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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
By Maj. Stephen Martin, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Fifteen members of the Kentucky National Guard’s 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade have accumulated 4,000 military flight hours or more in their career. The Bluegrass Chapter of The Army Aviation Association of America has recognized these aviation Soldiers for their accomplishment. Pictured from LEFT to RIGHT: Chief Warrant Officer 4 Porter Whitney, Chief Warrant Officer 4 John Boyle, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Eric Mattingly, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Tony Villier, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steve Bowling, Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Dean Stoops, Staff Sgt. Daryl Casey, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Harold Grider, Col. Brian Abney (State Army Aviation Officer), Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steve Knight, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shawn Gabhart, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Stuart Lindfors, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gerald Carroll, 1st Sgt. Matt Singer, 1st Sgt. Troy Logsdon, Lt. Col. Dewayne Lewis. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky National Guard’s Army aviation community is steeped in history. From their arrival in 1959 at the Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Ky. through being the first National Guard unit in the country assigned Blackhawks, Kentucky’s aviation Soldiers have remained at the forefront of their career field.
Fifteen members of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade have 4,000 military flight hours or more. They represent a wealth of aviation experience which few aviation formations can match. Because of this, The Bluegrass Chapter of the Army Aviation Association of America (Quad A) took time to recognize these Soldiers for their accomplishments.
To see photos of these Army Aviators in action over the years, please click HERE.
The Kentucky National Guard said farewell to their C-23 Sherpas during a ceremony at Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Ky., July 9, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“The Kentucky Guard aviation community is recognized by any measurable metric as one of the finest aviation organizations in any component of the Army,” said Col. Brian Abney, State Army Aviation Officer. “These 15 Soldiers are indicative of the quality of our program here in Kentucky for sure… The flying hour milestones that these individuals have reached remain a notable accomplishment for any organization and I am especially proud of this group of aviation professionals.”
An old aviator’s quote says, “You can always take off, but you can’t always land…” An axiom like this reminds all flyers the cost of the profession and the decisions that need to be made on a regular basis.
Collectively these 15 aviation Soldiers have accumulated in excess of 80,000 flight hours without a Class A, B or C accident and an average time in service of more than 28 years.
What does this mean to the Kentucky Guard?
For one, the safety record of the Kentucky Army National Guard is unparalleled. Indeed, the Kentucky Guard has not experienced a Class A or B Army accident since 1970. A time frame which encompasses multiple combat tours and numerous overseas deployments with more than 250,000 flight hours flown on a variety of different types of aircraft. This can be attributed to the level of experience that the troops in this profession boast.
C Co 2/238th MEDEVAC conducts personnel recovery (PR) operations over the Northern Arabian Gulf (NAG) Oct. 10, 2013. The unit is qualifying all army aviation crewmembers on overwater hoist PR while on deployment. This was conducted as a joint training exercise with a sister flight company who deployed the Navy EOD teams into the water via HeloCast and were recovered by the MEDEVAC aircraft. (photo submitted)
Regarding combat flight time exclusively, these 15 aviation Soldiers have accumulated 10,000 hours across a combined total of 30 deployments since 9/11. These high flyers have flown in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, Kuwait, not to mention Europe, South America and Central Asia among other locations.
Considerably, these operations couldn’t be accomplished without the crew-chiefs, administrative and supply personnel. It’s a coordinated effort to get a multi-million dollar aircraft airborne. That’s why it’s equally impressive that three of the Soldiers on this list are enlisted crew-chiefs.
“Everybody plays a part, from the maintenance guys giving us a safe aircraft to operations ensuring we are safe to the crews executing the mission,” said 1st Sgt. Matt Singer, Company C., 1st Battalion 376th Aviation. ” 4,000 flight hours requires a whole lot more than 4,000 hours of work on the part of a lot of folks.”
“We may not go to flight school, but we can certainly give beneficial technical or tactical advice from a different point of view… in addition to providing comic relief and stinging sarcasm, which is required of all crew chiefs.”
63rd TAB Command Sgt. Major Bill Stocker talks about the significance of the enlisted Soldiers accomplishments.
“Crew-Chief’s in this community are the unsung heroes of aviation. These ‘part-time’ Guardsmen have the same requirements as their active duty counterparts and are held to the same standard. They are required to make sure the aircraft is in good working order especially after the officers upfront do their level-best to break the thing.”
Stocker points out that these service members are charged with both the fight abroad on behalf of the nation as well as providing support to the commonwealth. “Their experience level is kept here in this organization and is not turned over every three years. This is crucial to accomplishing the mission the way we do.”
“This band of brothers are great mentors for the next generation of crew-members and in showing us what right looks like. They are an invaluable commodity for this brigade,” said Stocker. “The Kentucky National Guard’s Army enlisted aviation community will reap the rewards of their hard work and commitment for years to come.”
Chief Warrant Officers Bowling and Johnston pose just after they land an OH-58 A/C helicopter on Canal Street in New Orleans, La. in support of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Fifteen members of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade have 4,000 military flight hours or more. This photo represents the storied history of that endeavor.(Photo courtesy of the 63rd TAB aviation community)
Chief Warrant Officer Steve Bowling offered up a piece of advice to new Soldiers entering the field.
“Today’s young aviators are better equipped than ever before, the new facilities are top notch, and the aircraft are awesome. The new aviator skill level with the newest systems are better than they have ever been. The Guard has done a great job of equipping the force for the future. In addition the amount of trust we can place on the younger folks has never wavered. They are as good as ever in my experience.”
“However being an old guy I still want them to know how to do things ‘the old fashioned way’ for when the new and improved stuff breaks. GPS is great but I still want to know I can pull out the old ‘HHM’ (Hand Held Map) and we all make it home at the end of the day safe.”
“Those are the things the REAL old guys taught me.”
Order from highest to lowest amount of hours: Chief Warrant Officer 4 John Boyle, 9,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Harold Grider, 7,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gerald Carroll, 6,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 4 Eric Mattingly, 5,000 hours; Lt. Col. Dwayne Lewis, 5,000 hours; Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Dean Stoops, 5,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steve Knight, 5,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Stuart Lindfors, 5,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 4 Porter Whitney, 5,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steve Bowling, 5,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shawn Gabhart, 5,000 hours; 1st Sgt. Troy Logsdon, 4,000 hours; 1st Sgt. Matt Singer, 4,000 hours; Staff Sgt. Daryl Casey, 4,000 hours; Chief Warrant Officer 4 Tony Villier, 4,000 hours.
By Sgt. Lerone Simmons, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Retired Chief Warrant Officer William H. Canon, former shop foreman assigned to the 2113th Transportation Aircraft Maintenance Company, poses with a new UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter after a ribbon cutting ceremony for Kentucky’s new Army Aviation Support Facility and introduction of a new fleet of UH-60M’s, Boone National Guard Center, Frankfort, Ky., Oct. 14, 2015. Canon gave thirty five years of his life to providing maintenance to Kentucky’s aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lerone Simmons)
FRANKFORT, Ky. - Sitting in a new multi-million dollar facility, retired Chief Warrant Officer William Canon Jr., reminisced about providing maintenance to the Kentucky National Guard’s aircraft in high winds, pouring rain, freezing cold and summer heat.
“When I first joined, our pilots had recently flown in World War II,” he said. “Our equipment was old and we didn’t have adequate places to work.
“We had to park trucks around the helicopters to make sure the wind didn’t hit them directly,” said Canon. “The elements are one of the worst things when it comes to properly maintaining aircraft.”
Capt. Yancey York confers with SPEC5 William H. Canon as he prepares for a flight in a OH-13E, circa 1960. (Photo courtesy Chief Warrant Officer(R) Harold Canon)
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Canon enlisted in the Army in 1950 and retired in 1990. He would join a fledgling aviation program in 1955.
In 1959, the Kentucky aviation assets found a new home in Frankfort, Kentucky, at the Capital City Airport. Then, 18-or-so-years later in 1971, Canon witnessed a state-of-the-art facility erected at Boone National Guard Center – the Army Aviation Support Facility. A hangar for the helicopters assigned to Kentucky. During his tenure, Canon rose to the level of shop foreman, assigned to the 2113th Transportation Aircraft Maintenance Company, and retired out of the old AASF.
But on Oct. 14, he joined hundreds of other current and former Kentucky National Guardsmen as the ribbon was cut, ceremoniously showing off the Kentucky National Guard’s newest AASF at Boone National Guard Center. He also got to view, sit in, and touch the new UH-60M, the Army’s newest in the Blackhawk fleet.
The new AASF is 126,000 square feet and uses geo-thermal heating and cooling, solar power, 80 kilowatts photovoltaic solar power, high efficiency lighting, daylight harvesting technology, and radiant floor heating. It holds several offices for staff, classrooms, a gym and plenty of space.
“We come from a time where we didn’t always have a climate controlled area or lots of space,” said Canon’s old company commander, retired Lt. Col. Willoughby S. Goin III, a former pilot with 12,000 flying hours.
“This will help allow the Guard to be able to deploy troops to any affected areas in a timely manner,” he said, “at times when ice storms, tornados and floods can destroy roads, the Guard can then utilize the air from this facility.”
Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, adjutant general for Kentucky and other special guests honored Canon in their remarks during the building’s dedication. The Kentucky Guard’s aviation safety record was also bragged upon during the remarks.
Sitting from left to right, retired Army Chief Warrant Officer William H. Canon, former shop foreman who was assigned to the 2113th Transportation Aircraft Maintenance Company, retired Army Lt. Col. Jere Roche, former commander of the 441st Medical Detachment, and retired Army Lt. Col. Willoughby S. Goin III, former commander of the 2113th Transportation Aircraft Maintenance Company, carry on a conversation after a ribbon cutting ceremony for Kentucky’s new Army Aviation Support Facility in Frankfort, Ky., Oct. 14, 2015. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lerone Simmons)
Kentucky hasn’t had any major accidents or loss of life for the span of the last 250,000 flying hours, which Tonini said boils down to a huge feat of great maintenance and outstanding flying. He added that the Kentucky Guard has flown at least 15 missions over the Commonwealth during times of disaster, also while supporting the Joint Support Operations counterdrug efforts and overseas contingency operations.
For the many aviation retirees and current Guardsmen who maintain the Commonwealth’s air assets, the day was a reunion and a celebration of moving forward.
“What I’ve seen is outstanding,” said Canon. “I’m proud the progress we’ve made.”
Newest Blackhawks come to Kentucky
Story and photos by: Spc. Abe Morlu, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Chief Warrant Officer Wallace Kand, a UH-60 Black Hawk pilot, performs preflight checks on the helicopter prior to a training mission at the Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky., Sept. 23, 2015. These Kentucky Guard pilots train as much as they can to stay current and be ever ready should they be called upon. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Abe Morlu
FRANKFORT, Ky. -In its ongoing mission to support both state and federal missions, the Kentucky National Guard has added a new flight facility at the Boone National Guard Center. Along with the facility is a fleet of 16 new helicopters as well.
To see all the photos, please click HERE.
Construction is coming to a close on the new hangar to house the 20 aircraft used by the KYNG. That fleet consists of ten brand-new UH-60M Blackhawks, six two-year-old UH-72A Lakotas, three UH-60L (older model) Blackhawks, and one C-12 (King Air) Huron Airplane. The C-12 is currently housed in a hangar at the Capital City Airport leased by the KYNG.
“For the first time since 1983, when the Kentucky Guard was the first Guard unit to receive Blackhawks, all the aircraft will be able to fit in one building,” said Chief Warrant Officer Gerald Carroll, aviation safety officer for the Army Aviation Support Facility. The original hangar was constructed in 1972, and housed both the UH-1 Iroquois and OH-58 Kiowa.
“These were much smaller aircraft so was no problem storing them in the hangar,” according to Carroll.
Once the UH-60L arrived in 1983 that was no longer the case. Aircraft had to be left outside due to the lack of hangar space. “It is not ideal to store the craft outside because they are susceptible to damage from Mother Nature,” said Staff Sgt. Daryl Casey, a crew chief at the AASF.
Corrosion and lightning strikes are the nemesis of aircraft. They can cause millions of dollars of damages. “Lightning can damage bearings as well as the hull of the craft on its escape,” said Chief Warrant Officer Stephanie Motley, one of the instructor pilots for the new UH-60 mike model aircraft.
Kentucky Guardsmen and members of the Djibouti military board a UH-60M Blackhawk at Fort Knox, Ky., Sept. 16, 2015. During the Djibouti delegation’s visit to Kentucky, the new Blackhawks provided aerial tours of Kentucky Guard facilities as part of the National Guard’s State Partnership Program. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Not only will the new facility keep the aircraft out of the elements saving the Kentucky Guard from high costs in maintenance and repair, but it will also save energy consumption. The new facility will allow more natural light to enter during the day, relieving the reliance on electric lighting to preform daily tasks. This change directly eased the budget strains created by high energy costs.
Should there not be enough sunlight to illuminate the hangar, electric lighting can be used. However the electricity to turn the lights on does not come from the local power company. It is produced by the solar array installed on the roof of the hangar.
Gone are the days of heating the hangar with vents high up on the ceiling. The floors of the new hangar use geothermal energy to heat itself. They bring the heat closer to the crew and not inefficiently blowing down from above as hot air rises.
“The new technologies and availability of necessary outlets, allow us to better maintain the new Mikes,” said Chief Warrant Officer Stuart Lindfors,” a UH-60 instructor pilot.
Servicing the new helicopters is the same as its predecessor however, there are a few new parts alien to the UH-60L which require maintenance. The new model has new systems such as a rotor brake, said Casey.
“It’s like working on a 2000 Ford truck versus working on a 2015 Ford truck,” Casey said. “It pretty much works the same but has a few extra bells and whistles.”
An overhead view of the new Army Aviation Support Facility at the Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky., Sept. 23, 2015. The new AASF is spacious enough for all the aircraft to be stored indoors, and it is also very energy efficient using solar and other natural power sources. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Abe Morlu)
One of those bells and whistles is the hover hold function present in the new model. It allows the pilot to hold a set altitude and position with no input form the pilot. No more having to fight with external forces to hold position as in the older model.
“They are both great aircraft but, the new technology helps us better use our skills learned in training,” said Chief Warrant Officer Wallace Kand, a recent graduate of the UH-60M flight course.
“No longer will we envy the equipment and facilities of other states,” said Carroll. “Kentucky is a leader when it comes to Army aviation.”
Spirits are high with anticipation of beginning operations in the new facility as well. It will be the first time in almost 40 years being able to house and maintain all the aircraft indoors.
“We have accomplished so much with our antiquated equipment and facilities over the years,” said Col. Brian Abney, commander of the AASF. “I cannot wait to see what we will produce with the new facilities.”
Kentucky Girl Scouts touch the hearts of Guardsmen
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Kentucky National Guard Maj. Catherine Forsyth, logistics officer-in-charge, and Spc. Madison Witzleb, aviation operations specalist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, enjoy a box of Girl Scout cookies during an annual training exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind., April 27. Girl Scout Troop #1199, a Taylorsville, Ky.-based troop, donated boxes of cookies to the Kentucky Guardsmen as a comfort care-package to open during the unit’s week-long annual training exercise in support of Vibrant Response 2015. The cookies were used as a service project to earn the Troop to Troops badge for the Girl Scouts. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson)
CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. - When Soldiers are away from their families, it’s the little things that mean the most. Even if you’re only across the river for a training exercise at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.
For Soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, comfort was in the form of America’s favorite chocolate, shortbread and lemon-flavored cookies that only come out one time a year. And thanks to the Taylorsville, Ky.-Girl Scout Troop #1199, it was the perfect treat at the end of a 12-hour shift.
“Reading the handmade card attached to each box of Girl Scout Cookies thanking Soldiers for their service has touched our hearts,” said Staff Sgt. Carrie Payne, training noncommissioned officer for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd TAB.
“Everyone enjoyed the contribution of the cookies,” she said.
In 2014, the Girl Scouts, nationally, donated 12,108 boxes of cookies to U.S. Service members around the world.
Known as “Troop to Troops,” the gift of caring is a combined effort of community donations and extra cookies purchased to spread the joy in each box. According to Troop leader Jennifer Pucko, the Taylorsville troop has donated boxes shipped overseas before, but wanted to do something local this year.
“Most of the cookies are paid for by local donations the girls receive at the cookie booths,” she said. “One of our girl’s dad is in the National Guard, so we thought this year we’d find a local unit.”
Troop #1199’s cookies were served April 27 during shift change at the 63rd TAB’s annual training. The Kentucky Guardsmen were part of 3,000 military, federal and civilian personnel who participated in Vibrant Response, the nation’s premiere homeland defense exercise.
Staff Sgt. Carrie Payne, training noncommissioned officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, holds a box of Girl Scout cookies during an annual training exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind., April 27. Payne said the hand-written notes attached to the boxes that Girl Scout Troop #1199, a Taylorsville, Ky.-based troop donated, were very much appreciated by her Soldiers that were on their annual training exercise in support of Vibrant Response 2015. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson)
There is a special patch that the Girl Scouts receive if they donate at least six boxes of cookies to Troop to Troops. According to its website, the Girl Scouts is a leadership-driven organization that engages girls to discover who they are, connect with others and take action to make the world a better place. The same types of activities and values that Soldiers like Payne experience in the National Guard.
“These young girls should be proud of themselves as individuals for recognizing those who serve our country,” Payne said.
My message to each one of these girls is to take one day at a time and always put your best foot forward,” she said. “Stay the leader you are being taught to be, not a follower.”
Aviation brigade’s newest Soldier up for the challenge
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Kentucky National Guard Spc. Madison Witzleb’s smile and positive attitude keeps the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade’s Tactical Operations Center a little less stressful during USARNORTH’s Vibrant Response 2015 exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind. Witzleb, an aviation operations specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, is the newest member of the 63TAB, and said her first annual training with the brigade was challenging and fun. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson)
CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. — There’s always that one. The young Soldier, fresh out of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), who shows up, loves the Army and smiles a lot.
For Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, it’s Spc. Madison Witzleb. She can run through the tactical operations center, affectionately known as the “TOC-mahal,” and if you blink, you’d miss her. She’s got a voice that will command even the hardest of hearing to attention if a distinguished visitor walks in. And a smile that her leaders and fellow Soldiers say can make any long day of training seem better.
Kentucky National Guard State Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley presents Spc. Madison Witzleb, aviation operations specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, with his challenge coin April 23, at Camp Atterbury, Ind. Witzleb was nominated by leadership to receive the coin for her motivation and determination to tackle every task with a positive attitude. (U.S. Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson)
“Spc. Witzleb is constantly looking for ways to better herself and is never satisfied with just doing what she has been asked to do,” said Sgt. Maj. Kevin Wilkins, aviation operations chief for 63rd TAB. “She displays a willingness to learn as much as she can and she always has a smile on her face.
“My advice to our young Soldiers,” Wilkins said is, “display the same enthusiasm and dedication that Spc. Witzleb does.”
That passion for success is what makes Witzleb stand out in the crowd, and what landed her front and center before State Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley April 23. The 18-year-old aviation operations specialist was the first 63rd TAB Soldier to receive a coin during the unit’s annual training in support of Vibrant Response, which also happened to be her first coin ever.
“My face turned 50-shades of red,” she said, “but I was able to smile because I was on an excitement rush. I’d never received a coin before that.”
The challenge coins, a military tradition, are presented in recognition of special achievement. Witzleb was nominated by leadership to receive the coin for her professional work ethic and balanced attitude.
Witzleb said her first coin is something she will remember for a while, “the first words I said were: ‘I finally have one my dad doesn’t have!’”
Competition is in her blood. She was on her high school rifle team, plays golf, runs like the wind, and hopes that being in the Guard will help her compete with – and exceed her older brother’s physical fitness abilities.
“One day I will be able to beat him,” she said.
Besides the competition, her family is also good for inspiration, she said. Her father had a large impact on her decision to join the military, and her mother’s advice has kept her going, especially this AT when she really didn’t know what to expect.
“Coming into this (Vibrant Response) as my first exercise, it was nerve racking,” she said. “I was afraid of not being able to succeed in my tasked position.
“My mother always taught me to hold my head up high, even in a time of doubt,” she said. “I love a good challenge and this exercise holds up to its name.”
Kentucky National Guard Spc. Madison Witzleb’s smile and positive attitude keeps the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade’s Tactical Operations Center a little less stressful during USARNORTH’s Vibrant Response 2015 exercise at Camp Atterbury, Ind. Witzleb, an aviation operations specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, is the newest member of the 63TAB, and said her first annual training with the brigade was challenging and fun. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Gina Vaile-Nelson)
As the newest member of the 63rd TAB, Witzleb has many more challenges ahead for her Guard career. She’ll attend Morehead State University this fall to study criminology and take Reserve Officer Training Corps classes. She’s looking forward to also earning her status as a Kentucky Woman Veteran.
“Being a female veteran who can succeed in this career is an amazing accomplishment,” Witzleb said.
“I know many more have come before me, and they are providing some very large boots to fill,” she said, “but I am up for the challenge.”
Photos and story by 2nd Lt. Michael Reinersman, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Officer
The 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade conducted their annual training this year in support of Exercise Vibrant Response at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, July 31- Aug. 7. Vibrant Response is a major field training exercise conducted by U.S. Northern Command and led by Army North. Service members and civilians from the military and other federal and state agencies throughout the country train to respond to a catastrophic domestic incident. As the joint forces land component command U.S. Northern Command, Army North coordinates timely federal military response to disasters in the homeland to help the American people in times of need. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Michael Reinersman, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Officer)
CAMP ATTERBURY, Indiana - The City of Indianapolis was chosen as the site for a nuclear disaster during Vibrant Response 14. Vibrant Response is a U.S. Northern Command-sponsored field training exercise for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosive consequence management forces, and is designed to improve their ability to respond to catastrophic incidents.
To see all photos from this story, please click HERE.
Approximately 5,500 military and civilian personnel from 28 U.S. states and territories took part in the largest confirmation exercise that the Department Of Defense conducts for its specialized response forces. Vibrant Response 14 used seven training areas in central and southern Indiana. Primarily, units trained at Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center near Edinburgh, Ind. The training event simulates a tiered response from military and federal agencies to a nuclear or biological disaster in the United States.
The 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade Tactical Operations Center, also known as the “TOC Mahal” was constructed and fully operational in less than 24 hours when Soldiers of the 63rd TAB arrived July 31 for Exercise Vibrant Response at Forward Operating Base Night Hawk on Camp Atterbury Indiana. (U.S Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Michael Reinersman, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Officer)
The 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade has participated in the last three Vibrant Response exercises as part of their validation requirements by their higher headquarters, U.S. Army North. The 63rd TAB based in Frankfort, KY is the command and control element of aviation assets to ensure that missions requiring aviation support happened. Missions’ like moving equipment, personnel, and medical evacuations, or MEDEVAC were all coordinated within 63rd TAB’s Tactical Operation Center. Better known as “TOC Mahal”. To create practicality and rigor to the exercise, the TOC was manned and operated 24 hours during the 8 day exercise window from July 31st to Aug 7th.
“I was proud of the Brigade’s team effort.” said Lt. Col Michael Stephens, Commander of the 63rd TAB. He added, “Everyone’s individual acts led to the Brigades overall success during the training exercise. We have continued to build on previous training exercises and we will continue to refine our skill sets to be prepared for any civil support needed during a disaster.”
Vibrant Response provided a wide variety of training experiences to Soldiers of the Kentucky National Guard. Kentucky National Guardsmen of the 1204th Aviation Support Battalion, based out of Burlington, Ky. and Indiana National Guard’s 38th Combat Aviation Brigade, out of Shelbyville, IN partnered on sling load operations. They moved 500 gallon water blivets to supply water to Soldiers at Forward Operating Base Night Hawk, Campy Atterbury for hydration, cleaning, and cooking purposes. “New pilots from flight school and Soldiers from both units are able to maximize their training opportunities by practicing their individual tasks together.” said pilot Maj. Travis Ward with the 38th CAB. The training demonstrated the National Guards capability to deliver food and fresh water during a disaster.
Sgt. 1st Class. Paul Brooks, Sgt. Michael Rhynes and Pvt. Tamie Acklin with A. Co., 1204th Aviation Support Battalion, headquartered out of Burlington, Ky., connect a water blivet to a UH-60 Black Hawk during sling load operations for the unit’s annual training Aug. 5. The 1204th conducted their AT at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. The Indiana National Guard’s 38th Combat Aviation Brigade transported the water to Forward Operating Base Night Hawk located on Camp Atterbury for hydration, cleaning, and cooking purposes. (U.S Army National Guard photo by: 2nd Lt. Michael Reinersman, 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Officer)
Refueling helicopters, trucks and generators was the 1204th ASB primary mission during the exercise. “We are working rotational shifts to give us the chance to train on different things,” said Petroleum Supply Specialist Pfc. Adam Watts with Alpha Company, 1204th Aviation Battalion.
“Most of us that deployed in 2011 have refueled over 3,000 aircraft. This exercise gives our new Soldiers the chance to get hands on experience,” said Staff Sgt. Dave Rinehart with the 1204th Alpha Company. “You can’t go wrong working around aircraft. I love this job.”
Kentucky aviation brigade welcomes new commander
Story by Sgt. Cody Stagner, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Three helicopters from the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade fly over participants of the brigade’s change of command ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., June 7, 2014. Lt. Col. Michael Stephens took charge of the brigade from Col. Michael Ferguson. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Michael Reinersman, 63rd TAB PAO).
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Army National Guard’s 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade welcomed Lt. Col. Michael Stephens as brigade commander during a change of command ceremony at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, June 7.
Stephens, a Whitley City, Kentucky native, assumed command from outgoing commander Col. Michael Ferguson.
“Col. Ferguson, without a doubt, is one of the most tactically proficient commanders we have had,” said Stephens. “I was his deputy commander for the past three years, so I have had the opportunity to, both, sit at his feet and learn and collaborate with him. The advantage we have is to be able to take our training and build on what we have learned as a team.”
Maj. Gen. Edward Tonini, the adjutant general of Kentucky, passes the colors of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade to Lt. Col. Michael Stephens during a change of command ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., June 7, 2014. Stephens assumed command of the unit after previously serving as the brigade’s executive officer. (Kentucky Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cody Stagner)
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Units from the 63rd and family members gathered at the Kentucky Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility for a memorable welcoming ceremony highlighted with howitzer blasts, helicopter flyovers and a keynote speech by Maj. Gen. Edward Tonini, the adjutant general of Kentucky.
“This ceremony is important to, both, Col. Ferguson and myself, but it’s paramount to the Soldiers,” said Stephens. “This is their organization.”
Members within the brigade shared confidence in their new commander and pride themselves on being part of a tight knit group.
“Lt. Col. Stephens has deep faith that this organization is his family,” said the brigade’s training non-commissioned officer, Staff Sgt. Corey Smith, a native of Frankfort. “He brings that up and expresses it often. He is a very patient leader and will communicate well with everyone.”
Stephens began his career as an enlisted Soldier in the Kentucky National Guard before serving in the Active Army. He later returned to the Guard as a traditional guardsman and completed aviation and leadership driven schools.
In 2002, he began his Active Guard Reserve career by serving in various battalion, brigade, and joint forces headquarters level positions helping Soldiers.
“The care for Soldiers, unequivocally, will continue,” said Stephens. “You always run the risk of why try to fix something if it’s working. My model will be to look at the organization, not only as I have been watching it for three years, but now look at it as commander to continue to refine points that are going well and call out those things that are not working out.”
Lt. Col. Michael Stephens passes the brigade colors to Command Sgt. Maj. Stocker to complete the change of command ceremony for the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade in Frankfort, Ky., June 7, 2014. Stephen and Stocker took the lead roles from Col. Michael Ferguson and Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Wilkins respectively. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cody Stagner)
In addition, the brigade also conducted a change of responsibility ceremony in which Command Sgt. Maj. William Stocker joined Stephens as the new leading noncommissioned officer for the 63rd. Stocker, previously the operations sergeant major for the brigade,replaced Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Wilkins as the brigade’s highest-ranking enlisted Soldier.
“The military command is something we are placed into, and I am excited for this opportunity,” said Stephens. “What’s awesome about this is that leadership is something the Soldiers give me. In other words, I will have to earn it.”
Video story by Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Hiler, 133rd MPAD
A family’s legacy in the Kentucky Guard
Story by: Sgt. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Master Sgt. Anthony J Tidei and his sons, Jonathon, Paul, Caleb, and Joshua climb aboard an aircraft during thier drill weekend on Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky. March 15. Each Tidei is positioned where they would usually be working or operating on the aircraft. (US Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brandy Mort)
FRANKFORT Ky. – Hard working, determined, intelligent and responsible are a few of the many words Lindsay would use to describe the last name Tidei. Lindsay holds the name of a unique family in the Kentucky National Guard. The last name Tidei belongs to five members of the same family, which currently serve in the Kentucky National Guard, and one member who recently served.
Not only are the Tideis’ a part of the Kentucky National Guard, but Master Sgt. Anthony J. Tidei, an Aircraft Maintainer with Bravo Co. 351st, and his sons, all chose careers within the Aviation field.
“I have always tried to be a positive role model in my son’s lives,” said Anthony. “I’ve worked hard to give them proper values. Their success is my success and I am proud of each and every one of them.”
Master Sgt. Anthony J Tidei Chief Warrant Officer, Jonathon J. Tidei, Sgt. Paul E. Tidei, Spc. Joshua P. Tidei and Spc. Caleb P. Tidei (US Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brandy Mort)
Chief Warrant Officer Jonathon J. Tidei, the oldest son, is a UH-60 pilot with Co. B 2/147th. He attributes a lot of his success to his father.
“Dad has always taught us to do the right thing,” said Jonathon. “I wanted to follow in his footsteps and carry on the Tidei legacy.”
Jonathon’s wife, Lindsay has seen the boys as Soldiers and Civilians. She says they are the same no matter what hat they are wearing.
“I’ve seen them at family picnics, but this is the first time I’ve seen them together in uniform,” she said. “They can be fun at times, but when they have a mission to do, they put their game face on and complete the task at hand.”
Sgt. Paul E. Tidei, Flight Operations Specialist with Operational Support Airlift Command Detachment 11, said that he felt like carrying on the family tradition would be a tough task.
“My dad has set the standard for the Tidei name,” said Paul. “Everyone looks up to him, including us. If you’re one of his kids, you’re expected to act as he does.”
Spc. Caleb P. Tidei and Spc. Joshua P. Tidei chose to be Aircraft Maintainers with Detachment 1, 2/147th Aviation to follow closely behind their father. When quizzed on certain parts of the aircraft by their dad, they passed with flying colors.
Master Sgt. Anthony J Tidei quizes his sons Caleb and Joshua on aircraft parts during thier drill weekend on Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky. March 15. Anthony and both of his sons are currently Aircraft Maintainers in the 63rd Theatre Aviation Brigade. (US Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brandy Mort)
Daniel Tidei, now a civilian IT specialist, once held the rank of sergeant and was a hydraulics specialist.
Master Sgt. Tidei is preparing to finish up his long, influential career. He is well loved by all who have served alongside him, including Lt. Col. Michael Stephens, Deputy Commander of the 63rd Theatre Aviation Brigade.
“Master Sgt. Tidei has had an impact on this organization that is hard to measure,” said Stephens.” The fact that five of his sons have followed in his footsteps is astonishing. It is a testament to the way he leads his family and shows the love he has for the Kentucky National Guard and for the nation. Tony will be greatly missed when he retires, but I know his legacy will live on through his family.”
The Guardsman behind the Challenge
Story and photos by Spc. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Staff Sgt. David Watts with the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, explains why time is critical to each of the participants of the second annual Command Sergeant Major Challenge at the Hidden Valley training site in Powell County, Ky., Sept. 13-15. Each group of participants was given roughly ten minutes to complete each task and four hours in which to complete each lane. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
POWELL COUNTY, Ky. — Picking a location, surveying the land, and logistically planning a three-day challenge may sound like a tough job for most. However, that’s exactly what one man in the Kentucky National Guard did in preparation for one of the biggest training events for the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade.
Staff Sgt. David Watts, Intelligence non-commissioned officer for the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade designed the layout and developed the scenarios for each mission and subtasks for the Second Annual Command Sergeant Major Challenge at the 500-acre Hidden Valley Training site in Powell County, Ky., Sept. 13-15.
The 25-year veteran has worn the hat of a tanker for the active duty military and the Kentucky National Guard as well as an aviation intelligence NCO.
Staff Sgt. David Watts with the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade, inputs data collected during the Command Sergeant Major Challenge at the Hidden Valley Training site, Sept. 13-15. This year, over 400 soldiers of the 63rd TAB participated. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
Watts has been in charge of designing that course for both years of the event. However, plans had to drastically change since the number of participants nearly doubled for 2013. The event also changed in the manner that only enlisted Soldiers were involved, from the planning, all through the execution of the challenge.
“This year we had to develop more task points,” said Watts, “We have over 400 participants this year, which allowed us to be more creative with each scenario.”
As soon as the event ended last year, Watts mind was already focused on this years event.
“I’ve been working on this project for about eight months,” said Watts, “In that time I planned the scenarios, developed the course map, and surveyed the area.”
Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Wilkins, who sponsored the event this year, expressed pride in the work Watts accomplished.
“Watts is the brains behind the entire mission,” said Wilkins, “He took it upon himself to get the job done. He is a strong asset to have in the 63rd.”
While Watts was in charge of most of the planning he doesn’t consider himself alone in the process. He also worked along with other various Soldiers from the 63rd TAB.
In his spare time he enjoys hanging out with his 12-year-old son and riding his motorcycle.
“I enjoy teaching him judo and archery,” said Watts.
The efforts made by Watts to complete a successful CSM Challenge was noticed by Kentucky’s State Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley. Chumley presented Watts with a coin for his excellence during an awards ceremony held on the last day of the event.
“This event is exactly the kind of idea we need to go with, for enlisted, by enlisted,” said Chumley. “Now that’s what I’m talking about!”
Guardsmen treated to luncheon by Veteran farmers
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Michael Lewis, an Army Veteran and Kentucky farmer hands out lunches to Soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade at the hidden Valley Training Site in Powell County, Ky., Sept.15, 2013. Lewis joined with the Department of Agriculture in presenting the one-of-a-kind Kentucky Proud luncheon to the unit in appreciation and also to bring awareness of programs available that assist Service members interested in farming. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
POWELL COUNTY, Ky. — Soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade concluded an extensive three-day training weekend with a unique picnic lunch at the Hidden Valley Training Site near Clay City, Ky., Sept. 15, 2013. The luncheon was courtesy of Kentucky’s Department of Agriculture and brought to them by a Veteran farmer.
“This a great end to a weekend,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Wilkins. “This weekend is quite different for these Soldiers, but so is this meal. What a treat for all of us.”
More than 400 Guardsmen of the unit participated in the Command Sergeant Major Challenge, an annual event for the 63rd that brings the aviation Soldiers out of the hangers and into the field for training in the Army Warrior tasks.
“I’m happy to receive a meal from Kentucky Proud,” said Spc. Tabitha King, a supply sergeant with 2/147th, “It’s from Kentucky so you know it’s going to be good.”
To see more photos from the luncheon, click here.
Jason Noto, Kentucky Proud vendor and U.S. Marine Veteran speaks to the Soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade at the Hidden Valley Training Site in Powell County, Ky., Sept. 15, 2013. Noto owns his own food business and farm in Sadieville, Ky., and prepared food for the Soldiers as part of a luncheon coordinated by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
The food was prepared by Jason Noto, owner and operator of Mia Nonni Mobile Food Truck and Shade Tree Farms in Sadieville, Ky. A native of Shelbyville, Ky., Noto served nine years in the Marine Corps and this year, followed a life-long dream of owning his own food business.
A menu of barbecue pulled pork and chicken, Italian sausage, vegetable boil of corn, potatoes and carrots were laid out with a variety of fixings available to each Soldier as they passed through the line.
Agriculture Commissioner James Comer was on hand to oversee the event and took the opportunity to speak to the Soldiers about the Homegrown By Heroes and Kentucky Proud Jobs for Vets initiatives. He said farming and being in the military are very similar and combining the two could be be beneficial for Service members and their communities.
” I’m glad to be here,” said Comer as he stood at the front of the food line shaking hands with each Soldier who passed.
“This is just a small token of our appreciation for everything our Service men and women do for us every single day,” he said.
The first of it’s kind, Homegrown By Heroes is a label that denotes a product is grown or produced by a current or former Service member. The Kentucky Proud Jobs for Vets helps Veterans find employment in the agriculture sector.
Comer’s programs are being pushed by Veteran farmers already working in Kentucky, such as Michael Lewis.
An Army Veteran and Kentucky Proud farmer, Lewis also spoke to the Soldiers, informing them of the many opportunities available in farming.
Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner, James Comer greets the Soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade during a luncheon at the Hidden Valley Training Site in Powell County, Ky., Sept. 15, 2103. The Department of Agriculture coordinated the event to show appreciation to the Kentucky National Guard and to bring awareness of local programs that assist Service members and Veterans in their own farming needs. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“There are many jobs related to agriculture out there,” he said. “And agriculture is one of the largest employment sectors in Kentucky.”
“I am here to ask you help me and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture,” he said. “To spread the word about the importance of these programs, and to plant a seed. If that seed sprouts into a backyard garden or a farm, we are here to help in any way we can.”
Lewis is also the Director of Growing Warriors, a program that helps to equip and train Veterans and their families with skills, tools and supplies to grow their own produce.
“It’s nice to be appreciated for all we do,” said Pfc. Joe Lovely, an aircraft hydraulics repair specialist with Bravo Company 351st. “I’m honored that they are using their own time, their own resources and their own family to provide us with locally grown products.”
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