April 2007.indd - Arkansas National Guard
April 2007.indd - Arkansas National Guard
April 2007.indd - Arkansas National Guard
- No tags were found...
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
39threceivesalertpage 3Woffordassumescommandpage 8F-16’sleavingthe statepage 15
2 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007
<strong>April</strong> 2007ARKANSASMINUTEMAN3Editorial staffGarrick FeldmanEditor & PublisherChristy HendricksManaging EditorCapt. Chris HeathscottState Public Affairs OfficerCommander, 119th Mobile Public Affiars Det.Editor in ChiefMaj. Keith MooreAir <strong>Guard</strong> Public Affairs OfficerAssociate EditorAdrienne BrietzkePublic Affairs SpecialistAssociate EditorBuddy GarrettPublic Information OfficerAssociate EditorHow to reach us404 Graham RoadJacksonville, Ark.72076Ph: 501-982-9421Fax: 501-985-0026arkansasminuteman@arkansasleader.comAdvertising:arkansasminutemanads@arkansasleader.comStory ideaschris.heathscott@us.army.milkeith.e.moore2@ar.ngb.army.mil<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> NewsPublished by Leader Publishing, Inc. 404 GrahamRoad, Jacksonville, AR 72076, phone number (501)982-9421, a private firm in no way connected with the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, under written contract withthe Adjutant General of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.This civilian enterprise <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> newspaperis an authorized publication for the members of theU.S. military services, published under the provisionsof AR 360-1, AFI 35-101 and the <strong>Arkansas</strong> MilitaryDepartment. Contents of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Minuteman arenotnecessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, theU.S. government, the Department of Defense or the<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. The appearance of advertising in thispublication, including inserts or supplements, does notconstitute endorsement by the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> or LeaderPublishing Inc. of the products or services advertised.Everything advertised in this publication shall be madeavailable for purchase, use or patronage without regardto race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, maritalstatus, physical handicap, political affiliation or anyother non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.Editorial photos unless otherwise noted. The <strong>Arkansas</strong>Minuteman reserves the right to edit all items. Editorialcontent is edited, prepared and provided by the PublicAffairs Offi ce of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. Allphotos are <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> unless otherwisenoted.Photo by Capt. Chris HeathscottBACK FROM IRAQ — Spc.Charles Robert Quick, of Centerton,proudly displays thecolors of “Charlie” Battery, ofthe 1st Battalion, 142nd FiresBrigade of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> during the unit’swelcome home ceremony inRogers on March 7.FROM THE ADJUTANT GENERALHot off the press: 39th Brigade receivesalert order for possible mobilizationThe following is the partial transcriptof the press conference held on Monday,<strong>April</strong> 9, with the Maj. Gen. William D.Wofford regarding the alert of the 39thInfantry Brigade Combat Team forpossible redeployment to Iraq in FiscalYear 2008. For the full transcript toinclude the 10 minute question andanswer segment, and video of Maj.Gen. Wofford’s statement below, visitus on the Web at http://www.arguard.org/PublicAffairs/index.asp.Good morning, thanks for joining ushere today. I’d like to announce that onFriday, <strong>April</strong> 6th, we received an AlertOrder for the possible mobilization ofthe 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Teamin support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.As with any alert, this does notNecessarily mean that they will receivea mobilization order. What it means isthat we have been identified, and willprobably be included in a mobilizationorder when it is published.I can’t speculate on a timeline whenthat order will come down, but I can tellyou that the projected mobilization dateis in fiscal year 2008. In order to ensurethe readiness of our Soldiers, and meetthe training requirements prior to themreporting to the mobilization station,we have notified our soldiers that theycould be called to title 32 active duty athome station, here in <strong>Arkansas</strong>, as earlyas this summer. This effort ensures thatthey meet the readiness requirements -minimum training requirements - thatthey need, and minimizes the time awayfrom their families.During this time in <strong>Arkansas</strong>,priorities for the 39th Brigade will be onsoldier readiness processing, individualtraining and meeting the warrior tasks– and that’s where we need them to beprior to reporting to the mobilizationstation. That allows them to focus onunit level collective training once theyget there.I would like to point out also,that aside from the 39th Brigade,The <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> hasapproximately 1,500 Soldiers andAirmen that are deployed in OperationsMaj. Gen. William D. WoofordIraqi Freedom And Enduring Freedom.Those men and women come from Our77th Aviation Brigade, 142nd FiresBrigade, 188th [Fighter] Wing, 189thAirlift Wing, and from The 875thEngineer Battalion Of Our 87th TroopCommand. These units are projectedto return home later this year, prior todeployment of the 39th Brigade.As the largest unit in the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, the 39th Brigade, withapproximately 3,000 Soldiers, obviouslydraws more attention than our otherunits. But I’d like to remind you thatthose other Units and those other<strong>Guard</strong>smen are also answering the callto duty. As a matter of fact, immediatelyfollowing this press conference, Iintend to travel to Fayetteville, Ark. tovisit with the 60 Soldiers, of our 142ndFires Brigade’s Headquarters, whichmobilizes this Wednesday to deploy totheir Mobe station to prepare for theirown deployment to Iraq.We also currently have two otherunits that have been alerted…. The871st [Troop Command] HeadquartersCompany from NLR, and also 213thArea Support Medical Company fromNLR and Dumas received their alertorders in October, with potentialmobilization later this summer.I tell you, in contrast to previousmobilizations, the mobilization of theseunits, to include the 39th Brigade , islimited to 12 months. That’s 12 monthsas opposed to the 16 to 18 monthsthat we have experienced in the past.Within that 12 months that they’ll bemobilized definitely includes 2 to 3months of training at the mobilizationstation with the remainder of that timebeing spent in Iraq.I would like to point out that the<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> in general, and The39th Brigade specifically, equipmentshortages has been a media interest.Let me clarify right now that the Armywill not deploy a unit into theater that isnot properly manned, properly trainedor properly equipped. At this point wehave the necessary equipment that the39th Brigade needs to conduct individualtraining and those warrior tasks, whichis where we want them to be when theyreport to the mobilization station.Now with the receipt of this alert, anyand all additional needed equipmentwill be provided prior to deployment.We fully expect the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Bureau and the Department OfDefense, as they have done duringprevious mobilizations, to provide thatequipment that is necessary prior totheir deployment.I tell you, that the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>in the past, as it is today, continues tobe, an extremely valuable asset in ournation’s defense. There is no doubt, thatit is an extreme sacrifice to serve in the<strong>Guard</strong> today - and as a state and nationwe should be proud of our young menand women that answer this call.Now that I think, it is just as importantand fair to point out that our <strong>Guard</strong>smenare not the only ones making a sacrifice.The families and employers of these menand women are true patriots as well.We can’t thank them enough for theirtremendous support in the past, and forthe continued support they provide ustoday. We truly thank them for theirefforts. We also want to recognize thatwithout their support our soldiers couldnot perform the duties that they are inTheater Now.
4 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007FROM THE PAONew paper deservesnew name: Do youaccept the challenge?By Capt. CHRIS HEATHSCOTTState Public Affairs OfficerNote: This is a reprint from the March issue ofthe paper in an attempt to reach all of our Soldiersand Airmen with the new statewide distribution. Ifyou missed last month’s issue, you can catch it postedonline at http://www.arguard.org/PublicAffairs/index.asp.It is an honor to introduce you to the first issue ofthe newest information outlet for our Soldiers andAirmen of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. As the faceof the <strong>Guard</strong> has changed over the years, a need tochange the method of pushing out information to ourtroops has developed as well. The name, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Minuteman, may sound familiar to you since it hasbeen temporarily borrowed from the former magazinepublished quarterly by this office…but a new face isdeserving of a new name…and we’re leaving it up toyou. Before we offer that challenge, let’s give you somebackground on what to expect from this publication.As a trial run, this initial issue will only reach CampRobinson and various armories in central <strong>Arkansas</strong>with the intent of expanding future distribution toevery military facility in the state. This trial issuewill determine the feasibility of continuing to publishmonthly and have papers at the units by the month’sfirst weekend.The publication will aim to provide currentinformation on what is going on in the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>Guard</strong> today, along with news from the departmentof defense and other sources that are relevant to ourtroops. But, most importantly, it will hopefully sparkawareness to the multitude of opportunities availableto you here in the state such as educational andveteran’s benefits, training and career opportunities,as well as highlighting other workshops and programsthat are designed to help our troops.Now, with that in mind, we are opening up anewspaper naming contest. Send us an email offeringyour idea(s) on a name for the new paper…andplease…keep it clean. Submissions will be acceptedvia email at christopher.heathscott@us.army.mil until<strong>April</strong> 15, 2007. Now, you don’t call it a contest withoutoffering a prize. The Soldier or Airmen with thewinning submission will receive a challenge coin fromthe adjutant general of <strong>Arkansas</strong>, Maj. Gen. WilliamD. Wofford, accompanied with the bragging rightsof having come up with the name of this statewidepublication.Challenge #2: In order to ensure we have materialto print future papers to post that name on…we needyour story ideas! Let us know if you have a unique storythat highlights the professionalism of the <strong>Guard</strong>.Let us know when you have an upcoming uniqueor visual training event that would be of interest toothers in the <strong>Guard</strong>. Our units and troops are doinggreat things. Here’s your opportunity to give your unitthe press it deserves. Submit story ideas to the emailabove and let us tell that story for you.Calling out the <strong>Guard</strong>Securing the city of Dumasin the wake of tornado destructionGUARDING DUMAS. Dozensof 39th Brigade Soldiers workedthe streets of Dumas in the aftermathof tornados that hit the city.The 1st Squadron, 151st CavalryRegiment, headquartered in Warren,provided the Soldiers for themission when called upon by thegovernor.Story and photos by Capt. Chris HeathscottState Public Affairs Offi cerCAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, Ark. – After nearlya week of providing security for the city of Dumas inthe wake of it’s February tornados, the mission of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> ended as of 6 pm Thursday, March 1.The 39th Brigade Combat Team’s 1st Squadron, 151st CavalryRegiment, headquartered in Warren, answered the call ofGovernor Mike Beebe to deploy over 100 Soldiers in support oflocal authorities to Dumas, Ark., on Saturday,Feb. 24. The number of <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Soldiers patrolling thedisaster affected area got as high as 130, but the number wascut back to approximately 50 due to the overwhelming responseof support from surrounding communities.The <strong>Guard</strong> was called in to assist local authorities in theprevention of potential looting and to enforce a curfew imposedby local law enforcement.With power restored to most of the affected area, localauthorities have lifted the curfew and eased security levels,ending the mission for the <strong>Guard</strong>.“Unfortunately the <strong>Guard</strong> is getting good at this,” said Col.Mike Ross, commander of the 39th Brigade. “We’ve answeredthe call every time the unit gets tasked. That’s our job.”ASSESSING THE DAMAGE. Governor Mike Beebe visitswith a resident of Dumas, Ark., in the aftermath of a tornado thatstruck the city on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2007. Beebe traveled toDumas Monday via Blackhawk helicopter for a firsthand look atthe destruction. Maj. Damon Cluck with the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s Directorate of Military Support, pictured in background,joined the governor, Congressman Mike Ross and a number of<strong>Guard</strong> leaders in assessing the damage.
<strong>April</strong> 2007<strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> tobuild fence on Mexico-ArizonaBy Master Sgt. BOB OLDHAM189th Airlift Wing Public AffairsOfficeLITTLE ROCK AIRFORCE BASE, Ark.– About 40 membersof the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s 189thAirlift Wing deploy fortraining to Yuma, Ariz.,March 31 – <strong>April</strong> 14 tosupport Operation JumpStart, the nation’s U.S.Border Patrol supportmission for the <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>.A majority of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Airmen areassigned to the 189thCivil EngineeringSquadron, the rest areAirmen from supportagencies in the wing whowill perform generallabor. The team willpartner with the 190CES from Topeka, Kan.,and will help fabricateand erect a 15-foot fenceon a four-foot concretefooter, construct roads,lighting and permanentvehicle barriers, saidCapt. Claude Howard,team chief for thedeployment.“It’s pretty heavy-dutysteel that they’re using,”said Howard, referringto the fence material.He said the deploymentwill allow his Airmen topolish their skills.“They’re going todefinitely be able to usetheir skills in the variousdisciplines, structures,utilities, electrical,” hesaid.And they’ll have thesatisfaction of knowingthey’ve done their part tohelp secure the country.“We’ll havecontributed to theBorder Patrol operationin mitigating the illegalimmigrants fromcoming over the border,”he said. The Air <strong>Guard</strong>started contributing tothe fence project in June2006, said Master Sgt.David Wood, a memberof the civil engineeringcrisis action team inWashington, D.C.In January, Air <strong>Guard</strong>civil engineer unitsbegan deploying to theborder to pull DFTs –duty for training. Somehave deployed for 30days, others for as littleas 15. But it’s all helped.Early on, the <strong>Guard</strong>was completing anaverage of 300 feet offence per week, saidSenior Master Sgt. JohnKershaw, a civil engineerfrom McGhee-Tyson Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Base,Tenn., deployed toArizona until September.Since the DFTs started,Pinnacle Pointe Hospitalis <strong>Arkansas</strong>’ largestprovider of behavioralhealth services forchildren and adolescents.ARKANSASMINUTEMANteams have averaged900-1,000 feet of fencea week. “The task force iselated at our progress,”Sergeant Kershaw said.In addition toconstruction in Arizona,teams are buildingfence in California,New Mexico and Texas,Sergeant Wood said.When it’s complete,the <strong>Guard</strong> in Arizonawill have built 3.3 milesof primary fence, 7.2miles of lighting, 7.2miles of 15-foot tallsecondary fence and 7.2miles of tertiary chainlink fence.Photo courtesy of the 188th Fight Wing, Fort Smith, Ark.Tech Sgt. Danny Wilkerson (standing on the wall), Senior Master Sgt. Matt Mc-Cullah (far left), with the 188th Fighter Wing’s Civil Engineering Squadron, and anunidentified <strong>Guard</strong>sman move sections of pre-fabricated fencing into place along aconstruction site near Yuma, Ariz. back in October. The engineers were constructingthe fence as part of Operation Jump Start and the Task Force-Arizona. Armyand Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> units have been rotating personnel deployments to the borderarea to assist the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Service in securing theUnited States border with Mexico. Approximately 40 Airmen from the 189th AirliftWing will support the mission from March 31 through <strong>April</strong> 14.Simplifying complexconcerns for the familyGrowing up is hard enough in today’s fast-paced world. Andwith the complication of behavioral health problems, thecomplexities compound. That’s where Pinnacle Pointe Hospitalcan provide assistance to the entire family.For more than 15 years, Pinnacle Pointe Hospital hasprovided acute and residential services for children andadolescents. It is the largest Tricare-approved provider of suchservices in the region.Pinnacle Pointe provides individual, group and familytherapy for numerous issues including but not limited todepression, anxiety, parent/child conflict, eating disorders,substance abuse, divorce and stepfamily issues, and ADHD.As a result of understanding the need for immediateattention to behavioral concerns – not only for families, but thecommunities they live in – the hospital features free andconfidential assessments every day of the week, day or night.For more information, call 1-800-880-3322.Treating the entire familyAdditional programs are in place to provide assistance tothe family.• Intensive therapeutic programs featuring apersonalized treatment plan to expedite your child’ssuccessful return to the family or to their school.• Fully accredited K-12 school on site that works toprepare students academically and emotionally to return toschool.• Parenting skill classes that ensure an easier transitionfor the family and the child after their discharge from thehospital and provide the family with additional skills tostrengthen the family.• All major insurance, as well as Medicaid, are accepted.For complete brochure and information on educationalopportunities visit www.psysolutions.com/facilities.com.11501 Financial Centre ParkwayLittle Rock 72211501.223.3322/800.880.33225
6 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Fallen Soldier honored for dedication to baseball leagueSeason dedicated to memory of the 77th Aviation Brigade’s Sgt. Maj. Tom WarrenBy Maj. KEITH MOORE<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs OfficeNORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –The Burns Park Athletic Associationlaunched its 2007 baseball seasonMonday, March 5, 2007. The leaguepaused before the first game to honora Fallen Soldier, Sgt. Maj. Tom Warrenwho was active in the association forover 10 years. The league dedicatedits 2007 season to Warren as a tributeto his many years of dedicated serviceto the youth baseball league in NorthLittle Rock.Warren was one of three <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Soldiers from theLittle Rock - North Little Rock areathat were killed January 20, 2007,when the helicopter they were aboardwas shot down in Iraq just a few milesnorth of Baghdad.Bobby Gosser, president of theBurns Park Athletic Association,opened the ceremony by introducingSgt. Maj. Warren’s family to the crowdgathered at the park.Teams of boys lined the firstand third base lines and held theirhats over their hearts while familyPhoto by Maj. Keith Moore, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceDEDICATING THE SEASON. Burns Park Athletic Association officials and NorthLittle Rock Mayor Patrick Hayes join the family of Sgt. Maj. Tom Warren on the pitchersmound at Vestal Park in North Little Rock to dedicate the league’s 2007 youthbaseball season in tribute to Warren. Pictured from left are: Bobby Gosser, presidentof the BPAA; Greg Clay, BPAA tournament director; Mona Lawson of the BPAA; NLRMayor Patrick Hayes, Mrs. Doris Warren, Zack Warren and Jordan Poteet.members and fans clung to the fenceas the color guard from the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> escorted Sgt.Maj. Warren’s widow Mrs. DorisWarren and two sons Zack Warrenand Jordan Poteet onto the field forthe dedication ceremony.“Tom Warren was more than a warhero to many of us here,” said Gosser.“He was a friend and an activeparticipant and supporter of thebaseball program here in North LittleRock. We are going to pay tribute toSgt. Maj. Tom Warren, but not justtonight. We are dedicating our 2007season to him and we’ll hang this signon the fence as a reminder.”He went on to relay several shortstories of Warren’s dedication andwork with the baseball league.“Tom was a real inspiration tothe kids,” he said. “He had a strongwork ethic and he communicated thatdedication to the kids. He would tellthem, if you start something you needto stick it out and finish it. No matterhow hard it gets along the way.”Greg Clay, tournament director forthe Burns Park Athletic Association,was joined on the field by North LittleRock Mayor Patrick Hayes to presenta plaque to Mrs. Warren and add theirremarks of gratitude to the Warrenfamily.“This is not only for Tom Warren’sservice to the league and the Cityof North Little Rock, but also hissacrifice to ensure a safer world foreveryone,” Clay said.Following the presentations,Warren’s two sons opened the seasonby throwing out the first pitchesfrom the mound as the gatheredcrowd applauded and the announcerproclaimed “Play Ball.”HONORING THE FALLEN. – Brig. Gen. LarryW. Haltom, the deputy adjutant general of<strong>Arkansas</strong>, is pictured accepting one of threeGold Star Banners from the Hot Springs VillageVeterans of Foreign Wars Post 10483.Haltom accepted the banners on behalf of thefamilies of Sgt. Maj. William ‘Tom’ Warren,Maj. Michael Taylor, and Sgt. 1st Class John‘Gary’ Brown, who were among 12 Soldierskilled on Jan. 20, when their Blackhawk wasshot down northeast of Baghdad, Iraq. Mr.Ron Southwick, commander of the VFW Post10483, right, and Mr. Herb Stout, chairman ofthe Gold Star Campaign for the Post, left, presentedthe banners on behalf of their organization.With a history dating back to 1918, theGold Star Banner was eventually authorizedunder an act of congress to be displayed in aresidence window of the immediate family ofan individual who died serving in the ArmedForces of the US during any period of war orhostilities. The banner may be displayed byany organization to honor the members of theorganization who died as well.The post is limitingthe campaign to deaths which are combatrelated and confined to active service in Iraqor Afghanistan during the present war or hostilities.A request for a free 8 x 14 inch bannershould be sent to: Herb Stout, chairman, GoldStar Campaign, P.O. Box 8285, Hot SpringsVillage, Ark. 71910. Please include relevantinformation regarding the Fallen Soldier.Courtesy photoCORRECTIONIn an effort to ensureaccuracy within thispublication, we correctall errors of fact. It youknow of an error, pleasecontact christopher.heathscott@ar.ngb.army.mil.In the March issue ofthe <strong>Arkansas</strong> Minuteman,several errors were founddue to an oversight ofposthumous promotionsof our Fallen Soldiers. Thefollowing Fallen Soldiersare listed with correctedranks: Sgt. Maj. WilliamT. Warren, Sgt. KennethA. Melton, Sgt. 1st ClassTroy L. Miranda, Sgt.Ronald W. Baker, Cpl.Jimmy D. Buie and Spc.Derek Plowman.
8 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Wofford formally assumes commandof the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Clarksville native states“accountability” as his visionfor the <strong>Guard</strong>’s futurePhoto by Sgt. 1st Class Tom Guminsky, 119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentACCEPTING COMMAND. Maj. Gen. William D. Wofford formally accepts command of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> with the ceremonial presentation of the <strong>Guard</strong>’s colors from the HonorableMike Beebe, Governor of the state of <strong>Arkansas</strong>. The assumption of command ceremonytook place at the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Professional Education Center’s Davis Auditorium located atCamp Joseph T. Robinson, in North Little Rock, on Saturday, March 3.PROUD FAMILY.Mrs. Jan Wofford,looks on proudly alongwith the rest of theWofford family, as herhusband Maj. Gen.William D. Woffordformally accepts commandof the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. Wofford’sfamily, seatedin the front row, joinedseveral hundred othersin attendence atthe assumption ofcommand ceremonyon Saturday, March3, at Camp Joseph T.Robinson.Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tom Guminsky, 119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentBy Staff Sgt. TAMMY TREAT119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentCAMP JOSEPH T.ROBINSON – Inline with militarytradition, Maj. Gen. WilliamD. Wofford, a resident ofConway, Ark., was formallyinducted as the adjutantgeneral of the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> during anassumption of commandceremony here Saturday,March 3.During the ceremony, StateCommand Sgt. Maj. DeborahCollins handed the colors ofthe <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>to the Honorable GovernorMike Beebe, who in turnhanded the flag to Wofford,signifying the handover ofmission and responsibility tothe new adjutant general.Beebe appointed the 35 yearveteran to head the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> and the StateMilitary Department, effectiveFeb. 16, 2007. Prior to theappointment, which also earnshim a seat on the governor’scabinet, Wofford served asthe Deputy CommandingGeneral (Reserve Component)U.S. Army Forces Command(FORSCOM).“Major General Woffordhas given more than 35 yearsof his life in service to ournation and has demonstratedexceptional leadershipand management skillsduring that service,” Beebesaid when announcing theappointment. “Since joiningthe <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> in December 1975, Billhas represented the <strong>Guard</strong>,<strong>Arkansas</strong> and the UnitedStates with integrity andhonor at posts both statesideand overseas.”Following the militaryceremony which formallyhanded Wofford theresponsibility, Beebe said“This time honored tradition,wrapped in ceremony andwrapped with the colorsof units, our state, and ourcountry, is one that shouldnot be taken lightly.”The governor went on tomention that our battle flagsare steeped in tradition andhistory which have been paidfor with the blood of those whocame before us. He thankedall service members for theirsacrifices.With standing room only,a crowd of onlookers listenedintently as Wofford acceptedhis new position.He gave special recognitionto the 106th Army band statinghe is the first adjutant generalto be an honorary memberof the band. In good humor,he played a cowbell arousinglaughter and applause fromthe crowd.Wofford declared the day’sevents were not for himself,
<strong>April</strong> 2007ARKANSASMINUTEMANPhoto by Capt. Chris Heathscott, 119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentTHE BANDPLAYS ON.Maj. Gen. Woffordthankedthe 106thArmy Band, ofthe 87th TroopCommand, fortheir contributionto the ceremony.Thegeneral evenpulled out aninstrument ofhis own to joinin the music...a cow bell…bringing laughterto all in attendance.LARGE SELECTION OF AREA RUGSCome By & Seethe Best LookingFlooring Showroom& Largest Selectionin Lonoke County.Special Military Discount10% OFF*ALL FLOORING & LABORMUST PRESENT COUPON!9but for the Soldiers and Airmenof the <strong>Guard</strong>.He stressed that we not losesite of the fact our purpose isto prepare men and women forwar.Wofford’s reign will focus on“accountability.”“Accountability is only oneword and it carries the weight ofeverything that we do.”He went on to reference thatholding people accountable fortheir duties, making sure theyare well equipped and knowtheir jobs are owed to Soldiersand their families. He thankedfamilies and their employers forthe support of deployed Soldiersand Airmen and closed hiscomments at the ceremony bystating all current policies willremain in effect.Wofford, a native ofClarksville, began hismilitary career when he wascommissioned as a secondlieutenant upon graduation fromthe Reserve Officer TrainingCorps program at <strong>Arkansas</strong>Tech University, where he wasawarded a Bachelor of Artsdegree in Mathematics on May15, 1971.Wofford served four yearsPhoto by Capt. Chris Heathscott, 119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentRECEPTION LINE. Col. Steve Miles offers his congratulations to Mrs.Jan Wofford following the assumption of command ceremony, formally givingher husband command of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. To her right inthe reception line are her husband, Maj. Gen. William D. Wofford, and theHonorable Mike Beebe, governor of the state of <strong>Arkansas</strong>.on active duty with the 82ndAirborne Division at Fort Bragg,North Carolina and the 1stArmored Division in Germany.Upon returning to <strong>Arkansas</strong>,he served 17 years in troopunits, commanding at the unit,battalion and brigade levels,including leading the 2ndBattalion, 142nd Field Artillery,VII Corps Artillery duringOperation Desert Storm.Wofford’s service in <strong>Arkansas</strong>includes the Director ofMilitary Support, coordinatingand managing Army and Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> support duringstate emergencies.He has also served as thestate’s Task Force Commanderresponsible for Soldier ReadinessProcessing and mobilizationsupport for more than 4,000Soldiers deployed for OperationIraqi Freedom and OperationEnduring Freedom.1900 S. Pine • 843-0665*EXCLUDING OTHER DISCOUNTS.
10 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007<strong>Guard</strong> Associations: Membership offers a voice for NG Soldiers, Airmen2007 Annual Officer and Enlisted ConferenceBy 1st Lt. BRENT M. SARVER119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentCAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON,Ark. — Lt. Col. James Treece,commander of the 217th BrigadeSupport Battalion of the 142nd FiresBrigade, stressed “serving those whoserve” when asked the importanceof the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Association of<strong>Arkansas</strong> (NGAA).The NGAA and the EnlistedAssociation of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> (EAANG) are working at boththe state and federal levels to promotebenefits for all service members inthe state of <strong>Arkansas</strong>, according toTreece.“The normal uniformed Soldierdoesn’t have direct access to theirstate legislators and Congress,”said Treece. A life member of theNGAA and a member of its boardof directors, Treece described theorganization as a vessel throughwhich a service member can influencethese legislators.“It’s a resolution process. We (theNGAA and EAANG) use Soldiers’ideas to make the organization better,”said Treece.The process starts with servicemembers at the unit level submittingideas to the associations in the formof resolutions. The ideas are gathered,consolidated and considered bythe respective associations. If yourresolution is adopted, it is forwardedto the national associations ordeveloped into an action plan for statelevel issues.Treece advised that through thisprocess all members benefit and stayinformed on the issues affecting themdirectly.Treece gave several specificexamples in which the process didwork. TRICARE insurance is nowauthorized for all <strong>Guard</strong>smen,regardless of status (retired, comingoff of deployment, etc.). We are nowwaiting for the Department of Defenseto implement the program.Once the program is fullyimplemented, it should be a majorIts not too late to get registeredfor the 2007 annual conference ofthe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Associationof <strong>Arkansas</strong> and the EnlistedAssociation of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>.Please, join us <strong>April</strong> 27th through29th at the Embassy Suites NW<strong>Arkansas</strong> and the John Q. HammonsConvention Center in RogersTo register visit the web site atwww.NGAA.org and complete theretention tool. State tax exemptionson military pay had been at $6,000for over 35 years. In 2005, the 85thGeneral Assembly voted to increasethe enlisted exemption to $9,000 atthe urging of both associations.The 86th General Assembly of2007 recently voted to increase theexemption to $9,000 for all servicemembers (Act 160).G.I. Bill benefits have also increasedfor all service members coming off ofdeployment.At state level, service membersand their spouses (with dependents)enrolled in a state sponsoredinstitution of higher learning canreceive reimbursements for tuition ifsemesters cannot be completed due todeployments (Act 16).Two years ago, the state legislatureauthorized special issue licenseplates for veterans of Operation IraqiFreedom and Operation EnduringFreedom.Both were intended to be at no costto the member. But due to an error inthe language of the final law that waspassed, members are being chargedfor Operation Enduring Freedomplates. This oversight was brought tothe attention of both associations bymany of our members. As a result,Act 109 corrects the problem andwhen implemented will give thoseovercharged for their plates a processto seek reimbursement.A term life insurance policy is alsoavailable to all service members withimmediate payable benefits within 24hours.Revenues from policy sales fund aregistration form and bring to theNGAA office with your registrationfee by <strong>April</strong> 20th, or mail to the officeat NGAA, PO. Box 663, North LittleRock, AR 72115.There will be no on-site registrationthis year.Lodging reservations should bemade directly with the EmbassySuites Northwest <strong>Arkansas</strong> inRogers. The hotel number is 1-800-362-2779 or use their online bookingscholarship program for participantsof the insurance program and theirdependents.This year the two associationswill present thirty scholarships of$500 each to deserving recipients. Anumber of state and federal issues arealso in the works, according to Treece,including:· State Senate Bill (SB) 307 towaive the commercial driver licenseskills test for transferred militarylicenses· House Bill (HB) 1588 isrequesting $4.5 million from the state’sgeneral improvement appropriation todo some much needed renovation andimprovements to our aging readinesscenters· House Bill (HB) 1345 willprovide flexibility for courts inmodifying court orders for childcustody and visitation for parents whoare members of the armed servicesand are mobilized.There are cases where our membershave lost permanent custody oftheir children because they serve inuniform and are deployed.There is nothing right about that atall. Your associations are followingeach of these bills and workingwith legislators to maximize ourchances for success. Not limited tothe implementation of the variousbenefit programs, the NGAA andEAANG also work to prevent negativelegislation from passing that wouldadversely affect service members,according to Treece.At one point, the Department ofsystem at www.embassysuites.com.To receive the conference rate of$109 per night plus applicable taxes,be sure to mention that you are withthe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Association.Reservations will be accepted ona first come, first served basis.Hospitality room reservationsshould also be made directly withthe hotel.Hope to see you there!Defense attempted to send a measurethrough Congress cutting the numberof multiple unit training assembly(MUTA) days and annual trainingin half, from the current 63 days (48drill periods plus 15 days of annualtraining) to 39 days of active duty,which would have cut pay to servicemembers significantly.DoD’s budget submitted to Congressfor 2008 is attempting to raise theTRICARE premiums for retired, activeduty, and <strong>Guard</strong>smen significantly.Our national associations havealready raised the call to arms urgingmembers to contact their members ofCongress and urge them to defeat theproposal.One <strong>Guard</strong> friendly congressmanwill introduce separate legislationaimed at taking the authority tochange TRICARE premiums out ofDoD and putting it under control ofCongress.NGAA and EANGUS dues varybased on rank. Annual meetingsare also held yearly for all members,where service members can createa network of peers in an informalsetting, Treece advised.This year’s conference will be inRogers, Ark., from <strong>April</strong> 27 through29. Representatives of the insuranceprogram can be contacted by theunit and will come speak to allmembers and perspective membersupon request. For more information,service members can go to www.ngaa.org or www.eaang.org and find linksto other service related topics.
<strong>April</strong> 2007CAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, Ark. – Col.Steven E. Miles formally assumed command ofthe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Marksmanship Training Unit(NGMTU) on Sunday, March 4, 2007.With the retirement of the unit’s formercommander, Col. John C. Lowry, Miles stepped upinto the position bearing his newly pinned rank ofColonel.This is Miles’ second stint with the unit afterserving as Operations and Plans Officer for fiveyears earlier in his career.Employed by the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations StateTraining Administrator, Miles laid out a vision forthe NGMTU to be a nationally recognized leader inpromoting and developing marksmanship as thecornerstone of combat readiness.To achieve this he said that there needs tobe support for increased emphasis on weaponstraining and marksmanship proficiency skillsand for individual improvement and unit combatreadiness within the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.When asked if his previous experience in theunit will help in carrying out the unit’s mission,Miles said that his institutional knowledgeARKANSASMINUTEMANMarksmanship Training Unit under new managementCol. Steve Miles spreads hiswings with new commandBy 2nd Lt. BARRY EASON<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Marksmanship Training Unit Public AffairsStatus 3/21/07Act 160 of the Regular Session(HB 1184) AN ACT TO ALLOWMILITARY OFFICERS OF THEARMED SERVICES TO RECEIVETHE SAME INCOME TAX EXEMP-TION AS ENLISTED PERSONNELOF THE ARMED SERVICES; ANDFOR OTHER PURPOSES.By: Representatives S. Prater, Wood, Adcock, Anderson,Bond, Breedlove, E. Brown, J. Brown, Burris,Cash, Cook, Cornwell, D. Creekmore, Dickinson,Dunn, Edwards, D. Evans, L. Evans, Garner, Gaskill,George, Glidewell, R. Green, Hall, Hardwick, Hoyt, D.Hutchinson, Hyde, Jeffrey, Kenney, Key, Kidd, King,Lamoureux, Lovell, M. Martin, Maxwell, Medley,Moore, Norton, Overbey, Pate, Patterson, Pennartz,Pierce, Pyle, Ragland, Reep, J. Roebuck, Rosenbaum,Sample, Saunders, Stewart, Sullivan, Thyer, Walters,Webb, Wells, Wills, Woods, Wyatt, Reynolds, Everett,Harris, Allen, Pace, Cooper, Chesterfield, T. Bradford,Berry, S. Dobbins, Petrus, Wagner, J. Johnson, Harrelson,Rogers, Powers, House, Cheatham, Davenport,Lowery, Abernathy, Pickett, T. Baker, Shelby By:Senators Hill, Altes, Baker, J. Jeffress, Salmon, Trusty,J. Taylor, T. Smith, Whitaker, Faris, Capps, Miller,Critcherand experience will provide a solid benchmarkfor making decisions that will guide futureorganizational goals and strategies.The NGMTU provides marksmanship trainingfor Soldiers and Airmen from all 54 states andterritories.The unit offers a variety of marksmanshipcourses to include the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> SniperSchool, the Close Precision Engagement Course,the Squad Designated Marksman Course amongother small arms courses.Act 16 of the Regular Session (HB1028)AN ACT TO ALLOW A STUDENTWHOSE SPOUSE IS CALLED INTOMILITARY SERVICE TO RECEIVECOMPENSATION FOR THE RE-SULTING MONETARY LOSS OFCEASING ATTENDANCE AT ASTATESUPPORTED POSTSECOND-ARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITU-TION WITHOUT COMPLETINGTHE COURSE OR RECEIVING AGRADE IF THE STUDENT OR THESTDENT’S SPOUSE HAS DEPEN-DENT CHILDREN WHO RESIDEIN THE HOUSEHOLD; AND FOROTHER PURPOSES.By: Representatives George, Wells, Overbey, Dunn,WoodAct 47 of the Regular Session(HB1140)TO AMEND THE MILITARYCODE OF ARKANSAS, § 12-60-101ET SEQ., TO UPDATE PROVISIONSREGARDING AWARDS, OFFI-Photo by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi cerCER TITLES, APPOINTMENT OFDEPUTY ADJUTANTS GENERAL,AND CERTAIN FINES AND FORFEI-TURES; AND FOR OTHER PUR-POSES.By: Representative WoodAct 109 of the Regular Session(HB)1383AN ACT TO ENSURE THAT VET-ERANS OF OPERATION ENDURINGFREEDOM ARE ELIGIBLE FOR ASPECIAL LICENSE PLATE AND RE-NEWAL FOR A NOMINAL FEE LIKEOTHER VETERANS; TO INCOR-PORATE THE LAW REGARDINGOPERATION ENDURING FREEDOMAND OPERATION IRAQI FREE-DOM INTO THE SPECIAL LICENSEPLATE ACT OF 2005, § 27-24-101ET SEQ.; TO ALLOW A PERSONWHO PAID THE FEE FOR THEOPERATION ENDURING FREEDOMSPECIAL LICENSE PLATE TO BEREFUNDED THAT FEE; AND FOROTHER PURPOSES.11EARNING HIS WINGS.Donna Miles joins Brig.Gen. Larry Haltom in pinningthe rank of colonelon her husband, Steve,during a promotion ceremonyon March 2. Twodays later, Col. Miles assumedcommand of the<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> MarksmanshipTraining Unit atCamp Robinson.The unit also provides training throughcompetitive marksmanship, sponsoring the All-<strong>Guard</strong> marksmanship teams.The NGMTU hosts the annual Winston P.Wilson <strong>National</strong> Marksmanship Championships,the Armed Forces Skills at Arms Meetinginternational championships among othercompetitive marksmanship competitions.For more information on the NGMTU and itsmarksmanship training events and opportunities,call the unit direct at (501) 212-4500.Legislative Update – Bills & Acts of interest to the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>By: Representatives Wood, WaltersAct 301 of the Regular Session (HB1345)AN ACT TO ENSURE THAT THEORDERS OF CHILD CUSTODYAND VISITATION FOR PARENTSWHO ARE MEMBERS OF THEARMED FORCES ARE NOT PER-MANENTLY MODIFIED FOR THESOLE REASON OF THE PARENT’SMILITARY MOBILIZATION; TOALLOW COURTS TO TEMPORA-RILY MODIFY ORDERS OF CHILDCUSTODY AND VISITATION FORPARENTS WHO ARE MILITARYMOBILIZED;AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.TO PROVIDE FLEXIBILITY FORCOURTS IN MODIFYING OR-DERS OF CHILD CUSTODY ANDVISITATION FOR PARENTS WHOARE MEMBERS OF THE ARMEDFORCES AND WHO ARE MILITARYMOBILIZED.By: Representative Wood
12 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Northwest <strong>Arkansas</strong> Soldiers welcomedhome to the state after year in the desertBy Spc. JOHN HEAVNER119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentROGERS, Ark. – Familyand friends of approximately150 Soldiers gatheredWednesday, March, 7 at theJohn Q. Hammons Center inRogers, Ark., to welcome homethe <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s Battery C, 1st Battalion,142nd Fires Brigade.The unit was initiallymobilized to Fort Dix, NJon January 10, 2006 wherethey conducted mobilizationtraining for their mission. Theunit forward deployed in andaround Baghdad where theywere tasked with conductingbase security operations fromMarch 2006 through February2007.Tasked with a missionoutside their regular wartimemission, Battery C assistedin shutting down the AbuGhraib confinement facilityand played a vital role in theopening of Camp Cropper nearthe Baghdad InternationalAirport.“We’ve taken one of the finestartillery units in the state andsent them off to do somethingtotally different from whatthey were originally trained forand they’ve done it well,” saidMaj. Gen. William D. Wofford,the Adjutant General of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.Photo by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceWELCOME HOME. Sgt. Robert Kevin Curtis, of Harrison, Ark.,is welcomed home from a yearlong deployment to Iraq by the adjutantgeneral of <strong>Arkansas</strong>, Maj. Gen. William D. Wofford. Curtisreturned with the 1st Battalion, 142nd Fires Brigade from Rogers.Wofford, who began his career in the 1st Battalion, continues tosport the patch of the 142nd on his right shoulder for service in acombat zone with the unit during Operation Desert Storm.“We’re extremely proud ofthem.”Wofford was followed by the142nd’s Brigade Commander,Col. Jeff Montgomery, whooffered an additional reasonhe was proud to see the unitreturn.“Today’s homecoming hasa special significance for theMontgomery family,” said thecolonel, “because my son isstanding out there with youtoday.”Montgomery went on topraise the unit, followed by theapplause from the hundredsin attendance. When thenext speaker stepped up tospeak, his initial commentsset off a significant roar ofhonored applause and cheeringthroughout the HammonsCenter.Photo by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceA HEROES WELCOME. Staff Sgt. Reynaldo Acosta Jr., of Harrison,Ark., is greeted in the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogersas he returned to the state with his unit. Acosta returned withnearly 150 other <strong>Guard</strong>smen to a warm welcome from a crowd ofhundreds of family, friends, veterans, leaders, and other supporters.sportthe patch of the 142nd on his right shoulder for servicein a combat zone with the unit during Operation Desert Storm.Photo by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceON AMERICANSOIL. Brig. Gen.Richard Swan,the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s jointforces land componentcommander,greets the first of150 Soldiers offthe plane Tuesdaymorning after their24 hour trip homefrom Iraq. TheRogers unit arrivedat Fort Sill to beginthe demobilizationprocess, completingtheir yearlongdeployment. TheSoldiers returnedto<strong>Arkansas</strong> onMarch 7.
<strong>April</strong> 2007ARKANSASMINUTEMAN13Rogers Mayor SteveWomack, who alsocarries the title colonelas a <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>smanand commander of the233rd Regional TrainingInstitute at Camp JosephT. Robinson took theopportunity to recognizeanother group of heroesin the crowd. A largeturnout of veterans linedthe walls of the center towelcome home the state’snewest vets.“I think it should beacknowledged,” Womacksaid. “…what we seestanding on the perimeterof this hall. The Americanflags that are on theshoulders of a group ofdedicated people, manyof whom did not enjoysuch a welcome on theirreturn from a combattheater.”The crowd respondedwith a full minutes worthof applause, drawingnoticeable emotion in theeyes of some.“Thank you for yourservice, and for thesupport of these Soldiers,”Womack said.As many of theseveterans of previous warsexperienced, the Rogersunit returned home witha void…one less Soldier.Tragically, Pfc. Derek J.Plowman, of Everton,Ark., died during thedeployment of a noncombatrelated injury onJuly 20, 2006.While addressing allin attendance, Capt. JimCone, the commanderof Battery C, looked overto Plowman’s family andoffered an emotionalcomment.“I want you to knowthat the measure of a manis what he leaves behind,the people he touches, thememories that he givesthe rest of us,” he said.“He will always be in ourhearts and minds and youwill always have a specialplace in our heart.”Battery C is the lastunit of the 1st Battalion,to return home. TheBattalion’s Bentonvilleand Springdale unitsreturned in October andDecember of last year,Photo by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceCOMMAND GREETING. Col. Jeff Montgomery, commanderof the 142nd Fires Brigade, was on hand atFort Sill to welcome his Soldiers home when they firstarrived in the states on February 27. The Rogers unitis the final battery to return for Montgomery’s 1stBattalion. As the brigade commander, Montgomerystill has troops from his Fort Smith, Van Buren, SiloamSprings and Ozark batteries deployed. These 2nd Battalionbatteries are anticipated to return in the fall.respectively.The 142nd’s 2ndBattalion still has its FortSmith, Siloam Springsand Van Buren unitsdeployed to Kuwait, withits Ozark battery in Iraq.The units are anticipatedto return in the fall of thisyear.With the battery’sreturn, the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> willcontinue to haveapproximately 1500Soldiers and AirmenClassesFormingdeployed in support of theglobal war on terrorism.Over 10,000 Soldiersand Airmen strong,the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>has supported themobilization of over8,000 troops since Sept.11, 2001.Many of the<strong>Guard</strong>smen accountedfor in this number haveserved on two or moremobilizations in supportof the global war onterror.Earn Certification in theHomeland Security IndustyDRUG OR BOMB/FIREARM DETECTIONFull Tuition Aid Available, VA Approved.Accredited College Credit Hours may beapplied towards a Criminal Justice Degreewww.fedk9.comPhoto by Capt. Chris Heathscott, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceDADDY’S HOME. Sgt. Anthony Burch, of Rudy, Ark., holds his family tight duringan emotional moment at Fort Sill, Okla. Burch returned to American soil withRogers Battery C, 1st Battalion, 142nd Fires Brigade from Rogers after a yearlongdeployment to Iraq. Burch, and the rest of the unit, returned to the state on March7.501-941-0085121 Financial Dr. • Cabotwww.Stanley-realty.comCabot Schools,split BR plan, 3 BR 2 BA,electric log fireplace,maintenance free exterior. Mls10121195 CallDon 413-1259/941-0085Large lot, fenced backyard w/covered deck. 3 BR 1 BA.Good location. MLS 10137958Call Sheryl 920-6545/941-0085Wonderfulneighborhood. 3 BR, 2 BA, openkitchen/dining/living area. Bigfenced back yard w/storage bldg.MLS 10143615CallBlake 993-3780/941-0085START YOUR OWN BUSINESS INTHE FASTEST GROWINGINDUSTRY IN THE WORLD!!No inventory, delivery, collection, or employees.NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.Be your own boss and work your own hours.SOUND TOO GOOD? GET THE FACTS!!Call 24/7 recorded information(212) 990-6461.Call Pat 501-941-4518fhtmus.com/adamsfamily4uor Judith 501-425-4962fhtmus.com/threeoaksWe want to help you!WE WILL HELP YOU OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS!Ask yourself a question:Are you satisfied where you are?It is up to You!
14 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Photo of the monthPhoto by Spc. John Heavner, 119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentNATURAL HIGH – Sgt. Ricky Randle, of Sherwood, watchesyouth from the <strong>Guard</strong>’s Civilian Student Training Program,participating in a confidence building exercise while assisting the<strong>Guard</strong>’s statewide Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) program. Capt.Sheryl Justice, coordinator of the DDR program, says students aregiven the opportunity to engage in activities that show them thereare alternative “highs” in life that don’t involve drugs. The DDRprogram reached out to over 21,000 young people with it’s antidrugmessage in 2006. For more information on the Drug DemandReduction program you can contact the program administrator at(501) 212-5484.Army Safety Office releasesaccident statisticsThe Safety Programcontributes to missionaccomplishment by protectingboth human and materialresources to ensure complianceof statutory and regulatoryrequirements whichhelp contain costs associatedwith accidents, injuries, andworkplace hazards. The ARNGexperienced 81 Class A — Caccidents in FY 06 as comparedto 123 in FY 05. This is anoverall 34 percent reduction inClass A — C accidents.The number of fatalities thatoccurred on-duty is nine in FY06 compared to six in FY 05,which indicates a 50% increase.The number of fatalities thatoccurred off-duty for FY 06 iseight compared to 15 for FY05, which is a 47% decrease.The ARNG had 2,423Workman Compensationclaims totaling $21,386,626 inFY 06 compared to 2,438 witha cost of $21,217,198 in FY 05.This is an overall reduction ofclaims by one percent whilecosts increased by 0.1 percent.Although most types, extent,and causes of civilian accidentsdecreased, costs continue toincrease.ARNG has issued newand revised regulations andpolicies and has developednew and extensive trainingfor safety officers. State Safetymangers should ensure allpersonnel are trained properly,that supervisors inspectand monitor their areas andprovide safety guidance to allleaders.Programgraduates59 in firstclass of ‘07By Maj. KEITH MOORE<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>State Public Affairs OfficeThe <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s Civilian StudentTraining Program (CSTP,pronounced C-Step) graduated59 students in its firstclass of 2007 on Friday, March9, as family, friends and staffgathered to congratulate thestudents on completing theintensive course.The keynote speakerfor the ceremony, Mr.Adam Ellis, a state juvenileprobation officer, addressedthe students regarding thelessons they learned at CSTP.“You made some badchoices,” said Ellis. “That’swhat landed you here.But today you realize thatcompleting this coursehas equipped you withthe knowledge, skills andpotential to take your lifeanywhere you would like togo. You have been pointed inthe direction of success, and‘can’t’ has been erased fromyour vocabulary.”Ellis went on to informparents and friends thatthey needed to hold theirgraduate to a higher standardof performance because nowthe students realize they canmeet those standards.One of two youth programsoperated by the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, CSTP dealswith students enrolledunder court order by thejuvenile justice system. Theprogram is a military-styledboot camp designed fornonviolent offenders rangingin age from 13 to 17 yearsold. The program teacheslife skills, while providing anopportunity to earn a GeneralPhoto by Maj. Keith Moore, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> State Public Affairs Offi ceON A NEW PATH. Dennis Adams (right) and Richard Wilson,director of the Civilian Student Training Program at Camp JosephT. Robinson, congratulate a student during graduation ceremoniesfor the first class of 2007 on Friday, March 9, 2007. Theprogram graduated 59 students at the ceremony, and recordedhaving trained 4,300 students in its 12 year history.Education Degree (GED).This class of CSTP’s nineweek residential programelevates the entity’s statisticsto having trained over4,300 students in its 12 yearexistence.Mr. Richard Wilson, theprogram’s director, spokewith praise for all responsiblefor the success of CSTP,as he addressed the crowdattending the graduation fromthe behavior managementprogram.Although the graduationsignified the end of thecourse, it does not cut allties with the students. Theresidential phase is followedby an after-care phase,which involves tracking andassisting the youths for thenext 12 months.Ellis also encouraged thegraduates to stay in contactand encourage each other.“You have been given thetools and direction to succeed,”Ellis said. “Going forwardyou will be responsible formaking the right choicesin order to succeed, butyou should maintain therelationships you’ve built hereand encourage each other onthat road to success.”In addition to thementorship program, Wilsonencouraged the families tohelp guide their teens throughdiscipline and encouragementof their own. He assuredthem of the potential withinthe young men which theyhad recognized during thenine-week program.For more information onCSTP, you can contact theCamp Joseph T. Robinsonbased program at (501) 212-5360.
<strong>April</strong> 2007EBBINGAIRNATIONAL GUARDBASE, Fort Smith, Ark.- <strong>April</strong> 14th, 2007 will beanother landmark day in thehistory of the 188th FighterWing as it receives the firstfour of 18 scheduled A-10“Warthog” aircraft as part ofthe unit’s mission conversion.The change in aircraft fromF-16 to the A-10 is pursuantto the Base Realignment andClosure Commission (BRAC)decision of 2005.The day, designated“Warthog Day” at the 188thFighter Wing, will end an eraof flight for the F-16 FightingFalcon and welcome the arrivalof the unit’s new missionaircraft, the A-10 ThunderboltII. Unit members, families,government and civic leadersas well as leaders of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> willbe on hand to celebrate thearrival of the new aircraft andbid farewell to the F-16s.The first A-10 aircraft willbe escorted to the base bythe last two remaining F-16s, symbolizing an aerialchange of responsibility forthe aircraft. Dignitaries and<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> leaders willspeak on the significance ofthe 188th Fighter Wing andits gallant history.After the ceremonies, an A-10 Demonstration Team fromBarksdale Air Force Base,La. will perform an aerialdemonstration of the A-10’sflight capabilities. Followingthe flight demonstration the188th will hold its familypicnic on the base grounds.The last two F-16s will departFort Smith for their newhomes in Fresno, Calif. onSunday, <strong>April</strong> 15.Activities will begin at 10a.m. with pre-flight for theF-16s and the KC-135 Tankerwhich will go out to escortthe A-10s. The A-10s willcome in from an air base inMassachusetts. The aircraftare set to arrive at 11:30 a.m.and will taxi to a ceremonialreceiving point in front of theARKANSASMINUTEMANPhoto courtesy of the Armed Forces Press ServiceSLOW AND LOW. <strong>April</strong> 14, 2007, labeled “Warthog Day” by Col. Kevin Wear, commander of the188th Fighter Wing, will end an era of flight for the F-16 Fighting Falcon and welcome the arrivalof the unit’s new mission aircraft, the A-10 Thunderbolt II. The day is somewhat bittersweet forthe 188th. Few will argue that they hate to see the F-16 taken away, but the arrival of the A-10,pictured, ensures a continuing mission for the unit.Arrival of A-10 “Warthog” aircraftto be celebrated <strong>April</strong> 14hangar.Ceremonies begin at 10:35a.m. following the departureof the F-16s to escort the A-10s. The ceremonies willtake place in the main hangarand on the ramp in frontof the hangar. In the eventof inclement weather, theceremonies will be movedinside the hangar.This is a historic andemotional day for themembers of the 188th FighterWing and their families, andis not open to the public.The unit family picnicwill be held following theceremonies in order tocelebrate the new mission andaircraft as a group.For additional informationcontact Lt.Col. Pete Gauger,188th FW executive officer at479-573-5221, Lt. Heath Allen,188th FW public affairs officerat 479-573-5300 or Maj. KeithMoore, Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>state public affairs officer atJoint Force Headquarters at501-212-5023.OCS: Molding Future<strong>Guard</strong> LeadersBy 1st Lt. BRENT SARVER119th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment(Editor’s note: This is thefirst of an ongoing series tochronicle the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s OfficerCandidate School.)CAMP JOSEPH T.ROBINSON, Ark. —Seventeen future leaders haveaccepted the challenge of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> Officer CandidateSchool (OCS). Not only willthese Soldiers hone theirmilitary leadership abilities,they will improve peopleskills that will benefit themin their civilian lives.According to Maj. NicholeLashbrook, companycommander of the 233rdRegiment, Regional TrainingInstitute (RTI), this programisn’t just for the Soldierfresh out of basic training;non-commissioned officers,both junior and senior, arewelcome too.“Anyone can meet thechallenge and make the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> a better place,”Lashbrook contended.Class 51 of the state <strong>Guard</strong>’sOCS began in February,while Class 50 continues towork toward completing theprogram. Lashbrook saidOCS helps train Soldierswho in turn take their newlygained experience back totheir units. The experience,stressed Lashbrook, doesn’tend with military skills --these leaders take their skillsand adaptability back totheir civilian employers andcommunities as well.OCS provides a challengingsource of education andexpertise for Soldiers whochoose to become futureleaders, said Lt. Col. RickMiller, administrative officerof 233rd Regiment (RegionalTraining Institute).“We build leaders. Someonewho will step up to the plateand lead by example,” Millercommented.15The colonel said the makeupof the Officer CandidateSchool program begins withan open house every February.An invitation is sent to allunits in the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, asking forthose Soldiers interested inthe program to attend. Theopen house allows troops tolearn more about the programand decide whether they wantto pursue a commission.Those Soldiers who chooseto attend the voluntaryprogram begin with a ZeroPhase of monthly drills,lasting approximately fourmonths. This phase of theprogram, according to Miller,stresses both mental andphysical preparation forPhase 1.Phase 1 lasts approximatelytwo weeks and takes place ata separate training source inthe early summer. Trainingduring this phase focuseson land navigation, physicaltraining and drill andceremony.“You can think of Phase 1as something of a buildingblock program,” said Miller.Phase 2 of the OfficerCandidate School programprovides two options forSoldiers in the program,according to Miller. Candidatesmay attend an intensivetwo-month acceleratedprogram, taking place twicea year at a separate traininglocation, or they can utilizethe more traditional programoption. That option is ayearlong program of monthlydrills taking place at theRTI training center at CampRobinson.The final phase of OCStraining consists of a finishingtwo-week program. Uponsuccessful completion of OCS,Soldiers earn a commissionas a second lieutenant.For more informationabout OCS contact SFC JerryPilgrim at (501) 212-5570 ore-mail at jerry.len.pilgrim@ar.ngb.army.mil .
16 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007SYMBOL OF THEGUARD Brig. Gen. LarryHaltom, deputy adjutantgeneral for the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, presents<strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptist CollegePresident Fitz Hill with aminuteman statue duringceremonies marking thesignature of a tuition assistanceagreement betweenthe college and the <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>. The minutemanrepresents the dual role of<strong>Guard</strong> members as citizensand Soldiers in defendingthe freedom of our stateand nation.<strong>Guard</strong> adds <strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptist Collegeto list for tuition assisanceBy Maj. KEITH MOORE<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>State Public Affairs OfficeLITTLE ROCK, Ark. –<strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptist College joined 35other schools of higher learning topartner with the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> in an effort to reward <strong>Guard</strong>members with tuition assistance.The partnership provides thestate’s Army <strong>Guard</strong> members witha tuition-free education and a 25percent tuition reduction for thestate’s Airmen.“It’s an honor to welcome all ofyou to campus, and it’s an honorfor us and a privilege to be ableto sign this memorandum ofunderstanding with the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> to honor our menand women in uniform,” said Dr.Fitz Hill, president of <strong>Arkansas</strong>Baptist College. <strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptistbecomes the 36th state collegeor university to offer the tuitionassistance agreement for membersof the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.Founded in 1884, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Baptist College is a private, fouryearliberal arts college dedicated tothe development of graduates whoare exceptionally educated, spirituallyand culturally aware, and ableto meet the demands of our rapidlyadvancing society.Located in central Little Rock,<strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptist is situated off ofMartin Luther King Boulevard.Its location in the capitol city andrelatively near tourist and culturalattractions such as the River Marketarea and the Clinton PresidentialLibrary make the school unique inits contribution to higher education.The school has a small, cohesive,student-centered environment withan open enrollment policy, acceptingall eligible students with a highschool diploma or GED equivalent.As the only African-American,Baptist higher education institutionwest of the Mississippi River,ABC offers degrees in businessadministration, human services,criminal justice, publicadministration and religiousstudies. In addition, ABC is alsocommitted to the total developmentof its students, both educationallyand spirit-ually. In addressing thegathered crowd of students, faculty,media and <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> memberspresent for the ceremony, Dr. Hillreflected on his own service in themilitary during Operation DessertStorm in the first Gulf War.“I personally wish that there hadbeen a program like this followingmy days in service. I used the oldGI Bill program to help towards myPhoto by Maj. Keith Moore, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, State Public Affairs Offi cecollege degree,” Hill said. He wenton to congratulate and thank themembers of the armed forces for thesacrifices they make to ensure thefreedom and success of our nation.Brig. Gen. Larry Haltom, deputyadjutant general of the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, thanked Dr. Hillfor <strong>Arkansas</strong> Baptist College’swillingness to partner with the<strong>Guard</strong> in such an important aspectof each member’s life – continuingtheir education. He closed theceremony by presenting Dr. Hillwith a “Minuteman” statue saying,“The Minuteman represents theembodiment of the citizen Soldier.In the early days of our nation, thesefarmers, ranchers and businessmenwould put down their work andpick up their muskets to tend to thebusiness of defending the nation.The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> of todaycontinues this honorable tradition.”Under the tuition assistanceprogram, Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Soldiers receive 75 percent oftheir college tuition paid througha federal Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>tuition assistance program. TheAir <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> does not have afederal tuition assistance program,so the Airmen only receive a 25percent reduction in tuition directfrom the college or university.Understandingyour educationalbenefitsBy Sgt. JESSICA HUGHLY119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentCAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON,North Little Rock, Ark. – Learningvaluable skills and earning pay are tangiblebenefits of a <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> career, and soare the nearly two dozen programs thatprovide educational opportunities fortroops.Often, however, Soldiers fail to takeadvantage of the many programs that the<strong>Guard</strong> has to offer its troops and, in somecases, their spouse.Among the programs that offer fundsfor troops’ education:· Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Federal TuitionAssistance – A benefit which pays fortuition and fees can easily pay for a Soldierto go to school, to earn an associate’s,bachelor’s and master’s degree.· Montgomery GI Bill – The most wellknown program allows Soldiers to obtaina degree, certifications, and licenses.Soldiers can also use their GI Bill to payfor on-the-job training, apprenticeship,and flight training.Some programs provide avenues fornew careers:· Troops to Teachers – Interestedin starting a new career in teachingkindergarden through 12th grade publiceducation? Troops to Teachers workshand in hand with Soldiers to identify theprograms needed for certification.· Spouses to Teachers – Perhaps yourspouse is interested in becoming a teacher?Spouses to Teachers will assist in makingthat transition.Other programs help troops map outtheir future:· Degree planning – This is a programwhere your civilian and military educationconverge. Military counselors help troopscraft a comprehensive plan.· Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> EducationSupport Center – This One-Stop-Shopfor troops, their dependents, and civilianemployees of the <strong>Guard</strong> is designed toanswer any education benefit question.Upcoming issues of this publicationwill highlight each of the 21 individualeducation benefits you may be eligiblefor with service in the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>. For more information now, youcan contact the Education Support Centertoll free at 1-866-628-5999.
<strong>April</strong> 2007ARKANSASMINUTEMANTo Advertise In The Next<strong>Arkansas</strong> Minute ManContact One Of Our Sales Professionals:17A family-owned, locally operated newspaper404 Graham Road, Jacksonville, AR 72076 501-982-9421105 N. 8th, Cabot, AR 72023 (501) 941-5132www.arkansasleader.comMember <strong>Arkansas</strong> Press AssociationMember <strong>National</strong> Newspaper AssociationMember Jacksonville Chamber of CommerceMember Cabot Chamber of Commerce<strong>Arkansas</strong>’ Largest Paid Non-Daily newspaper
18 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Fayetteville <strong>Guard</strong> Unit receives Federal Mobilization OrderCAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, Ark. - The<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s, Headquartersand Headquarters Battery of the 142nd FiresBrigade from Fayetteville, Ark., received a federalmobilization order March 3 to support OperationIraqi Freedom.The order calls up approximately 40 more<strong>Arkansas</strong> Soldiers for an <strong>April</strong> mobilization with ananticipated length of 13 months.The unit is slated to conduct its initial mobilizationtrain-ing at Fort Sill, Okla., prior to deployment.The Fayetteville unit is anticipated to serve as a‘Fires Brigade’ headquarters during the deployment,providing division level Field Artillery support.With the addition of the headquarters battery,the 142nd Fires Brigade will have over 500 of itsSoldiers mobilized in support of Operation IraqiFreedom.The northwest <strong>Arkansas</strong> brigade’s FortSmith, Siloam Springs, and Van Burenbatteries are currently deployed toKuwait, with its Ozark battery in Iraq.These units are anticipated to returnin the fall of this year.In total, the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> has over 1500 Soldiers andAirmen deployed in support of theglobal war on terrorism.Over 10,000 Soldiers andAirmen strong, the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>has supported the mobilization ofover 8,000 troops since Sept. 11, 2001.Many of the <strong>Guard</strong>smen accounted forin this number have served on two ormore mobilizations in support of the globalwar on terror.Fires in Kuwait. For moreinformation on the 142ndFires Brigade’s 2ndBattalion Soldiersthat are currentlydeployed to Kuwait,check outthe Desert Razorbacknewsletterposted on the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> Website atwww.arguard.org/PublicAffairs.<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>names NCO andSoldier of the YearBy Spc. JOHN HEAVNER119th Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentCAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, ARK. — The<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> awarded the titlesof Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) and Soldierof the Year at a ceremony here on Sunday, March4, 2007. Sgt. Kenneth Johnson, of Clinton, Ark.,who represented the 39th Brigade Combat Team,earned the title of the 2007 NCO of the Year. Spc.Russell Niemyer, an 87th Troop Command Soldierfrom North Little Rock, earned Soldier of the Yearhonors.Johnson and Niemyer received the awards aftercompeting in the 3rd Annual Soldier and NCO of theYear Competition.The 1st Battalion, 233rd Regiment, RegionalTraining Institute, or RTI, tested competitors on dayand night land navigation, the Army physical fitnesstest, rifle marksmanship, and Army common warriortasks. The final event of the competition was a boardappearance before command sergeants major of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.“Attention to detail is probably the most importantthing to remember,” Johnson said. “There’s not apractice run-through. You’ve got to know your taskswhen you show up.”All competitors received numerous awardsincluding the Army Achievement Medal, challengecoins from the adjutant general and state commandPHOTO BY SGT. RICK FAHR, 119TH MOBILE PUBLIC AFFAIRS DETACHMENTTOP COMPETITORS. Competitors of the 3rd Annual Soldier and NCO of the Year Competition pose withMaj. Gen. William D. Wofford, the adjutant general, and Command Sgt. Maj. Deborah Collins, the state commandsergeant major. From left to right: Sgt. Heather Gordey, from Fort Smith; Spc. Russell Niemyer, from NorthLittle Rock; Maj. Gen. Wofford; Sgt. Kenneth Johnson, from Clinton; Command Sgt. Maj. Collins; Sgt. William S.Davis, from Winslow; Staff Sgt. Clifford E. Terry, from Sheridan; and Pfc. Amanda M. Cearley, from Cabot.sergeant major, a $50 gift package from the Morale,Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department, a oneyearmembership to the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Enlisted Association, and a USAA award coin. Maj.Gen. William D. Wofford, the Adjutant General,presented the NCO and Soldier of the Year with the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Distinguished Service Medal. They alsoreceived a $300 gift package from MWR, an insigniawatch from GEICO, a USAA medallion, a bald eaglestatue, and other awards.Six Soldiers represented four brigades in thecompetition for the prestigious award. Sgt. WilliamS. Davis represented the 142nd Fires Brigade. Sgt.Heather Gordey and Spc. Niemyer represented the87th Troop Command. Staff Sgt. Clifford E. Terryand Pfc. Amanda M. Cearley represented the 77thAviation Brigade. Sgt. Johnson represented the 39thInfantry Brigade. “The reason we do this is for theSoldiers and NCOs,” said Command Sargeant MajorDeborah Collins will send Johnson and Neimyer tocompete in the Region Five NCO-Soldier of the YearCompetition in <strong>April</strong> at Camp Dodge, Iowa.
<strong>April</strong> 2007ARKANSASMINUTEMAN19SWITCH TODAYAND GET2000BONUS MINUTESwith new 2-yr. activation on consumer voice plans $39.99 and higher.Plus, No Activation Fee(a $35 value).Buy OneCamera PhoneGet One FREE• V CAST Music & Video capable• ® headset capable$49 99SamsungSCH-u540after $50 mail-in rebate ($99.99 2-yr. price).With new 2-yr. Activation per phone.AMERICA’S MOSTRELIABLEWIRELESS NETWORK.Try Verizon Wireless for 30 days. If we’re not the bestnetwork you’ve ever had, take your number to theother guys and the calls you made are on us.(Credit/refund for activation, voice access & voice overage charges only.*)SHOP FROMFREE SHIPPING HOME 1.888.640.8776SMMCVVERIZON WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS STORESOpen Sundays. Technicians available at select locations.NORTH LITTLE ROCK4000 East McCain Blvd.Next to Barnes & Noble501-812-0039WEST LITTLE ROCK12018 Chenal Pkwy.Across from Wal-Mart501-224-9119THE VERIZONWIRELESSSTOREINSIDENorth Little Rock4339 Warden Rd.501-753-0119West Little Rock109 Markham Park Dr.501-225-5850BUSINESSCUSTOMERSPLEASE CALL1.800.VZW.4BIZ(899.4249)AUTHORIZED RETAILERS Equipment prices, models and return policy vary by location. Authorized Retailers may impose additional equipment-related charges,including cancellation fees.CONWAYElite Wireless2665 Donaghey501-296-9685LITTLE ROCKElite Wireless5917 W. 12th St.501-296-9385JACKSONVILLE1813 T.P. White501-241-2441NORTH LITTLE ROCK4531 JFK Blvd.501-753-92924423 CampRobinson Rd.501-771-4304Ask if your company qualifies for our employee discount program. Visit a store or verizonwireless.com/discount.*Test Drive: America’s Choice ® plan required; customer must pay all other charges, incl. taxes, surcharges, data services & downloads; early termination fee applies unless phone is returned.Our Surcharges (incl. Fed. Univ. Svc. of 11.7% of interstate & int’l telecom charges (varies quarterly, 4¢ Regulatory & 70¢ Administrative/line/mo., & others by area) are not taxed (details:1-888-684-1888); gov’t taxes and our surcharges could add 5% - 26% to your bill. Activation fee/line: $35.IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Subject to Customer Agreement, Calling Plan, rebate form & credit approval. Up to $175 termination fee per line and other charges. Offers and coverage, which varies by service, not availableeverywhere. See vzw.com/bestnetwork for details. Additional charges apply to V CAST and navigation services. Rebates take up to 6 weeks. Limited time offers. Bonus minutes area a one-time allowance & expire 1 yr. from activation date.Bonus offer only available at store locations listed above. See store and brochure for details. Certain limitations apply. Bonus offer ends 5/20/07. ©2007 Verizon Wireless.
20 ARKANSASMINUTEMAN<strong>April</strong> 2007Crain Ford Invites <strong>Arkansas</strong> ToCrain Ford Jacksonville$10,000/60 months$20,000/60 months$30,000/60 months$40,000/60 months2007 Ford Focusstk#7JC3528as low as$9,999Rear WindowDefroster, ClothInterior, Floor MatsDo The Math!0% APR.Financing Means: WAC2007 Mustangstk#7FCO256as low as$16,999= $167 per month!= $334 per month!= $500 per month!= $667 per month!Driver & PassengerAir Bags,4.0 L V6 Engine,5 speed manualMSRP $14,995, less $2,500 rebate, Less $500 College Grad Rebate (must be withinlast 2 years or next 6 months), less Crain Cash Discount $2,125, plus $129 Serviceand Handling Fee. Total Cash Sale Price $9,999. Plus TT&L.2007 F150 Reg. Cabstk#7FT0126as low as$12,999XL, AM/FM Stereo/Clock, 4.2L V6 EngineMSRP $19,995, less $1,000 rebate, less $500 College Grad Rebate (must bewithin last 2 years or next 6 months), less $1,625 Crain Cash Discount, plus $129Service and Handling Fee. Total Cash Sale Price $16,999. Plus TT&L.2007 F150 Super Crewstk#7JT3742as low as$23,9994.6 L V8 Engine,Auto., AC, PW, PDL,XLTMSRP $18,875, less $3,000 rebate, less $500 College Grad Rebate (must be within last 2years or next 6 months), less $2,505 Crain Cash Discount, plus $129 Service and HandlingFee. Total Cash Sale Price $12,999. Plus TT&L.06 HYUNDAI ACCENTBJ102606 FORD FOCUS ZX4 SEBJ103605 HYUNDAI SONATABJ107405 CHEVY MALIBU MAXX7JT3706A EXTRA CLEAN MUST SEE03 CHEVY MALIBU LSBJ375004 FORD RANGER XLTBJ108306 CHRYSLER SEBRINGBJ375706 FORD TAURUS SELBJ1054AUTO,POWER,A/CPOWER,AUTOPWR ROOF,AUTOROOF LEATHERAUTO,POWERCLEAN CARPWR ROOF, LEATHER$9,885$10,988$10,998$10,998$11,898$11,998$11,998$12,88505 TOYOTA COROLLA CE7JC3546G AUTO,PWR05 BUICK LESABREBJ375906 FORD FUSIONBJ372906 TOYOTA COROLLA LE7JC3525A LOTS OF OPTIONS06 TOYOTA MATRIXBJ106405 FORD FREESTAR SELBJ107506 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS LSBJ104006 FORD FUSION SELBJ3749CUSTOMAUTO,POWERAUTO EXTRA CLEANDUAL A/C, LEATHER,QUADSLEATHER & LOADEDNICE CAR1-800-239-9952Hwy. 67/167 Main Street ExitJacksonville, AR 72076Hwy. 67/167 Take Main Street Exitcrainteam.comMSRP $30,075, less $3,000 rebate, less $500 College Grad Rebate (must be within last 2 years or next 6months), less $3,775 Crain Cash Discount, plus $199 Doc Fee. Total Cash Sale Price $22,999. Plus TT&L.CRAIN FORD PRE-OWNED BLOWOUT!$12,898$13,885$14,898$14,998$14,999$15,898$15,998$15,999Bob WollerAs Low As$ 9,88505 HONDA ACCORD $16,988BJ3748 POWER,AUTO06 MERCURY MONTEGO $16,999BJ1016 LOW MILES, ALL POWER06 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE $17,885BJ1009 ALL THE OPTIONS05 VW BEETLE CONVERTIBLE $18,998BJ1063 LEATHER & LOADED06 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GT $19,988BJ1000 9K MILES,LOADED06 LINCOLN TOWN CAR $28,889BJ3756 SIG LIMITED05 FORD EXPEDITION EDDIE BAUER $26,889BJ3760 ALL THE OPTIONS06 FORD F250 SUPER CAB $28,998BJ1070XLT,DIESEL,AUTOGOOD CREDIT,BAD CREDIT,NO PROBLEM! JacksonvilleNCALL STEVE TULLOS TODAY! 167(877) 825-4672Little Rock3067Main Street40State, county, local, and other applicable taxes, license fees and title fees (“TT&L”) not included unless otherwise stated. Documentary fee (“Doc Fee”) of $199 included in fi nal cash price and payments. MSRP is Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price. Dealer Retail Price (Dealer Equipped Price) is MSRP plus the Retail Price of equipment, accessories or options addedby upfi tters, vendors or Dealer. Discounts fi gured from MSRP. All fi nal cash prices (sale price offers) are after all manufacturer rebates and incentives. Dealer retains all rebates. Rebates subject to change by manufacturer. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Offers not valid on previously negotiated deals. Deals negotiated which are different than advertised price arebinding on customer. Examples of deals that may be negotiated differently include customer’s negative equity in trade added to sales price, customers who do not meet rebate qualifi cations as defi ned by manufacturer and customers who elect to receive terms different than offered in this ad. Photos, pictures and drawings are for illustration purposes only and maynot refl ect the actual sale vehicles model, trim level or equipment. All offers are for valid only for the date of publication or broadcast, unless otherwise stated. All fi nance offers with approved credit (“WAC). Ad created 04/09/07.