NEWSO F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E N A T I O N A L G U A R D A S S O C I A T I O N O F T E X A S

56th ANNUAL NGAT CONFERENCE 13–15 MARCH 2015 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX

Founded 1959 • Volume 55 • Number 4 • Winter 2015

www.ngat.org 3

4 Letter from the President

5 Members Spotlight

6 Legislative Update

7 New Commander-in-Chief for TXMF

8 Leadership Changes

9 CSM Mark Weedon-New Senior Enlisted Advisor

10 Homecomings/Deployments

11 Farewell to CSM Brandt

12 Around the World with the Texas National Guard

14 Salute to Retirees

16 Hooah Holidays

18 Around Texas with the Guard

20 NGAT 2015 Conference Information

21 Texas State Guard OCS Class

22 TAPS/Corporate Members and Sponsors

24 NGAT Planning Calendar

NEWS

ON THE COVER:

Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht, chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court, administers the oath of office to Greg Abbott, who is being sworn in as the 48th governor of Texas in Austin, Texas on Jan. 20, 2015. The Texas Military Forces supported the 2015 Texas Inaugural Committee by providing a joint color guard, which presented the American and Texas flags during the inaugural ceremony and parade; a four-ship flyover of F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard based at Joint Base San Antonio – Lackland, Texas; and a 17-gun salute from a Howitzer cannon battery assigned to the Texas Army National Guard at Camp Mabry in Austin; and the 36th Infantry Division Band, Texas Army National Guard, which marched in the parade. (Photo by 2nd Lt Phil Fountain)

NGAT NEWS (USPS 015-752) PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT AUSTIN TX 78710 AND ADDITIONAL OFFICES

POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: NGAT NEWS, 3706 CRAWFORD AVENUE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78731-6308

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contents2014–15 Board of DirectorsPresident ........................................................... Charles Chavers

President-Elect ........................................................Daniel Quick

Vice President .......................................................... Kenn White

Secretary/Treasurer .............................................Ashley Bloom

Joint Forces Hqs ............................ Michael Courade (Enlisted)

TX ARNG ................................................. Terri Marshall (Officer)

176th Engr Bde.....................................Calvin Jenkins (Officer)

36th Infantry Division .....................Kenneth Henry (Enlisted)

72nd IBCT ........................................ Brian Hildebrand (Officer)

72nd IBCT ................................................Tony Carter (Enlisted)

56th IBCT .........................................................Jet Hays (Officer)

56th IBCT ..................................................... Jim Horn (Enlisted)

36th CAB....................................................Bob Roark (Enlisted)

71st BfSB ................................................ Patrick Harty (Officer)

36th Sustainment Bde ..............Murphy McCardell (Enlisted)

136th MEB .............................................John Crawson (Officer)

HQ, TANG ..........................................Michael Selheim (Enlisted)

136th AW ..................................................Doug Clark (Enlisted)

147th RW ...................................................Anita Blue (Enlisted)

149th FW ................................................. John Pollard (Officer)

TX State Guard Rep .....................Kristopher Krueger (Officer)

Retired Rep - Region 1 .........................................Priscilla Leger

Retired Rep - Region 2 .......................................... Jerry Horsley

Retired Rep - Region 3 ........................................Buck Allbright

Family Readiness Rep ..........................................Miguel Torres

Executive Director ................................................... Ray Lindner

NGAT NEWS3706 Crawford Ave.Austin, TX 78731

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Editor ...........................................Theresa Billeck-Zuniga

Copy Editor ..................................................Laura Bianco

Graphic Designer .........................................Kathy White

Publisher ............................. Aus-Tex Printing & Mailing

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NGAT News WINTER 20154

LTC Miguel Torres (far left), commander of 3-133rd Field Artillery, proudly stands with the newest recipients of the Order of Saint Barbara presented at the annual Saint Barbara’s dining-out held in El Paso, Texas. LTC Torres is also a member of the NGAT Board of Directors. (Photo by Elizabeth Loman)

As 2014 comes to a close and we move forward into the New Year, I wanted to take a moment and thank each of you for the individual sacrifices that you and your family make on behalf of our great state and nation. I am proud to say that I serve with each of you, and I am ever hopeful of the great things we will accomplish in the coming year. Since our last issue went to press, the United States populace elected a new Senate and House of Representatives. Texas also elected a new Governor and State Commander in Chief for the Texas Military Forces. These events offer our elected officials the opportunity to make positive change on behalf of issues important to each one of us. And just like the past 56 years, NGAT will be right there within the process representing the needs and desires of the men and women of the Army, Air and State Guard.

When the 84th Texas Legislature moves into full session this month, I want to ask that each of you stay informed by visiting the NGAT website (www.NGAT.org) for legislative updates. And while you are there, you can sign up for legislative alerts and the call for action. All it takes is a few minutes, and your efforts can mean the difference between success and failure of vital legislative efforts. I strongly urge each of you to make your voices heard in Austin and on Capitol Hill by getting involved with this vital process. And speaking of vital processes, preparations are underway for the 56th annual NGAT conference in Corpus Christi, TX from 13–15 March 2015. You can rest assured that your conference committee and the NGAT staff are working diligently to ensure that the event will be one to remember. We have been working hard to ensure that all attendees will be offered professional development and informational breakouts relevant to all in attendance. We also have a slate of optional activities for the more adventurous members of the association. I am excited about the 2015 conference, and I hope to see each of you there. If you have questions, you can visit the NGAT website for the latest conference updates. As always, I want to thank you for your continued support of the association and the men and women of the Texas Military Forces. Thank you for a great 2014 and I look forward to the opportunities that 2015 offers the National Guard Association of Texas. If there is anything I can do for you, let me know. I can be contacted 24/7 through the NGAT website.

Charles ChaversCMSgt, TANGPresident NGAT

President's Report

ORDER OF SAINT BARBARA

SMSgt Doug Clark (NGAT Board Member) and CMSgt Charles Chavers (NGAT President) greet Snowball Express families in DFW Airport.

SNOWBALL EXPRESS

NGAT SILENT AUCTION SEEKS DONATIONSThe NGAT Silent Auction is a vitally important fundraising tool for our National Guard Association of Texas Education Foundation. We are always seeking new support through donated items. Your generous gift of an auction item will help us be able to continue to offer scholarships and support unit activities. Your donations to the auction are tax deductable.

To donate, contact MSG (Ret) Billeck-Zuniga at 512-454-7300.

2014 NGAT MEMbErSHIP CONTEST rESULTS (1 JAN 2014 - 31 DEC 2014)

HIGHEST MEMbErSHIP AT THE ENd OF 2014: 149TH FW HIGHEST % OF INCrEASEd MEMbErSHIP IN 2014: 136TH MEb MOST NEW MEMbErS IN 2O14: 147TH rW

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A career guardsman capped off a 27-year military career by paying tribute to Texas and the United States, his adopted home, during a retirement ceremony in November. Lt Col don Nguyen, assistant director of operations for the 273rd Information Operations Squadron (IOS), retired from military service after lifting himself up from unlikely circumstances – a child refugee of the Vietnam War. In the late 1970s, Nguyen’s family took to the high seas to escape Vietnam’s Communist regime, which took control of that nation in 1975. “Our family and other families barely survived the five days lost at sea as ‘boat people refugees,’” Nguyen said. “We experienced starvation, dehydration, turbulent weather, life and death situations, and (were) without fuel – drifting until rescued by Malaysia’s international humanitarian effort.” Following the ordeal, Nguyen’s family was initially sheltered in Malaysia and then became sponsored to come to the United States. “I was just 10 years old when we immigrated to America in November 1979,” Nguyen said. “I grew up in Houston, Texas and quickly learned the English language and how to become a Texan and an American.” In 1987, Nguyen enlisted in the U.S. Army and later served as a signal officer in the Texas Army National Guard before transferring to the Texas Air National Guard in 2002 when he became a U.S. Air Force cyber-communications officer. “During my service with the U.S. Army,” Nguyen said, “I was

naturalized and received my U.S. citizenship.” During the ceremony, Nguyen was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal and the Texas Outstanding Service Medal. Lt Col Nguyen is an NGAT Life Member.

VIETNAM WAR REFUGEE, CAREER GUARDSMAN RETIRES

Congratulations to NGAT Member SSG Mireya Cruz for being named the Honor Graduate at her Advanced Leadership School in Camp Parks, CA.

HONOR GRADUATE

OVER 10 YEARS OF 386TH ENGINEER BATTALION LEADERSHIP

Current and former commanders of the 386th Engineer Battalion gathered for a photo during a dining-out held in Austin, Texas for the 176th Engineer Brigade. Pictured left to right are: COL James Junot (02-06), COL (ret) Frank Zuniga (06-08), LTC (ret) Jim Cline (08-10), COL (ret) richard Jordan (10-12) and LTC richard Stradinger (12-present).

Congratulations to SSgt Mindy bloem (right) and SrA Chasity Lollis for receiving top honors in the Video and Photography categories of the Texas Military Forces Public Affairs Media Competition.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS TOP HONOR

Lt Gen Joseph L. Lengyel (left), a former Texas Air National Guardsman and Vice Chief, National Guard Bureau, administers the oath of office to 2nd Lt Phil Fountain at Maxwell Air Force Base, AL. 2nd Lt Fountain is a new NGAT Life Member who serves as a Public Affairs Officer for the 149th Fighter Wing and works full-time

in the Government Affairs Office within the Office of the Adjutant General of Texas at Camp Mabry. (Photo by COL Nahaku A. McFadden)

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS OFFICE WELCOMES NEW OFFICER

NGAT News WINTER 20156

by Ray Lindner, NGAT Executive Director

Our legislative focus this quarter is largely at the state level, as the new legislature is just beginning to take focus as committee assignments are announced. In the State Senate, Senator Donna Campbell (R-25) is the new Chair of the Veteran Affairs and Military Installations Committee. Representative Susan Lewis King is the new Chair of the House Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Both the House and the Senate have referred general appropriations bills to committee, and those bills largely reflect a continuation of funding of the Adjutant General’s department at existing levels, with some exceptions. The department will be requesting increased funding in some areas, and NGAT will be prepared to assist in that effort. The most significant challenge to veterans’ benefits this session will likely be concerning the Hazlewood Act. On 26 January 2015, a federal judge in Houston struck down a clause in the state law limiting veterans’ tuition benefits to those who enlisted in the military while living in Texas, which is the basis for the Hazlewood Act eligibility. The judge found that the provision violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Hazlewood costs to universities have soared since implementing transferability of benefits to dependents, reaching $169 million in 2014 and predicted to reach $379.1 million in 2019. The economic implications of this ruling put the entire Hazlewood program in jeopardy. NGAT will strive to ensure that education benefits will remain for the Texas National Guard, regardless of the fate of the Hazlewood program. NGAT will host a Texas Military Forces Day at the state capitol on 19 March 2015. The Guard will provide static posters and displays, and NGAT will host breakfast and evening receptions. At the federal level, threats to Guard force structure and equipment continue to bubble. In addition to Hill visits, NGAT will host a reception for the Texas Congressional delegation and staff in late February and has also budgeted funding for activities surrounding the separate Army and Air “State of the State” briefings at NGB. As always, keep abreast of legislative activities by following the NGAT website and Facebook. Keep your email current with the membership department (membership@ngat.org) to ensure you receive legislative updates and alerts.

Legislative Report

Col Kurt Leslie (left), rep. Pete Olson (center) and Col Terence Winkler (right) cut the ribbon during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the 147th Reconnaissance Wing’s newly-renovated maintenance hangar at Ellington Field JRB in Houston.

MAKING IMPROVEMENTS AT THE 147TH RW

Judge ryan Patrick, district judge for the 177th District Court in Harris County, Texas, administers the oath of office to his father dan Patrick (right), who is being sworn in as lieutenant governor of Texas in Austin, Texas on Jan. 20, 2015. (Photo by 2nd Lt Phil Fountain)

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR SWORN IN

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NEW COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF FOR THE TEXAS MILITARY FORCES

Republican Greg Abbott has been officially sworn in as Texas’ first new governor in 14 years and the new Commander-in-Chief of the Texas Military Forces. Abbott promised the state will stay as defiantly conservative as ever – vowing to battle Washington on border security, spending, regulation and any federal initiative “that uses the guise of fairness to rob us of our freedom.” Fighter jets streaked through sunny skies, ceremonial cannons boomed, the University of Texas marching band blared and the smell of four tons of beef brisket prepared for the inaugural barbeque hung in the air over the steps of the State Capitol, where Abbott and new lieutenant governor Dan Patrick formally took office. Organizers said they raised more than $4.5 million for the festivities, which also included a parade, a ball and a concert featuring Lady Antebellum. Shortly after Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick were sworn in, the Texas Military Forces Joint Color Guard led the inauguration parade down Congress Avenue, followed by the 36th Infantry Division Band out of Camp Mabry in Austin. The 57-year-old Abbott succeeds Rick Perry, who took office in December 2000, and says he’ll announce an expected second presidential run perhaps as early as May or June. Perry, who succeeded George W. Bush after being elected president, was the longest-serving governor in Texas history. Unlike Perry and his political cowboy persona, Abbott has a more lawyerly, almost judicial, mentality. He nearly choked up when thanking his wife and daughter and God during his speech. “We must seek higher ground that will continue to elevate Texas, not just as a leader in this nation, but as a leader in this world,” he said.

(Photos by SFC Malcolm McClendon and 2nd Lt Phil Fountain)

NGAT News WINTER 20158

COL Michael AdameCommander

136th Regiment (CA) (RTI)

CSM Carl T. davisCommand Sergeant Major

1-112th CAV

COL Stanley GolaboffDirector

Human Resources

COL Marvin JohnsonDirector

TXARNG G4

Col Christopher G. McGrawVice Commander136th Airlift Wing

CSM Anthony SimmsCommand Sergeant Major176th Engineer Brigade

Maj Gen Kenneth Wisian (left), Texas Air National Guard commander, passes the

guidon to Col George W. Holt Jr. during the 136th Airlift Wing change of command

ceremony at Naval Air Station in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by MSgt Charles Hatton)

CMSgt Marlon Nation (right) reads the promotion orders for

Faith Federspielduring her promotion

ceremony to Chief Master Sergeant. She will serve as the Command Chief for the 147th

Medical Group.

The adjutant general of Texas, Maj Gen John F. Nichols (left), and MG Lester Simpson unfurl the two-star general’s flag on

6 Dec. 2014. Simpson, who commands the 36th Infantry

Division of the Texas Army National Guard, was promoted

to his new rank during a ceremony at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. (Photo by MAJ

Randy Stillinger)

MG Lester Simpson (right), commander of

the 36th Infantry Division promotes

COL James Pleasant as his wife Linda looks on. COL Pleasant is the Fires Chief

for the 36th Infantry Division.

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CSM Mark A. Weedon assumed responsibility as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Texas Military Forces from CSM Bradley Brandt in a ceremony held at Camp Mabry in Austin on 15 Nov. 2014. During the ceremony Weedon took time to thank his family for their many years of love, support and sacrifice. He also reflected on his early days in the Texas National Guard including his decision to make a long-term commitment to the force. “I fell in love with the guard when I recognized the true sacrifice and the true patriot that guardsmen and women are,” said Weedon. “I am very humbled and proud at the same time to serve you in this position,” said Weedon while speaking to the men and women of the Texas Military Forces. As the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas Military Forces, Weedon will advise the Adjutant General of Texas on all enlisted matters concerning training, effective utilization, health of the force and enlisted professional development.

CSM Weedon, a native of Bryan, TX, graduated from Bryan High School in 1986 and joined the United States Army in January of 1988. He married his wife Shelli in 1988 and they have four children: Stefani, Kyndal, Alan, and Arin. He attended Basic Combat Training and the Army’s Nuclear,

Biological, and Chemical Advanced Individual Training at Fort McClellan, Alabama. During 26 years of service, CSM Weedon has held numerous leadership positions to include Fire Team Leader, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, Operations Sergeant, First Sergeant, Sergeant Major, and Command Sergeant Major. His previous command sergeant major assignments have included: Commandant 136th Regiment (RTI), Command Sergeant Major Texas Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion, and Command Sergeant Major 1st Battalion 141st Infantry Regiment. CSM Weedon’s other assignments include: 95th Chemical Company, Giessen, Federal Republic of Germany; 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, Fort Bragg, N.C.; HQ 49th Armored Division, Camp Mabry, Austin, TX; and 4-112th Armor Battalion, Bryan, TX. CSM Weedon was deployed to Iraq during Desert Shield/Desert Storm in 1990-1991 and again to Iraq in 2009-2010 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. CSM Weedon is a graduate of all the Noncommissioned Officer’s Education System Courses including the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, Air Assault School, Airborne School, Army National Guard Basic Recruiting Course, M1A1 Armor Crewman Course, Senior Management Course, and the Lean Six Sigma Process Improvement Course. He holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science from Central Texas College, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Franklin University, and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Amridge University. CSM Weedon has been awarded numerous awards and decorations including the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (4th award), Army Commendation Medal (4th award), Army Achievement Medal (6th award), Southwest Asia Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Texas Faithful Service Medal, Texas Combat Service Ribbon, Texas Outstanding Service Medal, the German Armed Proficiency Badge, the Master Recruiter Badge, and the Centurion Order of Saint Maurice.

The 1136th Infantry Det. (Pathfinder) is holding its first reunion since its deactivation in 1990. The reunion will be held April 17-18, 2015, in Austin.

All past members and support personnel are being invited. Initial contact has been made with those individuals whose whereabouts are known.

If you have not yet received an invitation to attend, contact the reunion organizers via phone, text or email:

Roberto Chavira, (512) 917-6351, chavi467@yahoo.com

Mark Erwin (512) 750-6028, markjerwin@yahoo.com

NGAT News WINTER 201510

HOMECOMINGS/DEPLOYMENTS1-112TH CAVALRY REGIMENT MOBILIzATION CEREMONY

The 1st Squadron, 112th Cavalry Regiment conducted a Mobilization Ceremony on 19 December 2014 in preparation for deployment to Egypt. MAJ Gabe Simonds and CSM Tom Davis welcomed MG Lester Simpson, commander of the 36th Infantry Division, as the keynote speaker for the event which was attended by family members and several leaders from the Texas Military Forces. The unit will be a part of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) mission while deployed to the Sinai Peninsula. (Photos by MAJ Randy Stillinger)

MAJ Gabe Simonds (left) and CSM Tom davis (right) case the colors of the 1-112th CAV Rgmt for their deployment to Egypt.

Members of the 176th Engr Bde, commanded by MG Lester Simpson (center), that deployed to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011 gathered for a photo during the 176th Engr Bde Dining Out recently held in Austin, Texas. (Photo by MSG (Ret) Theresa Billeck-Zuniga)

176TH ENGINEER BRIGADE DEPLOYMENT REUNION

TEXAS COMBAT ENGINEERS RETURN FROM AFGHANISTAN

bG Patrick Hamilton, commanding general of the Texas Domestic Operations Task Force greets Soldiers from the 454th Engr Co as they deplane to return home from a mission in Afghanistan.

Soldiers of the 454th Engineer Company Route Clearance, Texas Army National Guard returned state-side 12 January at the Silas L. Copeland Arrival/Departure Air Control Group airfield after completing their mission in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Greeting them as they deplaned was BG Patrick Hamilton, commanding general of the Texas Domestic Operations Task Force, Texas Army National Guard. According to CPT Eric L. Leatherman, company commander, 454th Engr Co, the unit was the tip of the spear when it came to route clearance. The 454th Engr Co cleared the way for all coalition forces by removing improvised explosive devices off the main routes in Afghanistan. Once the demobilization process is complete, the 454th Eng Co will return to San Angelo, Texas where their unit is based.

Soldiers assigned to the 454th Engineer Company, Texas Army National Guard, San Angelo pose with a flag from the Lone Star State which flew in Afghanistan. (Photo by Amabilia Payen)

(Below) More than 10 members of the 136th Security Forces Squadron arrive at DFW Airport on 27 Jan. 2015 after serving over seven months in Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

An Airman with the 136th Security Forces Squadron is greeted by a family member that is happy to see him upon his return from Afghanistan.

Is your unit deploying or returning from deployment?

Send your photos to ngatnews@ngat.org

www.ngat.org 11

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WithaceremonialpassingoftheNonCommissionedOfficer’sSword, CSM Bradley Brandt handed over responsibility of the Texas MilitaryForces’SeniorEnlistedLeadertoCSMMarkWeedonandbegan preparing for retirement. CSM Bradley Brandt began his military career in June of 1975 as a U.S. Army UH-1 Huey helicopter mechanic with the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood, Texas. After completinghisactivedutytourin1978,Brandttookabreakbeforetransitioning into his career with the Texas Army National Guard. Duringhiscareer,Brandtworkedinsixdifferentmilitaryoccupationalfieldsincludingmotorvehiclemechanic,waterpurification,logistics,sergeantmajor,andtwoinarmyaviation. During his three-year role as senior enlisted leader for the TexasMilitaryForces,BrandtworkedtobetterunitetheTexasAirGuardandtheTexasArmyGuard.HiseffortsledtothefirsteverJoint-Best Warrior Competition in all of the National Guard. Brandt enlisted the help of other senior enlisted leaders to open the traditionally Army-only competition to Airmen. As Brandt ends his time as the senior enlisted leader for the

TexasMilitaryForces,hehopesthathiseffortstobringtheTexasArmyandAirGuardcomponentscloser will continue to grow as a model for other states. NGAT is proud to call CSM Bradley Brandt an NGATLifeMember.

NGAT News WINTER 201512

AROUND THE W RLD with

Engine mechanics from the 149th Maintenance Squadron perform an engine change on an F-16 Fighting Falcon during Salitre 2014 in Chile. (Photo by SMSgt Elizabeth Gilbert)

Lt Gen Stanley E. Clarke III (center), Director, Air National Guard, stands with members of the 149th Fighter Wing, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland as he visited the unit to observe day-to-day operations. Lt Gen Clarke III was requalified on the F-16 Fighting Falcon by the 182nd Fighter Squadron, a subunit and a schoolhouse for the 149FW. (Photo by SSgt Rebekkah Jandron)

SMSgt Miguel Arellano, 149th Fighter Wing, and fellow Airmen visit the children’s ward at the Leonardo Guzman Regional Hospital in Antofagasta, Chile to distribute gifts and bring a few moments of joy to hospitalized children. (Photo by SMSgt Elizabeth Gilbert)

A water purification specialist with A Company, 636th Brigade Support Battalion explains how their system can produce drinking water from pond water during an Employer Support to the Guard and Reserve event at Camp Bowie in Brownwood, Texas. (Photo by 1LT Melinda G. West)

Soldiers from the 1-143rd Inf Rgmt (Airborne) line-up and prepare to exit the aircraft during a training jump. The battalion departed Austin’s Bergstrom International Airport on two Altus Air Force Based C-17s, flew to Fort Hood, and then jumped into the Rapido Drop Zone wearing full combat gear. (Photo by MAJ Randall Stillinger)

www.ngat.org 13

the TEXAS NATIONAL GUARD

Delegates of the Swedish Armed Forces International Centre complete their visit with the Joint Task Force 136 (Maneuver

Enhancement Brigade) at the Round Rock Armed Forces Reserve Center with a group

photo by the brigade’s mobile command vehicle. The group of service members from Sweden, Finland, and Norway toured various

military and civil agency sites throughout central Texas to learn more about the

National Guard approach to disaster response. (Photo by MSG Daniel Griego)

TXARNG Senior Warrant Officer Strength Manager CW3 Michael Long (right) presents

CPT Hunter Smith with the first place medal for his win in the Audie Murphy

Chapter of the U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association 5K Run scholarship fundraiser.

NCOs from across the Texas Army National Guard recently graduated from the Unit Retention NCO Training course, held at the Recruiting & Retention Battalion Headquarters on Camp

Mabry. Each of the graduating NCOs will be charged with identifying and assisting Soldiers in their units who are eligible for reenlistment.

Follow Us!

Members of the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) hoist members of Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1) into their UH-60 “Black Hawk” helicopter during overwater search and rescue training near the San Luis Pass bridge. The Soldiers were conducting several days of training on the Gulf Coast near Galveston, Texas. (Photo by MAJ Randall Stillinger)

PV2 Thomas Porath of the Recruit Sustainment Program examines an M-249 Squad Automatic Weapon during a skills test at the Recruiting & Retention Battalion’s Best Warrior Competition tryouts in December.

NGAT News WINTER 201514

R.O.M.E.O. CLUB ATTENDS LUNCHEON

Retirees from the Retired Old Men Eating Out (R.O.M.E.O) Club attend the 149th Fighter Wing’s (149 FW) annual steak luncheon at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas on 19 Dec. 2014. The steak luncheon is an event put together by the 149 FW Chiefs Group for wing members and retirees to come together and celebrate the holidays. (Photo by SSgt Rebekkah Jandron)

VETERANS DAY SALUTE

Col (ret) Wilbert Smith (left), CPT (ret) roberto deleon (center) and Maj Gen (ret) John H. bailey

During the holidays NGAT ran into a lot of NGAT members who are retirees and we wanted to salute some of them for Veterans Day!

MG (ret) Sam TurkFormer Adjutant General of Texas

LTG (bvt, ret) Wayne Marty

Former Adjutant General of Texas

COL (ret) Garry Patterson

Col (ret) John Conoley III

CW4 (ret) Larry Williams

CW4 (ret) Adrian Munoz

CSM (ret) James danner

CMSgt (ret) Scot W. Hrbacek

CMSgt (ret) Marcus Falleaf

1SG (ret) Michael English

MSgt (ret) Velma Grant SFC (ret) russ FilyawSSG (ret) Sharon Carr

www.ngat.org 15

Texas MiliTary Forces

March 30, 20158:30 am Shotgun Start

Pine Forest Golf Club, Bastrop, TX

Hosted by Pine Forest Golf Club and The National Guard Association of Texas

Four-Person Teams or Individuals$55 Per Person

$5 MulligansSponsor a Hole!!! $200 Tax Deductible DonationHole in One, Longest Drive, Closest to Pin Prizes

and Much More

RegisteR at www.ngat.oRg

Operation Guard CareThe Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation (TXNGFSF), through a $300,000 grant from the

Texas Veterans Commission, Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, announces that grant funds are available for eligible Texas National Guard Soldiers, Airmen, and family members.

EliGiblE RECipiENTSTXNG Army or Air Service Members

currently serving, DD-214 or NGB-22 required

Former TXNG Army or Air Service Members3 years service or medical discharge

Spouse of TXNG Army or Air Service Members (proof required)

Dependents of TXNG Army or Air Service Members (proof required) Must be in DEERS & under the age of 18

Spouse of Deceased TXNG Service Member (proof required)

“This program is made possible by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families.”

www.tvc.texas.gov

EliGiblE EXpENSES FoR EMERGENCyFiNANCiAl ASSiSTANCE

Housing, Utilities, Childcare, Auto Repairs TRiCARE Medical/Dental insurance premiums and/or Co-pays Financial Counseling Services (Childcare expenses paid to enable attendance)

FoR MoRE iNFoRMATioNEligible applicants may apply by contacting:

Texas Military Forces - State Family programs Family Assistance Specialist 1 (800) 252-8032 or 1 (888) 443-2124, en Español

NGAT News WINTER 201516 HooaH

Members from the 136th Airlift Wing, 254th Combat Communications Group and service members and civilians from the Naval Air Station Fort Worth volunteered at DFW Airport in Dallas, Texas to meet, greet and assist families during the Snowball Express arrivals on 11 Dec. 2014. Snowball Express is an organization that brings children of fallen military heroes together for a four-day experience filled with fun activities like sporting events, dances, amusement parks and more. (Photo by TSgt Vanessa Reed)

SPC Kaycee Stocker, a member of Joint Task Force 136 (Maneuver Enhancement Brigade), supports the Veterans’ Hill Elementary School Veterans Day event on 7 Nov. 2014 in Round Rock, Texas. The event allowed National Guardsmen an opportunity to reach out to the local community and discuss with students what it means to be a veteran. (Photo by MSG Daniel Griego)

The Texas Military Forces participated in a community partnerships with the Austin Police Department (APD), Austin Fire Department (AFD) and Operation Blue Santa 2014. Pictured left to right are LTC darrell debish, Joint Forces Headquarters; an Elvis impersonator provided by Chuy’s; SFC John Cody, 36th CAB; and CPT benjamin Hickman, Co B 1-149th Avn Rgmt.

The commander of the 36th Infantry Division, MG Lester Simpson (right), and CPT (ret) Tom Loftis, a member of the Texas State Guard, make a food and gift delivery as part of Operation Blue Santa. Operation Blue Santa provides needy families with a full holiday meal and wrapped Christmas gifts for each child under the age of 14. (Photo by MAJ Randall Stillinger)

(Above) The Texas State Guard (TXSG) Young Heroes of the Guard program was initiated by a couple of chaplains in 2009 and has grown tremendously, surpassing last year’s record of distributing about 6,600 toys to over 20,000 this year. This program helps to provide toys to hospitalized children in 14 hospitals across the state. Soldiers from 19th Regiment (TXSG) provide toys to children during the holidays at Medical City Children’s Hospital in Dallas.

Hundreds of Texas Army National Guard Soldiers joined volunteers across Central Texas on 21 Nov. for the 24th annual Food for Families food drive, which collected more than 1 million pounds of donations across 21 locations. TXARNG troops were visible at locations in Temple, Gatesville, Hillsboro and Mexia, where they assisted local volunteers in collecting, sorting and stocking thousands of pounds of food donations. Pictured above, a Soldier from the 36th Sustainment Brigade assists volunteers with sorting donated food at a food drop-off site. National Guard members have been assisting with the food drive since 1998.

www.ngat.org 17Holidays

LTC Gary beatty, Commander HHBN 36th Infantry Division, administers the oath of enlistment to a group of re-enlisting Soldiers during the unit’s holiday party. Such ceremonies are encouraged as a way to bring public recognition to the commitment and service of re-enlisting Soldiers.

Texas Army National Guard Recruiting, Region I, Team 4’s SFC danny Anderson (left) and SGT Michael Miraglia (right) pose with Josh Walterscheid of Rednecks With Paychecks (RWP). Team 4 took part in RWP’s Operation Santa program, which collected toys for families throughout North Texas.

In an effort to meet the Texas State Guard toy drive goal, COL (TX) douglas Sewell and SSG (TX) John Gately organized the first Texas State Guard Veterans Day Celebration & Toy Drive in Frisco, Texas. Gately also oversaw coordination with donation providers and created the toy drive website, www.txsgtoydrive.org. With a personal goal to raise 3,000 toys, Gately fanned out to local businesses setting up donation boxes, partnering with a golf event in Denton and received donations from a non-profit organization for teddy bears. Above, members of the Texas State Guard pose for a photo at the 1st Annual Texas State Guard Veterans Day Celebration & Toy Drive Kickoff dinner and pose with toys collected for the toy drive.

SSG (TX) John J. Gately

COL (TX) douglas Sewell

Members of the Texas State Guard, 1st battalion, 19th Regiment presented the colors in Italy’s Annual Christmas Festival and Parade held in Italy, Texas. First battalion SGM Sylvester and commander LTC diggs were honorary guests in the grandstand as the battalion passed by. The event consisted of vendors, a parade, entertainment and a community Christmas program and tree lighting.

NGAT News WINTER 201518

HELPING HOMELESS VETERANSBG SALINAS NAMED 2015 AIR SHOW MARSHAL

More than 210 homeless veterans participated in the Veteran’s Stand Down Day at Fort Worth Resource Center where they received various items such as clothes, food, haircuts, health assessments, healing touch massages, blankets and anything that could help them improve their quality of life. Members of the 136th AW and the 254th CCG volunteered to assist the homeless veterans.

bG Orlando Salinas (center) poses with Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) representatives Matt Gibson and Veronica Castillon at the Laredo International Airport after being named 2015 Air Show Marshal for the WBCA Stars and Stripes Air Show Spectacular. (Photo by Cuate Santos/Laredo Morning Times)

FORMER TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARDSMAN BECOMES SAN ANTONIO MIDDLE SCHOOL NAMESAKE

Story by Capt. Joshua Amstutz

The San Antonio Northeast School District dedicated its newest middle school to David Lee “Tex” Hill, a San Antonio native and former Texas Air National Guardsman on 11 Nov. 2014. A World War II fighter pilot, Hill served with the Flying Tigers and became a triple ace. In 1944, Hill returned to the U.S. and took command of the 412th Fighter Group, America’s first operational jet fighter group. He separated from active service in 1945. Hill became a member of the Texas Air National Guard when former Texas Governor Coke Stevenson asked him to command the 58th Wing of the Texas Air National Guard. He accepted and activated Guard units throughout the area, becoming the youngest brigadier general in the history of the Guard. “Hill was a great Texan, ground-breaking pioneer and founding member of the Texas Air National Guard, which made it appropriate to name the middle school after him on Veterans Day,” said Maj. Gen. Kenneth Wisian, Deputy Adjutant General - Air and Commander of the Texas Air National Guard.

Follow Us!

An outside shot of San Antonio’s North East Independent School District’s David Lee “Tex” Hill Middle School.

Courtesy archive photo of

David Lee “Tex” Hill

www.ngat.org 19

TEXAS’ 136TH REGIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

The 136th Regional Training Institute (RTI), Texas Army National Guard gathers for a regimental photo at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. (Photo by MSG Daniel Griego)

The Texas Army National Guard’s 136th Regional Training Institute (RTI), headquartered at Camp Mabry in Austin, received national recognition as an Institution of Excellence, the highest accreditation a training institute can receive, from the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command in November 2014. There are 54 RTI units in the country, one for each state and territory. Their mission is to provide an alternate location for training to any service member in the U.S. Army, active, guard or reserve. Each RTI has a variety of courses that they specialize in, and each course must be certified by the Army Training and Doctrine Command before it can be taught. RTI instructors go through the same training all Army instructors go through prior to teaching any of the same courses at the Army’s traditional locations. Army Training Command began accrediting RTIs in 2011. Per Training Command Regulation 350-18, RTIs across the country are evaluated every three years by numerous proponents. For each course offered, the traditional schoolhouse for that course must visit the RTI and evaluate the program, usually more than once. Training command also conducts a separate evaluation. During the last year of accreditation, the 136th RTI had more than 20 visits from different proponents. The 136th RTI offers numerous courses to soldiers across the force including military occupational specialty

producing courses, NCO professional development courses and officer commissioning courses. As the RTI looks to continue developing its programs and maintain its accreditation as an institute of excellence, they plan on making some minor changes. The biggest challenge in Texas is the geographic disbursement of training locations. Texas’ RTI currently works at several different locations in central Texas. The plan over the next two years is for the RTI to relocate to North Fort Hood providing more space and more accessibility to various training facilities. The 136th RTI offers the following accredited courses: 25U-Signal Support Systems Specialist 10-level advanced individual training; 68W-Army Combat Medic advanced individual training; 11B-Infantry transition course and advanced leader course; 19D-Cavalry Scout advanced individual training, transition course and advanced leader course; 13B, F, and R-cannon crew member, Fire Support Specialist and Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator advanced individual training, advanced leader course and senior leader course; Master Fitness Program; Officer Candidate School and Warrant Officer Candidate School.

Read more: http://www.dvidshub.net/news/150684/texas-136th-regional-training-institute-receives-national-recognition#.VNOL92FgOpo#ixzz3Qsv3gPom

Original Story by CPT Martha Nigrelle

NGAT News WINTER 201520

• Golf Tournament – NorthShore Country Club, 801 E. Broadway, Portland, TX 78374. Shotgun, Florida scramble with low net/low gross competition. The golf tournament is open to both registered and non-registered attendees of the conference. Registration includes green fee, cart, continental breakfast, lunch, and award plaques.

• Fun Run - Lace those running shoes and join us on a “fun” 5k run.• 12th Annual Silent Auction – Bid on over 200 auction items and

take advantage of some great bargains on gift baskets, jewelry, weekend getaways, and tickets to music, sports and other entertainment venues.

• Wine Tasting – Enjoy a delicious variety of Texas wines at our wine tasting.

• Spirits Tasting – Come sample tequila and learn a little about the history and production of the many classic tequila brands. The session will feature several selections displaying a variety of characteristics and flavors.

• Texas Hold’em Tournament – How good is your poker face? Do you have what it takes to go all in? Then try your luck at the NGAT Texas Hold’em Tournament.

• NGAT Welcome Party – Come enjoy our Margaritaville themed party at Brewster Street Ice House. The Welcome Party menu includes beef and chicken fajita stations with all the trimmings. Live entertainment will be provided. Wear your craziest Hawaiian shirt or muumuu and enjoy an evening with friends.

• Spouse Luncheon – Enjoy a guided tour of the Art Museum of South Texas and lunch at Hester’s Café in the museum. The museum showcases regional fine art, photography, and crafts. For more information on the museum, visit artmuseumofsouthtexas.org. Registration fee also includes transportation.

• Saturday Dinner – Dinner presentations include the Minuteman and Scholarship awards.

• Hospitality Suites will be located at the hotel, and units will compete for “Best Suite” award.

• NGAT Social Lounge – Visit and mingle with friends in a more conversation-friendly environment.

• Enjoyadeliciousbreakfast,fellowship,andprayerduringtheNGAT Prayer Breakfast on Sunday morning.

Join us in Corpus Christi at the nGat ConferenCe

The 56th Annual NGAT conference will be held 13–15 March 2015 at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel and the

American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

reGistration(ONLINE REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE)

All attendees must pay the registration fee. Registration fee is $15.00 per person.

Meal paCkaGes

hotel

• RegularRegistrationfeeis$110andcloseson2March2015. (The deadline for meal packages is 2 March 2015. After this date,

meals must be purchased individually as available.)• A$25latefeewillbeaddedtoallregistrationsreceivedafter2

March 2015.• AllcancellationrequestsmustbereceivedintheNGATofficeprior

to 1 March 2015.

• OmniCorpusChristiHotel,900N.ShorelineBoulevard,CorpusChristi,Texas, 78401

• Makeyourreservationsdirectlywiththehotelat:1-800-843-6664Make sure to identify yourself as a member of the National Guard Association of Texas

• Hotelrate:$107single/doubleplustaxpernight• HotelreservationscanalsobemadeonlineattheNGATwebsite. (NGAT cannot guarantee rooms after 20 February 2015)

WELCOME PARTy:HawaiianShirtorMuuMuuNGAT BUSINESS SESSION:BusinessCasualNGAT DINNER:Army - Class A/Service Dress/Mess Dress; Air - Mess Dress/Service Dress; Civilians - Business Suit/ Evening Formal Wear; Spouses - After-Five Attire

ConferenCe optional events

reGister online

by visitinG

the nGat Website at

WWW.nGat.orG

attire

See you in CorpuS ChriSti

21

The Texas State Guard (TXSG) Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduated Class 14 on 17 January 2015. Class 14, which began in October 2014, is the first to complete the newly revised five month accelerated OCS program which includes one month of preparatory online classes and 4 monthly drill events at Camp Swift. Previously, candidates completed OCS over eight months; completing the condensed course has not been an easy feat for the eight candidates remaining from the 15 who started. The TXSG began the OCS program in 2011 to meet the need for junior officers who are trained and prepared to fulfill the missions unique to the TXSG. The first month of the new OCS program utilizes the online Moodle platform for completion of pre-commissioning courses. The monthly four-day training exercises are designed to test the mental and physical endurance of candidates while simultaneously requiring the devotion of countless off-duty hours to OCS academic and fitness demands.

Class 14 is comprised of three candidates from the Army Component, two candidates from the Air Component, and 3 candidates from the Texas Maritime Regiment. Candidates are blended from their respective components and come together as one team working towards their graduation and commissioning.

After successfully clearing the low-crawl obstacle on his stomach, Officer Candidate Michael Ross goes for round 2 on his back. (Photo by CPT (TX) Shaw James)

TEXAS STATE GUARD OCS CLASS GRADUATes

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED!Place an advertisement in the 2015 NGAT Conference Program. The program will be

distributed to all conference attendees and available online after the conference.

Business card sized ad prices start at only $25. 50% of all sales generated

from 1/8 page ads and above will be donated to

the unit of your choice or to the NGAT Educational Foundation.

Applicationsforadvertisingareavailableathttp://www.ngat.org/ngatconf.php

NGAT coNfereNce Golf TourNAmeNT SpoNSorShip opporTuNiTieS

NorthShore country clubfriday, 13 march 2015

Sponsor a $300 Golf Hole Donate a Raffle Item

Sponsorship form Available at www.NGAT.orG/NGATcoNf.php

TourNAmeNT

beNefiTS The

NGAT educATioNAl

fouNdATioN

Contact Rob Casias (rcasias@ngat.org) for more information

NGAT News WINTER 201522

MSG Thomas J. Abel III, Life Member #3205, Retired, Cedar ParkTSgt don L. Angie, Life Member #13863, Retired, Houston*SGT Franklin r. Aguilar, 1-136th RGT BN (AR),

KilleenMSG Paul M. baker, Life Member #4989, Retired, Fort WorthCOL billy b. blankenship, Life Member #3814,

Retired, Round RockCW4 billy H. brunette, Life Member #1134, Retired, Austin *SGT Stephanie Cardenas, TX ARNG Staff JFHQ,

PflugervilleMSgt Joseph L. Cicherski, Life Member #15756,

Retired, La VerniaSPC John H. Cook, Life Member #13438, Retired, FayettevilleMaj Frank dominguez Jr., Life Member #16759,

DallasCW4 Sidney b. Eckstein Jr., Life Member #1591,

Retired, ArlingtonSPC James A. Flores, HHC 3rd 141th INF RGMT,

Edinburg

Mr. George G. Gordon, Life Member #735, Retired, Deport*SGT Fernando Guillen, Life Member #23610,

Retired, El PasoMs. delee A. Kitchen, Life Member #28413,

Retired, Pleasanton CACW4 Jackson Kuhlmann, Life Member #5641,

Retired, Fredericksburg Mr. danny r. Langford, Life Member #5688,

Retired, Rule1LT Nein Jen Lee, SIG Co HHB 36ID (NON-EPLRS),

DallasMr. Charles r. Maley, Life Member #2286, Retired, Fort WorthMr. robert W. Marsh, Life Member #6047, Retired, New York NYSPC Elroy Mayberry, Life Member #20591, Retired, WacoMAJ Joanne McLeod, Life Member #32257, Retired, BolingCPT Scott McLeod, Life Member #32259, Retired, BolingSPC Anthony r. Moralez, Co G (-) 949th SPT BN,

Wellington

If you are aware of the passing of a current or former National Guard member, please notify us by phone, a letter to our office, or by email at ngatnews@ngat.org.

as of 01/29/15TAPS

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Mr. Harry F. Morgan, Life Member #3416, Retired, Salado

Mr. Thomas H. Pfeiffer, Life Member #1508, Retired, Lockhart

Mr. Joe A. rangel, Life Member #14849, Retired, San Antonio

Mr. Faustino G. Salinas, Life Member #6435, Retired, San Antonio

SSG Alberto Segarra, B BTRY (-) 4-133 FA RGMT, San Antonio

SPC billy Joe Stanley, Retired, WellingtonSFC don W. Statham, Life Member #5481,

Retired, Big SpringMSG Gerald J. Stayton Sr., Life Member

#2769, Retired, AbileneSSG Walter J. Thompson, Life Member

#12756, Retired, Grand SalineMr. George H. Tuttle, Life Member #5040,

Retired, Port ArthurSGT dawnyale L. Williams, Det 1 TX ARNG

MED DET, Fort WorthCOL Norman C. Wilmeth, Life Member

#686, Retired, Guymon Ok

*Had NGAT Life Insurance Policy

Whole life insurance Policies are noW available for nGaT MeMbers

aGes 66–75Members (including associate members) may now apply for whole life insurance even if they have been discharged or

retired from the Guard.

Whole life insurance – Pay the same premium for the rest of your life and accrue a cash value Members ages 66–75 may apply amounts of insurance available: $5,000; $10,000; $15,000; $20,000; $25,000; $50,000; and $75,000 evidence of insurability may be required spouses may be insured Premiums are the same regardless of tobacco usage

UNDERWRITTEN BYAMERICAN EQUITY INVESTMENT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

If interested, please complete the information below and return to:NGAT, 3706 Crawford, Austin TX 78731, FAX (512) 467-6803

PHONE (512) 454-7300 or email insurance@ngat.org

NAME ____________________________________________________________________ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________CITY _________________________________ ST __________ ZIP _________________SSN _____________________________ DATE OF BIRTH _________________________DAYTIME PHONE __________________________________________________________

CIRCLE AMOUNT OF INSURANCE DESIRED:$5,000 $10,000 $15,000 $20,000 $25,000 $50,000 $75,000

National Guard Association of Texas3706 Crawford AvenueAustin, Texas 78731-6308

NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION OF TEXASNGAT PLANNING CALENDAR

(As of 1 February 2015)

201516 Feb President’s Day/Washington’s Birthday (NGATOfficeClosed)20-21 Feb EANGUS Area IV Mid-Winter, Tulsa,Oklahoma23 Feb NGAT Board Meeting, Austin12 Mar NGAT Board Meeting, Corpus Christi13-15 Mar 56thAnnualNGATConference, Corpus Christi16 Mar NGATConferenceRecovery (NGATOfficeClosed)24-26 Mar NGATLegislativeVisit,Washington,D.C.30 Mar BestWarriorGolfTournament,Bastrop3 Apr GoodFriday(EasterHolidayObserved)4 May NGAT Board Meeting, Austin25 May MemorialDay(NGATOfficeClosed)15 Jun U.S.ArmyBirthday/FlagDay9-10 Jun NGATExecutiveCommitteeMeeting,Austin3 Jul IndependenceDay (4thofJulyHolidayObserved)2 Aug NGAT Board Meeting, Austin8-12 Aug EANGUSConference,Indianapolis,IN10-13 Sep NGAUSConference,Nashville,TN