Rhode Island National Guard's 2014 Annual Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Office of the Adjutant GeneralLetter to the Governor

Duties & Responsibilities of the Adjutant General

Rhode Island National GuardMission

Financial ImpactStrategic Plan

Command Staff

G-1 Personnel J-2 Intelligence J-3 Training J-4 Logistics J-5 Strategic Planning J-6 Communications J-7 Doctrine & Training

USPFO/ChaplainStaff Judge Advocate/Inspector General

Public Affairs13th (WMD) Civil Support Team

43rd Military Police Brigade56th Troop Command

Medical DetachmentRecruiting & Retention (Army)

Special Operations Detachment - Global102nd Network Warfare Squadron

143rd Airlift Wing282nd Combat Communications Squadron

Recruiting & Retention (Air Force)

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ANNUAL REPORT 2014 | 3

Governor Raimondo,

It is with great pride that I submit the 2014 Annual Report for the Rhode Island National Guard to you on behalf of the outstanding men and women who serve our state and nation. As the state’s most leveraged federally funded agency, I’m happy to report that the Rhode Island National Guard has continued to be a responsible steward of its appropriated budgets and has managed to accomplish its unique dual mission in service of both the State and Country. Utilizing the current economic impact factor, the Rhode Island National Guard’s total federal expenditures of $174 million equates to an overall impact of $295 million to the state of Rhode Island. The state expenditure of $3.5 million resulted in a significant return on investment against federal expenditures.

During fiscal year 2014, the Rhode Island National Guard deployed approximately 150 Soldiers and Airmen, bringing the total deploy-ments since September 11, 2001 to more than 5,600. The Guard continues to shape the total force for future challenges while sup-porting overseas and domestic operations. The climate of budget uncertainty continues to impact the Rhode Island Guard and will for the foreseeable future, impacting training, education, and community outreach. During this austere budget environment, the Rhode Island Guard did, however, see the return of the Open House and Air Show, as well as the International Parachute Competition known as Leapfest in 2014, re-establishing the critical link between our Service members and the countless individuals and organizations that support us throughout the year.

As the discussions continue at the national level concerning overall troop strength and mission sets, the Guard remains the logical option for our nation’s defense and first military responder due to its unique dual mission. Guard units not only provide the flexibility to our nation’s leaders, but also do so at one-third the cost of their active duty counterparts. Our vision for the future focuses on the three pillars of the National Guard; fighting America’s Wars, Protecting the Homeland, and Building Global and Domestic Partnerships.

We remain at the cutting edge of technology and communications and continue to pursue all Cyber Warfare Security opportunities, increasingly in demand throughout the country. It is also our intention to become the premier C-130J simulator training option for domestic and international flight crews, honing our wartime skills and those of our strategic partners. This past year, the Rhode Island Army National Guard and the Rhode Island State Police have collaborated on a new initiative designed to enhance training, domestic partnerships, and save tax dollars.

A planned joint use training facility, located in Exeter adjacent to the Fire Academy, would consolidate fragmented training and facility usage throughout the state by both organizations. The planned joint use facility would ultimately have the ability to house, feed and train the members of each organization in a consolidated environment, thus decreasing the overall footprint throughout the state. The facility would increase the effectiveness of training, management, and logistics, ultimately saving state tax dollars.

In conclusion, the Rhode Island National Guard is a proven outstanding investment for the state of Rhode Island by creating a positive economic impact to our many towns and communities. The RI Guard remains ready, relevant, reliable and accessible for the citizens of this great State and Country!

Always ready, always there!

KEVIN R. McBRIDEMajor GeneralThe Adjutant General

LETTER TO THE GOVERNOR

4 | RHODE ISLAND NATIONAL GUARD

THE ADJUTANT GENERALDuties & Responsibilities

The Adjutant General, MG Kevin R. McBride, is a member of the State Cabinet who is respon-sible for providing the overall leadership and tactical coordination for security preparedness and emergency response systems in the state. He is the strategic leader and Chief Executive Officer to the Governor for the agencies as-signed and as the representative for the State to the lead Federal coordinating agencies, includ-ing the Department of Homeland Security, the National Guard Bureau, the Department of the Army, the Department of the Air Force, and the United States Coast Guard. Additionally, he is responsible for the lead coordinating agency within the scope of emergency preparedness for collaboration with the first response agencies and municipalities within the state, including law enforcement fire services, emergency medical services and the military. He is responsible to support those agencies to ensure they are well equipped, trained, and prepared.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE RHODE ISLAND NATIONAL GUARD

The Adjutant General, who is a combat vet-eran, is the strategic leader of the state military forces. The Adjutant General directs the estab-lishment, operation, organization, and mainte-

nance of the military forces of the state, which are comprised of the Rhode Island Army and Air National Guard, and the State Historic Militia. The Adjutant General’s primary responsibility is to ensure that Soldiers and Airmen are well equipped, well trained, and well led such that they can perform their federal and state military duties.

The Adjutant General is responsible for mis-sion readiness and training of Army and Air National Guard forces to conduct and perform their respective federal missions, which includes war fighting and support to local agencies for domestic emergencies.

Major responsibilities of the Adjutant General, in his capacity as the Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard, include: Mobiliza-tion, Force Structure, Equipment Modernization, Training Management, Facility Management, Military Construction, Officer and Non-Commis-sioned Officer Career Management, Personnel Administration, Family Assistance Programs, Special Programs, Military Property and Army/Air National Guard Operations.

The Adjutant General maintains close asso-ciation and communication with the National Guard Bureau, the Department of the Army, the Department of the Air Force, Northern Com-mand, Air Mobility Command, First Army, Fifth Army, First Air Force, Third Air Force, Cyber Command and Transportation Command. As-sociations and memberships may include all veterans’ organizations, as well as professional military organizations. Most notably he main-tains active participation in the Adjutant General Association of the United States and the Nation-al Guard Association of the United States.



Additional programs under the responsibility of the Adjutant General include, but are not limited to:

• Counter Drug Program• Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve• Education Assistance• Military Funeral Honors• Mentoring Program• Veterans Assistance• Parades/Ceremonial Events• Counter Drug Adventure Camps

The Adjutant General’s primary responsibility is to ensure the organization is poised for future relevancy. During these times of robust transfor-mation for both Army and Air Force transforma-tion initiatives are having a significant impact of the RI National Guard force structure which could adversely impact our troop levels and their ca-pabilities. This could have a long-term impact on our ability to respond to a state emergency with at least the same levels of troops and capabilities which we possess today.

During the general’s tenure, he has lobbied for numerous initiatives with respect to additional or more relevant mission sets for the RI Army Na-tional Guard. The RI Air National Guard contin-ues to aggressively pursue Quonset Air National Guard Base as the primary location for a new C-130J Flight Training Simulator Facility. This new simulator would further enhance the relevancy of the RI Air National Guard, specifically the 143d Air Wing. Locating this new simulator building at Quonset would also further support the C-130J international training program that is conducted by the RI Air National Guard at Quonset.

In short, given all that is occurring within the Department of Defense with respect to transfor-

mation of the Army and Air Force, and the trans-formation of the National Guard from a strategic reserve force to an operational force and full partner in the war-fight, it’s critically important for Rhode Island’s Adjutant General to be fully in-volved in these discussions at the highest levels of the National Guard Bureau and the Depart-ment of Defense.

STATUS

The Adjutant General uniquely serves as both a state employee and a federally recognized Ma-jor General. The Adjutant General is a Cabinet member, appointed by the Governor and subject to the pay and benefits authorized as an exempt and essential employee. As a federally recog-nized Major General, he serves predominantly in a US code, Title 32 status in a traditional Guards-man capacity. The Adjutant General periodically serves in a US code Title 10 status which is Ac-tive Duty. Each of the three statuses has different and unique authorities, applicable regulations, and benefits. The application of the status is essential to Adjutant General’s ability to carry out duties and responsibilities when perform-ing in the multiple capacities of the position. It is however common, necessary and expected that the Adjutant General will carry out all du-ties and responsibilities regardless of what status or capacity being served in.




MISSIONRhode Island National Guard

MISSION

The Rhode Island National Guard (RING), like the National Guard of all 54 states and territo-ries, has both a federal mission and state mis-sion. The RING’s federal mission is to maintain manned, equipped and trained operational forces that are prepared to respond to any contingency in support of the President’s National Security Plan. The RING is an operational force provider for the full-spectrum of contingencies to include nation-building, peacekeeping, humanitarian, natural disaster, national emergency, limited conflicts, and full-scale war. The state mission of the RING is to provide manned, equipped and trained units and personnel that are prepared to

respond to state and local authorities as directed by the Governor to assist in maintaining peace, order and public safety during crisis situations to include natural or man-made disasters, high-pro-file events and state emergency defense opera-tions.

The Adjutant General, Major General Kevin R. McBride, in his dual capacity as the Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard and the Adjutant General of the State of Rhode Island, has command and control of all assigned forces to include all units of the RI Army National Guard, RI Air National Guard, and the State Militia.


MISSIONRhode Island National Guard

ORGANIZATION

The RING is composed of a Joint Force Head-quarters and both a land component – Army National Guard – and an air component – Air Na-tional Guard. The combined authorized strength of these two components is 3,339 personnel.

JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS

The Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ-RI), com-manded by the Deputy Adjutant General, Brigadier General Marcus Jannitto, exercises command and control of all assigned, attached or operationally aligned forces within the geographical boundaries of the state. JFHQ-RI is organized and manned to respond to the ever-changing challenges pre-sented in the post 9/11 environment to include situational awareness and the ability to coordinate an effective and timely response to Homeland Defense, Defense Support to Civil Authorities and other domestic emergency missions. All units of both the RI Air and Army National Guard are available to be task organized for emergency response. Additionally National Guard assets from other states or Title 10 (Active) forces may be deployed and fall under the command and control of JFHQ-RI with concurrence of their Governor or President, respectively. A Joint Staff consisting of a Chief of Staff and eight directors assist the Com-mander, JFHQ-RI with mission execution.

JOINT PROGRAMS

The JFHQ-RI is also tasked with the execution of several programs designed to service the entire extended military family to include veterans, re-tirees, family members, civilian partners, Soldiers and Airmen.


FINANCIAL IMPACTRhode Island National Guard

STATE FUNDS FEDERAL FUNDS TOTAL FUNDS EXPENDEDRI NATIONAL GUARD ARMY AIR

$3,459,788 $81,981,322 $91,612,914 $177,054,024

*$177,054,024 TOTAL INVESTMENT IN RHODE ISLAND

FUNDS BREAKDOWN:

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND EXPENDITURES & REVENUES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014**

FEDERAL FUNDS EXPENDITURES, JULY 2013-JUNE 2014**

*Economic multipliers not applied

ACCOUNT AMOUNTSalaries/Wages & Benefits $620,431

Contracted Professional Services $64,183

Operating Supplies & Expenses $1,188,438

Assistance & Grants $322,505

Capital Purchases & Equipment $1,264,231

Total State Expenditures $3,459,788

ACCOUNT AMOUNTGeneral Revenue $1,676,225

Restricted Receipts $150,113

Operating Transfers from Other $1,633,450

Total State Revenue $3,459,788

ACCOUNT ARMY AIR `TOTALMilitary Pay $41,582,175 $33,874,086 $75,456,261

Civilian Pay $19,246,183 $15,709,970 $34,956,153

Goods & Services $19,814,983 $10,705,750 $30,520,733

Military Construction Funds Disbursed $1,337,981 $31,323,108 $32,661,089

TOTAL FEDERAL EXPENDITURES $81,981,322 $91,612,914 $173,594,236

ECONOMIC INPUT DATATotal Federal Expenditure $173,594,236

Economic Impact Factor Multiplier (1.7)

Total State Economic Impact $295,110,201


STRATEGIC PLAN 2007-2017Rhode Island National Guard

MISSIONTo provide well-trained, well-led and well-

equipped mission-ready units in support of the National Military and, as required, state and

local officials.

VISIONA ready, relevant, and reliable force comprised

of Citizen Soldiers and Airmen, capable of conducting full spectrum operations in joint

and interagency environments.

GOALSMan the ForceTrain the Force

Sustain the ForceCommunicate InternallyCommunicate Externally

VALUESLoyaltyDuty

RespectService Before Self

HonorIntegrity

Personal CourageExcellence In All We Do


COMMAND STAFFRhode Island National Guard

Major GeneralKevin R. McBride

The Adjutant General

Deputy Adjutant General Asst. Adjutant GeneralAIR

Asst. Adjutant GeneralARMY

Director of Joint Staff Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Staff Command Chief Warrant Officer

Command ChiefAIR

Senior Enlisted AdvisorARMY

Brigadier GeneralMark E. Jannitto

Command Sergeant MajorMichael Lewis

Brigadier GeneralMatthew Dzialo

Brigadier GeneralDavid J. Medeiros

Brigadier GeneralCharles E. Petrarca

ColonelMartin A. Lafferty

Lieutenant ColonelDenis Riel

CW4Daniel Curran

Chief Master Sergeant Michael Brady


G1 - PERSONNELColonel Ellis Hopkins

MISSION

The Directorate of Military Personnel manages Rhode Island Army National Guard Soldiers and assists their Families through the full spectrum of Human Resources support operations in the execution of our State and Federal Missions.

ORGANIZATION

Four functional divisions comprise the Military Personnel Directorate, led by the Military Person-nel Officer (MILPO/G1). They are: Soldier Ser-vices Division, Soldier Support Services Division, Family Support Services Division and a Sexual Assault Response and Prevention (SAPR) Sec-tion. The Directorate provides the human re-sources support to sustain the Rhode Island Army National Guard.

SOLDIER SERVICES

The Soldier Services Division led by the Deputy G1 has four functional branches within the G1 Directorate – Officer Personnel Management, Enlisted Personnel Management, Human Re-sources Systems Branch and a Health Services Branch. The essential personnel services pro-vided by the Division include: Promotions and Reductions; Accession, Transfer and Discharge Actions; Awards and Decorations; Evaluation Re-ports; Personnel Records Management; Line of Duty Investigations; Personnel Readiness Man-agement; and Strength Reporting. Highlights of

the many accomplishments during FY-14 include:

• Processed 101 Soldiers into State Active Duty status in support of Boston Marathon Security Operations

• Mobilized 30 Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation in support of Operation Endur-ing Freedom

• Demobilized 35 Soldiers from the Special Op-erations Detachment – Global after returning from Afghanistan

• Mobilized and or demobilized an additional 30 individual Soldiers who deployed in support of military operations

• Managed oversight and safeguarded the Indi-vidual Personnel Electronic Records Manage-ment System (iPERMS) depository with over 7,600 records

• Processed over 39,000 personnel transac-tions and entered over 33,600 documents into iPERMS

• Processed 225 NGB 22s, Certificates of Honorable Discharges from The Armed Forces of the United States of America and 101 DD214s , Certificates of Release or Dis-charge from Active Duty

• Processed 156 Line of Duty Investigations for Soldiers who sustained an injury or disease in connection with their service in the military

• Paid $86,400 to Soldiers for lost wages due to an injury or illness incurred while in the line of duty

• Facilitated 73 Medical Evaluation Boards to determine suitability for continued service

• Processed 3,080 Department of Defense identification cards for active service mem-bers, retirees, spouses, contractors and state employees

• Supported the 1st Annual “Run for the Fallen” 5K.



SOLDIER SUPPORT SERVICES

The Soldier Support Services Division has three functional programs – Education Services, Incen-tives and a Resilience and Risk Reduction Pro-gram - led by a Senior Human Resources Officer within the G1 Directorate. The Division provides support to over 2,100 Soldiers in the Rhode Is-land Army National Guard.

EDUCATION SERVICES

Rhode Island Army National Guard Soldiers en-joy many educational benefits in connection with their service to the State and Nation.

STATE TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (STAP)

In accordance with state law, Soldiers’ tuition may be waived at one of three Rhode Island state colleges for up to five classes each semes-ter, to be used towards an associates, bachelors or masters degree. Service members must be in good standing to receive this incentive. Approxi-mately 530 waivers were processed.

EDUCATION ASSISTANCE

Rhode Island Army National Guard Soldiers are eligible to receive up to $250 per credit hour for a maximum of 16 credit hours per fiscal year of federal tuition assistance (FTA) to use towards an associates, bachelors or masters degree. Sol-diers utilized FTA through GoArmyEd at over 30 different institutions across the country, including Rhode Island institutions.

In addition, many service members return-ing from deployments are taking advantage of

transferring Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to their dependents. Service members can also take advantage of educational benefits such as re-imbursable testing for CLEP, GRE, GMAT and licensing and certification exams. The Education Office also administers a number of tests such as Armed Forces Classification Testing, Defense Language Proficiency Tests and instrument flight testing available to all Rhode Island service members and sister services as well. Over 80 tests were administered to include fifteen lan-guage tests, ten Armed Forces Classification Tests and 31 Oral Proficiency tests.

INCENTIVES

Soldiers are eligible for a number of incentives to include enlistment, retention, health, and officer bonuses and student loan repayment incentives. Approximately 51 Soldiers received payments under the Student Loan Repayment Program, for a total of $225,911 (283 payments). Bonus payments were made to 124 Soldiers for a total of $823,250.

RESILIENCE AND RISK REDUCTION

The Rhode Island National Guard Resilience and Risk Reduction Team include the following: a Resilience and Risk Reduction Program Coor-dinator, a State Resiliency coordinator, a Suicide Prevention Program Manager, an Alcohol and Drug Control Officer and a Substance Abuse Prevention Program Coordinator. The program is designated to guide the Rhode Island National Guard in comprehensive efforts to build physi-cal, emotional and psychological resilience and directly enhance Soldier readiness. The Rhode Island Army National Guard has 44 qualified Master Resiliency Trainers and 155 qualified Resilience Trainer Assistance serving as the Re-


siliency Program cadre throughout the force. In FY-14 the Suicide Prevention Program Coordina-tor facilitated 2 Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) Courses to reach a total of 130 ASIST trained “gatekeepers”.

FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES The Family Support Services Division led by the Military Family Program Director is a comprehen-sive collection of assets, resources and programs

designed to support both Soldiers and their Fami-lies to enhance Soldier and Family readiness.

MILITARY FAMILY PROGRAMS

The mission of the Rhode Island National Guard Family Program is to establish and facilitate ongoing communication, involvement, support, and recognition between military members, their Families and the Rhode Island National Guard in a partnership that promotes the best for both. These programs put an emphasis on Family involvement within the unit. The goal is to strengthen a sense of community and empower

Families by providing the tools necessary to meet their unique challenges - before, during and after deployments. The RING Military Family Program is located within the Family Assistance Center (FAC) at the Warwick Armory, 541 Airport Road, Warwick, Rhode Island. The FAC is a “One-Stop-Shop” staffed with a team of Family assistance professionals. The FAC is mandated to provide six essential services to military Families which includes providing information regarding, TRI-CARE, LEGAL, FINANCIAL, DEERS, CRISIS INTERVENTION AND OUTREACH BOTH FAM-ILY AND COMMUNITY. In FY-14 the FAC assist-ed 10,742 customers in resolving simple issues and another 247 customers with complex cases requiring follow-up action. Family Programs include a Family Outreach Program for Soldiers and their Families in the deployment cycle. In 2014 the Family Outreach Program made 1,162 contacts by telephone, mail, e-mail or face to face with Family members of deployed Soldiers. FY-14 Military Family Program events and activi-ties included:

• Yellow Ribbon Events, briefings• FRG meetings• OEF/OIF Monthly Meetings VA Providence• Soldier Readiness Processing events• Volunteer Trainings• Numerous Child and Youth Program events• Volunteer Appreciation Event• Military Spouse Appreciation Day • Operation Home Front Backpack Brigade• Garden of Heroes• Operation Holiday Cheer• Winter Energy Assistance Fair• Holiday For Heroes Event• Ye Old Carnival for Heroes Event • Volunteer Recruiting Visits• Various unit sendoff and homecomings• Participation in SMVF planning committee



CHILD AND YOUTH PROGRAM

The mission of the Child and Youth Program is to ensure that military children and youth have the tools and resources they need to be resilient while supporting their social, emotional, educa-tional, and recreational needs.

FY-14 Events and Programs

• 2 Military Youth Development Camps • 11 Child and Youth Program Trainings, Brief-

ings, School and Community Outreach, and Professional Development Days

• 3 RI Military Family Program Events • 1 Seven Habits of a Healthy Teen Training • 2 Service Learning Projects • 9 Youth Council Meetings • 5 Family Readiness Group Events • 2 Military Appreciation Days at Sporting

Events • 1 Regional Youth Symposium • 2 Operation Military Kids State Team Meet-

ings

MILITARY ONE SOURCE

Military OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defense (DoD) to active duty, Guard and Reserve service members, and their Families with comprehensive information on every aspect of military life including deployment, reunion, relationships, grief, spouse employ-ment and education, parenting and child care, and much more. Military OneSource also offers personal non-medical counseling services online, via telephone, or face-to-face. You can receive non-medical, short-term counseling, as well as assistance with financial management, taxes, career services, health and wellness, and much

more. This personalized support is available 24/7 no matter where you live or serve. In FY-14 the Military OneSource program coordinator attend-ed 125 Activities/individual supports/ community capacities that hosted 3,205 attendees.

SURVIVOR OUTREACH SERVICES (SOS)

SOS provides support, information, and services closest to where the Survivor Families reside. SOS ensures that Survivors receive all govern-ment and non-government benefits and entitle-ments, grief and financial counseling, and access to survivor events and support groups. In FY-14 SOS Specialists attended and/or conducted over 25 events in direct support to survivors and support groups. In addition to events, ongoing supportive services include outreach to Survivor Family members, providing resources including grief counseling and support, providing event information, financial resources, and follow-up on any unresolved issues. We maintain a link to the military community and supportive services for as long as the Survivor wishes.

FAMILY READINESS SUPPORT ASSISTANTS (FRSA)

FRSAs Empower and assist Commanders in delivering the Total Army Family Program (AR 600-20) so that Soldiers and Families are en-titled, informed, educated, assisted, and made ready for the unique demands of military life before, during, and after deployment. In FY-14, RI FRSAs attended and/or conducted over 200 events involving more than 1,400 service mem-bers, 2,800 Family members and 350 volunteers and visitors in support of the 43rd Military Police Brigade, 56th Troop Command and Joint Force Headquarters. The RING FAC recognized its Volunteer force by conducting a Volunteer



Appreciation Night that had an attendance of 127 and honoring Volunteers from the FRG’s and Family Readiness Events. In August FSRAs were proud to escort 6 of our finest to the Na-tional Volunteer Conference in Oklahoma. Two of those Volunteers, Rosemarie and Stephen Moretti were later recognized by the Red Cross as Service to the Armed Forces Military Hero for Rhode Island. The RI FRSAs also headed a team from the RING FAC to produce a Military Spouse Appreciation Night in which 78 attended. JFHQ/56th TC has 9 active FRG’s and the 43rd MP BDE has 5 active FRG’s. YELLOW RIBBON REINTERGRATION PRO-GRAM

The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program pro-vides Soldiers and Military Families an assort-ment of tools to be used to prepare and assist prior to, during and post deployment cycle. The Yellow Ribbon Team consists of highly trained professionals who are ready, willing and able to assist with all types of personal issues. In FY-14 the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program hosted multiple 30, 60 and 90 day reintegration events for Soldier and Family members following a de-ployment.

EMPOLYER SUPPORT FOR THE GUARD AND RESERVE (ESGR); AND HERO TO HIRED PROGRAM (H2H)

ESGR MISSION

To develop and promote supportive work envi-ronments for service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws and resolves employer conflicts between the service members and their employers.

H2H MISSON

To simplify the job search while reducing the number of unemployed Reserve Component Service members. Their website, H2H.jobs, also allows military-friendly companies to access the talented men and women in the military, post job openings, search for candidates and invite them to apply, and participate in hiring events – all free of charge.

Volunteers

• 36 volunteers who logged over 1,486 hours (data available from FY 2014 PEPRS Report)

• Volunteers assisted with Yellow Ribbon events, employer events, employer and mili-tary briefings, job fairs and handled 27 em-ployer issues.

• Volunteers were recognized at Annual Volun-teer Training meeting, and our Volunteer of the Year was recognized at the Annual Free-dom Award Employer Recognition Dinner

• H2H helped over 100 service members and dependents obtain employment

Those Served

• 3,207 Army and Air National Guard, Army & Air Reserve, Navy, Marine, & Coast Guard Reserve

• 1,237 Army National Guard • 1,371 Air National Guard • 138 Army Reserves • 12 Air Force Reserves • 384 Navy Reserves • 36 Marine Reserve • 29 Coast Guard Reserve



TRANSITION ASSISTANCE ADVISOR (TAA)

The Transition Assistance Advisor (TAA) serves as a state-wide point of contact and coordinator for easy access to benefits and services provided by the United States Department of Veteran Af-fairs (VA). The TAA provides this support to all service members, both active and reserve, and to all Veterans, Military Retirees, and their Families. The support includes assistance with access-ing VA healthcare facilities, obtaining services through the Military Health System, and in apply-ing for other VA services and benefits, such as compensation and pension for disability, insur-ance, loan guarantee, vocational rehabilitation/employment, and education benefits. Addition-ally, the TAA serves as the local liaison between the National Guard and the VA, and building a state coalition partnership (network) of support with the VA and other Federal, State and local governmental agencies, and with community organizations. During fiscal year 2014, Rhode Island’s TAA:

• Assisted 252 Veterans with their VA claims.• Made 140 visits with National Guard/Reserve

units and coalition partners.• Provided 1,289 referrals to service members,

Veterans, Military Retirees, their Families and coalition partners.

• Presented 50 briefings to 1,355 service mem-bers, Veterans, Military Retirees, their Fami-lies and coalition partners.

• Provided assistance to service members, Veterans, Military Retirees, their Families and coalition partners via 1,169 telephone calls, 4,660 emails, and 416 one-on-one encoun-ters.

• Provided current information regarding VA and other Federal, State/local governmental agencies and community organizations.

SEXUAL ASSAULT RESPONSE AND PREVEN-TION (SAPR) The Rhode Island National Guard SAPR Pro-gram is a fully-functioning, Commander-led awareness and prevention program instituted to reduce and eliminate incidences of sexual as-sault in the Rhode Island National Guard. During 2014, the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) assisted with planning the Army-wide comprehensive workplace inspection and Army and Air Stand-down events in order to fulfill the Secretary of Defense directives to address this continuing issue throughout the Armed Forces. Supporting efforts included unit and individual SHARP/SAPR training throughout the year as well as conducting the 6th Annual Obstacle Course competition during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in April. This event showcases the importance of being an educated bystander who is physically and mentally strong enough to eliminate sexual/assaults in the Rhode Island National Guard.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Conducted the 6th Annual Obstacle Course competition during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), April 2014. This event show-cases the importance of being mentally and physically strong in all aspects of life to help eliminate sexual assaults in the RI National Guard.

• Educated Army Commanders on their respon-sibilities of selecting and supporting VAs and consistently tracking training within the Army SHARP Program.

• Educated Readiness Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) on their responsibilities for tracking tiered SHARP training



• Re-established Memorandums of Agree-ment (MOAs) with civilian service organiza-tions to ensure shared training opportuni-ties and service coverage for all Service Members (SMs) and their Families, regard-less of status.

• Conducted shared instructor responsibili-ties and shared education opportunities for all JFHQ/SARCs in Region 1

• Expanded community outreach by con-ducting Grand Rounds at local hospitals, speaking on military SAPR program at conferences, presenting at coalition partner trainings and inviting community partners to assist in training military victim advo-cates

• Rhode Island Air National Guard held Com-mander’s Call at CCRI where the 143 AW CC spoke to the Wing about SAPR issues. Topics included bystander training and highlighting offenders as the root cause of SAPR issues. They conducted small group discussions throughout the Wing, where trained facilitators spoke to members within their unit about SAPR issues.

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

MISSION

The Rhode Island National Guard’s Human Resources Office (HRO) is a joint (Army & Air Force) office performing timely, accurate, and efficient personnel, manpower management, and administrative support services for federal full-time personnel programs.

FEDERAL TECHNICIANS

Federal Technicians, governed by the Office of Personnel Management, usually are mem-bers of the RI National Guard as a condition of employment. Authority is contained in Title 32, Section 709, USC. Technicians conduct support operations for the warfighting units. Technicians are the largest group of full-time personnel in the Rhode Island National Guard.

ACTIVE GUARD/RESERVE

Active Guard/Reserve (AGR), Title 32, Sec-tion 502, USC, are personnel ordered to active duty within the State of Rhode Island to con-duct unit training, administration, supply, and readiness for the unit warfighting mission.

FISCAL YEAR 2014 HIGHLIGHTS

During Fiscal Year 2014, the Rhode Island National Guard prepared for pending reduc-tions in personnel funding and authorizations. In the coming years the Army is facing cuts in both AGR and Technician force structure. This equates to approximately 25 AGR and 24 Technician position losses over the next five fiscal years. Additional losses were as-sociated with the reorganization of 282nd Combat Communications Squadron. Despite these losses, effective talent management and efficient resource allocation ensure that the fulltime force is well-suited to take-on all State and Federal mission requirements.



J2 - INTELLIGENCEColonel Paul Dynan

MISSION

The J2 Directorate of the Joint Force Headquar-ters, Rhode Island National Guard, produces timely, multi-disciplined intelligence for the Ad-jutant General of the State of Rhode Island in order to support full spectrum operations primar-ily within Rhode Island in the joint interagency environment.

• The intelligence section builds and maintains national, state and inter-agency partnerships, and fulfills Army and Air Force relationships via internal and external training exercises and conferences within the states area of responsibility and the Bahamas, our state partnership nation.

• Conducts Intelligence Force Protection, and Operation Security training and testing for Soldiers and Airmen of the Rhode Island National Guard. Develops plans with Fusion Center and Joint Terrorism Task Force to pro-tect the force, and Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency to review and prepare responses to potential weather and manmade threats to the state and nation.

• The J2 continues to train Army and Air Nation-al Guard personnel and the Civil Air Patrol in the employment of the Geospatial Information Interoperability Exploitation – Portable (GI-IEP) system providing video and still photog-raphy for exercise support.

• Intelligence support to NORTHCOM home-land support exercise.


J3 - TRAININGColonel Christopher Callahan

MISSION

The mission of the Directorate of Military Support (DOMS) is to coordinate Defense Support of Civil Authorities. Defense Support of Civil Authorities includes support to prepare, prevent, protect, respond, and recover from domestic incidents including terrorist attacks, major disasters, and planned special events. In 2014, the DOMS co-ordinated Rhode Island National Guard support to well over 150 events conducted throughout the state including Color Guards, participation of the 88th Army Band, static displays of military equip-ment, participation in parades, military speak-ers, and other civic events. Training was also conducted in both live and virtual environments to maintain a high level of proficiency when responding to a request for assistance from civil authorities for domestic emergencies.

PHYSICAL SECURITY

Responsible for the safeguard of government equipment and personnel, the physical security

section conducts inspections of Rhode Island National Guard armories and facilities. Addition-ally, personnel assigned to Physical Security write physical security plans that identify threats and assess risk to theft, sabotage, and physical damage from natural disasters.

JOINT OPERATIONS CENTER (JOC)

To support/facilitate Mission Command by The Adjutant General/Joint Task Force Commander; the JOC receives, analyzes, coordinates, directs and manages requests for information and resources. Most notable during this last year was the Rhode Island National Guard’s security support, of over 140 Guardsmen, to the 2014 Boston Marathon in response to a Massachusetts International Emer-gency Management Assistance Compact request. The JOC, in addition to managing the request for resources and coordination with the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and the Mas-sachusetts National Guard, maintained situational awareness through maintenance and management of a Common Operating Picture.



MOBILIZATION READINESS DIVISION

The Mobilization Readiness Division (MRD) serves as the principal advisor to the Adjutant General for all matters pertaining to unit and individual mobilizations, force structure manage-ment, organizational readiness and force mod-ernization.

MOBILIZATION

The fiscal year ending 30 June 2014, the Rhode Island Army National Guard alerted, mobilized and deployed 95 Soldiers in support of Opera-tion Enduring Freedom (OEF); the first year of reduced operations since 2003. 36 Soldiers from the Special Operations Detachment – Global completed their mission and returned from their deployment to Afghanistan, where they con-ducted special operations missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom throughout that country. F Co, 1-126th AVN (MED) deployed 50 members to Kuwait in support of Operation En-during Freedom and is conducting aerial medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations throughout the region in support of Army Central Command. In addition to unit mobilizations, there are doz-ens of individual deployments throughout the continental United States as well as the world augmenting operations associated with overseas contingencies. The Pre-Mobilization Training Assistance Element (PTAE) continues to provide training oversight and, more importantly, valida-tion of all required training events normally con-ducted at the mobilization station, thus limiting the amount of time spent during the Post-Mobili-zation phase of unit deployments.

FORCE STRUCTURE MANAGEMENT

The Rhode Island Army National Guard contin-

ues to face reductions in personnel and to force structure as the Army continues to draw down its overall numbers. The projected losses impact the National Guards abilities but the scope of that im-pact is not known at this time and the proposed reductions are pre-decisional.

RIARNG Force Structure Allowance (FSA) to End Strength (ES).

FSA ES % AssignCurrent 2183 2178 99 %

RI ARNG FORCE STRUCTURECombat Arms 42%Combat Support 35%Combat Service Support 3%Generating Force 15%

RI ARNG PERSONNELEnlisted 82%Officer 14%Warrant Officer 4%

ORGANIZATIONAL READINESS

The readiness of Rhode Island Army National Guard units for mobilization remains our top priority. The RIARNG continues to provide fully trained, well led, and properly equipped units and soldiers in support of both State and Federal mis-sions. The RIARNG works diligently to ensure every assigned Soldier is mentally and physically fit and prepared to deploy through annual Soldier Readiness Processing. Additionally, Soldiers and units undergo rigorous training at the individual and unit level to ensure success when called upon. The rigorous training and Soldier Readi-ness Processing coupled with new or improved


equipment ensures that the RIARNG is poised to support any and all Federal and State missions.

FORCE MODERNIZATION

The Rhode Island Army National Guard contin-ues to aggressively pursue modernization initia-tives to ensure our units receive and are trained on the best equipment in the Army inventory. The 861st EN Co has continued to be a focal point with the fielding of two different types of loaders and a planned future fielding of T-5 bull-dozers and the M105 Earthmover know as the DEUCE. We continue to upgrade our Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intel-ligence systems increasing our capabilities when deployed as part of the total Army and when home in support of civil authorities. As the Army modernization initiatives continue, the RIARNG is poised to aggressively pursue additional equip-ment and assets that will further enhance our ability to fight in war and support our State in any contingency presented.

RHODE ISLAND-BAHAMAS STATE PARTNER-SHIP PROGRAM (SPP)

Members of the RING traveled to the Bahamas

on six occasions and conducted subject matter expert exchanges in fifteen areas deemed crucial to the United States Northern Command Theatre Campaign Plan. Subjects included logistics, en-gineering, marksmanship, computer network de-fense, communications and combat diving opera-tions. As a byproduct of the SPP, the 143d Civil Engineering Squadron of the RIANG conducted a 15-day deployment for training. During the train-ing event, 40 Air Guardsmen deployed to Nassau and worked side by side with Royal Bahamas Defense Force Engineers on various construction and maintenance projects on the Defense Force main base.

Additionally, Defense Force personnel came to RI for eight other events throughout the year. Events included attending the RING Strategic Planning Weekend, a cyber defense exercise and an evaluation of the 13th Civil Support Team.

COUNTERDRUG SUPPORT PROGRAM

By developing interagency partnerships with Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) the Counterdrug Support Program (RI-CD) provides unique military skills in support to the dismantling of narcotic/drug organizations and activities. The program also develops partnerships with Community Based Organizations (CBO) to address demand reduction efforts through community coalitions. The Counterdrug program is responsible for the execution of the Joint Substance Abuse testing program on RI National Guard (RING) personnel.

OVERVIEW

RI-CD consists of a fluctuating number of Army and Air Force Guardsmen on full time active duty status in accordance with Title 32, Section



112, US Code. These Soldiers and Airmen are members of the RING and maintain assignment in units across the state. Supported agencies affected 225 arrests as a direct result of the work performed by RI-CD criminal intelligence analysts.

Rhode Island has seen a spike in heroin use as well as other opiates, and subsequently overdoses. In Rhode Island there were 72 overdose deaths from January through March of 2014. Research has shown that Rhode Island continues to rank among the highest in the nation for illicit drug use, non-medical use of prescription pain relievers and per capita overdose deaths. Though LEAs supported by RI-CD have seized drugs such as MDMA, molly, crystal methamphetamine, and steroids, the most significant drug threats continue to be Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, Heroin, and non medicinal Marijuana, and the illegal use of the myriad of pharmaceutical drugs, particularly pain relievers.

The RING has had a Counterdrug Program since 1992 and has become vital member in a multi-front effort against narcotics and prescription drug abuse, distribution, and trafficking. RI-CD executed $722K in federally appropriated funds in state FY 14. Each state and territory has a CD program.

DRUG INTERDICTION

RI-CD had seven criminal intelligence analysts imbedded in a distinct combination of municipal, state and federal LEAs whose primary focus is counter narcotics/drugs. Each supported agency possesses a multi-jurisdictional capacity and maintains a sufficient case load to necessitate dedicated personnel. The total number of analysts fluctuated based on receiving additional federal funding mid FY. Support to each agency is based on their specific and or statutorily determined contributions in the overall counter narcotics/drug interdiction effort.


Type Unit of Measure TotalUS Currency Bulk $ 12,086,040.00 Cocaine (Powder) Kilogram 2.86 $ 137,769.28 Crack Cocaine Kilogram 2.75 $ 126,829.40 Heroin Kilogram 31.755 $ 1,254,500.00 Marijuana (Processed) Kilogram 103 $ 351,568.41 Marijuana (Cultivated) Kilogram 168 $ 590,577.27 Combined Rx Each 262,442 $ 25,645,680.00 Property Each 3 $ 2,300,000.00Weapons Each 33 $ 11,250.00 Vehicles Each 24 $ 608,225.00TOTAL LEA SEIZURES $ 43,112,439.36

The below chart totals articulates LEA seizures directly supported by RI-CD. This does not include the remaining municipalities and other federal agencies in Rhode Island.


The following agencies received support during FY 14: • Providence Police Department Gang and

Narcotics Unit• Rhode Island State Police (RISP)• RI High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area

Initiative Task Force (RI-HIDTA)• local resident offices of US Drug

Enforcement Agency (DEA)• US Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)• US Food and Drug Administration Office

of Criminal Investigations (FDA OCI)• US Postal Inspector Service (USPIS)

Support to the FBI Providence office ceased at the end of the state FY 14, upon retirement of the assigned analyst.

CIVIL OPERATIONS

The Civil Operations (CO) mission continued to undergo changes as compared to the previous FY. The RI-CD program continued to support one community based coalition. The facilitator, TSgt Steven D’Amico was rated 5th in the nation of all civil operators in the 54 CD programs. On 1 November 2014 the direct support to that community coalition ceased upon TSgt D’Amico’s retirement.

Mid FY at the national level, civil operations took another change in direction. The University of Kansas Work Group for Community Health and Development, a World Health Organization Collaborating

Centre for Community Health and Development, requested the National Guard’s assistance in order to translate how to guides and other materials for community coalition building. With additional federal funding, members of the 115th MP Company, 169th MP Company, 1-126th Aviation Battalion, and Special Operations Detachment - G (SOD-G) contributed to the Arabic, French, Portuguese, and Spanish translation effort. Russian, Mandarin, and Cantonese Chinese are the remaining languages as part of the initial overall effort.

JOINT SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAM (JSAP)

To contribute to a drug-free workplace, RI-CD administers and oversees the Joint Substance Abuse Program (SA). All members of the RING are subject to random, unannounced testing throughout the year. Guardsmen in certain specialties or job categories such as aviators and military police are part of mandatory testing pools and are subject to annual mandatory testing.

Rhode Island’s SA program processed 3,284 specimens in FY 2014. Rhode Island continues to rank in the highest percentage category of drug abuse as surveyed by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration.



J4 - LOGISTICSColonel John Packhem

MISSION

The Directorate of Logistics (DOL) is responsible for coordinating and providing all logistical sup-port to RI Army National Guard units. Logisti-cal support includes facilities, supplies, logistics automation, food service, transportation, and maintenance.

SURFACE MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The Surface Maintenance Manager (SMM) di-rects and administers the surface maintenance program for the Rhode Island Army National Guard. The SMM provides technical supervision to all maintenance activities and exercises opera-tional and administrative control over the Com-bined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS), the Field Maintenance Shops (FMS) and the Surface Maintenance Office (SMO). The SMM and his/her staff provide guidance, administrative support and supervision over technical aspects of unit organizational maintenance for the entire state.

FIELD MAINTENANCE SHOPS (FMS)

There are three (3) Field Maintenance Shops in Rhode Island located in Warren, Warwick, and East Greenwich. Each Field Maintenance Shop is subordinate to the Supervisory Surface Main-tenance Specialist. The mission of the FMS is to provide field maintenance that is beyond the capabilities of the owning units and to provide limited direct support maintenance on all equip-ment assigned to units supported by the FMS. Each shop is provided with the necessary tools and equipment to conduct maintenance and re-pairs authorized at that level.

COMBINED SUPPORT MAINTENANCE SHOP (CSMS)

The Combined Support Maintenance Shop is the center of maintenance activity and provides both field and sustainment maintenance sup-port. Sustainment maintenance is the higher level of maintenance after field maintenance and is provided to all units of the RIARNG. Special-ized work is performed on electronic equipment, armament, and calibrated instruments. Other functions of the CSMS include engine rebuild, auto body repair, and vehicle painting.

REQUIREMENTS

The Surface Maintenance Program supports the following requirements of the RIARNG (to include the total number of wheeled vehicles, personnel budget and the budget for repair parts required for services and repairs):

DESCRIPTION AMOUNTWheeled Vehicles Supported 1,115Personnel Budget (Technicians) $3,157,123Budget to support equipment repairs

$1,631,950

RESET PROGRAM

The Field Reset program is a special National Guard level maintenance program designed to restore unit equipment that deployed or was left behind in order to meet Federal and State missions. The following depicts total number of equipment work orders, personnel budget and repair parts budget for the current fiscal year RESET program:


DESCRIPTION AMOUNTNumber of RESET Work Orders 96Soldier Cost $ 394,500Repair Parts Cost $ 196,400

Total Maintenance Budget Requirements

DESCRIPTION AMOUNTPersonnel Requirements $ 4,150,123Repair Parts Requirements $ 1,828,350TOTAL REQUIREMENTS $ 5,978,473

PLANS AND POLICY BRANCH OFFICE

The Plans and Policy Branch Chief and office staff have the responsibility for overall supply pro-gram management. The office coordinates joint logistics functions and management programs based on regulations, manuals, instructions, guidance and direction as issued by the appropri-ate authority. The office staff reviews logistical plans and policies to prepare units for combat operations and state emergencies. The office

provides logistics automation, military transpor-tation and supports all food service activities to all Rhode Island National Guard units. Provides support to the Command Maintenance Evalua-tion Team (COMET) and the Command Supply Discipline Program (CSDP) as required by regu-lation. The Plans and Policy Branch controls a budget to support all the above activities. The current fiscal year budget was:

DESCRIPTION AMOUNTFood And Clothing $ 801,400Operations and Maintenance $ 2,620,457Overseas Contingency Opera-tions and Maintenance Funds

$ 17,200

J4 - LOGISTICSColonel John Packhem


J5 - STRATEGIC PLANNINGColonel Bennett Singer

MISSION

The responsibilities of the J5 include develop-ment and implementation of the Rhode Island National Guard’s strategy, policy, plans, initiatives and concepts related to war fighting; transforma-tion; the State Partnership Program and Legisla-tive Issues.

LEGISLATIVE LIAISON

During 2014, the RING was involved with two pieces of state legislation and advised on numer-ous pieces of legislation at the federal level. The state legislation dealt directly with The Veterans Services Strategic Plan advisory committee which addresses any gaps in resources and information to effectively support and address the needs of veterans and the National Secu-rity Infrastructure Support Fund that will provide grants to increase the mission-related capabilities of the national security infrastructures. Each of these pieces of legislation has directly improved the ability for the National Guard to complete its mission of taking care of its Soldiers and Airmen and providing security for our state and nation. The office also researched over 30 congressional inquires that dealt directly with reconciling ser-vice members inquires into benefits, awards and service eligibility.

JOINT PLANNING GROUP

The Joint Planning Group (JPG) is comprised of senior staff planners from all joint staff sections, to include special staff sections such as the Pub-lic Affairs Office and the Staff Judge Advocate office. The primary function of the JPG is to pre-pare, publish and revise military plans for a host of contingency operations that may arise within the state. Most of these contingencies fit within a

broad framework known as the Defense Support to Civilian Agencies (DSCA). The intent of the JPG’s effort is to integrate the National Guard’s contingency plans with other state and federal agencies so that all responses are coordinated and synchronized. During FY 2014, the Joint Planning Group (JPG) continued to provide support to the command concerning operational and strategic level initia-tives. In addition to preparing, publishing and revising military plans for a host of contingency operations and, execution of the command’s Strategic Planning Workshop. The JPG finalized revisions to the RING’s Hurricane Response, Winter Storm, and Terrorist Use of Explosives Plans. They also drafted the RING’s Nuclear Detonation Response Plan. These plans greatly enhance the RING’s ability to respond to and manage natural or man-made disasters.

The JPG worked closely with the Joint Staff in order to participate in the Army’s Community of Excellence (ACOE) program. The JPG facilitated training sessions and organized Rhode Island’s ACOE submission to the National Guard Bureau and participated in the in the evaluation program at the national level.

Additionally, the JPG was utilized in direct sup-port of the Command’s annual Strategic Planning Conference in March of 2014. In advance of this event, members of the JPG analyzed strategic and operational level documents in order to as-sist the command in discerning the best “way ahead” for the organization. The continuous tracking of the actions plans developed during the conference insure the realization of the TAG’s Strategic plan for the Rhode Island National Guard.


J6 - COMMUNICATIONSLieutenant Colonel Michael Tetreault

MISSION

The mission of the Rhode Island National Guard Chief Information Officer (CIO) is to provide a high quality, secure, and professional informa-tion technology and information management infrastructure and services to our customers necessary for the performance of federal and state missions.

VISION

The vision of the Rhode Island National Guard J6/CIO is to ensure the directorate is able to leverage a highly skilled technical workforce to deliver Information Technology and Information Management systems to meet organizational operational and strategic objectives. “Given the threat environment, the United States needs a broad portfolio of military capabilities with maxi-mum versatility across the widest possible spec-trum of conflict. Toward this end, the Depart-ment must continue to reform the way it does business from developing and buying major weapons systems to managing our workforce.” (Quadrennial Defense Review 2010) The future of the threat landscape especially in the area of cyber will continue to push the demand for a highly skilled team of professionals that not only provide business value but ensure the confiden-tiality, integrity, and availability of the diverse Information Management Systems.

DISTANCE LEARNING

The Distance Learning program has two class-rooms and one conference area at Camp Fog-arty in East Greenwich, RI. Classroom A has 12 workstations and classroom B has 6 worksta-tions both with full video-teleconference capabil-

ity. There is also a satellite location that houses secure and unsecure video teleconferencing capabilities (VTC) for up to twenty. We provide video teleconferencing, web-based training, computer-based training, and classroom facili-ties for the Rhode Island National Guard and the communities we serve. Training ranges from Emergency Medical Technician recertification to USPFO training on Federal Logistic System or Military Accounting Systems. The classrooms also support video teleconferencing for Recruit-ing and Retention, and numerous other video conferences throughout the year. Operation of secure and unsecure video teleconference equipment allows military commanders to com-municate with their deployed units in real time. AUTOMATION

This section purchases and implements all com-puter equipment for the CIO/J6. It maintains, repairs, and upgrades all computer equipment (workstations and servers) attached to the Local Area Network (LAN). Automation support contin-ues to monitor systems and recommends life-cycle acquisitions as needed. They manage all computer property assigned to the Rhode Island National Guard for accountability. The section also maintains the CIO/J6 “Help Desk” for in-dividual and unit automation issues, as well as maintaining the software library for government owned computer systems and accounts for all li-censing. It also produces reports on demand to account for hardware and software usage, and ensures compliance with current anti-virus and information assurance standards. The automa-tion team assists with installation and configu-ration of routers and network equipment at all Rhode Island National Guard locations.


ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Administrative services provide document re-production and graphical aid services. They also provide bulk mail and package shipment ser-vices, Freedom of Information Act requests, and document management. There are currently 80 multi-function copiers networked throughout the National Guard, reducing the operational costs of separate desktop printers, scanners, and fax machines.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

The Telecommunications section designs, main-tains and upgrades the telecommunications Network for all installations of the Rhode Island National Guard. This network connects all RI National Guard facilities in the state. This sec-tion also maintains the communications (land based and cellular) for the Rhode Island Na-tional Guard, and acts as a liaison between the National Guard and various telecommunication companies. This section maintains a telecommunication switch network throughout the state, utilizing a Voice Over Internet Protocol telecommunication architecture. It is also responsible for all primary and alternate Wide Area Network (WAN) links throughout the state.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ELECTRONICS

The Rhode Island National Guard continues to participate in the nationwide, National Guard Bureau, Joint Force Communications Exercises. These communications exercises include Inter-net Protocol (IP) based networks, high frequency radio, secure voice terminals, secure fax, non-secure fax, and Iridium Satellite phones and uti-

lization of the Joint Incident Site Communication Capability (JISCC) mobile communication sys-tem. These communication exercises also utilize tactical communication assets of the Air National Guard Combat Communications units.

Concurrent with National Guard Bureau Com-munications Exercise, RING’s Joint Force Head-quarters continues to participate in the National Guard Bureau Joint Force Communications Exercise to include the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, Governors Office and Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency. Com-munication exercises test radio HF high, VHF low (FM), secure and standard telephones, both secure and standard network connectivity.

NETWORKING AND DISASTER RECOVERY

The organization is supported by a statewide Lo-cal Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) connecting all Rhode Island Army Na-tional Guard facilities. All large site data circuits are connected to a privately contracted network “cloud” via fiber optics or copper. All sites have either a T1 (1.5 Mb) or full DS3 (45Mb) data circuit with a 2Mb, 6Mb or 20Mb redundant data circuit. LAN connectivity to all units in the RI National Guard allows for remote software instal-lation and troubleshooting. The Network Control Center services all units and activities of the Rhode Island National Guard. Expanded secure LAN and VTC systems continue to operate and support war fighter requirements. The RI National Guard is able to conduct secure video teleconfer-ences with National Guard Bureau, Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense.



The network is operated within an Active Directory environment as part of the National Guard Bureau Active Directory Forest. All network clients are required to utilize two factor credential authentica-tion to join the network. E-Mail is processed on a Microsoft Exchange environment that supports digital signing and document encryption. Enterprise level Virtual Private Networking (VPN) and Kiosk terminals provide better system access for our tra-ditional, part-time guardsmen.

VISUAL INFORMATION

The VI section provides high quality Official Military Photographs (DA Photos) to its National Guard soldiers. All official photos’ are digitally uploaded to Department of the Army Personnel Management System and are viewable from the soldiers’ Army Knowledge On-line (AKO) accounts. This section also provides photography and video support to numerous functions. Assistance is also provided for presentations using state-of-the-art software and hardware.

JOINT INCIDENT SITE COMMUNICATIONS CA-PABILITY (JISCC)

Each JISCC configuration is a mobile set of com-mercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and/or government off-the-shelf (GOTS) communications hardware and associated peripheral equipment designed to provide onsite and reach-back communications ca-pabilities for enhanced Command and Control (C2) and shared situational awareness (SA) among first responders, and with state and federal command authorities and centers.

COMPUTER NETWORK DEFENSE TEAM(CND-T)

The Rhode Island command team continues to par-ticipate in local, regional, and national conferences

and training events to further enhance the capabili-ties of the Computer Network Defense Team. This team operates as joint force comprised of both Army and Air National Guard soldiers utilizing an extensive mix of military and civilian acquired skills to provide maximum team effectiveness to defend against an ever growing list of Cyber threats. The team also has international partnerships through the National Guard State Partnership program. During the past year, the current team of cyber pro-fessionals has tested their abilities and capabilities in computer network defense and digital forensics through participation in both the Cyber Guard and Cyber Shield national level exercises. This team demonstrated the true value the Guardsman pro-vides to the citizens of RI and the Nation.



J7 - DOCTRINE & TRAININGLieutenant Colonel William Ulmschneider

MISSION

The J7 provides strategic direction, coordination and implements joint training for the command. This year focused on a continuation of current exercises, new exercises, and readdressed training for Defense Support of Civilian Authori-ties (DSCA) operations. In May, the RI National Guard conducted a mini Joint Operation Exer-cise for the Open House Air show, whereas both Army and Air personnel set up a communications network with the 143d Air Wing that provided a common operating picture with oversight over the entire operation. This facilitated a safer en-vironment for all who worked and attended the Open House Air show. In addition, the RING

continued to work with other New England State National Guard Joint Training offices to develop a regional common operating picture in order to enhance mutual support during a regional DCSA event. The RING is also working with RI EMA to compile a RING Disaster Response Mission Package that will convert RING DSCA response capabilities into a common language that RI EMA and FEMA understand, thus enhancing lines of communication and efficiency of support. Finally, to maintain a high level of readiness, we revital-ized our training program in regards to support of civil authorities, so that we can offer the State of Rhode Island the best service available, in times of need.


PERSONAL STAFF

SPECIAL STAFF

United States Property & Fiscal OfficerColonel Paul R. Leveillee

ChaplainColonel (Chaplain) Robert Marciano

The United States Property & Fiscal Office for Rhode Island (USPFO-RI), as established by Title 32 United States Code, Section 708, con-tinued to provide support to the Army and Air National Guard of Rhode Island. The USPFO-RI ensured that Federal funds were disbursed in conformance with applicable statutes and regu-lations. USPFO-RI also ensured that Federal property provided to the Rhode Island National Guard was maintained and utilized in accordance with applicable directives. The USPFO-RI managed the Federal Logistic Support System for the State upon unit mobili-zation, and provided the support necessary for a mobilizing unit’s transition to and from active duty.

The Chaplain Corps exists to ensure the free exercise of religion of the service members of the U.S.A. Chaplains also execute the Commander’s Master Religious Program which includes, provid-ing support for official ceremonies, officiating weddings and funerals, providing counseling to service members, conducting marriage retreats, and monitoring the morale of the organization.

The RING Chaplain Corps was fully staffed during this year. One position in the Air National Guard Chaplain was lost due to the closure of the 281st Combat Communications Group. During this year the 5 Army Chaplains and the 4 Air Chaplains and the Chaplain Assistants provided direct religious support and timely crisis intervention counseling. Additionally, the Chaplain Corps conducted 9 Strong Bonds (relationship resiliency training events).

In FY 14, construction continued on the new USPFO-RI facility located at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich. The new facility will be of mod-ern and state of the art architecture, designed to meet the requirements of Rhode Island’s National Guard well into the future. This new facility and other projects will greatly enhance the capabili-ties and operational readiness of the Guard as we continue to serve as an operational force in defense of our state and nation. During the fiscal year, 62 internal audits were conducted to ensure compliance with federal criteria.


SPECIAL STAFF

SPECIAL STAFF

Staff Judge AdvocateColonel Vivian Caruolo

Inspector GeneralMajor Stephen Guertin

The Office of the Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) provides legal support to the Adjutant General, staff directorates, commanders, and other RING members.

Legal opinions and advice range from administrative law, ethics, employment law, domestic opera-tions law, and military law.

Legal reviews for military construction projects for the Quonset and East Greenwich facilities remain a high priority. Domestic support to civil authorities continues to provide education and training opportu-nities for the Office and other agency staff.

The Office of the Inspector General will inquire into, and periodically report on, the discipline, efficiency, economy, morale, training, and readi-ness of the Rhode Island National Guard. All Inspectors General serve the Adjutant General by performing the four Inspector General func-tions, inspections, assistance, investigations, and teaching and training, for the specific purpose of enhancing the Rhode Island National Guard’s readiness.

All Inspectors General operate in an environment consisting of the Commander, the commander’s staff, the commander’s Soldiers and Airmen, Family members, civilian employees, retirees, and contract employees. These individuals rep-resent the Inspectors General constituency, and

all Inspectors General bolster the chain of com-mand by performing the four Inspector General functions in support of their constituency.

All Inspectors General are confidential advisors and fact-finders to the Commander. The Office of The Inspector General, Rhode Island National Guard worked 56 cases in fiscal year 2014.


SPECIAL STAFFPublic Affairs Officer

Lieutenant Colonel Peter Parente

MISSION

To provide the three cornerstones of military public affairs: Community Relations, Public Infor-mation and Command Information, in a manner which ensures maximum disclosure with mini-mum delay for unclassified information.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

The RING is proud to participate in the commu-nity for which it serves.

In 2014, our Soldiers and Airmen continued to participate in every major Rhode Island event, including Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veterans Day. The past year also saw the return of the Open House / Air Show as well as the Interna-tional Parachute Competition known as Leapfest. The two premier events returned to the state after a suspension in 2013 due to sequestration.

The Public Affairs Office (PAO) was proud to launch the RING Communicator in 2014 which is located on the Rhode Island National Guard homepage @ www.ri.ng.mil. This website was developed to enhance two-way communication with individuals, organizations and major stake-holders who require assistance from the Rhode Island National Guard or wish to partner with our organization.

PUBLIC INFORMATION

The Public Affairs Office produced in excess of 50 press releases for the fiscal year and re-sponded to more than 100 requests for informa-tion from the public and media. The PAO also responded to numerous requests throughout our state concerning operations and facilities.

COMMAND INFORMATION

The Ocean State Guardian is the official maga-zine of the Rhode Island National Guard and is produced locally with timely and pertinent input provided by this office. The magazine is distribut-ed quarterly to Soldiers, Airmen and Government Agencies as well as community hot spots. In 2014 the magazine was produced online for the first time and will be supplemented by a limited number of printed copies in the future.

Facebook and Twitter – The Rhode Island Na-tional Guard Public Affairs Office has led the way in the creation and maintenance of social net-working as a communication and marketing tool.


MISSION

Support civil authorities as an All HAZARDS response for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Yield Explosive (CBRNE) in-cidents. The mission has matured from a strictly WMD CBRNE incident response to an All HAZ-ARDS response for domestic incidents involving WMD, suspected WMD, natural and man made disasters. The 13th WMD-CST’s mission is to identify CBRNE agents/substances/toxic indus-trial chemical and materials, assess current and projected consequences, advise on response measures and assist with appropriate requests for additional support. To provide unique mobile capabilities not always available at the local and state level.

OPERATIONAL EMPLOYMENT

The 13th CST (WMD) is assigned to the Gover-nor of Rhode Island to support local, state and federal agencies. The unit is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week for rapid recall/rapid deploy-ment for all hazards response operations within the United States. The unit may be employed in Title 10 or 32 status as a reserve or reinforcing element for other CSTs. They may also work in concert with the Joint Task Force for Civil Support in the overall national response of local, state and federal assets. They are trained and outfit-ted to operate in environments contaminated with toxic industrial chemicals and materials as well as weaponized chemical, biological and radio-logical warfare agents.

WMD-CST CAPABILITIES

The 13th CST (WMD) has the ability to detect and completely characterize suspected WMD agents/substances. The unit is extremely adept at sampling a multitude of liquids, solids and gas-es in accordance with the FBI 12 Step Process. They have a mobile analytical laboratory platform to perform analysis and identification of unknown substances. They can provide a link to and aug-ment civil responder communications systems, as well as maintain real time operational commu-nications through the use of their Unified Com-mand Suite. They also provide consequence management recommendations to the Incident Commander. Advise civil authorities as to casu-alty medical management and casualty minimiza-tion measures. Advise civil authorities as to initial agent/site containment and mitigation measures. Advise civil authorities of potential additional support assets, and assist with requests for such assets. Provide incident-related technical and situational awareness information to and from na-tionwide sources. Participate in advanced plan-ning, coordination and training processes.

QUALIFICATIONS

The 13th CST (WMD) is composed of Army and Air Guard Full Time Personnel. Each member of the unit completes over 850 hours of training sponsored by various state and federal agencies including NFPA 472 standards. Their certifica-tions include: HAZMAT Technician, HAZWOPER, Medical personnel licensing, etc. The unit is evaluated and assessed regularly to ensure they are following Army doctrine, regulations and their tactics, techniques and procedures are to stan-dard.

13TH CIVIL SUPPORT TEAMLieutenant Colonel Lisa Meriwether


TRAINING/DEPLOYMENT

The 13th CST (WMD) continued to enhance it’s relationship with various federal, state and local first response agencies such as the FBI, USCG, EPA, Rhode Island State Police, HAZMAT/DE-CON teams as well as local police and fire de-partments. This multidimensional unit maintains it’s technical capabilities while also remaining proficient in Solider/Airmen basic skills. During

this reporting period, the unit hosted clandestine laboratory recognition training, moved into a new facility and conducted movement via C5 airlift to South Carolina in order to conduct realistic train-ing with the 45th and 48th CSTs. The 13th CST provided support to the security of the Boston Marathon. We conducted introductory briefings to students at Salve Regina University and the Community College of Rhode Island and sup-ported over 15 TSA VIPR missions.

13TH CIVIL SUPPORT TEAMLieutenant Colonel Lisa Meriwether


43d MILITARY POLICE BRIGADEColonel Thomas Clark

MISSON

The 43d Military Police Brigade mobilizes and de-ploys worldwide to perform its assigned duties and responsibilities. It provides command and control for combat, combat support and combat service support operations of all assigned Military Police and supporting elements.

The 1st Battalion, 103d Field Artillery provides responsive lethal and non-lethal fires to integrate and synchronize the effects of fires. Additionally, all elements of the 43d Military Police Brigade provide assistance to the State of Rhode Island in direct support of State emergencies and contin-gency operations.

VISION

The 43d Military Police Brigade is the premier tactical Military Police combat force in the reserve component, trained and ready for worldwide de-ployment as a combat multiplier. Additionally, the brigade functions as the regional Military Police command headquarters and the State’s National Guard Task Force Headquarters capable of re-sponding to Domestic Homeland Defense/Security missions, and to provide protection measures to critical infrastructure, other state or national as-sets, and any other missions as directed, to pro-mote stability and security in the state and the nation.

FY2014 ACCOMPLISHMENTS & DEPLOY-MENTS

While no units of the 43d Military Police Brigade are currently deployed, there are still several

individuals deployed around the globe in support of other units conducting contingency operations. We continue to support them and their Families.

TRAINING

The 43d Military Police Brigade continued to re-organize and reconstitute by concentrating efforts on staff section and small unit training, as well as improving individual medical and administrative readiness.

The 118th Military Police Battalion and its subor-dinate units conducted a unique “MP Pentathlon” that pitted squads of Soldiers against one another to perform designated Army Warrior Tasks. At the end of the competition the Commander’s Trophy was awarded to the squad with the highest com-bined score. During their respective Annual train-ing periods, all of the units conducted weapons qualification and training on Military Police Tasks. A highlight for the Soldiers was a number of air-mobile operations utilizing CH-47 helicopters.

The 1st Battalion, 103d Field Artillery and its subordinate units concentrated training efforts on individual Army Warrior Tasks and M777 howitzer employment and live fire training at Camp Ethan Allan, VT in March and May. The live fire prepared them for a culminating event at Annual Training with a 21 day Fires Brigade external evaluation (XCTC) at Camp Grayling, MI. The exercise pro-vided an opportunity for the battalion battle staff to work in conjunction with their higher headquarters in order to coordinate artillery fires at several lev-els for maximum effect.

STATE SUPPORT

The 43d Military Police Brigade and all subordi-nate units also conducted concurrent training to


43d MILITARY POLICE BRIGADEColonel Thomas Clark

prepare for various missions in support of local authorities. Some units participated in large-scale disaster response exercises while other performed actual missions in support of state and local authorities.

The 1st battalion 103d Field Artillery supported the Boy Scouts of America annual food drive by providing transportation of the donated food to food banks across the state.

In April the 115th and 169th Military Police Com-panies, along with a Battalion Headquarters element, provided support to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts during the running of the Bos-ton Marathon by augmenting security along the route.

In May, the 169th provide traffic control support to the Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show at Quonset.

In July the 169th participated in an exercise to validate their capabilities as the state’s desig-nated National Guard Response Force (NGRF) for the upcoming year. In the event of a large scale disaster, the unit is prepared to perform critical site security and maintaining the peace by responding to civil disturbances.

All elements of the brigade also supported a number of parades and ceremonies throughout the year.


56TH TROOP COMMANDColonel William Conway

MISSION

56th Troop Command Headquarters provides administrative command and control for all as-signed units, providing personnel, logistical and training support of unit preparation for mobiliza-tion, deployment, and re-deployment. On order, the 56th Troop Command staff constitutes the command element of a Joint or Army Task Force in support of Homeland Defense, Defense Sup-port to Civil Authorities, and/or other domestic emergency operations within the designated Joint Area of Operations.

861ST ENGINEER SUPPORT COMPANY

The 861st Engineer Support Company ensured Soldiers were trained and proficient on the newly fielded T-5 Dozer. This state of the art engineer-ing equipment required that 10 Soldiers attend a “train the trainer” course at Ft. Custer, Michigan. Once the new dozer was received, the Soldiers conducted multiple hours of driver and operator training to gain proficiency on the equipment.

The unit also provided training on chainsaw operations for other units of the RI Army/Air National Guard. This training would ensure that the Soldiers/Airmen trained could safely operate the equipment, as well as be a resource to local authorities in the event of a natural disaster that required roadways to be cleared of fallen trees and obstructions. Throughout the winter months the unit remains vigilant and conducts some necessary equipment preparations for any winter storm that may arise and require a unit activa-tion to assist the local community and authorities.

The unit conducted Annual Training at Camp Dawson, WV and focused on standard engineer-ing tasks that would support the units Mission Es-sential Task list. The different projects provided at Camp Dawson gave more seasoned opera-tors challenging tasks but also provided projects with more simplicity that gave newer Soldiers the experience necessary to become more proficient operators.

The unit also provided Search and Extraction capabilities for the New England Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Yield Explosive (CBRNE) Enhanced Response Force Package (CERF-P). Throughout the year, the CERF-P element conducted training in Brunswick Maine, Newport Naval Base, and Camp Edwards Massachusetts. These collective events assist in revising standard operating procedures and ensuring proficiency in all aspects of Search and Extraction operations. Some of the tasks that were trained consisted of CPR, Medical patient packaging, basic and advanced ropes train-ing, shoring, and breaking and breaching. The CERF-P training conducted at Camp Edwards Massachusetts was a preparatory drill for the upcoming unit external evaluation. This prepara-tory drill ensured the units success with a 90% on all tasks evaluated and allowed for the team to remain certified. The CERF-P sent 9 personnel to the Basic Search and Extraction course, 2 to the Heavy Collapse Rescue Course, and quali-fied 26 Soldiers on CPR.

C COMPANY, 1ST BATTALION, 143d INFAN-TRY REGIMENT (AIRBORNE)

C Company began the year in ARFORGEN Reset from its deployment to Afghanistan. The company focused on individual and squad level training. The training focused on movement,



tactics and troop leading procedures at the squad level. During annual training, the unit conducted three fixed wing airborne operations at a different drop zones. Individual weapons qualification was also conducted and squads were evaluated dur-ing tactical lane events. Soldiers also gained pro-ficiency in day and night land navigation. C Co also conducted air assault sling load operations entailing movement of equipment and personnel. A total of four personnel graduated from the US Army Jumpmaster Course which now gave the unit the capacity to run its own airborne opera-tions.

A COMPANY, 2d BATTALION, 19TH SPECIAL FORCES GROUP (AIRBORNE)

A/2/19th SFG (A) had a high OPTEMPO year during FY 14. Unfortunately, the year started off tragically with SSG Tim McGill killed in ac-tion in Paktia, Afghanistan in support of OEF-Afghanistan. Unit members participated in his funeral services in Ramsey, NJ and continued to support the family through the mourning period. The training priority for the FY concentrated on the planning and execution of three, thirty day, OCONUS training events to the country of Ban-gladesh. These missions were in support of the Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC) Theatre Security Cooperation Program (TSCP). Bangladesh has been identified as a high priority country within the PACOM area of responsibility and unit members conducted highly successful training missions in country.

Members of the Company conducted two Joint Exercises for Training (JCETS) missions and a Counter Narcotics Training (CNT) mission with elements from the Bengali Army, Navy and Coast Guard. The efforts of all three Operations Detachments - Alpha were instrumental in help-

ing accomplish the U.S. country team’s defense cooperation mission for FY 14.

Throughout the FY members of the unit par-ticipated in six separate, two week long foreign language refresher training classes in French, Spanish and Arabic. Six unit members participat-ed in the Special Forces Advanced Urban Com-bat Course during the Spring of FY 14. During the summer of FY 14 unit members conducted Maritime Operations Training throughout Rhode Island that consisted of zodiac boat operations, dive operations, fast rope infiltration exfiltration (FRIES) training and joint operations with U.S Navy EOD Detachment 1 and the U.S. Coast Guard. The unit conducted multiple static line and Military Free Fall parachute operations and supported the International Leapfest Competition with jumpmasters. The majority of the unit mem-bers spent over thirty days on duty throughout FY 14.

A COMPANY, 1ST BATTALION, 182d INFAN-TRY

A 1-182 IN began the year conducting Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) opera-tions at Stones Ranch, CT that led to squad proficiency in MOUT room clearing operations. The company completed drivers training that licensed over 20 Soldiers on HMMWV, LMTV, and buses. The company gained proficiency in cold weather military mountaineering operations at Old Furnace State Park in Ross Pond, CT. A Co conducted team and squad maneuver in squad attack, react to ambush and ambush. The unit reached 75% complete in individual weap-ons qualification. In MAY, A Co 1-182 conducted annual training with an endstate of 100% trained in squad operations and mission essential tasks. The training culminated with a family barbecue.


The unit concluded FY 14 with a proficiency in platoon collective tasks (attack, react to ambush, movement to contact, movement formations) in Big River, RI.

88TH ARMY BAND

During Fiscal Year 2014, the 88th Army Band successfully completed 4 parades around the state of Rhode Island. They provided a Bugler for ceremonies around the state on 10 different occasions. The Brass Quintet or other small Mu-sic Performance Teams (MPTs) provided musical support on 11 occasions. They provided sound reinforcement support and music via public ad-dress systems with an operator or two at several ceremonies throughout the year. The Concert Band, Pop Band, and Rock Band performed sev-eral missions.

The 88th Army Band’s missions included, per-forming at the Veteran’s Waterfire event; perfor-mances on three occasions to honor Veterans at Local Elks lodges; supporting events for the RI State Police and Local Municipal Police Depart-ments; support of numerous memorial ceremo-nies; the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the state Veteran’s cemetery in Exeter; the Gaspee Days parade in Warwick; an Independence Day concert in Bristol on 27 June; the Bristol 4th of July Parade; the Pawtucket Red Sox Annual Armed Forces night; numerous changes of com-mand and changes of responsibility; the Officer Candidate School graduation; and a Patriot Day ceremony.

Other events supported include, the US Subma-rine Memorial Day ceremony, Armed Forces Rec-ognition Day, Wreaths across America, Holiday for Heroes at the Family Assistance.Center., the retirement of Brigadier General. Keene, the pin-

ning of Brigadier General Burns, an impromptu concert at the Bristol Veteran’s Home, the RING Military Ball, a Patriotic Concert with Navy Band Northeast titled “Honoring Our Heroes,” the Na-val War College Army Ball, the Hope High School JROTC Change of Command, F. Co., 1/126th Aviation Battalion Deployment Ceremony, a D-Day Appreciation Ceremony, a concert at the Vietnam moving wall, the 56th Troop Command Change of Command, Leapfest opening ceremo-ny, a “Spirit of 45” ceremony, and the 1st annual 5K “Run for the Fallen.” 1-126TH AVIATION (GSAB)

1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment began the year completing final preparations for the their Aviation Resource Management Survey (ARMS). The battalion performed very well and completed the ARMS in January with an overall “satisfac-tory” rating in all 68 scoreable areas. The battal-ion received “commendable” ratings in Command Supply Discipline Program (CSDP) and Air Am-bulance Operations.

Following the battalion’s success in the ARMS, F/1-126th (Air Ambulance) was notified their mobilization timeline had been accelerated five months in order to align the 34th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) units deploying to Kuwait. F/1-126th completed their 1st Army pre-mobilization training requirements and a home station Collec-tive Training Exercise (CTE) at the Rhode Island Fire Academy in May. F/1-126th departed for Fort Hood, Texas in June.

Also in June, the remaining battalion units con-ducted Annual Training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. During Annual Training the battalion executed convoy operations, aviation operations, small



arms qualifications, crew served weapons ranges, aerial gunnery, leader reaction course (LRC), confidence course, participated in the 56th Troop Command change of command, and off road driver training on the M1152 HMMWV and FMTV. Throughout the year the battalion continued to support A/2-19 Special Forces and 56th Troop Command for day and night static line and military free fall (HALO) parachute opera-tions as well as Aviation Mission Requests (AMR) for Providence College Army ROTC, University of Rhode Island Army ROTC, Rhode Island Officer Candidate School, the Army Reserve and other National Guard units in Rhode Island.

The battalion also conducted Quick Reaction Force (QRF) training with the 115th Military Po-lice Company and external load training with C/1-143 INF (AIRBORNE). Selected crew members traveled to Florida during the summer and par-ticipated in aerial firefighting training and quali-fications with members of 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment Florida ARNG. The personnel trained are now qualified to train crew members in Rhode Island.

The battalion also supported the 2014 Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show as well as Leapfest 2014. During Leapfest 2014, the battalion provided liaison and aviation sup-port for the Chief of the National Guard General Grass. F/1-126th was validated and deployed from Fort Hood to Kuwait in August with the 34th CAB Minnesota ARNG.



MEDICAL DETACHMENTColonel John W. Nolan

MISSION The Rhode Island National Guard Medical Command will plan, program, provide, and sustain health force protection and medical and dental support to meet the operational training and mobilization medical readiness require-ments for the ARNG units and Soldiers.

MEDICAL SUPPORT

We provided support for the following missions: Units annual training and field exercises, and multiple RI Blood Center Drives, Influenza Clin-ics, unit medical and Unit Status Report (USR) briefings.

COMBAT LIFESAVER COURSE (CLS)

CLS is a 40-hour class taught to Soldiers to ensure immediate medical treatment to the wounded until medics arrive. The course con-sists of basic and advanced first aid skills. Suc-cess of CLS has been proven by the reduced number of fatalities on the battlefield due to im-mediate intervention. This course is offered to all units at the time of deployment, on a quar-terly basis and upon request.

SOLDIER MEDICAL READINESS

The Medical Command ensures Soldiers are medically fit to deploy for both war time mis-sions and homeland defense. The Command‘s doctors, nurses, and medics along with their ci-vilian counterparts ensure the health and well-ness of all the RIARNG members. The Medical Command is an integral part of the Soldier‘s readjustment phase on redeployment through

both the units demobilizations and during their Post Deployment Health Reassessment at three to six months post deployment.

LEAPFEST DENTAL READINESS EVENT

During the annual Leapfest competition, the dental team set up a mobile treatment team to increase accessibility of dental care for state Soldiers in attendance at the competition.

SUPPORTING THE FIGHT

In the past year, several key members of the Rhode Island Medical team have mobilized in support of contingency operations around the globe.

COL Nolan, Commander and MAJ Edwards, Deputy Commander of Operations are current-ly mobilized with the Community Based WarriorTransition Unit in Concord, MA. MAJ Edwards commands the CBWTU, and COL Nolan is the chief clinician. The CBWTU provides remote medical management of care for all wounded warrior remotely located in the northeastern United States.

TRAINING

The Medical Command conducts training ac-tivities at Quonset ANG Base, Camp Fogarty and Camp Varnum to include weapons quali-fications, Soldier skills, team building exer-cises and operations dealing with chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE) threats.


RECRUITING (ARMY)Lieutenant Colonel Gloria Berlanga

MISSION The Rhode Island Army National Guard Recruit-ing and Retention Command conducts Strength Maintenance Operations based on the three tenants of Strength Maintenance; Recruiting, Retention, and Attrition Management, in order to provide quality, deployable Soldiers and lead-ers; promote opportunities for service; and foster increased public awareness of the RIARNG.

ORGANIZATION

The command and support staff, headquartered at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich, provides guidance and support to two geographically based teams, each led by a Senior Non-Commis-sioned Officer. The command has two communi-ty-based Recruiting offices located on Weybosset Street in downtown Providence and our Warwick office on Centerville Road.

RECRUITING, RETENTION, AND ATTRITION MANAGEMENT

Rhode Island continues its proud tradition of patriotic Citizen-Soldiers answering the call to serve. Despite reductions in incentives and tougher enlistment standards, during this fiscal year the command achieved 330 enlisted gains, and 32 new officer gains.

As a result of this success, the Recruiting Com-mand achieved 99% of its End Strength Ceiling. Additionally, the command exceeded goals for “quality”

enlistments, in that 90% of Soldiers entering the RI Army National Guard had at least a high school diploma.

Additionally, other newly enlisted Soldiers earned their high school education through resident National Guard education programs. During this period our Soldiers received approximately $1.5 million in enlistment bonuses and $650,000 in retention bonuses. Due to the military downsiz-ing nationwide, the majority of monetary incen-tives that existed even five years ago have been eliminated.

Even as the military downsizes nationally, there are still tremendous opportunities and signifi-cant benefits available to members of the Rhode Island Army National Guard. Principle among these are free attendance at state colleges and universities; up to 100% tuition assistance at oth-er institutions; student loan repayment programs; ROTC scholarships; a new GI Bill with benefits that are transferrable to family members; low cost health coverage and dental coverage for both the individual Soldier and their Families; paid career training; limited cash enlistment bonuses; adven-ture and opportunities for service. RECRUITING SUSTAINMENT PROGRAM

The mission of the Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP) is to ensure that new recruits are physi-cally fit, mentally prepared and administratively correct when they arrive at basic training.

The Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP) is unique to the Army National Guard. It is designed to prepare non-prior and some prior service enlistees with the basic knowledge and skills required to successfully complete Basic Combat


Training (BCT) and Advanced Initial Entry Train-ing (AIT). RSP instills the seven Army values; Leadership, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage, and provides academic instruction as well as physical conditioning and Common Task Training.

The success of the program is evidenced by a “training success” rate of over 95% at basic train-ing installations. During this period, the Recruit Sustainment program in Rhode Island was con-sistently among the top 10 percent in the nation and achieved a top regional ranking consistently. The Recruit Sustainment Program regularly pro-duces Honor Graduates at Basic Training.

THE SPLIT-OPTION PROGRAM

This is a program that is unique to the Army National Guard. It allows High School Juniors the opportunity to attend basic training during the summer after their junior year, and return home in time to start their senior year. After high school graduation, they return to complete their Ad-vanced Individual Training and continue with their National Guard service.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE COMMUNITY

Physical Fitness Challenge - Circuit Workout Taught at Local Schools

Rhode Island Army National Guard Recruiters developed and implemented a unique physi-cal fitness challenge/circuit workout routine at several local high schools. Students from three local high schools participated in a 12 stationed- event, testing their cardio-vascular, muscular and strength endurance. We anticipate this program will be expanded during FY15.

RETENTION EVENTS

This Command has successfully partnered with the German Armed Forces’ Command in Wash-ington DC. As a result, we sponsored two joint training retention events throughout the year that allows our Soldiers and Airmen to compete for foreign badges. As a result of this year’s efforts over 100 RING personnel qualified to receive either the Schuztenschur Weapons or the Armed Forces’ Proficiency badges.

Schuztenschnur: In May, over 100 members of the RING competed at Camp Edwards to earn the German Weapons’ Proficiency Badge. Sol-diers qualified on the P-8 pistol, the G-36 rifle and the MG-3 automatic weapon. Representatives from the German Forces’ Command also quali-fied to receive US weapons’ badges throughout a weekend of joint training.

German Armed Forces’ Proficiency Badge:Collaborating with the German Armed Forces’ Command and USAREC, over 30 members of the RIARNG competed to earn the German Armed Forces’ Proficiency Badge. This 8 com-petition event included sprints, flexed arm hand, a timed swim in uniform, combat life saver and NBC skills and weapons’ qualification. The final culminating even was a 7.5 mile Road March held at Camp Fogarty.

Qualifying soldiers were awarded their German Proficiency Badge in a formal ceremony. US Sol-diers are authorized to wear this badge on their ASU.

RECRUITING (ARMY)Lieutenant Colonel Gloria Berlanga


SPECIAL OPERATIONS DETACHMENT - GLOBALColonel Thomas Bouchard

MISSION To provide support to the United States Spe-cial Operations Command (USSOCOM) in the planning, directing, and executing of Special Operations in the conduct of the Global War on Terrorism by providing command and control capabilities with a detachment of Special Forces personnel and Special Operations Forces know-legeable Combat Support and Combat Service Support personnel. This detachment is capable of providing depthand ensuring SOCOM is pos-tured to meet the global mission requirements. Special Operations Detachemet - Global is the only Special Operations Detachment with a glob-al orientation as opposed to a regional orientation and a direct subordinate unit under USSOCOM.

FISCAL YEAR 2014

Special Operations Detachment - Global (SOD-G) began the fiscal year with the unit forward deployed in support of Operation Enduring Free-dom in Afghanistan.

SOD-G was assigned to NATO Special Op-erations Component Command – Afghanistan (NSOCC-A) with unit members working primar-ily in and around Kabul and Bagram Air Base. Members of SOD-G held numerous high-profile positons across NSOCC-A where they provided critical leadership and operational planning to support of the transition from NATO led to Afghan led security operations. The range of positions held included, performing theater-level plan-ning within NSOCC-A Headquarters, executing comprehensive base operations for an American

facility inside a larger Afghan base, mentoring and advising senior Afghan politicians and senior military commanders and staff in order to facili-tate the transition of security responsibility to the Afghans.

The SOD-G Commander and several senior officers and NCOs filled key multi-national staff positions at Bagram Air Base, Camp Integrity, and Camp Eggers. The responsibilities of these positions included project oversight for the devel-opment of a new US Special Operations Forces (SOF) Headquarters in Afghanistan, advising the Afghan Minister of Defense and the Chief of the General Staff, and managing the finances, logistics, and engineering of all construction and development projects for Afghan SOF across the country. While the responsibilities executed by SOD-G in these various roles were diverse, unit members were uniformly successful in working closely with their Afghan and multi-national al-lies to advance regional security and prepare the Afghans to operate independently.

The bulk of the SOD-G, including twenty officers and NCO’s, were assigned to Camp Morehead, outside Kabul, where they formed the core of the US SOF mentorship program to assist the Afghan National Army Special Operations Com-mand (ANASOC). Serving as high-level men-tors, SOD-G Soldiers conceived and supervised numerous initiatives that significantly improved the ability of the ANASOC Division Headquarters to exert command and control over its forces that were actively executing special operations across Afghanistan. In addition to the mentorship role, they also ran Camp Morehead base operations, conducted logistic support, and executed numer-ous ground tactical movements. In all of their responsibilities at Camp Morehead, the SOD-G built excellent rapport with their Afghan counter-


parts while also maintaining constant vigilance to ensure the safety and security of their partners, including unit Soldiers, multi-national Soldiers and contractors. Four SOD-G Soldiers were awarded the Combat Action Badge for an incident that oc-curred during convoy operations away from Camp Morehead.

The individual and collective success of the SOD-G Soldiers during the mission was recognized at numerous times by the Commanding General of NSOCC-A and senior members of his staff. Follow-ing a thorough transfer of authority with the reliev-ing unit, the senior leadership of NSOCC-A again expressed sincere appreciation for the profession-alism and dedication exhibited by the members of the SOD-G. The unit redeployed in late March and initiated the

demobilization and re-integration process. With support from the unit Rear Detachment and the Family Support Group, SOD-G executed several Yellow Ribbon events which greatly assisted unit members in understanding and accessing the wealth of support available to them and their Fami-lies during this process.

For the remainder of the fiscal year, the SOD-G continued to conduct re-fit and recovery while also supporting on-going training requirements where possible, including supporting the State Bahamian partnership with marksmanship training, partici-pating in Exercise Emerald Warrior, and sending several SOD-G Soldiers to the Republic of Korea to support Exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian ’14. As the fiscal year closed, the SOD-G was again well positioned to support future State and global mis-sions.

SPECIAL OPERATIONS DETACHMENT - GLOBALColonel Thomas Bouchard


102d NETWORK WARFARE SQUADRONLieutenant Colonel Erick A. Olsen

MISSION

The federal mission of the 102d Network War-fare Squadron is to provide citizen Airmen to the United States Air Force (USAF), United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), and the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), as part of the Department of Defense (DoD) efforts to protect its department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) and Air Force Information Net-work (AFIN). They provide pro-active and pas-sive Defensive Counter Cyber – Pursuit (DCC-P) capabilities utilizing the Air Force Cyberspace Defense (ACD) weapon system. In support of the state mission, the 102d, in coordination with Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency, the Rhode Island State Police and the Fusion Center has the ability to provide a computer emergency response team (CERT) for local cy-ber emergencies.

The 102d plays a critical role with the State’s Cyber Disruption Team. Its facilities, assets and personnel may be tasked by the Governor under the auspices of Task Force CYBER where state and local government, public and private busi-nesses along with academia will form a unified response team to respond to a significant cyber incident. The primary focus for the state support mission is coordination to train, advise and assist users from agencies, municipalities and civilian organizations in best practices for cyber protec-tion and network defense.

The squadron is located on the Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, Rhode Island in its state-of-the-art Sensitive Compart-

mented Information Facility (SCIF). The 102d Network Warfare Squadron is aligned under the Air Force Space Command working with their active duty counterparts, 33rd Network Warfare Squadron. In FY 14, the unit was formally pos-tured against the Air Force Cyber Defense (ACD) weapon system and doubled its full time man-ning.

EXERCISES

Joint Users Interoperability Communications Ex-ercise (JUICE)

The 102d Network Warfare Squadron partici-pated in JUICE which focused on leading edge technologies which provide improvements to ex-isting operational capabilities and fill operational gaps. As key members of the Joint Cyber Center (JCC), our primary duties included monitoring both Non-Classified Internet Protocol Router and Secured Internet Protocol Router networks, providing real time threat analysis and event cor-relation, daily threat briefings to the J6, setting boundary device rules and configurations, and network device activations and deactivations. The US Strategic Command sponsored exercise provided realistic training opportunities for the command and control of a joint network for DoD, Coalition, federal, state, local agency, Academic and Industry partners for testing and evaluation of warfighter tactics, techniques and procedures as well as introduction of tactical applications.

Rhode Island Cyber Disruption Team (CDT) Hands-on-Training Simulator (HOTSIM) Exercise

Participated in a 4 hour exercise and multiple presentations, showcasing the response capabili-ties of the CDT to various types of cyber-attacks. The CDT consists of State, local Police, Aca-


demia, Public Utilities, Private Companies, State, and Federal Agencies, Army and Air National Guard personnel.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Participated in “Cyber Patriot”, the National Youth Cyber Education Program created to inspire students toward careers in cybersecurity or other science, technology, engineering, and mathemat-ics (STEM) disciplines.

The 102d Network Warfare Squadron went through their first Unit Effectiveness Inspection since their re-activation in 2002. The unit Devel-oped and instituted multiple programs, such as the Commanders Inspection Program (CCIP), Management Internal Control Toolset (MICT), Risk Management (RM), and Emergency Man-agement (EM). The unit’s tireless efforts and hard work resulted in the Wing receiving an “Effective” overall grade. Many of our programs were identified as “benchmarks” by the Inspector General and taken back to be instituted in their perspective cyber units.

102d NETWORK WARFARE SQUADRONLieutenant Colonel Erick A. Olsen


143d AIRLIFT WINGColonel Authur Floru

MISSION

The mission of the 143d Airlift Wing (AW) is to continue as the undisputed C-130J center of excellence by meeting all taskings for combat airpower, all requirements for state support, and providing maximum assistance to our national and international partners.

DEPLOYMENTS

The 143d Airlift Wing once again answered our nation’s call by deploying 339 dedicated Airmen in 2014. These deployments were in direct sup-port of Operations Enduring Freedom, Coronet Oak, Sabre Junction, and US Africa Command. The 143d Operations and Maintenance Groups were specifically tasked to deploy four C-130J aircraft to support the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing in Kuwait. The Rhode Warriors received praise from the Combined Forces Air Component Commander for executing the first combined airdrop of U.S. and host nation paratroopers in ten years. Additionally, the Maintenance Group recorded the best quarterly C-130 maintenance rates in the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility.

While the majority of deployments were over-sees, 10 Airmen from the 143d Force Support Squadron were activated to support a Depart-ment of Defense Civil Engineering project in Camp Hinds, ME. The team deployed with the new Disaster Response Mobile Kitchen Trailer (DRMKT), one of only seven in the Air National Guard (ANG), to support members of all service branches. 143d Force Support Squadron per-

sonnel simultaneously provided well over 11,000 hot meals while training other ANG units in prop-er DRMKT use and maintenance.

The 143d Airlift Wing continued to support our State Partnership Program by sending 39 Air-men to Coral Harbor Base, Bahamas. There, the team constructed a two story barracks building, rebuilt a second floor patio used for training, and completed several other welding projects. Ad-ditionally, the 143d Civil Engineering Squadron hosted 4 Royal Bahamian Defense Force En-gineers at Quonset. While here, they received training on protective measures for chemical warfare and completed renovations on the Sea-bee museum.

Looking ahead, members of the Mission Support Group are once again preparing for another over-seas deployment in the summer of 2015. More than 35 members are will take part in the Group’s largest deployment since 2011.

INTERNATIONAL TRAINING

The 143d Airlift Wing’s International Training Program continues to evolve into a more com-prehensive effort to establish the Rhode Island Air National Guard as a key player in the US Security Cooperation arena. Over the past year, through multiple in-residence C-130J training programs and mobile training teams the 143 AW worked to strengthen foreign defense relation-ships with Iraq, Israel, Oman, and Canada, pro-moting US security interests abroad and enhanc-ing global security. This past year, the 143d Operations Group’s world-class instructor corps provided over 200 hours of C-130J flight training to foreign aircrews from Iraq. This in-residence training program


took place right here in Rhode Island. The train-ing consisted of both pilot and loadmaster initial C-130J qualification training and proficiency train-ing to aircrews already qualified on the aircraft.

In addition to aircraft generation for aircrew train-ing, the 143d Maintenance Group continued its lead in support of US Security Cooperation train-ing programs. In 2014, 20 Israeli and 15 Iraqi Air Force aircraft maintenance personnel trained at Quonset Point. The Wing also deployed a mo-bile training team to Canada in support of their C-130J program.

Israel and Iraq completed training at the same time, with remarkable success. During several training periods, representatives from both Israel and Iraq completed work on the same aircraft.

In fiscal year 2014 alone, these programs gener-ated over 7,000 man-days of employment in the State of Rhode Island.

BASE INFRASTRUCTURE MODERNIZATION

The 143d Airlift Wing is located on the former Quonset Point Navy Base, built in 1941. Until 2002, many of the original buildings were still being used by the Wing. However, over the last decade the 143d has constructed new or reno-vated 80% of the original infrastructure. Within the past year, the 143 AW executed a $20 million dollar construction program by completing the designs of a new technologically sophisticated aircraft flight simulator building and renovations to the fuel cell maintenance hangar. Construc-tion was also completed on the new eco-friendly aircraft parking and de-ice pad. Additionally, air-field management revamped the aircraft parking apron increasing the number of available parking pads and adding additional lighting to the ramp.

ACTIVE ASSOCIATE

During the next two years the 143 AW is ex-pected to play an active role in the Department of Defense’s strategy of downsizing its active duty forces to create a more robust and effective Total Force, to include components from the active duty, the Reserve and the National Guard. Wing leadership has taken aggressive steps to position the 143 AW for the future. This has been accom-plished through the expansion and upgrade of its facilities, aircraft modernization, adding tenant organizations, and the recruiting and retaining of quality personnel while providing training and equipment that maintains our total operational readiness. Air Mobility Command has identified the 143 AW as a future host to an active duty C-130J squadron. This is largely due to the Wing’s efforts to modernize its facilities, aircraft and overall capabilities.

The active squadron would consist of operations, maintenance and support personnel that would share existing equipment and facilities, to include maintenance and supply areas. The addition of an active unit would:

• Increase overall efficiency and utilization rates of our eight C-130Js • Bring over 100 full time active duty positions to Quonset Point • Nearly double the economic impact to the local area • Provide additional resources and visibility to the Wing • Create synergy between a young active force and the more seasoned Air National Guard force



CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, NUCLEAR AND HIGH YIELD EXPLOSIVE (CBRNE) ENHANCED RESPONSE FORCE PACKAGES (CERFP)

As the National Guard moves back to its roots of Homeland Defense and Civil Support, the CER-FP was developed to support civil authorities dur-ing times of escalated domestic response. Each Region was awarded a minimum of one CERFP and because of locations and proximity; Region 1 (Northeast States) elected to support the CERFP with a tri-State solution. In typical form, the 143 AW was quick to take on this unique and one of a kind construct. The 180 personnel package, capable of supporting Search and Extraction, Decontamination, and Medical triage is made up of Army National Guard Units from Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and Air National Guard units from New Hampshire and our own 143 AW.

This past year the 143 AW was the host unit for the Region 1 exercise evaluation conducted by National Guard Bureau. The RI decontamination element was found to be 100% compliant and mission ready, increasing its qualified and de-ployable force to over 200% of minimum required personnel. In addition, the RI CERFP element hosted a two day multistate, combined services training at Quonset Point and the Newport Na-val Station. The team conducted the first ever maritime mass casualty exercise, responding to a simulated CBRNE incident aboard a Coast Guard ship.

The 143 AW also participated in several off-site training exercises including the Vigilant Guard exercise at Brunswick Naval Air Station, Maine. The team established 24 hour decontamination operations in conjunction with state and federal

emergency responders.

C-130 TRANSPORTATION HUB

The Wing is fully exploiting its ideal geographic location and facilities as the C-130 crossroad to Europe. As the easternmost C-130 unit, the 143 AW is the logical embarkation point for all C-130s departing for or returning from European and Southwest Asia theaters. Quonset Point conve-niently allows for a transit to and from Europe in a single day. This eliminates the requirement for an overnight stop and provides significant eco-nomic benefits and operational efficiencies.

This highlights our value and maintains the 143 Airlift Wing’s viability and relevance. We con-tinue to bring significant contribution to our com-munity.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

After a one year hiatus caused by the 2013 federal budget sequester, the 143d Airlift Wing took the lead and once again organized the 23rd annual RI National Guard Open House and Air Show. The largest public event held in Rhode Island each year, over 90,000 people attended this year’s event. With the US Navy Blue Angels and an impressive array of military and civilian performers, the National Guard Association of Rhode Island raised approximately $115,000 for Hasbro Children’s Hospital and smaller amounts for several other local charities. To date, the National Guard Association of Rhode Island has helped raise nearly $3 million for Rhode Island charities.



143RD AIRLIFT WINGColonel Authur Floru


282d COMBAT COMMUNICATIONS SQUADRONLieutenant Colonel Thomas D’Abrosca

MISSION

The Federal Mission of the 282d Combat Com-munications Squadron (CBCS) is to rapidly de-ploy an integrated force capable of establishing initial and build-up Command and Control (C2); Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) communications; and Information Opera-tions (IO) capabilities to support the warfighter during times of war. The State Mission is to be organized, equipped and trained to function ef-fectively in the protection of Homeland Defense, including life, property, and the preservation of peace, order and public safety under the orders of State authorities.

JULY – SEPTEMBER 2013

In August, approximately 70 men and women of the 282d attended Annual Training, work-ing with our 147th Combat Communications Squadron counterparts in San Diego. They were fortunate to receive Theatre Deployable Com-munications (TDC) instruction from Air Force Information Technology instructors (AFITS) who were brought in from Keesler AFB for this event. Several unit members returned home in late September from Exercise Combined Endeavour, a European Command directed exercise which took place in Germany. The 282d augmented the 102d NWS for this exercise, training on Network Defense and cyber initiatives with our Active Duty counterparts. In September, the 282d Joint Inci-dent Site Communications Capability team partic-ipated in local Exercise Cyber Shield (Providence Water Authority) to show RIEMA how they could

support them in a time of need when their net-work has gone down due to natural, man-made or electro magnetic disaster. On September 29, the 281st Combat Communications Group held its’ deactivation ceremony at North Smithfield Air National Guard Station.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2013

The 282d planned and participated in two 32-hour local exercises at home station, Exercise “Sentry Dixon” and Exercise “Global Thunder”. The training objectives for these exercises pro-vided our young airmen with “hands on” train-ing and opportunities to make critical decisions in an exercise environment. Our first waves of AEF participants re-deployed home in October after a vigorous six month tour. Two deployed unit members were recognized as NGB/A6 FY13 Information Dominance Award winners, a presti-gious recognition within the ANG Combat Comm. community. SSgt William Randall and SrA Mi-chael Zarbo were recognized as the Outstand-ing Client System NCO and Outstanding Radio Frequency Transmission System Airman respec-tively. In 2013, the unit’s Logistics/Mobility shop scheduled, coordinated, processed and managed 22 UTC’s, 58 increments, 145 tons of equipment and 185 personnel. The 282d CBCS was of-ficially notified of an NGB-directed downsizing, from186 to 105 authorized personnel. This down-sizing will take place over a 24 month period.

JANUARY – MARCH 2014

All AEF participants returned from their deploy-ment by the end of January. All deployed airmen flawlessly executed their Air Force mission in a hostile area of the world. It is noteworthy that all members who were tasked to deploy in 2013 completed all of their pre-deployment require-


ments, deployed and executed the mission, and returned home safely with zero shortfalls or deficiencies.

The Joint User Interoperability Communications Exercise (JUICE) mid-level planning conference was held in February. Our planners attended with the intent to provide senior level support in both the Joint Network Control Center (JNCC) and Joint Cyber Center (JCC) for this high-level exercise later in the year.

In March, we recognized our 2013 Senior NCO of the Year (MSgt Jack Norris), NCO of the Year (TSgt Shelley Sencar) and Airman of the Year (SrA Ana D’Arezzo) at a ceremony on base. Ad-ditionally, several senior members of the unit at-tended the the Ajutant General’s Strategic Plan-ning Conference in Southbridge, MA, to prepare and posture the unit for future Federal and State mission requirements.

APRIL – JUNE 2013

Exercise “Operation Clams Casino” was held over a 72 hr. period in April. The unit deployed JISCC system T - 116 to Niantic, CT to respond to a simulated natural disaster and provide com-munications (satellite reach back, internet, and radio network) and Net Defense capabilities. In preparation for this exercise, the unit hosted an aggressive 5 day Mobilization Exercise to en-sure equipment pallets were properly prepared for deployment and personnel were adequately processed for movement to AT. Two 282 CBCS Chiefs attended the ANG Chief’s Executive Course at Andrews AFB, MD. This course gave the Chiefs and 42 classmates a big picture look of the part they play as Airmen in the Air Force and Air National Guard. In May, the majority of the unit members participated in and supported

the RING Airshow held at Quonset ANGB. This show raises thousands of dollars each year for local charities and the 282d is proud to support this worthwhile event.

In June, unit members supported the Joint Us-ers Interoperability Communications Exercise (JUICE) at Aberdeen, MD. For the first time in memory, all three communications units, 102d Network Warfare Squadron, 143d Communica-tions Flight, and 282d Combat Communications Squadron, sent their best cyber defenders to support this exercise. The 282d took manage-ment oversight for both the JNCC and JCC, providing lead support for Command and Con-trol systems involving joint network operating on local, state, national, and international levels. The JNCC and JCC defended against real world aggressors from around the world that repeatedly probed the JUICE network as tests were being executed.

282d COMBAT COMMUNICATIONS SQUADROLieutenant Colonel Thomas D’Abrosca


RECRUITING (AIR)Senior Master Sergeant Douglas Brodeur

MISSION

The Rhode Island Air National Guard Recruiting and Retention Team conducts strength mainte-nance operations which meet or exceed theAdjutant General’s established goals; promote opportunities for service; and foster increased public awareness of the Rhode Island Air Na-tional Guard.

ORGANIZATION

The recruiting and retention team falls under the command of the Joint Force Headquarters locat-ed on New London Ave, Cranston, RI and per-forms daily recruiting operations from the RIANGRecruiting Center located on Oaklawn Ave ,Cran-ston, Rl.

RECRUITING AND RETENTION MANAGEMENT

FY 14 recruiting and retention initiatives resulted in the recruitment of 115 new members and re-tained 89% of the current membership, which ex-ceeded all established national and state goals. These achievements were the direct result of a strategic recruitment campaign targeting mission critical vacant positions, resulting in an overall higher effective manning percentage. Enlistment and reenlistment bonuses accounted for over $1.3 million in additional revenue. FY 14 closed with an end strength of 102.3% marking the 8th consecutive year the Rhode Island Air National Guard has maintained over 100% of its congres-sionally mandated authorizations.

Documents

Rhode Island National Guard's 2014 Annual Report