First Friday briefing [Dec. 5, 2008]

Online at www.dod.state.ga.us
Honoring Veterans

December 2008
3 165th Airlift Wing unveils historic plane
A special ceremony unveiled a restored F-84 Thunderjet at the 165th Airlft Wing's hanger. The Korean fighter jet is one of seven left in the world.
6 Deploying Soldiers strengthen family bonds
48th Infantry Brigade Soldiers attend a weekend retreat aimed at keeping families strong.

10 48 mile road march honors veterans
Members of the 48th Infantry Brigade march from Canton to Atlnata in a two day road march to honor veterans.
12 178th Military Police deploy to Iraq
14 Pilots take to the sky in annual bombing competition

Photo by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith, 48th IBCT (L), PAO
Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputy, Sgt. Gene F. Peluso, a traffic enforcement & motorcycle unit safety officer, keeps a watchful eye on Soldiers crossing into Woodstock, Ga. during the 48th IBCT (L) Veteran's Day commemorative road march. The Infantrymen, and women, marched more than 48 miles to honor the contributions of those Veterans who have served and paved the way for the modern day Warrior. "We learn from each other," Peluso said, a veteran himself. "It gives me a sense of pride to protect those who are honoring me."
Complete coverage, page 10

16 Prominent Georgians Visit YCA to see lives being changed

Army Guard unit gets Navy Presidential Unit Citation

Spc. Adam Dean 124th MPAD Georgia Army National Guard

gaged in pre-war planning with the 1st ters of key supply roads throughout Marine Expeditionary Force, said Maj. Iraq, rebuilding and protecting Iraqi oil Reginald Cook, who served as compa- facilities, and numerous humanitarian

METTER, Ga. Metter's 265th Re- ny commander of the 265th from 1998 assistance operations. In all, the 265th

gional Support Group became the first until 2004. The unit as a whole was repaired two major electrical plants,

unit in Georgia Army National Guard called into service in February 2003, four hospitals, three water facilities and

history to be awarded a Navy Presiden- and deployed to Kuwait with the 1st more than 20 schools said Cook.

tial Unit Citation during a ceremony at MEF the following month.

In addition to the 1st MEF, the 265th

the Metter Armory, Nov. 1, 2008.

"It was an honor to be part of the 1st also worked closely with the 1st Na-

Brigadier Gen. Maria Britt, com- MEF," said Cook.

val Construction Regiment, an Army

mander, Georgia Army National Guard, The group was tasked with conduct- Guard unit from West Virginia, a unit

called it a historic and momentous day ing engineering command and control from the Republic of Korea and British

in remarks to those assembled.

operations, and together with the 1st combat forces.

"It is a high honor for a unit to re- MEF, crossed the border into Iraq on "The 265th Engineers' participation

ceive a Presidential Unit Citation. To Mar. 24, 2003. The unit's first mission in Operation Iraqi Freedom illustrated

put it in perspective, this unit award was to provide combat engineer support the true joint and multinational nature of

requires the same de-

today's military operations

gree of heroism as in-

around the world. They

dividual awards such as

were able to maximize the

the Distinguished Ser-

strengths of many diverse

vice Cross, the Air Force

organizations," said Col.

Cross and the Navy

Thomas Blackstock, the

Cross," said Britt.

unit's current commander.

The award, which can

Sergeant Tonnette Boyd,

come in the form of an

one of those who remain

Army, Navy or Air Force

from the unit's 2003 de-

Citation, is given to

ployment, said that she is

units of the U.S. Armed

proud of her unit, and what

Forces for extraordinary

they did to earn this award.

heroism in action against

She said that she looks

an armed enemy, said

back fondly on the bonds

Britt. While other Georgia Guard units have received Presidential Unit Citations, the 265th is

Photo by Spc. Adam Dean
Brigadier Gen. Maria Britt, commander Army National Guard, assisted by Col. Thomas Blackstock, commander of the 265th RSG, prepare to attach the Navy citation streamer to the unit's flag.

that formed during that time, both within the unit, and among other units.
"I feel like it's the best

the first to receive a Navy version of to British forces attempting to seize the group I could have been with. When

the award.

port of Um Kasar, said Cook.

you're away from your real family, you

As early as April 2002, the 265th, Other missions included maintaining learn how to build a new family. In Iraq,

then an engineering group, was en- and improving more than 4000 kilome- we all became a family," said Boyd.

2 The First Friday Briefing

Pike County Middle School held their annual Veterans Day Program to honor our nation's Veterans, Nov. 7, 2008. Soldiers from the 82nd Component Repair Company (CRC) and the 1177th Transportation Company performed as the Color Guard and provided a static display of vehicles and gear used while on deployment. The Color Guard was comprised of Sgt. 1st Class Johnny Rodriguez, Sgt. Timothy Drew, Sgt. Jason Flagg, Staff Sgt. Craig Wheeler, Sgt. Jeremy Jones, Spc. Michael Haire and Pfr. Christopher Patterson. Major Gen. Lawrence Ross served as the guest speaker for the event. Veterans throughout Pike County were in attendance and received special recognition from the student body. The event included a special tribute to the Citizen Soldier and a Soldier of the Year Award which was awarded to Maj. April Asher. Asher has assisted the school with the Veteran's Day event for the past three years coordinating support from the National Guard.

Quiet Heroes and A Thunderjet

Story by Maj. Dave Simmons 165th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office
Only seven remain. Seven Thousand Five Hundred were manufactured and flown by pilots around the world, but only seven remain. Hard to believe. One of the seven once again stands proudly on the tarmac of the 165th Airlift Wing, its home for more than fifty years. The F-84 Thunderjet was a war bird of the Korean Conflict. It sparred in countless air battles in the early 1950's as the United States provided military support to the South Korean peninsula. The F-84 was the assigned flying weapon of the 158th Fighter Squadron, the predecessor of the 165th Airlift Wing and local airmen flew the Thunderjet into battle. Many of these airmen were present Oct. 25, 2008, as a refurbished and restored Thunderjet was unveiled in a hanger of the 165th Airlift Wing. Restoration included researching all of the unit's historical flight and maintenance records in order to permanently honor the names of the pilots and maintainers of this particular aircraft, displaying them just below the canopy. Leave it to another Airman to fully appreciate the aircraft's rich history and the need to preserve it. That Airman, Colonel Jim Grandy, and a contingent of like-minded Airmen undertook the task of restoring one of the unit's F-84 D's that served as a historical display outside of the Wing's headquarters for many weather-beaten years. A very special ceremony followed, with Maj. Gen. Henry "Hank" Morrow, son of H.P. "Spatz" Morrow a former unit member and pilot of the restored F-84, was the first guest
Major Gen. Henry C. "Hank" Morrow, Commander, 1st Air Force and Commander, Continental U. S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region poses with his father, Harry "Spatz" Morrow, a former unit member and previous pilot of the restored F-84 during his service in the 158th Fighter Squadron.

Guest Speakers Maj. Gen Morrow, Linda Hamilton, Capt Philip Hamilton, and retired Lt. Col. Dewey Morgan, Jr., unveil the restored F-84 serial number 741.
speaker to share cherished memories. When a major general attends a ceremony it must be important, but it is a truly special occasion when a major general honors his father along with many others he first met as a child. Major Gen. Morrow noted "The mission now is the same as it was then; we have alert pilots across the country ready to defend. The aircraft have changed, but the type of flying we do has not."
Linda Hamilton, the wife of one of the original pilots, Capt. Phillip Hamilton, spoke on his behalf. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the efforts to restore this icon and source of many family stories, especially knowing this F-84, number 741, will continue to be maintained. Her sincere words sharing how she sought comfort shortly after her husband passed away and seeing this airframe that meant so much to him left many in the audience misty eyed. She quoted her husband as saying, "When he fastened his seatbelt...the plane loved him and he loved it."
Retired Lt. Col. Dewey Morgan, Jr. was the final guest speaker. He spoke on behalf of his father, Staff Sgt. Dewey Morgan, one of the original crew chiefs. The Airman with a boyish childhood expression stood at the podium sharing cherished little boy memories of putting countless screws into, and taking the very same screws out of aircraft panels. A chore designed by grown ups to keep a rambunctious youngster busy and hopefully, out of trouble. Morgan said his father had once been asked why they did what they did with such great pride. His father said simply, "For those who came before."
Most of the former unit members and spouses are now in their eighties, but for a few hours on a beautiful Saturday afternoon they were humble men and women seeing old friends, telling stories on each other, laughing, and remembering a time not often spoken of anymore. How fortunate to share this precious moment with and honor these quiet heroes.

The First Friday Briefing 3

2008 AJC Award Recipients Honored

The Georgia Army National Guard selected three outstanding Guardsmen as recipients of the 2008 Atlanta Journal-Constitution Army Reserve Component Achievement Award at the United States Army Reserve Command at Ft. McPherson. Private 1st Class Kevin Gentry, a member of Marietta's 248th Medical Company, Staff Sgt. Rachel Dryden, assigned to Metter's Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 265th Regional Support Group and 1st Sgt. Ricky Hall assigned to Dahlonega's Company A, 348th Support Battalion were all presented American Eagle trophies for their accomplishments.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Army Reserve Component Achievement Award was established to recognize outstanding enlisted Soldiers from Georgia-based Army Reserve and National Guard units. Eligibility for the award includes exemplary conduct; exemplary attendance at scheduled drill assemblies and annual training; and consideration of leadership instructional ability.
Jim Wooten, associate editorial page editor of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, presented the awards assisted by Brig. Gen. Maria Britt, commander, Georgia Army National Guard. Wooten, a Vietnam Veteran, is a retired Guardsman who concluded his military service following more than 20 years of duty.
To be eligible for the distinctive awards, Soldiers must attend at least 95 percent of scheduled drill assemblies, attend annual training, be duty Military Occupational Spe-

From left, Jim Wooten, Staff Sgt. Rachel Dryden, Private 1st Class Kevin Gentry, 1st Sgt. Ricky Hall, Brig. Gen. Maria Britt
cialty (MOS) qualified, qualify sharpshooter or higher on their individual assigned weapon, and have no disciplinary actions during the nominating period. The award honors one member in each of the following grade categories: private private 1st class, specialist staff sergeant, and sergeant 1st class sergeant major.
Army Reserve recipients were Private 1st Class Eugene Richardson, Jr., Sgt. Terrance Adams, and Sgt. 1st Class Richard Colvin.

McKinley named NGB chief, gets fourth star

Moments before Gen. Craig R. McKinley took the oath this week to become the new chief of the National Guard Bureau, he made military history by receiving his fourth star, the first Guard officer to do so.
With his wife, Cheryl, and children, Patrick and Christina, standing nearby, McKinley accepted the warm applause and cheers from an auditorium filled beyond capacity by many old friends and colleagues.
"It's a rich and high honor to be the 26th chief of the National Guard Bureau," McKinley said. "My first move is to keep the ship sailing straight. We've got a lot of things going right."
McKinley, who has been director of the Air Guard for more than two years, follows Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, who was National Guard Bureau chief for nearly six years. Blum, who will

become deputy commander of U.S. Northern Command, was presented with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates.
Gates said "One of my motivations for putting Blum in the NORTHCOM slot was to have a senior Guard officer ready to take charge of a major command."
Major Gen. Harry Wyatt III, the Oklahoma adjutant general, has been nominated to replace McKinley as the director of the Air Guard.
Gates and Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, both paid tribute to McKinley and Blum and each gave credit to the performance of the National Guard during the ongoing war on terror.
Gates said elevating the position of chief to four stars "underscores the crit-

General Craig R. McKinley
ical importance of the Guard to America's overall national defense."

4 The First Friday Briefing

Imitation, the kindest form of flattery

Georgian Parliamentary Military Delegates visit Georgia National Guard to study organizational model

Story by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith 48th IBCT (L) PAO
DOBBINS ARB, Marietta, Ga. Georgian Parliament Defense Committee delegates met with state of Georgia National Guard leaders to study the United States National Guard and Reserve's organizational model. The committee is also meeting with Veterans Affairs personnel to examine that system's model in Washington, DC rounding out their exploratory visit.
"Taking into account the current situation in our country, it is very important to us to reform and build the National Guard of Georgia," Deputy Chairman for Defense & Security, Zaza Gelashvili explained.
The military redesign is another progressive step in the ongoing relationship with the Georgia/Georgian U. S. State Partnership Program (SPP) initiated in 1995.
"We have had a very lucrative learning collaboration," said Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, the Adjutant General of the Georgia National Guard. "Our progression has taken us from familiarization briefings, to co-training environments and now this extension to actively seek details on how we do business as a model for their legislation is the finest form of flattery for the men and women of our organization."
The intent of the bi-lateral discussions expanded on what has made the partnership program successful reflecting on, and extending to, what aspects of the National Guard/Reserve component system would work best in the development of that country's citizen defense program.
During Immediate Response 2008 Georgia Army National Guard's 48th

Infantry Brigade Combat Team's 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment mentored and trained the Georgian Army's 4th Brigade counterparts at Vaziani Military Base.
Georgian Army 4th Brigade Command Sergeant Giorgi Dzebisashvili observed the officer and enlisted interactions during the July exercises. At the exercise briefing summation he spoke highly of the Georgia Guardsmen's professionalism and acknowledged the similarities in the structure and management as the defense entities from different cultures grew together.
"Personnel characteristics emulate

stand their needs to grow and be successful."
Gelashvili will take the recommendations of Major Gen. Nesbitt and his advisors to begin reinforcing Georgia's foundation for a solid military reserve organization.
"We will draft the new legislative law once we return to Tbilisi. I think it is important to continue to maintain close cooperation in working with (your leadership) on this issue."
When asked what aspect of the National Guard/Reserve model made the biggest impression, Gelashvili was unhesitant, "the National Guard and ac-

Photo by Amanda Kenny
During a three day breifing, Lt. Col. Matthew Shannon briefs Georgian liaisons, Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, the adjutant general, and Brig. Gen. Maria Britt, Army Guard commander, on the state of the relations between the state of Georgia's National Guard and the country of Georgia's military.

those of the American military," Dzebisashvili observed. "Significant differences are only in the look of the rank. The ultimate similarity is they must take care of subordinates and under-

tive duty officers get training together. I was impressed because it is obvious this training helps with coordination and interoperability."

The First Friday Briefing 5

Army Strong through Strong Bonds

Story by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith 48th IBCT (L) PAO
CROWN PLAZA HOTEL, Atlanta, Ga. The opening question to couples congregated for the eleventh threeday Georgia National Guard marriage bonding session was simple...sort of.
It required no research or fancy theories for the response. The session monitor simply wanted the couples to describe what it was like to be separated from their spouse.
The ensuing lull that blanketed the room finally gave light to a small voice whose answer, albeit unexpected, summarized what is expected when a family fueled household becomes a single environment.
"My car is possessed," the woman said from the back of the room, her voice noticeably nervous but determined as she expanded on her response. "Whenever he goes to training or is deployed it breaks down."
The laughter from, and more importantly with, her peers was a sign of solidarity as they understood her very honest answer. That tongue-in-cheek response also paved the way for the open discussions the conference was designed for; to reinforce military relationships.
When the laughter quieted, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Chaplain, Lt. Col. Mark Albericci smiled and focused on what the woman gained from her husband's absence by allowing her to answer her own question.
"But you learned how to manage it, didn't you?" Albericci said appreciating her bravery with a broad, kind smile.
Welcome to Strong Bonds. A working `honeymoon' retreat to reconnect military couples sponsored and facilitated by the state's chaplaincy and family assistance coordinators. The Strong Bonds program is a "big Army" brainchild that, by design, recognizes the special challenges military couples encounter; long separations, financial and childcare challenges. The retreat also acts as a platform for Georgia's Citizen-Soldier to rediscover how to access the network of benefits available to them through peer groups and militaryfriendly organizations. Couples who attend the program come without expectations of a miraculous relationship rescue. They do come in search of support and answers. The questions often times are harsh and very real. "I want to know when I am going to come first?" Michelle Welliver, wife of Sgt. Hans Welliver, questioned. She is a stay-at-home mom as well as a budding musician. Welliver is a 48th IBCT Soldier and law enforcement professional. They share the commonality of having two sets of job responsibilities and have weathered one deployment to Iraq. Michelle realized through her weekend participation that she has not completely recovered emotionally from the last separation and is anxious about his upcoming deployment to

Afghanistan. "It is hard putting your life on hold because the military
comes first," Michelle said. "Sacrifice is a part of any relationship especially a military relationship. I love my husband, but do I feel cheated because of (those priorities)? No. I just get impatient waiting (and wondering) when is it going to be my turn?"
These are the predominant challenges Georgia National Guard State Chaplain Col. John Owings and his team hope to address openly and, always, without judgment. Owings and his team carry a big toolbox they willingly share with the 450 plus attending. The boxes are equipped with the ele-
Photo by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith
Specialist Robert Lawson, far right, Company E, 148th Brigade Support Battalion mechanic, along with his wife Brandy discuss a situational scenario with fellow 48th IBCT Soldier and 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment mortar-man Sgt. Craig Lewis Haggins and his wife Moe, far left.
ments that will help them reach their goals as a couple and military family.
The chaplains also want the Soldiers and Airmen to find strength and reassurances that their families will be cared for as they apply their training to their combat responsibility.
"We are not here to promote the chaplaincy as an entity but give these couples the support of the National Guard in its entirety," Owings said. "We have command elements here, embedded with the family support piece to reinforce our efforts and make sure all questions are answered whether it be about their benefits or of a spiritual nature. This is a full service operation which is why we pushed the support groups to the front of the program."
Specialists Katherine and Michael Bartlett embody the National Guard element. Both Soldiers work full time for their unit, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 148th IBCT (L). Known, affectionately, as Thing 1 and Thing 2 they impose a united front and are attending their second conference. They are also expecting their second child in January and Michael will be earning his first combat patch in May.
Continued on next page

6 The First Friday Briefing

Continued from previous page
They take advantage of the retreat when it is offered because it reinforces their relationship and gives them the chance to spend time alone together to absorb the effects of the training.
"This is our opportunity to connect," Katherine says. "We get to meet other couples and find out that we are not alone with our particular problems."
Michael likes the idea that it helps with their communication.
"In our relationship, with both of us in the military and both working actively in the military there is always a sort of communication conflict. Because we are not like a traditional (National Guard) family it's more an active duty. Everything we do is based around the military so it is nice to have something to work with to improve how we talk to each other."
With both being the same rank it was difficult not to ask the question, do they find themselves pulling rank on each other (Michael is the senior by only a few months) and who is in charge anyway?
"She's in charge," Michael says with a sheepish grin and without hesitation.
They look at each other affectionately and Katherine corrects him tenderly. "We share responsibility, the baby is in charge."
Staff Sgt. William Campbell and his wife Fonda are serial attendees because they appreciate what the retreat has to offer to couples. They are strong advocates for the retreat and for making young couples aware that it exists and downplay the stigmatism associated with the retreat's intent.
"Strong Bonds is a pretty important program," Campbell and his wife, Fonda, make it a point to attend the retreats. He feels the younger Soldiers should work around the stigmatism associated with the retreat's intent take full advantage of the tools needed to reinforce their relationships foundation.
"They think it's not for me or `we don't need it we can build our relationship or fix our problems without Strong Bonds," Campbell, a Sylvester, Ga., firefighter and 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment Soldiers said. "Unfortunately a lot of them are just afraid to look for help. Each time we come we learn something new and have a new tool in the toolbox. We also GET IT. They need to understand that you are not alone in what you are going through and there is a unity that's established between the (couples) that can spill over to help you."
Fonda, who calls herself a professional Grandmother, has tears in her eyes as her husband speaks. She remembers the difficulties of separation that shook their relationship during their first deployment to Bosnia, (this will be their third), and remembers the first time she met Chaplain, Lt. Col. Donald McDaniel who will serve as the rear detachment reinforcement for 48th IBCT.
"It was really hard for us, for me," Fonda remembers. "I

felt I was just getting pushed from person to person trying to find help during that first deployment and when I found Chaplain McDaniel my prayers were answered. He walked straight up to me and talked to me like a friend. He knew each of my kids' names and that we had grandkids..."
She pauses at the memory and becomes more emotional. They renew their vows each time they attend because of Chaplain McDaniel.
Campbell wipes the tear from Fonda's eyes and feeds her a piece of wedding cake.
With Chaplain McDaniel officiating, they, twenty-one participating couples and the Campbell's renewed their vows, at the retreats end Sunday morning. As is the retreat's tradition, the unity candle was lit by the couples celebrating their unions the shortest (a little less than 45 days) and longest (nearly 19 years) time.
Fonda Campbell believes in Strong Bonds and those who support the program.
"I believe God put (Chaplain McDaniel) on this earth to take care of military families. He is my rock and gets me through all these deployments because he is always there. I hope everybody found their rock this weekend and reminds other (military couples) they don't have to do this by themselves."
Chaplain Owings illustrates the power of Fonda's testimonial by sharing the story of one couple who found each other during the weekend retreat.
"They both walked up to me and said it actually saved their marriage," Owings said he was floored by the difference in their attitude towards each other. When they arrived it was apparent they wanted to end their relationship. "They were literally living apart and were not speaking and begrudgingly attended with only the promise of maintaining their respective attorneys and participating in the retreats course and activity work. When they walked up to me at the end of the program I wasn't sure what to expect and they both looked and me and said, `thank you, we can't begin to say how much we appreciate this and what it means to us."
Photo by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith
Chaplain Lt. Col. Donald McDaniel speaks with a young couple at the close of the vow renewal ceremony.

The First Friday Briefing 7

A new page in history, 4th CST gets distinctive unit patch

Story by Amanda Kenny Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office
The patch, worn on the left sleeve of a Soldier's uniform, is a symbol of the unit or brigade to which a Soldier belongs. No two patches are alike, and the 4th Civil Support Team has earned the honor of having its own distinctive patch.
The patch, with the American eagle emblazoned on an azure field, was presented to the 4th CST Nov. 25th, 2008, by Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, the adjutant general.
The new patch is similar in design to the Great Seal of the United States. It features an Eagle, a shield on its breast, clutching 13 arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other with a background of 10 spears representing the number of Civil Support Response regions nationwide on an azure field. Two stars, the Adjutant General, the command lever to whom the unit reports flank the Eagle.
The design for the Civil Support Team patch was approved on Sept. 4, 2007 by the Institute of Heraldry.
The civil support teams of the United States have come a long way, said Maj. Darrin Smith, commander 4th

CST. They started as 10 teams that were established to deploy and respond

were a three year project to more than rapidly to incidents and assess the na-

55 teams 10 years later.

ture and extent of a domestic attack.

Nesbitt also addressed the unit after Later, based on guidance from Con-

presenting each 4th CST member with a gress, the teams were renamed Civil

new patch. "This unit deserves its own Support Teams and have grown from

patch. Your actions and efforts have not 10 teams to 57 teams and are certified

gone unnoticed," said Nesbitt.

by the Secretary of Defense to respond

"We have fought to keep the CSTs to weapons of mass destruction events.

at home. You are a tremendous

asset with immediate response

capabilities. The CST responds

to and is looked at, tested and

certified more than any other

unit in this organization," the

general added.

Smith called the CST a

"well respected, well manned

force ready to take on threats

at home. In this time of change,

we have to be ready. Come to

work everyday and ask yourself

`what can I do to make a differ-

ence?'"

The civil support teams was

organized in 1998, when Presi-

dent Bill Clinton announced a

plan to do more to protect the citizens of the United States from domestic terror attacks. The Rapid Assessment and Ini-

Photo by Amanda Kenny
Major Gen. Terry Nesbitt, adjutant general, places the new 4th Civil Support Team's patch on Maj. Darrin Smith, commander 4th CST, during a special ceremony at the CST building on Dob-

tial Detections teams (RAID), bins Air Reserve Base, Nov. 25, 2008.

This Month in Georgia GuardHistory
December 1808, 1822 The Georgia legislature created the 1st Regiment Cavalry Georgia Militia, which was posted along with a larger force the Georgia coast during the War of 1812 to repel any attempt by the British to land. The General Assembly in December 1822 created the 1st Squadron Cavalry Georgia Militia which counted among its force the Liberty Independent Troop and the Georgia Hussars.
December 1851 The Georgia legislature authorized the opening of a military college in Marietta provide qualified militia officers. The school was founded by a joint stock company by eleven Marietta citizens. It began with seven cadets and three instructors. Despite the modes beginning, at the end of the second year enrollment stood at 120 cades with five professors and one assistant professor.
December 1965 The final drill of the year for the 48th meant the end of one two-hour drill per week and an occasional weekend drill and the beginning of one-weekend month training. The Adjutant General, General George Hearn said the new procedure "is designed to double the present training time and will result in increased proficiency of National Guard organizations." The General also asked for employer cooperation. In most cases, he noted, weekend drills will not start until after noon on a Saturday to give the men a chance to work half a day."

8 The First Friday Briefing

New commander, new organization hightlight

Ga State Defense Force annual training

The State Defense Force recently underwent reorgani-

zation and realignment during their Annual Training at Ft.

Stewart.

In order to be a more responsive uniformed, volunteer

organization, the SDF reorganized from five field brigades,

to two field brigades. The 1st Brigade will serve an opera-

tional area north of Interstate 20 and 5th Brigade will serve

an operational area south of Interstate 20. Members of the

former 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Brigades were reassigned to the 5th

Brigade.

Brigadier Gen. Jerry Bradford assumed command of the

SDF during the change of command ceremony Nov. 9 from

retiring Brig. Gen. Michael McGuinn. Bradford's desire to

establish a new recruiting initiative "Everyone Brings One,"

encourages all SDF members to recruit a new member. The

SDF's recruiting goal will double in size over the next two

years.

Major Gen. Terry Nesbitt, the Adjutant General, presided

over the ceremony. He added his own supportive comments

that, "a few years ago we (the GaDOD) didn't quite know

how to best utilize the SDF, now we cannot conduct our mis-

sions without you".

Other recent organizational changes in the SDF, were the

establishment of a Headquarters and Headquarters Company,

commanded by Maj. Maureen Jurgelas. The 5th Brigade's

new commander is Lt. Col. Bobby Anderson, and 911th

Georgia State Defense Force photo
Major Gen. Terry Nesbitt speaks to the volunteers of the State

Support Command's new commander is Maj. Sam Peng.

Defense Force in reagrds to the changes in the orginzation

Georgia plays host to Centennial Legion

Members of Georgia's Gate City Guard, established in 1855, played host to the 73rd annual conference of the Centennial Legion, an organization created more than a century ago to "carry on the motives of the original 13 colonies."
Representatives gathered in Atlanta in mid-November to tour historic areas of the city and surrounding areas.
During the weekend, conference members of the Centennial Legion took part in the rededication of the winged goddess, "Peace" monument at the entrance of Piedmont Park. First dedicated in 1911, the piece announces the South's surrender and orders a Confederate soldier to lay down his weapon. Sculpted by Allen G. Newman, the Peace monument was dedicated to

demonstrate the permanent reconciliation of North and South.
The highlight of this year's conference was a Saturday night banquet where each of the representatives were dressed in the their militia company's formal dress. Gate City Guard commandant, Capt Karen Corsetti, was the mistress of ceremonies.
Guest speaker for the evening's dinner was Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, Adjutant General of Georgia, who told the group that it was "a privilege" to speak to "veterans and representatives of this nation's oldest military units. Without our fore-

bearers who served to win our freedom and then defend our fledgling nation we would not be celebrating the lives of these great men and women and the units in which they served."
The organization was conceived, according to Legion information, following the civil war to draw together the blue and the gray, to help heal the tragic wounds suffered by the republic during the War Between the States.

The First Friday Briefing 9

Photo by Sgt. Tracy J. Smith, Illustration by Amanda Kenny

Children on Canton Road in Cobb County welcome Georgia National Guardsman, (L to R) Sgt. William Wayne, Command Sgt.

Major Mike Hurndon and Lt. Colonel Randal Simmons, Jr. as they march in remembrance of Veterans Day Saturday, Nov 8. The

48th Infantry Brigade Soldiers were on a two-day 48 mile road march `mission' from Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga.

ending at Centennial Olympic Park, downtown Atlanta, Ga.

Story on Next page

10 The First Friday Briefing

Macon's Volunteer Brigade Soldiers March to honor Veterans

Story by Pfc. Mozelle E. Blakley & Sgt. Tracy J. Smith 48th IBCT (L) PAO
GEORGIA NATIONAL CEMETERY, Canton, Ga. - In an age of sound-bites and acronyms 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (L) Warriors paid silent homage to those who have served and fought for our freedoms by putting their best, collective boots forward.
More than 70 of the Macon, Ga. based Volunteer Brigade Infantry Soldiers, and an additional 75 from the 118th Field Artillery Regiment ruckedup in full `battle-rattle', 35 pound backpack and M-4 semi-automatic weapon, to begin a journey that took the two contingent platoon-size groups from the hills of Cherokee County's Georgia National Cemetery to downtown Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park and, in Savannah, from Fort Stewart, the training area for the infantry brigade's Iraq deployment in 2005, to the Armory on Eisenhower. Marching 48-miles in as many hours over the Veterans Day weekend.
Leading the trek for the auspicious two-score plus `hump' to Atlanta was the senior enlisted leader for the 48th Brigade, Command Sgt. Major Mike Hurndon. Before the sun rose and the march began he reminded the motivated Soldiers of the true purpose of their mission.
"While the primary intent is to honor past, present, & future veterans, the consistent desire is to always raise public awareness to the `volunteer spirit' of the patriotic Soldiers who continually stepped forward for a cause much greater than self in defense of our Nation!"
That motivating spirit was what prompted Pfc. William Brock, 19, of Rome, Ga. to give a resounding, "Yes, I'll do it," when he was approached about participating in the historic event. He marched alongside a Georgia State Defense Force volunteer and former active Soldier, Sergeant Robert Farmer.
Although not permitted to carry a

weapon Farmer did not scrimp when it came to donning the gear of his state Department of Defense brethren.
"When the Georgia Guardsmen, and women, are deployed (the citizens of the state) depend on us to fill in when there is an emergency, whether it is a flood, search and rescue missions, fires or some other natural disaster," Farmer said about his decision to team up with his DOD counterparts. "(This march) shows my, our, appreciation for what our veterans do everyday."
Chaplain Candidate, 1st Lt. Leslie Nelson, assigned to the 148th Brigade Support Battalion, said it was a positive way to test their mettle as Soldiers.
"We've got a big job ahead of us with our upcoming deployment to Afghanistan."
The initial phase of the march covered more than 30 miles for the Atlanta marchers and took the Soldiers through a nature walk of sorts as they crossed through rivers and unpredictable grassy terrain. When they hit the highways to cross from the natural setting into the more urban environments they discovered they were stopping traffic. In a good way.
"It's a tough thing, road-marching 48-clicks with 35 pounds of gear on your back," said 118th Field Artillery, Command Sgt. Maj. Wesley Dover. "...and that's just a minimum, plus whatever you carry but the Soldiers have been receptive to the idea."
"Our feet hurt!" Nelson said with a smile that refused to leave her face, along with a slight grimace, as she nursed a forming blister under her toenail. "....but the best part about this is people are driving by and honking, showing their support and it gives you faith in our community that they will support us when we deploy and we appreciate that."
Day two through the concrete jungles of Cobb County and Atlanta for the Macon contingent was just as exhilarating. With a welcome change in scenery came the excitement of knowing the number of miles-to-march would not

be as much of a stretch. Lisa Lewis, Family Support Group
organizer for 1st Squadron, 108th Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA), was waiting at the crossing into Atlanta/Fulton County.
She and her husband, Staff Sgt. Thomas Lewis, served as support team reinforcement for the commemorative event. He had been deployed before and she knows the importance of BEING THERE when the times are tough.
Whether they are serving on the front lines or giving humanitarian assistance, they are entitled to reassurances that no matter what the situation they never march alone.
"It's important we support our Soldiers in everything we do." Lisa said as she hurriedly placed homemade goodies in bins while anxiously looking over her shoulders for the marchers. "Family members, parents, spouses should always do what is necessary to show their support and respect for what these men and women are doing because the Soldiers protect the country. As a wife and a mother I appreciate (their going to combat) and hope that my children will not have to do the same thing." Volunteers March on Atlanta!
As the 18-mile day of the now 48mile plus march narrowed, boots were beginning to show signs of the mileage inflicted, and the exhausted Soldiers got a second-wind as they saw the street sign identifying the end nearing - "Andrew Young International Blvd."
Horns honked louder as they turned off Peachtree Street toward Centennial Park and veterans who were able to witness the event identified themselves with a casual salute and glazed eyes that belied their gratitude for the tremendous undertaking..
For a unit such as the 48th IBCT, the largest National Guard unit in Georgia, it is more inspiration and motivation for their approaching deployment 2009.
They ended on Sunday with a vow to return on Veteran's Day to lead the
See MARCH, page 17

The First Friday Briefing 11

Monroe MPs head for Fort Dix, then Iraq

By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry

same time, she's excited because of her have people like Staff Sgt. Mike Wells,

Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

family background.

my platoon sergeant, to keep me straight

Miller, who lives in Thomson out- and lead me in the right direction."

MONROE Once again, Soldiers of side Augusta, is third generation Army. Wells, she said, served in Iraq with

the Georgia Army Guard's 178th Mili- Her mother's father, she said, was an Macon's 48th Infantry Brigade Combat

tary Police Company stationed in and MP who saw service during World War Team from May 2005 to May 2006. His

around this small east Georgia com- II, Korea and Viet Nam, while her fa- first six months were spent at Mamba-

munity have taken up the mission of ther served several years as an Army dia. He spent the remainder before

supporting The Global War on Terror. communications specialist.

the brigade returned home in Scania,

Only this time, they're going to Iraq to "I'm very proud of my military southwest of Baghdad.

help that country's national police bet- heritage," the 18-month Guard veteran One other Iraq War veteran she can

ter their law enforcement skills.

said. "Being here, at this moment, in go to for advice is Sgt. Franklin Mid-

More than 100 unit members said this uniform is something I have al- dleton. This ship's fueler for Colonial

goodbye to family and

Oil of Savannah is a team

friends, and then boarded

leader for the 178th when

buses outside Monroe

he's in uniform. Middle-

Area High School, Satur-

ton, who also lives in Sa-

day, Nov. 22, 2008, wait-

vannah, was seen off by

ing to take them to Fort

his wife Allison and 22-

Dix, N.J., and several

month-old daughter Abi-

weeks of mobilization

gail.

training.

"Yeah, we've been

"Once that's complete,

there and done that," he

and the unit's validated

said about himself and

on the mission it's been

Allison. "The only thing

given, it's off to Iraq for

different is that Abigail

a year," said Capt. Mark

wasn't with us the first

Dederick, the 178th's

time.

commander. "We've been

"That makes going this

ready for this day for a

time a little harder because

long time, and I have every confidence that we'll be successful at the job we've been entrusted with."

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
Private 1st Class Heather Miller says goodbye to her family from the left are her boyfriend, Pfc. Keith Heada, member of Augusta's 848th Engineer Company; her mother Pat; and her dad, Lee before boarding a bus that will take her and her unit to Fort Dix, N.J., where they will train for their year long deployment in Iraq.

I'll miss a year's worth of her growing up, but we'll make it through, just as we did the first time," Middleton added.

Despite the cold and

It's the way of things,

wind, more than 200 family members ways wanted.

he said, while hugging his wife and

and supporters of the unit hugged, "Sure, I'll miss my family and daughter before boarding his bus.

kissed and shook the hands of Dederick friends, all things that a Soldier misses Leaving and coming home again is all

and his Soldiers as they moved from the when she's away from home" Mill- part of what he and fellow Guardsmen

school gym, duffle bags and backpacks er added, "but this [being a Soldier] are as Soldiers.

in hand, to the front of the building. is an integral part of who I am, and I Although this is the 178th's third

Those same family members, sup- wouldn't have it any other way."

deployment, and several of its mem-

porters and fellow Guardsmen lined the If there are any great challenges for bers have been with other units to Iraq,

drive waving and cheering as the buses her, this being her first deployment, it's this is the company's first time there.

pulled out and headed for Fort Dix.

probably learning how to interact with In February 2002, the MPs augmented

For Pfc. Heather Miller, a member the Iraqi Police, and cultural differenc- the 988th Military Police at Fort Ben-

of the unit's First Platoon, it's her first es that exist.

ning in Columbus as part of Operation

deployment, not only to a war zone, but "I know that the training we're get- Noble Eagle. Later that year the unit

to anywhere. She's a bit anxious about ting before we get there is going to pre- took up securing Taliban and al-Qaida

it, having never been faced with that pare me and my fellow MPs for what's detainees at Guantanamo Bay Naval

prospect until joining the Guard. At the ahead," Miller said. "I also know that I Base in Cuba for a year.

12 The First Friday Briefing

MP receives medal for saving Egyptian's life

By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry

as an MP or as a person.

Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

Although no one, including the paramedics, expected the driver to live, he did recover.

MONROE Sergeant Tony Sailor of Lithonia has been Sailor could have walked away from the accident his

awarded the Georgia Medal of Valor for actions that resulted obligations fulfilled but he didn't.

in him saving the life of an Egyptian national while Sailor As with any accident scene, passersby want to stop and

and other members of his unit were in Egypt participating in get a closer look. So Sailor began controlling the crowd so it

training exercise Bright Star 2007.

wouldn't interfere with the paramedics and police.

Sailor, a full-time assistant administration sergeant and His commander, Capt. Mark Dederick, and others, made it

team leader for this city's 178th Military Police Company, clear that Sailor's "leadership and personal courage brought

received the medal during the unit's farewell ceremony at order to a chaotic scene."

Monroe Area High School. The 178th has mobilized in sup- "The sergeant had a direct impact on saving the life of

port of Operation Iraqi Freedom and is at Fort Dix, N.J., pre- that driver," Dederick added. "There's no doubt that he put

paring to train the Iraqi National Police in law enforcement his own life at risk to save the man's life, and he deserves

methods for a year.

recognition for that."

"What he did that day wasn't just a random act," said Lt. Sailor, however, said, he was just doing his job, and react-

Col. Lutalo Olutosin, who commands Decatur's 170th Mili- ing to the situation through the training he's received. There

tary Police Battalion, the 178th's parent headquarters. "It's isn't one among his fellow Soldiers who wouldn't hesitate

what he's trained to do as an Army MP.

to do the same.

"His actions reflect the deep sense of pride, honor and Bright Star, which began in 1980, is a Joint Chiefs-of-

commitment we all feel about our chosen profession," Olu- Staff directed, joint multi-national training exercise. It's held

tosin added. "He's a great example to everyone who knows every two years, and conducted in Egypt and co-hosted by

him."

that country and the U.S.

In the early morning of Nov. 2, 2007, Sailor was asleep in Last year, Soldiers of the 178th trained along side service

his Cairo hotel room, when he suddenly was awakened by members from 10 different countries that included tactical

a loud, thunderous noise just outside his window, according air, ground naval and special operations forces.

to information provided by the 178th.

Looking out, Sailor discovered that a

pick up truck had crashed only a short

distance away.

An investigation by Cairo police

later revealed that the man had lost

control of his vehicle, and that it had

struck a road-side protective barri-

cade. It then dropped 100 feet over a

wall and into the perimeter of the ho-

tel, police said.

Sailor a member of the force pro-

tection team picked up his combat

lifesaver bag, and rushed to the acci-

dent scene. There he found a man in

his late 30s trapped inside the vehicle

and suffering from multiple life-threat-

ening injuries. Sailor, the unit stated,

spent more than 10 minutes trying to

stabilize his patient before Egyptian

paramedics arrived and took over.

"With the guy bleeding badly in sev-

eral places, including his head, I was

worried I might not get it stopped," he

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
Lieutenant Col. Lutalo Olutosin (left), commander 170th Military Police Battalion,

said. "Still I knew that I wasn't going awards Sgt. Tony Sailor of Monroe's 178th MPs the Georgia Medal of Valor durto give up trying. That's not my way, ing the unit's deployment ceremony at Monroe Area High School. Captain Mark
Dederick, Sailor's commander, oversees the presentation.

The First Friday Briefing 13

Nation's best flyers decide who's better

during annual aerial combat competition

By Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry

across the active, Guard and

Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office

Reserves participating. Last year, an estimated 1,000

TOWNSEND BOMBING

spectators filled the cantonment

RANGE The sky above this

area at Townsend to watch the

more than eight square-mile

competition.

training site near Brunswick

Townsend Bombing Range,

in South Georgia exploded,

though owned by Marine Corps

Thursday, Nov. 6, 2008, with

Air Station Beaufort, S.C., is

the roar of fighter aircraft and

operated by Airmen at Savan-

guns, and applause and shouts of excitement. More than 800

Photo illustration by Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry
A South Carolina Air Guard F-16 fighter (left) moves off its bomb run while spectators atop a Paladin self-propelled

nah's Combat Readiness Training Center.

spectators watched some of howitzer at the 8th annual Georgia Department of De-

Used routinely by the ser-

the nation's best military pi- fense's "Turkey Shoot."

vices to fine-tune bombing and

lots put their combat flying

air combat skills, Townsend is

skills to the test at the Georgia National Guard's 8th annual Turkey Shoot.
Members of the active duty, Guard and Reserve, as well as business, civic and community leaders from across the state and their guests watched intently throughout the day as pilots flying the F-15E Eagles, F-16 Falcons and A-10 Thunderbolts strafed and dropped training bombs on a variety of stationary targets. In the end, only one would be named "the best," but every-

Everyone who serves at home or abroad plays an important role in today's world events, he said. That's especially true of Georgia's Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, and their families.
"Events such as this offer us, the public, a greater opportunity to see the skills our men and women in uniform use everyday, not just in the air, but also on the ground," McClellan said. "It also provides us a greater understanding of what it takes to keep our communities,

an "instrument range," providing conventional bulls-eye targets, simulated surface-to-air missile sites, moving targets and a command post surrounded by a variety of military vehicles for realism.
The Navy originally owned the range when Naval Air Station Glynco still operated in Brunswick. It closed, however, in 1972 when the air station shut down, but reopened when the Marine Corps took it over in 1981.

one would be a winner for their aerial our state and our nation safe, and the

skills.

sacrifices that must be made in these

"You can't come and see something trouble times."

like this and not be impressed," said Unlike McClellan, this year's Turkey

Capt. Dave Sili.

Shoot is the first for Clay Booth, man-

Stilli, operations officer for Bruns- ager of Thermal Ceramics in Augusta.

wick's 165th Air Support Operations He said he "certainly looked forward to

Squadron, watched the competition the day's events," and that he's "ever

along with his father Dave Sili Sr., his grateful for the opportunity to watch

uncle John Sili and OBGYN physician some of the nation's best in action."

Darrin Strickland, all of whom live and Even more special, Booth said, is

work in Brunswick.

the chance to see what it is the Air and

"The planning, preparation and execution of this event is a tremendous task," he added, "It has to be. But in the end, the effort has got to be worth it if it

Army Guard do on a daily basis. "That, the flight on the C-130 and
the ride on the Chinook helicopter," he said, "really made my day."

Sergeant Rochelle Edmond, administrative noncommissioned officer for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 560th Battlefield

gives the public a better perspective of who we are and what we do."
For Kirk McClellan, a banker with Athens First Bank and Trust, who's attended the Turkey Shoot before, it's a

Georgia's Turkey Shoot has been an annual event for seven years. What began as a small competition for the Georgia Air Guard, has grown into an event that covets Army and Air participation,

Surveillance Brigade earned the 2nd Place trophy for the Women's Division, age 20-29, in the Fort Gillem Gallop. The Gallop is Fort Gillem's annual 5K post race which took place Nov. 7, 2008.

worth while event.

with more than 40 combat aircraft from

14 The First Friday Briefing

Engineers share `Southern Hospitality' in Iraq

Story by Sgt. Tracy Smith

48th IBCT PAO

In their send-off ceremony, March 29, Georgia National Guard, Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt, the Adjutant General, told Cobra Soldiers of the 848th Engineer Company,

tapped to work alongside the Mississippi National Guard's

890th Combat Engineer Battalion that "you cannot get back

until you get there."

Months later the seasoned Sandbox Warriors have made

a lasting impression on the local Nationals and their mili-

tary professional counterparts simply by following Nesbitt's

mandate. Getting there and getting it done.

Since their arrival the `Eight-Four-Eight' have taken the

lessons learned during their OIF tour 2005 2006 with the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and applied them to become a sought after reinforcement for augmenting patrols and a welcome sign, of sorts, to route clearance teams travel-

Photo by SPC Harold Gandy
Second Lt. Michael Cooper, platoon leader for 2nd platoon, 848th Engineer Company talks to children in Husayniyah, Iraq, after passing out knick-knacks donated by friends and family of his platoon back home.

ing the dangerous roads around Camp Taji, Iraq.

Staff Sgt. Phillip Giaimo and Sgt. Henry Palmer comprise tive plans which led to their completing the mission without

the Cobra maintenance motor pool and work endless hours incident.

to ensure mission readiness and a true sense of "Mi casa es Continuous communication and working in partnership

su casa," (My home is your home), Southern Hospitality. with U.S and Iraqi security forces lend to success and con-

A sister unit, the 688th Mobilization Augmentation Com- sistency in day-to-day operations but what gives the winning

pany, tasked to train Iraqi Army Soldiers in route clearance edge, according to 2nd Lt. Michael Cooper, 848th Combat

and procedures, felt their Buffalo, a heavily armored ex- Engineer Companu platoon leader, is the dialogues with the

plosive ordinance clearing vehicle, was functioning ques- local community.

tionably and made the unscheduled stop to have it looked "In order to establish a relationship and allow them to

at. Assessing the problem then making recommendations, take over the job (of securing the nation) themselves with

the team docked it ("transmission problems," Palmer said), confidence we need to remember how important it is to stop

but the 688th MAC was back in business making alterna- and interact with the local populace and the Iraqi Security

Forces," Cooper concluded.

Reinforcing confidence means building on

the valuable future commodity of the country;

its children. Staff Sgt. Ricky Morinaga says

that when parents see the interconnection be-

tween Soldiers, whether Iraqi or American, and

the youngsters of the community it builds on

the trust needed in providing security for their

home.

"We like to bring the children toys and can-

dy," Morinaga said. "It brightens their day and

they see us as friends and not adversaries.

What gives their missions the added boast is

the lift from the silent team contributors more

than seven-thousand miles away.

"The donations provided by the generous

people back home allow us to do our job here

Photo by Spc. Daniel Herrera, U.S. Army
U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jonathan Kiel and 2nd Lt. Michael Cooper discuss routeclearing plans on Route Canucks in Iraq. The service members are clearing the route of obstacles for a convoy consisting of four large generators designated for Iraqi communities. Kiel and Cooper are both assigned to the 848th Engineering Company, Georgia Army National Guard.

and make friends at the same time," according to Cooper. With their continued support we're getting there."

The First Friday Briefing 15

140 Prominent Georgians Visit YCA to see lives being changed

Story by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski Georgia National Guard Public Affairs Office
A distinguished group of prominent Georgians from across the state visited the Youth Challenge Academy campus at Fort Gordon and witnessed first hand young lives being turned around and promising futures started.
More than 140 guests were invited by Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt and the Georgia National Guard to visit the Augusta campus where more than 200 cadets are scheduled to graduate in March 2009.
"I had heard of the National Guard's Youth Challenge for a number of years, but this is the first time I've had to see the kids and learn more about the program," said Christopher Stone of Cobb County.
The visit is one of two scheduled during the year to acquaint guests with the YCA program and Georgia's two YCA campuses. Invited guests travelled aboard National Guard aircraft from Dobbins ARB, Macon, and Savannah to Fort Gordon for a full day of touring the campus.
Frank Williams, Director of Youth Challenge says that such visits by community leaders provide an excellent opportunity to showcase YCA to those persons who have an understanding and desire to stem the relentless tide of dropouts in Georgia. According to Williams approximately 60% of high school seniors in Georgia will drop out of school before graduation. Since the YCA program first debuted in Georgia in 1994, more than 8,000 formerly "at-risk" teens have completed the 22-week in-residence program and received their GED.
"What I hope these guests receive from the visit is to see and hear the personal stories of young people, who once had given up on any prospects of a productive future, but have been offered a `second chance to succeed', said Augusta YCA's director Janet Zimmerman.
The group was one of the largest groups ever to participate in the visit. Among the visitors from throughout the state were educators and principals, juvenile justice administrators, sheriffs and other law enforcement representatives, high school counselors and social workers, ministers, attorneys, businessmen and women, and elected officials.
"YCA appears to provide much more than a chance for these kids to complete their education, and gives a structured environment for learning and personal development often lacking in lives where they came from," said Nick Bell, a Savannah businessman.
"I was anxious to bring a number of school administrators from my district to witness this program," said State Representative Barbara Massey Reece. "I feel that this is certainly a worthwhile solution to the rising dropout rate in Georgia."
Cadets gave guests presentations on life in the barracks,

student discipline, academics, community activities and physical fitness. A rappelling tower tested the skills and bravery of a few adventurous guests chosen to follow cadets rappelling off the fifty foot tower.
Reverend Keith Stell of the New Georgia Baptist Church in Villa Rica was emotionally moved by the apparent significant change he witnessed in a cadet whom he had personally counseled. According to Rev. Stell, "I had never seen this young man smile before. Now there has been a marvelous change in this young man's life."
Each year more than 800 applications are received by the YCA Selection Committee, many members who were in attendance for the visit. Georgia's Youth Challenge Academy program continues among the most successful YCA programs in the nation.
Photo by Lt. Col. Ken Baldowski
Youth Challenge Academy cadet Quintavious T. Carlton, of Lithonia, assists Christina Swansbrough, a guidance counselor with the Chattooga County School system, with the adjustment to the rappelling harness prior to her "jump" from a 50 rappelling tower. Swansborough was among over 140 guests who visited the YCA campus at Fort Gordon near Augusta.

16 The First Friday Briefing

48th Brigade marches to remember veterans

MARCH, from page 11

Can I do this?'" Reese laughed

brigade behind the Commander, and thoughtfully concluded.

Colonel Lee Durham, and in front of "But we made it. The whole

350 of their fellow Soldiers.

thing and I am proud of my-

For Corporal David Reese it was self. Proud to be a 48th bri-

an honor to go the extra mile to honor gade Soldier!"

fellow veterans. The 2nd Bn., 121st The 118th Field Artillery

Infantry Regiment Soldier vowed to do and 48th Brigade commemo-

it all again in 2010 when he returned rative roadmarch teams both

from Afghanistan as the spirit of the participated in celebratory

march reinforced camaraderie and a sense of undeniable pride in what they, as a team, had accomplished.
"When we started I thought `man?

parades Veteran's day in Savannah and Atlanta, respectively.

Command Changes
877th Engineer Company Change of Command, Dec. 6, 2008

Photo by John Carrington/courtesy of Savannah Morning News
Specialist Timothy Grantham is greeted with hugs and kisses from young ladies watching the Veterans Day parade on Broughton St. Grantham was among the Georgia Army National Guard soldiers
who marched 48 miles from Ft. Stewart to the armory on Eisenhower Dr. to commemorate Veterans Day. He and his fellow soldiers completed their road march in the parade.

Outgoing Commander: 1st Lt. Hubert Thompson

Incoming Commander: 1st Lt. Rick Morris
248th Medical Company Change of Command, Dec. 14, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Maj. John Strain Incoming Commander: Capt. Otis Coles
Joint Task Force 781st CERF-P, Headquarters and Headquarters Det. Change of Command, Dec. 7, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Capt. Henry McCloud

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.

Incoming Commander: Capt. Michael Bell

Commander-In-Chief Gov. Sonny Perdue

138th Chemical Company Change of Command, Dec. 7, 2008 Outgoing Commander: Maj. Lawrence Goss Incoming Commander: 1st Lt. Ryan Gavant 1st Battalion, 122nd Military Intellegence Change of Command, Dec. 6, 2008

Adjutant General of Georgia Maj. Gen. Terry Nesbitt
Publisher Lt. Col. Kenneth R. Baldowski

Outgoing Commander: Lt. Col. Cyro D. Harrison Incoming Commander: Lt. Col. Diana S. Meador

Historian/Editor Dr. Beryl Diamond

170th Military Police Company Change of Responsibility, Dec. 7, 2008 Outgoing Command Sergeant Major: Command Sgt. Maj. Tony Willis Incoming Command Sergeant Major: Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Jones

Managing Editor Amanda Kenny
Assistant Editor Sergeant 1st Class Roy Henry

Garrison Training Center Command Change of Responsibility, Dec. 6, 2008 Outgoing Command Sergeant Major: Command Sgt. Maj. James Dennis Incoming Command Sergeant Major: Command Sgt. Maj. Bruce Thomasson
Don't see your unit's change of command? Email Amanda Kenny at amanda.kenny@ ga.ngb.army.mil or Sgt. 1st Class Roy Henry at roy.henry@ga.ngb.army.mil

National Guard Correspondents 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Unit Public Affairs Officers and Representatives
Georgia Air National Guard Public Affairs Representatives
Send comments, suggestions, articles, photo or contributions to:
The First Friday doc@ga.ngb.army.mil

The First Friday Briefing 17