Criteria The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. ... The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. The performance must merit recognition by individuals in a key position which was performed in a clearly exceptional manner. MoreHide
Comments
Second award of LOM presented on 5 August, 2017
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California.
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California. Fort Irwin is at an average elevation of 2,454 feet (748 m). It is located 37 miles (60 km) northeast of Barstow, in the Calico Mountains.
The National Training Center is part of the US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). The opposing force at the National Training Center (NTC) is the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, the Blackhorse Cavalry, who are stationed at the base to provide an opposing force to units on a training rotation at Fort Irwin.
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Memories
Attached as the last UH-1H Huey Instructor Pilot at the NTC.
Criteria The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. ... The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States without degree for exceptionally outstanding conduct in the performance of meritorious service to the United States. The performance must merit recognition by individuals in a key position which was performed in a clearly exceptional manner. MoreHide
Comments 1st award presented by BG Dan Nelan, CA National Guard on 3 October 2009 for completion of 40 years of Meritorious Service. 2nd award presented by MG Mark Palzer, USAR on 5 August 2017 for retirement... 1st award presented by BG Dan Nelan, CA National Guard on 3 October 2009 for completion of 40 years of Meritorious Service. 2nd award presented by MG Mark Palzer, USAR on 5 August 2017 for retirement following completion of over 44 1/2 years of Meritorious Service. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Comments
Completed 40 years of continuous reserve service on 08 Mar 09; continued to serve for another 4 years, 7 months and 18 days afterwards. Mobilized on 23 August 1972 for deployment to Vietnam.
Criteria A State Service Ribbon may be presented by the Adjutant General to each person who after July 1, 1963, honorably serves on active duty with the State during a period of emergency declared by the Gover... A State Service Ribbon may be presented by the Adjutant General to each person who after July 1, 1963, honorably serves on active duty with the State during a period of emergency declared by the Governor or while the United States is engaged in war as defined in Section 18 of this code. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded for service on Task Force Sentinel, 27 Jun - 4 Jul 08 for helicopter fire suppresion work.
Description Hohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate distriHohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate district in the independent state of Bavaria. The region was part of the "Upper Palatinate Jura" uplands that extended from Amberg in the north to the Danube river in the south. The characteristic features of the Jura were hilly terrain with softly rounded rock formations, mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, dry valleys and a general scarcity of water resources. The arable land in the lower sections between the hills is of low fertility, frequently covered with eroded rock and limestone. These conditions explained the sparse population of the area.
Hohenfels' elevation ranged from 1,155 feet above sea level in the southeast corner of the training area to more than 2,000 feet above sea level in the southwest, and terrain varies from hills and softly rounded rock formations to dry valleys. Forests of coniferous and deciduous trees, brush and grasses grew in the yellow- and brown-clay topsoil. The limestone ground absorbed water slowly, but erosion control measures helped prevent topsoil from washing into streams.
Hohenfels had been the subject of intensive geological and hydro-geological investigations for several years to identify geotectonic zones of weakness (dolines, sinkholes) causing excessive turbidity in off-post areas after heavy rainfalls and demonstrating a potential safety hazard for training units during maneuver activities. Groundwater turbidity appeard to have increased since the construction of erosion control basins at the HTA.
Historical finds near the Vils and Naab rivers indicated settlement of the region as early as 700 BC, although human life could be traced back nearly 4,000 years. In early recorded history, the area was mentioned in 15 BC, by Emperor Augustus who sent his army north across the Alps to stop the southward move and land occupation by the Celtic and Gallic tribes. One of the tribes' strongholds was allegedly on Lindenberg Hill.
Historically, the primary occupation of the region's population was agriculture, cattle breeding, work in the forests and minor trade. Everyday life was uneventful until the area attracted military attention in 1937. The Hohenburg castle ruins on the Hohenfels Training Area was built around 1,000 AD by the counts of Hohenburg. After destruction and decay it was rebuilt in 1584. Its role was the domicile of nobility ended in 1641 when it was badly damaged by lightning that struck the gunpowder tower.
Hohenfels takes its name from the rock formations prevalent in the area and is literally translated as "high rock" or "high cliff." The name Hohenfels referred to the elevated location of the former castle. Built by a Noble of Hohenfels in the 10th century it changed hands several times. In 1631, Tilly, the famous general of the Thirty Years' War, possessed it. Later, in 1724, it was returned under Bavarian ownership and in 1804, its role as a residence of nobles ended. New private owners tore it down leaving nothing but part of the tower and wall ruins.
Numerous wars and conflicts burdened the local and regional populace including the Peasants' War in 1524 and the Thirty Years' War from 1618-1648. Between 1716 and 1721 the beautiful church "Saint Ulrich" was built. In 1743 nearly the entire town was destroyed by fire. A look at the town's buildings impressed the extent of that fire and by 2000 only few houses were over 200 years old. Conflict continued after with the Spanish and Austrian Succession War in the 18th century, and the First and Second World War, which resulted in the loss of uncounted lives and in immeasurable suffering and pain.
It was during the latter that the German army established a training area near the town of Hohenfels in 1938, and German combat units activated, reorganized and reequipped at the training area throughout World War II. Several villages were evacuated when the training area was built and expanded. A few scattered ruins remained in the training area. Polish, Ukrainian, Yugoslav, Russian, British and American soldiers were also interned at a prisoner of war camp at Hohenfels until they were liberated by the Third US Army on 22 April 1945. As one of the few facilities that had not suffered major damage, the camp became a processing station for displaced persons. US forces in 1951 expanded the training area to 40,017 acres, and American units began training there in October 1951. This facility became known as the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA).
Hohenfels and the HTA became home to the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC) in 1988, a part of the 7th Army Training Command. The CMTC at Hohenfels, at 39,858 acres (16,130 hectares), was the second largest training area available to US forces in Europe. The main mission was the training of troops.
By the mid-1980s much of the Hohenfels Training Area in Germany had become a moonscape. Tanks got stuck in the sucking mud, yellow-clay soil washed into streams and lakes, killing fish, and other animals and plants suffered as the land deteriorated from constant training. In response, the Department of the Army in 1985 created the Integrated Training Area Management program to rehabilitate US Army training lands throughout the world and, more importantly, to prevent them from becoming wastelands again.
In 1985 Hohenfels was chosen as one of 4 ITAM pilot sites to bring "drawing board" concepts to reality. When the ITAM program was fully integrated into other Army training areas in 1988 and 1989, Hohenfels became a model for training area land management worldwide. The office of the deputy chief of staff for operations picked up responsibility for ITAM-DA in 1996, so that management of the program moved from the Army's environmentalists to the trainers. The change was significant, because it forced the training community to recognize the importance of land management now that funding comes through the training program.
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded by the CA ARNG For flying OH-58 counterdrug missions in support of Operation Alesha, Shasta County, CA.
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Description Operation Jump Start was a military operation to aid U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, announced by President George W. Bush in May 2006. The mission entailed the deployment of United States National GuOperation Jump Start was a military operation to aid U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, announced by President George W. Bush in May 2006. The mission entailed the deployment of United States National Guard troops along the Mexico–United States border for purposes of enforcement of border security and construction of a border fence. The rules of deployment were defined in a memorandum of agreement between officials in the Department of Defense and the governors of Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas as well as Mexico.
National Guard members involved in the operation were not involved in law enforcement activities due to the political aspect of the US military on the US/Mexico border. They were supporting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Border Patrol agencies with administrative, observational and intelligence gathering capacities, and civil engineering projects. By temporarily taking over these functions from the USC&BP, they freed up sworn agents to field units.
Military operations with Operation Jump Start were primarily to observe and report. The rules of engagement for the operation was very restrictive and only allowed escalation to lethality when met with an equal amount of force from another. The US military set up entry identification team sites to spot undocumented aliens. Many of the areas of operation were in desolate locations; some locations were so remote that troops were sometimes flown in by UH-60 helicopter.... More
Memories Flying OH-58A/C's out of NAS North Island to carry DHS & FBI to patrol the southern border fence.Flying OH-58A/C's out of NAS North Island to carry DHS & FBI to patrol the southern border fence.... More
Other Memories
In March 2006, made trip with Coastal Defense Study Group to Manila Bay, P.I. Visited Corregidor, Subic Bay, Ft Hughes, Ft Frank & Ft Drum, - the "jewell" of the Coast Artillery, as it is the "Concrete Battleship".
Best Moment
Being on duty in the CAOC on 7 June 2006 when we finally found Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the leader of Al Qaeda in Iraq and took him out with an airstrike.
Best Friends
CW5 Bill Scott, CW5 Roy Lineberry, CW5 Greg Helsel, CW5 John Fehrs
Best Moment
Flying an OH-58A completely solo from Stockton, CA to Marana (WAATS) and back, to complete ACT with my old unit, the 1/18th Cavalry.
Worst Moment
Losing CW5 Bill Scott
Chain of Command
COL Mike Smith - Bde Cdr COL Jim Digiovanna - Bde Cdr COL Dan Nelan - Bde Cdr
Other Memories
Honored in March 1997, to have been the first traditional soldier (not full time) in the California Army National Guard, promoted to CW5.
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training o... The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training or Active Duty for Training for a period not less than ten consecutive days on foreign soil. The service member must be credited with completion of at least ten consecutive duty days outside the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions and territories in the performance of duties in conjunction with Active Army, joint services, or Allied Forces. MoreHide
Description Cobra Gold is an Asia-Pacific military exercise held in Thailand every year. It is the largest Asia-Pacific military exercise held each year, and is among the largest multinational military exercise iCobra Gold is an Asia-Pacific military exercise held in Thailand every year. It is the largest Asia-Pacific military exercise held each year, and is among the largest multinational military exercise in which the United States participates.
Cobra Gold was first held in 1982. It served as military training exercise to improve coordination between the armed forces of the United States and Thailand in both hostile military and humanitarian efforts. It also had the goal of strengthening ties between the U.S. and Thailand, the oldest ally of the United States in the South Asia region. More recently, Cobra Gold has served a humanitarian mission, as military personnel deliver health care to the local Thai population, and as a testing ground for new battlefield technologies such as solar powered weaponry.
Cobra Gold has three distinct activities. The first is the Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise (CALFEX), in which live ammunition is aimed at predetermined locations. Troops then assault a beach and landing zone while this live fire occurs. Any miscalculation in the placement, explosive power, or timing of the live fire could be deadly. The second activity is a Command Post Exercise (CPX), in which military officers engage in computerized wargames, disaster relief, or humanitarian missions over several days. The final activity is assisting the local Thai population.
Cobra Gold includes Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and other South Asian and Pacific Ocean countries.... More
People You Remember CW4 John "Mac" McAllister - deployed with him to Thailand from the CA ARNG and talk about a small woCW4 John "Mac" McAllister - deployed with him to Thailand from the CA ARNG and talk about a small world, we had first met each other a decade before in 1994, when we were deployed at the same time to Mogadishu, Somalia. ... More
Memories Three weeks working in the "real world" operations cell at Korat Air Base. On our one day off, hireThree weeks working in the "real world" operations cell at Korat Air Base. On our one day off, hired a driver who took us from Korat all the way to Kanchanabura, where we walked accross the Bridge Over The River Kwai, then rode on the back of an elephant for 45 minutes!... More
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Criteria The CACDSR may be awarded to any member of the California National Guard who provided support to Counterdrug missions on or after OPERATION BORDER RANGER, 1987. The ribbon may also be awarded to membe... The CACDSR may be awarded to any member of the California National Guard who provided support to Counterdrug missions on or after OPERATION BORDER RANGER, 1987. The ribbon may also be awarded to members of other military services and law enforcement agencies who provided support to Counterdrug field operations. b. Only service in the California National Guard Counterdrug Task Force will qualify the member for this award. Only one ribbon will be awarded for each mission annually, regardless of how many different periods or locations are involved. Individuals released from Counterdrug duty for disciplinary reasons are not eligible for the service ribbon during the tour of duty which they were released.
c. The CACDSR will be awarded to eligible individuals using the following criteria. (1) Annually to individuals who are ordered to or volunteer in support of Counterdrug missions on temporary / short tours. CA NG-CD Form 672-16-R, Certificate of Eligibility (Temporary / Short Tours), will be submitted along with supporting documentation (duty order). (2) Annually to individuals who are ordered to Counterdrug missions on long tours, from the initial hire date. CA NG-CD Form 672-17-R, Certificate of Eligibility (Long Tour), will be submitted along with supporting documentation (duty order).
d. The forms will be sent to the approval authority, listed in block 6a.on each form. The Counterdrug Task Force J-1 will determine an individual's eligibility and process the request(s). MoreHide
Criteria Any active member of the California National Guard who attends all ordered unit training assemblies and 15 days of annual training during a calendar year is eligible for this award, providing continuo... Any active member of the California National Guard who attends all ordered unit training assemblies and 15 days of annual training during a calendar year is eligible for this award, providing continuous membership was maintained throughout the entire year. Credit for constructive attendance may be applied toward qualification. MoreHide
Description The 2003 invasion of Iraq lasted from 19 March to 1 May 2003 and signaled the start of the conflict that later came to be known as the Iraq War, which was dubbed Operation Iraqi Freedom by the United The 2003 invasion of Iraq lasted from 19 March to 1 May 2003 and signaled the start of the conflict that later came to be known as the Iraq War, which was dubbed Operation Iraqi Freedom by the United States (prior to 19 March, the mission in Iraq was called Operation Enduring Freedom, a carryover from the conflict in Afghanistan). The invasion consisted of 21 days of major combat operations, in which a combined force of troops from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Poland invaded Iraq and deposed the Ba'athist government of Saddam Hussein. The invasion phase consisted primarily of a conventionally fought war which concluded with the capture of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad by American forces.
Four countries participated with troops during the initial invasion phase, which lasted from 19 March to 9 April 2003. These were the United States (148,000), United Kingdom (45,000), Australia (2,000), and Poland (194). 36 other countries were involved in its aftermath. In preparation for the invasion, 100,000 U.S. troops were assembled in Kuwait by 18 February. The coalition forces also received support from Kurdish irregulars in Iraqi Kurdistan.
According to U.S. President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair, the coalition mission was "to disarm Iraq of weapons of mass destruction, to end Saddam Hussein's support for terrorism, and to free the Iraqi people." General Wesley Clark, the former Supreme NATO Allied Commander and Joint Chiefs of Staff Director of Strategy and Policy, describes in his 2003 book, Winning Modern Wars, his conversation with a military officer in the Pentagon shortly after 9/11 regarding a plan to attack seven Middle Eastern countries in five years: "As I went back through the Pentagon in November 2001, one of the senior military staff officers had time for a chat. Yes, we were still on track for going against Iraq, he said. But there was more. This was being discussed as part of a five-year campaign plan, he said, and there were a total of seven countries, beginning with Iraq, then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Iran, Somalia and Sudan." Others place a much greater emphasis on the impact of the 11 September 2001 attacks, and the role this played in changing U.S. strategic calculations, and the rise of the freedom agenda. According to Blair, the trigger was Iraq's failure to take a "final opportunity" to disarm itself of alleged nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons that U.S. and British officials called an immediate and intolerable threat to world peace.
In a January 2003 CBS poll, 64% of Americans had approved of military action against Iraq; however, 63% wanted Bush to find a diplomatic solution rather than go to war, and 62% believed the threat of terrorism directed against the U.S. would increase due to war. The invasion of Iraq was strongly opposed by some long-standing U.S. allies, including the governments of France, Germany, and New Zealand. Their leaders argued that there was no evidence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq and that invading the country was not justified in the context of UNMOVIC's 12 February 2003 report. On 15 February 2003, a month before the invasion, there were worldwide protests against the Iraq War, including a rally of three million people in Rome, which is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest ever anti-war rally. According to the French academic Dominique Reynié, between 3 January and 12 April 2003, 36 million people across the globe took part in almost 3,000 protests against the Iraq war.
The invasion was preceded by an air strike on the Presidential Palace in Baghdad on 19 March 2003. The following day, coalition forces launched an incursion into Basra Province from their massing point close to the Iraqi-Kuwaiti border. While the special forces launched an amphibious assault from the Persian Gulf to secure Basra and the surrounding petroleum fields, the main invasion army moved into southern Iraq, occupying the region and engaging in the Battle of Nasiriyah on 23 March. Massive air strikes across the country and against Iraqi command and control threw the defending army into chaos and prevented an effective resistance. On 26 March, the 173rd Airborne Brigade was airdropped near the northern city of Kirkuk, where they joined forces with Kurdish rebels and fought several actions against the Iraqi army to secure the northern part of the country.
The main body of coalition forces continued their drive into the heart of Iraq and met with little resistance. Most of the Iraqi military was quickly defeated and Baghdad was occupied on 9 April. Other operations occurred against pockets of the Iraqi army including the capture and occupation of Kirkuk on 10 April, and the attack and capture of Tikrit on 15 April. Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and the central leadership went into hiding as the coalition forces completed the occupation of the country. On 1 May, an end of major combat operations was declared, ending the invasion period and beginning the military occupation period.... More
Memories
Invasion of Iraq by CJSOTF-W from Jordan. Hqs at Al Jafir Airbase.
Best Moment
Attended 2002 Army Ball in Naples and was the oldest soldier present, who was still in uniform. Also, as the only Vietnam Vet, CG seated me at the "Geezer Table" - with both a Korean War & a WWII Vet!
Other Memories
DNI rep to SRJOIC - attached for IDT; got to go along on a Navy SH-3 training flight, on the aircraft used by the Cdr 6th Fleet.
Best Moment
While attached to TF Dagger on TDY, Went on both MH-60 DAP & AC-130 combat missions while under arms, into & over Afghanistan, to perform my January drills for the CA-ARNG.
Worst Moment
Having to personally write up the Valor Award (Bronze Star w/V) for the first American Soldier KIA in Afghanistan and the War on Terror; SFC Nate Chapman.
Chain of Command
TF Dagger/JSOTF-N CDR - COL John Mullholland
Other Memories
Task Force Dagger - Operation Enduring Freedom
One of the several Joint Special Operations Task Forces established for OEF was Joint Special Operations Task Force North, also known as Task Force Dagger.
TF Dagger was based at a former soviet airbase, designated 'K2', close to Karshi Kandabad, Uzbekistan and comprised:
5th Special Forces Group
160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR)
AFSOC Special Tactics
TF Dagger's aim was to link up with Northern Alliance Commanders and support their push towards several key Taliban-held cities in the North of the country. As the war progessed, more 5th Special Forces Group soldiers alos linked up with Pashtun forces in the South.
Criteria The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is... The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is normally expected, under one of the following conditions: During action in combat with an armed enemy of the United States, For a declared national emergency or Under extraordinary circumstances that involve the national interest. MoreHide
Description HQ, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Dagger, Karshi Kanabad Air Base, Uzbekistan (HQ only, not service units)
6 Oct 01 � 28 Feb 02 - Assigned from Dec 01 to Feb 02 - Went on two combat missions in... HQ, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Dagger, Karshi Kanabad Air Base, Uzbekistan (HQ only, not service units)
6 Oct 01 � 28 Feb 02 - Assigned from Dec 01 to Feb 02 - Went on two combat missions into Afghanistan; one on an MH-60 & one on an AC-130. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Afghanistan Campaign Medal was awarded to Service members assigned or attached to a unit participating in Operation Enduring Freedom for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive days in Afghan... The Afghanistan Campaign Medal was awarded to Service members assigned or attached to a unit participating in Operation Enduring Freedom for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive days in Afghanistan or meet one of the following criteria: Be engaged in actual combat against the enemy and under circumstances involving grave danger of death or serious bodily injury from enemy action, regardless of the time in Afghanistan. While participating in Operation Enduring Freedom or on official duties, regardless of time, is killed, wounded, or injured requiring medical evacuation from Afghanistan. While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over Afghanistan in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom; each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day towards the 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive day requirement. Service members who qualified for the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal by reason of service in Afghanistan between October 24, 2001 and April 30, 2005 shall remain qualified for that medal. However, any Service member who wishes to do so may be awarded the Afghanistan Campaign Medal in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for that service. Additionally, any Army soldier authorized the arrowhead device may be awarded the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with arrowhead device in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal with arrowhead device. MoreHide
Comments
For deployment in Dec 01 and service with TF Dagger, 5th Special Forces Gp/JSOTF-N, in Uzbekistan and combat missions under arms in both an AC-130 and a MH-60 DAP over Afghanistan.
Description The United Nations authorized an international force – the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) – with a mandate to help the Afghans maintain security in Kabul and surrounding areas. OperatiThe United Nations authorized an international force – the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) – with a mandate to help the Afghans maintain security in Kabul and surrounding areas. Operating under U.S. General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., ISAF included soldiers from 46 countries, with U.S. troops making up about half its force. ISAF was initially established as a stabilization force by the UN Security Council on 20 December 2001, to secure Kabul. Its mandate did not extend beyond this area for the first few years. On 11 August 2003, NATO assumed political command and coordination of ISAF. On 31 July 2006, ISAF assumed command of the south of the country, and by 5 October 2006, of the east.
Following a Loya jirga, tribal leaders and former exiles established an interim government in Kabul under Hamid Karzai. U.S. forces established their main base at Bagram airbase just north of Kabul. Kandahar airport also became an important U.S. base. Outposts were established in eastern provinces to hunt for Taliban and al-Qaeda fugitives.... More
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Kosovo Campaign Medal is awarded to Service members who were bona fide members of a unit participating in, or be engaged indirect support of, the operation for 30 consecutive days in the area of o... The Kosovo Campaign Medal is awarded to Service members who were bona fide members of a unit participating in, or be engaged indirect support of, the operation for 30 consecutive days in the area of operations or for 60 non-consecutive days provided this support involves entering the area of operations or meets one of the following criteria: Be engaged in actual combat, or duty that is equally as hazardous as combat duty, during the operation with armed opposition, regardless of time in the area of operations; While participating in the operation, regardless of time, is wounded or injured and requires medical evacuation from the area of operations; While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over the area of operations in direct support of the military operations. MoreHide
Description
Deployed with 1st Armored Division to Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo
Description On October 7, 2001 with the beginning of punishing aerial bombardments, missile attacks and special forces commando missions against the Taliban and bin Laden's forces by the United States and the UniOn October 7, 2001 with the beginning of punishing aerial bombardments, missile attacks and special forces commando missions against the Taliban and bin Laden's forces by the United States and the United Kingdom (the Allies). An informal alliance between the Northern Alliance and the Allies developed, with coordination between Allied air attacks and ground attacks by the Northern Alliance.
These attacks led to the fall of Kabul on Nov. 13, 2001, as the Taliban retreated from most of northern Afghanistan.
By November 25, 2001, the last Taliban/Al-Qaida stronghold in the north, Konduz, had fallen to the Northern Alliance. American and British special forces, numbering only in the hundreds, are on the ground in Afghanistan to liaison with the Northern Alliance as well as to conduct raids, ambushes and reconnaissance in order to destroy the Taliban and Al-Qaida forces.... More
People You Remember
COL John Mulholland - CDR Task Force Dagger/JSOTF-N/5th SF Gp
Memories Karshi-Khanabad Combat Mission on MH-60 DAP w/160th SOAR Combat Mission over Tora Bora on AC-130 w/JKarshi-Khanabad Combat Mission on MH-60 DAP w/160th SOAR Combat Mission over Tora Bora on AC-130 w/JSOAC... More
On 10 June 1999, the UN Security Council adopted a detailed resolution that outlined the civil administration and peacekeeping responsibilities in Kosovo and paved the way for peaceful settlement of t
On 10 June 1999, the UN Security Council adopted a detailed resolution that outlined the civil administration and peacekeeping responsibilities in Kosovo and paved the way for peaceful settlement of the conflict and the safe return home of hundreds of thousands of Kosovo Albanian refugees and displaced persons. The resolution was passed under Chapter VII of the UN Charter which allowed the security forces to carry weapons to protect themselves and use force in carrying out the resolution's directives. The resolution "authorizes member states and relevant international organizations to establish the international security presence in Kosovo" as set out in the military agreement between NATO and the FRY. That peacekeeping operation was meant to enforce the cease-fire, demilitarize the KLA and other Kosovo Albanian groups, and establish a secure environment for the return of the refugees.
The force had a unified NATO chain of command under the political direction of the North Atlantic Council in consultation with non-NATO force contributors. The NATO countries were united that in the absence of the NATO Joint Guardian force at the core of any international security presence in Kosovo, the refugees would not return and the other NATO objectives would not be met. A NATO force at the core of an international security presence was regarded as the magnet to attract the refugees back. In the absence of a NATO force with American participation, it was the view of the US Government that it was unrealistic to think the Kosovar Albanians would disarm the KLA, something of great interest to Russia. The US believed that if NATO forces deployed, the rationale for the Kosovar Liberation Army having an armed force to protect itself against Serbs would disappear. The Rambouillet envisaged something like 2,500 Serb military and 2,500 police for a year, though with the commencement of Operation Allied Force NATO required all of those forces going, in views of the probability that the Kosovar Albanians would not come home to a situation where those same forces remain at their posts. NATO envisaged the standing up of thousands of Kosovar Albanian police, including possibly people from the KLA, who would be trained by the international community and could serve police functions.
NATO did not contemplate a partition of Kosovo. It had been unofficially suggested that one possible solution was a de facto partition of Kosovo whereby the Russians would patrol the north, the mineral-rich areas, and NATO would patrol the south.
Before Allied Force began operating, NATO had plans to put in a peacekeeping force of 28,000 people. Of that, 4,000 people would have been Americans. By mid-May 1999 NATO had reassessed its Op Plan for the Joint Guardian mission to see to what degree they would need reinforcement beyond the level that was originally foreseen for the KFOR [Kosovo force] international security presence in Kosovo. NATO had 16,000 troops deployed in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia trained for their mission as well as dealing with the enormous refugee inflow. Certain reinforcements from the UK and from Germany were arrived as of mid-May.
The NATO pre-deployment in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia was conducted to be in a position to move very quickly into Kosovo to set up an initial military command structure and an initial infrastructure to get the basic functions going. The goal was not only for other NATO troops to come in quickly but also for the transition authority and for the humanitarian relief organizations, which in the very early stages would need a great deal of military back-up, to establish themselves by the time the NATO core element was on the ground in Kosovo.
Criteria A service medal or bar shall be issued for 10 years' service in the California National Guard or the California Air National Guard or the Naval Militia or the State Military Reserve, and for each peri... A service medal or bar shall be issued for 10 years' service in the California National Guard or the California Air National Guard or the Naval Militia or the State Military Reserve, and for each period of five years of service thereafter. Such medal or bar shall be issued to those entitled to the same upon application. A State Service Ribbon may be presented by the Adjutant General to each person who after July 1, 1963, honorably serves on active duty with the State during a period of emergency declared by the Governor or while the United States is engaged in war as defined in Section 18 of this code. MoreHide
Criteria Thirty days continuous or accumulated service in direct support of NATO operations, on land, at sea or in the air spaces of the Former Yugoslavia, Albania, the Former Republic of Macedonia, and the Ad... Thirty days continuous or accumulated service in direct support of NATO operations, on land, at sea or in the air spaces of the Former Yugoslavia, Albania, the Former Republic of Macedonia, and the Adriatic Sea (the theatre of operations) commencing 1 July 1992 and ending 31 December 2002; or
Ninety days continuous or accumulated service commencing 1 July 1992 and ending 31 December 2002, in the territories of Italy, Greece, Hungary and Austria, in direct support of the NATO operations in the Former Yugoslavia (the adjacent area) MoreHide
Comments 1st award for deployment and service with TF Eagle, 1st Cavalry Division in Camp Eagle, Bosnia 1999; 2nd award for deployment and service with TF Falcon, 1st Armored Division in Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo... 1st award for deployment and service with TF Eagle, 1st Cavalry Division in Camp Eagle, Bosnia 1999; 2nd award for deployment and service with TF Falcon, 1st Armored Division in Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo 2001. MoreHide
Description On 20 June 1998 the NATO-led Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Herzegovina transitioned to a slightly smaller follow-on force. Simultaneously, Operation Joint Guard ended and Operation Joint Forge began. On 20 June 1998 the NATO-led Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Herzegovina transitioned to a slightly smaller follow-on force. Simultaneously, Operation Joint Guard ended and Operation Joint Forge began. The United States agreed to provide a force of approximately 6,900 US Service members to help maintain the military force in Bosnia-Herzegovina. This force, a component of the NATO Stabilization Force (SFOR), remained designated Task Force Eagle. The first US SFOR contingent in support of Operation Joint Forge was led by the 1st Cavalry Division, America's First Team, from Fort Hood, Texas. The reduced size Task Force Eagle had a mission to maintain a capable military force in Bosnia-Herzegovina. No timetable or timeline for the duration of Operation Joint Forge was initially determined. The mission would be assessed periodically and the force size would be adjusted, as circumstances required. The decision was finally made in 2004 to end Operation Joint Forge and inactivate SFOR, with continuing support in Bosnia and Herzegovina to be carried out by a force led by the European Union. The US Task Force Eagle was officially inactivated on 24 November 2004 and on 2 December 2004, the SFOR mission ended and the EUFOR mission was inaugurated.
On 1 June 1997, the Headquarters, 16th Air Expeditionary Wing was designated and activated at Aviano Air Base, Italy. The 16th Air Expeditionary Wing provided direction, control, support, administrative control, and uniform code of military justice authority for more than 1,300 United States Air Force personnel stationed throughout Europe in support of Operation Joint Guard and then Operation Joint Forge. These units, located in Istres, France; Rimini and San Vito, Italy; Tuzla and Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina; Zagreb, Croatia; Taszar, Hungary, and Rhein Main, Germany comprised the lion's share of the USAF contingent of NATO's Stabilization Force (SFOR). Since its inception, 16th Air Expeditionary Wing worked a number of high-profile initiatives in support of the SFOR mission. These included the relocation of KC-135 operations from Pisa, Italy to Istres, France; the installation of air navigation aid equipment at Tuzla, Air Base, Bosnia-Herzegovina to support Russian and SFOR partner air operations; quality-of life-improvements for U-2 crews and support personnel at Istres France, and the holiday visit of President Bill Clinton to the Operation Joint Forge area of responsibility.
Under a plan approved in 2001 by General Eric K. Shinseki, Chief of Staff of the Army, the US Army programmed selected active and reserve forces for service in Bosnia and Kosovo through May 2005. This was a prudent measure taken to provide predictability for soldiers and units to ensure they were given adequate time to train for the Balkans mission. The rotation plan would also provide better linkages between the active and reserve forces, mitigate the effects of high operational tempo, and better sustain the Army's overall levels of readiness for contingency operations. Under the plan, units from the active Army and reserve component would support the SFOR mission in Bosnia or the Kosovo Force (KFOR) for 6-month periods. All units for the planned SFOR rotations 9 through 16 would be drawn from active Army divisions, Army National Guard divisions, the Army Reserve, and a mix of active/reserve units. The Army set a historical precedent when it designated the 49th Armored Division, Texas Army National Guard, as the headquarters for active and reserve forces conducting the SFOR mission between March and October 2000.
On 2 December 2003, SFOR confirmed that due to the improved security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina that it would reduce to a deterrent force of approximately 7,000 multinational soldiers by June 2004. SFOR considered how to adjust the operation further, including its possible termination by the end of 2004 and a transition possibly to a new NATO military liaison and advisory mission (with NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo) and to a new European Union mission. In response, Multinational Brigade (North) also transformed its future force structure to meet the requirements of the new deterrent force. Planning for that force structure was conducted by the existing MNB(N) headquarters to help them prepare to execute the deterrent force mission when the 34th Infantry Division transferred authority to the 38th Infantry Division in April 2004.
At the Istanbul Summit in June 2004, NATO Heads of State and Government agreed that in light of the improved security situation in the country SFOR could be concluded at the end of that year. A ceremony in Sarajevo on 2 December 2004 marked the conclusion of the NATO-led SFOR mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the beginning of the European Union's follow-on mission EUFOR. The NATO-led SFOR was brought to a successful conclusion almost exactly 9 years since NATO deployed forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina in what was the Alliance's first peacekeeping operation. The end to Operation Joint Forge in 2004 also meant that the US Army's planned SFOR-16 rotation would not occur, making the SFOR-15 rotation, led by the 38th Infantry Division (Mechanized) (Indiana Army National Guard), the last deployment in support of SFOR.
The European Union subsequently deployed its own mission, EUFOR, to take on key security tasks in the country. EUFOR derived its mandate from a new UN Security Council resolution and had an initial strength of 7,000 that was equal in size to SFOR. The EUFOR mission was supported by NATO under the so-called 'Berlin Plus' arrangements that provide the framework for NATO-EU cooperation.
The successful termination of SFOR did not spell the end of NATO's engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Alliance retained a military headquarters in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the nature of NATO's engagement was very different. The NATO Headquarters, which was headed by a one-star US general with a staff of around 150, was to focus on defense reform in the country, as well as counter-terrorism, apprehending war-crimes suspects, and intelligence-gathering.
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People You Remember
1st Cav Div Commander MG Kevin Byrnes.
Memories Being given Operational Control by MG Byrnes of a squad of MP's and directed to conduct a low-profilBeing given Operational Control by MG Byrnes of a squad of MP's and directed to conduct a low-profile operation near the Drina River.... More
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded by Cdr, 1/18th Cav Sqdn For flying IDT Combat missions in an AH-1F while TDY in Mogadishu, Somalia.
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Comments
For Combat duty as regularly assigned pilot of an AH-1F with Task Force 4-4 in Somalia.
On 4 May 1993 the UN Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM II) assumed responsibility for operations, but the transition was badly managed. Basic U.N. deficiencies in planning, C3I, and political acumen were c
On 4 May 1993 the UN Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM II) assumed responsibility for operations, but the transition was badly managed. Basic U.N. deficiencies in planning, C3I, and political acumen were compounded by an expanded and intrusive mandate; greatly diminished military capabilities; more aggressive Somali opposition; uncertain support from the United States; differences within the coalition; and uncertainty by the Security Council, the Secretariat, and others.
Operation Continue Hope provided support of UNOSOM II to establish a secure environment for humanitarian relief operations by providing personnel, logistical, communications, intelligence support, a quick reaction force, and other elements as required. Over 60 Army aircraft and approximately 1,000 aviation personnel operated in Somalia from 1992 to 1994.
UNOSOM II became a badly flawed peace, with military forces which came to be seen by parties to the local conflict as co-belligerents rather than impartial peacekeepers. In Somalia, peace enforcement was only an implicit element of the original U.N. mandate, which focused on peace-building (disarmament, political reconciliation, and economic rehabilitation). However, after a confrontation between the Somali National Alliance (SNA) and the U.N. led to the killing of twenty-five Pakistani peacekeepers, the Security Council made the operation's peace-enforcement mission explicit. It was executed by both U.N. forces and a 1,000-man U.S. rapid-reaction force under U.S. operational control, with the authority of the United Nations. There was also a 3,000-man U.S. logistics unit under U.N. operational control. A lack of decisiveness, cohesion, and command and control by the undermanned U.N. mission (half the strength of UNITAF, with some 20,000 personnel) and a series of armed clashes between U.S./U.N. forces and the SNA created a virtual state of war and undermined the effectiveness of the U.N. operation. Confusion over the dual-command relationship between the U.S. and UNOSOM II was another complicating factor, with a U.S. general officer serving as both the U.N. deputy forces commander and commander of U.S. forces.
A clash on 3-4 October 1993 left eighteen U.S. personnel dead and seventy-eight wounded, along with over one thousand Somali casualties. Public outcry in the United States contributed to the decision to withdraw U.S. forces in March 1994. That, coupled with continued internal strife and SNA hostility toward the U.N., led to a total U.N. withdrawal in March 1995. This was executed skillfully, without casualties, in a carefully planned combined U.S.-U.N. action.
The killing of Army Rangers in Somalia provoked a resurgence of a debate that began before the Gulf War: when is it appropriate to use military force -- and, more to the point, can you justify using the military in regions in which Americans either do not see their interests at stake or are willing to help only so long as the costs remain very low? Somalia drove home the reality that the Gulf War experience could not serve as a model for other situations where the diplomatic lineup was more confused, the stakes less clear, and the difference between good guys and bad guys less simple to discern. It was also an early indication of the coming debate on the international community's role in internal strife.
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People You Remember CW5 Geary Younkin AH-1F SP/PIC LTC Keith Stafford CDR TF 4-4 COL Larry Casper BDE CDR CW2 John McAllCW5 Geary Younkin AH-1F SP/PIC LTC Keith Stafford CDR TF 4-4 COL Larry Casper BDE CDR CW2 John McAllister D trp 1/10 Cav pilot who loaned me his flight gear... More
Memories Flew combat missions over Mogadishu as co-pilot of AH-1F w/D Troop, 1/10th Cavalry;- exact same unitFlew combat missions over Mogadishu as co-pilot of AH-1F w/D Troop, 1/10th Cavalry;- exact same unit/troop I had served in during 1976. On all missions, flew with Geary Younkin, whom I had flown Hueys together with in Vietnam 21 years before.... More
Description
Restore Peace to the Streets of Los Angeles after the Rodney King Riots.
People You Remember
CPT John Giuffrida - Trp Cdr CWO Chris Good - OH-58 IP
Memories Being called up, being onboard the first ARNG helicopter to land next to the L.A. Coliseum while stiBeing called up, being onboard the first ARNG helicopter to land next to the L.A. Coliseum while still hearing gunfire but not being allowed to carry any weapons. Doing initial planning for Cobras to provide cover for an Air Assault to the 105 Freeway in Watts (unfortunately, mission was not flown)... More
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Best Moment
Being awarded JDF pilot wings upon the completion of my tour, then being granted D.A. approval to wear them.
Worst Moment
Conducting Search & Rescue mission off Jamaican coast and not finding the missing fisherman.
Chain of Command
LTC Sam Smith, SF, - Chief USMLO
Other Memories
Flying UH-1H's, Bell 206 & 212's, as an Adviser/Instructor Pilot to the Jamaican Defence Force (JDF) Air Wing, while assigned to the U.S. Embassy, Kingston.
Criteria The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to members of the Regular Army, National Guard, or Army Reserve for successful completion of initial entry training. In the case of personnel who receive a Military ... The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to members of the Regular Army, National Guard, or Army Reserve for successful completion of initial entry training. In the case of personnel who receive a Military Occupational Specialty identifier based on civilian or other-service acquired skills, the ribbon is awarded upon honorable completion of four months active service. Only one award of this ribbon is authorized, even if an individual completes both officer and enlisted initial entry training. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training o... The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training or Active Duty for Training for a period not less than ten consecutive days on foreign soil. The service member must be credited with completion of at least ten consecutive duty days outside the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions and territories in the performance of duties in conjunction with Active Army, joint services, or Allied Forces. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training o... The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon is awarded to all members of the U.S. Army Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve) for successful completion of Annual Training or Active Duty for Training for a period not less than ten consecutive days on foreign soil. The service member must be credited with completion of at least ten consecutive duty days outside the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and U.S. possessions and territories in the performance of duties in conjunction with Active Army, joint services, or Allied Forces. MoreHide
Description
1st & 2nd awards for ADTs in Jamaica - 1989 & 1990; 3rd for Cobra Gold AT in Thailand, 2004.
Best Moment
Completion of last two jumps out of the back of a USMC CH-46.
Worst Moment
Bad PLF on 2nd jump, resulting in pinched neck nerve.
Chain of Command
SOCOM Instructors; "Pete" was chief instructor.
Other Memories
Making 3 jumps out of a Pilatus Porter; Drinking Prop Blast Punch then performing PLF's off top bunk in Quonset Hut, during graduation party. At same party, met SF LTC Sam Smith, who I would later work for, at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Comments
For achievement as AH-1F Instructor Pilot, teaching Cobra AQC at the Attack Branch - Hanchey AHP, Ft Rucker
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California.
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California. Fort Irwin is at an average elevation of 2,454 feet (748 m). It is located 37 miles (60 km) northeast of Barstow, in the Calico Mountains.
The National Training Center is part of the US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). The opposing force at the National Training Center (NTC) is the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, the Blackhorse Cavalry, who are stationed at the base to provide an opposing force to units on a training rotation at Fort Irwin.
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Memories Aerial live fire gunnery training for D tropp, 1/18th Cavalry in three UH-1M Gunships followed by niAerial live fire gunnery training for D tropp, 1/18th Cavalry in three UH-1M Gunships followed by night deployment (unaided) and R.O.N. to Furnace Creek. Posed as returning members of the "Grenadean Liberation Forces" - hailed as heroes. ... More
Best Friends
CW2 Scott Maher, CW3 Roy Howard, CW3 Nick Kopanke, CW3 Rod Anderson, CW3 Russ Janus, SGT Mirko Duvnjak, CW3 Ken Roach, CW3 Steve Drew, CW4 Harry Wolfe; CW4 Cyril Dorsk, to name just a few of many.
Chain of Command
C.O.'s: MAJ Tom Barham; MAJ Dave Barkes; MAJ Dana Young.
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Comments
9 awards for USAR/ARNG service which began in March, 1969 and ended in October, 2013.
Best Friends
CW2 Harry R. Stevenson CW2 Robert Conrado CW2 Robert Wolfe CW2 Jim Nunn CW3 Chuck Gant CW2 Tom Kelly CW2 Jack Holmes CW2 Dave Gottschalk CW2 Ed Bartoli CW2 David Robert CW2 "Chico" Silman CW2 Tim Cowan CW2 Rod Goheen WO1 Paul Shega
Best Moment
Mooning North Korean sentries from front seat of Cobra while flying the DMZ.
Chain of Command
MAJ Carl Bierbaum - 1st C.O. MAJ Larry K. Brewer - 2nd C.O. CPT Dave Meeks - 1st Gun Plt Ldr CPT Lee Norvell - 2nd Gun Plt Ldr
Other Memories
When Jim Nunn and Ed Bartoli christened the "Frog Pond"; The "Bend and Scratch" club; When the houseboys went on strike against Bob Conrado
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for six... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for sixty non-consecutive days, or who meet the following criteria: Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of the time in the area of elibility; Is wounded or injured in the line of duty and requires medical evacuation from the area of eligibility; While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, or within the area of eligibility in direct support of military operations. Each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day toward the 30 or 60 day requirement; Personnel who serve in operations and exercises conducted in the area of eligibility are considered for the award as long as the basic time criteria are met. Due to the extensive time period for KDSM eligibility, the non-consecutive service period for eligibility remains cumulative throughout the entire period. The Area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the Republic of Korea, and the continuous water out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land and water areas. MoreHide
Comments
For service with the 128th Assault Helicopter Co at Camp Laguardia, Uijongbu, from January 1975 to February 1976.
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description This duty is reserved for combat arms units that patrol and guard the DMZ. Does not apply to those just being stationed in Korea.
The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land running across the KThis duty is reserved for combat arms units that patrol and guard the DMZ. Does not apply to those just being stationed in Korea.
The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula. It is established by the provisions of the Korean Armistice Agreement to serve as a buffer zone between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea). The Demilitarized zone (DMZ) is a border barrier that divides the Korean Peninsula roughly in half. It was created by agreement between North Korea, China and the United Nations in 1953.
All along the 148-mile (238-kilometer) truce line that bisects the Korean peninsula, hundreds of thousands of well-trained troops from two of the world's largest armies (plus more than half of the 37,000 United States troops stationed in South Korea) stand ready to fight, trained by their commanders to hate their ideological opposites and never to let their defenses down.
The Civilian Control Line is a line that designates an additional buffer zone to the DMZ within an area of 5 to 20km from the Southern Limit Line of the DMZ. Its purpose is to limit and control the entrance of civilians into the area in order to protect and maintain the security of military facilities and operations near the DMZ. The commander of the 8th US Army ordered the creation of the CCL and it was activated and first became effective in February 1954.... More
People You Remember
CW2 Harry R. Stevenson, who taught me how to fly both the Buffer Zone & the DMZ fence.
Memories Was one of the few Army Attack Helicopter Pilots to be qualified to fly Cobras directly over the SouWas one of the few Army Attack Helicopter Pilots to be qualified to fly Cobras directly over the Southern DMZ Fence for 13 months. Was designated as a Buffer Zone Instructor Pilot and as such, conducted at least weekly, low-level reconnaissance patrols of the Southern Fence flying below 100 feet AGL to detect any compromise and/or infiltration. Constantly harassed by NKPA Border Guards from across the DMZ who would flash mirrors into our cockpits and jam our radio transmissions. Were advised that our skids could be over the fence but that the body of the aircraft could not actually be into the DMZ. Photo below taken just before crossing where the Imjin River flows out of the DMZ.... More
Best Friends
CW2 Lee Potter, CW2 Karl Luken, CW2 Butch Faber, CW2 Ron Burgess, CW2 Anthony Kraay, CW2 Ross McCoy
Worst Moment
Not breaking out on the first GCA while IMC at Fritzhe AAF & having to do a second one.
Other Memories
Operational Tactical Testing of protoype Hellfire missiles on 6 modified AH-1G Cobras. Resulted in selection of the Hellfire over the TOW as the primary weapons system for the then-designated Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH) - later named the AH-64 Apache.
Best Friends
CW3 Norris Woodruf CW2 Robert Conrado CW2 Ralph Sabroe CW2 Wilfred Brown CW2 Michael Pancake CW2 Joe Licina CW2 Karl Luken WO1 Terry Bennet CW2 George Kerr CW2 Glenn Summers CW2 Richard Pollack CW2 Farrell Swindell CW2 Gerry Granrud CW2 Jerry Burke CW2 Hank Plude CW2 Wayne Goodhope CW2 Phil Garvey
Best Moment
Being selected for Unit of Choice recruiting duty; promoted to CW2 on 1 Aug 74 & being given a huge WO1 bar for having been the senior WO1 on active duty.
Worst Moment
Suicide in July 74 of flight school classmate CW2 Dennis McClellen, who was serving in the 10th Avn Bn.
Chain of Command
1LT William Ryan - Plt Ldr 1LT Larry Horacek - Plt Ldr 1LT William Brophy - Plt Ldr CPT Thomas Vasilou - OIC while TDY on Unit of Choice Recruiting Duty MAJ Peter Carr - C.O. MAJ Willard Golding - C.O. MAJ Robert S. Frix - C.O.
Other Memories
Deploying as a flight to Nanaimo, B.C., Canada to put on aerial demo for airshow. Aerial Gunnery at Yakima.
Description From August to December 1974, the Laser HELLFIRE Operational Tactical Test (LHOTT) was conducted by US Army Combat Development and Experimentation Command (CDEC). Purpose was to conduct a tactical teFrom August to December 1974, the Laser HELLFIRE Operational Tactical Test (LHOTT) was conducted by US Army Combat Development and Experimentation Command (CDEC). Purpose was to conduct a tactical test between Cobras equipped with TOW missiles and Cobras equipped with HELLFIRE missiles, in simulated combat conditions, to see which missile was more effective against a simulated Soviet Armored Attack and was more survivable for the launch platform.
In summary, for four months, Six AH-1Q's with TOWs and six AH-1G's with prototype HELLFIRES were pitted on an almost daily basis against
an attacking armor force. The latest Laser simulation allowed the opposing tanks, ADA & helicopters to engage each other and be taken out of action.
At the conclusion of the tests, the HELLFIRE had performed so much better than the TOW, that the HELLFIRE was selected to be the primary weapons system for the then-designated Advanced Attack Helicopter (AAH) which was under development & eventually became the AH-64 Apache.... More
People You Remember CW2 Karl Luken - fellow member of HELLFIRE team #10 during LHOTT held on the Hunter Liggett MilitarCW2 Karl Luken - fellow member of HELLFIRE team #10 during LHOTT held on the Hunter Liggett Military Reservation from Aug - Dec 1974. Other participants included CW2 Lee Potter; CW2 Tony Kraay; CW2 Ron Burgess; CW2 Gary Nylund;... More
Description The Yakima Training Center (YTC) is a United States Army training center, used for maneuver training, Land Warrior system testing and as a live fire exercise area. It is located in the south central pThe Yakima Training Center (YTC) is a United States Army training center, used for maneuver training, Land Warrior system testing and as a live fire exercise area. It is located in the south central portion of the U.S. state of Washington, bounded on the west by Interstate 82, on the south by the city of Yakima, on the north by the city of Ellensburg and Interstate 90, and on the east by the Columbia River. It is a part of Fort Lewis. It comprises 327,000 acres (132,332 hectares) of land, most of which consists of shrub-steppe, making it one of the largest areas of shrub-steppe habitat remaining in Washington state. The terrain is undulating and dominated by three east-west parallel ridges, the Saddle Mountains, Manastash Ridge, and Umtanum Ridge anticlines, which are part of the Yakima Fold Belt near the western edge of the Columbia River Plateau. Vegetation consists of sagebrush, bitterbrush, and bunch grass. Vagabond Army Airfield and Selah Airstrip are located on the Yakima Training Center. The training center is also used by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force for exercises.... More
Memories
Conducted annual AH-1G aerial weapons firing on the Yakima ranges.
Best Friends
WO1 Lynn Skuza, WO1 Jody Glover, SP5 Pecknold, WO1 Chuck Hebert, WO1 Bill Speitz, 1LT Jack Winover
Best Moment
Picking up crew and passengers of Air America Bell 204 Huey that was downed on 22 Mar 73 by an explosion near Vi Tanh, while armed with only our .38 caliber revolvers.
Other Memories
Flying cease-fire monitors from the "nominally" neutral ICCS member countries of Canada, Hungary, Indonesia and Poland.
Best Friends
CW2 Zandy DePriest, WO1 Thomas MacPherson, WO1 Michael Grant, WO1 Lynn Skuza, WO1 Geary Younkin, WO1 Bill Spietz, 1LT Jack Winover, 1LT Donny O'Connor, CPT Dan Toothman, CW2 Mike Scholl, CW2 Bill James, 1LT Cal Ball, CW2 Dave Rogers, CW2 Wayne Goodhope
Best Moment
Making Huey Aircraft Commander in the minimum time.
Worst Moment
Losing fellow platoon member WO1 Anthony Dal Pozzo on 29 Jan 73 as the last Army Helicopter Pilot KIA in the Vietnam War, hit just a few hours after the official cease-fire on 28 Jan.
Chain of Command
MAJ Jerry Childers - 18th Avn Co. C.O. CPT Joe D'Angelo - X.O. CPT Jim Benton - Plt Ldr 1lT R. Sassi & 1llt O'Connor - Sec Ldrs 1SGT Joe White - First Sgt. LTC F. Cooper - 164th Gp Cdr
Other Memories
With MAJ Childers excellent advice and counsel, myself, WO1's Grant & Skuza, avoided getting bogus Field Grade Article 15s for celebrating the cease fire, by demanding a Court Martial, which called the Group Cdr's bluff (LTC Cooper) & forced him to drop the issue.
Criteria The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding ac... The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight. MoreHide
Comments
For Meritorius Service as a UH-1H Aircraft Commander, 18th Aviation Company, 1st Avn Bde, Can Tho, South Vietnam.
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments
Total of six air medals for Vietnam service
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Description This campaign was from 30 March 1972 to 28 January 1973. On 30 March 1972 the North Vietnamese Army launched its greatest offensive of the entire war. The enemy deployed the greatest array of troops This campaign was from 30 March 1972 to 28 January 1973. On 30 March 1972 the North Vietnamese Army launched its greatest offensive of the entire war. The enemy deployed the greatest array of troops and modern weapons to date in a major effort to end the war with conventional forces and seized considerable territory in an effort to exercise control of key provinces throughout Vietnam.
During this critical period the Vietnamization program continued in the face of the North Vietnamese invasion and the successful counterattack by the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam. Army aviation units played an impressive role throughout the period, flying reconnaissance, close support missions, and transporting troops. As U.S. combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam, the role of helicopter units increased in importance and they responded to the challenge of continuing to support while preparing the RVNAF to assume their function. Similarly, advisors of all services contributed immeasurably to the defeat of the enemy invasion and the continued Vietnamization process. Army and Marine advisors fought side-by-side with their RVNAF counterparts to stop and defeat the enemy invasion, as the Vietnamese counteroffensive gained momentum and the reduction of field advisers continued. The advisory effort shifted to emphasize training and to assure that the VNAF attained self-sufficiency prior to the complete withdrawal of the U.S forces.
Recapture of Quang Tri City on 16 September 1972 marked the complete failure of the enemy to hold any of the targeted provincial capitols. Massive aid replaced materiel lost during the spring counteroffensive. Retraining and reconstruction of selected RVNAF units increased their capabilities. The completion of the massive logistical buildup of RVNAF was accomplished, which enabled the RVNAF to become more self-sufficient as direct U.S. participation diminished. The US ground role in Vietnam was totally replaced by the RVNAF. During December 1972 and January 1973 the RVIVAF flew more than 45% of air sorties within Vietnam. In November 1972, the RVNAF began a C-130 training program and by January 1973 realized a significant increase in their capability. RVNAF forward air controllers began directing USAF and RVNAF strike aircraft in January 1973. The US policy of Vietnamization continued.
US combat and combat support operations were conducted in support of RVNAF ground operations during the North Vietnamese invasion and the counteroffensive including intensive interdiction of enemy supply routes into Vietnam. Since US ground forces had been reduced to seven battalions, the US ground combat role was limited to defense of key installations. Further reduction in troop ceilings led to the redeployment of all US ground combat battalions, leaving an Army contingent of combat support and service support units.... More
People You Remember
MAJ Jerry Childers, C.O. 18th Avn Co
Best Friends
CW2 Verne Comstock, CW2 John Staugaard, CW2 Ed Mitchell, CW2 Wayne Wright, CPT Morgan Mills, WO1 James Balducki, CW2 Bob Payne, CW2 Nick Kopanke, CW2 Mike Finnegan, CW2 Bruce Folks, CPT Jim Hefforn, CPT Washburn, SP6 Jack Spraker, SP5 John Brones & many others.
Best Moment
First flight in an AH-1G Cobra during the Van Nuys 4th of July airshow; UH-1 Ferry flight from NAS Corpus Christi to Ft Ord; Receipt of orders being voluntarily activated as the last Army Reserve Component soldier to be deployed to Vietnam
Worst Moment
April 72 loss of CW2 Jerry Greene & SP5 Dunn in fatal Huey crash.
Chain of Command
MAJ Carrol Prince, C.O.
Other Memories
Belonging to the Ft MacArthur O Club & drinking there as a 20-year old WO-1. First flight in an AH-1G Cobra given to me at the Van Nuys Airshow by CW2 Ross McCoy, from Ft. Ord.
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Comments
6 awards for Vietnam during the period Nov 72 - Jan 73.
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while partic... The Air Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service while participating in aerial flight, but not of a degree that would justify an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
Vietnam Era - Awarded upon voluntary Mobilization on 23 August 1972 at Hunter AAF, GA, for deployment to Vietnam. Desert Storm era. Post - 9/11 GWOT era
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Best Friends
WOC Lee Potter, WOC Ronald McCullough, WOC Mike Evans WOC Butch Faber WOC Bill Speitz WOC Doug Strodtbeck WOC Hank Plude WOC Dave McIntire WOC Mitch Pait
Best Moment
Being appointed a WO1 & Army Aviator upon graduation.
Worst Moment
Losing two classmates in fatal nighttime Huey crash - Jan 72; WOC's William B. "HB" Hiltebeitel & Harold C. "Smokey" Wilson.
Chain of Command
63rd WOC Co Cdr - MAJ Don Davenport
Other Memories
Surviving Jan 72 tornado in a Enterprise, AL trailer park w/Lee Potter & Hank Plude
Your memories of this course
Best Friends
WOC Mike Evans, WOC Jerry Granrud, WOC Otis Armstrong, WOC Joseph DeNardo, WOC Butch Faber. WOC Chuck Hogancamp, WOC Ray Dyer, WOC Terry Ball
Best Moment
First solo flight in a TH-55 Helicopter: 17 May 71
Worst Moment
Unjust Elimination of WOCs Terry Ball & James Bowe
Chain of Command
Clyde Kees - Instructor Pilot
4th WOC Co. Cdr - CPT Roy Tyndall
TAC Officers:
1lt Luckey
1lt Hinds
CW2 Burgoynne
Other Memories
Road trip to Galveston on Memorial Day weekend in Hogancamp's GTO with Evans & Ball; We ignored orders, ditched our Khakis & bought civilian clothes, then all got sunburned!
Best Moment
Other Memories
In 1971, Singer Lou Rawls performed a impromptu, free concert for all the student helicopter pilots at Ft Wolters. Indivduals like myself were attending the OCS-style Warrant Officer Flight Training program, as E-5's. One Saturday afternoon in the spring of 71, with no-notice, we were all gathered up from our barracks and were told to muster in the Recreation center. We were told that Lou had been booked to give a concert that same weekend at the Ft Wolter's Officer's Club, which would be charged for. But when he was advised that the vast majority of the student pilots who were on the base being trained for deployment to Vietnam were enlisted and therefore, not allowed in the O' Club, he immediately offered to put on an additional concert, which would be free for all enlisted personnel. The concert was great and for the last 48+ years, whenever I have heard one of his songs, I have always remembered how great his actions made us feel, at a time when most entertainers could have cared less about service personnel headed to Vietnam. Now that I have learned about his prior service via TWS, his kind & thoughful performance back then, makes even more sense; thanks for the show & rest in peace Lou!
Best Friends
CW2 Verne Comstock, CW2 John Staugaard SGT Jim Balducki, CW2 Ed Mitchell, CW2 Chuck Canfield, WO1 Robert Barton, CW2 Charles Lydeen, CW2 Will Machin, CW2 Don Pitt, CW2 John Leonard, SSG Joe Aaron
Best Moment
Successfully hovering a 1951 model OH-13E just prior to departing for Warrant Officer Flight Training. (Note: same 1951 model helicopter shown at the beginning of each MASH episode.)
Worst Moment
Having CPT Stackhouse ask how I put 500 miles on the jeep during the middle weekend of AT at Camp San Luis Obispo. I explained that just as CPT Stackhouse had taken the OH-23 overnight for "proficiency flying", I took the jeep overnight to Ft Ord for "proficiency driving".
Chain of Command
CPT Nathan G. Stackhouse, Section Commander
Other Memories
When I directly contacted the Office, Chief of the Army Reserve, as a frustrated PFC, to try and get funded to attend Flight School. I was helped by MAJ Wilfred Ebel, who went out of his way to fund my orders.
Your memories of this course
Being taught how to safely perform duties as a 67M OH-13/23 helicopter repairman. The course was hosted by the CA-ARNG TARS (Transportation Aircraft Repair Shop), from Fresno, CA. Their full-time, expert mechanics guided the students how to safely maintain the legacy fleet, many of which had been deployed during the Korean War.
Best Moment
Enlisting while just half-way through my senior year in high school; Firing our M-1 Garand rifles during AT at Ft Irwin, July 69 and drinking beer at age 17 in the post NCO club.
Worst Moment
I was in a briefing where our Company Commander advised the troops that due to a shortage of weapons, everyone might not get issued one for our field training exercise in July, 1969, at Ft Irwin. However, being a gung-ho 17 year old, I did not want to miss out being able to carry a rifle in the field (note: I had not yet been to Army Basic Training). So when the C.O. asked if there were any questions, I stood up in front of the entire company and asked: "Sir, if there arn't enough weapons to go around, can I bring my own bolt action .22 to carry instead?" I never lived that statement down for the remainder of the time that I was in that unit; however, as you can see, they did issue me my own M-1 Garand to use in the field.
Chain of Command
CPT Albert T. Finnerty, C.O.
Other Memories
Catching Space-A hop to Hawaii in July 69 on an ancient Navy C-118 (DC-6) before ever attending Basic Training.
Other Memories
Driving 2 1/2 ton trucks around Ft Ord as part of the on-call pool of drivers, who had completed AIT but were awaiting onward assignments.
Best Moment
Being appointed as a Squad Leader; doing well enough on the record PT test to be exempted from the final road march; qualifying as an expert with the M-14 in the last, 1st BCT Bde cycle at Ft Ord to use that weapon.
Worst Moment
Pulling K.P. duty
Instructors
2nd Platoon Drill Sergeant: SSG D. Mitchell Senior Drill Sergeant: PSG Willie C. Brown Company Commander: CPT Gerard Smolin
Other Memories
Two or three times when our platoon excelled at an event, our Drill Sergeant marched us to the exchange and allowed each trainee, regardless of age, to have a huge, frosty beer! See photo below of Jim Scott & I enjoying those beers.
Note: In my platoon photo, I am the first soldier on the left end of the front row.
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California.
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California. Fort Irwin is at an average elevation of 2,454 feet (748 m). It is located 37 miles (60 km) northeast of Barstow, in the Calico Mountains.
The National Training Center is part of the US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). The opposing force at the National Training Center (NTC) is the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, the Blackhorse Cavalry, who are stationed at the base to provide an opposing force to units on a training rotation at Fort Irwin.
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Memories Performed my first two weeks of Active Duty at Ft Irwin as a 17-year old private with the 736th TranPerformed my first two weeks of Active Duty at Ft Irwin as a 17-year old private with the 736th Transportation Company, from 5 - 19 July, 1969. Promoted to E-2 on 9 July.... More
Being the guest speaker for the formal Huey Retirement Ceremony held in December, 2011.
My last flight as Pilot in Command of the last NTC Huey on 4 January 2012
Attached from 91st Tng Div as Huey Instructor Pilot