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By Staff Sgt. Christopher Barton, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry
Col. Bryan Howay, commander of the 75th Troop Command passes the colors of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry to Lt. Col. Thomas Black during a change of command ceremony in Barbourville, Ky., Oct. 3, 2015. Black took charge from Lt. Col. Joseph Lear who led the battalion since 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Barton)
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. — Lt. Col. Thomas Black took charge of of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry during a change of command ceremony in Barbourville, Oct. 3. Black succeeded Lt. Col. Joseph Lear who has led the battalion since 2013.
Brig. Gen. Charles Jones, Kentucky’s deputy adjutant general, joined friends, family members and Soldiers of the battalion in welcoming Black and congratulating Lear on a successful run as the unit commander. In addition, five former battalion commanders and one former command sergeant major of the unit were in attendance, a testament to the legacy of the Mountain Warriors within the Kentucky Guard and the commonwealth.
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Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Roberge presents Lt. COl. Joseph Lear with a framed collection of the guidons of the 1st Battalion,, 149th Infantry during a change of command ceremony in Barbourville, Ky., Oct. 3, 2015. Lear commanded the unit since 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Barton)
“Being here in this moment at this place is nothing short of surreal,” said Black. “I couldn’t help but be reminded of the leadership over the past 3 decades that I have been blessed with, the history I have shared with this battalion, and the heritage that at this very moment I am inheriting.”
Black has served in the Kentucky Guard for more than 30 years, most recently as the operations and planning officer for the 75th Troop Command. As a traditional Guardsman, Black owns and operates a real estate firm in Southern Kentucky.
Lear, who called the chance to lead the battalion the best job he’s ever had, will move to the 75th TC as an operations officer. Black said the battalion has a legacy of great leadership and the last two years were indicative of the same under Lear.
“This battalion is the best combat arms battalion in the Army National Guard. It will remain that way and continue to lead the way. We will emphasize our efforts on near term challenges, constantly evaluating who we are, where we are with respect of who we want to be and where we want to be in respect to long term goals.”
Col. Bryan Howay, commander of the 75th TC called Black a very diverse leader, considering his roles as a Soldier, the father of a Soldier and a local businessman, “there’s nothing he can’t relate to.”
“My most honorable character is being a Dad, my 2nd most honorable character is being a Untied States Army Infantry officer proudly serving in the Kentucky Guard,” said Black. “And now my most honored position while wearing this uniform is commander of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry.”
Lt. Col. Joseph Lear presents Sgt. Daniel White with the Soldier’s Medal in Barbourville, Ky., Oct. 3, 2015. White received the award for his actions in saving a motorist’s life in an automobile accident in Frankfort, Ky., in 2014. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Barton)
In addition to the change of command, the Mountain Warriors also celebrated one of their own with a prestigious honor. Sgt. Daniel White was presented the Soldier’s medal for his actions in helping to save the life of a motorist involved in a fiery automobile accident in January of 2014.
“This means a lot to me, to be recognized for the award,” said White. “It’s not the recognition that any of us were looking for though, the main priority was that Mr. Burdett was out of harm’s way and we did everything that we could do for him. We were lucky enough to be in the right place to put our training in effect and do what anybody in that situation would have done.”
Kentucky infantrymen conduct largest air assault exercise in six years
By Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Spc. Robert Satterfield with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry exits a landing zone during an air assault exercise at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center in Butlerville, Ind., July 26, 2015. Three companies of infantrymen participated in one of the largest training exercises for the battalion in six years. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
BUTLERVILLE, Ind. — In terms of basic Soldier skills, the infantry is arguably the hardest training unit in the Kentucky Guard. But it’s not everyday Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry get to put all that training into a full-spectrum exercise. As a culminating event to this year’s two-week annual training for the unit, the Mountain Warriors conducted a multi-day air assault mission at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center near Butlerville, Ind., July 24-27.
“Stuff like this is phenomenal, it’s great training,” said Spc. David Woodford with Alpha Company, 1/149th. “This kind of training will keep me in uniform.”
Soldiers with Alpha and Bravo Co., 1/149th loaded their gear and flew by UH-60 Blackhawks to the landing zone at Muscatatuck, compliments of the U.S. Army Reserves’ 11th Theater Aviation Command out of Fort Knox, Ky. Each Soldier carried their weapon and everything they needed for the three-day mission on their backs. Many of the Guardsmen flew on their first helicopter ride. And at the end of it, they had to get themselves, their gear and their fellow Soldiers out of the aircraft as quickly and as organized as possible.
Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry conduct an air assault exercise at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center in Butlerville, Ind., July 26, 2015. Aviators from the 11th Theater Aviation Command at Fort Knox, Ky., provided eight UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters to transport the infantrymen to the training site. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
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From the landing zone, the 1/149th was tasked with assaulting and securing a building complex occupied by members of Charlie Company, simulating an opposition forces. The three companies of infantrymen then had to hold their position and establish relations with locals.
In advance of the air assault, a small platoon of scouts paved the way for the main body attack. For those scouts, the mission was a couple days longer as they infiltrated the area two days prior to the battalion’s arrival. They were the eyes and ears of the attack. A job they said they wouldn’t trade for any other in the battalion.
“This is as high as you can get as far as training value,” said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Combs with Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 1/149th. “No one here would want any other job during this training. When this mission is all said and done, only good stories will come out of it.”
From boarding and egressing a helicopter, moving as a fire team and even kicking in doors, the Mountain Warriors checked off a number of mission essential tasks they must train for each year. Lt. Col. Joseph Lear, commander of the 1/149th said the AT provided an excellent chance for each section of the battalion to not only train, but to put their job specialities to the test.
Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry stack on a wall during a training exercise at the Muscatatuck Urban training Center in Butlerville, Ind., July 26, 2015. The unit conducted an air assault mission to seize a building complex and hold their position against a simulated enemy force. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“Conducting an air assault is one of our primary tasks,” said Lear. “This enabled us to do something we haven’t done since 2009 as a battalion. It’s a tremendous training multiplier for us, to be able to do that kind of mission at that scale, we are grateful to have the opportunity.”
Members of Delta Company provided the ground assault and convoyed by Humvees to the site. In reserve was the 1149th Forward Support Company, whose job is to ensure the infantry can do their job. Chief Warrant Officer Melissa Propes with the 1149th said the annual training was also an invaluable training opportunity for her Soldiers as well.
“I love seeing these Soldiers get experience in what they do, and they got to do that here. Not only did they get good training, it made a difference to the infantry. And that is absolutely what the 1149th FSC is supposed to do,” she said. “Everybody from the infantryman to the mess section, to distro to maintenance, everybody has an essential piece of the puzzle, or they wouldn’t be here. And we’re just happy to contribute.”
Leading up to the assault mission, Soldiers of the unit trained in a variety of squad and platoon-sized drills at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, to hone their skills and prepare for the final mission.
Pvt. Scottie Pace is a cook with the 1149th FSC and attended his first annual training.
“When I first enlisted, I had no idea what to expect on an AT,” he said. “Now, I feel like knowing that I can do my job and help the unit is a great thing to prepare me for future training and makes me a better Soldier.”
Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry advance across a road during a training exercise at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center in Butlerville, Ind., July 26, 2015. The exercise was the culminating event of the unit’s two-week annual training period. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
More than 550 Soldiers of the battalion were on hand for the training period. Platoon leaders and company commanders agreed their Soldiers greatly benefitted from the unique training and the boost in morale.
“There’s nothing like training in the field,” said Spc. Joseph Hill from Alpha Co. “You’re really able to do your job and refresh your skills. It’s hard to find a bad part of this AT.”
Battalion leadership were pleased with the effort put forth by their Soldiers and the chance to put them in the field and participants and witnesses to the unique energy of the infantry.
“This type of training is also why people enlist,” said Lear. “They don’t join to stand a drill hall and get briefs. These troops will talk about this air assault for years.”
“That’s how this type of training leads to retention, which leads to strength, which leads to funding, which leads to more quality training. That’s the impact this has on this battalion.”
Story by Capt. Ryan Hubbs, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry
Soldiers from Bravo Company 1-149th Infantry participated in one of the largest regional, multi-agency exercise in the history of the Kentucky Guard at Camp Sherman, Ohio, June 16-18, 2015. Acting as the Quick Reaction Force for a Special Focus Event known as Operation Guard Shield, members of Bravo Co. quickly assembled at their home station, loaded their equipment, and deployed to the exercise site in less than 7 hours. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ryan Hubbs)
Camp Sherman, Ohio — “GAS, GAS, GAS!” What would you do if you had to respond to a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, or Nuclear (CBRN) threat? For members of Bravo Company 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry, they were about to find out…
With the focus of the National Guard’s efforts over the last 14 years, centered on the War on Terror, it is important as Soldiers in the National Guard to be able to respond domestic events as well.
Soldiers from Bravo Co. participated in one of the largest regional, multi-agency exercise in the history of the Kentucky Guard June 16-18. Acting as the Quick Reaction Force for a Special Focus Event known as Operation Guardian Shield, the infantrymen quickly assembled at their home station, loaded their equipment, and deployed to the exercise site in less than 7 hours.
Soldiers from Bravo Company 1-149th Infantry escort a simulated casualty during a training exercise at Camp Sherman, Ohio, June 17, 2015. Acting as the Quick Reaction Force for Operation Guard Shield, members of Bravo Co. quickly assembled at their home station, loaded their equipment, and deployed to the exercise site in less than 7 hours. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ryan Hubbs)
In conducting this full scale exercise event, the 40 participants flew from London, Kentucky to Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio in a C-130 provided by the Ohio National Guard. The soldiers then conducted a quick Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration (JRSOI) briefing describing the situation on the ground. From there the Bravo Co. participants loaded up onto four UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters and departed for Camp Sherman, Ohio were they would begin their exercise.
The scene at the incident site was a train derailment caused by a domestic terrorist organization (for exercise purposes only). The train was carrying hazardous materials which were in theory released into the air. Bravo Co.’s job worked with the incident manger, local law enforcement, local fire departments, and the CBRN Enhanced Response Force (CERF) to provide security to the site, help evacuate casualties, and prevent decontaminated personnel from entering into the contaminated zone and vice versa.
Staff Sgt. David Olszewski, Platoon Sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Bravo Co. discussed the benefits of training for the mission prior to executing. “Luckily, we have trained with our protective masks so it was not a complete shock to the system; however, it was still difficult to communicate while wearing them. Having trained with masks previously allowed us as Soldiers to not only have confidence in our equipment, but also provided us the stress inoculation necessary to remain calm and collected while wearing the mask.”
Rubble and debris from the derailment site could be seen everywhere. Role players were hired to act as casualties, on lookers, family members searching for loved ones, and members of the media to make the scenario more realistic.
Soldiers from Bravo Company 1-149th Infantry man a tactical control point during a training exercise at Camp Sherman, Ohio, June 17, 2015. The exercise, Operation Guard Shield, brought National Guardsmen from at least eight states together with a variety of civilian organizations to respond to a simulated domestic incident. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ryan Hubbs)
Throughout the day Bravo Co. established and manned a tactical control point, provided litter assistance for casualties who had undergone the decontamination process, conducted a wide area search for survivors, and treated multiple simulated casualties for a variety of injuries all while wearing their protective gas masks and equipment.
With such a large-scale event involving a variety of organizations, interagency communication was difficult but vital to the exercise.
“The most challenging aspect of the operation was coordinating across multiple agencies including military, law enforcement, and emergency management,” explained Olszewski. “Agencies use different communication systems, pro-words, acronyms, and command structures so it can be a challenge to determine the most effective and efficient means of sending and receiving information.”
Along with Soldiers from the Kentucky Guard, Operation Guardian Shield included Soldiers and Airmen from Indiana, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Georgia, West Virginia, Ohio, and National Guard Bureau. Also, representatives and agents from the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FEMA, Civil Air Patrol, Red Cross, and Ohio Emergency Management were all on the scene. This made the need for coordinated communications extremely important.
At the conclusion of the exercise, all 40 Bravo Company participants loaded up onto to the UH-60s, returned to the air base, loaded onto a C-130 and returned to London where they officially ended their mission.
“We hope to continue to participate in high profile exercises such as this,” said Capt. Ryan Hubbs commander of Bravo Co. “This event allowed us to complete a full spectrum of mission essential tasks and practice our most important mission which is to protect the citizens of our nation. It was great to be able to shift the focus onto a domestic response event, and give us broader perspective of what our duties as members of the National Guard entails.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Spc. Timothy Smith with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry hands a case of water to Anne Cockley, a Red Cross volunteer at Green Hills Elementary School in Bledsoe, Ky., Feb. 24, 2015. The Soldiers assisted with water deliveries throughout Harlan County in response to a water shortage caused by a recent winter storm. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
HARLAN, Ky. — More than 100 Kentucky Guardsmen were activated this week to assist local communities following a devastating winter storm.
Snowfall totals in excess of two feet along with bitterly cold temperatures pushed counties in Eastern and Southern Kentucky to the brink. With 93 of Kentucky’s 120 counties declaring emergencies, Gov. Steve Beshear issued a state of emergency Feb. 16, opening the door for the Guard to assist.
Soldiers with the 201st Engineer Battalion helped clear more than 70 miles of roads in Lee County alone. Trucks from the 138th Field Artillery Brigade and 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade moved palletized water from Louisville to staging areas.
Spc. James Harmon with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry helps guide a pallet of water into a vehicle for distribution in Harlan, Ky., Feb. 24, 2015. The Guardsmen were able to supply distribution points across Harlan County to get the water closer to those in need. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
In Harlan County, Soldiers with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry transported pallets of water to distribution points throughout the county following water system failures.
“We have the equipment to do the job,” said Staff Sgt. Terry Brock with Alpha Co. “We’ve been delivering water, clearing roads, shoveling driveways, helping people get to doctors, just helping out wherever we can.”
Brock, who lives in Harlan County, even had to deliver water to his own family on one of the unit’s runs. “It was good to help them out and to be in a spot to help out the whole county of Harlan too.”
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Frozen lines and pump failures knocked out the water to an estimated 45,000 households in Eastern Kentucky. Together with the snow, the rural mountain communities were impacted much worse than other parts of the state.
Harlan County Judge Executive Dan Mosley said he has requested a lot of local and state resources throughout this process and finds it encouraging to find so many willing to help.
“The Guard has helped us out in a big way,” he said. “We would not have been able to set up so many distribution points if it wasn’t for the National Guard, the Red Cross and Operation UNITE. There would be a lot of people without water in their homes if it wasn’t for the Kentucky National Guard units doing what they’re doing here.”
Soldiers with the 201st Engineer Battalion work to remove snow from a road in Lee County, Ky., Feb. 19, 2015. The unit cleared more than 70 miles of snow following the winter storm that impacted much of Kentucky. (Photo courtesy of 201st Engineer Battalion)
According to Spc. James Harmon with Alpha Co., the unit was responsible for the delivery of more than 7,000 gallons of water. In coordination with the Red Cross, the Guardsmen supplied designated distribution points that were closer for citizens to pick up the water. Each run became similar to a wellness check as the Citizen-Soldiers recognized familiar faces and were able to judge the situation based upon the words of their own friends and locals they knew.
“I grew up here in Harlan, it’s a great community of people,” said Harmon. “I just helped deliver water to my old elementary school in Bledsoe. It’s why I enjoy being a part of the National Guard. We serve our Nation, but are also here to help our neighbors get back on their feet.”
Soldiers in the are also provided transportation assistance to emergency personnel, ensuring doctors, nurses and health care staff made it to work.
With more than 30 vehicles in use across the Commonwealth, the Guardsmen are expected to continue each mission through the week.
Check out some video of the Harlan County response mission below:
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley speaks with Soldiers of the 103rd Chemical Battalion during a training exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind., June 18, 2014. As the state command sergeant major, Chumley said it is his job to get out to see the troops and check on their well-being. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Adam Rients)
CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. — Kentucky Guardsmen went about their usual routines during annual training periods this spring and summer in a variety of places. Soldiers and units use this time to ensure they are up to the task of doing their specific job.
For State Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley, it is also an opportunity to ensure those Soldiers are doing the right thing and are being taken care of by the Kentucky National Guard.
“Visiting Soldiers during annual training and any other training event gives me the opportunity to talk to and observe Soldiers at their best and address any issue they may have,” he said. “It is also to let them know the senior leadership is proud of what they are doing, and appreciate the sacrifices they and their families make.”
State Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley coins Spc. Hoskins with the 1149th Forward Support Company at Camp Atterbury, Ind., July 16, 2014. Chumley asked units to point out Soldiers that were excelling within their units for recognition. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Chumley said there were times in the past that Soldiers never saw their command sergeant major or even knew who he or she was. He refuse to go back to that time, because put simply, it’s his job. As the Kentucky Army Guard’s top enlisted advisor to the adjutant general, that job is an important one for the nearly 6,000 enlisted Soldiers serving in the commonwealth.
“I am their eyes and ears in Frankfort, I represent them to the leadership of this organization, and I cannot do it without getting out here and talking to them.”
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Annual training periods provide the ideal chance for command visits and Chumley visits as many as the schedule allows. From Kentucky’s Wendell H. Ford Regional Training Center to Camp Atterbury, the 42-year military Veteran is out asking what the Soldiers think of the food, if they are up to date on their training requirements and if they take advantage of the benefits available to them. He said it is his chance to find ways to improve the Kentucky Army National Guard.
The visits are well received as Soldiers gather to visit with Chumley, meet a member of the command staff and share their feelings about training and the Kentucky Guard..
“I think its great that the sergeant major comes out to see us, check on us and show that he cares,” said Pfc. Lawless with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry. “It tells us leadership just doesn’t sit at a desk somewhere, they come out here and learn from us like we’re supposed to learn from them. It shows good leadership and I appreciate that.”
Chumley often asks how many of the Soldiers would consider giving more than 40 years to their country. Not that he expects very many to raise their hands, he knows he’s talking to a future command sergeant major and the future of the Kentucky Guard.
State Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley speaks to Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry during annual training at Camp Atterbury, Ind., July 16, 2014. During his visit, Chumley spoke to as many Soldiers as possible to thank them for their dedication and hard work. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“One of the things I like most about coming out here is that I get to tell them how proud I am of them and thank them for what they do. Every time I get around these young Soldiers it reenergizes me and reminds me that I am here for them, and because of them.”
Staff Report with contributions from Capt. Ryan Hubbs
Capt. Ryan Hubbs prepares to begin a practice road march at Fort Benning, Ga., in preparation for the 2014 Best Ranger Competition. (Courtesy photo)
FORT BENNING, Ga. — As the weeks dwindle down to the 2014 Best Ranger Competition, training and preparation only intensify for the participants. Capt. Ryan Hubbs, a Kentucky Guardsman from the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry keeps his eyes on the prize of raising his own Colt pistol in the air if he is named the Best Ranger.
Hubbs, along with other competitors are currently at Fort Benning, Ga., making the most of each day they have preparing for the April event.
“It is important to understand that just being the most physically fit will not guarantee victory, it will only separate you into the next tier. Practicing, strategizing, and rehearsing your techniques are what will separate those competitors at the top.”
“No time is wasted here. Even in our hotel rooms at night we practice rigging our ruck sacks for airborne operations, studying Ranger History, and tying knots for time. The rest of our down time is spent recovering, doing stretches, foam rolling out the knots in our legs, and taking ice baths, followed by Epsom salt baths.”
Capt. Ryan Hubbs rappels down from a 60 feet high tower at Fort Benning, Ga., during practice for the 2014 Best Ranger Competition. (Courtesy photo)
Hubbs said the competitors are training 10-14 hours per day, dedicating themselves to the event. He estimates that they run and average of 20-30 miles per week, 4000-5000 meters in the pool and more than 20 miles on road marches. And the mileage only increases each week.
“Each competitor down here is extremely competitive. Everything we do is timed and measured and no one wants a loose a single event. It is a very interesting environment where everyone is extremely encouraging and helpful to each other until it is time to compete and then we all try our best to crush our competition.”
Soldiers from active-duty Ranger units and Special Operations Command teams also compete in the prestigious event. Fo several years, members of the National Guard have competed and have finished well, but Hubbs believes that more Guardsmen will finish strong this year.
“I suspect by the start of Best Ranger the National Guard will have the most physically fit and technically proficient Soldiers in the competition.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Soldiers of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry train with a Frankfort Police Department officer on the use of a riot shield in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 18, 2014. The department conducted a full day of civil disturbance training for the unit including several tactics and techniques of crowd control. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry have always taken pride in the variety of skills they hold as a resource in the Kentucky National Guard. From assisting local officials during natural disasters in the state or securing convoys in Iraq, the 1/149th has pretty much done it all. The leadership of the battalion said there’s always room for more.
Guardsmen of the 1/149th’s Charlie Company out of Ravenna, Ky., added crowd control to their skill set during civil disturbance training in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 18.
“As the military’s role keeps changing, we wonder how the infantry will remain a resource to Kentucky and how can it remain in the public’s eyes as a homeland security asset? This training is an answer to that,” said 1st Lt. Michael McFadden, executive officer with Charlie Co., who first proposed the idea last year after a chance meeting with local police officers.
To see more photos from this training, click here.
Spc. Dakota Sanborn with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry participates in the “Redman” exercise with the Frankfort POlice Department in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 18, 2014. The “Redman” provides the opportunity to demonstrate baton techniques as part of crowd control training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“As we transition from overseas deployments to operations at home, it’s important for us to establish partnerships with our communities and local organizations, such as the Frankfort Police Department,” he said. “This kind of training is invaluable for us and puts Charlie Company ahead of other units in value to the Guard and the state.”
Thanks to the cooperative efforts of the Frankfort Police, Charlie Co. was able to obtain helpful training needed to fulfill it’s current role as the Kentucky Guard’s Reaction Force. The role of a reaction force rotates among certain units in Kentucky every few years. The purpose is to have a trained and capable unit ready to assist local communities and augment local law enforcement agencies across the commonwealth in times of civil unrest.
McFadden believed training in crowd control would be a good fundamental his unit should learn. Frankfort Police Lt. Ken Hopkins totally agreed.
“This a win-win for us all,” said Hopkins. “We are tasked with (civil disturbance), they are tasked with it, it’s a hand in glove sort of thing, we just marry up the experts. I can tell you without a doubt that this department, the chief, the mayor, we are all huge supporters of the military. We have several officers who have served, including myself and we have Boone National Guard Center right here, so when the chance comes up to train with our military, we are all over the idea.”
Frankfort Police officers train Soldiers with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry in the proper techniques of using a riot shield in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 18, 2014. The collaboration between the department and the National Guard was said to be mutually beneficial in the training of both sides. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Hopkins, Frankfort’s Mobile Field Force Commander, orchestrated the training and selected members of his team to instruct the Soldiers on the necessary elements to contend with civil disturbances. Classes and demonstrations included the proper riot control formations, use of riot shields and batons and techniques for securing detainees. He said he was ecstatic to assist because he knew it was mutually beneficial.
While the roles of the military and local law enforcement are legally different according to the U.S. Constitution, Hopkins said its about the common goals and common training of those involved in assisting the public.
“Charlie Company has the training, our training, they are in the community just like we are, they are familiar with our tactics and our officers, so it makes perfect sense to call on them,” he said. “They have become a force-multiplier for us here in Frankfort.”
The full-day of instruction culminated with a large-scale exercise that night in Frankfort. The Soldiers were forced to put everything they had learned to work in order to quell a mock riot situation put on by the police officers and local volunteers.
The infantry Soldiers were also excited to change up the training schedule with a new block of instruction. While the night exercise and taser demonstrations were the highlights of the day, Charlie Co.’s Soldiers said they found each class helpful.
“The training was very in depth, it was intense and very interesting,” said Spc. Paul Samarin from Richmond, Ky. “We all found a new appreciation for the work that the police do and learned a lot of things we never knew they had to do.”
Soldiers of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry square off with officers from the Frankfort Police Department in a mock riot exercise in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 18, 2014. The exercise was the culminating event of a full day training for the Soldiers on crowd control conducted by the officers. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
The training was originally scheduled for October of 2013, but due to the government shutdown, the collaboration was put on hold. McFadden said the fact that the training was continued goes to show its importance.
“We are grateful that the Frankfort Police Department kept us on their schedule,” he said. “This is the kind of partnership we need and the unique training helps us as leaders keep our Soldiers involved and interested. If Frankfort calls, or if Kentucky calls, Charlie Company will be ready when needed in a new way.”
Story by 1st Lt. Joshua L. Witt, 1/149th Unit Public Affairs Representative
Capt. Ryan Hubbs with the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry was selected to participate in the 2014 Best Ranger Competition in April, 2014. (Photo courtesy of 1/149th Infantry)
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. — Only 50% of students that start Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia ever graduate the grueling three phase course. Of those that persevere to graduation, more than 37% have had to start over at least once before completing the training. Needless to say, becoming an Army Ranger is no cakewalk!
Capt. Ryan Hubbs, a Ranger qualified logistics officer with the Kentucky Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry recently proved his mettle even further. He is one of just 21 Soldiers from across the entire National Guard selected to compete in the 2014 Best Ranger Competition.
“These are the kinds of opportunities that I live for. I just can’t believe that the Army is actually going to pay me to do this,” said Hubbs. “I trained for months with the help of my friends, Maj. Snyder and Capt. Mendez, in order to make the National Guard Best Ranger Team and now I get to be on full time orders to train for just this.”
“Captain Hubbs exudes the relentless determination expected from all of our Mountain Warriors,” said Capt. Robert Andersen, operations officer for the 1/149th. “Having him represent us, and more importantly the Kentucky Army National Guard, is a privilege he has earned. There is no doubt in my mind that he will serve the Bluegrass with the utmost character, competence, and confidence.”
The Best Ranger Competition was started in 1982. Each year since, it has showcased some of the best military men in the world. With time and popularity, the competition has evolved over the past thirty years. While originally created to recognize the best two-man “buddy” team from within the Ranger Department at Fort Benning, the competition has become the preeminent determiner of the most outstanding two-man team across the entire United States Armed Forces.
Three Guardsmen from the 1/149th originally tried out for the upcoming competition.
“I looked at the Best Ranger Tryout as a team building event within the unit,” said Maj. Al Snyder, Executive Officer of the 1/149th. “My vision for the future is to have even more Rangers tryout next year from our Battalion.”
“We started seriously training about seven months prior to the event,” said Jason Mendez, also a Ranger and Training Officer for the First of the 149th Infantry Battalion. The most fun about the tryout was the train-up and adventure.”
During those seven months of preparation, Snyder, Hubbs, and Mendez spent countless hours training on their own time and getting to know one another. Teamwork is an essential quality within the Ranger ethos.
Of the three colleagues and friends, only Hubbs was selected to compete in the 2014 competition.
“Though I got hurt during the event, and didn’t make the team this year, I’m already starting to get ready for next year’s tryout,” said Snyder. “I felt very blessed to get the opportunity to get paid to do something I love to do, compete.”
Hubbs continues to train many hours each day as he prepares for the competition at Fort Benning this April. He will carry with him the support of his Infantry Battalion brethren, as well as the pride of the entire Kentucky National Guard. Having successfully run the training gauntlet to first become a Ranger, Hubbs has already shown his knowledge of how to “lead the way.”
Winning the 2014 Best Ranger Competition is the next goal in his sites as he continues to bring honor to the legacy of the Mountain Warriors of the 1/149th.
Said Hubbs of the training he’s getting ready to enter into, “No matter what happens, these next couple of months will probably be the best of my Army career. Each day I will be running, road marching, shooting, conducting airborne operations, doing land navigation, obstacle courses, and rappelling. These are essentially all of the things I signed up to do in the Army.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Michael Oliver, Bravo Co. 2/75th Recruiting & Retention
Allen Tross was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Kentucky National Guard on June 27, 2013. He will become a platoon leader for the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Oliver)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The Kentucky National Guard recently welcomed into their ranks a new infantry officer, Allen M. Tross, who graduated from Fort Benning Ga. Federal Officer Candidate School June 27.
Newly appointed 2nd Lt. Tross will be a platoon leader in Charlie Co. 1st Battalion 149th Infantry in Ravenna Ky.
“I always wanted to be a leader of men and I enjoy responsibility. I look for it,” he answered when asked why he wanted to be an infantry officer.
Tross chose to go through the federal OCS to ensure he had the opportunity to completely submerse himself in the course. He also said he admires his father in-law, retired infantry Col. John Dorsey Jr. who is inducted into the Federal OCS hall of fame.
Tross started his officer training at Bravo Company Recruiting Sustainment Program in Louisville, Ky. He also completed the nine weeks Basic Combat Training at Fort Benning, Ga. Upon completion of BCT, he was enrolled into the Federal Officer Candidate School. The OCS program is a rigorous 12 week course which consists of student leadership evaluation, academic examination, timed road marches, land navigation and physical fitness test.
Tross finished in the top percentage of his graduating class of 135 candidates.
“I constantly push myself to do better than the standard and expect my Soldiers to do the same,” he said. “The standard is the standard but why do the bare minimum when you can push yourself and become something greater.”
The day after he graduated from OCS, Tross married the love of his life, Casey, and they held their wedding ceremony at the Fort Benning Main Post Chapel. He knows plenty of what he learned and will learn as an Army officer will be applied to other areas of his life.
Officer Candidate Allen Tross and then fiance, Casey Dorsey attend a formal at the Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Ga. (Courtesy photo)
“I have learned that the most important component of any relationship, particularly marriage, is communication- something Casey and I work on every
day,” said Tross.
“We make sure that we both know what is going on so that we are not blindsided by anything. Not only that, we support each other. By having my
wife’s support, I can follow my goals in the Army. At the same time, I support her goal of wanting to become a lawyer. Through this support, we make sure that neither one of us loses sight of what we wish to accomplish in life. It is important for my wife to have my back and for me to have hers because marriage is difficult on its own, but a military marriage is a completely different challenge.”
Casey said it hasn’t taken her much time to realize how important her role is as a military spouse and the unparalleled support she will provide to him and their marriage.
“Allen is a natural leader, he always puts others wants and desires before his own and is always there to encourage and support,” she said. “He measures his success and happiness by the success and happiness of those around him. I admire him greatly for choosing this path in life, and will be right by his side every step of the way.”
The newest Kentucky National Guard infantry officer said he is excited about meeting his new infantry platoon and is ready lead from the front. Tross was asked what he will say to his platoon when he first meets them.
“I only expect you to put your best effort at everything we do. Meeting the standard is not enough, you have to exceed it. I will be right there with them exceeding those standards. I just want them to follow me.”
NOTE: As often as we can kentuckyguard.com publishes stories by or about 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 ….
Story and photos by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt, 1/149th Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry take up defensive positions during a training scenario at the Harold L. Disney Training Center in Artemus, Ky., July 23, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt)
ARTEMUS, Ky. — More than 500 Mountain Warrior Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry participated in annual training July 13-28 at the Disney Training Center in Artemus, Ky. Despite the heat index regularly cresting 100 degrees, the undaunted Infantry of the Kentucky National Guard diligently focused on achieving proficiency within their squads and sections. Emphasis this year was on collective tasks that support both their company and the battalion.
“It is imperative that we build capable squads before we transition to platoon training and potential deployments in the future,” said Capt. Jason Mendez, battalion training officer.
“We will continue to train and validate our maneuver squads and sections in a decisive action training environment that encompasses offensive, defensive, and stability operations,” said Maj. Joe Lear, acting battalion commander.
Soldiers of the 1/149th Infantry conduct a react to contact while mounted battle drill as part of their annual training at the Harold L. Disney Training Center in Artemus, Ky., July 23, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt)
To see more photos from the unit’s annual training, click here.
Annual training was completed with the successful validation of 18 rifle squads and six assault sections from Delta Company. By achieving this milestone the battalion will advance to platoon-level training in 2014.
During annual training infantry Soldiers conducted multi-echelon training and progressed through a crawl, walk, run methodology. Days and weeks of preparation culminated in a 96-hour continuous exercise. Each company was responsible for operating a training lane during annual training - react to conduct, knockout a bunker, and point ambush.
They planned and resourced the training while also certifying instructors. Key training events included squad and section validation through lanes training, tactical leader validation program, sustainment operations, staff decision making processes and communication exercises. The S2 section built a hybrid-threat training operational environment and controlled 24 oppositional force personnel during the final training events.
A Soldier with the 1/149th Infantry takes cover during a battle drill at the Harold L. Disney Training Center in Artemus, Ky., July 23, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt)
Soldiers and aircraft from Bravo Co. 2nd Battalion, 147th Aviation assisted the 1/149th Infantry with aviation support during the infantry’s annual training in Artemus, Ky., July 13-28, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt)
Soldiers of the 1/149th Infantry escort another Soldier posing as an enemy combatant during a scenario as part of the infantry’s annual training in Artemus, Ky., July 23, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Witt)
