Pelican Dispatch - Spring 2010 - Keep Trees

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Governor
Bobby Jindal
The Adjutant General
Maj. Gen. Bennett C.
Landreneau
Pelican Dispatch Staff
State Public Affairs Officer
Lt. Col. Michael J. Kazmierzak
Editor in Chief
Capt. Taysha Deaton Gibbs
Production Editor
Capt. Lance T. Cagnolatti
Photo Manager
Master Sgt. Toby M. Valadie
Managing/Copy Editor
Staff Sgt. Denis B. Ricou
Contributing Journalists
Staff Journalists / UPARS
241st MPAD
For comments or suggestions please e-mail:
langpao@ng.army.mil or call (866) 275-8176
Articles and photos for consideration may be e-mailed to
denis.ricou@us.army.mil
Bob Ulin
Publisher
Justin Ritter
Graphic Designer
LANG PAO
159th FW PAO
Marie Lundstrom
Editor
Chris Kersbergen
Darrell George
Advertising Sales
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THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE FOR THE LOUISIANA ARMY AND AIR NATIONAL GUARD
Spring 2010
FROM THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
BRINGING HOME THE GOLD
SON OF A PREACHER FINDS TIME TO RYHME
RUNNING WHOLEHEARTEDLY
LAANG PARTICIPATES IN MULTINATIONAL
TRAINING IN CHILE
LOUISIANA GUARDSMEN HONORED AT THE
NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM
LEAD FROM THE FRONT
WRANGLER GOLD AND SILVER RUSH
OF SOLDIERS AND SAINTS
APPLICATION PROCESS FOR FEDERAL TUITION ASSISTANCE
BULLETS AND BRUSH STROKES
LANG FAMILY READINESS TEAM
TIGER BRIGADE ROLLS OUT ONCE MORE
AROUND THE STATE
The Pelican Dispatch is published by AQP Publishing,
Inc., a private fi rm in no way connected with
the Louisiana National Guard, under written contract
with the Louisiana National Guard. This Louisiana
National Guard magazine is an authorized publication
for employees and military members of the Louisiana
National guard. Contents of this publication are not
necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the
state of Louisiana, the U.S. Government, Department
of Defense, or the Louisiana National Guard.
The appearance of advertising in this publication,
including inserts or supplements, does not constitute
endorsement by the state of Louisiana, DoD, the
Soldiers of the 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team hone their
night operation tactical skills in Pineville, La., during Annual Training
before deploying to Iraq.
Cover Photo: Master Sgt. Toby M. Valadie, State Public Affairs Office
Louisiana National Guard, or AQP Publishing, Inc. of
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Everything advertised in this publication shall be
made available for purchase, use, or patronage without
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Editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided
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Headquarters – LANG. All photographs and graphic
devices are copyrighted to the Louisiana National
Guard unless otherwise indicated.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 1

www.qualityinn.com
www.bfcu.org
www.pizzahut.com
2 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
From the
Adjutant
General
My fellow Guardsmen,
As we look back on 2009, I would like to personally
thank all of you for having a hand in the accomplishments
our organization has achieved. I am truly
honored to serve as your Adjutant General.
Personnel readiness remains our number one
goal, and I would like to thank you all for getting us
where we are today. Our Air Guard has once again
taken the lead, achieving 106 percent of its enlisted
accessions; while our Army Guard achieved 101.4
percent of its enlisted accessions, both improving
from the previous year. Though many of our Soldiers
and Airmen are deployed abroad, we continue
to recruit and retain professional Guardsmen.
We have had our share of deployment ceremonies
this past year, but we have also welcomed
many of our Guardsmen home from overseas. The
Louisiana National Guard continues to answer the
call of duty. We have always been there when our
great nation and state have needed us and will continue
to sacrifi ce to preserve our freedom and way
of life.
As we approach another hurricane season, we
must stay vigilant and ready for whatever may come
our way. We will continue to “Protect what matters”
at home and abroad. We must stay focused and
continue to train at our best in order to prepare for
the worst.
We must remain steadfast and committed to our
most valuable asset – our Soldiers, Airmen and
families. We must never forget that we could not
accomplish our mission without our families’ continued
support.
Sincerely,
Major General Bennett C. Landreneau,
The Adjutant General

Bringing home the gold:
Louisiana Air Guardsman receives highest honor at academy
By 2nd Lt. Alex Juan
159th Fighter Wing Deputy Public Affairs Offi cer
Tech. Sgt. Micah T. Collins, a loadmaster
with the 159th Fighter Wing, recently
brought national recognition to the Louisiana
Air National Guard.
Collins received the John L. Levitow
Award, the pinnacle of achievement for
enlisted personnel, at The I.G. Brown Air
National Guard Training and Education
Center’s Non-commissioned Offi cer Academy
during a graduation ceremony Feb.
11 at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard
Base in Knoxville, Tenn.
“The NCO Academy is merely recognizing
what we already know – Tech. Sgt. Collins
is one of the fi nest NCOs to serve his
country. He has been, and will continue to
be, dedicated to the mission of the 159th
Fighter Wing, the Louisiana Air National
Guard, and the United States Air Force,”
said Col. Peter D. Stavros, 159th Operations
Group commander.
“To me, it is a validation of my efforts;
not just at the NCO Academy, but for the
way I perform on a daily basis,” said Collins.
The John L. Levitow award is voted
on by classmates, teachers and the NCO
Academy staff, who choose one deserving
candidate.
“Tech. Sgt. Collins is a good worker who
is never satisfi ed with just doing what is
required of him,” said Maj. Brian L. McCollough,
159th Operational Support Flight
C-130 Program Manager. “This award is
no surprise; Collins excels at just about
everything that he does.”
“Professionally, I learned techniques and
gained practical experience in managing
the Air Force’s most valuable assets, our
Airmen,” said Collins. “Personally, I learned
about my limitations and strengths.”
Collins advises all Airmen to attend the
in-residence school in order to gain invaluable
experiences and friendships. “Take
advantage of the great opportunities provided
to us by the Louisiana Air National
Guard.”
Tech. Sgt. Micah Collins, 159th Fighter Wing
loadmaster, observes engine startup of the
C-130 prior to departure from Hattiesburg,
Miss., on a boss lift event, Feb. 19 at Camp
Shelby, Miss. Collins was awarded the John L.
Levitow Award Feb. 11, the top award given to
enlisted personnel, bringing national recognition
to the Louisiana Air National Guard.
Photos: Master Sgt. Toby M. Valadie, Louisiana National
Guard State Public Affairs Office
Please visit http://www.dvidshub.net/units/LAANG
for the
latest Louisiana National Guard
releases, photos and videos.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 3

Son of a preacher
preacher
findS time to rhyme
Story and photos by Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Benoit
As the son of a preacher, Louisiana National Guardsman
Spc. Shanesel Dawson grew up listening to his father sing the
word of God.
Dawson is the nuclear, biological and chemical noncommissioned
officer in charge for the 1083rd Transportation
Company out of Minden, La.
Now, the Shreveport, La., native is the spiritual adviser
for the company and works full-time as the company’s mail
orderly, a job he said he loves because it gives him the opportunity
to visit with every Soldier as they pick up their mail.
The Rev. Wilbur Dawson, his father, was a gospel singer
before he became a minister, and as a unique teaching tool he
would incorporate lyrics from Christian songs into his sermons.
4 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
Spc. Shanesel Dawson studies poetry
during his spare time while working at
the company post office.
Prior to every convoy’s departure on a hazardous mission,
Dawson visits the motor pool to pray with the Soldiers. Instead
of using lyrics from songs, Dawson writes rhyming poetry to
get the message across to the Soldiers.
“It all started with a cliché rhyme that I created for a spiritual
fitness lesson called Complain,” said Dawson.
It goes, “Complain is just your frustration you’re trying to
explain, but don’t let your energy drain; be positive and you
will gain.”
Dawson said Soldiers gave him positive feedback to the
verse, pushing him in a direction to write longer verses. He
attributes his talent for rhyming to his parents but draws
his inspiration from God, he said. “God is the source of my

creativity; so for me to be creative, I have to seek Him,”
said Dawson.
“My mother loved learning, and our house is like a
library. She has books from around the world, and I grew
up reading those books. I have read several books on
poetry, and I enjoy studying them,” he says.
“I’m currently reading a book called “From ‘Nam with
Love,” written by Lloyd A. King. He won the 2006 Gold
Medal Award for best book of poetry from the Military
Writers Society of America. Although he has a different
style than I do, his poetry has inspired me to continue
writing through the tough times.”
When convoys leave on Sundays, Dawson’s spiritual
fi tness class substitutes for church and starts the mission
on a positive note.
The Soldiers say they have grown accustomed
to Dawson’s pre-convoy spiritual fi tness prayers, his
joyful attitude and all the goodies he hands out that he
receives from AnySoldier.com.
“He is almost like a Santa Claus to us,” said 1st Lt.
Matthew J. Leblanc, 1083rd’s senior platoon leader. “His passages
deal with strength, will and courage, and to receive his
prayers before we leave gets us closer to God. His rhyming
style ingrains in us and we get it.”
Following in his father’s footsteps, Dawson was a seminary
student at the Louisiana Baptist University in Shreveport,
La., but had to leave for his tour of duty in Iraq. Dawson also
Spc. Shanesel Dawson, a Shreveport, La., native with the 1083rd Transportation Company out of Minden,
La., went to every room handing out care packages and Christmas cheer on Christmas Day to boost
Soldiers’ morale during the holidays.
volunteered to serve for his third consecutive tour with the
256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team after the 1083rd demobilizes.
Once the 256th IBCT is demobilized in 2011, he said
he will return to the seminary.
“It’s nothing that comes easy for me, but it’s not for me; it’s
for the Soldiers,” says Dawson on spending most of his free
time constructing his spiritual fi tness lessons.
Continued on page 17
Spc. Shanesel Dawson prays
with Soldiers at a pre-convoy
departure after he recites a
poem he wrote that is tailormade
for each mission.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 5

Running
wholeheartedly:
Guardsman runs half marathon after open heart surgery
Story and photos by Pfc. Jessica M. Lopez
241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Louisiana National Guardsman Maj. Jonas C. Braud participated
in the Baton Rouge Beach Half Marathon in December
2009, nine months after open heart surgery.
“I didn’t think I needed this surgery so soon,” said Braud. “I
did know I would eventually have it because my father had the
same surgery in 2007, and he’s in his seventies.”
Braud, a full time Soldier with the 61st Troop Command,
has had a heart murmur since high school, but he didn’t know
he had a serious heart condition.
Braud said, “I actually found out during the fi ve-year medical
update exam in August 2008.
“After noticing my heartbeat was very fast, the examiner
asked if I had problems with running and being out of breath.
I told him that ‘after I run fi ve or six miles, I’m pretty tired but
nothing out of the ordinary.’”
6 Pelican Dispatch /
Spring 2010
“I was calm until I realized how worried the examiner was,”
said Braud.
Braud had a follow-up with a cardiologist in Baton Rouge,
La., the following month.
“The doctor diagnosed me with mitral valve prolapse which
causes the mitral valve regurgitation,” said Braud.
Mitral valve prolapse is a heart problem in which the valve
that separates the upper and lower chambers of the left side
of the heart does not close properly. When that valve is not
closed tightly, mitral valve regurgitation happens, causing
blood to fl ow backwards in the heart.
Louisiana National Guardsman Maj. Jonas C. Braud,
S-1 officer for the 61st Troop Command, runs strong
at the six-mile mark during the Baton Rouge Beach
Half Marathon Dec. 5, 2009. Braud underwent open
heart surgery in March 2009.

“The cardiologist told me if I didn’t fix it
immediately, then eventually I would have
permanent heart damage,” said Braud. “I
knew I had to have open heart surgery.”
“Everyone was very surprised at this,”
said Braud. “I had concerned Soldiers
asking if they should also see a cardiologist
for their heart murmurs.”
After surgery in March 2009, Braud
began recovery and rehabilitation.
“My motivation in rehab was the
thought of injured Soldiers deployed
to Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Braud.
“They go through surgery and rehab
as well and some with much more to
recover from.”
“My husband puts 100 percent into
anything that he does,” said Braud’s
wife Maribel. “He was always positive
and refused to be defeated. We also got
through this with our family support and
strong faith.”
“If I can’t run, I can’t deploy,” said
Braud. “We always have to be ready
and prepared to deploy.”
“Before the surgery, I would get a
score of 270 or 275,” said Braud. “Now
it’s around 300.
“I was the first to finish the run during
the last PT test, and I’ve improved my
run by a minute and a half.”
Braud usually performs PT with Soldiers
from the 62nd Civil Support Team
(Weapons of Mass Destruction.)
“They were talking about entering
the Baton Rouge Beach Marathon, and
I just decided to run it with them,” said
Braud. “The training was a part of my
rehabilitation.”
On the morning of the marathon in
freezing temperatures, Braud met with
Sgt. 1st Class Clinton W. Ainsworth,
Sgt. Jason S. Borland, Staff Sgt. Matt K.
Digby, Sgt. 1st Class Brad J. O’Rourke
and Capt. Jake Witte, all Soldiers of the
62nd, at the start line.
Although anxious and cold, the Soldiers’
group goal was to finish the half
marathon, which is 13.1 miles long, in
less than two hours.
Braud proudly finished the half marathon
in 1 hour 49 minutes and 18 seconds,
with the rest of the group accomplishing
their goal time as well.
“It feels good,” said Braud. “I feel
good.”
Louisiana National Guardsman Maj. Jonas C. Braud
crosses the finish line of the Baton Rouge Beach Half
Marathon in 1 hour 49 minutes and 18 seconds.
Please visit http://www.dvidshub.net/
units/LAANG for the latest Louisiana
National Guard releases, photos and videos.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 7

8 Pelican Dispatch /
Spring 2010

By Capt. Beverly G. Couto
Louisiana Air National Guard,
159th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Offi cer
Louisiana Air Guard participates
in multinational training in Chile
The Louisiana Air National Guard’s
159th Fighter Wing participated in a joint
fl ight exercise with four other countries in
Chile Oct. 21.
Pilots from the U.S., Chile, Argentina,
Brazil and France have been working
together in an exercise called “SALITRE
II,” which is a Combined Air Operations
Center training opportunity that allows
the different countries to train together
on things like air search-and-rescue and
aerial refueling.
The 159th participates in these types
of exercises periodically, the most recent
being “Operation Load Diffuser” hosted
by Hungary.
“If there is ever a day when we have to
join forces in support of humanitarian or
other missions, it is training like this that
will make for a smoother transition,” said
Maj. Marcus “Skate” Sauley, an F-15 pilot with the 159th.
Most of the pilots had the opportunity to fl y with one of the
other countries.
“The Chileans are very good pilots. Learning the ability of
different airframes in theory and actually fl ying against them
with the pilot’s ability in play, is when you really learn what
those airframes can do,” said Sauley.
The fi ve countries all have strong relationships, so coming
together to train and learn from one another only enhances
that bond. Each of the air forces will learn from the opportunity
to fl y together, train together and plan together…all while
overcoming language barriers.
Members of the Louisiana Air National Guard’s 159th Fighter Wing fly in a joint dissimilar aircraft formation with pilots
from Chile, Argentina, Brazil and France as part of a training mission in Chile, Oct. 17. Pilots from the five countries
worked together in an exercise called “SALITRE II,” a Combined Air Operations Center training opportunity that allows
the different countries to train together on operations like air search-and-rescue and aerial refueling.
Photos: Tech. Sgt. Travis Burke, Louisiana Air National Guard, 159th Fighter Wing
“It is totally different when compared to training back
home,” said Lt. Col. Thomas “Cannibal” Sostarics, a 159th
fi ghter pilot. “Training with other countries is invaluable when
it comes to learning to operate by the same rules and doing it
safely and effectively.”
The exercise began Oct. 19, with the fi rst four days dedicated
to orientation briefi ngs, fl ying and learning the layout
of terrain and training areas. The simulated fi ghting missions
followed.
These training missions are designed by the host nation
and offer participants the opportunity to prepare for future
planning in exercises held in the U.S.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 9

Louisiana Guardsmen honored
at The National WWII Museum
Grand opening of “Experience the Victory”
By 2nd Lt. Alex Juan
159th Fighter Wing Deputy Public Affairs Offi cer
Members of the Louisiana Air National Guard, along with WWII
veterans, were honored during the grand opening webcast Nov. 6
of “Experience the Victory” at The National World War II Museum
in New Orleans.
The live webcast included celebrity guest speakers Tom Hanks,
Tom Brokaw and Patricia D. Clarkson.
When referring to the WWII veterans, Brokaw said, “It’s the
greatest generation….that’s my story and I’m sticking with it,”
alluding to his popular and well received book.
Alan Raphael, marketing manager for the museum, said that
Louisiana Guardsmen were “part of about 150 active-duty military
personnel that were recognized, along with 350 WWII veterans
from 32 states across America.”
Col. Roy Qualls, 159th Fighter Wing commander, said, “We
are here to show our support for our veterans, to honor their service
and to represent the Louisiana Air National Guard.”
The Museum debuted three new venues: The Solomon Victory
Theatre, The Stage Door Canteen and The American Sector, a
Chef John Besh restaurant serving New Orleans cuisine.
The event included a continental breakfast at the Louisiana
Memorial Pavilion, a red carpet procession of past and present
military members, a luncheon for service members served by
celebrity guests and a movie premiere.
The 4-D movie “Beyond All Boundaries” brings viewers through
a WWII journey and highlights the qualities and resolve of a past
generation.
Mary K. Lore, who entertained the troops for three years during
WWII, was in the crowd and was taken aback during the movie
premiere. “I lived through it,” she said. “The movie was too real.”
Today, the museum houses over 16 exhibits and is the only
museum in the United States to address all of the amphibious invasions
of WWII. Last year, it drew in more than 200,000 visitors.
The signifi cance of the event was not lost on the Guardsmen
present.
Staff Sgt. Kevin C. Goodlet, a member of the 159th FW Security
Forces Squadron, said, “I am honored to be a part of this
moment in history.”
Maj. Ignacio A. Assaf, 159th Maintenance Squadron commander,
said the event was “an outstanding opportunity for forces of today
to interact with forces of yesterday.”
Larger than expected crowds greet Louisiana National Guardsmen, WWII veterans and
active duty military members during a ceremony at The National World War II Museum
in New Orleans, Nov. 6, 2009. The ceremony marked part of a capital expansion of the
museum that will quadruple its size in the next few years.
Photos: Master Sgt. Daniel P. Farrell
159th Fighter Wing Security Forces Squadron member Staff Sgt. Kevin Goodlett talks
to a WWII veteran during the opening ceremony of The National World War II Museum.
The ceremony marks part of the planned expansion of the museum, which provides
America with the best public portrayal of the history of WWII.
Members of the Louisiana Air National Guard escort WWII veterans during a ceremony
at The National World War II Museum. The ceremony marked the opening of three new
expansion venues – the Solomon Victory Theater, the Stage Door Canteen and the
American Sector Restaurant.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 11

The Louisiana National Guard is looking for its future leaders
Offi cers in the National Guard are the decision makers. They hold positions of tremendous authority
and responsibility for their country, their Soldiers and themselves. The offi cers of tomorrow will shape
the future and direction of the National Guard. You can be a part of that future if you take action now.
Use your education and skills to be a leader
To become an offi cer, you’ll need to apply your college credit hours, or have a college degree and military experience. If you
don’t already have a four-year degree, the Guard can help you get it with our educational benefi ts packages. Once you have
decided to be a leader, you’ll need to complete one of the following programs:
12 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
take action now in the Offi cer Corps
Offi cer Candidate School
(OCS)
Warrant Offi cer
Candidate School
Reser ve Offi cers’ Training Corps
(ROTC)
Direct Commission
While each path is different, all will prepare you to be an effective leader in both your military and civilian
life. As an offi cer candidate, you’ll receive advanced training and education in order to acquire and hone the
skills necessary to lead troops. Many branches also offer bonuses, though availability is subject to change.
Your offi cer recruiter will have the most up-to-date information.
Contact your Offi cer Recruiters
1st Lt. George Wiley
george.wiley@us.army.mil • (337) 302-9448
2-156th, 3-156th, 256th BSTB,
ULL and McNeese Universities
Capt. Anthony Garrison
anthony.garrison@us.army.mil • (310) 623-4373
165th CSSB, 2-108th CAV, 527th, 528th,
Northwestern University and Grambling
Maj. Euclid Talley
euclid.talley@us.army.mil • (504) 303-9731
State Offi cer Strength Manager
Capt. Kenny Knaps
kenny.knaps@us.army.mil • (225) 229-8002
415th MI, 769th EN, 61st TC, JFHQ-GL, LSU and
Southern University
1st Lt. Clay Harris
clayton.a.harris@us.army.mil • (504) 919-9706
1-141st, 205th EN, 1-244th, 204th SAC,
Tulane University (with all satellite) and Southeastern

Become a warrant offi cer:
As a warrant offi cer, you can be a highly skilled technical adviser in one of over 40 specialties. Take what you know, and gain
the additional rank, respect and credentials to become a recognized leader. Do you want to become an offi cer, but continue to
be a specialist in your current fi eld? As a warrant offi cer, you’ll be a commissioned offi cer and subject matter expert rolled into
one. You’ll become a leader and instructor within your specifi c career fi eld, and advise your superiors in matters affecting your
specialty. And if you feel fl ying is in your future, training as an aviation warrant offi cer is the best way to earn your wings as a
Guard helicopter pilot.
Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in Warrant Offi cer Candidate School, you’ll need to meet eligibility requirements. If you are currently a
member of the Army National Guard, a Reserve Soldier, a transitioning active component Soldier, or a current or former warrant
offi cer, you may qualify.
Age restrictions:
• Technical warrant offi cers can appoint between the ages of 18 and 46
• Aviation warrant offi cers must appoint before their 33rd birthday
In addition you must:
• Score 110 or above on the General Technical Area of the ASVAB
• Be a high school graduate or pass the GED
• Be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization
• Successfully pass all events on the Army Physical Fitness Test
• Meet certain technical qualifi cations for your specifi c career path
For more information on prerequisites visit:
http://www.usarec.army.mil/hq/warrant/WOgeninfo_enlmos.html
Contact your warrant offi cer recruiters, Chief Warrant Offi cer 2 Tammy Lang or Chief Warrant Offi cer 4 Gerard Abair
at (318) 640-3672 to apply today!
*Bonuses may be available, but are subject to current policy at time of appointment, slot availability, and eligibility status of applicant.
Wrangler Gold and Silver Rush
Soldiers learn about opportunities as an offi cer
By Pfc. Jessica M. Lopez
241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Louisiana National Guardsman Spc. Michael A. Strider of the 156th Army Band signs in
for the 139th Regional Support Group Wrangler Gold and Silver Rush at the Fulton Hotel
in Alexandria, La., Nov. 6. The 139th RSG held its first Wrangler Gold and Silver Rush to
expose enlisted soldiers to the opportunities of becoming an officer.
Photo: Pfc. Jessica M. Lopez, 241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
The 139th Regional Support Group of the Louisiana National
Guard hosted the fi rst Wrangler Gold and Silver Rush in Alexandria,
La., to expose enlisted Soldiers to the opportunities of becoming
commissioned or warrant offi cers, Nov. 6-8.
“Our mission is to make our Soldiers feel honored,” said Col.
Douglas J. Mouton, commander of the 139th RSG. “This weekend
is about showing enlisted Soldiers pathways to really elevate the
greatness within them.”
The Soldiers in attendance had to meet the general offi cer requirements
of a minimum general technical score of 110 and had to have
completed 60 to 90 college credits. These Soldiers also had to be
recommended by their respective commands to attend this event.
The weekend event included a series of speakers who explained
the basic requirements of attending and completing Offi cer Candidate
School and Warrant Offi cer Candidate School.
“If you just have the mentality of ‘don’t quit,’ you can get through
Warrant Offi cer Candidate School,” said Chief Warrant Offi cer Tammy
Lang, a warrant offi cer recruiter for the Louisiana National Guard.
“WOCS is challenging and diffi cult, but I wish I would have done
it fi ve years ago,” said recent graduate Warrant Offi cer Andrew T.
Le. “I did it because I wanted to train Soldiers.”
“If the words Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfl ess Service, Honor,
Integrity and Personal Courage make the hair on the back of your
head stand up, you need to be an offi cer,” said Maj. Dirk Erickson,
the commander of the 773rd Military Police Battalion.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 13

Of Of Soldiers Soldiers and and Saints:
Saints:
Louisiana Louisiana Guard Guard helps helps one one of of its its own own realize realize football football dream
dream
By 2nd Lt. Alex Juan
159th Fighter Wing Deputy Public Affairs Offi cer cer
WALKER, La. – Saints fans knew that the road to the Super
Bowl victory would go through the New Orleans Superdome,
but for one Guard family, an incredible gift helped them “be in
that number.”
In July 2009, Sgt. 1st Class Peter L. Turnage, a member
of the Louisiana Counter Drug Task Force, was diagnosed
with adenocarcinoma, a stage
IV bone cancer. Since then, the
cancer has spread into almost
every bone in his body.
Master Sgt. Dean W. Davis,
Joint Forces Headquarters
operations sergeant, has known
the Turnage family for 20 years
and was moved by a statement
made by Turnage, planting the
seed that helped this dream
fl ourish.
“I was at Pete’s house one
Sunday watching the Saints
game, and he was telling me
that the simple things in life were
starting to get to him,” said Davis.
“Things like never being able to
take his son to a Saints game.”
“That statement would enter
my mind every time I played
with my little girl or would
watch a football game,” Davis
continued.
Davis relayed this to Command
Sgt. Maj. John Kling III,
of the LANG’s 199th Regional
Training Institute.
Sgt. 1st Class Peter L. Turnage
awaits the big game while taking a
ride to the New Orleans Superdome,
Jan. 16. Turnage and his son Eli
were given two 50-yard-line tickets
and field passes to the Saints vs.
Cardinals football game. Fellow
Guardsmen helped make this
dream a reality for Turnage, who is
currently battling bone cancer.
Courtesy photo/released
14 Pelican Dispatch / Winter/Spring Spring 2010 2010
Kling immediately replied, “Dean, what’s the problem? Let’s
make this happen!”
Turnage has an incurable type of cancer – only two percent
of all cancer patients are diagnosed with this type. The lesions
that he has developed attack the bones like termites attack a
house, according to his wife Noel.

His symptoms began with what felt like a pulled chest or
back muscle and was misdiagnosed for months, during which
he lost almost 37 pounds.
“People need to know that you have to ask questions to get
answers,” said Turnage, who agreed to be a guest speaker
and get the word out for a Joint Army/Air National Guard Bone
Marrow Drive scheduled for later this year.
Mission focused, Davis expressed Pete’s wishes to several
Soldiers to help make this black and gold dream a reality.
Sgt. 1st Class Thomas E. Bryson, recruiting and retention
noncommissioned offi cer, said, “I really felt that giving my all to
make this happen for Pete and Eli was the right thing to do…
as a friend and an NCO.”
Not only did Turnage and his son Eli go to the Saints vs.
Cardinals football game Jan. 16, but this joint effort led to the
ultimate sports fan’s day with a Saints limo ride that picked
them up at their home in Walker, La., and two 50-yard-line
game tickets and fi eld passes.
“Just watching Eli smile and having a good time…it’s something
I’ll never forget,” said Turnage.
When asked to describe his favorite part of the game,
7-year-old Eli replied, “The fl ea fl icker,” referring to one of the
trick plays made during the game.
“Considering Pete’s condition, I fi gured the least we could
do was to try and make this happen for him and his family,”
said Sgt. 1st Class Tony Icamina, recruiting and retention noncommissioned
offi cer.
“This helped remind me that we are not alone,” said Noel.
“There are other people
that are on our side,
and they are trying to
squeeze a lifetime of
memories in for us.”
“If this brought just
a little happiness and
some memories, then
we did our job,” said
Icamina.
“Sgt. 1st Class Turnage
has given his life
to thew Guard,” said
Sgt. 1st Class Peter L. Turnage,
his son Eli, and his wife Noel,
hold up their tickets and field
passes while taking a ride to the
New Orleans Superdome Jan.
16. Turnage and his son Eli were
given two 50-yard-line tickets
and field passes to the Saints vs.
Car dinals football game. Fellow
Guardsmen helped make this
dream a reality for Turnage, who
is currently battling bone cancer.
Courtesy photo/released
Bryson. “That being said, I hope that the good times that Pete
and Eli had on that rainy Saturday will last forever.”
Noel said that since Pete’s diagnosis, over 500 meals have
been delivered to them by friends and family. “The city of
Walker and the military have just wrapped their arms around
us,” she said.
“That’s the beauty of the Louisiana National Guard,” said
Davis. “The LANG is a family away from your family, and Soldiers
care and do for others before themselves.”
The Turnages are eternally grateful for all of the cards,
money, and phone calls; however, they are especially thankful
for how protective and present the Guardsmen have been for
their family.
Noel and Pete Turnage have been married since March 2,
1991. They have three children: Mary, 17, Hannah, 14 and
Eli, 7.
“I know that the days that lie ahead will be hard for the Turnage
family, and I hope they know that if they need anything at
all we [Guard] are only a phone call away,” said Bryson.
“We are simply embracing a family member in time of need,”
said Davis of the Guard’s involvement.
“We’ve never been forgotten or pushed to the side,” said
Sgt. 1st Class Turnage about the Guard. “So many days would
just not be bearable without the Guard’s support.”
Please visit http://www.dvidshub.net/units/LAANG for the
latest Louisiana National Guard releases, photos and videos.
Winter/Spring Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 15

Son of a preacher
findS time to rhyme
Continued from page 5
Spc. Shanesel Dawson hands out goodies to the Soldiers before they head out on their mission. Dawson receives most of his goodies from AnySoldiers.com and various
churches in Louisiana. Photo: Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Benoit
Dawson teaches Sunday school and
holds a devotional every Wednesday night.
He is also the company’s subject matter
expert on warrior resiliency training.
“I get a lot of help from Capt. Myron
Johnson, the 264th CSSB chaplain,” said
Dawson. “I work under Johnson as the lay
leader; I received his blessing to be our company
spiritual adviser under his tutelage. He
is also my mentor.”
At times Dawson feels overwhelmed by his
responsibilities, but he follows his own advice
from a rhyme he created to help others.
It goes, “Keep chopping and the tree will
fall, and you will be done in no time at all.
But make sure your focus be…more on the
chop than the tree.”
The award-winning poet, Lloyd King,
sent a note to Dawson commenting on his
poem “Grow.”
“I shall forever keep in mind the ending
comment in Spc. Dawson’s poem, ‘to be
living and not growing is to be dead.’ The
impact of these words still whirls about in
my mind like the vortex of a tornado.
“Thank you Spc. Dawson for reminding
me to awaken and reminding me to continue
to ‘Grow,’” said King.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 17

APPLICATION PROCESS FOR
FEDERAL TUITION ASSISTANCE
What is Federal Tuition Assistance?
The Louisiana ARNG Federal Tuition Assistance provides fi nancial assistance to part-time or M-Day
ARNG Soldiers in support of their professional and personal self-development goals. Our vision is to provide
quality programs, services and support that will enable Soldiers to achieve their educational objectives and
further enhance the strength and relevance of the Louisiana National Guard. The FTA program can be
utilized to achieve high school diplomas, career oriented certifi cations and licensing, associate’s degree,
bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree.
Am I Eligible to Apply?
✓ You must have a valid expense record from an accredited school.
✓ If you are traditional or part-time ARNG Soldier, you must be in an active drilling status.
✓ If you are an AGR Soldier, you are required to obtain your FTA benefi t through the Active Duty Federal
Tuition Assistance portal www.goarmyed.com. See “Education Contacts” for more info.
✓ You are eligible the day you joined the Louisiana ARNG, even prior to boot camp or AIT or while
in high school.
✓ If you are an offi cer, you must serve four years after course completion.
✓ If you are enlisted, you must simply remain in the ARNG during term of courses.
✗ All members receiving an ROTC scholarship are NOT eligible for FTA.
How much does Federal Tuition Assistance Pay?
Federal Tuition Assistance can pay up to $ 4,500 per student each military fi scal year (Oct. 1
through Sept. 30). The amount of FTA approved by your education offi ce is determined by the
number and type of course hours taken in one period.
FTA Hourly Rates
Up to $ 250.00 max / semester hour • Up to $ 167.00 max / quarterly hour • Up to $ 16.66 max / clock hour
Information required in order to successfully complete your
FTA application:
✓ School Name and Location
✓ Degree Goal (Bachelor’s / Associate’s / Master’s)
✓ Degree Program (e.g. Criminal Justice / Business Administration / Graphic Design)
Course Start Date and End Date
✓ Course Code “Course Dept. and Number” (e.g. Math 101 / PSY 105 / BUS 5000)
18 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010

✓ Course Title (e.g. College Math / Basic Psychology / Course Development for Business and Industry)
✓ Number and Type of Credit Hours (semester / quarter/ clock)
✓ Cost per Credit Hour “Course total amount ÷ Number of Course Credit hours”
Techware required in order to successfully complete your FTA application:
✓ Common Access Card Registered with AKO “ www.us.army.mil ”
✓ Login Pin Number Assigned to CAC by DEERS
✓ Access to a CAC / Smart Card Read er
• Found at your local Unit Armory or Major Military Installations
• Request one from your Unit Supply Sergeant for Personal Use
• Purchase one online: Google Smart Card
FTA Education Contacts
◆ Lt. Austin Parker | Louisiana National Guard Federal Tuition Assistance Manager
phone (225) 255-8355 / (504) 278-8356 | email: austin.parker@us.army.mil
◆ Mrs. Elfreda Smith | Fort Polk, Education Offi ce, Education Services Specialist
phone (337) 531-7815 | fax: (337) 531-5362/8388 | email: elfreda.r.smith@us.army.mil
◆ Cpt. Alfred Horridge | Louisiana State Education Offi cer
phone (504) 278-8532 | email: alfred.horridge@us.army.mil
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 19

Bullets and
Brush Strokes:
Louisiana Guardsman documents
deployment through paintings
By Sgt. Michael L. Owens
Public Affairs Offi ce ce Staff Journalist Journalist
Between weekend drills, overseas deployments, the
work in communities during peacekeeping and natural
disaster missions, full-time jobs and school, National
Guardsmen often fi nd themselves too busy making a difference
to fi nd time for their hobbies.
One Soldier has found a way to combine the two.
For 31-year-old Louisiana Guardsman 1st Lt. Heather
S. Englehart, her hobby comes in the form of mixing
colors on a canvas and making beautiful artwork.
On the military side, Englehart serves as the executive
offi cer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company and
as a full-time project manager for the Louisiana National
Guard’s Construction and Facilities Management Offi ce.
As an artist and painter, Englehart has made a national
name for herself.
20 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
Louisiana National Guardsman 1st Lt. Heather S. Englehart, executive
officer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company, 205th Engineer
Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade, paints a portrait of her military
experiences at her home in New Orleans. Englehart was featured on
the CBS Sunday Morning News in December 2009 because of the
paintings she created while deployed to Iraq with the 1st Battalion,
244th Aviation Regiment, in 2004-2005. Courtesy photo
“Rock Drill,” is a painting by Louisiana National Guardsman 1st Lt. Heather S. Englehart, executive
officer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, 225th Engineer
Brigade. Englehart has been painting since a young age and has artwork displayed in the U.S.
Army Center of Military History in Washington, D.C. Photo: Courtesy of LifeScapes Art

“No Turning Back” is a painting by Louisiana National Guardsman 1st Lt. Heather S.
Englehart, executive officer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company, 205th Engineer
Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade. Photo: Courtesy of LifeScapes Art
While serving in Iraq with 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation
Regiment, from 2004-2005, Englehart’s name was given to
internationally renowned artist Jim Pollock, who served in
Vietnam, and who discovered that she too was both an artist
and a Soldier.
He notifi ed Renee Klish, the curator for the Army Art Collection
at the U.S. Army Center of Military History, and they, along
with her unit’s command, arranged for her to spend some time
documenting her wartime experiences. Her paintings from that
time are currently featured at the center in Washington, D.C.
“I knew we had something special here
and wanted to utilize her skills
and talents as much as we could.”
— Lt. Col. Patrick Bossetta
“My executive offi cer at the time was Lt. Col. Patrick
Bossetta, who was very supportive and allotted me the time to
work with Jim on projects,” Englehart said. “Of course I still had
to make sure this did not interfere with my assigned duties.”
After seeing her artwork, Bossetta decided that she should
become the unit historian and document the unit’s deployment
through her paintings.
“I knew we had something special here and wanted to utilize
her skills and talents as much as we could,” he said.
Englehart and Pollock have two things in common. Both
have lived in Pierre, S.D., and both have been labeled “war
artists” during their overseas tours.
“Heather is keeping that tradition alive,” said Pollock. “South
Dakotans have offi cially covered three wars for the Army.”
Harvey Dunn, the third South Dakota artist, covered WWI
during his deployment.
In November 2009, Englehart was interviewed on the CBS
Sunday morning news program about her work.
“I was really shocked and excited to be interviewed about
my art work,” she says. “Here is little-old-me being put in the
same category as big-named artists!”
Englehart has been involved with sketching and drawing for
as long as she can remember.
“I can remember drawing in church as a kid,” she said.
“When most parents would be upset at this, my mom was just
happy that I was doing something that would keep me quiet,”
she joked.
During her pre-teen years, Englehart’s father encouraged
her to take painting seriously because it could possibly be
something that would affect her future.
“From that point, I knew that drawing, sketching and painting
would be a part of my career fi eld,” she said.
She took these abilities to North Dakota State University,
where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in architecture
and a minor in environmental design.
Continued on page 28
Featured is a painting titled “UH60 Maintenance” by Louisiana National Guardsman 1st
Lt. Heather S. Englehart, executive officer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company,
205th Engineer Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade. Photo: Courtesy of LifeScapes Art
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 21

LANG FAMILY READINESS TEAM
Offi ce of
Family Programs
1106 B St., Camp Beauregard
Pineville, LA 71360
State Family Program Director
Capt. Keith Adcock, Chaplain
keith.adcock@us.army.mil
Office:800-541-5860
(318) 641-5428
Family Program Assistant
Sgt. Valencia Butler
valencia.butler@us.army.mil
Office: (318) 641-5429
Family Readiness Assistant
Charles Guilbeau
charles.guilbeau@us.army.mil
Phone: (318) 489-8598
Child and Youth Program
Angela D. Ott, Coordinator
angela.d.ott@us.army.mil
Phone: (504) 756-5960
LA Air National Guard
Cherie Spooner, Airman &
Family Readiness Program Manager
cherie.spooner@ang.af.mil
Phone: (504) 391-8505 (office)
22 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
Family
Assistance
Centers
Gerald Cradeur, Coordinator
1806 Surrey St.
Lafayette, LA 70508
gerald.cradeur@us.army.mil
Office: (337) 593-2044
Cell/Emergency: (337) 962-5082
Baton Rouge/Hammond
Lisa Palma, Specialist
lisa.e.palma@us.army.mil
Cell: (504) 202-8887
New Orleans/Slidell
Carrie Matirne, Specialist
carrie.matirne@us.army.mil
Cell: (504) 202-8771
Lafayette
Clinton Kidder, Specialist
Cell: (337) 962-8465
Alexandria
Martha Arrington, Specialist
Cell: (318) 451-9077
Shreveport/Bossier/Monroe
Barbara Conway, Specialist
Cell: (318) 347-3223
WWW.JOINTSERVICESSUPPORT.ORG
Family Readiness
Support Assistants
State Aviation Command
Anglia “Nikki” Ganey
204th Bld., 1399 Industrial Park Rd.
Hammond, LA , 70401
anglia.n.ganey@us.army.mil
Office: (985) 340-7262
Cell: (318) 416-7483
256th IBCT
Melissa Primeaux
1806 Surrey St.
Lafayette, LA 70508
melissa.a.primeaux@us.army.mil
Office: (337) 593-2044
Cell: (318) 416-7562
225th EN BDE
Jennifer Magee
225th EN Bld., Camp Beauregard
Pineville, LA 71360
Jennifer.magee1@us.army.mil
Cell: (318) 613-4673
139th RSG
Brandy Deouch
Camp Beauregard
Pineville, LA 71360
brandy.deouch@us.army.mil
Cell: (318) 541-6421

24 Pelican Dispatch /
Spring 2010

By Sgt. Michael L. Owens, PAO Staff Journalist
“The Soldiers understand the seri-
ousness of the training we are conducting
here, and their energy shows it,”
said Sgt. Maj. David Bovard, operations
sergeant major for 2nd Battalion, 108th
Cavalry Squadron. “Everyone works as
a team and takes care of one another.”
The 256th received support from
most of Louisiana, but the National
Champion New Orleans Saints
The Louisiana National Guard’s 256th
became one of the biggest fans of the
deploying Guardsmen.
“We play a game for fun, but you
Infantry Brigade Combat Team deployed guys have the real job,” said Mark
again this year in support of Operation Brunell, the Saints back-up quarterback.
Iraqi Freedom, after spending most of “You are the true heroes, and we are
2009 preparing their more than 3,000 very appreciative of the service you give
Soldiers for the mission ahead, which your country to keep us safe.”
will consist of route and convoy opera- At the start of 2010, families and
tions and base-camp security.
friends gathered at ceremonies through-
Starting in Jan. 2009, all of the subout the state to bid farewell to the Tiger
ordinate commands within the Tiger Brigade before they headed to Missis-
Brigade carried out their drill weekends sippi for training at Camp Shelby.
and annual training cycles making sure “Each and every one of you embarks
that Soldier records were updated and to change the course of history,” said
conducting combat training to ensure Gov. Bobby Jindal. “You set out to fi ght
Soldier readiness for its second deploy- for freedom in a part of the world that
ment since 2005.
does not have the same liberties we do
Tiger Brigade rolls
out once more
in America.”
After being celebrated by the grateful
citizens of Louisiana, the 256th headed
off to Camp Shelby and began their
mobilization training.
While training, the Guardsmen were
able to host their civilian employers to give
them an idea of what life of a deployed
Soldier consists of. The employers were
able to watch a training exercise that
showcased exactly what these Guardsmen
would be doing while deployed.
In March, the Tiger Brigade was treated
to a Tiger Day with family and friends, food
and live music, and given a fi nal farewell
after completing their rigorous training.
“The 256th has a distinguished history,
and we’ve already been battle-tested,”
said Col. Jonathan T. Ball, commander of
the 256th. “We will accomplish our mission
and bring your Soldiers back to you.”
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 25

Around
the
State
SHREVEPORT
Approximately 97 military policemen from
the Louisiana Army National Guard’s 39th
Military Police Company, 773rd Military Police
Battalion, who deployed in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom in 2008, were greeted by
Governor Bobby Jindal, Maj. Gen. Bennett C.
Landreneau, adjutant general of the LANG,
and Command Sgt. Maj. Tommy Caillier, senior
enlisted advisor of the LANG, as they stepped
off the plane at the Shreveport Regional Airport
in Shreveport, La., Sept. 26.
While deployed, the 39th, based in Camp
Minden, successfully completed more than
700 combat missions throughout Iraq without
serious injuries or loss of life while performing
Police Transition Team operations by assisting
with logistics, training and maintaining supplies
on hand at local police stations in Baghdad,
and also working with the Iraqi Police
conducting motor patrols, main supply route
reconnaissance and establishment, and traffi c
control points.
Additionally, the company also trained and
staffed the Police Center of Excellence, an
academy where advanced crime scene and
investigative techniques are taught to Iraqi Police,
and assisted in the center’s relinquishment
from coalition forces’ control to Iraq Provincial
police jurisdiction and oversight.
BELLE CHASSE
Tariq Hanna designed a one-of-a-kind
replica of an F-15 for the Louisiana National
Guard’s 159th Fighter Wing’s family day at
Naval Air Station – Joint Reserve Base in New
Orleans, Dec. 6.
Hanna was asked by Louisiana Guardsman
Senior Airman Charlie Fenton to bake a unique
cake for family day. Fenton, of the 159th Aircraft
Maintenance Support Squadron, is new to the
wing and fi gured that his friend would bake a
good treat for the families.
“This was a way for me to say thank you
very much,” said Hanna. “You put your life
on the line so that I can continue playing with
cakes.”
Hanna is not only a chef at New Orleans’
own Sucre Bakery, but he is also part owner
of the establishment. He has been recognized
locally and nationally for his creations.
26 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
PINEVILLE
On leave from a deployment in Kuwait,
Louisiana Army National Guardsman
2nd Lt. Crystal A. Huff welcomed
her sister Mindy M. Donnelly into the
National Guard by administering the
oath of enlistment during a swearingin
ceremony at the Military Entrance
Processing Station in Shreveport, La.,
Sept. 30.
Donnelly, a Calhoun, La.,
native, has since departed for
Fort Jackson, S.C., to begin her
10-week Basic Combat Training
course followed by 10 weeks of
Advanced Individual Training at
Fort Lee, Va. She will enlist as a
Food Service Specialist.
Upon completion of training,
she will join the 199th Brigade Support Battalion,
256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team at
Camp Shelby, Miss., in preparation for a January
2010 deployment to Iraq.
CAMP MINDEN
The Louisiana Army National Guard broke
ground during a special ceremony attended
by Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal to mark
the start of construction for the long-awaited
Regional Training Institute at Camp Minden in
Minden, La., Oct. 6.
The phase one construction will provide
the site infrastructure for all four phases. A
two-story, 14,636 square foot billeting building
and an 8,200 square foot education/administration
building will be constructed. Also, a 6,430
square foot addition will be added to the Dining
Facility currently under construction.
The RTI will provide regionalized combat
arms, leadership, military occupational specialty,
and general studies training for the Army
National Guard and will monitor and coordinate
academic instruction, food and lodging for
Soldiers.
The RTI Regiment will have a staffi ng
strength of 97 personnel, and the new facilities
will allow for a student load of around 8,000.
BOSSIER CITY
Louisiana National Guardsmen assisting
with fl ood abatement operations starting on
Oct. 31, when fl ood waters threatened neighborhoods
in Bossier City, La.
Approximately 400 Louisiana Guardsmen
had been running around-the-clock operations
to help the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Bossier City offi cials and Airmen from Barksdale
Air Force Base reinforce a six-mile stretch
of levee that was starting to be overtopped by
waters from the Redshoot bayou after a massive
rainfall.
Forty-eight high water vehicles were also
used to support the operations. The mission of
delivering sandbags and reinforcing the levee
was a success.
BATON ROUGE
Brig. Gen. Glenn Curtis, director of the joint
staff for the Louisiana National Guard, was one
of 11 alumni inducted into the Cadets of the Ole
War Skule Hall of Honor during a ceremony on
the Louisiana State University campus, Nov. 14.
The Military Hall of Honor induction ceremony
was part of LSU Salutes, the celebration
of the university’s military tradition scheduled
near Veterans Day each November. The event
also included a military parade, a wreath laying,
a 21-gun salute, a fl y over and static displays
supplied by the Louisiana National Guard’s
928th Sapper Company from Napoleonville,
La.; 239th Military Police Company from Carville,
La.; and the 139th Expeditionary Signal
Company from Carville, La.
The Hall of Honor inductees were selected
based on their involvement with the university,
as well as military and community service.
BATON ROUGE
The Louisiana National Guard was praised
during a special gala held at Louisiana’s Old
Governor’s Mansion for its participation in the
famous Sunshine Foundation reading program
in Baton Rouge, La., Nov. 17.
For the past 12 years, Louisiana’s Guardsmen
have been distributing and reading the
book “You Are Sunshine” to kindergarteners in
public, private and parochial schools throughout
the state.
“The partnership that we have with the
Louisiana National Guard is just phenomenal,
especially their enthusiasm, dedication and willingness
to work with us throughout the state,”
said Beth Philips, who serves as the foundation’s
executive director. “We are thankful and
appreciative of everything they do.”
The foundation’s objectives are to build
every child’s self esteem, stress the value of
every child, encourage reading by and to young
children, and strengthen bonds between adults
and young children.
CARVILLE
After a year-long deployment to Afghanistan,
approximately eight Soldiers from the
Louisiana Army National Guard’s 415th Military
Intelligence Battalion were welcomed home
during a special reception at Louisiana Aircraft
LLC near the Baton Rouge Airport, Nov. 25.
Members of Detachment 2, A Company, out
of Carville, La., were greeted by Maj. Gen. Bennett
C. Landreneau, the adjutant general of the
LANG, and other leadership as they stepped
off the helicopters to a crowd of cheering family
and friends on Thanksgiving Eve…only minutes
before midnight.
While deployed, the unit was responsible
for conducting tactical intelligence collection
missions and gathering important enemy
intelligence while conducting interviews in a
Joint Interrogation Facility. The information
obtained during both of these missions was
instrumental in ensuring the safety of United
States Soldiers and civilians, and that of the
Afghanistan people.
NEW ORLEANS
Approximately 150 Louisiana National
Guardsmen participated in the New Orleans

Saints vs. New England Patriots pregame
show, Nov. 30.
“We try to honor our troops as much as possible,”
said Travis Burkett, Saints senior sales
manager for Season Tickets and Sales. “We do
what we can to give back.”
The Soldiers and Airmen from across the
state came marching in with an enormous
American fl ag and held it steady during the
playing of the National Anthem.
Saints personnel provided a buffet style dinner
to show their thanks and appreciation to the
men and women who serve in the military and
who supported their pregame show.
BELLE CHASSE
The 159th Fighter Wing Logistics Readiness
Squadron held a change of command
ceremony at Naval Air Station - Joint Reserve
Base in New Orleans, Dec. 5.
Maj. Timothy C. Vignes assumed command
of the 159th LRS in a ceremony presided over
by Col. Roy V. Qualls, 159th Fighter Wing commander.
During the passing of the colors, Vignes accepted
the fl ag from Lt. Col. Brian L. Callahan.
Callahan had served in the position since May
2006 and will be continuing his career as the
159th Mission Support Group vice commander.
Vignes will have overall responsibility for
providing resources through the Supply Section,
Logistics Section, Fuels Management
Section, Traffi c Management Section and
Vehicle Maintenance Section in support of
the 159th FW mission and fi ve geographically
separated units.
PINEVILLE
The Louisiana Army National Guard promoted
its top warrant offi cer on Nov. 7, at a
special ceremony held at the Stafford House on
Camp Beauregard in Pineville, La.
Kim J. Janneck, of St. Bernard Parish, was
promoted to command chief warrant offi cer 5
at a gathering offi ciated by Maj. Gen. Bennett
C. Landreneau, the adjutant general for the
Louisiana National Guard.
Janneck, who has served as the LANG’s
command chief warrant offi cer since August,
has been praised by many as a hard worker
and exemplary Soldier.
Janneck joined the LANG in 1986 as a
personnel specialist, after serving as an Army
civilian since 1978. Since she already had the
civilian personnel experience, she entered the
military through the civilian-to-warrant program.
LAFAYETTE
Louisiana National Guard Adjutant General
Maj. Gen. Bennett C. Landreneau will presented
members of the 39th Military Police Company
with Freedom Salute awards in a special ceremony,
Nov. 15, at the Hilton in Lafayette, La.
The Freedom Salute Ceremony is held in
recognition and appreciation of Guardsmen and
units deployed in support of Operations Enduring
Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Noble Eagle and
other peacekeeping operations across the globe.
The 39th served in Iraq from 2008 to 2009.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the
unit attended a weekend of Yellow Ribbon
training to help ease the stresses of returning
to their civilian lifestyle. During this training, the
Soldiers attend classes that focus on helping
them transition back to their families, job and/or
school and community.
NEW ORLEANS
Approximately 125 military personnel, representing
the U.S. Armed Forces throughout the
city of New Orleans, were honored by the New
Orleans City Council and Mayor Ray Nagin
during the city’s annual celebration of Military
Appreciation Day at City Hall, Nov. 19.
The event highlighted and recognized the
military for its many services to the city and
surrounding areas. The Mayor, along with each
member of the city council, personally
expressed words of gratitude and appreciation
for all the men and women who serve in
the military.
Military Appreciation Day is a special day
set aside to give local communities the chance
to show their recognition and appreciation of
the courage and commitment from those who
serve in the military.
MINDEN
The Louisiana National Guard and members
of Webster Parish honored the memory of a
local leader and war veteran during a dedication
ceremony at Camp Minden in Minden, La., Dec.
9, for retired Army Maj. James E. Bolin Sr. by
dedicating Camp Minden’s post headquarters
building as Bolin Hall.
Bolin, a native of Webster Parish and graduate
of the Louisiana State University, started a
law practice in Minden and was elected as a
state representative for the parish in 1940. He
resigned in 1942 and entered the Army where
he became a highly decorated veteran serving
overseas during World War II, to include working
with the prosecution team at the Nuremburg
war crime trials.
In 1952, he was elected to the 26th Judicial
District Court bench and re-elected without
opposition in 1954. He was subsequently
elected to the Second Circuit Court of Appeal,
where he served from 1960-1978. Bolin
remained active in the Minden community until
his death in March 2002.
NEW ORLEANS
Louisiana National Guardsmen participated
in a video game competition against the then
undefeated New Orleans Saints at their training
facility in Metairie, La., Dec. 1.
The Guardsmen and players were part of
the “Pro vs. G.I. Joe” event, playing each other
in games such as Call of Duty and Guitar Hero,
donated by Best Buy.
The Saints were happy to be there and
show their off-the-fi eld skills to the Guardsmen
after showcasing their on-the-fi eld talents in
a win against the New England Patriots the
night before.
“It is always fun to do events like this,” said
cornerback Mike McKenzie. “Supporting and
appreciating our Troops is what it’s all about.”
PINEVILLE
Col. Walter J. Austin, State Chaplain of the
Louisiana National Guard, was honored in a
retirement ceremony at the Stafford House at
Camp Beauregard in Pineville, La., Jan. 9.
During the ceremony Austin received the
Minuteman Plaque in recognition of 20 years of
honorable service. He also received a Meritorious
Service Medal and the Louisiana Legion of
Merit award.
“The real joy I got out of being in the Guard
was to be able to minister to the Soldiers,” said
Austin. “I baptized and did weddings in the
military capacity and on the civilian side with
these Soldiers.”
Austin conducted his last mass in a military
capacity at the Camp Beauregard chapel immediately
after the retirement ceremony.
BELLE CHASSE
The Louisiana Air National Guard welcomed
Maj. Roderick Alvendia as their new Staff Judge
Advocate during an Oath of Offi ce Ceremony at
Naval Air Station – Joint Reserve Base in New
Orleans, Jan. 9.
After 20 years of service in the Army National
Guard, Alvendia embraced the opportunity
to become part of the 159th Fighter Wing’s
legal team.
HAMMOND
The Louisiana National Guard marked the
opening of its Army Aviation Center with a
ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 10,
near the Northshore Regional Airport in Hammond,
La.
The new center includes a multi-unit
readiness center for the 204th Theater Airfi eld
Operations Group and the 1st Assault Helicopter
Battalion of the 244th Aviation Regiment, a
hangar for Detachment 38’s C-12 fi xed-wing
aircraft, a maintenance shop and an overall
support facility for storage and ground support
equipment.
The support facility can also serve as an alternate
Emergency Operations Center capable
to manage disaster relief operations.
CARVILLE
Louisiana Counter Drug Task Force personnel
received accolades from their inspectors
during the Counter Drug Program Evaluation
out brief at Gillis W. Long Center in Carville,
La., on March 4.
“Obviously, you have a great team here,”
said Lt. Col. Gary W. Lange, Counter Drug
Program evaluation chief with the National
Guard Bureau.
The inspectors look at 11 functional areas
to include: Personnel, Drug Demand Reduction,
Operations, Logistics, Financial Management,
Training, Ground Safety, Joint Substance
Abuse Program, Army Aviation, Air Aviation and
Armed Operations.
Louisiana Guardsmen were inspected in eight
of those areas receiving high marks in most and
100 percent in their Operations Section.
Spring 2010 / Louisiana National Guard 27

Bullets and
Brush Strokes
Continued from page 21
Featured is a painting titled “Ambush” by Louisiana National Guardsman 1st
Lt. Heather S. Englehart, executive officer for the 1021st Vertical Engineer
Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade. Englehart has
been painting since a young age and has artwork displayed in the U.S. Army
Center of Military History in Washington, D.C.
Photo: Courtesy of LifeScapes Art
28 Pelican Dispatch / Spring 2010
1st Lt. Heather S. Englehart paints a portrait of her military experiences at her home in New
Orleans. Courtesy photo
“This was a perfect fi t for me,” she said.
“I was able to apply everything I learned
and apply it to my work in college.”
In 1997, she decided to join the military
after being dared by a few friends. “A few
of my male friends had just graduated from
basic training and said I couldn’t accomplish
the same thing,” she said. “Since I
am stubborn and hard-headed, I enlisted
to show them they were wrong.”
She spent the beginning of her military
career and overseas deployment as a cook;
and in 2005, she applied for and received a
direct commission as an engineer offi cer.
Word about her work and talents quickly
spread around the Louisiana National
Guard, and after her commissioning, she
was offered a full-time position with the
CFMO.
“I was surprised by the offer and happy
to receive it,” she said. “Working here has
given me the opportunity to continue doing
something that I have always had a passion
for.”
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