Warriors Winter 2007.qxd:Warrior Spring 2005 1/15/08 1:40 ... · Winter 2007/2008 † WARRIORS Ready to Serve 1 ... night-sight before ... of Delta Junction, assists the Afghan National

Warriors Winter 2007.qxd:Warrior Spring 2005 1/15/08 1:40 PM Page 1


1Winter 2007/2008 • WARRIORS Ready to Serve

Dispatches from the Front . . . . .3

Where in the World . . . . . . . . . . .4

For the People . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

My Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Joint Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Homeland Security . . . . . . . . . .12

Family Support . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Missile Defense . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Who We Are . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

ESGR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Awards & Decorations . . . . . . .25

Retirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Promotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Start of the Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Training Schedule . . . . . . . . . . .28

Departments:

Features:

WINTER 2007/2008

Warriors is a commercial enterprise publication, produced in partnership, quarterly, by the State of Alaska,Department of Military & Veterans Affairs, PO Box 5800,Camp Denali, Ft. Richardson, Alaska 99505-5800, phone(907) 428-6031, fax 428-6035; and AQP Publishing Inc.,8537 Corbin Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99507. Views andopinions expressed herein are not necessarily the officialviews of, or endorsed by, the Departments of the Armyand Air Force, or the State of Alaska. All photos are AlaskaDepartment of Military & Veterans Affairs photos unlessotherwise credited.

Distribution: Warriors is published for all current civilian employees, military members, veterans, and their families, of the Alaska Departmentof Military & Veterans Affairs. It is distributed, free of charge, via mail anddistribution, through each Division within the Department. It is also available at our Web site: www.ak-prepared.com/dmva.

HOW TO REACH USLetters: Letters to the editor must be signed and include the writer’s fullname and mailing address. Letters should be brief and are subject to editing. Submissions: Print and visual submissions of general interest toour diverse civilian employees, Alaska National Guard military members,

veterans and families are invited and encouraged. Please send articles andphotos with name, phone number, e-mail, complete mailing addressand comments to:

Warriors MagazineAlaska Department of Military & Veterans Affairs

Office of Public Affairs

PO Box 5800, Camp DenaliFt Richardson, AK 99505-5800(907) 428-6031 / Fax 428-6035

8537 Corbin Dr., Anchorage, AK 99507(907) 562-9300 • (866) 562-9300 Concepts for section head logos derived from clipart provided by Alaska Native Knowledge Network. www.ankn.uaf.edu

Governor Sarah PalinCommander in Chief

Major General Craig E. CampbellAdjutant General, Alaska National Guard

& Commissioner of the DMVA

Mr. McHugh PierreDMVA Director of Communications

Ms. Kalei BrooksManaging Editor/DMVA Public Affairs

Contributors

Captain Guy HayesStaff Sergeant Eric Hamilton

Sergeant Karima TurnerSpecialist Margaret Moonin

DMVA Public Affairs

Captain Tim BrowerSergeant Jack W. Carlson III49th Missile Defense Battalion

First Lieutenant Amy B. Slinker134th Public Affairs Detachment

Staff Sergeant Christopher Gyden168th Communication Flight

Specialist Shejal Pulivarti1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs

First Lieutenant Malinda Singleton478th Expeditionary Operations Squadron

Public Affairs

Major Wayne Hunt • Major Stephen WilsonAlaska Army National Guard

Roy “Buzz” Bainbridge • Renee NelsonDHS&EM

Lieutenant Colonel Anderson RowanU.S. Air Force

Sergeant Benjamin CosselArizona Public Affairs

Mass Communication Specialist3rd Class Tyler Jones

U.S. Navy

Jerry BealeState Veterans Affairs

Kimberly LearyFamily Programs

Jamie AbordonadoESGR

Chief Alan Carvajal376th Security Forces Squadron

Bob Ulin Susan HarringtonPublisher Editor

Gloria Schein Darrell GeorgeArt Director Advertising Sales

In Sight. PrivateFirst Class DustinFast, BravoCompany, 297thSupport Battaliongunner fromAnchorage adjuststhe focus on his night-sight beforeheading out on asecurity forces mission in Iraq. Theunit deployed in lateOctober in supportof Operation IraqiFreedom.Photo: Courtesy ofSergeant First Class SterryKimball, Bravo Company,297th Support Battalion

168th Air Refueling Wing Serves Community During Deployment . . . . . . .13

Operation Santa Claus 2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Drill Sergeant Breaks New Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Mission Complete: Kuwait/Iraq Deployment a Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Alaskan Receives Prestigious National Guard Association Award . . . . . . . .23

www.ak-prepared.com/dmva

SecurityScan.Sergeant MichaelMathews, militarypolice officer withthe 49th MissileDefense Battalion,scans the peri -meter of theMissile Defense

Complex at Fort Greely. Situated 30 miles north ofthe Alaska Mountain Range, the MDC is home to 16emplaced ground-based interceptors that will inter-cept an incoming intercontinental ballistic missilethreat launched by a rogue nation. The militarypolice on Fort Greely are tasked to secure anddefend the MDC and Missile Defense System froman array of threats. Photo: Sergeant Jack W. Carlson III,49th Missile Defense Battalion




Dispatches from the Front...

AJO, Arizona … It’s pretty much universally agreed that withthe assistance of aviation assets from the National Guard, successof air operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection has dramatically increased since the beginning of Operation Jump Start.

Unseen by the many who only observe the OH-58 Kiowas andUH-60 Black Hawks soaring through the sky is a divergent castof supporting characters ranging from mechanics to crew chiefs,test pilots to refuelers.

It’s a bright and early fall morning as Task Force RavenWarrant Officer Candidate Steven Ernst, of Anchorage, with ECompany, 1/207th Aviation, Alaska Army National Guard, gathershis crew in preparation for a long day ahead.

Ernst and his team are petroleum, oil and lubrication specialistsworking the “daily” forward ammunition and refueling points.

Just as the team gets the first tank pump unit filled, a Kiowacrests a hilltop, coming down for a landing. Like clockwork, Ernstand his team don their protective equipment and standby.

“Kiowas are really fun and quick to refuel,” said Ernst, notingthat compared to the up-to-15 minutes it can take to refuel aBlack Hawk, Kiowas refuel at only five to six minutes on average.

Testing fuel samples, refilling heli copters and the various othertasks that fill the days all add up to a rewarding experience thateach of these Soldiers will take back to their home units.

“Working out here in Arizona for Operation Jump Start hasbeen a phenomenal training experience,” Ernst said. “Membersfrom my unit in Alaska came down here before they deployedto Afghanistan, and they are constantly e-mailing me, telling methat the experience they gained here, in Arizona, has been atremendous asset to them there.”

Ernst said that not only does the day-to-day repetition ofdoing their job reinforce good habits, but with the wide breadth ofexperience all the Soldiers and Airmen bring to Task Force Raven,tips and tricks of the job are freely traded.

“There are so many guys here who have so much know-howdoing this job,” Ernst said. “And they pass on those years ofknowledge to the younger troops, knowledge that would havetaken them years to learn.”

Refueled, the Kiowa takes back to the air to perform its missionof spotting undocumented aliens, protecting the southwesternborder. Ernst takes a special joy in his mission, making sure aircraftof Task Force Raven have the fuel essential to their mission. �

On the Border.Warrant OfficerCandidate Steven Ernst,of the Alaska ArmyNational Guard, checksthe fuel-level status of atank-pump unit at aForward Ammunitionand Refueling Point atthe Ajo, Ariz., U.S.Customs and BorderProtection Border Patrolstation.

Operation Jump StartStory and photo by Sergeant Benjamin Cossel, Operation Jump Start-Arizona Public Affairs

Alaskans Across AfghanistanBy Major Wayne Hunt, Alaska Army National Guard

MAZAR-E SHARIF, Afghanistan … Here’s an update onwhat’s been happening here in Afghanistan with your AlaskaArmy National Guardsmen.

Most of the team is at Camp Mike Spann in Mazar-e Sharif,working as Afghan National Police mentors. Three of us(Sergeant First Class Anibal Jorge, Sergeant First Class RobertNunally and I) are out in Konduz. Nunally works as a policementor, while Jorge and I are on the Logistics Support Team(formally the Embedded Transition Team) for the AfghanNational Army Kandak (battalion).

Finally, Sergeant First Class Ramon Gutierrez and FirstLieutenant Matt Paquin are out at Meymahneh working as policementors. We all usually see each other when we go to Mazar-eSharif for administrative or logistics reasons.

Our main focus is to train the Afghan National Army andAfghan National Police to become self-sufficient. Their biggestchallenge is learning to plan and execute logistics sustainment.They execute tactical operations well, so we are shifting our focusto assist in the logistics arena.

We are working alongside German trainers, and we also haveCroatians, Norwegians and Swedes on the training/mentoringteams. It’s a diverse and experienced group.

In our sector, criminal activities have accounted for most ofthe shootings, but recently there has been an increase in insurgentactivities. While those activities are on the rise, so are larger andmore coordinated Afghan National Security Forces operations toshow the people of Afghanistan that their government is workingto make their lives better and their future more secure.

In fact, on a recent operation in the north, we were able todefeat several important insurgent leaders during combat operations, and we are continuing to conduct presence andhumanitarian aid operations to shore up local government andsecurity forces. This operation has been a great success with noAmerican or Coalition casualties during the initial combat phase.

So far, your Alaska Army National Guardsmen are enjoyingsafe and efficient missions and are marking the mid-point in thedeployment with continued success. �

Supporting Afghanistan’s Future. Alaska Army National Guard MajorWayne Hunt, of Delta Junction, assists the Afghan National Army Soldiers in handing outschool supplies to children at an orphanage in Konduz, Afghanistan.Photo: Lieutenant Colonel Anderson Rowan, U.S. Air Force


4 Ready to Serve WARRIORS • Winter 2007/2008

Mongolians Visit theLast FrontierBy Major Stephen WilsonAlaska Army National Guard

CAMP DENALI, Alaska ... Acontingent of Mongolian nationals,including President NambarynEnkhbayar and thefirst lady of Mongolia,traveled to Alaska thisfall to get a first-handlook at how theMongolia StatePartnership Program isfunctioning in the LastFrontier.

“The state partner-ship program betweenMongolia and theAlaska National Guardhas been extremelysuccessful,” said Major GeneralCraig E. Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska NationalGuard. “It’s a pleasure to have thepresident of Mongolia here inAlaska to see the success of theprogram and the potential it hasfor future growth in the civiliansector. These exchanges help buildon an already strong and thrivinginternational partnership.”

The delegation of more than40 officials met with the leaders ofthe Alaska Department of NaturalResources; the Alaska Departmentof Commerce, Community &Economic Development; and thePermanent Fund Corporation. TheAlaskans shared how they are ableto balance revenue generation andenvironmental controls while stillpromoting natural resource development.

The Mongolian group also found ithelpful to discuss and gather informationon how Alaska does business with themining industry. The Denali Commissionexplained the challenges of developmentin rural Alaska – a similar challenge inremote Mongolia. These informationsharing sessions are just one piece to theever expanding Alaska-Mongolia state

partnership program.Enkhbayar witnessed the consumma-

tion of a sister-city relationship betweenFairbanks and the mining town ofErdenet, Mongolia. Both towns sharemany geographical and environmentalconditions. Following in the footsteps ofthe sister city relationship, DenaliNational Park and Altai Tavan BogdNational Park are now pursuing coopera-tive relationships in park management.

On the education front, theUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks showcasedits Center for Distance Education and

College of Engineering & Mines. In thefuture, the university hopes to welcomemore students from Mongolia and treatthem to a unique and worthwhile college experience.

Overall, Alaskans demonstrated thechallenges they face living in a remote,rugged, and harsh environment and theextraordinary means they take to over-come those obstacles – conditions theMongolians are very familiar with as well.It’s a true testament to a partnershipstarted out of similarities but continuedbecause of friendship and success. �

Operation Maggie Migration. Maggie, a 25-year-old Africanelephant, is gently loaded on an Alaska Air National Guard and Pacific AirForces C-17 cargo aircraft moments before heading to her new home inCalifornia. Her size and the delicate nature of her transportation prompted zooofficials to enlist the help of the Alaska Air National Guard and Pacific AirForces for the October transport. Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

A Strengthening Partnership.President Nambar Enkhbayar, center, ofMongolia, met with Lieutenant Governor SeanParnell, left, and Major General Craig E.Campbell, right, adjutant general of the AlaskaNational Guard and commissioner of theDepartment of Military & Veterans Affairs, inOctober. Enkhbayar saw first-hand the growingstate partnership between Alaska and Mongolia.Photo: McHugh Pierre, DMVA Public Affairs

Welcome Home. Members of the 144th Airlift Squadron fromthe 176th Wing at Kulis Air National Guard Base return home from a30-day deployment to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. One hundredfifty-five Alaska National Guard Airmen have deployed to support airland and airdrop missions in support of Operation EnduringFreedom since September 2007. Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs


5

New School Opens in IraqBy Specialist Shejal Pulivarti1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st CavalryDivision Public Affairs

CAMP TAJI, Iraq … The thick redribbon was crisply sliced with a pair ofscissors signifying the official opening ofthe school in Al Awad, Iraq, Oct. 29.

Ali Abid Abbas, the education committee chairman for Taji Qada, hadthe honor of cutting the ribbon establish-ing the temporary trailers as the consoli-dated school to ensure the surrounding

children have a school for the upcomingschool year.

The 2nd Battalion, 8th CavalryRegiment, the Embedded ProvincialReconstruction Team for the 1st BrigadeCombat Team, 1st Cavalry Division andlocal leadership have been workingtogether since July to set up a school inAl Awad after Al Qaeda in Iraq destroyedfour of the surrounding schools, resultingin approximately 700 students without aplace to learn.

“The children are the future. Workingtogether we can give your children a

future through education,” saidColonel Mike Bridges, deputyteam leader for Baghdad 5Embedded ProvincialReconstruction Team, addressingthe school staff, Abbas and SheikAbid, the local sheik leader.

Upon cutting the ribbon, thelocal leaders provided Bridgeswith a brief tour of the schoolgrounds during which theyexpressed their thanks.

“I appreciate all the help, andtogether we can help the peoplein the area,” Abid stated. Hewent on to share that the facilitywas momentarily sufficient butwe still have work to do in orderto accomplish improving thecommunity.

“With the assemblage of localleaders working collectively, wewill be able to make a permanentprogression,” he stated.

In order to accommodatethe amount of kids in need ofschooling, there will be two separate shifts for the kids toattend school, said Bridges, ofAnchorage and a member of theAlaska Army National Guard.

The 2nd Battalion, 8th CavalryRegiment, along with the EmbeddedProvincial Reconstruction Team plans towork with local leaders to develop thetemporary school by providing suppliesand laying gravel in the courtyard. Theyalso plan to work with Iraq’s Ministry ofEducation to build a permanent structurefor the kids to receive an education.

“The community came together tofacilitate the project in order to ensurethe kids could go to school,” Bridgessaid. �

Winter 2007/2008 • WARRIORS Ready to Serve

New School Opens. Colonel Mike Bridges, a member of anEmbedded Provincial Reconstruction Team, assists Ali Abid Abbas, the education committee chairman for the Taji Qada, in cutting the ribbon signify-ing the opening of the temporary school build in Al Awad, Iraq, for the localand surrounding-area children. The temporary trailers at the consolidatedschool ensure the children have a place to learn for the upcoming school year.Photo: Specialist Shejal Pulivarti, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs

Serving in Latin America. Alaska Air National Guard Staff SergeantNatoya Harris, an intensive care unit medic attached to hospital ship USNSComfort (T-AH 20), volunteers her time at the Jose Olaya School in Trujillo, Peru,by repainting earthquake muster points for children in the school courtyard.Comfort was on a four-month humanitarian deployment to Latin America and theCaribbean providing medical treatment to patients in a dozen countriesPhoto: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tyler Jones, U.S. Navy

Desert Range. Soldiers from B Company, 297th Support Battalion,Alaska Army National Guard, hone their shooting skills on a range inKuwait. The unit left Alaska in October and stopped in Kuwait before settlingat Camp Anaconda for a 10-month deployment.Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Army National Guard


For the PeopleGovernor Sarah PalinCommander in Chief

Flag Returns from the Desert. Governor Sarah Palin smiles after receiving an Alaska flag flown on aHumvee during a route security element patrol in Southern Iraq by the Alaska Army National Guard. The flag was presentedto her by Lieutenant Colonel David Osborn, left, and Sergeant Major Alan Feaster, right, of 3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry.Palin visited the Guard members during their year-long deployment in July. Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

Alaskans rise to the challenge ofeveryday life, and this department rises tothe challenge in extraordinary ways.During times of natural disaster or state -wide emergency, you go to the aid of allAlaskans. When called to help the active-duty military in times of conflict at homeor overseas, you help all Americans.

I’m honored to see firsthand andhear from others the impact Alaskans aremaking around the world. We haveSoldiers building communities in Iraq

and teaching folks in Afghanistan how tobe Soldiers who respect their neighborsand have the integrity to protect thosewho are in need. We have Airmen fightingthe War on Drugs in Central Americaand we have Airmen in Afghanistan supporting the War on Terrorism.

I’m proud of our team leaders andmentors with the Alaska Military YouthAcademy who make it their goal to helpyouth who are in need. We have hundredsof at-risk youth in our state. Some arehomeless, some need guidance and somejust need a positive adult influence.Semester after semester, leaders at theAlaska Military Youth Academy comeforward to help teens better their lives.Not only is this making Alaska a betterplace, these efforts are building familiesand enhancing the decisions these teenswill make as adults.

I’m thankful for the emergencyresponders, who continuously answer theurgent call to help those in the most

difficult conditions. These responderstravel directly into the center of the stormto help communities begin the recoveryprocess. In 2007, 380 rescues were conducted, saving 146 Alaskan lives.Always behind the scenes, these firstresponders are crucial to saving lives andto the successful reconstruction of damaged areas.

Veterans are receiving better carethrough your efforts as well. SurvivingAlaska Territorial Guard members arereceiving their discharge certificates at afaster pace than ever. This cooperationbetween local village tribal councils andthe Office of Veterans Affairs is givingthese elders the best possible service atthe lowest cost. I’m proud to see DMVAmeeting my vision of a leaner, moreresponsive government.

All Alaskans deserve quick and determined help from their government.We work for the people and you rise tothe challenge every day meeting theirneeds. �

Alaskans Rise to the Challenge

Ready to Serve WARRIORS • Winter 2007/20086

Aviation Day. Governor Sarah Palin tests her flying abilities on one of the many flight simulators provided by the Medallion Foundation during Aviation Dayat the Alaska National Guard Armory. Aviation Day wasdeveloped in 2007 to demonstrate some of the oppor -tunities for aviation in Alaska. Students from STARBASEand cadets from the Alaska Military Youth Academy wereable to learn about aviation from the lead organizationsin aviation safety development, digital mapping andflight simulator development.Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

I’m thankful for the emergency responders,

who continuously answerthe urgent call to help

those in the most difficult conditions.



My TurnMajor General Craig E. CampbellAdjutant General, Alaska National Guard& Commissioner, Alaska Department of Military & Veterans Affairs

Thank you to everyone in the Department of Military &Veterans Affairs. You all have made this past year one of the finestin our department’s history. Service to our state and defense ofour nation is a full-time commitment that takes the integrationof people from all walks of life and from all cultures in our community – and you have done it exceptionally well.

Recruiting is our number one priority right now. We need toadd to our team to continue serving our fellow Alaskans and toexpand our capabilities. There are so many different areas ofopportunity in our department to showcase your talents and helpAlaskans in the most difficult of situations.

The Alaska Military Youth Academy always needs responsibleadults who can mentor teens and provide a positive example forthose who call out for help. Team leaders have the most impor-tant job at AMYA. These adults work with cadets seven days aweek to mold their hearts and thoughts and build self-confidence.You can see a significant change in cadets’ behavior and attitudeafter a short five months at the academy.

The Alaska Air National Guard has jobs that directly impactthe civilian aviation network in both the urban and rural areas ofthe state. With the addition of the C-17 mission, the Air Guard is

expanding to the most sought-after airlift mission in the world.There are opportunities to work in the search and rescue field,aircraft maintenance arena, finance department and many otherareas that translate directly into civilian job experience.

The Alaska Army National Guard has a new set of employmentopportunities thanks to the reorganization into the Army’s newbattlefield surveillance brigade. This gives more Alaskans trainingas military police officers, medical technicians, engineers and otherskill sets that directly impact many people living in rural Alaska.

The Division of Homeland Security & EmergencyManagement has opportunities for Alaskans who are willing to gointo the eye of the storm and help communities survive the mostdevastating disasters. DHS&EM doesn’t just help communitiesweather storms, it helps private enterprises identify security risksand formulate continuity plans for foreseeable threats. These jobstake the most qualified and dedicated personnel, and we needAlaskans who are ready to rise to the challenge and make thisstate a better, safer place.

There are certainly other opportunities within the department,and I encourage Alaskans to consider being a part of something bigger than oneself. �

Recruiting Alaska’s Best


8

Veterans

Respecting Veterans Service. Jerry Beale, state veterans affairs administrator, and Major General Craig E. Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska NationalGuard, on a snowy Veterans Day, honor U.S., Canadian, Russian and English World War IIveterans who are buried at the Fort Richardson National Cemetery.Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

High Honors. During the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Veterans Dayprogram, Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell presents Maurice Bailey with the Governor’sVeterans Advocacy Award. Bailey, a 20-year service veteran, was chosen for the awardbased on his active participation in veterans organizations and for starting the Veteran’sAviation Outreach program. Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

By Jerry Beale, State Veterans Affairs Administrator

CAMP DENALI, Alaska ... At the eleventh hour, on theeleventh day, of the eleventh month, veterans, families, andfriends gathered at the Alaska National Guard Armory to honorand remember those who have served.

Major General Craig E. Campbell, adjutant general of theAlaska National Guard and commissioner of the Department ofMilitary & Veterans Affairs, hosted the event, which featuredguests from the Canadian Forces stationed at Elmendorf AirForce Base.

An array of speakers this year highlighted the importance ofsupporting U.S. troops overseas while emphasizing the need topay tribute to those who have returned and served admirably.

During her keynote speech, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowskiinspired all in attendance to both remember past warriors andcontinue to support military personnel deployed in the Global

Honoring Alaska’s Veterans




War on Terrorism. Additionally, she reiterated the necessity and value of havingsuch good allies as the Canadians and British.

Colonel Sylvain Bedard, commander ofthe Canadian Forces, spoke about the supporthis country has provided fighting in theGlobal War on Terrorism and explained someof the differences between American andCanadian forces. Following his tale, aCanadian performer who has visited thetroops overseas played her guitar and sang abeautiful song for our troops overseas.

Governor Sarah Palin’s proclamation wasdelivered by Lieutenant Governor SeanParnell, while President George W. Bush’sproclamation was read by Alex Spector,Veterans Affairs Anchorage Healthcare Clinicdirector.

A special highlight of the day honored animportant supporter of veterans in Alaska.Maurice Bailey, of Wasilla, was presentedwith the highly coveted Governor’s VeteransAdvocacy Award.

Bailey is a retired Army veteran whoserved two tours in Vietnam. He retired fromthe Army at Fort Wainwright in 1976 after20 years of service, but he continues to stayactive with veterans groups. He is a memberof the Disabled American Veterans and theVietnam Veterans of America service organizations.

In 2005, Bailey founded VeteransAviation Outreach Inc. to assist veterans inrural Alaska get to and from Anchorage forVA medical treatment and other benefits. TheVAO program has grown to four pilots andcontinues to serve rural veterans with deliv-eries of supplies and equipment needed toimprove their quality of life.

As a poignant ending to the day’s event,the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club conducted the Fallen Warrior Ceremony, andwreaths were placed to honor and remembersome of America’s finest. �

An array of speakers thisyear highlighted the

importance of supportingU.S. troops overseas, while

emphasizing the need topay tribute to those whohave returned and served

admirably.



Ready to ServeJoint Forces

CAMP DENALI, Alaska … Situatedat the head of Resurrection Bay on theKenai Peninsula is the historic and picturesque town of Seward. As a summerdestination where many Alaskans enjoyoutdoor adventures, wetting a line andspending time with family, it is oftenbustling. However, with the changing ofsummer into fall, Seward transitionsback into a quiet little community – onewhich was the ideal place for the 2007Alaska National Guard CommandersConference.

The rustic, yet very cozy SewardWindsong Lodge was the perfect settingand opportunity for leaders from aroundthe state to come together and discussthe best practices and a path forward forthe Alaska National Guard. Highlightedby guest speakers, subject matter expertsand “graybeards” from around the stateand country, the conference was a timefor Major General Craig E. Campbell,adjutant general of the Alaska NationalGuard, to bring together all of his commanders to focus on continuedimprovements and success.

The directive was clear: mission andpeople. The Alaska National Guard hascome a long way in a short period of time,and with continued strategic thinking, itwill continue to evolve, grow and changeinto a better, brighter organization.However, it won’t happen on its own.

Leaders are empowered to makedecisions and must stand ready to takeon new hurdles that come their way.Especially with so many Alaskans deploy-ing and coming home from the War onTerrorism, we must ensure that we provide the resources and time to easetheir transition at home.

In the end, the message for com-manders is simple: never stop movingforward and work together to achievethe Alaska National Guard’s goals.Whether you’re in the Army Guard orAir Guard, it doesn’t make a difference.Everyone is a part of one Alaska NationalGuard, and together anything can beaccomplished. �

Commanders Conference 2007: Mission and PeopleStory and photos by Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

Seward Supports the Guard. Brigadier General Thomas Katkus, commander of the Alaska Army NationalGuard, presents an American flag flown in Iraq to the Mayor of Seward Vanta Shafer. The flag was given in thanks forSeward’s hospitality to the Alaska National Guard during the 2007 Commanders Conference.

Winter 2007/2008 • WARRIORS Ready to Serve 11



Homeland Security &Emergency Management

By Renee Nelson, Former DHS&EM Public Affairs

CAMP DENALI, Alaska … Anactive fall sea storm season sent stateemergency response representatives to

Kivalina to assess the imminent threatand damages caused by rough waves andhigh seas.

The Alaska Department of Military &Veterans Affairs Division of HomelandSecurity & Emergency Management senttwo representatives in September tocoordinate with North West ArcticBorough officials in Kotzebue beforetraveling to Kivalina.

In a joint effort between theNorthwest Arctic Borough and the villageof Kivalina, about 230 Kivalina villageresidents voluntarily evacuated, with 132people going to the Red Dog Mine and98 going to Kotzebue. This evacuationwas a precaution against expected erosion and high waves caused by thestorm. All residents later returned to thevillage without incident.

“As history shows, threats to ourcoastal communities emerge throughoutthe fall sea storm season,” said MajorGeneral Craig E. Campbell, commissionerof the Department of Military & VeteransAffairs. “As always, the state stands prepared to support borough officials andthe citizens of Alaska at all times.”

No damage was reported to the community buildings or infrastructure inKivalina, but the State EmergencyCoordination Center received a reportthat the sea wall was damaged.

A city with a population of about 450people, Kivalina is located at the tip of aneight-mile barrier island separating theChukchi Sea from the Kivalina River.It lies 80 air miles northwest ofKotzebue. �

State Agencies Respond to Kivalina

Storm Effects. Claude Denver, an emergencymanagement specialist with DHS&EM, assesses the areaaround the Kivalina sea wall.Photo: Roy (Buzz) Bainbridge, DHS&EM



FORWARD OPERATING LOCATION MANTA, Ecuador … Major General CraigE. Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard, visited Alaska Air NationalGuard members deployed to Ecuador from the 168th Air Refueling Wing this winter.

The Alaska Airmen were supporting operations at the forward operating location inManta for about 30 days as part of the 478th Expeditionary Operations Squadron.

During Campbell’s visit, he traveled to Comedor De Divino Niños, which is a “soupkitchen” that feeds children in a local impoverished neighborhood. While there, hepledged $405 towards the purchase of two doors and three windows, which the buildingcurrently does not have. He arrived on a KC-135, which also brought down bags of rice,beans and a box of school supplies that he donated to the kitchen.

The next stop on his visit was to Shekinah Orphanage, where he visited with thechildren and donated bags of rice and beans, boxes of clothes, shoes, stuffed animals,toiletries and toys. The children, in return, presented him with a poster showing theirgratitude.

“Everywhere the Air National Guard goes, we are not just involved in our militaryduty, but also our civic duty by helping local communities,” Campbell said. “Since weare from Alaska, where many of us have built our own homes, we have been able tobring these talents to Ecuador and help out the people in Manta.”

Members of the 168th Air Refueling Wing spent much of their off-time out in thecommunity working at Shekinah Orphanage, and also at Por Amor Orphanage locatedin a nearby village. At Por Amor Orphanage they built paths, as well as cleaned andrepaired parts of the orphanage’s future home. They were also able to spend time playing soccer and other games with the children.

“All of this ties into what we do in the Air National Guard – that is taking care of ourlocal community,” said Lieutenant Colonel Mark Dewey, 168th Air Refueling Wingdetachment commander for the first half of the deployment. “We could not have done asmuch as we did on our short time here without the many members of our unit taking thetime out to volunteer.” �

168th Air Refueling Wing ServesCommunity During DeploymentStory and photos by First Lieutenant Malinda Singleton,478th Expeditionary Operations Squadron Public Affairs

Destination: Ecuador. Major General Craig E. Campbell, center, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard,stands with Lieutenant Colonel Robert Leonard, left, 478th Expeditionary Operations Squadron commander, and LieutenantColonel Mark Dewey, 168th Air Refueling Wing detachment commander, after he arrived at Forward Operating LocationManta, Ecuador. Campbell visited the Airmen from the Alaska Air National Guard deployed there.

Few know about Manta located onEcuador’s western coast. Its location pro-vides uninhibited strategic reconnaissanceof more than 4,000 square miles of eastern Pacific Ocean, southernCaribbean Sea and Colombia. From thesource to final destination, Department ofDefense teams have dramatically impededthe otherwise free reign of South Americandrug trafficking.

U.S. Air National Guard refuelingplatforms provide critical aerial refuelingsupport to these Department of Defenseassets. The 168th Air Refueling Wing ofthe Alaska Air National Guard completeda 30-day rotation to Manta in which theunit completed more than 23 flawlesssorties. In those sorties, the unit offloadedmore than 1.3 million pounds of jet fuel.

“We came here wanting to set thestandard for others to follow,” saidLieutenant Colonel Robert Mackelprang,168th Air Refueling Wing detachmentcommander for the second half of thedeployment. “We are a critical member ofthis team and having an impact on theWar on Drugs is what we’re here for. It’sa future impact that is far reaching, evento the frozen shores in Alaska.”

A Warm Thank You. A child from the ShekinahOrphanage presents Major General Craig E. Campbell,adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard, with aposter expressing the orphanage’s gratitude for thedonations that he, as well as the members from the168th Air Refueling Wing, made during their time inManta, Ecuador.



Holiday Hug.A Kotlik boy imme-diately hugs Santaafter waiting in lineto meet him duringa recent OperationSanta Claus visit.Photo: Kalei Brooks,DMVA Public Affairs

Winter Wonderland.A young Togiak girl rushed to shakeSanta’s hand after he landed in Togiakfor Operation Santa Claus.Photo: Sergeant Karima Turner, DMVA Public Affairs

“Tastee” Treats. Three-year-old Kennedy Gosuk smiles at the camera afterreceiving an ice cream sundae during Operation Santa in Togiak. Rich Owens, ownerof Tastee Freez in Alaska, donates hundreds of sundaes, which always prove to be abig hit in rural Alaska. Photo: Sergeant Karima Tuner, DMVA Public Affairs


Winter 2007/2008 • WARRIORS Ready to Serve 15

By Kalei Brooks, DMVA Public Affairs

CAMP DENALI, Alaska … The holiday season rangthroughout the Last Frontier with the sounds of laughter, jinglebells and, of course, the roar of the C-130 Hercules and theswooshing of the UH-60 Black Hawk rotors.

Operation Santa Claus celebrated its 51st year by visitinghundreds of children in 10 villages across Alaska. This annualevent is part of the Alaska National Guard’s community relationsand support program that provides clothing, books, school supplies and toys for youngsters in communities across the state.

“Our goal is to bring the joy of the holiday season tochildren and families all across Alaska,” said Major General CraigE. Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard.“We’re excited to head this mission each year because it gives theAlaska National Guard an opportunity to reach out to severalcommunities.”

For children of rural Alaska, Santa’s sleigh has come toresemble the Air National Guard’s C-130 Hercules aircraft or theArmy National Guard’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.Santa, Mrs. Claus and a team of elves spread the holi-day spirit as soon as the aircraft land and cargo isunloaded.

This year, Santa and company spread the holidaycheer in Wainwright, Togiak, Kotlik, Barrow,Buckland, Manokotak, Saint Michael, Shishmaref,Kalskag and Alakanuk.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN … The Alaska Air National Guardoriginally started Operation Santa Claus in 1956 as a result of arequest from St. Mary’s Mission for toys for their children.

Spring floods denied a fishing season that year, and thedrought that followed eliminated the big game. Every bit ofmoney the Mission had was used to pay for food to be shippedin, so it appeared there was no money to buy gifts for the childrenfor Christmas that year.

So, Guardsmen accepted new or used toys in those days frommembers of the Anchorage community. In turn, they rehabbedused toys, then handed them over to Santa Claus for deliveryaboard an Air Guard C-123J Provider.

Throughout the years, as time and social conditions in ruralAlaska changed, other villages, schools and groups have invitedOperation Santa Claus to their communities. Literally, tens ofthousands of Alaska’s children and adults have been on thereceiving end of St. Nick’s good cheer. �

Santa’s Kotlik Sleigh.Santa and Mrs. Claus get a lift to the KotlikSchool in a sled pulled by a snowmachine.Photo: Kalei Brooks, DMVA Public Affairs

Santa and Friends. With Mrs. Claus and Lieutenant GovernorSean Parnell looking on, Hayden Ayojiak, eight-months old, looks at SantaClaus with curiosity in Togiak. Photo: Sergeant Karima Tuner, DMVA Public Affairs



Family Support

CAMP DENALI, Alaska ... The primary mission of Family Programs isresource and referral; for those serviceand family members who come to us forassistance, we provide the resources theyneed to solve the problem or refer themto the appropriate agency that can help.

Throughout the past few years, FamilyPrograms has come to continuously relyon a few particular agencies to helpGuardsmen and their families in timesof need. While there are too many to mention here in entirety, we’d like tohighlight a few of the local people andagencies that have truly gone above andbeyond in their support of those whoserve selflessly.

The Alaska Home Builders CareEndowment has generously set up a fundthat provides $1,000 grants to activatedGuardsmen who have experienced a

verifiable hardship resulting in a financialdifficulty. The grant is paid directlytowards helping with rent or mortgagepayments. This local organization tire-lessly fundraises and has provided morethan $10,000 to Guardsmen who haveexperience house fires, unexpected medical issues and other dire hardships.

Operation Homefront(www.operationhomefront.net) providesa wide variety of assistance from home/appliance repair and food donations tosupport groups and financial counseling/relief. While the local chapter of thisagency, operated by super volunteerSharlotte Sandstede, recently closed, thenational organization is still running atfull speed and is able to offer assistanceto those in need. Operation HomefrontAlaska assisted Guardsmen in finding petcare, assisted with yard and home main-

Caring for Soldiers. These boxes of care packages were given out to Soldiers of B Company, 297th SupportBattalion, Alaska Army National Guard, at their deployment ceremony. The care packages were put together and donatedby the Curves staff in Wasilla. Photo: McHugh Pierre, DMVA Public Affairs

PARTNERSIN HELPINGBy Kimberly Leary, Family Programs

tenance during deployments, supportedfamilies with food/clothing/gift dona-tions, and assisted with financial needs byproviding monetary grants and financialcounseling.

Rich Owens has owned the localTastee Freez since 1994, and he has supported the National Guard since then.He has personally raised money anddonated time in supporting the numerouscauses of the National Guard, fromOperation Santa Claus to Family Daysand other events celebrating those whoserve in the Alaska National Guard. If aneed arises during a deployment or ahelping hand is needed, Family Programscan always count on Rich Owens!

Finally, individuals and agencies haveshown their support to the NationalGuard by providing thousands of itemsfor care packages and thousands of dol-lars in postage. From the individuals whohave donated a box or two of postage-paid care packages for our deployedtroops to the organizations such asAnchorage Board of Realtors, AMVETS,VFW and many others who have donatedthousands of packages, nothing says,“We Support Our Troops,” like a giftfrom home.

We truly have formed a partnershipwith these agencies and many others thatare dedicated to helping Guardsmen andtheir families, and we depend on theirsupport to complete our mission. FamilyPrograms sincerely thanks all the agencies that have helped and continue tooffer their support to those Guardsmenin need. Family Programs couldn’t do itwithout them! As always, if you needassistance of any kind, help is just a toll-free phone call away: 1-888-917-3608.You can also call one of our local FamilyAssistance Center offices:

Anchorage . . . . . . . . . . . . 428-6663

Bethel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 543-2759

Clear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-6225

Eielson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 377-8715

Fairbanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590-7201

Fort Greely . . . . . . . . . . . . 873-2482

Juneau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 465-1351

Kulis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249-1130

Nome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 443-6263


17

CAMP DENALI,Alaska ... Known asthe Last Frontier, it’snot surprising at thekinds of people whoare drawn to Alaska– adventurous, gregarious and trail-blazing to namea few.

It’s also not sur-prising the kinds ofSoldiers the AlaskaArmy NationalGuard enlists. Theycan easily bedescribed as trueAlaskans – the kindsof people you wantfighting for yourstate and nation, thesort of people youare proud to callArctic Warriors.

One Soldier inparticular has takenhold of this spirit, becoming the firstfemale drill sergeantin the Alaska ArmyNational Guard.

Sergeant FirstClass BonnieCochran, a residentof Palmer, originallycame from theNebraska Army

National Guard before moving to Alaska in 2003 in the hopes ofnew job opportunities and experiences.

“This has definitely been a new experience for me,” Cochransaid. “I’ve always wanted to be a drill sergeant because to me adrill sergeant is the ultimate role model with ultimate responsi -bility. I’ve talked to people who’ve retired from the service, andthey can still recall their drill sergeants’ names. To have that greatof an impact on someone is incredible.”

Before Cochran could even begin to teach the new recruitshow to be Soldiers, she had to go through a rigorous drill sergeant school herself, learning to be a teacher, mentor andmotivator.

Sergeant First Class Gregory Ray, recruiting and retentionmarketing noncommissioned officer, said Soldiers like Cochran,who come back from drill sergeant school, know first-hand whatyoung Soldiers are going to experience when they go to training.

Since returning in July from drill sergeant school in FortJackson, S.C., Cochran has joined the Recruiting and RetentionCommand as the Recruit Sustainment Program drill sergeant.

“Every state has a Recruit Sustainment Program,” Cochransaid. “One of the ways the National Guard Bureau has found toimprove the program is to train and assign drill sergeants to RSP.

Drill Sergeant Breaks NewGroundStory and photos by Sergeant Karima Turner, DMVA Public Affairs

It helps to ensure that new Soldiers are at least somewhat prepared for what they will face at basic training.”

At basic training, Soldiers are required to successfully complete certain tasks before they graduate, so before they go,Cochran focuses on teaching the recruits everything from drilland ceremony and rank structure to rappelling and basic medicaltasks during RSP training.

“It’s almost like pre-basic training,” Cochran said. “For example, they are going to have to rappel, and it’s going

to happen probably within that first week,” Cochran said. “If theydon’t rappel, they don’t graduate. So I’m kind of stacking thedeck in their favor. I’m saying, ‘Okay, we’re going to go rappel,and I’m going to show you that you can do it.’ So when they getdown to basic training, hopefully they go off no problem, andthey continue through and graduate; it helps them to take someof that self-doubt off their shoulders.”

Cochran said that aside from teaching civilians to be Soldiers,it’s important to her that she can be someone for her Soldiers tolook up to.

“The greatest thing you can teach someone in the Army ishow to be a Soldier,” Cochran said. “It will affect their Soldierskills from there on out. I want to be a good role model” �

Pre-Basic Training. New recruits for the Alaska Army National Guard begin theirtraining in the Recruit Sustainment Program with Drill Sergeant Bonnie Cochran, who callscadence to keep her new recruits in step.




Missile DefenseAlaska GMD Soldier Assists in Saving Life

Life Saver. Staff Sergeant Eric Maschmeier, a medical noncommissioned officer forthe 49th Missile Defense Battalion (GMD), listens to a patient’s breathing while on duty atFort Greely. He recently used the same stethoscope to assist in saving a man’s life aboardan airplane. Photo: Sergeant Jack W. Carlson III, 49th Missile Defense Battalion

By Captain Tim Brower, 49th Missile Defense Battalion

FORT GREELY, Alaska ... “Have stethoscope, will travel,”might be Staff Sergeant Eric Maschmeier’s new motto after hismedical skills and handy equipment helped save a man’s lifeaboard an airplane.

Maschmeier, a medical noncommissioned officer assigned tothe 49th Missile Defense Battalion (Ground-Based MidcourseDefense), was traveling onboard an Alaska Airlines flight fromFairbanks to Seattle this fall when, suddenly, one of the first-classpassengers – a heavy set, middle-aged man – stood up fromhis seat.

He turned to his seatmate, told him that he was having difficulty breathing and moved into the aisle. He then clutched hischest and fell over, unconscious.

The flight attendant was unable to revive him and immediatelyput out a call on the aircraft intercom asking for any medical professionals to identify themselves. Maschmeier and a medicaldoctor, Marc Johnson, M.D., M.P.H., responded.

Over the course of the next 15 minutes, they worked to stabilize the unconscious passenger. Maschmeier opened his luggage and provided a stethoscope and blood pressure cuff.Although his experience with this type of incident was limited,he was calm, professional and swift.

“When it happens, it happens quickly, and all the trainingcomes back to you,” Maschmeier commented.

While the doctor got on the radio with Mayo Clinic medicalconsultants, Maschmeier took serial blood pressures and monitored the patient’s pulse. These minute-by-minute informa-tion updates enabled the physician to make assessments of thepatient’s condition. According to Johnson, the patient’s life was inMaschmeier’s hands.

Maschmeier interviewed passengers seated around the patientto determine his behavior in flight prior to the incident. He thenconferred with the flight crew to determine if the patient hadexhibited symptoms prior to boarding and deputized other first-class passengers to record vital signs and report additional symptoms as they occurred.

Maschmeier relayed this information to Johnson, all whileattempting to rouse the unresponsive patient. Maschmeier’s calm,quiet, and low-key manner in managing an unconscious patientprovided reassurance to the passengers and flight crew.

Ultimately, because the patient was unresponsive, sweatingheavily and maintaining a low blood pressure, the aircraft divertedto Juneau. Paramedics revived the patient and transported him toan emergency room for evaluation and treatment.

Describing the event, Maschmeier says, “It was my first emergency experience at 35,000 feet.” �

“It was my first

emergency experience

at 35,000 feet.”– Staff Sergeant Eric Maschmeier


19

By Captain Tim Brower, 49th Missile Defense Battalion

FORT GREELY, Alaska … Lieutenant General KevinCampbell, commander of U.S. Army Space and Missile DefenseCommand/Army Forces Strategic Command, visited Fort Greelyearly this winter to sign the Army Family Covenant.

Prior to signing the covenant, Campbell met with Soldiers andfamilies pledging to take care of those living at this remote loca-tion situated north of the Alaska Mountain Range. He pointedout that the missile defense mission at Fort Greely is an enduringmission that will remain longer than U.S. forces in Korea.

Campbell shared Secretary of the Army Pete Geren and Chiefof Staff General George W. Casey’s commitment to Army families with those gathered at the covenant signing ceremony. Inhis remarks, Campbell commented, “I am personally committedto ensuring that the Soldiers and families at Fort Greely live underthe same standards for quality of life as I do in Huntsville.”

Following the commanding general’sremarks, Lieutenant Colonel GregoryMcClinton, commander of U.S. ArmyGarrison-Fort Greely, described what majorchanges have occurred at Fort Greely sinceit was put in mothballs as part of BaseRealignment and Closure in 1995.Highlights include a new post exchange,a renovated commissary and a post theater.

McClinton also described whatFort Greely residents can expect inthe future. Funds have been programmed for items such as acommunity activity center and anindoor running track. He also saidthat Soldiers and families couldexpect a Subway Cart added tothe AAFES Troop Store. �

Quality of Life aTop Priority

The Army Family Covenant We recognize the commitment and increasing sacrifices

that our families are making every day.

We recognize the strength of our Soldiers comes from thestrength of their families.

We are committed to providing Soldiers and families aquality of life that is commensurate with their service.

We are committed to providing our families a strong, supportive environment where they can thrive.

We are committed to building a partnership with Army families that enhances their strength and resilience.

We are committed to improving family readiness by:• Standardizing and funding existing family programs

and services• Increasing accessibility and quality of healthcare • Improving Soldier and family housing• Ensuring excellence in schools, youth services and

child care• Expanding education and employment

opportunities for family members

Putting Soldiersand Families First.Lieutenant General KevinCampbell, commander of U.S.Army Space and MissileDefense Command, and theFort Greely senior leaders signthe Army Family Covenant.Campbell is committed to ensuring that Soldiers and families who live at Fort Greelyhave quality amenities andfacilities.Photo: Sergeant Jack W. Carlson III, 49thMissile Defense Battalion




CAMP SHELBY, Mississippi …Alaska Army National Guardsmen serv-ing in Kuwait for the past year with 3rdBattalion, 297th Infantry were officiallywelcomed home in October.

The approximately 575 Guard members served as security forces basedin northern Kuwait since October 2006.Prior to leaving for Kuwait, the AlaskanSoldiers spent three months in trainingat Camp Shelby to prepare for the mission and conditions in the desert.

“I know first hand the conditions youfaced while deployed, and I am extremelyproud of the work you have accom-plished,” said Governor Sarah Palin.“Thank you for your commitment toAlaska and to America.”

“Warriors, you have done what youwere asked, and you served with success,” said Major General Craig E.Campbell, adjutant general of the AlaskaNational Guard. “You voluntarily faced

By Kalei Brooks and McHugh Pierre, DMVA Public Affairs

Congressional Congratulations. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski thanks Sergeant First Class Jeff

Kowchee, 3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry for his service in Kuwait and welcomes him back to the United States.

Photo: Kalei Brooks, DMVA Public Affairs

Alaska’s Finest. The Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry stand at attention duringtheir welcome home ceremony at Camp Shelby, Miss. Photo: Kalei Brooks, DMVA Public Affairs

an enemy with no clear designation andhave returned home victorious; you arethe next greatest generation.”

While deployed, the unit was taskedwith the key mission of protecting con-voys and providing security for CoalitionForces. Their mission kept them busyacross three bases in northern Kuwaitand along routes in southern Iraq.

“You have made your state andcountry proud,” said U.S. Senator LisaMurkowski. “As you begin coming home… not only will you make your familyand your friends very

happy, you will bring home a tremendoushonor of achievement to our state.”

“I have the deepest respect for you,”said U.S. Representative Don Young.“You volunteered, you did a great job, andyou achieved success. Welcome home!”

The 3rd Battalion consolidatedGuardsmen from more than 80 Alaskacommunities in July 2006. It was thelargest Alaska National Guard mobiliza-tion since World War II.



A Hero’s Welcome. Sergeant Paul Grimsley is greeted by his family and friends at theKenai Airport after returning from a year-long deployment with the Alaska Army National Guard’s3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry in Kuwait. Photo: Specialist Margaret J. Moonin, 134th Public Affairs Detachment

Home at Last. Specialist Seth Aguchak, of Scammon Bay, receives a

long awaited kiss after returning home to Alaska in October after a 15-month

mobilization. Photo: Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

Welcome Home. U.S. Congressman Don Young laughs with Chaplain Kirk

Thorsteinson, 3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry and welcomes him back to the United States

after a successful deployment to Kuwait. Photo: Kalei Brooks, DMVA Public Affairs



Education

CAMP DENALI, Alaska ... A new memorandum of agreement is expected to greatlyincrease access to education for Alaska National Guardsmen. Major General Craig E.Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard, and University of AlaskaPresident Mark Hamilton are expected to sign the memorandum in January 2008. Thisnew agreement is expected to change how Guardsmen apply for education benefits at theUniversity of Alaska, starting with the summer 2008 semester.

“Basically, we want every Guardsman to be able to go to a University of Alaskaschool, present a valid military ID, driver’s license and letter of eligibility to serve as payment for his or her education for that semester,” said First Lieutenant Les Poletzky,the Alaska National Guard’s Education Support officer.

The Memorandum of Agreement between the Alaska National Guard and theUniversity of Alaska shifts responsi bility for managing and financing the program fromthe Alaska National Guard’s Education Support Office to the University’s student financial aid offices, although the funding will still originate from the state of Alaska.

As a result of the change, Guardsmen and Naval Militia members deal directly withthe UA system, making the process much more responsive to individual needs. Thechange also eliminates the ESO’s application deadlines, so students will only need tomeet University of Alaska deadlines. With this change also come increased opportunities.

“There’s supposed to be no limit on how many credits a student can sign up for,”Poletzky said. Graduate students, however, will be reimbursed at the completion of theirclasses for a maximum of three semester hours per term.

What the new memorandum won’t change are the standards for payment. Studentswho fail to complete classes successfully will have to appeal to the UA system directly (asin the case of unexpected mobilization) or pay for those classes on their own.

Standards won’t change for the letter of eligibility either. To receive a letter of eligibility for the upcoming semester, Air Guard and Naval Militia members will have tosee their training noncommissioned officers to certify they are in good standing. ArmyGuard members will continue to apply through www.nationalguardbenefits.com.

By facilitating higher education for Guardsmen, Campbell and Hamilton have partnered to create a more qualified Alaskan workforce and better educated troops. �

Access to Higher Education Streamlined By Staff Sergeant Eric Hamilton, DMVA Public Affairs

Exploring Educational Opportunities. Specialist Brandee Eubanks and Sergeant Shana Harris, bothhuman resource specialists for the Alaska Army National Guard, look at the educational opportunities available to Guardmembers at the Education Support Office. Interested Guard members can go to E-203 at the Alaska National Guard Armoryto find the Education Support Office. Photo: Sergeant Karima Turner, DMVA Public Affairs


23

Who We Are...

SergeantTina Lua

Joint Forces Headquarters

Medical Detachment

Staff SergeantEric Hamilton

DMVA Public Affairs

What is the worst Christmas present you’ve ever received?

“When I was 10, my5-year-old sister got me a

water squirting fly forChristmas.”

“When I was in the sixthgrade, my boyfriend stolehis mother’s jewelry andgave it to me…I had to

give it back.”

“Two years ago, I spenttime and money driving

through two states to pickup a Christmas present

from my uncle. I thoughthe was adding me to his

will — he gave me a feminine green keychain.”

“There were nine of us inmy family, and one year myparents got us a two-player

game that we were allexpected to share. I think it

was something like theoriginal pong.”

Jamie AbordonadoEmployee Support of the

Guard and Reserve


MajorRoger LeBlanc

Alaska Air National Guard

SergeantMartin Johnson

Joint Forces Headquarters

Supply Sergeant

“One year my grandma gotme a blue and white

sweater with red reindeeron it; I was around ten.”

CAMP DENALI, Alaska … A local Alaskan businessman and philanthropistis the recipient of a national award that recognizes his extraordinary and excellentsupport of the Alaska National Guard.

Major General Craig E. Campbell, the adjutant general of the Alaska NationalGuard and commissioner of the Department of Military & Veterans Affairs, presented the prestigious National Guard Association of the United StatesPatrick Henry Award to Rich Owens, owner of Tastee Freez and co-owner ofH2Oasis Indoor Waterpark in Anchorage. Owens was recognized for his out-standing support of the Alaska National Guard, Operation Santa Claus andEmployer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

“Rich is a true Alaskan who exemplifies selflessness and patriotism,”Campbell said. “He’s been a cornerstone of support for the Alaska NationalGuard over the past two decades and continuously gives countless hours, dollarsand time to our troops. We’re very proud to have him as a member of our teamand are happy to see him recognized nationally for his outstanding support.”

Created in 1989, the Patrick Henry Award is designed to provide recognitionto local officials and civic leaders who, in a position of great responsibility, distinguished themselves with outstanding and exceptional service to the ArmedForces of the United States, the National Guard or the National GuardAssociation of the United States.

Only one individual is selected annually by a national board and only if theindividual has provided exceptionally strong support for the National Guard toclearly merit this award. �

Alaskan Receives PrestigiousNational Guard Association AwardBy Captain Guy Hayes, DMVA Public Affairs

Staunch Supporter. Patrick Henry Award winner Rich Owensstands proudly with Major General Craig E. Campbell, adjutant generalof the Alaska National Guard, after receiving the prestigious accolade.Owens has been a long-time supporter of the Alaska National Guard andreceived the Patrick Henry Award for his extraordinary support. Photo: First Lieutenant Amy B. Slinker, 134th Public Affairs Detachment


Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve

Supporting Service Members Returning to theWork Force

This is an excerpt from a statement by L. Gordon Sumner Jr., executivedirector for the National Committee for the Employer Support of the Guardand Reserve, before the Committee on Health, Education, Labor andPensions of the U.S. Senate.

Since the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, 639,000 Reserve component members havebeen mobilized. As National Guard and Reserve service men and women are returningfrom Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other locations overseas, it is a critical time for

Supporting Alaska’s Troops. Representatives from Providence Health System Alaska sign a“5-Star Statement of Support.” From left: Al Parrish, Providence vice president/chief executive; Rich Owens, South Centralcommittee chairman; Kanute Rarey, Providence Valdez Medical Center; Michael Machulsky, state chairman; KathleenKloster, Providence Seward Medical Center; Don Rush, Providence Kodiak Island Medical Center; Bruce Lamoureux,Providence Alaska Medical Center; and Karl Garber, Providence Health System Alaska. Photo: Jamie Abordonado, ESGR

employers of these service men andwomen to remain supportive of theirtransition back to their civilian jobs.

The Uniformed ServicesEmployment and Reemployment RightsAct of 1994 protects the employmentand reemployment rights of federal andnon-federal employees who leave theiremployment to perform military service.The role of informing service membersand employers about this law, and ofenforcing it fall to several different government organizations.

Employer Support of the Guard andReserve is a Department of Defenseorganization that seeks to develop andpromote a culture in which all Americanemployers support and value the militaryservice of their employees. We do thisby recognizing outstanding support,increasing awareness of the law and resolving conflicts though informal mediation.

It is important to note that ESGR isnot an enforcement agency, and we donot have statutory authority to offer formal legal advice or to participate inany formal investigative or litigationprocess.

Our part in the USERRA issue is toinform and educate our customers –service members and their civilianemployers – regarding their rights andresponsibilities under the USERRAstatute.

We have more than 1,000 trainedvolunteer ombudsmen throughout thecountry and a national call center inArlington, Va., to provide those services.

ESGR operates proactive outreachprograms to inform, educate and recog-nize the employers of our service members. We do this to raise awarenessof USERRA and thank employers fortheir support.

ESGR works with appropriate government organizations such as theDepartment of Labor’s Veterans’Employment and Training Service, theSmall Business Administration, andindustry associations such as theChamber of Commerce to create broad-based, nationwide support for ourtroops. �



25

Awards • Decorations • Promotions LTC Douglas L. Harvey . . . . . . . . . . .Med DetSGT Michael L. Manson . . . . . . . . . . .3rd BnCPT Stacy R. Moody . . . . . . . . . . . .Med DetSGT Elizabeth M. Robinson . JFHQ-AK (Army)CPT April L. Sapp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Met DetCPT Rebecca A. Young . . . . . . . . . . .Met Det

Air Force Commendation Medal

TSgt Nina L. Tomlinson . . . . . . . .168th ARWCapt Edward F. Borneo . . . . . . . .168th ARWTSgt Kelly K. Shewfelt . . . . . . . . .168th MSFTSgt Heather G. David-Damm . . .168th MSFTSgt Tracy P. Kurzenberger . . . . . .168th LRSSSgt Tyler J. Toth . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MSFSSgt Charlette A. Price . . . . . . . .168th MDGMSgt James P. Rankin . . . . . . . . .168th LRSMSgt Javier R. Hinojosa . . . . . . . .168th MXSMSgt Todd L. Redinius . . . . . . . . .168th MXSTSgt Angel R. Gurtler . . . . . . . . . .176th LRSTSgt Earl J. Singleton . . . . . . . . . .176th LRSSSgt Michael R. Reyor . . . . . . . . .176th ACSSSgt Kenneth O. Garris . . . . . . . . . .144th ASSSgt Robert E. Meacham . . . . . . .176th MXSSSgt Christopher S. Cordiner . . . .176th ACSSSgt Julie A. Arthur . . . . . . . . . . .176th MOF

Army Achievement Medal

SPC Rachel A. Gwizdak . . . . . . . .207th BdeCPT Michael T. Long . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Maritza J. Pearl . . . . . . . . . . . .Med Det

Meritorious Service Medal

MSgt Christopher S. Nolan . . . . .168th ARWMSgt Gerald A. Boynton . . . . . . . .168th MXSTSgt Thomas W. Blair . . . . . . . . .168th MXSTSgt Charles A. Mitchell III . . . . . .213th SWSLt Col Todd M. Mackinaw . . . . . . .168th ARSLt Col Dean A. Armstrong . . . . . .168th ARSCMSgt Kenneth E. Latham . . . . . .168th LRSCMSgt David O. Engen . . . . . . . . .168th MXSSMSgt Robbin L. Foran . . . . . . . .168th ARWSMSgt Shannon L. Stalder . . . . . .168th LRSMSgt Kenneth A. Cook . . . . . . . . .168th MXSMSgt Rodney J. Harker . . . . . . .168th AMXSMaj Steven J. Bucholz . . . . . . . . .213th SWSSMSgt Donald E. Brewer . . . . . .168th AMXSSFC Kendre A. Jones . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)SSG Howard C. Peterson . . . . . . . . . .2nd BnSSG John C. Smyre . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)1LT William J. Yeo . . . . . . . . . . . .103rd CSTSGT Teddy I. Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . .2nd Bn LTC Dennis J. Eby . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)MSG Vincent T. Farris . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)SFC Jody A. Heffele . . . . . . . . . . .207th BdeCW3 Linda L. Oliver . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnCPT Gary P. Rowe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1st BnSFC Elizabeth A. Sanvig . . . . . . . .207th BdeSGM Jeffery F. Coker . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)SFC Daniel E. Coyne . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnCol Charles E. Foster . . . . . . . . . . .176th WGMaj Scot A. Milani . . . . . . . . . . . . .211th RSMaj Keolani W. Bailey . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSCMSgt Gregory M. Lee . . . . . . .176th AMXSSMSgt George G. Gunn . . . . . . . .176th LRSSMSgt Loukia S. Camak-Laursen .176th OSFSMSgt Darlene Anderson . . . . . . .176th LRSMSgt Bethany D. Miller . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Crystal L. Garris . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Ronald F. Ingreso . . . . . . . . .176th WGMSgt Glenn T. Sumabat . . . . . . . .176th LRSMSgt Kimberly J. Stoltz . . . . . . . .206th CCSMSgt Jeanette D. Gonzalez . . . . . .176th ACSMSgt Robert W. Carte . . . . . . . . . .210th RSMSgt Roy L. Duckworth . . . . . . . .176th MXSTSgt Willie J. Hardee II . . . . . . . .176th MSG

Army Commendation Medal

CPT Dale N. Titus . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBMAJ John J. Brady . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Med DetCPT Rochelle L. Davis . . . . . . . . . . .Med DetPFC Eric M. Fortner . . . . . . . . . . . . .Med DetLTC Clinton H. Foster . . . . . . . . . . . .Med Det


Air Force Achievement Medal

TSgt Michael J. Travis . . . . . . . . .168th LRSSSgt Jackie L. Young . . . . . . . . . .168th MSFCapt Mathew M. McClurg . . . . .168th AMXSMSgt Michael D. Church . . . . . . .168th MXSMSgt Robert E. Stavang . . . . . . . .168th MXSMSgt John R. Miller . . . . . . . . . . . .168th OGTSgt John R. Duhaime . . . . . . . . .168th ARSCapt Christopher E. Prince . . . . . . .144th ASCMSgt Gregory M. Lee . . . . . . .176th AMXSSMSgt Kristine M. Joyce . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Fortunato V. Galvez . . . . . . .176th CESMSgt Claudia P. Walton . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Angela L. Hunter . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Tracy L. Glaze . . . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Linda D. Flegle . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Air)MSgt Tamara A. Thunander . . .JFHQ-AK (Air)MSgt Lyn M. Garrett . . . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Amber O’Neal . . . . . . . . . . .176th MSFMSgt Shawn N. Gannon . . . . . . . . .144th ASMSgt Leigh A. Norman . . . . . . . . .176th MOFTSgt Ray L. Albeza . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MSFTSgt Jerry L. Yow . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MSFTSgt Robert L. Anderson Jr. . . . . .176th CESTSgt George M. Foley . . . . . . . . .176th MXSTSgt Carl S. Kancir . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSSSgt Robert N. Holmes . . . . . . . .176th MXSSSgt Saroya J. Warren . . . . . . . . .176th MSFSSgt Scott J. Ruta . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSSSgt Jeremy R. Diermyer . . . . . . .176th MXSSrA Travis R. Robotkay . . . . . . . . . .144th AS

(continued on page 26)

Trailblazer. Staff Sergeant Chris Adams, center, gets his new stripes tacked on by his brother Staff SergeantJay Adams, left, and Major Carl Alvarez, right, all of the Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Air Refueling Wing. Thepromotion took place at the 367th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron Guard mount just prior to shift inKyrgyzstan. This is the first ever “mobilized to war zone” promotion for the 168th Air Refueling Wing.Photo: Chief Alan Carvajal, Security Forces Squadron manager



Army Good Conduct Medal

SSG Johnny J. Auman . . . . . . . . . . . .1st BnSSG Shawn O. Phillips . . . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK SGT Robert S. Brown . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Jack W. Carlson . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGM Jeffery F. Coker . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Anthony J. Craidon . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Michael D. Dean . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Richard C. Debilzan . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Henry W. Dehling . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Lisa M. Druga . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Samuel P. Etheridg . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG William A. Gallagher . . . . . . .49th MDBCPL David Z. Kamer . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Paul D. Kerr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RRDSFC Lauren R. Kostoff . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Steven J. Mageau . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Michael L. Manson . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Jason Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Eric J. Maschmeier . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Maureen D. Meehan . . . . . . . .49th MDBSPC Deena R. Meyer . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Jonathan D. Moore . . . . . . . .49th MDBCPL Shane S. Moore . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Clayton E. Mullins . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Billy J. Musgrove . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Duane W. Ostrowski . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Jeanette M. Padgett . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC William D. Ray Sr. . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Donald R. Reeder . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Fernando Sangco . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Lonzell Scott . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Mark J. Scott . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSGT Anthony G. Varela . . . . . . . . .49th MDB

SGT Joshua L. Wheeler . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Frederick L. Williams . . JFHQ-AK (Army)SGT Jeremy L. Christensen . . . . . .49th MDBSSG Russell D. Craig . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSPC Joseph A. Pentland . . . . . . . .49th MDB

Alaska Legion of Merit

LTC Dennis J. Eby . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)MSG Vincent T. Farris . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)CW3 Linda L. Oliver . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnCOL Judith M. Eller . . . . . . . . . . . . .Med Det

Alaska Distinguished Service Medal

SSG Terry D. Anderson . . . . . . . . . . . .3rd BnCW2 Neil D. Gotschall . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnSSG Howard C. Peterson . . . . . . . . . .2nd BnSGM Russell W. Port . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)

Alaska Commendation Medal

PFC Elaina D. Amberger . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)SPC Craig A. Collins . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)SSG Leslie A. Dirkes . . . . . . . . . . .207th BdePFC Tami L. Grande . . . . . . . . . . .207th BdeSFC Rhame L. Grubbs . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSFC Jacob M. Jacobs . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)CPT Michael T. Long . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSPC Paul H. Oliver . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th BdeSPC Anthony Rosario . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnSGT Jessica M. Main . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)

RETIREMENTS

TSgt Nina L. Tomlinson . . . . . .168th ARW

Capt Essex L. Richardson Jr. . .168th ARW

MSgt Christopher S. Nolan . . . .168th ARW

MSgt Kenneth A. Cook . . . . . . .168th MXS

MSgt Eugene E. Hodges III . . . .168th MXS

MSG Vincent T. Farris . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)

SFC Morris Carrillo . . . . . . . . . . . . .3rd Bn

SFC Jordan N. Niemeth . . . . . . . . . . .RRD

SSG Terry D. Anderson . . . . . . . . . .3rd Bn

SSG Howard C. Peterson . . . . . . . .2nd Bn

MSG Vincent T. Farris . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)

MSG Manuel Lopez . . . . . . . .297th Spt Bn

SMSgt Keith M. McDonough . . . .168th CF

Lt Col Dean A. Armstrong . . . . .168th ARS

SMSgt Donald E. Brewer . . . .168th AMXS

CMSgt Gregory Lee . . . . . . . . .176 AMXS

CMSgt Charles Sutton . . . . . . . .176th CES

SMSgt Darlene Anderson . . . . .176th LRS

SMSgt Louika Camaklaursen . . .176th OSF

MSgt Keith M. Gregory . . . . . . . .144th AS

MSgt Karl Heidelbach . . . . . . . .176th ACS

TSgt Gary L. Franklin . . . . . . . .176th MXS

TSgt Frank J. Sinerius . . . . . . . .176th CEC

TSgt Julian Smith . . . . . . . . . . .176th CES

TSgt John P. Williamson . . . . . . .176th WG

SSgt Oliver Andrus Jr . . . . . . . .176th LRS

AWARDS (continued)

New Alaska Air GuardCommander. Brigadier General DeborahMcManus, right, is congratulated by Colonel JohnGriffin, left, commander of the 168th Air RefuelingWing, after the change of command ceremony namingher as assistant adjutant general for the Alaska AirNational Guard. McManus is now Alaska’s first femaleassistant adjutant general.Photo: Staff Sergeant Christopher Gyden, 168th Communication Flight


27

Ashley T. Williams . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnKerribeth A. Clark . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnShane S. Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBMichael S. Olsen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBJoseph L. Tenyck . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBSasha S. Wenberg . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDB

Staff SergeantPaul Zagorski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASLeslie Diermyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASErik Kershner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSJohnathan Damon . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSStacey Rother . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSJeremy Diermyer . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSSheila Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th WGJames Whitlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206th CCSJohn Swanson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212th RQSPaul Zagorski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASLeslie Diermyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASErik Kershner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSJohnathan Damon . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSStacey Rother . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSJeremy Diermyer . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSSheila Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th WGJames Whitlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206th CCSJohn Swanson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212th RQS

PROMOTIONS

Jessica Alvarez . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MDGThomas Gregory . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MDGTiffany Gregory . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MDGKristian Mauk . . . . . . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Air)

Staff Sergeant (E-6)Eric J. Maschmeier . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBDaniel A. Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnJesse E. Budke . . . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnJames A. Corbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RRDEdward G. Jones . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnMichael T. Williams . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnMelissa A. Zarones . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBAlbert W. Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3rd BnTroy J. Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th Avn

Technical SergeantDavid J. St. Laurent . . . . . . . . . . .168th MXSKyla M. Root . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MXSClint J. Kerr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th AMXSMichael P. Burrell . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MXSPhilip J. Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th CFWilliam P. Irvine Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MOFTillman W. Stovall . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th CFLucas Hernandez . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th OSFShaun R. Loeffler . . . . . . . . . . .168th AMXSStephen C. Proctor . . . . . . . . . .168th AMXSKevin Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASRenaye Lavin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASGeorge Kale II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th APFJessica Lingo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th APFHeidi Gould . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th APFMatthew Soukup . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th APFJay Schmidt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSJessica Pena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSZachary Darnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSErik Nosich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th CESMichael Buck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th CESMichael Cooper . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th LRSBenjamin Lund . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSMarcy Butler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSWilliam Bredin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSDouglas Rotach . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSJesse Swensgard . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSMarc Ocampo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MDGPatrick Wakefield . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th SFSRyan Rabon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th SVFJesus Rodriguez . . . . . . . . . . . . .206th CCSJared Friese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206th CCS

SergeantSamantha J. Dehling . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBElizabeth M. Robinson . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)Robert W. Bishop . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnCynthia L. Hatzis . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th BdeJonathan C. Lyle . . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnRyan L. Madros . . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnPichardo P. Minaya . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnMatthew S. Nore . . . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt BnTyler Starkweather . . . . . . . . . .297th Spt Bn

Lieutenant ColonelJoseph J. Streff . . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)Philip Mieczynski . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MOFJay Fuller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MDGKevin Schnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th OSF

MajorJeffery J. McElhaney . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)Dollie Waters . . . . . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)Michele M. Worm . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Med Det

First LieutenantRebecca Altenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASAudra Kern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXSJeremy Stephens . . . . . . . . . . . . .210th RQS

Second LieutenantClarence Stevens III . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSBrian Nosich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th OSFGary Weir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th AS

Sergeant Major Jeffery F. Coker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDB

Chief Master SergeantDaniel Anderson . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXG

First SergeantWilliam M. Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnWilliam K. Schwenke . . . . . . . . . . . . .3rd BnChristopher R. Simmons . . . . . . . . . .2nd Bn

Master Sergeant (E-8)David C. Foli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RTILarry E. White Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnWilliam D. Ray Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDB

Senior Master SergeantTimothy A. Gilbert . . . . . . . . . . .168th AMXSDouglas D. Hubbartt . . . . . . . . . .168th MXS

Sergeant First ClassGabriel Gonzales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RTIGeorge D. Mebane . . . . . . .JFHQ-AK (Army)James R. Morris . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207th AvnStephan A. Young . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDBKevin R. Mcgaha . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49th MDB

Master Sergeant (E-7)Timothy J. Berg . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MXSAnthony J. Kuntz . . . . . . . . . . . . .168th MSGKimberly H. Mortrud . . . . . . . . . .168th MXSShannon W. Epps . . . . . . . . . . .168th AMXSGlen Tillman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144th ASEugene Lazar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th ACSKenneth Joyce . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th AMXSTimothy Weisenbuger . . . . . . . .176th AMXSKarl Morris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th CESCheryl Stocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th LRSJames Brewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176th MXG




Start of the TrailWelcome our newest members & employees

176th Wing

Toni MorseAaron MaloneAmanda AkersAaron HunterMitchell SinglerLeslie SieverkroppEdward WilsonLadonna Dean Dustin LoughmanEvan JohnstonAllison SnowJames PhelpsKathryn BainesKim MatthewsElisabeth PhelpsEric CoxEric LovelyFreddie Gann Michael O’BrienWilliam SerraMorgan WirumChristopher GraggScott StewartSteven NixonChris RishkoBrett BrandemuhlGregory Yoschak Brent BussBenjamin KllienSylvester TooleCurtis HiltyChris BrunnerShannon GraggErin SoellersFigueroa QuinonesJames SalingJohn CarterBret BeelerBandon KingJesse PetersonLaura GrossmanMark EakerJeremy AkersSamuel CooperDaniel Gese

168th Air Refueling Wing

Sara AugustShawn BergamaschiJoshua KonefalMichael NorwoodLonnie YoungCharles SiegfriedChristopher Williams

Jake IdzerdaMikkel AndrussTimothy LussierRaymond GanaciasGerald SheffieldJennifer BeaumierMatthew HeierenNatalie Jorgensen

297th Support Battalion

Vincent RamosJoshua GuernseyMichael Burnash

297th Infantry

Gregorio SaludaresWilliam OlivaJoshua CoreyJustin SekerakJoe Pete

Army Guard MedicalDetachment

Rebekah Hirschel

Warriors Training ScheduleHere are the inactive training dates for all Alaska Army and Air National Guard units. Dates for subordinateunits are the same as their parent headquarters, unless otherwise indicated. All dates are subject to change.Most Alaska Army Guard units perform annual training (AT) through the winter.

Alaska National Guard Jan. Feb. MarchJoint Forces Headquarters – Alaska (Air) 12-13 9-10 1-2Joint Forces Headquarters – Alaska (Army) 11-14 9-10 22-23

Alaska Army National Guard207th Infantry Group 12-13 9-10 Feb. 29 – March 21/207th Aviation Regiment 10-13 8-10 1-2297th Support Battalion 19-20 9-10 Feb. 29 – March 2Regional Training Institute 12-13 9-10 1-2

Alaska Air National Guard168th Air Refueling Wing 12-13 9-10 8-9176th Wing 12-13 9-10 1-2

Alaska State Defense ForceHeadquarters 19-20 16-17 15-16

Kenneth WhitlockCameron DonoughBrian Tipton

Joint Forces Headquarters(Army)

Joseph Lace

207th Infantry Brigade

Edward EagertonSalvadore SuttonSergey Trofimov Chandler HummelHector SenquizNikolaous AthanasiouFelicia LawsonChristopher DaileyKenneth SparksCarl WatsonJustin PurvisHeather Roehl

207th Aviation Battalion

Terry Phillips-TomlinsonJacob Johnson

A Glimpse of Military Life. Staff SergeantVictor Ward and Staff Sergeant Nicholas Dutton rappelfrom a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Fort Richardsonas a demonstration for the Recruit Sustainment Program.RSP is a program that allows recruits to learn militarycustoms and courtesies prior to going to basic training.Photo: First Lieutenant Amy B. Slinker, 134th Public Affairs Detachment




Documents

Warriors Winter 2007.qxd:Warrior Spring 2005 1/15/08 1:40 ... · Winter 2007/2008 † WARRIORS Ready to Serve 1 ... night-sight before ... of Delta Junction, assists the Afghan National