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8 The Cargo Courier,Aug. 10, 2002
123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air National Guard, Louisville, Ky. Vol. XVIII, No. 8 • Aug. 10, 2002
123rd Airlift WingPublic Affairs OfficeKentucky Air National Guard1101 Grade LaneLouisville, KY 40213-2678
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Combat controllers and pararescuemenfrom the 123rd Special Tactics Squadronhere spoke with local news media July 2about their participation in OperationEnduring Freedom.
An article on the KyANG’s Tech. Sgt. KearyMiller was featured on the front page of theCourier-Journal newspaper July 4.
To view the article, go to the Courier-Journal’s web site at www.courier-journal.com and click on “Search/Archive.”
For more special tactics stories and photos,see Page 4.Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Special Report
Kentucky Air Guard aircrew receivean excellent during ASEV inspectionBy Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
KyANG aircrew members received anoverall “excellent” rating during an AircrewStandardization and Evaluation Inspectionheld here July 9-15.
A team of about a dozen inspectors from15th Air Force joined Kentucky aircrewmembers during training flights, adminis-tered written tests to unit members, and re-viewed the 123rd Operations Group’s stan-dardization and evaluation programs beforeissuing the grade.
Lt. Col. Mark Kraus, commander of the165th Airlift Squadron, attributes the wing’ssuccess to an overall outstanding perfor-mance.
“It took lots of hard work, thoughtfulpreparation, attention to detail and close co-ordination to end the inspection on such agood note,” Kraus said.
“We are the best in the business—there’sno doubt. That’s because we are highlytrained and proficient at what we do.”
The inspection focused on the perfor-mance of Kentucky Air Guard pilots, navi-gators, flight engineers and loadmasters.
Inspectors quickly saw KyANG aircrewsat their best, Kraus said.
On the first day, every load of cargodropped during one training mission receiveda perfect score, meaning it hit the groundwithin about 25 yards of its intended target.
“That usually just doesn’t happen,” Kraussaid. “It’s not unusual to miss or be a littleoff on the drops.”
The inspectors rode along for 35 “checkride” flights, for which the wing was given a100 percent pass rate.
Aircrew members also had a 100 percentparticipation rate on written tests—and an av-erage score of 98 percent.
The Operations Group’s Standardization
and Evaluation Office, which administersthe check ride program and other trainingprograms for aircrew, was recognized forits superior performance as well, receivingan overall “outstanding” grade on its por-tion of the inspection.
Col. Mike Harden, 123rd Airlift Wingcommander, said the inspection team wasvery impressed with the aircrew’s perfor-mance.
“Their team chief, Col. Bob Saundersfrom 15th Air Force, said this was the bestinspection his team had seen in severalyears,” Harden noted.
“He said it’s obvious why we won theSolano Trophy.
“Col. Saunders also singled out our main-tenance folks for providing spotless, mis-sion-ready aircraft every time.
“Once again our operations and mainte-nance folks did us proud and made us lookgood.”
RETROSPECT
April of 1945 brought combat operations for the 359thFighter Group to an end, but the unit remained in Europe aspart of occupational forces until November 1945. The groupreturned to the states on Nov. 9 and was deactivated thefollowing day.
In 17 months of combat operations, the 359th Fighter Groupdistinguished itself in every role it was given.
It developed tactics still used today, not only by U.S. airforces but also many foreign air forces.
It accounts for 13,455 combat sorties that destroyed 255enemy aircraft in the air and 122 on the ground. More than1,000 vehicles were victims of 924,807 rounds of .50-caliberammunition fired.
These successes are not without losses to the group: 125pilots were either killed or captured and 238 group aircraftwere damaged.
On Jan. 30, 1946, the Air National Guard came into exist-ence, and the 359th Fighter Group and its 368th FighterSquadron became the 123rd Fighter Group and 165th FighterSquadron, respectively. Both units were assigned to theKentucky Air National Guard.
Two other units also comprised Kentucky’s 123rd FighterGroup—the 167th Fighter Squadron of the West Virginia Air
HistoryContinued from Page 6
National Guard (formerly the 369th Fighter Squadron) and the156th Fighter Squadron of the North Carolina Air NationalGuard.
The 370th Fighter Squadron was never again to find lifeafter the war.
The men of the 359th Fighter Group set a tradition ofexcellence that the Kentucky Air Guard continues to this dayand will proudly carry into the future.
Staff Sgt. Charlie Dalsom served as a crew chief in the 359thFighter Group during World War II.
2 7The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
COMMANDER’S CALL AIR FORCE NEWS
Wing Commander..............................Col. Michael HardenWing Public Affairs Officer.....................Capt. Dale GreerEditor................................................Tech. Sgt. Amy Ziegler
This funded Air Force newspaper is published for mem-bers of the military services. Contents of The Cargo Cou-rier are not necessarily the views of the U.S. Government,the Department of Defense or the Air Force.
The editorial content is edited and prepared by the pub-lic affairs office of the 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air Na-tional Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville,Ky. 40213-2678.
If you have a story idea, photo or article to submit, stopby the public affairs office, room 2118 of the Wing Head-quarters Building. Deadline for the next issue is Aug. 30.
How to contact us:
Phone: (502) 364-9431E-mail: [email protected]
An electronic version of the Cargo Courier is available at the Kentucky Air Guard’s Web site — www.kyang.ang.af.mil
By Tech. Sgt. Tim DoughertyAir Force Print News
WASHINGTON—A recent change tohealth care benefits will be a big help forAir Force Reserve and Air National Guardpeople who were mobilized in support ofthe war on terrorism.
Under the revised transitional health carebenefit plan, Reserve and Guard people whowere ordered to active duty for more than30 days in support of a contingency and havemore than six years total active federal ser-vice are eligible for 120 days of health carefollowing their period of active service.
Guard and Reserve members with lessthan six years service will get 60 days ofcontinued medical care.
Under a worldwide demonstrationproject, family members are also coveredunder this plan. This program is retroactiveto Jan. 1.
Eligibility for these benefits will be de-termined by information in the Defense En-rollment Eligibility Reporting System.
“I think the No. 1 thing a member can doupon demobilization is to ensure their in-formation in DEERS is correct,” said Col.Kathleen Woody, director of medical readi-ness and programs in the office of the assis-
Air Force Print News
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIRFORCE BASE, Ohio—Plans forthe annual Air Force Marathonare on track as the date for therace approaches.
With more than 1,600 run-ners registered for the Sept. 21event, the race will likely breakall previous participationrecords, said marathon officials.
Runners of all ages, militaryand civilian, are encouraged toparticipate.
All runners will receive a2002 Air Force Marathon T-shirt and patch.
All participants who finishthe marathon within the eight-hour time limit will receive amedallion.
Pre-race events include a two-day sports and fitness expo atthe Hope Hotel and ConferenceCenter here on Sept. 19 and 20,sponsored by marathon organiz-ers.
Vendors will display a varietyof sports apparel, equipmentand memorabilia at the event.
A pre-race pasta dinner willbe held Sept. 20. Tickets for thedinner can be purchased via theregistration form.
After the race, all runners,volunteers, family and friendsare invited to a free post-raceparty sponsored by the confer-ence center beginning at 4:30p.m. at the hotel.
The registration fee for theevent is $45 for individuals and$225 for teams.
For more information on theannual Air Force Marathon,including registration proce-dures, see the marathon Web siteat http://afmarathon.wpafb.af.mil/.
tant secretary of defense for reserve affairs.“That’s paramount because all of your
benefits are contingent on the informationin DEERS.”
The Defense Manpower Data Center issending a letter to people who are eligiblefor this benefit, but only if the informationin DEERS reflects their having served insupport of a contingency operation such asoperations Noble Eagle or Enduring Free-dom.
“Our Reserve and Guard members andtheir families have sacrificed a great deal byresponding to the call to duty in support ofthe war on terrorism,” Woody said.
“We have an obligation to ensure that eachindividual is aware of this transitional healthcare benefit.”
Members and families who were enrolledin TRICARE Prime while on active duty willautomatically be disenrolled upon releasefrom active duty.
The Reserve component member or fam-ily must actively re-enroll if they wish tocontinue TRICARE Prime during the tran-sitional health care period.
An enrollment form is available on theTRICARE Web site or at a local TRICAREservice center. No enrollment is necessaryfor TRICARE Standard or Extra.
Reserve, Guard transitionalhealth care benefits improve
Air Force Print News
WASHINGTON—A new Air Forcebadge providing distinctive recognition tocommanders will be available shortly, ac-cording to personnel of-ficials.
The Air Force Com-mand Insignia will beawarded to squadron,group, wing and equiva-lent organization com-manders in the ranks ofmajor through colonel,said Maj. DouglasMullins, chief of com-manders’ programs andrecognition policy at thePentagon.
New badge recognizes commandersAccording to Mullins, the command in-
signia, available in both a chrome and sub-dued version, should be on the shelves ofmilitary clothing sales stores this month.
The badge is to be worn above the nametag on both blues andbattle dress uniforms.
While mandatory forpeople currently in acommander billet, wearof the badge will be op-tional for those with pastcommand experience.
Additional guidanceabout award criteria andproper uniform wear willbe made available in thecoming weeks, Mullinssaid.
AF Marathonscheduled for
Septembery how time flies. It’s beennearly a year since I tookthe position as the wing’scommand chief mastersergeant—and what abusy year it’s been.
With more than 500 troops activated, I wasable to get more than my feet wet. Whilewatching our wing take its place in the TotalForce concept, I was indoctrinated into AirForce leadership issues.
I’m happy to say, finally, the active dutyAir Force is beginning to see they can’t per-form the mission without the Air Guard.
We in the Guard have known that for sometime. And not to sound egotistical, but wehave known that because of our experience,knowledge and dedication.
Many of us are volunteer citizen-airmenwho left the Air Force, joined the Guard andcontinued to grow.
More importantly that dedication and pas-sion has been passed on to the non-prior-ser-vice members of the Guard.
We have operators, maintainers and sup-porters with vast years of experience andknowledge that gives us a tremendous abil-ity to get the job done.
The Air Force recognizes this and is nowpraising us for the job we are doing.
I have learned that the leaders of the Na-tional Guard, past and present, elevatedthemselves into these positions not just onpast accomplishments but on their vision ofwhat the Guard could be.
In the early years, the Air Guard took aback seat to the Air Force in terms of planes,equipment and resources. We were consid-ered the little brother and a weekend flyingclub, except in times of war.
We have come along way since then, buthow did we get where we are today?
I believe we got here thanks to the visionof a former Kentucky Air Guard Com-mander: Lt. Gen. John Conaway. Thegeneral’s vision of a Total Force enabled himto work his way up the ranks at the KyANGand then to become the director of the Na-tional Guard, where he turned his vision intoa reality.
The Kentucky native worked diligentlywith the Air Force and Congress to ensurethat the National Guard’s planes, equipment,resources and training were upgraded.
And this diligence paid off.
Today’s Total Force has become a realitydue to our past leader’s vision, and for thishe is still much revered and respected bythe National Guard senior leadership.
Now the KyANG supports real-worldmissions every day, everywhere—theMiddle East, Europe, Antarctica and anywhere else we are needed around the globe.
Today’s Air Guard is a good as any AirForce in the world and we owe a great dealof that to the vision of its great leaders, pastand present.
Who knows what tomorrow’s leaders,which very easily could be any one of you,have in store for us. But I do know that weare responsible for ensuring they are awareand knowledgeable of our past.
It has been a remarkable year for thewing. You made it possible for the KyANGto win it’s 11th Air Force Outstanding UnitAward, the Metcalf Trophy and the SolanoTrophy. Yet we have other challenges com-ing very soon: the Unit Compliance Inspec-tion and the Operational Readiness Inspec-tion in September.
With what you are all made of and allthat I have seen of you, you will do just fine.
The inspectors want to see that you cando your job as they say you should and howyou say you should.
We all know that you know how to doyour jobs. The only thing I will add is toplease be safe.
Our inspection results will add anothertruly outstanding chapter to this already out-standing year of KyANG heritage.
Our future is very bright. We have a tre-mendous number of dedicated, patrioticAmericans that I am so very proud to servewith and for.
KyANG’s heritage sets total force concept
Command Chief Master Sgt. Mike Mitro123rd Airlift Wing Senior Enlisted Advisor
M
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002 3The Cargo Courier
Aug. 10, 20026
KyANG NEWS
By Tech. Sgt. Tim Gagnon165th Airlift Squadron Loadmaster
The Kentucky Air Guard was formed in1947 but many current wing members maynot know that the 123rd Fighter Group andthe 165th Fighter Squadron—the KyANG’soriginal units—were made up of personnelfrom World War II U.S. Army Air Corpsunits.
This month, the 123rd Airlift Wing willinvite former members of the 359th FighterGroup, who will be in town for a reunion,to attend a memorial service here and viewa display of World War II aircraft.
The roots of the Kentucky Air Guard canbe traced back to Dec. 20, 1942, when theWar Department issued War Order numberAG-320.2 calling for the establishment ofthe 359th Fighter Group.
In January 1943, the 1st Air Force acti-vated the 359th Fighter Group at WestoverField, Mass. The group’s three squadrons—the 368th, 369th and 370th—received therugged P-47 Thunderbolt and began train-ing for war.
The group arrived in the United Kingdomin October of 1943 and flew its first combatmission, a high-altitude fighter sweep overnorthern France, in December.
The group drew blood in January withthe downing of a Me-110. Claiming the killwas Lt. John Oliphint.
In March 1944, a few pilots were selectedto test and develop new ground attack tac-tics in preparation for the planned invasion.
The need for the destruction of theLuftwaffe not only in the air but also on theground became a priority.
The groups’ fighters also engaged any en-emy reinforcements making their way to theinvasion beaches— a role in which the 359thexcelled.
In May of 1944, the group received itsfirst batch of new P-51 Mustangs. To manythis caused concern since the P-51 was verysusceptible to ground fire.
The ruggedness of the Jug had broughtmany pilots home in aircraft that should nothave been flyable.
But the P-51 did have its advantages. TheMustang, with its longer range and increasedspeed, would allow the group to escortbombers to and from their targets.
The operations tempo tasked both thepilots and ground-support personnel. The
RETROSPECT
KyANG traces history back to World War II
The following individuals have beenpromoted to the rank indicated
as members of theKentucky Air Guard and reservists
of the United States Air Force:
SENIOR AIRMAN (E-4)
TECHNICAL SERGEANT (E-6)
•Joshua Blackburn,123rd Logistics Sq.•James Harned,
123rd Security Forces Sq.•Joyce Robertson,123rd Logistics Sq.
•Guy White,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Jason Craig,123rd Aircraft Generation Sq.
•Heather Hultman,123rd Medical Sq.
•Connor Middleton,123rd Aircraft Generation Sq.
•Joseph Workman,123rd Medical Sq.
Promotions, retirements & separations Kentucky Air National Guard
The following individualshave retired as members of the
Kentucky Air Guard andreservists of the
United States Air Force:
The following individualshave separated from
the Kentucky Air Guard:
STAFF SERGEANT (E-5)
•Ronald Bricking,165th Airlift Sq.
•Larry Bristow Jr.,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Kenneth Brown Jr.,123rd Maintenance Sq.
•Bruce Grimes,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Jay Hill,165th Airlift Sq.
•Master Sgt. Len Keidel,123rd Logistics Sq.
•Tech. Sgt. Sandra Merriweather,123rd Airlift Wing
•Tech. Sgt. William Ray,KyANG State Headquarters•Tech. Sgt. Mary Thurman,
123rd Civil Engineers Sq.
•Staff Sgt. Christine Bohn,123rd Medical Sq.•Maj. Leo Cissell,
165th Airlift Sq.•Daphne Dotson,
123rd Maintenance Sq.•Airman 1st Class
Thomas Hazelette II,123rd Student Flt.
•Airman 1st Class Kevin Hicks,123rd Student Flt.
•Senior Airman Damon Hobbs,123rd Civil Engineers Sq.
•Airman 1st ClassGeorge Hunter Jr.,123rd Student Flt.
•Senior Airman Deedra Jones,123rd Medical Sq.•Airman 1st ClassMatthew Koehler,123rd Student Flt.
•Staff Sgt. Nathan Morris,KyANG State Headquarters•Staff Sgt. Bruce Riopell,
123rd Maintenance Sq.
ABOVE: Lt. Robert Guggemoswas a member of the 359thFighter Group during World WarII. The group was first formed in1943.
LEFT: Lt. John McAlister and Lt.Rene Burtner were also membersof the 359th. The group will holda reunion in Louisville on Aug.23, when World War II aircraftalso will be on display at the Ken-tucky Air Guard.
See HISTORY, Back Page
maintenance crews did not enjoy the benefitof heated hangars or shelters. Most work wasperformed at the aircraft’s parking spot inthe notoriously miserable English weather.
Without the efforts of these men, the 359thwould not have enjoyed the success it did.
Throughout 1944, the 359th participatedin every major operation to include D-Day,
Operation Market Garden (the air-borne invasion of Holland) and theBattle of the Bulge.
On Sept. 11, 1944, an escort mis-sion to the Merseburg synthetic oilplants proved to be the group’s“Greatest Day.”
The unit provided penetration,target and withdraw support for agroup of 351 B-17s.
Shortly after rendezvous, thegroup engaged a superior number of ME-109s.
The intense fight favored the 359th with26 confirmed enemy kills and a loss of sixMustangs. The group was awarded the Dis-tinguished Unit Citation.
Brig. Gen. Leon Johnson,assistant to the deputycommander of the AirForce Reserve, spoke tothe Military Order ofWorld Wars Maj. Gen. BenButler Chapter here onJuly 12.
Shown with Johnson areLt. Col. Rich Frymire,chapter commander, 1stLt. Robert Geary, Lt.Cmdr. Larry Lintz, Capt.Chris Bishop and 1st Lt.Kristin Soldner.
Senior Airman Aleica Willis/KyANG
MOWWwelcome
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002 54
KyANG NEWSKyANG NEWS
Wing special tactics officer deploys toformer Soviet base in support of OEFBy Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
After the terrorists events of Sept. 11, the captain had no doubthe would be deployed. The only real question was when.
Jeff Wilkinson, a special tactics officer in the Kentucky Air Guard,knew the mobilization was coming so he stayed in close contactwith special operations officials until his orders came down.
The next thing Wilkinson knew, he was stepping off of a planeinto pitch-black, freezing-cold Uzbekistan to join operations at abase that once had belonged to the old Soviet Union.
Wilkinson, who has been in the wing for more than two yearsand has been an Air Force combat controller for 12, is used to de-ployments. They’re not unusual for the men of his unit, he said.
What was unusual this time, though, was the location.“It was interesting when I finally arrived there,” Wilkinson re-
called. “It was dark and cold, and it had the feel of an ex-Sovietbase. It seemed like ‘M*A*S*H.’ There were muddy streets withbig vehicles driving, and it was pitch black at night. You knew youwere in a real-world op.
“This was the most remote place I’d ever been, although the liv-ing conditions were better than I’d expected. We had tents with heat,except that the heat was out the first week I got there.”
Since the temperatures during Wilkinson’s deployment rangedfrom about zero to 10 degrees, he said he it made for a pretty coldweek.
“When I got there, I was on information overload. It was likebeing a deer in headlights because you’re trying to catch up on what’sbeen going on and who’s responsible for what.”
The captain said the Total Force concept was in full effect, with alarge contingent of Kentucky Air Guard controllers operating along-side active-duty Air Force members.
Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Capt. Jeff Wilkinson, a special tactics officer in the 123rd Air-lift Wing, deployed to Uzbekistan for about four months in sup-port of Operation Enduring Freedom.
STS troop
By Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
Earning the right to wear the combatcontroller’s red beret isn’t easy—in fact, it’snot even close.
Candidates for the position must possessextreme dedication, discipline and the abil-ity to meet rigorous physical fitness stan-dards, officials say.
Quite simply, most don’t make it throughthe training.
Now, however, the 123rd Special TacticsSquadron here is hoping a homegrown Ken-tucky Air Guard troop will complete the pro-gram.
STS sends native Kentucky troop to training
Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Staff Sgt. Lee Davis, a special tacticstrainee, prepares on base for combatcontroller’s school.
Since the special tactics career field is relatively small, with about350 pararescuemen and about 375 combat controllers, most of theactive-duty operators knew their colleagues were Guardsmen, butothers didn’t have a clue.
“The operation was so seamless that the air component com-mander didn’t even know we were Guard members until the daybefore we left,” Wilkinson said.
Currently, the squadron doesn’t have asingle controller or pararescueman fromKentucky who entered the program throughAir Guard channels.
Instead, all of the current operators joinedthe unit after leaving the active-duty AirForce.
But two KyANG personnel left here Aug.1 to see if they have what it takes to be aspecial tactics troop.
They will go through everything fromArmy Airborne and Combat Divers schoolto the Air Force Basic Survival School.
Staff Sgt. Lee Davis, a Kentucky native,
turned in his Marine Corps. captain’sbars several years ago and now is seek-ing the challenge of being a combat con-troller for the 123rd.
Davis, who decided he missed themilitary and wanted to come back in,started talking with the unit about twoyears ago and has been preparinghimself for the challenge ever since.
He sits tall and says he is confidenthe will make it through the training.
“Absolutely,” Davis said.“This unit has gotten us ready for
the training, and I think we’re going tobe much better off than a lot of kidscoming in.
“They brought us over early andPT’d us and got us ready.”
The 123rd Special Tactics Squadronnormally brings recruits in about 30days before they leave for training togive them an early start for the tough
physical fitness path the men areabout to begin.
A normal day of training here mayconsist of a run of at least three miles,anywhere from 500 to 1,000 push-upsand about 100 pull-ups.
Davis, who said he is anxious and alittle nervous about leaving for thetraining, also said he feels moremotivated since Sept. 11.
“It’s sad that it took something likethat to instill such pride in Americans. Ialways feel good about serving—andevery one who serves should—but I’mdefinitely more motivated now.”
Davis is taking a leave of absence asa political science teaching assistant atthe University of Kentucky while heworks on earning his read beret.
Currently, the special tacticssquadron is seeking about 20 combatcontrollers and pararescuemen to fillunit vacancies.
For information on jobs in thisdemanding career field, contact Tech.Sgt. Chris Tellis at ext. 4222.
Continued from Previous Page
See STS TROOP on Next Page
We’ve recently spent a lot of time plan-ning for the future here at the Kentucky AirGuard.
Our people are on deployments, mobili-zation continues, and our Operational Readi-ness Inspection is on the horizon.
It makes sense to plan asmuch as possible for every-thing that lies ahead.
Some companies, agen-cies and churches evenspend more time on what they willbe doing five years from now thanon what they will be doing nextweek.
Have you ever spent so much time focusedon the future that you lost sight of thepresent?
One of my favorite songs is “Cat’s In TheCradle” by Harry Chapin.
It’s about a father who is so focused onhis future success that he’s too busy to spendtime with his son growing up.
Don’t focus too much timeon tomorrow—live today
Chaplain’s
olumnC
Improvements to the basetelephone system now mean thatwing members should dial theuniversally recognized “911”any time they need emergencyassistance.
The previous emergencynumber was 111.
“Now if you call 911 fromany phone on base you will getthe Central Security Controloperator,” said Chief MasterSgt. Ken Bernardi, chief of the123rd Security Forces Squadron.
“If local police, fire or EMSresponse is required in additionto our on-base resources, theywill also get the call,” Bernardiadded.
The change, which involvedcoordination with the wing’s123rd Communications Squad-ron and civilian emergencyresponse officials, was recom-mended in a report issued bythe Air Force’s Security ForcesCenter Vulnerability AssessmentTeam.
Emergencynumber
changes to 911When the father finally wants to spend
time with his boy, years later, it’s too late.According to scripture, King David sought
out God’s presence and “sat before the Lord”when he faced important decisions about thefuture.
Instead of investing all his energies in fu-ture strategies and designs,David first focused on hispresent need to sit before the
Lord in prayer.This simple act of trust
and reflection helped pre-pare David for his future.
We all need time in the present to trustGod with the future.
Taking time to remember that God willcare for us in the future opens our hearts toreceive God’s good gifts to us now.
—Capt. Fred EhrmanWing Chaplain
Veterans platesavailable for
medal recipents
Recipients of the DistinguishedService Cross, the Air ForceCross or the Navy Cross are noweligible for a no-fee veteranslicense plate for their vehicle.
The new plates now featureimages of the medals.
Veterans who are eligiblemay contact Jim Drake of theKentucky Department ofVeterans Affairs at (502) 564-9203.
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002 54
KyANG NEWSKyANG NEWS
Wing special tactics officer deploys toformer Soviet base in support of OEFBy Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
After the terrorists events of Sept. 11, the captain had no doubthe would be deployed. The only real question was when.
Jeff Wilkinson, a special tactics officer in the Kentucky Air Guard,knew the mobilization was coming so he stayed in close contactwith special operations officials until his orders came down.
The next thing Wilkinson knew, he was stepping off of a planeinto pitch-black, freezing-cold Uzbekistan to join operations at abase that once had belonged to the old Soviet Union.
Wilkinson, who has been in the wing for more than two yearsand has been an Air Force combat controller for 12, is used to de-ployments. They’re not unusual for the men of his unit, he said.
What was unusual this time, though, was the location.“It was interesting when I finally arrived there,” Wilkinson re-
called. “It was dark and cold, and it had the feel of an ex-Sovietbase. It seemed like ‘M*A*S*H.’ There were muddy streets withbig vehicles driving, and it was pitch black at night. You knew youwere in a real-world op.
“This was the most remote place I’d ever been, although the liv-ing conditions were better than I’d expected. We had tents with heat,except that the heat was out the first week I got there.”
Since the temperatures during Wilkinson’s deployment rangedfrom about zero to 10 degrees, he said he it made for a pretty coldweek.
“When I got there, I was on information overload. It was likebeing a deer in headlights because you’re trying to catch up on what’sbeen going on and who’s responsible for what.”
The captain said the Total Force concept was in full effect, with alarge contingent of Kentucky Air Guard controllers operating along-side active-duty Air Force members.
Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Capt. Jeff Wilkinson, a special tactics officer in the 123rd Air-lift Wing, deployed to Uzbekistan for about four months in sup-port of Operation Enduring Freedom.
STS troop
By Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
Earning the right to wear the combatcontroller’s red beret isn’t easy—in fact, it’snot even close.
Candidates for the position must possessextreme dedication, discipline and the abil-ity to meet rigorous physical fitness stan-dards, officials say.
Quite simply, most don’t make it throughthe training.
Now, however, the 123rd Special TacticsSquadron here is hoping a homegrown Ken-tucky Air Guard troop will complete the pro-gram.
STS sends native Kentucky troop to training
Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Staff Sgt. Lee Davis, a special tacticstrainee, prepares on base for combatcontroller’s school.
Since the special tactics career field is relatively small, with about350 pararescuemen and about 375 combat controllers, most of theactive-duty operators knew their colleagues were Guardsmen, butothers didn’t have a clue.
“The operation was so seamless that the air component com-mander didn’t even know we were Guard members until the daybefore we left,” Wilkinson said.
Currently, the squadron doesn’t have asingle controller or pararescueman fromKentucky who entered the program throughAir Guard channels.
Instead, all of the current operators joinedthe unit after leaving the active-duty AirForce.
But two KyANG personnel left here Aug.1 to see if they have what it takes to be aspecial tactics troop.
They will go through everything fromArmy Airborne and Combat Divers schoolto the Air Force Basic Survival School.
Staff Sgt. Lee Davis, a Kentucky native,
turned in his Marine Corps. captain’sbars several years ago and now is seek-ing the challenge of being a combat con-troller for the 123rd.
Davis, who decided he missed themilitary and wanted to come back in,started talking with the unit about twoyears ago and has been preparinghimself for the challenge ever since.
He sits tall and says he is confidenthe will make it through the training.
“Absolutely,” Davis said.“This unit has gotten us ready for
the training, and I think we’re going tobe much better off than a lot of kidscoming in.
“They brought us over early andPT’d us and got us ready.”
The 123rd Special Tactics Squadronnormally brings recruits in about 30days before they leave for training togive them an early start for the tough
physical fitness path the men areabout to begin.
A normal day of training here mayconsist of a run of at least three miles,anywhere from 500 to 1,000 push-upsand about 100 pull-ups.
Davis, who said he is anxious and alittle nervous about leaving for thetraining, also said he feels moremotivated since Sept. 11.
“It’s sad that it took something likethat to instill such pride in Americans. Ialways feel good about serving—andevery one who serves should—but I’mdefinitely more motivated now.”
Davis is taking a leave of absence asa political science teaching assistant atthe University of Kentucky while heworks on earning his read beret.
Currently, the special tacticssquadron is seeking about 20 combatcontrollers and pararescuemen to fillunit vacancies.
For information on jobs in thisdemanding career field, contact Tech.Sgt. Chris Tellis at ext. 4222.
Continued from Previous Page
See STS TROOP on Next Page
We’ve recently spent a lot of time plan-ning for the future here at the Kentucky AirGuard.
Our people are on deployments, mobili-zation continues, and our Operational Readi-ness Inspection is on the horizon.
It makes sense to plan asmuch as possible for every-thing that lies ahead.
Some companies, agen-cies and churches evenspend more time on what they willbe doing five years from now thanon what they will be doing nextweek.
Have you ever spent so much time focusedon the future that you lost sight of thepresent?
One of my favorite songs is “Cat’s In TheCradle” by Harry Chapin.
It’s about a father who is so focused onhis future success that he’s too busy to spendtime with his son growing up.
Don’t focus too much timeon tomorrow—live today
Chaplain’s
olumnC
Improvements to the basetelephone system now mean thatwing members should dial theuniversally recognized “911”any time they need emergencyassistance.
The previous emergencynumber was 111.
“Now if you call 911 fromany phone on base you will getthe Central Security Controloperator,” said Chief MasterSgt. Ken Bernardi, chief of the123rd Security Forces Squadron.
“If local police, fire or EMSresponse is required in additionto our on-base resources, theywill also get the call,” Bernardiadded.
The change, which involvedcoordination with the wing’s123rd Communications Squad-ron and civilian emergencyresponse officials, was recom-mended in a report issued bythe Air Force’s Security ForcesCenter Vulnerability AssessmentTeam.
Emergencynumber
changes to 911When the father finally wants to spend
time with his boy, years later, it’s too late.According to scripture, King David sought
out God’s presence and “sat before the Lord”when he faced important decisions about thefuture.
Instead of investing all his energies in fu-ture strategies and designs,David first focused on hispresent need to sit before the
Lord in prayer.This simple act of trust
and reflection helped pre-pare David for his future.
We all need time in the present to trustGod with the future.
Taking time to remember that God willcare for us in the future opens our hearts toreceive God’s good gifts to us now.
—Capt. Fred EhrmanWing Chaplain
Veterans platesavailable for
medal recipents
Recipients of the DistinguishedService Cross, the Air ForceCross or the Navy Cross are noweligible for a no-fee veteranslicense plate for their vehicle.
The new plates now featureimages of the medals.
Veterans who are eligiblemay contact Jim Drake of theKentucky Department ofVeterans Affairs at (502) 564-9203.
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002 3The Cargo Courier
Aug. 10, 20026
KyANG NEWS
By Tech. Sgt. Tim Gagnon165th Airlift Squadron Loadmaster
The Kentucky Air Guard was formed in1947 but many current wing members maynot know that the 123rd Fighter Group andthe 165th Fighter Squadron—the KyANG’soriginal units—were made up of personnelfrom World War II U.S. Army Air Corpsunits.
This month, the 123rd Airlift Wing willinvite former members of the 359th FighterGroup, who will be in town for a reunion,to attend a memorial service here and viewa display of World War II aircraft.
The roots of the Kentucky Air Guard canbe traced back to Dec. 20, 1942, when theWar Department issued War Order numberAG-320.2 calling for the establishment ofthe 359th Fighter Group.
In January 1943, the 1st Air Force acti-vated the 359th Fighter Group at WestoverField, Mass. The group’s three squadrons—the 368th, 369th and 370th—received therugged P-47 Thunderbolt and began train-ing for war.
The group arrived in the United Kingdomin October of 1943 and flew its first combatmission, a high-altitude fighter sweep overnorthern France, in December.
The group drew blood in January withthe downing of a Me-110. Claiming the killwas Lt. John Oliphint.
In March 1944, a few pilots were selectedto test and develop new ground attack tac-tics in preparation for the planned invasion.
The need for the destruction of theLuftwaffe not only in the air but also on theground became a priority.
The groups’ fighters also engaged any en-emy reinforcements making their way to theinvasion beaches— a role in which the 359thexcelled.
In May of 1944, the group received itsfirst batch of new P-51 Mustangs. To manythis caused concern since the P-51 was verysusceptible to ground fire.
The ruggedness of the Jug had broughtmany pilots home in aircraft that should nothave been flyable.
But the P-51 did have its advantages. TheMustang, with its longer range and increasedspeed, would allow the group to escortbombers to and from their targets.
The operations tempo tasked both thepilots and ground-support personnel. The
RETROSPECT
KyANG traces history back to World War II
The following individuals have beenpromoted to the rank indicated
as members of theKentucky Air Guard and reservists
of the United States Air Force:
SENIOR AIRMAN (E-4)
TECHNICAL SERGEANT (E-6)
•Joshua Blackburn,123rd Logistics Sq.•James Harned,
123rd Security Forces Sq.•Joyce Robertson,123rd Logistics Sq.
•Guy White,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Jason Craig,123rd Aircraft Generation Sq.
•Heather Hultman,123rd Medical Sq.
•Connor Middleton,123rd Aircraft Generation Sq.
•Joseph Workman,123rd Medical Sq.
Promotions, retirements & separations Kentucky Air National Guard
The following individualshave retired as members of the
Kentucky Air Guard andreservists of the
United States Air Force:
The following individualshave separated from
the Kentucky Air Guard:
STAFF SERGEANT (E-5)
•Ronald Bricking,165th Airlift Sq.
•Larry Bristow Jr.,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Kenneth Brown Jr.,123rd Maintenance Sq.
•Bruce Grimes,123rd Security Forces Sq.
•Jay Hill,165th Airlift Sq.
•Master Sgt. Len Keidel,123rd Logistics Sq.
•Tech. Sgt. Sandra Merriweather,123rd Airlift Wing
•Tech. Sgt. William Ray,KyANG State Headquarters•Tech. Sgt. Mary Thurman,
123rd Civil Engineers Sq.
•Staff Sgt. Christine Bohn,123rd Medical Sq.•Maj. Leo Cissell,
165th Airlift Sq.•Daphne Dotson,
123rd Maintenance Sq.•Airman 1st Class
Thomas Hazelette II,123rd Student Flt.
•Airman 1st Class Kevin Hicks,123rd Student Flt.
•Senior Airman Damon Hobbs,123rd Civil Engineers Sq.
•Airman 1st ClassGeorge Hunter Jr.,123rd Student Flt.
•Senior Airman Deedra Jones,123rd Medical Sq.•Airman 1st ClassMatthew Koehler,123rd Student Flt.
•Staff Sgt. Nathan Morris,KyANG State Headquarters•Staff Sgt. Bruce Riopell,
123rd Maintenance Sq.
ABOVE: Lt. Robert Guggemoswas a member of the 359thFighter Group during World WarII. The group was first formed in1943.
LEFT: Lt. John McAlister and Lt.Rene Burtner were also membersof the 359th. The group will holda reunion in Louisville on Aug.23, when World War II aircraftalso will be on display at the Ken-tucky Air Guard.
See HISTORY, Back Page
maintenance crews did not enjoy the benefitof heated hangars or shelters. Most work wasperformed at the aircraft’s parking spot inthe notoriously miserable English weather.
Without the efforts of these men, the 359thwould not have enjoyed the success it did.
Throughout 1944, the 359th participatedin every major operation to include D-Day,
Operation Market Garden (the air-borne invasion of Holland) and theBattle of the Bulge.
On Sept. 11, 1944, an escort mis-sion to the Merseburg synthetic oilplants proved to be the group’s“Greatest Day.”
The unit provided penetration,target and withdraw support for agroup of 351 B-17s.
Shortly after rendezvous, thegroup engaged a superior number of ME-109s.
The intense fight favored the 359th with26 confirmed enemy kills and a loss of sixMustangs. The group was awarded the Dis-tinguished Unit Citation.
Brig. Gen. Leon Johnson,assistant to the deputycommander of the AirForce Reserve, spoke tothe Military Order ofWorld Wars Maj. Gen. BenButler Chapter here onJuly 12.
Shown with Johnson areLt. Col. Rich Frymire,chapter commander, 1stLt. Robert Geary, Lt.Cmdr. Larry Lintz, Capt.Chris Bishop and 1st Lt.Kristin Soldner.
Senior Airman Aleica Willis/KyANG
MOWWwelcome
2 7The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
The Cargo CourierAug. 10, 2002
COMMANDER’S CALL AIR FORCE NEWS
Wing Commander..............................Col. Michael HardenWing Public Affairs Officer.....................Capt. Dale GreerEditor................................................Tech. Sgt. Amy Ziegler
This funded Air Force newspaper is published for mem-bers of the military services. Contents of The Cargo Cou-rier are not necessarily the views of the U.S. Government,the Department of Defense or the Air Force.
The editorial content is edited and prepared by the pub-lic affairs office of the 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air Na-tional Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville,Ky. 40213-2678.
If you have a story idea, photo or article to submit, stopby the public affairs office, room 2118 of the Wing Head-quarters Building. Deadline for the next issue is Aug. 30.
How to contact us:
Phone: (502) 364-9431E-mail: [email protected]
An electronic version of the Cargo Courier is available at the Kentucky Air Guard’s Web site — www.kyang.ang.af.mil
By Tech. Sgt. Tim DoughertyAir Force Print News
WASHINGTON—A recent change tohealth care benefits will be a big help forAir Force Reserve and Air National Guardpeople who were mobilized in support ofthe war on terrorism.
Under the revised transitional health carebenefit plan, Reserve and Guard people whowere ordered to active duty for more than30 days in support of a contingency and havemore than six years total active federal ser-vice are eligible for 120 days of health carefollowing their period of active service.
Guard and Reserve members with lessthan six years service will get 60 days ofcontinued medical care.
Under a worldwide demonstrationproject, family members are also coveredunder this plan. This program is retroactiveto Jan. 1.
Eligibility for these benefits will be de-termined by information in the Defense En-rollment Eligibility Reporting System.
“I think the No. 1 thing a member can doupon demobilization is to ensure their in-formation in DEERS is correct,” said Col.Kathleen Woody, director of medical readi-ness and programs in the office of the assis-
Air Force Print News
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIRFORCE BASE, Ohio—Plans forthe annual Air Force Marathonare on track as the date for therace approaches.
With more than 1,600 run-ners registered for the Sept. 21event, the race will likely breakall previous participationrecords, said marathon officials.
Runners of all ages, militaryand civilian, are encouraged toparticipate.
All runners will receive a2002 Air Force Marathon T-shirt and patch.
All participants who finishthe marathon within the eight-hour time limit will receive amedallion.
Pre-race events include a two-day sports and fitness expo atthe Hope Hotel and ConferenceCenter here on Sept. 19 and 20,sponsored by marathon organiz-ers.
Vendors will display a varietyof sports apparel, equipmentand memorabilia at the event.
A pre-race pasta dinner willbe held Sept. 20. Tickets for thedinner can be purchased via theregistration form.
After the race, all runners,volunteers, family and friendsare invited to a free post-raceparty sponsored by the confer-ence center beginning at 4:30p.m. at the hotel.
The registration fee for theevent is $45 for individuals and$225 for teams.
For more information on theannual Air Force Marathon,including registration proce-dures, see the marathon Web siteat http://afmarathon.wpafb.af.mil/.
tant secretary of defense for reserve affairs.“That’s paramount because all of your
benefits are contingent on the informationin DEERS.”
The Defense Manpower Data Center issending a letter to people who are eligiblefor this benefit, but only if the informationin DEERS reflects their having served insupport of a contingency operation such asoperations Noble Eagle or Enduring Free-dom.
“Our Reserve and Guard members andtheir families have sacrificed a great deal byresponding to the call to duty in support ofthe war on terrorism,” Woody said.
“We have an obligation to ensure that eachindividual is aware of this transitional healthcare benefit.”
Members and families who were enrolledin TRICARE Prime while on active duty willautomatically be disenrolled upon releasefrom active duty.
The Reserve component member or fam-ily must actively re-enroll if they wish tocontinue TRICARE Prime during the tran-sitional health care period.
An enrollment form is available on theTRICARE Web site or at a local TRICAREservice center. No enrollment is necessaryfor TRICARE Standard or Extra.
Reserve, Guard transitionalhealth care benefits improve
Air Force Print News
WASHINGTON—A new Air Forcebadge providing distinctive recognition tocommanders will be available shortly, ac-cording to personnel of-ficials.
The Air Force Com-mand Insignia will beawarded to squadron,group, wing and equiva-lent organization com-manders in the ranks ofmajor through colonel,said Maj. DouglasMullins, chief of com-manders’ programs andrecognition policy at thePentagon.
New badge recognizes commandersAccording to Mullins, the command in-
signia, available in both a chrome and sub-dued version, should be on the shelves ofmilitary clothing sales stores this month.
The badge is to be worn above the nametag on both blues andbattle dress uniforms.
While mandatory forpeople currently in acommander billet, wearof the badge will be op-tional for those with pastcommand experience.
Additional guidanceabout award criteria andproper uniform wear willbe made available in thecoming weeks, Mullinssaid.
AF Marathonscheduled for
Septembery how time flies. It’s beennearly a year since I tookthe position as the wing’scommand chief mastersergeant—and what abusy year it’s been.
With more than 500 troops activated, I wasable to get more than my feet wet. Whilewatching our wing take its place in the TotalForce concept, I was indoctrinated into AirForce leadership issues.
I’m happy to say, finally, the active dutyAir Force is beginning to see they can’t per-form the mission without the Air Guard.
We in the Guard have known that for sometime. And not to sound egotistical, but wehave known that because of our experience,knowledge and dedication.
Many of us are volunteer citizen-airmenwho left the Air Force, joined the Guard andcontinued to grow.
More importantly that dedication and pas-sion has been passed on to the non-prior-ser-vice members of the Guard.
We have operators, maintainers and sup-porters with vast years of experience andknowledge that gives us a tremendous abil-ity to get the job done.
The Air Force recognizes this and is nowpraising us for the job we are doing.
I have learned that the leaders of the Na-tional Guard, past and present, elevatedthemselves into these positions not just onpast accomplishments but on their vision ofwhat the Guard could be.
In the early years, the Air Guard took aback seat to the Air Force in terms of planes,equipment and resources. We were consid-ered the little brother and a weekend flyingclub, except in times of war.
We have come along way since then, buthow did we get where we are today?
I believe we got here thanks to the visionof a former Kentucky Air Guard Com-mander: Lt. Gen. John Conaway. Thegeneral’s vision of a Total Force enabled himto work his way up the ranks at the KyANGand then to become the director of the Na-tional Guard, where he turned his vision intoa reality.
The Kentucky native worked diligentlywith the Air Force and Congress to ensurethat the National Guard’s planes, equipment,resources and training were upgraded.
And this diligence paid off.
Today’s Total Force has become a realitydue to our past leader’s vision, and for thishe is still much revered and respected bythe National Guard senior leadership.
Now the KyANG supports real-worldmissions every day, everywhere—theMiddle East, Europe, Antarctica and anywhere else we are needed around the globe.
Today’s Air Guard is a good as any AirForce in the world and we owe a great dealof that to the vision of its great leaders, pastand present.
Who knows what tomorrow’s leaders,which very easily could be any one of you,have in store for us. But I do know that weare responsible for ensuring they are awareand knowledgeable of our past.
It has been a remarkable year for thewing. You made it possible for the KyANGto win it’s 11th Air Force Outstanding UnitAward, the Metcalf Trophy and the SolanoTrophy. Yet we have other challenges com-ing very soon: the Unit Compliance Inspec-tion and the Operational Readiness Inspec-tion in September.
With what you are all made of and allthat I have seen of you, you will do just fine.
The inspectors want to see that you cando your job as they say you should and howyou say you should.
We all know that you know how to doyour jobs. The only thing I will add is toplease be safe.
Our inspection results will add anothertruly outstanding chapter to this already out-standing year of KyANG heritage.
Our future is very bright. We have a tre-mendous number of dedicated, patrioticAmericans that I am so very proud to servewith and for.
KyANG’s heritage sets total force concept
Command Chief Master Sgt. Mike Mitro123rd Airlift Wing Senior Enlisted Advisor
M
8 The Cargo Courier,Aug. 10, 2002
123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air National Guard, Louisville, Ky. Vol. XVIII, No. 8 • Aug. 10, 2002
123rd Airlift WingPublic Affairs OfficeKentucky Air National Guard1101 Grade LaneLouisville, KY 40213-2678
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Combat controllers and pararescuemenfrom the 123rd Special Tactics Squadronhere spoke with local news media July 2about their participation in OperationEnduring Freedom.
An article on the KyANG’s Tech. Sgt. KearyMiller was featured on the front page of theCourier-Journal newspaper July 4.
To view the article, go to the Courier-Journal’s web site at www.courier-journal.com and click on “Search/Archive.”
For more special tactics stories and photos,see Page 4.Senior Airman Valerie Gholson/KyANG
Special Report
Kentucky Air Guard aircrew receivean excellent during ASEV inspectionBy Tech. Sgt. Amy ZieglerCargo Courier Editor
KyANG aircrew members received anoverall “excellent” rating during an AircrewStandardization and Evaluation Inspectionheld here July 9-15.
A team of about a dozen inspectors from15th Air Force joined Kentucky aircrewmembers during training flights, adminis-tered written tests to unit members, and re-viewed the 123rd Operations Group’s stan-dardization and evaluation programs beforeissuing the grade.
Lt. Col. Mark Kraus, commander of the165th Airlift Squadron, attributes the wing’ssuccess to an overall outstanding perfor-mance.
“It took lots of hard work, thoughtfulpreparation, attention to detail and close co-ordination to end the inspection on such agood note,” Kraus said.
“We are the best in the business—there’sno doubt. That’s because we are highlytrained and proficient at what we do.”
The inspection focused on the perfor-mance of Kentucky Air Guard pilots, navi-gators, flight engineers and loadmasters.
Inspectors quickly saw KyANG aircrewsat their best, Kraus said.
On the first day, every load of cargodropped during one training mission receiveda perfect score, meaning it hit the groundwithin about 25 yards of its intended target.
“That usually just doesn’t happen,” Kraussaid. “It’s not unusual to miss or be a littleoff on the drops.”
The inspectors rode along for 35 “checkride” flights, for which the wing was given a100 percent pass rate.
Aircrew members also had a 100 percentparticipation rate on written tests—and an av-erage score of 98 percent.
The Operations Group’s Standardization
and Evaluation Office, which administersthe check ride program and other trainingprograms for aircrew, was recognized forits superior performance as well, receivingan overall “outstanding” grade on its por-tion of the inspection.
Col. Mike Harden, 123rd Airlift Wingcommander, said the inspection team wasvery impressed with the aircrew’s perfor-mance.
“Their team chief, Col. Bob Saundersfrom 15th Air Force, said this was the bestinspection his team had seen in severalyears,” Harden noted.
“He said it’s obvious why we won theSolano Trophy.
“Col. Saunders also singled out our main-tenance folks for providing spotless, mis-sion-ready aircraft every time.
“Once again our operations and mainte-nance folks did us proud and made us lookgood.”
RETROSPECT
April of 1945 brought combat operations for the 359thFighter Group to an end, but the unit remained in Europe aspart of occupational forces until November 1945. The groupreturned to the states on Nov. 9 and was deactivated thefollowing day.
In 17 months of combat operations, the 359th Fighter Groupdistinguished itself in every role it was given.
It developed tactics still used today, not only by U.S. airforces but also many foreign air forces.
It accounts for 13,455 combat sorties that destroyed 255enemy aircraft in the air and 122 on the ground. More than1,000 vehicles were victims of 924,807 rounds of .50-caliberammunition fired.
These successes are not without losses to the group: 125pilots were either killed or captured and 238 group aircraftwere damaged.
On Jan. 30, 1946, the Air National Guard came into exist-ence, and the 359th Fighter Group and its 368th FighterSquadron became the 123rd Fighter Group and 165th FighterSquadron, respectively. Both units were assigned to theKentucky Air National Guard.
Two other units also comprised Kentucky’s 123rd FighterGroup—the 167th Fighter Squadron of the West Virginia Air
HistoryContinued from Page 6
National Guard (formerly the 369th Fighter Squadron) and the156th Fighter Squadron of the North Carolina Air NationalGuard.
The 370th Fighter Squadron was never again to find lifeafter the war.
The men of the 359th Fighter Group set a tradition ofexcellence that the Kentucky Air Guard continues to this dayand will proudly carry into the future.
Staff Sgt. Charlie Dalsom served as a crew chief in the 359thFighter Group during World War II.
