March 2016

March 2016

B e s t Warrior2016Georgia’s Best Compete for the Title

Plus: 116th ACW Receives Outstanding Unit Award | Search and Rescue Training | And So Much More

1 | The Georgia Guardsman

News

CoNTeNTsIssUe: March 2016

Features

columns

04| 18th outstanding Unit AwardThe 116th ACW receives its 18th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

07| Georgia Guard staff RideOfficer Candidtates from the GMI OCS class learn about leadership during a staff ride.

03| GsDF search and Rescue TrainingThe Georgia State Defense Force participate in a multi-agency search and rescue training.

08|Andrew sullens Marksmanship CompetitionMembers of the Georgia National Guard compete in the Andrew Sullens Marksmanship Competition.

09| 3-108th Cav deactivatesThe 3-108th Cavalry conducts a deactivation ceremony.

16| Family support FoundationWhat is the Family Support Foudation?

10| Book Review“Fearless” by Eric Blehm.

11| Blast from the PastThe Georgia National Guard and the National Defense Act.

15| The Chaplain’s CornerMedal or Mettle: A Mark of Resilience.

15| NCo NotepadInternational Women’s History Month.

w w w . g e o r g i a g u a r d . c o m

Cover story

05| state Best Warrior 2016Georgia National Guard Soldiers and NCOs compete for the title of Georgia’s Best Warriors.

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17| Around the Guard

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March 2016 | 2

Georgia National Guard

Commander-in-ChiefGov. NathaN Deal

adjutant GeneralBriG. GeN. Joe JarrarD

State PubliC affairS direCtorlt. Col. thomas lesNieski

State PubliC affairS offiCerCapt. Charles emmoNs

oPerationS nComaster sGt. GerarD BrowN

editorial staff

manaGinG editorDesiree BamBa

ContributorS1st lt. Jeffrey Bezore

master sGt. GerarD BrowNCapt. william Carrawaypvt. alexaNDer DaviDsoN

2ND. lt. alleN hayespvt. Beveryly sheparDsGt. shye stalliNGs

CmD. sGt. maJ. phillip striNGfielDseNior master sGt. roGer parsoNs

ChaplaiN Capt. JoN pirtleGeorGia military iNstitute

The Georgia Guardsman is published monthly under the provisions of AR 360-81 and AF 6-1 by the Georgia Department of Defense Public Affairs Office. The views and opinions expressed in the Georgia Guardsman are not necessarily those of the Departments of the Army, Air Force or the Adjutant General of Georgia. The Georgia Guardsman is distributed free-of-charge to members of the Georgia Army and Air National Guard, State Defense Force and other interested persons upon request.

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124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 116th Air Control Wing Public Affairs Office, Army National Guard Unit Public Affairs Representatives, Air National Guard Wing Public Affairs Representatives, Georgia State Defense Force Public Affairs.


After more than a year of planning, the Georgia State Defense Force recently launched the Lake Lanier Search and Rescue Exercise, a first-of-its-kind multi-agency mission involving the GSDF, the Civil Air Patrol, and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The GSDF conducted the mission, which was a simulation of a downed six-person airplane

and the search and rescue operations this type of emergency would entail. More than a year of detailed logistical and operational planning culminated in March at Lake Lanier.

“This is our first joint exercise,” said Col. W. Brad Bryant, the commander of 1st Brigade, GSDF. “It allowed us to develop relationships and hone processes that prepare our agencies to work together efficiently and effectively in an actual emergency situation.”

Lake Lanier was an ideal spot for the mock scenario, as it allowed GSDF volunteers to demonstrate reconnaissance expertise, medical preparedness, interaction with media, and other skills required during an emergency. Lake Lanier is a reservoir encompassing approximately 38,000 acres, including 59 square miles of water. The

United States Army Corps of Engineers, which has oversight over the lake, provided access to its use for the exercise.

More than 100 GSDF volunteers participated in Lake Lanier SAREX. GSDF volunteers included those from 1st Brigade, 76th Support Brigade, the Chaplain Corps, and the Public Affairs office.

So as to more realistically portray an actual emergency, SAREX planners kept detailed tactical information close to the vest until just hours before the mission began. As planned, they issued an emergency alert that prompted GSDF and CAP teams to spring into action. Teams boarded a boat enroute to the simulated crash scene. Landing lakeside, they quickly debarked, rallying for operations that involved victim role players in need of medical attention. In addition to boots on the ground, the CAP took to the sky, taking aerial surveillance photographs of the site.

The CAP, a United States Air Force Auxiliary, provides various emergency relief efforts, including search and rescue. Involvement from the GSDF, the CAP, and the USCGAUX constituted a multi-agency force of more than 125 ground and aerial participants for the search and rescue operation.

“Lake Lanier SAREX was extremely beneficial for the participating organizations,” Col. Bryant said. “Through this exercise, we shared our strengths and maximized our collective capabilities as part of our commitment and our readiness to serve.”

G S D F M u l t i -A G e n c y M i S S o nStory By: Pvt. Beverly Shepard | Georgia State Defense Force

Photos by: Pfc. AlexAnder dAvidson | GeorGiA stAte defense force

March 2016 | 4

The 116th Air Control Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, was awarded its 18th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award in a formal ceremony presided by Brig. Gen. Joseph Jarrard, The Adjutant General of the Georgia National Guard, March 13, 2016.

The 116th Air Control Wing has the distinction of earning this honor more times than any unit in the history of the Air National Guard.

The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award is awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units.

“This is the second highest award a unit can receive, and it’s the eighth one for the wing since they’ve become an air control wing,” said Brig. Gen. Jesse Simmons, Assistant Adjutant General-Air, Georgia National Guard. “It’s a testament to all the hard work they do daily along with continuous deployments and time away from their families.”

The 116th Air Control Wing was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for its distinguished service from June

1, 2013 through Oct. 31, 2014. During this time frame, the unit accomplished its mission of command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance with a maximum degree of war readiness. The Wing surpassed 100,000 flying hours and provided direct support to United States Central Command, Pacific Command, Northern Command and Southern Command.

Additionally, the Wing’s medical homeland response force mission was elevated 97 percent compliant and mission ready for the Southeast U.S. region. The 116th Logistics Readiness Squadron received its fifth Daedalian award for logistics effectiveness while the 116th Maintenance Squadron received its third consecutive Department of Labor award of excellence for exceptional workplace safety.

“At the core, our Airmen are highly adaptable,” said Capt. Pam Stauffer, public affairs officer for the 116th Air Control Wing. “Together, with partners in our civilian and military communities, we will continue to ‘guard America at home and defend freedom worldwide’ with resilience and excellence.”

The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award also recognized the Wing’s community outreach and engagement. The unit provided assistance to 64 needy families and distributed 704 items of food, clothing and toys.

116th AcW eArnS recorD 18th Air Force outStAnDinG unit AWArDStory By: 1st Lt. Jeffrey Bezore | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Air National Guard

Photo by: senior MAster sGt. roGer PArsonons | 1 1 6 th Air control WinG | GeorGiA Air nAtionAl GuArd


Even though the dust had just settled from the major command level Soldier of the year competitions, Soldiers competed in the Georgia Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition and advanced to the Region III Best Warrior Competition in April.

“They have already distinguished themselves as superior Soldiers and NCOs from among their peers and the

competition the past few days has been intense, but there can only be one,” said Sgt. Major Jason York, who is the NCO in charge of this event.

Over the course of five days, more than 30 events, early mornings and late nights, 12 Soldiers competed in the Georgia National Guard Best Warrior competition. But in the end only one Soldier and one NCO could advance forward to represent Georgia in the Region III Best Warrior Competition in April.

The Georgia Army National Guard Best Warrior Soldier was Spc. Joseph Broam from the 48th Infantry Brigade and the Best Warrior NCO was Staff Sgt. McCowan from 78th Aviation Troop Command.

The competition started with the physical fitness event compromised of push-ups, sit-ups and the two-mile run. Soldiers then loaded into a CH-47 Chinook helicopter which transported them to the 12-mile ruck march. “This was easily the most grueling of events”, said Ga. ARNG Command Sgt. Maj. Philip Stringfield.

Each competitor wore a 60 pound rucksack and marched down a sand tank trail.

“The ruck march was the most challenging, every event had its challenges but that 12 miles was really rough,” said Staff Sgt. McCowan.

On the second day Soldiers had an early morning, beginning with the water survival event. Immediately following, Soldiers arrived at the range and prepared for M4 carbine rifle and 9 mm pistol qualification, four gun stress-fire, media interview and

2 0 1 6 s t a t e B e s t Warrior CompetitionStory by: Sgt. Shye Stallings | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

March 2016 | 6Photos by: sGt. shye stAllinGs | Public AffAirs office | GeorGiA dePArtMent of defense

various weapons maintenance events. To close out day two, there was a mystery event. Soldiers walked into a room with music blaring and dim lights, where graders had prepared a box for them. Inside the box was pieces of a M4 rifle and a M249 machine gun. Competitors were timed as they assembled each weapon.

On the third day, competitors completed a timed running obstacle course consisting of 12 different obstacles. Soldiers were then faced with the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio communication event and immediately moved to the Military Operations on Urban Terrain training. Unlike most MOUT training, this event included movement of a casualty across a steep ditch and across a creek. Upon pulling the casualty up the ditch, Soldiers called a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter for a medical evacuation and loaded the casualty into the Blackhawk simulator. Competitors completed a written essay and reacted to a simulated chemical attack to close out the third day.

With about four hours of sleep, the Soldiers woke on the fourth day to complete the land navigation course, which course covered over 5,000 meters. Graders then tested them on forward observer

“call for fire” training, searching a vehicle and reacting to an improvised explosive device. The latter task required each Soldier to positively identify an IED and report intelligence immediately. After a quick lunch, the Soldiers then ran through the timed individual movement techniques lanes.

Competitors agreed that the final day of competition was the most nerve racking, as Soldiers were required to answer a 50 question general knowledge test and appear before a board held in front of five first sergeants.

“I am excited and stressed,” said Spc. Broam. “I am excited because I worked hard for this, I set myself apart and I am proud to represent not only my unit but now the state.”

Though the state Best Warrior Competition had its challenges, Spc. Broam and Staff Sgt. McKowen are eager to advance and represent Georgia in the Region III Best Warrior Competition. The competition will be held at Fort Stewart on April 16-23, where the best Soldiers and NCOs will compete against each other, all fighting for the title Best Warrior of Region III.

7 | The Georgia Guardsman Photo courtesy of GeorGiA MilitAry institute

Officer Candidates of the Georgia Military Institute’s Officer Candidate School Class 55 spent a wind-swept day in March at Kennesaw Mountain learning leadership, logistics and terrain analysis during a staff ride conducted by the 161st Military History Detachment.

For these future Georgia National Guard officers, it was not the first introduction to Civil War combat. In the months leading up to the staff ride, the candidates conducted a ruck march from the Kennesaw Mountain visitor’s center to the Burnt Hickory Road section of the battle. Later, the candidates presented a sand table brief on the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain and provided biographical briefings on key leaders during a roundtable facilitated by the 161st Military History Detachment. The candidates were instructed to focus on the leadership lessons of leaders such as William Tecumseh Sherman and Patrick Cleburne, while other candidates focused on staff considerations such as logistics, signal and intelligence operations.

Months of research by the officer candidates culminated in a battlefield visit to Kennesaw Mountain. Travelling first to the summit, the candidates braved wind and rain to brief a background on Federal and Confederate strategic objectives for 1864. Officer Candidates then took turns briefing key engagements of the Atlanta Campaign from Rocky Face Ridge and Resaca to Cassville and New Hope Church. Candidates addressed the terrain and weather considerations faced by the advancing Federals and the defending Confederates and were challenged to apply the “logistical math” to modern leadership problems.

The 161st Military History Detachment provided hands-on history discussions featuring civil war firearms and equipment.

The candidates felt the weight of muskets, sample hardtack from an original recipe and practiced the nine steps necessary to load and fire a Civil War rifle musket.

Moving to the Burnt Hickory section of the park, the candidates reviewed the terrain considerations that played into the battle and stood in the positions of the 63rd Georgia, a regiment that occupied a position in the Confederate skirmish line. To get a better understanding of the role of drill in the Civil War, the 161st Military History Detachment led the candidates through field maneuvers such as moving a formation from column to a line of battle, then changing front to meet a flanking force.

At Cheatham Hill, the candidates walked the defensive works of the Confederate defenders and observed artillery fortifications. Drawing parallels between Civil War cannon and modern crew-served weapons, the Candidates observed how weapon systems were placed to deny enemy movement and secure defensive positions.

The staff ride culminated with a reenactment of the assault of Col. Dan McCook’s assault on Cheatham Hill. The Candidates formed up in a line of battle at the base of the hill where Candidate Jonathan Natson provided a biographical sketch of the Federal commander. The candidates and cadre then marched up the long slope taking simulated casualties along the way to represent the actual percentage of troops lost in the assault. Reaching the summit of the hill, the surviving half of the class gazed down over the field with a new appreciation of the costs borne by the Civil War Soldiers and the importance of sound leadership decisions in combat.

The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was fought June 27, 1864 between the Federal Forces of Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman and the Confederate Army of Tennessee under Gen. Joseph Johnston. Four thousand troops were casualties in the battle.

The staff Ride Lessons from the Past Inform Future Leaders

Story By: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

March 2016 | 8

The Georgia National Guard Marksmanship Team hosted the third annual Andrew Sullens State Marksmanship Competition March 10-13, 2016 at the Georgia Garrison Training Center. The competition, named after Georgia Army National Guardsman Andrew Sullens, is a premier marksmanship event held at Fort

Stewart, Ga. “This competition is designed for any rank, specialty

occupation, gender and is open to any member of the Air or Army National Guard,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jakob Raven. “The competition allows marksmen to engage in challenging and realistic training while assisting in raising readiness.”

This year the state competition featured four combat-fire teams comprised of four shooters per team and four sniper teams, consisting of one sniper and one spotter. However only one combat-fire team and one sniper team advanced to compete in the Winston P. Wilson Marksmanship Championship starting April 23, 2016.

Over the course of four days, competitors went against the best combat fire and sniper teams in the Georgia National Guard. The Warrior Training Center team of Staff Sgt. Toni Orsi, Sgt. Bobby Hull, Sgt. Taylor Brinindun and Staff Sgt. Colin Hankinson placed first overall in the combat-fire team category. Sergeant Bobby Hull from Company H, Long Range Surveillance took first in individual rifle, pistol and overall marksman. The top overall sniper team was Staff Sgt. Daniel Lavelle and Staff Sgt. Joseph Schreck, both from Troop C, 1st Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment. Staff Sgt. Schreck was also awarded the top overall individual sniper honor.

The competition’s namesake Andrew Sullens, lost his leg during a deployment in Afghanistan in 2009. He refuses to let that stop him and he’s continued to dedicate his life to expertise in

marksmanship. “Always remember you learn more from your losses than

you do your success,” said Andrew Sullens as he addressed the competitors. “So if you didn’t do as well as you wanted to, get out there, practice and don’t give up.”

The competition began with each marksman zeroing and qualifying on their M4 or M16 rifle and the 9 mm pistol, followed by the Excellence in Competition match which required competitors to shoot their rifle using iron sights only on targets between 200 and 400 meters away.

The second day of the event, combat-fire competitors were separated from the sniper competitors to begin their individual events. Combat-fire teams continued the EIC match throughout the day. As sniper teams zeroed and fired their M110 sniper rifles, every movement and direction change made by these teams was very deliberate, as minor corrections can affect their shot while engaging targets as far as 800 meters away.

On the third day combat-fire teams competed in the George Patton Pistol event in which each four-man team ran to the firing line and engaged targets as they proceeded down the range. Sniper teams qualified on the same day and also participated in shooting from the sniper tower.

On the final day, combat-fire teams competed in a timed four-gun stress shoot while the sniper teams completed the timed Stalking Performance Evaluation. During the stalking evaluation snipers were required to maneuver and engage targets while remaining undetected.

The winning teams will now move forward and begin training for the Winston P. Wilson Marksmanship Championship where they will test their marksmanship skills against the best marksmen in the world. This competition will be held at Camp Robinson, Ark.

Story By: Sgt. Shye Stalligns | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National guard

2016 Andrew sullens Marksmanship Competition

Photo by: sGt. shye stAllinGs | puBliC affairs offiCe | GeorGia army NatioNal GuarD


In a somber ceremony held March 5, 2016 at the Atlanta Readiness Center, Lt. Col. Mike Lipper and Command Sgt. Major Tom Grisham, command team of the 3 rd S qu a d ron 1 0 8 t h Cavalry Regiment retired the squadron colors to mark the deactivation of the unit. Colonel Jeffrey Dickerson, commander

of the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade and former commander of the 3-108th Cavalry spoke to the assembled Cavalrymen during the deactivation ceremony.

“ This squadron has ser ved as a leadership factory for the Georgia National Guard,” said Dickerson. “It is fitting that as we enter the second phase of the brigade’s deactivation that the 3-108th Cavalry should do what cavalry organizations do: lead the way.”

Before an assembled audience of Veterans and family members of the 3-108th, Lt. Col. Mike Lipper recognized members of the unit who had been in the ranks since the squadron’s inception and decorated Soldiers who had rendered

superior service in the months leading up to the unit’s deactivation. Then, with the air thick with history, the guidons of the squadron’s troops were cased. Lietenant Colonel Lipper and Command Sgt. Major Thomas Grisham reverently gathered the squadron’s battle honors as they furled the colors of the 3-108th. Then the orders were read were read to officially deactivate the squadron.

In addition to Lt. Col. Lipper and Col. Dickerson, Lt. Col. Joe Lynch (retired) was present at the deactivation ceremony. Collectively, the three men commanded the 3-108th from 2010 to the present. Previously, the squadron had been commanded by Lt. Col. Paul Smith (2008-2010) and Maj. Matt Saxton (2007-2008).

The 3-108th was const ituted 1 November 2007 in the Georgia Army National Guard. Headquartered in Atlanta, many of the squadron’s first Soldiers were veterans of the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s 2005 Iraq rotation. With a core of experienced combat leaders, during its first year, the 3-108th served as the Georgia National Guard’s quick reaction force and supported training missions at Fort Lewis. In the coming years, the 3-108th conducted overseas development

training missions in Germany, the Country of Georgia and Scotland.

In 2010 Troop C, 3-108th Cavalry conducted joint airborne operations with the Australian Army to commemorate the newly designated Blair Drop Zone at Catoosa, Ga.

The year 2011 saw the pathfinders of the 3-108th participate in Atlas Drop, an airborne training operation in Uganda. In August, the 3-108th deployed to Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo as part of the KFOR14 mission. Part icipating in the Camp Bondsteel best warrior competition, the 3-108th captured first place in the Soldier and NCO of the year divisions.

The 3-108th returned to the United States in 2012 and by 2014 had relocated to the Atlanta Readiness Center.

In 2015, the U.S. Army announced the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade would be deactivated as part of sweeping force structure changes. Units of the 560th were either earmarked for transfer or deactivation. While the 3-108th was selected for deactivation, the bulk of its cavalry scouts and infantrymen will form the core of the 3rd Battalion 121st Infantry, thus passing along a core of experience that had served the 3-108th from its inception.

3rd squadron108th Cavalry c o n d u c t s Deactivation C e r e m o n yStory By: Capt. William Carraway| Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

Photo by: cAPt. WilliAM cArrAWAy | Public AffAirs office | GeorGiA ArMy nAtionAl GuArd

March 2016 | 10

There are several military memoirs and biographies that each member of the Georgia Department of Defense would greatly benefit from. Eric Blehm’s “Fearless: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown,” is a must read for all service members. The work delves into the life of a man who

constantly had to fight his inner-demons and overcome obstacles while also serving as an inspiration to his family, local community and his team members.

Many themes in Blehm’s book has parallels found in most Navy SEAL biographies, but he also draws a distinct contrast from most works that you have either read or seen on the big screen.

Blehm tells the story of Chief Petty Officer Adam Lee Brown based on interviews conducted with his family, friends and teammates. The entire story of Brown is told and nothing is held back in an effort to tell the whole story of this modern day hero.

Many SEAL biographies tend to focus on particular moments during Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, Hell Week

or give insight into a specific daring mission, like the Bin Laden raid. This book goes more into detail about the man that was able to make it through those mentally and physically demanding tasks.

The book is broken up into 19 chapters and follows the life of Brown c h r o n o l o g i c a l l y. It begins with his early childhood in Arkansas, talks about his life of drug abuse and addiction and concludes with his

time as a Navy SEAL and his death.One of the main reasons this book is so important towards our

development is because it give great insight into how important discipline and courage is to our profession of arms. Brown was able to fight his drug addiction through pure will and determination. He also had the courage to lean on his faith and others for support to get him through his rehab treatment. He displayed tremendous discipline by then completing the rigorous SEAL training which is arguably one of the most difficult courses to graduate.

Once Brown became a SEAL operator he focused on another important element of our profession, teamwork. He did everything he could to contribute and help his team. He would often challenge his teammates and always found a way to motivate them to excel and succeed at all levels.

Finally this book highlights one of the most important elements of our profession and that is honesty. From beginning to end this book shows how important honesty is to service members. Brown was always honest about his past and his teammates trusted him because of it.

This book is a great story about a hero but it is also a good case study into the profession of arms. I would recommend anybody that has ever had personal doubts pick this book up.

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DevelopmentProfessionalreviews of books that develop our profession of armsBy: 1st Lt. Jeffrey Bezore | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Air National Guard

I was glad to know he had demons too, because I sure as hell did. Weaknesses make people real, and he let me know his, and that took serious trust.

11 | The Georgia Guardsman11 | The Georgia Guardsman

NDA 1916

Blast from the past:National Defense ActS t o r y b y : C a p t . W i l l i a m C a r r a w a y | M i l i t a r y H i s t o r i a n | G e o r g i a A r m y N a t i o n a l G u a r d

March 2016 | 12

The Georgia National Guard and the National Defense Act of 1916

IntroductIon

The National Guard of 100 years ago was a far cry from the operational force it is today. From the years following the American Civil War through the Spanish American War of 1898, the various State Guard units were under the exclusive control of the state governors. Uniforms, equipment and training varied widely, and state militia units were largely used as a domestic response force, responding as needed to quell labor disputes or assist following local emergencies. This local role of the state militias was challenged by the coming of the Spanish American War.

The National Defense Act was the third major act following the Spanish American War designed to improve Guard mobilizations. Congressional acts of 1903, 1908, and 1916 defined and reorganized the militias and increased federal funding of the Guard. At the same time, the acts mandated greater conformance by states to the organization, discipline and structure of federal forces. Following the mobilization difficulties observed during the Spanish American War, states were directed to identify mobilization camps and prepare these sites with pre-positioned supplies and personnel to facilitate rapid mobilization. Critically, the acts also had the effect of authorizing the federal government to deploy state militia units overseas following federalization.

MIlItIa acts PrecedIng the nda of 1916

The NDA of 1916 was preceded by The Militia Act of 1903 which defined two categories of militia. The first, the organized militia, or Guard, was under dual federal and state control and would receive funding and equipage from the federal government in exchange for meeting requirements of the War Department.

The second category of militia, the unorganized militia, was comprised of all men from age 18 to 45 who would be subject to call up in the event of a state or national emergency.

It wasn’t until after the passage of the Militia Act of 1903 that the term National Guard was associated with Georgia. Prior to 1905, annual reports from the Adjutant General to the Governor of Georgia referenced the Georgia State Guard. But on Dec. 31, 1905, the annual report referenced the “strength of the National Guard of Georgia.”

Legislation in 1908 further defined the methods by

which militia units could be called for overseas duty and how the units would be organized under such duty. The 1908 amendments to the Militia Act eliminated the limit of months a National Guard unit could federalized and permitted federalized Guard units to be deployed overseas.

IMPact of the nda of 1916

The NDA of 1916 called for many changes in strength, organization and training of the Organized Militia, or National Guard. With new equipment would come the challenge to provide proper storage facilities. The 1916 Annual Report of the Georgia National Guard reflected the challenges Guard and state leaders faced in complying with the act. As an example, the report noted:

“The new organizations must be of a permanent nature. Armories must be provided for the additional troops and storage facilities provided for the valuable Government equipment to be issued and many other demands of the Federal Government, which will greatly increase the upkeep expenses that must be paid by the State, if Federal recognition and the benefits of excellent materiel, uniforms and equipment furnished by the Government are to be obtained.”

Although horses were to be furnished free of cost to the cavalry and field artillery organizations, the State of Georgia was required to provide for the cost of stabling and feeding the animals as well as paying costs for caretakers and veterinary supplies.

Units, such as the First and Second Georgia Infantry Regiments were redesignated as National Guard units under the provisions of the NDA of 1916. As an example, the 2nd Georgia was redesignated as the 121st Infantry Regiment, a unit that exists in the Georgia Guard today. In addition to changing unit designations, the NDA of 1916 required reorganization of these units to match the capabilities of Federal units. Georgia’s three infantry regiments were increased by the formation of a headquarters company, a supply company, and a machine gun company.

In 1916, Brig. Gen. J. Van Holt, Georgia’s Adjutant General, observed:

“A large increase in strength is required under the terms of (the act) within five years, from 200 men for each Senator and Representative in Congress to not less than 800 men for each. This increase to be made year by year in the proportion of fifty per centum until the maximum is

reached in 1921. This problem confronts all states alike, and time alone will tell how this State responds.”

The state did not have long to respond. The NDA of 1916 was enacted June 3, 1916. On June 18, 1916 – President Wilson called the National Guard for Active duty service on the Mexican Border. That same day, Georgia National Guard General Order No. 8 implemented the NDA and prescribed an oath of office be given to all members of the Georgia Guard in compliance with the NDA.

On June 19, 1916, Georgia National Guard General Order No. 9 ordered Guard units to assemble at home stations on June 20, 1916 for pre-mobilization. Guard units from across the state assembled at Camp Harris in Macon, the designated mobilization camp for Georgia. Named for Governor Nathaniel Harris, the camp was located near Crumps Park. From there, Georgia Guard units would begin the process of training for service alongside the Active Army as part of the Punitive Expedition along the Mexican border.

next Month: the georgIa guard on the border


March 2016 | 14

traini

ng

Ever noticed how many civilians look at Soldiers when we’re in d r e s s b l u e s ? The y lo ok at the medals and d e c o r a t i o n s . T h e y a s k u s w h a t o u r r i b b o n s a n d

medals symbolize. They ask us, “What does that stand for?” They often thank us for serving. Understandably, they admire the appearance of us as Soldiers. They admire the external accoutrements that adorn the uniform. Many Soldiers have combat patches and/or combat action badges that serve to demarcate they’ve served in combat zones and/or been in direct combat with the enemy. And what do we see oftentimes? We see other folks stare at those medals, and mentally assess what the Soldier wearing them must be like. However, there’s a big difference between medals and mettle. Medals are external; medals commemorate. Mettle, on the other hand, is internal; mettle undergirds. Medals are visible ornaments; mettle is inherent character. Medals decorate but mettle strengthens.

In 1 Samuel 16, Scripture records where God ordered Samuel to find the king of Israel that God himself had chosen. When Samuel went to survey the lot of young men from whom he thought God would choose, Samuel thought God would choose Eliab, one who appeared to fit the

bill. Samuel thought, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is before him.” (1 Samuel 16:6, ESV) However, God did not judge Eliab’s appearance. The very next line draws the discerning reader up short. “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, ESV).

Many readers know whom God had chosen; he’d chosen David. The New Testament calls David “a man after [God’s] heart” (Acts 13:22, ESV). The principle? Eliab lacked godly character; Eliab was unequipped with mettle. Eliab may’ve had medals, if you will, but lacked mettle. He lacked the quality of resilience, of godly character, of fortitude that would stand David in good stead as Israel’s greatest king during the monarchy. David had mettle.

Subsequently, David’s monarchy waxed and waned. He was far from a perfect king. He, too, was a man with feet of clay. He was, in short, a man much like we—prone to wander. Yet he had mettle. He had that inherent quality of character that God grants and grows. That mettle is more important than any external medals we wear on the outside.

I’m a country boy at heart, and I remember a phrase from a conversation my mother and I had when I was a child. I’d been talking with my mom about someone in our family whom we both loved. My mom said, “Still waters run deep.” She was right. Depth of character, a person’s mettle, is what matters.

TheChaplain’sCornerBy: Chaplain Capt. Jon Pirtle | Georgia Army National Guard

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For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward a p p e a r a n c e , but the LORD looks on the heart.


March is an important month that I would like to bring special awareness to; Women’s History Month. Since the late 1900’s we have paid tribute to the women who have paved the way for greatness and success for

women now, and in the future. Without their bravery and confidence, women may not have had the chance to progress as much as they have in today’s society. Not only did we have courageous women who stood up for what they believed in during the Civil Rights movement, but we also have had female Soldiers who fought to defend our country. I believe that it is very important for us to recognize our women in uniform.

After World War II, The first women in uniform, served in the Korean and Vietnam wars. At that time, women were not necessarily “in combat”. They would stay at the homefront while evaluating and making decisions from a distance. That did not deem them to be any less important than our Soldiers on the frontline because without their guidance and expertise, the number of lives and money lost could have been a lot greater. Years later women fought in the Persian Gulf and Iraq/Afghanistan wars. The role of women during these two wars were significantly different than they previously were. They were given actual jobs in combat. They were no different than our men in uniform. They carried weapons, and died for our freedom. They made sacrifices that many people do not have the guts to even think about making. They stayed true to this country and took major strides in order to protect us.

Women in combat have taken on numerous job titles such as welders, code breakers, flight surgeons, generals and commanders of U.S Navy ships, just to name a few. These are powerful jobs that women would have never imagined that they would be able to do. Nowadays, it is not uncommon for a woman to become a Ranger. Recently, two female U.S Army officers, became the first to successfully complete Ranger School. They were held to the same standards as their male battle buddies, and their performance throughout the course remained comparable to that of the male students.

This year, 2016, the Georgia National Guard has had a number of firsts for female Soldiers. During the state Best Warrior Competition, a female competed fiercely against her male counterparts. It takes a lot for a female to agree to compete against 19 males. Also this year, the Georgia National Guard had the first female guardsman to graduate from the 91P Artillery Mechanic School. Some still believe that women are not capable of accomplishing certain tasks, but no matter what, the proof of success is all in the numbers.

Not only should we be proud of our women in the armed forces; remember to pay tribute to our police women, fire fighters, astronauts, doctors, lawyers, etc. The list goes on. These are all occupations that we depend on, even if we think that we will never need service from them. This goes to show you that women can do anything that they put their mind to.

We should never forget that these women fought, and will continue to fight, ferocious wars while dealing with family issues such as leaving small children at home, or being ridiculed by family and friends for the decision that they make to serve. Nevertheless, they stand tall and always keep a sense of pride. They get the job done, and for that, we honor them all month long.

NCo

Words of wisdom f r o m o n e t o another

Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip StringfieldState Command Sergeant Major-Georgia Department of Defense

Notepad

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Tax time is rapidly approaching. This year, as you finalize your taxes notice that you are given the opportunity to contribute to the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation. But what is the FSF, and why should you support this organization?

The FSF is a non-profit 501c3 corporation that provides emergency relief assistance to Guardsmen and family members who are under temporary financial crisis. Founded in 1994, the FSF assists Guardsmen as well as state and federal employees of the Georgia National Guard with emergency financial aid. Since 2005, the FSF has assisted nearly 3,000 Soldiers, Airmen and their families and distributed more than $2.5 million worth of assistance.

“We get requests almost daily,” said Harriet Morgan, executive director of the FSF. “Most of the people we end up helping are traditional Guardsmen.”

Applications for FSF assistance must be for an actual emergency and require a commander’s signature. While FSF is not a catch all (it will not pay for your speeding tickets or court fees) members of the Ga. DoD who face unexpected repairs or who find themselves temporarily unemployed have benefited from FSF grants in the past. These grants may be in any amount up to $1,000.

Morgan explained that the FSF distributes grants within one to three days of receiving a completed application.

“Need is constant throughout the year,” says Morgan. “On average we disburse $200,000 per year.”

For the FSF to help so many it relies on private donations, many of which come from Guardsmen who have either benefited

from the FSF in the past or who appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing the FSF is there.

“Our single biggest contributor are individuals who select the FSF on their taxes,” says Morgan. The FSF is one of seven “check-off ” charities approved by the State of Georgia Department of Revenue. This designation allows Georgia taxpayers to support Soldiers and Airmen of the Guard with a donation when filing their State Income Tax Form 500 or 500 EZ. The option is also available through online tax preparation services.

In addition to the convenience of selecting the FSF at tax time, individuals may elect to support the FSF during the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC code 70602). State employees have the option to support the FSF through the annual State of Georgia Charitable Contributions Program (SCCP code 177000).

In addition to supporting the FSF, Guardsmen can help get the word out about the organization and its mission to employers, family members and civic leaders. This enables others to get involved and support the FSF. Recently Brig. Gen. Thomas Carden, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard and president of the FSF appeared before the Georgia Public Service Commission to express gratitude for a $25,000 donation made by Atlanta Gas Light through the efforts of the GPSC.

“The FSF is the part of our family that helps our families,” said Carden.

To learn more about the FSF, donate, or download an assistance application, visit their website at https://www.georgiaguardfamily.org/. You can also contact the FSF 678-569-5704 for additional information.

G o i n g i n s i d e t h eFamily support FoundationStory by: Capt. William Carraway | Public Affairs Office | Georgia Army National Guard

Photo by: cAPt. WilliAM cArrAWAy | Public AffAirs office | GeorGiA ArMy nAtionAl GuArd


Around the GeorGiA GuArd 2016 AJC AwArds

Georgia National Guard Sgt. Demetrius McCowan and Spc. Joseph Broam are among the four recipients of the 2016 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Reserve Components Achievement Awards.

GeorGiA swArM Heroes NiGHT

Brigadier General Joe Jarrard, The Adjutant General, Georgia Department of Defense, participated in the ceremonial ball drop during Heroes and Superheroes Night at the Georgia Swarm lacrosse game.

sTArbAse GrAduATioN

The Adjutant General of Georgia, Brig. Gen. Joe Jarrard encouraged students to continue to learn, work hard, have a positive attitude and follow their dreams during a graduation ceremony at Peach State Starbase. During his visit, he also congratulated them on their accomplishments throughout the program.

March 2016 | 18

VieTNAM VeTerANs dAy

Brig. Gen. Joseph Jarrard, the Adjutant General of Georgia, reads Governor Nathan Deal’s “Salute to Georgia’s Vietnam Veterans” during the Salute to State Employees who Served During Vietnam War ceremony.

AeriAl GuNNery TrAiNiNG

Georgia National Guard Soldiers with Alpha Company, 171st Aviation Battalion, 78th Aviation Troop Command conduct aerial gunnery training at Fort Gordon.

Public Affairs OfficeGeorgia Department of Defense1000 Halsey Ave. Bldg. 447Marietta, Ga. 30060

Soldier transports casualties to a UH-60 Black Hawk Simulator during the MOUT event Georgia National Guard Best Warrior Competition

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March 2016