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Washington Military Department Evergreen Magazine- Summer 2015-Rev A

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Published by virginia.owens99, 2015-07-28 15:51:19

Washington Military Department Evergreen Magazine- Summer 2015-Rev A

Washington Military Department Evergreen Magazine- Summer 2015-Rev A

How the Washington Military Department is
preparing for the

‘BIG ONE’
Page 6

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 1

TABLE of CONTENTS

Commander in Chief 81st Brigade Strykes Guard Trains for
Washington State Governor Big Conversion the ‘BIG One’

The Honorable Jay Inslee Page 5 Page 6

The Adjutant General How the 81st Armored Brigade What the Guard and state
Maj. Gen. Bret D. Daugherty Combat Team’s conversion agencies are doing to prepare
makes sense for Washington for a Cascadia Subduction
Communications Director Zone earthquake
Karina Shagren
First Ever Aviation Getting a Second
State Public Affairs Officer Rescue Misison Chance
Capt. Joseph F. Siemandel Page 12
Page 20
Chief Editors The 66th TAC answers the
Staff Sgt. Peter Christian call for a search and rescue The journey of one Washing-
Staff Sgt Virginia M. Owens mission thanks to training ton Youth Academy Cadet
with Snohomish County who’s getting back on track
Copy Editor
Maj. Christina Martin Just Keep Running Changing the Fight,
Raising the Bar
Contributors Page 26 Page 30
Sgt. Lisa Laughlin
Senior Airman Casey Mesler Washington National Guard Tactical unmanned aerial sys-
Marathon Team takes 1st in tem (TUAS) operators with
Kristin Ramos nation the 898th BEB are getting
Karin Johnson good—really good
Senior Master Sgt. Michael White
Capt. Kerri Turner
Tech. Sgt. Michael Brown
Mark Stewart
Steven Friederich

ON THE COVER Contributions to the Evergreen Magazine are always welcome!
Send articles, photos, questions and art to Washington National
A satellite image of Guard Public Affairs Office at: [email protected]
the Pacific North-
west and the Cas-
cadia Subduction
Zone is a stirring
composite that rais-
es awareness to the
startling reality of
a subduction zone
event that may in-
volve an earthquake
exceeding magni-
tude 9.0 and devas-
tating tsunamis that
affect three states
as well as Canada.
(Washington Nation-
al Guard image com-
posited by Staff Sgt.
Peter Christian, JFHQ Public Affairs Office, WANG).

2 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Senior Airman Sandra Wiley, an
airman with the Washington Air
National Guard’s 194th Region-
al Support Wing throws a perfect
pitch during opening ceremonies
at Safeco Field, April 19. The Se-
attle Mariners Baseball Club in-
vited service members from across
Washington to take part in the
opening ceremonies for the 2015
Salute to Armed Forces Game. Pre-
game events included commem-
orative plaques awarded to each
service as well as a representative
from each service throwing out a
ceremonial first pitch. (U.S. Army
National Guard photo by Staff Sgt.
Peter Christian)

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 3

THE WASHINGTON NATIONAL GUARD

TAG THE ADJUTANT GENERAL
LINE
Major General Bret Daugherty

Be Prepared, Not Scared

Colleagues,

The Pacific Northwest recently took center stage in a national story that swept social media, and was
discussed at length on cable news networks. The New Yorker Magazine wrote an in-depth piece on
the expected destruction following a rupture of the Cascadia Subduction Zone fault. And while it
was well written (though maybe exaggerative…), it failed to highlight the extensive work underway
to prepare for such an event.

I’m proud that the Washington Military Department is leading those preparation efforts.
We’ve pulled together and led a Joint Planning Team, which developed a state Earthquake Response
Plan. That plan continues to be tested – most recently during our Evergreen Tremor exercise. We’ll
put it to the test again next year during Cascadia Rising, and will use feedback to make improve-
ments. (See page 6.)

Our Emergency Management Division has worked tirelessly to promote and facilitate the Great
Washington Shakeout, which encourages people to practice their ability to Drop, Cover and Hold
On. Last year, more than 1 million people in Washington state participated, and already, nearly

500,000 have signed up for this year’s event.

Additionally, EMD has worked closely with the coastal communities to install tsunami warn-
ing sirens, and construct the nation’s first vertical tsunami evacuation center.

After the State Route 530 landslide, our 66th Theater Aviation Command partnered with the
Snohomish County Helicopter Rescue Team to create a more in-depth search and rescue
training plan which will be crucial following a CSZ event. The training was beneficial to
our state earlier this month when they conducted their first-ever aviation search and rescue
mission. (See page 12.)

Earlier this month, we also announced that the 81st Brigade Combat Team would be convert-
ing to a Stryker brigade. These vehicles are more versatile and mobile than our heavy tanks

and are expected to play a major response role following a disaster.

This is just a short list. With that said – we can’t do it all.

That’s why it’s critical that you’re taking steps to prepare your-
self at home – and encouraging your friends and family to
do the same. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time. And it
doesn’t have to cost a lot money. There are simple things
you can do to increase your readiness – and you can find
that information on our website.

Let’s prepare – and not panic. Together we can ensure
recovery following ‘The Big One.’

Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty
The Adjutant General
Washington National Guard

4 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

81st ‘Stryker’ Brigade!

Washington’s Armored Brigade Combat Team to convert to Stryker Brigade

Story by Capt. Joseph Siemandel an important advocate on our behalf. And our state Legislature and
Washington National Guard local elected leaders and civic organizations helped emphasize the
benefits to both our state and nation. I truly appreciate everyone’s
On July 9, the Washington National Guard received confirma- assistance and support, and look forward to working with our part-
ners to ensure a successful conversion.”
tion that its 81st Armored Brigade Combat Team, which currently
operates M1A1 Abrams Tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles, will
be converted into a Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

“This is a huge win for Washington state,” said Major General Washington will become just the second state to have a Stryker
Bret Daugherty, the state’s adjutant general and commander of the Brigade within its National Guard, joining the Pennsylvania Na-
Washington National Guard. “Our tanks and Bradleys are critical tional Guard’s 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, which con-
for our federal mission, however, they’re too heavy to move on our verted in 2006.
local roads making them almost useless following a state disaster.
The Strykers are a more mobile, versatile vehicle that will ensure The 81st Brigade, headquartered in Seattle, is the largest bri-
the Washington National Guard can get out into our communities gade-sized element in the Washington National Guard, responsi-
and perform its mission to save lives and protect property here at ble for more than 3,200 Guardsmen stationed in Washington and
home. That ability will be especially important following a Cas- 600 in San Bernardino, California. The brigade deployed twice in
cadia Subduction Zone earthquake and tsunami. The conversion support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (2004-2005, 2008-2009).
also aligns us more closely with our partners at Joint Base Lew-
is-McChord, enabling our soldiers to receive unique training to The citizen-soldiers and airmen of the Washington National Guard
help prepare for any future overseas deployments.” are dedicated to the mission of safeguarding lives and property in
Washington state, and serving as sentinels for freedom overseas.
“This was a huge undertaking that took years of hard work and
collaboration,” Daugherty continued. “I met personally with every
member of our Congressional delegation to stress the importance
of this conversion and appreciate their ongoing efforts to make this
happen. Governor Inslee was a strong backer of this proposal and

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 5

Military and civilian agencies come together
to prepare for the

Story by Staff Sgt. Virginia M. Owens‘ BIG ONE ’
122D Public Affairs Operations Center

At 9:41 a.m. a magnitude 9.0 earthquake oc- The week-long exercise kicked off June 17 and tested the
curs along the Cascadia Subduction Zone; Washington National Guard’s ability to bring resources and
five minutes of shaking ensues. temporary infrastructure in support of civil authority.

Fifteen minutes later, a 40-foot tsunami “It’s critically important for us to understand each other,”
strikes the Oregon and Washington coastlines; hospitals said Col. Bryan Grenon, Commander, 81st Armored Bri-
gade Combat Team. “The Guard brings unique capabilities
surge, buildings and bridges collapse, natural gas and pe- … We have a very distinct and efficient chain of command
and mode of operation that allows for greater flexibility, in
troleum pipelines rupture; fires erupt, the power grid fails addition to the equipment that we bring and the expertise
that we have in operating those resources.”
and communication infrastructure is heavily damaged.
With an emphasis on interoperability, the State Emer-
“Life as we know it has changed,” wrote the WA State gency Operations Center (SEOC) fully activated to help
support the exercise.
Governor in a disaster Proclamation.
When activated, the SEOC, located on Camp Murray,
There’s a new reality for millions of people who call the serves as the central location for representatives of state

Pacific Northwest home—or—there would be in the event agencies, as well as fed-
eral and private organi-
of a devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake off the Pacific zations with emergency
roles, to help coordinate
Ocean. disaster response.

For now, this is a just “A lot of the value is
just in having conversa-
a scenario being played tions to see if the technol-
ogy works,” said Alisha
out by more than 1,000 Griswold, King County
Emergency Management
Washington National Program Manager. “One
of the things we’ve tried
Guard citizen-soldiers to do here is normalize
the presence of our Na-
and airmen, as well as tional Guard assets who
live and work in King
local, state and feder- County... It’s nice to have
them here to do a show
al emergency response and tell for our local agencies that could benefit from their
resources during an emergency.”
agencies to test their For the National Guard, it was also a test of the Dual Sta-

ability to respond to a

catastrophic Cascadia

Subduction Zone (CSZ)

earthquake and tsunami.

“We have a series of

deliberate actions we say

have occurred that force

the staff and responders (U.S. Army National Guard
to come together to start photo by Sgt. Greg Mason)

working out the solution

of how we would respond,” said Lt. Col. Mark Broderick,

Deputy Exercise Director for the Washington National

Guard.

6 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

tus Commander, a relatively new concept in which a prese- A Washington National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk departs Shelton Airfield moments
lected, specially trained senior leader assumes operational after a Snohomish County Sheriff helicopter lands in support of exercise Evergreen
control over both the active duty forces and the Guard to Tremor. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Virginia Owens)
help support local response efforts.
in preparation for a 2016 national exercise, Cascadia Ris-
Under the direction of this Dual Status Commander, ac- ing, a full-scale exercise which tests the effective coordina-
tivated military personnel would report to designated bases tion and integration of governments at every level – cities,
and help facilitate Department of Defense resources, likely counties, state agencies, federal officials, the military, tribal
out of Eastern Washington, where the earthquake is not ex- nations – as well as non-government organizations and the
pected to be nearly as devastating. private sector.

“We largely expect to be victims on this side of the moun- “This is really the first step,” Grenon said. “Next year
tain,” Broderick explained, referring to residents across we’re having a much larger statewide training exercise.
Western Washington. “It creates this problem of how do we This is the first step for us to develop those relationships,
build the staff? The leadership may not be around, so how develop those standard operating procedures and build
do we pick up the ball and run with the response?” upon them for the years to come.”

The 141st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) out of Spokane, (U.S. Army National Guard
Washington took the lead initially, responding to an over- photo by Sgt. Greg Mason)
load of simulated resource requests from the State and
FEMA. After day three, they tested and assessed the han- MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 7
dover of responsibility –a built in piece of the Washing-
ton National Guard’s CSZ response plan—where the 141st
ARW transfers operational responsibility to the Joint Task
Force Headquarters on Camp Murray.

The exercise also tested some broader interoperability
concepts: communications systems, distribution of sup-
plies and effectiveness of command and control points on
various sized bases throughout the state.

All of the activities in this year’s training exercise are

Be Prepared. Not Scared.

Preparedness, training key in riding out the Big One

Story by Washington Military Department
Communications Staff

Preparedness will be key in sur- infrastructure and, at worst, a patchwork those problems and gaps,” said Lt. Col.
viving the next big earthquake of building failures with people immobile Clay Braun, Deputy Director of domestic
to hit the Pacific Northwest. and relying on their own resources for a operations for the Washington National
That means families need to period of days (and conceivably weeks), Guard who chaired the Joint Planning
Team.
have at least three days’ worth of supplies not uniform and serious damage to most
Prior to Evergreen Tremor, the
and an emergency “go” kit ready and, buildings. Vidale notes that a tsunami on Washington National Guard had begun
conducting training exercises specific to
for those living on the coast, have an un- the coast is likely, but it’s safe to say that missions that could potentially take place
after a major earthquake.
derstanding of evacuation routes and the there will not be a big killer wave on the
Since the devastating State Route 530
warning signs behind tsunamis – includ- Puget Sound or Lake Washington except Landslide, the 66th Theater Aviation
Command shifted their training plans,
ing how NOAA Weather Radio works in the unlikely event of a large nearby teaming up with local, county and state
partners with the goal of expanding their
and the coastal sirens. landslide. state mission. Just last month, the unit
conducted their first ever Search and
“Don’t be scared of earthquakes Rescue mission, rescuing missing hikers
at Rimrock Lake near Yakima. This was
and tsunamis. Be informed, educated, This is not new news. possible due to an in-depth joint training
program with Snohomish County Heli-
prepared and then be confident that There’s been plenty of media coverage copter Rescue Team.

you are ready,” said John Schelling, the about the potential for a big earthquake to The 116th Air Support Operations
Earthquake/Tsunami/Volcano Programs hit our area in recent years, and there’s Squadron, a unit that provides tactical
Manager for the Washington Emergency been plenty of preparation underway by command and control of close air support
Management Division. assets to U.S. Army ground commanders
government agencies at all levels. during overseas deployments, has taken
An article published in The New York- Next year, the nation’s first vertical evac- those same skill sets and been training on
er June 20 talks about how a Cascadia them for use during domestic operations.
uation center will open near Westport,
Subduction Zone earthquake could dev- Washington, the culmination of a decade “This training is critical to me as a
astate the coast. member of the Washington National
worth of progress in tsunami readiness Guard because it goes beyond our federal
The Cascadia Subduction Zone extends on the coast since the Indonesian tsunami mission,” Senior Airmen Brant Shaw,
from northern California to Vancouver 116th Air Support Operations Squadron.
back in 2004.
Island. The tectonic plates that make up Conducting successful life-saving and
The Washington Military Department life-sustaining response operations in the
the Cascadia fault have become wedged led a Joint Planning Team to develop a aftermath of a Cascadia Subduction Zone
together, building energy that will disaster will hinge on the effective coor-
state Earthquake Response Plan which dination and integration of governments
eventually release. When that happens, it continues to test, refine and improve. at all levels – cities, counties, state agen-
the coastline could experience a possible That plan was tested last month by the cies, federal officials, the military, tribal
magnitude 9.0 earthquake and devastat- Washington National Guard and the nations – as well as non-government
ing tsunami. Scientific evidence indicates Washington Emergency Management organizations and the private sector. One
that a magnitude 8.0-9.0 earthquake oc- Division, which worked together on a of the primary goals of Cascadia Rising
curs along the is to train and test this whole community
multi-day approach to complex disaster operations
800-mile long “Don’t be scared of together as a joint team.
CSZ fault on exercise called
Evergreen
average once earthquakes and tsunamis.
every 200 to Be informed, educated, Tremor . The
500 years; exercise sce-
nario involved
the last major prepared, and then be confident training exer-
earthquake cises all over
and tsunami the state. The
”along the fault
that you are ready. plan will be

occurred more tested again next year during the national

than 300 years ago in 1700. Cascadia Rising exercise.

John Vidale, the state seismologist at “Out of these exercises, our intent is to
the University of Washington in Seattle take the feedback we receive – have they
with PNSN, says there’s a reasonable
identified problems, have they identified
expectation of some critical failures of
gaps – and develop solutions to address

8 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

So, what can you do now? Practice your plans.

Schelling says if you haven’t yet begun to build an earth- Learn what Drop Cover and Hold means.
quake and tsunami supply kit, start right away. If you can, build
the whole kit. If there are financial and time limitations, at least DROP down onto your hands and knees (before the earth-
get started by doing one thing every day, every week, maybe quakes knocks you down). This position protects you from
every month. falling but allows you to still move if necessary.

A basic emergency supply kitshould include: COVER your head and neck (and your entire body if possi-
ble) under a sturdy table or desk. If there is no shelter nearby,
• Water- one gallon of water per person per day for at least only then should you get down near an interior wall (or next
three days, for drinking and sanitation to low-lying furniture that won’t fall on you), and cover your
head and neck with your arms and hands.
• Food- at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weath- HOLD ON to your shelter (or to your head and neck) until
the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with your shelter if the
er Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both shaking shifts it around.
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit It is through actual practicing that we build muscle memory
• Whistle to signal for help to help us respond correctly when the shaking starts.
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheet-
MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 9
ing and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal

sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
More individual preparedness tips here.

What else can you do?

Know how to find family after a disaster. Put together a family
emergency plan and an out of area contact – especially important
because local telephone lines may be down or overwhelmed but
an out-of-area contact me be able to receive calls.

• Secure your space by identifying your hazards and securing
moveable items

• Create a disaster plan and identify communication needs
• Organize disaster supplies in convenient locations
• Minimize financial hardship by strengthening your property

and considering insurance
• Know your neighborhood. Does someone on your block

have a generator? Do others know how to use power tools?
Figure it out. Work together. Map your neighborhood.

If you live on the coast, learn your evacuation routes. Under-
stand where your meeting points will be. Find out if you are in a
tsunami hazard zone and how to reach high ground BEFORE the
ground shakes. You might not be able to afterwards.

Washington National Guard (U.S. Army National
Guard courtesy photo)
Public Affairs
Teams Train
to Assist
State Agencies

Story by Mark Stewart
Washington Military Department

Members of the 122nd Public Affairs Operations (U.S. Army National
Center (PAOC) took on a new role in June, as Guard courtesy photo)
part of the external affairs team supporting ci-
vilian state emergency response activities during the Washington ternal Affairs team at the SEOC, preparing news releases, talking
National Guard’s (WANG) recent Evergreen Tremor exercise. points for WANG leadership, a frequently-asked-questions paper
The week-long exercise, using a Cascadia Subduction Zone on the disaster response, and simulated social media messages.
(CSZ) earthquake and tsunami scenario, tested the WANG’s plan The day before the June 23 activities, members of the 122nd
to respond to a catastrophic disaster. The exercise featured train- PAOC, 194th Regional Support Wing and the public affairs team
ing activities at Camp Murray, the Shelton Fairgrounds and Air- from the 81st Brigade Combat Team received an orientation on
port, the Satsop Industrial Park, the Seattle Armory, King County, how emergency management is practiced in Washington State, the
Mason County, and Grays Harbor County Emergency Operations WANG’s role in supporting the state emergency response, and on
Centers, and Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane. SEOC processes.
The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at Camp Mur-
ray activated on June 23 to support the exercise. Staff at the SEOC “This was the first time in recent memory that members of
provided messages on various civilian response activities and the 122nd worked collaboratively with civilian members of the
made requests for assistance to stimulate coordinated response state’s External Affairs team in an emergency response setting,”
actions by participating WANG units. The assistance was pro- said Mark Stewart of the Military Department’s communications
vided under the WANG’s defense support to civilian authorities’ staff. “The 122nd has unique skills and expertise on guard opera-
responsibility. tions that it can bring to the state’s emergency public information
The 122nd PAOC participated with members of the civilian Ex- response.”

(U.S. Army National “Our unit has really good talent, and this provided meaning-
Guard courtesy photo) ful training,” said SFC Neal Mitchell, the Operations NCO for
the 122nd. “Strengthening ties with our civilian counterparts is
10 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3 important, and participating with them during emergencies goes
along with The Adjutant General’s intent that the guard get in-
volved in more domestic operations.”

“By working together on the same team, we can be more effec-
tive in providing information to the media and the public about
the activities of all of state government, including the Washington
National Guard, protecting public health and safety and getting
help to communities and people most in need,” said Stewart.

Will there be more collaboration in the future? Absolutely, said
both Stewart and Mitchell. Planning for future activities will oc-
cur in the next few months.

SFTIARTEEESOCUP

The state Emergency Operations Center activated
to Phase III to support wildfires

Story by Steven Friederich EMD Human Services Manager Geno Grandinette updates Gov.
Washington Military Department Jay Inslee about recovery efforts in Wenatchee. (Courtesy photo)

The state Emergency Operations Center activated to a Phase Meantime, in the spirit of fire prevention, we’ve teamed with
III level for the first time this year on June 28 to support the Fire Marshal’s Office to offer the following tips. The goal is to
the wildfires that took a couple dozen homes and several prepare your home for wildfires by reducing the ignition potential
businesses in the Wenatchee area. before a fire occurs. See below:

The activation came just days after Gov. Jay Inslee signed a Protect Your House
proclamation needed to make National Guard assets available to
support wildfire response operations as quickly as possible – and Lean:
some of the Guard assets, including a couple Blackhawk helicop- • Mow the lawn regularly
ters, were made available to help the Wenatchee fire known as • Prune shrubs and cut back tree branches –
Sleepy Hollow.
the lowest branches should be at least 6’-10’
“We recognized early that this summer would bring with it an- from the ground and should not overhang
other unprecedented fire season,” Inslee said in a press release. any part of your home
“That’s why last week we proactively declared a state of emergen- Clean:
cy and statewide burn ban to last through the summer. This allows • Remove dead vegetation, such as leaves and
state agencies to use resources necessary to respond to the fires pine needles from gutters, under your deck
and assist those who have been affected.” and within 10’ of your home
• Take out ladder fuels – material on or near
On Monday, June 29 dozens of employees came into the Emer- the ground that will carry fire to the crown
gency Operations Center on what would have typically been their of the tree
day off under the Military Department’s 4-10 schedule. The EOC • Firewood stacks should be at least 30’ from
remained at a Phase III alert until Tuesday, June 30 at 7 p.m. Em- the home
ployees with EMD have continued to work with local emergency Green:
management officials on recovery efforts in Wenatchee and, in • Plant fire-resistant vegetation
fact, made trips to Wenatchee in support of those efforts. Construction:
• Use Class A, B or C rated roofing material
The EOC has remained at Phase II off and on since then in sup- (fire-resistant)
port of numerous other wildfires. • Use fire-resistant building materials on exte-
rior walls, overhangs and attachments
Although ESF 15 worked with the Governor’s Office on a press • Use double-paned or tempered glass in win-
release early on, all other information related to the wildfire was dows, skylights and doors
sent via social media first before PIOs took to the TV screens to • Enclose eaves and vents
give a press conference. Also, the incident highlighted the impor-
tance of social media monitoring. For instance, when an ammonia MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 11
leak came from an industrial site on fire and a shelter in place or-
der was instituted, we learned of this via social media first. When
the all clear order was given, we saw a Facebook post on this
before anyone called and told us what was going on.

Important social media posts were inputted into WebEOC and
communicated during the Emergency.

Teen hikers rescued from ledge

Washington National Guard unit performs first-ever
aviation search and rescue

Story by Washington National Guard

It is the staple mission of the Washington Military Department Support Facility.
– to safeguard the lives and property of Washington state. On July Within two hours, the Blackhawk crew had taken off from Joint

10, a Blackhawk crew from the 66th Theater Aviation Command, Base Lewis-McChord and were circling above the last known area

Washington National Guard met that of the missing hikers. Minutes later, one

“mission in its first aviation search and We saw the kids, took a safe of the crew members spotted the trio.
approach to them, and then “We saw the kids, took a safe ap-
rescue operation.
At 7 a.m. on Friday, July 10, the proach to them, and then had our rescue
crew start their decent down to them,”
Yakima Sheriff’s Office called the said Chief Warrant Officer Eric Swen-
State Emergency Operations Center on had our rescue crew start their son, Pilot, 1-140th Co. Aviation. “Once
Camp Murray. Three isolated teenaged ”decent down to them. we got them in the helicopter, we flew
them back to Tieton to get treated for
hikers had been missing since Thursday their injuries.”
afternoon in the area of Rimrock Lake
near Yakima.

“Once we received the call from the The three teenagers were treated for

Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC), our flight crew hypothermia and other minor injuries and reunited with their par-

got their Blackhawk prepared and ready to go,” said LTC Rueben ents.

Hokanson, Commander, Army Aviation “It was just a special moment for us to be there to see that re-

union between the kids and the families,” said Swenson.

(U.S. Army National Guard This was a first the AFRCC has called the Washington National

photo by Sgt. William Hust) Guard on a search and rescue mission.

After last year’s devastating State Route 530 Landslide in Oso,

the Washington National Guard started a Search and Rescue-fo-

cused training in collaboration with Snohomish County. Through

a relationship with Snohomish County Helicopter Search and

Rescue, the pilots and crews trained on live hoists with and with-

out baskets.

“The training we conducted with Snohomish County after Oso

was monumental in getting our flight crews better prepared to

conduct search and rescue,” said Swenson. “It felt great to help

out today.”

(U.S. Army National Guard
photo by Sgt. William Hust)

12 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

UP HILL BOTH WAYS
Priority legislation supporting Guardsmen

approved by Legislature and Governor

Story by Steven Friederich
Washington Military Department

Gov. Jay Inslee recently signed two pieces of legislation al- training purposes, typically through the use of a sleeping bag on
the floor.
lowing Guard members to stay overnight in Armories and mandat-
ing all state agencies develop continuity of operation plans, both On April 23, Inslee signed into law requiring state agencies to
of which were top priorities of Major General Bret D. Daugherty, meet continuity of operations planning requirements. The new law
The Adjutant General in charge of the Washington Military De- takes effect July 24. Under the new law, each state agency must
partment. develop a Continuity of Operations Plan that is updated and exer-
cised annually. It’s all part of an internal effort of an organization
The state also approved a Senate Joint Memorial asking Presi- to assure that the capability exists to continue essential functions
dent Barack Obama and Pentagon officials to transition the Wash- and services in response to a comprehensive array of potential
ington National Guard’s 81st Armored Brigade Combat Team to a emergencies or disasters. More on the legislation in this previous
Stryker Brigade Combat Team. blog post.

On April 21, Inslee signed the Armory bill into law, which takes The state Senate and state House unanimously approved legisla-
effect on July 24. There are about 8,200 Washington Air and Army tion asking federal officials to transition the Washington National
National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, most of which serve part Guard’s 81st Armored Brigade Combat Team to a Stryker Brigade
time and participate in one drill weekend per month and two weeks Combat Team. The non-binding resolution follows up on sever-
of annual training. The law had allowed a Soldier or Airman to al other requests made by Washington National Guard officials in
stay overnight in an Armory or Readiness Center during an emer- recent years to convert the 81st Armored Brigade Combat Team.
gency. But the law dating back to 1895 didn’t allow wiggle room
if a Guardsman living in Western Washington is required to travel The request was sent to the Washington Secretary of State’s Of-
to Eastern Washington to stay overnight. The change allows The fice on April 23 to be distributed from there. Because the mea-
Adjutant General to allow Guardsmen to stay overnight for sure is a joint memorial, it doesn’t need to be signed by the gov-
ernor. However, last summer, Inslee joined the governors and
(Courtesy photo)
The Adjutant Generals of
Washington, Oregon, and
California in a letter to the
Pentagon requesting the
Stryker brigade be assigned
to the Washington National
Guard.

“It is the TAG’s number
one strategic priority in this
state,” Brigadier Gener-
al Wallace Turner told the
Senate Government and
Operations and Security
Committee earlier this year.
“It’s going to enhance our
readiness. It’s a resource
saver … and you may or
may not be aware that there
are seven combat brigades
across the nation and there
is one Stryker brigade com-
bat team located in the state
of Pennsylvania.”

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 13

Story and photos by Sgt. Lisa Laughlin
122D Public Affairs Operations Center

OBMO

14 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

The ninth iteration of Raven’s Chal- The newest addition to the training lanes The courses helped Jensen to be more
lenge was held in June at the site was a portable standardized operator robot creative with his movements and to push
of the abandoned Satsop nuclear training facility, referred to by the oper- him to try new things. “(The courses)
power project near Elma, Washington. ators as the “robot rodeo.” Adam Jacoff, were helpful in getting us over said ob-
Raven’s Challenge is a training event an expert in the field of robotics, helped stacles in different ways, that we may not
designed to support the interoperability to create the standardized training facili- have thought of before, such as going up
of military units, local law enforcement ty and was present at Raven’s Challenge the stairs backwards,” said Jensen. “We
teams and federal agencies within the ex- to support the robot rodeo. Originally de- could try those (techniques) out a little bit,
plosive ordnance disposal (EOD) commu- signed to help create standard mobility see if they work for us.”
nity. and function standards for robots, Jacoff
recognized the importance of the train- Spc. Neil Goss, an EOD specialist with
Brennan Phillips, an explosives enforce- ing facility for the operators. “The test the 319th EOD Co., also practiced his ro-
ment officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, methods are all agreed upon standard test bot maneuvering skills in the robot rodeo.
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), methods that we have been using for some Some of the skills he practiced included
used his military and public safety expe- years now to shepherd through procure- climbing stairs, opening doors, moving
rience to help start Raven’s Challenge in ments, based on quantifiable capabilities small and large objects, scanning the
2004 as a National Guard training event. data, but now we are turning that set of area using video cameras, and navigating
“We were thinking about how best to do standards toward proficiency training to around corners and other obstacles.
training, how to pool resources, because help evaluate, help assess, help focus op-
we had very minimal resources,” said erator training, both in public safety bomb Goss said his experience during his de-
Phillips. squads, and the military,” said Jacoff. ployment to Afghanistan, where he used a
robot to disarm improvised explosive de-
Working together during this event The robot rodeo course helped the robot vices had primarily been in outdoor or ru-
provides both military and public safe- operators with the Washington Army Na- ral environments but the course at Raven’s
ty groups with some unique training and tional Guard’s 319th Explosive Ordnance Challenge helped to prepare him to oper-
new information or techniques from their Disposal Company hone their basic and ate in an urban environment. Goss said the
counterparts in other agencies. “Raven’s advanced movement skills. “The idea is course helped him to be more aware of
Challenge is an interoperability exercise pretty simple, it is a circuit of basic skills the visual limitations of the robot. “Some-
between public safety bomb squads, both that approach operational significance, but times you don’t really understand that
fire and police department based, and mil- are really intended to be repeatable tasks, there is stuff behind you when all of your
itary EOD units,” said Phillips. “We bring to get muscle memory, to get confidence cameras are facing forward. Some people
those two groups together, to train, and can get really frustrated, but if you keep
learn from one another. By having come “We are trying to an eye on your surroundings, you will do
here and trained and exchanged informa- make ourselves as pretty well,” said Goss.
tion, they are better able to do their tasks prepared as possible
on a day-to-day basis.” for what we see as one Goss said that a well-equipped and well-
of the enemy’s most trained robot operator can save many lives
The teams that participated in Raven’s likely courses of in any dangerous environment. “A good
Challenge continued to work on interop- robot operator can keep his team leader
erability and scenario-based training lanes action...” from going down range in a bomb suit,
that aim to prepare the Soldiers and public that is why I practice this hard,” said Goss.
safety officers for possible real world sce- in basic capabilities with maneuvering,
narios. This year’s practice scenarios in- situational awareness, mobility, and ma- Phillips said the participants in the ex-
cluded response to a variety of explosive nipulator dexterity,” said Jacoff. ercise are what has made Raven’s Chal-
materials and situations such as a simulat- lenge such a successful training exercise
ed bus attack, a bomber’s shack filled with First Lt. Jake Jensen, 1st platoon team and what keeps them all coming back year
bomb-making chemicals and explosives, leader with the 319th EOD Co., 741st after year.
and a possible threat in a populated area. Ordnance Battalion, said the robot rodeo
This year the training event had a new provided a more individual-based training “It is an amazing exercise, because with
lane that focused on building basic skills experience compared with the team fo- a little bit of funding and a little bit of en-
and fluidity of action using remotely-con- cused training provided on the real-world thusiasm, we have all these great people
trolled bomb disposal robots in the field. scenario-based training lanes. Jensen said from great agencies, they come together
he is relatively familiar with his robot, and they really make this thing run. Ev-
but found several of the obstacles to be erybody clearly understands the vision,
quite challenging. “I think (the tests) were everybody clearly understands what we
effective, I think they did a good job of are trying to accomplish; we are trying to
re-creating operational possibilities and make ourselves as
operational hazards,” said Jensen. prepared as possible
for what we see as
one of the enemy’s
most likely courses
of action (IEDs).”

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 15

BATTEN DOWN
THE HATCHES

116th Air Support Operations Squadron
trains through tropical storm in the Pacific

Story and photos by Senior Airman Casey Mesler
116th Air Support Operations Squadron

President Eisenhower once said, arose out of season and threatened to the Washington Military Department, to
“The Plan is nothing, but plan- savage the island. For a team of warriors affect a deliberate shift towards domestic
ning is everything,” and for the living in tents, it posed more than just a operations and a need for more dynamic
warriors of the 116th Air Sup- training distraction. preparation.

After years of participating in combat “We have an added need for ‘big pic-

port Operations Squadron (ASOS) of the operations across the globe, forging rela- ture’ training. We need to ensure we are

Washington Air National Guard, their re- tionships with foreign allies, and being taking the appropriate measures to inte-

cent training exercise in Guam was fur- recognized for their combat excellence, grate domestic operations training into

ther proof of the wisdom of that old ad- the unit has rapidly shifted to support our skill sets. We have a responsibility to
age. the growing demand for ‘domestic oper- be prepared to assist with anything that

The 116th, based at Camp Murray, ations’ support in addition to their war- may threaten our community, and we are

has a mission that requires them to de- time mission. The landslide, the wildfires not taking this responsibility lightly”,

ploy forward with ground combat forces stated SSgt Dustin Woodford of the 116

and guide airstrikes onto the enemy “It is often said... ASOS.
in close proximity. Many times they So the unit went to great lengths

are the voice on the radio that saves to begin planning and resourcing a
large scale movement of airmen, sol-
‘experience is somethingAmerican and coalition soldiers’ lives
with their precise application of air diers and equipment to a rugged field
power. They have also demonstrated you get after you need site in Guam, and train across a broad
that flexibility during recent opera- it.’” spectrum of domestic operations and
tions in support of Washington State, combat skill sets for two weeks.

providing help during the State Route - Lt. Col. Erik Eliel For the 116th team, this meant
530 landslide and during wildfires in integrating both combat operations

Washington’s mountains. training with emergency disaster re-

This ability to flex was put to the test of 2014 and current preparations for a lief operations training, within the same

when, during military exercises on the massive earthquake in Western Wash- annual budget and timeline as previous

Pacific Island of Guam, a tropical storm ington have driven the 116th, as part of years. Their innovative response was the

16 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Members of the Washington Air National Guard’s 116th Air Support Operations Squadron
pose with participants from across the globe during Exercise Husky Machete in Guam.
(Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Casey Messler)

exercise on Guam this past March: Husky put, joint training allows for amplified something you get after you need it.’ We
Machete 2015. cohesion and provides purpose to your would rather encounter a lack of experi-
training.” ence in a training environment, and be
With the entire state preparing for large better prepared for the real world. Train-
scale exercises and integrated training in The training value of an event like ing such as this, especially when we face
2015 and 2016, the 116th decided to work Husky Machete is undeniable when ev- obstacles, allows us to prepare for a broad
out the kinks in advance. Husky Machete erything goes according to plan. But spectrum of contingencies. By utilizing
saw a full mobilization of not only the when a tropical storm threatened to derail integrated training we are afforded the
116 ASOS, but also members of the entire the year-long plan, it pushed the training opportunity to draw from the experiences
Guard, Active Duty and foreign military challenge to an even higher level. Just and innovation of our partnering organi-
spectrum: 19th Special Forces Group (WA like both combat and domestic emergen- zations as well as facilitate a unique lev-
ARNG), 194th Security Forces Squadron cies, Mother Nature did not follow the el of preparation for future exercises and
(WA ANG), Survival Specialists from the plan precisely. operations.”
36TRG (Active Duty SERE/Fairchild
AFB), 194 Med Grp (WA ANG), British Half way through the exercise, the is- In the end, the 116th team was able
Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, 56th land was recognized as being in the di- to quickly modify their elaborate train-
Theater Information Operations Group rect path of an approaching typhoon. This ing plan and still complete a high level of
(WA ARNG) and aircrews from the Ten- caused an immediate disruption in sched- training, continue to build relationships
nessee and Missouri Air National Guard uling, and an opportunity to truly stress with partner organizations, and most
to provide the airlift there and back. the leadership and members to not only importantly ensure the safe return of the
continue to provide excellent training but entire team involved in Husky Machete
With all of these organizations work- also safeguard their membership from the 2015.
ing together for nearly two weeks in a potentially devastating effects of a Pacific
variety of combat and domestic operation storm. Ultimately, they also achieved anoth-
training events, it provided an amazingly er critical goal: train their team to suc-
difficult and productive test of interopera- The 116th core planners swiftly re- cessfully adapt and overcome any obsta-
bility for the entire team. turned to the planning table for a rapidly cle that may be presented, whether on a
As Tech. Sgt. Travis Justis of the 194th evolving series of new plans. As the unit’s foreign battlefield or in support of their
Security Forces Squadron said, “Simply Director of Operations, Lt Col Erik Eliel neighbors here in Washington.
put it, “It is often said that, ‘experience is

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 17

Vietnamese
Americans
Celebrate 40th
Anniversary of
Stay at Camp
Murray

Story by Steven Friederich & Joseph Siemandel
Washington Military Department

If you walk up to the 50 series of build- Lt. Col. Liz Pham, U.S. Marine Corp talks about her family’s journey from Vietnam to America during the 40th
ings on Camp Murray, you will see a Anniversary of the Vietnamese Journey to America at Camp Murray on April 26, 2015. Pham was the first
few small office buildings and an old Vietnamese American to become a Fixed Wing Naval Aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps; later deployed to Iraq,
chow hall. Nothing that stands out but as becoming part of the first all-female F/A-18 aircrew and flying over 130 combat missions. (U.S. Army National
you walk the area you also will see a mon- Guard photo by Capt. Joseph Siemandel)
ument, with the words “Refugee Day” a
monument celebrating the Vietnamese ref- Health Services and Enterprise Service as more than 800 Vietnamese Americans.
ugees that came to Washington. they transitioned from refugees to citizens “It means so much for us to come back
of Washington.
40 years ago the scene was very different, to Camp Murray, where it all began for
little green houses lined the hill side; used Squad size barracks were transformed so many of us,” said Kim Long Nguyen,
by Washington National Guardsmen during into temporary homes, classrooms became member of the event organizing team.
their drill weekend just a few weekends office complex and assistance centers, “Gov. Evans’ hospitality meant so much to
earlier; would play a significant role in the chow halls ramped up their food service the Vietnamese people.”
more than 70,000 Vietnamese Americans and signs with Vietnamese writing were
that call Washington state home today. placed around Camp Murray to inform the Along with a number of elected officials
refugees. both current and retired, the event featured
On May 20, 1975, the first of more than many predominate Vietnamese individu-
600 Vietnamese refugees arrived on Camp “It was an impressive set-up for a tempo- als that credit their move to America as a
Murray, invited by then Gov. Dan Evans, rary stop,” said Munro. “Much better than chance to start their lives.
after fleeing their homes in Vietnam after the conditions they had come from in Cal-
the fall of Saigon and the end of the Viet- ifornia.” Liz Pham, a Vietnamese American and
nam War. Their arrival on Camp Murray U.S. Marine Corp Lt. Col. was one of the
was not an easy one though, as refugees Even as a temporary stop, the Guard as- keynote speakers for the celebration. Pham
fled Vietnam, their first stop was Camp sisted their new found companions in start- graduated from Pacific Lutheran Universi-
Pendleton, California, where they met op- ing their lives in America. ty, and would become the first Vietnamese
position from California Gov. Jerry Brown. American to become a Fixed Wing Naval
Washington Army National Guard Avia- Aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps; later de-
“Governor Evans asked me to travel to tors assisted former Vietnamese Air Force ploying to Iraq and becoming part of the
California, after seeing the living condi- Pilots in passing their Federal Aviation Ad- first all-female F/A-18 aircrew and flying
tions, I just couldn’t believe it,” said Ralph ministration exams, making them federally over 130 combat missions.
Munro, a then staffer for Governor Evans licensed pilots. Young Vietnamese women
and later the Secretary of State for Wash- were employed as interpreters assisting the “A memory I have was 17 years ago,
ington. “Thousands and thousands of peo- authorities with paper work and breaking meeting a U.S. Army soldier that lost three
ple in horrible conditions, I knew we had to down the language barrier. Others only quarters of his unit in the Vietnam War,
do something to help.” stayed for a short time, as the camp shut he said he was one of the lucky ones, los-
down on Oct. 1, 1975 as the last of the ref- ing vision in one eye and having shrapnel
After talking with Munro, Gov. Evans ugees passed through on their way to more wounds all over his body,” Pham said. “As
was ready to assist, but wasn’t sure where permanent homes. I reached out to shake his hand and thank
to put them and how many he could sup- him for his service, because without his
port. It was a call from Gov. Evans to Maj. “Even though it was a short stay, it helped service, me and my family would not be
Gen. Howard McGee, the adjutant general, bring now 70,000 Vietnamese Americans here today, he said something that still res-
which put his plan in motion. to our state,” said Munro. onates with me today, he said that is what
it is all about, giving others the chance to
After talking with Lt. Col. Jim Kramer, This leads us to 2015, and the 40th Anni- have a better life.”
the Washington National Guard’s installa- versary of the Vietnamese Journey to Amer-
tion officer, MG McGee decided that Camp ica, and their celebration on Camp Murray
Murray could house refugees and support on April 26, 2015 which was attended by
the operations of Department of Social and

18 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS 2015-1
140 Washington Youth Academy Cadets Graduate

Story and photos by Steven Friederich
Washington Military Department

The Washington Youth Academy cele- ty of both federal and state law, the WYA is Graduating cadets had an average GPA
a state-run residential and post-residential for Academy courses of 3.6, which is a high
brated the graduation of 140 students from intervention program for youth who have B+. As a comparison, 52 of the graduating
across Washington state during commence- dropped out of high school or are at risk of cadets had a grade point average less than a
ment ceremonies on June 20.
dropping out. D before coming to the Academy.
It was the second largest gradu- The free program places cadets in a 22- Only 14 of the cadets who entered
ation class since the Academy was
established in 2009. The students week intensive residential phase. For the the program had enough credits to
will all return to high school to following year, the youth receives intense be classified as seniors. After com-
get their diploma, some enrolling mentoring and placement follow-up. The mencement, 92 graduates of the
in summer school, or seek an al- school is in Bremerton, but anyone from program have the credits needed
ternative path to finish their high around the state can apply. Students can to be classified as seniors.
school education, such as a GED earn up to 8 credits.
or by joining Running Start. Students volunteered 7,809 hours
The average number of credits earned by of community service to the local
The mission of the Washington cadets who completed the program this cy- community, valued at $67,000,
Youth Academy is to provide a cle was 7.9 – achieving a 98.5 percent cred- according to Washington Youth
highly disciplined, safe and pro- it retrieval rate. Comparatively, a full year Academy Director Larry Pierce.
fessional learning environment at a high school is 6 credits. That means Service projects consisted of ev-
that empowers at-risk youth to im- students earned more than a year’s worth erything from
prove their educational levels and of credits in just 22 weeks. restoring a Sept. 11 Memorial to
employment potential and become landscaping and event support.
responsible and productive citi-
zens of the State of Washington. Each cadet was also trained to be
part of a Community Emergency
The Washington Youth Academy is a Response Team, the first time all
division of the National Guard Youth Chal- of the cadets in a class received the disaster
leNGe Program. Established under authori- management training.
“We had 140 cadets of diverse back-
grounds and situations come together to
become one cohesive unit,” Pierce said.
“They overcame obstacles and shared both
dreams and setbacks, as well. They shared
laughter and tears, but they changed to-
gether and they prevailed together.”
More than 1,500 students have gone
through the program since its inception.

For more information, visit
http://mil.wa.gov/youth-academy.

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 19

GETTING A SECON
The story of one
Story by Steven Friederich
Washington Military Department

(U.S. Army National Guard photo out of high school or are at risk of said it wasn’t a nice place,” Stewart
by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Kriess) dropping out. Stewart was a perfect fit. said, noting there were complaints
about the food, the sleeping condi-
Shantelle Stewart The Washington Youth Academy tions, all of the exercise and having
is a quasi-military training and men- to live in such close quarters with
had given up. toring program for at-risk youth. The dozens of other teenagers for nearly
goal of the program is to give youth a six months.
At 17, she was ready to drop second chance to become responsible
out of high school. She and productive citizens by helping “But that’s because they weren’t
didn’t care what anyone them improve their life skills, educa- trying to change,” Stewart says now.
thought of her. She was coping with tion levels and employment potential. “They were forced to come here. I de-
depression. cided to come here because I knew it
She was into drugs. She was failing The program incorporates a highly would be a positive thing and I would
school. Then, two of her closest structured format, with an emphasis be away from all of the negative influ-
friends died. on student discipline and personal re- ences. That way, even if I was trying
And things just went from bad to sponsibility to provide a positive, safe to better myself and go back to my old
worse and secure learning environment.
“It was just a downward spiral …
and I couldn’t get out,” Stewart said. “My biological mom had left me
“I just kind of plummeted downhill when I was little,” Stewart said. “She
and started doing negative things with was into meth and alcohol. My step-
my life – smoking weed, skipping mom and dad had their struggles but
school a lot, sneaking out,” Stewart were able to better their lives to give
added. “I was just doing stuff I wasn’t me a better environment to help me
supposed to do. And I knew it. Once become successful.”
I got caught and I saw the pain in my
dad and step-mom’s eyes, I knew it Stewart left Mt. View High School
was time to take action and change the in Vancouver back in January to join
course of my life.” 171 candidates for the Washington
Enter the Washington Youth Acad- Youth Academy, who underwent a
emy in Bremerton. The Washington grueling two-week acclimation phase
Youth Academy is a division of the of physical and mental prowess before
National Guard Youth ChalleNGe they had the right to call themselves
Program, operated by the Washington cadets. Then, each cadet had to main-
Military Department. Established un- tain strict discipline and maintain good
der authority of both federal and state grades. As of today, there are 140
law, the Youth Academy is a state-run cadets set to graduate on June
residential and post-residential inter- 20. Stewart will be
vention for youth who have dropped among the gradu-
ates.

“I knew two
cadets that
went here
and they

20 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

ND CHANCE
e cadet’s journey to getting back on track

ways, I would be surrounding myself “She’s an example (Photo by Steven Friederich)
with other people who were also try- now for everyone
ing to change their lives.” else.” Tweeted out recently, “I am in politics
because I am inspired by women like
She didn’t always think Now, she says, Cadet Stewart!”
that way. her grades are up
and she’s on her way Stewart says she’s in shock that
to getting all of the someone like Wyman would even pay
She remembers her first couple credits she needs in attention to her.
weeks at the Academy, but what she order to graduate on
remembers most is the crying. Not be- time with her class in Vancouver. She Stewart had a chance recently to
cause she was hurt or because anyone says she’s also cut ties with bad influ- hang out during a lunch break with
had done anything mean to her. ences and friends that could put her on U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert as the con-
“It was all just too much,” Stewart the wrong path. gressman took a lengthy tour of the
said. “My first day was like hell. I Academy. Reichert told of his roots
kept trying to convince the cadre to let “That’s the hardest part,” she said. pulling himself up from his boot-
me go home but Lt. Willis said I see “I’ve changed, but my friends hav- straps when as a young man he was
something in you and I won’t let you en’t.” homeless and living out of his car to
go home. It was 24-7 that I was cry- becoming King County Sheriff and
ing. We’d be towing the line. We’d be She credits her cadre Ashley Ram- ultimately a congressman.
going to chow. I wouldn’t eat because shaw with being the biggest influence.
I was so upset. At the time, I didn’t Cadre staff are a mix of drill sergeants
see the positives of what it could be.” and quasi-parents responsible for “He was just so inspirational,”
Jamila Larson, a Youth Mentor overseeing the welfare of each of the
Advocate at the Washington Youth cadets. Stewart said. “He gave me ad-
Academy, says she remembers Stew- vice for school and how to really get
art being moved from a bed to a cot “She was there for me when I involved. “I have so many people
because her crying those first few needed her to be,” Stewart said. “She’s looking out for me now,” Stewart said.
days kept her fellow cadets awake. It helped me earn this second chance –
was right in front of Larson’s office. and I won’t let anyone down.” “I’m not alone. I have my parents, my
“I remembered her very clearly and cadre, my counselor – and even Secre-
Stewart said she was always inter- tary Wyman who care. This has been
see how much she has changed ested in politics and how laws were a dream come true for me. It’s going
into a young woman that made, but became particularly excited to be sad to graduate, but I won’t let
we can all respect,” when she got to meet Secretary of anyone down.”
Larson said. State Kim Wyman. Wyman made a
special trip to
visit cadets
at the Youth
Academy
and then took
more time to
visit with them
when cadets
made a special
field trip to Olympia.

“She was just so amazing,” Stewart
said. “I turn 18 in October and I just
can’t wait to vote. I can’t wait to get
my friends to vote. I really think we
can all make a difference.”

Stewart’s thoughts traversed social
media and got back to Wyman, who

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 21

Around the
Department
The first Air Defense Group in Washing-
(U.S. Air National Guard photo ton Air National Guard history was acti-
by Capt. Kim Burke) vated Saturday May 2, 2015 during a three-
part ceremony at French Theater on JBLM.

The 225th Air Defense Group was acti-
vated by Brig. Gen. John S. Tuohy, Washing-
ton state assistant adjutant general - Air.

With the new designation, existing WADS
leaders were formally placed in new com-
mand positions. During the ceremony Tuohy
highlighted the incoming commanders and
their accomplishments, noting that their to-
tal combined experience includes nearly 80
years of Air Battle Manager expertise.

898th Reflagged as a
Brigade Engineer
Battallion

The Washington National Guard said good- The colors are cased as the 81st Brigade Special Troops Battalion is re-flagged as the 898th Brigade
bye to the 81st Brigade Special Troops Engineer Battalion. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Pfc. Britnee Grooms)
Battalion and welcomed back the 898th Bri-
gade Engineer Battalion during a reflagging
ceremony at the Marysville Armed Forces
Reserve Center.

The Engineer Battalion returns after def-
lagging in 2005 and now includes multiple
Engineer Companies, a Signal Company, a
Military Intelligence Company, a Forward
Support Element and a Headquarters Compa-
ny.

22 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

National Guard Captain to participate in Ms. Veteran America 2015 Finals

(Courtesy photo by Turner was notified by founder of the event earlier this month
Kerri Turner) that her score at regionals in May had qualified her to advance
into the prestigious Top 25 of the competition on a national level.
Washington Army National Guard Capt. Kerri Turner,
205th Regional Training Institution, will hang up her uni- “The day I was notified I was really nervous,” said Turner. “I
form in exchange for a formal gown and heels as she competes hung up from talking with Jas Boothe, the founder of Final Sa-
for the title of Ms. Veteran America 2015 this October in Las lute, Inc. and did a silly happy dance and shared the news overly
Vegas. energetic to my family.”
The Ms. Veteran America competition highlights the strength,
courage and sacrifice of our nation’s military women, according Back in 2013, Turner placed 2nd runner-up and decided to
to the competition website. The event’s purpose is to showcase compete again because there are still homeless female veterans,
the “Woman Beyond the Uniform” and to raise awareness of the which is unacceptable to this leader.
55,000 homeless women veterans in America.
“As a leader, knowing there is one woman warrior homeless is
too many,” said Turner. “Until we are all safe and can rest peace-
fully then the passion won’t subside.”

“No matter the challenge women have found themselves in
throughout history, we have always prevailed.” Turner said.
“From voting, to serving our country, to being working mothers,
it is an honor to capture the spirit of progress and continue on the
road to end homelessness in our female veterans.”

The unique competition is not based on appearance or age,
and there is no swimsuit category. Instead, candidates are scored
based on interview, talent, military history and advocacy. Judges
will consider grace, poise, confidence and personality. Women
from all five military service branches are represented.

Capt. Turner has raised more than $2,000 to benefit Final Salute
Inc., an organization that provides safe and suitable housing for
homeless women veterans and their children.

Lifelong dreams realized: Air Guardsman opens family business

Washington Air Guard member and newly minted Techni- and appreciates having stable financial options such as TriCare
cal Sergeant Sarah Maynard-Murray and her husband, health insurance, which gives her freedom to dabble in various
Jonathan Murray, have had a dream to own their own business jobs including teaching, behavior therapy, program management
for more than two years. and part-time work as a veteran’s outreach program specialist for
Thanks to both the flexibility and the financial stability of her an aerospace company.
service in the Air National Guard (ANG), the two recently real-
ized their goal by opening their own small business, Uncharted “Without all the benefits from being in the Guard, this would
Waters Float Center, a small business in Tacoma, Washington. have never happened.” Sarah acknowledges.
“We live in a busy, chaotic world. Many of us carry stress,
pain, or anxiety in our bodies,” said Maynard-Murray. “By (U.S. Air National Guard photo by
providing a deep reset for both body and mind, floating sup- Master Sgt. Bettina Knaack)
ports new levels of health, strength, and clarity as stress and old
patterns fade away.”
Maynard-Murray credits her military training with giving her
the skills to handle the logistical and financial side of running a
business.
“It’s definitely helped a lot to stay organized,” said May-
nard-Murray.
After joining the Oregon Air National Guard in 2004, May-
nard-Murray’s next goal was to go to college. Over the course of
her career, she’s been stationed at the 119 Fighter Wing at Fargo,
North Dakota and the 141st Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild
AFB in Spokane, where she switched career paths from fuels to
Knowledge Operations and Personnel. Along the way she earned
a master’s degree in education and gave birth to a daughter,
Piper Rose.
Maynard-Murray loves the schedule flexibility the ANG offers,

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 23

A Dround the epartment

Guardsmen gathered at the Avia-
tion Readiness Center drill floor
to witness the 96th Troop Command
change of command between Col. Greg
Allen (outgoing) and Col. Daniel Dent
(incoming). 96th Troop Command is
comprised of a Military Intelligence
Battalion, Information Operations
Group, Chemical Battalion, Ordnance
Battalion, Special Forces Group and
many other specialty units.

(U.S. Army National Guard The Western Air Defense Sector conducted a change
photo by Sgt. Lisa Laughlin) of command ceremony at The McChord Theater
located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, McChord Field,
(U.S. Air National Guard April 21. Col. Gregor J. Leist assumed command of
photo by Capt. Kim Burke) WADS from outgoing commander Col. Peter D. Stavros
who has helmed the organization since March 2011.

(U.S. Army National Guard (U.S. Army National Guard photo
courtesy photo) by Staff Sgt. Edward Omelina)

In May, the 1st Battalion, 205th Regional Train- The 181st Brigade Support Battalion “Maver-
ing Institute, conducted a change of command icks” conducted a change of command cer-
ceremony as they saw Lt. Col. David Hamilton emony on Camp Murray in May. The battalion
(outgoing) pass the battalion colors to Lt. Col. Jes- welcomed Lt. Col. Kristen Derda and said good
se Basher (incoming). bye to Lt. Col. Adam Iwaszuk.

24 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty shakes the hand of Chief Finance Offi-
cer Dan Swisher during his retirement celebration in June. Al-
though Swisher has retired, he’s agreed to come back on a part-time
basis. Daugherty notes that Swisher has been a valuable resource for
the Washington Military Department, as well as a trusted advisor.

(Photo by Steven Friederich)

Aviators from the Washington National
Guard assisted the Washington State Uni-
versity Reserve Officer Training Corp with an
Air insertion into Camp Seven Mile near Spo-
kane for their annual Spring field exercise.
More than 50 cadets get to ride from Fairchild
Air Force Base to Camp Seven Mile in the back
of a CH-47 Chinook.

(Courtesy photo)

Students from the TriTech Skills Center
in the Tri-Cities visited the Washington
National Guard’s Maneuver Area Training
& Equipment Site (MATES) in May to learn
about the mission of the shop and about the
operations the mechanics conduct to support
the unit at the Yakima Training Center.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo
by Capt. Joseph Siemandel)

(U.S. Air National Guard photo Col. Jeremy Horn took command of the 194th Re-
by Staff Sgt. Zach Rider) gional Support Wing of the Washington Air Nation-
al Guard on Saturday, May 2, 2015, in a ceremony at
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, replacing Col. Jill Lannan.
Lannan said that Horn is the “right guy at the right time”
to lead the 194th, which consists of more than 1,000 cit-
izen-airmen involved in cyberspace operations, air sup-
port operations, mission support and medical support.
(ANG Photos/SSgt Paul Rider/Released)

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 25

April

Spc. Brennan Hamsher

792nd Chemical Company

May Do you know a superb
guardsman?
Spc. Alex Massoth
Nominate them for
A Troop 1-303rd Guardsmen of the month on

June our website!

Spc. Alya Scott Submit Now

E Co. 1-168th General
Support Aviation Battalion

205th RTI Graduates
New Crop of Warrants

Story and photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Brown, 141st Air Refueling Wing

Let’s hear it for our newest Warrant Officers as they pin
WO1 at the National Guard Warrant Officer Training
Center!

Washington National Guard WO1s who just completed
class 15-001 took four of the five top honors including: Dis-
tinguished Honor Graduate, Second Distinguished Honor
Graduate, Leadership and Physical Fitness awards!

26 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Chinese Officials Visit Lt. Gen. Li Zuocheng of China’s People’s Liberation Army makes a point as he
Camp Murray visits with Washington National Guard Commander Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty
during a visit Friday to Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Camp Murray.
Story courtesy Tacoma News Tribune (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Joseph Siemandel)

Officials from the Chinese military visited Joint Military officials from Asian nations visit JBLM about
Base Lewis-McChord and Camp Murray on Fri- twice a month. I Corps, JBLM’s Army headquarters, is an
day for discussions on preparations for natural arm of Army Pacific, and it is responsible for nurturing
disasters with Army and National Guard leaders. partnerships between the U.S. and allied ground forces.

The visit focused on humanitarian assistance following
emergencies, an issue that is seen as a potential point of
collaboration between the U.S. and China. Chinese of-
ficials participated in a similar forum last year in Hawaii
with Army Pacific.

At Camp Murray, Chinese officials led by Lt. Gen. Li
Zuocheng visited the state’s Emergency Management Di-
vision and received briefings on the National Guard’s re-
sponse to wildfires and the March 2014 State Route 530
landslide, National Guard spokesman Capt. Joe Siemandel
said. They also discussed the state’s preparations for earth-
quakes and tsunamis.

Gen. Stanley Clarke Tours Washington Military
Department

Story by Tech. Sgt. Michael Brown,
141st Air Refueling Wing

The national director of the Air National Guard vis-
ited Camp Murray and Joint Base Lewis-McChord
April 11 to learn about the Washington Air Nation-
al Guard’s cyber security capabilities. Lt. Gen. Stanley E.
Clarke III toured the 262nd Network Warfare Squadron at
JBLM and was briefed by members of the 143rd Cyber
Operations Squadron at Camp Murray, followed by a lunch
with airmen.

Squadron officers briefed Clarke on their state and feder- Chief Master Sgt Steven A. Durrance 141st Air Refueling Wing First Sergeant, Col.
al missions and described some of their challenges. In turn, Mark S. Sweitzer 141st Force Support Squadron commander, Col. David A. Dixon
Clarke explained the challenges of budgeting for the Air 141st Maintenance Group commander, Brigadier Gen. John S. Tuohy Washington
National Guard in the 21st Century. State Assistant Adjutant General - Air, Lt. Gen. Stanley E. Clarke III Director Air
National Guard, Col. Daniel J. Swain 141st Air Refueling Wing commander, Col.
“We’re not facing threats like we did in the Cold War Matthew R. Yakely 141st Operations Group commander, and Command Chief Mas-
years where we kept throwing in money,” he said. At the ter Sgt. Wayne R. Deist (L- R) pose for a picture in front of the wing headquarters
same time, with limited resources and a constant need to building before touring the 141st Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base on
remain relevant, he added, “We’re very effective at what April 12, 2015. Lt. Gen Clarke visited the wing while touring the Washington State
we do.” military department. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Brown)

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 27

JUST KEEP RUNNING
Washington National Guard Marathon Team takes 1st in nation

Story by Senior Master Sgt. Michael White
194th Regional Support Wing

Washington National Guard’s with the marathon team, I can’t speak more the conditions,” said Waldron. “Overall
Marathon Team finished first
in the nation in the 38th annu- highly of my team coordinator and captain I was relatively pleased with my time de-
al Lincoln National Guard Marathon May
3. Four Washington runners qualified for [White] for making me feel included, en- spite my rough training plan due to having
the exclusive “All Guard” Team, with
three also winning first place age division couraged and welcome.” a very demanding job and a recent civilian
awards.
Capt. Brendan Thompson, HQ 81st Ar- job change which required additional hours
The annual competition brought together
teams of the best Army and Air National mored Brigade Combat Team, competed of work. The heat definitely impacted me,
Guard athletes from all 50 states, and the
U.S. territories of Guam and Puerto Rico. here for the fifth time. He finished with a but due to racing the Yakima Skyline 50k
Participants vie to be on the “All Guard”
Team, consisting of the top 40 fastest run- time of 2:55:40, eighth place Guardsmen race a few weeks before, it allowed my
ning Guardsmen and the top 15 Guards-
women. overall, and capturing first place honors in body to have a little heat training in which

More than 11,000 runners gathered on his age division. Thompson qualified for prevented a complete shock to my system.”
the first weekend in May for
what they imagined would be a “All Guard” for his fifth time. Team Captain Senior Master Sgt. Michael
run-of-the-mill 26.2-mile race.
The participants ran the citywide “The heat made the race a challenge but “Whitey” White, 194th Regional Support
course that started on the campus
of the University of Nebraska, was rewarding to finish,” said Thompson. Wing, returned for his 11th year in Lincoln.
and finished on the 50-yard line
of the Cornhuskers Memorial “My time was slower than last year. It’s White crossed the line in 3:14:33 good for
Stadium. Conditions became
more of a challenge than the dis- great to bring home ‘The Cob.’” The Cob 1st place in his age division, and the 31st
tance as temperatures climbed
into the mid-70s, which can feel is a traveling trophy that symbolizes cama- place Guard runner overall. He improved
like the upper 90s in direct sun,
running in thermals, coming off raderie, teamwork, competition and rivalry. from being the team’s novice rookie mar-
the hot Nebraska blacktop.
athoner in 2004, to earning All
Rookie Washington marathon team mem-
ber 2nd Lt. Trevor Harris, 141st Medical Guard for his ninth time.
Group, led the team with the fastest time
of 2:54:28. Harris finished 5th place over- Also earning a position as an
all for Guard runners, winning a first place
age division award and qualifying for All alternate on the female All Guard
Guard.
team in only her second year at
“The best part is by far and away the
comraderies that the other states’ runners Lincoln was Staff Sgt. Stephanie
exude,” said Harris. “These people see
each other once, maybe a couple of times Riegler, 141st Information Oper-
a year but they are incredibly friendly and
sincere toward each other. Since it was ations Squadron. Riegler finished
my first time at Lincoln, and my first time
in 4:01:09 which earned her third

place for her age division.

“The best part of Lincoln is see-

ing all the 2014 All Guard mem-

bers and knowing that I get to

(Courtesy photo) compete against some outstand-

ing individuals. The heat defi-

“We’ve been just outside of the top three nitely affected my run time. I would’ve

teams for the last few years,” said Thomp- appreciated rain,” said Riegler.

son. “It was awesome to have a new team The mission of the National Guard Re-

member who could finally help us bring it cruiting and Retention Marathon program

home.” is for members of the “All Guard” to pro-

Earning a position on All Guard for the mote the Guard, and to enhance and in-

second time, 1st Lt. Brien “BDubs” Wal- crease its strength. All Guard members en-

dron, 176th Engineer Company, ran his courage and enhance Guard Recruiting and

fourth Lincoln in a finish time of 3:05:38, Retention programs by instilling physical

fast enough for 20th place Guardsman fitness, self-discipline, and esprit de corps

overall. throughout the Guard. All Guard competes

“The best part about this race was finally at military and civilian races across Amer-

figuring out my proper fueling plan to avoid ica as part of Military Competitions Pro-

cramping and finish pretty strong despite grams.

28 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

TAKE THE KIDS TO WORK
Washington Military Department conducts 2015 Annual “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day”
Story and photos by Kristin Ramos & Karin Johnson

The “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day” is a Gov- name badge. State HRO provided snacks and activity support. Ac-
ernor proclaimed annual event held the third Thursday tivity support was also provided by State Environmental, National
in June, and is sponsored by the Interagency Committee Guard and EMD.
of State Employed Women (ICSEW). This year’s Camp Murray
event was held on Thursday, June 25th from 8am-Noon. Thir- A very special thank you to the following individuals for their
teen youth were registered, along with five parent volunteers. The assistance in making this event a tremendous success: State EMD:
theme was Emergency Preparedness. The children participated Robert Ezelle, Director, Rosanne Garrand, Pub Ed, Jaye Compton,
in activities designed to prepare them in an emergency situation. Dep. EOC Sup., Shannon MacFarlane, Photos, Kelly VanDrasek,
Each participant created an emergency “Go Kit,” toured the State Support, Wanda Tsosie, Support, Franky Ramos, Instruction and
Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), fed the fish at Murray Kristin Ramos, Coordinator Joint Services Support: Gary Lott,
Creek, and made para cord bracelets. Marketing Dir. State HRO: Laura Drybread, Susan Miles and
As always, the staff at Camp Murray helped make this event a Geri Harding State Environmental: Tom Skjervold, Rowena Va-
success by providing promotional items to the participants, which lencia-Gica and Peggy Ulman Washington National Guard: SFC
included National Guard cinch sacs, water bottles, lanyards, and Travis Bassett, Flags & SFC Duane Cruz, PT
challenge coins. Emergency Management Division (EMD) Pub-
lic Education provided items such as preparedness bags, activity
books, flashlights, and pencils. Each child received a personalized

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 29

Overnight
success?

Shadow Platoon shows rest of the
National Guard why patience pays
off

Story and photos by Capt. Joseph Siemandel,

JFHQ Public Affairs Office

Since 2001, combat operations
have adapted to the ever changing
environment. The old soft side
Humvees gave way to armored personnel

carriers. Tanks were gradually replaced with

Stryker vehicles, and the concept of intelli-

gence gathering changed dramatically with We have been fortunate that everything has Top: SSG Giudice, SPC McElmurray and SPC Green
the introduction of the tactical unmanned come together over the last few.” push Shadow down the run way after landing.
aerial system (TUAS); and that is where Middle: SSG Gappmeyer discusses the area of flight
Det. 1, D Co. 898th Brigade Engineer Bat- In 2014, the TUAS platoon reached the with other soldiers
talion (BEB) joins the fight. 200 flight hours milestone, joining only 14 Bottom: SGT Chapman pre-flights a Shadow
other states to reach the NGB standard.
“It is probably one of the coolest jobs in to our younger operators right out of the
the guard no one knows about,” said CW2 “Last year was what started it off and we school house.”
Barry Kerr, Platoon Leader, Det. 1, D Co. just kept going,” said Kerr.
898 BEB. “Our operators and maintainers Experience matters and the TUAS
love what they do. They love being out here The platoon reached 180 flight hours in platoon has had the chance to get that
and getting the birds in the air.” just the first three months of the year. experience this year. The unit hopes that
By the end of the 81st Brigade’s Annual it will continue to see the success of
The “bird” that Kerr is referring to is the Training in June, the TUAS platoon had FY15 carry into the future.
AAI RQ-7B Shadow 200, or just known flown high above the Guardsmen training
as Shadow. The smallest “When you can end a year in the top
on YTC, gave the 81st five in the country, you know that you
“It is probablyof the Shadow family of Brigade an overhead are doing something right,” said Kerr.
look at wildfire training, “I know these guys just want to do their
unmanned aerial systems, and even assisted the best and they are showing that now.”
Yakima Fire and Rescue
one of the coolestit is used to locate, recog- team track a fast moving
jobs in the guardnize and identify targets wildfire on the Training
Center all while reaching
up to 125 kilometers away a national milestone of
462 hours—the most internal hours flown
no one knowsand can send all infor- by a Guard unit up to that point in the FY.
about.”mation back to a brigade “Our goal this year was 440 hours; we
have motivated operators and maintainers,”
tactical operations center said SSG Jacob Gappmayer, Instructor Op-
(TOC). erator and senior TUAS operator in the unit.
“Our guys want to be the best at their jobs,
“We have the ability to send live feeds they work hard, but also do it safely.”
from the camera on the Shadow back to Like manned aviation, TUAS operators
the brigade TOC,” said Kerr. “This allows have to meet the same standards in regards
for the intelligence to be analyzed by the to safety, physical fitness and crew rest. This
commander quickly, and they can make a means the unit usually conducts drills in off
decision while we are flying.” hours, has safety stand down days and has
to request from their company commander
Over the past few years, the tight-knit an extra duty hour to continue to serve.
unit located at the Yakima Training Center “We have had NCOs that have come
(YTC) has been rapidly gaining the at- off active duty,” Gappmayer said. “They
tention of the National Guard, not just in deployed and performed their jobs in Iraq
Washington State but in Washington, D.C. and Afghanistan. They know the right way
The national standard for TUAS programs to do things and will bring that knowledge
is 192 hours. This baseline is what the
Guard expects all TUAS units to reach each
fiscal year.

“You don’t just build a successful flight
program over night,” Kerr said. ”We strug-
gled to get over 70 hours our first few years.

30 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Officer Candidates School

prepares future soldiers while

learning about the past

Candidates travel to Fort Worden to learn about
National Guard’s past

Story and photos by Capt. Kerri Turner.
205th Regional Training Institute

Overlooking the Olympic They are respon- es and affords the opportunity for infor-
Peninsula on a pristinely clear sible for the logis- mation sharing with our platoon train-
day, Officer Candidates School tics, transportation, ers,” Drerup said. “It is nice to receive
Class 58, 2nd Battalion (OCS), 205th coordinating the tour, physical fitness more advice instead of corrections.”
Regiment explore and learn during a staff and more. Their attention to detail and
ride at Fort Worden in Port Townsend. success of the mission is critical for them “The change of scenery is great, but
Fort Worden, along with the heavy to graduate and become lieutenants. taking our group dynamic we have de-
batteries of Fort Flagler and Fort Casey, veloped and watch the teamwork solidify
once guarded the nautical entrance to “This has been the busiest drill thus through this experience is the best part
Puget Sound. These posts, established in far,” said Officer Candidate Lee Roach, about the staff ride,” Roach said.
the late 1890s, became the first line of a class platoon leader. “We conducted a
fortification system designed to prevent a team recon. We came to identify build- As the class enters into the third phase
hostile fleet from reaching such targets as ings, walk through the barracks and of training next month, the staff ride
the Bremerton Naval Yard and the cities dining facility, verify times and locations is the culminating event of the second
of Seattle, Tacoma and Everett. of ferry transport and had many conver- phase. In addition to learning about the
The purpose of the staff ride is to get sations via telephone with a tour guide. coastal artillery forts, the candidates dis-
the candidates to appreciate the oper- There were a lot of moving pieces, but I cover which branch they will commission
ational and strategical significance of learned from past mistakes and applied into upon graduating the course.
terrain and battles, as well as learn about tactics that worked well in previous drills
history in the U.S. Army. to ensure we have a successful plan.” “We started a new tradition with this
“This experience is absolutely worth- class, which is unique and special,” said
while,” said Officer Candidate Sarah Their physical fitness plan included Maj. Michael Vincent, the company com-
Drerup, class platoon sergeant. “We have a group run, which incorporated sprints mander. “On the bluffs of Fort Casey, we
been looking forward to this event after and the stairs at Kinzie Battery, then pin the branch insignia on their uniforms;
being out in the field for the last two drill finished on the beach front conducting we just want it to be an experience for the
months. Seeing a new part of the state circuit training. “I knew I needed to candidates.”
and a place with historical significance include the terrain,” Drerup said. “It is
for the Army is an important connec- an experience I will remember for a long Knowing their branch is half the battle,
tion for me to have, since I will serve in time -- group sit-ups on the beach were now they need to focus on Phase III,
Washington.” hard but fun.” which has an intense training agenda and
The class platoon leader and platoon many challenges they must pass to earn
sergeant are evaluated on their mission The trip also solidifies esprit de corp the coveted gold bar.
planning and execution of the weekend. amongst the candidates. “This drill feels
slightly less formal, which allows for Their success and improvements up
more informal conversations about our to this point prove they are ready for the
families, each other’s military experienc- next challenge.

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 31

Mount Saint Helens 35 Years Later

Anniversary of the blast provides unique opportunity for awareness

Story by Steven Friederich eruption. The eruption of Mount St. Hel- (U.S. Army National
Washington Military Department ens caused massive destruction and loss Guard courtesy photo)
of life. It also, however, was a catalyst for
Most people who saw Mount St. a new era of unprecedented scientific dis- Thirty-five years later, excess sediment
Helens explode back on May covery, technology development and com- still moves down those river drainages
18, 1980 probably ran in the munity awareness. most affected by erupted debris on May
other direction or stood in silence watch- 18, creating flooding issues and impress-
ing. But when members of the Washington The Washington Military Department’s ing upon all that hazards can persist long
National Guard were training in Yakima Emergency Management Division, Wash- after an eruption is over. The eruption left
back on that very day, they saw the mas- ington Department of Natural Resources, an indelible effect on the regional econ-
sive explosion and the giant plume of ash the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network omy and lives of citizens in the Pacific
rapidly approaching, got in their helicop- and the U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Northwest and beyond.
ters and headed into the disaster. Volcano Observatory are working together
to provide timely warnings and reduce the Mount St. Helens is a volcanologist’s
“The ash plume was getting up there to negative impacts of future eruptions. To- ideal laboratory. The landslide exposed
60,000 to 80,000 feet,” said former Wash- gether, the agencies develop and exercise the interior of the mountain. This affords
ington National Guard UH-1 pilot, Hal emergency plans with communities, co- scientists with unprecedented access for
Kolb, “I had never seen anything like this ordinate communications, conduct public examining deposits, installing monitoring
before. The plume was just rising. It was education programs, and plan for short- gear and conducting tests that provide new
like a big black avalanche with lightning. and long-term recovery in the event an insights about volcano dynamics. Eruptive
... I was the last helicopter to get out of Ya- eruption or lahar should occur. activity helps scientists to draw correla-
kima.” tions between monitoring signals and im-
In October of last year, the Washington pending eruptions.
“The power of that thing was unbeliev- Emergency Management Division worked
able,” added Jess Hagerman, a pilot who with its partners to complete the Mount St. “The true legacy of the Mount St. Helens
was on the other side of the mountain at Helens / Mount Adams Volcanic Region eruption has been the long-term opportu-
Fort Lewis, but would soon be called to re- Coordination Plan, put in place in case nities it has given scientists to understand
spond to the incident on several missions. another diaster were to happen. The plan explosive-style volcanoes, and for raising
“It was boiling and black and doing all details the roles and responsibilities of the public awareness about hazards in the Cas-
sorts of things.” various partners in the face of an eruption cades,” said Carolyn Driedger, hydrolo-
again. gist and outreach coordinator at the USGS
The helicopter crews helped save many CVO.
lives despite the poor flying conditions. Mount St. Helens Anniversary
The pilots -- as well as the many others Mount St. Helens demonstrates the im-
who contributed and helped during what On Sunday, May 18, 1980 at 8:32 a.m., portance of scientists working in close
was one of the finest moments for the the bulging north flank of Mount St. Hel- partnership with emergency and land
Washington National Guard are remem- ens slid away in a massive landslide. Sec- management agencies to prepare for fu-
bered on this, the 35th anniversary of the onds later, the uncorked volcano exploded ture eruptions, which includes installation
catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens. and blasted rocks laterally, destroying cen- of comprehensive monitoring networks,
turies of forest growth in a span of several developing and practicing emergency
May was Volcano Preparedness Month minutes. Nine hours of explosive volcanic plans, and supporting community educa-
in Washington state, providing residents activity ensued, altering the landscape, and tion. John Ewert, scientist-in-charge at the
an opportunity to become more familiar what we know about volcanoes, forever. USGS CVO, added, “We cannot wait for
with volcanic risk in their communities indications of volcanic reawakening to be-
and learn about steps they can take to re- The opening minutes of the eruption gin these preparations. The work needs to
duce potential impacts. This year, Volcano claimed the lives of 57 people. Winds be done now.”
Preparedness Month also coincided with transported 520 million tons of ash across
the 35th anniversary of the May 18, 1980 the United States, producing darkness in
Spokane, more than 250 miles away. Wa-
(U.S. Army National ter from melting snow and ice mixed with
Guard courtesy photo) loose rock debris to form lahars – volcanic
mudflows – that poured down river valleys
ripping trees from their roots and engulfing
roads, bridges and houses.

32 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

Preparing for future eruptions “The power of that thing
was unbelievable.”
Recent eruptive events at volcanoes in
Chile and Japan are reminders that volca- - Jess Hagerman
noes can reawaken very quickly and that
preparations must be accomplished in times MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 33
when the volcano is quiet. During Septem-
ber 2014, Ontake Volcano in Japan erupted
with only a few hours of precursory earth-
quakes, and claimed the lives of 63 people.
In April 2015, Calbuco volcano in Chile
provided similar short notice and displaced
more than 6,500 people.

This year, various agencies are involved
in mitigation measures, including updat-
ing emergency coordination plans, making
public education presentations and posting
signs in communities. A schedule of events
is available online. A diary of daily happen-
ings during 1980 has been posted on the
USGS Volcanoes Facebook site.

Washington state’s Emergency Manage-
ment Division website has a section about
the state’s volcanoes as well as volcano
preparedness measures. There’s also edu-
cational material for kids on its publication
section. Follow the agency’s Twitter feed
for breaking news and information.

The USGS CVO and PNSN work to im-
prove eruption forecasting and warning ca-
pabilities for Cascade volcanoes as part of
the National Volcanic Early Warning Sys-
tem. They continue to monitor Mount St.
Helens and other volcanoes in the Cascade
Range for signs of unrest. The monitoring
network operated by USGS and PNSN
enhances the likelihood of detecting pre-
liminary signs of an impending eruption at
Mount St. Helens at its earliest stages.

The USGS CVO website has information
about Volcano Preparedness Month events,
as well as the USGS volcano-monitoring
program, and the hazards in Washington
and Oregon. Register for weekly updates
and occasional Information Statements
from the USGS Volcano Notification Ser-
vice.

The University of Washington’s PNSN
tracks earthquake activity in the Cascadia
region including those under the Cascade
Volcanoes on their Volcano Seismicity web
pages.

The Washington state DNR’s Division
of Geology and Earth Resources produces
maps, assessments and other information to
inform landowners, residents, community
leaders and emergency personnel about the
risks related to volcanoes, lahars and other
natural hazards in Washington state.

The Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) office has Results Washington will build a
seen many changes and been witness to many accom-
plishments these last six months. The former CPI Direc- faster, smarter, more accounable
tor, Ronald Kapral, recently retired and will be greatly
missed. His dedication to both the CPI office and the state government.
Washington Military Department will continue to inspire -Gov. Jay Inslee
others throughout the agency.
• Master Cooperative Agreement 1003 (David Grun)
Over the last six months, the CPI Office has been a part • JSS Standardized Calendar (Gary Lott)
of many accomplishments: • HRF Pre-Mobilization Readiness Tracking (Nicholas

• Instructed over 147 employees in basic Lean skills Winters)
• Mentored and facilitated 16 projects to completion, • 141st OG Orders Processing (Dana McCrillis)
• WADS GIS Delivery Time (Henry Lee)
which saved the agency time and improved employee • Honor Guard Mission Processing and Tracking
satisfaction
• State Litigation Discovery Process (Bernadette (Charles Einarson)
Petruska) • JFHQ Evergreen Tremor 2015 Communications Pro-
• 141st MXG and 92nd MXG IGEMS Process (Brian
Gregory and Tyler Beal) cess (George Williams)
• 14st AMXS Federal Awards Process (Stephen Stear- • C/303rd Class II Supply Process (Daniel McMasters)
ly) • 81st ABCT SICUPS Process (Brian Rikstad)
• Federal HRO Technician Vacancy Announcement • Stationing Committee (Keith Kosik)
Process (Chris Blanco) • 194th MDG Line of Duty Process (Choon Young)
• EMD Green Sheet ongoing (Shannon MacFarlane)
• Trained 28 Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Green Belt stu-

dents of which nine have received certification. They
are: CPT Nicholas Winters, MAJ George Williams,
SGM Brian Rikstad, SSG Daniel McMasters, SSgt
Dana McCrillis, Gary Lott, Karin Johnson, 1LT Da-
vid Grun, and Charles Einarson
• Developed an LSS Black Belt Certification Course
in conjunction with three other National Guard CPI
offices which will be piloted in the fall
• The new CPI Director, Samantha Einarson, com-
pleted the first four phases of the Army’s Lean Six
Sigma Master Black Belt Certification process and
received authorization to instruct LSS Black Belts.

LEAN is...

the endless pursuit, indentification
and elimination of waste, adapting
to change, and continuous process

improvement.

34 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3

SOUND OFF!

“We provide more than 3,000 meals to our Washington National Guardsmen at the Yakima Training Cen-
ter during a typical drill weekend, we need to be ready to go when they come to get food.”
- MSG Darrell DeGroff
Find out more about the Food Service Detachment and their role in the Fall Evergreen.

MIL.WA.GOV VOL II // ISSUE 3 - 35

Seattle Mariners General Manager, Lloyd McClendon. pays respect to Sgt. Carl Chatfield from the Washington State Guard after the opening ceremonies that paid
tribute to the armed forces. The Seattle Mariners Baseball Club invited service members from across Washington to take part in the opening ceremonies for the
2015 Salute to Armed Forces Game. Pregame events included commemorative plaques awarded to each service as well as a representative from each service
throwing out a ceremonial first pitch. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Christian)

36 - EVERGREEN MAGAZINE VOL.II // ISSUE 3


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