wvarng welcomes first african american female brigade commander
history in the making
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LEADERSHIP MESSAGE West Virginia Army National Guard State Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. Maj. James "Dusty" Jones, discusses the importance of training and preparedness for today's NCOs as we prepare for future battles. SPECIAL SECTIONS A recap of the West Virginia National Guard's support to the 24th World Scout Jamboree and Sentry Storm 2019.
NEWS AND FEATURES Historic change of command takes place for 77th brigade 167th's new ccatt ready to fly 130th airlift wing aeromed team provides expertise for air force's newest refueler WVARNG instructs peruvian armed forces, national police on medevac operations WV Special forces train with polish, latvian forces in west virginia Wv engineer officer earns dual tab recognition as sapper, ranger qualified WV Guard engineers support resolute castle in romania patriot guardens uses agriculture to expand opportunities for recovering west virginians 35th cst trains alongside state, federal partners in preparation for 2019 college football season WV Guard promotes first african american female colonel one airman's mission to change lives in west virginia WVNG hosts multi-agency cyber exercise focused on election security
Volume 19 Issue 3
Commander in Chief Gov. Jim Justice Adjutant General Maj. Gen. James A. Hoyer State Senior Enlisted Leader Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip Cantrell State Public Affairs Officer/Editor Maj. Holli Nelson Contributors 130th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 167th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 153rd Public Affairs Detachment The Mountaineer Defender is an authorized publication of the West Virginia National Guard. Contents are not necessarily the official views of, nor are they endorsed by, the United States government, the Department of Defense, the West Virginia National Guard or the state of West Virginia. Publication of material is determined by available space and reader interest. The staff reserves the right to edit all material. The Mountaineer Defender is published quarterly. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the Public Affairs Office (WVNG-PAO), 1703 Coonskin Drive, Charleston, W.Va. 25311. Direct communication is authorized to the editorial staff at 304-561-6762 or holli.r.nelson.mil@mail.mil. Guard members, family and other interested persons are encouraged to submit any articles and photos meant to inform, educate or entertain Mountaineer Defender readers. Submitted content, if approved for usage, may be used additionally or exclusively on the West Virginia National Guard website, official WVNG social media sites or in other public affairs office products.
West Virginia Army National Guard State Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. Maj. James "Dusty" Jones, discusses the importance of training and preparedness for today's NCOs as we prepare for future battles.
It is imperative that today’s Soldiers recognize that time is our most valuable resource. Every minute we spend in uniform is irreplaceable. We must take full advantage of every opportunity to develop our team into the most lethal and responsive force possible. We get after that through comprehensive and detailed planning to ensure that we are taking advantage of every opportunity to make out Soldiers better warriors and develop them into autonomous leaders. Understand that even the best plans fail and we must have alternate training quickly available so that every gap and break is filled, and we aren’t wasting this valuable resource. I expect the NCOs of the West Virginia Army National Guard to have “hip pocket” training available at all times and that they are prepared to execute that training anytime they identify an opportunity. There is no greater privilege in your career than to lead the great men and women of this country, so be excellent at it. Don’t just show them how to load a radio. Show them every cable and connection and explain its purpose. Identify troubleshooting techniques and ensure they know how to maintain every part of it from HUB batteries to antenna connections. Instruct them on doctrinal radio procedures and give them as many repetitions as it takes to make it muscle memory. The battlefield of tomorrow will be far more complex and contested than any of us have experienced. Your team will have to be more self-sufficient and rely on your own expertise to keep you in the fight. Build that expertise now; we cannot depend on the trend of knowing years out when we will be deploying as part of a rotational force. The next fight will likely be a large scale, near-peer conflict. This type of mission will not afford us the training lead time that the War on Terror has typically provided. Never forget that life and time is fleeting. Do those hard things now to get yourselves in top physical condition and mentally strong, ready to face down any challenge and overcome it with tenacity and efficiency. Every man, woman, and child of your State and Nation rely on you to be unfailing guardians that make every precious day of freedom that they spend on this earth possible. There is no greater or more honorable responsibility. Thank you all for the sacrifices that you and your families endure and know that I am here to support you. First to Fight, Mountaineers are Free!
leadership message
"There is no greater privilege in your career than to lead the great men and women of this country, so be excellent at it."
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Historic change of command takes place for 77th brigade
story and photos by: jfhq public affairs
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The West Virginia Army National Guard’s (WVARNG) 77th Brigade held a historic change of command Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019, as Col. Michaelle Munger relinquished command to Lt. Col. Tanya McGonegal. McGonegal is the first female African American brigade commander and Munger was the first female brigade commander in the WVARNG’s history. Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard (WVNG), served as the presiding official for the ceremony and lauded both Munger and McGonegal for their expertise, experience and professionalism throughout their careers. “I am exceptionally thankful for the work that Michaelle has done as the 77th Brigade commander and at our Joint Forces Headquarters,” said Hoyer. “I know she will continue to represent the West Virginia Army National Guard in a positive light at the National Guard Bureau in her new role.” He continued, “I know that Tanya will lead the 77th Brigade to new heights as she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her tenure working in the National Guard Bureau and at the Pentagon. Both Michaelle and Tanya are two important examples that all individuals have an opportunity to excel in our organization. By living out the Army and Air Force values and focusing on what is best for West Virginia and the Nation, everyone can achieve their highest potential in the West Virginia National Guard.” Munger has served in every component of the U.S. Army – active duty, U.S. Army Reserves and the U.S. Army National Guard. She was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) in 1994 and has served in various roles of increasing responsibility for more than 25 years in the WVARNG, the National Guard Bureau and in the Pentagon. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Christopher Newport University and two master’s degrees in environmental science and joint campaign planning and strategy. Her most recent assignments include Director of Joint Operations (J3), WVNG; Associate Director, Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment/Facilities Investment and Management; and as Deputy Director, Real Property Maintenance, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness, Programming and Resources. “Having been born on a military installation to an Army father, I haven't been in one place too long, and have felt that I was a wanderer. This command opportunity exposed me to the best sons and daughters of West Virginia and given me a place to call home,” said Munger. “The most important commodity of the military are those people that serve in it, and I cannot express accurately in words the pride I have for the Soldiers and accomplishments of the 77th Brigade, currently serving abroad, getting ready to serve abroad, and those that assist in emergencies here in West Virginia." McGongeal was commissioned through the Virginia Sate Officer Candidate School (OCS) in 1999 and has served in various leadership positions in the National Guard throughout her career. She holds a bachelor’s degree in dance from Rutgers University and master’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University. Her most recent assignments include Executive Officer to the Director of Staff at the National Guard Bureau; Military Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Global Security in the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy; and as Advisor for Preparedness Policy for Homeland Defense Integration and Defense Support of Civil Authorities in the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy. "I'm thankful for the warm welcome on my return to the WVNG, the assistance from Col. Munger and staff on the transition, and am honored to serve as the new 77th Troop Command Brigade Commander and look forward to meeting and working with the Soldiers assigned and their families," said McGonegal. McGonegal will oversee one of two brigades in the WVARNG, which consists of the 1st Battalion, 201st Field Artillery Regiment, the oldest actively serving unit in the Army National Guard, as well as the 1st Squadron, 150th Cavalry Regiment, and the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
story by: Senior Master Sgt emily beightol-deyerle | Photos by: 130th AW Public Affairs
The Critical Care Air Transport Team recently stood up at the 167th Airlift Wing is “ready to rock and roll” according to 1st Lt. Brock Martin, CCATT member and nurse for the 167th Medical Group. The Air Force Surgeon General announced, just over a year ago, that the Air Force would be increasing CCATT capabilities to meet the needs of the warfighter. Martin, who did much of the legwork to get the CCATT going at the 167th, said the Guard is well suited for this mission because there are many Guardsmen with extensive critical care experience already, gained through their civilian jobs. The team, who just completed valuable training during the Sentry Storm exercise with the 167th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and the 167th En-route Patient Staging System, provides medical support to the most critical patients in flight. “It’s basically an ICU (intensive care unit) in the back of an airplane,” explained Maj. Lori Wyatt, a civilian emergency room nurse and nurse with the 167th Medical Group. The CCATT, comprised of a critical care physician, critical care nurse and a respiratory therapist can augment aeromedical evacuation personnel by providing constant and specialized attention to the sickest patients. “It’s amazing what can be done,” said Wyatt. “We can put air lines and chest tubes in on the aircraft, in flight, if necessary.” Wyatt, who is also an emergency room nurse, said it is a completely different way to practice medicine. “On the ground, in the hospital, hearing is integral to the patient assessment process, we listen for heart and belly sounds, but in flight our ability to use the sense of hearing is diminished,” she explained. “We rely heavily on sight and feel, we have to be attuned to our patient and constantly monitor them while also adjusting for pressure changes, temperature changes and turbulence in flight.” According to the Air Force Surgeon General, reducing the medical footprint in combat zones is vital for the future of Air Force Medicine. Large theater combat hospitals are expensive to set up, staff and protect, and may not always be feasible for U.S. forces to deploy. CCATTs can land at small forward airfields, take on critically injured patients, keep them stable during flight, and deliver them to a hospital across the world for further treatment. Martin, who will be a certified registered nurse anesthetist in December, said he hopes the 167th will eventually add a second CATT and added, “Everyone on the team joined because we want to get out there, we want to deploy.”
167th's new ccatt ready to fly
130th airlift wing aeromed team provides expertise for air force's newest refueler
story by: 130th aw public affairs
Two members of the 130th Airlift Wing’s 167th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron based at McLaughlin Air National Guard Base, Charleston, West Virginia, recently traveled to McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, to offer expertise and feedback on outfitting the KC-46A Pegasus for the aeromedical evacuation mission. The KC-46A is the Air Force’s newest refueler that is also able to provide passenger and medical transport. Lt. Col. Charles Mertz, 167th AES chief nurse, and Staff Sgt. Loy Nelson, 167th AES aeromedical evacuation technician, represented the 130th AW alongside a small contingent of aeromedical career field Airmen from across the Total Force. The team got a first-hand opportunity to work through the outfitting of the aircraft with other aircrew members and offered expert advice that may be implemented in future missions for the KC-46A. For Mertz, it was the opportunity of a lifetime. “It’s unique,” Mertz said, “I get to help with policy and procedure, and I get to go back and teach our fellow unit members what works and what challenges that we may have on this new airframe.” Nelson, who entered the career field in 2018, saw it as an opportunity to gain valuable experience. “Every day is a learning curve [on the new aircraft],” Nelson said. “Getting to learn a new aircraft and being able to go back with as much knowledge that I have in my head and having the ability to inform people now will certainly be instrumental as we train for future missions in this airframe.” Aeromedical personnel are trained to perform medical missions on C-130, C-17, and KC-135 aircraft, among others, but are able to perform their mission on any military aircraft that carries passengers. For Mertz, the biggest takeaway was to think outside of the box and use his valuable experience and expertise to provide solutions to enhance the future of aeromedical missions in the U.S. Air Force. “You have to solve problems and help develop new ways to solve problems that others have not thought about,” said Mertz. “You have to go with an open mind and realize that what worked in the past might not work for this new aircraft and come up with ways to solve the problem to get the mission done.” Nelson appreciated the opportunity to provide a voice in the process along with putting his recent training into use. “With every job, you can become complacent and things become second nature,” Nelson explained. “When you go to a new aircraft and have to explain something to someone who doesn’t know your career field or what you need for your job to run it successfully, for me to be able to think back and go through the checklist and the requirements that we need to get off the ground, it was great to have a voice in that.” Additional aeromedical feedback sessions and training missions will take place in the future, which both Mertz and Nelson hope they can take part in. For both Airmen, the trip proved to be a once-in-a-career experience that afforded them an opportunity to provide valuable feedback for the U.S. Air Force and the aeromedical mission as a whole.
STORY by: CPL Millard Stickler
WVARNG instructs peruvian armed forces, national police on medevac operations
Members of the West Virginia Army National Guard (WVARNG) conducted hands-on aeromedical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations training for medical experts of the Peruvian Armed Forces the first week of July, 2019, in Lima, Peru. As a part of a Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) effort through the National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program, Col. Kermit Huebner, Col. Todd Fredricks, Master Sgt. Evan McDonough and Sgt. Brad Miller trained more than 120 members of the Peruvian Army, Peruvian Air Force, Peruvian Marine Corps, Peruvian Navy, and the Peruvian National Police on a variety of aeromedical topics. During the week-long engagement, U.S. service members focused on the various aspects of aeromedical training and the science behind how the human body responds to medical procedures in flight. In one such session, Huebner and Fredricks engaged directly with the Peruvian military and National Police for a class on aviation physiology. The training covered the history of aviation medicine, flight physiology, acceleration and G forces, and finally, flight safety/spatial disorientations. "During the training, the Peruvian soldiers, airmen, marines, sailors and police officers were highly engaged and eager to learn," stated Huebner, WVARNG director of aviation medicine with the 772nd Troop Command (Aviation). "The hands-on opportunities were especially well received and gave the students exposure to new equipment and new techniques they may not have seen or used before. They were all excited to learn, and we were excited to teach!" In another session McDonough, Miller, and Fredricks went over aeromedical evacuation procedures, patient evaluations, and provided hands on exposure to tactical casualty combat care (TCCC). "The training they received will help them be better prepared to provide advanced emergency medical treatment to their countrymen and women during times of disaster and need, as well as during international peace keeping missions," stated McDonough, an operations sergeant with the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne). "Learning these standards and procedures will help Peruvian Armed Forces and police operate more precisely in joint operations, increasing their overall medical interoperability and effectiveness." The West Virginia National Guard members closed out the exchange with a round table discussion, reviewing any topics and lesson learned from the previous weeks training. Fredricks, the WVARNG state surgeon, said that establishing the relationship with the Peruvian partners was an incredible experience. "Maj. Gen. Erwin Solis and his staff were extremely accommodating and challenged us to work at our highest capacity to help the Peruvian Army to develop methods and doctrine that will help save lives," he said. "We left feeling that we had made a lot of progress, developed goodwill and have a great plan for moving forward with future engagements." Similarly, Sgt. 1st Class Hector Guillen, SPP-Peru non-commissioned officer in charge, said that the subject matter expert exchange was an important step forward for the Peruvian Armed Forces and National Police, who provide important response to their citizens that require extensive knowledge in aeromedical evacuation procedures during a natural disaster. "For the West Virginia-Peru partnership, this exchange provided an opportunity for our Soldiers to share their knowledge and experience in aeromedical evacuation, while also offering hands-on training for the first time to the Peruvians," he said. "We hope to continue building upon this strong foundation to further strengthen the capabilities of the Peruvian's aeromedical mission." The training will be utilized both in Peru, and in support of United Nations (UN) Peace Support Operations in other nations such as Haiti and in the Congo.
The West Virginia Army National Guard's 156th Military Police Law and Order Detachment has maintained a strong, professional force in Afghanistan by providing 24-hour operations since January 2018. These Soldiers operate at two of Afghanistan's largest bases, Bagram Airfield (BAF) and Kandahar Airfield (KAF), and provide support to smaller outlying bases while giving direct support to the Base Defense Operations Center. "All of our Soldiers have been doing outstanding work and we have received numerous accolades from various leaders around BAF for our professionalism as Military Police," said Capt. John Kiser, commander of the 156th MP Co. and BAF provost marshal. Law and order operations being conducted by the 156th MP Co. include conducting patrols, issuing traffic citations and conducting investigations. Since arriving in country, the Soldiers have written more than 500 citations for various offenses on BAF. Romanian, Georgian, and Czech soldiers are partners with the 156th MP Co. in Afghanistan and assistance from their international partners has allowed them to accomplish the mission. The 156th MP's Romanian counterparts assist in handling internal security, jurisdictional quandaries, and law enforcement within BAF while Georgians and Czechs provide in and outside the wire securities. Numerous nations besides Afghanistan, Czech Republic, Georgia, Romania, and the United States are a part of the communities of BAF and KAF. Service members from Australia, Britain, Bosnia, contractors from Bosnia, Kosovo, U.K., Uganda, Zimbabwe, and others are also present. For many members of the West Virginia National Guard's 156th MP, it is their first time out of country. "I think this is a great broadening experience for them, working with so many different cultures, militaries, civilians, etc." Kaiser says. In just a little over six months the 156th MPs have not only maintained law and order operations on BAF and KAF but conducted training alongside multiple international militaries, including the Bosnian Guardian Angels Soldiers. Over this course of time, they have shared knowledge and skills in formulating better law and order practices that they can bring back to West Virginia and enhance the overall readiness of the entire organization.
West Virginia Army National Guard (WVARNG) Special Forces Soldiers with the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) recently completed the first irregular and unconventional warfare training iteration for members of the Polish Territorial Defense Forces and Latvian Zemmessardze as a part of the Ridge Runner program in West Virginia. Ridge Runner is a WVARNG training program that provides various National Guard, active duty, and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally nation armed forces training and experience to in irregular and asymmetrical warfare tactics and operations. Both nations have newly established national guard-type forces for their militaries, the Territorial Defense Forces for Poland and the Zemmesardze for Latvia, that are focused on defense of their homeland and resistance against an aggressor. “The conclusion of this Ridge Runner training is an exceptionally important milestone for both West Virginia and our allies in Poland and Latvia, who we have a longstanding relationship with in our State through the State Partnership Programs with the Illinois and Michigan National Guards,” said Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard. “West Virginia is the perfect venue for our highly trained special forces to help these two nations’ military forces develop the skills vital to their mission at home, which is extraordinarily important in this era of geo-political uncertainty.” “This exercise provides us a unique set of skills needed in developing our unconventional warfare skillsets,” said Marek Zaluski, acting public information officer for the Polish Territorial Defense Forces. “Our primary role is similar to that of the National, which is to support the local communities. In addition, we serve as a reserve base for conventional forces. Here at Ridge Runner, we developed skills beyond that. We’re learned how to work with Special Forces, serve as liaisons, how to speak the same language, have the interoperability and cooperation.” He continued, “We greatly appreciate the opportunity to train with the West Virginia National Guard, through Ridge Runner and the State Partnership Program. All those skills being developed go right along with what we learn at home. The soldiers who came with us for this exercise were specifically handpicked from a larger group because they represent the skills needed to operate with the Special Forces community as liaisons, pathfinders, and as people who are the points of contact in case of an unconventional warfare situation.” Ridge Runner’s mission is to develop and execute irregular warfare training across the State of West Virginia that contributes to the development of Special Operations Forces’ (SOF) and General-Purpose Forces’ (GPF) irregular warfare understanding and capabilities, in order to support national security. The Ridge Runner program operates in different parts of the state because of its diverse training needs and the terrain the State of West Virginia offers. Ridge Runner is held numerous times per year to train forces in both the United States and around the world. The State Partnership Program (SPP) is a National Guard Bureau initiative that links states and territories with partner countries around the world to foster mutual interests, establish long-term relations, enhance U.S. national security interests, and promote political stability. Through the SPP program, the Illinois National Guard is partnered with Poland and the Michigan National Guard is partnered with Latvia.
storY by: Maj. holli nelson | Photos by: BO WRISTON
WV Special forces train with polish, latvian forces in west virginia
It’s no surprise when first seeing U.S. Army Capt. Richard Payne that he is the ‘go getter’ type. He exudes confidence through his demeanor and is physically ready to meet and challenge. He also just happens to sport two tabs on his left shoulder - a Sapper tab, and newly added Ranger tab, which he earned June 20, 2019, at Ft. Benning, Georgia. Payne, an engineer officer who grew up in Clarksburg, West Virginia, is a five-year member of the West Virginia Army National Guard (WVARNG) who has served with both the 119th Sapper Company and 1092nd Engineer Battalion as he has made his way through the ranks. After graduating from West Virginia University with his degree in business management in 2012, he later felt a calling to join the military and earned his commission into the WVARNG through federal officer candidate school in 2015. From that point on, Payne has been setting and achieving rigorous goals as a leader in the WVARNG. Soon after finishing basic officer leader course to become an engineer, then 2nd Lt. Payne was in route to the Sapper Leader Course at Ft. Leonardwood, Missouri. Sapper school is a 28-day course designed to train joint-service leaders in small unit tactics, leadership skills, and the tactics required to perform as part of a combined arms team. It is often considered one of the most challenging courses the U.S. Army has to offer, outside of Ranger school and Special Forces qualification. Payne described the course as being baptized by fire. “When I went into Sapper school, I didn’t really have a huge grasp of the Army as a whole,” Payne recalled. “You just somewhat hold on once you get there. There is always the saying that if you aren’t the smartest guy in the room you need to be the strongest and the toughest. So when I went, I felt like I was kind of that guy. I would carry anything that needed to be carried or just do anything I could for anybody and I just did my best to write down and take any notes I could to try and keep up.” After completing Sapper school and earning his tab, Payne continued to set goals and carried a mindset with him for performing his duties each day. “I always try to keep that mindset that you should always be prepared to go and do anything at any time that falls in your job set,” he said. “So for me, mentally and physically, I try to keep myself at that readiness level at all times.” After working for a few years as a traditional Guardsman, Payne decided to test his limits once more and started training for U.S. Army Ranger School. As there aren’t many Soldiers who are dual tabbed with both a Sapper and Ranger tab, Payne wanted to prove to himself and others that he could compete at any level with any Solider, regardless of whether they were active component, National Guard or Reserve. “The [National] Guard is just as well equipped to fight at any point in time as any of our active duty counterparts,” he said. “And I know that I could compete against any active duty counterpart at any point in time.” Earlier this year, he set off to attempt Ranger School and on June 20th, he accomplished his goal, graduting the school as one of just 84 who completed the course out of 411 who attempted. He now joins the ranks of a small fraction of Soldiers who have both completed Sapper and Ranger school. Payne described each school as different but equally challenging in their own way saying that in his mind, the school you attend first seems to be the hardest. “Ranger [School] is longer so it takes more out of your body by just how it wears you down,” he explained. “But for me, every day in Sapper school was hard.” While each school was challenging in and of itself, Payne stated that by staying focused on the real reason a Soldier is seeking to accomplish their goal, whether it be Sapper or Ranger school, they can truly overcome anything they’re willing to focus their mind on. With two significant accomplishments under his belt in his short time in service, Payne gives credit to his mentors, which include Majs. Chris Parker and Bryan Pauley, who work with him full-time in on the West Virginia National Guard’s Army Interagency Training and Education Center search and extraction team. “Maj. Parker was really my second commander that I worked under and he was really influential in my career as far as guiding me, not only as an officer but as a person as a whole,” he said. “He talked to me about developing as a leader and he kind of put the desire in me to want to try to push the limits a little more.” Payne also has new goals in mind for the future, including hopes of a command where he can directly influence Soldiers in the engineer field and a long-term career in the WVARNG. “I think you should always push to gain as much knowledge as you can, especially if you are put in a leadership position where you are going to have to lead soldiers and make life and death decisions for them,” he said. “You should never be complacent in your knowledge, so that when the opportunity presents its self where you can push to be more proficient in your field, you should always do that.” Up next for this Soldier is the hope of completing Airborne School and continuing to set an example for his Soldiers and those around him.
Wv engineer officer earns dual tab recognition as sapper, ranger qualified
storY by: Maj. holli nelson | Photo by: Bo Wriston
story & Photos by: SGT. Zoe Morris
More than 100 Soldiers of the West Virginia Army National Guard’s (WVARNG) 1092nd Engineer Battalion, 601st Engineer Support Company (ESC) and 115th Vertical Construction Company (VCC) took part in Resolute Castle 19 at the Joint National Training Center/Cincu Training Area in Cincu, Romania, June 10 - 29, 2019. Resolute Castle 19 is a multinational joint training exercise that conducts troop construction engineer training projects. These exercises reinforce regional assurance and deterrence, strengthen partnership capacity, assure NATO allies of our continuing commitment, promote continued partnership with host nation forces and provide quality improvements to existing infrastructure, all while supporting Atlantic Resolve, a demonstration of the United States’ commitment to the collective security of Europe. Horizontal and vertical construction engineers and support staff from the 1092nd, 601st, and 115th are working in Romania constructing ranges, a gym/multipurpose building and upgrading infrastructure while serving alongside international allies in the region. WVARNG 1092nd Engineer Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Robert Kincaid Jr. said this is an excellent opportunity for Soldiers to enhance interoperability and forge creative solutions to common engineer problems, while supporting NATO allies in quality training at multiple levels. In addition, this event marks a significant achievement for the WVARNG, as the 1092nd is the first National Guard battalion to lead a task force in the five years of Resolute Castle, he said. This rotation is uniquely important because 1092nd Engineers have been providing enduring staff in Romania as a part of Task Force-South and they will remain in country until the conclusion of the exercise in September. The WVARNG’s 111th Engineer Brigade, the 1092nd’s higher command, will take the lead of Resolute Castle 20 next year as the brigade command over the exercise’s three battalions. The valuable knowledge and experience gained by the 1092nd enduring staff will help lead the 111th to great success in 2020. The WVARNG is the fourth rotation of Soldiers to come to Joint National Training Center since the beginning of Resolute Castle 19 in March. Approximately 2,700 service members from 15 different U.S. state Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve units as well as forces from Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom will participate in Resolute Castle 19.
WV Guard engineers support resolute castle in romania
The West Virginia Military Authority’s (WVMA) Patriot Guardens program, a component of the Adjutant Generals department, is helping to assist West Virginians with substance abuse disorders on their path to recovery and new lives. Currently, there are approximately 164,000 West Virginians who suffer from substance abuse disorders, including those who have fell victim to the current opioid epidemic sweeping the state and nation. The WVMA Patriot Guardens program, an integrated agriculture and economic diversification initiative, is piloting a partnership with Recovery Point WV, a non-profit organization that offers recovery services at no cost to citizens across the state. Each week, Patriot Guardens staff visit the 92-bed residential facility for women located in Charleston, West Virginia, to teach Recovery Point WV clients about agriculture and gardening. “The goal of the Charleston program is to help the women in the program learn new skills and get them excited about positive opportunities and growth,” said Brad Cochran, Patriot Guardens Agricultural Specialist. “Each week we teach about proper gardening techniques, and then get our hands dirty by actually planting and growing food from seed stock to harvesting.” Recovery Point WV in Charleston has a number of raised growing beds outside their facility. Patriot Guardens personnel have assisted residents in planting tomatoes, strawberries, different varieties of lettuce, radishes, eggplant, and a host of other vegetables. “We teach everything from how to germinate seed, how to propagate cuttings, how to transplant, how to keep the plants healthy without using harmful pesticides, and how to harvest,” Cochran explained. Participants in the program give it rave reviews. “With the help of the Patriot Guardens staff, myself and the women here undergoing treatment are learning how to grow our own gardens and food,” said Sharon Whittaker, a Recovery Point WV client, originally from Man, West Virginia. “This will help us live healthier and be healthier for ourselves and our families and is teaching us skills that we can use to get jobs, making it easier for us to get back on our feet.” Program client Nichole Knotts from Philippi, West Virginia, agreed. “I think it is an awesome program!” she said. Cochran has seen the positive impacts first-hand. “Each week we go back, it seems there is just more and more enthusiasm for what we are teaching,” he said. “The ladies, no matter the circumstances of what led them to this point in their lives, all want to grow and live better lives. I see the excitement in their eyes, and they have a million questions and honestly want to learn.” “We aren’t just growing plants,” Cochran explained. “We are growing people.” Patriot Guardens plans to expand their programs to additional Recovery Point WV locations in the future, providing education and opportunities to even more West Virginians.
STORY & photos by: Bo Wriston
patriot guardens uses agriculture to expand opportunities for recovering west Virginians
While it may be a few more weeks before the West Virginia University (WVU) Mountaineers take the field in Morgantown for the start of the 2019 college football season, behind the scenes work is already underway to ensure the safety and security of all fans who attend a home game. The West Virginia National Guard’s 35th Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction) took part in Operation Rough Ride, a WVU full scale exercise, May 29, 2019, involving more than 150 participants from 25 departments/units representing 18 organizations from campus, local, state and federal agencies. The exercise, which was sponsored by the WVU Police Department and WVU Office of Emergency Management, provided participants with an opportunity to assess capabilities, plans, policies and procedures, with a focus on decision-making, coordination, and integration between multiple agencies. The simulated incident involved rescue and medical service response from first responders, security and incident management, as well as hazardous material response, a specialty of the 35th CST (WMD). Additional new technologies were tested during the exercise, including the use of drones by civilian responders for safely viewing potentially congested or blocked areas, and incident management software. The 35th CST (WMD) supports civil authorities in responding to a domestic Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear or Explosive (CBRNE) incident by identifying agents and substances, assessing current and projected consequences, advising on response measures, and assisting with appropriate requests for additional State and Federal support. "Preparedness exercises, such as Operation Rough Ride, are crucial events for our team to hone our skills to better support our local, state, and federal response partners. Maintaining a high state of readiness is paramount to our unit and the West Virginia National Guard's ability to proactively react to an incident as part of an interagency response capability for our region,” said U.S. Army Maj. Will Hargis, deputy commander of the 35th CST (WMD). Fourteen personnel from the 35th CST (WMD) took part in the exercise in order to better synchronize with local agencies who support each WVU Mountaineers home football game. The expected outcome of the exercise was to strengthen preparedness and response, test new technologies, and enhance overall readiness from a multi-agency perspective. The 35th CST (WMD), headquartered in St. Albans, West Virginia, is one of 57 Civil Support Teams across the country and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for rapid deployment for response operations.
story by: Maj. Holli Nelson
35th cst trains alongside state, federal partners in preparation for 2019 college football season
The West Virginia Army National Guard promoted its first African-American female colonel last week, Col. Kim McGhee, during a formal ceremony held at the Army National Guard Readiness Center in Arlington, Virginia. Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, West Virginia adjutant general, presided over the ceremony. “Kim is an outstanding officer who embodies the core values of the Army and has made significant contributions in her field and in the West Virginia Army National Guard during her career,“ said Hoyer. “She is very deserving of the promotion and it further demonstrates that the West Virginia National Guard is an organization that provides opportunities for all who wish to serve the Nation, exceed the standards and live the Army and Air Force values.” McGhee is a 24-year veteran of the West Virginia Army National Guard and a West Virginia native who currently serves as the National Guard Bureau division chief for command, control, communications and computers (C4) and cyber. She has served at various levels within the WVARNG, including time as an enlisted service member while attending Marshall University. She commissioned in 2001 into the transportation corps and later served as a platoon leader for the 1257th Transportation Company in Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia, before transitioning full-time into human resources and the state family programs office. Since 2006, McGhee has served at the National Guard Bureau in the communications directorate where she has held numerous positions including Joint Communications Officer, Director of the Joint C4 Coordination Center, IT Policy/Governance Officer, Web Services Branch Chief and as a legislative liaison. “It was a great day for me and my family,” said McGhee. “I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve this great nation and the State of West Virginia as a colonel in the United States Army and West Virginia National Guard.” McGhee holds a bachelor’s degree in management and health care administration from Marshall University and has a master’s degree in information technology management from Touro University. She is also pursuing two additional master’s degrees in information systems securities and strategic studies from Mississippi State University and the United States Army War College, concurrently, with expected completion in 2020 and 2021
storY by: Maj. holli nelson
WV Guard promotes first african american female colonel
one airman's mission to change lives in west virginia
story By: jfhq public affairs
“Know your worth.” These three simple words have guided the nearly yearlong relationship between U.S. Air Force Maj. Stacy Brown, West Virginia National Guard (WVNG) Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) coordinator, and the students at Ashford Rumble Elementary School in Boone County, West Virginia. This particular 5th grade class at Ashford Rumble Elementary developed a special bond with Brown. Just last week, at the conclusion of the school year, the class presented Brown with a hand-stitched quilt with all their individual handprints painted on it and she returned the favor with a military challenge coin designed specifically for the 5th graders. “I created a challenge coin for the class for their 5th grade graduation ceremony,” stated Brown. “On one side was the motto, ‘Know Your Worth,’ and on the other side was, ‘Believe, Succeed.’ Brown believes that if students know their worth, they will be less likely to start or do drugs. “You will have a positive outlook for your future,” she told the students. “This was my gift to them. When they presented me with the quilt, it just blew me away! I just couldn’t believe it.” Active in 16 counties around the state with 7 Soldiers and Airmen, the DDR program focuses on teaching leadership, civic duty, self-esteem, positive choices and drug awareness to youth through mentorship and engagement with WVNG Soldiers and Airmen. Through strategic partnerships, the WVNG works with state agencies to develop anti-drug coalitions while energizing effective prevention practices focused on reaching youth in schools and communities. Currently, the program reaches more than 4,900 students annually, with that number growing as the program expands. With DDR since 2018 when the program was reinstated, Brown spends her time traveling around the state, bringing encouragement and positive role modeling to students. “When I first started, I thought, well okay, hopefully, maybe I could touch a few lives and read to the kids and encourage them,” said Brown. “But I didn’t realize the impact my presence and that of all the DDR team members would have. Now, after seeing the smiles, hearing the stories of how kids that were always quiet and closed off to teachers and counselors have come out of their shells and engaged with us in uniform, and feeling the love the kids give right back to us, I couldn’t be more proud or more passionate about what we in DDR do.” And while the positive impact on students and for schools has been tremendous, it has been equally positive for Brown. “DDR has reignited my determination to always try and do the right thing,” she stated. “I try to instill in the kids the desire to believe in themselves and to keep pushing forward. To try and do good. You are going to struggle. You are going to fail sometimes. But you always try to make it right if you can.” As the DDR program continues to expand into new communities and impact more and more lives across West Virginia, Brown plans to be right there on the front lines making a difference. “The most important thing we can do to have a positive impact is to spend time with the kids,” said Brown. “With the opioid epidemic and drug use in general ravaging our communities, the best way to change lives and change the direction of the next generation is to spend time with them and provide them positive role models that prove to them they can rise above and be healthy, clean citizens and adults. This is a war we must win! And DDR is out there every day fighting to help our kids win.” For more information on the WVNG DDR program and how it might benefit your community, please contact Maj. Stacy Brown at 304-416-1835, or via email at stacy.e.brown2.mil@mail.mil.
story & Photos by: bo wriston
The West Virginia National Guard (WVNG) helped to host a Cyber Security Tabletop Exercise (TTX) dealing with election security, June 19, 2019, in Charleston, West Virginia. The exercise is a multi-agency effort involving the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (WVDHSEM), the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office (WVSOS), the West Virginia Office of Technology, and the WVNG, along with other partner agencies. “The exercise is being held to identify best practices and areas for improvement in cyber incident planning, identification, response, and recovery for elections,” stated Joshua Spence, Chief Technology Officer with the West Virginia Office of Technology. “Through simulation of a realistic scenario, we will be exploring impacts to voter confidence, voting operations, and the integrity of elections if a cyber-attack occurs.” Protection of elections is an expanding and important responsibility, especially in the face of growing cyber threats from hostile foreign governments and groups. Coordination and collaboration between state, federal, and local government agencies and partners is critical in ensuring elections are safe from outside interference or manipulation. Over the last several years, the WVNG has worked closely with the WVSOS in a supporting role to help ensure the security of the electoral process, explained Lt. Col. Jody Ogle, WVNG Director of Communications and Cyber Programs. “The unified effort between the Air and Army National Guards, the WVSOS, the WVOT, and DHSEM has been very positive as the nation and state move towards a more advanced security posture. The WVNG has worked diligently to grow and train a workforce of skilled cyber security practitioners over the last several years. This effort positions us perfectly to serve in roles of national significance as well as to step up and serve the citizens of West Virginia when needed,” he said The WVNG takes the cyber threat seriously although the state doesn’t have a cyber force structure. More than 20 Soldiers attached to the Army Interagency Training and Education Center (AITEC) headquartered in Dunbar, West Virginia, provide cyber expertise for the Critical Infrastructure Protection battalion while an additional 100 Soldiers and Airmen have received training and certifications such as Certified Incident Handlers, Certified Ethical Hacker and Certified Security Analysts through a partnership with the University of Charleston. Additionally, the WVNG was recently tasked by U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) to assist in the development of a concept of operations to define any state’s National Guard support for cyber-related Defense Support to Civil Authority activities. “I couldn’t be prouder of our wonderful National Guard for hosting this exercise as our state continues to be one of the leaders, nationwide, in the fight against these new types of cyber threats,” West Virginia Governor Jim Justice said. “West Virginia is working hard every day to ensure that classified information – vital to the safety and security of our people – is kept away from prying eyes, while also maintaining the integrity of our elections. At the end of the day, these people are more important than you could possibly imagine, and we truly appreciate them for all that they do defending our great state.”
WVNG hosts multi-agency cyber exercise focused on election security
military, local and state agencies flex muscles for wsj exercise
an airman's journey from Nicaragua to the wsj
The West Virginia National Guard, World Scout Jamboree staff, and local and state agencies conducted a medical readiness training exercise July 20, 2019 in preparation for the kickoff of the 24th World Scout Jamboree on July 22, 2019. The exercise allowed hundreds of participants - including National Guard and active duty military members, WSJ staff, Raleigh General Hospital, Raleigh County Memorial Airport officials, and local first responders – to practice emergency response and preparedness plans as well as interagency coordination for a simulated large-scale medical event. “Many of these agencies supporting the World Scout Jamboree have worked together in the past in preparation for this year’s Jamboree,” said Mike Todorovich, director of the Joint Interagency Task Force – World Scout Jamboree. “This exercise afforded each agency here an opportunity to synchronize their response plans and develop best practices.” The one-day exercise included the transportation of roleplaying patients via ambulance, military rotary and fixed wing assets in and around the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve. “While the World Scout Jamboree is a once-in-a-lifetime event, we are by no means starting from scratch in terms of planning and preparation,” said Brig. Gen. Christopher Walker, dual-status commander for the Joint Task Force – World Scout Jamboree. “West Virginia agencies and the West Virginia National Guard are building upon the strong foundations laid during the 2013 and 2017 National Scout Jamborees, in addition to the strong interagency relationships we utilize during every event, whether it be a natural disaster or large-scale celebration like Bridge Day.” The WVNG provided UH-60 helicopters, a C-130H Hercules aircraft, an aeromedical evacuation team, critical care air transport team and other medical specialists in support of the event, which included the incorporation of Sentry Storm 19, a West Virginia Air National Guard-led joint exercise that overlaps the duration of the WSJ. This exercise is an example of the close coordination between local, state and federal agencies working to ensure the delivery of a successful Jamboree experience for Scouts from around the globe. The WVNG, in conjunction with the U.S. Army North, U.S. Northern Command, and more than 40 local, state and federal agencies, worked closely together to provide a safe and secure World Scout Jamboree from July 22 through Aug. 2, 2019.
Master Sgt. Alan Romero is the Airfield Manager for the 167th Airlift Wing in Martinsburg, W.Va, and is serving in the West Virginia National Guard Public Affairs section at the World Scout Jamboree in Glen Jean, W.Va. Over a thousand military members, just like Romero, are serving at the WSJ, so what makes his story any different from the rest? Romero lived most of his early life in the city of Masaya, Nicaragua. He was an only child, and at the age of seven, his father was killed in action in the 1979 Nicaraguan Civil War. At the age of 10, he took up scouting at Troop Nine in San Jeronimo. There, he found a desire to succeed and serve the community. He rose through the ranks quickly, and achieved the rank of Caballero Scout - the equivalent to an American Eagle Scout, at the age of 15. He was also awarded the “Scout Diriangen”, one of the highest awards a scout in Nicaragua could receive. In Nicaragua, the scouts of Romero’s time also served in a role similar to first responders and were trained in many different functions. His skills were put to the test on Jan. 10, 1987 when tragedy struck in a small farming area near his hometown. A passenger train had derailed, and shortly after a 15 year old Romero was on the scene and was using his skills to assist the local fire department in any way he could. In light of his actions, and his prior success as a scout, Romero was selected as the sole scout to represent Nicaragua at the World Scout Jamboree to be held in Sydney, Australia at the end of that year. Unfortunately, in spite of his whole trip’s expenses being covered by the Costa Rican and Australian governments and scouting associations, he was denied a transit visa through the U.S. due to political instability in Nicaragua. Less than a year later, his visa was approved, but this time it wasn’t a transit visa. Romero’s mother was bringing him to the United States and leaving him with his cousin in Los Angeles to flee the violent struggles happening in Nicaragua at the time. Within two years, he became fully fluent in English. Thirteen years later, he was working in Los Angeles, California in Logistics for British Airways when the twin towers were struck on September 11th, 2001. “I just wanted to pay back the country that opened its doors when I needed it the most” said Romero. “So on September 27th I raised my right hand and took my oath.” At the time of Romero enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps, he wasn’t even an American citizen. It wasn’t until returning from a deployment overseas that he was officially a United States citizen. On top of that, he was 30 years old and had to go through the process of qualifying for a waiver just to join. After completing his four year stint in the Marines, Romero returned to Los Angeles and his job at British Airways, but now he was engaged to his now wife who lived in North Carolina and attended college there. His journey to the East Coast started when a position opened at Washington-Dulles Airport, so he took the job to be closer to his then fiancée. Unfortunately, in 2010, his employer converted their logistics to contractors, and Romero became jobless. To make things harder, less than a month later, his twin boys were born. After being a stay-at-home dad for eight months, Romero took a job at Fed-Ex to make ends meet. While working there, he decided to stop by a local job fair, and that decision again changed his path. He talked to an Air National Guard recruiter that was attending the job fair, and was soon sworn in as an Information Technology Specialist. His first time on base, Romero found himself in the 167th Operations Group while looking for the IT shop when the airfield manager approached him and asked if he needed assistance, and by the time Romero left that day a position was later created for him in airfield management. Fast forward to the 2019 World Scout Jamboree. “This is my Jamboree, it's been 32 years in the making and I’m finally here,” said Romero. “This is also a whole different ballgame, I’m not only part of it, but I get the privilege to also serve, and it’s just amazing!” Romero finally got to attend “his” World Scout Jamboree. When his unit asked for volunteers, he did everything he had to do to be able to make it. Whether it be chance or fate, Romero’s hard work, dedication and sacrifices have paved the way to him finally being able to attend the World Scout Jamboree. Romero continues to support his old troop, which had been on a hiatus for many years until some kids from his childhood neighborhood revived Troop Nine. His support provides them opportunities to become positive influencers in their community, and is vital to continuing the legacy of scouts in the small town of San Jeronimo. “Scouting overall, regardless of the country or religion, teaches you morals values, how to treat others and duty to your community,” explained Romero. “If you live your life doing just one good deed per day, the world will become a better place, and scouting gives children the foundation and opportunity to do that." “I believe things always happen for a reason, the things you go through in life and the hardships make you who you are,” Romero said.
WVANG receives valuable training during sentry storm 2019
When an aircraft goes down in enemy territory, it requires a clear head and the belief that one will make it out alive. Any mistake can become fatal. That’s why it is important to practice in a safe environment. It is with this mindset that aircrew members of the 130th Operations Group participated in a combat survival skills refresher training July 29, 2019 held at Hobet Mine, which straddles the Boone and Lincoln county line in West Virginia. The Airmen covered training techniques such as evasion tactics, procurement of necessities, signaling and recovery. Master Sgt. Robert Miner, SERE Specialist assigned to the 130th Operations Support Squadron, led the training. SERE stands for survival, evasion, resistance and escape. After the training was completed, the lessons learned were put into action. The members broke up into teams and navigated a wooded area of approximately one kilometer to an extraction point where they were evacuated by the West Virginia Army National Guard’s Company C., 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion (MEDEVAC), located in Williamstown, W.Va. From there, the medical skills of both the WVARNG’s combat medics and the 130th Airlift Wing’s 167th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron were put to the test. Crews from the 2-104th GASB transported simulated patients to Camp Branch landing zone in Logan County, West Virginia, where they were met by a 130th Airlift Wing C-130H and team of aeromedical personnel. The goal of this section of training was to assess and triage patients and provide immediate care to life threatening injuries between a joint team of Army and Air National Guard personnel. As the only state to sit fully within the Appalachian Mountain range, West Virginia offers a unique training ground for situations such as these. “The benefits of West Virginia are its challenging terrain,” Miner said. “There is almost no flat ground, which makes land navigation more difficult because its more physically demanding, but in another sense it makes land navigation great to do because there is a lot of terrain features so there is a lot of landmarks that you can identify.” Another feature that makes the state prime training ground for evasion and extraction is its foliage, which allows for better cover. Senior Master Sgt. Deborah Turrill, a 130th Airlift Wing loadmaster, has completed this refresher six times agrees. “It helps us because this is the kind of terrain that we deal with in the theater.” Said Turrill. Training events such as this benefit both the Air and Army Guard, while continuing to strengthen the already strong relationship that the services have within the state. “We have a great working relationship,” said Miner. “They have always been down for supporting us. Anytime that the Army is available they will come out and fly, do hoist, vectors and personnel recovery for us. It been a terrific for them as well because they get to practice their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) with a different user and get proficiency for their medics and flight engineers.” Senior Airman Haley Ryan, 167th AES aeromedical evacuation technician, also appreciated the great benefit of training in a joint environment. “It’s always beneficial training when we get to work with the Army,” Ryan said. “It’s nice to have the opportunity to work with other services that mimics a deployed environment; therefore it increases our overall readiness and skills as aeromedical technicians.” The training was completed as part of Sentry Storm 19. Sentry Storm brings military assets from around the country to train in West Virginia in areas such as conducting joint aircrew and mobility operations, aeromedical evacuation, personnel recovery, and support services readiness training for domestic operations. Additionally, Sentry Storm overlaps with the World Scout Jamboree, held July 22 through Aug. 2, 2019, to offer airlift and medical support, should a real-world emergency arise. Check out the link to the video (HERE)
130th aw aircrew members practice lifesaving skills
Members of the West Virginia Air National Guard participated in a CASEVAC, or casualty evacuation, exercise during Sentry Storm 19, held July 20, 2019, at the Raleigh County Memorial Airport. Sentry Storm brings military assets from around the country to train in West Virginia in areas such as conducting joint aircrew and mobility operations, aeromedical evacuation, personnel recovery, and support services readiness training for domestic operations. Additionally, Sentry Storm overlaps with the World Scout Jamboree, held July 22 through Aug. 2, 2019, to offer airlift and medical support, should an emergency arise. Members of the 167th Medical Group (MDG), and the 130th Airlift Wing’s (AW) 167th Aeromedical Squadron (AES), practiced the proper procedures to transport a patient to a C-130H. This involved coordinating with West Virginia Army National Guard and local civilian medical partners. Capt. Keith Michael, team chief and officer in charge of the en-route patient staging system or ERPS, assigned to the 167th MDG, led a group of about 14 members in the training. ERPS can stage patients in the field prior to going on an aircraft for an evacuation mission, in addition to providing the manpower to load patients into the aircraft. For some members, this training has proven invaluable, as there are many members that are new to the unit. “We have four members that have never done this type of training before, and a few of them have never flown on a C-130,” said Michael. “So, getting their first interaction with AES, and how operations are done is a great training experience.” In addition to working with the ERPS team, AES was able to network and train with the critical care air transport team or CCATT, from the 167th Airlift Wing. A CCATT is used when the military transports critical patients by air. They augment the aeromedical evacuation team by offering a critical care physician, critical care nurse, and a respiratory therapist. The Air Force is the only branch to have a CCATT and the 167th AW recently stood up a CCATT team at the unit. For Staff Sgt. Loy Nelson, 167th AES aeromedical evacuation technician, it was his first time working with a CCATT team. “Learning their capabilities and how our two worlds can mesh together to create a higher level of care in the air is an amazing thing,” said Nelson. “With the CCATT being able to take higher acuity patients, that means less time people have to spend downrange trying to stabilize out. We can get them home quicker to facilities that can provide better care.” Michael noted that the ability to work with state agencies is a great experience for all participants. “Its great because we get to exercise all the resources available in the state,” Michael said. “This allows us to show our civilian partners the assets that we have and what we can bring to the table in times of emergencies.”
WSJ & sentry storm RECAP
more photos and videos available here.
