First Friday briefing [July 6, 2007]

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First Friday Briefing for July 2007
Deployment Update

108th Recon teaches and learns At Fort Polk Soldiers from 48th Brigade Combat Team's 108th Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition Squadron, (formerly 1st Battalion, 108th Armor) were at Fort Polk in June helping other Soldiers from around the country get the training they need to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. Captain Chris Powell, who command's the Rome-based Troop A of the 108th, described the mission as a roleplaying exercise. Acting as Iraqi internal defense force soldiers, they provided realworld experience to those who are about to experience in the Global War on Terror, many of them for the first time. Full Story
Related Story...

117th controllers meet face-to-face
With pilots during recent AFT
Members of Savannah's 117th Air Control Squadron and Florida's 125th Fighter Wing put their collective faces and voices together recently to enhance air-to ground communications during both units' annual training. Besides their usual ground controller-pilot relationship, during the first weeks of June, Guardsmen who had only spoken over radios to each other had a chance to put a face with a voice. "This field training gave us the opportunity to have face-to-face briefings between our controllers and the Wing's pilots and to conduct live data links with the Wing's F15s," explained Lt. Col. Joe Ferrero, 117th commander. Full Story

1/214th begins first leg of deployment
On June 13, more than 170 Soldiers of Waynesboro's Battery C, 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery, boarded buses outside that city's Burke County Recreation Center and then headed to the Augusta airport for the trip to Fort Dix, N.J., and the first leg of their year long deployment to Kuwait. The tearful goodbyes were many, as were the words of praise for the unit, as family, friends and fellow Soldiers gave the Guardsmen a send-off they'll remember for years to come. Full Story

: It's MOUT training
For 108th RSTA at Fort Polk

Turner assumes fulltime SJA duties As Waldrep retires This summer marks a change in the Georgia DOD Staff Judge Advocate office as Col. Ken Waldrep retires. The Forsyth resident is leaving following 34 years in the Georgia Guard. He has been the fulltime SJA for nearly 20 years. He is being replaced by Maj. Jon Turner who was

1-121 training in its dual role
At Wisconsin post
More than 200 members of Georgia's 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, have begun their two-week annual training as part of Patriot '07 at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 121st has two responsibilities: its traditional combat mission, and its homeland defense mission as Georgia's National Guard Reaction Force. "We have to be able to carry out both with not a whole lot more resources or time," said Lt. Col. Andy Hall, the battalion's commander. "With that in mind, we turned to National Guard Bureau for stateside and overseas training opportunities that we could `sculpt' to fit our needs." Full Story

Georgians aid Afghan forces
Nine Georgia Army Guard officers and seven senior NCOs arrived in Afghanistan's Helmand Province in June They will spend a year there working along side the Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) and Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP). The mission of the Transition Training Team-Georgia's mission is to provide advisory support and direct access to coalition assistance to enhance the ability of the ANSF and AUP to operate independently of coalition forces. Pictured above, Members of Transition Training Team Georgia are briefed on their Afghan deployment before leaving Fort Riley in early June. Full Story

formerly the Judge Advocate General for the 48th Brigade during its deployment to Iraq. Maj Turner came to Georgia after serving in the Chief Counsel's office at National Guard Bureau. His past assignments have included serving with the 29th Division in Bosnia. Maj Turner earned his undergraduate and law degree from the University of Alabama.

Related story...

Co, C, 1/121st Infantry put to the test With 'Comanche Challenge'

Nine Georgia Guardsmen graduate From Sergeants Major Academy Nine Georgia Army National Guardsmen graduated in June from the U.S. Army's Sergeants Major Academy. They were among 742 Soldiers, the largest class ever to graduate from the academy at Fort Bliss, TX. The graduates are pictured above following the graduation ceremonies with Command Sgt. Maj. Neil Russell, State Sergeant Major. Left to right are Sgt. Maj. Ronald George, Recruiting and Retention Battalion; 1st Sgt. Bryan Hise, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry; Command Sgt. Maj. Meinrad Kuettel, 78th Aviation Troop Command; Command Sgt. Maj. John Smiley, 148th Support Battalion; Command Sgt. Russell; Master Sgt. Iris Thompson, Joint Force Headquarters; Sgt. Maj. Dale Shanklin, Recruiting and Retention Battalion; Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Hurndon, 221st Military Intelligence Battalion; Command Sgt. Maj Ed Hepler, 78th Aviation Troop Command; and Sgt. Maj. Robert Butler, Joint Force Headquarters. Full Story
23 Green Belts graduate From Lean Six Sigma training Twenty-three Soldiers, Airmen and employees of the Georgia Department of Defense have graduated from the inaugural course of an exciting, hands-on continuous process improvement program called Lean Six Sigma, or LSS. The graduates all earned their "green belts" after completing four weeks of combined classroom and hands-on training. Lean Six Sigma is a structured processimprovement methodology being implemented Army-wide, explained Maj. Larry Deaton, deployment director with the Georgia Dept. of Defense. "The objective is to observe and analyze processes and figure out how to do them better," he said. Full Story

Georgia Guard air ambulances Participate in 'Golden Medic' Two UH-1 Huey helicopters and twenty-two Soldiers from the Winder-based 832nd Medical Company Air Ambulance took part in the jointservice exercise "Golden Medic" at Fort Gordon in June. "Our ultimate purpose was to do our part to save lives," says Captain Jim Crill, detachment commander. "Golden Medic allows us a unique opportunity to practice and fine-tune our mission requirements to be ready if we are ever called to execute it." Golden Medic is designed to be as authentic as possible. By simulating numerous medical casualty scenarios, National Guardsmen and Army and Air Reserve medical personnel worked together to practice a highly coordinated and synchronized set of procedures. Full Story
Human Resources Team on-course To enhance Guard's well being The Georgia Department of Defense Human Relations Team (HRT) has set its course on becoming the "go-to" organization for virtually all personnel issues affecting the care and well-being of Georgia Guardsman. Twenty-two members of the team met recently to put into motion this ambitious plan and to map out strategies. Once adopted by Human Resources Office officials, the plan will become an integral part of the overall strategic plan for the Georgia DOD. Full Story

4th CST Soldier is lauded For helping save accident victim's life Staff Sgt Phillip Michael Reynolds, a member of the Georgia Guard's 4th Civil Support Team, is being lauded for his efforts that helped save the life of a truck driver involved in a spectacular interstate crash in June. Reynolds said he relied on instinct and training when he saw a truck engulfed in flames on the shoulder of the interstate. He had just passed the congested merge between I-575 and 1-75 in Cobb County when he came upon the truck and the fiveyear Georgia National Guard veteran said he could see the arched body of its driver still inside the burning cab. Full Story
State, federal agencies commit to Proactive treatment of Georgia troops The Georgia Department of Defense and other state and federal agencies have taken a big step toward being more proactive in serving the state's veterans. A Memorandum of Understanding signed in June in the office of Georgia's Adjutant General will augment the ongoing, comprehensive effort to ensure military service members and their families are honored for their selfless service to our country. "The purpose of this document to help us make sure our Soldiers and Airmen are returned, reunited and reintegrated with their families, employers and communities following their tour of duty in a combat theater," explained Lieutenant General David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General. Full Story
A look at what happened in July in Georgia National Guard history:...
1836: The Creek Indians' festering anger with white settlement escalated into attacks by warriors in the spring and early summer. Several hundred Creeks decided to cross from Alabama through southwest Georgia to join the Seminoles in Florida. Georgia militia with some Florida militia positioned

Georgia Army Guard IT Chief
Day pins on eagles
Lieutenant Colonel Bill Day, Chief of Information for the Georgia Army National Guard Information Technology Division and the J6-director of communications services for the Joint Force Headquarters Georgia, was promoted to the rank of Colonel in a formal military promotion ceremony in June at Headquarters, Georgia Air National Guard, Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Full Story

Georgia Guardsmen compete
In All-Guard marathon
Two Georgia National Guard Soldiers competed in this year's 26.2 mile "All Guard" Marathon. Lt. Col. Jeff Olive of Headquarters Detachment, Joint Force Headquarters, finished 14th among Guardsmen and 26th overall among the more than 770 competitors in the men's division. In the female division, Sergeant 1st Class Devika Hull with Ellenwood's 221st Military Intelligence Battalion, finished 23rd among Guard competitors and 145th overall in a field of more than 300 women runners. For Hull, this is the second time she's competed, while Olive returned to the marathon for the third time. Full Story

themselves to engage the Creeks as they crossed the Chattahoochee River near Columbus. A handful of battles ensued before the decisive Battle of Chickasawachee Swamp (Baker Co., GA) in July. The militia attacked the Creeks, entrenched on an island in the swamp and broke their march to Florida.
1911: Americus Daily Times-Recorder: "AMERICUS FORCE ON THE ISLAND FOR WEEK. Light Infantry in Encampment at St. Simon's." The Americus Light Infantry, according to telegrams received yesterday, arrived safely upon St. Simon's shimmering sands Sunday and are now "at home" to visitors in a field of white tents near the hotel and "where ocean breezes blow". Five companies of troops are there this week, and the soldier boys will make merry, no doubt. The Americus Light Infantry, the Columbus Guards (two companies), the Albany Guards and the Clarke Rifles from Athens are thus in camp on the island for the week. The Americus company carried by far the largest number of men to the state camp and is, in this respect as in others, the banner command of the Second Battalion...." *Americus Light Infantry at this time was Co. L, 4th Regiment Infantry.
Complied by Gail Parnelle, GaARNG Historical Section

Air Guardsman joins Georgia's
State Partnership program
Air National Guard Major David Johnson of Woodstock has assumed the duties of Coordinator for the National Guard State Partnership Program between the Georgia National Guard and the eastern European nation of Georgia. Georgia is among more than 50 state National Guard organizations that maintain active partnership programs with countries throughout the world. Full Story

Former USPFO, 116th Commander
Passes away
Georgia Air National Guard Major General Charles Thompson, Jr., passed away in early June. General Thompson served as the USPFO (United States Property and Fiscal Officer) for Georgia as well as commander of the 116th Airlift Wing. He was 92. Full story

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

July 17, 2007 Time: 4:57 pm Security Notice

Army National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Army National Guard. | 1121 trains in dual role at Wisconsin post | 9 graduate from academy | Guard air ambulances take part in Golden Medic | 108th undergoes MOUT training | Agencies commit to troops | Guard teach 'Georgians' | 'Commanche Challenge' test 121st company | 108th recon teaches, being taught | Waynesboro unit starts first leg of deployment | Guard helps Afghan forces | Army Guard marathoners compete in annual run | 'Ride' nets foundation $11,000 | 48th soldiers prepare 'Georgian' troops for Iraq | National Guard car wins honors Georgians | 1230th Deploys | 214th soldiers earn Freedom Award | Austin gets eagles | 214th soldiers return | Thomason dedicates post office to fallen soldier |

Air National Guard FAQ The latest news from the Georgia Air National Guard. | 117th trains with 125th | Air Guardsman to joins Parternship Program | Maj. Gen. Thompson, 92, former 116th commander | Marines name league for grandfather of Georgia Guard general | Day Promoted to Colonel | Tuskegee Airman visits with ANG EEO | Hansen promoted | 202nd wires new Ops Center | 117th earns merit award | 165th firechief earns leadership award | Turkey Shoot shows air power | Col. Moore Assumes Command of the 116th | 202nd Helps Byron | Doehling Retires as 116th Vice-Cmdr | 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 | 23 Graduate from Six Sigma Course | Guard Acquires NAS Atlanta property |

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Sergeant Michael Mathis (left) and Pfc. Josh Sommerville with Dalton's Troop C, 108th RSTA Squadron, patrol the perimeter of their "outpost" at Fort Polk, La. They and other members of the 108th are playing the roles of Iraqi Soldiers as part of their annual training. (Georgia National Guard photo by Pfc. Adam Dean)
108th recon teaching, being taught
By Pfc Adam Dean 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Georgia National Guard
June 12, 2007 Soldiers from 48th Brigade Combat Team's 108th Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition Squadron, (formerly 1st Battalion, 108th Armor) are in southwest Louisiana helping other Soldiers from around the country get the training they need for deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
With temperatures rising near the hundred-mark at Fort Polk's Joint Readiness Training Center, the Georgia Guardsmen goal is to make the humidity and foliage the only differences between this active Army post and the arid regions of war-torn Iraq.
Captain Chris Powell, who command's Rome-based Troop A of the 108th, described his Soldiers' mission as a role-playing exercise. Acting as Iraqi internal defense force soldiers, they are providing real-world experience to those who are about to experience in the Global War on Terror, many of them for the first time.
"The preparation they get here is important because it lets them experience the kind of obstacles and challenges they're going to have in communicating through interpreters to Iraqi platoon leaders," Powell explained.
During its two-weeks at Fort Polk, the 108th is teaching deploying Soldiers, like those with 101st Airborne Division, how to fight insurgents alongside their Iraqi counterparts. The knowledge they're passing on comes from their own experiences working with the Iraqi army while deployed with the 48th from May 2005 to May 2006.
Sergeant Billy Harp said the training he and his fellow Guardsmen are providing should be a great help to those about to journey "across the pond."
"They're getting their feet wet in a whole new way," said Harp, a Troop A squad leader. "What we teach them here gives them a taste of what life's gonna be like once they get in country."
"The new guys with the 101st, especially, are like sponges," said Spc. Michael Matlin, a Troop A team leader and Iraq veteran. "They're really soaking up the knowledge and looking for more."
But being at JRTC isn't just about being the teacher for the Georgia Guardsmen. It's also about picking up "lessons learned" from the California National Guard's 19th Special Forces Group, which is deploying with the 101st.
"We're doing more on the ground now that 108th has changed from the traditional armor mission to one of reconnaissance and

surveillance," Harp said. "Yeah," said Pfc. Gabriel Human, a scout with Calhoun's Headquarters Troop, "it's a whole lot different since we're now 48th Brigade's eyes and ears on battlefield."
The 108th began its transition from an armored battalion to a RSTA squadron not long after returning from Iraq. Most of those who were tankers are now scouts, which is a Special Forces specialty.
"We're really learning a lot from the `SF guys' about how to do our mission," Harp said.
"They really know their stuff," said Human added, "so they know our techniques and how we can improve on what we now do."
Troop A's main body has been at JRTC for the past week. It's scheduled to return to home later in the month. When they do return, these one-time tankers will be more knowledgeable as scouts, and they will have helped those getting ready to support the mission in Iraq be more prepared themselves.
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Georgia Army National Guard Pfc. Sean Hudson of Cohutta enters a "glass house" during military operations in urban terrain training. Hudson is a tanker with Headquarters Troop, 108th Reconnaissance, Surveillance Target Acquisition Squadron, which spent its two-week annual training at Fort Polk, La. "Kicking in doors and clearing building is what we'll be doing on a regular basis," he said. Hudson is a quality control technician at Shaw Industries. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Lowry)
108th undergoes MOUT training at JRTC
June 15, 2007 - The war in Iraq is one that is different from conflicts fought just a few generations ago - no Maginot Lines, no tanks rolling, no hill charging. This one is being fought room-to-room. Military operations in urban terrain, or MOUT is what the Army calls it now.
"Kicking in doors and clearing building is what we'll be doing on a regular basis," said Pfc. Sean Hudson, of Cohutta, and a tanker with Headquarters Troop, 108th Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition Squadron.
While a tanker now, Hudson is scheduled to attend infantry school soon.
During the unit's two-week annual training at Fort Polk, La. Soldiers honed their skills learning from Special Forces Soldiers scheduled to deploy to Iraq this summer.
"Probably the next conflict we go to will be an urban environment," said Spc. Chris Gerhard of Rome and a Troop A, 108th RSTA Squadron tanker.
Gerhard, an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, is changing jobs too, but his new job will be as a scout.
"The more techniques we know, the more familiar we are, the more likely we are to stay alive, get the job done and complete the mission," said Hudson.

With white tape on the ground to outline walls of a house, 108th Soldiers moved room-to-room clearing the "glass house" of imaginary terrorists. Special Forces Soldiers conducted the training, which garnered praise from the 108th Soldiers. "It's probably some of the best training we've ever received," said Gerhard. "These guys have done so much." "The training here is top-notch," said Pfc. Bret LaFollette of Temple and an Abrams tank mechanic who is scheduled to be a scout soon. "To receive it from Special Forces guys, you know it works." From novice Soldiers to combat veterans it was training that was greatly appreciated. "Those who lack combat experience, like myself, this extra training we received could make a huge difference," said Hudson. He also noticed how the OIF vets took to the training. "They're still learning too," Hudson said.. "I guess it indicates the quality of training."
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117th puts faces, voices together in work with 'Eagle' unit

June, 2007 -- Members of Savannah's 117th ACS and Florida's 125th Fighter Wing put their collective faces and voices together recently to enhance air-to ground communications during both units annual training.

Msgt Daryl Burley and Ssgt Matt Hoover of the 117th Air Control Squadron establish a remote radar and radio hub at Fernandina Beach during the unit's two week AFT with the Florida ANG near Jacksonville.

Besides their usual ground controller-pilot relationship, during the first weeks of June, Guardsmen who had only spoken over radios to each other had a chance to put "a face with a voice."
"This field training gave us the opportunity to have face-to-face briefings between our controllers and the Wing's pilots and to conduct live data links with the Wing's F-15s," explained Lt. Col. Joe Ferrero, 117th ACS Commander.

Because to its close proximity to the F-15 Wing, the 117th has often worked with the fighter unit during training missions in airspace off the coast of Jacksonville. More than 140 members of the 117th deployed to Jacksonville to train. While there Guardsmen established remote radar and radios at Fernandina Beach and a main command and operations site at the Jacksonville International Airport.

The pilots and 117th controllers had the opportunity to brief and debrief each missions face-to-face. The interaction gave the controllers and pilots a better understanding of what each was trying to accomplish and helped the controllers provide a better service which enhanced the learning curve and improved training for both units.

"It allowed us to break down each radio call made on both sides in the context of the fight and discuss the value of it," Ferrero added.

"From a personal perspective," said Col. Jim Eifert, 125th commander, "the 117th visit provided us with a long overdue opportunity to pair a face with a name of people we've been working with daily over the phone and UHF airwaves for almost a decade,".

"Since the controllers were able to face-to-face brief and debrief with us, we made a concerted effort to tailor our mission briefs with GCI (Ground Control Intercept operators) in mind for the two weeks we were here," said Ferrero. "This gave them the opportunity to ask questions they wouldn't otherwise have asked during brief telephonic mission briefings."

Sorties that were flown by F-15 Eagle fighters from the 125th were controlled by air battle managers and weapons directors from the 117th.

Another first for the 117th during its Florida training was the successful deployment of the Remote Radio Secure Voice System (RRSVS). The system makes it possible to remotely have radar, UHF/VHF/HF radios, and Ethernet connectivity from anywhere in the world via satellite. This was the first operational use of this radar and radio remote functionality system by an Air National Guard unit in the continental United States.

Instructors from the US Army Forces Command were co-located with the 117th's main site to teach an advanced data-link training course to the Georgia Air Guardsmen along with other Air Guardsman and active duty personnel from United States Air Forces Europe.

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Specialist Michael Capes, a rifleman with Co. B, 1st Bn., 121st INF., performs a safety check on the weapons of fellow Soldiers about to qualify with their M16 rifles at Fort McCoy, Wis. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)
1-121 training in its dual role at Wisconsin post
Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry 124th MPAD
July 9, 2007 More than 200 members of Georgia's 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, have begun their two-week annual training as part of Patriot 07 at Fort McCoy, Wis.
The 121st has two responsibilities...its traditional combat mission, and its homeland defense mission as Georgia's National Guard Reaction Force.
"We have to be able to carryout both with not a whole lot more resources or time," said Lt. Col. Andy Hall, the battalion commander. "With that in mind, we turned to National Guard Bureau for stateside and overseas training opportunities that we could `sculpt' to fit our needs."
Patriot 07, an annual nationally-held exercise, Hall said, fit the bill.
Since the battalion has changed from mechanized infantry to light infantry, the Soldiers of Winder's Headquarters Company, Lawrenceville's Company A and Covington's Company B are out this first week honing their use of weapons and basic soldier skills. Joining them are members of Winder's newly formed Company E. Although part of Forsyth's 148th Forward Support Battalion, the unit provides permanent transportation, maintenance and other support to the 1-121.
Not here are the 121st's C and D companies. Those elements, Hall explained, remain in Georgia as a homeland defense quick reaction force. The units will do their annual training at Hoensfeld, Ge., toward the end of this month, he said.
"They're job for that two weeks is as an opposing force to other active duty, Guard and Reserve forces at the company level," Hall said.

In its second week at this 60,000-acre active Army training post, the battalion will switch to sharpening its skills as a quick reaction force. This includes handling and evacuating of casualties, response to terrorist threats and civil disturbance scenarios.
"We took the opportunity to shape the exercise portion to fit that homeland defense mission," Hall said. "What we do during that second week will `drive' what other Patriot 07 participants here do in responding to us with support."
Out on the ranges, several Soldiers stated that this year's annual training is one that really shapes all elements of the battalion. Staff Sgt. Ray McCommons, a mortarman with 1-121's Headquarters Company is one of those.
This one really tests our capabilities as infantry Soldiers and as the state's first line of defense with regard to homeland security," the 17-year Army veteran said.
For he and his fellow Soldiers, McCommons said, meeting, and defeating the challenges of this annual training is just another day in the infantry.
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Soldiers of Waynesboro's Battery C pass family members and friends as they begin boarding the buses taking them to Augusta Airport. From there they move on to Fort Dix, N.J., for mobilization training in support of OIF. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)
Units begins first leg of deployment
By Staff Sgt. Roy Henry Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office
June 13, 2007 More than 170 Soldiers of Waynesboro's Battery C, 1st Battalion, 214th Field Artillery, boarded buses outside that city's Burke County Recreation Center and then headed to August Airport for the trip to Fort Dix, N.J., and the first leg of their year long deployment to Kuwait.
The tearful goodbyes were many as were the words of praise for the unit, as family, friends and fellow Soldiers gave the Guardsmen a send-off they'll remember for years to come.
"It's oh, so hard to let him go," said Augusta resident Elizabeth Kovolew of Spc. Richard Worley of Tunnell Hill in North Georgia. The two only started dating a week before Worley, a full-time M1 Abrams tank mechanic with Calhoun's 108th Armor volunteered to go with the Waynesboro unit. "I can't lie about. It's gonna be especially hard since we've only known each other for so short a time, but I know he'll come back...I know he will."
Holding his new found love in his arms, Worley admitted going now hurt, but, "she understands that this who I am, this is what I do, and I would never turn away from the opportunity to do my part."
There are many like Worley, whose just one of a group of eight Soldiers of the 108th, who volunteered to go with Battery C. Some come from units such as the Guard's 201st Regional Support Group and, of course from within other elements of the 214th.
Waynesboro mayor Jesse Stone voiced his pride in each and every Soldier as he watched them mingle with loved ones and friends and waited for the buses that would take Battery C away.
"You can't see this and not be proud of these people, Soldiers and families alike," he said. "They're all giving up so much to answer their country's call. It just makes me proud of them all."
Now that the unit is at Fort Dix, it has left behind its traditional role of confronting an enemy with large artillery pieces from miles behind the front lines. At Dix the artillerymen are training to get up close and personal with the "people" they'll deal with as they learn to guard detainees.
"It's definitely a whole new deal for us to go from a field artillery mission to one of a military police nature," said Capt. Clint Johnson, Battery C's commander. "What's helped us better prepare for this deployment are the Soldiers who've joined our ranks who have prior civilian and military law enforcement experience.
There seemed to be no doubt in Johnson's mind or in anyone else's that Battery C would meld into its new mission and carry it

out successfully. Following that old philosophy of "remaining flexible and ready for all contingencies" is the life of a Soldier, said Spc. Tavaris Thompkins, one of the unit's Paladin crewmen. If that's what it takes to get the job done and get home, then that's what they'll do, the Warren County resident said.
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Members of Transition Training Team Georgia are briefed on their upcoming Afghan deployment before leaving Fort Riley, Kan., where they trained for three months. (Georgia National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Roy Henry)
Georgians aid Afghan forces
Friday, June 1, 2007 Nine Georgia Army Guard officers and seven senior NCOs have arrived in Afghanistan's Helmand Province where they will spend a year working along side the Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) and Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP).
Transition Training Team-Georgia's mission is to advise and support the Afghan forces as they work to operate independently of coalition forces.
Much of that training, said Maj. Reed Berry, is to help the Afghans with their tactical and counter-insurgency warfare operations and urban combat skills. Berry, a former company commander with Georgia's 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, left a position with National Guard Bureau's Operations and Training to lead Team Georgia. Team members, working two-man sections, also will assist with the military decision-making process, leadership, team work and communications, he explained.
"Our mission changed not long after we arrived at Fort Riley, Kansas from one of training the Afghan Army in light infantry operations and warfare to the one with which we're now tasked," Berry said in a recent interview. The reason for the change, he said, is that corruption among the security force and uniformed police is bad. The idea of putting teams like his with the two organizations is to "plus up their validity" among the Afghan people, Berry added.
"The switch in missions doesn't affect what we all volunteered to do. The job now is just as important as before...nothing's changed except the mission," he said. "We'll give the 110 percent effort to accomplishing this mission, and more, that we'd always intended."
Team Georgia had been at Riley since March training at Fort Riley's simulated Forward Operating Base (FOB) Army Strong. Now that Berry and his team are in Afghanistan, they've been assigned to 3rd Brigade, 205 Corps and FOB Tombstone, which falls under British command, according to Maj. Matthew Moore, executive officer of 1st Battalion, 34th Armor. It is 34th Armor that conducted Team Georgia's mobilization training.
When the team arrives at Tombstone, Berry told members of the Georgia Army Guard command staff that had gone to Riley to find out how he and his Soldiers were doing, will split into three sections. A three-man section will run team operations out of

Tombstone, while one of two four-man teams will work with Afghan Security Forces. The other will assist uniformed police, he said.
Master Sgt. Felix Castro, Team Georgia's NCOIC, was the Infantry Course branch chief at Macon's Regional Training Institute. Castro said he finds the Afghanistan mission to be one of the most important assignments he's ever had.
The security forces and uniformed police, will be the one carrying on the job of keeping the peace long after coalition forces leave their country, he said. The significance of getting those organizations in the position of being able to do that can never be overstated, he continued. "Eventually, they'll have to meet whatever challenges the future holds for their country and their countrymen. With our help, they'll be able to do that, better than in the past, with pride and with more confidence in their abilities," Castro said.
One of the greatest tools Team Georgia's trainers have given it to do its job has been the cultural immersion training, Berry said. The other, is the opportunity to work directly with Afghan nationals at Fort Riley who act as role players and worked along side team members just as they would in-country, he added.
What better way to be able to get the job done and get it done right the first time, Castro said.
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9 Graduate from Sergeants Major Academy
June 25, 2007 - Nine Georgia Army National Guardsmen graduated last week from the U.S. Army's Sergeants Major Academy. They were among 742 Soldiers, the largest class ever to graduate from the academy at Fort Bliss, Texas completed the course, The graduates are pictured above following the graduation ceremonies with Command Sgt. Maj. Neil Russell, State Sergeant Major. Left to right are Sgt. Maj. Ronald George, Recruiting and Retention Battalion; 1st Sgt. Bryan Hise, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry; Command Sgt. Maj. Meinrad Kuettel, 78th Aviation Troop Command; Command Sgt. Maj. John Smiley, 148th Support Battalion; Command Sgt. Russell; Master Sgt. Iris Thompson, Joint Force Headquarters; Sgt. Maj. Dale Shanklin, Recruiting and Retention Battalion; Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Hurndon, 221st Military Intelligence Battalion; Command Sgt. Maj Ed Hepler, 78th Aviation Troop Command; and Sgt. Maj. Robert Butler, Joint Force Headquarters.
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Twenty-three Soldiers, Airmen and employees of the Georgia DOD have graduated from the inaugural course of an exciting, hands-on continuous process improvement program called Lean Six Sigma. (National Guard Photo by Pfc Adam Dean)
Six Sigma Grads learn 'hands on' process
Twenty-three Soldiers, Airmen and employees of the Georgia Department of Defense have graduated from the inaugural course of an hands-on continuous process improvement program called Lean Six Sigma, or LSS. The graduates all earned their "green belts" after completing four weeks of combined classroom and hands-on project training.
Lean Six Sigma is a structured process-improvement methodology being implemented Army-wide, explained Maj. Larry Deaton, deployment director with the Georgia Dept. of Defense. "The objective is to observe and analyze processes and figure out how to do them better," he said. Deaton said that he defines the term "better" processes as those having less waste, improved output, increased cost efficiency and higher customer satisfaction.
During the training, students worked on individual LSS projects, which identified specific opportunities for process improvement within the Georgia Dept. of Defense and National Guard. Each team presented their projects, information and materials to the class.
Lieutenant General David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General, said that he believes it is vital that all organizational leaders understand the importance of LSS. He added that in this challenging fiscal environment, it is important to take measured steps to control costs and ensure resources are applied to the most critical requirements.
Maj. Jay McNair, a green belt candidate from the Director of Logistics' office, focused on the new ideas he gained in class that he can take back to his organization.
"LSS initiatives will help streamline processes within our organization and can easily identify the steps that will lead to improved accountability of equipment," said McNair. "This training has exceeded my expectations!"
"Employees should not think of LSS as something extra to do, but as a way for them to be involved in solving current organization problems," said Greg Schlachter, one of the trainers for the course.
During the first week of class, students learned about LSS and its history. Using exercises, activities and three textbooks, they learned an approach to process improvement using the five step DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) model.
"I think it's a great business methodology. I think it can be applied in numerous areas," said Dena Jester, Budget Analyst for the USPFO of Georgia. Her LSS project is to reduce budget grow back with un-liquidated funds.
While they worked on their individual projects during the three-week break between training sessions, students also met with their mentor, Capt. Marisol Chalas, who is the project leader for Georgia's LSS training, for advice and guidance.
"We're going to keep tackling more and more projects," said Chalas. "That's going to make our organization run well and it's going to eliminate headaches for people that you work with and people that work for you."
The green belt course is the first level of LSS certification. Green belts within an organization tackle projects that have a limited scope and typically can be completed within one to four months, Chalas said.
Green belts usually have full-time responsibilities other than their LSS projects. They also serve as part of LSS teams on larger projects, working under "black belts, which is the next level of certification, explained Chalas, who is herself a black belt.

"We also give the participants some communications and planning tools to help equip them to manage and sell change," added Deaton. "We help them recognize that change does not come easily or by accident"
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Co. C, 1/121st Infantry put to test with 'Comanche Challenge'

Courtesy the Gainesville Times

ASHLEY COX The Times
June 11, 2007 - They paddled inflatable rafts to an island on Lake Lanier. After making a flotation device out of their rucksacks, they swam back to shore. And that was just the beginning.

On Sunday, members of Charlie Company conducted the "Comanche Challenge," a daylong training exercise that tested several different skills. "It was quite challenging," said 1st Lt. Frank Barroqueiro. The event began about 8 a.m. at Bolling Mill Park.

Members of Company C, 1st Battalion,

In groups of seven to 11 soldiers, seven squads paddled Zodiac boats out to an 121st Infatnry, hit the water with their

island and then swam back, hauling about 40 to 55 pounds of gear with them to equipment as they swim with

shore.

improvised flotation devices from an

island on Lake Lanier. The drill was part

After riding a bus across Gainesville to one of the fields at the Allen Creek

of "Comanche Challenge" that also

Soccer Complex, the men had to evaluate and treat a 175-pound rescue

included a hike and marksmanship

dummy, then carry it 1.1 miles to the Hall County Sheriff's Office firing range. testing. (Photo by Tom Reed courtersy

"Every single person (in Charlie Company) has to be able to evaluate and treat Gainesville Times)

somebody that's hurt," said Capt. Justin Ririe, company commander.

Once there, the men started shooting targets at 25 meters. "They engaged targets while physically exhausted," Barroqueiro said. "They were graded on how quickly and how accurately they engaged their targets."

Ririe said it's important to practice such drills because the men must be prepared to leave on a mission at any time. "We have to be able to react to any state mission within four hours," Ririe said. "We've got to be physically fit."

Charlie Company of the 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment (Mechanized) was deployed to Iraq in May 2005 as a Bradley Fighting Vehicle force with the Georgia Guard's 48th Brigade Combat Team.

All of its 132 soldiers returned safely from Iraq in April 2006, receiving a hero's welcome in Gainesville.

The company has since transformed into a light infantry, no longer using tanks and heavy equipment. "Everything in the rucksack is what we've got," Ririe said.

He said training exercises, as well as testing a person's physical strength, is important because soldiers don't have ideal conditions in combat.

Take Sunday, for example. "It was hot out there," he said. "Conditions were tough."

He said in training, as well as in combat, men are constantly running, sweating and having their eyes fog up, all while having to maneuver with a weapon.

After returning to an air-conditioned building, the officers held a short ceremony, awarding Army Achievement Medals to the winning squad.

Ririe said he was proud of all the men. "We had a great showing," he said.

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Georgia National Guard Sergeant David "Hoppy" Hopkins helps lift a patient and secure a stretcher into a UH-1 Huey helicopter during Exercise Golden Medic, at Bush Airfield near Fort Gordon. The Cobb County Army Guardsman is participating in the multi-service medical exercise "Golden Medic" designed to test the ability to move critical wounded soldiers cross country from the battlefields to hospitals in California. Sgt. Hopkins works for the Cobb County Fire Department as a fire fighter and paramedic. He drills with the 832nd Medical Company Air Ambulance of Winder, GA. (Georgia National Guard photo by Spc. Sarah Mellen)
Georgia Guard air ambulances particiapte in excercise 'Golden Medic'
By Pfc Sarah Mellen 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Georgia National Guard
"Our ultimate purpose here is to do our part to save lives, " says Georgia Army National Guardsman Captain Jim Crill, detachment commander of Georgia's 832nd Medical Company Air Ambulance who for the last two weeks have been involved in the jointservice exercise "Golden Medic" which is taking place at the Augusta Regional Airport in Augusta.
"Golden Medic allows us a unique opportunity to practice and fine-tune our mission requirements if we are ever called to execute it," continued Crill. Two UH-1 Huey helicopters and twenty-two Soldiers from the Winder, GA-based unit are participating in this two-week annual training.
Golden Medic organizers designed the joint service exercise to be as authentic as possible. By simulating numerous medical casualty scenarios, National Guardsmen, and Army and Air Reserve medical personnel work together to practice a highly coordinated and synchronized set of procedures.
"Each step of the process is critical," says Crill whose responsibility to provide immediate care and evacuation of wounded by air ambulance to the next highest medical care. His mission may be among the most time sensitive. Once at a field hospital, qualified medical personnel dictate further movement of the wounded out of theatre to regional hospitals often thousands of miles from the battlefield.
Each step along the way demands a highly coordinated and synchronized set of procedures. Such procedures are being played out daily as wounded from Iraq are transported out of Iraq to Landstuhl Region Medical Center in Landsthl, Germany.
The first "Golden Medic" exercise took place in 1998 and combined training for both 3rd MEDCOM troops and staff. Later National Guard units from Ft. McCoy and Army Reserve units from Georgia participated in the exercise. In 2004, Golden Medic truel became a join service exercise with the addition of the Air Force and the presence of foreign military officers from Germay, Canada and Great Britain.
More than 3,000 Soldiers are participating in this year's exercise at five locations. In addition to the Augusta Regional Airport,

the exercise will take place at nearby Fort Gordon; Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga.; Pope AFB, N.C.; and Camp Parks, Calif. | Back | GaDOD Home |

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HRT On-Course to Enhance Guard's Well Being

The Georgia Department of Defense Human Relations Team (HRT) has set its sights on becoming the "go-to" organization for virtually all personnel issues affecting the care and well-being of Georgia Guardsman.

Twenty-two members of the team met recently to put into motion this ambitious plan and to map out strategies. Once adopted by Human Resources Office (HRO) officials, the plan will become an integral part of the overall strategic plan for the Georgia DOD.

"My vision for the HRT is that it becomes the primary human

relations focal point for Guardsman and commanders whenever

Sgt Sheba McNair (standing) collects issues involving our soldiers and airmen arise," said Col Steve

ideas and suggestions from team

Joyce, HRT Chairman and HRO chief.

members (l-r) Sgt 1st Class Samuel

Cherry, Chief Grover Henderson, and The team is comprised of 38 Georgia Army and Air Guard members,

Lt. Col. Norman Bell as the group

a State Defense Force representative and a civilian DOD employee.

discusses one of the four strategic Members are enlisted and officer and from every part of the state.

opportunities established during the

recent HRT meeting.

Through quarterly meetings held around Georgia, HRT members

meet regularly with subject matter experts to discuss new and

existing programs and to identify issues or challenges to the workforce. For example, at the recent meeting

in Peachtree City, team members were briefed on current reintegration programs, policies and challenges

facing Soldiers and Airmen returning from deployments, and their families.

Following a number of meetings, four strategic HRT priorities have been identified: These are training, leadership, communications/marketing and funding/resources. HRT members, whose responsibilities already lie in these areas, are now being asked to focus on opportunities and strategies to meet these goals.
"Awareness of the HRT and its role in the well being of the soldier/airman and the organization may be our greatest challenge right now," according to Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski, GA DOD public affairs officer.
"Hopefully this will soon change," said Air Guard Command Chief, Betty Morgan. "We want to be seen as the eyes and ears of the (Georgia) National Guard and as a resource for both Guardsmen and commanders," she added.
"Commanders should look at the HRT as a valuable tool which to be added to the Commanders toolkit," said Col. Joyce.
Team members represent the state's top equal employment opportunity, MEO, seniorhuman relations advisors, along with the Air Command Chief, Army Command Sergeant Major, and key operations personnel in the GA DOD.
"There have been several important human relations initiatives and significant accomplishments resulting from the HRT," explained to Lt. Col. Jay Peno, deputy human resource officer, who was among the original HRT team members.
"Early successes of the HRT," said Peno, "include assisting with dozens of unit climate surveys, resolving numerous human relations issues, the creation of the focus group concept s now in used statewide to help foster open communications necessary for successful conflict resolution; the development diversity and statewide demographics; and the preparation of TAG policy letters on issues of equal opportunity and sexual harassment,"
Additionally, the HRT has been educated extensively on diversity management using experienced instructors trained by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute and are in the process completing the Diversity Strategic Plan for the Army and Air National Guard. It has expanded the outreach and mentoring program using HRT as the driving force to influence commands to enact formal mentoring programs.
"I am confident that our team members recognize the areas in the organization where improvements should be made to enhance a Guardsman's experience," said Joyce.
"Our role then is to translate those opportunities into useful programs and initiatives that align with the overall objectives of the Georgia Dept of Defense. I believe we are on course to do just that," he added.

Meet the Human Resources Team:
Ms. Donna Allen Chief Master Sgt. Leslie Allen - HQ-ANG Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski HQ-ANG Lt. Col. Norman Belle JFHQ Staff Sgt. Dianna Bowen 116 ACW Master Sgt. Noah Brock - HQANG Lt. Col. Dennis Brown JFHQ Senior Master Sgt. Ronald Callaway 165th AW Maj, Andre Campbell HQ-ANG Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Cherry JFHQ Chief

Master Sgt. Anthony Davis 202nd EIS Warrant Officer 1 Larry Dawson Spec. Lee Drew JFHQ Chief Master Sgt. Grover Henderson - 116 ACW Maj. Cheryl Hendrix 78th Troop CMD Tech. Sgt. Delores JonesBlackman 283 CBCS Colonel Stephen Joyce JFHQ Capt Jani McGee GSDF Staff Sgt. Sheba McNair 116th ACW Cmd Chief Master Sgt. Betty Morgan ANG Sgt. 1st Class Felisha Murray JFHQ Maj. Monica NavarroSmith 283rd CBCS Lt. Col. Kelvin Newsome JFHQ Chaplain (Col.) John Owings JFHQ Lt. Col. Jay Peno - HQANG Chief Master Sgt. William Pinkney ANG 1st Lt. Jennifer Polston HQ-ANG Master Sgt. Gladys Portwine 201st SSB 2nd Lt. Evelyn Rivera USPFO Cmd. Sgt. Major Neil Russell -

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JFHQ Sgt. 1st Class Terry Sanders 78th TC Avn Tech Sgt Kathleen SandersWilson CRTC Chief Master Sgt. Susan Shipman 165th AW Capt Cheryl Walters 224th JCSS/X

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4th CST Soldier is lauded for helping save the life of accident victim
Staff Sgt Phillip Michael Reynolds, a member of the Georgia Guard's 4th Civil Support Team, is being lauded for his efforts that helped save the life of a truck driver involved in a spectacular interstate crash in June.
Reynolds said he relied on instinct and training June 19 when he saw the truck on the shoulder of the interstate engulfed in flames. He had just passed the congested merge between I-575 and 1-75 in Cobb County when he came upon the truck and the five-year Georgia National Guard veteran said he could see the arched body of its driver still inside the burning cab.
As countless commuters passed without stopping, Reynolds pulled off the road, opened his trunk, grabbed a fire extinguisher, and weaved his way across oncoming traffic toward the blazing truck. A trained firefighter and EMT since 1990, Reynolds said that when he reached the drive, he immediately recognized the telltale signs of a grand mal seizure and frantically worked to free the man from the cab.
Cutting away the shoulder harness, Reynolds pulled he driver from the burning truck moments before the tires of the truck began to explode from the searing heat.
Reynolds was joined by two pediatric technicians from Children's Health Care of Atlanta and an Air Force Reserve officer who had stopped at the scene. They moved the driver and themselves behind one of the stopped cars to protect themselves from flying debris of the multiple explosions.
As firefighters arrived on the scene and began extinguishing the fire engulfing the truck, Reynolds found the medical kit on the engine and began administering oxygen, IV fluids and medication to the unresponsive victim until other EMT and trained medical personnel arrived. The victim was taken to nearby Kennestone Hospital.
The incident on I-75 continues to attract interest and Reynolds has been the subject of several TV interviews. In spite of his heroic actions taken on the interstate, the 2 year CST veteran remains hesitant to discuss it. He says he sees it as something anyone with his training and military experience would have done.
"I have training as an EMT. I was a firefighter in Chatsworth and was in Med Evac during active duty," says Reynolds. "Fortunately I knew what to do and I just did it."
Only a few weeks following this incident, Reynolds was returning home with his wife and young daughter from a family readiness party held at the CST when he chanced again upon the scene of a serious automobile accident and again rendered immediate medical assistance to a driver with a head injury.
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State, Federal Agencies Commit to Proactive Treatment of Georgia Troops

June 20, 2007 - The Georgia Department of Defense and

other state and federal agencies have taken a big step toward be more proactive in serving the state's veterans.

A Memorandum of Understanding signed today in the office of Georgia's Adjutant General will augment the ongoing, comprehensive effort to ensure military service members and their families are honored for their selfless service to our country.

"The purpose of this document to help us make sure our Soldiers and Airmen are returned, reunited and reintegrated with their families, employers and communities following their tour of duty in a combat theater," explained Lieutenant General David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General.

Lt. Gen. David Poythress, Georgia's Adjutant General (seated front, right) signs the memorandum of understanding that will augment the ongoing efforts to ensure military service members and their families are honored for their selfless service to our country. Joining him is Retired General Pete Wheeler, Georgia Department of Veterans Service. Also pictured are (back row, left to right) Lynwood Bradley, Atlanta Vet Center; Edward

Gresham, U.S. Department of Labor; Dr. Mike Stapleton, VA

"We have a tremendous range of resources Southeast Network; Grant Singleton, VA Regional Office; and

available from agencies at both the state and Bobby Pack, Georgia Department of Labor. (Photo by PFC Adam

federal level and this will help us make sure we Dean, Georgia Dept of Defense)

are all working together," added General

Poythress. "We already have a very proactive program in place to help our service members as they return home,

and this MOU will take it to the next level."

This agreement is part of an initiative by the National Guard Bureau to enter MOUs in each state and territory with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the state Departments of Defense to support returning service members transitioning back to civilian life.

The Departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs already provide world-class transition services to those returning from Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and other mobilizations in support of the Global War On Terror. The services include treatment for medical, mental health and dental conditions, as well as the many employment issues associated with conflict.

"The Georgia National Guard has a long and proud history of commitment to the Nation," said Lawrence Biro, Director of the VA Southeast Network, "and VA will ensure that our Nation is equally committed to their wellbeing as they return home to their families and civilian lives."

Agencies participating in this MOU are the Georgia Department of Defense; Georgia Department of Veterans Services; Georgia Department of Labor; the Department of Veterans Affairs' Veterans Benefits Administration, Veterans Health Administration, Readjustment Counseling Service Southeast Region; and the Department of Labor Veteran Education and Training Services (VETS).

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IT chief Day pins on 'Eagles'

June 9, 2007 -- Lieutenant Colonel Bill Day, Chief of Information for the Georgia Army National Guard Information Technology Division and the J6-director of communications services for the Joint Force Headquarters - Georgia, was promoted to the rank of Colonel in a formal military promotion ceremony Saturday at Headquarters, Georgia Air National Guard, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga.

Colonel William E. Day, III began his military career October 7, 1953 - born to Master Sergeant (now retired) William E. and Annie Marcielle Day at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. After tours at Ft. Campbell, Munich, Germany; and Ft. Benning, Ga as a military dependent, Day's own active military career began with his enlistment into the U.S. Army in August 1972. He served as an airborne infantry rifleman; driver for the Commander, U.S. Army Forces Southern Command; driver for the Commanding General, 24th Infantry Division, and as a heavy equipment operator for the 3501st Combat Engineer Battalion (USAR).

Above: Col. William Day
Geophysics Laboratory, Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts.

Day continued his military career by joining Air Force ROTC program at Clemson University in June 1979 and earned his commission as a second lieutenant in May 1981. Following his commissioning he was assigned as an Aerospace Instrumentation Engineer at the Air Force

In October 1985, he joined the Georgia Air National Guard's 129th Tactical Control Squadron in Kennesaw, Ga., where he began as vehicle operations officer. Upon completion of Air Weapons Controller Training at Tyndall AFB, Fla., Day continued serving the 129th as an Air Weapons Controller from October 1990 until the unit's deactivation in September 1996. He transferred to the 202d Engineering Installation Squadron serving as chief of the Engineering Branch prior to his selection as 202 EIS commander in March 2001. In October 2003, he assumed command of the 283rd Combat Communications Squadron until his reassignment to Headquarters, Georgia Air National Guard as the staff communications and information officer in January 2006.

Day and his wife, Marcia reside in the Atlanta area. The couple has four children and six grandchildren.

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Air Guardsman joins Georgia Guard State Partnership program

June 26, 2007 -- Air National Guard Major David Johnson of Woodstock has assumed the duties of Coordinator for the National Guard State Partnership Program between the Georgia National Guard and the eastern European nation of Georgia.

In this position, Johnson will have the responsibility for developing the multilateral relationship between the Georgia National Guard and the country of Georgia and helping to develop solutions addressing the unique challenges facing the former Soviet republic.

Johnson has spent his Air Force career in various assignments with the 116th, enlisting in the Georgia Air National Guard in 1982. He spent nine years on the flightline of the 116th Fighter Wing at Dobbins Air Reserve Base before earning his commission from the Academy of Military Science at McGhee-Tyson AFB, TN. He assisted in the relocation of the 116th to Robins AFB serving as a maintenance officer on the B-1B Bomber.

In 2002, when the 116th became the first `blended wing' in the Air

Maj. David Johnson

Force, Johnson became the acting commander for the 116th Aircraft Generation Squadron. He deployed for Operation Iraqi

Freedom as a Maintenance Operations Officer and upon return was selected as the Deputy Commander of the 116th

Maintenance Operations Squadron. He was the 2003 recipient of the Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Award for 116th Air

Control Wing.

Major Johnson was one of eight ANG officers selected to attend Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell AFB where he simultaneously fulfilled the requirements for his professional military education and earned a Masters degree. Upon his return to the 116th Air Control Wing, he was appointed Deputy Commander, 116th Maintenance Squadron.

Prior to his current, Major Johnson was the Officer in Charge of the Georgia Joint Operations Center responsible for the coordination for the Georgia National Guard's emergency response center.

Georgia is among more than 50 state National Guard organizations that maintain active state partnership programs with countries throughout the world.

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SFC Devika Olive and Lt. Col Jeff Hull
Two compete in 'All Guard' marathon; finish 14th, 23rd in men's, women's fields
May 31, 2007 Two Georgia National Guard Soldiers competed in this year's 26.2 mile "All Guard" Marathon. Lt. Col. Jeff Olive of Ellenwood 's Headquarter Detachment, Joint Force Headquarters finished 14th among Guardsmen and 26th overall among the more than 770 competitors in the men's division.The event was part of the Lincoln Marathon, hosted in Lincoln, Neb., May 6.
In the female division Sergeant 1st Class Devika Hull with Ellenwood's 221st Military Intelligence Battalion, finished 23rd among Guard competitors and 145th overall in a field of more thatn 300 women runners.
For Hull, this is the second time she has competed, while Olive returned to the marathon for the third time.
"The weekend consists of recruiting workshop and get-togethers," said Olive. "Every state puts together a team."
The marathon is largely viewed as a recruiting and retention event within the All Guard sports program. Each state sends two to five runners, and those who qualify for the team tour the country and compete in several different marathons.
"This year's All Guard women's team was the most competitive in history," explained Olive. That team, he added, finished the run in less than 3 hours and 40 minutes.
To qualify for the All Guard team, men must finish in the top 40 of all National Guard male runners. Olive's 14th place finish landed him a spot on the team. Women must be within the top 15 of all female runners. Hull missed making the team by 4 places.

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Maj.Gen. Charles Thompson, 92, former USPFO, 116th commander

June 23, 2007 - Georgia Air National Guard Major General Charles Thompson, Jr., passed away this week. General Thompson served as the USPFO (United States Property and Fiscal Officer) for Georgia as well as commander of the 116th Airlift Wing. He was 92.

General Thompson began his military career in May, 1941 when he enlisted in the Georgia Air National Guard's 128th Observation Squadron and in Januay 1942 he was awarded his combat pilot's wings. During the course of World War II, General Thompson flew anti-submarine missions in the Gulf of Mexico and South America and commanded the 12th Bomb Group in the ChinaBurma-India theatre.

Following the war, General Thompson

commanded the 116th Fighter Group of the Air

National Guard and later accepted an active duty

appointment as United States Property and Fiscal

Officer for Georgia. In 1963, he was released

from active duty and assumed the position of

Maj. Gen. Thompson

Base Detachment Commander and Deputy Commander of the 116th Military Airlift Wing

located at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. In 1971,

General Thompson was confirmed by the Senate of the United States to the rank of Major General and transferred to

Headquarters of the Georgia Air National Guard as Chief of Staff. In his capacity as Chief of Staff, he was the first line

officer to have this rank in the history of the Georgia Air Guard. He maintained this position until his retirement on

September 1973.

During his career, General Thompson flew 21 types of aircraft, and logged over 7,000 hours of flying time. He is the holder of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Meritorious Service Award (Air National Guard Bureau) among many other awards and honors. He also received certificates of Merit for contributions made while serving on the Air Reserve Forces Policy Council, Air Force Logistic Command, which he chaired, and the Air Reserve Policy Council, Military Airlift Command. He was a past president of the Air Force Association, North Georgia Chapter, and past president of the Georgia National Guard Association.

He was also honored in 1975, after his retirement, when the then new Operations and Training Building for the 116th Military Airlift Wing at Dobbins was dedicated to him for his leadership and commitment to the Georgia Air National Guard and contributions to his state and nation.

After retiring from his military career, General Thompson accepted a position with Tumpane & Company Worldwide Services as Vice President of Operations and Procurement. He retired in 1978. In the years after his retirement, he enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Memorial donations may be made to the National Guard Education Foundation, One Mass. Ave., NW, Washington, DC 2001.

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