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By Capt. John T. Stamm, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Marksmen from the Kentucky Air National Guard's 123rd Airlift Wing took top honors in the Adjutant General's Kentucky National Guard State Combat Training Event, held May 1, 2011, at Fort Knox, Ky. Pictured from left to right, back row, are Master Sgt. Norm Rechel, Tech. Sgt. Bryan Hunt, Tech Sgt. Erik Smith, and Tech. Sgt. Don Yeats. On the front row are Airman 1st Class Abe Hilbers, Master Sgt. Darryl Loafman, Tech. Sgt. Randy Ford and Staff Sgt. Jim Berger. (Courtesy Photo)
FORT KNOX, Ky. — Several members of the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing won top honors at the Adjutant General’s Kentucky National Guard State Combat Training Event, held May 1 at Fort Knox, Ky.
The Kentucky National Guard Recruiting and Retention Office sponsors the annual combat matches to promote marksmanship by providing competition between units within the Commonwealth. The competition emphasizes improvement in individual shooting skills, team spirit, physical fitness and leadership qualities, said Master Sgt. Darryl Loafman, captain of the 123rd’s Team A.
This year, the shooting events were tough, but the competition was even tougher, he said.
“We went up against Army National Guard teams from across the Commonwealth, and they are all highly trained marksmen,” Loafman said. “To beat shooters of their caliber says a lot about the capabilities of our Airmen and what (the Kentucky Air National Guard) can bring to the fight.”
Rifle teams and individuals competed from the prone, standing, sitting, kneeling, squatting and alert positions from distances of 25, 100, 200, 300 and 400 yards with an M16A2, M4 Carbine or M16A4 rifle. Pistol competitors fired from the standing, standing barricade, kneeling and prone positions using an M9 or M11 semi-automatic.
Individual participants were divided into two classes – Old and New. Competitors were considered “old” if they had previously fired at a Post-Level competition in any state; shooters were considered “new” if they hadn’t. Teams had to be comprised of at least 50 percent new shooters. Moreover, all participants had to wear load-carrying equipment during the competition, including a pistol belt, harness, first aid pouch and packet, one canteen with cover and cup, at least two ammunition pouches and a Kevlar helmet.
“We wore gear we would normally wear in a real combat environment,” Loafman said. “This wasn’t just a competition; it was training to prepare Soldiers and Airmen for surviving and winning in a firefight.”
Individual pistol competition winners from the 123rd were Tech. Sgt. Bryan Hunt (1st place pistol, old class), Loafman (2nd place pistol, old class) and Tech. Sgt. Erik Smith (1st place, new class). Loafman, Hunt and Smith also teamed up with Staff Sgt. Randy Ford to claim 1st place in the team event.
While the rifle competitors from the 123rd didn’t occupy top slots individually, they did capture the 1st- and 2nd-place team titles. Team A took top honors and was comprised of Loafman, Hunt, Smith and Ford; Team B won second place with Master Sgt. Norman Rechel, Tech. Sgt. Jim Berger, Tech. Sgt. Don Yeats and Airman 1st class Abram Hilbers. The two teams also took the 1st- and 3rd-place Overall titles, respectively.
Additionally, Loafman was awarded the 3rd place Overall Individual title, and Rifle Team B was awarded the First Annual Lt. Ephraim M. Branks Award. Lieutenant Branks, a Greenville, Ky. native, is historically referred to as the “Kentucky Long Rifleman.” He earned hero status during the War of 1812 for his actions against British Forces at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815.
Story and photo by Sgt. Bryan Ploughe, 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery UPAHR
Members of HHB 1/623d FA performing a color guard detail at the opening ceremony of Vet Jam, located in Barren County, Ky. This event has been held for five years and the Kentucky Guard has been a participant since its beginning. (Kentucky Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Bryan Ploughe, 1/623rd FA UPAHR)
NOTE: Each Wednesday kentuckyguard.com publishes stories by Kentucky National Guard unit public affairs historian representatives, also known as UPAHRs. This is an additional duty taken on by a Soldier or Airmen with the intent of telling their unit’s story. This is one such story ….
Glasgow, Ky (June 11, 2011) – This year’s Vet Jam held in Glasgow marked five years of an outdoor music festival recognizing and celebrating some of the area’s unsung heroes: the American war veteran.
This year’s event featured performances from 10 local bands ranging from bluegrass to hard rock, and catered to hundreds of supporters. Members of the Kentucky National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery – based in Glasgow – took to the field and conducted a color guard detail as the national anthem was performed. The Soldiers also provided a 21-gun salute in honor of the war heroes.
Ernie Wagoner hosted the celebration on his farm. He expressed emotion in talking about the Kentucky Guard troops attending the event.
“The 623d is near and dear to me, as well as this community,” Wagoner said. “It is just a natural fit to have them here today, and they know we are here for them. They have been here and helped out since the conception of this event, and they are deeply appreciated for all that they do and we hope they are able to continue to do so in the future.”
First time attendee, Staff Sgt. Patrick Raby, Headquarters Battery, 1/623rd, was impressed by the celebration.
“This event is unbelievable,” he said. “I was not sure what to expect upon arrival today, and the sight of all of these veterans, that include World War II, Korea, Viet Nam, Gulf War and others is very humbling.”
“The wealth of knowledge and experience that is concentrated here is priceless,” he added. “More communities need to arrange an event of this caliber to recognize and show appreciation for what they have today.”
Proceeds from Vet Jam go to support local veterans organizations.
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Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
View more photos click here
Cindy Culver, Kentucky National Guard Youth Services coordinator, and Megan Adkins, 11th grader at Anderson County High School and daughter of Sgt. 1st Class Dale Adkins, collect pens and notebooks for the Operation Enduring Freedom school project at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 28, 2011) – Kentucky National Guard Youth Services collected donations for the Operation Enduring Freedom school supply project at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky., June 14.
As BNGC staff and employees drove into work, they handed off their donations at the front gate. KYNG youth delegates collected more than $300 worth of school supplies and they also collected more than $1,000 in cash.
“It’s a win-win situation for our kids,” said Capt. Bryan Combs, Family Programs director. “ It’s very important for them to understand their blessings and the wealth we have in our nation and also engage them in a community service project.”
“It feels great to help out the Afghan youth that don’t have the basic school supplies,” said Megan Adkins, 11th grader at Anderson County High School and daughter of Sgt. 1stClass Dale Adkins.
Rebecca Robbins, Kentucky National Guard Health Services Line of Duty manager, hands off school supplies to Kimberly Adkins, daughter of Kentucky Guardsman Sgt. 1st Class Dale Adkins, and Abby Coyle, daughter Kimberly Coyle of the Kentucky Guard Yellow Ribbon Program.
The school supplies will be sent to Col. Neil Mullaney, Agribusiness Development Team 3 commander, who will distribute these supplies to children of small Afghanistan villages that are learning basic English.
“You are always going to get 100 percent support from the Kentucky National Guard no matter what the mission is,” said Cindy Culver, Youth Services coordinator. “And we saw that this morning!”
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Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
Renae Lawson, Gail Peyton and Alice Childs of the United States Property and Fiscal Office for Kentucky, show off the Col. Wayne A. Pratt Distinguished State Award.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 27, 2011) – The sign outside the United States Property and Fiscal Office for Kentucky reads “Total Quality Support.” USPFO showed their quality support by recently receiving the Col. Wayne A. Pratt Distinguished State award nominated by the National Guard American Society of Military Comptrollers.
United States Property and Fiscal Office Kentucky displays the Col. Wayne A. Pratt Distinguished State Award at their office in Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky.
“We try our best to support our Soldiers and we figure out away to provide for them so that they can accomplish the mission,” said Lt. Col. Brian DeMers, USPFO Kentucky deputy.
The Col. Wayne A. Pratt Distinguished State award is in honor of the late Col. Pratt, Alabama USPFO, for his legacy of support, leadership and contributions to the Army National Guard and to the ASMC NG Chapter.
Along with the distinguished state award, USPFO for Kentucky also collected eight more ASMC awards within the last two years. Among those awards was the Financial Manager of the Year given to Gail Peyton, USPFO financial manager.
Lt. Col. Brian DeMers, United States Property of Fiscal Office Kentucky deputy, reviews paper work at his office on Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky.
“We encourage all of our comptrollers and USPFO staff to be certified as a defense financial manager,” said Peyton. “We are the leading state with 12 certified personal which helps us manage our dollars better.”
USPFO Kentucky made significant contributions to the improvement within the financial fields of comptrollership. Their commitment and success has led them to teach classes for other state comptrollers.
“If Soldiers have an idea about accomplishing their mission and not sure how to do it, ask us. We are here to support them and steer them down the right path,” said DeMers.
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Ceremonies honor fallen Guardsmen each June
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Story and photos by: Staff Sgt. Fredrick Varney, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Brig. Gen. Mark R. Kraus, assistant adjutant general for the Kentucky National Guard places a wreath on Sgt. Ryan J. Montgomery's memorial June 5 during the 2011 We Will Not Forget ceremony. Montgomery died July 3, 2005, when his vehicle encountered an IED while on patrol near Baghdad, Iraq.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 24, 2011) — Once a year Kentucky National Guard Soldiers and Airmen come together to pay tribute to those individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terror.
The We Will Not Forget Ceremony conducted June 4-5 at various cemeteries and memorial sites across the Commonwealth and the nation represents the Kentucky Guard’s ongoing commitment to the Families of our fallen heroes.
“It’s an honor to represent the Kentucky Guard here today,” said Spc. Russell W. Woosley, motor transport operator for the 2113th Transportation Company based in Paducah, Ky.
Assigned to driving government supply agency vehicles for the command staff, Woosely transported Brig. Gen. Mark R. Kraus, Assistant Adjutant General for the Kentucky Air National Guard and his official party to and from the memorial sites.
“Soldiers from the 2113th Transportation Company are here to support both the needs of the Guard and Families of our fallen,” said Woosley.
Maj. General Edward W. Tonini, the state adjutant general, joined with other command staff members in visiting the grave sites of 20 Kentucky Guardsmen buried in Kentucky, Arlington National Cemetery and North Carolina.
Master Sgt. Robert B. Hughes, operations sergeant for the 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery , and State Chaplain Col. David E. Graetz participate in the We Will Not Forget ceremony in honor of Staff Sgt. Delmar White June 5. White died Sept. 2, 2007, when his vehicle encountered an IED while on a convoy escort mission in Baghdad, Iraq.
Sgt. Michael R. Cepeda, heavy machine gunner for Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion 138th Field Artillery based in Carlisle, Ky., attended the ceremony honoring Staff Sgt. Delmar White. White was killed Sept. 2, 2007, when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device while on a convoy escort mission in Baghdad, Iraq.
A sergeant-at-arms with the Blue Knights motorcycle organization, Cepeda rode his motorcycle more than 90 miles from Grayson, Ky., to Camp Nelson National Cemetery in Nicholasville, Ky., in support of friends and Family members of White.
“The Kentucky Guard does an excellent job of keeping its promise year after year by remembering our fallen Soldiers,” said Cepeda.
“I am extremely proud of all the Soldiers who work diligently behind the scenes to make all of this happen.”
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Staff report
The newest Kentucky Colonels at Boone National Guard Center. Tim Johnson, Derrick Howard, Ginger Starrett, and Edward Monheimer display their certificates. Behind them are Mike Adcock, Steve Bullard, Joe Wilkins and Larry McCord. (Photo by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office)
Click here for more photos on this story.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 23, 2011) — Members of the Boone National Guard security team were honored for their work during the recent Build-A-Bed charity event held here last month.
Volunteers from UPS gather materials to construct a bed during the Third Annual Build-A-Bed event at Kentucky's Boone National Guard Center. Approximately 400 volunteers came out to Boone National Guard Center Saturday, May 14, to build 100 beds for children in Kentucky's Franklin, Fayette, Woodford and Jessamine counties during the Third Annual Build-A-Bed event hosted by SUCCESS Corp, a program of Kentucky Americorps (photo courtesy of the Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office).
Tim Johnson, Ginger Starrett, Derrick Howard and Edward Monheimer were presented Kentucky Colonel certificates in a ceremony presided over by Steve Bullard, Division Director of the Office of Management and Administration for the Department of Military Affairs.
“We wanted to thank our our security force for the great job they did during the Build-A-Bed,” said Bullard, who helped organize the event. “It was a great experience and a great opportunity to get the public here on Boone Center and support a worthwhile cause. We can’t that without the support of our security team. They did a terrific job and made sure everything went smoothly.”
Larry McCord, Boone Center Chief of Security, said the recognition is well deserved.
“These folks work around the clock, 24/7, year round to keep this facility safe and secure,” said McCord. “This is the second year in a row that we’ve done this. Any time you bring a large number of people on post there are challenges, but our team can handle it.”
Participating in the ceremony were Facilities Director Joe Wilkins and Mike Adcock, Facilities Assistant Director.
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Staff report
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 22, 2011) – It’s that time of year again! The kids are out of school and family vacations are on the horizon. Even the hot humidity is a welcome change from the cold and rain of winter and spring. All may seem right with the world, though countless hazards accompany the sun filled days of summer. Being aware and prepared can be the difference between unnecessary injuries or death. The G1 State Safety Office reminds Kentucky Guardsmen and their families that safety at home starts with making wise decisions and advocating prudent behaviors.
Two year old Lincoln Witt, son of 2nd Lt. Joshua Witt, enjoys an afternoon swim with constant adult supervision and a child life jacket. (Photo by Julie Witt)
“In the last nine months, five Soldiers have died in drowning related accidents,” said 2nd Lt. Joshua Witt, State Safety and Occupational Health Manager. “This number compares with three deaths in the same time period last year.”
According to Witt, trends suggest that other non-duty accidents are increasing.
“A proactive approach is required to prevent accidents from recreational activities,” he said. “The beautiful long days of summer allow plenty of time for Guardsmen and their family to choose safety. Make the right choice and avoid unnecessary risks!”
Water Safety
* Keep an eye on children at all times! Encourage the use of approved life jackets and swim aids for inexperienced swimmers.
*Watch for fatigued swimmers. Require regular rest breaks. Remember to ensure adequate hydration.
*Don’t mix alcohol and swimming. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination. It affects your swimming and diving skills.
Stay hydrated! Summer safety rules should apply to all of your family members, even the four-legged ones. (Kentucky National Guard file photo)
* Swim in supervised areas only.
* Obey all rules and posted signs.
* Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.
*Know the signs of drowning. Especially keep watch for young or inexperienced swimmers.
On the Road
* Buckle up and use proper child restraints.
* Pay attention… more vehicles will be on the road.
* Be aware of motorcyclists and allow extra space.
* Drive at safe speeds and follow posted speed limits. Allow enough travel time to avoid the urge to speed.
Whether you're hitting the road on your motorcycle or jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, your safety gear should be your number one concern. (Kentucky National Guard file photo)
* Use a designated driver if you plan on drinking - plan for a safe and sober ride.
* Drive well-rested. Be patient. The roads may be congested with fellow travelers or construction.
Sun Safety
* Avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day.
* Apply sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30. Give special attention to the face, nose, ears and shoulders where burning can be severe.
* Wear a hat and sunglasses with UV (ultraviolet) protection.
* Drink plenty of water and non-carbonated drinks… even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Grilling Safety
* Always read the use and care manual before operating your grill.
* Never leave the grill unattended when in use.
* Preheat grill to no higher than medium-high. Grill temperature should be 400 to 450°F - high heat can cause dangerous flare-ups.
* To avoid flare-ups you should drain off excess marinade or oil before putting food on the grill.
* If flare-ups do occur, move food to a cooler spot on the grill or temporarily. Cut off the air supply and close the lid or shut the air vents.
Fireworks Safety
* Never allow young children to light fireworks or get too close.
* Remember to properly dispose of spent fireworks – allow them to cool first.
* Always maintain a safe distance from structures or flammable sources.
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Story Staff Sgt. Stephen Baker, 202nd Army Band UPAHR
The Kentucky National Guard's 202nd Army Band performs at the Great American Brass Festival in Danville, Ky., June 11. (photo by Retired 1st Sgt. Ron Baker, 202nd Army Band)
NOTE: Each Wednesday kentuckyguard.com publishes stories by Kentucky National Guard unit public affairs historian representatives, also known as UPAHRs. This is an additional duty taken on by a Soldier or Airmen with the intent of telling their unit’s story. This is one such story ….
DANVILLE, Ky. (June 22, 2011) — The Kentucky Army National Guard’s 202nd Army Band performed at the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, Ky., June 11. The band has been an annual participant in this spectacular event since 1996.
“We always look forward to this event and we receive great support from the Danville community and Center College,” said Sgt. Russell Moody, 202nd Army Band percussionist. “Playing the brass band festival is always a great gig and opportunity to showcase the talents of the 202nd Army Band, and to also see the talents of other musical groups and musicians.”
The band played a variety of musical genres including Broadway, big band, military and patriotic selections during its performance.
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Bravo Co, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry before departing Somerset for Operation New Dawn. (Photo by Erica Heath, sister to Pfc. Chris Foster)
Click here for more photos on this story.
SOMERSET, Ky. (June 14, 2011) — Citizens and first responders from Somerset and Pulaski County honored the Soldiers of Bravo Co., 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry when they departed for Operation New Dawn on June 4.
Follow their journey in a remarkable photo essay courtesy of the Bravo Co. Family Readiness Group. Aerial photography was provided by David Gross and supported by the Pulaski County Sheriff’s office. All other photos are courtesy Kathy Hall, Bravo Co., 1-149th Infantry Family Readiness Group.
