The Gem State Guardian - Spring 2011 - Keep Trees

IN THIS ISSUE 

U.S. Rep. Labrador 

visits troops in Iraq 

New Lakota helicopters 

arrive at Gowen Field 

Snowmobiler 

rescued by Guard 

helicopter team 

Volume 18 No. 1

DEPARTMENTS 

NEWS 

U.S. REP. LABRADOR 

VISITS TROOPS 3 

REGIONAL TRAINING SITE – 

MAINTENANCE TRANSFORMS 4 

AIR CONTROLLERS TRAIN CANDIDATES 

BEFORE TECH SCHOOL 5 

124TH FIGHTER WING OPERATIONAL 

READINESS EXERCISE 6 

NEW AWARD RECOGNIZES SUPPORTIVE 

EMPLOYERS OF GUARD SPOUSES 10 

IDAHO ADJUTANT GENERAL, SENIOR 

ENLISTED LEADER VISIT 116TH CBCT 

SOLDIERS IN IRAQ 11 

SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS AND HELP 12 

DIRECTORS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH 

AVAILABLE TO ASSIST SERVICE 

MEMBERS, FAMILIES 13 

SNOWMOBILER RESCUED BY GUARD 

HELICOPTER TEAM 14 

IDAHO GUARD UNITS REAPING 

BENEFITS OF EXCEPTIONAL 

TRAINING AREAS 16 

CORPORATE OFFICE: 

8537 Corbin Dr., Anchorage, AK 99507 

(907) 562-9300 • (866) 562-9300 

Fax: (907) 562-9311 

www.AQPpublishing.com 

Bob Ulin 

Publisher 

Justin Ritter 

Graphic Designer 

ON THE COVER: 

An UH-60 Black Hawk crew 

from the Idaho Army National 

Guard, helps to locate a lost 

snowmobiler. 

Photo: Courtesy of Sgt. 

Laytreda Schultz, Elmore 

County Sheriff’s Offi ce 

BAGHDAD - Spc. Michael O’Keefe (left), of Meridian, Idaho, Spc. Nicole Toothman (second from 

left), of Filer, Idaho, and Spc. Christina Watson (center), of Kuna, Idaho, along with other Soldiers 

of the 116th Cavalry Brigade, listen as Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates (right) discusses current 

events and policy changes with troops serving in support of Operation New Dawn under United 

States Division - Center at Camp Liberty in Baghdad, Iraq, April 7. 

Photo: Staff Sgt. April Davis, 116th Cavalry Brigade - Garrison Command, USD-C 

STATE LEADERSHIP REACHES OUT TO 

FAMILIES AT TOWN HALL MEETINGS 18 

NEW LAKOTA HELICOPTERS ARRIVE AT 

GOWEN FIELD 20 

GOWEN FIELD LEADING 

THE CHARGE TO SAVE ENERGY 21 

GOWEN AIRFIELD OPERATIONS 

EMPLOYING HANDS-ON WILDLIFE 

MANAGEMENT 22 

IDAHO ESGR COMMITTEE PRESENTS BOISE 

WITH ‘SEVEN SEALS’ AWARD 25 

“CONTINUOUS PROCESS IMPROVEMENT” 

AND THE IDAHO NATIONAL GUARD’S 

FUTURE 26 

PEOPLE 

2011 SOLDIER AND NCO BEST WARRIOR 

COMPETITION WINNERS AWARDED 8 

HIEDI YOUNG NAMED 

“YOUNG MOTHER OF THE YEAR” 24 

THE LAST WORD 

HAVE A GREAT SUMMER... SAFELY! 28 

Chris Kersbergen 

Darrell George 

Advertising Sales 

Marie Lundstrom 

Editor 

Volume 18 No. 1 Spring 2011 

Guardian Staff 

Maj. Gen. Gary Sayler 

Commanding General 

Col. Tim Marsano 

Editor 

Capt. Tony Vincelli 

Assistant Editor 

The Gem State Guardian 

4040 W. Guard Street 

Boise, Idaho 83705 

The Gem State Guardian is the offi cial 

newsletter of the Idaho National Guard. It is 

published quarterly with a circulation of 5,000 

copies. Opinions expressed herein are not 

necessarily those of the Army, Air Force, Army 

National Guard, Air National Guard or the Department 

of Defense. 

Published by AQP Publishing, Inc., a private 

fi rm in no way connected with the State of Idaho 

Military Division, or the Idaho National Guard, 

under written contract with the State of Idaho Military 

Division. This State of Idaho Military Division 

magazine is an authorized publication for employees 

and military members of the State of Idaho Military 

Division. Contents of this publication are not 

necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, 

the state of Idaho, the U.S. Government, Department 

of Defense or the Idaho National Guard. 

The appearance of advertising in this publication, 

including inserts or supplements, does not 

constitute endorsement by the state of Idaho, DoD, 

the Idaho National Guard or AQP Publishing, Inc. of 

the products or services advertised. 

Everything advertised in this publication shall 

be made available for purchase, use, or patronage 

without regard to race, color, religion, sex, 

national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, 

political affi liation or any other non-merit 

factor of the purchaser, user or patron. 

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided 

by the Offi ce of Public Affairs, Joint Force 

Headquarters – Idaho, State of Idaho Military 

Division. All photographs and graphic devices are 

copyrighted to the State of Idaho Military Division 

unless otherwise indicated. 

All submissions should pertain to the Idaho 

National Guard and are subject to editing. Contributions 

and reader comments should be sent to: 

timothy.marsano@us.army.mil. 

SPrinG 2011 1

2 The Guardian

116th Cavalry Brigade in Iraq 

U.S. Rep. Labrador visits troops 

Story and photo by Staff Sgt. April Davis 

116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team, Deployed 

BAGHDAD – U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador, 

R-Idaho, visited Soldiers with the 116th 

Cavalry Brigade Feb. 2 at Camp Victory 

in Baghdad, Iraq. The brigade is currently 

serving as Garrison Command 

for Victory Base Complex under United 

States Division – Center in support of 

Operation New Dawn. 

Labrador, a member of the House 

Committee on Oversight and Government 

Reform, traveled to Iraq with members 

of Congress from California, New 

York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, 

and Utah, as part of a congressional 

delegation visit to gain insight into U.S. 

government spending and progress in 

the country. The delegation took time 

out of their scheduled meetings with 

military and political leaders to have 

an informal dinner at the Joint Visitors 

Bureau with service members from their 

congressional districts. 

“Meeting with Soldiers has been the 

best part of the whole trip,” Labrador 

said. “There’s nothing better than being 

with the men and women from Idaho 

who are serving our nation, and I’m just so 

grateful for what they are doing.” 

Labrador met with the brigade commander, 

Col. Guy Thomas, and senior 

enlisted advisor, Command Sgt. Maj. Steve 

Woodall, both residents of Meridian, Idaho, 

to gain an understanding of the brigade’s 

mission in Iraq. 

Soldiers from the brigade also attended 

the dinner to meet Labrador and discuss 

with him issues important to them. 

“I learned more about my representative 

and his political stances than I knew 

before meeting him,” said Staff Sgt. Breane 

Rep. Raul Labrador meets with deployed Soldiers of the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team, Victory 

Base, Iraq, Feb. 2, 2011. 

Buckingham, a supply sergeant with B 

Company, 145th Brigade Support Battalion, 

and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, resident. “I 

think it was a learning experience on both 

sides because he also got a chance to learn 

about us. It was very informative.” 

This was Labrador’s fi rst visit to Iraq, 

which he said will leave a lasting impression 

on him. 

“I’ve never served in the military, so 

seeing all the men and women that are here 

sacrifi cing their lives, giving up their time, 

being away from their family … I can’t even 

imagine what it’s like to be gone for such a 

long period of time serving your country, and 

I’m going to take those thoughts back home 

with me,” he said. “Every time we’re thinking 

about sending someone to combat, this 

experience is going to be deeply ingrained 

in me.” 

Labrador also said he would deliver messages 

to the Soldiers’ families and communities 

back home in Idaho. 

“I want the family members to know that 

their Soldiers are doing really great work 

and they should be really proud of what they 

do,” he said. “I haven’t been more proud of 

my country than I am today.” 


Regional Training Site – Maintenance Transforms 

By Lt. Col. Dean Hagerman, 204th Regional Training Institute 

The 204th Regiment’s Idaho Ordinance 

Training Battalion, formerly known as the 

Regional Training Site – Maintenance, is at 

the forefront of the Army’s need to outpace 

its adversaries. This effort is seen in the rapid 

expansion of class offerings, the upgrading 

of facilities, the installation of new training 

aids and an additional mission. 

“We’re working hard to complete a major 

remodel in time to accommodate new 

hands-on trainers for Soldiers learning to 

maintain M1 tanks,” said Col. Alan Conilogue, 

commander, 204th RTI. “These new 

trainers are actual turrets from M1 tanks and 

contain all of the component systems maintainers 

need to master. The system allows 

trainers to insert specifi c faults into the 

equipment which students must sleuth out, 

further enhancing this interactive training.” 

To provide additional classroom space 

for the anticipated doubling of their student 

load, the unit is also revamping and 

Sgt. 1st Class Damon Moysard, right, 

an instructor with the IOTB Small 

Arms Repair Course, provides guidance 

to a student learning to adjust 

the M-242 Bushmaster 25 mm automatic 

gun from the M-2/M-3 series 

Bradley Fighting Vehicle. 

Photo: Sgt. Shauna Rowen. 

4 The Guardian 

upgrading classrooms with state-of-the-art 

multimedia systems. 

High tech training aids are not the only 

tool used by instructors. Army schools have 

often been behind when it comes to getting 

the latest information from the frontline into 

the classroom. Using students’ personal, fi rsthand 

experience, instructors now incorporate 

the latest information on Operational Environment 

by asking students to give examples 

of performing maintenance in a real-world, 

mission-directed environment. The IOTB 

facilities are a schoolhouse setting, so students 

are constantly asked how they could 

perform their mission in an austere, fi eld location. 

By doing this, the school ensures that its 

students are given the most useful and most 

current information possible. 

As part of a new mission, the IOTB 

sent members several times to Cambodia, 

Idaho’s State Partnership Program partner 

nation. Once there, they trained Cambodian 

Soldiers to maintain trucks provided to them 

by the U.S. 

As an additional challenge, in the next 

year, while adding courses, increasing student 

through-put, upgrading facilities and 

overseas travel, the IOTB will be evaluated 

by both the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine 

Command and the Ordinance School, their 

proponent command. This evaluation will 

decide whether the school is accredited 

under new, more stringent standards. The 

school’s future will be determined by their 

successes. 

If past performance is any measure, 

despite all of these demands and with a 

lot of hard work by the staff and faculty, the 

future of Idaho’s Ordinance Training Battalion 

looks bright.

AIR CONTROLLERS TRAIN CANDIDATES BEFORE TECH SCHOOL 

By Lt. Col. Gary Daniel, 124th Fighter 

Wing public affairs offi cer 

The high-demand, select cadre of 

Joint Terminal Air Controllers from the 

124th Air Support Operations Squadron 

are investing heavily in the next generation 

of controllers by training candidates 

for their positions even before these 

candidates attend their fi rst technical 

schools. The National Guard 

Bureau-mandated “One-Level Program” 

directs all Air National Guard 

Air Support Operations Squadrons 

to prepare young Airmen to pass the 

physical and academic standards at 

the rigorous Tactical Air Command 

and Control apprentice program at 

Hurlburt Field, Fla. 

TACC applicants benefi t from a low 

student-to-instructor ratio. All 124 ASOS 

mentors are Terminal Attack Controlcertifi 

ed instructors. Days in the four-day 

course usually run to more than 16 hours 

of training. The 124th recently fi nished 

training its second group of candidates. 

“Our students have to accomplish dozens 

of tasks before they are allowed to attend the 

TACC school in Florida,” said Senior Master 

Sgt. Travis Weitzel, instructor/evaluator, JTAC, 

124 ASOS. 

The new program’s purpose is to allow 

ASOS units throughout the ANG to ensure 

the readiness of aspiring Terminal Air Control 

Party members and send them with a 

high likelihood of completing the demanding 

apprentice program. Weitzel pointed out 

that the active-duty Air Force does not have a 

similar program because many basic training 

graduates don’t have the opportunity to identify 

with their units before technical training. 

“When we send a student to Hurlbert, he’s 

representing the Idaho Air National Guard,” 

Weitzel said. 

Joint Terminal Attack Controller instructors (in 

tan pullovers) Tech. Sgt. Mark Andrews, center, 

Tech. Sgt. Scott Hunter, back of pack, and Tech. 

Sgt. Grant Settle, right, participate in every step of 

the multiple physical training classes as they lead 

students of the 124th ASOS “One-Level Program.” 

The National Guard Bureau has mandated the program 

for all Terminal Air Control Party aspirants. 

Photo: Master Sgt. Tom Gloeckle 


124 th Fighter Wing Operational 

Readiness Exercise, March 5-6 

As part of the mobility processing line, Tech. Sgt. Todd Kurowski of 

the 124th Maintenance Squadron is checked with a magnetometer 

for metallic objects by Tech. Sgt. Betty Snyder. Snyder is a member 

of the 124th Air Support Operations Squadron and an augmentee 

for processing personnel through the mobility line. 

Photo: Tech. Sgt. Heather Walsh 


Pfc. Bridget Wintrode, 

Det. 2, HHC 116th BSTB, 

receives congratulations 

and her State Honor 

Guard tab from Brig. 

Gen. Alan Gayhart, 

commander, Idaho Army 

National Guard and 

Command Sgt. Major 

Kenneth Downing, state 

enlisted leader, during a 

graduation and tabbing 

ceremony at Gowen 

Field, March 25, 2011. 

The ceremony ended 

a week of training for 

11 new Honor Guard 

members from around 

the state. The Honor 

Guard expects to 

participate in some 1,200 

funerals of veterans this 

year, and will also take 

part in dozens of color 

guard postings at public 

events. These outstanding 

Soldiers are some 

of the finest and most 

visible ambassadors of 

our organization. 

Photo: Spc. Elizabeth Canary 


2011 Soldier and NCO Best Warrior 

competition winners awarded 

By Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth L. Downing, Idaho National Guard Senior Enlisted Leader 

The 2011 Idaho Army National Guard 

Soldier and Noncommissioned Offi cer Best 

Warrior competition was conducted March 

3-6, 2011, at Gowen Field. Units from across 

the state sent their best Soldiers and NCOs to 

contend in this intense competition. 

The competition covered four days and 

included the Army Physical Fitness Test, a 

four- mile ruck march, day and night land 

navigation, weapons marksmanship, warrior 

task testing, combatives competition, essay 

evaluation and an appearance board. All 

competitors were recognized and winners 

announced at an awards ceremony held 

March 6 in the Joint Forces Headquarters 

auditorium with Col. Robert Lytle as presiding 

offi cer. 

The 2011 Idaho Army National Guard Best 

Warrior NCO of the Year is Staff Sgt. Ulysses 

Mittelstadt, 116th Brigade Special Troops 

Battalion, out of Hailey, Idaho. The Soldier of 

the Year is Spc. Jacob Sam from the 1/183 

Aviation Battalion out of Boise. These Soldiers 

will now advance to the regional competition 

being held in Bismarck, N. D., in June 2011. 

“Winning this competition feels great,” 

Mittelstadt said. “The most challenging 

aspect was the physical part, but being able 

to communicate well is also a critical Soldier 

task whether it’s in a competition or on the 

battlefi eld. I look forward to moving on to the 

regional competition in June.” 

All competitors gave their all during the 

competition, demonstrating superb Soldier 

skills, experience and determination throughout 

the event. 

The command sergeants major want to 

thank the commands from across the state 

for their superb support and preparations in 

the conduct of this competition. We would 

also like to thank the Idaho chapter of the 

Enlisted Association of the National Guard 

of the United States, the Army and Air Force 

Exchange Service, USAA, Revision Military 

Eyewear, Wagons Ho of Idaho, and London 

Bridge Trading Company for their support in 

recognizing these outstanding Soldiers. 


Staff Sgt. Ulysses Mittelstadt and Spc. Jacob Sam receive their awards from Idaho Army 

National Guard chief of staff Col. Robert Lytle, March 6, 2011, Gowen Field. 

Photos: Spc. Elizabeth Canary

Lewiston Soldiers 

Pfc. Robert Livingston, 126th 

Engineer Company, left, 

and Spc. George Hamblin 

perform maintenance repair 

work on a truck at the Lewiston 

Armory, March 6, 2011. 

Photo: Col. Tim Marsano, 

JFHQ-ID PAO 


New award recognizes supportive 

employers of Guard spouses 

By Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve report 

ARLINGTON, Va. – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve 

announced an expansion of the Patriot Award Program to include 

employers of Guard and Reserve spouses. 

The Patriot Award was previously presented only to employers of 

Guardmembers and Reservists. 

After learning of the growing number of employers adopting supportive 

initiatives for military spouses, ESGR embraced the opportunity 

to recognize these employers with their own Department of 

Defense award. 

The employer of a military spouse has no legal obligation to 

provide unique support, but Guard and Reserve spouses share the 

challenges of military service. 

Childcare, managing the household, and work schedules often 

have to be adjusted when one spouse leaves to serve our country. 

Military spouses value the cooperation and encouragement of 

their employers just as much as those in the Guard and Reserve. 

The expansion of the Patriot Award honors these patriotic 

employers and is the only Department of Defense award designated 

for spouses’ employers. 

The nation has relied heavily on Guard and Reserve service 

members since entering continuous operations almost 10 years 

ago. These service members have deployed and fought side by side 

with active duty members, often leaving a spouse behind to do the 

work of two. 

Unlike their counterparts on active duty, Guard and Reserve 

ATTN Service members & spouses: Nominate your employer for the Patriot Award at: 

http://esgr.org/site/Programs/PatriotAward.aspx 


spouses may not live near the supportive network of large military 

bases. In many cases, an employer is a Guard and Reserve spouse’s 

strongest support community. 

Guard and Reserve spouses are already coming forward to share 

how their employers have gone above and beyond in their support. 

For one spouse, her supervisor shifted her nursing schedule 

when her husband deployed to allow the mother of three to 

continue working, but also to be at home for their children during 

the school year. When babysitter options became too diffi cult to 

coordinate, she was granted a leave of absence with no questions 

asked. 

Robyn Gellerup, a Wisconsin mother of three, works as an offi ce 

manager for a construction company showroom. 

“While my husband was deployed both times, Rod and Becky 

Cook have taken care of us like we are part of their family – from 

mowing our lawn, plowing snow from our driveway, to performing 

maintenance on our vehicles and home,” Gellerup said. 

“It gave my husband peace of mind knowing that if something 

goes wrong, I could just pick up the phone and they’d be there.” 

All spouses of Guard and Reserve members are eligible to nominate 

their employers. Spouses can log on to www.esgr.org/PA to fi ll 

out the spouse nomination form. 

Each nominated supervisor will receive a Department of Defense 

Certifi cate of Appreciation, presented by the spouse employee or 

the local volunteer from the ESGR State Committee. 

About ESGR: 

Employer Support of the Guard and 

Reserve is a Department of Defense 

agency established in 1972 to develop 

and maintain employer support for 

Guard and Reserve service. 

ESGR advocates for relevant initiatives, 

recognizes outstanding support, 

increases awareness of applicable 

laws, and resolves confl ict between 

service members and employers. 

Paramount in ESGR’s mission is 

encouraging employment of Guardsmen 

and Reservists who bring integrity, 

global perspective and proven 

leadership to the civilian workforce. 

For more information about ESGR 

Outreach Programs, or ESGR volunteer 

opportunities, please call (800) 

336-4590 or visit http://www.esgr.mil/.

Maj. Gen. Gary Sayler greets 1st Sgt. Peter Fitzgerald, 1-148 Field Artillery Battalion in Iraq. 

Idaho Adjutant General, 

Senior Enlisted Leader 

visit 116 th CBCT soldiers in Iraq 

In February, Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Gary Sayler and Command Sgt. Maj. 

Kenneth Downing, senior enlisted leader, had the opportunity to travel to Iraq and 

visit with Idaho Army National Guard members serving in Operation New Dawn. 

During the trip, the two were able to get a gauge on how our men and women are 

doing. They conferred with Col. Guy Thomas, 116th CBCT commander and his 

staff, and visited extensively with the Soldiers. They were able to tour parts of the 

country in a helicopter, and also had the opportunity to get a feel for the weapon 

systems used by the men and women of the 116th. 

The 116th CBCT Soldiers are due to return to Idaho in September after a 

yearlong mobilization. 

“The trip was well worthwhile,” said Downing, “and it provided us with a 

greater sense of the scope and difficulty of the mission. The Soldiers are doing 

things for which they cannot normally train, and doing them well. It was great 

seeing them perform their roles, which they’re doing with great professionalism 

and an outstanding attitude. We look forward to seeing them back home this fall, 

safe and sound.” 


Sexual Assault Awareness and help 

By Mr. Terry Williams, JFHQ-ID Assistant Sexual Assault Response Coordinator 

Sexual assault is one of the most devastating 

crimes that can be perpetrated against 

both women and men. Those who prey on 

innocent victims have no distinguishing 

characteristics; they are not necessarily the 

stranger in the night. Most sexual assaults 

are carried out by someone familiar with the 

victim – a friend, relative, or even a spouse. 


Hopefully this article will raise your awareness, 

bring attention to this heinous crime 

and help foster a safer working and living 

environment. 

Though statistics vary from agency to 

agency, it is important to note that most 

sexual assaults go unreported. Studies 

indicate 1 in 3 females will be sexually 

assaulted sometime in their life, and hold 

the phone…1 in 8 males will be sexually 

assaulted in their lifetime. 

Survivors of sexual assault face obstacles. 

Victims may blame themselves for 

what has happened; they feel they have 

lost their dignity, self respect and lost their 

willingness or ability to trust and sometimes 

love. In many instances they become reclusive 

and withdrawn. However, the reality is 

NO ONE ASKS TO BE A VICTIM. Victims 

are just that—victims. 

In the past, society has placed a lot of 

the blame on the victim. They would say 

such odd things as “Well, if they wouldn’t 

dress that way, then it would not have happened” 

or “They went to the bar and got 

drunk, you know—the meat market, what 

did they expect?” So, let me comment on 

this issue. It doesn’t matter the situation,; it 

doesn’t matter where; it doesn’t matter who 

is involved—all that really matters is, “NO” 

means “NO!” If there is any doubt, don’t. 

As a military family, we all have the ability 

to curb and eventually eliminate sexual 

assault. For just a second think back to when 

you were at a function and you observed 

someone talking to another person who 

had way too much to drink. Male or female, 

it doesn’t matter, situations like this happen 

all the time. Bottom line, if you have that 

uneasy feeling, that gut reaction that says, 

“I don’t think he/she should be taking that 

person home,” then step in and get that 

person out of a potentially bad situation. As 

a Wingman or Battle Buddy we should have 

the moral courage to intercede in situations 

that we know just aren’t right. We’d do it if 

that were our child, sister, mother or friend. 

As a bystander you have untold power to 

effect a positive change in our attitudes and 

thinking and using this power to intercede 

will help us meet our goal—no tolerance 

when it comes to sexual assault. Remember 

this: “Hurts one, affects all.” 

In the military there are resources available 

for victims of sexual assault. The Sexual 

Assault Response Coordinator is the focal 

point for this help. The SARC, chaplains, unit 

victims’ advocates and medical personnel 

all have privileged communications and are 

the only personnel you can contact and still

etain your rights for a confi dential report. 

Based on the victim’s desires, they can keep 

the information completely confi dential. This 

is considered a “Restricted Report,” which 

keeps the victim’s identity a secret but limits 

what actions can be taken. Restricted reporting 

still allows for the SARC to arrange for 

medical and other forms of assistance. These 

benefi ts can be accessed either through military 

channels or other sources available to 

your SARC. The second type of reporting 

is the “Unrestricted Report,” which allows 

the SARC to divulge limited information to a 

select group of personnel on a need-to-know 

basis to facilitate medical treatment and 

Directors of Psychological Health 

available to assist service members, families 

The National Guard has appointed directors of psychological 

health for each state and territory to ensure a continuance of excellent 

care for service members and their families. 

The state directors of psychological health have been assigned 

to each of the 54 Joint Force Headquarters to serve service members 

in the Army and Air Guards, National Guard offi cials said. 

“We are slowly building a behavioral health program [in the 

National Guard],” said Public Health Service Capt. Joan Hunter, the 

National Guard Bureau’s director of psychological health. “Currently, 

we have 56 directors of psychological health.These are licensed practitioners 

at the independent level – meaning they have state licenses 

to practice without supervision – but we provide them with supervision 

and make it mandatory, even if they don’t need it. In other words, 

they have a lot of experience.” 

Here in Idaho, we have two practitioners assigned. For Air National 

Guard members and their families, Shawn Wood provides free, confi - 

dential support. He is available to provide consultation and support at 

both the organizational and individual levels. “Over the past two years 

I have enjoyed working in this capacity,” he said. “Having served in the 

military, I truly appreciate the sacrifi ce required to serve our country 

and protect the freedoms we enjoy. It is my mission to continue serving 

you and your families.” 

To serve the entire Idaho National Guard, family members and 

Reserve component members from Idaho, Penelope Hansen is 

available. “I am here to assess the needs of the military community 

and work to implement support to strengthen healthy functioning in 

service members and their families. I am working to decrease the 

stigma that may be associated with seeking help. I am assisting 

Contact information (each is able to meet outside their offi ces): 

Penelope Hansen, Idaho National Guard DPH 

Bldg. 270, Gowen Field 

Phone: (208) 860-0189 

penelope.hansen@ceridian.com 

access other assistance. However, the most 

important feature of unrestricted reporting is 

that it aids in the initiation of a law enforcement 

investigation, and allows commanders 

to help the keep the victim safe. 

The Department of Defense has made the 

reduction and elimination of sexual assault a 

priority. To ensure 24/7 access to your SARC, 

they have created the Safe Helpline, which is 

a confi dential and anonymous sexual assault 

hotline for the DoD community. Below is the 

contact information for Safe Helpline and the 

offi ce/cell numbers for your JFHQ SARCs. 

We are here to help you! 

SAFE HELPLINE 

Internet: www.safehelpline.org 

Landline: 877-995-5247 

Text: 55-247 (CONUS) or 

202-470-5546 (OCONUS) 

JFHQ SARC, Lt. Colleen Walker 

Offi ce: 208-272-8400 

Cell: 208-447-6166 

Assistant JFHQ SARC, 

Mr. Terry Williams 

Offi ce: 208-272-4306 

Cell: 208-949-7583 

Public Health Service Capt. Joan Hunter, director of psychological health 

for the National Guard Bureau, speaks at the 2010 Suicide Prevention 

Conference sponsored by the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments 

in Washington, D.C. Defense Department photo by Elaine Wilson 

to create a culture where service members and their families feel 

comfortable seeking the assistance they need. 

“I am also here to assist in crisis situations should they occur. I 

am hoping by developing strong resiliency programs in Idaho, service 

members and families will be able to obtain assistance before 

issues feel insurmountable. I am excited and proud to be working 

with such an outstanding organization which is truly made up of 

people who go above and beyond each day to serve the state of 

Idaho and this country.” 

Shawn Wood, Idaho Air National Guard DPH 

Bldg. 400, Gowen Field 

Phones: cell (208) 863-3015, offi ce (208) 422-5377 

shawn.wood.ctr@ang.af.mil 


Snowmobiler 

rescued by Guard 

helicopter team 

On March 22, an UH-60 Black Hawk crew from Company 

A, 168th General Services Aviation Battalion, Idaho Army 

National Guard, was called in to help locate a lost snowmobiler 

stuck in a remote area near Bennett Mountain in Elmore 

County for two nights in blizzard conditions. A small break in 

the weather allowed the crew to search for him, fi nd him and 

hoist him into the helicopter with a happy outcome—other 

than minor frostbite, the man is now fi ne. 

The rescued man happens to be a retired Idaho Air 

National Guard offi cer, Lt. Col. Craig Noll. He tried using his 

cell phone a couple of times during his plight, but could not 

reach anybody. However, the cell phone company picked 

up his pings and used them to triangulate his area and get a 


RIGHT: A week after being 

rescued, Craig Noll came to 

Gowen Field on March 29, to 

personally thank the UH-60 

Black Hawk helicopter crew 

that hoisted him to safety 

after he was stranded in blizzard 

conditions on Bennett 

Mountain. From left to right, 

Staff Sgt. Ty Bramble, CW4 

Rob Briggs, Mr. Noll, CW3 

Jesse Anderson, Sgt. First 

Class James Williamson. 

Photo by Col. Tim Marsano 

rough idea of his location. 

The incident commander 

provided the crew with a 

map and a general location 

of those pings. Along 

with a sheriff’s deputy, 

the crew headed out 

from the command post 

during the weather break 

and within 15 minutes 

saw Noll waving at them 

from the ground. The crew used their hoist, hovering about 100 

feet above Noll, to bring him into the Black Hawk. 

In a later phone conversation with pilots Chief Warrant Offi cer 

4 Robert Briggs and Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Jesse Anderson, Noll 

said, “You guys were so incredibly timely. Thank you.” Noll elaborated 

on his experience, adding that he was watched and tracked 

as he walked by at least three wolves. In the fi rst night, blizzard 

conditions kicked in, destroying the shelter he’d built. His three 

pairs of gloves were frozen and useless. 

Helicopter crew members: 

• Pilot in command: Chief Warrant Offi cer 4 Robert Briggs 

• Pilot: Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Jesse Anderson 

• Crew chief: Staff Sgt. Ty Bramble 

• On hoist: Sgt. 1st Class James Williamson 

Photos: Courtesy of Sgt. Laytreda Schultz, Elmore County Sheriff’s Offi ce 

Letter of thanks 

I want to take this opportunity to express my most profound 

gratitude and sincere appreciation to all involved in my 

successful recovery recently after getting stranded for two 

nights in the mountains with a degraded and ultimately inoperable 

snowmobile during severe snowstorms. The coordination, 

cooperation, and ceaseless efforts by many agencies and friends 

ultimately led to my safe return. I also want to express a very 

special thank you to the Idaho National Guard family, Army 

and Air, and especially the Black Hawk crew of Crow 55—Chief 

Warrant Offi cer 4 Robert Briggs, pilot in command; Chief Warrant 

Offi cer 3 Jesse Anderson, pilot; Sgt. 1 st Class Ty Bramble, 

hoist operator; and Sgt 1 st Class Jimmy Williamson, deployer— 

for the professionalism and tenacity shown by them during my 

successful and timely recovery. It’s been 32 years since I went 

through survival and helicopter jungle extraction training in the 

Air Force. Little did I know that I would have the opportunity, 

after my military retirement, to get “recurrent.” It’s diffi cult to 

actually fi nd words that truly express my gratitude. 

Thank you again to all of you! 

Craig A. Noll 

Lt. Col., IDANG (Ret) 


An HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter from the 305th Rescue 

Squadron practices extraction of a downed aviator at the 

Orchard Training Area, February 2011. Idaho Soldiers 

played the role of the downed aviators. 


Story and photo by Lt. Col. Douglas Smith, 

commander, 1/183th Battalion 

Without question, the Idaho Air and Army 

National Guard have some of the most enviable 

training areas and facilities in the United States. 

Not only are the training areas and facilities 

superb, but what makes them even more appealing 

is the close proximity to an established base 

like Gowen Field. With a fully functional multipurpose 

range complex able to accommodate 

multiple weapon systems, employed either as 

a single entity or in a complex joint operation, 

units outside of Idaho are discovering the unique 

training opportunities we offer.

For example, Air Force Reserve units like 

the 34th Weapons Squadron out of Nellis AFB 

in Nevada and the 305th Rescue Squadron 

out of Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona have 

become repeat visitors to Idaho for several 

years. These two organizations find it well 

worth their while to make the trip here, bringing 

a whole assortment of resources and 

capabilities not found in Idaho. Units like A 

Company/168th and 1/183rd ARB are reaping 

the benefits from these units almost on a 

weekly basis, and in turn, are reaching new 

levels of proficiency and mission readiness. 

The common themes and feedback often 

heard by all visiting units is the exceptional 

support offered by Idaho units and facilities, 

the ease by which to request and occupy training 

areas, aerial and ground weapon ranges 

that afford numerous means of employment, 

the capacity to replicate battlefield-like conditions 

found currently in support of overseas 

contingency operations and a variety of Idaho 

units willing to capitalize on opportunities to 

train in combined and joint operations. 

That was the case recently between the 

305th Rescue Squadron and Idaho aviators 

who took full advantage of personnel recovery 

training in February. Although the 305th 

Rescue Squadron’s primary training event 

was to conduct annual door gunnery qualification, 

the means by which they conduct 

their qualification demands a whole host of 

additional players, resources, and extremely 

realistic scenarios like that found in current 

theaters of combat. 

Role players of all sorts were immersed into 

the scenarios like Idaho’s Installation Support 

Unit, the “Red Platoon,” for pyrotechnic support; 

the 304th Rescue Squadron Pararescue 

Jumpers, also known as “PJs”; and pilots and 

aircrew members of the 1/183rd ARB and A 

Company/168th. 

Typical scenarios occurred day and night 

by which 305th Rescue Squadron HH-60 Pave 

Hawks carrying PJs would descend upon an 

area in the Orchard Training Area for a downed 

aviator situation. On the ground, Idaho aviators 

were required to mark their positions by various 

means, verify their identity through code 

words and authentication processes, and wait 

for the rescue situation to unfold. The 305th 

Rescue Squadron’s initial efforts went toward 

impressively clearing the area with live ordinance 

from their 7.62 mini-guns firing at a rate 

of 2000 to 6000 rounds per minute. This was 

soon followed by PJs conducting fast rope 

insertion off the HH-60s in order to establish 

a perimeter of security and attend to Idaho 

aviators and aircrew members simulating 

combat wounds. While all of this was occurring, 

pyrotechnics created the fog of war 

and replicated the sights and sounds of the 

battlefield. All the events culminated with the 

HH-60s swooping in overhead, establishing 

a high hover, and extracting all personnel by 

means of a hoist—end of mission. 

The personnel recovery training received 

prior to previous Idaho aviation deployments 

was woefully inadequate and pales 

in comparison to what was experienced 

during this exercise. The lack of preparedness 

or understanding of personnel recovery 

operations by Idaho aviators will not be 

repeated in the future due in large part to 

our ability to train with these outside entities. 

The silver lining with this training event 

undeniably can be traced back to the quality 

of Idaho training areas, ranges, facilities, 

and willingness of the Idaho National Guard 

to accommodate outside units who bring 

unique training opportunities which better 

prepares us to be combat ready and conduct 

our state and federal missions. 


“How can we help?” 

State leadership reaches out to families at town hall meetings 

By Col. Tim Marsano, JFHQ-ID PAO 

Beginning in late January, Idaho Adjutant General Maj. Gen. 

Gary L. Sayler led a team of offi cers and senior NCOs on a road 

trip around the state. The idea was to ensure an ongoing dialogue 

between the state’s military leadership and the family members of 

deployed Soldiers. 

The team conducted the meetings at seven locations around 

the state. In attendance were spouses, parents and children of 

members of the 116th CBCT. “How can we help?” asked Sayler. 

“Without strong, healthy families, we can’t have strong, healthy Soldiers.” 

Sayler also stressed, in each meeting, the need to keep the 

dialogue going with family members, family readiness groups and 

family assistance coordinators. 

He also said he was working with elected state leaders and the 

Idaho business community to help returning Soldiers with getting 

jobs. 

Another issue Sayler stressed was suicide prevention and resiliency 

training for Soldiers and families. The support is there as long 

as Soldiers and family members recognize the signs and work to 

get that help. 

Brig. Gen. Alan Gayhart, Idaho Army National Guard commander, 

took the fl oor at each town hall meeting to stress the issue of suicide 

prevention, as well as to discuss the upcoming demobilization when 

the Soldiers return in September. “There is no reason to believe Soldiers 

will be forced to remain in Iraq longer than that.” 

Once Soldiers return, the plan is to have them outprocess at Joint 

Base Lewis/McChord near Tacoma, Wash. That process should last 

about fi ve to seven days, although for some Soldiers, it could take 

longer. “That may not be enough time, and Soldiers should not rush 

it.” Soldiers need to ensure that their medical and other issues are 

addressed while they’re still in an active-duty status, so they can be 

paid while their issues are addressed. While they can get assistance 

for documented issues from the Veterans Administration after they 

leave active duty, the better way is to remain on active duty as long 

as it takes. 

“Be proud of what you and your families are doing for our nation,” 

said Gayhart. “Each of you and your loved ones are earning the freedom 

we have in this country.” He added that family members should 

not plan on traveling to Washington while their loved ones are there, 

so Soldiers can concentrate on taking care of the important business 

of outprocessing properly. Gayhart also made resiliency a theme at 

each stop. With the threat of suicide among the ranks an increasing 

problem, he stressed the need to recognize symptoms of the threat 

and the importance of reaching out to others during diffi cult times. 

Help is available if people ask. 

Lt. Col. Darren Blagburn, 116th Rear Detachment commander, 

discussed the leave each Soldier was to receive during the deployment 

and for about 30 days after the brigade returns in September. 


Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Downing, Idaho National Guard senior 

enlisted leader, addresses the audience at the Town Hall meeting in the 

Twin Falls Armory, Feb. 4, 2011. Photo: Col. Tim Marsano, JFHQ-ID PAO 

The deployment orders are for 400 days so that each Soldier can 

take advantage of the 30 days annual leave they accrue while serving 

in Iraq. He also discussed communication strategies, noting that 

some Soldiers in Iraq and family members are talking sometimes 

two or three times daily. “Create a script, using thoughts you come 

up with during the day and post those thoughts on your refrigerator 

doors,” he suggested. 

Blagburn also implored audience members to share the things 

they learn at the town hall meetings with other family members 

who could not attend. In addition, he discussed the options for 

reintegration techniques at courses to be offered as the return date 

closes in. 

Col. Anthony Wickham, the Idaho Army Guard’s personnel offi cer, 

offered up services like fi nancial planning and counseling opportunities 

for family members and Soldiers. He also discussed youth 

camp opportunities, available through each area’s family assistance 

coordinator.

Civil Support Team 

Members of the Idaho National Guard’s 101st WMD 

Civil Support Team analyze a (simulated) hazardous 

material at their evaluation exercise, Meridian City 

Hall, March 9, 2011. The 101st CST can be called into 

action at the request of civilian first response agencies 

in Idaho to provide sophisticated analysis, communications, 

advice and other support when needed. The 

team is made up of both Army and Air Guard members 

who train regularly with first response agencies around 

the state. Photo: Col. Tim Marsano, JFHQ-ID PAO 


New Lakota helicopters 

arrive at Gowen Field 

Fresh from the factory, two new helicopters arrived at Gowen 

Field on March 18. The helicopter is designated as the UH-72A 

“Lakota” – it is a light utility helicopter designed specifi cally for 

the medical evacuation mission the Idaho Army National Guard 

performs as part of our training mission. It will also be used in 

support of civilian emergency operations throughout the state. 

The UH-72A helicopter is built by American Eurocopter 

in Columbus, Miss. and is known in the civilian world as the 

EC-145, in daily use with security agencies, emergency medical 

service providers and corporations throughout the world. 

With its rear-loading clamshell doors, an externally mounted 

rescue hoist and cabin space that can accommodate two 

stretchers and a medical attendant, it is considered an optimal 

choice for its designated National Guard mission. 

The two helicopters will operate under the newly formed 

Detachment 1 of D Company, 1/112th Security and Support 

Battalion, Idaho Army National Guard. 


The UH-72A Lakota. 

Photo: Emily Brainard 

Lt. Col. Ted Clemens and Sgt. 1st Class James Williamson attach the wheels used 

to move the new helicopters around the fl ightline. Unlike the UH-60 and AH-64 

helicopters, the Lakota does not have fi xed wheels. 

Photo: Col. Tim Marsano 

The two new Lakotas prepare 

to touch down at Gowen Field 

for the fi rst time. 

Photo: Col. Tim Marsano

Gowen Field leading 

the charge to save energy 

By Lt. Col. Gary A. Daniel 

124th Fighter Wing Public Affairs 

Driven by the Federal Energy Policy Act of 

2005, the 124th Civil Engineering Squadron 

is halfway through a decade-long energy program 

that will affect every workplace, every 

Guardsman and civilian, and how they operate 

at Gowen Field. Huge sums of energy, 

money, and brain power are in motion to 

ensure compliance with federal guidelines. 

According to Master Sgt. Travis Jones, 

Gowen Field has exceeded all federal 

goals, remains ahead of many other bases 

in innovation and saved 19.7 percent in 

energy usage last year compared to 2003. 

This number must drop further – to below 

30 percent of 2003 energy usage by 2015. 

Closing this last gap could prove the most 

challenging. “As we complete the big building 

projects that affect our largest structures, 

we begin to run out of low-hanging 

fruit,” Jones said. 

The goals of the base energy plan may 

have seemed distant to most 124th Wing 

members outside of CE. That is likely to 

change. “We’ve emphasized larger spaces, 

where it’s easier to save big, but the scrutiny 

is coming to our smaller workspaces,” said 

Scott Busmann, 124th CES facility manager. 

Bussman believes that educating the base 

populace is the single most valuable energy 

saving tool at our collective disposal. And as 

our buildings and their engineers become 

more technologically advanced, the end 

users of energy will have the basics on their 

minds. “We’ve got to encourage a sense of 

ownership from now on so that it feels routine 

to shut off the lights.” 

“Don’t try to trick our thermostats,” said 

Jones. “We have programs that can detect 

cheaters and can detect the in-rush—energy 

flow—to our total demand in each building.” 

Master Sgt. Travis Jones monitors Air National Guard 

building energy use in real time with a synchronized series 

of screens in his office at the 124th Civil Engineering 

Squadron, Gowen Field. Jones can also compare daily 

energy use to historical data for every building to look 

for anomalies and suggest better scheduling of energydemanding 

activities. 

Photo: Lt. Col. Gary A. Daniel, 124th Wing PA 

Translation: CE’s building management 

computers can tell when you fire up your 

authorized laser printer, and your unauthorized 

personal space heater or mini-fridge. 

“When our workforce here tries to outsmart 

an already smart building, they usually 

confuse it and make the overall conditions 

inside much worse.” 

In the future, more appliances on Gowen 

Field will fall under the Energy Star purchasing 

polices that began in 2004. The Air 

Force has already successfully met Energy 

Star certification for over 90 percent of the 

computers it has fielded since then. The 

AF Information Technology Commodity 

Council estimates annual savings of over 

$15 million. Locally, the 124th Fighter Wing 

can expect to reap smaller-scale savings on 

more efficient lighting fixtures, heating systems, 

appliances and computers. 



Gowen Airfi eld 

Operations 

employing hands-on 

wildlife management 

By Lt. Col. Gary A. Daniel 

124th Wing Public Affairs 

The message put out by our Joint 

Operations Center says it all: “Pyrotechnics, 

which sound like gunfi re, may be 

used during this time to harass wildlife.” 

And it is for their own good. The Joint 

Force Headquarters at Gowen Field has 

approved the occasional use of noise and 

visual means to encourage birds to fl y, 

nest, and live away from the fl ight paths 

and aircraft traffi c patterns around Gowen 

Field and the Boise Air Terminal. 

The 124th Airfi eld Management Offi ce 

ensures the safety of air crews operating 

from Gowen Field by monitoring all airfi eld 

conditions. They are now authorized to 

use some additional measures that their 

counterparts across the runway at the 

Boise Airport have found successful. 

“This is a prime time of the year to 

pursue this as many species are looking 

for places to nest,” said Staff Sgt. Chase 

Newman. “It is much better for the birds to 

fi nd a home off base where they can successfully 

raise [their] young,” he said. 

Gowen Field and its immediate surrounding 

base properties are especially 

appealing to birds in the springtime. The 

base offers water ponds, manicured lawns, 

and a virtual lack of predators. The birds 

Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) 

program. Preparing to deploy their “banger” 

(yellow round) and “screamer” (red round) 

to encourage some wildlife to relocate away 

from Gowen Field are Master Sgt. Michael 

Deasy and Staff Sgt. Chase Newman of the 

124th Airfi eld Operations offi ce. The rounds 

scare, but do not harm the birds who endanger 

themselves and Idaho Air and Army 

aviation assets when they live too close to 

the airfi eld. 

Photo: Lt. Col. Gary A. Daniel

need a bit of help from airfi eld management 

to steer clear of the airfi eld environment 

which means certain death for them and 

potential injury to air crew and damage to 

aircraft. 

“The threat is real,” said Master Sgt. 

Michael Deasy, who manages this enhanced 

seasonal activity of the Bird/Wildlife Aircraft 

Strike Hazard (BASH) program. “Just the 

other day, a single pilot experienced two 

bird strikes in the same day. He fl ew a different 

aircraft on each of two separate sorties, 

and he suffered a bird strike on each.” 

Currently Deasy, Newman and others 

managing Gowen Airfi eld Operations 

employ “bangers,” which sound like a shotgun, 

and “screamers,” which sound like a 

large eagle or hawk swooping in for a kill, 

to startle birds making poor habitat choices 

that are detrimental to both the wildlife and 

to air operations. Their small pistol-like 

device fi res both types of extremely loud 

rounds that motivate birds to leave the area 

of Gowen fl ying operations. “Birds love the 

running track and the ponds on base,” said 

Deasy, “and they are fond of some areas 

near our third runway.” 

“We have to assess the airfi eld conditions 

daily and report this to the supervisor 

of fl ying. This time of year we fi nd an 

increased need to implement the harassment 

of birds that pose a bird strike threat,” 

said Newman. 

The Airfi eld Operations staff has been 

keeping their eyes on waterfowl such as 

ducks, geese and cranes, on smaller birds 

that present danger when in large fl ocks, 

and even on birds of prey such as eagles 

and hawks. They have special permission to 

harass, but not kill the eagles. 



Hiedi Young named 

“Young Mother of the Year” 

By Renee Bade, coordinator, Idaho Family Programs Family Assistance Center 

With Gov. Otter looking on after presenting her with the award, Hiedi Young speaks briefl y to 

assembled guests in the governor’s offi ce, March 9, 2011. Courtesy photo 

Hiedi Young, the Family Assistance 

Specialist from Pocatello, was honored 

March 9 with the Idaho “Young Mother 

of the Year” award. In addition to being 

recognized in a luncheon by the American 

Mothers Association, she was also 

recognized by Gov. Otter during a ceremony 

at the Capitol. 

As part of her duties as “Young Mother 

of the Year,” Hiedi will serve on the board 

of directors for the American Mothers 

Association. Her platform for her year of 

service will focus on providing information 

and resources for new mothers. She 

will concentrate in the upcoming year on 

putting together a packet for new mothers 

that contains information on the struggles 

of being a new mother and resources on 

how to manage the changes. 

“I am fi rst and foremost honored 

beyond belief,” Young said. “As a military 

wife with a full time job, four kids, and my 

involvement with the community, I have 

often worried if I was doing okay as a 

mother and if the kids were going to turn 

out okay…and to my relief, they are. I 

am completely humbled that others have 

seen that and chose me for this prestigious 

award. Over the next year as I go 

out and represent young mothers in this 

capacity, I hope to serve as an example 

to others, especially military wives, that 

being a good mother is something that 

can be done even if you have a busy life. 

I also hope to bring more focus to the 

struggles and unique circumstances that 

military families face every day.” 

Young planned to attend the National 

American Mother Conference in April, 

representing Idaho for the “National 

Young Mother of the Year” title.

Idaho ESGR Committee presents Boise with ‘Seven Seals’ award 

Pat Rice, general manager of the Boise Centre and an 

active volunteer for the ESGR program, presented Boise 

Mayor David Bieter with the prestigious “Seven Seals” 

award at a city council meeting on March 22. In attendance 

at the ceremony was Maj. Gen. Gary L. Sayler, Idaho Adjutant 

General. 

Boise’s “Our Troops, Our Families” program has offered 

a variety of free activities for military families, including free 

admission to ZooBoise, two free skating events at Idaho 

IceWorld, and ‘PC Saturday,’ which provided free technical 

computer support for military families at City Hall West. 

Other events include Military Family Day at Boise Water- 

Shed on April 1, fi re station military family tours at multiple 

fi re stations on April 9, the “Get Loud at the Library!” event 

on April 13 and a military family free swim event at Ivywild 

Pool on July 9. 

The Seven Seals award is given for meritorious leadership 

and support of the men and women who serve our 

country in any of the United States Guard or Reserve units. 

It commemorates the seven branches of civilian military service: 

Army National Guard, U.S. Army Reserve, U.S. Marine 

Corps Reserve, U.S. Navy Reserve, Air National Guard, Air 

Force Reserve and U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. 

For more information on the “Our Troops” program, visit 

the mayor’s page at www.cityofboise.org. 

For Iraq or Afghanistan veterans who 

want to express their service record 

on their license plates, starting July 1, 

2011, an Iraq/Afghanistan license plate 

will be available for purchase through 

the Idaho Transportation Department’s 

Division of Motor Vehicles. Part of the 

fee will go toward maintaining the 

Idaho Veterans Cemetery. 

Similar in appearance to the Persian 

Gulf plate, this new plate will display 

a red, white and blue pattern with the 

names of the two countries listed on 

the bottom. The plate will also display 

the veteran’s service branch emblem 

on the center left. Plate numbers can 

also be customized. ITD can mail an 

application to you or one can be downloaded 

from their website http://itd. 

idaho.gov. 

When you turn in the application, 

be sure to include a copy of your DD 

Form 214 or equivalent, showing post- 

9/11 service in Iraq or Afghanistan. 

Brandie Jacobus makes a case to the Idaho Senate Transportation Committee on Feb. 15 for the creation of 

the new license plate. Photo by Col. Tim Marsano 


“Continuous Process Improvement” 

and the Idaho National Guard’s future 

By Maj. Miguel Lopez, Idaho National Guard CPI program manager 

As Congress battles over the budget, 

National Guard units across the nation 

struggle to do more with fewer fi nancial 

resources. The Idaho National Guard is no 

exception. On a positive note, our senior 

leadership has had the foresight to put us 

on the cutting edge of Continuous Process 

Improvement. 

“CPI will help our enterprise become 

mission-ready and mission-capable by 

removing wasteful and non-value-added 

activities,” said Gen. Craig R. McKinley, 

chief, National Guard Bureau. “In doing so, 

we will reduce the time it takes to accomplish 

tasks while improving our overall 

effectiveness and effi ciency. It is in our 

collective best interest that each of you be 

‘all in’ as this is the right thing to do for our 

country, our states, and our citizen Soldiers 

and Airmen.” 

What is CPI? CPI is an fi ve-step 

analytical process that: 

1. Defi nes a problem/issue 

2. Measures the extent of it 

3. Analyzes the data 

4. Implements improvements 

5. Controls the improvements 

This may sound familiar. If you’ve been 

around a while, you’ll remember TQM, 

AFSO 21 and other management programs 


the DoD has used in the past. But the big 

difference here is that directorates, units 

and functional area managers will identify 

for themselves the projects they would like 

to improve. CPI is not a ‘top down’ driven 

program; no longer will an outside agency 

tell us we have issues with our programs or 

systems. CPI takes the ad-hoc changes out 

of the equation so that any improvements 

we may make are truly improvements, not 

further hindrances. 

Our command leadership commitment 

has been exemplifi ed by our adjutant general’s 

membership in the CPI General Offi - 

cer Steering Council and by the fact that we 

also have two personnel who have been on 

the fi ve-step CPI process. These two Idaho 

National Guard members are graduates of 

the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt course and 

have the ability to cross branch service 

lines to assist both Air and Army Guard 

organizations. The key is to have that unit 

commander, directorate, or functional area 

manager identify the issue/problem and to 

request assistance. 

One of the two ‘Black Belts’ will then 

assist the requestor (process sponsor) to 

further defi ne the issue/problem and form 

an internal team to address the issue using 

the remaining steps in the analytical process. 

Keep in mind that the Black Belts will 

not solve the issue/problem; instead, they 

are assets for the process sponsor and his/ 

her team to develop their own solutions to 

the issue. 

National Guard Bureau’s vision for CPI 

is, “Each National Guard organization has 

a culture of continuous improvement with 

an organic, self-sustaining capability to 

increase mission effectiveness and effi - 

ciency.” This means doing more with less 

by being more effi cient, fl exible and willing 

to improve our mission process, systems or 

services. 

CPI success stories have been reported in West Virginia, 

Arizona, Nevada, Alabama, California and Georgia. Here are 

two of those stories: 

Air Guard 

West Virginia’s 167th Air Wing has 

more than tripled the operations-ready 

rate of the equipment they can inspect in 

a year. 

• Decreased non-mission-capable 

status from 137 to 30 days (78 

percent improvement) 

• Saved $1.9 million per airframe in 

labor costs 

• Increased capacity from 3 to 10 

airframes in the fi rst year 

Background: 

The 167th Air Wing has the mission 

to conduct Regional Isochronical inspections 

for the C-5. Air Mobility Command, 

the major command for cargo aircraft, 

challenged the 167th AW to improve their 

process to be able to complete 22 ISO 

inspections in a year. In their fi rst year, the 

167 AW completed less than 3 ISOs and 

therefore saw the need to deploy Lean 

Six Sigma. 

Improvement Actions: 

The 167th Air Wing launched a Lean 

Six Sigma project to streamline the RISO 

inspection process. 

• Leadership empowered the project 

team to use their experience and 

creativity to solve known challenges 

with the RISO process 

• They systematically evaluated the 

process, focusing on sequence of 

steps and their impact on the overall 

process 

• Reorganized process steps to follow 

the critical path and eliminate nonvalue-added 

steps

Army Guard 

Arizona Army National Guard has 

reduced organizational clothing and individual 

equipment losses. 

• $123,000 per year saved in pilot brigade 

• 100 percent recovery rate in second 

round of pilots 

• $500,000 per year savings projected 

statewide 

Background: 

From March-August 2010, 158th Maneuver 

Enhancement Brigade averaged 

$95,000 of OCIE not being turned in prior 

to a Soldier separating. Unreturned OCIE 

directly impacts the O&M annual budget 

and frequently results in initiating a Financial 

Liability Investigation of Property Loss. 

Reducing the number of Soldiers who 

separate without returning their OCIE, will 

provide signifi cant savings on replacement 

gear and ensuring equipment availability for 

issue to other Soldiers. 

Improvement Actions: 

A Lean Six Sigma project was launched 

to reduce OCIE losses in the 158th MEB. 

• The project team identifi ed and tracked 

soldiers at risk of not turning in equipment 

• Reinstated policy to store OCIE on post 

for Soldiers who do not reenlist 90 days 

prior to separation date 

• Provided secure storage area on post 

for OCIE supplies 

• Designed a pilot plan to track process 

improvement for recovery of OCIE from 

mobilized Soldiers, including excess 

equipment issued 

• Included OCIE as a tracking item for the 

retention NCO 


Have a great summer... 

By Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Virgel Clark, JFHQ-ID Safety Offi cer 

Summer’s on the way, and soon everyone will want to get outside 

and enjoy all the activities Idaho offers. Whether barbecuing in the 

back yard or swimming at the lake, the possibilities for summer fun 

and adventure are boundless. We can all enjoy these to the fullest if 

we just pay attention to a few safety basics. 

Be sun savvy. Slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen, slap on 

a hat. Wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes and sensitive 

skin around them from ultraviolet light. Take advantage of shade, 

especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Apply sunscreen with an SPF 

of 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before going outside. And proper 

hydration is key—stay hydrated before and during any activity, even 

if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol while in 

the sun or heat since these promote dehydration and can set you 

up for heat exhaustion or worse. 

Ahoy boaters! It’s hard to beat a day out on the water, so keep 

it a safe one by ensuring that personal fl otation devices are available 

and worn, and everyone knows what to do if someone falls 

overboard. Weather can be unpredictable and can turn your boating 

adventure into a disaster…check the forecast, and don’t take 

chances if the weather gets iffy. Carry an ABC-rated fi re extinguisher 

and be careful when refueling. Beware of unmarked underwater or 

fl oating obstacles that could ruin your day. And remember that boating 

and alcohol don’t mix. 

Going hiking? Be sure to take a map and compass if you’re not 

familiar with the area. Tell someone where you’re going and when 

you plan to return. Be aware of the critters out there, and take the 

necessary precautions. And in the woods, mosquitoes can be more 

than just an irritant…West Nile virus remains a risk here in Idaho. Take 

along an effective mosquito repellant containing DEET, and use it. 

Outdoor chefs. If you’re using a gas grill, check tubes and hoses 

for cracks or leaks—soapy water can help you fi nd them—and don’t 

store fl ammables, like that extra propane tank, near the grill. Charcoal 

grillers—don’t use gasoline as starting fl uid unless you want to lose 

your eyebrows, and never grill indoors or in a tent or camper—carbon 

monoxide is deadly. And all outdoor chefs—keep an ABC-rated fi re 

extinguisher close at hand, just in case! 

Snap, crackle, pop! We get our share of lightning storms here in 

Idaho, and if you’re caught outside, avoid bodies of water, open areas, 

high ground, and tall objects such as trees or light poles. If you’re 

completely out in the open, crouch down with feet close together and 

head down to present the smallest possible attraction to strikes. Stay 

away from fences, wires, metal sheds and construction equipment... 

they can be lightning magnets. The safest place to be is inside a large, 

enclosed building (off the phone and away from conductors) where a 

charge will be carried through pipes and wiring into the ground. 

And when you’re on the road to whatever your summertime activities 

may be…please drive defensively and always wear your seatbelt! 

Have a safe and fun-fi lled summer! 


Safely!

The Gem State Guardian - Spring 2011 - Keep Trees

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