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<strong>Guard</strong><strong>Arkansas</strong>Vol. 26, No. 6, Summer 2004Operation Iraqi Freedom II39th Brigade Combat Team TimelinePages 16-17
A Message from The Adjutant GeneralIwant to speak for a momentto the families of our soldierswho have deployed, <strong>and</strong>especially to those whose loved onesare in the combat areas.We knew when the call to dutycame that it could lead to the loss ofsome of our <strong>Guard</strong> members. Wehoped that wouldn’t happen, butthose who dedicate their lives topreserving freedom by being professionalSoldiers <strong>and</strong> Airmen know thatsometimes the ultimate sacrifice mustbe made for our mission to succeed.I cannot think of anything moredevastating than to have a familymember in uniform deployed overseasin battle <strong>and</strong> not knowing if they areall right or not.For the families who have alreadylost a loved one, we offer our deepestsympathy <strong>and</strong> the gratitude of agrateful nation. Their loved ones willbe remembered as heroes, as family,<strong>and</strong> as friends.The remainder of our time inOperation Iraqi Freedom, EnduringFreedom <strong>and</strong> Noble Eagle will be atime of extreme vigilence <strong>and</strong> an evenstronger dedication to ensuring our<strong>Guard</strong> members are being cared for,<strong>and</strong> everything possible is being doneto protect their safety until they areback home safe in the arms of theirloved ones.We have remained in contact withour units <strong>and</strong> their comm<strong>and</strong>ers toensure our people have eveythingthey need to complete the missionwe’ve been tasked to perform, <strong>and</strong> todo it with honor <strong>and</strong> concern for ourpeople.It may be difficult for some of youto underst<strong>and</strong> why we are at war. Wedo not question that. The UnitedStates is a strong country. We havefaith in our leadership <strong>and</strong> we are, inmost cases, the only bridge betweenIn MemoriamMaj. Gen. Charles W. Harrissurvival <strong>and</strong> subjugation by thosewho would use <strong>and</strong> abuse their ownpeople.We believe in what we are doing.I hope you believe in it, too.Your strong support of yourloved ones, the difficulties you endureat home, often in silence because youdo not want to add to your spouse’sworries, are commendable actions onyour part.I know how difficult things can befor those who are left behind. To thisextent, we have tried to help our <strong>Guard</strong>families through Family Supportprograms <strong>and</strong> the <strong>Arkansas</strong> ReserveComponents Emergency Relief Fund.I take this moment to encourageyou to hold on until our mission iscomplete. But you don’t have to holdon alone. If we can help you in anyway, please contact us <strong>and</strong> let usknow what problems you are having<strong>and</strong> how we can help.I pledge our support to you.Whatever is within our power to do,we will do for you.Don C. MorrowMajor GeneralThe Adjutant GeneralMaj. Gen. Charles W. Harris,former <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>comm<strong>and</strong>er, <strong>and</strong> the last major generalauthorized for the AR ANG, diedMarch 4, 2004.General Harris was born <strong>and</strong>raised in the Fort Smith area <strong>and</strong> wasa graduate of the University of <strong>Arkansas</strong>with a degree in electrical engineering.He served in the Navy <strong>and</strong>the Air Force. His military flying careercovered 35 years. He comm<strong>and</strong>edthe 188th Fighter Wing from 1977 to1984, then took comm<strong>and</strong> of the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> from 1985until his retirement in 1989.He is survived by his widow,Karlene, of Corpus Christi, Texas; adaughter, Judy Parks of Atlanta, Ga.; astepdaughter, Debra Wade of Brick,N.J.; three sons, Wayne Harris ofFreeport, Fla., <strong>and</strong> John D. Harris <strong>and</strong>Joe Harris, both of Van buren; abrother, Jim Harris of Richmond, Va.;nine gr<strong>and</strong>children <strong>and</strong> two greatgr<strong>and</strong>children.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 20042 <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 20042
<strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>Guard</strong>About the Cover:The 39th Brigade Combat Team maintains a steadyvigil as it faces the the enemy in the struggle to returna country to a government where basic humanrights are foremost in the minds of its leaders. Photoscourtesy of 39th BCT, composite illustration createdby Br<strong>and</strong>ie Mikesell.C o n t e n t sF e a t u r e sA Different View of Iraq............................14Aviation unit keeps its eyes open.39th Brigade Combat Team....................16Timeline from the war zone.Flying Razorbacks...........................18<strong>Arkansas</strong>’ F-16s help test new F/A-22 warbird.Guatemalan delegates visit....................20<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> in state partnership program.GITMO!............................................22Public Affairs tells the story.216th Military Police Co............................24<strong>Guard</strong>ing prisoners in Cuba.223rd Combat Comm Squadron................26Trains on new equipment.New Uniforms.....................................31Army unveils combat duds; Air Force has new PT uniform.D e p a r t m e n t sSalute.........................................................7ESGR..........................................................30200 Years in <strong>Arkansas</strong>...............Back CoverOperation Iraqi Freedom II39th Brigade Combat Team TimelinePublication StaffMaj. Gen. Don C. MorrowThe Adjutant GeneralCapt. Kristine M. MunnState Public Affairs OfficerBuddy GarrettEditorState Information OfficerBr<strong>and</strong>ie MikesellPublic Affairs SpecialistSpc. Chris DurneyPublic Affairs SpecialistMaj. Keith Moore<strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Public Affairs OfficerCapt. Anissa Fondren188th Fighter Wing (ACC)Public Affairs OfficerMaj. Brenda Barker189th Airlift Wing (ACC)Public Affairs Officer1st Lt. Chris Heathscott39th Infantry Brigade (Sep)Public Affairs Officer1st Lt. Brent SarverDet 1, 70th Mobile PADComm<strong>and</strong>erLt. Col. Saundra K. LaneNGMTU Public Affairs Office<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> is an unofficial publication publishedquarterly under the provisions of AR 360-1, AFR 35-101,<strong>and</strong> the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Military Department. It is distributed freeto all members of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>and</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.The magazine is edited <strong>and</strong> published by the Public AffairsOffice, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. It is designed to provide<strong>Guard</strong> members <strong>and</strong> their families with timely <strong>and</strong> factualinformation on policies, plans, operations <strong>and</strong> technical developmentsof the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. Views expressedherein are not necessarily those of any state or federal governmentagency. Stories <strong>and</strong> photos are solicited. Publicationis based on available space <strong>and</strong> reader interest. ThePublic Affairs Office reserves the right to edit all submissions.Unit Public Affairs Representatives may email stories<strong>and</strong> photos to:Buddy.Garrett@ar.ngb.army.mil or send ondisk to: Editor, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, Camp Robinson, NorthLittle Rock, AR 72199-9600. Telephone 212-5022 or DSN962-5022. Deadline: First Monday of March, June, September<strong>and</strong> December. Method of reproduction: Offset. Circulation:14,500.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 3
39th Infantry Soldierfirst AR ARNG wartimecasualty since KoreaSgt. 1st Class William Labadie 45,died April 7, 2004, as the result of hostileenemy action in support of OperationIraqi Freedom with the 39th InfantryBrigade in Baghdad, Iraq.Labadie, of Bauxite, was a 22-yearmilitary veteran. He served in the U.S.Marine Corps from July 5, 1977 – May24, 1985. He then served in the OklahomaArmy <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> from Nov.19, 1988 – Nov. 8, 2001. He joined the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, Jan. 3,2003.He was assigned to Troop E, 151stCavalry, 39th Infantry Brigade. The39th Infantry is attached to the U.S.Army’s 1st Cavalry Division.Reconds indicate that Labadie isthe first <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>member to be killed in combat since theKorean War. Capt. Douglas E. Morrow,of Rogers, comm<strong>and</strong>ing officer ofBattery C, 936th Field Artillery Battalion,was killed in Korea on Oct. 8, 1951.Labadie is survived by his widow,Sunnie, <strong>and</strong> son, Bryan, of Del City,Okla.; <strong>and</strong> his parents, Carl <strong>and</strong> CherylWinters of Bauxite.“We are deeply saddened by theloss of Sgt. 1st Class Labadie,” saidMaj. Gen. Don C. Morrow, adjutant generalof <strong>Arkansas</strong>. “Our hearts, thoughts,prayers <strong>and</strong> support go out to his family,friends <strong>and</strong> fellow Soldiers duringthis time of grief <strong>and</strong> pain.”“The 39th Brigade Combat Teamsincerely mourns the loss of our fallencomrade, Sgt. 1st Class William Labadie,to hostile fire,” said Lt. Col. Mark A.Lumpkin, rear detachment comm<strong>and</strong>erfor the 39th Brigade Combat Team. “Despitethis tragic loss, the 39th BCT remainsresolved <strong>and</strong> resolute in our mission<strong>and</strong> our obligations to the Americanpeople, our Soldiers, our allies <strong>and</strong>our friends. Our loss reminds us this isserious business, <strong>and</strong> we will strive todo our best to defend our nation, carryforward our orders <strong>and</strong> accomplish thetask at h<strong>and</strong>.”ConnecticutSoldierloses life;attached toTroop E,151st CavSgt. Felix M. Delgreco,22, of Simsbury, Conn., diedApril 9, in Baghdad, Iraq,when an improvised explosivedevice <strong>and</strong> small armsfire struck his mounted patrol.Delgreco’s vehicle wasambushed near the gate toCamp Cooke.Delgreco, a member ofthe Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry,at New Haven, Conn., was attachedto Troop E, 151st Cavalry,39th Brigade CombatTeam at the time of his death.“Sgt. Felix Delgreco was anexample of the professionalismof our Soldiers,” said Col. MikeRoss, 39th BCT deputy comm<strong>and</strong>ingofficer.Seven more <strong>Arkansas</strong> Soldiers die in IraqSeven more <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> Soldiers supporting OperationIraqi Freedom have lost theirlives.Four members of the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s 39th SupportBattalion, 39th Brigade Combat Team,1st Cavalry Division, Hazen, Ark., werekilled, April 24, in Taji, Iraq. Capt.Arthur L. Felder, 36, of Louisville, Ark.,Chief Warrant 4 Patrick W. Kordsmeier,49, of North Little Rock, Ark., StaffSgt. Billy J. Orton, 41, of Humnoke, Ark.,<strong>and</strong> Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Br<strong>and</strong>on, 35,of Hazen, Ark., died as a result of hostilefire when mortar rounds hit theircamp.Spec. Kenneth A. Melton, Detachment1, Company B, 3rd Battalion, 153rdInfantry, Camden, Ark., died, April 25,near Sardr City, Iraq, when his militaryvehicle was hit by an improvised explosivedevice <strong>and</strong> small arms fire.Staff Sgt. Hesley Box, Jr., 24, ofNashville, Ark., died May 6 in Baghdad,Iraq, when a car bomb detonated nearhis guard post. Box was assigned to1st Battalion, 153rd Infantry, 39th BrigadeCombat Team, 1st Cavalry Division,<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>,Texarkana, Ark.Sgt. 1st Class Troy L. Mir<strong>and</strong>a, 44,of DeQueen, Ark, died May 20, onHipha Street in Baghdad, Iraq, when agrenade was thrown near his foot patrol.Mir<strong>and</strong>a was assigned to C Company,1 st Battalion, 153 rd Infantry Regiment,39 th Brigade Combat Team, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, assigned tothe 1 st Cavalry Division.“We are extremely saddened at theloss of our Soldiers, <strong>and</strong> our deepestsympathies go out to their families,” saidMaj. Gen. Don C. Morrow, adjutant generalof <strong>Arkansas</strong>. “They were doingtheir duty. Our country called uponthem for their service <strong>and</strong> they answeredthat call. They are an outst<strong>and</strong>ingexample of what makes this countrygreat. They were true patriots.”“It’s never easy to lose a fellowSoldier,” said Col. Mike Ross, deputycomm<strong>and</strong>ing officer for the 39th BrigadeCombat Team. “Our Soldiers are doinga tremendous job <strong>and</strong> the folksback home need to know that.”The 39th Brigade Combat Team isattached to the Army’s 1st Cavalry Division<strong>and</strong> is based at Camp Cooke inIraq. The team is comprised of 4,200Soldiers from 10 states. Nearly 2,800Soldiers are from the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s 39th Infantry Brigade.4<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
Unit mourns fallen Soldiers39th BCT prepares againstfuture attacks by rebelsBy 1st Lt. Christopher Heathscott39th BCT Public Affairs OfficerTAJI, Iraq — “This is a time <strong>and</strong>event that I prayed I would never havethe responsibility for as a comm<strong>and</strong>er.But due to a violent strike by a cowardlyenemy…that time has come.”For Lt. Col. Allen Hargis, comm<strong>and</strong>erof the 39th Brigade CombatTeam’s Support Battalion, these werevery difficult words to say. For the hundredsof Soldiers in his presence, theywere just as difficult to hear.Three days earlier, just after fiveo’clock on Saturday, the morning of theApril 24, rockets rained down on CampCooke, Iraq, killing four Soldiers underHargis’ comm<strong>and</strong>.Five 57 mm rockets had l<strong>and</strong>ed onthe base before Hargis <strong>and</strong> other leadersin the battalion began to exit thebunkers to get accountability of theirSoldiers <strong>and</strong> make sure everyone wasall right. After walking five or six stepsoutside of his bunker, two 80 mm rocketsdropped from the sky, one l<strong>and</strong>ingjust a few meters from him, killing fourof his Soldiers.Capt. Arthur ‘Bo’ Felder, of Louisville,Ark., Staff Sgt. Billy Orton, ofHumnoke, Ark., <strong>and</strong> Staff Sgt. StaceyBr<strong>and</strong>on, of Hazen, Ark., died on thescene of Saturday’s attack. Chief WarrantOfficer 3 Patrick Kordsmeier, ofNorth Little Rock, later died of woundswhile on a MEDEVAC (Medical Evacuation)Flight to a nearby medical facility.“It’s a tremendous loss that we’vesustained at the h<strong>and</strong> of an enemy thatwe don’t always underst<strong>and</strong>,” Hargissaid. “Our hearts <strong>and</strong> our support goout to the families.”The Support Battalion, headquarteredin Hazen, Ark., had six Soldiersseriously wounded from the attack aswell. Luckily, the battalion supports thebrigade with a medical unit, C Company,better known as ‘Charlie Med.’ CCompany’s aid station was only 50meters away from the point of impact.And with the Brigade’s large numbersof trained Combat Lifesavers, help wason the scene fast.“They were there immediately,”Hargis said. “We have 160 combat lifesaversin the battalion. They respondedprior to C Med getting there. We wereable to get them down to level 1 treatmentwithin a matter of minutes.”“Any time there’s casualties, my CCompany does the casualty assistance.We actually took the casualties in theattack <strong>and</strong> more than likely, as a resultof their actions saved some of the livesof the six soldiers that were injured,”he continued.“There were a lot of heroes todayduring this tragic attack <strong>and</strong> I was veryimpressed with how everyone from thelowest ranking Soldiers remained calm<strong>and</strong> focused on taking care of ourwounded,” said Col. Mike Ross, deputycomm<strong>and</strong>ing officer of the 39th BCT.“Our combat lifesavers, medical personnel<strong>and</strong> chaplains on the scene providedexcellent care to our wounded Soldiers.Seeing them in action helps strengthenour Soldier’s confidence <strong>and</strong> allowsthem to stay focused on their missionof eliminating the threat elements thatwere responsible for these attacks. Allof these Soldiers make me extremelyproud to be a member of this brigade.”Hargis said some of his Soldiershave commented on feeling bad aboutnot being able to fire back on a mortarattack, but he assured them, “the brigadeis firing back for us.”“Our mission is to support the brigade<strong>and</strong> the brigade is supporting usby returning fire on the mortars,” hesaid. “As a matter of fact the individualsthat shot the mortars that took thelives of my Soldiers…two of them werekilled <strong>and</strong> five were captured as a resultof that incident.”The Brigade also confiscated theevidence, homemade launch tubessparked with a motorcycle battery.Along with the 1st Battalion,206th Field Artillery focusing effortson continual improvements in basesecurity, Hargis said his Soldiers arecurrently working on building uppeace of mind through security improvementsin their living areas.“We’re continuing to improve theforce protection around our sleep areas<strong>and</strong> were also going to continueto improve the force protectionaround our work areas to ensure thesafety of our Soldiers,” said Hargis.“There is a lot of good thought goingin to making sure our Soldiers are protected.”While Saturday dealt the SupportBattalion its first losses, it was notthe first contact.On April 19th, while under escortby the Military Police (MP) from theBrigade’s Headquarters <strong>and</strong> HeadquartersCompany from Little Rock,the Support Battalion was hit by anIED while transporting two Iraqis detainedfor possession of illegal weapons.“The trucks that got hit were mine,”said Hargis. “We had no injuries at all.An MP was injured slightly <strong>and</strong> returnedto duty, but my Soldiers made itthrough without a scratch.”The detainees, however, were notso lucky. While one was severely injured,the second detainee died in theblast.The majority of the SupportBattalion’s movements have come withoutcontact, but the Soldiers haveproven their abilities by reacting quicklyto any contact they do receive.“The training that we received inthe six months prior to coming here, I’mconvinced, has saved a lot of our soldierslives,” Hargis said. “They haveperformed in a manner that is far abovemy expectations.”<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 5
189th AW earns ‘Excellent’ in ORIAfter seven days under the AirEducation <strong>and</strong> Training Comm<strong>and</strong>Inspector General magnifyingglass, the 189th Airlift Wingemerged from under the watchfuleyes of inspectors with an overall‘Excellent’ rating, the second highestrating in the five-tiered ratingsystem.“They came in here <strong>and</strong> gaveus a very in-depth look,” said Col.Dwight Balch, 189th Airlift Wingcomm<strong>and</strong>er. “It took a team effortto pull out an ‘Excellent’ rating, <strong>and</strong>our <strong>Guard</strong> members were up to thetask.” The grading scale is Unsatisfactory,Marginal, Satisfactory,Excellent <strong>and</strong> Outst<strong>and</strong>ing.The IG team looked at each unitin the wing, contingency operations<strong>and</strong> special interest items, assigninga grade on the scale to each.“Big picture, I saw a lot of verydedicated <strong>Guard</strong>smen who are verycommitted to getting the missiondone,” said Col. Jeff Ray, the IGteam chief.For the wing, it’s back to businesstraining aircrew members.“As with any inspection, the IGteam identified things we need tofix, <strong>and</strong> we’ll get right on it,” saidBalch. “I’m so proud of our folks.They do great work day in <strong>and</strong> dayout, <strong>and</strong> this inspection validatestheir efforts.”The report lists 170 strengths<strong>and</strong> four “best practices” that couldbe used around the Air Force.Ronald Wilson Reagan, 40th Presidentof the United States, died June 5,2004.At the end of his two terms in office,Reagan viewed with satisfaction theachievements of his innovative programknown as the Reagan Revolution, whichaimed to reinvigorate the Americanpeople <strong>and</strong> reduce their reliance upongovernment. He felt he had fulfilled hiscampaign pledge of 1980 to restore “thegreat, confident roar of Americanprogress <strong>and</strong> growth <strong>and</strong> optimism.”Reagan was born Feb. 6, 1911, toNelle <strong>and</strong> John Reagan in Tampico, Illinois.He attended high school in nearbyDixon <strong>and</strong> then worked his way throughEureka College. There, he studied economics<strong>and</strong> sociology, played on thefootball team, <strong>and</strong> acted in school plays.Upon graduation, he became a radiosports announcer. A screen test in 1937won him a contract in Hollywood. Duringthe next two decades he appearedin 53 films.From his first marriage to actressJane Wyman, he had two children,Maureen <strong>and</strong> Michael. Maureen passedaway in 2001. In 1952 he married NancyDavis, who was also an actress, <strong>and</strong> theyhad two children, Patricia Ann <strong>and</strong>Ronald Prescott.Reagan won the Republican Presidentialnomination in 1980 <strong>and</strong> choseas his running mate former Texas Congressman<strong>and</strong> United Nations AmbassadorGeorge Bush. Voters troubled byinflation <strong>and</strong> by the year-long confinementof Americans in Iran swept theRepublican ticket into office. Reaganwon 489 electoral votes to 49 for PresidentJimmy Carter.On Jan. 20, 1981, Reagan took office.Only 69 days later he was shot bya would-be assassin, but quickly recovered<strong>and</strong> returned to duty. His grace <strong>and</strong>wit during the dangerous incidentcaused his popularity to soar.In foreign policy, Reagan soughtto achieve “peace through strength.”During his two terms he increased defensespending 35 percent, but soughtto improve relations with the SovietUnion. In dramatic meetings with Sovietleader Mikhail Gorbachev, he negotiateda treaty that would eliminateintermediate-range nuclear missiles.Reagan declared war against internationalterrorism, sending Americanbombers against Libya after evidencecame out that Libya was involved in anattack on American soldiers in a WestBerlin nightclub.Continued on Page 13Three fromOregon dieon dutywith 39thThree Oregon <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Soldiers, assigned to <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s 39th BrigadeCombat Team, 1st Cavalry Division,died in Iraq on June 4 when theycame under attack while on patrol inBaghdad.Insurgents detonated improvisedexplosive devices in the Soldiers’patrol area <strong>and</strong> launchedrocket propelled grenades as U.S.forces established a security perimeter.Two Soldiers died during theattack. A third Soldier died later frominjuries sustained in the attack.The Soldiers killed in action are1st Lt. Erik S. McCrae, 25, of Portl<strong>and</strong>,Ore; Sgt. Justin Eyerly, 23, ofSalem, Ore.; <strong>and</strong> Spec. Justin Linden,23, of Portl<strong>and</strong>, Ore.The soldiers were assigned toD Company, 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry.Originally, assigned dutystation was E Company, 82nd Cavalrybased out of Woodburn, Ore.“This is a very, very sad dayfor the Oregon <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> family,”said Brig. Gen. Raymond C.Byrne Jr., acting adjutant general ofthe Oregon <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. “Thesesoldiers were doing their duty, attemptingto bring security to theIraqi people.”6<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
142nd Field Artillery mobilizesMore than 120 Soldiers from the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>’s 1stBattalion, 142nd Field Artillery Brigademobilized under federal activeduty orders, March 13, in supportof Operation Noble Eagle IV.The Soldiers, from Harrison,performed home-station trainingbefore moving to their mobilizationstation at Fort Riley, Kan., whereBy Cpl. Benjamin Cossel122 nd Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentChaplains of the 39th BrigadeCombat Team of the 1st Cavalry Divisionvisited orphanages in the Rusafa<strong>and</strong> Aadhymia districts of Baghdad,April 21. With the 39th BCT’s recentarrival in theater, this was the first ofmany visits their chaplains will make tothe orphanages over the course of OperationIraq Freedom II.“We went out to those locationstoday to meet the people running them,to put faces to names <strong>and</strong> to get an ideaof how we can help them <strong>and</strong> it’s justas important that (orphanage adminis-they received additional training inpreparation for their mission.Operation Noble Eagle is thename given to the stateside missionof homel<strong>and</strong> defense.Members of the 142nd are performingsecurity duties at the PineBluff Arsenal <strong>and</strong> will remain onactive duty for a period of up to oneyear.Chaplains visit Iraqi orphanagestrators) know who the ‘new guys’ are,”said 39th BCT Chaplain, Lt. Col. CoyseMcLemore.Walking through the Al-Najjat orphanage,McLemore <strong>and</strong> 1st Lt. ChanCho, the battalion chaplain for 3rd Battalion,153rd Infantry, identified areasthat would benefit the most from theirassistance.“(Chaplains) can’t directly supportthese facilities with money <strong>and</strong> such,”Cho said. “So what we do is act as aliaison between the orphanages <strong>and</strong>groups such as Civil Affairs, [non-governmentalorganizations] <strong>and</strong> others toget them the money <strong>and</strong> resources theyneed.”Maj. Gen. Don C. Morrow,adjutant general of <strong>Arkansas</strong>,thanks the 84th GeneralAssembly for its Senateresolution expressingsincere appreciation to thesoldiers <strong>and</strong> airmen of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.Senate Resolution #1 waspresented by SenatorJack Critcher (right).Photo by Lt. Col. Saundra K. Lane, MTU PASBC <strong>Arkansas</strong> photographer NelsonChenault takes a photo of a <strong>Guard</strong> family atRicks Readiness Center in Little Rock asSBC spokesman Ted Wagnon <strong>and</strong> AR ARNGFamily Readiness coordinator Penny Bakerobserve. The <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong>SBC <strong>Arkansas</strong> helped military families fromacross the state send an e-mail with a digitalphoto to their family members who hadbeen activated for federal duty.Staff Photo by Buddy Garrett<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>salutes ...Little Rock, Ark.Population: 182,274<strong>Arkansas</strong>’ capital city has the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Arts Center, the CentralHigh School <strong>National</strong> Historic Site, the River Market entertainmentdistrict, a world renown zoo <strong>and</strong> historic Ray Winder Field,an old-fashioned ballpark.HQ 39th Infantry Brigade (Separate)Comprising nearly one-third of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>'stotal strength, the 39th Infantry Brigade (Separate) was mobilized,effective Oct. 12, 2003 to serve on active duty in Iraq. EmployerSupport information is available by calling (501) 212-4025.... Little Rock, Ark.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 7
First unit ofAR ARNGSoldiersreturnsfrom IraqMore than 100 Soldiersfrom the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s 296th MedicalCompany, based in Charleston<strong>and</strong> North Little Rock, returnedhome after a one-yeartour of duty in support ofOperation Iraqi Freedom.Members of the 296thMedical Company arrived inAlex<strong>and</strong>ria, La., Feb. 9, <strong>and</strong>remained at Fort Polk, La., forapproximately one week tocomplete the Army’s demobilizationprocess.“Words almost can’t expressthe tremendous senseof pride <strong>and</strong> gratification weall share as we welcomed ourSoldiers back to Americansoil,” said Maj. Gen. Don C.Morrow, the adjutant generalof <strong>Arkansas</strong>. “We are trulygrateful for their service <strong>and</strong>were delighted to be able towelcome all of them backhome.”The 296th Medical Company,a ground ambulanceunit comprised of medics <strong>and</strong>ambulance drivers, was mobilizedFeb. 10, 2003. Theirmission was to evacuate <strong>and</strong>transport casualties fromforward battle areas to medicaltreatment facilities.The 296th was the first<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> unit mobilized in supportof Operation Iraqi Freedom.212th Signal Battalionreturns to <strong>Arkansas</strong>The 212th Signal Battalion, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, returned toNorth Little Rock, Jan. 31. Nearly 200soldiers from the 212th were mobilizedin June 2003 in support of OperationNoble Eagle.The battalion, headquartered inNorth Little Rock along with its CompanyD, has units in three other <strong>Arkansas</strong>cities: Company A in Hot Springs;Company B in Benton; <strong>and</strong> Company Cin Pine Bluff.“The 212th has performed its missionwell,” said Maj. Gen. Don C. Morrow,adjutant general of <strong>Arkansas</strong>.“We’re proud of their service to ourcountry <strong>and</strong> delighted to have themback at home.”Operation Noble Eagle is the namegiven to homel<strong>and</strong> defense missions.The 212th was assigned to Fort SamHouston, Texas with primary duty assecurity guards at the post’s main gate.Newsbriefs189th Airlift Wingnames C-130sfor <strong>Arkansas</strong> citiesThe cities of Morrilton, Searcy<strong>and</strong> Cabot are flying high over <strong>Arkansas</strong>thanks to an <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> program designed tohighlight cities around the state.Morrilton, Searcy <strong>and</strong> Cabot arethe first three cities to have their citynames <strong>and</strong> school logos emblazonedover crew entrance doors oftwo of the 189th Airlift Wing’s C-130 cargo aircraft.More <strong>Arkansas</strong> cities will jointheir ranks as planes roll out of routineinspections. Eventually, eachplane in the wing’s fleet will showcasean <strong>Arkansas</strong> city.Each city will be represented forone year, then be swapped out witha new city.1123rd Transportation Company returnsfrom duty in Operation Iraqi FreedomAbout 25 families were on h<strong>and</strong>, April 20, at Fort Polk, La., to welcomeback 106 <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Soldiers returning stateside fromsupporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.The Soldiers, members of the 1123rd Transportation Company basedat Marked Tree with its Detachment 1, 1123rd Trans. Co., out of Blytheville,arrived at Alex<strong>and</strong>ria, La., <strong>and</strong> were bused to Fort Polk to complete a shortin-processing before being released on military passes to spend time withtheir families.”We are extremely happy to have more of our soldiers come home,”said Maj. Gen. Don C. Morrow, adjutant general of <strong>Arkansas</strong>. “They performedtheir mission in an outst<strong>and</strong>ing manner, as we knew they would.Now they will be able to return to their families <strong>and</strong> to the communitieswhere they live.”About 10 Soldiers remained behind to secure unit equipment <strong>and</strong> seethat it arrived home safely. Those Soldiers have now returned home.A welcome home parade was held May 8, in Blytheville <strong>and</strong> a welcomehome celebration was held at the Marked Tree High School football stadium.The 1123rd received its mobilization order, Feb. 10, 2003, <strong>and</strong> deployedfrom Fort Polk for its overseas mission on April 16, 2003.8<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
Former enlisted man top officerin <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>A former enlisted Airman becamethe <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s top officer in a ceremony,May 1, at Little Rock AFB.Brig. Gen. Shelby G. Bryant ofCarlisle took comm<strong>and</strong> of more than2,000 <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>members around the state from Brig.Gen. Andrew J. Thompson IV, whoretired from service.Bryant, who began his militarycareer in the <strong>Arkansas</strong> ANG in 1968as an airman basic, is responsiblefor the tactical employment, administration<strong>and</strong> training of the state’sAir <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> units. ThoseAirmen are assigned to the 189thAirlift Wing, 123rd IntelligenceSquadron <strong>and</strong> 154th Weather Flighton Little Rock AFB; the 188thFighter Wing in Fort Smith; the223rd Combat CommunicationsSquadron at Hot Springs; <strong>and</strong> the<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> MarksmanshipTraining Unit at Camp Joseph T.Robinson in North Little Rock.Brig. Gen. Shelby G. BryantBryant was born in Beebe, <strong>and</strong>attended Cabot public schools beforehe graduated with honors fromthe University of <strong>Arkansas</strong> in May1968.The general is a comm<strong>and</strong> pilotwith more than 4,900 hours infighter, tanker <strong>and</strong> airlift aircraft.Magazine Survey<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> recently conducteda readership survey. Half ofthose responding were retirees, 30percent were <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>, 20 percent <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. Sixty percent weremale. Thirty percent were senior officers,20 percent E-5 to E-7, <strong>and</strong> 10percent were E-8 to E-9. Fifty percentwere section supervisors or top managers;others did not list their positions.Forty percent were above age56; 20 percent were in the 46-55 agerange; 10 percent in the 26-35 agerange; the remainder did not list theirages. Forty percent said they readevery issue. The most read sectionsof the magazine included news, features,<strong>and</strong> topical/controversial subjects.The least read category wassports. In terms of importance, readersvoted for news <strong>and</strong> editorials, followedby features, family <strong>and</strong> topical/controversial issues. Only one readerwanted more sports. The magazinewas rated very honest by 98 percentof our readers. Category ratings:over-all acceptance was outst<strong>and</strong>ing(98.6 percent). Photos weregood (85.6 percent), writing wasgood (80 percent) <strong>and</strong> the design wasexcellent (80 percent).Bryant picks Porter as AR ANG’s new chief of staffEast <strong>Arkansas</strong> Delta native <strong>and</strong>West Helena businessman Col. RileyP. Porter has been selected for pro-Brig. Gen. Riley P. Portermotion to the rank of brigadier general<strong>and</strong> named chief of staff of the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.The announcement came fromBrig. Gen. Shelby G.. Bryant, newly appointedAR ANG comm<strong>and</strong>er, whosaid: “I am extremely proud to makethis announcement. General Porteris ideally suited for the important positionof Air <strong>Guard</strong> chief of staff. As aformer wing comm<strong>and</strong>er, he has theknowledge, leadership, <strong>and</strong> experienceto serve not only as chief of staffbut also as the Joint Force comm<strong>and</strong>er,overseeing eight joint forcedirectorates for the combined <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>and</strong> Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>structure.”Porter, a comm<strong>and</strong> pilot with morethan 5,700 flying hours in training,tanker, <strong>and</strong> airlift aircraft, is a 1974graduate of the University of Arkan-sas with a Bachelor of Science degreein business administration <strong>and</strong> marketing<strong>and</strong> was commissioned as asecond lieutenant through the AirForce ROTC program at the university.A former mayor of West Helena,he is serving as president of the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Furniture Association, ispresident of the Phillips CountyChamber of Commerce CommunityDevelopment Board <strong>and</strong> is also presidentof West Helena Furniture Company,Inc.Porter’s awards <strong>and</strong> decorationsinclude the Meritorious ServiceMedal with two oak leaf clusters, theCombat Readiness Medal with twooak leaf clusters, the Armed ForcesExpeditionary Medal with two servicestars, <strong>and</strong> the Global War on TerrorismExpeditionary Medal.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 9
Army developspolicy toaddress acts ofsexual assaultPhoto Illustration by Buddy GarrettBy Sgt. 1 st Class Marcia TriggsArmy News ServiceWASHINGTON (Army NewsService, June 3, 2004) – The Armyis devising a policy that will re-emphasizethat all offenses of sexualassault must be reported to theCriminal Investigation Comm<strong>and</strong>,officials have announced.A task force spent 90 days conductinga detailed review of theArmy’s current policies <strong>and</strong> programson sexual assault. One of thefindings was that while all comm<strong>and</strong>ershad taken action againstassailants accused of sexual assault,not all were going through theproper investigation channels, saidDarlene Sullivan, a task force member.The task force was assembledfrom various Army organizations<strong>and</strong> in February began looking intohow the Army addresses matters ofsexual assault. Acting Secretary ofthe Army Les Brownlee authorizedthe task force.The task force recommendationswere approved by Brownlee,<strong>and</strong> were briefed to the HouseArmed Services Committee June 3by Reginald J. Brown, the assistantsecretary of the Army for Manpower<strong>and</strong> Reserve Affairs.There were nine shortfalls thetask force noted in its 80-page report.One major finding pointed outthat there was no st<strong>and</strong>ard way ofh<strong>and</strong>ling sexual assault cases, makingit hard to collect data <strong>and</strong> keeptrack of what services had beenrendered to victims.There were 24 recommendationsmade to improve the system.One was to develop a sexual assaultpolicy for inclusion in ArmyRegulation 600-20, Army Comm<strong>and</strong>Policy. The chief of personnel,Army G-1, is responsible for theoverall sexual assault policy.The policy will define sexualassault as alleged offenses of rape,forcible sodomy, assault with intentto commit rape or sodomy, indecentassault or an attempt tocommit any of these offenses,Sullivan said. The definition is thesame one used by the Departmentof Defense in its recent report “Carefor Victims of Sexual Assault.”The roles <strong>and</strong> responsibilitiesof comm<strong>and</strong>ers from major comm<strong>and</strong>to the unit level will be addressedin the new policy <strong>and</strong> becomea part of AR 600-20, said Lt.Col. John McPhaul of Army G-1.“Comm<strong>and</strong>ers must create aclimate where victims feel comfortablereporting acts of sexual assault,”said Sullivan. “Rape is oneof the most unreported crimes nationwide.“As a first sergeant, if youdon’t know your Soldier was attackedor raped, how can you protectthat Soldier? What if you putthat Soldier on guard duty with hisor her attacker?It’s imperative that leadersknow that prevention, training <strong>and</strong>assistance are a comm<strong>and</strong>er’s responsibility.”Company comm<strong>and</strong>ers will nolonger have the authority to signthe disciplinary paperwork for Soldierswho are accused of a sexualoffense, when the cases don’t goto court. The battalion comm<strong>and</strong>er’ssignature will be required,Sullivan said.Department of the Army Form4833, Comm<strong>and</strong>er’s Report of Disciplinaryor Administrative Action,is a permanent record that stateswhat a Soldier was accused of, <strong>and</strong>what action was taken against him.Sullivan said the task forcefound that about 20 percent of thecomm<strong>and</strong>ers had not filled out theform because of operational tempo.10<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
Another recommendation of thetask force is to alter the form, sothat instead of stating that administrativeaction was taken against aSoldier, his or her specific punishmentswill be listed on the form.Comm<strong>and</strong>ers alone cannotround out a successful program toprevent sexual assault, accordingto the task force. Comm<strong>and</strong>ersalone cannot be the judge, juror <strong>and</strong>prosecutor.In AR 600-20 one of the responsibilitiescomm<strong>and</strong>ers will have is toassign a unit victim advocate tosupport victims of sexual assault.It is important to keep the victim<strong>and</strong> the chain of comm<strong>and</strong> informedof all case actions as they occurwith the case. The unit victim advocatewill work to provide emotionalsupport to victims while assistingthem in the step-by-stepprocesses involved, McPhaul said.Other agencies whose roles willbe outlined in the chapter will includeCID, the provost marshal, thesurgeon general, staff judge advocate<strong>and</strong> assistant chief of staff forinstallation management (Community<strong>and</strong> Family Support Center),McPhaul said.“The Army agencies alreadyhave some procedures in place <strong>and</strong>know what to do, <strong>and</strong> are doing it,if an act of sexual assault occurs,”McPhaul said, “but we must developcomprehensive policy ofdealing with sexual assault fromawareness/prevention, to victimsupport <strong>and</strong> data collection.“We are developing a mechanismthat gets all the agencies inconcert with each other by establishinga policy that deals withsexual assault not only in garrisonbut in a deployed setting as well,”he said.Training requirements will alsobe addressed in the regulation,McPhaul said. Within the next 60 to90 days, new chapters will be addedto the regulation <strong>and</strong> staffed withthe field, he added.Training <strong>and</strong> Doctrine Comm<strong>and</strong>is currently devising lessonplans on the prevention of sexualassault to be included in all professionaldevelopment schools, refreshercourses at the unit level <strong>and</strong>additional training for law enforcement,medical <strong>and</strong> legal personnel,Sullivan said.When looking for ways to improvethe Army’s policies <strong>and</strong> programs,the task force sought advicefrom outside agencies to includeDepartment of Veteran Affairs; <strong>National</strong>Organization of Victim Assis -tance; Rape, Abuse, <strong>and</strong> Incest <strong>National</strong>Network; The Miles Foundation,Navy, Coast <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> theUniversity of Arizona <strong>and</strong> PurdueUniversity in Indiana.Both universities were givengrants from the Department of Justicefor their prevention programs,Sullivan said. The age category forthe Soldiers who report the assaults<strong>and</strong> their assailants are in thesame age category as the universitystudents, she added. Nearly 84 percentof alleged perpetrators wereidentified as junior Soldiers, <strong>and</strong> 95percent of the victims were in therank of staff sergeant <strong>and</strong> below,according the task force report.Sexual harassmentnot tolerated in<strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>All employees of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> are entitled to a work environmentfree from all forms of discrimination, including sexual harassment.Sexual harassment is defined as a form of sex discrimination that involvesdeliberate or repeated offensive comments, gestures, or physical contact of asexual nature. Implicit or explicit sexual behavior that creates an intimidating oroffensive work environment, or is used to control, influence, or affect thecareer, pay, grade/rank, or job of an individual will not be tolerated.Sexual harassment impedes an individual’s right to a professional workingenvironment. The workplace can also extend to off-duty hours for militarymembers <strong>and</strong> to temporary duty functions.Any member of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> who engages in sexual harassmentwhile conducting <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> business with other <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>members, employees of other federal or state agencies, persons employed inthe private sector, or other members of the public is violating the establishedst<strong>and</strong>ards of conduct <strong>and</strong> this policy.Anyone in a leadership position - especially, first-line supervisors - whofail to correct a situation involving sexual harassment of which he or she knows,or reasonably should have known, contributes to sexual harassment <strong>and</strong> isengaging in an unlawful employment practice. A complaint is not required fora supervisor to take prompt <strong>and</strong> corrective action, therefore, all sexual harassmentbehavior, when identified, should be eliminated.Source: TAG Policy Letter<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 11
VA offers overview of <strong>Guard</strong>/Reserve benefitsThe Veterans Administration, incollaboration with the Department ofDefense, has developed a brief butcomprehensive brochure to describebenefits <strong>and</strong> health services for <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve members.The five panel pamphlet providesan overview of VA health care, disabilitybenefits, education <strong>and</strong> training,vocational rehabilitation <strong>and</strong> employmentassistance, VA life insurance,home loan guaranty, <strong>and</strong> burialbenefits, <strong>and</strong> lists several key toll-freenumbers <strong>and</strong> Web sites for more information.EligibilityReservists who served on activeduty establish veteran status <strong>and</strong> maytherefore be eligible for VA benefits,depending on the length of activemilitary service <strong>and</strong> the character ofdischarge or release. In addition, reservistswho are never called to activeduty may qualify for some VAbenefits. <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> members canestablish eligibility only if the presidentactivated them for federal service.Health CareGenerally veterans must be enrolledto receive health care services.<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve membersactivated for federal duty can qualifyfor health care services provided bythe VA. These services include hospital,outpatient medical, dental, pharmacy,prosthetic services, domiciliary,nursing home, community-based residentialcare, sexual trauma counseling,s pecialized health care for womenveterans, health <strong>and</strong> rehabilitationprograms for homeless veterans, readjustmentcounseling, alcohol <strong>and</strong>drug dependency treatment. Also,medical evaluation for military serviceMaterial in this article is from VA News <strong>and</strong> VABenefits Pamphlet, May 2003. Contributorsinclude Flo Hardmon, staff assistant to thedirector, Health Eligibility Center, <strong>and</strong> DanPeterson with the Little Rock VA. Additionalinformation may be obtained on-line atwww.insurance.va.gov.exposure, including Gulf War, AgentOrange, Ionizing Radiation <strong>and</strong> otherenvironmental hazards.The VA has extended health carebenefits for combat veterans. In 1998,the VA was authorized to provide abroad range of health care servicesto U.S. veterans who served on activeduty in a theater of combat operationsduring a period of war afterthe Persian Gulf War or in combatagainst a hostile force during a periodof hostilities after Nov. 11, 1998.Such veterans are eligible for twoyears after leaving the military for VAhospital care, medical services, <strong>and</strong>nursing home care for any illness,even if there is insufficient medicalevidence to conclude that their illnesswas a result of their combat service.<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve memberswho served on active duty in atheater of combat may be eligible forVA health care under this authority.Veterans with health concernsthat may be related to actual combatare encouraged to seek a medicalevaluation at a local VA medical facility.The families of reservists mayalso be eligible for counseling in theReadjustment Counseling Center Program.Disability BenefitsThe VA administers two disabilityprograms. Both are tax-free.Compensation: The VA paysmonthly benefits for disabilities incurredor aggravated during active duty<strong>and</strong> active duty for training, <strong>and</strong> forheart attack or stroke incurred duringinactive duty for training. Such disabilitiesare considered “service-connected.”Additional benefits for themember <strong>and</strong> his or her dependents orsurvivors may apply.Pension: This income-based benefitis paid to veterans with honorable wartimeservicemembers who are permanently<strong>and</strong> totally disabled (or age 65 orolder).Selected <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reservemembers may be entitled to up to36 months of benefits under the MontgomeryGI Bill – Selected Reserve(Chapter 606).To qualify, the participant musthave a six-year obligation to serve inthe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> or Selected Reserve(officers must agree to serve six yearsin addition to the original obligation;must have completed initial active dutyfor training, meet the requirements toreceive a high school diploma orequivalency certificate before applyingfor benefits, <strong>and</strong> remain in good st<strong>and</strong>ingwhile serving in a <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>or Selected Reserve unit).Benefit entitlement ends 10 yearsfrom the date of eligibility for the program,or on the date of separation fromservice. Members whose eligibility beganon or after Oct. 1, 1992, have 14years. If activated under title 10, theeligibility period is extended by the timeon active duty plus four months. Aseparate extension applies for each activation.An extension is not availableif activated under U.S.C. Title 32.Vocational Rehabilitation,Employment AssistanceService-disabled veterans mayqualify for rehabilitation <strong>and</strong> employmentassistance including: job search,vocational evaluation, career exploration,vocational training, education, <strong>and</strong>rehabilitation services.If enrolled in an education or trainingprogram, the VA will pay for theparticipant’s tuition, fees, books, tools,<strong>and</strong> other program expenses as well asprovide a monthly living allowance.Complete information is available at:www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/index.htm.VA Life Insurance<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve Personnelare eligible to receive Servicemembers’Group Life Insurance, VeteransGroup Life Insurance <strong>and</strong> FamilyGroup Life Insurance.They may also be eligible for Service-DisabledVeterans Insurance ifcalled to active duty, injured, or have aservice-connected disability.12<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
Absentee ballots to be available to all troopsBy Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press ServiceWASHINGTON, June 2, 2004 - Absenteeballots from service membersoverseas will move faster <strong>and</strong> withgreater control for the 2004 elections,DoD <strong>and</strong> U.S. Postal Serviceofficials said today.Charles S. Abell, principaldeputy undersecretary of defensefor personnel <strong>and</strong> readiness, <strong>and</strong>Paul Vogel, the Postal Service’s vicepresident for network operationsmanagement, discussed the changesmade in the absentee balloting processfor 2004.“We’ve had a year of gettingready for the upcoming federal election,focusing on how we can helpmilitary personnel, their families <strong>and</strong>civilians overseas to exercise theirright to vote,” Abell said during aPentagon interview. “As we havelooked at every sort of situation,problem <strong>and</strong> impediment <strong>and</strong> triedto resolve them, we have come toanother resolution to help us moveballots <strong>and</strong> ballot request materialsfrom the h<strong>and</strong> of the overseas Soldier,Sailor, Airman, Marine or familymember to their county boards ofelections.”Vogel said USPS has been workingwith the Military Postal ServiceAgency to improve the process, “becauseit is that important-especiallywith a presidential election year comingup. If it’s even as remotely closeas the last election was, every ballotreally counts.”Vogel said the DoD/USPS teamhas put together a process that willexpedite the overseas absentee ballotingmail flow <strong>and</strong> give greater accountability.The Postal Service has no specialprogram in place for service membersvoting absentee in the UnitedStates.“The Postal Service does a greatjob within the United States,” Abellsaid. “Our problem has always beenmore with the overseas voters.”Essentially, the Postal Servicewill ask local postmasters to contactthe officials in counties that are responsiblefor mailing ballots <strong>and</strong> towhom completed ballots are returned.“Traditionally, 30 to 45 days inadvance of the elections, the blankballots will be mailed out from thosecounties,” Vogel said.The Postal Service is asking thecounty officials to hold out the militaryballots. Local postmasters will takethose ballots <strong>and</strong> sort them for threedifferent destinations: San Franciscofor service members based around thePacific Rim, New York for Europe, <strong>and</strong>the Middle East <strong>and</strong> Miami for Central<strong>and</strong> South America. The balloting materialswill go to those destinations viathe Postal Service’s Express Mail service,Vogel said.Once at these military mail “gateways,”Postal Service managers will login the Express Mail pieces <strong>and</strong> sort themto the different military ZIP codes. “Allthe balloting materiel will be sortedfirst,” Vogel said. They will go into speciallymarked mail trays <strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>edover to the airlines.Airline personnel will recognizethat the trays have voting materials <strong>and</strong>those trays will again receive priority.In theater, military postal officials willensure balloting materials are againgiven priority as it travels to the servicemember. Once service membersvote, the reverse process is the same -balloting materials receive priority <strong>and</strong>ballots are placed in specially markedtrays. One change, however, is thatwhen ballots are received at the APOor FPO, mail clerks will put postal cancellationmarks on the envelopes.This gives an accurate measure of thedate <strong>and</strong> time a ballot is received. Atthe postal gateways, ballots will goback into the normal mail flow in theUnited States that allows for a threedaydelivery, Vogel said.But on Oct. 30, Postal officialswill again segregate balloting materials<strong>and</strong> use express mail to send ballotsback to county officials. ElectionDay is Nov. 2, but these special-h<strong>and</strong>lingprocedures will continuethrough Nov. 8, Vogel said. Hepointed out, however, that some ballotsreceived after Election Day maynot be counted, because different jurisdictionshave different voting requirements.To be on the safe side, DoD <strong>and</strong>the Postal Service recommend servicemembers <strong>and</strong> their families follow FederalVoting Assistance Program guidelines.FVAP is designating the weekof Sept. 6 as Get Out the Vote Week.By then, “if service members haven’talready requested their ballots, that’sthe week to do it,” Abell said. Theyare also designating the week beginningOct. 11 as Overseas Voting Week.“If you vote that week, your ballotshould arrive back at your home ...before Election Day, which will qualifyyour ballot to be counted in everystate, county <strong>and</strong> precinct,” Abellsaid.Traditionally, military members<strong>and</strong> their families vote at a higher percentagethan the general population.All administrations have encouragedmilitary members to exercise theirrights to vote. “We don’t care howthey vote, just so long as they do,”Abell said.In MemoriamRememberingPresident ReaganContinued from Page 6By ordering naval escorts in the Persian Gulf, he maintained the free flowof oil during the Iran-Iraq war. In keeping with the Reagan Doctrine, he gavesupport to anti-Communist insurgencies in Central America, Asia, <strong>and</strong> Africa.Overall, the Reagan years saw a restoration of prosperity, <strong>and</strong> the goal ofpeace through strength seemed to be within grasp.Source: The White House<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 13
AdifferentviewfromIraqBy Capt. Kristine M. MunnState Public Affairs OfficerWhile most Arkansans are familiarwith the mobilization of the 39th InfantryBrigade to Iraq, fewer are aware ofanother group of <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>smen<strong>and</strong> women keeping their eyes openoverlooking the skies in Iraq.Nearly 55 members of the CampRobinson-based Headquarters Company,2nd Battalion, 114th Aviation(Air Traffic Services - ATS) have beenserving in Balad <strong>and</strong> Baghdad sinceJanuary.Responsible for airspace management<strong>and</strong> terminal airspace control,these Soldiers provide comm<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong>control for Army rotary wing aircraft<strong>and</strong> airfield management in support ofArmy rotary <strong>and</strong> fixed wing aircraft.Averaging more than 50,000 movementsper month, the Soldiers of theHeadquarters Company, 2nd Battalion,114th Aviation (ATS) can boast arecord free of accidents <strong>and</strong> incidentssince their arrival. That’s no smallfeat in Iraq.Recently, Lt. Col. Mark McMullenspoke about his experience comm<strong>and</strong>ingthe Headquarters Company of 2ndBattalion, 114th Aviation (ATS) in Iraq.In fact, Lt. Col. McMullen comm<strong>and</strong>sthree companies of approximately 235Staff photos by Capt. Kristine M. MunnLt. Col. Mark McMullen talks in detail with Sgt. 1st Class Terry Martin ofCompany D, 114th Aviation Battalion (ATS), about the challenges of airspacemanagement <strong>and</strong> control in a combat zone.personnel (one of which is his oldestson who is a generator mechanic) in fivelocations from 10 different states. He isresponsible for Soldiers from the active<strong>and</strong> reserve components as well as adetachment of Air Force personnel.When asked what was most challengingabout his work in Iraq,McMullen said it was the communications,such as telephones <strong>and</strong> radiosalong with “meeting the basic needsof the Soldier.”“The professionalism of our NCO[noncommissioned officer] corps hasreally pulled us through,” saidMcMullen.He continued, saying that conditionshad greatly improved comparedto when the unit first arrived in theater.“We have an MWR [Morale, Welfare<strong>and</strong> Recreation] facility, a gym in atent, a movie theater, an indoor pool,<strong>and</strong> Internet <strong>and</strong> phone tents with 20lines each. It’s a slow connection butit’s adequate,” said McMullen.The Soldiers are keeping busy,working 12 – 14 hours a day with oneday off every other week. Of the 235personnel under McMullen’s comm<strong>and</strong>,approximately 40 have been ableto take advantage of the Army’s Rest<strong>and</strong> Recuperation program which allowsSoldiers to take two weeks of leave duringtheir mobilization.“Regenerating Soldiers back toduty is more difficult than when theyfirst arrived,” explained McMullen.“Probably because we’re more awareof what lies ahead <strong>and</strong> what to expect.”Speaking c<strong>and</strong>idly about histhoughts on the war, McMullen said,“We are changing people’s lives. We’reteaching them that they can have trustin their fellow man. The American publicneeds to know about the positivethings that are taking place there <strong>and</strong>the good things our Soldiers are doing.”McMullen continued saying theexperience was beneficial to the troopsas well.“We’ve learned the true meaningof camaraderie … it’s a gift.”“Lying in bed at night is the toughesttime,” said McMullen. “Self preservationis a basic instinct we’re bornwith but what keeps us going is tryingto keep each other safe.”McMullen praised the supportiveefforts of “the folks back at home.”“Our most successful Soldiers arethose with a strong base of support fromhome,” McMullen explained. “Icouldn’t have been as successful as Ihave been in the military without astrong family support network.”McMullen went on to discuss theimpact <strong>and</strong> implications of the media reportson Soldiers’ morale.“I don’t think people realize howmuch of an impact the media has on thewar,” he said. “It’s discouraging to see14<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
them reporting all of the negatives <strong>and</strong>not highlighting any of the positives… <strong>and</strong> we’re doing so many goodthings.”McMullen explained that the negativepress is disheartening for the Soldiers<strong>and</strong> it’s dangerous.Indicating that the insurgents buildtheir war plans, in part, on informationthey receive from media coverage, heBy Spc. Tim GroomsNo matter what job you have inthe military, there are many responsibilitiesinvolved. Some jobs have morethan others. For the Soldiers workingin air traffic control the responsibilityof managing incoming <strong>and</strong> outgoinghelicopters can be a huge task, requiringdetailed knowledge of the surroundingarea.Armed with a 360-degree view, aradio <strong>and</strong> a weather computer, the Soldierskeep the airways safe, <strong>and</strong> monitor<strong>and</strong> log the incoming <strong>and</strong> outgoingair traffic.“We have to learn the airfield, visualreporting points [fixed locationsaround the base], clouds, visibility <strong>and</strong>special clearance for weather,” saidSgt. Reunite Johnson, an air traffic controlspecialist with Delta Company, 114thAviation (Air Traffic Services).“We separate the aircraft in the airspace<strong>and</strong> try to get the faster ones insaid, “I have no doubt that some of thethings the professional analysts havediscussed have cost Americans theirlives. We’re fighting a smart enemy.They realize they don’t need a bunchof fancy technology, they just need towatch the news.”No matter what the media or thepublic may think, it’s obviousMcMullen believes in what he <strong>and</strong> hisMonitoring Kosovo’s airspaceMaj. Gen. Don C. Morrow, adjutantgeneral of <strong>Arkansas</strong>, talks withmembers of Detachment 1, 149thAir Ambulance Company during avisit to Bosnia in July.front of the sloweraircraft,” said Spc.Taylor Withers ofthe unit. “It getstough thoughwhen a lot of aircraftare coming inat once. You haveto be on the ball<strong>and</strong> make sure youdo not send anyonepast anyoneelse’s path. Whenyou have seven toeight aircraft atonce you have toremember wherethey are <strong>and</strong> wherethey are going.”The Soldiers’Spc. Lee Walker,an air traffic controlspecialist withDelta Company,114th Aviation (AirTraffic Services),speaks to a helicopterpilot priorto the crew’s departure.ability to control air traffic on busy daysis considered one of their beststrengths.With changing meteorological conditions,weather information is an importantpart of air traffic control.“We have a continuous weather updateso we don’t have to call the AirForce all the time for weather,” said Sgt.Ryan Ziemski, an air traffic controllerwith the unit, talking of the weather computerthat was installed last rotation.“The equipment is very precise.”The responsibility of controllingaircraft can get the nerves going whenthe load gets heavy, Withers said.“I enjoy it when it gets busy <strong>and</strong>my heart starts to race <strong>and</strong> I get a littlenervous,” he said.With changing weather conditions,helicopters coming in from all directions<strong>and</strong> foreign pilots, the air trafficcontrollers of Bondsteel have theirh<strong>and</strong>s full.They may not be controlling airplanesat a major metropolitan airport,but they are controlling the aircraft doingimportant missions aroundKosovo.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 15Photo by Spec. Tim GroomsSoldiers are doing.“If our leaders are going to exposeour kids, our mothers <strong>and</strong> fathers,sons <strong>and</strong> daughters, to this,we’re either demented or we believethey will grow, mature <strong>and</strong> contribute,”he said. “Someone once saidliving in a country that doesn’t haveanything worth fighting for isn’tworth living in. I believe that.”Staff Sgt. Venetta Hammons, ofCompany D, 114th Aviation Battalion(ATS), demonstrates equipmentused to perform air traffic servicesin Kosovo.
39th Reports forMobilizationOct. 12, 2003Soldiers arrive atFt. Hood, TexasNov. 1, 2003Soldiers arrive atFt. Polk, La.Jan. 31, 2004Final soldiers arrive atCamp New York,KuwaitMarch 26, 2004SFC William Labadie KIAApril 7, 2004April 9, 2004April 16, 2004SGT Felix Delgreco(CONN)KIAFinal soldiers arrive aCamp Cooke,IraqPage design by Br<strong>and</strong>ie L. MikesellPhotos by Public Affairs Staff
After 120 days of intense training, the 39th Brigade istransformed from a light infantry brigade to digitized heavy-motorizedenhanced brigade combat team; from citizen soldiers to combatsoldiers.In March, the 39th BCT began putting troops on the ground intheater in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II. The 39th is conductingcombat operations to defeat destabilizing forces, secure keyterrain, <strong>and</strong> conduct stability <strong>and</strong> support operations to create asecure environment.April 24, 2004April 24, 2004CPT Arthur FelderCW4 Patrick KordsmeierSSG Billy OrtonSSG Stacey Br<strong>and</strong>on KIATransfer of Authority from1st Armored Div. to1st Cavalary Div.SPC Kenneth MeltonKIAApril 25, 2004Although the 39th tragically lost severalmembers as a result of hostileaction while in country, the teamcontinues to work to reconstructparts of Iraq <strong>and</strong> maintain a secureenvironment while aiding Iraq tobecome a sovereign nation.SSG Hesley Box, JRKIASFC Troy Mir<strong>and</strong>aKIA1LT Erik McCraeSGT Justin EyerlySPC Justin Linden(OR)KIAMay 6, 2004May 20, 2004June 4, 2004SPC Eric McKinley(OR)KIAJune 13, 2004Transfer ofSovereignty to IraqJune 28, 2004
F-16 photos by Capt. Kristine M. MunnCol. J.R. Dallas, 188 th Fighter Wing comm<strong>and</strong>er,<strong>and</strong> several members of the maintenancecrew perform preflight inspections on theaircraft before a mission. The 188 th FighterWing boasts one of the best maintenancerecords in its class, a true testament to the factthat the <strong>Guard</strong>’s advanced experience levelis a tremendous asset to the total force.Where’d who go???Best Raptor bait seen to dateBy Capt. Kristine MunnState Public Affairs OfficerWhen the Air Force went lookingfor an opponent to fly against theworld’s most advanced weapons system,you might be surprised to find outwho they turned to.Knowing up font that anyadversarial platform would be inferiorto the F/A-22’s sophisticated technology,the challenger needed to excel inskill <strong>and</strong> proficiency to have any hopeof putting up a fight against the rebelliousRaptor.With more than 130 years of combinedexperience <strong>and</strong> an average ofmore than 2,500 flying hours apiece,nine of the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s finest from the 188th FighterWing stepped up to the challenge.As part of the validation syllabusfor the F/A-22, a series of missions arebeing flown to test its capabilities <strong>and</strong>bring it one step closer to becoming anoperational asset in the arsenal for ournation’s defense. The F-16 unit knownas the 188th Fighter Wing’s Flying Razorbacksfrom Fort Smith, Ark., can nowsay they’ve been part of that effort.“This is a historical event, not onlyfor the 188th, but also for the F/A-22,”said Col. J.R. Dallas, comm<strong>and</strong>er of the188th Fighter Wing. “Having been selectedto be the first operational unit tofly against the Raptor says a lot aboutour unit <strong>and</strong> the Air <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.”Lt. Gen. Stephen H. Blum, directorof the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> Bureau, has statedthat the <strong>Guard</strong> must be a ready, reliable<strong>and</strong> relevant force, <strong>and</strong> the 188th FighterWing has certainly lived up to that decree.With a Full Mission Capable rateof 83 percent, one of the best in the nation,the maintenance <strong>and</strong> support functionsof the 188th are just as acclaimedas their pilots.“Most of our guys have a level ofexperience <strong>and</strong> expertise you only findin your most senior ranks on activeduty,” said Maj. Joe Wilson, comm<strong>and</strong>erof the 188th Maintenance Squadron.“Typically, you’ll see those senior personnelmoved into a supervisory positionwhereas our folks are out on theline putting their experience to work, <strong>and</strong>that makes a difference.”Another major contributor, saidWilson, is that his guys are in a unit18<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
An F-16 from the 188 th Fighter Wing taxis by the mountainoussetting that surrounds Nellis AFB, Nev.MSgt. Mike Leding straps inMaj. Ken Griffin in preparationof a mission flight toshow the F/A-22 Raptor crewswhat the Flying Razorbacksare made of.TSgt. Larry Sterling, weapons loader, inspects an AIM-9M heatseeking missile before a mission flight.they chose to be in, doing a job theylove to do.Speaking of a job worth loving,when asked what it was like to fly withthe Raptor, you could feel the atmosphereelectrify as pilot slang <strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>gestures were used to describe feelingsof awe <strong>and</strong> amazement at the capabilitiespossessed by the Raptor. Thosecomments were followed soon thereafterby infamous quotes like “where’dwho go…” <strong>and</strong> roars of laughter as talkof how easily the F/A-22 defeated theF-16’s comparatively antiquated technology.While the technical trouncing wasexpected, the F/A-22 crew had only kudosfor the <strong>Arkansas</strong> contingent, sayingthe members of the 188th FighterWing were, by far, some of the mostprofessional people they had everworked with.U.S. Air Force photoThe F/A-22 Raptor’s primaryobjective will be to establishair superiority through theconduct of counter air operations.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 19
Staff Photo by Br<strong>and</strong>ie MikesellIn March, <strong>Arkansas</strong>’61 st Civil SupportTeam (WMD) becameone of the first CSTsin the nation to receivethe $1.5 millionAnalytical LaboratorySystem. The new labwill allow the CST toset up more quickly,process a larger numberof samples in ashorter period oftime, <strong>and</strong> reduce thelikelihood of crosscontamination.MSgt. Barry Witherow (right) <strong>and</strong>Maj. Stanley Evans (left) preparea test sample in the mobile lab’sglove/containment box.Guatemalan delegates visit<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>By Br<strong>and</strong>ie MikesellPublic Affairs SpecialistA delegation from Guatemala visitedthe <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> inJanuary in support of the State PartnershipProgram between <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>and</strong>Guatemala.The six Guatemalan delegates visitedthe Directorate of Military Services– including the Counter Drug<strong>and</strong> Recon Air Interdiction Detachment– the 61st Civil Support Team, <strong>and</strong> the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Department of EmergencyManagement to learn more about howto better respond to emergencies intheir country.The delegates were able to observethe 61st CST <strong>and</strong> Pulaski CountyEmergency Management’s response<strong>and</strong> mitigation of a Weapons of MassDestruction exercise.The Deputy Director of CONRED,Guatemala’s equivalent of FEMA,Walter Sagastume, said that one of theirgreatest challenges is financing. Theyhave an annual budget of only $2 millionfor the entire country with a populationof 11.5 million people.Compare this to <strong>Arkansas</strong> with apopulation of 2.7 million <strong>and</strong> an annualbudget for emergency management ofapproximately $29 million.Beyond budget problems are theissues of language <strong>and</strong> literacy. Thepopulation speaks 23 Indian languagesas well as Spanish <strong>and</strong> has an illiteracyrate of 50-55 percent. This makes communicatingemergency education <strong>and</strong>information extremely difficult.Guatemala is plagued with naturaldisasters. There are frequent hurricanes,wildfires, mudslides <strong>and</strong> volcanoes tocontend with, as well as man-made disasters.Sagastume said he would like tosee emergency management centralizedbut added, “maybe in 100 years it willhappen.” In the meantime, they areworking through the State PartnershipProgram to learn things they can donow to improve their response times<strong>and</strong> ways of h<strong>and</strong>ling local <strong>and</strong> nationalemergencies.The State Partnership Program beganin 1993 to link <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>States <strong>and</strong> territories with partner countriesfor the purpose of fostering mutualinterests <strong>and</strong> establishing longtermrelationships across all levels ofsociety.There are currently 40 partnershipsworldwide. The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> wasselected for this unique duty becauseof its ability to address democratic controlof the military, foster civil-militaryrelations, <strong>and</strong> demonstrate military supportfor civilian authority.Maj. Gen. Don C. Morrow, the adjutantgeneral of <strong>Arkansas</strong>, <strong>and</strong> membersof the State Partnership Programtraveled to Guatemala in March wherethey visited with the minister of defense<strong>and</strong> witnessed a full-scale emergencyresponse exercise.20<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
AR ARNG units receive Freedom SalutesFreedom Salutes recognizeSoldiers for contributions theymade while mobilized in support ofthe global war on terrorism.Recognition has gone to 43Soldiers from Company B, 935thCombat Support Battalion, 50 Soldiersfrom the 25th Rear OperationsCenter, n early 100 Soldiers from the<strong>Guard</strong>’s Company A, 875th EngineerBattalion, <strong>and</strong> about 200 Soldiersfrom the 224th Maintenance Company,142nd Field Artillery Brigade.At press time, <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>learned that the 212th SignalBattalion was also on tap to receivea Freedom Salute.Company B, 935th Combat SupportBattalion was mobilized inJanuary 2003 in support of OperationEnduring Freedom. The unitwas demobilized in December 2003.Their mission was to augment existingsecurity forces to strengthenbase defenses <strong>and</strong> force protection.The 25th ROC was mobilized inFebruary 2003 in support ofOperation Enduring Freedom. Theunit was demobilized in May 2003.Its mission was that of base defense<strong>and</strong> force protection.Company A, 875th EngineerBattalion, was federally activated inMarch 2003 in support of OperationEnduring Freedom. After twomonths of training, the unit wascertified by the U.S. Army <strong>and</strong>deemed ready for combat. Whenmajor combat operations ended inIraq sooner than expected, CompanyA’s mission changed tosupport homel<strong>and</strong> defense at theUmatilla Depot, Ore., in support ofOperation Noble Eagle III.The 224th Maintenance Companywas mobilized in February 2003in support of Operation NobleEagle/Enduring Freedom <strong>and</strong> spenttime at Fort Sill, Okla., providingmultiple levels of maintenancesupport to other Army units. The224th was demobilized in October2003.Nearly 200 soldiers from the212th Signal Battalion were mobilizedin June 2003 in support ofOperation Noble Eagle. The 212thwas assigned to Fort Sam Houston,Texas, with primary duty as securityguards at the post’s main gate.The Freedom Salute Campaignis one of the largest Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> recognition endeavors inhistory designed to publiclyacknowledge Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>Soldiers <strong>and</strong> those who supportedthem during President George W.Bush’s call to duty for OperationsNoble Eagle, Enduring Freedom<strong>and</strong> Iraqi Freedom.Military Salutepart ofNorthLittle Rock’s100th BirthdaycelebrationNorth Little Rock held a MilitarySalute as part of its 100thbirthday party, May 1, 2004. Callingits centennial celebration the“Party of the Century,” the citypaid homage to the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Na-Staff Sgt. Janet Schwartz, 106thArmy B<strong>and</strong>,plays taps for the event.Staff Photo by Buddy Garrett‘Party of the Century’tional <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> brought in a multitudeof talent to include actorsMary Steenburgeon, husb<strong>and</strong> TedDanson <strong>and</strong> Joey Lauren Adams.Steenburgeon <strong>and</strong> Adams are nativeArkansans.The salute also welcomed homemilitary members returning fromfederal missions, including Maj.James Guffy, <strong>and</strong> Master Sgt.David Oginski, 154th WeatherFlight; 1st Lt. Clint Miller, Staff Sgt.Lance Black, Sgt. Ryan Web, Spc.Joseph Martin, 296th Medical Company;<strong>and</strong> Tech. Sgt. DonaldBreshears, 123rd Intelligence Squadron.The Honor <strong>Guard</strong> included StaffSgt. Janet Schwartz, 106th Army B<strong>and</strong>,<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, whoplayed ‘Taps,’ <strong>and</strong> members of theHonor <strong>Guard</strong> firing team: Sgt. 1stClass Brian Davis, 149th Med Co<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 21Photo by Staff Sgt. Lance Black1st Lt. Clint Miller is welcomedhome by actress Joey LaurenAdams, a North Little Rock native.(AA); Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Mills,106th Army B<strong>and</strong>; Sgt. 1st ClassSue Newton, 87th Troop Comm<strong>and</strong>;Staff Sgt. Alice Bridges,Staff Sgt. Rita Borecky <strong>and</strong> StaffSgt. Ray Bradley, all of State AreaComm<strong>and</strong>; Sgt. Fred Lee, CompanyD, 212th Signal Battalion; Sgt. CharityWebb, State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>.
Capt. Tracy Saucy, Spc. Will Ingram <strong>and</strong> Spc. Rick Fahr (left to right)check the layout of ‘The Wire’ newspaper. ‘The Wire’ is produced by the70th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment assigned to the Joint InformationBureau at Joint Task Force Guantanamo.Joint Task Force GuantanamoPublic Affairs provides newsBy SGT Jolene StakerDet 1, 70th Mobile Public AffairsCamp Robinson’s Detachment 1,70th Mobile Public Affairs Detachmentjoined its parent unit from Missouri fora mission at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.“Our unit was activated <strong>and</strong> deployedin August 2003 in support ofOperation Enduring Freedom, <strong>and</strong> I amproud to say my soldiers performed inan exemplary manner as the Joint TaskForce Guantanamo public affairs team,”said Capt. Tracy Saucy, detachmentcomm<strong>and</strong>er. The unit returned homeJuly 1, 2004.The 70th MPAD members producedthe comm<strong>and</strong> newspaper, The Wire, escortedcivilian media, maintained the JointTask Force website, marketed stories tooutside media sources, produced videoproducts as well as public service announcements,<strong>and</strong> DJ’d on the NavalBase radio station.“We were there when training washappening,” Saucy said. “If the JointTask Force personnel were out training,we were there covering it.” PADmembers don’t stay in the office <strong>and</strong>they don’t have regular hours. “Theirhours are our hours,” said Saucy. “Wetook all the pictures, put it together inthe paper <strong>and</strong> we made the videos. Weshowed the world what all Soldiers,Sailors, Marines, Airmen <strong>and</strong> Coast<strong>Guard</strong>smen were doing.”The broadcast section producedthe JTF mission video the “Faces ofFreedom” <strong>and</strong> had or will produce individualvideos for each unit serving inJTF Guantanamo. Spc. Mickey Miller<strong>and</strong> Spc. Mark Woodall both receivedrecognition for their work on the video.“I think the best part of my deploymentwas knowing that we put togetherthe best product possible <strong>and</strong>to see that product make other peoplehappy,” said Woodall.Broadcasters also played a valuablerole in filling in at the Naval Baseradio station. They produced advertisementsas well as filling in for liveshows.Soldiers working on The Wire alsohad many photo assignments in additionto what showed up in the paper. IfSgt. 1st Class Tom Guminisky (left)<strong>and</strong> Sgt. Joshua Carroll (right) meetwith ABC news anchor PeterJennings.Photos by SGT Jolene StakerSpec. Mark Woodall (st<strong>and</strong>ing) <strong>and</strong>Spec. Mickey Miller check their workto ensure accuracy.it happened in the JTF, chances arethere was someone there from TheWire taking photos.“Our mission was one that gaveus a great chance every week to supportthe men <strong>and</strong> women here who werepart of Joint Task Force Guantanamo,”said Spc. Rick Fahr, editor. “We providedinformation. <strong>and</strong> occasionally alittle entertainment, that benefited thefolks we worked with. I know our fellowtroopers appreciated our work, <strong>and</strong>that gave us a strong sense of satisfaction.”Perhaps the most behind-thescenesjob in the JTF was the mediarelations escorts. This section was responsiblefor escorting the civilian mediawho visited, <strong>and</strong> ensured that theyonly take pictures <strong>and</strong> video that wouldnot compromise operational security.“The media relations sectionworked long hours <strong>and</strong> had to dealwith difficult situations constantly,”said Sgt. Joshua Carroll. “It wasn’teasy, but I wouldn’t have had it anyother way.”Long work hours, challenging assignments<strong>and</strong> living conditions thatwere much different from what anyoneis used to at home made this deploymentstressful, according to Saucy, butthe lessons learned will follow membersof the detachment throughout theircareers.“As detachment comm<strong>and</strong>er, thisdeployment created an excellent arenain which to assess the abilities of mySoldiers,” said Saucy. “I saw unit cohesiongrow <strong>and</strong> individual Soldier <strong>and</strong>public affairs skills perfected. I knowthat I could take this team of competentprofessionals anywhere in theworld <strong>and</strong> be confident that they wouldexcel in even the most challenging situations.”22<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
Army poststo growBy Sgt. Lorie JewellArmy News ServiceSgt. 1st Class Steven W. Simmons, schools course manager for the <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> Marksmanship Training Center, shows a student how to h<strong>and</strong>lean M136 AT4, a light weight, anti-armor weapon, used primarily by the infantry.It fires an 84mm projectile with a high explosive warhead at a maximumeffective range of more than 900 feet. Durable for desert warfare, it canoperate in temperatures up to about 140 degrees.Career-minded studentstake Camp Robinson tourSixty students from the North LittleRock High School Business LeadershipAcademy toured Camp Robinson inMarch, seeing firsth<strong>and</strong> a variety ofoccupations available through the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.“We wanted to emphasize continuingtheir education, showcase the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, <strong>and</strong> let themhave a little fun away from the classroom,”said Maj. Anita Long, secretaryto the General Staff. Both she <strong>and</strong> Capt.Shawn Keeter, special projects officerfor the Chief of Staff’s Office, coordinatedthe students’ visit.After a morning welcome by Maj.Gen. Don Morrow, adjutant general of<strong>Arkansas</strong>, the students were brokeninto two groups, each group visiting theArmy Aviation Services Facility, the Directorateof Military Support , the 61stCivil Support Team (WMD), <strong>and</strong> theMarksmanship Training Center’s engagementskills trainer where they firedelectronic impulses at a wall-sized screen- the largest electronic shooting rangein <strong>Arkansas</strong>.Coordinators at each locationhelped provide a positive impact on thestudents.“The visit exp<strong>and</strong>ed their knowledgebase <strong>and</strong>, hopefully, they’ll usethat knowledge to make informed decisions<strong>and</strong> right choices for their future,”Long said.Feedback from the school confirmedthe students’ underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>and</strong>appreciation of what the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> is all about.“It was amazing how much pridethey took in their work,” said one student.“They were really passionate!”Other students agreed:“I thought all we would see was abunch of soldiers running around sweating,”one student said.“I had no idea that North Little Rockwas so important!”“Everyone was really nice. Evenwhen we were stupid,” another one said.“They were all so smart. And theyreally like to go to school. Did you pickup on all of those jobs? I thought theyjust drove tanks.”Staff Photo by Buddy GarrettWASHINGTON, D.C. (Army NewsService, July 26, 2004) – A number ofArmy installations will grow by severalthous<strong>and</strong> Soldiers in the nextfew years as a result of decisions onwhere new brigade combat teams(units of action) will be temporarilybased, according to senior Army officials.Permanent locations will be decidedduring the 2005 Base Realignment<strong>and</strong> Closure process, also knownas BRAC, the officials said.“It is an operational necessityright now to build these brigade combatteam units of action <strong>and</strong> get theminto the field as quickly as possible,’’said Brig. Gen. David Ralston, directorof force management in the Army’sG-3, at a media briefing.The Army is transforming from adivision-based force into smaller, morerapidly deployable brigade-basedunits that will provide greater combatpower. Plans call for 43 modular brigadecombat teams to be in place byfiscal 2006, up from 34 brigades theArmy has now. The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>will also transform its current combatforce to 34 modular BCTs, officialssaid.The active Soldiers will be assignedto the new units of actionthrough cross-leveling, PCS moves,<strong>and</strong> straight out of advanced individualtraining, or AIT. Some willalso be transferred from Korea <strong>and</strong>other overseas locations, <strong>and</strong> aftercompleting drill sergeant <strong>and</strong> recruitingtours. Officials pledged to limitback-to-back combat tours as muchas possible.Once permanently stationed witha new unit of action, the Army willmake every effort to allow Soldiers toremain at an installation for up toseven years.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 23
216th Military Police Co.guards prisoners in CubaBy SGT Jolene StakerDet 1, 70th Mobile Public AffairsThe 216th Military Police Companywas in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for itssecond deployment.The West Memphis-based unit wasfirst activated six days after the 9/11 terroristattacks to provide security at CampRobinson, the <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>headquarters in North Little Rock. Theunit also provided military police forsecurity at the Little Rock <strong>National</strong> Airport<strong>and</strong> <strong>Arkansas</strong> Nuclear One, anuclear plant near Russellville. In October2002, the unit was activated toprovide homel<strong>and</strong> defense at FortLeonard Wood, Mo. From there its memberswent home for a short leave, trainedat Fort Dix, N.J., <strong>and</strong> were then forwardmobilized to Guantanamo in August2003. The unit returned to <strong>Arkansas</strong> onJuly 22, 2004.The majority of the 216th MPs workinside the wire with detainees. Thereare also members who work in food service,maintenance, security <strong>and</strong> intelligence,<strong>and</strong> administrative support.Those working with detainees takecare of many of the their needs, <strong>and</strong> forthose needs they can’t fill MPs ensurethat the correct people are notified. TheMPs make sure the detainees get theirSecurity checks ensure prisonersare kept confined <strong>and</strong> safe.24recreation time <strong>and</strong> opportunityto shower.”My responsibility is toensure that each detainee istreated fairly <strong>and</strong> consistently,”said Spec. Jason Pilkington.MPs were not alwaystreated well on their job, butthey learned to take it instride.“[Detainees] are going to vent theirfrustration <strong>and</strong> yell <strong>and</strong> scream at somebody– I don’t take it personally,” saidStaff Sgt. William Trigg. “I make surethey are treated well, they aren’t mistreatedin any way, <strong>and</strong> their needs aretaken care of. They are people.”“We check on their health <strong>and</strong> wellbeing,”said Sgt. Chris Chamblis. “Whenthey run out of comfort items we replacethe items as well as ensure they getthree meals a day.”MPs do not make many of the decisionsthat affect daily life for the detainees;they simply make sure that the overallguidelines set by the st<strong>and</strong>ard operationprocedure <strong>and</strong> specific instructionsfor each detainee are followed.“As block sergeant, it is my responsibilityto make sure things runsmoothly <strong>and</strong> correctly according to theSOP,” said Sgt. Rodney Wade.While the st<strong>and</strong>ard operating procedureis designed to ensure that thedetainees are treated humanely, MPsvoiced that they wanted to treat the detaineeswell.“I treat the detainees like I wouldwant to be treated – with humanity,” saidStaff Sgt. Darren Whitaker.MPs find that this respect helpsthem build a rapport with the detaineesthat makes daily operations run moresmoothly. Members of the 216th MPCompany take pride in the fact that detaineessaid that they liked the razorbackpatch.“It’s important to build a rapportwith the detainees which eliminatesproblems,” said Wade.Time for chow. It may not be home cooking,but there’s plenty of it.“It’s not that I cater to them or givethem special privileges that I’m not allowedto, but it’s the simple fact that Igive them respect <strong>and</strong> they respect meback,” said Cpl. John Harville.“We have a mission here,” saidSgt. Brenda McRay. “I do my part. Imaintain what they are supposed tohave <strong>and</strong> strive to be fair. I’m glad I’vehad the opportunity to serve.”The mission has been a learning experiencefor MPs. While many came tothe mission with civilian experience,they’ve still found many growth opportunities.Spec. Chris Goss has worked withprisoners both as a corrections officer<strong>and</strong> police officer. “I look at things witha different perspective now,” he said.“We never really know the specificrewards of our work, because of thenature of the mission,” said Chambliss.“We have to be content knowing thatwe’ve made our mark <strong>and</strong> served ourcountry.”MPs may not know details of howtheir daily job pays off in the global waron terrorism, but they do know that theyare working a high profile mission <strong>and</strong>that they represent America.“The one thing I know about thismission is that America is a great nation<strong>and</strong> these detainees are treated well,”said Chamblis.Besides taking care of the detaineesit has been important for membersof the 216th to take care of each other.“Keeping soldiers motivated hasbeen the most challenging part of myjob” said Sgt. 1st Class Keith Robinson.“You have to show them that you care<strong>and</strong> that means being out there with<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Spring/Summer 2004
them <strong>and</strong> talking with them on a regularbasis.”One of the ways that leadershipshowed soldiers at Guantanamo thatthey cared was to emphasize professionaldevelopment opportunities.Some members of the 216th MP Companyhave had the opportunity to completethe Primary Leadership DevelopmentCourse while at Guantanamo.“We had really good instructors,”said Cpl. Janice Williams. “It couldn’tbe any better.”Perhaps the best benefit for the soldiersis that they get to complete thecourse while already on active duty <strong>and</strong>away from home.“I’ve been away from my familyenough,” said Williams. “This is twoweeks that I won’t have to spend awayfrom my family when I get home.”Soldiers will be returning to <strong>Arkansas</strong>with invaluable experience <strong>and</strong>ready to attain new goals.“Being on this mission has givenus a chance to bond as a unit,” said Sgt.William Suggs. “And show the military<strong>and</strong> the rest of the world that the 216this a <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> unit that is totallymission-capable <strong>and</strong> proud to serve.”“Other than being away from family,I feel good about being down here,”said 2nd Lt. Derrick Williams, 1st platoonleader. “I’m glad I have had theopportunity to serve my country <strong>and</strong>be part of history.”As proud as they are to serve, theyare also ready to get back to their lovedones. The unit headquarters sign thatStaff Sgt. Doug Newsom worked on foralmost a month features a razorback thatis headed in a different direction thantheir unit patch, because the razorbackon the building is headed home.“I want to take care of my troops,accomplish the mission <strong>and</strong> return homesafely,” said Staff Sgt. Tony Robinson,training, plans <strong>and</strong> operations NCO.“It has been a tremendous honorto serve our great country. Each soldierof the 216th made sacrifices to protectour nation,” said Capt. Betty Anderson,company comm<strong>and</strong>er. “We all are veryproud to say the 216th Military PoliceCompany played a significant roleagainst the war on global terrorism.”Class #21 graduatesfrom Youth ChallengeSaturday, Feb. 14, 2004, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Youth Challenge graduated its 21stclass, with two students receiving tophonors.Cadet Shayna Slaughter receivedthe Academics Award for outst<strong>and</strong>inggrades, performance <strong>and</strong> score on theGED. Cadet Charles Maynard receivedthe Distinguished Cadet award for bestin overall leadership, academics <strong>and</strong> ProgramSt<strong>and</strong>ards.The <strong>Arkansas</strong> Youth ChallengeProgram began in 1994 <strong>and</strong> ranks in thetop one-third of public schools in <strong>Arkansas</strong>.Almost 80 percent of graduatesreceive their <strong>Arkansas</strong> High SchoolDiploma (GED).Of the 1,717 students who havegraduated since 1994, 79 percent are eithercontinuing their education or working,18 percent have joined the military,<strong>and</strong> 3 percent are either not working orare unaccounted for.The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> began theYouth Challenge Program to curb thedropout rates among at-risk teens age16- to 18- years old through legislationin the early 1990s.Congress saw the <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>as an invaluable community resource to“train, lead, <strong>and</strong> mentor young peoplein a caring yet disciplined environment.”Students provide almost 10,000 hoursof community service each year. Currently,27 states <strong>and</strong> Puerto Rico participatein the program.The program is a military basedtraining program with eight core components:Leadership/Followership; ResponsibleCitizenship; Educational Excellence;Job Skills; Life Coping Skills;Health, Sex Education, <strong>and</strong> Nutrition;Community Service; <strong>and</strong> Physical Fitnessto aid at-risk youth in becomingproductive members of society.The program is completed in twophases. Phase I is the five month residentialphase <strong>and</strong> Phase II is the 12month community mentoring phase witha specially trained member from thestudent’s community who helps guidethe student to apply the skills they havelearned.Academics AwardCadet Slaughter had spent twoyears living in a car when she heard ofYouth Challenge. She jumped at thechance to earn money while improvingher life (Students receive $15/week duringthe residential phase <strong>and</strong> $300/quarterduring the community phase).Slaughter was thrilled with her AcademicsAward. She earned her GED <strong>and</strong>scored 694 out of 800. She said, “Itproves to the world I’m not an idiot. Ifeel good about myself. I’m not a failure.”She states she would recommendthe program to others who were trulyinterested <strong>and</strong> dedicated. “Nobody canchange you, you have to change yourself.”Slaughter also took the ACT <strong>and</strong>scored extremely well. She plans to attendDuke University Medical Schoolwhere she would like to study to be anobstetrician.Distinguished Cadet AwardCadet Maynard was living in ayouth home in Mountain Home when afriend of his father’s told him about theYouth Challenge Program. He joinedYouth Challenge in September 2003.During his five-month stay in the residentialphase, he put in over 190 hoursof community service (40 is required),spoken at Lion’s Meeting, sang in thechoir at the Christmas party <strong>and</strong> marchedin parades. He has worked on his physicalfitness <strong>and</strong> said, “one of the greatesthonors I had was meeting adjutant general,Don Morrow.”Cadet Maynard has now moved intothe community phase <strong>and</strong> was eager toreturn home to his friends. He plans toreturn to his local high school for hisdiploma, although he earned his GEDwhile in the residential phase. Aftergraduation, Maynard hopes to attendthe prestigious U.S. Naval Academy.Senator Blanche Lincoln nominated himto the Academy.Maynard traveled to Washington,D.C. in May to accept an award for <strong>Arkansas</strong>’Youth Challenge Program.<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Spring/Summer 2004 25
223rd CBCStrains on‘TheaterDeployment’equipmentforARKLATEX2004Maj. Keith MooreJFHQ-Air Public Affairs26Staff Sgt. Shawn Honea, a telecommunications specialist with the 221stCombat Communications Squadron, checks radio communications fromthe relay site back to base during ARKLATEX 2004.HOT SPRINGS, ARK- - The face of combatcommunications underwent a “makeover” recently as members of four combatcommunications units from threestates deployed here for annual training<strong>and</strong> field implementation of a newtechnology package.The 223rd Combat CommunicationsSquadron (CBCS), <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, hosted members fromits sister units, the 221st CBCS, the 254thCombat Communications Group, bothof Garl<strong>and</strong>, Texas, <strong>and</strong> the 236th CBCSof Hammond, La.“We brought these related units togetherfor a two-fold purpose for thisannual training,” said Lt.Col. MarcHuneycutt, comm<strong>and</strong>er of the 223rdCBCS at Hot Springs. “First, we all needto get up to speed on the new equipment.Secondly, we train together becauseunder the Air Expeditionary Forceconcept, entire units will not normallydeploy all together. We have to learn<strong>and</strong> adjust to each other’s methods <strong>and</strong>approach to getting the same job done.”The operation, which was dubbed“ARKLATEX 2004” by participants, involvedthe units in “real world” trainingon the new Theater Deployable CommunicationsSystem. The TDCS is amulti-platform voice <strong>and</strong> data networkcapable of relaying voice communicationssuch as telephone <strong>and</strong> radio communicationsas well as data streamssuch as computer networks, e-mail <strong>and</strong>internet access direct to comm<strong>and</strong>ers ortroops located in forward operatingsites. The TDCS is the new st<strong>and</strong>ard inmilitary communications to <strong>and</strong> from thebattlefield. It has been in the field <strong>and</strong>tested by the Air Force over the last fouryears. Reserve component CBCS unitsare now being fielded with the sameequipment to bring them on par with theactive component units.“This equipment is being fielded inphases to the 34 combat communicationsunits for two purposes,” saidHuneycutt. “First, equipping all theunits will make inter-operability easier,in that everyone will be using the samegear <strong>and</strong> technology to communicate.Second, it reduces both the assets requiredto deploy a CBCS team, <strong>and</strong> thenumber of deployments any one unitshould be subject to in a 24-48 monthAir Expeditionary Force rotation.”The TDCS concept improves combatcommunications by taking “off-theshelf”hardware <strong>and</strong> software <strong>and</strong> packagingthe voice <strong>and</strong> data streams of informationinto the military’s transmissionnetwork. The information is, ofcourse, encrypted before transmission,then sent via the most efficient methodfor delivery to the end users - superhigh frequency radio, microwave relayor linked across by satellite.The training plan called for simulatinga deployment situation linking aforward base to a rear operations center,the Air <strong>Guard</strong> units set up a base ofoperations at the Hot Springs Airport<strong>and</strong> then deployed two field teams toact as relay point <strong>and</strong> the end-user base.The deployed teams were sent to amountain top relay point in Hot Springs<strong>and</strong> to Fort Chaffee, Ark., some 120 milesaway.“What you are seeing is the ‘stateof the art’ in battlefield communications.We can transmit voice <strong>and</strong> data over asecure network to <strong>and</strong> from remote locationseither via troposcatter microwaveor satellite. Of course the satelliteallows you greater reach to very remotelocations,” said Senior Amn.Jeffery Shipley a systems technicianworking the network control center forthe exercise. “It works very much likeany business network. We connect oneuser to another – except the informationwe are sending can range frombattle damage assessments to humanitarianassistance information, to basice-mail traffic.”Master Sgt. Barrett McGuire, systemsadministrator for the 236th CBCSfrom Hammond, La., said the TDC fieldingbrought with it several benefits forcombat communications – size <strong>and</strong> portability.“This technology shift frees usfrom having to deploy one or more tractor-trailersized vans <strong>and</strong> instead we de-<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004Photos by Maj. Keith Moore, JFHQ-air Public Affairs
ploy one or two pallets of gear <strong>and</strong> moveit into an air conditioned tent,” he said.“It also frees us to serve almost limitlessnumbers of end users. Under theold system we were limited by the numberof lines one van could tie-in. WithTDC we have a few computers, networkcontroller, switches, router <strong>and</strong> our encryptionequipment <strong>and</strong> we can operateanywhere just like a local phone companyor network provider.”As a fully qualified combat communicationsunit used to deploying <strong>and</strong>working under “bare base” conditions,the 223rd is expertly trained to meet itsmissions.“Like any <strong>Guard</strong> unit, we have adual tasking or mission orientation,”Huneycutt said. “We are tasked on thefederal side to provide communicationsin support of up to 1,200 users in an airoperations center. We are also taskedunder the governor to provide support<strong>and</strong> assistance in times of disaster forthe people of <strong>Arkansas</strong>.” He added thatbecause of the austere conditions theunit is trained to work in, they have greatexperience <strong>and</strong> appropriate assets to getemergency power <strong>and</strong> communicationslinks into any small town in <strong>Arkansas</strong> ifneeded.Summarizing the week-long operation,Huneycutt said the four communicationsunits had gained invaluableknowledge <strong>and</strong> experience in a veryshort time. The members had takenownership of the new technology <strong>and</strong>gone about the mission of mastering itsapplication with their normal outst<strong>and</strong>ingfocus <strong>and</strong> dedication.Senior Amn. David Wesser (seated),223rd CBCS <strong>and</strong> Senior Amn.Brendan Baker, 221st CBCS coordinatealignment of microwave relaysignals via radio-telephone from theirmountain-top relay site in Hot Springsto the forward deployment base inFort Chaffee.<strong>Guard</strong>/Reserve familieseligible for child careThe Department of the Army is providingfree childcare services during onedrill weekend per month at the ChildrenFirst Childcare Center, Building 68, FortRoots in North Little Rock. Hours ofoperation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. each dayof drill. A recent pilot program wasconducted from January through June2004. The DOA has extended the programthrough at least September 2005.The DOA funded childcare servicesare primarily available to the Army, Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>, <strong>and</strong> U.S. Army Reserve.Other branches of service: Air Force,Navy, Marines may use the services ona space-available basis. Services arealso available as a Parent’s Day Out forthe parents/legal custodians of childrenof mobilized/deployed troops. The serviceis free to the users with a one-timeregistration fee of $25.The Children First Childcare Centercares for children ages six weeks to12 years of age. Each staff member hasa Child Development Associate certification,<strong>and</strong> is certified in First Aid <strong>and</strong>Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Thecenter is accredited by the <strong>National</strong> Associationfor the Education of YoungChildren, <strong>and</strong> has received <strong>Arkansas</strong>State Quality Approval.The current contract only allowsfor the center to remain open for oneEditor’s Note: Little Rock AFB alsohas child care services for <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong>Reserve families on active duty. Thatprogram should not be confused withthe Army’s program at Fort Roots. Tofind out more about the program callLittle Rock AFB, 987-3156.drill weekend per month. Therefore, theschedule will coincide with the JointForce Headquarters drilling cycle whenthe majority of units will be training.Childcare services are currently scheduledfor the following drill weekends:For 2004: Oct. 2-3, Nov. 6-7, <strong>and</strong> Dec.4-5. For 2005: Jan. 8-9, Feb. 5-6, March5-6, April 2-3, May 14-15, June 4-5, July16-17, Aug. 6-7, <strong>and</strong> Sept. 10-11.Directions: From the front gate ofCamp Robinson, travel down MilitaryDrive to McArthur <strong>and</strong> turn left at thelight. At the third stop light, turn rightonto Pershing (McArthur will turn intoPike Ave.) Pershing will take you intothe Scenic Hill area. Pulaski TechnicalCollege is on the right as Pershingcurves to the left. Continue onPershing, then turn right onto CypressStreet. Building 68 is the first buildingon the left. The entrance to the childcarecenter is by the playground with theprivacy fence.Parents/legal custodians that areinterested are welcomed <strong>and</strong> encouragedto visit the facility during regularhours of operation. Please make arrangementsfor a tour <strong>and</strong> enrollmentprior to the first day of using the services.For more information, call JuanitaWilliams, center director, at 257-2187 or257-2190 or Maj. Anita Long, secretaryto the general staff at 212-5010.The center also provides childcarefor employees of the Veterans Administation<strong>and</strong> Pulaski Technical College.The childcare center meets all ofthe requirements set forth by the Departmentof the Army.Tricare offers medical/dental reimbursements<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve members who paid their medical <strong>and</strong> dentalbills <strong>and</strong> saved their receipts may now seek reimbursement from Tricare, officialsof the military health care system announced July 23.Only those issued “delayed-effective-date active-duty orders” for morethan 30 days in support of a contingency operation, <strong>and</strong> their families, may beeligible to have medical claims reimbursed. And according to Tricare, onlythose medical expenses incurred during the military member’s “early eligibility”period -up to 60 days prior to reporting to active duty- from Nov. 6, 2003,to the present are eligible for reimbursement.- American Forces Press Service<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 27
OCS Hall of Fame honors fiveformer AR ARNG membersFive former <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> officers were inducted intothe Officer C<strong>and</strong>idate School Hall ofFame, April 1, at the Professional EducationCenter, Militia Hall, Davis Auditorium.Brig. Gen. Morris Lynn Pippinentered the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> on June 28, 1959. He entered the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Military Academy OfficerC<strong>and</strong>idate School (Class #5) in 1961. Hewas commissioned a second lieutenanton June 24, 1962. Throughout his distinguishedcareer, Pippin served in manypositions within the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> to include battalion comm<strong>and</strong>er,455th Transportation Battalion;military support officer, State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>(-); civilian personnel officer,STARC (-); chief of staff <strong>and</strong> deputycomm<strong>and</strong>er of State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>;<strong>and</strong> assistant adjutant general. Pippinis a graduate of the Ordnance OfficerBasic Course, Ordnance Officer AdvancedCourse, <strong>and</strong> the United StatesArmy Comm<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> General Staff College.He also earned a Bachelor of Sciencefrom the University of the State ofNew York. He was promoted to brigadiergeneral on Oct. 25, 1993.He retired on Oct. 25, 1998 with over39 years service.Col. Bobby Armistead entered theUnited States Army on Aug. 19, 1956.He served 21 months in Korea with the1st Cavalry Division. Armistead enteredthe <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> on Aug. 6, 1958. He attended theOCS Class #5 <strong>and</strong> was commissioned asecond lieutenant on June 24, 1962.His major assignments include communicationsofficer, HHB 2nd Battalion,142nd Field Artillery; comm<strong>and</strong>er of BatteryC, 2nd Battalion, 142nd Field Artillery;assistant training officer, 142ndField Artillery Group; operations/intelligenceofficer for the 142nd Field ArtilleryBrigade; comm<strong>and</strong>er of 2nd Battalion,142nd Field Artillery; <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>erof the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade.Armistead attended the Field ArtilleryOfficer Basic Course, Field ArtilleryOfficer Advanced Course, <strong>and</strong> theUnited States Army Comm<strong>and</strong> GeneralStaff College. He also holds a Bachelorof Arts in Social Sciences from ThomasEdison State College.Armistead separated from the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on May10, 1991 with over 34 years service.Col. James R. “Ron” Penningtonentered the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> on July 8, 1960 <strong>and</strong> entered theOCS Class #6 in 1962. He was commissioneda second lieutenant on June 25,1964. Throughout his distinguishedcareer, Pennington served in various positionsto include comm<strong>and</strong>er of ServiceBattery, 2nd Battalion, 142nd Field ArtilleryBrigade; comm<strong>and</strong>er of AlphaBattery, 2nd Battalion, 142nd Field ArtilleryBrigade; operations/intelligenceofficer, 142nd Field Artillery Brigade;comm<strong>and</strong>er of 1st Battalion, 142nd FieldArtillery Brigade; facilities manager atCamp Joseph T. Robinson; training officerfor the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade;deputy brigade comm<strong>and</strong>er, 39thInfantry Brigade (Separate); <strong>and</strong> comm<strong>and</strong>erof the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade.Pennington is a graduate of theField Artillery Officer’s Basic Course,Field Artillery Officer’s Advance Course,the U.S. Army Comm<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> GeneralStaff College, Nuclear/Chemical TargetAnalyst Course, <strong>and</strong> the TacticalComm<strong>and</strong>er’s Development Course. Heholds a Bachelor of Science <strong>and</strong> a Mastersof Science in Civil Engineering. Hewas promoted to colonel on July 8, 1991.Pennington retired from the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on July 8, 1996with 36 years of service.Col. Pat Teague entered the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on March 21,1960 in the Combat Support Company,1st Battalion, 153rd Infantry. He graduatedfrom OCS Class #5 <strong>and</strong> was commissioneda second lieutenant on June24, 1962. Teague is a graduate of theInfantry Officer’s Basic Course at FortBenning, Ga., the Infantry School CareerCourse, <strong>and</strong> the United States ArmyComm<strong>and</strong> General Staff College. Heholds a Bachelors Degree in Business<strong>and</strong> a Masters of History from HardingUniversity. Colonel Teague’s leadershippositions include training officer, 1stBattalion, 153rd Infantry; battalion comm<strong>and</strong>er,1st Battalion, 153rd Infantry;brigade training officer, 39th InfantryBrigade (Separate); executive officer,39th Infantry Brigade (Separate); <strong>and</strong>comm<strong>and</strong>er of the Post MobilizationHeadquarters, State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>.Teague retired from the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on Jan. 20,1989 with over 28 years of service.Col. Glenn A. Pearce entered the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on Nov.20, 1957. He entered OCS Class #6 in1962. He was commissioned a secondlieutenant on May 19, 1963. Throughouthis distinguished career, Pearceserved in various positions to includecomm<strong>and</strong>er, 1st Battalion, 153rd Infantry;brigade training officer, 39th InfantryBrigade (Separate); executive officer,39th Infantry Brigade (Separate); directorof logistics for State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>;deputy brigade comm<strong>and</strong>er, 39th InfantryBrigade (Separate); comm<strong>and</strong> logisticsofficer, State Area Comm<strong>and</strong>; <strong>and</strong>comm<strong>and</strong>er, Installation Support Unit.Pearce is a graduate of the InfantryOfficer’s Basic Course, InfantryOfficer’s Advance Course, <strong>and</strong> theUnited States Army Comm<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> GeneralStaff College. He was promoted tocolonel on Jan. 24, 1989.Pearce retired from the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> on Jan. 24, 1994with over 36 years service.Also included in the ceremony wasthe recognition of Brig. Gen. John B.Morris who was inducted last year, buthis widow could not attend that ceremony.Morris enlisted in the <strong>Arkansas</strong>See Hall of Fame, Page 2928<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
MTC trains Soldiers in IraqBy SSG David SmithPublic Affairs NCO<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>MarksmanshipTraining CenterThe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> MarksmanshipTraining Center is the <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong>’s premier marksmanshiptraining facility. With top-notch instructors,state-of-the-art trainingaids, intensive schools <strong>and</strong> numerousmarksmanship competitions,the center possesses the assets forsuccess.Just like anything else in theworld, you measure your success bythe fruit of your labor. One such resultfor the MTC is found in StaffSgt. Mark Richard, who is stationedat Tallil Air Base just outside of AnNasiriyah, Iraq.Richard, of Kokomo, Ind., hashoned his marksmanship skills asan MTC student <strong>and</strong> competitor. Ina recent letter to Capt. VictorMarcelle, training officer at theMTC, Richard commented on thebenefit of training he received overthe years.“When we went through themobilization process my skills as ashooter were definitely utilized,” Richardwrote. “I gave PMI (PrimaryMarksmanship Instruction) to ourcompany <strong>and</strong> it really showed onthe range.”Stationed with the 1st Battalionof the 293rd Infantry, Richard saidonly three soldiers in the companydidn’t qualify on the first try. Afterreviewing some fundamentals, thethree went back <strong>and</strong> qualified thenext time through.Richard is an All-<strong>Guard</strong> shooterwho has competed at home <strong>and</strong>abroad. He’s been to Australia, Engl<strong>and</strong>,<strong>and</strong> South Africa, just toname a few. Now his skills <strong>and</strong> trainingas a competitive shooter comedown to what it’s all about. Combatreadiness.The training Richard was ableto pass on to his fellow soldiersproved valuable. Having a speedyqualification “allowed our unit moretime to train for the live fire exercises,”he wrote. “By doing that,we were the first company to do allour live fires (squad to company)before we finished our AT period<strong>and</strong> went on federal orders.”The MTC’s goal is for soldiers<strong>and</strong> airmen to share what they learnwith their units <strong>and</strong> use it on thebattlefield, if needed. Richard takesthis to heart.“I taught positions <strong>and</strong> techniqueswe (competitive marksmen)had learned for combat. This putus way ahead of any company inthe battalion.”Located at Camp Joseph T.Robinson in North Little Rock, youcan contact the center for more informationon competitions orschool offerings by calling (501)212-4500, or by visiting their website at www.arguard.org.DiversityAwarenessThe <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> is committedto providing fair <strong>and</strong> equitable treatmentto everyone <strong>and</strong> ensuring a workenvironment free of all forms of discrimination<strong>and</strong>/or harassment. Underst<strong>and</strong>ingthat the <strong>Guard</strong> is a multi-cultural mixof people, special events are availablethroughout the year to celebrate the differenceswe all share.February: Black History MonthSampling of cuisine at the 2004Black Heritage event enabled visitorsto share in the richness ofdifferent flavors. Food is a commonground among a variety ofcultures.Staff photo by Capt. Kristine M. MunnMarch: Women’s History MonthLate last year, Tech. Sgt. Brenda F. Herringreceived the 2003 Military Heroesof Hampton Roads award. Working manningissues in support of the global waron terrorism earned this <strong>Arkansas</strong> Air<strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> member international recognition.File photoMay: Asian-Pacific Heritage MonthThis 2004 celebration, held in LittleRock, was highlighted by a variety ofdances, including this one from India.Also featured was singing, a fashiondisplay <strong>and</strong> Oriental cuisine.Staff photo by Buddy GarrettOCS Hall of Fame Continued from Page 28Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> in 1928. He wasassigned to Headquarters, 1st Battalion,153rd Infantry.In 1940 he was commissioned a secondlieutenant <strong>and</strong> assigned to the 153rdInfantry Regiment. Soon following, hewas mobilized <strong>and</strong> assigned to Alaskawith his regiment.Morris served on active duty until1947 when he returned to the <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>. In 1951, he was<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004named adjutant general of the <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> remained at thatpost until 1953. Morris then revertedback to the rank of colonel <strong>and</strong> continuedto serve the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Army <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> until 1970. During this spanof time he served as the first comm<strong>and</strong>antof the <strong>Arkansas</strong> Military Academyin 1957.Morris died on Dec. 15, 1987 inNorth Little Rock, Ark.September: Native American MonthMinuteman Days open house isa time to celebrate Native AmericancultureStaff photo by Buddy GarrettOctober: Hispanic Heritage MonthComing up in October, the HispanicHeritage activities will present an insightinto <strong>Arkansas</strong>’ fastest growingculture.Staff photo by Buddy Garrett29
ARLINGTON, VA (May 14,2004) – The <strong>National</strong> Committee forEmployer Support of the <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong>Reserve selected 15 businessesfrom across the nation as 2004’sSecretary of Defense FreedomAward recipients.The Department of Defense<strong>and</strong> ESGR will formally present theaward to these organizations in aceremony at the Ronald Reagan InternationalTrade Center on Sept.21.This year’s award recipients areWal-Mart Stores, Inc., Bentonville,Ark.; American Express, New YorkCity; Bank One Corp., Chicago; ColtSafety Fire <strong>and</strong> Rescue, St. Louis;Employer Support ofthe <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> ReserveCentral <strong>Arkansas</strong> Veterans Healthcare Systemsigns Statement of Support withrepresentatives from state ESGRLITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 14, 2004)– Mr. George H. Gray, Jr., medical centerdirector of the Central <strong>Arkansas</strong> VeteransHealthcare System, signed aStatement of Support today with the<strong>Arkansas</strong> Employer Support of theGeorge H. Gray, Jr.,medical center director,signs the statement ofsupport as witnessed byMaj. Gen. (Ret) MelvinThrash, State ESGRchair (left); CW4 DanPeterson, <strong>Arkansas</strong>Army <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>,<strong>and</strong> chief of Human Resources,Central <strong>Arkansas</strong>Veterans HealthcareSystem (background);<strong>and</strong> Dr. Nicholas Lang,chief of staff (right).<strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve.In signing the statement, Gray <strong>and</strong>the CAVHS are recognizing the <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve as essentialto the strength of the nation <strong>and</strong> thewell being of <strong>Arkansas</strong> communities.Coors Brewing Co., Golden, Colo.;General Electric, Fairfield, Conn.;Harley-Davidson, Milwaukee; TheHome Depot, Atlanta; Los AngelesCounty Sheriff’s Department,Monterey Park, Calif.; NorthropGrumman Corp., Los Angeles; FiskCorp./OneSource Building Technologies,Houston; Saints MemorialMedical Center, Lowell, Mass.;Sprint Corp., Overl<strong>and</strong> Park, Kan.;State of Minnesota, St. Paul <strong>and</strong>Strategic Solutions, Inc., WalnutCreek, Calif.Secretary of Defense WilliamPerry instituted the Employer SupportFreedom Award in 1996 to recognizethe significant contributionsPhoto by Sgt. Leanna Higginbotham, ESGR program specialist.The CAVHS is one of the largestemployers in <strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>and</strong> has wellover 100 employees who are in eitherthe <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> or Reserves; 36 ofthese men <strong>and</strong> women are currently activated.Gray said that these individualswill have their jobs <strong>and</strong> benefitsrestored when they return from activeduty.“Not only is that the law,” he said,“we are grateful for their service.Many of our employees are veteranswhich is very helpful in relating to <strong>and</strong>fulfilling our VA mission of caring forour nation’s veterans.”“The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserverepresent 37 percent of the forces currentlyserving in Iraq,” said BobHollingsworth, ESGR executive director.“With the increasing need for <strong>Guard</strong><strong>and</strong> Reserve troops, America’s employersare inextricably linked to the nation’sdefense by sharing their most preciousassets, their employees.”ESGR announces 2004 Secretary of DefenseEmployer Support Freedom Award recipients<strong>and</strong> sacrifices made by America’semployers of the <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve.Previous recipients have includedMiller Brewing, SouthwestAirlines, Tyson Foods, BAE Systems,<strong>and</strong> The Public Service Co. ofNew Hampshire.As the 1.2 million members ofthe <strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Reserve continue toperform an increasing number ofunique missions within America’sborders <strong>and</strong> beyond, ESGR will continueto be the contact agency foreducational programs <strong>and</strong> servicesthat enhance the relationship betweencivilian employers <strong>and</strong> theiremployees who serve in the <strong>Guard</strong><strong>and</strong> Reserve.30<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004
ACU worn with the Patrol Cap.Moisture wicking tan T-Shirt.M<strong>and</strong>arin collar worn in thedown position.Velcro backed U.S. Army <strong>and</strong>last name tape.Elbow pouch with Velcro closure forinternal elbow pad inserts.Zippered front closure, reinforcedwith Velcro which provides a smoothsurface when worn with body armor.Knee pouch with Velcro closure forinternal knee pad inserts.Leg cuff with front closure.The new U.S. Army combat uniformwas designed with major inputby the noncommissioned officercorps <strong>and</strong> enlisted Soldiers, <strong>and</strong>tested by Stryker Brigade Soldiers inIraq since October 2003.Three versions have been developed,<strong>and</strong> more than 10,000 have beenproduced <strong>and</strong> battle-tested. Evenmore are on American production linesto be issued by April 2005 to Soldiersin deploying units. Current plans callfor fielding to the total Army by December2007, said officials from theProgram Executive Office Soldier,known as PEO Soldier.The bottom pockets on the jacketwere removed <strong>and</strong> placed on theshoulder sleeves so Soldiers can haveaccess to them while wearing bodyarmor. The pockets were also tiltedforward so that they are easily accessible.Buttons were replaced with zippersthat open from the top <strong>and</strong> bottomto provide comfort while wearingarmor.In addition to overall pattern <strong>and</strong> color changes,ACU changes include:1. M<strong>and</strong>arin collar that can be worn up or down.2. Rank insignia affixed above right chest pocket.3. Velcro for wearing unit patch, skill tabs <strong>and</strong> recognition devices.4. Zippered front closure.5. Elbow pouch for internal elbow pad inserts.6. Knee pouch for internal knee pad inserts.7. Elastic leg cuff.8. Tilted chest pockets with Velcro closure.9. Three-slot pen pocket on bottom of sleeve.10. Velcro sleeve cuff closure.11. Shoulder pockets with Velcro.12. Forward tilted cargo pockets.13. Integrated blouse bellows for increased upper body mobility.14. Integrated Friend or Foe Identification Square on both left <strong>and</strong> rightshoulder pocket flap.15. Bellowed calf storage pocket on left <strong>and</strong> right leg.16. Moisture-wicking desert tan t-shirt.17. Patrol Cap with double thick bill <strong>and</strong> internal pocket.18. Improved hot-weather desert boot or temperate-weather desert boot.Air Forceapproves newPT uniformWASHINGTON (June 18, 2004) — TheAir Force’s first physical training uniformwill hit the street later this year.Senior Master Sgt. JacquelineDean of the Air Force Uniform Boardsaid that the new PT uniform has alreadybeen approved by Air ForceChief of Staff Gen. John P. Jumper<strong>and</strong> will soon be in active service.“We did a wear <strong>and</strong> fit test fromJanuary through March,” Dean said.“We took all the feedback, <strong>and</strong> we nowhave established military specifications.”The PT uniform ensemble consistsof dark blue running shorts, agray T-shirt <strong>and</strong> a dark blue runningsuit — all with reflective safety markings.Dean said the goal was to haveenough PT uniforms by Oct. 1, 2004to supply Airmen scheduled for immediatedeployment. After that requirementis met, the uniforms will be availablefor purchase through Army <strong>and</strong>Air Force Exchange Service.The PT uniform will have a twotothree-year phase-in period. Deansaid the running suit costs about $100<strong>and</strong> the shorts <strong>and</strong> shirt about $25. Officialshave not yet determined if Airmenwill receive a lump sum allotmentin October, an increase in their annualclothing allowance, or a voucher to payfor the initial requirement.Although personal preference isthe rule for PT shoes, Dean said theymust be conservative in design <strong>and</strong>color. Saluting will not be requiredwhile wearing the PT uniform, <strong>and</strong>jewelry wear will be the same as withother uniforms, so long as safety istaken into consideration.Only active-duty, Air <strong>National</strong><strong>Guard</strong> <strong>and</strong> Air Force Reserve Airmenwill be authorized to purchase the PTuniforms from AAFES until adequatesupplies are available.- Master Sgt. Scott ElliottAir Force Print News<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004 31
Celebrating 200 Years of Military Service in <strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>Arkansas</strong><strong>Guard</strong><strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Guard</strong>TAG-DZ-PACamp RobinsonNorth Little Rock, AR 72199-9600PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGEPAIDCapitol Heights, MDPERMIT NO. 441632<strong>Arkansas</strong> <strong>Guard</strong> - Summer 2004