The Capital Guardian - Spring 2011

Land Component 

Commander 

promoted to 

Brigadier General 

113th Wing passes 

unprecedented 

five major inspections 

First Air Force/ 

NORAD recognizes 

Air Sovereignty Alert unit

STAFF 

Commanding General 

Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz 

Editor 

2nd Lt. Miranda Summers 

Public Affairs Officers 

Lt. Col. Kevin M. McAndrews 

Lt. Col. Brad Benson 

Capt. Byron Coward 

Capt. Elizabeth Kreft 

Capt. Loneshia Reed 

1st Lt. Alán N. Ortiz 

Staff Writers 

Tech. Sgt. Tyrell Heaton 

Staff Sgt. G.H. Cureton 

Staff Sgt. Gary Nelson 

Spc. Jesse Searls, Historian 

Photography 

Senior Master Sgt. Ray Wilkerson 

Tech. Sgt. William Parks 

Tech. Sgt. Dennis Young 

Sgt. Khalia Jackson 

Tech. Sgt. Gareth Buckland 

Spc. Mark Ingutti 

Bob Ulin, Publisher • Marie Lundstrom, Editor 

Gloria Schein, Graphic Artist 

Chris Kersbergen, Darrell George, Advertising Sales 

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Published by AQP Publishing, Inc., a private firm in no 

way connected with the District of Columbia National 

Guard, under written contract with the District of Columbia 

National Guard. This District of Columbia National Guard 

magazine is an authorized publication for employees and 

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Guard. Contents of this publication are not necessarily the 

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the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, or the 

District of Columbia National Guard. 

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Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by 

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National Guard unless otherwise indicated. 

Arthur Hinaman receives his general’s star from his wife, Judy, and 

sons, Arthur III and Brian, in a ceremony held April 1. See story on 

page 18. 

Features 

Second Annual Unity Thunder Car Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

and DC EANGUS Car Show 

Ready and relevant: A look around the DCNG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

257th Army Band. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

DCNG members unfurl super-flag on opening day . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

for Washington Nationals 

Master Sgt. Coombs mentors youth in the community . . . . . . . . 12 

Challenge program puts teenagers on the right path . . . . . . . . . . 13 

A small unit with a BIG mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

DCNG hosts prayer breakfast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Departments 

Commanding General’s Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

A word from the Senior Enlisted Leader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

News Briefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

From the desk of the Command Chief Warrant Officer . . . . . . . . . . 

Members of the DC National Guard 

carry a football-field-size American 

flag onto the outfield for pregame 

ceremonies for opening day at 

Nationals Park in Washington, 

D.C., March 31. 

CORRECTION: On page 6 of the 

Capital Guardians Winter 2011 magazine, 

Command Sgt. Maj. Salvatore Simonetta 

Jr. was incorrectly identified as Command 

Sgt. Maj. Richrad Espinosa. 

Spring 2011 

Spring 2011 / CAPITAL GUARDIAN • 1 

Cover Photo: Tech. Sgt. Tyrell Heaton

Commanding General’s Column 

We are a talented and 

committed organization 

I was pleased to see our soldiers and airmen 

taking part in the Nationals Opening Day. 

Thanks to all those who volunteered to make it 

happen. It’s important to show our pride and 

for the community to recognize we’re here 

doing a great job. Unfortunately, we weren’t 

able to do the F-16 flyover because of cloud 

cover, but the Nationals appreciated our efforts 

to get approval and coordinate the event. 

There is no better place to show off our talents 

than at large events such as this one. 

Congratulations to the 113th for a job well 

done on their recent inspections. As you know, 

the 113th Wing spent many long, hard hours 

this past year preparing for three inspections, 

the Unit Compliance Inspection, Health Services 

Inspection and Logistics Compliance Assessment 

Program. The Wing did a great job; they 

passed all inspections including a 95 percent 

compliance rating on the UCI. In all, there were 

127 inspectors working at the unit over a fourday 

period. 

To top that off, the Wing received the First 

Air Force/Continental U.S. NORAD Region 

Meritorious Service Award for outstanding 

mission accomplishment. They were recognized 

for their important role flying Air Sovereignty 

Alert missions to protect the capital after the 

9/11 attacks. Our fighters have now surpassed 

2 • CAPITAL GUARDIAN / Spring 2011 

3,000 alert missions, the most of any unit 

in the nation. 

The Wing also promoted three NCOs 

to chief master sergeant, a rank attained 

by only 2 percent of the enlisted force. 

Promotion to chief allows us to reflect on 

both an exemplary career to date, as well 

as look forward to an opportunity to 

demonstrate even greater leadership in 

the future. We were particularly pleased 

to celebrate the promotion of three very 

qualified leaders: Chief Master Sgt. Louis 

R. Keeler, 113th Equipment Maintenance 

flight superintendent, Chief Master Sgt. 

Kevin W. Kling and Chief Master Sgt. James 

T. Mathews, both of the 113th Maintenance 

Squadron. 

The DC Guard hosted its annual Joint 

Prayer Breakfast recently. The theme for the 

year was Faith in the Face of Persistent 

Conflict. When we look at the world around us, 

we see conflict everywhere. The U.S., as a 

leader in the free world, regularly plays a role 

in most conflicts. We, as men and women in 

uniform, realize the burden directly when we 

are called to leave our homes and families 

behind and serve our country. 

The Prayer Breakfast is a joyous time to 

come together as men and women of the DC 

Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz 

Commanding General 

National Guard, but it also reminds me how 

important spiritual support can be in times of 

war. When our operations tempo is as high as 

it is now, the stress we experience is great. 

It’s critical that we remember to take care of 

ourselves and to take care of each other. 

Fortunately, we have help: chaplains, Family 

Services, co-workers and commanders are 

there for you. You can rely on them for understanding 

and support. A shared burden is much 

lighter, so don’t shoulder the burden alone. If 

you need help, ask for it. If someone you know 

can use a hand, be there for them and help 

them find the help they need.

A word from the Senior Enlisted Leader 

Attitudedeterminesaltitude 

Recently, the 113th Wing underwent 

an unprecedented five simultaneous 

inspections with phenomenal results. 

Prior to the inspections, I visited the units 

and spoke with numerous airmen. From 

the first airman to the last, they all had 

the same positive attitude. Based on the 

results they achieved, I would say their 

attitude determined their altitude. 

As I visit the different units and talk 

with our personnel, I realize that it’s all 

about attitude. Just as laughing, yawning 

and crying are infectious, attitude is 

infectious. It’s the first thing people pick 

up on when communicating with you. 

By choosing a positive attitude, you set a 

positive tone and send out a message 

those around you understand, whether 

consciously or unconsciously. 

Leaders set the tone in any organization. 

They supply a shared vision and 

inspire people to achieve more than they 

may have dreamed possible. Leaders 

articulate a shared vision in a way that 

inspires others to act. According to Vadim 

Kotelnikov, author of 12 Leadership Roles, 

“Inspirational leaders create an inspiring 

culture within their organization. People 

do what they have to do for a manager. 

Inspired and energized people do their 

best for an inspirational leader.” 

Whether you’re an AGR, technician, 

drill status Guard member, contractor or 

civilian employee, the role you play in the 

By 2nd Lt. Miranda Summers 

District of Columbia National Guard 

success of the DCNG is vital. Every one 

of us is a leader in some way. Regardless 

of rank or “leadership position,” we are 

leaders to those around us in our unit, 

our home and our community. As leaders, 

we need to remember that attitudes drive 

behavior – both within ourselves and in 

those around us. Most importantly, we 

must also remember that our attitude is 

our choice. We can’t always control the 

circumstances in our lives, but we have 

complete control over how we react to 

those circumstances. 

The DC Armory floor looked a little different March 5th 

and 6th. Classic, custom, street and muscle cars filled the 

floor as part of the second annual Car Show Benefit. The 

Unity Thunder Car Club, an organization with a long history 

of supporting charitable organizations and community improvements, 

paired with the DC National Guard Enlisted Association 

for the event. 

Many DCNG members were there not only as D.C. 

National Guard Enlisted Association members, but to show off 

their cars. Chief Carl Flowers of the DCANG was there with 

his daughter, Joye, and the 1967 Camaro with a 427 big block 

engine they have been restoring for four years. The project 

now involves three generations, as Flowers’ granddaughter is 

now working with her aunt and grandfather. Command Sgt. 


Chief Master Sgt. Reginald Edwards 

Chief Carl Flowers of the DCANG and his daughter, Joye, with the 1967 

Camaro they’ve been restoring together. 

Second Annual Unity Thunder Car Club and DC EANGUS Car Show 

Maj. Richard Espinosa had his 

antique police wagon there with 

some special details sure to get a 

smile out of visitors. The front license 

plate was decorated with flags, and the side window 

had a drive-thru tray with a special treat for the officers 

inside: coffee and doughnuts. 

The event grew considerably since last year. Chief 

Master Sgt. Reginald Edwards said he was grateful for the 

partnership. “One of the main things is getting the DC 

National Guard back into the community,” he said. 

Together with the Unity Car Club, they were able to bring 

more than 80 vehicles to the Armory. Edwards said he 

hoped that the event would keep getting bigger and 

become a fixture in the community.

Spc. Mark Ingutti 

Soldiers from the 74th Troop 

Command trained together at 

Quantico for the January IDT. 

Brig. Gen. Arthur Hinaman talks 

with food services personnel 

serving a hot meal at the Marine 

Corps MOUT site. 

Spring 2011 / CAPITAL GUARDIAN • 5

2nd Lt. Miranda Summers 

Ready and relevant: A look around 

State of the Capital Guardians. The 33rd Civil Support team 

and DCNG Quick Reaction Force stood ready during the president’s 

State of the Union address. Approximately 170 soldiers and airmen 

conducted quarterly training in civil disturbance procedures including 

evacuation and crowd control. 


One City. Senior Master Sgt. Chanssez Wilkerson, Cpt. 

Kyle Madsen, Spc. Jesse Searls, Lt. Col. Marc Branche, 

Pfc. Lorie Martin and 2nd Lt. Miranda Summers participate 

in a photo op for the Washington, DC Mayor’s new One 

City campaign. The DCNG was among the groups featured 

in the campaign, which premiered during the State of the 

District Address on DC public access TV.

the DCNG 

Tech. Sgt. William Parks 

Flash Forward. The 121st Fighter Squadron, 113th Wing, District of Columbia 

National Guard, aircraft number 509 proudly shows off the unit’s latest tail flash. 

Don and Seal. Chaplain Major Myrtle Brown ensures a good seal during a gas 

mask fit test. The DC Air National Guard is replacing all MCU-2 A/P gas masks 

with the new M50 gas masks. The new M50 gas mask has twin conformal filters, 

which allow 50 percent improvement in breathing resistance and more than 24 

hours of protection against chemical or biological agents and radioactive 

particulate matter. 


Tech. Sgt. Gareth Buckland

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sheila Klotz, 

commander of the 275th Army 

Band, is continually improving 

the direction for the Band of the Nation’s 

Capital. 

This year will be no exception. In her 

newest addition for the 257th’s upcoming 

summer concert tour, Klotz is adding 

some funky beats to the band’s repertoire. 

Klotz, a drummer by trade, says the 

band is well beyond the expectations she 

had when she became commander a few 

years ago. 

“I am now the weakest link in the 

band!” she joked while demonstrating 


the funky beat on the drums. 

The new beat has undertones of tunes 

played by Tower of Power, an American 

R&B, soul and funk-based band that 

has been performing for four decades; 

Parliament-Funkadelic, a group that 

plays funk, soul and rock music; and 

music by Chick Corea, an American jazz 

pianist and keyboardist whose compositions 

are considered by many to be 

jazz standards. 

During its summer tour, the 257th 

will be playing some of the most famous 

pieces of music ever written, Klotz said. 

But if you’re curious about what they’ll 

Saxophonist Sgt. 1st Class Cynthia 

Marr regularly dazzles audiences. 

have on tap, she said, you’ll have to 

come see them perform. That’s one cat 

she’s not letting out of the bag. 

Klotz started her military career in the 

U.S. Air Force Band as a percussionist. 

She later transferred to the 257th and 

quickly rose through the ranks to become 

commander. 

Her attention to detail, tireless work 

ethic, enthusiasm and passion have been 

instrumental in the 257th’s success. Year 

after year, the band is a favorite around 

the region, including an annual Fourth 

of July concert in York, Penn., where they 

attract a crowd of more than 40,000. 

Adding to its list of accomplishments, 

the 257th was the first National Guard 

band in history to play for a president 

during Obama’s inaugural ball in 2009.

Bass player Pfc. Anthony Jenkins, a top musician, 

achieved a perfect score at the Army Schoolhouse. 

257thArmyBandSchedule 

JULY 1, 2011 • Friday 

5:30 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Calvert Marine Museum 

Solomon’s Island, MD 

6:30 p.m. – CONCERT BAND 

Calvert Marine Museum 

Solomon’s Island, MD 

JULY 4, 2011 – Monday 

12:00 Noon 

CEREMONIAL BAND 

America’s Independence Day Parade 

Constitution Avenue 

Washington, D.C. 

6:16 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Reston Town Center 

Reston, VA 


Reston Town Center 

Reston, VA 

JULY 5, 2011 – Tuesday 

6:15 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Community College Amphitheatre 

Hagerstown, MD 


HCC Amphitheatre 

Hagerstown, MD 

JULY 8, 2011 – Friday 

6:15 P.M. – 3 DAY PASS 

Annapolis Town Center 

Annapolis, MD 


Annapolis Town Center 

Annapolis, MD 

Individual band standouts include Sgt. Vicki Golding, winner of 

the Armed Forces Military Idol contest. Golding, who also performs 

percussion, is in constant demand to sing the national anthem at local 

events that draw thousands of spectators, including the Washington 

Redskins’ and Wizards’ games. 

Private First Class Anthony Jenkins is considered a top musician 

as well, achieving a perfect score at the Army School of Music, and 

saxophonist Sgt. First Class Cynthia Marr, who plays almost beyond 

comprehension, Klotz said. 

Far from letting the 257th rest on its laurels, Klotz will have the 

band ready to go for its tour this summer July 1-16. The new music 

planned will challenge the band, she said, but they will rise to the 

occasion. “The band is going to shine.” 

Editor’s note: Chief Klotz was recently featured in an article in Tom 

Tom Magazine entitled “The Percussion Eruption.” To read the article, 

go to tomtommag.com/blog/?p=5417. 

JULY 9, 2011 – Saturday 

6:15 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

National Harbor 

National Harbor, MD 


National Harbor Stage 

National Harbor, MD 

JULY 11, 2011 – Monday 

6:15 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Market Square Area 

Alexandria, VA 


Market Square 


JULY 12, 2011–Tuesday 

12:00 Noon 

CAPITAL MESSENGERS 

Boulevard at Capital Centre 

Landover, MD 

6:15 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

National Mall 



World War II Memorial 


JULY 13, 2011 – Wednesday 

6:45 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Connaughton Plaza 

Woodbridge, VA 


Connaughton Plaza 

Woodbridge, VA 

JULY 14, 2011–Thursday 

11:00 a.m. 

Clinicians/Master Classes 

Nova 


12:00 Noon 

CAPITAL MESSENGERS 

Nova Alexandria 


6:45 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Schlesinger Concert Hall 



Schlesinger Concert Hall 


JULY 15, 2011 – Friday 

6:45 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Harris Pavillion 

Manassas, VA 


Harris Pavillion 

Manassas, VA 

JULY 16, 2011 – Saturday 

5:15 p.m. – 3 DAY PASS 

Lurman Woodland Theatre 

Cantonsville, MD 


Lurman Woodland Theatre 

Cantonsville, MD 


DCGuardmembersunfurl 

super-flagonopeningday for 

Washington Nationals 

More than 150 airmen and soldiers from the District of Columbia 

National Guard, including some volunteer Fort Meyer soldiers 

from the National Capital Region, teamed up to unfurl a 

100-foot-by-300-foot American super-flag on opening 

day at Nationals Field. 

By Tech. Sgt. Tyrell Heaton 

113th Wing Public Affairs 

The Nationals’ organization has 

incorporated the DC National Guard in 

their opening day pregame ceremonies for 

the past five years. Highlighting military 

members is a way they can appropriately 

honor our men and women in uniform 

here in the nation’s capital. 

Children of service members were 

allowed on the field before the game. 

They were able to greet the starters as 

they ran onto the field. 

The Navy Band performed “America 

the Beautiful” prior to the game. They 

also played the national anthem while 

the 100’ by 300’ flag was unfurled. 

Two members of the National Guard 

were individually recognized prior to the 

start of the game. Staff Sgt. Jenna Hall, 


Tech. Sgt. Tyrell Heaton

Members of the DC National Guard carry a football-field-size American flag 

onto the outfield for pregame ceremonies for opening day at Nationals Park in 

Washington, D.C., March 31. Members of the color guard (showing on the big 

screen) move into position for the national anthem played by the Navy Band. 

Children of military members welcome the Nationals players as they are 

announced during pregame ceremonies on opening day at Nationals Park. 

Unit Training Manager with the 113th 

Maintenance Group, DC Air National 

Guard and Bronze Star recipient, and 

Staff Sergeant Timothy Huggins of the 

58th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 

Maryland Army National Guard. 

Hall was recognized for her service 

during Operation Iraqi Freedom and volunteering 

to serve additional time beyond 

her deployment in Iraq. 

“It’s an honor to be recognized in front 

of such a big crowd,” she said. “There are 

a lot of other Guardsmen who have done a 

lot of impressive things, and I feel proud 

to serve with them.” 

The attendance at the game surpassed 

40,000 fans. 

“Being able to cover an event this way 

is a great way to showcase the DC National 

Guard,” said Lt. Col. Dewey Wiseman, 

Joint Force Headquarters, DC National 

Guard. The airmen and soldiers who 

volunteered met at Nationals Field eight 

hours prior to the game for a 10- to 15minute 

run-through before the opening 

ceremony. 

During this time, each airman and 

soldier was given a specific job to ensure 

that the massive flag could be opened 

without touching the ground. The flag 

was so large that it would nearly cover a 

football field. 

Despite the down time between the 

practice and the actual ceremony, airmen 

and soldiers maintained high spirits. 

Tech. Sgt. Mike McKenna, Avionics, 

113th Wing Maintenance Squadron, has 

participated in the past five opening 

ceremonies for the Nationals. 

“It’s a privilege,” McKenna said. 

“There’s a tremendous sense of pride 

being on the field.” 

The soldiers and airmen had an 

incentive for volunteering for this assignment 

as they received tickets for the game 

in addition to standing on the field for the 

pregame ceremonies. 

As the volunteers made their way to 

the stands after the opening ceremonies, 

many encountered grateful fans. Soldiers 

and airmen continually heard “Thank you 

for your service” from fans as they walked 

through the concourse and stadium. 

Pride and honor seemed to be the 

theme for the volunteers. “Hearing the 

roar of the fans after the national anthem 

is really heartfelt,” said Staff Sgt. John 

Griffin, jet engine mechanic, 113th Wing 

Maintenance Squadron. “It makes me 

proud to wear the uniform.” 

“I felt a lot of pride when the crowd 

roared as the flag opened,” said Tech. Sgt. 

Stephen Zakszeki, aircraft electrician, 

113th Wing Maintenance Squadron. 

The Nationals lost 2-0 to the Atlanta 

Braves.

Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Program 

Master Sgt. Coombs mentors youth in the community 

By Lt. Col. Kevin McAndrews 

Public Affairs Officer 

Most people wouldn’t think that 

getting a job as a dishwasher at 

the International House of 

Pancakes would be the start of a successful 

and lucrative career, but that’s exactly 

what happened in the case of Master 

Sgt. Frank Coombs, a longtime member 

of the DC Air National Guard. 

At the time, he was a teenager who 

had his own business cutting lawns 

when one of his best friends asked him 

to tag along while he went to apply for a 

job at the IHOP near College Park, Md. 

“They asked me if I wanted to apply, 

but I told them I was just there with my 

friend,” Coombs recalls of that fateful 

day in 1981. “But they talked me into 

applying. They ended up hiring me and 

not my friend.” 

Coombs’ father was skeptical about 

the job working out for his son. 

“He told me that I was used to 

running my own business,” Coombs said. 

“He didn’t think I’d like working for 

someone else.” But he let him take the 

job. That turned out to be the best thing 

he could have done now that Coombs 

owns his own IHOP in Forestville, Md. 

He could sell the business today for 

somewhere around $2 million. 

That makes him a self-made 

millionaire, but you’d never know it. He’s 

a mild-mannered NCO with a good 

sense of humor who knows how to 

handle business in the Director of Staff 

- Air office for the DC Guard’s Joint 

Force Headquarters. He goes about his 

job quietly and – at times – unnoticeably, 

but he always gets the job done. 

In the meantime, he keeps his 

restaurant going strong and juggles more 

responsibilities for needy community 

organizations than you can shake a 

stick at. That list includes serving on the 

board of Melwood, an organization that 

helps mentally challenged people find 

jobs, and the DC Guard’s Capital 

Guardian Youth Challenge program, 

now in its fifth year. 

“I think it’s important to give back 

to the community,” Coombs said. 

“Especially kids. Someone gave me a 

chance, and that’s what I try to do with 

kids in the Youth Challenge program.” 


Master Sgt. Coombs talks to Challenge graduate Demetrius Peeler at his 

IHOP in Forestville. Peeler now works at the restaurant. 

His belief in hard work has rubbed 

off on more than a few people, including 

a dozen Youth Challenge graduates 

who’ve come to work at his restaurant. 

Over the years he’s managed and worked 

with hundreds of young people, and 

many of them have made good, including 

a medical doctor and successful 

business investor. He recently hired a 

Challenge grad who plans on getting 

into Howard University and eventually 

becoming a lawyer. 

“You never know when something 

you might say influences someone’s life,” 

he said. “I ran into one of my former 

employees who got into business because 

I used to talk to him about investments.” 

Sometimes, a little bit of happenstance 

helps, too. Frank was apparently 

pretty cute to the customers of that first 

IHOP he worked at. He used to wear a 

funny hat, and the customers liked it. 

When they came in they asked to see 

Frank, so they’d drag him away from 

the dishes to bring him out front. That 

turned into an opportunity to host, which 

eventually gave him a chance to actually 

manage. 

He went from one store to the next 

in the area, always learning, always 

taking a step up, until he finally got his 

own store to manage. Things were going 

well there until an evaluator showed up 

one day for IHOP. 

“He told me I didn’t know how to 

manage a store,” Coombs laughs. 

That led him to make an offer on 

the IHOP in Forestville, and the rest is 

history. 

Coombs is a lifetime Washingtonian 

who graduated from Dunbar High 

School, which is another reason he’s 

devoted to helping the community. He’s 

seen too many folks in Washington – 

kids and adults – choose drugs and the 

gangster lifestyle. He knows where that 

can lead. 

One of those people includes Rayful 

Edmond, a fellow he graduated with 

from Dunbar in 1982. He, too, became 

a millionaire. In fact, his drug business 

was earning him an estimated $300 

Capital Guardian Youth Challenge at a glance: 

• Program for high school dropouts 

• Eligibility - 16 to 18 years of age, drug free 

• Location - Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md. 

• Contact - Barbara Brown 202-685-9986 

Lt. Col. Kevin McAndrews

million annually, and he used to frequent 

Frank’s restaurant. 

“He’d say, ‘Frank, you’re still here,’” 

Coombs recalls. “He wasn’t just a drug 

dealer. He was a kingpin. He had a lot 

of bling, cars, and women. He had so 

much money he had to carry it around 

in duffle bags.” 

Unfortunately Rayful paid the price 

that many do, and he isn’t enjoying the 

fruits of his labor these days. He’s 

doing more than one life sentence without 

parole after being arrested at age 24 

on several felonies, including dealing 

cocaine. His legacy includes introducing 

crack cocaine into the Greater 

Washington area and running an 

organization credited with at least 30 

murders in what used to be known as 

the murder capital of the nation. 

“A lot of kids today see all the money 

and the bling that goes with that 

lifestyle,” Coombs says. “They want the 

fast money. But I try to ask them, 

should you do this to have all that or, 

should you work for it? Sometimes you 

just have to go out and work for it.” 

His classmate Edmond had exceptional 

marketing skills, Coombs said. If 

he had applied his skills to a Fortune 

500 company, he would have gone 

straight to the top, he said, but it’s too 

late for that now. 

And what happened to his best friend 

who didn’t get hired by IHOP way back 

when? Well, the Rev. Grant Thompson is 

now a pastor of a church in Washington, 

and the two are friends to this day. 

Challenge program puts 

teenagers on the right path 

By Lt. Col. Kevin McAndrews 

Public Affairs Officer 

Demetrius Peeler looked across the table and recalled the day he decided to do something with his 

life. He’d been around enough of his friends to know the path they were headed in involved drugs, 

robbing people and fighting, sometimes with guns. 

“A lot of my friends have been lost to the streets,” Peeler said. “I just made up my mind that I didn’t 

want to go that way.” 

The same day he thought about his decision to go another direction, he was headed to the funeral of 

a 20-year-old friend who was shot and killed the week before, leaving a 2-year-old son behind. 

While he doesn’t think his friend was involved in any wrongdoing, his death underscored his thoughts 

about graduating from the Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy a year ago. He’s now working at 

the International House of Pancakes restaurant in Forestville, Md., and thinking about his future. 

“Regular school wasn’t working out for me,” Demetrius said. “I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to 

do, so military school seemed like a good choice.” 

He’d heard about the Challenge program from his cousin, who also graduated from the academy. At 

that point, he just had too much time on his hands in between school, and it was hard for him to focus 

because of the things that go on in a rough neighborhood. He needed more guidance than he was getting. 

Even though he was in a good school, “there were too many distractions for me. I needed to get 

away so I could think about life,” he said. 

Once he graduated from Challenge, Youth Challenge administrator Barbara Brown and Master Sgt. 

Frank Coombs of the D.C. Air National Guard took him under their wing. Coombs is owner of the IHOP 

where Demetrius now works. He’s finishing his GED and is exploring options like a railroad apprenticeship 

in Atlanta. 

During his time at the academy, he got involved in as much as he could, playing softball and basketball, 

being a part of student government, and joining the Honor Corps, which has older cadets talk to the 

cadets in the class coming up, encouraging them to stay in the program and graduate. 

It’s hard and some people quit, Demetrius said, but it’s well worth the effort to graduate. 

“It was a good choice for me,” he said. “It gave me a better understanding of life, and it’s given me 

patience.” 

After his cousin told him about the program, he did his own research and decided to go for it. 

“I learned that life is about more than having fun,” he said. “It’s about getting knowledge, and 

knowledge is power.” 


Spotlight on the 1946th Contingency Contracting Team 

A small unit with a BIG mission 

By Spc. Jesse Searls 

JFHQ-PAO Resident Historian 

One of the DCNG’s newest units 

is also one of the smallest. At full 

strength at opening formation, 

the1946th Contingency Contracting 

Team has only four names on its unit 

roster. Its small size, however, belies a 

huge mission and a broad expanse of 

technical skills and education. 

Only two short years ago, the 1946th 

CCT was formed in 2009 under the 

74th Troop Command. The unit is 

commanded by Maj. Mark Hutchinson 

with 1st Lt. Ural Jones as the second 

officer. Sgt. Jacqueline Brown and Sgt. 

1st Class David Bangura fill the enlisted 

ranks. Bangura, the unit NCO in charge, 

has been with the unit since its inception. 

He said the unit’s mission is “to enable 

effective and efficient contracting in 

support of deployed forces and humanitarian 

operations through innovative 

policy, guidance and oversight.” 

When in garrison, the 1946th is 

part of the DCNG United States 

Property & Fiscal Office, and drills on Bolling Air Force Base. 

While deployed to a theater of operations, Bangura explained, 

“We will fall under a battalion-sized element and will perform 

purchasing and acquisitions for them.” In a deployment environment, 

“getting the gear” by contracting for the needs of an 

army can be a major factor in mission effectiveness. 

The 1946th places logistical expertise at a tactical level to 

help units get what they need to get the job done. In preparation 

for a possible deployment next year, the 1946th conducts 

productive, mission-oriented training just as any other unit 

preparing for deployment does. A typical drill includes training 

under the USP&FO to do full-time contracting and might 

involve DA Form 1379s, PD2 software, and the standards and 

ethics of contracting. The CCT also trains with other CCTs 

from around the country. 

The 1946th packs quite a punch when it comes to professional 

education. Each member of the 1946th is trained under 

the Army logistics branch where they learn skills that correlate 

directly to the civilian sector. Playing on the strengths of each 

member, all four members of the unit bring outside experience 

to the DC Guard from their work in acquisition-related fields 

during the week. Two members have full-time jobs in auditing; 

two have jobs in contracting. 

Team members are trained to an incredible degree through 

the logistics branch and Defense Acquisition University. Stated 

officially, the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement 

Act requires Level II certification and on-the-job experience 

for MOS 51C for NCOs and Functional Area 51 for officers. 


and 

Sgt. 1st Class David Bangura 

1946th Contingency Contracting Team 

1st Lt. Ural Jones, Master Sgt. Leslie Riffey, Sgt. 1st Class David Bangura and 

Maj. Mark Hutchinson during a training session. 

The training requirements consist of online, resident courses 

and on-the-job training. 

As contracts management sergeant, Bangura elaborated 

on the Army training. To become a Certified Acquisition 

Professional, he said, Level I is achieved by completing online 

contracting courses with the Defense Acquisition University, 

followed by an intensive six-week program held at the Army 

Logistics University located at the University of Alabama in 

Huntsville. For team members to earn their level II DAWIA 

certification, they must also complete online classes prior to 

completing the six weeks of graduate level II courses at the 

Army Logistics University. 

Completing their education is only one step in the process for 

these “logistics warriors.” Once a team member earns a level 

II certification, they are eligible for selection for an appointment 

giving them the authority to legally bind the government 

in a contract valued up to $5 million. Contracts that the 1946th 

deals with are from the U.S. Army classes of supply covered 

in FM 4-0. The only class of supply not dealt with by the team 

is class VI, or personal demand items, such as alcohol, snacks 

or cigarettes. 

The 1946th Contingency Contracting Team may not be a 

unit that you’ve trained beside, but their work has undoubtedly 

had an effect on every soldier in the DCNG. 

Editor’s Note: Starting with this first article on the DCNG’s own 

Contingency Contracting Team, the Capital Guardian will present 

special reports in later issues on smaller units within the 

DC National Guard.

NEWS BRIEFS ... NEWS BRIEFS ... NEWS BRIEFS 

113th Wing promotes three chiefs 

during historic ceremony 

Chief Master Sgts. Louis R. Keeler, Kevin W. Kling and James T. Mathews (left to right) extinguish the candles during their 

promotion ceremony. The 113th Maintenance Squadron held its first-ever pinning of three chief master sergeants during a 

promotion ceremony on Feb. 12, 2011, at Hangar 18, Andrews Air Force Base. 

By Tech. Sgt. Gareth Buckland 

113th Wing Public Affairs Office 

The DC Air National Guard’s firstever 

promotion of three chief 

master sergeants was celebrated 

in a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews on 

Feb. 13, 2011. 

“This is a historic moment for the DC 

National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Errol R. 

Schwartz, commanding general of the 

DC National Guard. “We’ve never been 

able to promote three chiefs since the 

beginning of the DC Air Guard more 

than 70 years ago. I’m proud of their 

accomplishments.” 

With more than 70 years of combined 

experience, Chief Master Sgt. Louis R. 

Keeler, 113th Equipment Maintenance 

Flight superintendent; Chief Master 

Sgt. Kevin W. Kling and Chief Master 

Sgt. James T. Mathews, both of the 113th 

Maintenance Squadron, were officially 

pinned in a ceremony at Hangar 16 on 

Andrews Air Force Base. 

Family, friends and fellow airmen 

looked on as Kling received his stripes 

from his two children, 2nd Lt. Adam 

Kling and Airman 1st Class Jenna Kling. 

Kling also presented his son, Adam, with 

his first chief’s coin. 

Keeler was pinned by his two sons, 

Jonathon and Zachary. He also recognized 

his wife’s sacrifice while he was 

deployed. 

Lt. Col. Marshall S. Glasser, the 

commander of the 113th Maintenance 

Squadron, highlighted each of their 

careers and collective contributions to 

the unit and the district. He said the 

three embodied the core values of the 

United States Air Force, “Integrity First, 

Service Before Self, Excellence in All 

We Do.” 

Being promoted to chief master 

sergeant is no easy feat. It is the pinnacle 

of any enlisted career. Only 2 percent of 

the enlisted force ever make it to the rank 

of chief master sergeant. 

The wing’s current chiefs were all 

present to offer support and encouragement 

to the new chiefs. The ceremonial 

lighting of the candles, which indicate 

the ranks the chiefs have to pass through, 

were lit, then extinguished, leaving 

the one candle representing the rank 

of E-9. 

The afternoon ceremony was 

attended by about 120 fellow airmen and 

family members. 


Tech. Sgt. Gareth Buckland


Tech. Sgt. Parks named USAF’s 

Illustrator of the Year 

If you went to the Awards and Decorations Ceremony 

program, NGAUS/EANGUS conference or Military Ball, you 

may have noticed the posters, brochures and pamphlets for 

those events. Here at DC National Guard, Tech. Sgt. William 

Parks is the person behind the artwork. Parks is a visual 

information specialist and webmaster/art director for the DC 

National Guard. Recently, Parks was recognized as the National 

Guard’s Graphic Illustrator of the Year. 

This work is the culmination of a lifelong interest in art for 

Parks. In the first grade, 6-year-old Will won a state award for 

a print he made, and was asked to start art classes immediately. 

As a high schooler, Parks won several art contests, the most 

memorable being a life-sized paper mache sculpture of a toilet. 

“I wanted to go to art school, but realized that I couldn’t 

afford it,” Parks said. “I came from a military family, and my 

mom suggested that I join the Air Force or Navy. I didn’t want 

to spend that much time on a boat.” 

Preventing sexual assault 

is everyone’s duty 

By Melvene Lanier 

JFHQ-Alternate Sexual Response Coordinator 

We are privileged to work in an organization whose core 

values include integrity and selfless service. Integrity is the 

willingness to do what is right legally and morally, even 

when no one is looking. It is the moral compass, the inner 

voice, the voice of self-control. Selfless Service is looking 

out for the welfare of others. How many times have we 

heard of our members rescuing people during an emergency—car 

accident, fire, child drowning? Everyone has 

the opportunity to be a bystander; intervention is a choice. 

Your involvement in preventing sexual assault is needed. 

Don’t let your “Guard” down but always be aware of behavior 

that may lead to a sexual assault. Every two minutes someone 


Not realizing that 

graphic artist was a 

possible military career 

choice, Parks enlisted as 

a ground radio operator 

and then re-trained as a 

fuel handler. “I asked my recruiter about graphic design, and 

he said that the Air Force didn’t offer it as a career field.” 

Later, while assigned as a fuel handler at Andrews AFB, Parks 

did some investigation and found the Visual Information office. 

He interviewed with the chief, who wanted to take him 

immediately but there were no open slots in the whole career 

field. The chief “pushed the envelope and ended up taking it 

up to the Pentagon.” In 2001, Parks was offered training at 

the Defense Information School and began a new phase of his 

military career more in line with his lifelong passion for art. 

In 2007, Parks was able to take advantage of Palace Chase 

to transfer to the DC National Guard and came to work full 

time at Joint Force Headquarters public affairs in January 2010. 

He works in web production, graphic design and photography. 

His work is a regular feature in the Capital Guardian, including 

the masthead on the front cover. He has also done the web 

design on the DCNG homepage and contributed to the 

Potomac Air Monthly, and the Capital Flyer. He has designed 

numerous challenge coins and T-shirts for units in the 113th 

Wing as well as Joint Force Headquarters and routinely 

contributes photographs. 

While not at work, Will does freelance work with his wife, 

Kelly, a fellow graphic designer. He has two sons who are 

already showing promise in arts and music. Parks now goes on 

to represent the Air National Guard in the Air Force Media 

Contest. 

Live 1-on-1 Help Confidential Worldwide 24/7 

Help is just a Click, 

Call or Text away! 

For confidential victim assistance visit www.SafeHelpline.org 

in the United States is sexually assaulted. Approximately twothirds 

of assaults are committed by someone known to the 

victim and 60 percent do not report the assault. Although you 

may not be directly affected by sexual assault, “Hurts one. 

Affects all.” 

As we observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month, everyone 

has a role in preventing sexual assaults. Live the core values 

and don’t be a bystander who watches, be a bystander who 

intervenes.


By Maj. Michael Croker and 

Senior Master Sgt. David Callaghan 

113th Operations Group 

Members of the Aircrew Flight Equipment section of 

the 121st Fighter Squadron and the 113th Operations 

Group participated in an off-site Combat Survival 

Refresher Training on Feb. 12. The training was a joint 

effort of participants from the DC Army National Guard 

and 113th Intel, Security Forces, Aircrew Flight Equipment 

and Operations Support elements. 

The training was composed of classroom training 

followed by a four-hour field exercise. 

CST is just one of the recurring training requirements 

for pilots following their initial Survival Evasion 

Resistance and Escape qualification. Additionally, the 

training is vital to the unit’s preparation for future Air 

Expeditionary Force Deployments. 

The pilots participated in various field training events 

including donning camouflaged face paint, employing flares, 

practicing evasion and survival tactics and initiating personnel 

recovery. 

Pilots also practiced communication techniques with 

indigenous personnel, i.e. local sympathizers, as well as with 

helicopter rescue forces in order to coordinate recovery. 

After a successful recovery, the pilots were then flown to 

The 121st Fighter Squadron and 113th Operations 

Group members learn survival techniques including 

use of survival radios and signaling devices during 

their Combat Survival Refresher Training. 

121st Fighter Squadron provides combat 

survival training 

the Joint Base Andrews flight line where they were back in a 

“safe zone” within friendly territory. 

The training session also served as an opportunity for 

AFE trainers to be certified by a National Guard Bureau survival 

instructor. Master Sgt. Sheron Mason, 121 FS, AFE NCO, 

was certified by NGB SERE Functional Area Manager as a 

qualified CST instructor. 


Photos: Maj. Michael Croker and 

Senior Master Sgt. David Callaghan


Pilot trades in colonel’s 

wings for a star 

By First Sgt. Gigail Cureton 

715th Public Affairs Detachment 

Brig. Gen. Arthur W. Hinaman was promoted to his current 

rank in a ceremony held at the District of Columbia National 

Guard Armory on April 1. Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz, 

commanding general, District of Columbia National Guard, 

presided over the ceremony, which was attended by his fellow 

Capital Guardians, other military personnel, local political 

leaders and Hinaman’s family and friends. 

Hinaman has served as the Land Component Commander 

since October 2009. In his current role, he is responsible for 

the overall readiness, training, maintenance, and operational 

employment of the units assigned and attached to the District 

of Columbia Army National Guard. He will continue his focus 

on the soldiers of the DC National Guard, which is dedicated 

to supporting the nation’s capital. 

In a speech laced with humor and emotion, the newest 

general officer in the DC National Guard thanked the hundreds 

of military personnel who helped him throughout his career. 

“You are truly the ones who have earned this rank, and I will 

use it to make your lives better,” Hinaman said. 

Hinaman was commissioned in 1982 through the Reserve 

Officer Training Corps program at the Pennsylvania State 

University. Previously, Hinaman served in the District of 

Columbia National Guard as the commander, 74th Troop 

Command; chief of staff, Army; deputy director of the Joint 

Staff; and state Army aviation officer. While deployed in 


Brig. Gen. Arthur Hinaman, center, is presented with his 

command flag by Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Espinosa, 

land component command sergeant major, and Sgt. Julia 

Keith of the DCNG Color Guard. 

support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Hinaman served as 

the commander, Air Corps Advisory Group in Kabul, 

Afghanistan. 

The general is an Army pilot with over 2,000 flight hours 

on aircraft such as the TH-55, UH-1, AH-1 and C-12. 

Awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service 

Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf 

Cluster, Army Achievement Medal with 3 Bronze Oak Leaf 

Clusters, and Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal 

with 4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters. 

Nation's busiest Air Sovereignty Alert unit earns 

Meritorious Service Award from 

First Air Force/NORAD 

The District of Columbia National 

Guard’s 113th Wing was recently 

awarded the First Air Force/Continental 

U.S. NORAD Region Meritorious 

Service Award for outstanding mission 

accomplishment. 

One of its major achievements this 

year was surpassing 3,000 alert responses, 

the highest of any air sovereignty alert 

unit in the nation, according to Air Force 

Lt. Col. Susan Romano of First Air Force. 

“I am very proud of the team effort 

that this entire wing puts into defending 

the skies of our nation’s capital,” said Air 

Force Brig. Gen. Jeffrey R. Johnson, 

113th Wing commander. 

“I would like to further recognize the 

entire Air Sovereignty Alert Detachment, 

commanded by [Air Force] Lt. Col. 

Scott Arbogast, for their never-ending 

commitment to excellence and air 

sovereignty alert readiness.” 

ASA’s mission began on 9/11 minutes 

after an airliner piloted by terrorists 

crashed into the Pentagon. Smoke from 

the attack could be seen by an incoming 

F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter pilot, who 

was ordered to stay airborne by the White 

House to protect Washington, D.C., from 

other potential attacks that day. 

Since that time, the unit has become 

the busiest among the 18 ASA sites in the 

nation due to its proximity to Washington. 

The National Guard operates 16 of 

18 sites. ASD units nationwide have 

responded to about 59,000 alert missions, 

according to Romano. 

“We stand vigilant and ready to 

continue this mission for as long as it 

takes,” Johnson said. He added that the 

detachment has not failed to respond to a 

single alert mission. 

“Reaching 3,000 alert responses is a 

credit not only to our pilots and controllers, 

but also to airmen who maintain and 

crew our aircraft,” said Air Force Lt. 

Col. Jeffrey Bozard, 113th Maintenance 

Group Commander. “They keep the ASA 

jets ready for daily sorties 24/7.” 

The wing’s mission is particularly 

important because Washington is considered 

to be the most powerful city in 

the world. Unfortunately, it makes the 

city a target for terrorists. Having a 

significant role in protecting the city 

adds urgency to the unit’s performance. 

“Just as important,” Johnson said, “is 

that we are defending our families, friends 

and fellow Guard members. We take this 

mission personally.”


Wing passes unprecedented 

five simultaneous inspections 

By Capt. Byron Coward 

113th Wing Public Affairs 

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. – The 

113th Wing, DC Air National Guard, 

hosted Air Force and National Guard 

Bureau inspectors for its unit inspections 

March 3-7. 

This was the first time an Air Force 

unit participated in five simultaneous 

inspections. 

Components of the 113th Wing participated 

in the Air Combat Command 

and Air Mobility Command Inspector 

Generals’ Compliance Inspections. 

Additionally, National Guard Bureau 

inspectors conducted a Logistics 

Compliance Assessment Program 

inspection. The 113th Medical Group 

also hosted inspectors from the Air 

Force Inspection Agency for their 

Health Services Inspection. 

“An inspection of this capacity is 

unique,” Maj. Matthew R. McDonough, 

113th Wing plans officer, said. “Most CIs 

or LCAPs don’t exceed 70 inspectors. For 

the 113th Wing to handle five inspections 

with more than 120 inspectors speaks 

highly of our wing’s professionalism 

and excellence.” 

A typical Air Force wing is associated 

with one major command, who sends a 

team of inspectors to ensure that the 

wing is in compliance with Air Force and 

MAJCOM standards. 

The 113th Wing is unique because it 

is associated with both ACC and AMC 

MAJCOMS. As such, AMC and ACC 

inspectors conducted separate compliance 

inspections for their respective gained 

units. NGB inspectors conducted separate 

inspections in both AMC and ACC-gained 

units. The HSI consisted of one inspection 

of the 113th Medical Group. 

The 113th Wing successfully completed 

all five inspections. Superior performers 

were identified, and some units’ practices 

were identified by the inspectors as “best 

seen to date.” 

“Personally, I viewed these inspections 

as a progress check on our wing’s journey 

toward greatness,” said Brig. Gen. Jeffrey 

Johnson, 113th Wing commander. “We 

are already a great unit, with great people, 

doing great things. There is no doubt 

about that. In order to truly experience a 

sense of greatness, we need to set the 

standard, not merely meet it. When this 

happens, we will have met our goal.” 

Although the inspections are complete, 

wing organizations will improve, modify or 

correct all findings that were indicated in 

the inspectors’ final reports. Some unit 

members will be selected by other Air 

National Guard wings to conduct staff 

assistance visits in preparation for their CIs. 

Prior to 2011, the 113th Wing’s last 

CIs were in 2002 and 2007 for ACC 

and AMC respectively. The medical 

group participated in an HSI in 2007. 

The 113th Wing also participated in an 

ACC, Phase II, Operational Readiness 

Inspection in 2009. 

Tech. Sgt. Richard Noon, 113th Communications Flight, discusses his program with 

UCI inspector Tech. Sgt. Robert O’Neil from the ACC I.G. team. The 113th Wing 

participated in five different inspections during the March Unit Training Assembly. 

Tech Sgt. Gareth Buckland 


From the desk of the 

Command Chief Warrant Officer 

By CW5 Ronald Wormsley 

Senior Command Chief Warrant Officer 

The annual joint conference of the 

National Guard Association of the 

District of Columbia was a great success 

for the District of Columbia National 

Guard Warrant Officer Corps held at the 

National Harbor in March, with the guest 

speaker from National Guard Bureau, 

Command Chief Warrant Officer, Chief 

Warrant Officer 5 Gary Nisker. 

The top agenda for the speaker was 

to discuss promotions, end strength, 

PME, recruiting initiatives, goals and 

the ARNG CCWO role. 

The national warrant officer strength 

requirement for the National Guard is 

10,022 with the current short fall of 

2,003 with the NGB goal to reach 100 

percent strength. Thanks to the support 

of the CCWO, recruiting command, 

and the full time support staff, the 

District of Columbia National Guard is 

number six in the nation with our 

current strength at 98.6 percent. 

While the DCNG’s warrant officer 

vacancies are slowly getting filled, 

we are continually looking for the best 

and brightest candidates to fill our 

ranks. The key to our success in 

warrant officer strength is the internal 

networking within the organization, 

identifying qualified personnel. 

DCNG hosts prayer 

breakfast 

By Capt. Loneshia Reed 

DC Public Affairs Detachment 

The DC National Guard hosted its annual Joint Prayer 

Breakfast on Feb. 13 with the theme of “Faith in the Face of 

Persistent Conflict.” The prayer breakfast is a way for service 

members of the DCNG to come together in fellowship, focusing 

on the spiritual support soldiers and airmen need as a part 

of their military experience. Col. Sean Lee, chaplain, delivered 

the featured message in which he encouraged the troops, and 

reminded them that “our values in the United States are 

unique, and when we defend these values around the world, 

God goes with us.” As the DC Guard continues to increase its 

operational tempo, it is good to remind service members of 

the support faith can give. 


Chief Warrant Officer 5 Nisker’s 

goals are to redirect recruiting and 

retention efforts and bonuses, develop a 

BAH save pay option/Permanent Change 

in Duty Station hardship, establish 

distance learning pay and points for 

PME, get more warrant officer’s in 

professional associations, using civilian 

acquired skills credit for predetermination, 

and eliminate the chief warrant 

officer 5 slotting to attend WOSSC. 

Nisker ended his presentation by 

addressing professional relationships. 

Commanders should expect from their 

warrant officers: loyalty, honesty and 

integrity, mission dedication, technical 

proficiency and being a trusted advisor. 

Likewise, warrant officers should expect 

from their commander: leadership by 

example, honesty and integrity, understanding, 

respect and a command climate. 

First promotion to chief warrant 

officer 5 in the DC Militia 

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Betty Brown, 

assistant secretary to the General Staff 

retired on March 26, 2011, after serving 

more than 30 years in the Armed Forces. 

She began her career with the United 

States Marine Corps where she was the 

“First Woman” to be assigned to the 

Provost Marshall’s Office at Marine 

Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, 

Calif. She carried that “First Woman” 

distinction to 

the District of 

Columbia Air 

National Guard 

when she 

became the 

“First Woman” 

to serve in a 

combat communications 

squadron and the “First 

Woman” to function as the fulltime 

telecommunications manager. Brown 

joined the District of Columbia Army 

National Guard and served in the aftermath 

of Hurricane Hugo and Desert 

Storm as the “First and only editor” 

for the 372nd newsletter. After Desert 

Storm, Brown was accepted in the Army 

Warrant Officer Candidate Program and 

graduated as a commandant graduate in 

1995. Brown served as military personnel 

technician and the personnel services 

branch chief before becoming the 

assistant secretary to the General Staff. 

It is this position from which Brown 

retired and received her “First Woman” 

distinction once again. She was 

promoted to chief warrant officer 5 in 

the DC Militia at retirement, by Maj. 

Gen. Errol R. Schwartz, Commanding 

General, District of Columbia National 

Guard. Thus she became the first woman 

to achieve the rank of chief warrant 

officer 5 in the DC Militia. 

Spc. Mark Ingutti

The Capital Guardian - Spring 2011

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