GUARDIANNorth Dakota

Volume 7, Issue 4 April 2014

THE BEST OF THE BESTHappy Hooligans Recognize Outstanding Airmen of the YearPG. 10

FRIENDLY GUARD COMPETITIONBiathlon Team

Finishes StrongPG. 4

DepartmentsGuardian Snapshots ..................... News Briefs .....................................Sound Off! .....................................

Page 15 Page 18Page 19

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On the Cover

Inside This IssueFeatures

The North Dakota Guardian is an authorized publication for members, families and retirees of the N.D. National Guard.

• Contents of the North Dakota Guardian are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, or the Department of the Army or Air Force.

• Editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Joint Force Headquarters, N.D. National Guard ( JFND) Public Affairs Officer.

• Printed by United Printing, a private firm in no way connected to the U.S. Government under exclusive written contract with the JFND. Reproduction is by the offset method with a circulation of approximately 4,900.

• The North Dakota Guardian is published by the JFND Public Information Office, Box 5511, Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511, 701.333.2007

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONSContributions to the North Dakota Guardian are encouraged! Send articles, photos and art to Editor, JFND PIO, Box 5511, Bismarck, N.D. 58506-5511. Electronic submissions are preferred. Please e-mail stories in Word format to: jennifer.m.joyce2.mil@mail.milPhone: 701-333-2195 Fax: 701-333-2017Digital photos should be 300 dpi, if possible.

Commander in ChiefNorth Dakota Governor

Jack Dalrymple

The Adjutant GeneralMaj. Gen. David A. Sprynczynatyk

Chief of Public AffairsSgt. 1st Class Billie Jo Lorius

EditorSgt. Jennifer Joyce

ContributorsChaplain (Maj.) James W. CheneySenior Master Sgt. David H. LippSgt. 1st Class Amy Wieser Willson

Staff Sgt. Eric W. JensenStaff Sgt. Eric JungelsStaff Sgt. Brett MillerSgt. Jonathan Haugen

Sgt. Cody BarberMr. Bill ProkopykMs. April Thorstad

Mr. Thømas Christopher

Airman Staff Sgt. Andrew Frovarp, of the 119th Security Forces Squadron, performs security procedures inherent to his position at the N.D. Air National Guard base in Fargo. Frovarp is this year’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for the 119th Wing.

8 Different Uniformson the Court

Student athletes sport Army combat-themed basketball uniforms in support of Military Appreciation games held throughout the state.

Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp,119th Wing

6 Supporting theGuard Family

Family members and volunteers were recognized for their support and committment to the N.D. National Guard during the 2014 Volunteer and Youth Symposium held in Fargo last month.

12 Sexual AssaultAwareness Month

This month, a number of events are being held to inform Soldiers and Airmen about sexual assault prevention and response. This year’s event theme is “Live Our Values: Step Up to Stop Sexual Assault.”

A Ms. April thorstad

Personal Financial Counselor

Guard PostsDispatches from the N.D. Guard Family

‘Tis the season– tax season, that is

As tax season comes to an end, many of you may be thinking about your tax refund. Will you have to pay in, or will you receive a large refund? Should you lower your current tax liability? What should you do with your refund?

If you are paying in, you may want to consider changing your W-4 with your employer to have more taxes taken out each month. Similarly, if you are receiving a large refund, you may want to consider chang-ing your W-4 to have fewer taxes taken out. Once you start receiving this extra money each month, make certain to have a plan so that it does not disappear. Make this extra money count by setting up an auto-matic savings allotment, paying off debt or increasing contributions to your retirement plan.

You can lower your current tax liability by putting money into a tax-deferred account, such as the Traditional Thrift Savings Plan or traditional individual retirement account (IRA). However, it is important to look at

your long-range financial picture. It may be more beneficial to choose a retirement plan that pays the taxes up front, such as the Roth Thrift Savings Plan or Roth IRA.

Now that you know how much your tax refund is going to be, it is time to decide how to make it best work for you. First, do you have at least $1,000 in your emergency fund? It is highly recommended to have at least three to six months of living expenses saved for an emergency account. If this amount seems impossible, start by saving every extra dollar until you have $1,000. Second, how much debt do you have? Focus on paying off your high interest debt or paying off your debt with the smallest bal-ance first. Third, increase your retirement savings. Last fall, the Roth Thrift Savings Plan became available to traditional Guard and Reserve service members. According to the IRS, an individual can contribute up to $17,500 into his/her employer-sponsored plan, such as the Roth Thrift Savings Plan, and up to $5,500 in a Roth IRA. Individu-

als ages 50 and older also can contribute an additional $5,500 to an employer-sponsored plan, and an additional $1,000 to an IRA.

If you have financial questions, please contact the North Dakota Joint Family Support Assistance Program’s Personal Financial Counselor April Thorstad (see contact information below). Although Thorstad’s office is located at the Military Service Center in Bismarck, she can travel to meet service members and their families in locations across the state.

Ms. Thorstad is a resource for all N.D. National Guard service members and their familes. She is available to provide confidential counseling regarding numerous financial topics including Thrift Savings Plans, retirement planning, budgeting, credit scores and debt reduction. Below is Ms. Thorstad’s tentative travel schedule. She is also available for individual meetings upon request. She can be reached at 701-333-4813 or email AThorstad@MFLC.Zeiders.com.

BismarckApr. 1-8, 15-30May 7-31Jun. 1-7, 17-30Jul. 1-18, 21-31Aug. 1-13, 16-31

Camp GraftonApr. 10Jun. 8-13

FargoApr. 12, 14May 3-6Apr. 11Jun. 19-20

JamestownApr. 14May 6

MinotApr. 9May 17Aug. 15

RugbyApr. 10

Valley CityApr. 14May 2-3, 6

WahpetonMay 4-5

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After a year of dedicated training and competing, the N.D. National Guard biathlon team concluded another exciting season.

Biathlon competition combines the endurance and stamina of cross-country skiing with rifle marksmanship on a 50-meter range. The marksmanship range has five targets for each shooter and penalty laps result from missed targets.

The specialized training and competitions provide an opportunity for National Guard Soldiers and Airmen to demonstrate skills that are imperative for military service: athletic ability, endurance, marksmanship and teamwork.

This year, seven N.D. Soldiers and Airmen competed against their counterparts from more than 20 states at the Camp Ethan Allen Training Site in

Jericho, Vt., for the Chief of the National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships last month. The North Dakota team placed second — with the Vermont team taking top honors — after winning the Central Region Biathlon Competition at Camp Ripley, Minn., for the fifth time in a row Feb. 3-8.

The team competitions combined the results of the four-person patrol race and the four-person 7.5-kilometer relay race events. The team members were Maj. Erik Nordgren, of Pelican Rapids, Minn., Capt. Robert Meland, of Bismarck, 1st Lt. Blake Hillerson, of St. Paul, Minn., and Spc. Conrad Roberts, of Battle Lake, Minn.

Some members of the North Dakota team won individual honors. Tech. Sgt. Danelle Card, of Hawley, Minn., placed fourth in the women’s sprint race and fifth in the women’s pursuit race. Hillerson placed third in the men’s pursuit race and fifth in the men’s sprint race.

“The team was incredible. All of our

By Sgt. Jennifer Joyce,116th Public Affairs Detachment

Biathlon Team Completes Another Successful Season

From left, Sgt. Brandon Pulst, Master Sgt. Kent Pulst, Tech. Sgt. Danelle Card, Capt. Robert Meland, Maj. Erik Nordgren, Spc. Conrad Roberts, 1st Lt. Blake Hillerson and Sgt. Jordan Becker prepare to compete at the National Guard Bureau Biathlon National Championships last month.

Contributed photo

4 · Guardian · april 2014

athletes skied hard and shot straight,” said the North Dakota team’s assistant coach Col. David Skalicky, of Bismarck (Sgt. Jordan Becker, of Grand Forks, is the head coach). “Special recognition goes to 1st Lt. Blake Hillerson for his individual third place finish in the pursuit race. He only was bested by two former Olympic athletes.”

Last Year

Last year the N.D. National Guard biathlon team won the Annual Chief of the National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championship, their first championship since 2010. The national event serves as the qualifier for the All-Guard Biathlon Team, which leads to international competitions for the athletes, as well as possible selection for the U.S. Biathlon Association training program for World Cup-level competitions.

Meland and Hillerson were selected for the 2013-2014 USA National Guard Biathlon team along with two other National Guard Soldiers from Minnesota and Colorado. They participated in an international competition in Sestriere, Italy in January. Each member placed in the top 30 for the 15-kilomter mass-start ski race and they took fifth overall in the 25-kilometer patrol team race.

This Month

N.D. team members who made the

All-Guard Team this year were Nordgren, Hillerson, Roberts and Card. Hillerson and Roberts qualified to participate in the 52nd World Military Skiing Championship in Sodankyla, Finland, this month.Approximately 250 athletes are expected to take part in the competition.

“My hat is off to our ‘All-Guard’ skiers and best wishes to Spc. Conrad Roberts and 1st Lt. Hillerson as they participate in the 52nd World Military Skiing Championship. We have a strong team that will stay intact next season and, hopefully, have another national championship in the making,” Skalicky said.

The event is sponsored by the International Military Sports Council (CISM), one of the largest multidisciplinary organizations in the world. CISM coordinates numerous sporting events for the armed forces of their 133 member countries. Founded in 1948, CISM operates under the goal of contributing world peace by uniting armed forces through sports.

“I’m excited to compete against professionals from around the world. I know there will be Olympians participating,” Hillerson said.

Hillerson, who has trained extesnively and competed in multiple biathlons, said that his passion for the sport has evolved during the past few years.

“I used to focus a lot of my energy on training and performing,” he said. “now that family is a focus, biathlons are something I do for fun.”

From left, Sgt. Brandon Pulst, Maj. Erik Nordgren, Tech. Sgt. Danelle Card, Capt. Robert Meland, Sgt. Jordan Becker, Spc. Conrad Roberts, 1st Lt. Blake Hillerson and Master Sgt. Kent Pulst accept the award for placing second overall at the Chief of the National Guard Bureau Biathlon National Championships last month.

Contributed photo

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By Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen,Joint Force Headquarters

A rmy combat and air battle uniforms were traded out for cowboy hats, sheriff badges and spurs as the inclusive N.D. National Guard Family — Soldiers, Airmen, fami-lies and volunteers — shared a weekend of networking

and learning during the N.D. National Guard Volunteer Sympo-sium and Youth Symposium March 8-9 at the Ramada Plaza and Suites in Fargo.

The weekend gave attendees an opportunity to focus on build-ing resiliency and fortifying strength within Guard families to contend with the challenges that can arise during military service. Infused with a western motif, event presenters drew parallels be-tween resiliency traits required for military life and characteristics embodied by the heroic American cowboy figure and its “Code of the West.” Speakers covered topics that included developing methods for maintaining spiritual, emotional and physical fitness, battling through adversity to bounce back stronger and strength-ening personal relationships to acquire solid support systems to rely upon while facing life obstacles.

Connie Sprynczynatyk, civilian aide to the secretary of the Army, or CASA, and wife of North Dakota Adjutant General Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, opened the Volunteer Sympo-sium by reminding attendees about North Dakota’s affection for its military members. She noted that N.D. Guardsmen and their families’ service during statewide flood events over the past four years had not gone unnoticed.

“You are loved in this state,” she said. “Everyone remembers the sacrifices that all of you made to support your communities when they needed you, including those of you who served beside those who wear the uniform. Remember that we all are in this together, and we all can help each other build resiliency for the missions ahead, minute by minute and day by day.”

An exceptional group of N.D. National Guard volunteers, whose contributions support service members and their families, were honored during an award luncheon at the event, as well. The organization’s Service Member and Family Support Divi-sion (SMFS) annually gives out awards recognizing volunteers and organizations for their outstanding commitment to military members and their families. The SMFS began the volunteer

Military Families Develop Relationships, Build Resiliency during Symposiums

Forging Strength

Top, Connie Sprynczynatyk, civilian aide to the secretary of the Army, or CASA, and wife of North Dakota Adjutant General Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, addresses attendees March 8 during the opening of the N.D. National Guard Volunteer Symposium in Fargo. Bottom, Brig. Gen. Ron Solberg, assistant adjutant general — air, tries his hand at the cowboy practice of lassoing after a morning demonstration from the North Dakota State University Rodeo Team.

See video from the Volunteer Symposium and Youth Symposium at

http://bit.ly/1dyJhhA

6 · Guardian · april 2014

award recognition in 2008.“Our entire North Dakota National Guard Family relies on

our generous group of volunteers to help us maintain our readi-ness,” said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adju-tant general. “For those being recognized during today’s awards program, thank you for all you have done. As our Soldiers and Airmen mobilize for missions overseas or respond to emergencies at home, it is a great feeling to know that we have loyal volunteers there to support us.”

The coinciding Youth Symposium brought together military children for a weekend of teambuilding and leadership develop-ment. National Guard youth also learned resilience skills that were taught to meet the needs of military families impacted by deployments and other military-related absences and obstacles.

“It’s obvious that this weekend has been very successful and re-warding,” Maj. Gen. Sprynczynatyk said. “Connie and I both had the opportunity to visit with our North Dakota National Guard youth this weekend. For all you parents, you can be very proud of your children, because they are proud of you. They let me know that they think the world of our National Guard and are happy to be a part of what we all do. ”

The Volunteer of the Year Award, which is given to one volunteer who shows outstanding and exceptional service to the N.D. National Guard’s Family Program, was presented to Stephanie Lyson for her support of the 816th Engineer Company (Horizontal).

Retired Maj. Gen. Alexander Macdonald, of Fargo, and Daryn Hoover, of Minot, N.D., both received the Extra Mile Award. The honor is presented to two N.D. National Guard retirees — one Air Guard and one Army Guard — who distin-

guishes themselves by continuing to provide outstanding and exceptional service to Soldiers and Airmen through volunteering.

The Community Purple Award is presented to a community group or organization that best embraces the “purple concept” by working with both N.D. Air and Army Guard mem-bers and families. This year’s recipient was the North Dakota Beef Commission for its support of Soldiers and Airmen during the N.D. State Fair.

This year’s Gold Award was given to Pastor Stephen Holmes, of Garrison, N.D. The award is presented to one vol-unteer who shows long-term, consistent and dedicated support while volunteering with the N.D. National Guard’s Family Pro-gram and within their community.

Parish and Savanna Halle, of Fargo, received the Youth Vol-unteer Award. The honor is presented to N.D. National Guard military youth who are 15 to 17 years old and provide exemplary commitment and support to N.D. National Guard families.

Jeff Long, of Bismarck, received the Youth Development Volunteer Award, which is presented to an adult volun-teer who has made a significant impact in the development and support of the N.D. National Guard Child and Youth Program.

Connie Sprynczynatyk and her husband, Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, right, present the Extra Mile Award for the N.D. Air National Guard to retired Maj. Gen. Alexander Macdonald, a former North Dakota adjutant general, who is joined by his wife, Joan.

A group of N.D. National Guard youth attempt to build a tower made out of marshmallows and uncooked spaghetti during a teambuilding exercise with facilitators from the Project Y.E.S! Program. The national program’s facilitators and their mentors helped N.D. National Guard

Youth Symposium attendees explore leadership development and learn new life skills.

Volunteers Recognized for Commitment to Guard Families

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 7

The North Dakota Army National Guard has teamed up with high schools and colleges across the state in an effort to build relationships between the military members and communities in a cooperative environment. The Recruiting and Retention Battalion has been creating community partnerships at nearly 40 North Dakota school sporting events through its Military and Community Appreciation Program this year.

The program officially kicked off with the 2013-14 North Dakota boys and girls — class A and B — basketball season. The N.D. Army National Guard provides school teams with military sports jerseys for athletes to wear during season games.

“We live in the community, we work in the community and our kids are part of these teams. It provides an opportunity to establish positive connections and encourage healthy relationships,” said Lt. Col. William G. Watson, Recruiting and Retention Battalion commander.

North Dakota home teams wear military jerseys provided by the Recruiting and Retention Battalion to demonstrate the community connection that the N.D. Army National Guard has established for many years.

“When the kids found out that they would be wearing the jerseys, they were so fired up. To see the extra excitement in them was very, very cool,” said Monte Mayer, activities director for Kidder County Schools.

High school basketball players within the state were given a camouflage shirt as part of their warm-up uniform. Mayer said that they continue to wear the shirts to school.

“The schools have really used the jerseys

the guard teams up with student athletes

By Sgt. Sara Marchus,116th Public Affairs Detachment

Beach High School Girls Basketball Contributed photo

8 · Guardian · april 2014

to embrace military and community appreciation. Additionally, this initiative has strengthened my relationships with the teachers, counselors, principals, coaches and athletic directors at the schools,” said Staff Sgt. Heather J. Kuntz, a member of the southeast recruiting team for the N.D. Army National Guard.

Kuntz expects to use this program as a platform to continue to develop additional programs and events within the schools, including presentations, life skills activities and career exploration.

“As students transition into young adults and begin to make life decisions, we want them to be aware of the options and benefits within the military and what the N.D. Army National Guard can provide them,” Watson said.

The Military and Community Appreciation events have been well

received by players, coaches, students, parents and community members. Local American Veterans, or AMVETS, chapters also have reached out and offered to conduct Honor Guard activities during the National Anthem prior to athletic contests.

“We want to demonstrate to schools that we are here to help in a variety of ways. We have so much to offer to benefit our schools and communities, and the jerseys are a piece of that connection,” said Staff Sgt. Raymond E. Dingeman, a member of the west recruiting team for the N.D. Army National Guard.

The N.D. Army National Guard will expand its partnership with North Dakota schools and continue its program into the 2014-15 school year. Military and Community Appreciation nights will extend to additional athletic seasons,

including basketball, volleyball, football, hockey and wrestling.

“I’m excited that the program will continue into future seasons. It’s something different, it’s really fun and it gives players and fans something to look forward to,” said Alexis Blazek, a junior on the girl’s basketball team at Century High School in Bismarck.

As the program develops, the intent is to reach out to additional schools in North Dakota that want to participate and provide them with an opportunity to host a Military and Community Appreciation game.

“Through our efforts, we hope to reach each and every student and make them aware that the N.D. Army National Guard exists and can offer great things for their future,” Watson said.

Valley City High School Girls Basketball

Bismarck High School Girls Basketball Contributed photo

Contributed photo

Contributed photo

Contributed photoCentury High School Boys Basketball

Sgt. 1st Class Brian Bartlett, with the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, joins his daughter, Brittney, at Kidder County High School’s Military Appreciation basketball game in Steele, N.D.

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 9

The Best of the BestHappy Hooligans Name Outstanding Airmen of the Year

The North Dakota Air National Guard, known as the “Happy Hooligans,” recog-nized the “best of the best” during the 2013 Outstanding Airmen of the Year banquet last month. Fifteen Airmen were nomi-nated for awards, based on their military and civic service during 2013, with only three winners walking away with the titles of Outstanding Airman of the Year, Out-standing Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Outstanding Senior Noncommis-

sioned Officer of the Year. The N.D. National Guard’s 188th

Army Band provided entertainment, which was then followed with the introduction of distinguished guests and dinner. Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, praised the accomplishments of the Airmen who were nominated.

“This event has been going on for well over 20 years, and I’ve had the personal privilege and honor of being here the last eight years,” Sprynczynatyk said. “Every year, I just marvel at the descrip-tions and accomplishments and achieve-ments of the young Air men and women that we’re recognizing tonight.

“Congratulations to the nominees for the Outstanding Airmen of the Year. You have done a great job for us — not

Photos by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp,119th Wing

only as you serve on duty, but in our com-munities as well. And to all of the men and women of the 119th Wing, you, too, are truly America’s best.”

Sprynczynatyk also presented awards to Master Sgt. Josh Clarke and his family, Tech Sgt. Haley Mitchell and Master Sgt. Larry Torres. Clarke was awarded the Bronze Star for his efforts and dedica-tion to service while serving at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, with the N.D. Air National Guard’s 119th Security Forces Squadron. His family was recognized as the N.D. Air National Guard Family of the Year. Mitchell was named Unit Career Advisor of the Year, which recognizes outstanding individual effort and achieve-ment in unit retention and Career Moti-vation Program management. Torres was named First Sergeant of the Year, which recognizes the important contributions and leadership qualities exhibited by top first sergeants in the Air Force.

Retired major general and former North Dakota Adjutant General Alexan-der Macdonald also awarded the “Extra Mile” Award for his volunteer efforts.

Three Airmen were honored during the award presentation. Staff Sgt. Shelly Pherson, of Fargo, N.D., was named Out-standing Airman of the Year. Staff Sgt.Andrew Frovarp, of Moorhead, Minn., was named Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Master Sgt. Toby Eiter, of Breckenridge, Minn., was named Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

“Congratulations to all 15 Airmen who were selected by their peers to repre-sent the best of the best of our enlisted force,” said Col. Kent Olson, 119th Wing commander. “All are to be recognized as superb leaders to guide us, as well as great mentors to inspire us.

Fifteen Airmen with the N.D. Air National Guard were nominated by their peers for the 2013 Outstanding Airmen of the Year award for their military and civic service. Three Airmen were selected for Outstanding Airman of the Year, Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Outstanding Senior Non-commissioned Officer of the Year at a banquet held in Moorhead, Minn., last month.

Story by Staff Sgt. Eric Jungels,N.D. National Guard Public Affairs

10 · Guardian · april 2014

The Best of the BestHappy Hooligans Name Outstanding Airmen of the Year

Staff Sgt. Shelly Pherson

Pherson was born and raised in Rut-land, N.D. She graduated from Sargent Central High School in Forman, N.D., prior to moving to Fargo.

Pherson is attending North Dakota State University, where she is pursuing a double major in crop and weed science and agricultural education. After gradu-ation, she hopes to teach agriculture in a rural school and practice as an agrono-mist in the summer months.

Pherson joined the N.D. Air National Guard in April 2009. She serves as an air transportation journeyman.

Additionally, Pherson is an improvi-sation artist with Linebenders Improv Comedy, where she performs in local and national comedy shows. She also a gym-nastics coach at American Gold.

Staff Sgt. Andrew Frovarp

Frovarp was born in Edina, Minn., and raised in Moorhead, Minn. He lives in Moorhead with his wife, Staff Sgt. Kristen Frovarp, who also is a member of the N.D. Air National Guard

Frovarp joined the N.D. Air National Guard in June 2007, serving in the 219th Security Forces Squadron.

Frovarp took criminal justice classes at North Dakota State University, and he is currently finishing his last semester at the Police Academy in Alexandria, Minn.

Additionally, Frovarp works as a correc-tions officer for the Clay County Sheriff ’s Office and volunteers with a dog rescue organization called 4 Luv of Dogs, located in Moorhead.

Master Sgt. Toby Eiter

Eiter was born in Breckenridge, Minn., and raised in West Fargo. He currently lives in Lake Park, Minn., with his wife, Kristina. They have three children: Jordan (17), Tripp (6) and Tydan (3).

Eiter served in the active-duty Air Force for 15 years and held a variety of positions, including: security forces flight chief, anti-terrorism instructor, intelligence analyst and emergency medical technician.

Eiter joined the N.D. Air National Guard in May 2008 as a C-21 intelligence analyst, prior to his current position in the Intelligence Squadron.

Eiter works full time at Windsor Sales, specializing in hospitality lighting sales. He volunteers as a Cub Scout den leader and elementary basketball coach. He also is a member of the N.D. Air National Guard Enlisted Association.

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 11

Heather Mattson has been helping lead a difficult conversation in the N.D. National Guard. It’s about a topic that affects each of the organization’s Soldiers and Airmen, from general officers to new recruits. Referencing the same critical issue, former Chief of the National Guard Bureau Gen. (Ret.) Craig McKinley, said it “degrades mission readiness and is at odds with our (the National Guard’s) core values.” The battle against sexual assault is being waged, and the conversation about it is growing louder.

Mattson, who has been the state’s sexual assault response coordinator since 2010, has been a torchbearer for the N.D. National Guard Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program. She’s seen that initiative grow from a resource facilitated by one North Dakota service member to a robust, professional team bolstered by 55 voluntary, nationally-credentialed victim advocates, all with the same goal: eliminating sexual assault within the N.D. National Guard’s ranks. And, there are some ways they plan on doing it.

“It really is about getting people talking,” Mattson said. “Sexual assault is a very uncomfortable topic for a lot of people. If we can generate more discussion,

I think that will, in turn, make victims of sexual assault more comfortable in coming forward.”

In April, Mattson and her team intend to get even more people talking by amplifying their message during the nationally-observed Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year’s event theme is “Live Our Values: Step Up to Stop Sexual Assault.” Through the coming weeks, Soldiers and Airmen might notice some unique displays set up in N.D. National Guard facilities across the state. Teal ribbons, which represent sexual assault awareness, along with local sexual assault statistics and brochures and literature advertising resources will be showcased to help Guardsmen and their families gain more insight into the impacts of sexual assault and how to support survivors who have been affected.

“It’s about making sure that people are aware that this month is dedicated to sexual assault awareness and that there are dedicated people within our organization available to help them,” Mattson said. “Sexual Assault Awareness Month also provides a non-confrontational method of putting resources out there. (During Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October) We had four tables at (Raymond J. Bohn in Bismarck) the armory full of domestic violence awareness handbooks and literature, and every day we had to

replace those resources. So, the information is being used.”

N.D. Guardsmen across the state also will have the opportunity to raise public awareness about sexual violence with members of the community in Bismarck and Mandan. The N.D. National Guard SAPR Program is a co-sponsor of the Second Annual Race to Zero Run/Walk. According to an announcement sent out by event planners, “The intent of the (five-kilometer) race is to encourage community conversation about sexual assault awareness and prevention. Support for survivors from the larger community can translate into better response for victims of sexual assault and, ultimately, change social norms like silence and victim blaming.”

Mattson said Race to Zero was well-received when it was held in Bismarck last year and drew about 140 runners. About 30 of them were North Dakota Guardsmen, including Brig. Gen. Al Dohrmann, North Dakota deputy adjutant general, who ran the event with his son, Will.

“It was a great event to be a part of, especially since it included community members outside of the military. We all need to be involved when it comes to stopping sexual assault,” Dohrmann said. “‘Race to Zero’ was a great way to share that message and show a united front. I was impressed with the participation we had

‘Step Up’for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

By Staff Sgt. Eric W. Jensen,Joint Force Headquarters

Soldiers, Airmen and Bismarck/Mandan community members participate in the 2013 Race to Zero Run/Walk, an event intended to raise awareness about sexual assault and prevention.

Photo by © Thømas Christopher

12 · Guardian · april 2014

and look forward to this year’s event.”The N.D. National Guard SAPR

Program is helping facilitate “Race to Zero” with a number of community partners, including the Abused Adult Resource Center, Bismarck Prevention Task Force, North Dakota Council on Abused Women’s Services, or CAWS, Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota and Region 7 Foster Care/Adoption Recruitment Coalition. Mattson said that it’s not just a one-time partnership. The N.D. SAPR Program regularly interacts and meets with state agencies and resources to help in the fight against sexual assault.

“Part of my job is outreach, so people know about our program. Sometimes there are those who would want to get help for sexual assault, but don’t want to report it through the military,” she said. “If somebody doesn’t call our helpline, or they don’t want to talk to one of our victim advocates, we encourage them to go to a local resource.”

Over the years, the N.D. National Guard SAPR Program has made strides to provide standardized sexual assault prevention training for Soldiers in the Army Guard. During annual briefings and interactive training, the Guardsmen learn about bystander intervention and how to better recognize potential sexual assaults before they occur. They also learn about different methods for reporting

sexual assault and the process for getting victims help and support. The N.D. Air National Guard also has annual training, which is provided by the National Guard Bureau and implemented by the 119th Wing’s victim advocates. Mattson also provides additional leadership training for commanders and senior noncommissioned officers throughout the year.

“Today, North Dakota does its own training. We bring our awesome team of victim advocates together and they meet with me for a few days to build a training curriculum, and we’re proud of it. In fact, I know of six or seven other states (National Guards) that are using the curriculum that we’ve created,” Mattson said.

The 55 victim advocates, who volunteer within their units, also have enriched the N.D. National Guard SAPR Program. According to the Department of Defense, victim advocates “provide non-clinical crisis intervention and on-going support, in addition to referrals for adult sexual assault victims.” That support includes providing information to victims about available options for reporting and available support resources.

“That’s a huge boost for us,” Mattson said. “Having victim advocates across the state provides commanders with subject matter experts who can help support them and follow through with this high-priority program. It is no easy task to gain

and maintain this certification. Victim advocates are required to complete an application, be interviewed and undergo a background check. In addition, they attend an initial 80-hour (Army Guard) or 40-hour (Air Guard) training to become certified and then have to complete an additional 32 hours of refresher training every two years in order to maintain their credentialing with the National Organization for Victim Assistance.”

Members of the entire N.D. National Guard Family also will show their commitment to the SAPR Program during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Mattson said the SAPR Program team and N.D. Guardsmen, including senior leaders, have participated in a number of public service announcements to share the message about combating sexual assault. The video spots will be broadcast on local television stations and the N.D. National Guard’s YouTube channel.

“Taking care of Soldiers and Airmen is our No. 1 priority. We want to use any tool or resource we can to ensure that victims of sexual assault get the help that they need and deserve,” Dohrmann said. “Sexual assault has no place in our military or our communities, and together we all can create an environment where we demand mutual respect and are committed to supporting one another.”

Photo by © Thømas Christopher

To report a sexual assault, 24/7 and regardless of status or how long ago the assault occurred, contact:

N.D. Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Helpline: 701-425-4821 Department of Defense Safe Helpline: 1-877-995-5247 http://www.safehelpline.org/

Lt. Col. Jerrad Krapp119th Wing Sexual Assault Response CoordinatorOffice: 701-333-3293jerrad.krapp@ang.af.mil

2nd Lt. Dave SteinJoint Force Headquarters Victim Advocate CoordinatorOffice: 701-333-3007Cell: 701-226-4429david.w.stein.mil@mail.mil

Heather MattsonJoint Force Headquarters Sexual Assault Response CoordinatorOffice: 701-333-3293Cell: 701-204-3555heather.m.mattson5.civ@mail.mil

North Dakota National Guard Members lend their voices to “stepping up”

during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. See public service announcements

from the North Dakota Air National Guard at http://bit.ly/We-Swear2014 and

the North Dakota Army National Guard at http://bit.ly/I-Swear2014.

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 13

FIVE FOR FUELLet’s do a gut check. Stop for a moment and think about how you feel after you eat and throughout your day. Tired? Sluggish? It’s easy to fill our guts but we don’t always consider how that food might fuel our body. Whole, natural foods offer a variety of

micronutrients and phytochemicals that work together in a way that no multivitamin can. Think about it: How will you perform your best on your fitness test or on an exam if your body and mind aren’t properly fueled?

While all good, some of nature’s foods rank better than others in terms of providing the most nutrients per calorie consumed. Here’s a look at some of the best choices for upping your nutrient intake but not your calorie consumption.

1. Dark Leafy GreensNature’s most nutrient-rich foods come in the forms of dark leafy greens, including

kale, mustard greens, collard greens and watercress. All four score a perfect 1,000 on the Aggregate Nutrient Density Index, or ANDI scale, designed by Dr. Joel Fuhrman.

Kale, for example, has more protein per calorie than beef, more calcium than an equivalent cup of milk, and provides a good source of fiber to keep you full while helping to control cholesterol. It’s also loaded with Vitamin K — a whopping 684 percent of the recommended daily value in just one 33-calorie cup. More antioxidant power comes in the form of Vitamins A and C.

2. CabbageDifferent cabbage varieties offer different patterns of glucosinolates, which are being

studied for anti-cancer benefits. When it comes down to the most overall nutrients per calorie, though, Napa cabbage comes out on top. It has more calcium than other kinds (74 mg in one cup), as well as hefty amounts of Vitamins A and C.

3. BerriesLoaded with disease-fighting antioxidants, berries such as strawberries, blackberries,

raspberries and blueberries also enhance health by providing key vitamins and minerals. Blueberries, for example, offer Vitamins C and K along with manganese and fiber.

4. CarrotsCarrots get their color from beta-carotene, a Vitamin A precursor. Just one cup of

carrots contains nearly 680 percent of daily values of Vitamin A, which contributes to eye health. They’re also laden with Vitamins K, C, E and several B vitamins. More than 20 percent of daily values of biotin in 1 cup helps to maintain nerve cells’ energy supply and aid the body in efficiently using sugar.

5. BasilAlthough most folks wouldn’t sit down and consume a dish of basil as they would a

bowl of berries, there’s definite benefit to including some of this herb in meals. Just 1/4 cup supplies half of the daily value of Vitamin K and only a couple of calories. It’s also high in Vitamin A and offers a wealth of other nutrients, including manganese, iron, folate, magnesium, calcium, potassium and Vitamin C.

Fast Food Fuel

Jumpstart your Body with Nutrient-Rich Foods

Want all of these nutrients with the convenience of a fast food meal? Toss a couple of handfuls of dark leafy greens in a blender along with a bit of cabbage, a basil leaf, a half-dozen carrot slices and a handful of frozen berries. Add some cold water and blend until smooth. Check the consistency and add more water or a splash of juice, if desired, and blend again. Pour it into a travel mug on your way out the door.

By Sgt. 1st Class Amy Wieser Willson,Joint Force Headquarters

FITNESSFITNESSGUARDIAN

14 · Guardian · April 2014

GUARDIANSnapshotsVisit www.flickr.com/photos/ndguard/.

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N.D. Army National Guard officer Jackie A. Huber, of Bismarck, watches as her daughter Lola places her new rank of colonel on her uniform during a promotion ceremony at the N.D.National Guard’s Raymond J. Bohn Armory in Bismarck, last month.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, 116th Public Affairs Detachment

North Dakota Adjutant General Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk speaks with Mandan Middle School 6th graders who participated in a ceremony honoring Vietnam Veterans at the local American Veterans, or AMVETS, parking lot in Bismarck. Vietnam Veterans Day (March 29) in North Dakota was proclaimed by Gov. Jack Dalrymple. To help commemorate this event, over 250 Mandan Middle School 6th graders held a paper chain representing all N.D. service men and women that served in the Vietnam War. Each yellow and green link contained a name of a North Dakotans who served in the Vietnam War; red links honored those that were killed in action.

Photo by Mr. Bill Prokopyk, N.D. National Guard Public Affairs

Master Sgt. Joshua Clarke of the 119th Security Forces Squadron, upper right, stands with his wife Rachel and their two children at the N.D. Air National Guard outstanding Airman of the Year banquet held at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Moorhead, Minn. The Clarke family was selected as the N.D. Air National Guard Family of the Year for 2013.

Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 15

Sgt. John M. Kerr, a crew chief with the 2-285th Aviation Regiment and a native of Bismarck, looks out the window of a CH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a joint multinational training flight in Kosovo, March 8. The 2-285th left North Dakota in November 2013 for a year-long peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.

At left, Connie Sprynczynatyk, civilian aide to the secretary of the Army, and her husband, Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, right, join the N.D. Army National Guard’s 2013 Family of the Year, which includes Staff Sgt. Neil Horner, his wife, Chelsey, and one-year-old daughter Nevaeh (not pictured), March 9 at the N.D. National Guard Volunteer Symposium in Fargo.

Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Cody Barber, 11th Public Affairs Detachment

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brett Miller, 116th Public Affairs Detachment

16 · Guardian · april 2014

Submit your photos to be consideredfor inclusion in the N.D. Guardian!

Email high-resolution photosto Sgt. Jennifer Joyce, N.D. Guardian

editor, at jennifer.m.joyce2.mil@mail.mil.

Share your photos!

A group of about 15 Airmen of the 219th Security Forces Squadron convene for a group photo after a send-off ceremony at the Minot Armed Forces Reserve Center, Minot, March 14. The Airmen are deploying to Southwest Asia for six months.

N.D. Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Todd Ouradnik, of the 219th Security Forces Squadron, kisses his daughter during a send-off ceremony at the Minot Armed Forces Reserve Center, Minot, March 14. Ouradnik is preparing for a six-month deployment to Southwest Asia.

Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing

Photo by Senior Master Sgt. David H. Lipp, 119th Wing

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 17

NewsBriefs

The N.D. National Guard along with family, friends and community supporters honored several Soldiers from the Bis-marck-based Detachment 42 Operational Support Airlift last month during a Free-dom Salute ceremony at the Apple Creek Country Club in Bismarck. The event cel-ebrated the North Dakota aviators’ success-ful 10-month deployment to Afghanistan. The unit mobilized in February 2013 and conducted 24-hour operations, providing aerial surveillance functions for units on the ground in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“Today, we officially welcome home and honor the members of Detachment 42 for their extraordinary service in Afghanistan,” said Gov. Jack Dalrymple. “The unit's avia-tors completed a highly-specialized mission and did so with great skill and success. We are proud of the outstanding job they performed and grateful to them and their families for their service and sacrifice.”

Under the command of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Travis Bridwell, of Bismarck, the North Dakota Soldiers operated three King Air 300 Medium Altitude Reconnaissance Surveillance System airplanes in the perfor-mance of their aerial surveillance missions. They served alongside other fixed-wing Army National Guard detachments from Arkansas, Maine, New Mexico, Puerto Rick and Utah and together comprised Task Force ODIN, which stands for ob-serve, detect, identify and neutralize.

During the deployment, Det. 42 Sol-

diers flew nearly 4,000 hours in support of Afghanistan operations over the course of 1,776 missions. While in Afghanistan, each pilot averaged 60 flying hours each month. While supporting Joint Operational Sup-port Airlift Agency here in the states, the average North Dakota aviator flies 200-300 hours a year.

“Every time our National Guard aviators are called to serve overseas, they perform their missions professionally and safely,” said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general. “We are grateful for their service in support of our nation’s overseas war-time missions and are proud to formally welcome them home.”

Each Soldier honored received a gift to present to a family member as thanks. Six of the Soldiers recognized at the event received additional honors for having served on more than one deployment in the Global War on Ter-rorism.

Det. 42 previously has mobilized twice in support of the Global War on Terrorism. The unit served in Afghani-stan from Sept. 2004-March 2005 and the African nation of Djibouti from April 2009-Feb. 2010. The Soldiers returned to North Dakota after their most recent Afghanistan deployment on Nov. 10, 2013.

Guard Army Aviators Honored for Afghanistan Service

Guard Logistics Soldiers Receive Alert for Possible Mobilization

North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple congratulates Spc. Tara Schwan, of Bismarck, N.D., on a successful deployment with Detachment 42 Operational Support Airlift during a Freedom Salute ceremony at the Apple Creek Country Club in Bismarck last month.

Photo by Sgt. Jonathan Haugen, Joint Force Headquarters

A small group of N.D. Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Valley City-based 231st Brigade Support Bat-talion have received an alert notification for possible mobilization. The Soldiers are organized into a specialized Logistical Support Element designated as the 231st BSB LSE.

If mobilized, approximately 15 Sol-diers assigned to the 231st BSB LSE are expected to serve in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan late

in 2014. This would be the first overseas deployment for Soldiers of the 231st BSB since the N.D. Army National Guard’s peacekeeping mission in Kosovo in 2009-2010.

“These expert Army logisticians will provide specialized supply operations support to U.S. and Coalition forces still serving in Afghanistan,” said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota ad-jutant general. “If these Soldiers are mo-bilized, it’s a comfort to know that they can rely on the continued support of their families and employers allowing them to concentrate on their overseas mission.”

N.D. Army National Guard units that are currently mobilized overseas include the Bismarck-based 814th Medical Company (Area Support) in Afghanistan and Company C, 2nd Battalion, 285th Aviation Regiment in Kosovo. Another 200 Soldiers with the Grand Forks-based 1st Bat-talion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment are serving on a yearlong deployment to Washington, D.C. Three Soldiers are serving for a year in Texas as part of a Southwest Bor-der Mission, and two North Dakota Soldiers are serving in Kuwait.

18 · Guardian · April 2014

Chaplains’ Corner:The Positive Construct of Guilt

Would you have guessed that guilt is actually a guardian for goodness? A true sense of guilt is essential for mature moral behavior, the development of conscience and the ability to reject sinful behaviors.

Think about what would happen if that guy that wakes up in the morning and infects millions of computers with a virus would feel guilt. I recently was impacted by a well-known phone scam, where the automated caller wants you to call back with your bank information to verify your account. Could a more developed sense of guilt have put a stop to the scam?

Guilt forces us to measure ourselves by a standard beyond us. The Bible says a lot about guilt. Most agree that Psalm 51 is about David’s adulterous relationship with Bathsheba and murder of her husband Uriah, despite whether or not David was the author. David ordered Uriah to be sent to the front line of the battle where he was certain to be killed, to cover up his affair and the child conceived from it.

Psalm 51, prayed in its context, is one of the most powerful presentations of guilt and expressions of penitence in the entire Scriptures.

Guilt is a marker of love that helps us recognize the consequences of our actions and to initiate deeds of reparation. No matter how serious anyone’s misdeeds and conduct, guilt can repatriate the fostering of goodness. Because of God’s forgiving grace, guilt readies us to let go of the old ways and put on the new person, which Easter will admonish to don. Guilt is a Lenten catalyst that helps us turn away from the things in our life that don’t belong to God.

From Genesis to Revelations, the Bible teaches that guilty feelings are the predictable healthy results when we do what we ought not to do or fail to do what we ought. Guilt is not a bad trip. It can be God’s gift – to help us live with moral and spiritual integrity. No pain, no gain. No guilt, no goodness!

By Chaplain (Maj.) James W. Cheney119th Wing

North Dakota Airmen Deploy in Support of CENTCOM

A small group of N.D. Air National Guard Airmen assigned to the Minot-based 219th Security Forces Squadron left last month for a six-month deploy-ment to Southwest Asia, where they will support U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations.

About 15 Airmen volunteered for the base defense and security opera-tions mission being led by Master Sgt. Luke Gardiner. The Airmen are well versed in providing critical protection measures for military personnel and other important assets. They will be able to draw on the experience and train-ing provided by their home unit, which made history in becoming the first Na-

tional Guard unit to team up with an active-duty Air Force unit and provide security for one of the nation’s three missile fields.

In May of 2013, the 219th SFS assumed control of the entire northern sector missile field complex near Minot, N.D., making it the first time ever, anywhere, reserve forces provided complete control of missile field security.

“We are so proud of the Airmen from the 219th Security Forces Squadron who have answered their country’s call to duty and are deploying on a six-month mission in support of CENTCOM,” said Gov. Jack Dalrymple.

“The 219th Security Forces Squadron Airmen out of Minot enjoy a great reputa-tion, not only in the state, but throughout the entire National Guard and Air Force,” said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North

Dakota adjutant general. “We are grateful to them and their families for their willingness to serve and are confident they will carry on the tradition of the N.D. Air National Guard with another successful mission.”

CENTCOM’s area of responsibil-ity covers the “central” area of the globe and consists of 20 countries: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakh-stan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tajiki-stan, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Yemen.

CENTCOM promotes cooperation among nations, responds to crises and deters or defeats state and non-state aggression, and supports development and, when neces-sary, reconstruction in order to establish the conditions for regional security, stability, and prosperity.

www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil · 19

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Soldiers with the the N.D. Army National Guard’s 2-285th Aviation Regiment fly in formation during a joint multinational training flight in Kosovo, March 8. The 2-285th left North Dakota in November 2013 for a year-long peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.

Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Cody Barber, 11th Public Affairs Detachment