to the government of Iraq in a
ceremony here March 15, 2010.
Maj. Gen. David E. Quantock, U.S. Forces-Iraq
deputy commanding general for detainee operations,
and Dara Nour al-Deen, Iraqi Minister of
Justice, presided over the transfer ceremony,
which signified another important step in the
responsible drawdown of U.S. forces in Iraq.
In addition to the $107 million state-of-the-art
detention facility, the United States also transferred
over 2,000 detainees with arrest warrants,
detention orders or as convicted prisoners to the
government of Iraq, said Quantock.
Since September 2009, the 211th Military Police
Battalion has played a key role in training and
mentoring Iraqi Corrections Officers and staff at
the Taji facility in reception and visitation operations,
physical security and access control; and
in managing the vocational and technical training
programs offered to the detainees. Training in
agriculture, carpentry, masonry and HVAC repair
were offered to detainees to afford them better
economic opportunities upon their release.
Lt. Col. Richard Johnson, commander of the
211th Military Police Battalion, described the
key role played by the battalion headquarters
and its subordinate units, the 23rd Military Police
Company of Fort Drum, N.Y., and Charlie
Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment
(Old Guard) of Fort Myer, Va.
“This really is a historic transition of authority.
To the best of my knowledge, I don’t believe that
any Army has ever transferred an operational
detention facility and detainees with detention
Maj. Gen. David E. Quantock, U.S. Forces-Iraq deputy commanding general for detainee operations, left, talks
with Lt. Col. Richard Johnson, right, commander of the 211th Military Police Battalion, following the Taji
Theater Internment Facility transfer ceremony, March 15, 2010 (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel C. Maes).
Maj. Gen. David E. Quantock, U.S. Forces-Iraq deputy commanding general for detainee operations, right, hands a
symbolic key to the Taji Theater Internment Facility and Reconciliation Center to Dara Nour al-Deen, Iraqi Minister
of Justice, at the transfer ceremony, March 15, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel C. Maes).
orders under host nation rule of law. There have
been lots of challenges but there are certainly
some important lessons learned that will impact
future phase five operations to stabilize and
enable civil authority. We have played an important
role in a key strategic objective for USF-I.
Our Soldiers understand that and are proud of
their participation,” said Johnson.
The battalion will be responsible for the remaining
external security transition training and
contract oversight through the end of its
deployment in mid-2010. A critical objective for
the battalion is to facilitate key-leader engagement
between the Iraqi Ministry of Justice and
the Iraqi Ministry of Defense in order for the
Iraqi Corrections Service and the Iraqi Army to
have a cooperative framework for long-term
security of the facility.
“Only a small amount of training remains in order
to conduct a responsible security transition for
the exterior of the facility. U.S. forces will
remain in an outside over-watch capacity for a
short period to complete the final transition
and facilitate the contract oversight,” said
Maj. Brett P. Conaway, operations officer
for the 211th.
The handover of the Taji TIFRC
represents a critical stage in the
drawdown of detainee operations in
Iraq. Camp Bucca, once the largest
detainee facility in Iraq, was closed in
September 2009; and Camp Cropper,
the last remaining detention facility,
will be transferred to the government
of Iraq in July in accordance with the
security agreement signed by Iraq and
the United States in 2008. ✯
The Nation’s First 13

NationalGuard Celebrates the
373rd First Muster at
the Salem Common
By Army Maj. James Sahady, Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
SALEM, Mass. – North Shore residents witnessed history Saturday morning during a
commemoration and re-enactment of the First Muster on Salem Common. The country’s
first militia mustered on Salem Common in 1637, which began the foundation for what
would become the Army National Guard.
On a beautiful breezy day, Soldiers of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, along with
several veteran’s organizations and living history groups, gathered in Salem to
commemorate the first formation of the American militia during the annual Salem Muster,
April 10, 2010.
The celebration consisted of a three-part event commemorating significant events in the
history of the Massachusetts National Guard, including the origin of the Army National Guard.
Dec. 13, 1636, the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony ordered the organization
of the Colony’s militia companies into three regiments – North, South and East. The
colonists had adopted the English militia system, which obligated males between the ages
of 16 and 60 to possess arms and participate in the defense of their community.
Top photo: Maj. Gen. Joesph C. Carter (left), the Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National
Guard; Maj. David Hencke, Commander of the Troops for the First Muster (right); and dignitaries
Congressman John Tierney (rear left), and Salem Mayor Kimberly Driscoll (rear right), review the
military units formed on Salem Common, marking the 373rd Anniversary of the First Muster
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi).
14 Minuteman Summer 2010
Period military re-enactors and Massachusetts National Guard
Soldiers assembled in Salem by Saint Peter’s Church, and the
gravesite of Capt. Stephen Abbott, founder and first commander
of the 2nd Corps of Cadets, to honor his memory (U.S. Army
photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi).

The day began with a wreath-laying ceremony
at St. Peter’s Church in Salem at the gravesite of
Capt. Stephen Abbott. In 1785, Abbott founded
the 2nd Corps of Cadets and served as its
first commander. The lineage of the 2nd Corps
is now proudly carried by Battery A, 1st
Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment of the
Massachusetts Army National Guard.
The next event took place at Armory Park on
Essex Street to honor the sacrifices of Citizen-
Soldiers from Massachusetts. Soldiers of the
101st Field Artillery Rear Detachment Salute
Battery and the 182nd Cavalry Regiment, along
with period military re-enactors and citizens,
assembled to pay tribute.
Lt. Col. Arthur Elbthal, commander of the 1st
Squadron, 182nd Cavalry Regiment, addressed
the audience and laid a wreath in remembrance
of the sacrifices the Citizen-Soldiers made during
the American Revolution, Operation Enduring
Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“The 101st Field Artillery is forward deployed to
Afghanistan and the regimental colors are with
them. It is a privilege for the 182nd Cavalry
Regiment to represent the lineage and heritage
of the Massachusetts National Guard Regiments
at this ceremony,” said Elbthal.
The 101st Field Artillery Regiment and the 101st
Engineer Battalion, the modern descendents of
our nation’s first regiments are currently
deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. The 182nd
Cavalry and 181st Infantry are preparing to
deploy to Afghanistan later this year.
The final part of the celebration took place on
Salem Common, with Massachusetts National
Guard Regiments and Soldiers joined by military
re-enactors from the First Regiment in 1636 to
World War II. The 101st Field Artillery Salute
Battery fired a 13-gun salute to honor past and
present troops.
Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, The Adjutant
General of the Massachusetts National Guard,
performed the ceremonial inspection of the
troops, circling the formation on the field.
Dignitaries included Mayor Kimberly Driscoll,
City of Salem; U.S. Rep. John Tierney, Sixth
Congressional District of Massachusetts; State
Rep. John Keenan, Seventh Essex District of
Massachusetts; Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, The
Adjutant General, Massachusetts National Guard;
Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Sellars, Commander,
Massachusetts Army National Guard; Brig. Gen.
(Ret.) Gary Pappas; Col. John Hammond, Chief
of Staff, Massachusetts National Guard; and
State Command Sergeant Maj. David Costa,
Massachusetts National Guard.
Driscoll was the first speaker and honored all
military members for their sacrifices. “I want to
thank all service members and their families for
their dedication and commitment which allows
Lt. Col. Arthur Elbthal (right) and Mr. Jay Finney (left), Deputy Director of the Peabody Museum, laid a wreath
at the memorial in Armory Park, Salem, Mass. in remembrance of those Soldiers from the Essex Regiment,
who were killed and injured during the American Revolution, Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi).
us to be here today and to enjoy events like this
one and more in the future,” she said.
During Carter’s remarks, he mentioned it was an
honor and privilege to be present and share this
event with residents of the historic City of Salem.
“By honoring those first Citizen-Soldiers, we
honor the present day National Guard and the
United States Army, which traces its origin
directly to this town common on that spring day
so many years ago. It was here, on the historic
grounds of the Salem Common in the spring of
1637 that the residents of this vibrant port city
saw the First Muster of the East Regiment,”
said Carter.
“I have no doubt that when this war is over –
and it will end – when our families are safe, our
homes secure and our nation at peace, historians
will record and our descendants will learn that
in the most difficult days of the 21st century, the
Massachusetts National Guard answered the
call to defend our democracy,” he said.
Prior to the end of the ceremony, Carter
presented Driscoll with the Commanders Award
for Public Service for her tireless efforts as
mayor of the City of Salem.
The ceremony and events concluded with a
Pass in Review, wherein each unit marched
across the common for the commander. ✯
Massachusetts National Guardsman Maj. David Hencke, Commander of Troops for the 2010 First Muster on
Salem Common, points out to military and re-enactment commanders where military units will form for the
event on the common (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi).
The Nation’s First 15

In the Spirit of Giving
By Sgt. 1st Class Daniel C. Maes, 211th Military Police Battalion
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – U.S. Soldiers working at the Taji Theater Internment
Facility and Reconciliation Center strengthened their partnership with
their Iraqi counterparts through the simple act of giving here, Dec. 30.
Twenty-five Iraqi corrections officers were invited by the Taji TIFRC
Warden, Mr. Hassan Al-Mohammadawi, and the 211th Military Police
Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Richard Johnson, to join the Soldiers of the
211th for an American-style holiday gathering at the battalion’s morale,
welfare and recreation center, called “The Burn Pit.”
This event was designed for the Iraqi and American leadership to show
their appreciation for the hard work carried out by the Iraqi corrections
officers and to present gifts for them and their families.
Mr. Al-Mohammadawi expressed his gratitude to the men and women of
the 211th and to the Iraqi corrections officers in attendance. He let the
corrections officers know that their work is very important, and they were
doing a good and honorable job.
Lt. Col. Johnson welcomed the Iraqis and told them how the joint leadership
team at the Taji TIFRC was concerned with their well-being as much
as with their work performance.
“We reach out to you in friendship as well as work partners,” said
Johnson. “I talk frequently with your leadership. We talk about the things
we need to do to make you successful in running the TIFRC,” he added.
The gift bags were put together with donations from the Soldiers of the
headquarters company and the battalion’s subordinate units: 1st Battalion,
3rd Infantry Regiment of Fort Myer, Va.; and the 23rd Military Police
Company of Fort Drum, N.Y.
16 Minuteman Summer 2010
Lt. Col. Richard Johnson, commander of the 211th Military Police Battalion,
shakes the hand of an Iraqi corrections officer Dec. 30, 2009, as Warden
Hassan Al-Mohammadawi, center, looks on (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class
Daniel C. Maes).
Through an interpreter, one of the Iraqi corrections officers said that until
this day he had only known the hardworking side of American Soldiers
and didn’t realize their hearts were so big.
“Today we want to give you gifts for your children and families to say
thank you for your efforts and hard work every day,” said Johnson. ✯

Massachusetts Governor Signs
Tax Legislation to Help Reservists
By Army Sgt. James C. Lally, Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
QUINCY, Mass. – Gov. Deval Patrick signed legislation at the City Council
chambers in Quincy, Mass., Feb. 24, 2010, that permits the City of Quincy
to grant property tax abatements to members of the Massachusetts
National Guard and reservists for the periods they were on active duty
outside the U.S.
Kevin Coughlin, Quincy City Council president, petitioned the idea, and the
Quincy City Council approved it. State Sen. Michael Morrissey was the
lead sponsor at the statehouse but state Reps. Bruce Ayers, Stephen
Tobin and Ron Mariano all signed on.
After Patrick signed the legislation, Coughlin said, “It’s just a small way of
saying thank you for your service. Hopefully it’s something that we are
also going to make statewide. Quincy has done it, and the push is on to
make this a local option to every city and town across the commonwealth
as a way of saying thank you,” said Coughlin.
Depending on individual circumstances, the abatements may be retroactive
to fiscal year 2002, and the city may continue the program through
the fiscal year 2010, with an option for the city council to vote to extend
it further.
Before he signed the bill, Patrick expressed his thinking on the issue to an
audience of veterans who were there to witness the event. In doing so,
Patrick referred to a recent send-off ceremony for members of the
Massachusetts Army National Guard, saying, “I am so struck, over and
over again, by how ordinary people undertake the extraordinary. They
choose to put themselves in harm’s way for the rest of us, and they set
aside their own plans, their own ambitions, their own lives, to go for
reasons of patriotism. It’s a humbling thing, and let me tell you, it gives
me more than pleasure to be able to sign this bill or to do anything else
that I can to honor your service,” said Patrick. ✯
102nd Earns Sixth
Outstanding Unit Award
By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Reitano
102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
The 102nd Intelligence Wing has been awarded
the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for
outstanding performance from Dec. 1, 2007,
through Oct. 31, 2009.
“This award is not given out to just any unit,”
said Col. Anthony Schiavi, 102nd Intelligence
Wing commander. “I am proud of the work that
every member of the wing does to succeed
both personally and as a much larger team. It’s
their accomplishments that have set the
standard of excellence across the Air National
Guard and the Air Force.”
The wing’s significant accomplishments during
its transformation from a fighter wing to an
intelligence wing, assumption of real-world
Operational Battle Watch Missions a full year
before their scheduled Initial Operational
Capability, completion of more than $22 million
Gov. Deval Patrick signs legislation at the City Council Chambers in Quincy, Mass.,
Feb. 24, 2010, to permit the City of Quincy to grant property tax abatements to
members of the Massachusetts National Guard and reservists for the periods they
were on active duty outside the U.S. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James C. Lally).
of major construction projects, recruitment of
315 new accessions and retraining of more than
100 personnel to intelligence career fields, were
only part of the reason it captured the award.
“The dedication and commitment of the
members of the 102nd Intelligence Wing enable
the Air National Guard to fulfill its commitment
to the missions of peacekeeping, humanitarian
relief, domestic improvement, and most
important of all – defense of America,” said
Lt. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III, Air National Guard
director.
All Airmen assigned to the 102nd during the
award period are authorized to wear the
associated ribbon.
The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award is
awarded to an organization that has performed
meritorious service or outstanding achievements
that clearly set the unit above and apart from
similar units. ✯
The wing has previously been awarded
the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
for the following periods:
July 1, 1974 – June 30, 1975
Aug. 1, 1989 – March 31, 1991
July 15, 1997 – July 14, 1999
Sept. 11, 2001 (one day only)
Sept. 12, 2001 – Aug. 14, 2003
“This award is not
given out to just any unit.”
– Col. Anthony Schiavi
102nd Intelligence Wing Commander
The Nation’s First 17

Friend of 102nd Continues Model Aircraft
Donations to
the Wing
By Capt. Evan C. Lagasse
102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
OTIS AIR NATIONAL GUARD AIR BASE, Mass.
– A simple thank you note can go a long way,
and one such thank you note sparked a lasting
friendship between a Connecticut man and the
102nd Intelligence Wing.
A dozen years ago, Ken Middleton of Enfield,
Conn., sent a thank you note to then 102nd
Fighter Wing commander, now retired, Brig.
Gen. Samuel M. Shiver, after Middleton had
attended an air show at Westover Air Reserve
Base in Springfield, Mass., where the 102nd
Fighter Wing’s F-15s were on display.
“It was about 1997 or 1998 when I sent a
simple ‘thank you’ letter to the 102nd Wing
commander for not only defending the United
States, but also for entertaining people at air
shows. Our friendship really evolved from
there,” said Middleton in a Jan. 9 interview.
A few years later while attending an air show at
Otis, Middleton offered to build a 102nd Fighter
Wing F-15 aircraft model for the wing, and the
idea, as well as the subsequent model, was very
well received.
“Col. Shiver and a host of other people were
very receptive at the time, and it continued on
from there to [subsequent commanders] Col.
Don Quenneville, Col. Paul Worcester and now,
Col. Anthony Schiavi. Everyone’s receptiveness
and appreciation of the models is what has kept
me building and donating them to the 102nd,”
said Middleton.
Approximately 12 years after Middleton’s original
thank you note to the 102nd, he is still tirelessly
building and donating aircraft to the Wing.
18 Minuteman Summer 2010
Ken Middleton, right, presents Col. Anthony Schiavi, left, 102nd Intelligence Wing commander, with a replica
of the F-15 Eagle Schiavi was flying in 1991 as an active duty Air Force captain, when he shot down a MiG-23
Flogger over Iraq (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Aaron Smith).
On Jan. 9, Middleton visited the 102nd with his
wife, Nancy, and their son, Michael, to present a
B-52 Stratofortress model to the 102nd Air
Operations Group. The 102nd AOG tracks B-52
and other aircraft as part of their new
Operational Battle Watch mission.
Upon receiving the new model in front of a
group of AOG Airmen, Lt. Col. Richard Sweeten,
102nd Air Operations Group commander, joked
that as a fighter pilot he never dreamed he
would receive a B-52 model, but he said, “[The
B-52] is part of our new mission, one we have
Model of an F-84 Thunderstreak aircraft built and donated
to the 102nd Intelligence Wing by Ken Middleton.
embraced, and we very much appreciate your
generosity in building and donating this model.
I promise we will find a place of honor to display
it proudly.”
The B-52 was about the 25th aircraft model
Middleton donated to the 102nd over the past
decade. A majority of the models are displayed
proudly in the 102nd headquarters building’s
main conference room. The models include
various F-15 Eagles for the different major units
of the 102nd, speculative F-22 Raptor, F-15A in
Ken Middleton examines his most recent model aircraft
donation to the 102nd Intelligence Wing, a B-52
Stratofortress given to the 102nd Air Operations
Group. The 102nd Air Operations Group tracks B-52s
and various other aircraft as part of their Operational
Battle Watch mission (U.S. Air Force photo by Master
Sgt. Aaron Smith).

original 102nd Fighter Wing markings, F-106A
Delta Dart, T-33 Shooting Star, F-100D Super
Sabre, F-84 Thunderstreak, F-86 Sabre, F-94
Starfire, P-47N Thunderbolt, P-51 Mustang, E-3
Sentry (AWACS), MQ-1A Predator, U-2
Dragonlady and the new B-52 Stratofortress.
Even with the significant number of donated
aircraft models, it’s easy for Middleton to recall
the model he is most proud of.
“I am most proud of the F-15 Eagle model titled
“First Responder Eagle,” which depicts tail
number 102 launching on Sept. 11, 2001. That
was a very challenging model to depict – the
way I built it, like it’s taking off, with the landing
gear retracting – but it was surreal as I was
building it, knowing the significance of what I
was actually modeling,” said Middleton.
Middleton also remembers the F-15 Eagle
models he donated to the 102nd’s Pilot for a Day
program. The program was designed to invite a
child with a life-threatening disability to the
102nd for a day of flight briefings, an honorary
commission to the rank of captain and photo
opportunities up close and personal with an F-15.
“When I learned of the program, I contacted
the 102nd and said I’d be willing to make an
F-15 model display for each Pilot for a Day kid.
I didn’t want to be there to present it; I didn’t
want my name plastered anywhere. It was just
something I wanted to do for these kids as a
little extra token to take home,” said Middleton.
Schiavi, 102nd Intelligence Wing commander,
praised Middleton’s generosity to the 102nd.
“Ken has been a great friend to this wing for
many years, and I very much appreciate the
countless hours he puts in to making each
aircraft model with the utmost attention to
detail. Nobody asks him to do what he does,
and that’s what makes his contributions so
special. He has helped us remember our legacy
by building models of aircraft formerly flown
and maintained by 102nd Airmen many years
ago, and he genuinely cares for the outstanding
Airmen that serve in the 102nd today.”
Through the years, Middleton has met and
formed friendships with many members of the
102nd, and those relationships mean the most
to him and his family.
“The wing ended up being like a family to us.
We have lots of friends here, and now even
though the aircraft are gone, the people are really
the most important thing, and the friendships
have continued,” said Middleton.
As a token of appreciation, the 102nd purchased
an engraved brick as part of the Otis Heritage
Plaza Project in honor of the Middletons’
friendship and contributions to the Wing and
its Airmen. ✯
Dual Military Spouses:
a Challenge in Itself
Staff Sgt. April Mota and her husband, Spc. Elijah Mota, Manchester, N.H., one of five couples in the
101st Engineer Battalion who are dual military, meaning both spouses serve. The Motas are deployed
together on their first tour and are stationed at Camp Liberty (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tracy Knowles,
101st Engineer Battalion).
By Sgt. Tracy Knowles, 101st Engineer Battalion
BAGHDAD – Planning who will pick up the kids
after karate practice when both parents are
working late can be stressful for any family.
Planning for a deployment while your spouse is
already deployed becomes a whole other story.
Capt. Sean Keegan and his wife, Maj. Kathleen
Keegan, are facing these deployment challenges
right now.
Both serve in the Massachusetts Army
National Guard, but that’s where the similarity
ends. Sean serves with 101st Engineer
Battalion in Iraq. Kathleen serves with Joint
Force Headquarters in Milford, Mass., and is
preparing for a deployment in Afghanistan.
The couple met in a fighting position in 1991
during a two-week annual training with the
26th Division Support Command.
A simulated attack erupted at 2 a.m. Sean
grabbed his weapon and protective mask, ran
to his fighting position and started returning
fire. Soon after, Kathleen jumped in, shot a
couple of rounds and started to leave. When
asked where she was going, she said she had
grabbed her makeup bag instead of her
protective mask and would be right back.
“I was dumbfounded. I knew right there that
I needed to get to know this girl,” said Sean.
The two have been married for 16 years and
have two children, Cole, 12, and Quinn, 10.
One of the issues they are working through is
how best to care for the children during this
stressful time of flux.
Sean said communication and compromise
must be a part of the equation. In this case,
Sean will become the primary caregiver when
he returns home so Kathleen can focus on her
duties as an officer.
Though these stresses for dual military couples
can be great, Sean said the rewards can be even
greater and suggests that couples should not
feel as if one should have to leave the service.
“I’m all for it,” Sean said. “If both feel that
desire to serve, they should, but [they should]
also go in it with eyes wide open.”
Staff Sgt. April Mota, 101st Engineer Battalion,
understands the challenges and rewards of being
a dual military couple. She is currently deployed
to Iraq with her husband, Spc. Elijah Mota.
“The military is a whole different lifestyle, which
most people don’t understand,” said Mota.
“We understand each other; we know where
each other is coming from, understanding the
reasons we do what we do.”
The Keegans and the Motas, like so many
dual military couples, use their strengths as
Soldiers to overcome hardships, having to
adapt to ever changing schedules.
One bit of advice has helped Sean over the
years: “Try not to be selfish,” he said.
“Remember, your spouse is not only doing
their job, but also doing yours.” ✯
The Nation’s First 19

Oldest FA Battalion
Takes Charge at
Camp Phoenix
By Army 2nd Lt. Jordan A. Breau, 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment
CAMP PHOENIX, Afghanistan – The nation’s two oldest field artillery
regiments took part in a historic meeting during a transfer of authority
ceremony here, March 16, 2010.
The oldest – the 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment, Massachusetts
National Guard, commanded by Lt. Col. James M. Hally – is replacing the
second oldest, the 1st Battalion, 118th Field Artillery Regiment, from
Savannah, Ga., commanded by Lt. Col. Reginald G. Neal.
The 101st, from Brockton, was first founded in Salem Dec. 13, 1636.
Nicknamed “the South Regiment,” the 101st is the oldest Field Artillery
Regiment still active in the U. S. Army.
The South Regiment has fought in a total of 47 separate campaigns, ranging
from the Revolutionary War to Operation Iraqi Freedom. The legacy of
the South Regiment spans more than 373 years. The 101st Field Artillery
Regiment once again answers the call and takes its streamer-laden colors
into yet another theater, Operation Enduring Freedom, Kabul, Afghanistan.
The 118th Field Artillery, “Old Hickory,” saw its beginning as a colonial
militia April 18, 1751.
The Camp Phoenix meeting is not the first time these units have met one
another. Quite the opposite – the history between these great regiments
spans hundreds of years. They fought alongside each other in the
Revolutionary War.
Years later they were war-torn rivals as they conducted counter battery
fires against each other in the Civil War – on the blood soaked grounds
of Gettysburg, South Carolina, and Florida. In World War I and II, the
howitzers of the 101st and 118th became unified across the European
battlefields.
These two old regiments have met once again in a new century and
during yet another operation. As the sun sets on the 118th’s tenure in
Afghanistan, the responsibility to continue to build the Afghan National
Army and the Afghan National Security Force has now been passed to
the 101st. ✯
Lt. Col. James M. Hally, commander, 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment,
Massachusetts National Guard, assists Command Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ramos-Rivera
in uncasing the regimental colors during a transfer of authority ceremony at
Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan, March 16, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Jordan
A. Breau).
Lt. Col. James M. Hally , commander, 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment,
Massachusetts National Guard, gives his first order as commander of Task Force
Kabul after completing a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Phoenix,
Afghanistan, March 16, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Jordan A. Breau).
Lt. Col. James M. Hally, commander, 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment,
Massachusetts National Guard, and Command Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ramos-Rivera
unfurl the colors of the 101st March 16, 2010, to signify the nation’s oldest field
artillery regiment is taking the responsibility, mission and duties of Task Force
Kabul at Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan (U.S. Army photo by 2nd Lt. Jordan A. Breau).
The Nation’s First 21

Massachusetts Guard Soldier Becomes
U.S. Citizen
By Maj. Allen D. Aldenberg
211th Military Police Battalion
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Spc. Dimitros A. Pastos, who
is currently serving in Taji, Iraq, with the 211th
Military Police Battalion, was able to fulfill his
dream of becoming a United States citizen
Feb. 15, 2010, in Baghdad, Iraq.
The ceremony was overseen by the Deputy
Commanding General for Operations, United
States Forces – Iraq, and I Corps Commanding
General, Lt. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr. Jacoby
called on the newest American citizens to
continue their faithful and honorable service to
the United States, and he personally presented
each Soldier with a Commander’s Coin for
Excellence as well as an American flag.
Pastos immigrated to the United States from
Greece at the age of seven, and his family settled
in Lynn, Mass., where he has lived and raised
his own family ever since. Early on in the unit’s
deployment, Pastos expressed his interest in
becoming a United States citizen, knowing that
it could be accomplished through the assistance
of the United States military.
22 Minuteman Summer 2010
Lt. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., Deputy Commanding
General for Operations, United States Forces – Iraq,
and I Corps Commanding General, left, congratulates
Spc. Dimitros A. Pastos, of Headquarters Detachment,
211th Military Police Battalion, after Pastos became a
U.S. citizen at a naturalization ceremony in Baghdad,
Iraq, Feb. 15, 2010 (U.S. Army photo).
In October 2009, Pastos began the process of
fulfilling his dream with the assistance of his
section leader, Sgt. She’lagh R. Dunbar. After
completing the often arduous process, his
dream finally became reality along with another
106 Soldiers at the Al Faw Palace, one of
Saddam Hussein’s former palaces in Baghdad.
It was truly a great privilege for those in attendance
to witness these Soldiers taking the oath
of citizenship to the United States of America in
a truly historic location. The significance of such
an event was not lost on those present. To witness
so many young men and women, who have
all been serving their adopted country, finally
have the privilege of calling themselves citizens
of the United States, was a truly moving moment.
Pastos was personally moved by the entire
experience, and his pride and excitement was
clearly visible on his face. When asked if he
felt any different, he responded in his normal
quiet manner, “I do feel different, but it is a good
different.”
Pastos was very appreciative of those who
helped him through the process. In particular, he
was extremely grateful to Dunbar, who assisted
him in all aspects of the process including
studying American history and civics as well as
preparing him for his one-on-one interview.
Pastos and the other members of the 211th
Military Police Battalion continue to support the
transition of facilities and operations at Camp Taji
to the government of Iraq. The unit is scheduled
to complete its deployment later in 2010. ✯

artners
for
Prosperity
Story and photos by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel C. Maes
211th Military Police Battalion
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The job-skill training offered
to detainees at the Taji Theater Internment Facility
and Reconciliation Center got a boost with the
addition of scores of new tools donated by the
Sunni Endowment of Iraq, Jan. 15, 2010.
Sheik Ahmed Adbul Khafour al-Samara’e, head
of the endowment, and Sheik Mahmoud Ali
Ahmed al-Falahi, director of the endowment’s
human rights office, visited Camp Taji to present
the tools to Rear Adm. Lothrop Little, special
assistant to the deputy commanding general for
detainee operations. Also on hand to receive the
gifts were Col. John M. Huey, commander of the
89th Military Police Brigade and Task Force
Griffin, and Lt. Col. Richard Johnson, commander
of the 211th Military Police Battalion, which
directly oversees the vocational and technical
training provided to detainees at the Taji TIFRC.
Taji warden Hassan Al-Mohammadawi of the
Iraqi Corrections Service represented the
government of Iraq at the event.
“Thanks to Dr. Ahmed and the Sunni Endowment,
their contribution of tools is going to allow the
Ministry of Justice to train detainees for a better
life in Iraq,” said Little.
During the ceremony, al-Samara’e extolled the
virtues of hard work and noted that the first step
toward a better life for the detainees is to train
Lt. Col. Richard Johnson (left), commander of the
211th Military Police Battalion, addresses the audience
with the assistance of Bilingual-Bicultural
Advisor Salah Al-Hindawy during a ceremony at the
Taji Theater Internment Facility and Reconciliation
Center, Jan. 15, 2010. The vocational and technical
training program for detainees here, which is directly
overseen by the 211th, received a donation of new
tools from the Sunni Endowment of Iraq.
(Left to right) Sheik Ahmed Adbul Khafour al-Samara’e, head of the Sunni Endowment of Iraq; Mr. Hassan
Al-Mohammadawi, Taji Theater Internment Facility and Reconciliation Center warden; Sheik Mahmoud Ali
Ahmed al-Falahi, director of the human rights office of the Sunni Endowment; and Rear Adm. Lothrup Little,
special assistant to the deputy commanding general for detainee operations, Jan. 15, 2010. The Sunni
Endowment donated new tools for the vocational training programs offered to detainees at the Taji TIFRC.
Top photo: Warden Hassan Al-Mohammadawi (left) speaks with Sheik Ahmed Adbul Khafour al-Samara’e, head
of the Sunni Endowment of Iraq, at the Taji Theater Internment Facility and Reconciliation Center, Jan. 15, 2010.
and teach them job skills that they can use upon
their release. He also pointed out that the vocational
training provided here is an effective way
to prevent many of the detainees from returning
to violence. He said he believed many who are
responsible for violence in Iraq have not been
afforded the opportunity to learn peaceful and
productive job skills.
“Education and vocational training for detainees
is a topic upon which there is total consensus
among Americans and Iraqis, regardless of
religious affiliation, politics, or ideology.
Providing detainees with improved literacy, job
skills and a positive self-image prior to release
will enhance their prospects to successfully
re-enter Iraqi society, support their families,
support the rule of law and avoid a return to
violence,” said Johnson.
This is the second time in two months new tools
have been donated to the TIFRC by the Sunni
Endowment. The increased amount of tools,
such as saws, hammers, rakes, shovels, drills,
levels and screwdrivers, means more detainees
will receive hands-on training in agriculture,
carpentry, HVAC repair and masonry.
The presentation ceremony, which drew Iraqis
and Americans together in common cause,
included displays focused on each of the subjects
taught here, as well as finished products,
including a full-size picnic table complete with
a roof.
The viable job skills imparted to the detainees
through the vocational and technical programs
offered at the Taji TIFRC are designed to help
them successfully reintegrate into Iraqi society.
The significant security gains made throughout
the country will allow Iraqis to focus on
economic development and become part of
Iraq’s growing and prosperous future.
The Soldiers of the 211th Military Police
Battalion have worked earnestly to improve the
job skills training programs here and ensure
that they are running efficiently when the TIFRC
is transferred to the government of Iraq in early
spring of 2010. ✯
The Nation’s First 23

Operation Total
Warrior Prepares
the Total Force
By Army Lt. Col. Jack McKenna, Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
WORCESTER, Mass. – Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry
Regiment, Massachusetts Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army
Reserves 342nd Military Police Company attended an Operation Total
Warrior event at the DCU Center here, Feb. 7, 2010.
Operation Total Warrior is a Department of Defense program that brings
support agencies together to speak to families and service members both
prior to and after deployment. The event is geared toward deploying
National Guard and Reserve Soldiers.
Attended by more than 750 Soldiers and family members, the event
consisted of briefings conducted in breakout sessions such as
Communication for Couples, Deployment Survival, and Family Battlemind
Training, all intended to help give families the tools needed to face the
separation deployment causes.
Many other sessions such as veterans benefit briefings were included in
the daylong event.
By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Reitano, 102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
HYANNIS, Mass. – The 102nd Intelligence Wing was honored as a
Diversity Hero by the American Red Cross at their 8th Annual Heroes
Breakfast here, March 4, 2010.
The event honored individuals and organizations that showed courage,
dedication and unselfish character by their acts of heroism in their
community during 2009.
The wing was recognized for its successful diversity programs which have
allowed its members – of diverse backgrounds and experiences – to share
their willingness to respond to make a difference in their communities.
24 Minuteman Summer 2010
Members of the 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts Army
National Guard, and the U.S. Army Reserves 342nd Military Police Company
attended the daylong Operational Total Warrior event at the DCU Center in
Worcester, Mass., Feb. 7, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by Lt. Col. Jack McKenna).
“There would have been no way I could have pulled all of these groups
together to brief my troops,” said Capt. Brien Durkee, company commander
of the 342nd Military Police Company, USAR. ✯
102nd IW Honored as Diversity Hero
Eleven 102nd Intelligence Wing Airmen of varying ethnicity, military rank, professions and walks of life stand together in the Wing Headquarters building, Feb. 7.
The 102nd Intelligence Wing was honored as a Diversity Hero by the American Red Cross March 4 during the 8th Annual Heroes Breakfast in Hyannis, Mass.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Aaron Smith).
Just two of the ways members of the wing make a difference in their
communities is by volunteering their time and efforts to projects that
include Habitat for Humanity and serving in the honor guard, which is
actively involved in various community functions.
According to the local chapter of the Red Cross, the Heroes Breakfast
grew out of a desire to sponsor an event closely related to the mission of
the American Red Cross. For over a century, the Red Cross has been a
community leader in emergency preparedness and response. The Heroes
Breakfast honors that longstanding tradition of heroism by recognizing
local individuals and groups whose extraordinary acts of courage or
kindness make them a hero. ✯

Celtics and Soldiers Host
Black History Event
for Students
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi
Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
WALTHAM, Mass. – The Boston Celtics teamed
up this season with the Massachusetts Army
National Guard to spotlight Black History Month.
The Celtics hosted a game show style event
Feb. 4, 2010, for students from Boston English
High School at the Celtics practice facility in
Waltham.
Soldiers and Celtics players Glen Davis, Marquis
Daniels, Kendrick Perkins, Brian Scalabrine and
Shelden Williams joined students in surveying
quotes by famous black leaders and competing
in a special game show format trivia game.
After studying the black history statements,
the students made a short presentation on
each quote’s meaning at the time it was said,
and what they mean to them today. A Jeopardystyle
trivia game followed on the practice
basketball court.
Army Staff Sgt. Rose Alectine said, “I enjoyed
working with the students on the trivia questions
because they were very vocal about which sections
they were comfortable studying. I learned
that some of them play basketball for their
school and enjoy history. I also learned some
facts that I never knew regarding black history,”
said Alectine.
After the games ended, the Celtics players signed
autographs, posed for pictures and handed out
Celtics jackets. The National Guard Soldiers gave
Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers discusses quotes from black history with students from Boston English
High School at the Celtics practice facility in Waltham, Mass., Feb. 4, 2010. This season the Boston
Celtics teamed up with the Massachusetts Army National Guard to focus on black heritage during
February’s Black History Month (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Steve Tedeschi).
Boston Celtics player Marquis Daniels poses with Sgt.
Latoya Wiggins, Staff Sgt. Rose Alectine and Sgt. 1st
Class Troy Duarte from the Massachusetts Army National
Guard at the Celtics practice facility in Waltham, Mass.,
Feb. 4, 2010. This season the Boston Celtics teamed up
with the Massachusetts Army National Guard to focus on
black heritage during February’s Black History Month.
away winter knitted caps, Army Combat Uniform
printed carrying bags and water bottles branded
with the National Guard logo.
The Celtics and the Massachusetts Army National
Guard continued to spotlight black history at home
games, events and on their Web sites during Black
History Month.
Summarizing the day’s experience, Alectine said, “I
think the message to the students was that the
National Guard is not just here for war or recruitment
but because Soldiers want to be involved in
the community.” ✯
The Nation’s First 25

Lt. Col. James M. Hally, commander, 1st Battalion, 101st Field Artillery Regiment, affixes new rank to
Chief Warrant Officer Erwin J. Cepek’s uniform during his promotion ceremony at Camp Dubs,
Afghanistan, March 1, 2010 (U.S. Army photo by Command Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ramos-Rivera).
26 Minuteman Summer 2010
Wing
Shows Generosity
to Combined
Federal Campaign
By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Reitano
102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
OTIS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mass. –
Members of the 102nd Intelligence Wing demonstrated
their generosity during the 2009 Combined
Federal Campaign by contributing more than
$20,000 to the annual program.
The money raised by Otis was part of the more than
$1.1 million that was raised by the Southeastern
Massachusetts and Rhode Island 2009 Combined
Federal Campaign.
According to Capt. Nicole Ivers, campaign
coordinator, Otis personnel exceeded last year’s
contributions by almost 35 percent.
“The response we got this year was tremendous,”
said Ivers. “In a time of economic hardship, many
people dug deep to help make a difference in the
lives of people who are dealing with even greater
hardships.”
The purpose of the CFC was to promote and support
philanthropy through a program that is employeefocused,
cost-efficient and effective in providing all
federal employees with the opportunity to improve
the quality of life for all.
In addition to raising a larger dollar amount, this year’s
campaign also saw the number of contributors
increase as well.
“Trying to monetarily surpass the previous year’s
contributions is always a goal for every campaign.
Trying to increase the number of people who contribute
to the campaign is just as important,” said
Ivers. “A campaign is really successful when you
surpass the goal because more people contributed
rather than a smaller number of people having had
to increase their contributions.”
Pledges made during the campaign support eligible
nonprofit organizations that provide health and human
services benefits throughout the world. According
to Ivers, charities that apply for funds through the
CFC are tax-exempt charities that are reviewed by
the Internal Revenue Service and the CFC.
“The 2009 campaign was a success in many ways
because of the people who contributed and the unit
CFC representatives and alternates who, on top of
their busy schedules, took time to promote and raise
awareness of the campaign.” ✯

Marksmanship Training with
the Afghan National Police
Soldiers of Alpha Battery, 1st
Battalion, 101st Field Artillery
Regiment, train Afghan National
Police members on marksmanship
techniques with the 9 mm pistol in
Kabul Afghanistan, March 16, 2010
(U.S. Army photo by Army Sgt. 1st
Class Christopher Scherer).
Staff Sgt. Anthony Farese, Alpha
Battery, 1st Battalion, 101st Field
Artillery Regiment, provides
instruction and mentorship to a
member of the Afghan National
Police in Kabul, Afghanistan,
March 16, 2010 (U.S. Army photo
by Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher
Scherer).
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The Nation’s First 27

Guardsman Aids Critically Injured Motorist
By Army Sgt. James C. Lally
Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs
MILFORD, Mass. – A Massachusetts National
Guardsman helped a motorist suffering from lifethreatening
injuries on Route 44 in Carver, Mass.,
Feb. 5, 2010.
Army Sgt. Kevin G. Maloney, Company D,
1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment,
Massachusetts Army National Guard, used his
Army Combat Lifesaver training to apply a
tourniquet to a man’s nearly severed leg.
Maloney was on his way home from work late
that evening when he noticed some vehicles
stopped on the side of the road and saw that a
man was lying face down. Maloney pulled over,
grabbed the first-aid bag he keeps in his car
and ran to the scene. Maloney assessed the
man’s injuries and began first aid. Maloney said,
“Other people were trying to comfort him, but I
could see that he was bleeding a lot and started
going in and out of consciousness.”
Realizing the man’s leg was partially amputated,
Maloney, an infantryman, remembered his training
and quickly applied a tourniquet to prevent
him from bleeding to death. “When I saw his leg
and realized what was happening, I knew I would
need to use a tourniquet to stop the bleeding,”
Maloney said.
A state trooper, who was not on duty, stopped to
help and told Maloney he had called an ambulance.
While waiting for help to arrive, Maloney
and the trooper gathered as much information
as they could to make it easier for first
responders to care for the man.
When the ambulance arrived, Maloney told the
emergency medical technicians how severe the
man’s injuries were and helped them to quickly
Army Sgt. Kevin G. Maloney, Company D, 1st Battalion,
182nd Infantry Regiment, examines a sick child while
in Kosovo. Maloney deployed to Kosovo, Egypt
and twice for Homeland Security missions in
Massachusetts. Maloney credits his Army Combat
Lifesaver training with helping him to aid an injured
motorist on Route 44 in Carver, Mass., Feb. 5, 2010
(Courtesy photo).
28 Minuteman Summer 2010
Army Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Sellars, Commander, Massachusetts Army National Guard, presents Sgt. Kevin G.
Maloney, Company D, 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment, with the Massachusetts Lottery “Heroes Among
Us” award at a Boston Celtics basketball game in the TD Garden, Boston, Mass., Feb. 23, 2010.
stabilize him for transport. The man’s injuries
were so severe that EMTs drove him to a field
down the road so he could be picked up by a
helicopter and taken to a Boston hospital.
Maloney has been in the Massachusetts National
Guard for 16 years and has deployed to Egypt
and Kosovo. He became certified as an EMT
while stationed in Kosovo and discovered some
differences between his civilian and military
medical training. “Outside of the military, I have
not seen tourniquets widely used,” Maloney said.
Since the accident, Maloney learned that the
man’s condition had improved. Maloney said, “I
was happy that myself and the other people at
the scene were able to help. Thankfully we all
came together, and although he lost his leg, it’s
great to hear that he is doing OK.”
When Maloney’s commander, Lt. Col. Arthur M.
Elbthal, 182nd Infantry Battalion, Massachusetts
Army National Guard, learned of the incident,
he said, “Sgt. Maloney is a very strong noncommissioned
officer. He has demonstrated
the highest levels of professionalism and
competence time and again, and we are very
proud to call him our own.”
Sgt. Michael Popovics, Massachusetts State
Police, said, “The state police appreciate the
quick action taken by Sgt. Maloney. His efforts
likely prevented the victim from suffering more
serious, and possibly even fatal, injury.”
The cause of the accident is under investigation,
and any information about the case can be
reported to the Massachusetts State Police at
(781) 659-7911. ✯