Pages
Stay In Touch
More
© 2013 KentuckyGuard
By Capt. Andi Hahn, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
Kentucky Guardsmen Col. Scott Campbell, former 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Commander, speaks to Soldiers after being presented the Legion of Merit award for meritorious service while serving as commander deployed in support of Operation New Dawn at a ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Jan 11.
FRANKFORT, Ky.-Col. Scott Campbell, former commander of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade headquartered out of Louisville, Ky., was presented the Legion of Merit during an award ceremony at Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 11.
The award was presented by Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, Adjutant General of Kentucky, for Campbell’s meritorious service as commander while deployed in support of Operation New Dawn in 2011. The award highlighted Campbell’s leadership, dedication and devotion to his Soldiers across the 2,500 strong brigade. His hard work in planning, resourcing and executing aggressive training opportunities enabled the success of the largest deployment of Kentucky Soldiers since WWII.
Kentucky National Guardsmen Col. Scott Campbell, former 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Commander, receives the Legion of Merit award from Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini as Campbell’s wife, Linda looks on proudly, during a ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., Jan. 11.
The 149th MEB served in Iraq from August 2011 to December 2011 and was responsible for closing down the largest camp, Victory Base Complex, of the Iraq war. The unit was some of the last Soldiers to leave Iraq. Campbell, who served two tours in Iraq, credited the members of his team for the award.
“The Army awards Soldiers for achievement or for service,” Campbell said. “The achievement is for an individual accomplishment, the service is for a team effort. This award represents that.”
Campbell said he had the best team anyone could have put together for such a historic mission.
“This is a reflection of our organization,” he said. “We can plug and play any number of members of our organization and create a ‘winning’ team.”
For more pictures from Campbell’s ceremony, visit our flickr page!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kyngpao/
The following is a compilation of significant dates in our commonwealth’s military history. For more on the legacy of our Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, visit the Kentucky National Guard eMuseum.
September, 1793 – Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne calls for mounted volunteers from Kentucky; but, having lost confidence in the regular troops in Harmar’s and St. Clair’s defeats, Kentuckians refuse to volunteer.
September 1, 1864 – Battle of Jonesboro, Ga. part of Atlanta Campaign. Kentucky Orphan Brigade attempts to hold strategic railroad position south of the city. However are not reinforced when attacked in force and are cut off from main Confederate position, suffer heavy casualties. The loss of rail line cuts off any hope of resupply for the Confederates in Atlanta and the city is evacuated. Union Army enters Atlanta the next day. (Civil War)
September 1, 1863 – John Boyle appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. Thomas E. Bramlette.
September 1, 1891 – First appointment of Andrew Jackson Gross as Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. John Y. Brown.
September 1, 1952 – Largest All-Navy Raid (Korean War)
September 1, 2010 - Beginning of Operation New Dawn, end of U.S. Military’s combat role in Iraq.
September 2, 1914 – James Tandy Ellis appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. Augustus O. Stanley. Ellis would be re-appointed as the Adjutant General by Gov. James B. Black.
September 2, 1945– VJ (Victory Japan) Day: Japan signed formal surrender (World War II)
September 2, 2007 – Staff Sgt. Delmar White, Lexington (Fayette County), was killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) while on a convoy escort mission in Baghdad, Iraq. White, 37, was assigned to Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 138thField Artillery, based in Carlisle, Ky. White was a corrections officer with Lexington Fayette Urban County Government and deployed with his unit in August 2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He joined the Kentucky Army National Guard in 1998. (Global War on Terror)
September 4, 1864 – Gen. John Hunt Morgan shot and killed by Union officers at Greenville, Tennessee (Civil War)
September 4, 1875 – John Montgomery Wright is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. James B. McCreary.
September 5, 1871 – James Allen Dawson is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. Preston H. Leslie.
September 5, 1883 – John Breckinridge Castleman is appointed acting Adjutant General of Kentucky from 1883 – 1887, by Gov. J. Proctor Knott.
September 6, 1845 – Gov. Owsley is notified by the secretary of war, that Gen. Zachary Taylor is authorized to call upon Kentucky for troops to repel the apprehended Mexican invasion. Gov. Owsley replies that any requisition upon Kentucky will be promptly and gallantly responded to.
Siege of Boonesborough, 1778. Courtesy of Fort Boonesborough museum.
September 7, 1778 – Siege of Boonesborough by Captain de Quindre and a large force of Indians and Canadians. Siege ended 20 September (American Revolutionary War)
September 7, 1944 – 2nd Lt. Harry Ricker LaFon, Jr., and Pvt. Hugh J. Leonard, both serving with Company D, 192nd Light Tank Battalion (Harrodsburg Tankers) died aboard the Japanese “Hell Ship” Shinyo Maru when it was sunk (World War II)
September 8, 1898 – Wilbur Rush Smith is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. William O. Bradley.
September 9, 1943 – Operation Avalanche (Allied landing at Salerno, Italy) (World War II)
September 10, 1962 – U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Incorporated.
September 10, 1845– Gen. Peter Dudley, sent by Gov. Owsley to Clay County. Two companies of troops from Madison County, under command of Col. John Miller ordered out to maintain law and order, remain until after the execution of Dr. Baker.
September 10, 2007 – Pfc. Sammie E. Phillips of Vine Grove (Hardin County), was killed when his vehicle overturned while conducting a traffic control mission on a highway near Rustamiyah, Iraq. Phillips, 19, was assigned to Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery, based in Carlisle, Ky. Phillips joined the Kentucky Army National Guard in 2006 and deployed with his unit in August 2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a 2006 graduate of North Hardin High School. (Global War on Terrorism)
September 11 – Patriot Day: World Trade Center and Pentagon Terrorist Attacks
September 11, 1895 – Two cannon crews of Battery A, 1st Regiment of the Kentucky State Guard, known as the Louisville Legion were dispatched from the downtown Louisville armory to Phoenix Hill Park to fire a 44-gun salute at sunrise to awaken the city as a part of the festivities for the 29th Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR). Each cannon was to fire 22 times. When the second caisson, which was 15 minutes behind the first, reached 4th and Broadway at 5:30 a.m. an explosion occurred. Forty-four bags of carefully packed black powder; each weighing 1.5 lbs., mysteriously ignited. The result was five men and two horses killed several people injured and property damage to buildings in the area. Those killed were Corp. Arthur Langan Robinson, Pvt. Charles Brechner (Biechner), Pvt. Charles C. Woods, Pvt. Archibald McBride, and a civilian, Mr. William Adams Sr. Mr. Adams had been hired by the officers of the Louisville Legion to drive the caisson to Phoenix Hill.
September 11, 1967 – Siege of Con Thien began (Vietnam War)
September 12, 1859 – Scott Brown is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. Beriah Magoffin.
September 13, 1951 – Battle of Heartbreak Ridge began (Korean War)
September 13, 1956 – The Kentucky Air National Guard receives its first F-86 Sabrejets at Standiford Field. The full complement of 25 Sabres was expected by October 15, with three T-33s and eight T-28 trainers.
September 14, 1781 – Long Run Massacre. As Indian activity increased the settlers at Boone’s Station sought protection at Linn’s Station. While enroute to that location they were attacked along the banks of Long Run Creek, about 60 people were killed.
September 14, 1814 – “Star Spangled Banner” written by Francis Scott Key (War of 1812)
September 14, 1966 – Operation Attleboro began (Vietnam War)
September 14, 1971 – Capt. Roger M. Sanders died when his RF-101 “Voodoo” crashed shortly after takeoff. He was able to eject, but did not survive his injuries from the incident. Sanders was taking off simultaneously with another aircraft for a night refueling exercise. The other aircraft landed safely in Indiana.
September 14, 2002 – Marion National Guard Armory named in honor of 1st Sgt. Carson G. Davidson.
September 15, 1950 – Inchon Landing (Korean War)
2nd Lt. Vincent Simon
September 15, 1984 – 2nd Lt. Vincent Simon, age 30, of Glasgow (Barren County), died at Fort Knox, Kentucky in the line of duty while on inactive duty for training (IDT). He was a member of Battery C, 1st Battalion, 623rd Field Artillery based in Monticello. He died from injuries he received when the military vehicle, a M-151 ¼ ton “Jeep” he was operating was involved in an accident. He was a graduate of Western Kentucky University and was a Civil Engineer in his civilian life with J. N. Gray Construction Company in Glasgow. He joined the US Army in 1972 after high school and rose to the rank of Specialist 5 before leaving the Army and joining the Kentucky Army National Guard in December 1975. He rose to the rank of Staff Sgt. He was a graduate of the Boone Raiders course in 1983 and the Kentucky Military Academy’s Officer Candidate School. He was commissioned a 2nd Lt. on July 8,1984, just a few weeks before his death.
September 16, 1847 – Kentucky soldiers who fell at the Battle of Buena Vista, Mexico, from Shelby, Montgomery, and Franklin counties, interred with full military honors in the state cemetery.
September 16, 1950 – Naktong Perimeter Breakout began (Korean War)
September 17, 1787 – Citizenship (Constitution) Day: U.S. Constitution approved.
September 17, 1862 - Battle of Antietam near Sharpsburg, Maryland (Civil War)
September 17, 1914 – Ladies Auxiliary VFW organized.
September 17, 1944 – Operation Market Garden (World War II)
September 18-20, 1863 - Battle of Chickamaugua, Georgia (Civil War)
September 18, 1947 – U.S. Air Force established.
September 18, 1950 – Inchon Operation and Liberation of Seoul began (Korean War)
September 18, 1994 – Operation Uphold Democracy.
September 19 – POW/MIA Recognition Day.
September 19, 1817 – Oliver Garnett Waggoner/Waggener is appointed Adjutant General of Kentucky by Gov. Gabriel Slaughter. He was re-appointed to the position under governors John Adair, and Joseph Desha.
September 19, 1971– Kentucky Air National Guard Chaplain Lt. Col. William Hisle died after a long illness. His work with Korean War orphans had been carried on despite his declining health and Lt. Col. Hisle was presented the first Legion of Merit received by a member of the Kentucky Air Guard.
September 20, 2005– Staff Sgt. William Alvin Allers III, 28, of Leitchfield (Grayson County) Ky., was killed near Al Khalis, Iraq (40 miles north of Baghdad) when his armored humvee encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Allers was assigned to the Kentucky Army National Guard’s 617th Military Police Company, based in Richmond with a detachment in Bowling Green. The 617thMP Company mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom in October of 2004 and deployed to Southwest Asia that November. Originally from Baltimore, Md., Allers joined the Kentucky Army National Guard in September of 2003 after serving with the U.S. Army and worked in Leitchfield for an office supply business. (Global War on Terror)
September 20, 2006 – Sgt. 1st Class Charles Jason Jones of Lawrenceburg (Anderson County), 29, died at Camp Liberty in Baghdad of non-combat related cause. Jones was assigned as a medic to the 149th Brigade Combat Team Headquarters. The unit, comprised of 50 soldiers, deployed to Iraq earlier in 2006 and had teams stationed throughout Iraq. Jones joined the Kentucky National Guard in 1993 at age 17 and graduated from South Laurel High School in London, Ky. in 1994. Prior to deploying to Iraq, Jones was a full-time Kentucky National Guard soldier stationed in Frankfort, Ky. Jones was a seasoned veteran, with previous deployments in 2002 to Germany and Bosnia. He also deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2004. (Global War on Terror)
September 21, 1813 – Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory at Put-In-Bay (Battle of Lake Erie). Approximately 150 Kentucky Militiamen served as Marines aboard Perry’s fleet (War of 1812)
September 21, 1951 – Operation Summit (Korean War)
September 24, 1846 – Capture of Monterey, Mexico. The Louisville Legion, being posted to guard a mortar battery, and exposed to the enemy’s cannon fire for about 24 hours without being able to return their fire, hold in check the enemy’s cavalry, and “display obedience, patience, discipline, and calm courage.” Maj. Gen. Wm. O. Butler seriously wounded, and Maj. Philip Norbourne Barbour, of the 3rd regular infantry, killed (both Kentuckians). (Mexican-American War)
September 28, 1793 – Gov. Shelby orders the first draft for Kentucky troops, which is successful in getting troops for Wayne’s expedition. (Early Indian Wars)
September 28 – Gold Star Mother’s Day.
September 28, 1953 – Four Kentucky Air National Guardsmen were cited for their heroic efforts to rescue survivors in the wreckage of a chartered C-46 transport carrying soldiers from Camp Kilmer, NJ to Fort Knox. Recognized for their bravery were Jess D. Brown, Walter Carter, Howard A. Curtis and Charles W. Simmons, all were full-time air guard technicians.
September 29, 1899 – VFW established.
September 29, 2003 – Sgt. Darrin K. Potter, 24, of Louisville, Ky., was killed in Iraq when his military police team responded to reports of a mortar attack outside of Baghdad near Abu Ghraib Prison, in Iraq. Potter was a member of the 223rd Military Police Company serving with the 800th Military Police Brigade in Iraq. It was the Kentucky Guard’s first combat-related death since the Vietnam War. (Global War on Terrorism)
September 30, 1848 – Col. Edward Brooks reaches Frankfort with the bones of the brave Kentuckians who were massacred by the Indians at the River Raisin, Jan. 18, 1812, which are interred in the state cemetery. They had been found in a common grave, and discovered, while digging down a street in Monroe, Michigan. The skulls were all cloven with the tomahawk, and an aged French citizen, a survivor of the massacre, knew them as the bones of the unfortunate Kentuckians, because he remembered the spot where they were buried.
Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Maszor, 1204th Aviation Support Battalion
NOTE: Each week kentuckyguard.com publishes stories by or about Kentucky National Guard unit public affairs historian representatives, also known as UPAHRs. This is an additional duty taken on by a Soldier or Airmen with the intent of telling their unit’s story. This is one such story ….
Spc. Glenn Dunn (left), Spc. Brandin Smith (center) and Spc. Duston Logan, all of the 1204th Aviation Support Battalion, were awarded the Army Achievement Medal in Camp Buehring, Kuwait, June 28, 2012. The Soldiers assisted in the drawdown of ammunition out of Iraq following the reposturing of U.S. Forces in 2011. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Maszor)
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — On June 28, 2012 the six-man Ammunition Section of Alpha Company, 1204th Aviation Support Battalion, was formally recognized for their hard work and dedication in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom. Since the middle of November the Ammunition Section has been working with the 261st Ordnance Company, an Army Reserve Unit based out of West Virginia. Together they were able to contribute to the success of one of the most dynamic strategic sustainment operations in the history of the United States Army.
“You all should be extremely proud of yourselves, for you have accomplished the largest single logistical operation since World War II,” said Col. David L. Jones of the 113th Sustainment Brigade.
Jones was referring to the ammunition turn-in and repositioning of equipment from the drawdown in Iraq.
In just three months a five man team consisting of Staff Sgt. Jason Maszor, Sgt. Kyle Clifton, and three Soldiers from the 261st received, processed, repackaged, and condition coded 26 million rounds of ammunition valued over $45 million, according to the 261st Ordnance Co. The remaining members of the Ammunition Section; Spc. Glenn Dunn, Spc. Duston Logan, Spc. Lee Millar, and Spc. Brandin Smith worked alongside other Soldiers of the 261st and conducted over 7,000 inter depot transfers, issues, receipts, and shipments that amassed to over 150 million rounds valued at over $475 million.
For their hard work and dedication, the “Ammo Dawgs” of Alpha Co. were awarded achievement medals from the 261st Ordnance Company. Clifton from Crestview Hills, Ky., was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Maszor, a native of California, Ky., Dunn of Dry Ridge, Ky., Logan from Alexandria Ky., Millar of Grant’s Lick, Ky., and Smith from Crittenden, Ky., were awarded the Army Achievement Medal.
Dunn, Logan, and Smith were also recognized for their hard work in preparing detonations for demilitarization with the 788th EOD Company.
“It was an honor to work with both Active Duty EOD Soldiers and fellow ammunition Soldiers from the Army Reserves,” said Logan. “It made me feel distinguished that another unit would take the time to acknowledge the hard work and accomplishments that we completed”.
Capt. Todd Allen, Alpha Co. commander said of the Soldiers, “It is great to see that their work did not go unrecognized. They are a great section of Soldiers and I am proud to have them in Alpha Company.”
Story by Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
The official party, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini (center), the Adjutant General of the Kentucky National Guard, Col. Scott A. Campbell (right), outgoing commander of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Kentucky Army National Guard, and incoming commander, Col. Michael A. Abell (left), review the troops during for the 149th MEB Change of Command ceremony on June 23, 2012. (KYNG photo by Maj. David Page)
FORT KNOX, Ky. – A change of command ceremony was held June 23, 2012 at Fort Knox, Ky., to hand off the guidon of one of the most recognized units in the Kentucky National Guard.
Col. Scott Campbell relinquished command of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade to Col. Mike Abell on Brooks Field in front of the large 149th family.
Campbell led the 149th since 2008, preparing them for the largest deployment of the Kentucky National Guard since World War II, to Iraq in 2011.
Kentucky’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini presided over the event, complimented both leaders for their service and character as excellent Citizen-Soldiers.
“We are recognizing the accomplishments of a man who has been at the core of activity, at the very heart of the organization that we all serve and love,” said Tonini of Campbell. “He was already an exceptional officer to the Kentucky National Guard, and his accomplishments as brigade commander mirror the rest of his extraordinary career.”
Col. Scott A. Campbell, former commander of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Kentucky National Guard, receives the brigade colors from the Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas L. Johnson during the change of command ceremony on June 23, 2012. (KYNG photo by Maj. David Page)
Col Michael A. Abell receives the brigade color from the Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini on June 23, 2012, signifying Col. Abell’s assumption of command of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Kentucky National Guard. (KYNG photo by Maj. David Page)
……
“Colonel Abell has a very strong reputation as a Kentucky National Guard officer, he is truly deserving of this opportunity,” said Tonini. “He is now in a place where he can make a huge difference, not just to the Soldiers under his command, but for the citizens of the Commonwealth in their time of need.”
Abell has served as an officer since 1993. He commanded the 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry prior to taking the role of Deputy G-1 (Personnel). Abell recently graduated form the U.S. Army War College.
Campbell was commissioned in 1984, serving a variety of command and staff positions before becoming the Executive Officer of the then 149th Armor Brigade, then into command of the 149th MEB. He will now fill the role as head of the State G-3 (Plans and Operations).
Story by Specialist Matthew Dornbusch, 1204th Aviation Support Battalion Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Click here for more photos on this story.
NOTE: Each week kentuckyguard.com publishes stories by Kentucky National Guard unit public affairs historian representatives, also known as UPAHRs. This is an additional duty taken on by a Soldier or Airmen with the intent of telling their unit’s story. This is one such story ….
Lt. Col. Tom Roach, Command Sgt. Maj. Tim Walton render honors at the transfer of authority ceremony for the 1204th Aviation Support Battalion, Camp Taji Iraq, 3 November 2011. (Kentucky National Guard photo)
CAMP BEUHRING, Kuwait – On December 16th 2011 the Soldiers of the 1204th Aviation Support Battalion departed Contingency Operating Site Taji, Iraq bound for Kuwait, representing more than eight years of Kentucky National Guard operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.
The story began four months earlier when on August 24th 2011 when the 1204th, under the command of Lt. Col. G. Tom Roach Jr., mobilized in support of Operation New Dawn. On August 27th Headquarters and Support Company and Alpha Company left their home station in Independence, Ky. to join units from four other states to include Alabama, Florida, Maryland and South Carolina in Fort Hood, Texas for mobilization training. For over 53 days the 600 Soldiers completed their validation and deployed to execute operations Iraq and Camp Buehring, Kuwait beginning October 1st 2011.
Following the uncasing of the battalion colors on November 3rd 2011, the 1204th quickly got to work, assuming the extraordinary responsibility of aviation logistics sustainment and support operations from COS Taji, while simultaneously planning for the withdrawal of the 29th Combat Aviation Brigade.
“The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Taji and the Iraq Joint Operations Area was the biggest such operation since the World War II,” said Roach. “The 1204th accomplished this with just 30% of the battalion’s strength forward. The remainder of the battalion worked to establish operations in Kuwait to further support the 29th CAB’s mission.”
The variety of tasks were daunting but doable. Plans had to be made to support for the 29th CAB over the final 45 days of aviation operations in Iraq, to include running arming and refueling points and supplying aviation repair parts. Also, ground maintenance completed over 28 work orders with approximately 1,056 man-hours performed. Both teams were critical in keeping refueling equipment running around the clock.
“The Taji refueling point reminded me of a speedway you see off the side of a highway,” said Sgt. John Amburgey. “At times there would be aircraft in a line to get fuel. At one point we had 14 aircraft waiting on fuel.”
Members of the Kentucky National Guard's 1204th Aviation Support Battalion service U.S. Army AH-64D helicopters at Camp Taji FARP.in Taji, Iraq. The 1204th is the last Kentucky National Guard unit out of Iraq. (Kentucky National Guard photo)
Alpha Company broke records by refueling nearly 100 aircraft in a twenty-four hour period. In the forty-five days, the fuelers at Taji pumped nearly 370,000 gallons of fuel into more than 2,600 American and Iraqi rotary wing aircraft. Likewise, Echo Company refueled over 64 aircraft and pumped nearly 150,000 gallons of fuel.
Alpha Company’s transportation control team also manifested and oversaw the movement of 3,40 personnel and loaded over 580 pallets of equipment with a value of $26 million and requiring 100 flatbed trailers to move – all this five days ahead of schedule.
“It was a smooth process from beginning to end,” said Spc. Greg Woodring. “Of course you’re going to have a learning curve not knowing the job, but we quickly learned.”
With aviation repair parts no longer locally available, the Soldiers of the 1204th developed procedures to use aviation transportation to move repair parts from Kuwait to Taji. During this high operational tempo period, they processed over 400 high-priority requisitions valued at over $5 million.
Bravo Company – comprised of troops from Alabama, Florida & South Carolina – completed phase maintenance inspections and oversaw the relocation of contractor maintenance from Iraq to Kuwait. They shipped over 6,000 separate types of parts worth $60 million and filling over 100 flatbed trailers from Iraq to Kuwait.
While all this was going on Charlie Company kept everyone connected and talking, providing 24/7 operations network capability, redundant back-ups, communication security keys and secured video teleconferencing capabilities to the entire brigade with only five personnel.
An Iraqi UH-1H hover taxis in for service by members of the Kentucky National Guard's 1204th Aviation Support Battalion in Taji, Iraq. The 1204th is the last Kentucky National Guard unit out of Iraq. (Kentucky National Guard photo)
The health and safety of deployed troops is always a concern. To that end, the medical platoon treated more than 1,100 patients in just five weeks while at Taji. These figures include Soldiers, Department of Defense employees, Department of State employees, and third country nationals.
According to Sgt. Jerrod Dean, “The 1204th Medical section upon arriving at COS Taji was a relatively inexperienced group of medics that in time were able to come together while working with other medical elements to provide above standard care to all personnel.”
The medical platoon also trained 117 civilians on basic medical care.
The 1204th Mortuary Affairs section had the unenviable distinction of participating in the last two KIA evacuations during Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn; the first a third country national killed in a truck convoy and the last for the personal effects of the last U.S. Soldier killed.
While conducting operations at Taji the 1204th was assigned to clear all equipment, buildings, and personnel. In total they collected nearly $2 million worth of lost, abandoned or frustrated Army equipment; received 18 tons of ammunition valued at nearly $300,000, and cleared nearly 400 buildings of sensitive material. They also coordinated the movement to Kuwait of nearly 1,400 containers, pieces of rolling stock, or over-sized items by 22 convoys during the final 30 days U.S. forces were in Iraq.
The 1204th’s legacy in Iraq is one to be proud of, said Roach. “With the conclusion of Operation New Dawn and the withdrawal of U.S. combat forces from Iraq, the 1204th Aviation Support Battalion wrote another chapter in the vaunted history of the 29th Division.
The 1204th ASB is currently stationed in Kuwait and continues to support the 29th Combat Aviation Brigade.
Story by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office
Click here to view more photo from this story
Click here for the WYMT TV story
Click here for the WKYT TV story
Click here for a New York Times article on the departure of the 149th MEB from Iraq
Savannah Mayer, sister of Spc. Steven Mayer, holds up a welcome home sign at a the Bravo Company 1st Battalion 149th Infantry welcome home ceremony in Somerset, Ky., Dec. 16 (photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office)
Somerset, Ky. – The Soldiers of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion 149th Infantry were honored at a welcome home ceremony at the Beacon Hill Baptist Church in Somerset, Ky., Dec. 16.
“It’s great a feeling to be back home to see my family and green grass again,” said Spc. Steven Mayor.
“It was tough at first to find our rhythm without him but I made sure that our family was good so that he can do his job over there,” said Whitney Drew, wife of Spc. Clifton Drew. “Perfect timing for my husband to be home, this is a wonderful Christmas present.”
Spc. Clifton Drew was happy to see his wife Whitney and children Savannah, Aiden and Faith, during the welcome home ceremony for Bravo Company 1st Battalion 149th Infantry. (photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office)
The unit was part of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade’s Task Force Legion which deployed more than 1,300 Soldiers to Iraq last June.
The Soldiers of Task Force Legion were instrumental in enacting the withdrawal of troops in Iraq, conducting security force, base defense operations and convoy security operations throughout the United States Forces-Iraq area of responsibility. The deployment of Task Force Legion is part of the largest call up of Kentucky National Guard troops since World War II.
Families and friends cheer on the bus arrival of Bravo Company 1st Battalion 149th Infantry during a welcome home ceremony at Beacon Baptist Church in Somerset, Ky., Dec. 16 (photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Oliver, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs Office)
“It’s been a roller coaster ride but I’m extremely proud of my unit to finished out that chapter in history,” said 1st Sgt. Alan Mayfield.
Since 9/11, nearly 14,000 Kentucky National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have mobilized in support of the Global War on Terror. The Kentucky National Guard has more than 1,600 troops deployed worldwide.
By Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Kentucky Guardsmen from 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 1-149th Infantry Battalion, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, carry five gallon water cans during a 3-mile race for the physically grueling crew competition at Victory Base Complex in Baghdad, Iraq Nov. 4. (photo by Sgt. Scot Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade)
VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq – For Soldiers, most days begin with a little physical training. A run or lifting some weights usually satisfies most. But when your day begins with pull-ups, then dips followed by changing a tire in full battle rattle, on to a tire flip and finishing with a run, it is probably more than just physical training.
Soldiers of 1st Platoon, Charlie Co., 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry Regiment found out just how much more during a company competition at Victory Base Complex in Baghdad.
“The idea was to give the guys a little morale boost,” said Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Roberge. “We did it to build some crew cohesion and also to refine the skills and abilities of each crew.”
Soldiers of Charlie Co. stay busy in Iraq as they continue to run convoy escort missions throughout Iraq as U.S. Forces withdraw from the country. The company was originally stationed at Camp Speicher in Nothern Iraq. As part of the drawdown plan, the company was relocated to VBC and will eventually push south to Kuwait.
Once the entire company was settled into their new home at VBC, Roberge was able to schedule the competition for everyone to participate. Word got out about the intense competition and an active duty unit, 123rd Brigade Support Battalion from 4th Advise and Assist Brigade, also wanted to participate.
“It doesn’t always happen. We are constantly running missions, so to have everyone here at the same time is what we were hoping for, a nice change of pace for the guys,” Roberge said.
Kentucky Guard Soldiers from 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 1-149th Infantry Battalion, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, change a tire on an up-armored vehicle as fast as they can during a crew competition at Victory Base Complex in Baghdad, Iraq Nov. 4. (photo by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade)
The competition was a simple idea; teams of three where each team competes in an event and is rewarded with points based upon their place of finish. The team with the most points wins. The efforts given to complete the challenges were not so easy.
The morning began early with pull-ups and dips. Following breakfast, with full gear weighing them down, teams were timed in their task of changing a tire on their MRAP’s (Mine Resistant, Ambush Protected). After the last lug nut was secured, the event was ahead of schedule.
“We set aside 20 minutes per team for the tire changing,” said Roberge. “I didn’t imagine we would have Soldiers finish in five or even three minutes. It’s very impressive how some of these Soldiers work.”
A short rest period preceded the next round which was a combined task. Each team had to flip a 400-pound MRAP tire 50 meters, then choose one member to dash to a pile of disassembled weapons and put each one back in working order. Yet again, Soldiers exceeded expectations and quickly finished to keep the day on track.
The mixture of competition and training was about more than just winning and the Soldiers were aware of the relevance of the tasks.
“All this helps; it puts you under pressure to be the best team,” said Pfc. Nicholas Hayes. “Outside the wire you are under pressure too, so this helps us prepare both mentally and physically.”
Kentucky Guardsmen from 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 1-149th Infantry Battalion, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, battle each other for in the grueling crew competition at Victory Base Complex in Baghdad, Iraq Nov. 4. (photo by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade)
A written exam was thrown in to test the Soldiers’ knowledge of Infantry fundamentals and to allow their lunch to settle before the culminating event. Signal Hill is a prominent landmark on VBC. A run up, down and around is roughly three miles. But a simple run just would not fit into this contest. Upon completing the three miles, each team then grabbed a water filled fuel can and dashed once more to the top and back down to finish the event and the day.
Once at the bottom and in true athletic competiveness, Pfc. Robert Schram said, “I want to go Disneyworld!”
“It feels good to have it over and done with,” said Sgt. Dathan Cottrell. “I am proud of my team. They did a real good job. It was as hard as I thought it would be. Now it’s time to rest since we have a mission tonight.”
Nearly 50 Soldiers competed in the event with the opportunity to showcase their talents and abilities. To most it was an enjoyable day, some said it was even fun to endure the grueling tasks.
“It was for bragging rights. And it showed they are capable of doing some amazing things and that they can really work as a team,” said Roberge.
By Capt. Andi Hahn, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs Officer
Col Scott Campbell, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Commander and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Johnson, case the brigade colors representing the end of mission for the unit in support of Operation New Dawn at Victory Base Complex, Iraq, Nov. 28. (photo by Capt. Andi Hahn, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs Officer)
VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq—The 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade cased the brigade colors which represented the unit’s end of mission in support of Operation New Dawn Nov. 28 at Camp Liberty near Baghdad, Iraq.
The 149th MEB served as the last garrison command of the largest and most intricate U.S. base in all of Iraq, Victory Base Complex. Their mission was to provide base defense operations and force protection for all of VBC as well as life support operations to sustain all tenants on the camp during the withdrawal of troops.
“We asked the 149th MEB to do the impossible,” said Brig. Gen. Paul J. LaCamera, Deputy Commanding General of the 25th Infantry Division. “We asked them to close the biggest base in Iraq while still providing life support and force protection to the significant population of service members and civilians that still remained. And they did it with overwhelming success.”
Victory Base Complex as become synonymous with the heartbeat and the center of gravity for U.S. operations during the Iraq campaigns. VBC alone consists of more than 60 miles of perimeter, 20,000 acres, 19 separate camps, and housed 24,000 service members and civilians at the height of this year.
Brig. Gen. Paul LaCamera, Deputy Commanding General for 25th Infantry Division and Command Sgt. Maj. Ray Devens present Col. Scott Campbell and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Johnson, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, with a Tropic Lightning plaque as a token of their appreciation for the job well done by Task Force Legion during the Brigade's casing ceremony at Victory Base Complex, Iraq Nov. 28. (photo by Capt. Andi Hahn, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs Officer)
The most challenging mission for the brigade was to working to transfer authority of all VBC to Iraq. This included transitioning several of the camps inside VBC to the Government of Iraq, Iraqi Ground Forces Command, Iraqi Special Operations Forces and the 6th Iraqi Army for force protection upon withdrawal from the base.
Col. Scott Campbell, 149th MEB Commander, said it’s a momentous accomplishment for Task Force Legion and a significant contribution to the overall effort.
“We are on the verge of giving back the base better than we found it; peacefully transitioning the terrain we once fought for back to the sovereign nation of Iraq,” Campbell said. “This is a huge milestone but the mission in Iraq is not complete with the transfer of VBC.”
In the four months the 149th MEB was in command of garrison operations, they managed the prime power contract that provided power to over 6,000 personnel on VBC during the drawdown. They provided contracting officer representative support to 23 contracts valued at $470 million dollars and processed more than 600 work orders for tenants on the base.
“The 149th MEB accomplished a lot during their short, but critical time in Iraq,” LaCamera said. “I am humbled and honored to have worked alongside the leaders and Soldiers of Task Force Legion.”
By Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Pfc. Aaron Morgan, 940th Military Police Company (photo by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade0
VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq – Maintaining the security of Victory Base Complex remains a task of U.S. Forces during their final days in Iraq. It is a vital role that the Soldiers of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade will play right up until the end of the troop withdraw.
The 149th MEB makes up the security forces that occupy guard towers high above the perimeter of the shrinking base. Each tower commands a bird’s eye view of VBC’s boundaries and its surroundings. Members of the 940th Military Police Co. are some of those assigned to this important assignment.
“If anything should happen, we see it first. I feel like I am making things safer for everyone else,” said Pfc. Aaron Morgan, an M.P. from Erlanger, Ky.
The job may not sound like one for the Military Police, but Morgan simply said “M.P.’s are multi-purpose, we will do whatever we’re told.”
Base defense has demanded a lot from the 940th during their time overseas. Soldiers of the unit were asked to take on various tasks around VBC; as tower guards, they are contributing to internal security and as part of quick reaction forces. Morgan credits their M.P. training and a positive attitude to keep up with the challenges.
“We’ve done a lot of missions. From patrolling the city, high towers, providing security all around…it’s like we are tasked with something new every day,” he said. “We just adapt. We fall back on our training. And we realize all the different kinds of training we go through has all paid off.”
The impact of their assignments has proven to be far from simple. However, the versatile Guardsmen do their best to overcome. That includes their time they spend away from the many stations they man.
“The jobs we have here are hard work, but the time flies by and we make the best of our down time.”
Time is truly moving by as the M.P.’s see the convoys headed out of the gates in a southbound direction. Everyday VBC gets smaller with more equipment and troops leaving on their way out of Iraq. Soldiers of the 940th said they are proud to be a part of the end of the war. They recognize the significance of the role the Kentucky National Guard is playing in the final chapter of Operation New Dawn.
“I think it’s really cool being one of the last units out of Iraq. It will be a story we will be telling for awhile,” said Morgan.
Story by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oogWQTcYLig]
(Video by Sgt. Mark Owen, 149th MEB Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative)
Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Johnson of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade pours gravy on the plate of a Soldier as Col. Scott Campbell observes at Victory Base Complex, Nov. 20. The meal celebrated Thanksgiving for the remaining troops on VBC and was also the last hot meal served before the dining facility closed. (photo by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade)
VICTORY BASE COMPLEX, Iraq – A final meal at the dining facility on Camp Liberty is a sign of the times. A sign that the number of U.S. troops in Iraq is shrinking and Victory Base Complex is not what it used to be. And also a sign of the holidays, as the meal celebrated Thanksgiving a bit early. Soldiers of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade continue to draw down VBC, but took time to come together and be thankful.
“It’s our opportunity to talk with the Soldiers, and to look every one in the eye and thank them,” said Col. Scott Campbell, 149th MEB’s Commander. “We can reflect on our families and the holiday. And while we are apart, they are still in our hearts and minds.”
With all dining facilities closing, the effort was made to serve one last prepared meal to the remaining troops at VBC as the holiday approached. Although a few days prior to Thanksgiving Day, the food and festivities was still appreciated by the Soldiers. With amenities disappearing quicker than people from VBC, Soldiers were grateful for the opportunity to celebrate a holiday, even if away from home.
“This is just another sacrifice we make,” said Spc. Benjamin DiPalma. “But we did have a good meal and even decorations. It was a nice small reminder of home.”
Kentucky Guardsmen of the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade celebrate Thanksgiving early during their final meal at the dining facility on Camp Liberty at Victory Base Complex, Iraq. (photo by Sgt. Scott Raper, 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs)
Leaders of the 149th took shifts behind the service line dishing up turkey, ham, potatoes, gravy, and all the items needed for a good holiday meal. Long lines of Soldiers continued to form until every one was served.
“It’s great that the command staff would do this,” said Capt. Adam Culbertson. “It shows they care and they are willing to do anything for us.”
In the Soldiers’ last day at the chow hall, conversations of the final days in Baghdad could be heard in a dull roar. Soldiers said they were thankful for spending time with their fellow troops; thankful for finishing the job in Iraq, and thankful for the fact that the job is almost over.
These troops will still be working on Thanksgiving however, and the days after to redeploy troops from the country by the end of the year. As facilities close and the mission winds down, Soldiers of the 149th will endure until the job is finished.
“It’s significant that this is the last day at the dining facility and the holiday makes it that much more special,” said Campbell. “This is their last hot meal, it’s MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat)after this.”
