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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
By Staff Sgt. David Bolton, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Sgt. Caleb Simmons with the 940th Military Police Company salutes a passing Color Guard during the Gubernatorial Inauguration parade in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 8, 2015. Kentucky Guard military police Soldiers assisted local law enforcement in securing areas near the Capitol for events surrounding Gov. Matt Bevin’s public swearing in. (Kentucky National Guard photo by Walt Leaumont)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Out in full force, the Kentucky National Guard celebrated with fellow Kentuckians as Gov. Matt Bevin was publicly sworn in Dec. 8, in Frankfort. Also sworn in was Army Brig. Gen. Stephen R. Hogan, the Kentucky Guard’s 52nd adjutant general.
“This is really the one big event we get to do every four years to really support the Commonwealth and let them know we have a band,” said Sgt. Shari Kinslow, a musician assigned to the 202nd Army Band.
“For us, this is the time of year where we get to be compared to some of the active duty bands up in D.C.,” she said.
The 202nd played several events for the inaugural celebration, including the private swearing-in ceremony, the parade and the public swearing in.
The inaugural events were special for Kinslow since this was her last performance before retirement. She served 20 years with the Kentucky Guard.
“I’ll miss this, it’s more like a family than just a unit,” she said.
Click here for more photos.
Spc. Josh Goldener, military police with the 1103rd MP Detachment, and Officer Mike Davidson, Frankfort Police Department, conduct traffic surveillance for Governor Matt Bevin’s inauguration at the Capitol building in Frankfort, Ky. Dec. 8, 2015. Present at the inauguration was the Kentucky National Guard’s new Adjutant General Brig. Gen. Stephen R. Hogan. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. David Bolton)
More than 150 Soldiers and Airmen were on duty in a variety of roles in and around the downtown area.
If the event patrons didn’t know the Kentucky Guard has a band, the 19-round artillery salute proved the Kentucky Guard has artillery. Getting the 105mm Howitzers and personnel in place, took special planning and coordination.
“You have to know how many people it will take to fire the guns, and coordinate the transportation of the artillery pieces from Lexington to Frankfort,” said Master Sgt. Joseph Mattingly, intelligence non-commissioned officer, 138th Field Artillery Brigade. “You have to draw ammo from Fort Knox, make sure everyone knows what’s going on, and run through rehearsals.”
As the liaison officer between color guard and artillery salute, Mattingly said the hardest part of the event was making sure he could reach everybody and keeping everyone on a timeline. The duty, he said, was fulfilling.
“It’s always an honor every time you do something like this,” said Mattingly.
Spc. Josh Goldener, said the honor of serving and protecting the attendees of the inauguration is a memory that will last with him a lifetime.
“It’s a huge honor to get to be a part of both the new governor and TAG’s first day,” said Goldener. “I mean this is history. I’m standing here getting to serve in something that happens every four or eight years. It’s very cool to be able to say I was a part of this and someday I can tell my kids or grandkids I was part of this event.”
Goldener provided security with his unit, the 1103rd Law and Order Detachment. Along with members of the 940th Military Police, the Kentucky Guard force ensured the safety of the patrons downtown.
“The hardest part is really just dealing with the circumstances surrounding today,” said Goldener.
“Not only because of its importance,” he said, “but because of what’s going on everywhere in the world at this time. We’re all on high alert even though there is no specific threat, we’re doing our best to stay vigilant and make sure we catch anything before it happens.”
The Kentucky Guard’s 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade closed out the inaugural ceremonies with a flyover of three UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters.
Soldiers and Airmen of the Kentucky National Guard act as Color Guard during the inaugural parade in front of the Capitol building in Frankfort, Ky. Dec. 8, 2015. The parade was part of the inaugural day activities for newly-elected Governor Matt Bevin. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. David Bolton)
In his closing remarks, Bevin – a former U.S. Army officer – thanked the Guard for being part of the day and always being ready to serve.
“We thank those of you who have paid that price and to your families,” said Bevin. “Thank you for all your support. Our thanks go to the men and women who have served, so that we might gather here.”
Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Staff Report
Governor Matt Bevin congratulates Brig. Gen. Stephen R. Hogan following Hogan’s swearing in at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 8, 2015. Bevin selected Hogan as the 52nd adjutant general, commanding the Kentucky National Guard. (Photo by Marvin Young)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Retired Brig. Gen. Stephen Hogan, who served more than 30 years in the Kentucky National Guard and active duty Army is the state’s next adjutant general, Governor-elect Matt Bevin announced Dec. 7.
Hogan was sworn into office shortly after midnight, Dec. 8, succeeding Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini who has served in the role since 2007.
Hogan said he will be taking charge of a National Guard organization that is among the best in the nation. Hogan was officially introduced to members of the Kentucky Guard during a welcome ceremony at the Boone National Guard Center following the inauguration.
“This is a wonderful feeling to be before you today,” said Hogan to those in attendance. “I am very honored and humbled to be back in uniform for an organization that I have a great deal of confidence in.”
Brig. Gen. Stephen R. Hogan, Kentucky’s adjutant general walks in the Inaugural parade in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 8, 2015. Hogan was selected by newly-elected Governor Matt Bevin to lead the Kentucky National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Click here for more photos.
As Kentucky’s 52nd adjutant general, Hogan will command the nearly 8,000 military members of the Kentucky Army and Air National Guard. He will also oversee the statewide Department of Military Affairs, Kentucky Emergency Management, the Appalachian and Bluegrass Challenge Academies and Bluegrass Station in Avon, Kentucky.
The cabinet-level post administers an annual budget of approximately $170 million to support operations at 56 armories, three major training sites and the Air National Guard base at Louisville International Airport.
Hogan brings a wealth of experience to the job, formerly serving as assistant adjutant general for the Kentucky Army National Guard. In that role, he was responsible for balancing the requirements of readiness, modernization, force structure and sustainment of the National Guard for mobilization and domestic missions. He oversaw specified units that provided wide ranging support to the National Guard’s federal and state mission sets, as well as those units that provided specialized support to civil authorities.
Hogan was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at Morehead State University in 1985. He earned a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College in 2008. In 2010 and 2013 he completed the U.S. Northern Command Joint Task Force Command Course and U.S. Northern Command Joint Dual Status Commander’s Course.
Hogan’s significant active duty assignments included tours with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky; 6th Infantry Division Light, Fort Richardson, Alaska; The Army Operations Center at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., and Multi-National Corps Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq. When not serving on federal active duty, Hogan served in the Kentucky Army National Guard as an active duty Guardsman with the State’s Counter-Drug Unit, from June 1993 to February 2011.
Command Chief Warrant Officer Dean Stoops congratulates Brig. Gen. Stephen R. Hogan on becoming Kentucky’s newest adjutant general during an introduction ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Dec. 8, 2015. Hogan was officially introduced to members of the Kentucky Guard following the gubernatorial inauguration. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Hogan rode in the Inaugural parade through downtown Frankfort to the Capitol to attend Bevin’s public swearing in. Bevin praised Hogan’s service and expressed his trust in Hogan’s future as the leader of the Kentucky Guard.
“It is my pleasure to name Brigadier General Stephen R. Hogan as adjutant general for the Commonwealth of Kentucky,” said Bevin. “We owe our freedom and safety to the men and women of our military. General Hogan has served our country and our commonwealth with honor and distinction and understands first hand, the critical importance of the Citizen-Soldier. I have absolute confidence that he will be an excellent Commanding General.”
By Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, Kentucky’s adjutant general passes the non-commissioned officer’s sword to Command Sgt. Maj. David Munden during an assumption of responsibility ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Aug. 7, 2015. Munden became the state’s ninth command sergeant major, taking over for Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley who retired in June. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Command Sgt. Maj. David Munden became Kentucky’s ninth state command sergeant major during an assumption of responsibility ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort, Ky., Aug. 7. He takes over from Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Chumley who retired in June.
Kentucky’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini presided over the event and presented Munden with the NCO sword signifying Munden’s responsibility as the senior non-commissioned officer for the Kentucky Army National Guard.
Command Sgt. Maj. David Munden returns the non-commissioned officer’s sword to Staff Sgt. Adam Rients to complete an assumption of responsibility ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Aug. 7, 2015. Munden assumes the role following an assignment as the command sergeant major of the Warrior Transition Battalion in Fort, Knox, Ky. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“This is the culminating event of my career,” said Munden. “I can’t imagine any other job that I’d want after this one.”
In his position as the senior noncommissioned officer, the state command sergeant major advises the Adjutant General of Kentucky on the nearly 6500 enlisted Soldiers in the Kentucky Army National Guard, emphasizing training and quality of life issues. He is also charged with the fair and equitable management of promotions and personnel actions.
“I am a Soldier, and I’m a sergeant. And sergeants execute missions. I may have a fancy title, but I will still execute this mission with the confidence and trust I have been shown.”
Munden has served 33 years in uniform, 23 of those while married to his wife, Ginger. It was a very emotional event for the Munden family with several family members in attendance for the ceremony.
“I’m so proud of him today and I know he will do such a good job for the Soldiers,” she said. “We’ve worked hard to get him here and it means a lot to him and I hope he has the opportunity to accomplish the mission.”
Munden originally enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1979 and served six years active duty before joining the Kentucky Guard in 1988. He served the majority of his career with the 223rd Military Police Company and the 198th MP Battalion. In 2012, Munden deployed to Afghanistan as a senior mentor with Kentucky’s final Agribusiness Development Team. Upon his return, Munden was appointed the command sergeant major of the Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Knox, Kentucky, a job he called eye-opening and very rewarding.
“I’m from the military police, I’m of the troops and for the troops. That’s the last time you’ll hear me speak specifically of MPs, I am for all the Soldiers of the Kentucky National Guard. That’s how I’m going to be.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Col. Charles Jones traces the etching of his son’s name on the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 25, 2015. The monument honors the memory of more than 230 Kentucky Guardsmen who have lost their lives on duty since 1912, including Jones’ son, Sgt. 1st Class Charles Jason Jones who died in Iraq in 2006. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Flags were raised, the ribbon was cut, names were read and the tears fell. Kentucky now has a permanent shrine to fallen Guardsmen.
Lt. Gov. Crit Luallen and Adjutant General Edward W. Tonini joined hundreds of current and former Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, friends and family members in a dedication ceremony for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial on Memorial Day, May 25 at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky.
“With a beautiful stone map of Kentucky and that incredible statue of Daniel Boone standing guard … there’s nothing quite like it in our city,” said Lt. Gov. Luallen. “I don’t think there’s anything quite like it anywhere in the state of Kentucky. It is a fitting tribute to your fallen loved ones, and serve as a reminder to all of us that freedom isn’t free.”
Lynn Romans (center) and other family members trace the names of their fallen loved ones on the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 25, 2015. More than 230 names of fallen Guardsmen are etched on the new memorial at the Boone National Guard Center. (U. S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
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Nearly ten years in the making, the memorial honors more than 230 Guardsmen who have given their lives in the line of duty since 1912, in defense of the nation overseas and here at home.
One of those is Lynn Romans’ son, Sgt. Darrin Potter who was killed in Iraq in 2003. Romans is happy the memorial is finished and so close to the road for people to see.
“Recognizing everyone on that wall will ensure that they are never forgotten,” she said. “This recognizes the real heroes among us and we all should take a moment and relish our freedoms we have because of them.”
Tonini thanked the crowd and everyone who contributed to the memorial including local Future Farmers of America members who added the final touches of landscaping just days before. He stated that a part of the memorial is a part of everyone who helped along the way.
“I am truly awe-struck by this beautiful, polished granite rendition of the Bluegrass State, listing the names of our fallen troops … protected by the larger than life figure of the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone,” stated Tonini. “And as we stand together, I want to remind you that we didn’t just do this for our fallen Guardsmen and women.”
(Left to right) Lt. Gov. Crit Luallen, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini and Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Adams III cut the ribbon officially dedicating the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 25, 2015. The memorial was ten years in the making and was built for roughly $1.3 million. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“We also did it for their families and loved ones,” he said. “We did this for future generations of Guard Soldiers and Airmen. Now those who fall in step after us can better appreciate what it means to be a member of the Kentucky National Guard.”
The ceremony also featured a fly-over by a Kentucky Air Guard C-130 and two Blackhawk helicopters, and a 21-gun salute from Howitzer cannons of the 138th Field Artillery Brigade.
Soil from all 120 Kentucky counties was planted at the site in recognition of the Kentucky National Guard being the commonwealth’s “hometown defense force.”
The memorial was built with private funds.
Story by Sgt. Cody Stagner, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Wyatt Gragg guides a newly bronzed statue of Daniel Boone into position at the Kentucky National Guard Memorial site in Frankfort, Ky., Nov. 18, 2014. Gragg was commissioned to create the sculpture as the centerpiece of the memorial which is expected to be dedicated in the Spring of 2015. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Construction on the Kentucky National Guard’s Memorial continues at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Kentucky. The project remains on schedule for its Memorial Day dedication ceremony.
Visitors of BNGC and local passersby of the site will notice big changes from the past few months.
John Trowbridge, chairman for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial Fund, stands by the bronze statue of Daniel Boone at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ken., Dec. 5, 2014. Boone was chosen by the committee as a prominent feature for a memorial being dedicated to fallen Kentucky’s service members. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Cody Stagner)
“Work will continue to the holiday,” said John Trowbridge, chairman for the memorial. “We expect to break for Christmas and, weather permitting, we plan to finish it this spring.”
Trowbridge is also the original visionary of this project.
“I thought of this memorial in 2004,” said Trowbridge, former command historian for the Kentucky Guard. “It was right after our first casualty that year and I wanted to come up with a way to help our state remember those killed or captured.”
Trowbridge’s early passion for our Soldiers inspired teams of individuals. Finally, after a solid decade of planning and fundraising, his dream has become a reality.
A bronze statue of Daniel Boone, sculpted by Wyatt Gragg of Prospect, Kentucky, now acts as a centerpiece, in front of the Kentucky-shaped, granite memorial, recently shipped in from South Africa.
The concrete stairs leading up to the memorial are the most recent ongoing addition, while the granite tile flooring surrounding the two centerpieces is on the agenda for this spring.
Click here to read why Daniel Boone gained prominence as a key feature for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial.
As a reminder, Kentucky National Guard Memorial is still planning its dedication ceremony for 2 p.m. Memorial Day at Boone National Guard Center. Members of the public and family and friends of our fallen heroes are invited. For information, visit www.kyngmemorial.com.
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Second Lt. Dakota Lawler is pinned by his fiancee, Ashley Holley and grandfather, Neil Lawler during a commissioning ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Sept. 27, 2014. Lawler and 15 other Soldiers were commissioned as the newest officers in the Kentucky Guard, while 14 other Guardsmen were honored as recent graduates as the newest warrant officers. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Eyes of the Kentucky National Guard were focused on 30 individual Soldiers who became the Commonwealth’s newest commissioned officers during a ceremony on the Capitol steps, Sept. 27.
After completing a rigorous 18-month training program with Kentucky’s Officer Candidate School, including a final phase at Fort McClellan, Alabama, 16 Guardsmen earned their second lieutenant gold bars and swore in as commissioned officers.
Second Lt. Sarah Powell is given the oath of office by Col. Hal Lamberton during a commissioning ceremony for the newest officers in the Kentucky Guard. Powell enlisted into the Guard in 2013 and will become a platoon leader with the 940th Military Police Company. (U.S. Army National guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
The remaining 14 Soldiers were recognized after their recent graduation as warrant officers. Kentucky’s Warrant Officer Candidate School is a five-month program that has produced technical experts for the Kentucky Guard since 2011.
Click here for more photos from the ceremony.
Kentucky’s newest officers’ experience spans from decades of enlisted service to just a few short months wearing the uniform. Warrant Officer Stephen Plouvier from Hodgenville, Kentucky entered the military in 1985, while Fort Thomas, Kentucky-native, 2nd Lt. Sarah Powell enlisted in 2012.
Regardless of their time in service, the new leaders said their role leading Citizen-Soldiers of the Commonwealth is a challenge they are up to accepting.
“This was the next step for me to continue serving, I enjoy serving the Kentucky Guard,” said Plouvier, who felt he had progressed as far as he could as an enlisted Soldier. “Becoming a warrant was the best choice for my personal growth, to become that technical expert and to mentor young Soldiers and non-commissioned officers.”
For others such as Powell, personal growth started with raising her hand to join the Kentucky National Guard, and the commitment she made herself to get to where she is today.
“I worked really hard to prove that I could overcome obstacles and to challenge myself to become a better person,” said Powell.
Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, adjutant general for Kentucky presided over the event held at the state capitol. Tonini congratulated the Soldiers and expressed his pride in which he called the “ready, reliable and accessible leaders of the future.”
“My charge to you is to lead our Guard forces with the resilience, the patience, the passion and the fervor you have shown to get you to this point,” said Tonini. “You are ready, now do it. You are our future.”
The newly commissioned officers of Officer Candidate School Class 56-14. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
The newly commissioned officers of class 56-14 included:
2nd Lt. Seth Ryan Frost (Mount Juliet, Tenn.) – Kentucky National Guard Training Center
2nd Lt. Zachary Joel Hahn (Lexington, Ky.) – 103rd Brigade Support Battalion
2nd Lt. Thomas D. Hobbs (Hardinsburg, Ky.) – 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry
2nd Lt. David B. Holobaugh (Louisville, Ky.) – 1123rd Engineer Company
2nd Lt. David Douglas Keeven (Versailles, Ky.) – 103rd Brigade Support Battalion
2nd Lt. Taylor Curtis Carter Landsdale (Mt. Sterling, Ky.) – 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery
2nd Lt. Dakota Neil Lawler (Paducah, Ky.) – 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade
2nd Lt. Cassandra Jo Mullins (Hindman, Ky.) – 149th Signal Company
2nd Lt. Bradley Michael Osbourne (Louisville, Ky.) – 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery
2nd Lt. Christopher T. Porter (Morgantown, Ky.) – 149th Brigade Support Battalion
2nd Lt. Sarah Ashley Powell (Fort Thomas, Ky.) – 940th Military Police Company
2nd Lt. Hope Alexa Smith (Lexington, Ky.) – Bravo Company, 351st Aviation
2nd Lt. Sebastian Harrison Stanley (Glasgow, Ky.) – 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry
2nd Lt. Constantine Joseph Sztendera (Campbellsville, Ky.) – 299th Chemical Company
2nd Lt. Joseph Lynn Tucker (Frankfort, Ky.) – 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery
2nd Lt. Andrew McDaniel Wilson (Lexington, Ky.) – 1204th Aviation Support Battalion
The newly graduated warrant officers of Warrant Officer Candidate School Class 14-001. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
The newly commissioned warrant officers of class 14-001 included:
Warrant Officer Jonathan Marcus Bailey (Lexington, Ky.)
Warrant Officer David Benjamin Chandler (Radcliff, Ky.)
Warrant Officer William Martin Cottrell (Louisville, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Brandon Wade DeArmond (Penrod, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Dustin Cade Lewis (Mount Washington, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Jessica Ann Peel (Harrodsburg, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Stephen Edward Plouvier (Hodgenville, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Orbin Scott Rudd (Frenchburg, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Robert Wayne Sewell (Verona, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Jeffrey T. Valentine (Barbourville, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Matthew Daniel Vincent (Owensboro, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Ronald James Wamsley (Denver, Colo.)
Warrant Officer Lawrence Shannon Webb (Louisville, Ky.)
Warrant Officer Jess Marius Willard (Portland, Tenn.)
Story by Maj. David Page, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Aerial view of the new Army Aviation Support Facility on Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky. The new facility will more than quadruple its predecessor in space and will allow all aircraft to be stored indoors. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — In mid January, Kentucky Army Aviators will open a new 126,000 square foot, $25 million Army Aviation Support Facility on the Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort.
The facility will have 18 aircraft bays that will feature the latest in aviation support to include in-ground vaults in the hangars to house data hubs as well as lubricants, air and water ports to assist in maintenance of the rotary-wing aircraft.
“The new facility will be four times the size of the current AASF,” said Chief Warrant Officer Ryan S. Thompson, Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor, Joint Forces Headquarters. “Plus, it will have bays to house our aircraft, which will keep them out of the elements, therefore helping us reduce corrosion by as much as 80 percent and reduce the risk of lightning strikes on the flight line.”
Workers making progress on the new Army Aviation Support Facility during a July visit from Kentucky’s adjutant general, July 16, 2014. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. David Page)
Click here to see more photos from this story.
Besides the increased size, the new AASF is registered as a LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Silver certified facility by the US Green Building Council. Silver is the second of four levels in LEED, and it is based on points for positive environmental aspects of a project. This certification recognizes the Kentucky National Guard for its environmental stewardship in the selection of building materials, methods, and energy savings initiatives.
“Our approach to savings on this facility is multi-faceted,” said Col Steven T. King, Construction and Facilities Management Officer. “Firstly, we are constructing a building that is tightly sealed, well insulated, and durable to minimize energy demand.
“Secondly, through sustainable design building principles, we are using the site orientation to take advantage of natural day-lighting, high-efficiency artificial lighting, active and passive solar strategies, geothermal heating and cooling, occupancy sensors and programmed thermostats to schedule HVAC shut down during periods of non-occupancy, such as nighttime and non-IDT (inactive duty training) weekends. This effort enables us to focus on minimizing our energy operating costs. ”
Another contributing factor to helping with the LEED certification is the solar panels that will be installed on the facility. These panels will help provide up to 80 kilowatts of energy, which will provide approximately 20% of the energy requirements for the building.
“Although we have 80kW of photovoltaic energy that we will produce, our goal is to add additional panels in the future to make this facility a truly Net-Zero energy building,” said King. “This means that we will generate an amount equal to or greater than the amount of energy we consume.”
The new Army Aviation Support Facility will have 18 aircraft bays featuring the latest in aviation support to include in-ground vaults in the hangars to house data hubs as well as lubricants, air and water ports to assist in maintenance of the rotary-wing aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. David Page)
Beyond the positive environmental impact, the facility was designed with the “user” in mind.
To that end, Col. King and his staff reached out to Col. Abney and his aviation team to talk about what they needed in a facility. The group then toured three other Aviation Facilities around the U.S. to gather lessons learned from those projects.
“During the tours, we looked at how each facility flowed and how we could make ours more efficient,” said Thompson. “We then worked with Chief Warrant Officer Four Larry Goode (a member of Col. King’s team) on the elements we wanted and he helped us get everything under one footprint.”
What resulted from the tours and the collaboration was a design that was not only functional for all units to be housed there, but some small touches to help the Soldiers be more efficient. For example, the component support shops that provide maintenance functions are located immediately adjacent to the hangar floor, which enhances the overall logistical flow of the entire operation.
Another critical feature of the new building will be the fire suppression system in the hangars. In case of a fire, the system will fill the hangar up to 8’ of foam within 10 minutes to dowse a fire.
“We are looking forward to moving into the new facility,” said Thompson. “This has been a long-time in the making so it will be a great day when we cut the ribbon.”
As for the existing AASF, it will be receiving a new tenant as well. The Combined Support Maintenance Shop, also located on Boone Center, will move to help provide more space on the post.
The following is a compilation of significant dates in our nation’s and the commonwealth’s military history. For more on the legacy of our Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, visit the Kentucky National Guard eMuseum.
Normandy invasion, D-Day, June 6, 1944.
The crest for Army National Guard units of the Commonwealth of Kentucky includes fifteen stars, a reference to Kentucky being the fifteenth state admitted to the Union.
June 1, 1792 – Kentucky’s Birthday – Kentucky became the 15thstate of the United States of America.
June 1, 1942 – Technical Sgt. Johnnie Bottoms, Headquarters Company, 192nd Light Tank Battalion (Harrodsburg Tankers) died at Calauan Camp #3 – Old Bilibid Prison, Rizal Manila Philippines. (World War II)
June 1, 1969 – Sgt. Bertram A. “Sonny” Carr, Louisville, Ky., of B Battery 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery was killed near Hamburger Hill. He was originally a member of Service Battery. (Vietnam War)
June 2, 1942 – Pvt. Willard Emmal Foster, Headquarters Company, 192nd Light Tank Battalion (Harrodsburg Tankers) died of dysentery at Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac, Philippines. (World War II)
June 3, 1942 – Battle of Midway began. (World War II)
June 6, 1944– D-Day Invasion of Europe. (World War II)
Sgt. Hezakiah Franklin Sallee
June 6, 1944 – Sgt. Hezakiah Franklin “Heze” Sallee of Company D, 192nd Light Tank Battalion (Harrodsburg Tankers) died in coal mining accident at Japanese Prisoner of War Camp Fukuoku-17, Nagasaki, Japan. (World War II)
June 6, 1952 – Operation Counter began. (Korean War)
June 8, 1864 – John H. Morgan raided Mt. Sterling, took Lexington, thence to Georgetown and Cynthiana, thence through Flemingsburg and West Liberty into the State of Virginia. (Civil War)
June 9, 1969 – Kentucky Air National Guard returned home from its duties during the Pueblo Crisis (Korea) and was released from active duty in ceremonies in Louisville. During the recall period of 17 months the wing flew 19,715 tactical flying hours from a total of 11,561 sorties. The 165th Squadron alone processed 257,200 prints and 284,251 feet of film and flew 4,438 recon sorties totaling 7,192 hours.
June 10, 1951 – Battle for the Punchbowl began. (Korean War)
June 10, 1953 – Siege of Outpost Harry began. (Korean War)
June 11, 1960 – The Kentucky Air National Guard facility at Standiford Field was dedicated to the honor of a former member of the unit, Capt. John William Shewmaker, killed in Korea Oct. 23, 1951, while flying with the 111th Fighter- Bomber Squadron. Members of the family were guests of the Kentucky Air National Guard for the occasion.
Staff Sgt. Harold Brown
June 11, 1969 – Staff Sgt. Harold Milton Brown, Mt. Washington, Ky., formerly Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery was killed by rocket fire while in a bunker in Chu Lai while serving with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 82nd Artillery, Americal Division. (Vietnam War)
June 13, 1942 – Pvt. Herbert C. Steele of Company D, 192nd Light Tank Battalion (Harrodsburg Tankers) died of dysentery at Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac, Philippines. (World War II)
June 14 – Flag Day
June 14, 1775 – U.S. Army founded.
June 14, 1920 – Col. Isaac Wilder is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky, by Governor Edwin P. Morrow. Wilder resigned the position two days later.
June 15, 1950 – Governor Clements issues an executive order appointing Brig. Gen. Roscoe L. Murray to the rank of major general conforming to general assembly’s change to KRS 36.030 raising the rank of the adjutant general from brigadier general to major general. This is the first time in the history of the Commonwealth that the adjutant general was granted the rank of major general.
June 16, 1920 – James Madison DeWeese is appointed adjutant general of Kentucky for the second time by Governor Edwin P. Morrow.
June 18, 1812– U.S. Congress declared war against England. (War of 1812)
Lt. General Simon Buckner
June 18, 1945 – During action on Okinawa. Lt. Gen. Simon B. Buckner Jr. became the highest ranking American general officer killed in action during WWII. The Kentucky native was the son of Confederate General and Kentucky Governor Simon B. Buckner. In 1954 Congress posthumously promoted him to the rank of general. (World War II)
June 19, 1969 – C Battery, 2nd Battalion, 138thField Artillery attacked on Tomahawk Hill by North Vietnamese Army sappers. Other 2ndBattalion batteries at nearby firebases were shelled by the NVA so that they could provide little or no fire support for C Battery. Pfc. Joseph R. McIlvoy, Mackville, Ky., Specialist Four Ronald E. Simpson, Bardstown, Ky., Specialist Four David B. Collins, Bardstown, Ky., Sgt. James T. Moore, Bardstown, Ky., 1st Sgt. Luther M. Chappel, Worthville, Ky., were killed in the attack. When Firebase TOMAHAWK was attacked during the early morning hours in a pouring rain, sappers infiltrated the base and during the attack threw some 150 satchel charges into the bunkers in addition to firing rocket propelled grenades (RPG). The battle went on some two hours before the NVA were forced to retreat. The attack destroyed an ammunition storage area, four of the six M-109 self-propelled howitzers, nine bunkers, the mess hall, dining tent, maintenance building, four ammunition carriers, three 2 1/2-ton trucks, two 3/4-ton trucks, and three jeeps. The Battery had nine men killed; five of them were from Kentucky and the other four were non-Guard replacements from various, non-Kentucky, locations. The unit also suffered 37 wounded. A platoon of infantrymen from the 101stAirborne Division was providing perimeter security for the firebase and four of the 101st soldiers were killed and another 13 wounded. Senior Commander in Vietnam, General Creighton Abrams, said the 2ndBattalion 138th Field Artillery, was “one of the best trained, and absolutely the best maintained battalion-sized unit in Vietnam.” (Vietnam War)
June 20, 1792 – Governor Isaac Shelby signs act establishing the Kentucky Militia.
June 21, 1871 – Reunion at Paris, Ky., of 69 soldiers of the War of 1812; their combined ages equal 5,487.
June 21, 1871 – Capt. Thomas S. Theobald, of Frankfort, aged 79, receives a pension certificate as a veteran of the War of 1812, the first issued to a Kentuckian, and entitling him to $8 per month. He was First Lieutenant in Morrill’s company of Kentucky Mounted Rifles.
June 22, 1780 – Capture by Capt. Henry Bird and British-Canadian-Indian army, of Ruddle’s and Martin’s Stations, on upper waters of Licking River. (Early Indian Wars)
June 22, 1942 – Pledge of Allegiance recognized by Congress.
June, 1944 – GI Bill signed into law.
June 24 – Kentucky National Guard Day in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. On this day in 1792 Governor Shelby established how the Kentucky Militia was to be organized.
June 24, 1792 – Kentucky Militia is organized by Governor Shelby.
June 25, 1850 – Construction of Kentucky’s Battle Monument completed in the state cemetery at Frankfort.
The Battle of Little Bighorn, June 25, 1876
June 25, 1876 - During the Battle of Little Bighorn, Madison County, Ky.-native, Pvt. William Harris and Pvt. George Scott of Lancaster County, Ky. bring water to Soldiers while under enemy fire. Their actions earn them both the Medal of Honor. Both are among the 263 Soldiers of the 7th Cavalry killed in the battle.
June 25, 1950 – Korean War began.
June 28, 1914 – World War I began in Europe after Archduke Francis of Austria and wife were assassinated.
June 29, 1846 – Appointment by President Polk of William O. Butler, of Carroll County, Kentucky to be major general of volunteers. Butler was the son of Kentucky’s first adjutant general, P.P. Butler. Butler State Park in Carrollton is named in honor of William O. Butler. (Mexican War)
June 29, 1950 – First U.S. ground forces arrive in Korea. (Korean War)
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Kentucky Adjutant General Edward W. Tonini, retired Kentucky Guardsmen and board members of the Kentucky National Guard Memorial Fund break ground for the new Kentucky Guard’s memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 26, 2014. After several years of planning and fund-raising, the project will begin construction this summer. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Friends and family of the Kentucky Guard joined Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini and hundreds of current and former Citizen Soldiers and Airmen to celebrate Memorial Day by breaking ground for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, May 26.
After years in the works, construction of the memorial will begin this summer. 1st Lt. Joshua Witt, board member of the Kentucky National Guard Memorial Fund said the moment is a long time coming.
Family members of fallen Kentucky Guardsmen are joined by friends, former and current Kentucky Guardsmen during the National Anthem at a ground-breaking ceremony for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 26, 2014. More than 140 names of fallen Kentucky Guardsmen will be etched in the memorial to be built this summer. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“We have come together finally on Memorial Day 2014 for the event we dreamed of five years ago,” he said. “This is the chance for us to recognize the reality of a $1.3 million fund-raising goal for a project that represents the sacrifice of more than 140 Kentucky Guardsmen that gave their lives since 1912.”
Click here to see more photos from the event.
Witt called the memorial a fitting tribute to Kentucky’s fallen. The memorial will feature a 22-foot wide granite stone in the shape of Kentucky bearing the names of Kentucky National Guard soldiers who have died in the line of duty. So far, 148 Soldiers have been identified to have their names engraved on the stone.
One of those names to be etched is Sgt. James Sherrill who was killed April 3, 2005 in Bayji, Iraq while serving with the 2113th Transportation Company. Sherrill’s mother, father and daughter attended the groundbreaking and agreed that the memorial will bring strength to them and peace of mind.
“I think this will mean a whole lot to us,” said Sherrill’s father, William. “This memorial will be a big part of his memory, it’s going to be really beautiful.”
William and Beatrice Sherrill point out the picture of their son, Sgt. James Sherrill to Alexandra Sherrill, James’ daughter at a ground-breaking ceremony for the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort, Ky., May 26, 2014. Sherrill was killed in Iraq in 2005 while serving with the 2113th Transportation Company. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“Even after nine years, it’s like we are still part of the family,” he said. “It really gives us a great feeling knowing that so many people remember and honor our son.”
The memorial will also include a 9.5-foot tall, solid bronze Daniel Boone statue and a 70-foot wide circle of pavers volunteers are calling the “sacred space.” It will have a separate entrance and its own parking.
Volunteers with the Memorial Fund are hopeful to dedicate the monument next Memorial Day.
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Kentucky Guardsmen join supporters of the Brian Injury Alliance of Kentucky (BIAK) for a rally at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., March 12, 2014. BIAK held the rally to show support for legislation up for vote by Kentucky’s elected officials. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Soldiers of the Kentucky National Guard joined with the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky (BIAK) and its supporters for BIAK’s 2014 Rally at the Rotunda in the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., March 12.
BIAK acts as the voice for the more than 225,000 Kentuckians have been affected by brain injuries. The purpose of the rally was to push support for legislation that would benefit those affected and strengthen laws for guarding against future brain injuries.
Col. Michael Gavin, State Surgeon for the Kentucky National Guard speaks to supporters of the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., March 12, 2014. The Kentucky Guard was on hand to support BIAK and their work to assist Service members and their families affected by brain injuries. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“It is important that Kentuckians understand the prevalence of brain injuries and their devastating impact on the lives of both the victims and their families,” said Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear to the crowd of supporters pledging his support for the legislation and declared March 12 as Brain Injury Awareness Day in the commonwealth.
Speakers noted that one in five Kentucky families are affected by a brain injury and that Kentucky’s numbers are nearly double the national average for brain injuries. In the military, more than 294,000 members have suffered a brain injury during the Global War on Terror.
Kentucky National Guard State Surgean Col. Michael Gavin spoke about his experiences in treating brain injuries, both on the battlefield and here at home. During a 2005 tour of duty in Iraq he treated more than 138 injuries due to improvised explosive devices. One of his own Soldiers suffered brain trauma after being hit by an IED while on patrol.
“He wanted to be well, to serve his fellow Soldiers, but he was unable to do so because of this very real injury. This was a frightening experience for all of us.”
Gavin reinforced the necessity for awareness about brain injuries and their treatment. “This is an experience which occurs to some degree to almost 1.6 milllion of our countrymen every year. Fortunately, and because of your efforts, we are making strides in the best treatment which is prevention, and in disseminating information about the most appropriate evaluation and treatment of these all too common injuries.”
State Auditor Adam Edelen spoke of how BIAK resembles a family taking care of their own and the relevance of that work ethic to the crisis of brain injuries.
Gov. Steve Beshear reads a proclamation declaring March 12 as Brain Injury Awareness Day in Kentucky during a rally for the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., March 12, 2014. Beshear then presented the plaque to Mary Hass and Chell Austin with the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky during the rally. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“I know of no other organization anywhere in Kentucky that does a better job advocating for those in their critical point of need than BIAK,” he said.
The Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky is a non-profit agency that began in Lexington, Ky. in the early 1980s and is now based in Louisville, Ky. BIAK seeks to share its philosophy, experience and skills with survivors, family members, students, caregivers, administrators, health professionals, legislators, the lay community and all those who desire to make a difference in the life of individuals with brain injuries and their families.
For more information, visit BIAK’s website at www.biak.us
Legislation up for support by BIAK included:
House Bill 235 - An addition of 303 new slots in the ABI acute and long-term Medicaid waivers in the Governor’s Executive Summary.
House Bill 157 - A bill requiring certain physicians to get training in recognizing the subtle signs of child abuse.
House Bill 199 - A bill that improves the requirements for booster seats and will protect Kentucky’s children.
House Bill 33 - A bill that improves on Kentucky’s texting and driving legislation.
House Bill 256 - A bill that will create a registry for adult abuse offenders to protect Kentucky’s vulnerable citizens.
Senate Bill 98 - Provides protection to Kentucky’s vulnerable citizens.
