Please ensure widest distribution of this publication Georgia DOD Home First Friday Briefing for May 2007 Deployment Update Georgia Chinooks, Black Hawks Help wildfire fighting efforts Georgia National Guard helicopters have been playing a significant role in efforts to halt the spread of wildfires burning across southeast Georgia. Georgia Guard helicopters have logged more than 200 hours in the air dropping more than 2,400 buckets of water since the mission began in mid-April. Flown by members of the 169th Aviation Regiment from Hunter Army Airfield, the large, CH-47 Chinooks helicopters were called into action when the fires began spreading in Ware and Brantley Counties. Two Chinooks have been on duty most days, each making nearly a hundred drops a day from their 2,000 gallon "Bambi Bags." Aerial competition demonstrates Air superiority, Guard capabilities The Georgia Air National Guard's Townsend Bomb Range near Brunswick played host in April to nearly 1,000 civilian and military visitors who came to watch the Guard's annual Turkey Shoot competition. The event gives pilots and aircraft from across the services the opportunity to pit their flying, bombing and strafing skills against one another. This year's winner was a flight of A-10 Thunderbolts from the Connecticut Air National Guard's 133rd Fighter Wing. Full Story Earlier this week, UH-60 Black Hawks from Dobbins Air Reserve Base joined the fight. The Black Hawks are flown by the 171st Aviation Battalion from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, and are basing operations from the Waycross airport. 1230th Transportation Company Departs for Iraq Soldiers from the Georgia National Guard's 1230th Transportation Company shared tears and embraces for a few final moments with family and friends at Centennial Field in Bainbridge before boarding four busses bound for Camp Atterbury, Ind. The unit is conducting 60 days of mobilization training before it heads to Camp Arifjon, Kuwait, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Full Story In addition to aviation assets, the Georgia State Defense Force is also supporting the firefighting efforts. The GSDF is providing security, fire watch, and traffic control support. As many as 20 GSDF personnel at a time have been assigned to the mission over the past two weeks. Full Story Eighth Air Force command chief Stops by 116th ACW Enlisted members from the 116th Air Control Wing got some insight on the future of the Air Force and first hand look at the new Airman Battle Uniform, April 26. Eighth Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant Todd Kabalan talked to troops at an enlisted call, where he was dressed in the new uniform. "No, I did not iron this uniform, the command chief said. "There are permanent creases. How cool is that?" Full Story 214th Returns from OIF Donovan Parade Field at Fort Stewart near Savannah was filled with the sounds of cheering, and the shouts of "welcome home" in April as 120 members of Elberton's Security Force, 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery, families and friends celebrated the unit's return from a year in Iraq. The unit spent a year in war-torn Iraq conducting security missions in and around, Camp Cedar. Full Story Related story: 214th Soldiers get Freedom Awards Guardsmen gather to remember `Days of the Mohawk' Georgia Army Guard aviation Soldiers played host to the Winder Flying Club's first annual OV-1 Mohawk reunion at the Guard's flight facility No. 1, Winder-Barrow County Airport. More than 50 club members, all of them former Mohawk flight and maintenance crewmen lined the tarmac in front of the flight facility, along with their fellow Soldiers and welcomed home a fully-restored, twoseater Grumman OV-1B, flown by members of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation. The aircraft, which once served with the Guard's 158th Aviation Battalion, was received by cheers from those who flew and maintained the Mohawks. Full Story Georgian joins Guard, State Partnership program Specialist David Papava, a Republic of Georgia native, has made history in the Guard by being one of the first native Georgians to join. Papava is the new Internal Affairs Technician for the State Partnership program at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Marietta. Full Story Related story: SPP has opening for ANG member GA Guard helicopters, Crews move Pulaski cannon Flight and ground crews of the Georgia Army Guard's 169th Aviation Regiment, based at Savannah's Hunter Army Air Field got in some practice moving cargo with their Ch-47 helicopters when they airlifted a Civil War cannon and it gun carriage from its place along the wall surrounding Fort Pulaski to Tybee Island. The move opened the way for a fully-functional cannon for use during an upcoming 1862 battle re-enactment. Full Story Thomaston dedicates post office To fallen Guardsman The Thomaston post office was dedicated to Georgia Army Guard Sgt. 1st Class Robert Lee "Bobby" Hollar Jr., Troop E, 108th Cavalry, in a renaming ceremony that took place at the Thomaston Civic Center. Hollar was killed near Baghdad, Sept.1, 2005, when his vehicle was struck by the blast of an IED. Full Story Family volunteers of the year named The annual Family Readiness Conference held April 13-15 in Augusta honored volunteers for their time and dedication to the Guard. Among the highlights was the announcement of the Army and Air Guard's Volunteers of the Year. "Volunteers are the heart and soul of family readiness," said Letha Nesbitt, wife of Georgia Army Guard commander Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt. This annual event is centered around helping family readiness representatives be ready to assist the families of Guard Soldiers. Full Story Company A, 878th receives Freedom Awards The Georgia Army National Guard honored those Soldiers from Swainsboro's Company A, 878th Engineering Battalion, who returned in November from a yearlong deployment in Iraq, with a Freedom Salute at the city's armory. Returning Guardsmen received an encased American flag and a special commemorative coin. For some, this marked their second deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Full Story A look at what happened in May in Georgia National Guard history:... Georgia National Guard shorts in the Atlanta Journal and the Atlanta JournalConstitution Sunday editions, May 1915: Governor-elect Nathaniel E. Harris planned to retain General Van Holt Nash as the Adjutant General. **Nash was reappointed the following month. Brigadier General Walter A. Harris of Macon, Georgia National Guard, son of Governor-elect Harris, was appointed to the National Militia Board, created by Congress in 1907, for four years. The announcement was made by Major General Albert Mills, Chief of the Division of Militia Affairs, U.S. War Department." --- Capt. Oscar L. Rudisail, commander of the Governor's Horse Guards, Troop L, 2nd Squadron Cavalry, and fellow members of the unit, urged the city council to appropriate funds for a stable and feed for the horses. John Hardwick retires Following 15 years with State Family, friends and coworkers of long-time Georgia Department of Defense employee John Hardwick gathered to salute his 15 years of achievement with the state during a midday retirement ceremony that took place at the DOD's East Confederate Avenue complex in Atlanta. Combined with his active duty service, Hardwick has spent nearly 40 years serving the U.S. Military. As the manager of the Casualty, Awards Funds continue to help efforts Of Family Support Foundation Donations large and small continue to arrive at the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation. The Foundation, which provides assistance to Guard members and families in times of need, has been able to assist over 125 families with emergency relief assistance since January. Assistance has included nearly $76,000 in grants and $30,310 in interest free loans. Full Story According to the report in the paper: "Since being ousted from the auditorium, the horses have been kept in private stables and fed at the expense of the members of the Guard. Captain Rudisail again called attention to the fact that the Guard is a reserve police force and subject to the mayor's call, and that the expense of the present method of keeping the horses was greater than the members of the guard could stand." *The Armory-Auditorium, next to Hurt Park in Atlanta, was completed in 1909 to house Georgia Guard units in appreciation of their service, as well as host other events. Units located there in the late 1930's were threatened with and Decorations, and Retirement Services Division of the Directorate of Workforce Development, Hardwick was responsible for casualty assistance, military awards and retirement programs for Georgia Guardsmen. During his tenure, he developed key policies and regulations regarding retirement benefits and awards. recognition withdrawal by 4th Corps unless the state provided more adequate armory facilities." Complied by Gail Parnelle, GaARNG Historical Section FMO's Doyce Henry wins State Community Service Award Doyce Henry of the GA DOD Facilities Maintenance Department was recognized by receiving Public Employee Community Service Award for the State of Georgia at ceremonies held in Macon on May 1. Henry, a 17-year state employee, was selected in the category of Community Service from among employees representing all agencies in the state. He was recognized for his uniquely inspiring activities to raise funds for persons in need within his west Georgia community.. Full Story Lt. Gen. David B. Poythress The Adjutant General of Georgia May 10, 2007 Time: 3:08 pm Security Notice Army National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Army National Guard. | 214th soldiers earn Freedom Award | 214th soldiers return | Thomason dedicates post office to fallen soldier | Family Volunteers named | Co. A, 878th Earns Freedom Award | Guard Chopper Moves Civil War era Canon | Mohawk Reunion Brings Back Memories | 1230th Departs for Training | Young Inducted Into Infantry Hall | It's Now Colonel King | CST, 202nd Participate in Disaster Drill | 'Miliatary Women Moving Forward, ' Chief says | 2007 NCO, soldier Named | 1230th Deploys Again | CERF-P Conducts Initial Exercise | Hurricane Exercise Tests Readines | Guard Deploys to Americus To Aid Relief Effort | GRAP Pays Off for Guardsman | Air National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Air National Guard. | Turkey Shoot shows air power | Col. Moore Assumes Command of the 116th | 202nd Helps Byron | Doehling Retires as 116th ViceCmdr | Cotter Tapped to Attend Air, Space School | New Positions Follow 165th Change | Smart to Lead 165th | State Defense Force Read the latest news from the Georgia State Defense Force. GADOD News | Governor Inspects Guard During Inauguration Ceremony | |Final YCA Graduation of 2006 Held | Guard Acquires NAS Atlanta property | About GADOD ESGR YCA Fort Stewart YCA Fort Gordon Facilities Inspector General Jobs Family Readiness Organizational Development Strategic Plan Guard choppers aid in fighting south Georgia wild fires As firefighters in southeast Georgia continue to fight fires, the Georgia Guard augmented its CH47 Chinooks with Black Hawk helicopters to aid the suppression of the wildfires. Nearly 1,000 personnel from state, county and local agencies are battling the battling the blaze. 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Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credits is requested. For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users. This government computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Unauthorized attempts to deny service, upload information, change information, or to attempt to access a non-public site from this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Title 18 of the U.S. Code to include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1987 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act. Guard, SDF continue wildfire fight May 6, 2007 -- Georgia National Guard helicopters have been playing a significant role in efforts to stem the spread of wildfires across southeast Georgia. The largest wildfire in Georgia history has consumed close to 100,000 acres and forced residents from their homes. After three weeks of daily missions by the CH-47 Chinooks from Savannah, were agumented this week by UH-60 Black Hawks from Dobbins Air Reserve Base. The Black Hawks are flown by the 171st Aviation Battalion, and are basing operations from the Waycross airport. Georgia Guard helicopters have logged more than 200 hours in the air dropping more than 2,400 buckets of water since the mission began in mid-April. In addition to aviation assets, the Georgia State Defense Force is also supporting the firefighting efforts. The GSDF is providing security, firewatch, and traffic control support. As many as 20 GSDF personnel at a time have been assigned to the mission over the past two weeks Flown by members of the 169th Aviation Regiment from Hunter Army Airfield,the large, CH-47 Chinooks helicopters were called into action when the fires began A Guard UH-60 Black Hawk heliciopter hovers after take off on its way to spreading in Ware and Brantley Counties. a assist in suppressing wildfires in south Georgia. (Georgia National Guard photo by LTC (ret.) Jim Driscoll) Two Chinooks have been on duty most days, each dropping nearly a hundred drops a day from their 2,000 gallon "Bambi Bags." More than 975 personnel from various state, county and local agencies are involved in fighting the fire, which official said Friday was 75 percent contained. | Back | GaDOD Home | Former Georgia Army Guardsmen of the Winder Flying Club and their present-day counterparts gather around an OV-1Mohawk at Winder's Army Air Flight Facility No. 1 during the club's first reunion of Soldiers who flew in and worked on the aircraft during its 25 years of service with Georgia Army Guard aviation. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry) Mohawk's Return Sparks Some Old Memories Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office WINDER-BARROW AIRPORT, April 10, 2007 It's been nearly 37 years since Grumman's OV-1 Mohawk reconnaissance aircraft graced the tarmac outside Winder's Georgia Army National Guard's Flight Facility. That changed, at least for one day, when a fully restored OV-1B dropped in to help former Georgia Guard pilots and maintenance crewmen of the Winder Flying Club who flew and worked on that aircraft celebrate their first reunion. Chief Warrant Officer Robert Standridge, one of the retired OV-1 pilots, also flew UH-1N Huey helicopters for the Guard. Standridge said this particular Mohawk was one of the six the Georgia Guard flew from 1970 to around 1995 when the OV-1 was removed from service. "The only thing missing is the side-seeing radar antenna that sat along side the nose wheel," he pointed out." That antenna, said retired Master Sgt. David Shelton, allowed him as a tactical observer to see a distance of 55 miles to the aircraft's left and right. "You can't help but admire these guys," said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Burkes, the flight facility's avionics supervisor, while watching the crowd of more than 50 former Georgia Guardsmen gather around the Mohawk and welcome its crew, retired Lt. Col. Tony Walsh and retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Ed Bearden to the festivities. Walsh and Bearden are also members of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation, which maintains the aircraft at Fort Rucker, Ala. "It's like they've come home again and been pleasantly surprised by an old, life-long friend." The group welcomed back its "old friend" by spending much of the morning climbing in and out of the cramped Mohawk cockpit, taking pictures and reminiscing about their days with Guard aviation. Colonel Brent Bracewell, who commands the Guard's 1st Aviation Group in Marietta, called these former Guardsmen his "heroes." If it hadn't been for them, he said, he never would have made aviation his career. Recalling how he'd seen Army aviators on the news as a youngster during the Vietnam era, Bracewell said it was those images that made him decide that being a pilot, an Army pilot, was what he wanted most. "I recollect telling my father, `dad, I want to be just like them. I want to be one of those guys right there," he said. "Today I and many like me, here and out there, are living that dream and serving our country in its time of war, just as you did." Bracewell said it didn't matter that they no longer wore the uniform; they would always be his brother aviators, and brothers-inarms to all who serve. While there are many among this group of former Guardsmen who have tales to tell, it was two among the group who helped turn the Winder flight facility into "Mohawk Country." It was Feb. 2, 1970, that now retired Capt. John H. Towler and retired Lt. Col., then captain, K.B. Pearce brought the first two OV-1s to Winder. Those aircraft and the other four would be split among the former 158th (Winder) and 159th (Marietta) aviation companies, both of which were part of Georgia's 151st Aviation Battalion. Towler, now 72, was 35 and the personnel officer for the 158th when he was strapped in the pilot's seat. Pearce, now 68, was 32 and flying for Delta Airlines at the time. Both had also flown the Mohawk with the active Army in Vietnam. "We flew them here from the Grumman factory in Stuart, Fla.," Towler said while he and Pearce walked around the aircraft, looking it over from top to bottom. "What an exciting time that was, and what a great feeling to be here, remembering those days, with our fellow aviators." Nothing could have been better, he and Pearce agreed. That is other than getting back into the cockpit and heading for the sky again. | Back | GaDOD Home | Aerial competition demonstrates air superiority, Guard capabilities April 25, 2007 - Flying against concealed enemy ground targets is the role performed daily by America's combat fighter pilots in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each year some of America's top fighter pilots hone their war fighting skills in "The Great Georgia Turkey Shoot" a Georgia National Guard sponsored competition conducted April 25, at the Guard's Townsend Bombing Range near Brunswick. Nearly a thousand prominent Georgians including elected officials, civic leaders, and employers of National Guardsmen, were awed as aircraft from the sleek F-15 Eagle fighter to ungainly looking A-10 Thunderbolt took turns attacking targets. Many of the guests got a special, "inside" look at the Georgia Guard when were flown to south Georgia by C-130s of the 165th Airlift Wing and C-23 Sherpas of Company H, 171st Aviation Battalion. The visitors were then shuttled to the range aboard Army Aviation UH-1 Black Hawks and CH-47 Chinook helicopters. Also providing support to the event were members of the Georgia State Defense Force who helped with registration, crowd control and escort duties. The Turkey Shoot gave pilots and aircraft from across the services the opportunity to pit their flying, bombing and strafing skills against one another. This year's overall winner was a flight of A-10 Thunderbolts from the Connecticut Air National Guard's 133rd Fighter Wing. The unit also won the competition three years ago. Active, National Guard and Reserve combat fighters from all services participated in the daylong competition. Among the combat fighter aircraft entered in this year's "Shoot" were - F-15s, F-16s, F-18s, A-10s. During the competition successive waves of fighter aircraft enter the Townsend Range airspace at more than 400 mph under the watchful eyes of Air National Guard air controllers. Pilots focus upon actual military equipment concealed behind earthen berms and fortifications. Once identified, pilots release practice "bombs" in repeated runs at the target. Sophisticated range sensors triangulate the exact point where each piece of ordnance buries into the ground near the target. Pilots return to the range at tree top levels to strafe huge "bulls-eye" targets on the range. Acoustic sensors near the target detect the number of rounds fired and exact location where they strike the target. The competition began at 9 a.m. with a ceremonial World War II P-51 Mustang making a mock run on a target. The result of an A-10 Strafing run. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry) Woody Dover (left), of Decatur, and friends watch a Navy FA-18 Hornet take its turn at hitting targets on Townsend Bomb Range near Brunswick during the Georgia National Guard's 2007 Turkey Shoot. With Dover are (left to right) Ailie Glover of Atlanta, State Rep. Mark Butler of Carrollton and Holly LaBerge | Back | GaDOD Home | of Senoia. Dover, Glover and LaBerge all work for the Georgia House Budget Office. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry) Return to First Friday Briefing Eighth Air Force command chief stops by 116th ACW By Senior Airman Paul Ross 116th ACW/PA Enlisted members from the 116th Air Control Wing got some insight on the future of the Air Force and first hand look at the new Airman Battle Uniform, April 26. Eighth Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant Todd Kabalan talked to troops at an enlisted call, where he was dressed in the new uniform, green boots and all. "No, I did not iron this uniform, the command chief said. "There are permanent creases. How cool is that?" Not trying to speculate on how the uniform keeps its creases Chief Kabalan ensured troops that the uniform is fully functional. "This is a poly-cotton mix that just works -- I don't know if it's magic or what but it works," Chief Kabalan joked. With all kidding aside, he ensured troops that he had tested the ABUs personally in a recent deployment. "I have another set of these that I've had for about a year that I wore while deployed for six months," Chief Kabalan said. "It was washed in the field and the crease stayed in it and it worked." Another ABU positive and a step up from the Battle Dress Uniform is the availability of sizes. "It's comfortable," Chief Kabalan said. "There are actual sizes for people. There's boots sized for woman. It's a lot better fitting uniform." After fielding more than 25 minutes worth of uniform questions the enlisted call turned towards more pressing Air Force issues, LEAN and AFSO 21. "I can tell you (some examples of AFSO 21 initiatives) right now -- the gates," the Chief said. "Who's working the gates? Is that Air Force security forces out there? No, it's a contractor. We have stopped doing a lot of things in some specific career fields." Chief Kabalan encouraged Airmen to put the positive changes brought on with AFSO 21 and LEAN into circulation and voiced his conviction in the troops and their capabilities. "I would tell you all that if you know of things you have stopped doing, pass it on," Chief Kabalan asked. "We have some smart Airmen. These are the smartest airman we've ever had in the Air Force." The topic then changed to cover other issues including changes to the Enlisted Performance Reports. "Our EPRs will change," the Chief said. "Some people in the room, who are a little bit older, remember when we used to have to get a leave form and run it through 14 people before we could take leave. A day and a half later your form is done but your leave was over yesterday. "If we can go virtual with leave, why not do it with EPRs. As the supervisor, I can digitally send it to the next person," the chief explained. "It will still have the same one through five ratings. Fitness will be on there in the categories of pass, fail or exempt. It will be electronically signed so the process will be quicker." Chief Kabalan also informed troops of a new Air Force Major Command that is currently in the works. "There will be a tenth major command in the Air Force it is currently unnamed but will be the major command responsible for the global effects mission," Chief Kabalan said. "My predication is (it will be fully functional) before the end of this calendar year. It will be a four-star command." The Chief then went on to let troops know a little bit more about the new command. "What is cyberspace," the Chief asked? "To dumb it down, it is anything that operates within the electromagnetic spectrum. Everything you do (speaking of the 116th Air Control Wing mission) operates in cyberspace. What the Air Force has discovered is that while we dominate the air and sea, the enemy can be on equal ground in cyberspace with us. We need to dominate all things in cyberspace." Although all of the issues addressed informed airmen of the coming future it seemed getting to see the ABUs in person excited them the most. "I feel more informed about the future of the Air Force," said Staff Sgt. Christopher Phillips, 330th Airborne Mission Systems Specialist. "It was good to see the usability of the new uniforms and to actually see them in person." Return to First Friday Briefing 1230th Transporation Begins 2-month Mobilization Training At Camp Atterbury Story and photo by Pfc. Adam Dean Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office BAINBRIDGE, April 9, 2007 - Soldiers from the Georgia National Guard's 1230th Transportation Company shared tears and embraces for a few final moments with family and friends at Centennial Field before boarding four busses bound for Camp Atterbury, Ind., where the unit will conduct 60 days of mobilization training before they head to Camp Arifjon, Kuwait, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The morning ceremony honoring the service of the 189 Soldiers taking part in the unit's deployment included remarks from state and local dignitaries. Representative Sanford Bishop, representing Georgia's 2nd Congressional District, reminded attendees that "freedom isn't free," and applauded the men and women of the 1230th for "leaving the comforts of home and the security of family to pay that price and answer the call of duty. "You show us what patriotism really is," he said. "History will remember your service." Soldiers from the Georgia Army Guard's 1230th Transportation Company salute during the national anthem at a send-off ceremony held at Centennial Field, April. 9, 2007. Georgia's adjutant general, Lt. Gen. David B. Poythress, also commented on the legacy that this deployment will leave. "This is a historic day in the life of this organization. This is the second time that this organization has stepped up and answered the call to protect, uphold, and defend the Constitution of the United States of America, which is the oath the every person in uniform takes," said Poythress. In 2003, the 1230th began their first active tour in support of the war, which lasted the better part of two-years, according to Capt. Joshua Emerson, the unit's commander. During that time, they provided security for active and reserve installations throughout the state of Georgia. "This time, our Soldiers will move into Arifjon where they'll be driving trucks and running supplies and personnel in and out of Kuwait and Iraq in support of Coalition and Iraqi forces," he explained. Lieutenant Col. Carl White comforted the Guardsmen and their families with words of empathy and assurance. "This is, no doubt, a day of mixed emotions; sadness, uncertainty, reservation and anticipation. But you know we have trained for such a time as this; a time when we as Citizen-Soldiers are called upon to defend this great nation," he said. "You are trained to perform the mission, and I am confident that you will be highly successful in the accomplishment of that mission. Mayor Mark Harrell of Bainbridge spoke on behalf of the citizens of that city, expressing gratitude and admiration. "Thank you for defending our way of life back here at home. We look forward to your safe return," he said. Students from Bainbridge's Potter Street Elementary School presented the 1230th with an American flag made of red, white and blue paper outline cutouts of the children's hands. Kaye Forbes, a teacher from the school said that the flag was a symbol of the students' desire to join hands in support of the troops. | Back | GaDOD Home | Elberton Soliders Return From Deployment April 18, 2007 Donovan Parade Field at Fort Stewart near Savannah was filled with the sounds of cheering, and the shouts of "welcome home" as 120 members of Elberton's Security Force, 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery, families and friends celebrated the unit's return from a year in Iraq. The unit, comprised of Soldiers not only from the 214th, but also other units from across the state such as Kennesaw's 190th Military Police Company, Columbus' 82nd Maintenance and Statesboro's 878th Engineer Battalion. The unit spent a year in war-torn Iraq conducting security missions for, and around, Camp Cedar. "Great warriors and combat veterans of the 214th Security Force," said Maj. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command. "You did an absolutely magnificent job in Iraq. "We are here to welcome you home, and to reunite you with your families," Ross said proudly. "Welcome Home to all of you, welcome home." Specialist Jonathan King, a truck driver who lives in Augusta, said the first thing he wants to do is spend time with his wife Melissa and their children Jahenia, age 8, and Dontae, 7. Being home, he said, "Well, there is just no way to explain how glad I am to back." Specialist Andrew Holland, a military policeman from Decatur, said the first thing he wants to do is get some good home cooking. He missed the fried chicken and steak, he said with a wide grin. Sergeant Tron Brothers, a military policeman from Columbus, hugs his children Amiya, age 6, and Devon, age 4, as they welcome him home after a ceremony at Fort Stewart celebrating the return of the 214th Field Artillery's Security Force Company from Iraq. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic) As families came together on the parade field, one proud father scooped up his two children as if he had not seen them in years. "You don't understand how great this is," Sgt. Tron Brothers, another military policeman, explained. "I am glad that we completed the mission, but right now I am just happy to be home." | Back | GaDOD Home | Elberton soldiers earn Freedom Award April 21, 2007 As their deployment finally came to a close, the members of the 214th Field Artillery Security Force received their Freedom awards at a ceremony at Cottrell Parade Field, Fort Stewart. Not only were they welcomes home by their families and friend, but also by the major of Elberton, Bobby Hunt, who is also a war veteran. "The city of Elberton thanks you for a mission well done," said Hunt at the ceremony. "Thank you for you service in Iraq and the sacrifices both you and your families have made." Brigadier Gen. Larry Ross, commander 78th Troop Command, also thanked these volunteers for the mission they accomplished while in Iraq. "You did an absolutely magnificent job," said Ross. "You did everything asked of you and we appreciate the efforts and sacrifices you made." "Because of what this generation of soldiers has done," continues Ross. "Vietnam war veterans are proud of what they have done and are now wearing their combat ribbons on their jackets. The Soldiers of the 214th and all the others who have deployed are part of the continuity of this great Army, you are combat Veterans. You have bridged the gap between yourselves and veterans of the Vietnam Era. We will never forget the sacrifices you have made." Sergeant Kevin Ashe, a member of the 214thSecurity Force, receives and encased American flag in recognition of his service in Iraq from Brig. Gen. Larry Ross, commander 78th Troop command, during a ceremony at Cottrell Parade Field at Fort Stewart, April 21, 2007. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Amanda Luksic) | Back | GaDOD Home | Return to First Friday Briefing Georgian joins Guard, State Partnership Program Story By Spc. Amanda Luksic Georgia Army National Guard PAO Georgia Army National Guard Specialist David Z. Papava of Mableton is a true Georgian, but his Georgia roots lay 6,000 miles away in eastern Europe. Papava, who was born and raised in the nation of Georgia, joined the Georgia Army National Guard earlier this year and is the internal affairs technician with the State Partnership Program. Specialist David Papava has made history as one of the first natives of the nation of Georgia to join the State of Georgia's National Guard. Papava is the new Internal Affairs Technician for the State Partnership program. The National Guard's State Partnership Program links state National Guard organizations with developing countries around the world. The Georgia-to-Georgia relationship, established in May 1995, has developed beyond its initial military-to-military origin to become a highly productive cooperative program in many areas of civil and military support. Today more than 36 states and territories and the District of Columbia maintain cooperative State Partnership relationships with more than 38 developing nations. "Having a native Georgian on staff is an extraordinary occurrence and is quite possibly a first in the history of the Georgia Guard," said Maj. Elizabeth Baker, coordinator of Georgia's State Partnership Program. Papava, a former member of the Georgian Ministry of Defense, was born and raised in Tbilisi, the nation's capital. He moved to Monterey, Calif., in 2002 to attend the Naval Postgraduate School. He immigrated to the U.S. in 2005 after marrying his wife Diana, an American citizen. Two years later, he joined the Georgia National Guard, working as a personnel assistant for the 221st Military Intelligence Battalion at Fort Gillem in Atlanta. "I joined the Guard because I wanted to serve this nation's interests," Papava said. "Plus, this is a very good opportunity to also do something good for my native country." Papava said that "a greater degree of understanding and cooperation may be accomplished through my knowledge of people, culture and military of Georgia." His knowledge of the language and his abilities as an interpreter will also help in continuing to enhance this relationship. In 1997 Papava received his bachelor's from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, majoring in History. He received his Master of Arts in National Security Affairs from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2004. Spc. Papava's future plans are to apply to become a warrant officer and to make the National Guard his career. Return to First Friday Briefing Return to First Friday Briefing State Partnership team has opening for Air Guardsman It seems to be a well kept secret - working in the State Partnership Program (SPP). The state of Georgia has a partnership with the country of Georgia. The partnership has been in existence since May 1995. State Partnership is a National Guard program and as of May 2006 there are 51 countries linked to 43 states and two territories. The program is designed to promote relationships between the U.S. and nations of the former eastern bloc, as well as other developing nations. Currently, Georgia's program includes a team of three members working in Joint Operations at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Major Elizabeth Baker was recently selected to attend Air Command and Staff College in-residence, which will leave a opening in the SPP group. She will be gone for nearly one year, and SPP needs a new Air National Guard member to replace her while she's out. If you're interested in joining this team, please contact Maj. Matthew Saxton by at DSN.753.3906 or 678-569.3948. Or email him at matthew.saxton@us. army.mil. Return to First Friday Briefing Thomaston Post Office Named for 'Hollar' April 13, 2007 The city of Thomaston honored Georgia Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Robert Lee "Bobby" Hollar Jr., by dedicating the town's post office in his name and memory during a ceremony that marked his birthday at the Thomaston Civic Center. On hand to help dedicate the facility was Hollar's wife, Amanda and two children. Hollar, a scout with Troop E, 108th Cavalry, was killed in al Mahmudiyah, near Baghdad, Sept. 1, 2005, when the blast of an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle. Hollar was 35 when he was killed. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his sacrifice. Amanda Hollar, wife of Sgt. 1st Class Robert Lee "Bobby" Hollar Jr., and Rep. Lynn Westmoreland unveil a replica of the plaque that will stand in Thomaston's post office alongside Sgt. 1st Class Hollar's portrait. (Georgia National Guard photo by Pfc. Adam Dean) Out of uniform, Hollar was a postal carrier in the Thomaston area. Renaming a post office requires an act of Congress, explained Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, who championed the bill in the House of Representatives. With the help of Senators Johnny Isakson and Saxby Chambliss, Westmoreland successfully got the bill passed on the last day of the 2006 Congressional session. A replica of the plaque that now stands in the lobby of the newly named "Sergeant First Class Robert Lee "Bobby" Hollar Jr. Post Office Building" was unveiled by Hollar's wife, Amanda, and Westmoreland at the ceremony. A portrait of Hollar will hang alongside the plaque. "From this moment forward Sgt. Bobby Hollar will be immortalized in the community that he called home," said Westmoreland. Sergeant 1st Class James A. Ross, Hollar's platoon sergeant during Troop E's deployment, described his friend as a fallen hero in remarks before those assembled at the civic center. "He was my assistant platoon sergeant and I depended on him many times to take the lead," said Ross. "As a Soldier, he put his life on the line for freedom and for his country. He firmly believed in our mission, and did his best to carry it out." Ross also described Hollar as a devoted family man, who often spoke of his wife and children, and the strength that he felt his family gave him to persevere in the war zone. Children from Griffin's Crescent Elementary School were also on hand to reflect on the legacy of Sgt. 1st Class Hollar. During his deployment, he was a pen pal with several of the students there. Ryan Ragsdale was one of three students who read letters at the ceremony that they had written to congressmen, asking for the post office to be dedicated in Hollar's name. "When we found out he died, we were all crying hard that day," said Ragsdale, as he read from his letter. "What he did for us was very important. He risked his life for our freedom and he did not have to do that." Mrs. Hollar credits Mack Gadsen, a postal inspector and veteran from North Carolina, with the initial idea to have the post office named after her husband. She said that Gadsen was researching the sergeant's life and death for a newspaper story, and was so moved that he enlisted the help of legislators and the students at the elementary school in Griffin to get the post office renamed. Hollar, a native of Griffin, moved to Thomaston as a child. | Back | GaDOD Home | GA Guard helicopters, crews move Civil War era cannon April 12, 2007 Aviators of the Georgia Army Guard's Company B, 169th Aviation Regiment, based at Savannah's Hunter Army Airfield, airlifted a Civil War cannon and its gun carriage from inside Fort Pulaski National Monument for an upcoming battle re-enactment. The move was conducted by one of the unit's CH-47D Chinook helicopters and Soldiers on the ground. A fully functional, reproduction Civil war cannon is to have been positioned on the other gun's carriage at Battery Park on Tybee Island. It will be fired during a twoday celebration commemorating the 145th anniversary of the battle during which Union forces destroyed the 7-foot-thick brick walls that surround Pulaski, said the monument's superintendent Charles E. Fenwick. While the operation seemed to only take a few minutes, the maneuvers involved in moving the first gun, and then repositioning its carriage took months of planning, Fenwick said. Georgia Army Guard Warrant Officer Tim Ladson was at the controls of one of the Chinooks as it hovered over Pulaski's parapet. Ladson said he took his helicopter A Guard CH47 lifts off with a civil war era cannon slung under its belly (Photo courtesy John Carrington, Savannah News) down toward members of the 169th on the ground who connected a lifting strap to the Chinook's cargo hook. Once the gun tube was secure, it was taken to a nearby maintenance facility, he said. Ladson and his twin-bladed chopper returned a few minutes later to move gun carriage to Battery Park. Guard Warrant Officer Jeff Hutchinson said airlifting cargo of any kind always looks deceptively easy, but..."One has to remember that the pilot can't see the cargo underneath him. "He has to follow directions given by the flight engineer who's leaning out the helicopter's side door," Hutchinson said. Another reason why team work between pilot and his crew and personnel on the ground is so important, he added. It's that coordination, Hutchinson said, that makes missions such as this a success. . | Back | GaDOD Home | Family Readiness Honors Volunteers By Spc. Amanda Luksic Public Affairs Office Georgia National Guard April 14, 2007 -- "Volunteers are the heart and soul of family readiness," said Letha Nesbitt, wife of Georgia Army Guard commander Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, at the Family Readiness Conference in Augusta. This annual event is centered on helping family readiness representatives be ready to assist families of Guard Soldiers. "Never underestimate your part," Mrs. Nesbitt said, stressing the importance of family readiness representatives in the National Guard. "Unless a Soldier knows he has someone at home to take care of things, he cannot complete his mission." Col. Lois Starke and Eileen Byrd accept the Air National Guard Family Readiness award. At far right is Rebecca Thomas, During the banquet the Army and the Air Volunteer of Family Readiness Army Guard Volunteer of the Year. (Photo by the Year was named. This year's Army Guard Spc. Amanda Luksic) Volunteer of the Year is Rebecca Thomas, a member of 1st Battalion, 108th Armor Family Readiness Group. Thomas is the county extension agent for the University of Georgia in Gordon County. During her husband's deployment, she took care of their family, managed the family cattle farm, participated in church activities and continued her career with UGA. With three other members of the university staff, she wrote a grant for Operation Military Kids in April 2005, and has conducted six workshops for this program and conducted community training. This year's Air Guard Volunteer of the Year went to the 116th Air Control Wing. While this award usually is presented to an individual, the overwhelming volunteerism of the 116th made each unit member a winner, said Eileen Byrd, the family readiness coordinator for the wing. Byrd was singled out in the wing's nomination because of her effort on behalf of deploying members. According to the wing, Byrd remains in contact with families of deployed airmen, assists families in handling crises, or "just being there to listen." Along with the Wing, she helped develop a Statewide Network for the spouses to insure those who do not live in the local area have an opportunity to communicate with fellow members of the unit. | Back | GaDOD Home | Return to First Friday Briefing Funds continue to enhance efforts of Family Support Foundation Submitted Story by Harriett Morgan Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation Donations large and small continue to arrive at the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation which helps in its ongoing assistance program for National Guard members and their families. The Foundation, which provides assistance to Guard members and families in times of need, has been able to assist over 125 families with emergency relief assistance since January. Assitance has included nearly $76,000 in grants and $30,310 in interest free loans. In April, the 78th Troop Command hosted the 9th "Not So" Annual Golf Tournament at the Hickory Ridge Golf Course, north of Thomaston. Troop Command leaders credited 1st Lt. Nini Antoine from the 170th Military Police Battalion, and Cmd. Sgt. Major Barry Smallwood from the 878th Engineer Battalion for making the event a huge success. Lieutenant Antoine collected donations and prizes from local businesses, handled the mailings to organizations for support, and set up the registration at the golf course. Cmd. Sgt. Major Smallwood located and coordinated the use of the golf course, collected donations and more. Proceeds from the Tournament were presented to Lt. Col. l Jay Peno, Foundation President, in the amount of $600 for the Georgia National Guard Foundation. On April 21, the Top Gun Ride for Children was held in Kennesaw. The police-escorted motorcycle ride traveled through west Cobb County to the Flight Works hangar at McCollum Air Field. There participants enoyed food from six vendors, a live band and a silent auction. The 171st Aviation Group provided a UH-1 helicopter as a static display. Mike Worley, from Georgia Power Company, represented the Foundation and was responsible for designating the organization as a co-beneficiary. The results of the fundraiser have not yet been reported, but the awareness and continuing support for the Foundation are greatly appreciated. On May 8, the Army Aviation Association of America Greater Atlanta Chapter is hosting a Tournament Charity Donation Support and Golf Sponsorship at the Stone Mountain Golf Club. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the Foundation. Major Jim Schroeder is contact for this event. In other recent news: Venus Terry, represented the Foundation as a vendor at the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of Georgia convention in Valdosta. The Foundation provided a copy of the Freedom print by artist Steve Penley as a door prize for the association's banquet. In addition, the Foundation recognized Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dixon who are regular contributors to the Foundation. The Dixons, of Valdosta, were presented a Certificate of Appreciation for their ongoing support of the Foundation. Return to First Friday Briefing Co. A, 878th Earns Freedom AwardStory and photo by Pfc. Adam Dean Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office April 14, 2007 - Forty Soldiers from Swainboro's Company A, 878th Engineer Battalion, who deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom were honored with a Freedom Salute ceremony held at the city's armory. During the mid-morning ceremony, the Guardsmen were presented with several awards, which included an encased American flag and a limited-release Defender of Freedom commemorative coin. Also, 13 of the returning CitizenSoldiers received a special certificate recognizing the fact that this was their second deployment to Iraq since the war began. The Freedom Award is a decoration that is unique to the National Guard among the several branches of military service, explained Brig. Gen. Larry H. Ross, commander 78th Troop Command in Decatur. He added that the intent of the award is to demonstrate the gratitude the nation owes to Guardsmen who place themselves in harm's way. Georgia Army Guard Sgt. 1st Class David K. Miller, a platoon sergeant with Swainsboro's Company A, 878th Engineer Battalion, accepts a certificate honoring his return from a second deployment to Iraq at his unit's Freedom Salute.(Georgia National Guard photo by Pfc. Adam Dean) "The National Guard takes care of those who stand tall and answer the call to duty," Ross said to the assembled Soldiers. "Thank you for answering that call. You are true American patriots." Company A began its second deployment of the war in November 2005, and spent the year maintaining roadways and bridges and providing force protection throughout Iraq. The company commander, Capt. Calvin Oxendine, said that, in the course of more than 200 convoy missions and 120 engineering missions, not one unit member was killed or severely injured. Sergeant 1st Class David K. Miller, a Company A platoon sergeant, was one of those recognized for completing a second tour in Iraq. "I think it's a great award," said Miller. "It's terrific, especially for the younger Soldiers who deserve to have their service over there recognized." | Back | GaDOD Home | Return to First Friday Briefing FMO's Doyce Henry wins state Community Service Award Doyce Henry of the GA DOD Facilities Maintenance Department was recognized by receiving Public Employee Community Service Award for the State of Georgia at ceremonies held in Macon on May 1. Henry, a 17- year state employee was selected in the category of Community Service from state employees from all agencies in the state for his uniquely inspiring activities to raise needed funds for persons in need within his west Georgia community. Henry and two close partners used their love of gospel music and their love of their community to plan and organize gospel sings in local churches. Each concert is organized to benefit a particular individual or local family who are experiencing a specific need or illness. At the gospel concerts with audiences numbering in the hundreds, funds collected from "love offerings" and presented to the persons in need. In his first-ever gospel sing event, Henry and his partners raised $3,000 for a local woman suffering from cancer. In April, a concert organized by Henry to support the family of a 12-year old girl with throat cancer raised more than $9,000. The money was used for expensive chemotherapy for the young girl. The child was recently diagnosed as "cancer free". "Before we plan any event, my partners and I meet and pray with the family," said Henry. Usually the family or individual is totally unaware that a fund-raising event is being planned on their behalf. Once an event is decided upon, Henry and partners move forward with extensive media advertising, flyers and promotion, done either complementary or from Henry's own pockets. Henry and his partners organized fund raisers in October 2006 to benefit the family of a nine-year old boy suffering from adrenoleukadystrophy or ALD, a disease which destroys the nerve endings to the brain. The event drew several hundred from the local community and raised over $7,000 to improve the quality of life for the child and his family. Recognized gospel singers, quartets and gospel singing families from throughout Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee are invited to participate.. In every case, these gospel entertainers donate their time and talent without charge. Late October also saw a fund-raising gospel sing held in Henry's hometown of Temple to assist a local police officer suffering from cancer. The concert that showcased numerous popular gospel groups raised more that $14,000. Following twenty six-weeks of chemotherapy paid in part by benefits from the sing, the cancer is now in remission and officer is today back on duty. Henry insists that the people he and his partners help and the benefits they produce are an "assignment" from God. "I am simply following through", says Henry. When discussing his work Doyce Henry is quick to give credit to where credit is due. "I give the credit for these successes to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." In the weeks ahead Doyce Henry will join other Georgia State employee award winners in meeting with Lt. Governor Casey Cagle. Henry whose pleasant personality, home-spun anecdotes, and engaging humor attracts many to him, but his uncommon desire to help others is an unequalled example of what is meant by lending a helping hand to those in need. Return to First Friday Briefing