First Friday briefing [July 7, 2006]

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First Friday Briefing for July 2006

Deployment Update

Company H Deploys to Iraq
"Family" was the theme of a bittersweet farewell for 175 men of Company H, 121st Infantry, Long Range Surveillance Company, who mobilized in early June. It's the second time the unit has set off "across the pond" to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. The first occurred in 2003, not long after American and coalition forces took Baghdad. When the LRS Company set foot on Iraqi soil in 2003, its mission was the gathering, interpretation and dissemination of information. It also participated in security missions at sites across Iraq. This time, Company H will be working with the Iraqi Army as it moves toward taking over the country's security concerns and helping the Iraqi population as it strives to become a self-governing nation. The unit is training at Fort Hood and will deploy to Iraq later in the summer. Full Story

150 Georgia Guardsmen Head
To New Mexico for Border Duty
More than 400 Georgia National Guardsmen answered the call in late June to deploy to the 180-mile stretch of land that divides New Mexico and Mexico. The first 150 Soldiers deployed only 72 hours after Gov. Sonny Perdue and Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General announced the mission. The Soldiers boarded buses at Ellenwood's Army Guard Headquarters on June 30, and traveled to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport for the trip to America's Southwest region. They will be gone from four months to one year. Full
Story

122nd ROC Returns Following Year-Long Deployment to Iraq Forty-seven members of the Savannah based 122nd Rear Operations Center returned home in early July following a year-long deployment to Iraq. Stationed in Mosul, the unit had a high-profile mission and completed a number of major projects while helping rebuild the war torn country. Earlier this year the unit conducted a drive that resulted in more than 400 former Iraqi officers and NCOs being recruited, vetted, screened and put back into the new Iraqi Army. The 122nd was also instrumental in forming the first Provincial Reconstructive Team, and recently the unit made headlines when it brought safe drinking water to residents of Airport Village, a community not far from Baghdad International Airport. This marked the second deployment for the 122nd ROC in the Global War on Terrorism. The unit deployed to Afghanistan in 2003.
Communities Welcome Home Deployed Units

Georgia's First Female
Full Colonel Retires
The Soldier who "forever shattered the glass ceiling" for other women to seek higher advancement in the Georgia National Guard, and served as an inspiration to peers of both genders, brought to a close a 30-year military career in retirement ceremonies attended by family, friends and colleagues from the civilian and military communities. Col Laura Strange made history when she became the first female promoted to the rank of colonel in March 2000 in the Georgia Army National Guard. Full Story

4th of July Events Across the State
Honor the Georgia Guard
The Georgia National Guard was at the center of attention at a number of Independence Day celebrations across Georgia this year. At events big and small, Georgia's citizens were treated to equipment displays, personal appearances, color guards and flyovers. In Atlanta, the 47th Annual Salute-2-America Parade honored Georgia Guard units as Governor Sonny Perdue affixed battle streamers to the flags of the Army Guard's four major commands earned during their

248th Military Intelligence Company -
Specialist Tracy Windley takes every opportunity to dunk her executive officer, 1st Lt. Dustin Crapse, during the 248th Military Intelligence Company homecoming celebration in McDonough. Full Story

service in the Global War on Terrorism. Later in the evening Maj. Gen David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General, and other Guard representatives appeared at the Lenox Mall celebration. Full Story.

Seven Graduate From
Army's Sergeant Majors Academy
The Georgia Army Guard was well represented in the recent class at the U.S. Army's Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas. Seven senior enlisted Soldiers from Georgia graduated from the course in early July. Pictured left to right are Georgia Graduates: CSM Anthony Gayton, 1-121 In Bn; SGM Anthony Weeks, HFHQ R&R CSM Charles Crews. 265th En Gp; SGM Phillip Stringfellow, 2-121 In Bn; SGM Joseph Recker, HHC 48th Bde; CSM Jackie Faulkner, 148th FSB; and CSM Cheyenne Fields, 2-121 In Bn.

283rd CBCS Part of
Continental Air Defense
The Dobbins-based 283rd Combat Communications Squadron of the Georgia Air National Guard is playing a role in DOD plans for the creation of a Mobile Air Defense capability for U.S. skies. In July, Defense officials are set to demonstrate a rapidly deployable air defense system that could protect high profile national targets against cruise missiles and other low-flying threats. The Georgia Guardsmen will provide vital communications links for this unique test and will deploy for this monthlong test scheduled to occur off the West Coast. Full Story

Company A, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry - Members of Company A were honored in June at the Wild Adventures Theme Park near Valdosta. On hand to welcome them home were officials from the city of Valdosta and an organization of businessmen from the area called the Best Buddies Club.
Company C, 648th Engineers Douglas, Georgia gave the Soldiers of Company C a heroes welcome. Pictured above, the engineers ride on a float during a parade through downtown in their honor.

1/214th Field Artillery Battalion
Gets New Commander
Georgia's 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery welcomed its new commander and said "so long" to the officer leaving that position. Family, friends and officials, both local and state, filled the drill hall of the Calhoun Highway armory in Elberton to welcome Lt. Col. Anthony Abbott as new commander. Abbott, full-time state training administrator for Joint Forces Headquarters Plans and Operations, commanded the 170th Military Police Battalion headquartered in Decatur before taking over the 214th. Lieutenant Col. Woodrow "Woody" S. Radcliffe, leaves the unit and moves on to Carlisle Barracks, Pa., where he will attend the Army War College. In addition to commanding the 214th, Radcliffe is the former commander of Savannah's 3rd ID Detachment, which deployed to Iraq in 2003 to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. Full Story

Pinkney Earns Prestigious
NGB 'Saucedo Award'
Chief Master Sergeant William E. Pinkney, State Equal Employment Manager for the 14,000-member Georgia Department of Defense has been awarded the highest award presented by the National Guard Bureau for EEO and human relations professionals in the National Guard. CMSgt Pinkney, a 29-year veteran of the Georgia Air National Guard, was awarded the prestigious CMSgt Benito Saucedo, Jr. Meritorious Service Award for individual efforts to promote a highly effective equal opportunity and diversity atmosphere in the Georgia National Guard. Full Story

ESGR Honors Georgia Power For Its Support to Employees Georgia Power has received one of the highest honors given by the Employer Support to the Guard and Reserve, the Pro Patria Award. Presented during ESGR's

A look at what happened in in Georgia National Guard history:...
1959 - The reorganization of the Georgia Guard was finalized and went into effect in 1959. The reorganization, paring the number of ground combat forces, was ordered by the Department of Defense as part of a nationwide plan to gear Guard components for atomic conflict. The DOD, under the recent Army Pentomic Division, had already created "battle groups" made up of a headquarters and service company, five infantry companies and one mortar battery. Artillery, tank, signal, and engineer battalions with conventional and nuclear abilities also joined the battle group. Added to these units were authorized trains with a transportation battalion, an aviation company and an administration company. The "battle group" was to be self-sustaining, designed to survive in a nuclear environment.
MG George Hearn, Adjutant General of Georgia, cited several benefits of the reorganization to the Georgia Guard: Its strength rose from 8,886 to 9,187; troops were to be retained in all of the 66 Georgia Guard communities; the "Honest John" rocket, a surface to surface missile capable of delivering atomic warheads, joined the organization's arsenal; and the state got its first missile unit. The reorganization also afforded the state other new units, among them were signal battalions, a transportation detachment for aircraft maintenance, an additional anti-aircraft

annual awards banquet, the Pro Patria is presented to employers who demonstrate exceptional support for our national defense by adopting personnel policies that make it easier for employees to participate in the National Guard. Pictured above, Brig. Gen. Stewart Rodeheaver, commander Georgia's 48th Brigade, makes the presentation to Mike Worley (left), Georgia Power's assistant executive vice president external affairs. Also pictured from the ESGR Georgia Chapter are Jim Redmond, vicechairman General Tom Wessels, chairman.

Heath Retires,
Blackstock Takes 265th Engineers
In an emotionally moving ceremony, Col. John A. Heath, commander 265th Engineer Group, retired from the Georgia Army National Guard. His retirement is the culmination of a career that he began 36 years ago as an enlisted Soldier. "I wanted to leave the Guard on a proud note and this command has allowed me to do it," said Heath. Taking the reigns of leadership of the 265th Engineers is Col. Thomas H. Blackstock Jr., who is the fulltime director of the Georgia Guard's Consolidated Facilities Management Office. (Pictured above, Heath passes the unit's colors to Brig. Gen. Larry Ross, commander of the 78th Troop Command.) Full Story

battalion and armored rifle battalions. Existing tank battalions were redesignated as medium tank battalions.
The Pentomic Division filled the concerns of tactical nuclear warfare in the 1950's however with Vietnam, defense planners found it unsuitable and eventually replaced the concept.
Also in 1959, the Georgia Air National Guard pilots of the 116th Fighter Interceptor Wing flew training missions over the Atlantic from Travis Field in the new F-86L Saber Jets, mastering the technique of intercepting and shooting at targets by radar. During the encampment, the pilots put into practice the ground school course and a mobile training unit requirement they had just completed. This training was the last part of the qualification to fly the Saber Jets.
Complied by Gail Parnelle, GaARNG Historical Section

Family Support Foundation Gets
Boost from Jeweler IceLink
The Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation is getting a boost from renowned fashion jeweler IceLink Watch. The company has announced that IceLink's Charity-Links Campaign will benefit the foundation during the month of July. The campaign is designed to use IceLink Watch's new bicycle bracelet line. During the month of the campaign, a portion of the bicycle bracelets total national sales go to the Family Support Foundation. Full Story

Perdue Encourages, Challenges
Youth Challenge Graduates
Words of congratulations and encouragement are normal this time of year as thousands of high school and college graduates parade across stages throughout the state to receive hard earned diplomas. On June 17, the words of support for 230 graduates of the Fort Stewart-based were mixed with words of challenge from Georgia's Governor Sonny Perdue. The Governor was the commencement speaker for YCA Class 2006-02 when it graduated in June. An audience of close to 1,000 family, friends, and well wishers crowded the Macon Auditorium on the Fathers Day weekend to honor the graduates. Full Story

Lt. Gen. David B. Poythress The Adjutant General of Georgia

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48th BCT In Iraq

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Co. H Deploys to Iraq
FORT GILLEM, ELLENWOOD, Ga., June 5, 20056 "Family" was the theme of a bittersweet farewell at Neal Fitness Center for 175 men of Company H, 121st Infantry, Long Range Surveillance Company, who redeployed to Iraq in early June. It's the second time the unit set off "across the pond" to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. The first occurred in 2003 not long after American and coalition forces took Baghdad.
Troops of Company H In Formation When the LRS Company set foot on Iraqi soil in 2003, its mission was the gathering, interpretation and dissemination of information. It also participated in security missions at sites across Iraq. This time, Company H will be working with the Iraqi Army as it moves toward taking over the country's security concerns and helping the Iraqi population in its strive to become a self-governed nation. "Things are going to be different all the way around," said 1st Sgt. Matthew Marks, the unit's senior NCO. "It'll be interesting to see what's happened to the country since our first `visit.'" As is always the case, when a Soldier leaves home it wasn't all proud smiles and "see you soon honey." Those were there, but there also was the sadness and tears of having to let go of someone. More than one wife, mother, father and child held their Soldier close and cried at the thought of that person going in harm's way, yet again. "We are here to honor you, wish you well and God speed," said Maj. Gen David B. Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General. "You are making history, again, and it is not often people get to make history and know they are making it at the same time." Calling this "a pivotal time" for the nation, Poythress declared that "this decade has seen a large part of American history being played out, and you not only get to live through it but also make an impact on how it comes about."

"People 100 years from now will know how important this was, how important your role is in what's happening in our country today."

As the Soldiers of Company H leave for Iraq, the welfare of their families left behind are a big concern. Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command, said families, whether they are this unit's or another's are very important. "If you (the families) have a problem with anything, you need to let us know," Ross said. "We want nothing more then to make sure life at home is undisturbed. We have plenty of resources in place to get your Soldier home, even on emergency leave if that's necessary.

"This unit is very unique and it has a very specific mission," Ross added. "These Soldiers are highly trained airborne rangers, and we are going to give them more specialty training on the mission they are about to embark upon."

To get that training, Company H will go first to Fort Hood, Texas thenl make its way to Iraq where the unit will serve at 18 months. It is expected back in the U.S. sometime in late 2007.

Family members of a Company H Solider look for their Ranger as the unit forms up on the gym floor of Neal Fitness Center. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)

Ross went on to quote several standing orders for Rogers' Rangers, a colonial Ranger unit organized by Col. Robert Rodgers in 1755.. Among those orders were:

q "Be ready to march in a minutes notice." q "Don't never take a chance you don't have to." q "Don't forget nothing, the number one standing order."

"Don't forget this country supports you, your mission and your family," Ross concluded. "Don't ever forget we're here for you, no matter what, no matter when.

Major Doug Mattox, rear commander for the 221st Military Intelligence Battalion to which the LRS Company is assigned, had three things he wanted to pass on the Soldiers and their families before they said their goodbyes.

To the families he said, "Your Soldier will know when he's in danger, and he will know when he's safe, but it's going to be tough on you because you won't know any of hat. Keep the faith. Never let it waiver for they will come home to you.

"There's excellent leadership in place for these Soldiers and this company is one of the finest," he said. "That leadership will take care of your Soldiers.

To the troops Mattox said, "In the absence of men be thou the man. Do what's right, never fail in your duties and you'll never let your fellow Soldiers, your unit your state or your nation down."

Captain Kenneth Hutnick, spoke to his Soldiers about selfless service.

Major Doug Mattox, rear commander 221st Military Intelligence Battalion reminds the Soldiers of Company H, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry about their return to Iraq and the care of their families while they're gone. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)

"To the Soldiers of Company H, you are the finest warriors in the National Guard, here or across the nation." he said. "I am proud and honored to serve as your commander.
"I do not accept that task lightly, and I will work tirelessly to ensure our mission is accomplished," Hutnick added.

"The selfless service you are now demonstrating does not go unseen by me, your families, the chain-of- command or America," he continued. "You are all heroes, warriors and paratroopers."

Hutnick then thanked the families for their sacrifice. He knows, he told them that this deployment was going to be tough for them. He promised to do everything in his power to protect their Soldiers and bring them back safely home.

Hutnick, again, thanked them for their selfless service, and he reminded the families that if they have a problem or an issue to seek help early so that the huge "safety net" that is in place can help them.
And finally, to the chain-of-command, "Thank you for the support. It has been tremendous, and I thank you for the opportunity to lead Company H."
He concluded with the solemn promise to not let them or his Soldiers down.
Captain Kenneth Hutnick, commander of Georgia's Long Range Surveillance Company, renders a salute during the playing of the "National Anthem." (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)
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(L-to-R) Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress, the Adjutant General for Georgia, presents the Legion of Merit Award to Col. Laura Strange at retirement ceremonies held in Atlanta on June 3. Col. Strange was the frst female to earn the rank of Colonel in the Georgia Army National Guard.
Col. Strange Ends 30-Year Career; 1st Female Ga Guardsman Promoted to 'Full Bird'
The Soldier who "forever shattered the glass ceiling" for other women to seek higher advancement in the Georgia National Guard, and served an inspiration to peers of both genders, brought to a close a 30-year military career in retirement ceremonies attended by family, friends and colleagues from the civilian and military communities.
For Col. Laura Strange, a chief nurse, staff officer and one-time deputy commander for the Georgia Army National Guard's Medical Command, it was a day of reflection on a significant military career. Col Strange makes Georgia Army National Guard history by being the first female promoted to the rank of colonel in March 2000 in Georgia Army National Guard.
Col Strange, a resident of Dekalb County, was the Georgia Army National Guard's first female colonel. In her civilian work, she is the director of clinical studies for the Atlanta office of Research Triangle Institute. RTI does medical research for a variety of agencies, including the Department of Defense. Col. Strange received her Bachelor of Nursing at the Medical College of Georgia in 1974, her Masters of Nursing and later her PhD in 1981 and 2004 respectively from Emory University.
"As I consider my military career, all the things I have done, all that I have experienced, I am reminded that it's the combined efforts of talented, dedicated members of this organization that allows it to successfully meet its mission requirements, not just one person," Strange said.
"To all of you I have served with, whether it's been here at state headquarters, Georgia Medical Command, 78th Troop Command or 48th Brigade Combat Team, I say `thank you," continued Strange, "I thank you for professionalism, your commitment to service and for your mentorship and friendship."
Upon her retirement, Strange received an honorary promotion to the rank of brigadier general. Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress, Georgia's s Adjutant General presented Col. Strange with the prestigious Legion of Merit Award. Strange noted that the first recipient of this prestigious honor was another Navy nurse, Lt Ann Bernatitus, received the medal the medal for her service during the campaign in the Philippines' Manila-Bataan Peninsula during World War II..
"I began my military career in September 1973 as a Navy Nurse, so that, and the fact that the medal's first bearer was a woman, makes this such a great honor," she said with a broad, yet humble smile.
A guide on bearing the Nurse Corps emblem was also awarded to Strange by Col. Thomas M. Kias, Georgia's State Surgeon and Commander of the GA ARNG Medical Command. Strange said that this gift from the medical command will always remind her of the teamwork, dedication and professionalism of her fellow Guardsmen. Strange was also awarded the Army

Commendation Medal and a National Guard Bureau Certificate for her 35 years with the U.S. military, including the 26 she has served as a Citizen-Soldier.
Col. Strange acknowledged the sacrifices may by her family in the pursuit of her military career with the National Guard. "The time and effort I committed to the Guard would not have been possible without my husband, a former National Guardsman, and the support and understanding of my daughter, Leslie and son, Adam, a Midshipman second class in Navy ROTC at Auburn University. All of them, but especially my husband, understood that, sometimes, the needs of the Guard trumped those of the family."
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150 Guard Volunteers 'Off To The Border'

Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

JOINT FORCES HEADQUATERS, ELLENWOOD, June 30, 2006, -- More than 400 Georgia National Guardsmen answered the call Friday to deploy to the 180-mile stretch of land that divides New Mexico and Mexico.

The first 150 Soldiers selected deployed only 72 hours after Gov. Sonny Perdue and Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General announced the mission. The Soldiers boarded buses at Ellenwood's Army Guard Headquarters during the mid-morning hour June 30, and traveled to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport for the trip to America's Southwest region.

They will be gone from four months to one year.
The Soldiers who volunteered to deploy will be carrying out in intelligence gathering missions, said Poythress. They will not be performing law enforcement duties, but rather assisting the New Mexico Guard. Border patrol personnel will handle all law enforcement duties.

Governor addresses "border volunteers": "I cannot say it enough, we value or citizen Soldiers here in Georgia, and these volunteers are no exception," said Gov. Sonny Perdue at a press conference at Joint Forces Headquarters June 29, 2006. At right, Maj. Gen. David B. Poythress listens. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

Reasons for volunteering for the trip to America's desert southwest varied: "I volunteered to go," said Pfc. Bashir Lateef, a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic with Headquarters Company, 221st Military Intelligence Battalion stationed at Fort Gillem, "because it's what I signed up to do,".

Lateef and the other volunteers spent the Thursday day making sure their life insurance, medical and personnel records were in order. They were also medically screened to make sure they didn't need any shots before they left.

"I just wanted to go and help out," said Spc. Andrea Randall, a supply specialist with Decatur's 170th Military Police Battalion. "I mean it's a great opportunity to provide my job skill to the mission."

While many of those who volunteered haven't deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan, there were others who had just returned from Iraq and decided this mission was just as important as the last. For them, this mission would not be in a combat zone.

Specialist Leanard Marshall returned from Iraq in May along with 4,200 other members of the 48th Brigade Combat Team. Now, a month later he voluntarily deploying because, he said, he's "just doing his part as a Soldier." His family, said Marshall, understands.

Specialist Andrea Randall, a supply specialist for the 170th Military Police Battalion, receives her hepatitis A vaccine from Sgt. Cathy Libby (not pictured) as Randall in-processes for the deployment to New Mexico. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

"I have been a Soldier for a long time, it's my job," said this father of five children. "My people understand that this is what I must do as a Soldier, and they know I'll be just as anxious to get back to them again as I was when I went to Iraq.

Specialist Bobby Couch is just like Marshall. Couch volunteered to deploy with Company B, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, when it went to Iraq for a year.

"Things need to be done," said Couch said. "You just go do it, and I try to do the right thing.

"The border is where we've been told we're needed, so that's where we need to be."
As the 150 went from one Soldier Readiness Processing station to the next at the Joint Forces drill hall Thursday, Governor Perdue, Poythress at his side, praised the Georgia Guard and cited the
border control issue as an example of Guard members' willingness to serve their nation.
"A nation cannot support immigration without control of its borders . . .The men and women you see here today have not been ordered to carry out this mission, rather they all volunteered for the mission," Perdue reiterated. "This also goes to show that none of Georgia's Guardsmen will shy away from any duty, and remember...many of them have recently returned from Iraq and I could not turn around and send them away from their families again."
Perdue made it clear, any use of Georgia's Citizen-Soldiers to assist in the nation's border security mission, will not hurt emergency response by the Guard here at home.
"This will in no way diminish our ability to respond to a hurricane or other emergencies in our state," Perdue assured the gathered media. "The National Guard has enough strength to be ready when call upon."
Turning his attention to the Soldiers as they began moving to processing stations, Perdue added,
"We value all of you who responded to the call for volunteers," he said with pride. "You have our gratitude and God speed."
Before leaving the drill hall, Perdue added that, "This response by Georgia's National Guard says that Georgia is always ready, willing and able to do more then its share. I am proud of the men and women of our National Guard. They accept the mission readily, and are always execute it properly and make us proud of whatever they do."

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Above: Private 1st Class Bashir Lateef talks with an administration specialist about his paperwork as Lateef gets ready to deploy to New Mexico. At left Soldiers bound for the New Mexico-Mexican border get on buses bound for Harts field-Jackson International Airport, outside Joint Force Headquarters. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

Parade Salutes 48th, Georgia National Guard
Story By. Spc. Amanda Luksic Georgia National Guard Public affairs office
ATLANTA, Ga., July 4, 2006, -- Just minutes before the WSB-TV 46th annual Salute 2 America parade Brig. Gen. Stewart Rodeheaver, commander 48th Brigade Combat Team, lead 200 48th Brigade Soldiers and others from 78th Troop Command to the start of the parade route.
A standing ovation from the throng gathered along Peachtree Street and in the reviewing stands greeted Guardsmen.
Prior to the parade's official start Gov. Sonny Perdue -- with the help of BG Rodeheaver -- attached Iraq campaign streamers to the Brigade Battle Flag and two battalion flags.
The theme of this year's parade focused on these seasoned war veterans who have recently returned from a yearlong deployment to war-torn Iraq.
This year's parade also featured a Humvees similar to those used in Iraq, a five-ton truck, a M-2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle and an M109AG Paladin selfpropelled 155mm howitzer.
Soldiers from the Georgia National Guard line the street before the Salute 2 America parade in Atlanta, July 4, 2006, as they are welcomed home from a yearlong tour in war-torn Iraq. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

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At left Governor Sonny Perdue and Brig. Gen. Stewart Rodeheaver, commander 48th Brigade, attach an Iraq battle streamer to the brigade battle flag at a ceremony before the Salute 2 America parade in Atlanta, July 4, 2006. Above a Paladin 155mm self-propelled howitzer rolls down Peachtree Street during the Salute 2 America Parade. (Georgia National Guard photos by Spc. Amanda Luksic and Photo taken by SGT Gerald Hone, 781st HHD Troop Command )

248th Welcomed Home!

Story by Spc. Amanda Luksic Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

McDONUOGH, Ga., June 24, 2006 Wives of the 248th Military Intelligence Company have done it again.

First they made their husbands and other unit members feel at home when they returned from war-torn Iraq by decorating their barracks at Fort Stewart. Most recently, they worked extremely hard to put together a spectacular homecoming celebration and cookout to finalize that sense of finally being back.

As always, these women went over the top with the activities they provided. For entertainment there were two moonwalks, one with a giant slide, a snow cone machine, and everyone's favorite, a dunk tank.

This would be one of several homecoming

celebrations through the remainder of June and

on through July by local communities across

Georgia to welcome back the units that make up Georgia's 48th Brigade Combat Team.

Specialist Tracy Windley takes every opportunity to dunk her executive officer, 1st Lt. Dustin Crapse, during the 248th Military Intelligence Company

homecoming celebration at the Henry County Shrine Club in McDonough.

"We put all the money we had together for this," (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

said Wendy Brown, the family readiness group

chair, pointing to herself, Pam Wheeler and

Stephanie Crapse. "We had tons of fundraisers in order to get it done, but we got it accomplished, and it seems everyone has

enjoyed themselves."

Soldiers as well as their families apparently enjoyed the day's activities.

Shane's Rib Shack of Atlanta provided the food, while the Henry County Shrine Club donated the use of its building for the day.

They wouldn't have had it any other way, said Bob Elliott, one of the club's members.

"We appreciate what these young men and women have done, not only for us, our community and our state, but for our nation.

"We're sorry for those who didn't make it back, and many of us understand the hardships they [the Soldiers] went through, because we, too, have served."

Captain Josie Hobbs, the 248th's commander, returned the sentiment, thanking Shanes, the shriners and especially the Family Readiness Group for all they had done to make the celebration possible.

Stephanie Crapse, a 248th MI Family Readiness Group volunteer, presents representatives of Shane's Rib Shack, Atlanta, with a plaque thanking the restaurant for supporting the company's homecoming celebration. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

"The family readiness group has did all the groundwork for this," Hobbs said humbly. "Thanks to all of you of you...you have our never-ending gratitude."

Turning her attention to her Soldiers, she went on to thank those in the forward detachment for a job well done. The forward element was very lucky not to have had a single fatality, and to leave Iraq with only one Soldier injured.

That Soldier was Spc. James Hall. Hall was injured Dec. 1, 2005, when the convoy he was part of was hit by an improvised explosive device, causing the vehicle in which he served as the turret gunner rolled over.

Hall related how that, if it hadn't been for one of his fellow Soldiers, he might not have survived the explosion.

"If it hadn't been for Spc. Sean Brown, our driver" he said, "I would not be alive.

Hall's injuries caused him to be returned to Georgia for recovery after spending some time in a military hospital, Hobbs said.

About his fellow Soldiers, Hall said, "these guys are my brothers. I hated that I couldn't be with them through the entire mission, but I am happy no one else was hurt and that they all made it back."

Turning to the 248th's rear detachment, Hobbs made it clear that she was as equally proud of its performance during the company's absence.
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"You continued to carry the guidon while the unit was engaged in supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, and you made us all proud by your support, your dedication and professionalism," she said. "I look forward to getting to know all of you much better now that we're together again."

Families, friends and Soldiers of the 248th Military Intelligence Company enjoy barbeque and other taste treats for lunch during the unit's homecoming celebration this past Saturday. (Georgia National Guard photo by Office Candidate Ike Umunnah)

LTC Abbott Leads 214th FA

124th MPAD

Story by Spc. Curtis Porter III

ELBERTON, Saturday, June 10, 2006 Georgia's 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery received its new commander and said "so long" to the officer leaving that position. Family, friends and officials, both local and state filled the drill hall of the Calhoun Highway armory to capacity.

Taking the reins of the 214th is Lt. Col. Anthony Abbott of Dacula. Abbott, full-time state training administrator for Joint Forces Headquarters Plans and Operations in Ellenwood, commanded the 170th Military Police Battalion headquartered in Decatur on the M-Day side before taking over the 214th. He's been a Guardsman for a little over 18 years.

Lieutenant Col. Woodrow "Woody" S. Radcliffe, leaves the unit

and moves on to Carlisle Barracks, Pa., where he will attend

the Army War College. Besides having commanded the 214th,

Radcliffe is the former commander of Savannah's 3rd ID

Detachment, which deployed to Iraq in 2003 to support

Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lieutenant Col. Anthony Abbott, the new commander

With the passing of the 214th guidon from the old to the new commander, Abbott stepped to the podium and made it clear that he expects much from his Soldiers, especially his noncommissioned officers.

of 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery receives the unit guidon from Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command during the change of command ceremony at Calhoun Highway armory in Elberton, (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Curtis Porter III)

"While I'm here, we're going to train for war, prepare for disaster and take care of soldiers," he said to the audience and the Soldiers assembled before him. "Everything we do in keeping ourselves physically and mentally prepared for whatever the mission may be is of the utmost importance.

"But to be ready also means making sure our Soldiers and their families have their problems dealt with because each is important to accomplishing that mission successfully," he went on. "That's why I expect my NCOs to `lead from the front and by example,' and to remember that `Soldiers Matter.'"

Abbott completed his remarks by wishing his predecessor well on his newest endeavor, and by thanking Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command in Decatur, for his support and having confidence in Abbott's leadership abilities.

Unit flags are displayed proudly during the change of command ceremony held for outgoing commander Lt. Col. Woodrow Radcliffe and the incoming commander Lt. Col. Anthony Abbott at 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery headquarters in Elberton. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Curtis Porter III)
As most Soldiers know, the field artillery is the Army's fire support branch its "King of the Battlefield." Its leaders must destroy, neutralize or suppress the enemy by cannon, rocket or missile fire and integrate all supporting fires--Field Artillery, tactical air, Naval guns, Army aviation and mortars--into combined-arms operations. Field Artillerymen put "Steel on Target" in the right places, at the right time and in the right proportions to assure the success of maneuver commander's plan--a task that requires thorough understanding of maneuver and fire support doctrine, tactics and techniques. Abbott and Radcliffe agreed that they have ever confidence in the ability of the 214th to carryout that philosophy, not just to the best of their combined abilities, but by going beyond them.
"I'm very satisfied with the past two years I've commanded these Soldiers," he said. "The 214th is as professional a force

today as we've ever had in the Georgia Army National Guard
"And in respect to command, I don't know of anyone who can do a better job than colonel Abbott of carrying on the legacy of superior leadership that is very much a part of the history of this unit."
Stepping to the microphone, Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command in Decatur, congratulated Abbott and Radcliffe on their new assignments. Turning to the audience and the Soldiers of the 214th, he related his feelings the events of the day.
"We are one of the luckiest countries in the history of the world to be able to gather here today and participate in a peaceful change in leadership, what I liken to a `bloodless coupe,'" he said with a smile. "Lieutenant colonel Radcliffe is an outstanding warrior, a great trainer, mentor and a leader, and he can, and does, do it all.
As for lieutenant colonel Abbott, he is warrior of some repute and he's coming back to his roots, the field artillery, and I have no doubts whatsoever that he will do this unit and the Georgia Army National Guard proud."
At Left: Brigadier Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command, and his wife Cathy, congratulate Linda Radcliffe on her receiving an award of appreciation for her support of her husband, Lt. Col. Woodrow Radcliffe, during his tenure as commander of Elberton's 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery, during the change of command ceremony held in the drill hall of the Calhoun Highway armory. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Curtis Porter III)
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283rd CBCS Part of Continental Air Defense ; To Test Rapid Deployment Capability

The Dobbins-based 283rd Combat Communications Squadron of the Georgia Air National Guard is playing a role in DOD plans for the creation of a Mobile Air Defense capability for U.S. skies.

In July, Defense officials are set to demonstrate a rapidly deployable air defense system that could protect high profile national targets against cruise missiles and other low-flying threats. The Georgia Guardsmen will provide vital communications links for this unique test and will deploy for this month-long test scheduled to occur off the West Coast.

"Forty-four of our personnel with various communications specialties-- satellite and microwave communications, and secure and non-secure voice and data specialists, will be deploying with more than 153,000 pounds of sophisticated communications equipment to Point Mugu CA," said Lt. Col. Tom Dixon, Commander of the 283rd CBCS.

According to U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) officials, the operation will employ Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard assets that will coordinate activities through a Joint Air Defense Operations Center, or JADOC.

File Photo of the 283rd members and unit equipment.

The capacity of D-HACMD (Deployable Homeland Air and Cruise Missile Defense) "must be to defend geographic regions within the United States as directed by the president or secretary of defense and should be capable of defeating a full spectrum of anticipated air threats, including low-observable and low altitude air vehicles, "according to Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England.

The 283rd Combat Communications Squadron is responsible for all communications connectivity supporting this test, said Dixon. Communications support will include the installation of heavy satellite equipment providing voice and data services to include radar imagery from across the west coast of the United States.

"While deployed, we will send sophisticated radar pictures of potential air threats to a Joint Based Expeditionary Connectivity Center (JBECC), one of only two in existence" said Dixon. The JBECC is a mobile connectivity shelter that can process and link disparate radar data. The JBECC can rapidly deployed to plug in air defense holes. The 283rd will feed tactical radars into the Western Air Defense Sector (WADS) and they, in return, will send multiple radar feeds through our equipment to the JBECC.

A similar air defense center was established two years ago at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, DC to protect the skies over the nation's capital. Again, Air National Guardsmen of the 117th Air Control Squadron of the Georgia Air National Guard were involved in the initial operations of this defensive capability for our nation's capital.

In theory, NORTHCOM is looking to develop a mobile version of the permanent air defense system in the capital. The DHACMD concept of operations "establishes procedure for employing highly responsive, scalable integrated air defense packages designed to protect vital venues and infrastructure."

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Pinkney Earns Prestigous NGB 'Saucedo Award' for Equal Opportunity Work

DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Marietta, June 12, 2006 Georgia Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. William Pinkney, Georgia Department of Defense equal opportunity manager has been awarded the prestigious Chief Master Sgt. Benito Saucedo, Jr. Meritorious Service Award from the National Guard Bureau (NGB) for 2006 for programs and initiatives that promote equal opportunity and encourage diversity in the Georgia National Guard and the local community. The award is the highest presented by NGB to equal opportunity and equal employment opportunity professionals, and those in the diversity and human relations fields.

"This is a very prestigious award," said Pinkney from his office at the state DoD complex in Atlanta. "But I don't look at it as a single accomplishment.

As far as he's concerned, he's not the only one involved.
"This is a team accomplishment. My staff takes equal opportunity as a `mission essential task' and enhances that mission to safeguard Soldiers and Airmen," he explained.

Georgia Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. William Pinkney, state equal employment manager for the Georgia Department of Defense, counsels a Soldier on the importance of diversity in the workplace. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic)

In receiving the Saucedo award, Pinkney has been recognized for his leadership, his direction and his vision in managing critical issues of equal employment opportunity and diversity in the 12,000-member Georgia DoD workforce.

Seen as the "heart beat" of the agency's employment and diversity programs, it seems Pinkney has placed the Georgia National Guard at the forefront of human relations activities through education, community involvement, and mentoring.

"Receiving this award validates what I my staff does in support of equal opportunity," he continued. "We make sure everyone, Soldier, Airmen and civilian employee, are treated fairly so that they can get their job done.

What it all boils down to, he added, is that it's all about people.

"This also speaks volumes about Georgia and where we are going, and the fact that we have vastly improved equal opportunity in the past 10 years," Pinkney explained.

The Saucedo award points out that Pinkney's actions have had significant and direct impact on the organizational readiness of Georgia's Army and Air National Guard units. By using his problem-solving skills, Chief Pinkney identified critical shortfalls in the area of trained equal opportunity representatives, EOAs, and MEOs and quickly developed an action plan.

Pinkney's innovative actions have saved the Georgia DoD more than $25,000 in training costs during severe budget cuts, and realistically saving thousands of additional dollars by avoiding a potential postponement of the deployment of more than 4,000 48th Brigade Combat Team Soldiers, and more than 1,500 Airmen because of the lack of equal opportunity awareness training.

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2/121 Soldiers Honored At Wild Adventures Theme Park
By Spc. Curtis Porter III 124th MPAD
Members of Company A, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry returned from duty in Iraq in April and were honored in June at the Wild Adventures Theme Park near Valdosta. On hand to welcome them home were officials from the city of Valdosta and an organization of businessmen from the area called the Best Buddies Club.
The Best Buddies is a non-profit organization which adopted Alpha Company prior to their deployment to Iraq last year. As part of a welcome home celebration Best Buddies purchased tickets to Wild Adventures for the entire company and their family members.
Mike Bennett, president of the organization, said, "Our organization was formed by businessmen from Valdosta and the surrounding area to raise funds for people in need."
Bennett said the Best Buddies helped raise about $40,000 dollars for needy families during the unit's deployment.
Saturday at Wild Adventures local dignitaries included County Commissioner G. Robert Carter and a representative from the City of Valdosta's Mayor's Office, Jessica Culpepper, who made the actual presentation.
Alpha Company commander, Cpt. Marc Belscamper, of Savannah and 1st Sgt., Joe Jimmersen, of Albany received the award for their soldiers.
"My men and I want to thank the City of Valdosta and the surrounding area for their support during our deployment," Belscamper said. "We all felt a little better knowing that our families were being looked after in our absence."
For now Alpha Company will continue to heal and to begin retraining for the next mission when it comes. While the transition from civilian to full-time soldier is never easy they have seen the elephant and had their baptism under fire. For the men the flame of desire to serve still burns strongly in their hearts and minds.
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Family Support Foundation Gets Boost from Renowned Jeweler
The Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation is getting a big boost from renowned fashion jeweler IceLink Watch. The company has announced that IceLink's Charity-Links Campaign-- an ambitious national campaign to raise funds and awareness for selected non-profit organizations throughout the country--will benefit the foundation during the month of July
The campaign is designed to use IceLink Watch's new bicycle bracelet line--a sophisticated and affordable line of signature jewelry--to give back to communities. Each color of the bicycle bracelet--a total of 10--represents a different cause, with the fourth month of the campaign (July) using the yellow bracelet to support the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation. During the month of the campaign, a portion of the bicycle bracelets total national sales go to the Family Support Foundation.
"The Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to be included in IceLink's Charity-Links Bracelet Campaign," said Foundation Administrator Harriet Morgan. "The contributions raised from the sales of `the yellow bracelet' will be a great way to welcome our troops back home. The Foundation's sole purpose is to provide emergency relief assistance to the members and families of the Georgia National Guard and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone at IceLink Watch for their support."
"Our new line of bracelets represents our efforts to link communities together," said Andy Sogoyan, Owner of IceLink Watch. "We are looking forward to raising much needed funding for such a worthy cause. The opportunity to support military families through the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation is an honor, and we hope that these funds will help to ease some of the hardships that military families often face."
For the month of July in Atlanta, IceLink Watch will be partnering with local jewelry stores to support the month-long campaign. In addition to advertising in select jewelry stores, the campaign will be supported by a radio promotion on local stations. IceLink Watch has also announced that boxer Vernon Forrest, former welterweight champion, has come on as the celebrity spokesperson for the month to support the Foundation and his hometown of Atlanta.
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265th's Heath Retires

Story by Spc. Curtis Porter 124th MPAD

CHARLIE BROWN ARMY NATIONAL GUARD ARMORY, Atlanta, June 11, 2006 In an emotionally moving ceremony, Col. John A. Heath, commander 265th Engineer Group, retired from the Georgia Army National Guard.

His retirement to the civilian sector is the culmination of a career that he began 36 years ago as an enlisted Soldier.

"I wanted to leave the Guard on a proud note and this command has allowed me to do it," said Heath with humbled tone as he stood before the family, friends and fellow warriors from across the state who crowed into the armory drill hall to offer him their congratulations and farewells. "I'm certainly sad to be leaving, it's been great being part of such an organization as this but excited about the capable hands in which I'm leaving the 265th."

Those hands belong to Col. Thomas H. Blackstock Jr., full-time director of the Georgia Guard's Consolidated Facilities Management Office.

"I obviously have some big shoes to fill, but I have big feet and a great example to follow in colonel Heath."
As for the 265th, Blackstock related that the unit has a "storied tradition of excellence" on which to build.

Outgoing commander Col. John Heath (left) passes the 265th Engineer Group guidon to Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command, during Heath's change-of-command and retirement ceremony. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Curtis Porter III)

"And I will do my best to continue the `construction' of that fine reputation," he added.

Among the officials who came to wish Heath the best as he transitioned from Soldier to civilian was Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command in Decatur and the 265th's parent unit.

Shortly after Heath turned over command of the engineer group to Blackstock, Ross presented Heath the U.S. military's Legion of Merit, with a certificate signed by Lt. Gen. Russell L. Honore, commander First United States Army at Fort Gillem in Ellenwood. Ross also bestowed Heath with the honorary promotion to brigadier general for his years of dedicated and committed service.

"Colonel Heath is a quality Soldier, a top officer, the type of person you go to when you need to get the job done right. I thank him for what he's done and I thank him for his service.

Heath returned the sentiment, and in turn thanked the Soldiers of the 265th for their work.

"In all the years I have been a Soldier, I don't know that I have ever been prouder of knowing and working with a group of people such as you," he said. "Your determination to accomplish any mission you're given, big or small, is surely an inspiration to all who come in contact with you. I know it has been for me.

"Again, thank you for what you do to make this unit the finest in the National Guard."

Heath began his military career as an enlisted Soldier shortly after graduating from the University of Georgia in 1972. He progressed through the ranks to become a noncommissioned officer, and then attended Georgia Military Institute in Milledgeville in his bid to become an officer.

Heath received his commission as a second lieutenant in 1976. Eventually he would attend the Army Command and General Staff College and be promoted to the rank of colonel.

Heath has served in several command positions to include squad and platoon leader, and company commander. He took command of Augusta's 878th Engineer Battalion in June 2002, leading the unit through its yearlong deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Among the awards Heath has earned are the military's Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Southwest Asia Service Medal with one bronze service device, Kuwait Liberation Medal and the Georgia State Active Duty Medal with four silver boars head devices. Heath and his wife Kay have been married for 32 years. As a civilian, Heath works as a financial advisor in Albany.
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Perdue Offers Encouragement, Challenges To YCA Graduates in Macon

Words of congratulations and encouragement are normal this time of year as thousands of high school and college graduates parade across stages throughout the state to receive hard earned diplomas. On June 17, the words of support for 230 graduates of the Fort Stewart-based were mixed with words of challenge from Georgia's Governor Sonny Perdue.

Governor Perdue was the commencement speaker for YCA Class 2006-02 that occurred in Macon on Saturday, June 17th. An audience of close to 1000 family, friends, and well wishers crowded the Macon Auditorium on the Fathers Day weekend.

Governor Perdue, whose administration has been acknowledged for its education emphasis has shown continuous support for the National Guard Youth program.

"The Youth Challenge Academy gives many of our at-risk youths a second chance to be successful in life," said Governor Sonny Perdue. "I want to congratulate all you for successfully completing the program and I encourage continued support from their family and friends."

Gov. Perdue with the Douglas County graduates of YCA Class -02. From Left Cadet Deric Dandridge, Gov. Perdue, Cadet Owen Dubidad, Cadet Nicholas Rainwater, Cadet Chris Tolbert and Cadet Faith Young.

Class #2006-02 represents one of the largest classes to graduate from Youth Challenge in the 13-year history of the National Guard youth program. Since its first class at Fort Stewart in 1993, more than 6,000 formerly "at-risk" teens have graduated from the 22-week, in residence program. Georgia is among only a few states that operate two YCA campuses, the original at Fort Stewart and the Fort Gordon campus , opened in 2000 at Augusta's Fort Gordon.

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