First Friday briefing [Oct. 3, 2008]

Online at www.dod.state.ga.us
"Train Hard. Fight Easy."

October 2008
3 Local officials, SDF search for war vet
The Georgia State Defense Force in cooperation with local first responders and officials search for missing Iraq war veteran Jason Roark two years after he went missing.

6 6 Georgians receive top NGB award
Including former Adjutant
General David Poythress and
Senator Saxby Chambliss

8 118th Field Artillary trains in Scotland
Soldiers with the 118th Field Ar-
tillery return from a two-week
training excerise in Scotland with
the British Army.get

13 Guard exceded recruiting goals
The Georgia National Guard once again meets and excedes its yearly recruiting goals. The Recruiting and Retention Battalion also welcomes a new commaner

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith
Specialist Elcliffton Thurman, 1-118th Field Artillery Regiment, runs past an activated "IED" to assist a fellow injured Soldier during ECP (Entry Control Point) drills in Carnoustie, Scotland at a British Army training camp. The "Ol' Hickory Field Artillery" Soldier and a volunteer contingent from 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team participated in Exercise Yorkshire Claymore under the Georgia Army National Guard's training initiative with the 4th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment a Territorial Army reserve component of the British Army. The Soldiers spent two weeks in the wet marshes of the Scottish training area.
Complete coverage, pages 8-9

15 Father, son share NCO induction

GSDF leads second search for missing Iraq War vet

By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

According to Chuck Jarrell, chief of Morgan County's Fire Station No. 4, the initial search

MORGAN COUNTY More

was a hasty one, just within

than two years after an initial search

the immediate area of the rest

by local authorities for a miss-

stop.

ing two-time Iraq War veteran

This time more than 200

turned up nothing, members of the

GSDF members, along with

Georgia State Defense Force lead a

search dog teams and Morgan

second effort, Sept. 20 and 21, in an

County firefighters, scoured

attempt to determine Jason Roark's

the heavily wooded area along

fate.

Interstate 20 just West of Exit

Sergeant Robert Neasmith with

No.101. Teams searched in

the sheriff's office investigations

and around the unmanned rest

division said this second search was

stop where Roark's abandoned

conducted at the request of the Dal-

vehicle was found about a mile

las resident's parents. It was also at

east of the exit and a mile or

their request that the State Defense

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
Georgia State Defense Force Pfc. Tom Biondolillo,

more beyond that.

Force became involved.

a certified rescue specialist from Dallas, searches

"We just don't have the

"Contact with the SDF was made by our office through someone in that organization that the family

a heavily wooded area near Interstate 20 Exit 101 in Morgan County for signs that Army veteran Jason Roark may have been there.

people to conduct as intense a search as was done this time around," Jarrell said. "Having

knows, and that lead to the operation

the State Defense Force is a

that occurred," Neasmith said.

great asset that improves our efforts to provide Jason's fam-

It's the first time any emergency response agency in Mor- ily with some kind of closure."

gan County has asked the GSDF for help.

During the two-day investigation, searchers closed to

Roark, who would now be 27, disappeared Nov. 9, 2006. travelers while teams of six to 12 SDF members, along with

He was last seen at a Lilburn hotel, previous news reports county fire and rescue personnel spent the days walking a

show. His 2001 Honda Accord was found a month later, 13,000 feet long and 2,500 feet deep area that extended just

abandoned, at an Interstate 20 rest stop east of Madison by west of Exit 101 to just east of the rest stop.

an Atlanta private investigator, Neasmith said.

See GSDF, page 12

Command Changes

1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment Change of Command, October 5, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Lt. Col. John Till Incoming Commander: Lt. Col. Dwayne Wilson

179th Military Police Company Change of Command, November 2, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Capt. Adam Smith Incoming Commander: 1st Lt. Ana Marie Berrios-Flores

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 170th Military Police Battalion Change of Command, November 1, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Capt. James Childers Incoming Commander: 1st Lt. Stacey McLouth
190th Military Police Company Change of Command, November 1, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Capt. Tarsha Williams Incoming Commander: Capt. James Childers

3rd Squadron, 108th Calvary Change of Command, November 2, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Maj. Matthew J. Saxton Incoming Commander: Lt. Colonel Paul Smith
Detachment 1, Company C., 1st Battalion, 185th Aviation Change of Command October 4, 2008 Outgoing Commander - 1st Lt. Austin Allen Incoming Commander - Capt. Andrew Banister

Don't see your units change of command? E-mail Amanda Kenny at amanda.luksic@ga.ngb.army.mil or Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry at roy.henry@ga.ngb.army.mil

2 The First Friday Briefing

Guard, Sister City Commitee ship donated

supplies to war-torn Georgia

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski Public Affairs Office
DOBBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Marietta, Ga. -- The State of Georgia is moving aggressively to help refugees of the nation of Georgia who suffered because of the recent hostilities with Russia. Twelve hundred pounds of emergency supplies were packed at Dobbins Air Reserve Base on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 destined for the more than 9,000 permanently displaced refugees living in tents and makeshift shelters in Georgia.
The supplies consist of medicines and medical supplies, medical protective clothing, and landmine first aid kits. The humanitarian assistance supplies are being donated by US Aid for International Development, US Public Health Service, and the Georgia National Guard.
This delivery is made possible by the coordinated effort of the Atlanta-Tbilisi Sister City Committee with the help of the Georgia National Guard.
Assisting in the packaging of the humanitarian aid was Letha Nesbitt, Subcommittee Chairman for Humanitarian Aid for the Atlanta-Tbilisi Sister City Committee and members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard.
"These are the supplies which we understand are in very short supply for the refugees," said Mrs. Nesbitt. "It's

wonderful that so many

donors have helped us to

gather what is needed."

The donations will ship by

commercial air and ocean

freight over the next few

days.

The City of Atlanta has

had a sister city relation-

ship with Georgia's capi-

tal of Tbilisi since the late-

1980s. Through the State

Partnership Program, the

Georgia National Guard

has maintained a very

productive and satisfying

nation-to-nation partner-

ship with the central Eu-

ropean nation since 1995.

Most recently more

than 300 Georgia Army

National Guard Soldiers

trained in Georgia for

Operation Immediate Re-

sponse '08 departing only one week prior to the Russian incursion of Georgia over the province of South Ossetia. The Georgia National Guard maintains a

Photo by Amanda Kenny
Handling a crate of humanitarian medical supplies bound for refugees in the nation of Georgia demands a bit of "sweat equity" as shown (left to right) Col. Dennis Brown, Lt. Col. Tony Sutter, and Maj. Elizabeth Baker during an afternoon of loading the in giant containers bound for the war-torn nation.

bilateral affairs officer in

Committee will stage an special event

the capital city of Tbilisi.

in the rotunda of City Hall in Atlanta.

The Atlanta/Tbilisi Sister City Com- Proceeds from the event will go to pro-

mittee continues to support the nation vide additional humanitarian assistance

of Georgia. On September 26, 2008 the to the nation of Georgia.

The First Friday is published monthly under the provisions of AR 360-81 and AF 6-1 by the Directorate of Communications, Georgia Department of Defense. The views and opinions expressed in the First Friday are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army and Air Force or the Adjutant General of Georgia. The First Friday is distributed free to members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard, State Defense Force and other interested persons at their request.
Commander-In-Chief Gov. Sonny Perdue
Adjutant General of Georgia Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt
Director of Communications Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jim Driscoll

Associate Publisher Lt. Col. Kenneth R. Baldowski
Historian/Editor Dr. Beryl Diamond
Managing Editor Amanda Kenny
Assistant Editor Sergeant 1st Class Roy Henry
National Guard Correspondents 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Unit Public Affairs Officers and Reprsentatives Georgia Air National Guard Public Affairs Representatives

The First Friday Briefing 3

Huey leaves Winder for the last time

By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry

One Huey, tail number 229, does re- flies over his Douglasville home that

Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

main, but it's no longer flyable. Accord- he doesn't know by that distinctive ing to King, who is also the safety of- "thump-thump-thump" of the rotor

WINDER One of the most memo- ficer for Georgia's 78th Aviation Troop blades what it is, even when he can't

rable images of the Vietnam War is Command in Marietta, it's currently a see it.

the one of a UH-1 Iroquois helicop- "training platform," though it may end "It's a bitter-sweet thing for me to be

ter better known as "Huey" hovering up on permanent display at Winder or doing this," Brennan said while getting

just above the roof of the American at another facility.

422 ready for its last flight. "I look at it

Embassy in 1975, taking on desperate With more than 3,000 flight hours as, I brought this old girl to the dance

passengers as Communist forces from in the aircraft to his credit, King be- when she was a young thing and I'm

the north took over the southern capital gan flying the Huey in 1973, though he finally taking her home.

city of Saigon.

never flew it in `Nam. Over the years, "God, how I'm gonna miss this,"

That last flight to freedom was a de- he's flown any number of rotary and he said gently touching the Huey and

fining moment in history.

fixed wing aircraft, but the UH-1 has running his hand down its fuselage.

Now, more than 30 years later, an- always been his first love.

"There's a lot of memories here, too

other last flight has

many to recall, and all of

taken place for the

them, some good, some not,

UH-1 as the last oper-

will be with me for as long

ational "Huey" left the

as I live."

Georgia Army Guard

Another thing that made

Flight Facility here

this last flight so special to

at Winder Airport,

Brennan is that 422's right

Oct. 1, 2008. Chopper

cockpit door bears the name

422, crewed by Chief

of fellow Vietnam vet and

Warrant Officer 5 Jeff

Huey pilot Chief Warrant

King, Chief Warrant

Officer 4 Gary Horowitz. He

Officer 4 Jim Bren-

and Horowitz made their last

nan and Staff Sgt. Jeff

flight together in Huey 422

Reno of Detachment

in February 1999. A month

1, 832nd Medical

later Horowitz, who suffered

Evacuation Company,

from cancer, died.

lifted off the flight line

With 422 going away,

and headed into open

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry the 832nd intends to stencil

sky for its "last flight Huey 422, still bearing the Georgia name and the red cross that iden- Horowitz' name on aircraft

out" while a crowd of Guardsmen, family members, aviation enthusiasts and local

tifies it as a medical evacuation aircraft departs Winder. Aboard 422, along with its crew are Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Georgia's Adjutant General, and Warrant Officer 2 Tim Rikard, aviation maintenance officer for 78th Aviation Troop Command.

229 to make it his new namesake, Brennan said.
"He will always be with me," he said about his friend.

civilians watched.

"How can you not have a love affair "On the ground and especially in the

Aircraft 422, one of 34 Hueys Geor- with this bird," he said strapping on his air, he will always be with me."

gia Guard aviation had in its inventory, flight survival vest before climbing into With the departure of the UH-1 from

was slated to arrive at Temple, Texas, 422's cockpit. "It's such an amazing, the Army Guard's inventory, pilots

near Fort Hood, Friday, Oct. 3. The rugged aircraft that you just can't help like King, and air crew like Reno, will

1970s model UH-1 will be cannibal- yourself."

complete their transition to the 832nd's

ized for parts, or it may be sold intact Brennan, who's been in the military larger, quieter UH-60 Black Hawk,

to a civilian agency or foreign country. active Army and Guard for the past which began replacing the Hueys in the

Hueys serve today, for example, 40 years, started flying UH-1s during 1990s. Brennan also moves on, but to

alongside Russian-built attack and the 1960s in Vietnam. Over the years, retirement in December.

transport helicopters flown by the coun- he's collected more than 7,000 flight But unlike Huey 422, the flight to

try of Georgia. The pilots and aircrews hours, so the bond he has with the he- Texas isn't his last. He'll continue to

who fly the UH-1 receive their training licopter is, and he says will always be fly the UH-1 with the Army Aviation

from the Georgia Army Guard.

strong. There isn't a day that a UH-1 Heritage Foundation.

4 The First Friday Briefing

Governor, TAG Join Military, Civilian Leaders

in signing Georgia Armed Forces Covenant

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski Public Affairs Office

Atlanta -- A covenant represents a promise and an obligation, sacred and binding. Today at the Georgia State Capitol, Governor Sonny Perdue, Major General Terry Nesbitt, the Adjutant General of Georgia, and community leaders throughout Georgia signed a special covenant pledging to foster a very special relationship that has existed between citizens of the state and its military services for centuries.
Nesbitt signed the document on behalf of the Georgia National Guard, saying that Georgia's military is very fortunate to be located in a state where the communities offer enormous support and encouragement of its uniformed members. "Our communities have shown time and again a sense of pride and honor for its members who sacrifice for their freedom and values."
More than 200 community, governmental and military service members came together in order to enhance an effective state and community partnerships that pledges to create and foster a quality of life for every service member and family.
Perdue led in the signing the Georgia Armed Forces Community Covenant. Fourteen additional military and community leaders followed the Governor in symbolically cementing this partnership by each signing the oversized document.
Commenting on the significance of the document, Perdue said that Georgians owe a debt of gratitude to it military members. "The cause of freedom is a noble cause made possible by the sacrifices of countless Georgians yesterday, today and into the future," said Perdue. This special covenant binds together our men and women in uniform and their families, with the support of communities throughout

Photo by Amanda Kenny
Major General Terry Nesbitt, the Adjutant General of Georgia, signs the Armed Forces Covenant at the Capitol, Sept. 9.
the state." Maj. Gen. Scott A. Hammond, Commander of the Georgia
Air National Guard and Brig. Gen. Maria Britt, Commander of the Georgia Army National Guard also signed the Covenant document along with many who were in attendance at the ceremony.

Strong Bonds for deploying Soldiers

The JFHQ Chaplain of Georgia Chaplain (COL) John M. Owings along with Commander or the 48th Infantry Brigade will be hosting a Strong Bonds Marriage Enrichment Conference as a three day event offered for the betterment of it's soldiers and their spouses. The event will be held in Atlanta Georgia at the Crown Plaza Hotel on Ashford-Dunwoody Road in Atlanta from 14 November to 16 November 2008. Strong Bonds Marriage Enrichment Training will include group activities, formal

instruction in general sessions, and practical exercises in breakout sessions. Training will be conducted by trained by certified instructors provide by the JFHQ Chaplain.
Anyone wishing to attend must identify themselves to his or her unit to request permission and provisions of Pay and Allowances. After being approved by the unit to attend training, each soldier needs to register for the event at www.strongbonds.org failure to register will affect the soldier's ability to attend the event.

The First Friday Briefing 5

Six Georgians awarded top National Guard honors

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski

Public Affairs Office

Six prominent Georgians were honored by the National Guard Association of the United States during the Association's national conference held on September

20-24, 2008 in Baltimore. The six received the prestigious

Patrick Henry Award recognizing local officials and civic

leaders who distinguished themselves in outstanding service

to the Armed Forces of the United States, the National Guard,

or the National Guard Association of the United States.

The six Georgians honored include Major General Da-

vid B. Poythress (Ret.)of Atlanta, Brigadier General Virlyn

Slayton (Ret.) of Morrow, Bill Cathcart of Savannah, Milton

H. (Woody) Woodside of Brunswick, Michael R. Fowler of

Marietta, and Clyde Taylor of Macon.

"Each of these men exhibits the qualities of a true pa-

triot," said Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Georgia's Adjutant Gen-

eral. "Displaying an uncommon and unwavering dedication

and commitment, each of these recipients has demonstrated

support to all men and women in uniform and particularly

the National Guard and Reserves."

Major Gen. David B. Poythress is the former Adjutant General for Georgia and commanded the 12,000member Georgia National Guard from 1999-2007.

During his tenure as the Governor's senior military advisor,

Poythress was able to secure more than $32 million in ar-

mory renovations in Georgia.

He also led successful negotiations with the Secretary of

the Air Force to bring the sophisticated Joint STARS mis-

sion to the Air National Guard in Georgia. He secured legis-

lation and funding for the first state retirement plan for tra-

ditional National Guard members; and under his leadership,

the Georgia National Guard won the Oglethorpe Award for

organizational excellence, the Malcolm Baldwin equivalent

for public sector organiza-

tions.

Brigadier Gen. Viryln Slaton is the Administrator of the Geor-

gia Guard Insurance Trust.

Following more than 35

years in the Georgia Nation-

al Guard, Slayton continued

his support of the National

Guard as one of the found-

ing members of the Geor-

gia Guard Insurance Trust. The Trust offers affordable

Brig. Gen. Viryln Slaton

group term life insurance to

Georgia's Guard members and their families. Under Slay-

ton's leadership, the Trust has been extremely successful

receiving more than $1.7 million in dividends and paying

more than $14 million in claims. It has provided more than

$300,000 in academic scholarships and more than $10,000

for the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation.

Slayton serves on the city council of the City of Morrow.

Bill Cathcart is the Vice President and General Manager of WTOC-TV in Savannah. As a member of the Military Affairs Council of the Savannah/Chatham

Chamber of Commerce, Cathcart served for four years as

co-chair of the Chamber's Military Support Initiative during

a time that local military installations in Georgia were under

review by the Base Realignment and Closure Committee. He

is a honorary commander for Georgia's 165th Airlift Group.

As a journalist, Cathcart routinely showcases military stories

on local newscasts and annually publishes a special military

supplement honoring military units in the coastal Georgia

community.

Milton H. (Woody) Woodside has volunteered countless hours in service to the National Guard Association of the United States and the National Guard

Association of Georgia for more than 20 years. As President

of the Brunswick/Glynn County Chamber of Commerce,

Woodside continues to support the National Guard through

his personal contacts with members of Georgia's congressio-

nal delegation. He has organized such events as "Operation

Thank You" for National Guard troops serving in Bosnia. He

arranged for holiday celebrations for family members of the

224th Joint Communications Support Squadron during their

two year deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan; and he orga-

nized a welcome home celebration for the more than 3,500

members and families of the Georgia's 48th Brigade Combat

Team returning from Iraq.

Michael R. Fowler is the civilian Deputy Adjutant General for the Georgia De-

partment of Defense.

With responsibility for

legislative action plans,

he is the primary liaison

with other government

entities at both the state

and federal level. Fowl-

er was instrumental in

procuring funding for

desperately needed ren-

ovations to more than

sixty 1950-era armories

in Georgia. He built a coalition of community

Michael R. Fowler

and political support for the establishment of a second Youth

Challenge Academy campus at Fort Gordon. He assisted the

Adjutant General in establishing the state's first ever state

continued on next page

6 The First Friday Briefing

from previous page
retirement for National Guard members, and coordinated the effort to add a simple "check off" box to state income tax forms which allowed taxpayers to donate to the National Guard Family Support Foundation.
Clyde Taylor is the Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss. In this position, he has been successful in coordinating landmark legislation and securing funding through committee that has had a significant impact on the National Guard and Reserve. Mr. Taylor lobbied Congress to secure funding for the first of four C-27 J Spartan Joint Cargo Aircraft which will be delivered to the Georgia Army National Guard and be based at Robins AFB. He coordinated with the U.S. Air Force to budget for re-engine 17 E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft with new and more powerful Pratt & Whitney engines. He also secured legislation in the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act that creates a reintegration program for National Guard personnel returning from combat.
The six recipients were recognized at the 130th General Conference of the National Guard Association held in Baltimore, MD.

Chambliss earns 2008 top NGAUS award
WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and a member of the Senate National Guard Caucus, is the 2008 recipient of the National Guard Association's distinguished Harry S. Truman Award. The award is the association's highest honor and is given to civilian and military leaders who demonstrate continued contributions to national defense and security.
Chambliss received the award during the organization's 130th General Conference in Baltimore , in late September. The senator was recognized for his support for National Guard issues and priorities, and in particular for two pieces of legislation he has championed in the U.S. Senate to benefit members of the National Guard and Reserve.
Senator Chambliss introduced legislation, the "National Guard and Reserve Retirement Modernization Act," in April, 2007, to reduce the age for receipt of retirement pay by three months (counting down from age 60) for every 90 days a Guard or Reserve member spends on active duty in support of a contingency operation. The legislation passed the Senate and was signed into law by President George W. Bush.

Poythress Honored with Top National Guard Award

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski Public Affairs Office
David B. Poythress, former Adjutant General of the Georgia National Guard has been presented the prestigious Patrick Henry Award by the National Guard Association of the United States. The award was presented at the National Guard Association's Annual Conference held in Baltimore, MD.
The Patrick Henry Award recognizes local officials and civic leaders who distinguished themselves through outstanding and exceptional service to the Armed Forces of the Untied States, the National Guard, or the National Guard Association of the United States.
Poythress served as Adjutant General of Georgia from 1999 - 2008. Initially appointed as Adjutant General by Governor Roy Barnes, he was later reappointed to the position by Governor Sonny Perdue in 2003 and reappointed in 2006. That same year, Poythress was elected to the Board of Directors of the National Guard Association as

Vice-Chair (Air).

1967-1971 as the Judge Advocate Of-

Poythress was promoted to the rank ficer and Chief of Military Justice in

of Lieutenant General in the Georgia DaNang AB, Vietnam. He served as

Air National Guard in 2007. He holds a JAG officer in the Air Force Reserve

the highest rank for an offi-

for twenty-seven years

cer in the 297-history of the

at Base, numbered Air

Georgia National Guard.

Force, and Major Com-

During his tenure as Geor-

mand levels.

gia's senior military advisor

His civilian career

to the Governor, Poythress

has included positions

was able to secure more than

of State Labor Com-

$32 million in armory renova-

missioner, Secretary of

tions. He also led successful

State, Commissioner of

negotiations with the Secre- David B. Poythress Medical Assistance of

tary of the Air Force to bring

Georgia, Deputy State

the sophisticated Joint STARS mission Revenue Commissioner and Assistant

to Georgia. He secured legislation and Attorney General for Georgia.

funding for a state retirement plan for The National Guard Association of

traditional Guardsmen, and lead the the United States (NGAUS) is a non-

Georgia National Guard in winning the partisan organization representing near-

Oglethorpe Award for organization- ly 45,000 current and former Army and

al excellence, the Malcolm Baldwin Air National Guard officers. Formed in

equivalent for public sector organiza- 1878, NGAUS is focused on procuring

tions.

better equipment, standardized training

In his more than thirty years of mili- and a more combat-ready force by peti-

tary service, Poythress served from tioning Congress for resources.

The First Friday Briefing 7

48th IBCT Soldiers join forces with

British in Scotland BARRY BUDDON TRAINING CAMP, Carnoustie, Scotland

Story by Sgt. Tracy Smith 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office

they had to tune their ears to a language they didn't quite grasp. "I researched

The home to the British Open near the small, Scottish village of Monifeith, boasts lush fairways and rolling hills. For two weeks in midSeptember, Carnoustie hosted a different type of challenge on the greens. The business of Soldiering was the focus at the UK's busiest light weaponry live firing range that happens to be adjacent to the storied course. For wide-eyed

some because that's what you do when you travel," German said, pleased with his foresight. "Got satellite photos and looked at the weather, but when they start talking about `kit', `scoff', `ablutions' (-'bl-shn, a building housing bath-

Soldiers of Georgia's 48th Infantry

ing and toilet facilities

Brigade Combat Team, training in the

on a military base) and

mire of marsh-like `battlefields' meant

drying rooms...well they

challenging themselves in a way none

lost me."

of them could have imagined. The 48th BCT Soldiers were in Scot-

KNOW After a quick introduc-

land as part of an on-going reciprocal

tion to the `care and feed-

UK-US infantry training partnership

ing' of the weapon, the

with the aim of fostering battlefield co-

Georgians were ready to

hesiveness in the global war on terror.

show what the 48th Vol-

BEGetting down to business started
early on the unit's first day in Scotland. "You are here to train as infantrymen," 4th Battalion, Yorkshire Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) John Gilpin shouted at a formation of 118th Field

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith, 48th IBCT PAO
Private 1st Class Desean Moore `hugs the post' during his individual battle skills range assessment at the British Army's Barry Buddon Military Training Centre in Carnoustie, Scotland. A canon crew member with `Bravo' Batter, 1-118th FA, 48th IBCT (L), Moore managed a highest scorer honor for his squad's qualification iteration.

unteers could do and apply what they had learned on the 20 rifle ranges of the 930-hectare training camp.
The various scenarios on the ranges brought

Artillery Soldiers. "As artillerymen I understand you want what was promised -- a challenge. On the Individual Battle

to get to the business of your job, but while you are here you Skills Firing Range Soldiers made their way from position to

will be immersed in what we are first...Infantrymen."

position firing at "pop-up" targets which emerged seemingly

"This is not quite what I expected," Specialist Charles M. from out of nowhere.

German said while drawing his British Army 5.58mm SA- While on the range, soldiers have autonomy as to how best

80 machine gun. During the two-week training exercise, to secure their `sector' but must also consider that those spe-

this was his weapon and the valet from Sea Island had never cific actions could determine the fate of a mission and their

seen it before.

fellow Soldiers in the fight. As 48th IBCT soldiers looked

A cannon crewmember, the `Bravo' Battery, 2nd Platoon over the lanes, the single row series of probable cover op-

Soldier had to familiarize fast to become proficient and ef- tions seemed easily maneuverable, (a window, makeshift

fective. "My focus," he said slapping his weapon, "is gonna door, fencing, etc.) but that proved deceptive.

be on this baby right here!"

"You've got nine different ways to move on a 100 meter

He cradles the grey and black weapon, raises the sight and stretch and you have to do it while thinking about your battle

marvels at the clarity of an object some 300 meters away. buddies," Private 1st Class Desean T. Moore said, panting

"It's like it is directly in front of me," another Soldier as he did a mental after-action report of his turn on the lane.

points out mimicking German's curious enthusiasm.

"That man beside you is depending on you to make the right

As daunting as the expanse of the Barry Buddon ranges decisions."

are and the challenge of mastering a new weapon was for Moore, who managed a high score for his fire team dur-

the Savannah based 118th FA contingent, they discovered

Continued on next page

8 The First Friday Briefing

From previous page -ing his squad's iteration, laughed at the idea of taking for granted the first assessments.
"The realism of this course teaches you the fundamentals of staying alive. Getting down on your belts, as they say, digging in and staying low or hugging that inch of post for cover puts it in your face. You forget it's a range because it is so real!"
In the muck of the squad assessment field Soldiers quickly learned that their business was changing their job description.
The responsibility of planning an assault, seeking the enemy and calling in cover/suppressive fire was no longer solely the function of a platoon leader or lieutenant or staff non-commissioned officer. The squad leaders, corporals and sergeants, were now taking the reins and pushing forward to dominate the tempo of battle.
"We are the ones with eyes-on what is taking place in real time and we can make the right decisions based on what we see and the intelligence we gather," Sgt. Michael Wilson, an `Alpha' Battery squad leader pointed out.
DOThe mental and physical strain of the two-week exercise

put the brigade's upcoming Afghanistan mission on a different level for some Soldiers. The high intensity qualification live-fire sequences, for example, enhanced individual and team confidence for the 48th IBCT Soldiers and broadened their expectations.
"We came here to get some solid education and training," said Staff Sgt. Joseph L. Catanzariti, Wilson and Moore's platoon sergeant. "Taking advantage of the in-depth crosstraining means we are building on what we already know and preparing ourselves to be effective when it counts."
Catanzariti also identified the most beneficial aspect of the two-week immersion in the British Army's way of preparing for battle. Pointing out that an element of the 4th Yorkshire Territorial Army (a British National Guard component) would be down-range alongside the 48th Volunteers.
"Working with other countries reinforces camaraderie but most importantly I know that when I meet my brothers on the battlefield and we need to move as one unit I can pick up his, or her, weapon and complete the mission."

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith, 48th IBCT PAO
A sheet of mist provides perfect cover for 1-118th Field Artillery Regiment Warriors, Sgt. Michael Wilson (right) and Private 1st Class Desean Moore. The Soldiers were surveying a potential target during squad battle tactics drills at the British Army training camp, Barry Buddon, in Carnoustie, Scotland. The ever present, albeit intermittent, rains did not dampen the impact of the two week training for the volunteer contingent from the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith, 48th IBCT PAO
On the final full day of training in Carnoustie, Scotland's Barry Buddon British Army training camp gifts were presented and handshakes exchanged. The commanding officer of the British Army's 4th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment, Lt. Col. David Rhodes, (right) said the pride of any commander is to promote and recognize the achievements of his Soldier. With that statement he promoted 1st Lt. James H. Clay to the rank of Captain.
Captain Clay will serve as the 1-118th Field Artillery Regiment's Administrative Officer, a position formally held by Captain Kevin Nicklay, (center) who took command of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, just hours prior to the 1-118th FA composite company's departure for their two-week annual training with their Territorial Army counterparts.
The "Ol' Hickory Field Artillery" Soldiers participation in Exercise Yorkshire Claymore is part of the Georgia Army National Guard's on-going joint training initiative with the 4th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment, a Territorial Army reserve component of the British Army. The training is in preparations for the 48th IBCT (L)'s upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.
The First Friday Briefing 9

News from the 48th IBCT

Southwest Asia Leadership Certification Program prepares 48th IBCT leadership to `train from the front'

Story by Sgt. Tracy Smith 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office
FORT BENNING, Columbus, Ga. The motto of the U. S. Army's Infantry is "Follow Me!" Two distinct words that when coupled with images of `Iron Mike' majestically standing as sentry at the entrance of the Fort Benning U. S. Army Infantry School makes any `ground pounder's' heart race with anticipation.
Brigade and battalion command leaders from the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (L), Georgia Army National Guard`s Volunteer Brigade, rallied at Fort Benning, Ga. to challenge themselves at the Leaders Certification Program at the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center.
48th IBCT (L), Deputy Commander, Colonel John King said his motto for the weekend should be more like... "Ouch!" His response was part reverence to the dedication his Soldiers have in putting their all into readiness training and a tongue-in-cheek overview of the brigade's bootcamp.
"It hurts now where as I don't remember this much pain in the past," King stated with a grimaced laugh. "We've all gotten a bit older but I was able to get back to my inner-Soldier self."
Aging aside those years equate to experience and that is what it takes to ensure leaders are capable and prepared for the Volunteer's 2009 Afghanistan mission.
"We have a responsibility to make sure ALL Soldiers are ready," Robert Callahan, `Charlie' company, 1st Bn., 121st Infantry Regiment 1st Sergeant and full-time brigade master gunner said. "I was challenged to give leadership a fun, team building scenario to reacquaint with the basics of Soldiering and certify them as Southwest Asia

trainers."

His idea of

fun raised a few

eyebrows as the

participants were

restricted in move-

ment and what they

were allowed to

eat. MREs were the

feature of the field

menu and, to make

it more interesting,

Mother Nature lent

her talents to kick

up the challenge meter.
"The first day on the Fam Fire Range it started raining,"

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith, 48th IBCT PAO
48th IBCT (L) executive officer, Lt. Col.. Michael Fordham, (left) and Col. John King, deputy commander for the brigade, `learn the ropes' at the Southwest Asia Leadership Certification Program at Ft. Benning, Ga. Warrior Training Center.

Callahan said suppressing a chuckle. Soldiers successfully merged civilian

"It would not stop! Hard rain and light- and military experience allowing the

ning; everyone was soaked. They were Volunteer Citizen-Soldiers to build

pulling out their (mobile devices) and relationships and garner confidence in

in some cases these guys lost comms. areas renown for tribal in-fighting. The

Don't think they were too broke up Doraville Police Chief knows this is a

about that though."

different kind of fight that will place

Basic Warrior Tasks Training was the junior non-commissioned officer in

a focus and included recently added a more non-traditional leadership role..

subcategories such as tactical combat

"Before we can teach and mentor

casualty care and entry control point our Soldiers we have to be able to do

procedures.

(experience it for) ourselves," King

What brought the pain, or the `Ouch' summarized. "The bruises last a little

factor was the HOOAH!-stuff; repel- bit longer, but the education and what

ling, day/night land navigation, obsta- you can share with your Soldiers will

cle courses, rope drills and combatives. last a career!"

Callahan said it is tough training but

nothing they, nor their Soldiers, have

not experienced before

"They were all pretty tired and sore

from the obstacle and land nav course

and got good taste of what their own

soldiers will be going through, which is

what the intent was."

"This is the reason I joined 25 years

ago!" King stated. An OIF veteran, he

led 48th Soldiers as a battalion com-

Photo by Sgt. Tracy Smith, 48th IBCT PAO
Major Jeff Dickerson, 48th IBCT (L)

mander in the area known as the `Tri- training officer, prepares a .50 caliber

angle of Death' in Iraq. He and his machine gun for firing as part of the on

the Leadership Certification

10 The First Friday Briefing

Nesbitt addresses "Yellow Ribbon" Ceremonies

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski Public Affairs Office
Major Gen. Terry Nesbitt lauded the extraordinary health care services received by returning OIF/OEF veterans on Saturday, September 6, 2008 during the VA's "Yellow Ribbon Welcome Home" event held at the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
The event brought together returning veterans from across Atlanta and helped to underscore the significant work being accomplished by the staff and volunteers at the VA in dealing with both the physical and emotional wounds of combat.
Nesbitt told the gathering of more than 100, several in wheelchairs and showing obvious results of combat injuries, "You are all America's heroes," and each of you deserves the finest healthcare this nation has to offer."
"As I stand here today, our forces, many of whom you served with, are still answering freedom's call, "said Nesbitt. "Our brave comrades--men and women, have stood in harm's way without flinching, and without question-

Photo by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski
Major General Terry Nesbitt speaks to more than 100 veterans and families during the Veteran Affairs's Yellow Ribbon Welcome Home event.
ing the mission. Unfortunately, some of our finest have come home shattered by war. That is why today I want to commend their bravery and laud their families' courage."
Nesbitt went on to applaud the VA's

"Wounded Warrior" program which the Veterans Administration and the Military has in place for returning soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines.
Under the VA's Warrior Care and Transition plan a program," he continued, " we are committing our finest resources as a nation, and as a service to provide compassionate, quality care to our military wounded.
Nesbitt briefly noted reliance upon the National Guard and Reserve in the current conflicts as `unprecedented' and reflects a significant portion of the total deployed force in any given month. According to the DOD, Nesbitt noted the continued reliance on the 1.8 million National Guard and reserve troops will continue well into the foreseeable future." Fully half of OIF and OEF veterans are members of the Guard or Reserves."
A color guard from the Youth Challenge Academy highlighted the afternoon's events and more than one hundred members of the State Defense Force helped coordinate the traffic.

CST Soldiers pass on knowledge to civilian counterparts
By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry Georgia National Guard
Public Affairs Office

DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE Georgia's 4th Civil Support Team conducted classes and hands-on training, Sept. 16-18, with representatives from several local, state and federal agencies.
The Guard's 202nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and 138th Chemical Company, also took part, along with two Soldiers from Florida's soon-to-be stood up 48th CST.
Outside organizations participating were Cobb County and Calhoun-Gordon County hazardous material teams, Georgia Public Health, Georgia State Patrol, GBI Special Operations and Georgia Emergency Management Agency, and U.S. Sky Marshal Service. Also there were groups from Army North who evaluate the CST's training and Dugway Proving Grounds in New Mexico to assist in the training.
Dugway, is one of the nation's two biological and chemical agent research and test facilities, said Maj. Darrin Smith, the CST's commander.
Smith said that normally he and his unit would and still do travel to Dugway for much of their instruction and

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
From the left Lt. Daryl Reeves and Fire Fighter Aaron Lasenyik with Cobb County Fire Department's Hazardous Materials unit watch Sgt. Ryan Schwartz, a survey team member with Georgia's 4th Civil Support Team remove protective clothing after having gone through the CST's decontamination station.

training, especially when that training requires the use of

live agents.

See CST, page 12

The First Friday Briefing 11

CST, local responders share emergency knowledge

CST, from page 11
Training such as what the CST put on locally doesn't, and by bringing subject matter experts from Dugway to Georgia, is gives the unit the opportunity to work more closely with the agencies that will call on it for help.
"It gives us a chance to showcase our skills and equipment and, at the same time, allow the agencies to pickup things that may help them improve on what they're already doing," Smith said.
Using what was once the Army Corps of Engineers building just outside Dobbins proper, the CST set up the scenario of suspects with terrorist ties having established a bio-chemical lab and production facility. As the training

played out, EOD experts searched for booby traps before a survey team went in to find the lab and any contaminants the suspects may have had.
Fire Capt. Rick Bennett, with Cobb Hazardous Materials, said that one of the things his team found interesting during decontamination is the way the CST disposes of the survey team's biochemical suits.
After having received a scrub down and rinse, a team member steps into a large, heavy plastic drum liner and strips his suit off. He then steps out and heads for the last station for a final decontamination check and removes his protective mask and breathing apparatus.
Meanwhile, a decontamination team

member seals the drum liner holding the suit and sets it aside for disposal.
"This is the first time we've seen it done this way," Bennett said as he and his team watched. "The process we follow with our suits works, but this we believe most likely is a better way to do that."
As the 4th CST continues to improve on its training and the scenarios it uses, it intends to involve more and more the civilian agencies that will call on it for assistance. There's no better way said, Capt. Alan Hammond, the unit's executive officer, than this to increase their understanding of what the 4th does, and at the same time, provide them the opportunity to improve their own techniques.

GSDF, local officials search for missing Soldier

Guard assists Falcons with moral event

GSDF, from page 3
At times, it was slow going as the teams encountered thick underbrush and heavily wooded areas said Command Sgt. Maj. Randy Garrett, State Defense Force command sergeant major. Coupled with steep gullies, creeks and ponds, the terrain made it difficult for anyone to find anything.
"Yet, our folks left no stone unturned, no path not walked," Garrett said. "This, among many other missions, is what they train for, each and every time they come together for drill.
The GSDF has, because of that training, been involved in such operations before. In March, more than 60 personnel helped Union and Lumpkin authorities search for missing hiker Meredith Emerson.
"And we all are unpaid volunteers, and we certainly don't do it for the prestige," he added. "We all, do it because it's our way of serving our communities and our state, and for the pride of knowing we're doing some good in this world."
When the search finally ended, Roark's whereabouts still remained a mystery. Yet, that didn't keep Neasmith, and others, from singing the GSDF's praises.
"We're one hundred percent satisfied that everything was done to determine whether Jason was still here," he said. "After what I and our sheriff Robert Markley experienced in our first contact with the Georgia State Defense Force, this won't be the last time we call on that organization for its expertise."
12 The First Friday Briefing

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
Sergeant 1st Class Wendy Barnett (right), a Black Hawk helicopter crew chief for Marietta's 78th Aviation Troop Command, assists veteran Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Tyson Clabo in leaving her aircraft after it and twp other 78th Black Hawks carrying members of the Falcons football team and cheerleading squad landed at Fort Gordon. While at Fort Gordon, the players and cheerleaders met and lunch with Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines stationed attending school there. The 78th, formerly the 171st Aviation Group, has been assisting the Falcons for the past couple of years with their community service project to thank active duty, Guard and Reserve personnel for their service to their state and to their country. "What better way to tell these folks how much we appreciate who they are and what they do," Clabo said. "Their contributions, their sacrafices are many. We all need to make a better effort in letting them know they are always being thought about and held in high esteem for putting on that uniform and doing what others cannot or will not do when the call to stand up for something bigger than themselves goes out."

Guard enjoys recruiting increase

Story by Gene Rector Macon Telegraph
Georgia's Air and Army National Guard are enjoying a recruiting surge, an upswing that bodes well for the state and nation, officials say.
Nationally, the Air National Guard has met its end-strength goals this year for the first time since 2003. Georgia was an exception, although a productive recruiting year has pushed the state's air arm much closer to fully manned status.
At the same time, Georgia's Army National Guard is an over-achiever, already reaching more than 150 percent of its recruiting goal for the year.
"Right now, we are 94 percent manned," said Senior Master Sgt. Richard Hamilton, the Georgia Air National Guard's recruiting and retention superintendent. "But we were at 85 percent last year at this time, so we've seen significant improvement."
The state's Air Guard - including the 202nd Engineering Installation Squadron at Middle Georgia Regional Airport in Macon and elements of the 116th Air Control Wing at Robins Air Force Base - is authorized 2,900 airmen. Currently, 2,715 are on the books.
Hamilton, who works out of Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, said incentives and changes by the National Guard Bureau have made the recruiting job easier. First-time recruits in certain career fields are eligible for up to $20,000 in signing bonuses while prior-service candidates may receive up to $15,000.
Aircraft mechanics are high on the list. "We fly airplanes for a living," Hamilton said, "so we're looking for people to work on them. Civil engineering, law enforcement and security forces are also big ones."
There was more freedom this year to focus recruiting on individual unit needs.
"If the 202nd needed cable splicers, for example, we could put that on the bonus list to attract people," he said. "That helped us quite a bit this year and they're going to do it again in 2009. It will help us attract people to where our needs are."
On the Army side, the state total stands at 10,900 soldiers with a goal of 15,000 by 2020. Lt. Col. Thomas Carden, head of recruiting, credits the Georgia environment for the success.
"Georgia is a patriotic state," Carden said. "You can't wear a uniform to many towns and eat in a restaurant over three times without somebody trying to buy your meal. We just have great Americans in Georgia."
Recruiting bonuses are important, he concedes, along with educational and training benefits.
"But a young man and woman who raises their hand in 2008 are special and, for the most part, they're not doing it for the money," Carden said. "They know they likely will

have to deploy somewhere to a hostile environment and be separated from their families. I don't think $20,000 is enough. I may be an idealist, but they just want to serve. They want to be part of something bigger than they are."
Hamilton is optimistic about reaching the Georgia Air Guard's goal of being fully manned. One reason is the addition of two new recruiters. Another is the strong retention rate.
"Our retention rate is 92 percent now," he said. "That means once we get people, we usually keep them."
Family tradition is also important. "We see a lot of people from the same families," the senior non-commissioned officer noted. "For example, we have a unit in Savannah with five people from the same family. Those families have been with us a long time and they're familiar with serving. They understand you can get your education paid for or get a skill they can use."
Carden, based in Atlanta, said Georgians make his job easy. "Less than 1 percent of the population in the U.S. eligible to serve in the military ever put on the uniform," he said. "So it's powerful that we have so many kids in Georgia who are stepping up. They're important. They're special."
Photo by Amanda Kenny
Brigadier Gen. Maria Britt, Georgia Army Guard commander, passes the battalion colors to incoming commander Lt. Col. Anthony Abbott as part of a long time ritual as Abbott assumes command of the Recruiting and Retention Battalion October 1st, 2008 during a ceremony at the Oglethorpe Armory in Ellenwood.

The First Friday Briefing 13

139 IS Hosts Leadership Training Seminar

During the September UTA, members of the 139th Intelligence Squadron (IS) and the 31st IS (the Active Duty Associate Squadron) attended the the Mindset of Leadership workshop conducted by Introspect International in Augusta. GA. A 2-day experiential workshop, the training provided practical formulas, tools, and models for achieving results while building positive relationships.
"The training this workshop provides will be invaluable to the 139 IS and the 31st IS as we build processes to work collaboration between the units," said Chatfield. "We will now have a common language and tools to deal with difficult issues."
Chatfield recommended this training for the unit after she was introduced to the training in her civilian position. She admits that it was among the best short leadership course she had attended in her 25+ year career based upon the tools and practical exercises presented in the workshop.
"The training is designed to provide team members with tools for improving communications between individuals, teams and workgroups by building trust and credibility, being outcome focused, identifying and changing limiting behaviors, improving listening skills, and working towards respectful resolutions when handling difficult issues."
"Investing in this training was time and money well spent," said Chatfield. "The 139IS is in its infancy and is working hard to develop the unit culture and building valuable relationships with mission partners."
Other clients of Introspect International include Air Force Materiel Command, Charles Schwab, Comcast Cable, Cricket Communications, Defense Acquisition University, Frontier Airlines, National Institute of Standards & Technology, Seagate Technology, Time Warner and others.

Georgia Air National Guard photo
Kathy Kelly, Mindset of Leadership instructor and Chief Executive Officer of Introspect International, works with Maj. Troy Lewis, 139th IS Commander and Senior Airman Pricilla Waters during a practical exercise.
This Month in Georgia GuardHistory
October 1974 Governor Jimmy Carter and other dignitaries were given a whirlwind tour of the new Georgia Department of Defense Administration building and emergency operations center on Confederate Avenue. The building costs $900,000 and included sophisticated, push-button radio consoles "providing instant communications with all ten of the State's networks plus the amateur radio net.
October 1973 Lt. Col. O'Dell J. Scruggs, chief of staff, Georgia Army National Guard, was presented with Ernest S. Vandiver Trophy after his selection as "the most outstanding" Georgia Army Guardsmen. Scruggs was cited for his "meritorious service during the past year while planning, coordinating, and supervising activities of the State Headquarters staff.
October 1972 Guardsmen were officially notified that The 116th Military Airlift Wing and Military Airlift Group would be redesignated the 116th Tactical Fighter Wind and Tactical Fighter Group and receive F-100D Super Sabre jet fighters. The unit had flown transports for the previous 16 years.
October 1961 Some 400 Georgia Guardsmen of the 111th Signal Battalion were called to active duty in response to what the Georgia Guardsman magazine termed "the menacing" encroachment on the "rights of free Berliners." In a scene reporters likened to World War II and Korea, when wives, mothers and sweethearts wept at the parting with husbands, sons and boy friends, the troops "entrained" from Augusta to Fort Meade, Maryland. Rep. Carl Vinson, D-GA told Guardsmen that they will "constitute a significant part of America's answer to the Soviet threat to our survival and American way of life."

14 The First Friday Briefing

Father, son carry on Guard tradition of family service

CAMP BUCCA, IRAQ Since it's the inception of the National Guard, Army and Air, there have been fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, grandparents and grandchildren who have, and continue to, their communities, their states and their nation together. Some serve in different units while others, like Staff Sgt. Leslie Blasini and his son Sgt. Antonio Blasini, both of whom are deployed here with Augusta's 278th Military Police Company, serve side-by-side in the same unit.
The unit, home stationed at Fort Gordon, is the newest edition to Decatur's 170th MP Battalion. It's been at this Southern Iraq detention facility near Umm Qasr watching over detainees since March 2008. First Sgt. Callie Leaver, the unit's senior enlisted Soldier said the 278th is expected to return in early January 2009.
"Next to privilege of being in this uniform, serving my state and my country, the greatest honor for me is standing for what's right along side my son," the elder Blasini said. "What father could ask for more?"
As is the case for many family members who serve together, the Blasini's tradition of patriotism and self-sacrifice began long before they became Guardsmen.
Leslie served honorably for 14 years as a U.S. Marine. At the age of 18, Antonio joined the Corps to follow in his father's footsteps.
"Dad really inspired me," the younger Blasini said. "Seeing him that uniform, and experiencing him as a Marine filled me with enthusiasm to become what he was, what he is, the best of the best."
And it isn't just his father who inspired him. His mother, Lon, spent six years as a Marine, which is how she met, and married his father. Even his sister, Jennifer, decided to get in on the

family tradition

and enlist in the

military.

"This is one

family

that

knows how im-

portant it is to

give something

back to the place

you call home,"

Leslie said. "We

understand that

service to one's

country is not for

everyone, but we

believe that it's

one of the most

important things

people can do

with their lives."

After complet-

ing his four-year

enlistment, An-

tonio, like his fa-

ther and mother,

joined the Atlanta

Police Depart-

ment. All three

continue to "pro-

tect and serve"

citizens of the Staff Sgt. Leslie Blasini (left) and his son, newly promoted metro area today. Sgt. Antonio Blasini pose with the unit guidon of the 278th MP

After the at- Company shortly after the NCO induction ceremony for the tacks on Sept. 11, son at Camp Bucca, Iraq.

2001, Leslie and

Antonio answered the country's call to stripes on his combat uniform, and

duty and joined the Georgia Army Na- watched as the younger Blasini, and 11

tional Guard. Both served with Mon- others, moved from the junior enlisted

roe's 178th Military Police Company ranks into the NCO Corps.

until the 278th reached out to its sister That day, he said, goes down in the

units for volunteers.

Blasini family history as one of the

Leslie said he and Antonio, both of proudest moments he's known, the

whom live in Jackson, eagerly stepped staff sergeant said. It also goes down in

up and volunteered. The son, who was Georgia Guard history as one more ex-

a specialist when the unit deployed was ample of how the tradition of families

promoted in August to the rank of ser- serving together as Citizen-Soldiers re-

geant. Leslie who was there, a proud mains strong.

smile on his face, put Antonio's new

The First Friday Briefing 15

Students Mastering Arabic in a Flash

Story by Wendy Leonard Deseret News
DRAPER -- Five volunteers from the U.S. military are enrolled in an intense, four-month course to learn one of the world's most in-demand foreign languages.
The language proficiencies and abilities of the 221st Military Intelligence Battalion from Fort Gillem, Ga., may astonish some, but instructor Jabra Ghneim, who helped translate the Book of Mormon into Arabic, expects such accomplishment and more, as thousands of hours have turned out hundreds of productively fluent speakers over the years.
"They learn it to do their jobs, to rise up in the ranks, and of course there is a monetary motivation to it all," he said.
Jabra developed the Ace My Language method, which is currently contracted by the U.S. government for rapid learning of foreign languages such as Arabic, Korean, Farsi and Chinese, all of which are growing in necessity. Other methods have proven less effective, he added.
"Everybody can pick up a language. The only difference is the method used to learn it," Jabra said, adding that for 90 percent of language learners, regular methods do not work.
The only other place in which methods similar to Jabra's are used is at the Missionary Training Center in Provo, which former Brigham Young University linguistics professor Robert Blair said is "an unusual achievement."
"Students like to have an experience of learning a language, an experience where they are speaking and listening full time," Jabra said. "Students need to be in a language class whenever they start to learn a language, with native speakers. It doesn't work any other way."
After only two and a half months in class, Jabra's students already are using conversational Arabic to communicate, able to discuss anything from what they had for lunch to global warming and politics, with their three native-speaking instructors. They arrive at a proficiency most would require more than a year to grasp, enough to achieve a level 2 rating
Photo by Wendy Leonard, Deseret News
Reisa Jackson, left, writes Arabic vocabulary words in English while Jim Gilchrist files through words during a language course in Draper.

on the Arabic Defense Language Proficiency Test administered by the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center.
"I knew three words in Arabic when this thing started," said Spc. David Fuchko. "Now we have conversations on just about anything."
He has spent time with the military in Iraq and expects his new skill to come in handy if he's deployed again. "It will really help being able to speak the language," Fuchko said. "It'd be nice to be aware of what's going on around you and be able to interact with the people there."
The Ace method does not require students to memorize grammar rules or words and phrases by rote repetition, but rather teaches by total immersion into the language.
"They learn as an infant would learn a language," said instructor Ehab Abunuwara. "It's a very relaxed, very natural process."
And it's a process that seems to agree with the students, most of whom have only high school experience with learning a foreign language.
Student Reisa Jackson said she hopes to use her newfound Arabic skills in her human resources job with the Army, but also counts the newfound ability as a personal accomplishment. She said she finds herself "thinking in Arabic first before even thinking in English."
Although she picked up little of the Spanish her father speaks in their home, Jackson has developed quite a proficiency in Arabic and is able to read and pronounce sounds with a near-authentic accent.
"In the very beginning, I had my doubts," she said, adding that she wondered if the instructors knew what they were talking about when they said the group would be able to communicate using Arabic in no time. "It all sounded the same to me, and the script is nothing like we've ever seen before."
Sure enough, however, all five have achieved "remarkable" ability, Blair said, communicating in the once-foreign language.
Jabra runs multiple language programs involving military personnel simultaneously and in different states, currently in Draper and at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. The service, he said, is becoming more popular as the need arises and as other programs fail to deliver desired results.
The learning is intense, five days each week with seven hours dedicated to various Arabic language activities and one hour of lecture-discussion on Middle Eastern culture. No homework is required, although students are encouraged to practice vocabulary using electronic flashcards on their own.
"I know what the MTC can do with missionaries in 12 weeks," Blair said. "But Jabra and his students are well on their way to making a world record in learning Arabic."

16 The First Friday Briefing