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G u a r d l i f e2
Guardlife StaffEditors
Lt. Col. Roberta NiedtCapt. Jonathan Lapidow
Capt. Yvonne Mays2nd Lt. April Kelly
Sgt. Maj. Anthony CahillSgt. 1st Class Kryn WesthovenAssistant Editor-Production
Tech. Sgt. Mark C. OlsenStaff Writers/Photographers
Sgt. 1st Class Robert StephensonStaff Sgt. Barbara Harbison
Cover: Neighbors Joined By DisasterThe Delaware River engulfs a bridge joiningEaston, Pa., and Phillipsburg, N.J., inundatingan intersection during flooding on June 28. TheNew Jersey National Guard provided support tothe Ewing Police and the Governor’s Officeduring the State Emergency. Photo by Sgt. 1stClass Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA.
Inside Cover: Memorial Day ReflectionSpecialists' Richard Schwarz Jr. (left) andJustin Francis (far right) of the 63rd Army Bandperform Taps at the Brig. Gen. Doyle VeteransMemorial Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony.Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA.
Guardlife is published bi-monthly using federalfunds under provisions of AR 360-1 and AFI 35-101 by the Public Affairs Office of the NewJersey Department of Military and VeteransAffairs for all members of the New Jersey Armyand Air National Guard. The views and opinionsexpressed herein are not necessarily those ofthe Department of Defense, the Army, the AirForce or the National Guard Bureau. Letters maybe sent to: Guardlife, Public Affairs Office, P.O.Box 340, NJDMAVA, Trenton, NJ, 08625-0340.E-mail at: pao@ njdmava.state.nj.us
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VOL. 32, NO. 3
GuardlifeGuardlifeVOL. 32, NO. 3
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TAG's Message - Neighbors Helping NeighborsMaj. Gen. Chojnacki RetiresAir Guard Gets New CommanderBrig. Gen. Sullivan RetiresARMS Lends A HandUnity DayWing Holds Softball TournamentScouts Become Virtual Soldiers At JT2DCCeremonies Welcome Home TroopsAction FiguresGala Raises $115,000 For Guard FamiliesNews Guard Families Can UseTAG Visits Troops In AfghanistanShort RoundsNew Jersey National Guard Enlisted PromotionsLast Round: An End And A Beginning
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TAG's Message - Neighbors Helping NeighborsMaj. Gen. Chojnacki RetiresAir Guard Gets New CommanderBrig. Gen. Sullivan RetiresARMS Lends A HandUnity DayWing Holds Softball TournamentScouts Become Virtual Soldiers At JT2DCCeremonies Welcome Home TroopsAction FiguresGala Raises $115,000 For Guard FamiliesNews Guard Families Can UseTAG Visits Troops In AfghanistanShort RoundsNew Jersey National Guard Enlisted PromotionsLast Round: An End And A Beginning
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TAG'S MESSAGE - NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORSBy Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth, The Adjutant General - New Jersey
With all the deployments in sup-port of the Global War on Terror-ism, you might think that theNational Guard’s core competencyof Neighbors helping Neighborshas been pushed aside or has takena backseat.
The reality is that nearly every day theleadership of the New Jersey Army and AirNational Guard and the Department ofMilitary and Veterans Affairs is activelyplanning to assist state government shouldthe need arise.
The New Jersey Office of HomelandSecurity and Preparedness and the Officeof Emergency Management are fully awareof the Guard’s capabilities. These stateagencies also know the Guard’s spirit andwillingness to assist our fellow GardenState citizens.
Just recently we participated in table-top exercises to see how the Guard wouldrespond to an influenza pandemic or ahurricane. As we enter this year’s hurricane season, GuardAviation, participated, along with state agencies and theU.S. Coast Guard, in a simulated airlift of hurricane victims.
Who can forget the compelling video images in thedays after Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans, asmilitary helicopters rescued residents off rooftops? Withindays, our citizen-Airmen were heading for the region,delivering millions of gallons of bottled water and participat-ing in security missions. The Army Guard followed,spending nearly a month in Louisiana supporting recoveryefforts. Whether it is by air or by truck, the Guard isprepared to help evacuees or to deliver supplies should ahurricane or severe weather strike our shores.
Once again the Guard has been asked to assist ourlong distance neighbors, this time in the southwesternstates of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.President Bush announced plans to temporarily boost theNational Guard’s contribution to security on the U.S.-Mexican border in a nationally televised address on May15. Under the president’s plan, up to 6,000 National Guardmembers will provide support to the U.S. Customs BorderPatrol.
Up to 650 New Jersey National Guard Soldiers and
Airmen will deploy to New Mexico as part of OperationJump Start for a two-week Annual Training. The commandand control will truly be a joint effort - the commander willbe Col. Frank S. Caruso from the 50th Brigade Combat Teamand the deputy commander will be Col. Roger F. Pharo Jr.,from the 177th Fighter Wing.
We will be using our skills to help the U.S. Departmentof Homeland Security provide a more secure border that willmake America safer in the years ahead.
This is not a new mission for the National Guard.During the last two decades, Guard units from across thecountry have been working on counter-drug and variousother missions in the Border States.
It is important for your family, friends and neighbors tounderstand that New Jersey’s Home Town Team has thepersonnel, the resources and capability to protect the statefrom threats and respond to disasters, no matter what othermissions we may have.
I am confident in the abilities of New Jersey's Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, knowing you will once again, answerthe nation's call.
Governor Jon S. Corzine congratulates Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth after adminis-tering the oath of office at the New Jersey Department of Military and VeteransAffairs while his wife Linda and their children Erika and Craig watch. Photo byTech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA.
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In the military when you look at someone's ribbon bar,you get a sense of where they've been and whatthey've accomplished.
With Maj. Gen. Eugene R. Chojnacki, outgoing Com-mander of the New Jersey Air National Guard, that ribbonrack only begins to tell his story.
A Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Clus-ter, an Air Medal with one Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, theVietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star Device, theRepublic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device onlybegins to tell the story of where the man has been and whathe has accomplished.
Reading through the dry, bare bones official biographyyou see the experiences that shaped the man.
Growing up in the 60's, Chojnacki was impressed byPresident Kennedy's idealism, so much so that aftergetting his Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Education, TrentonState College in 1967, he went on to attend and get hiscommission through Officer Training School, Lackland AirForce Base, Texas, in 1968, a tough time in United Stateshistory to be considering a military career.
After completing Undergraduate Pilot Training, ReeseAir Force Base, Texas, in 1969, Chojnacki completedtraining in the C-141A Starlifter and was assigned to the 20th
Military Airlift Wing, Dover Air Force Base, Del. Two yearslater he attended Helicopter Transition Training at Sheppard
Air Force Base, Texas. In 1971, Chojnacki was assignedto the 20th Special Operations Squadron, Cam Rahn Bay,Republic of Vietnam, as an UH-IN helicopter pilot. Duringhis combat tour, he flew 120 combat missions over Cambo-dia, Laos and Vietnam.
After returning to the States in 1972, Chojnacki was ahelicopter instructor pilot until his discharge in 1973.
It became obvious, that Chojnacki missed the military.He was now living in South Jersey and was close to the 177th
Fighter Interceptor Group (what would one day become the177th Fighter Wing). Seeing the F-106 Delta Darts taking offand escorting Soviet Bear bombers down the coast to Cubahad a profound impact on him so in 1977 he returned toactive military status and accepted a commission with theNew Jersey Air National Guard.
From that point on, he rose through the Wing frombudget officer, computer operations officer, comptroller,chief of supply, deputy commander for resources, supportgroup commander and finally vice commander in 2002.
With the advent of the Global War on Terrorism andafter the 177th had adjusted to flying combat air patrolsChojnacki was chosen to serve as the Chief of Staff, NewJersey Air National Guard in August 2002. In February2004, he was chosen by Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth tobecome the New Jersey Air National Guard Commander.
Truly, what a story.
Maj. Gen. Chojnacki RetiresPhoto and story by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, 177FW/PA
Maj. Gen. Chojnacki RetiresPhoto and story by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, 177FW/PA
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AIR GUARDGETS NEWCOMMANDER
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AIR GUARDGETS NEWCOMMANDERBrig. Gen. Lawrence S. Thomas III (right) is presented with the New Jersey Air National Guardcolors by Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth (left) during the Change of Command Ceremony held at the177th Fighter Wing on May 7. More than 1,000 family, friends and unit members attended theceremony. Thomas, who has served for close to 29 years, is a command pilot with more than11,000 hours in 17 types of military and civilian aircraft. The general's military career beganin August 1977 when he was commissioned as a Navy Ensign. Following flight training, he wasassigned to Fighter Squadron 41 aboard the USS Nimitz. From March 1983 to January 1985,the general served as an F/A-18 Hornet instructor pilot. In August 1986, Thomas joined the 177th
Fighter Wing and served as the Fighter Squadron Operations Officer, Vice Commander andCommander. After serving as the NJANG Director of Operations and the State HeadquartersInspector General, he became the 108th Air Refueling Wing Commander during the unit’smobilization for Iraqi Freedom. Prior to his assuming command, he was the NJANG DeputyCommander.
254TH HOLDS RAIDER COMPETITION
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Brig. Gen. Sullivan RetiresBy Kryn P. Westhoven, NJDMAVA/PA
No matter what his rank was, from Airman to BrigadierGeneral, for more than 39 years, you could always count ona smile and a kind word from Thomas J. Sullivan.
“It’s not the job, it’s the people I will miss,” said Sullivanat his retirement party held at The Club on McGuire AirForce Base on June 11.
Sullivan’s military journey started in 1967 as an en-listed Air Guard technician for five years before switching to
the Army Guard to become a helicopter crew chief. Hecompleted the Officer Candidate School program at theNew Jersey Military Academy earning his gold bar in 1974.“I am very proud of my eight years of enlisted service andI am sure it made me more aware of the enlisted Soldiers'needs,” noted Sullivan.
For the next 31 years Sullivan moved up the ranks,serving mostly as a full time national guard technician orAGR Soldier. He gained a wealth of experience that led tohis greatest challenge as the 42nd Infantry Division’s Assis-tant Division Commander for Support to Iraq.
“I never though I would be called to active duty as aNational Guard General Officer at age 57 and sent off towar,” explained Sullivan.
That deployment, which ended last March, was theculmination of a career that Sullivan said he could not havedone without having a great team of professionals whotaught him it is OK to have fun and enjoy your work.
By his side that evening was Sullivan’s high schoolsweetheart and wife of 37 years, Jody, remarking that herlove and support is a key to his success in the military.
Sullivan will still be close to the Guard family as heintends to play golf with the DMAVA Hackers at Fort Dixand as a civilian employee with Anteon; he will stay currentwith developments with the 42nd ID.
Brig. Gen. Sullivan in front of his Headquarters in Iraq. Photoby Maj. Timothy Metcalf.
Seventy students from five New Jersey high schoolsparticipated in the 1st Annual JROTC (Junior ReserveOfficer Training Corps) Raider Competition on June 3at the New Jersey Military Academy in Sea Girt.
The 254th Regiment hosted the event between NewBrunswick High School, Franklin High School, HillsideHigh School, Eastside High School and Lakewood HighSchool.
The schools were broken down into teams of eightcadets, which competed in six different competitions:Army Physical Fitness Test, General Knowledge exam,First Aid/Litter Carry, Land Navigation, Obstacle Courseand a 1.8-mile team run. The cadets showed an awesomedisplay of motivation, teamwork and physical fitness through-out the grueling competition.
New Brunswick High School received top honors, butevery school walked away with at least one trophy.
Cadets perform the low crawl while tackling the obstaclecourse on the dunes of Sea Girt. Photo by Staff Sgt. JosephDonnelly, 444 MPAD.
254TH HOLDS RAIDER COMPETITION Story by Capt. Edward J. Dowgin, 254 Regiment (CA) Story by Capt. Edward J. Dowgin, 254 Regiment (CA)
G u a r d l i f e8
Tables lined the walls ofDoughboy Gym on Fort Dix asvolunteers in blue shirts scur-ried to make sure the food andbeverages were ready for theSoldiers that were about to en-ter after their long deployment.
The volunteers from the AmericanRecreational Military Services(A.R.M.S.) seemed almost as excitedas the families that were waiting to seetheir loved ones for the first time inmany months.
This was not the first time thesevolunteers were spending a late nightin a gym full of strangers, it was justone of hundreds of events that A.R.M.S.has been involved with to support theSoldiers and Airmen of New JerseyNational Guard.
The relationship started with theexperiences of a retired teacher’s aidefrom Red Bank, Ronnie Micciulla, whowent to the Fresh Kills landfill on Staten Island to volunteerat a rest shelter for rescue workers and service membersdeployed to the site right after the attacks of Sept. 11.
“It was the most awesome thing I’ve ever done in mylife,” said Micciulla, who serves as executive director of thegroup.
That experience led her to seek other ways to serve hercommunity and America’s fighting men and women, and inMarch of 2003 American Recreational Military Serviceswas founded.
Originally a small grass-roots organization, A.R.M.S.has grown into a vibrant organization with more than 325volunteers throughout the tri-state area that strives to serveany deployed service member and their family.
While A.R.M.S. may be most visible at the WelcomeHome ceremonies throughout the state, the organizationhas packed more than 76,000 pounds of toiletries and paidfor the postage to get those ‘care’ packages to servicemembers overseas. During the holidays, A.R.M.S. col-lected or bought more than 16,000 presents for the childrenof mobilized service members and sponsored holiday’sparties to distribute those gifts.
Add 6,300 pre-paid phone cards distributed and more
ARMS Lends A HandBy Sgt. 1st Class Kryn Westhoven and Spc. Sherwood T. Goodenough, 444th MPAD
than $36,500 in direct financial aid to families and the effortsof A.R.M.S. have gone a long way to make serving thenation in the Global War on Terrorism easier.
“Just a great organization that the families reallyappreciate,” said Chief Warrant Officer 5 Ralph Cwieka,Chief of Family Programs. “I don’t know what we would havedone without their help.”
Smiles and a simple thank you are the fuel that keepsthe volunteers of A.R.M.S. running.
“The most wonderful people I’ve met are through themilitary,” added Micciulla.
A.R.M.S. is a recognized 501(C)(3) charitable organi-zation and supports itself entirely from foundation grants,fund-raisers and individual donations. The organizationcurrently calls the Toms River Armory home and you canfind a current schedule of events at www.supportarms.org.
Ronnie Micciulla (left) A.R.M.S. (American Recreational Military Services) founderserves a Soldier who two hours prior had just returned to the United States from Iraq.Photo by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA.
Volunteerism begins with You.Your support can mean the
difference in someone's life.
G u a r d l i f e9
UNITY DAY
Photos by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA
The New Jersey National Guard celebrated itsEighth Unity Day on June 15 at Joint Force Headquar-ters – New Jersey at Fort Dix. The theme for Unity Day2006 was “Passport to Diversity.” Maj. Gen. Glenn K.Rieth, The Adjutant General of New Jersey was thekeynote speaker.
Unity Day was conceived when Col. Jorge Martinezsuggested bringing together all the separate specialemphasis celebrations. This enables all cultures to berecognized.
This year’s program began with a 5K walk/run, adrill team demonstration by the New Jersey NationalGuard ChalleNGe Youth Academy cadets and bagpip-ers. Miss USO 2006 Stacie Wells, sang for the cel-ebrants and there were multi-cultural displays.
UNITY DAY
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The 177th Fighter Wing held it'sSecond Annual Softball Tourna-ment June 10 and 11.
The tournament started in 2005,when then Wing Commander Col.Brian Webster instituted the AnnualSoftball Tournament. That year Ac-cessories - Egress, Fuels, Hydraulicsand Electro-Environmental shops -fielded an unstoppable team thatslammed Operations 15 to 10.
This year saw more teams, better
Wing Holds Softball TournamentPhotos by Senior Master Sgt. Don Taggart, 177FW/CF; story and card design by Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, 177FW/PA
players and fans that took an activepart in the games. While some of thescores in the four inning games werelopsided, others were not.
The final game once again pittedAccessories, which included severalplayers from the Avionics Intermedi-ate Shop, against Operations.
The top of the first inning sawAccessories pile in run after run andfor a while it seemed that Ops couldn’ttouch their rivals, yet when Opera-
tions got their turn at bat, they tied thescore and the race was on.
By the top of the fourth, Ops hadpulled away and disaster was rushingat Accessories like a freight train with-out brakes. On the sidelines a groupof Airmen who were cheering andbooing both teams impartially hadratcheted up their heckling as thegame neared its completion. In thebottom half, Accessories pulled it to-gether and hammered Ops 7 to 6.
NASCARVisits Sea Girt
Members of the RecruitingHolding Company cadre posefor a photo around a show carversion of the #16 NationalGuard sponsored NASCARNextel Cup racer driven by GregBiffle at the National GuardTraining Center at Sea Girt onMay 20. Photo courtesy RHC.
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Scouts Become Virtual Soldiers At JT2DCPhoto and story by Spc. Shawn Morris, 444th MPAD
Hundreds of young men in uniform descended uponthe New Jersey Army National Guard’s Joint Trainingand Training Development Center (J2TDC), Fort Dixon June 9 to make use of the facility’s high-techtraining simulators.
No, these weren’t deploying Soldiers undergoing mobi-lization training or National Guard troops conducting An-nual Training – they were Boy Scouts participating in theirannual Order of the Arrow convention or Conclave.
More than 300 Scouts from local troops attended thethree-day Conclave, which was sponsored by the BoyScouts’ honor society, also known as the Order of theArrow. The event had been scheduled to take place at theJoint Training and Training Development Center (JT2DC)since this past July.
“The Joint Training and Training Development Centerallows young men to be exposed to the virtual-training sideof the Army,” explained Col. James Grant, Commander,JT2DC.
During the Conclave, the Scouts rotated through train-ing stations dedicated to first aid, weapons, GPS landnavigation, counter-drug education, physical training, re-cruiting, vehicles and aviation. They also had a chance totry out the latest in training aids, such as the convoysimulator. They participated in Native-American dance andceremonies competitions, and took part in activities suchas a football toss, rock-climbing wall and dunk tank.
The Scouts also got to learn much about the NewJersey Army National Guard and its Soldiers, a unique
Staff Sgt. Jonathan Suydam watches as Boy Scouts prepare tofire at the Joint Training and Training Development Center'sindoor firing range.
One of the more than a dozen children of Soldiers and Airmenpeers through the hatch of a M1A1 Abrams tank simulator at theJoint Training and Training Development Center (JT2DC) atFort Dix. The National Guard Youth Coordinator, AmandaBalas, arranged for a tour of the high-tech facility on April 22.During the tour the children got the opportunity to use the M1A1Abrams tank simulator, experience the Virtual Convoy Opera-tions Trainer; and visit the Woodland, Desert and Urban Train-ing Lanes. The best was saved for last, however, when the kidsgot the opportunity to fire M-16 rifles hooked electronically to alarge screen upon which a computer-generated battle wasprojected. “It’s fun to shoot a weapon and see what my daddoes,” said 15-year-old Beth Ambrose. Photo by Spc. ShawnMorris, 444th MPAD.
aspect of this Conclave.“They’re exposed to a profession that they may con-
sider for their own future, and to the opportunities that theGuard offers,” said Grant.
"It Really Isn't A Video Game""It Really Isn't A Video Game""It Really Isn't A Video Game""It Really Isn't A Video Game""It Really Isn't A Video Game"
G u a r d l i f e12
CEREMONIES WELCOMCEREMONIES WELCO
Above: Governor Jon. S. Corzine (second from left) and Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth welcome home troopsfrom E Company, 50th MSB at the Jersey City Armory May 6. Right: Soldiers listen to speeches praisingthem for their exceptional service. Photo by Spc. Shawn Morris, 444MPAD.
Family members at the Morristown Armory wave as Soldiers fromA Battery, 3-112th Field Artillery file past June 4. Photo by Sgt. 1stClass Kryn Westhoven, 444MPAD
Left: Soto his fater omedaBatteemonForcquartJersePhotoSgt. MNJDM
Above left: Guardsmen from C Company, 50th Main Support Battalioin West Orange on May 6. Above right: MSB troops pick up their Freedby Capt. Jon Powers, 444MPAD.
G u a r d l i f e13
OME HOME TROOPSOME HOME TROOPS
Spc. LouisJr. awards
ather a Cen-of Influenceallion at Cery's cer-ny at Jointce Head-ters - Newey June 19.o by Tech.Mark Olsen,MAVA/PA.
on (MSB) observe the ceremony welcoming them homedom Salute packages following their ceremony. Photos
Above: Division Support Command Soldiers pass by an honor guard at theSomerset Armory June 3. Below: Alyssa, daughter of Lt. Col. Roch Switlick,Commander, 50th MSB, displays a sign she made at the Welcome Home Ceremonyin the Teaneck Armory May 6. Below left: the Teaneck Armory appears packedto the rafters during the ceremony. Photos by Capt. Jon Powers, 444MPAD.
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Photo and story by Spc. Finnbar McCallion, 444MPAD
Members of the 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry founda new way of looking at themselves during arecent open house at the Riverdale Armory.
Four New Jersey National Guard members are justmonths away from becoming part of ongoing national actionfigure line that will be available at most retailers.
“When I first saw it I couldn’t stop staring at it. It wasamazing how close it looked to the real thing — to the realme. When you see it yourself, that’s the real surprise,” saidStaff Sgt. Edwin Tejada, a battalion Soldier and now anaction figure commenting on the small statue. “It’s quiteexciting actually, something you would normally dreamabout as a kid. Who were these people? Where did theycome from?”
The action figures, standing six to seven inches tall onaverage, are sculpted and created with such accuracy indetail. Some readers may think that translates to hair andeye color matching the intended subject; on the contrary,think again and turn that microscope up a bit. Thinkaccuracy so realistic that the makers of these militaryaction figures captured the nook in a chin or the definitionof a cheek bone.
What makes this standard of precision so achievableis the state-of-the-art image recording system used to copythe subject. After the first four Soldiers had their portraitsscanned, their image was reproduced and uploaded into acomputer and used as templates for the Army figurinesappearing in this ongoing series.
“I feel like the most scanned person in the world,” saidStaff Sgt. Robert Dollaway, and he just may be. Dollaway,one of two Soldiers from the battalion now an action figure,was also the first New Jersey Soldier to sit and lend hislikeness to this project.
“One of the best parts about this is that they use actualSoldiers to get the details correct,” said Dollaway as hestood next to the hand painted prototype of him worth$35,000.
Perhaps the only imperfection one may discover afterclose inspection is the figurines lack of unit identification.Since the project is not officially authorized by DoD, thewell-known unit patches were not included.
Photo and story by Spc. Finnbar McCallion, 444th MPAD
“I FEEL LIKE THE MOST SCANNEDPERSON IN THE WORLD.”STAFF SGT. ROBERT DOLLAWAY
ACTIONFIGURES
Staff Sgt. Robert Dollaway holds aprototype of an action figure thatbears his resemblance during theOpen House at the Riverdale Armory.
ACTIONFIGURES
G u a r d l i f e15
The Joint Training and Training Development Center(JT2DC) held a ceremony at it's Soldier Memorial on May6 to commemorate it's new walkway and to recognizeKristin Catalanotto, a student whose family lives in NewOrleans.
Kristin's story began in New Orleans when JT2DCSoldiers were deployed as the command and controlelement. During a survey mission, Col. Jim Grant, Com-mander, Task Force Guard State and JT2DC Commander,met Kristin's father and learned that Mr. Catalanottos’daughter, Kristin, was attending a college in Philadelphia.
After returning to New Jersey, Col. Grant found out thatKristin would not be able to return home because of thefinancial burden. During the dedication ceremony, Kristinwas presented with a round trip airline ticket to New Orleansas well as a check for $500.
JT2DC HOLDS CEREMONY: RECOGNIZES STUDENTPhoto and story courtesy JT2DC
Kristin Catalanotto (center) poses with (l-r) Brig. Gen. FrankCarlini, Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Maskery and Col. JimGrant.
Gala Raises $115,000 For Guard FamiliesBy Lt. Col. Roberta Niedt, NJDMAVA/PAO
The New Jersey State FamilyReadiness Council held its firstGala Dinner on May 11th.
The event honored former USCongressman Bob Franks for hissupport of the New Jersey NationalGuard. Franks is a member of thecouncil and is responsible for itslargest fundraising effort. The eventproceeds of nearly $100,000 will bemade available through grants, to NJNational Guard members and theirfamilies. The council has awardedmore than $90,000 in family grants($2500.00 each) and business grants($5000.00 each) to date.
For more information on the grantprogram, visit the Council’s websiteat www.njguardfamilies.com.
Governor Jon S. Corzine, Brian Thompson, Linda Rieth, Bob Franks and Scott Sheppardpose with a check for $115,000, which will be used for grants to New Jersey NationalGuard families. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA.
G u a r d l i f e16
News Guard Families Can UseCompiled by the Guardlife Staff
Guard l i fe Subscr ipt ionsGuard l i fe Subscr ipt ionsGuard l i fe Subscr ipt ionsGuard l i fe Subscr ipt ionsGuard l i fe Subscr ipt ionsIf you would like to receive Guardlife send your
name and full address to:NJDMAVAATTN: PAO-BJH101 Eggert Crossing Rd.Lawrenceville, NJ 08648-2805
Active Guardmembers: Guardlife gets your ad-dress from your unit, notification is not required.
Also if you would like to have extra copies of pastissues of Guardlife, please email Staff Sgt. BarbaraHarbison at [email protected].
Please specify the issue number, number of cop-ies and your full rank, name and address.
Marriage Enrichment SeminarsMarriage Enrichment SeminarsMarriage Enrichment SeminarsMarriage Enrichment SeminarsMarriage Enrichment SeminarsFamily Programs has scheduled a Marriage Enrich-
ment Seminar for Sept. 22-24. Recently deployed Soldiersand Airmen along with their spouses will be given firstpriority. For more information or to register, call MarieDurling at (609) 562-0739.
Vets ’ Preference ChangedVets ’ Preference ChangedVets ’ Preference ChangedVets ’ Preference ChangedVets ’ Preference ChangedNational Guard and reserve members released from
active duty will get the same veterans’ hiring preference forfederal jobs as those who are separated or retired fromregular active-duty assignments.
The Office of Personnel Management announced thenew hiring rules in a notice published the same day in theFederal Register, where new rules and regulations arepublished. Normally, there is a three- or four-month delayin implementing newly announced federal rules. OPMofficials, however, said in a statement accompanying therule that they chose not to wait for the traditional commentperiod before implementing the new hiring policy so as to“not unwittingly deny veterans’ preference based uponregulations that are now obsolete.”
“If OPM’s regulations were permitted to remain ascurrently written while OPM solicited comments upon itsproposed revisions there is a chance that reservists re-cently released from active duty in Iraq or Afghanistan, forexample, might be denied veterans’ preference based uponthe language of current regulations,” the statement says.The federal personnel office said factors in the rush toimplement the policy were “the sacrifices being made byindividuals who do not serve full time in the armed forces butwho have been called to active duty for significant service.”
Under the new rules, a veteran gets extra credit whenseeking a federal job. Previously, veterans’ preferenceapplied only to people “separated” from active duty underhonorable conditions.
Under the new policy, hiring preference would extend toany person discharged or released from active duty if theyhad more than 180 consecutive days of duty since Sept. 11,2001, served in a war or in a campaign for which a campaignbadge or expeditionary medal was authorized. Also, theperson who is discharged or released must have receivedan honorable or general discharge.
The interim policy is still open to comments, and couldbe modified. Comments will be accepted through Aug. 8,with revisions possible after a review.
Federal Grant For Spouses OfFederal Grant For Spouses OfFederal Grant For Spouses OfFederal Grant For Spouses OfFederal Grant For Spouses OfDeployed Or Recently DeployedDeployed Or Recently DeployedDeployed Or Recently DeployedDeployed Or Recently DeployedDeployed Or Recently DeployedM i l i t a r yM i l i t a r yM i l i t a r yM i l i t a r yM i l i t a r y
A $100,000 federal grant from the Department ofCommunity Affairs is available for spouses of deployedor recently deployed military (all branches across thestate). The funds will be available only until Septem-ber.
For more information contact Fawn I. Mutschler,Military Grant Liaison, Women’s Opportunity Center,YMCA of Burlington County by calling 856-234-6200Ext. 235 or by email at [email protected].
G u a r d l i f e17
There's a saying: “It if seems too good to be true, it is.”It could be called the golden rule for common sense,
but it seems to be the first thing people forget when they arelooking for a way to advance their career. This is especiallytrue for those who buy diplomas or certificates on theInternet to use in their résumé for a promotion or a pay raise.
But what happens if the college you enroll in is bogus?More important how do you avoid these so-called institu-tions?
It is difficult to develop a comprehensive list of charac-teristics that can be used to spot a diploma mill, since theyare notorious for imitating legitimate degree programs. Butthere are some methods that these companies use whichyou should be on the look out for before you commit yourtime or money.
Beware of schools of which you never heard before. Anofficial-sounding name does not mean a college is legiti-mate. Scams often use words like “national” and “educa-tion” in their titles.
Check for phrases that describe their programs includ-ing “non-traditional, alternative, innovative, state-autho-rized” or “state-approved”. These companies may suggestthat their organization has undergone a process of aca-demic review, but in reality the organization may not be
Diploma millsDiploma millsDiploma millsDiploma millsDiploma millsBy Spc. Marimer Navarrete, 444th MPAD
accredited by an agency recognized by the U. S. Depart-ment of Education.
Few or no admissions or degree requirements shouldalso raise a red flag. Also promises made about obtaininga degree in less time than that required for the completionof a program at a recognized and accredited institutionshould be a warning.
When it comes to money, diploma mills’ costs arebased on degree completion instead of the more commonper credit fee schedule. Also, the assessment of learningoutcomes or achievement is minimal or nonexistent.
Finally, if the address of the school often suggests aprestigious location, but mail can only be received at a postoffice box or mail service, that means the company mayfrequently change its address. Also if there is no significantcluster of physical facilities, they may be operating from asingle office or even out of a private residence.
A cheap diploma is not worth losing your promotion orhaving to face potential problems with your civilian ormilitary careers.
If you have any questions about the accreditation orlegitimacy of a school, contact 1st Lt. Benjamin Stoner,Education Counselor at (609) 562-0975 or by e-mail [email protected].
Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth (bottomstep, left), and State Command Sgt.Major Jerome Jenkins (bottom step,second from the right), visit with the50th Personnel Services Battalionand members of Task Force 50, infront of the Soldier Support Centerin Bagram, Afghanistan. The 50th
PSB, along with the 250th PersonnelServices Detachment, OperationSupport Aviation Command and theAfghan National Army EmbeddedTraining Team are in the midst of aone-year long rotation inAfghanistan in support of OperationEnduring Freedom. Photo courtesyMaj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth.
TAG Visits Troops In AfghanistanBy Sgt. 1st Class Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA
G u a r d l i f e18
SHORT ROUNDS: LAW SEMINAR, CURACAO TRIP, HARDHATSAND LEVITOW AWARD
Airman Receives Top AwardTech. Sgt. Charles A. Redford (right), an aerospace repairmechanic with the 108th Maintenance Squadron, seen herebeing coined by Maj. Gen. Eugene Chojnacki (left), receivedthe John L. Levitow Honor Graduate Award during the gradu-ation ceremony at the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy atMcGuire Air Force Base. Photo by Senior Airman RobbieFinley, 108ARW/PA.
Helmets To HardhatsGovernor Jon S. Corzine (seated) signs a proclamation insupport of Helmets to Hardhats, a program designed to pairformer and current service members with union constructionemployment opportunities June 12. Also pictured are (l-r) IzCakrane,Chairman of North American Contractors; Maj. Gen.Glenn K. Rieth, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez and Maj. Gen.(ret) Matthew Caufield, Executive Director of the Helmets toHardhats Program. Photo by Kryn Westhoven, NJDMAVA/PA.
ESGR Holds Law SeminarOn June 10, the first New Jersey Employer Support for theGuard and Reserve Law Seminar was held at the Sea GirtNational Guard Training Camp. The focus of the Law Seminarwas to advance members’ education across a broad range ofmultiple laws pertaining to service members (to include theirfamilies) and employers. Topics ranged from USERRA, CivilRelief Act, N.J. Law for military members and ombudsmantechniques. The attendees were given a chance to questionintent and the application of the law and relative court casesunder present military operations. Photo by Al Smith, NJESGR.
108th Invades Curacao1st Lt. Matthew Maiorano serenades 108th Air Refueling Wingmembers as they board a KC-135E Stratotanker Curacao,Netherland Antilles, in support of Operation Carib ShieldMarch 1-31. Twenty-six personnel flew 19 missions, offloading971,000 pounds of fuel for drug interdiction. The operation,headed up by Southern Command, looks for ships and planescarrying narcotics. Photo courtesy 108ARW/PA.
SHORT ROUNDS: RAAF VISIT, MPS, PSB AND NEWRSTA COMMANDER
G u a r d l i f e19
RAAF Visits 108th ARWBoom operator Master Sgt. Edwin Montalvo (right) briefs RoyalAustralian Air Force Flight Lieutenant Ian Wallace (left) on thefunctions of the KC-135E Stratotanker during the lieutenant'stour of the 108th Air Refueling Wing's facilities on May 9. Photoby Staff Sgt. Beth Pritchard, 108ARW/PA.
Taking ChargeIncoming Commander Lt. Col. Dean T. Spenzos, left, receivesthe 102nd RSTA regimental colors from 50th Brigade Com-mander Col. Frank S. Caruso (second from right) as outgoingCommander Lt. Col. James D. Rosenberg (far right) looks onduring the Change of Command ceremony on May 21 at theNational Guard Armory at West Orange. Photo by Sgt. 1stClass Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA.
MPs Award Supply SergeantStaff Sgt. Priscilla Karcher (left) looks on as Staff Sgt. TimothyHoke (center) and Sgt. 1st Class Franklin Smith (right) applaudKarcher for her work supporting the unit while it was deployed.Karcher received the Detachment 2, 42nd Military PoliceCompany's Center of Influence award during the unit's Wel-come Home and Freedom Salute ceremony held at the Na-tional Guard Armory in Lawrenceville on June 4. The 25members of the Military Police Detachment served in Iraq insupport of Operation Iraqi Freedom from February to Novem-ber 2005. Photo by Capt. Jon Powers, 444MPAD.
PSB On GuardPictured left to right: Staff Sergeant’s Louis Tuck and CurtisHellings along with Chief Warrant Officer 2 Frank R. Albanese,Jr., of Task Force 50th Personnel Services Battalion in Salerno,Afghanistan pose, for a photo on Radar Hill over looking theForward Operating Base. According to Albanese, "On a clearday you can see Pakistan in the distance." The 50th PSBassumed the human resources and postal services mission inAfghanistan. Photo courtesy Chief Warrant Officer 2 Frank R.Albanese, Jr., TF 50PSB.
SHORT ROUNDS: ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE, ON THE RANGEAND RSTA PAINTS
G u a r d l i f e20
Wing Participates In Food DriveWing and family members (l-r) Senior Master Sgt. Freddie D.Lavan, Sr.; Tech. Sgt. Sue Milam, Master Sgt. Radames SotoJr. and Matthew Milam were part of the 31 volunteers from the177th Fighter Wing who helped pick up, unload and sort morethan 40,000 pounds of food items during the annual NationalAssociation of Letter Carriers Stamp-Out Hunger Food DriveMay 13, which benefits the Community Food Bank of NewJersey, Southern Branch. This year's volunteer turnout was thelargest since the Wing began participating in the food drive 16years ago. Photo by Master Sgt. Rebecca Lee, 177FW/MSF.
AT Under WayMembers of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd
Battalion, 102nd Armor’s Mortar Platoon hone their skills on theM-29A1 mortar during Annual Training at Fort Dix on June 16.From left, Gunner Spc. Bryan Mulvihill, Assistant Gunner Pvt.1st Class Matthew Miczulski and Ammo Bearer Pvt. RobertKnoble prepare to send an 81mm round downrange. Photoby Sgt. 1st Class Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA.
RSTA Leaves Their Mark
Soldiers from the 1st Platoon, C Troop, 5th Squadron, 117th
Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Targeting, Acquisition pose infront of their mural in Kuwait prior to leaving for Iraq. Photocourtesy 5-117RSTA.
SHORT ROUNDS: CHILDREN AND VOLUNTEER AWARDEDAND OPEN HOUSES
G u a r d l i f e21
108th Volunteer ReceivesNational Volunteer AwardWarren George (left) presents Kathryn Hardy (center), wife ofTech. Sgt. Richard Hardy (right), 108th Air refueling Wing, wasawarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars Military Family MemberVolunteer Service Award for the United States Air Force duringthe National VFW and Ladies Auxiliary Community ServiceConference held in Washington, D.C. March 6. She alsoreceived a $500 check, which she donated to the 108th ARWFamily Readiness Center. Photo courtesy 108ARW/PA.
School VisitCommand Chief Master Sgt. Herb Mimler, members of the177th Chief's Council and senior enlisted representatives vis-ited Seaview Avenue School in Linwood on May 26. The visitwas to thank the students for their support of the VinelandVeterans Memorial Home during the December holiday sea-son. A 177th lithograph was presented to the school and photosof 177th F-16s were awarded to the students. Photo by MasterSgt. Robert Orme, 177FW/CCA.
253rd Hosts Appreciation DaySgt. Thunder (the big guy) plays basketball with area childrenduring the 253rd Transportation Company’s Community Ap-preciation Day in Cape May Courthouse June 3. Photo byTech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA.
Flemington Open HouseSpc. Brianne King, 50th Finance Battalion, smiles at a job welldone as a new warrior looks at the camera in alarm wonderingif the camouflage paint will wash off. The Battalion held it'sAnnual Open House at the Flemington Armory May 6. TheBattalion also held a blood drive in conjunction with Red Cross.Photo by Maj. Carl Palmer, 444MPAD.
New Jersey National Gua
G u a r d l i f e22
Nicholas C. GilbertAmir T. HardenLisa M. Hatcher
Chereyse T. HepburnMark A. MacellaroQaadir B. MajeedRobert B. MarksWilber A. PomeAdam G. PsakBrian O. Rennie
Joshua RiosTony G. RispoliDavid S. Rupert
Robin R. SanchezLuis A. SantiagoMichael F. SloanEdward A. Smith
Charles R. Wyckoff Jr.Eric S. Zinader
To Specialist (E-4):Kabir A. Ali
Allan E. AlvarezDerric BartholomewRomulo BittencourtKevin L. Buckholtz
Brian M. BurdJerry CamachoHarold F. Caro
Sergio T. Chacon Jr.Chuikwuemeke S.
ChiazorDaniel J. ConnollyDonald H. CorriganTherese S. CrainEdgar M. Duran
Joseph A. GonzalezAlbert S. GrantDavid L. Haney
Carrie A. HendersonLarry E. Krusieski
Anthony J. LarobinaLaura Londono
Douglas E. MatteiMaximo G. MirandaJames R. Nelson Jr.
Igor I. Nikitin
NEW JERSEY ARMY
NATIONAL GUARD
To Master Sergeant(E-8):
Chrystal D. AtkinsThomas J. Carr Sr.
Joyce Locklear
To Sergeant First Class(E-7):
Robert C. BoseJeffery L. Carter
Veronica D. ChristianRoberto Fernandez
Patricia JenkinsHarry E. Matish
James H. NelsonMark A. Wilson
To Staff Sergeant (E-6):Jason T. ArcherKyle P. Bowman
Glenn A. CarambacokerJohn A. CardonaFen D. Fenelon
Brian R. HourahanWilliam Maldonado
David M. MullenAntonio Nieto
Jose A. Padin JrMatthew A. ScheperMax E. SolorzanoDimitri E. SwainDaniel Wilson
To Sergeant (E-5):Dion H. BarnesFelicia F. DavisDonna Delavega
Maurice C. DonaisRobert J. Evans
Catherine G. EvernhamStephen M. Fatcher Jr.
Terrance L. FrancisAna Gatson
Carrie A. OakesPhillip A. Pasquariello
Jordan S. RayDonald R. Riley
Jonathan K. RomanLinda Romano
Tyler A. SassamanKealoha W. Serrano
Stefanie L. SimiGershon E. Stevenson
Kesha M. StocksAravind Talasila
To Private First Class(E-3):
Jason J. AmerJae H. Bang
Jesse D. BraddellBrian J. Callaghan
Shamyrah S. CarrekerRashedul I. ChowdhuryDonald P. Cicchino Jr.
Geraldo J. ColonWilfredo C. Jr.
Keishon J. CurrieIan Ralph CustodeJuan J. EstevezAlton J. Garrett
Shania C. GonzalezHilario D. Gonzalez-
AquinoJason R. Grasso
Tara M. GraulRonald G. Harris Jr.
Michele A. HernandezChristopher J. Hovorka
Traci S. HugginsCecilia L. Huidobro
Steve T. JarmanWilliam A. KayserBrendan J. Kelly
Sun KimManuel F. LemaShawn P. LinnJose M. Livres
Alfred L. Loatman Jr.Thomas P. Lovas Jr.
Rosalie MartinsenPercy Mendoza
Ramon E. Mercado Jr.Efrain J. Morales
Jhonny R. MorenoMatthew G. Mullin
Michael A. NiemiecDaniel D. OquendoJonathan D. PierceRobert S. Porras
Scott M. RickvalskyMaximilliano A. Rodriguez
Lourdes J. RosarioEdward J. Ross
Raheem J. RowellRocklin J. Ruiz
Andres D. SanchezRoberto J. Sanchez
Alex M. SandersAlbert C. Sbarro Jr.
Ronald A. SolimandoMatthew M. Studley
Julio A. VargasAlexis VasquezAnthony VieraFernando VillaEric P. Vivino
Brandon C. VolpeJonquil N. WeeksJoey C. H. Yeh
Peter YeungMaria C. Zodiaco
To Private (E-2):Carlos Abreurodriguez
Keith K. AdamsFatmata BanguraFrances J. Banks
Geraldo A. BedoyaFrank R. Borman Jr.Daley D. Bornsztejn
James A. BushStacy A. Buxbaum
Danielle N. CastimorePhilip E. Connell
Gerald S. DesmondChristopher W. Diamond
ard Enlisted Promotions
G u a r d l i f e23
NJNG Family AssistanceCenters
108th Air Refueling Wing3327 Charles Blvd.
McGuire AFB, NJ 08641POC: Tiffany Colby
Jersey City Armory678 Montgomery Street
Jersey City, NJ 07306-2208POC: Janis Shaw
Lawrenceville Armory151 Eggert Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648-2897POC: Jane Hackbarth
Morristown Armory430 Jockey Hollow Road
Morristown, NJ 07960-0499POC: Sheilah [email protected]
Pomona NJNG FAC400 Langley Road
Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234POC (Air): Joan Searfoss
[email protected] (Army): Michael Hughes
Somerset Armory1060 Hamilton StreetSomerset, NJ 08873
POC: John [email protected]
Teaneck ArmoryTeaneck & Liberty RoadsTeaneck NJ 07666-0687POC: SSG Joe Collery
Toms River Armory1200 Whitesville RoadToms River, NJ 08753
POC: Maria [email protected]
Woodbury Armory120 Progress AvenueWoodbury, NJ 08096POC: Michele Daisey
One Toll Free PhoneNumber Reaches All Family
Assistance Centers1-888-859-0352
Lauren J. EscotoDerek J. Farrier
Ricardo C. FrazierKevin J. FreemanSteven M. Hadala
Joel K. HahnJoseph D. HarangRicardo Hyppolite
David P. JulesJong J. Kim
Kevin R. KlienKostadinos I. Kotatis
Lori B. LemonKelly J. Lincoln Jr.Seundo J. MarquezSteven S. MartinezZuleyca MartinezGlori L. Morman
Duran S. M. MosqueraDeborah C. Navedo
Idianeth OrtizKenny O. OxenadeDavid J. Palmer Jr.Christian L. PettitStephen R. PettitFrederic A. Reed
Denisse R. RodriguezStephanie N. Runyon
Alicia E. SavadgeRoberto L. Thillet Jr.Paul F. Tomanek Jr.
Alkesh R. TrivediCarl R. Vitiello Jr.
Jonathan D. WhippleKeith J. White
Steve E. WilliamsonJonathan T. Wood
NEW JERSEY AIR
NATIONAL GUARD
To Senior MasterSergeant (E-8):
Michael J. Edmiston
To Master Sergeant(E-7):
Joyce A. BakerWilliam D. Erickson
Joseph A. Iacovone Jr.Laura J.P. MoyerRobert E. PowellDustin T. Walker
To Technical Sergeant(E-6):
Bryan C. BauerJustin E. ConnorJamie D’Amico
Christopher T. LewisBrian C. NaldzinJoseph M. ParisiJohn W. StudleyLloyd B. Terry
Mary M. WeisbeckerMichelle R. Weston
To Staff Sergeant (E-5):Jared R. Bright
Patrick M. DonohoeStephen J. DuranChristopher Gable
Christopher M.Gairman-Basicle
Jason HobanJamal J. HoganTaylor F. HolbaEvelyn J. IlsleyKimberly King
Patric KlotzbuecherDale D. Lacy Jr.Dorothy Lanthier
Stephen E. LeddyRobert M. MendezManuel Ocasio Jr.
Sean W. O’Connell Jr.Brian P. Oliver
Nicholas RemacleCharles J. Ryan
Ewan G. SeemanTroy D. TurnerChristian Skier
Carmen Spano
To Senior Airman (E-4):Erin L. Fassold
Jonathan S. FernandezAdrienne Guagenti
Stephen W. HillmannNicholas A. LoglisciMichael A. Mattola
Emanuel PaganDeesha J. Patel
Wifredo RodriguezNicole E. Del Valle
To Airman First Class(E-3):
Stephen J. Caldwell Jr.Brian L. Calhoun
Andre K. ClementsBradley S. FergusonTina N. Marchesano
Igor L. MatveyevEric R. MunozSean T. Riley
Andrew J. PrattRobert F. Taylor Jr.Sebastian Zelazny
To Airman (E-1):Laura Bello
Carlin S. DevilleJeffrey J. Raine
Jennifer L. RobledoErica J. Swenda
CongratulationsTo All!
Compiled byMaster Sgt.
Daniel J. Calderale(Army) and Master Sgt.Paul B. Thompson, Jr.
(Air).
State of New JerseyDepartment of Military and Veterans AffairsPO Box 340Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0340
LAST ROUND: AN ENDING AND A BEGINNINGBy Sgt. Shawn Morris, 444MPAD
PRSRT STDU.S. Postage
PaidPermit No. 514PALATINE, IL
For the Army Guard Soldiers that call the Somersetarmory home, June 3 was a day filled with hails,farewells and well-deserved honors.
The 42nd Division Support Command (DISCOM) casedits colors while later in the day, the unit’s Soldiers wererecognized at a Freedom Salute for their 19-month Opera-tion Iraqi Freedom mobilization.
As part of the Army’s ongoing transformation, DISCOM,has been redesignated the 42nd Regional Support Group(RSG). The 42nd RSG’s mission will remain much the sameas the 42nd DISCOM’s, although fewer units and Soldierswill fall under its command.
The 119th Corps Support Battalion (CSB) and the 50th
Finance Battalion make up the major portion of the 42nd
RSG. New water purification and chemical companiesbeing formed will join the 253rd Transportation Company aspart of the 119th CSB. The 50th Finance Battalion overseesall the finance, adjutant general and public affairs detach-ments along with the 63rd Army Band.
With the unfurling of the new RSG colors, Col. John M.Nunn took command from Col. William E. Rochelle. Nunnjoined the Army in November 1969 and eight years latermoved to the National Guard. His first stint with the 42nd
DISCOM was in the early 1990s. He returned to the unit asexecutive officer in December 2000.
DISCOM can trace its lineage back to Feb. 22, 1917,when it was organized in the New Jersey National Guard asthe 1st Infantry Supply Company. Following service inEurope during World War I and World War II, the 42nd spentnearly half a century with the 50th Armored Division. It wasreorganized as Headquarters and Headquarters Company,42nd Infantry DISCOM, in September 1993.
The unit distinguished itself as part of the 42nd InfantryDivision, the first National Guard division to command18,000 Army, Guard and Reserve troops as part of TaskForce Liberty in Iraq while stationed in Tikrit in support ofOperation Iraqi Freedom III.
Incoming commander Col. John M. Nunn shakes hands withoutgoing commander Col. William E. Rochelle. Photo by Sgt.1st Class Robert Stephenson, NJDMAVA/PA.
The 42nd DISCOM colors on display for the last time. Photo byCapt. Jon Powers, 444MPAD.
