1. WINSTON-SALEM
26-28 APRIL 2013
Site of the 2013 Combined Event
for the NC National Guard Association,
Enlisted and Officer Ball —
One Weekend Culminating
Into One Big Event!
Embassy Suites
See pages 6-7 for event
registration form
and lodging information.
Marriott Hotel
2. TAG’s A
s we here in North Carolina observe the end of summer, go
back to school and witness the ramp up of the 2012 Political
Campaign, I wanted to remind my fellow citizens of what their
C North Carolina National Guard is doing today as I write these words.
Over 1,300 of your neighbors, co-workers and fellow citizens are
deployed in Afghanistan, Kuwait and California performing missions
O as diverse as our force. Engineers, Military Police and a few pilots
are continuing the fight in Afghanistan while our Air Guard C-130
MAFFs Teams are fighting wild fires in the Western United States. We
R
have Citizen Airmen in Botswana, Africa working through our State
Partnership Program to promote stability and peace through a lasting
partnership. We still have another 10,000 citizen soldiers and airmen
N
ready to respond if needed upon the call of the Governor. Your North
Carolina National Guard is serving around the nation and world to en-
sure the security of their fellow citizens at home and abroad.
These citizen soldiers and airmen are part of a long line of those
E Americans and North Carolinians who have been willing to lay aside
their civilian careers and leave their families when called by their state
and nation. These citizen soldiers and airmen are the heirs to the Min-
R
utemen who stood on the greens at Lexington and Concord in 1775
and will always be ready and reliable to answer any call in the future to
Maj. Gen. Gregory A. Lusk secure the lives and property of the citizens of this great state and our
Adjutant General of NC nation.
óó
C NC Adjutant General – MG Greg Lusk — http://www.facebook.com/NCAdjutantGeneral
http://twitter.com/NCTAG
O
N NC Assistant Adjutant General Air – Brig. Gen. Todd Kelly – http://facebook.com/NCAirAAG
http://twitter.com/NCAirAAG
T
A NC Chief of Staff – COL Cliff Wilkins - http://www.facebook.com/NCCOJS
C NC Senior Enlisted Leader – Command Sgt. Maj. John Swart – http://www.facebook.com/NCCSM
T http://twitter.com/NCSCSM
NC Command Chief Warrant Officer Rick Comer – http://www.facebook.com/NCCWO
I http://www.twitter.com/NCCWO
N NC Command Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Pickett – http://www.facebook.com/NCCmdChief
F http://www.twitter.com/NCCmdChief
O TAG email contact: pao@ng.army.mi
The NC National Guard’s
Newest General
Raleigh, NC — William Coats was re- at the NCNG Joint Force Headquarters in
cently promoted to Brigadier General Raleigh. He last held the position of NC’s As-
at the North Carolina State Capitol sistant Adjutant General of Maneuver before
in downtown Raleigh. Family and his appointment to his current post as Special
friends joined to honor the Aviator Assistant to the Director of the Army National
and 30-year NCNG veteran. Guard.
Prior to his promotion, General General Coats and his wife, Toni, have
Coats served as Chief of Joint Staff four children, Aaron, Lindsey, Jackie and Reid.
Page 2 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
3. TARHEEL GUARDSMAN
Official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association
OCT/NOV 2012 Volume 46 Number 5
Contents:
NCNGA: Address changes or questions?
President’s Report 4
Legacy Bridge Program 5 Call us toll free 1-800-821-6159
Combined Event Information 6,7 or 919-851-3390.
In Memoriam 15 Our email address is
ncnga@bellsouth.net
NC National Guard: and our web site is
113th SUS BDE News 8 www.ncnga.org
Double Change of Command for Aviation 9
OCS Graduation 10
Retiree Homecoming Registration Info 13
Officers Executive Council Remember to vote
President
Ronnie Honeycutt
30th HBCT
Scott Schnack
on Tuesday,
Vice President
Bobby Lumsden
130th MEB
6 November 2012!
Bernie Williford
Diana Stumpf
Past President Russell Thorington
Fisk Outwater 60th Troop Command
Tom Holcomb
Secretary-Treasurer Deadline for submitting articles to
Dale Baker, Jr.
Adene Tyler the Tarheel Guardsman:
449th TAB
Judge Advocate Thomas Underwood
DEC ‘12/JAN ‘13 issue: 1 NOV 2012
Rick Fay Stephen Davis
113th Sustainment BDE
Chaplain Send articles/photos to
Billy Hill
K. Carl Singley Teri Foster, Editor at:
Stephen McCormick
(teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com)
JFHQ-NC
STAFF Charlene Johnson
Executive Director Wes Morrison
The Tarheel Guardsman, (ISSN 10618392) is published six times a year
for the Army and Air National Guard of North Carolina, by the North
Adene Tyler 139th Regiment (CA)
Carolina National Guard Association, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh,
NC 27607-5047. Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676-9651.
Insurance Administrator POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Tarheel Guardsman, 7410
Ronald Hill Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047.
Teri Foster The Tarheel Guardsman is the official publication of the North Carolina
K. Todd Helms
Assistant Insurance National Guard Association, a non-profit organization. The publica-
Administrator Air Guard tion’s mission is to promote the general welfare of the NCNGA, assist
in increasing the readiness of the NC Army and Air National Guard of
Rhonda Arndt Wendy Larsen North Carolina and serve as a vehicle of expression for members of the
National Guard.
Executive Assistant Scott Harrell Members receive the publication free with their membership. The
annual subscription rate for non-members of the Association is $15.00.
Kathy Ford Associate Class Please include your old address and unit when requesting change of
address.
NCNGA Educational John Sweat, Jr. Deadline for submitted material to the Tarheel Guardsman is the 5th of
the month, two months preceding the calendar date of issue. Manuscripts
Foundation Administrator Al Rose and photographs on subjects of general interest are invited. Unless oth-
erwise indicated, material may be reprinted provided credit is given to
Peggy Robinson Junior Council the Tarheel Guardsman and the author where listed. Articles and photos
will not be returned, unless requested. (USPS 533-640)
Lonnie Brooks Advertising is accepted. For details contact the Association headquar-
ters. Advertising, including political ads, published in this publication
Teri Foster, Editor Leverne Jackman, Jr. does not represent the endorsement or approval of the North Carolina
National Guard Association.
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 3
4. The President’s Report
by Ronnie Honeycutt
As the leaves begin to change color, we too are the goal of making this the best event ever
about to experience change in our upcoming and have worked to this end for approxi-
NCNGA Convention. There is an old saying, mately one year. It was truly a joint effort
“If you continue to do things the same way, do to make sure that our Enlisted/Officer Mil-
not be surprised if you continue to get the same itary Balls and NCNGA Convention did
results.” So, in an effort to educate and attract not lose their identity or tradition. I believe
more of our North Carolina National Guards- we have accomplished this and more.
men, we have accepted an invitation to combine The registration cost for our combined
our Enlisted Ball, Officer Ball and NCNGA event will be less expensive for the Junior
Convention. Enlisted and Junior Officers. If you come
We are very excited about this joint effort out and enjoy the entire event, then the
and hope this will allow more of our members savings and benefits will be even greater. So, mark your calendars, 25-27
to attend. There is no doubt that the cost of at- April 2013, and plan on attending this very exciting three-day event.
tending these events can be a burden on our This is YOUR Association, and its only priority is YOU! It’s
members. This is why we have combined the COMMITTED only to YOU!
tthree events to alleviate the pressure of choos- Thank you all for your service and your sacrifice. Always remember to
ing one event over the other. The Combined keep our deployed men and women in your prayers.
Convention/Ball Committee came together with
“Fairway to Honor” and it was a great day for everyone involved,” Chairman of the Board Iwan
Charity Golf Tournament Clontz said, “We met the goals we wanted to accomplish with the players
and our sponsors.”
T he Soldiers & Airmen Assistance Fund
(SAAF) hosted the “Fairway to Honor” golf
tournament on 23 August to raise funds for the
1st Place - James Herring, Michael Ecker, Mike Harris, Lance Jordan
2nd Place - Danny Sullivan, Nick Stewart, Bill Johnson, Tim Reeser
3rd Place- James Ma-
families of the North Carolina National Guard & ples, Kevin Whitaker,
to recognize those organizations that have sup- Larry Shaffer, Eddie
ported them and the community. It was a perfect Hayes
day for a tournament; blue skies, immaculate Longest Drive -
golf course (Crooked Creek in Fuquay-Varina) Diana Staton
and plenty of golfers. Putting Contest -
“It was just a perfect first tournament for the Charles Jackson
SAAF” said Dennis Roach, Director. “We had Closest to the Pin -
twenty-eight teams, plenty of support personnel Dean Debardelaben
and great sponsors. Our goal was to honor not
only our members of the military, but to also A special thanks to
show our business partners how much we appre- all the members and fam-
ciate their support of our Guard families.” ilies that helped us make
Several special guests came out to play and show the tournament a huge
their support. They included MG Greg Lusk, success. To our great
Chief of Staff Cliff Wilkins, SCSM John Swart, sponsors, gift donors and
Silver Star recipients James Herring, Ronnie friends of the Guard, we sincerely appreciate your support and concern for
Randolph, Tommy Rieman and Dale Beatty, co- our Guard families:
founder of Purple Heart Homes. Tommy Rieman Kangaroo Express ~ North Carolina Petroleum & Convenience Store Marketers ~
is the military representative for the Kangaroo Coca Cola ~ Bojangles of Fuquay-Varina ~ Krispy Kreme Doughnuts of
Express “Salute Our Troops” campaign that Fuquay-Varina ~ Enterprise Rent-A-Car ~ Hooters on Wake Forest Road ~
has raised several million dollars for the USO, Target ~ The Durham Bulls ~ Handee Hugo ~ Carolina Hurricanes ~
Wounded Warrior Project and National Guard Holt Oil Company ~ Cline & Associates ~ Largemouth Bass PR ~
organizations in several states. NC National Guard Association ~ Snyder’s Lance ~ Southco Distributing
“Everyone came out to have fun playing golf Company ~ Arnold Palmer ~ Purple Heart Homes ~ NCNG ~ Heritage
and to support our families. We had a variety of Golf Club ~ Crooked Creek Golf Club ~ “The Club Guy” ~ ARMAC
different events on several holes to do just that
Page 4 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
5. Legacy Bridge Program
L
ast year, Active Associate Representa- even at a modest 4%, the Association could survive indefinitely should
tive Al Rose introduced a program that our insurance and new revenue sources take a hit during lean times.
is designed to financially carry the As- Please consider joining us in the Legacy Bridge Program. And, if
sociation through our present fiscal transition you would like to remember or honor someone, please consider making
period. As we move from a system where we a donation in their name. Take a few minutes to fill out the application
depended on our investments and insurance and to write a check. Al and his team have started us in the right direc-
premiums to pay our Association’s expenses tion. It is up to us now to make it happen.
to one that will rely on new revenue sources to Questions? Please call us at 919-851-3390.
cover our budget, the Legacy Bridge Program
will provide the interim funds to meet bud-
get costs until the transition is complete. Our *Our Newest Members of the
projection is that this should occur within 2-3
years, and as such it is a closed end program.
Legacy Bridge Program:
The short-term plan is to use the income
from the Legacy Bridge Program until our new
revenue sources come on-line allowing us to
230. Vernon E. Potter
insulate our investments so that they are al- 231. Margaret Potter
lowed to grow over the long-term. At the end 232. Cleve C. Wilkins
of 2-3 years, the new revenue sources, along 233. In Honor of CSM (Ret) William Booth
with insurance premiums, will be our main in- 234. David M. Adams
come sources and the Legacy Bridge Program 235 - 251 - Not assigned
will close. 252. 2-252 Ar OLD DAWGS
Long-term, we hope to reach an invest- *As of press time
ment fund goal of $3 million. At that point,
NCNGA LEGACY BRIDGE PROGRAM
DONATION
Name:
Mailing Address:
City: State: Zip:
Phone: ( ) NCNGA Life Member: Yes No
Unit: Rank:
E-Mail Address:
( ) I would like to make this donation in honor of ( ) in memory of ( )
$100 Donation (Donations are not tax deductible) Return Application &
Payment To:
$25 Quarterly Installments _____ $100 Full Payment _____
_____ Check _____ Money Order _____ Master Card/Visa (Add $2 credit card fee) NCNGA
ATTN: Legacy Bridge
Credit Card Information:
Program
Acct #__________________________________________ Exp Date: ___________ 7410 Chapel Hill Road
3-digit Sec Code:__________ Signature: ____________________________________ Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 5
6. NC National Guard Association & NCNG Combined Event Registration
Twin City Quarter, Winston-Salem, NC
26-28 April 2013
Association First
Rank Member Convention
Registrant’s Name _____________________________________ __________ Yes No Yes No
Spouse/Guest Name ___________________________________ __________ Yes No Yes No
Address ________________________________________________________ Unit:
City_______________________________ State________ Zip____________ ______________________
Telephone ____________________________E-mail_____________________________________________
COMBINED EVENT REGISTRATION FEES
Saturday Dinner Choices
Retirees & Spouse/Guest By 31 March *After 1 April
(based on rank at retirement) Per person Per person Total Attendee: Spouse/Guest:
E1-E4 & Spouse/Guest $20 $30 $
Beef Beef
Chicken
Chicken
E5-E7/WO1-WO2/O1-O2 & Spouse/Guest $35 $45 Vegetarian
Vegetarian
All other ranks & Spouse/Guest $40 $50
Seating Preference (if any)
Non-Military $35 $45
_____Joint Force Headquarters
Child(ren) (meal only) $20 $30 _____145th Airlift Wing
Credit Card Fee $3 _____60th Troop Command
_____130th MEB
TOTAL $
_____30th Armored Bde Combat Team
*We are unable to accept registration AFTER 15 April 2013
_____449th Theater Aviation Brigade
_____113th Sustainment Brigade
Attending Business Session: Attending Friday Dance:
Member: Friday Yes No Member: Yes No _____139th Regiment (Combat Arms)
Saturday Yes No Spouse/Guest: Yes No _____Open Seating
Method of Payment: ____Check enclosed (payable to NCNGA) ____Charge my: ____MasterCard ____Visa
Account #________________________________ Expiration date ____________3 digit security code ______
Authorized Signature ____________________________________________________________________
There will be a $23 Fee for Returned Checks.
Complete & Return To:
NCNGA, 7410 Chapel Hill Rd. Raleigh, NC 27607 (Or Fax to: 919-859-4990 Or Call: 919-851-3390)
Links to on-line registration and hotel registration are available on our website at:
http://www.ncnga.org/CombinedEvent
Page 6 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
7. NCNGA & NCNG COMBINED EVENT
26-28 APRIL 2013
WINSTON-SALEM, NC
COME EARLY AND JOIN US!
The North Carolina National Guard Association’s annual convention, and the Enlisted and Officer Military Balls
are joining forces in 2013 for a special weekend of fun, fellowship and camaraderie. This event will be held 26-
28 April 2013 at the Twin City Quarter in Winston-Salem, NC. What is the Twin City Quarter? It is comprised
of the Marriott Hotel, Embassy Suites Hotel and Benton Convention Center — all connected with a covered
walkway and in beautiful, downtown Winston-Salem.
Why combine all these events? Well, we hope to save you some money and eliminate another Guard related
weekend. We really hope you will plan to come early and enjoy the activities of the NC National Guard As-
sociation annual convention. For one registration price, you can attend the Business Sessions and learn about
YOUR Association, attend the Friday night hospitality rooms and dance — and then attend the grand finale: the
Combined Event Ball.
If you are able to come on Thursday, you can participate in the NCNGA Educational Foundation’s golf tourna-
ment and later that evening, try your luck at winning $4,000 at the Foundation’s annual Reverse Drawing (ticket
required). Then you will have most of Friday to enjoy a visit to Old Salem, the downtown arts district, the Win-
ston Cup Museum for race fans, the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, shopping, or golf before joining the
Association for their activities on Friday afternoon/evening.
Hotel rooms are blocked for Thursday, Friday and Saturday — so reserve your room today!
Are you a regular attendee to the NC National Guard Association Annual Convention? If so, don’t worry — this
is going to be a unique event and a lot of fun. There will be a lot of attendees for the dinner and dance on Sat-
urday evening, and the dress will remind those of you that have been attending for quite a few years of the “old
times” when we used to dress up for the Saturday evening event. You will also have the opportunity to meet the
leadership of the NC National Guard and visit with your current and former unit members. It is going to be fun
and different — don’t miss this event! We look forward to seeing you there!
Information on this event:
Lodging Info –
Marriott Hotel – Room rate of $97.00 plus tax
Embassy Suites – Room rate of $107.00 plus tax, includes full breakfast and manager’s reception
each evening
Events:
Thursday, 25 April 2013 – NCNGA Educational Foundation Golf Tournament and Reverse Drawing
(separate ticket required)
Friday, 26 April 2013 – NCNGA Annual Business Meeting, Hospitality Rooms, and Dance (casual attire)
Saturday, 27 April 2013 – NCNGA Annual Business Meeting/Election of Officers, Hospitality Rooms,
Dinner and Dance (semi-formal attire and/or dress uniforms)
Links to on-line registration and hotel registration are available
on our website at: http://www.ncnga.org/CombinedEvent
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 7
8. 113th Sustainment Brigade Medical Officer Earns Top
Leadership Award By Maj. Matt DeVivo, 113 Sustainment Brigade, Public Affairs
th
Camp Arifjan, Kuwait — US Army Medical level and simultane-
Command selected Capt. Jacqueline Brinson, ously managed roles
a member of North Carolina National Guard’s as NC Army National
113th Sustainment Brigade, as this year’s Army Guard Assistant Deputy
National Guard recipient of the Capt. John R. Surgeon and the State
Teal Leadership Award. The award is named in Medical Detachment
honor of Teal; the first medical officer killed in commander.
Operation Iraqi Freedom. “Brinson’s receipt
Teal, a Medical Service Corps (MSC) Of- of this award is an
ficer for the 4th Infantry Division, died from acknowledgment by the
injuries he sustained on October 23, 2003 near surgeon general and the
Baqubah, Iraq after a roadside bomb detonated medical operations con-
near his convoy. Upon his death, the Army sultant to the surgeon
Medical Command established the John R. Teal general, of her many
Award, which annually recognizes MSC officers years of outstanding
and NCOs who have made significant contribu- duty and performance,”
tions to the medical community and displayed stated Col. John Grote,
exceptional soldiering skills. senior medical opera-
Speaking about her award, Brinson said, tions officer attached to
Capt. Jacqueline Brinson, a medical service opera-
“I was very excited and a bit emotional when I the 113th Sustainment tions officer, is deployed with NC National Guard’s
found out that I received the Capt. John R. Teal Brigade. 113th Sustainment Brigade in support of Operation
Leadership Award. I’ve worked long and hard Brinson will receive Enduring Freedom. Brinson is this year’s Army
supporting North Carolina National Guard units a plaque, a surgeon National Guard recipient of the Capt. John R.
during their home-station mobilization and re- general congratulatory Teal Leadership Award which annually recognizes
deployment events and it’s a wonderful feeling note and an Army com- MSC officers and non-commissioned officers who
knowing your efforts have been acknowledged mendation medal to be have made significant contributions to the medical
by leaders in your career field as having made a presented by her home community and displayed exceptional soldiering
difference in an organization.” station commander. skills. (Courtesy Photo)
Brinson, from Fayetteville, NC, has worked Brinson’s unit is
in medical operations at the state and brigade currently on a year-long deployment in support of Operation Enduring
Freedom, and will redeploy home to NC this winter.
400+ years of service —
Steel Warrant Officers of the 113th Sustainment
Submitted by MAJ Matt Devivo, 113th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Officer
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - With 18 warrant
officers assigned to the 113th Sustainment Brigade,
the Greensboro, NC, based unit has over 400
combined years of expertise in various fields. “This
is unusual for a brigade,” said Chief Warrant
Officer 2 Roberta Toshumba, one of the 113th
SB’s warrant officers. “Usually, you only find a
handful of warrant officers in a brigade.” The
113th SB warrant officers, respectfully nicknamed
the “warrant officer mafia,” offer experience and
their subject matter expertise in: maintenance,
munitions, general supply, supply and services, food
service, personnel and human resources, mobility,
contracting, electronics, information technology
and communications and force management.
(US Army photo by Sgt. Miko M. Booth, 113th
Sustainment Brigade, Public Affairs)
Page 8 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
9. One Day Marks Double Changes for the 449th TAB
By Sgt. Kelly LeCompte, 449th TAB PAO
MORRISVILLE, NC – August 4 marked a ceived red
day of change for the North Carolina National roses and
Guard’s 449th Theater Aviation Brigade, as Jennifer
both a new brigade commander, as well as a Pierce
new battalion commander within the aviation received
brigade, were ceremoniously appointed inside a second
an aviation hanger at the units’ armory in Mor- bouquet,
risville, NC. one of
Battalion Commander LTC (P) Brian yellow In a rare staging event, three helicopters, (from left) a UH-
Pierce transferred command of the 1st Bat- roses. 60 Blackhawk, a LUH72 Lakota, and an AH64 Apache, line
talion, 130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, Both the rear of an aviation hanger at the 449th Theater Aviation
449th TAB, to incoming commander LTC change of Brigade’s headquarters in Morrisville, NC. The rotary winged
Denny Winningham, and Brigade Commander command aircraft adorned the double change of command ceremonies
COL Todd Hunt transferred command of the ceremo- for 1st Battalion, 130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, and
nies were the 449th Theater Aviation Brigade. (US Army Photo by Sgt. Kelly
449th TAB to LTC (P) Pierce.
LeCompte, 449th TAB PAO)
In the beginning of the morning ceremony, officially
the wives of both battalion commanders were marked with a tradition known as the passing of the colors. Every mili-
presented bouquets of fresh roses. Jennifer tary unit has a unit flag, known as the colors. The spirit of a military
Pierce, wife of outgoing commander LTC (P) unit is embodied in the colors under which it fights and serves. The tra-
Pierce, received fully bloomed red roses, to dition represents the transfer of responsibility for the accomplishment
symbolize the fully blossomed relationship she of the mission and the welfare of the battalion’s Soldiers.
has developed with the battalion, known as the During the 1-130th ARB ceremony, the battalion’s command ser-
Panthers. Becca Winningham, wife of incom- geant major, CSM Derwood Norris, first passed the colors to LTC (P)
ing commander LTC Winningham, received Pierce, who then passed the colors to the 449th TAB commander, COL
yellow rose buds, symbolizing the new be- Todd Hunt. COL Hunt then passed the colors to LTC Winningham,
ginning and arrival of the Panthers’ new first ceremoniously charging the new battalion commander with the respon-
lady. sibility for the battalion.
Similarly, in the afternoon brigade change In the same fashion, the brigade colors were passed from the bri-
of command ceremony, Kim Hunt, wife of gade’s command sergeant major, CSM Gary Hamm, to COL Hunt, who
outgoing brigade commander COL Hunt, re- passed them to Assistant Adjutant General-Maneuver COL (P) Ronnie
Coats, then to LTC Pierce, during the 449th TAB ceremony.
430th EOD Participates in Southern Accord
Explosive ordnance disposal
technician Staff Sgt. Tracy
Dice of the 430th EOD
Company examines a piece
of ordnance for a BDF
soldier at the Shoshong
Range in Botswana, Africa,
during Southern Accord
2012. Dice participated in a
mission to clear unexploded
ordnance from the range,
enabling US and BDF
forces to train together
during a multi-day field
training exercise.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Staff Sgt. James
Scott of the 430th EOD Company out of Washington, NC, (US Army photos by
provides support during the detonation of unexploded Sgt. Adam Fischman,
ordnance at the Shoshong Range in Botswana, during 139th MPAD)
Southern Accord 2012.
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 9
10. Protect Nest Egg from a Phony Golden Goose
By Barbara Bennett, Investor Education Specialist/Military Liaison
G
old-related investments value, investors get only the principal back and the interest rate may
are on the rise. vary significantly from that of a regular fixed rate CD.
Historically speaking, 6. Gold is a “safe” investment: Gold is a commodity, and, like other
the value of gold-related commodities, its price can fluctuate dramatically.
investments fluctuates even more than the stock 7. Don’t catch “Gold Fever”: crowds of promoters stand ready to take
market. Gold often moves in reverse of stocks and investors’ money. Beware of “exploration” companies with official-
bonds, so when stocks are down, gold seems like looking geological surveys or financial statements, when in reality
a very tempting investment. There are multiple there is little or no current production.
ways to invest in gold: actual gold, gold mining 8. Precious metal IRAs: make it possible for investors to buy gold
companies, etc. Know what you are getting into. with funds they already have. Gold must be insured and physically
Before jumping onto the gold bandwagon, there are shipped before going into storage in an approved depository, meaning
a few things you might want to consider. investors cannot keep coins in a closet.
1. Mutual funds: even with gold in their Also, beware of these Gold Investment Scams: Scenario #1: Seller offers
names, only about 10% of mutual funds to sell investors actual gold bullion, and then retain the gold in a “secure” vault,
have assets invested in the metal itself. with promises to sell the gold for them as it gains value. In many instances, the
2. Gold mining stock: more volatile than gold does not exist. Scenario #2: A company encourages
purchasing physical gold due to risks in investors to cash out of their poor-performing investments
discovering and mining the metal. to purchase gold. The investor ends up with a large bag of
3. Exchange-traded product: investor worthless gold colored coins.
purchases a share in a trust, which Before investing in gold, ask yourself some questions.
represents ownership in physical bars of Do I understand this investment? Is this investment right
gold. These trusts may have hidden costs for me? Have I verified the promoter is legitimate? As with
and higher taxation rates. any investment opportunity, you should contact the N.C.
4. Buying gold online: be sure to perform due Department of the Secretary of State’s Securities Division
diligence to find a reputable dealer because to determine if the person recommending the investment
no dealers are authorized or affiliated with and the investment itself are properly registered in North Carolina. Call us at
the U.S. Mint. (800) 688-4507. Find much more useful information to protect yourself and
5. Gold CDs: can be as misleading as “fool’s your financial future by visiting us at www.sosnc.com.
gold.” If the commodity decreases in
OCS Graduation — 2012
(Left to right) MG Greg Lusk, NC Ad-
jutant General; Distinguished Graduate
2LT Steffen G. Schollaer; and COL John
Byrd, 139th Regiment (CA) Commander.
FORT BRAGG, NC — The North Carolina Army National Guard welcomed 23 new second lieutenants into its ranks dur-
ing a commissioning ceremony for the North Carolina Military Academy Officer Candidate School graduates held at the
John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. Hundreds of family, friends and fellow Soldiers turned out for the
event in which Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, the adjutant general of North Carolina, administered the oath of office. (US Army
photos by Staff Sgt. Latoria Mckoy, NCNG Public Affairs )
Page 10 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
11. Retirees Gather in Eden for Reunion
By Ann Somers Fish
EDEN - Each year, former members of the 731st In 1940, the total strength
Maintenance Company out of Wentworth; the of the United States
5-113th Battalion Charlie Battery, formerly of Army, Navy, Army-Air
Eden; and the 113th Brigade Headquarters out of Force and Marines was
Greensboro gather in Eden for a reunion. 175,000, ranking 17th as
This year’s invitation read “Your orders are a world military power,
as follows: You are to be at the Whistle Jacket he said. On Sept. 14,
Restaurant at 1800 hours on 21 July 2012.” 1940 a total of 300,800
Although many were from Rockingham National Guardsmen were
County or other North Carolina locations, at mobilized throughout the
least one former Guardsman drove seven hours nation to serve in World
from Macon, GA. War II. About a month
They all agreed the trip they had to make to later, the draft began.
the dinner were well worth it. “Thank God, we had
All 38 retirees attending had at least 20 about 14 months to get
years each of service with the Guard, some with ready for Pearl Harbor,”
as many as 38 years. Several served in Vietnam. Hoover said. Pearl Harbor
Some were among the more than 200 members was bombed Dec. 7, 194l. (Left to right) COL (Ret) John Sabat
of the 731st Maintenance Company called up in After the war, the and CSM (Ret) Wink Hoover.
August of 1991 to serve in the first Gulf War. National Guard was reor-
Six full colonels attended the dinner. ganized in the state in 1947, and the Leaksville (now Eden) unit came into
CSM (RET) Winfred “Wink” Hoover of being as A Cannon Company 120th Infantry Battalion, 30th Division.
Eden began hosting the dinners in 1984 with 24 During the dinner, Col. Earl Taylor of Charlotte recognized the wives
veterans attending. At that time, only men were of the men attending, telling them the men couldn’t have served as they did
invited to attend. Now the wives also are invited without the support of their loved ones at home.
as are former female members of the Guard. Families had to “put up with” the absences of their National Guard hus-
“Many of those who attended the first event bands/fathers over a long period of time, he said. Although most absences
are no longer living,” he said. They were World were short-term – at least a weekend every month – occasionally such as in
War II veterans. 1991, the Guard was activated for longer periods.
“The National Guard and the Reserve have In the last eight or nine years, some Guardsmen have served two and
been an integral part of this country since its in- three tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Hoover said.
ception,” Hoover said. “The Minutemen in 1776 After the dinner, Col. Brian Kilgariff of Greensboro, in a private con-
were the same as today’s National Guard and versation, praised Hoover, saying his rank of Command Sergeant Major is
Reserves.” one “achieved by very few enlisted people in the United States Army.
“He is one of the few men who command the
respect of both the enlisted (personnel) and of-
ficers he served with.” Hoover “left an indelible
mark on people he led,” said Kilgariff, who re-
tired out of the Army Special Forces. “He led by
example,” the Colonel said. “He is a true soldier
and warrior.”
After the dinner, the former Guardsmen en-
joyed regaling stories about their “adventures”
during their service years.
Former members of the 731st Maint Co,
Btry C 5-113th, HHC 113th Bde pose for
a group photo at their reunion.
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 11
12. Being a Couple Again after Deployment:
Help for when the honeymoon seems over
A
t the Raleigh Vet Center we know with an intense tutorial intended to get you on the path to peaceful con-
about honeymoons, readjustment flict resolution. Couples learn to intensify their bond and enhance their
from deployed life to home life and day-to-day operations by resolving common issues once and for all.
we know about the impact that tours of com- They add this structured skill set to their toolbox for relationship main-
bat, recent or not, can have on a marriage or tenance and for emergency repairs! You’ll end this series as a better
significant relationship. It’s because so many listener, a more loving partner and hopefully, in the relationship you’ve
relationships struggle “after the honeymoon” always hoped for.
that we developed the Relationship Series; a Are you ready to participate? It’s easy. We will briefly pre-screen
psycho educational group for couple’s who you on the phone and set up an appointment to orient you to the center.
want to protect, improve, repair and just gener- If you and your partner are appropriate participants for this series, you
ally care for their relationship. will be added to the list for our next group. Don’t worry about timing
The series is made up of three 5 session or making a 15 week commitment! We have new couples entering and
segments, each with its own unique focus. We graduating from this series every five weeks! Just pick up the phone
begin by helping couples understand some of and give us a call. By D. Jocelyn Cahall, L.C.S.W., Raleigh Vet Center
the common struggles shared by many who Counselor.
have lived through combat tours, or the after
math, and have struggled with many of the Vet Centers, a branch of the Department of Veteran Affairs, offers
same challenges. We move on to the work of readjustment counseling to combat veterans, MST veterans, and their
establishing healthy foundations and end with families. The Raleigh Vet Center is located at 1649 Old Louisburg Rd,
intensive conflict resolution training. Raleigh, N.C. 27603, their phone number is (919) 856-4616. Other
While most combat veterans will have locations are in Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Greenville, and
some readjustment issues, it is just as likely Jacksonville; as well as across the US. Not all programs are available
that they will naturally recover and return to at each location. All our services are free of charge; thank you for
normal. Others will “get stuck” and find it par- your service to our country
ticularly difficult to live and to love as they did
previously and some will even exhibit symp-
toms of post traumatic stress, making it doubly North Carolina Division of
difficult to “get back to being themselves.”
In the first segment of our series, we iden- Veterans Affairs
tify these common reactions, from the vet’s
perspective and from the partner’s. We help The North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs
motivate couples to hang in there and to start offers a program of assistance to veterans and
seeing each other in new ways. The Five Love their dependents with claims for Federal, State,
Languages, by Gary Chapman, is a concept and local benefits. There is no charge for the
used to spark interest in the other person’s per- services of this Division. A statewide network of
ceptions of love and to get folks talking about offices is maintained, staffed by persons who are
how they show love and interpret love. As a trained and experienced in advising and actively assisting citizens con-
gift, we give each couple a copy of Mr. Chap- cerning various veterans’ benefits. The Division is a 100% State agency,
man’s book. yet it is accredited by the Federal Government to represent persons be-
We follow this up in segment two by fore the US Department of Veterans Affairs respecting benefits to which
exploring Stephen Covey’s “8 Habits of Suc- they may be entitled. About 85% of all assistance rendered North Caro-
cessful Marriages.” It’s here that individuals lina veterans and their dependents are handled by the State and counties.
discover their own potential to harness more Because it receives no Federal funds, with their accompanying controls
power in the relationship, to establish a com- and restraints, it is free to vigorously represent the interests of North
mon vision for the relationship and build a Carolina citizens in seeking veteran’s benefits to which they are entitled.
more intimate and exciting connection. We Persons needing information or assistance respecting veteran’s
provide each couple with a copy of Mr. Cov- benefits should contact their nearest veteran’s service office. County
ey’s successful book on the subject as well as Veterans Service Offices are located in nearly all of the counties in
valuable workbook and calendar to keep. North Carolina and are usually situated in the county seat. For more in-
Conflict is alive and well in all relation- formation you can look on-line at http://www.doa.nc.gov/vets/ and there
ships. For this reason we wrap up our series is a listing by county of the offices or call (919) 807-4250.
Page 12 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
13. Tarheel Retiree Homecoming and the
National Guard’s 376th Birthday Celebration 2012
FOR: Army and Air National Guard Retirees
DATE: Thursday, December 13, 2012
TIME: 1000 HRS
LOCATION: New Joint Force Headquarters, 1636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607
EVENT REGISTRATION: 0900-1000 HRS
INCLUDES: Mission update; benefits seminar; various information stations; luncheon; social time; and
celebrating the National Guard’s 376th Birthday.
REGISTRATION: Send the form below and a check for $15.00 per person payable to “NCNG Retiree
Luncheon” on or before 1 December 2012 to:
JFHQ-NC-PAO-CR
ATTN: Tarheel Homecoming
1636 Gold Star Drive
Raleigh, NC 27607
Registration Form also available on the NCNG Public Website at:
http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/retirees/
NOTE: Seating is limited to 450; please make your reservation as soon as possible.
QUESTIONS: Contact the following personnel with questions:
MSG Jimmy Bright Office: (919) 664 - 6000 x46843 Cell: (919) 612-5421
CPT Matthew Boyle Office: 919) 664 - 6000 x46829 Cell: (919) 741 - 7599
SGT Kalithia Adams Office: (919) 664 - 6000 x46902
2012 NCNG TARHEEL HOMECOMING and the National Guard’s 376th Birthday Celebration
Registration Form
Attendee Name and Rank (RET):
Guest Name (s):
Please provide the following
Mailing address:
E-mail Address:
Home or Cell Phone:
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 13
14. Separated or Retired from the NC National Guard?
Want to earn extra money?
Come to the Retiree Network Workshop on Thursday, 8 November 2012 at 10:30 a.m. The workshop will be
held at the NC National Guard Association office, located at 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh NC.
What is the Retiree Network? This program is comprised of separated/retired NC Guard members that
visit NC National Guard units during drill weekends to tell Soldiers and Airmen about the benefits of being
in the NC National Guard and a member of the NCNGA.
The workshop will last approximately two hours and will provide the information and tools you will need
to assist the NCNGA in its membership drive.
If you are interested in attending the workshop, please call Teri Foster at 1-800-821-6159, ext 1 or email
her at teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com.
We hope to see you on 8 November!
NCNGA Insured Members —
Have YOU Checked Your
Beneficiary Lately?
We have experienced several claims in the past two years
where beneficiaries had not been updated and ex-spouses (or
ex-friends) received the death benefits of the member’s NC
National Guard Association’s Group Life insurance.
Have you had a change in your marital status? Do you
know who you have designated as your beneficiary?
Contact us at 1-800-821-6159 and either Teri Foster at ext 1,
or Rhonda Arndt at ext 0, will be glad to assist you.
The North Carolina Department
of the American Legion
Thanks You for Your Service to
Our State and Nation!
We invite you to visit any of our 334 Posts,
statewide, visit our website
www.nclegion.org,
email us at nclegion@nc.rr.com,
or call 919-832-7506.
“For God and Country -
Still Serving Proudly.”
Page 14 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman
15. North Carolina Army Veteran to Ride Wild
Horse 300 Miles for Wounded Warrior Project
Submitted by Emily Thomas
What is more patriotic than an Army Veteran will only
riding across the Southeast on two American have been in
Mustangs to raise money for the Wounded War- captivity for
rior Project? Not much, that is, unless wounded about three
veterans hop on a mustang and ride along. months, in
Jim Thomas, a retired Sergeant Major with ten days.
the North Carolina Army National Guard, had Thomas
a vision. Thomas is a regular competitor in the will switch
Extreme Mustang Makeover, a competition that between
pairs horse trainers from across the country with mounts
untouched wild horses to go head-to-head with along the
other trainers, and wanted to use his involvement way, and
in this year’s competition to make a difference invites any
in the lives of his brothers and sisters in uniform. wounded warrior who would like the opportunity to hop on his spare horse
(http://www.extrememustangmakeover.com/) and ride along. He also has extended the invitation to his fellow competi-
“My first thought was, ‘wouldn’t it be cool if tors to ride along on their own mustangs on the last leg of the journey into
I could use my mustangs to raise money for the Clemson, which will be Oct. 18, to support the WWP.
WWP?’,” said Thomas. “Then I remembered an- To donate to “Mustangs for the Warrior,” please visit https://support.
other EMM trainer from 2008 who rode his horse woundedwarriorproject.org/individual-fundraising/mustangsforthewarrior/.
from his home in Las Vegas to the competition To track Thomas’ progress along his route, or to send him words of
in Fort Worth. If he could do that, I could surely encouragement, please visit our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/
ride from Silk Hope, NC to Clemson, SC for the pages/Bar-T-Horsemanship/124070031041024) or our website (www.Bar-
competition, raising money for the WWP along THorsemanship.com).
the way.” If you’d like more information, or would like to speak with Thomas,
The trek will be around 330 miles, which please contact Emily Thomas at 919-619-0045, or at ethomas04@gmail.com.
Thomas hopes to tackle with two mustangs, who
Individuals not listed
in the
June/July issue: In Memoriam
Billie Jean Jennings Listed below are those members (and non-members), spouses and dependent children that have
Spouse of recently passed away. If we have missed someone, please contact the Editor, Teri Foster at
Joseph L. Jennings teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com or 800-821-6159 ext 1.
Durham, NC
25 May 2012 Dorothy E. Lane McKinley Mangum Leokoshia L. Baldwin James C. Freeman
Timothy C. Hicks Spouse of Roy Lane Durham, NC Daughter of St. Pauls, NC
Ramseur, NC Elizabeth City, NC 17 July 2012 Kendell Baldwin 9 August 2012
4 June 2012 6 July 2012 Co E 230th BSB
David W. Daniel Kinston, NC Demarcus S. Locklear
Mary Helen Earnhardt Richard G. Wilson, NC 26 July 2012 2nd Bn 130th AVN
Spouse of Cocklereece, Jr. 20 July 2012 Rgmt (Rear)
Harold Earnhardt Greensboro, NC Randall Albertson Fort Bragg, NC
11 July 2012 Alice Garris Gibson Mount Olive, NC 9 August 2012
Rockwell, NC Emporia, VA
10 June 2012 30 July 2012
Isaac Hammonds 21 July 2012 Clayton H. Wilson
Tommy M. Jones, Jr. Son of Jerry W. Hamilton Zionville, NC
Salisbury, NC James P. Hammonds Frederick Fabean Rockingham, NC 25 August 2012
16 June 2012 Fayetteville, NC Durham, NC 2 August 2012
11 July 2012 22 July 2012 Jerry L. Baker
Millie Morrow Aaron D. Little Nashville, NC
Spouse of Nancy T. Poole
Robert E. Fish Hamlet, NC 3 September 2012
William T. Morrow Spouse of
Gastonia, NC 6 August 2012
Murrells Inlet, SC Harvey L. Poole
16 July 2012 Charlotte, NC
29 June 2012
22 July 2012
Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 15
16. Tarheel Guardsman Periodicals
NC National Guard Assoc. U. S. Postage
7410 Chapel Hill Road PAID
Raleigh, NC 27607-5047
Raleigh, NC
How to reach us:
919-851-3390
800-821-6159 (in NC only)
ncnga@bellsouth.net - email
www.ncnga.org - website
Plan now to join us 26-28 April 2013 for the NC National Guard Combined Event in Winston-Salem,
NC. There are many activities, historic areas and museums in the area, as well as shopping and golf.
We hope to see you there!
Winston-Salem
Points of Interest —
Historic Areas
Site of the first settlement in Forsyth County.
Guided tour includes 1788 German Church and
A view within Old Salem Museums & Gardens, as reconstructed fort. Medicine Garden and nature
it faces downtown Winston-Salem. Photo provided preserve on site. Photo by Gail Jones.
by Visit Winston-Salem.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens, located less than 1-1/2 Bethabara Park, settled in 1753, was a German-
miles from the Marriott Hotel and Embassy Suites, is speaking, Protestant settlement. It features a
comprised of historically restored museum buildings and restored 1788 church, archaeological ruins, a
homes of the Moravian settlement, craftsmen practicing reconstructed village, a French and Indian War
their trade, collections of rare antiques, and one-of-a-kind fort. There are 20 miles of nature trails, for those
gift shopping, and a wonderful bakery that offers world- wanting to take a hike through the woods and
renowned Moravian cookies. Visit the Tavern at Old enjoy nature. This park is located approximately
Salem or Mayberry’s Restaurant, above Winkler Bakery 5 1/2 miles from downtown Winston-Salem.
for a refreshing beverage and meal.