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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
By Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs, with contributions by Kentucky State Police Public Affairs
The Kentucky State Police Academy presented diplomas to 45 new troopers at ceremonies held in Frankfort on Oct. 29. Among the new Troopers were three Kentucky Guardsmen. (Photo courtesy of Kentucky State Police)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky State Police Academy presented diplomas to 45 new troopers at ceremonies held in Frankfort, Oct.29. Their addition to the force brings the agency’s strength to a total of 880 troopers serving the citizens of the Commonwealth.
Of those 45 new troopers three are all too familiar with wearing a common uniform and standing for something bigger than themselves. They are also Kentucky National Guardsmen.
Staff Sgt. Jordan Carter with the 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery graduated from the Kentucky State Police Academy Oct. 29, 2015. (Photo courtesy of Kentucky State Police)
Staff Sgt. Jordan Carter with the 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery, 1st Lt. Jacobe Farmer with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry and Sgt. Michael Jacobs from the 2123rd Transportation Company each accepted a new role and responsibility to the commonwealth.
“The National Guard had taught me numerous skills and values that helped me as a soldier,” said Jacobs. “However, I wanted a new challenge with similar interests that would help me adapt to a civilian career that I would enjoy.”
“I always wanted to be a Trooper. I figured that joining the Guard would help me obtain that goal,” said Carter. “Plus I like helping people so it provided a great opportunity.”
The new troopers are part of the agency’s 93rd cadet class. They reported for duty on May 24, 2015 in a class that consisted of 70 cadets.
The training included more than 1,000 hours of classroom and field study in subjects such as constitutional law, juvenile and traffic law, use of force, weapons training, defensive tactics, first aid, high speed vehicle pursuit, criminal investigation, computer literacy, hostage negotiations, evidence collection, radio procedures, search and seizure, crash investigation, drug identification, traffic control, crowd control, armed robbery response, land navigation, electronic crimes, sex crimes, hate crimes, domestic violence, bomb threats and hazardous materials.
1st Lt. Jacobe Farmer with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry graduated from the Kentucky State Police Academy Oct. 29, 2015. (Photo courtesy of Kentucky State Police)
Each Guardsman expressed a true desire to help others, the same thought that inspired them to join the military.
All three also are grateful for the training they have received in the Guard, which helped them through the Kentucky State Police Academy.
“Joining the guard prepared me in numerous ways and instilled in me the seven Army values which should be something that everyone lives by,” said Carter. “Being a Trooper involves so much and the seven Army values aren’t just “valued” by the Army. They are incorporated in the daily life of a Trooper as well.”
“Multi-tasking and attention to detail go hand and hand with what I have picked up from being in the Guard and my military training towards my career field in law enforcement,” said Farmer. “As a Trooper I will deal with a variety of events and at times they will be one after another and/or all together and for me to be able to handle many tasks at once while not leaving out important details is essential in my field.”
Lt. Col. L. Allen Joiner, commander of the 1/623rd said the unit is proud of Carter and their decisions of selfless service in multiple uniforms, a benefit he has seen first hand.
“Serving both on the State Police force and in the Kentucky National Guard, these individuals are able to acquire knowledge and experience that saves lives during Kentucky natural disasters and emergencies when these organizations are working side by side,” said Joiner. “An example is during the 2009 ice storm, one of our Soldiers, who was also a State Police officer was able to use his civilian position resources to provide current road conditions to our military units across Western Kentucky.”
Sgt. Michael Jacobs from the 2123rd Transportation Company graduated from the Kentucky State Police Academy Oct. 29, 2015. (Photo courtesy of Kentucky State Police)
Carter will be assigned to Post 3 in Bowling Green and Jacobs Post 16 in Henderson. Farmer joins Post 4 in Elizabethtown alongside Indiana National Guardsman Brad Holloman.
“Joining the KSP is not for the weak-hearted or weak-minded and it takes a special person to be a Kentucky State Trooper,” said Farmer “The training academy to many people would be the most physically enduring thing they have done, but in the end you are a part of the KSP family and the honor, respect, and tradition that it has and upholds.”
“Being a Trooper will benefit my military career in regards to maintaining discipline, staying vigilant, and performing at a higher standard,” said Jacobs. “I look forward to learning in both roles as a Soldier and Trooper to be the best I can be for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
Staff Report
Kentucky Guardsmen are greeted by the Adjutant General for Massachusetts, Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice (third from right) at the Boston Tough Ruck in Concord, Mass., April 18, 2015. The event brought more than 230 Service members and first responders to Minuteman National Historical Park for the 26.2 mile ruck march.(Courtesy photo)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — For the second year in a row, Kentucky Guardsmen participated in the Boston Tough Ruck in Concord, Massachusetts, April 18. 1st Lt. Carson Gregory with the 2123rd Transportation Company organized the team to compete. Staff Sgt. Jarred Turner and Sgt. Nick Holloway, also from the 2123rd were joined by 1st Lt. Christopher Cook from the 299th Chemical Company to round out the team.
The race, which took place in Concord’s Minuteman National Historical Park, is a 26.2 mile event held in conjunction with the Boston Marathon. The Tough Ruck is a program of the Military Friends Foundation to honor military members who have been killed in action or died of suicide. Funds raised from the race go to benefit military families.
Service members, first responders and civilians begin the 26.2 mile long Boston Tough Ruck in Concord, Mass., April 18, 2015. Proceeds from the event went to Military Friend Foundation to benefit the families of Service members. (Courtesy photo)
“No one knows a Soldier like another Soldier. When we heard of the great strides that the Military Friends Foundation were making in the lives of Soldiers in need we knew we wanted to be a part of it,” said Turner. “Not only do we get to raise money for this great cause but we get to spend a weekend with like-minded individuals.”
Click here for more photos.
More than 230 participants marched in the event. In addition to a large number of Service members, numerous firemen, police officers and civilians also took on the challenge. Gregory said it was impressive to see the outpouring of support for fallen heroes. That support of remembrance is what event officials say make the tough ruck so special.
“What stood out for me was the number of streamers, the names of fallen Soldiers, that were carried on Saturday,” said Gregory. “Even with the hundreds of names that participants registered ahead of time, the amount of additional names created before the start of the race was humbling.”
Kentucky Guardsmen march in the Boston Tough Ruck in Concord, Mass., April 18, 2015. The Kentuckians were easy to spot with the their large U.S. and University of Kentucky flags. (Courtesy photo)
“I took the opportunity to ask about the names other Soldiers were carrying. Hearing the stories, and how much that particular Soldier meant to them, put the strain and privilege of the event into perspective for me.”
The event is run by roughly 100 volunteers, from military families to Boy Scout troops. The Kentuckians all agreed that the atmosphere, while not the original route or size of the Boston Marathon, has its own special feel that is appropriate for the location and the cause.
“Crossing the finish line to be greeted by the Gold/Blue Star families is a great feeling,” Turner said. “The community is also very patriotic, their support is what keeps us going.”
The Kentucky team trained for months prior to the ruck, logging more than 300 miles combined to prepare for the 26.2 miles. Turner said it was all about practice and hydration, but the focus remained on them doing this as a team. Holloway said he was doing it to support his fellow Soldiers he marched with and to help them achieve their goal, as well as his own.
Those goals were measured in accomplishments and memories.
This year hit home for Holloway as they marched in memory of past Soldiers. Not long before the ruck, he lost his grandfather who was former military and Kentucky State Trooper.
“I told my Papaw before he passed that I was going to participate in the Boston Marathon Tough Ruck this year, and he was extremely proud that I am setting such a goal, and putting myself in a position to help others,” said Holloway. “On a personal note, that’s a big part of who my Papaw was, and a great man that I looked up to.”
“When it’s all said and done we may not get towering trophies or championship rings for completing the Tough Ruck, but our paycheck will be in the form of knowing that we are successful and we did it for an amazing cause.”
“With 2015 marking the second consecutive year Kentucky Soldiers have accepted the event’s challenge, it supports the idea that Kentucky Guardsmen are always up for a challenge,” said Gregory. “The act of Soldiers pushing themselves to limits like these speaks volumes about the dedication, drive, and determination of Soldiers and units we have here in the Commonwealth.”
Gregory is looking forward to another opportunity to do the ruck march. As are his troops.
“It wasn’t two days — in fact, we were on the drive home from Boston — when my Soldiers were asking about plans to participate in the Tough Ruck next year. Who knows — maybe we’ll try for a three-peat.”
Photos by Sgt. Shanna Rice, 2123rd Transportation Company
Sgt. Terrell Turner with the 2123rd Transportation Company ground guides a scout vehicle back in a training area after an exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Rice)
CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. — Soldiers of the Kentucky Guard’s 2123rd Transportation Company conducted the unit annual training at Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center May 27 - June 11, 2014. Driving in more than 25 company vehicles, the Richmond, Kentucky-based unit also continued its recycling work of transporting recycled materials from Bluegrass Army Depot in Richmond to a recycling center in Bedford, Indiana.
Soldiers of the 2123rd Transportation Company prepare for convoy operations during annual training at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Rice)
First Sgt. Allen Christie said the combination of a real-world mission and quality training at Camp Atterbury made for a beneficial AT for the unit as a whole.
“The mission allowed our Soldiers to drive more than 20,000 collective miles and haul more than 70,000 pounds of cargo. Missions like these give them the opportunity to gain valuable experience in piloting these large vehicles.”
“I’m extremely proud of our Soldiers. We had lots of new faces and Soldiers in leadership roles for the first time, and we came out a better-trained and more cohesive unit.”
Soldiers with the 2123rd Transportation Company gather for convoy instruction during a short halt on a training mission during the unit’s annual training at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Rice)
(L-R) Charles Scroggins, Spc. Cole Robinson, and Staff Sgt. Jarred Turner observe basic driver’s training during the 2123rd Transportation Company annual training at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Rice)
Pfc. Darrell Henderson gives clear hand and arm signals to his driver during driver’s training at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Rice)
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Sgt. Christopher DeLeon (#14) and Staff Sgt. Nicholas Anglin (#4) begin a six-mile road march as part of the 2014 National Guard Region III Best Warrior Competition at Camp Blanding, Fla., April 15, 2014. The two Guardsmen represented Kentucky amongst Soldiers from nine other states and territories. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
CAMP BLANDING, Fla. — Kentucky’s Soldier and non-commissioned officer of the year competed with the top Guardsmen of the Southeast in the 2014 National Guard Region III Best Warrior Competition at Camp Blanding, Fla., April 14-17.
After winning the state competition last November, Staff Sgt. Nicholas Anglin of the 201st Engineer Battalion and Sgt. Christopher DeLeon from the 2123rd Transportation Company represented the commonwealth at the next level. The Kentuckians were pitted against other Guardsmen from states and territories in Region III of the National Guard (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and the Virgin Islands) in a four-day, event-filled contest, fitting of the “Best Warrior” title.
Sgt. Christopher DeLeon drags a simulated casualty during an urban operations exercise as part of the 2014 Region III Best Warrior Competition at Camp Blanding, Fla., April 14, 2014. The exercise tested the Soldiers’ skills in room clearing, use of grenades, casualty treatment and radio communication. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“This week has been exciting, it’s been stressful, uplifting, encouraging, just everything you think it would be,” said Anglin. “It pushes you to your limits and how far you can push yourself mentally and physically.”
Click here to see more photos from the competition.
Competitors were met with a grueling schedule of events kicking off before the sun rose to well into the evenings with few rest periods in between. Challenging events such a six-mile ruck march, air assault obstacle course and two-mile stress shoot were unique tasks mixed with the more practical Army physical fitness test and land navigation course. All part of a competition much different than the Soldiers won at the state-level.
Anglin said a highlight for him was running his fastest two-mile run time during the Army Physical Fitness Test, but said his favorite event was the stress shoot which combined endurance, skill and marksmanship, all over a diverse two-mile course.
“My most memorable moment is this feeling right now, that I survived the week,” he said. “I have a sense of pride knowing that I was able to accomplish these tasks and get through everything. I may not have been the best, but I finished and that is a sense of accomplishment for me.”
DeLeon agreed that the week was beneficial to him as a person and future leader of Soldiers. He enjoys more physical training, but said the best feeling was the relaxation of finishing.
“I feel like that was the most stressful week of my life,” he said. “I feel honored to represent the 2123rd and the whole state. I’d do it again, but I think another Soldier should experience this type of competition, and I’ll be back as a sponsor to train and guide them through it.”
Staff Sgt. Nicholas Anglin balances on a rope swing of the air assault obstacle course during the Region III Best Warrior Competition at Camp Blanding, Fla., April 15, 2014. The obstacle course was part of a four-day event that brought the best Soldier and non-commissioned officer from each of the ten states and territories in the Southeast. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Anglin and DeLeon both were accompanied by a sponsor, another Soldier from their unit who acted as a battle buddy who helped them study and prepare for each event. Sgt. 1st Class David Adams and Sgt. James Ford were at Anglin and DeLeon’s side respectively, keeping them motivated throughout the week.
The competitors ruined a couple uniforms, slept little, lost a few pounds and learned a lot of what they are made of. They dusted off the dirt and covered the scratches and bruises with their Army Service Uniform for the culminating board appearances and banquet that wrapped up the week. Each competitor was congratulated by the state command sergeant major of each state and territory in attendance.
Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley, Kentucky’s State Command Sergeant Major travelled with the pair to Florida to help cheer them on.
While the trophies went to the top Soldiers, both from the Mississippi National Guard, Chumley was in awe of the Kentuckians every step of the way.
“These Soldiers have done outstanding, I’m proud of them,” said Chumley. “They went far beyond what I expected, they gave 110 percent.”
“I want them to know that their units, their sergeants major, their first sergeants ought to be proud of them, they represented Kentucky well.”
Sgts Dallas Robinson and Nick Cunningham were partnered together to represent the U.S. Olympics men’s bobsled team for this year’s Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. (photo submitted)
Story by: Capt. Stephen Martin, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky Guardsman Sgt. Dallas Robinson, from Georgetown, Ky., represented the U.S. Olympic men’s bobsled team this year in the 2014 Olympic Winter Games that took place in Sochi, Russia.
“I’m extremely proud of Sgt. Robinson and his accomplishments over the last two weeks,” said Col. Mike Abell, Brigade Commander for the 75th Troop Command. “The Olympics are rooted in military tradition and training, so it’s fitting that a Soldier - a Guardsman - helped to represent our nation.”
While Robinson didn’t medal this year in the Olympics, he was there at every event to cheer on his fellow teammates. Robinson was one of the first to congratulate 4-man team, Steven Holcomb, Steven Langton, Curtis Tomasevicz and Christopher Fogt on their Bronze place finish. (Steven Holcomb and Steven Langton also won a Bronze Medal in the 2-man Bobsled event this year).
Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear was also very impressed with Robinson’s success.
“Kentuckians shine on a national and international stage regularly, and for this Guardsman to represent us internationally at the Olympics is quite extraordinary,” said Beshear. “I congratulate Dallas on a job well done and know this is only the beginning for this fine young man.”
Robinson is a member of the 2123rd Transportation Company, based out of Richmond, Ky. and has been a member of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program for the last several years in preparation for this opportunity in Sochi.
Originally an Eastern Kentucky University track-star training for the Olympics, Robinson found his way into bobsledding by accident.
After an injury derailed his chances of qualifying for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, Robinson was then recruited by the USA Rugby team. After a shoulder injury ended that opportunity, he entered into the world of coaching track at Berea College.
One of the athletes that Robinson coached started competing in bobsledding and ended up inviting Robinson to come out and assist him. This is where Robinson’s bobsledding career began.
Sgts Rob Cunningham and Dallas Robinson compete in the 2-man bobsled event for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. (photo submitted)
His first award was in 2011 when he won silver in the four-man race at the World Cup in Lake Placid, N.Y. From there, he’s placed in the World Cup 4 additional times and twice in the World Championships in Switzerland. Robinson knows the significance of his participation in the Winter Olympics.
In an interview with the Louisville Courier-Journal, Robinson was quoted as saying, “I think about the positive relationship I have built with the Russian people and how much that could mean for future athletes in our sport. When I think about the legacy I want to leave the state of Kentucky and my family, I want that legacy to be one of pursuing your dreams, living life chasing God and loving like there is no tomorrow.”
See links for two great articles on Sgt. Robinson.
Courier-Journal Article
Herald-Tribune Article
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Spc. Gregory Marcum with the 2123rd Transportation Company reads to students at Glenn Marshall Elementary School in Richmond, Ky., Feb. 7, 2014. Five Soldiers visited the students as part of the unit’s adopt-a-school program which encourages Soldiers to volunteer in their communities. (Photo courtesy of Abby Anglin)
RICHMOND, Ky. — Pages in the books were turned, children listened and laughed as Soldiers read about Pete the Cat and Oscar the talking dog, but it was the roller coaster ride that they may remember the most.
In a quiet classroom of Glenn Marshall Elementary School in Richmond, Ky., Pete and Oscar, characters from popular children’s books were not the center of attention for the students. The young eyes were focused on the Kentucky Guardsmen who paid a special visit to the school Feb. 7. to share reading time, and have a little fun.
Several Soldiers from the Richmond-based 2123rd Transportation Company spent a portion of their day with students as part of the unit’s adopt-a-school program. The five Citizen-Soldiers called the experience rewarding and worth their time. The feelings were mutual.
Spc. Justin Perkins and 2nd Lt. Carson Gregory with the 2123rd Transportation Company prepare lunch bags for students at Glenn Marshall Elementary School in Richmond, Ky., Feb. 7, 2014. Soldiers visited the school to read to the children and help teachers with activities during the day. (Photo courtesy of Abby Anglin)
“We were honored to have our local heroes spend time with our students today,” said Abby Anglin, Guidance Counselor at the school. “The Soldiers helped in the cafeteria, prepared and delivered Friday Food Bags for our most needy children, read books to classrooms, and talked with individual students. We appreciate this visit so much and look forward to their return.”
Capt. Nelson Anglin, commander of the 2123rd said the program is brand new to the unit this year and that it’s just a small part of his goal for the unit to be valuable members of the community. From food drives to picnics and mentoring with local schools, Anglin believes it’s simply about making a difference.
“The National Guard is about service to our country and our state,” he said. “I try to emphasize to my Soldiers the importance of volunteering in our community and helping in any way they can. We do this to make a difference.”
With the help of his wife, Abby, Anglin set up the day at Glenn Marshall and was welcomed by the staff.
“We are so thankful for the services of these men and women,” said Elizabeth Shields, an exceptional child instructor at the school. “They don’t realize how much anything they do big or small, changes the lives of our kids.”
“Many of our students come from challenging home situations and the Soldiers visiting shows these kids that people out there care about them,” said 2nd Grade Teacher Shelley Renfro.
Each of the transportation Soldiers said they enjoy working with the community and setting a good example for the children.
Sgt. Jarred Turner was surprised how supportive the young children were of the military and how curious they were of the Soldiers’ jobs.
“I’ve never heard so many ‘thanks for your service’ from young kids,” he said. “They were diligent in asking serious questions. I never realized how much they really care about what we are doing.”
Spc. William Redington with the 2123rd Transportation Company shares a moment with students at Glenn Marshall Elementary School in Richmond, Ky., Feb. 7, 2014. The second-graders made a thank you card to give to Soldiers of the unit for spending time at the school as part of the unit’s community involvement program. (Photo courtesy of Abby Anglin)
Spc. William Redington captured the enthusiasm of the children when he led a whole classroom on a roller coaster ride, breaking the quiet atmosphere. Each child raised their arms, swayed to the left, then right and screamed as they dropped down the tracks on their imaginary journey. Redington said he wanted to excite the children upon the Soldiers arrival and was pleased with their participation. He also hopes such interaction can bring about greater mutual respect between the military and society.
“I do a lot of volunteer work already, I love giving back to the community,” he said. ” But, wow! The reactions from the kids, all those smiles, this was one of my favorites. What a day in uniform.”
Anglin said he has good support for the program in his unit, especially with the younger Soldiers who are excited for the unique assignments. He acknowledged that at first, finding volunteers was hard, but with the stories he has heard from this visit, word will spread amongst the unit. He plans on doing more such events with other schools in the area throughout the year.
Anglin always challenges his unit to make an impact and asks them ‘Is your life about something bigger than yourself?” He said he’s happy and excited to get the answers.
“It doesn’t have to take a war or disaster to make a difference. In this case, if we can help one kid or one teacher, then we have made that difference.”
Story by Capt. Gus LaFontaine, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Capt. Nelson Anglin watches as Brig. Gen. Stephen Hogan and Lt. Col. William Ewing attach the Meritorious Unit Commendation streamer to the guidon of the 2123rd Transportation Company in Richmond, Ky., Dec. 15, 2013. The unit was awarded for its work in Afghanistan in 2010. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Shanna Chouinard)
RICHMOND, Ky. — The 2123rd Transportation Company of Richmond, Ky. was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation at their home station Dec. 15, 2013. The commendation was awarded to the unit for valorous actions during their deployment to Afghanistan in 2010.
Brigadier General Stephen Hogan was on hand to present the award to the unit during their annual Christmas dinner.
“This is an incredible honor,” said Hogan. “The citation that was read really speaks to itself in terms of what you did over there in the field.”
To see more photos from this story, click here.
Following Hogan’s references to the citation that accompanied the Meritorious Unit Commendation, he spoke to the unit about some points that were not captured in the citation.
Sgt. Christopher DeLeon bears the guidon during the 2123rd Meritorious Unit Commendation ceremony at Richmond, Ky., Dec. 15, 2013. DeLeon was also recently named the Kentucky Guard’s Soldier of the Year for 2014. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Gus LaFontaine)
Hogan spoke of the difficult conditions faced by a transportation company in Afghanistan, the proud history of the 2123rd, and the sacrifice involved in deploying in service of the Kentucky Army National Guard.
In reference to the history of the 2123rd Hogan said, “Going back to 1922, [the 2123rd was] available for every domestic episode, ice storm, and flood. Regardless, the 2123rd has been there.”
He also noted the unit’s deployment to Iraq in 2004.
“The result of your actions over there gave us equal footing and equal credibility with the active component who said that they would never second guess the National Guard again. In this you have shown them how Kentucky Soldiers can fight.“
Capt. Nelson Anglin, commander of the 2123rd, sought to incorporate some of the same history into Sunday’s ceremony by inviting former members of the 2123rd to the award presentation. Anglin is charged with transitioning the unit from their past successes in Afghanistan to training the unit for another deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He recognized the value of teaching the unit’s new Soldiers about the history of the 2123rd.
“A lot of these new Soldiers probably didn’t understand what some of these veterans experienced out there on the road in a combat environment. For them to be able to see some of the accolades that our unit received while we were deployed will help move our unit forward and help them understand what the training environment is going to be like over the next year. “
Anglin, who was a platoon leader with the 2123rd during their previous deployment to Afghanistan spoke about the challenges and sacrifices the transportation company faced during their deployment.
“We experienced a lot of convoys and a lot of time on the road. We had around 27 Purple Hearts and some combat valor awards with Soldiers doing great things out on the road. “
In his final remarks, Hogan referenced challenge and sacrifice.
“This citation does not speak to the service and the sacrifice that Guardsmen and Citizen Soldiers live every day. You had to leave a job that was likely a great deal more comfortable, satisfying, and suffice to say normally nobody shoots at you when you do your civilian job. But more notably, you had to leave the comfort of your fireplace, your favorite chair and the love and affection of your families in the interest of your nation’s call.”
The general’s remarks sunk in with Anglin.
“To hear from a general and to see the award presented gives everyone an eye opening experience to what we did in theater.”
Story by Capt. Gustave LaFontaine, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Soldiers of the 2123rd Transportation Company unload recycling materials from their trucks as part of the unit’s annual training in Irvine, Ky., Aug.7, 2013. The unit convoyed more than 60,000 miles during their missions and successfully transported more than 675 tons of recyclables in Kentucky and Indiana. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Carson Gregory)
RICHMOND, Ky. — Train as you fight! This is a common battle cry among Citizen Soldiers as they hone their skills as a Soldier. It is used to inspire and motivate Soldiers to approach their training with the same focus that they would approach a real-world mission. And creative leaders find ways to make training as realistic as possible for the benefit of their units.
The leadership of the Kentucky Guard’s 2123rd Transportation Company discovered a way to train their Soldiers and also make a genuine contribution to the community.
To see more photos from this story, click here.
Richmond, Ky. is home to the 2123rd and also the Bluegrass Army Depot. The Depot’s Qualified Recycling Program diverts recyclable waste from the site to various recycling facilities in the region. For two years, the 2123rd has used their annual training to assist the Depot and their recycling efforts.
Soldiers of the 2123rd Transportation Company prepare to unload their trucks of recyclable materials in Irvine, Ky., Aug. 6, 2013. The unit transported the materials from Bluegrass Army Depot to local recycling facilities as part of their annual training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Carson Gregory)
Capt. Nelson Anglin has commanded the 2123rd during both of these missions. He outlined the impact this mission had on the community and his Soldiers.
“As a result of this partnership, our Soldiers have convoyed more than 60,000 miles and transported almost 2 millions pounds of recyclables to nearby recycling facilities.”
The training is especially valuable for 2123rd because they have a large number of new Soldiers. According to Anglin, 60 percent of the company is completing their first annual training with the unit. The 2123rd readiness NCO, Sgt. 1st Class Chad Bailey, said the training has been invaluable for their new Soldiers.
“The new Soldiers in the unit got a look into what a Citizen Soldier is. They got to see what the Guard does for the community.”
In addition to performing a great service for the community, Soldiers got to train in a real-world mission.
“Not only did they get to a lot of drive time but they received experience in strap down procedures on different types of materials,” said Bailey.
“Our Soldiers were motivated and eager to experience realistic training. It was important for our new Soldiers to identify their role and how their mission supported the overall mission of the 2123rd Transportation Company,” said Anglin.
Soldiers of the 2123rd Transportation Company secure load straps on their trucks in Irvine, Ky., Aug. 6, 2013. Missions during the unit’s annual training provided on-the-job training and real-world experience for the Soldiers. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Carson Gregory)
To execute this mission, Soldiers completed two convoys per day to recycling centers in Bedford, Ind. and Irvine, Ky. Their efforts have been a valuable service to the Bluegrass Army Depot and the United States Army. Typically, recyclables are sent from the Depot via commercial transport at a significant cost to the Army. With the assistance of the 2123rd, the Bluegrass Army Depot was able to cut costs by more than $50,000 and divert funding back to the Depot and the Army.
Jason Brandenburg is in charge of the Depot’s Qualified Recycling Program and was impressed with the actions and motivation of the Soldiers of the 2123rd.
“When the crops hit the ground the Soldiers were loading, strapping and getting stuff done,” he said. “Everyone was on a mission and they just took care of it.”
With the success of the past two years behind them, Anglin indicated that there are plans to execute this mission again in years to come.
“With budget cuts and sequestration, training opportunities in the future are going to require creative training plans. The collaborative effort between the Bluegrass Army Depot and our unit is a win win for the Army.”
“Training as you fight proved to be a valuable experience for the 2123rd Transportation Company,” concluded Bailey. “It instilled some pride for them and their unit.”
Story by: Sgt. Dale Elliott, 75th Troop Command Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
NOTE: Each week 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 ….
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Chief Warrant Officer Mark Josef Strunk of Danville, Ky. was selected as The Kentucky Army National Guard’s Warrant Officer of the year.
Strunk has served in uniform for 20 years, four of which were active duty. He deployed overseas once with the 2123rd Transportation Company in 2003. He now serves as an Automotive Maintenance Warrant Officer in the Combined Support Maintenance Shop at the Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky.
Strunk as a young man felt a calling into patriotic service and to do something “a little different” says the Soldier. He is the son of a German immigrant and is the first in his family to serve in the United States Armed Forces.
“I really wanted to become the best I can be,” says Strunk. “Warrant Officers are required to be experts in our field. I wanted to do that and I wanted to be able to help others be the best they can be too.”
When Strunk is not working at CSMS, you can generally find him working on various home projects. “I built every home I have lived in,” he said. “ I constantly need a project going on around my house.”
“Chief Strunk has been a huge asset to the 2123rd,” said Capt, Daniel Cooper, 2123rd Transportation Commander. “We have a high caliber unit and it is vital that we have very knowledgeable and capable warrant officers that can keep us running. We just couldn’t do it without him.”
Strunk is described as a very “hands on” and technically knowledgeable member of the Kentucky Guard.
“Being selected as Warrant Officer of the year is a big deal,” said Chief Warrant Officer Four Marty Castle. “Chief Strunk has earned it.”
Story by Crystal Wylie, Richmond Register
Kentucky Guardsman 1st Lt. Gus LaFontaine, 2123rd Transportation Company, holds his niece Kendall Chapman, 2, during a welcome home ceremony from a tour of duty in Afghanistan Feb. 4. (photo by Bill Robinson, Richmond Register)
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MADISON COUNTY, Ky. — Kentucky Guardsman 1st Lt. Gus LaFontaine, 2123rd Transportation Company, might tell you his biggest achievement, to date, is the birth of his first child earlier this month – a 7-pound, 6-ounce, healthy baby girl named Marlee Elliott.
But, LaFontaine can add a nomination for the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award to his list of accomplishments.
As a company-grade officer for the Kentucky Army National Guard, Lafontaine was chosen as the nominee to represent Kentucky in Washington, D.C., next year.
“This selection is a positive reflection on the hard work, dedication and perseverance you and your Soldiers have exhibited during the past year,” said Major General Edward Tonini in a memo to LaFontaine. “You are an outstanding officer who has made great contributions to your command and its readiness.”
For the Army National Guard division, only seven officers will be selected for the nationwide award.
The award recognizes company-grade officers who demonstrate the ideals for which General MacArthur stood – duty, honor and country, according to the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation website.
“I believe strongly in leading by example and treating other people the way that you would want to be treated,” Lafontaine said. “I try to teach my Soldiers to be leaders and self-sufficient. I like to set that wheel in motion and just let it ride.”
LaFontaine believes this attitude on leadership comes from his background in education.
Before he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, the Berea native was a 2007 graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. In 2008, he earned his master’s degree in instructional leadership.
LaFontaine also had taught at Waco Elementary, Kirksville Elementary and St. Mark Catholic Schools.
Kentucky Guardsman 1st Lt. Gus LaFontaine, holding 4-day-old daughter Marlee Elliott, asks his students about their art projects while he chats from home via Skype with preschoolers at his LaFontaine Preparatory School. Also pictured are teacher Tanya Felty, left, and school office manager Casie Bishop. LPS offers lessons in art, dance, children’s yoga, martial arts, language arts, math and technology. (photo by Nancy Taggart, Richmond Register)
Returning from his tour of duty in February, LaFontaine used the extra money he had earned to open the LaFontaine Preparatory School (LPS), the embodiment of his dream to help educate the youth of Madison County.
LaFontaine and his wife Kristin, director of operations, offer “a pre-kindergarten academic adventure” with lessons in art, dance, children’s yoga, martial arts, language arts, math and technology.
Since its opening in September, LPS has strived to answer the need for high-quality early childhood education with innovative methods, first-class research-based curriculum, a dynamic staff, and academic, cultural and artistic education, LaFontaine said.
“My desire is to give back to as many students as possible. To do that, I’ve got to train teachers and build school leaders,” he said.
LPS will be expanding its operations to include half-day kindergarten classes in the future. As part of the Madison County Early Childhood Alliance, LPS will collaborate with Madison County Schools (which offer only half-day kindergarten classes) to offer an affordable, full-day option to interested parents.
Although being deployed to a war situation had financially enabled LaFontaine to pursue his dream, his duties in the Army over the past 11 years had also been obstacles to that dream.
LaFontaine had served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also assisted in Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Gustave and the winter ice storm of 2009.
“Every one of those situations had taken me away from things that I wanted to do,” LaFontaine said, “but when I’ve sacrificed for my country it has made my love of country grow. I’ve been lucky to have the opportunity to put my country first, do my duty, and grow in my honor.”
His mother, Deborah Livingston, believes the General MacArthur nomination comes at no surprise.
Even while in Iraq, her son’s love for children and aptitude for leadership carried over into his duties as a Soldier. While serving in the transportation company, LaFontaine would see Iraqi children kicking around cans or anything else that could substitute for a ball, said Livingston.
A soccer player himself, LaFontaine led an effort to collect more than 400 soccer balls from friends and family in the U.S., which he gave to the children he encountered on his tour, she said.
“This is just an example of where his heart is,” Livingston said.
