30 Kasım 2012 Cuma
Veterans Day for Oregon's Airmen, 1944
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Story by TerrenceG. Popravak, Jr., Lt Col, USAF (Retired),142nd Fighter Wing Historian
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let usremember the original members of the Oregon National Guard’s first aviationunit, the 123rd Observation Squadron, who remained in the unit all through itsWorld War II existence, including the wartime overseas deployment toChina.
Redesignated as the 35th PhotographicReconnaissance Squadron (35PRS) before going overseas (and as the 123rd FighterSquadron after the war), these Oregonians and many other American Airmen of thewartime 35PRS operated the F-5E Photo Lightning in the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theaterof operations.
On Nov. 11, 1944, the squadron’s GeorgeFlight, a small detachment of four aircraft and required personnel, wasoperational at the forward airfield of Yunnanyi, 130 miles west of Kunming nearthe Burma border.
On this day, known then as ArmisticeDay, 1st Lts. William W. Dean III (later MIA) and Estal W. Behrens (later KIA)flew combat aerial reconnaissance missions.
Dean flew F-5E #806 on a two-hour30-minute photo recon mission along a strip in between Bhamo, in the northernpart of Burma, eastward across the border back into China at Manhsien.
Behrens flew F-5E #810 on a two-hour and45 minute “Tri-Met” mission along a portion of the famed Burma Road fromWanling south to Lashio. The Trimetrogonconfiguration of two oblique right and left cameras and one vertical camera wasused for aerial photo-mapping, a welcome capability in the poorly chartedexpanses of the CBI.
Both missions were flown over enemyoccupied areas of Burma surrounding the northern part of the Burma Road, towardwhich Allied forces from India and China were approaching in the hard-foughtBurma campaign of 1944.
Just a few days before, on Nov. 5, 1944,the squadron lost its first member in the war, when 1Lt Franklin H. McKinney wasdeclared missing in action. Recently areport by the government of Thailand reported that his F-5E aircraft, #811 hasbeen found in Ban Mae Gua, SobprabSub-District, Lampang Province in Thailand. This report has yet to be verified.
As Armistice Day, 1944 progressed westwardacross the planet to the Europe Theater of Operations (ETO), the 371st FighterGroup (371FG, today’s 142nd Fighter Wing) was involved in split operations. Group personnel were at Dole Airfield ineastern France not far from the Swiss border, and the group’s P-47 Thunderboltfighter-bombers were at Dijon Airfield, some 30 miles to the northwest ofDole. The aircraft were flown to Dijon asa result of flooding at Dole the day before due to the Doubs river overflowingits banks. Back in the Dole tents, messhalls and line equipment were hastily moved to higher ground as the floodwatersspread.
The group was informed that it wouldcontinue these split operations between Dole and Dijon until the Doubs recededand the aircraft were able to return to Dole, which turned out to be 11 dayslater. However, on Nov. 11, the weatherwas terrible and there was no flying at all. Rain, mud, snow and flood would hamper the group’s plans.
In this period the 371FG was flyingmissions in and out of nasty weather in support of the Franco-American 6th ArmyGroup, which included the U.S. Seventh Army. In the last week of October, the group’s 405th Fighter Squadron had justflown a remarkable series of aerial resupply missions in support of the “LostBattalion” in Vosges Mountains, many in miserable weather, losing 1Lt Robert A.Booth and two P-47 aircraft in the process.
The service and sacrifice of thepersonnel in these flying units on Armistice Day, 1944, in China, Burma and inFrance, gives an inspiring example of service and sacrifice for us today. On many subsequent Armistice Days since WWII,and continuously since the early 1960s, men and women of the ORANG’s 142ndFighter Wing have maintained Aerospace Control Alert, serving and sacrificingon what for many citizens is perhaps just another holiday.
But it’s not just any holiday. We should pause on Veterans Day to rememberand honor our veterans and all their years of dedicated duty for our community,state and nation, whether overseas or stateside now, at war in 1944 or in peacetoday, ready to defend, 24/7.
Story by TerrenceG. Popravak, Jr., Lt Col, USAF (Retired),142nd Fighter Wing Historian
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let usremember the original members of the Oregon National Guard’s first aviationunit, the 123rd Observation Squadron, who remained in the unit all through itsWorld War II existence, including the wartime overseas deployment toChina.
Redesignated as the 35th PhotographicReconnaissance Squadron (35PRS) before going overseas (and as the 123rd FighterSquadron after the war), these Oregonians and many other American Airmen of thewartime 35PRS operated the F-5E Photo Lightning in the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theaterof operations.
On Nov. 11, 1944, the squadron’s GeorgeFlight, a small detachment of four aircraft and required personnel, wasoperational at the forward airfield of Yunnanyi, 130 miles west of Kunming nearthe Burma border.
On this day, known then as ArmisticeDay, 1st Lts. William W. Dean III (later MIA) and Estal W. Behrens (later KIA)flew combat aerial reconnaissance missions.
Dean flew F-5E #806 on a two-hour30-minute photo recon mission along a strip in between Bhamo, in the northernpart of Burma, eastward across the border back into China at Manhsien.
Behrens flew F-5E #810 on a two-hour and45 minute “Tri-Met” mission along a portion of the famed Burma Road fromWanling south to Lashio. The Trimetrogonconfiguration of two oblique right and left cameras and one vertical camera wasused for aerial photo-mapping, a welcome capability in the poorly chartedexpanses of the CBI.
Both missions were flown over enemyoccupied areas of Burma surrounding the northern part of the Burma Road, towardwhich Allied forces from India and China were approaching in the hard-foughtBurma campaign of 1944.
Just a few days before, on Nov. 5, 1944,the squadron lost its first member in the war, when 1Lt Franklin H. McKinney wasdeclared missing in action. Recently areport by the government of Thailand reported that his F-5E aircraft, #811 hasbeen found in Ban Mae Gua, SobprabSub-District, Lampang Province in Thailand. This report has yet to be verified.
As Armistice Day, 1944 progressed westwardacross the planet to the Europe Theater of Operations (ETO), the 371st FighterGroup (371FG, today’s 142nd Fighter Wing) was involved in split operations. Group personnel were at Dole Airfield ineastern France not far from the Swiss border, and the group’s P-47 Thunderboltfighter-bombers were at Dijon Airfield, some 30 miles to the northwest ofDole. The aircraft were flown to Dijon asa result of flooding at Dole the day before due to the Doubs river overflowingits banks. Back in the Dole tents, messhalls and line equipment were hastily moved to higher ground as the floodwatersspread.
The group was informed that it wouldcontinue these split operations between Dole and Dijon until the Doubs recededand the aircraft were able to return to Dole, which turned out to be 11 dayslater. However, on Nov. 11, the weatherwas terrible and there was no flying at all. Rain, mud, snow and flood would hamper the group’s plans.
In this period the 371FG was flyingmissions in and out of nasty weather in support of the Franco-American 6th ArmyGroup, which included the U.S. Seventh Army. In the last week of October, the group’s 405th Fighter Squadron had justflown a remarkable series of aerial resupply missions in support of the “LostBattalion” in Vosges Mountains, many in miserable weather, losing 1Lt Robert A.Booth and two P-47 aircraft in the process.
The service and sacrifice of thepersonnel in these flying units on Armistice Day, 1944, in China, Burma and inFrance, gives an inspiring example of service and sacrifice for us today. On many subsequent Armistice Days since WWII,and continuously since the early 1960s, men and women of the ORANG’s 142ndFighter Wing have maintained Aerospace Control Alert, serving and sacrificingon what for many citizens is perhaps just another holiday.
But it’s not just any holiday. We should pause on Veterans Day to rememberand honor our veterans and all their years of dedicated duty for our community,state and nation, whether overseas or stateside now, at war in 1944 or in peacetoday, ready to defend, 24/7.
Stolen WWII medals reinstated to Soldier's sister
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121109-Z-TK422-788, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.David Funk (right), Chairman of the 41st Infantry Division Association, presents Rosetta LaBonte, of Portland, Ore., with the Purple Heart medal at the Oregon National Guard's Open House at Camp Withycombe, in Clackamas, Ore., Nov. 9, as former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski looks on.
The medals, which were stolen during a home burglary, were bestowed to LaBonte's family following numerous inquiries by Funk as he worked through various government agencies to have the medals reinstated.
LaBonte's brother, Sgt. Eli A. DuMonte, who was a member of the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Division during WWII, was killed during the battle of Biak in 1944. He was posthumously awarded the medals.
"This was the right thing to do, and I wasn't going to take no for an answer," Funk said, speaking about the government bureaucracy he faced trying to get the medals reinstated.
Funk also faced the challenge presented by archived military records in St. Louis, Mo., which had been destroyed in a fire in 1973. Undaunted, Funk queried several government agencies, and tracked down a fellow Soldier of DuMonte in order to obtain sworn statements supporting the original awarding of the medals.
"This is for my brother, but it's really for my mother and my family," LaBonte said following the ceremony in the second floor auditorium.
The 41st Infantry Division's deployment during WWII was the longest on record, and involved the largest number of Oregon Soldiers. Personnel were primarily assigned to the Pacific Theater of Operations, fighting in several key battles, including Biak and New Guinea.
The ceremony was attended by about 100 local business leaders, Oregon National Guard leadership, and well-wishers.
The Camp Withycombe open house also brought together several groups, including Native American Tribal members, Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, veterans groups, and area residents.
A portion of the ceremony included a presentation of donations by local businesses for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, located at Camp Withycombe. Three companies each donated $50,000 at the event.
For more information on the 41st Inf. Div. Association, go here. For more information on the Oregon Historical Outreach Foundation, and the capital campaign to raise funds for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, visit their website here.
Photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
121109-Z-TK422-788, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.David Funk (right), Chairman of the 41st Infantry Division Association, presents Rosetta LaBonte, of Portland, Ore., with the Purple Heart medal at the Oregon National Guard's Open House at Camp Withycombe, in Clackamas, Ore., Nov. 9, as former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski looks on.
The medals, which were stolen during a home burglary, were bestowed to LaBonte's family following numerous inquiries by Funk as he worked through various government agencies to have the medals reinstated.
LaBonte's brother, Sgt. Eli A. DuMonte, who was a member of the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Division during WWII, was killed during the battle of Biak in 1944. He was posthumously awarded the medals.
"This was the right thing to do, and I wasn't going to take no for an answer," Funk said, speaking about the government bureaucracy he faced trying to get the medals reinstated.
Funk also faced the challenge presented by archived military records in St. Louis, Mo., which had been destroyed in a fire in 1973. Undaunted, Funk queried several government agencies, and tracked down a fellow Soldier of DuMonte in order to obtain sworn statements supporting the original awarding of the medals.
"This is for my brother, but it's really for my mother and my family," LaBonte said following the ceremony in the second floor auditorium.
The 41st Infantry Division's deployment during WWII was the longest on record, and involved the largest number of Oregon Soldiers. Personnel were primarily assigned to the Pacific Theater of Operations, fighting in several key battles, including Biak and New Guinea.
The ceremony was attended by about 100 local business leaders, Oregon National Guard leadership, and well-wishers.
The Camp Withycombe open house also brought together several groups, including Native American Tribal members, Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, veterans groups, and area residents.
A portion of the ceremony included a presentation of donations by local businesses for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, located at Camp Withycombe. Three companies each donated $50,000 at the event.
For more information on the 41st Inf. Div. Association, go here. For more information on the Oregon Historical Outreach Foundation, and the capital campaign to raise funds for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, visit their website here.
Photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
Oregon's Assistant Adjutant General joins local leaders for Veterans Day ceremony at Vancouver Barracks
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121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
Oregon Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Bruce W. Prunk, Assistant Adjutant Gen. Air; U.S. Army Col. Peter Norseth; Ann Rivers, State Senator for the 18th district; Vancouver Mayor Timothy D. Levitt; and Dan Tarbell, event Co-Chairman, render honors during a wreath laying ceremony at the Veterans Day event held at the Fort Vancouver Barracks post cemetery in Vancouver, Wash., Nov. 11. (Oregon Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)
Oregon signs historic State Partnership agreement with Vietnam
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Oregon National Guard Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees(left), Adjutant General, Oregon, and Vietnam Lt. Gen. Tran Quang Khue, ViceChairman of the National Committee for Search and Rescue (VINASARCOM), sign theState Partnership Program agreement at the Ministry of Defense Guest House inHanoi, Vietnam, Nov. 27. U.S. Ambassadorto Vietnam David Shear (center, yellow tie), and other Oregon and Vietnam officialslook on. The State Partnership Programreflects an evolving international affairs mission for the National Guard,emphasizing its unique state-federal and civil-military characteristics tointeract with both the active and reserve forces of foreign nations,interagency partners, and international non-governmental organizations. Oregon also has a partnership withBangladesh. (Photo courtesy of U.S.Embassy Hanoi).
HANOI, Vietnam—TheOregon National Guard has signed a partnership with Vietnam as part of the StatePartnership Program during a ceremony held Nov. 27 at the Ministry of DefenseGuest House in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, Adjutant General, Oregon, signedthe agreement with Vietnam Lt. Gen. Tran Quang Khue, Vice Chairman of theNational Committee for Search and Rescue (VINASARCOM).
U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam David Shear, Oregon Army NationalGuard Brig. Gen. Todd Plimpton, Assistant Adjutant General (Army), Oregon AirNational Guard Col. Mark Crosby, Oregon’s State Partnership Program Director,and other Vietnam officials were on hand for the signing.
The agreement comes just as the United States beginsceremonies marking the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. Events and commemorations to honor eraveterans and casualties are scheduled in both countries through the year 2025. For more information on anniversaryobservances, go here.
The State Partnership Program reflects an evolvinginternational affairs mission for the National Guard, emphasizing its uniquestate-federal and civil-military characteristics to interact with both theactive and reserve forces of foreign nations, interagency partners, andinternational non-governmental organizations.
State partners participate in a broad range of securitycooperation activities to include homeland defense/security, disasterresponse/mitigation, consequence/crisis management, interagency cooperation,border/port/aviation security, combat medical, fellowship-style internships,and bilateral familiarization events that lead to training and exerciseopportunities.
The State Partnership Program currently supports 62partnerships between states and nations. For more information about the program, download the SPP factsheet here.
The Oregon National Guard is also partnered with Bangladesh.
For more information contact Staff Sgt. Joseph Barto,State Partnership Program, at joseph.barto@ang.af.mil, or 503-584-2237.
Posted by Master Sgt. Nick Choy,
Oregon Military Department Social Media Manager
Oregon National Guard Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees(left), Adjutant General, Oregon, and Vietnam Lt. Gen. Tran Quang Khue, ViceChairman of the National Committee for Search and Rescue (VINASARCOM), sign theState Partnership Program agreement at the Ministry of Defense Guest House inHanoi, Vietnam, Nov. 27. U.S. Ambassadorto Vietnam David Shear (center, yellow tie), and other Oregon and Vietnam officialslook on. The State Partnership Programreflects an evolving international affairs mission for the National Guard,emphasizing its unique state-federal and civil-military characteristics tointeract with both the active and reserve forces of foreign nations,interagency partners, and international non-governmental organizations. Oregon also has a partnership withBangladesh. (Photo courtesy of U.S.Embassy Hanoi).HANOI, Vietnam—TheOregon National Guard has signed a partnership with Vietnam as part of the StatePartnership Program during a ceremony held Nov. 27 at the Ministry of DefenseGuest House in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, Adjutant General, Oregon, signedthe agreement with Vietnam Lt. Gen. Tran Quang Khue, Vice Chairman of theNational Committee for Search and Rescue (VINASARCOM).
U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam David Shear, Oregon Army NationalGuard Brig. Gen. Todd Plimpton, Assistant Adjutant General (Army), Oregon AirNational Guard Col. Mark Crosby, Oregon’s State Partnership Program Director,and other Vietnam officials were on hand for the signing.
The agreement comes just as the United States beginsceremonies marking the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. Events and commemorations to honor eraveterans and casualties are scheduled in both countries through the year 2025. For more information on anniversaryobservances, go here.
The State Partnership Program reflects an evolvinginternational affairs mission for the National Guard, emphasizing its uniquestate-federal and civil-military characteristics to interact with both theactive and reserve forces of foreign nations, interagency partners, andinternational non-governmental organizations.
State partners participate in a broad range of securitycooperation activities to include homeland defense/security, disasterresponse/mitigation, consequence/crisis management, interagency cooperation,border/port/aviation security, combat medical, fellowship-style internships,and bilateral familiarization events that lead to training and exerciseopportunities.
The State Partnership Program currently supports 62partnerships between states and nations. For more information about the program, download the SPP factsheet here.
The Oregon National Guard is also partnered with Bangladesh.
For more information contact Staff Sgt. Joseph Barto,State Partnership Program, at joseph.barto@ang.af.mil, or 503-584-2237.
Posted by Master Sgt. Nick Choy,
Oregon Military Department Social Media Manager
29 Kasım 2012 Perşembe
Combined Force Detains 3 Insurgents in Kunduz Province
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From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2012 – An Afghan-led, coalition-supported security force detained three suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader in the Archi district of Afghanistan’s Kunduz province today, military officials reported.
Officials describe the wanted Taliban leader as an improvised explosive device facilitator who coordinates IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
Also today, a combined force operating in Kandahar province’s Shah Wali Kot district arrested a Taliban facilitator suspected of being responsible for overseeing IED and mine emplacements. He is also suspected of training other Taliban insurgents to build and test IEDs. The combined force also detained three suspects and seized multiple weapons.
In Afghanistan operations yesterday:
-- A local Taliban leader, Amirullah, was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Watahpur district of Kunar province. Amirullah was involved in the unsuccessful Nov. 12 suicide attack that targeted the anti-terrorism chief in Kunar province’s Asadabad district. Amirullah was also involved in coordinating the movement of weapons, ammunition and various military supplies for insurgents in the province.
-- One insurgent was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Shahid-e-Hasas district of Uruzgan province. The combined force also destroyed two caches that contained materials used in the construction of IEDs.
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2012 – An Afghan-led, coalition-supported security force detained three suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader in the Archi district of Afghanistan’s Kunduz province today, military officials reported.
Officials describe the wanted Taliban leader as an improvised explosive device facilitator who coordinates IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
Also today, a combined force operating in Kandahar province’s Shah Wali Kot district arrested a Taliban facilitator suspected of being responsible for overseeing IED and mine emplacements. He is also suspected of training other Taliban insurgents to build and test IEDs. The combined force also detained three suspects and seized multiple weapons.
In Afghanistan operations yesterday:
-- A local Taliban leader, Amirullah, was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Watahpur district of Kunar province. Amirullah was involved in the unsuccessful Nov. 12 suicide attack that targeted the anti-terrorism chief in Kunar province’s Asadabad district. Amirullah was also involved in coordinating the movement of weapons, ammunition and various military supplies for insurgents in the province.
-- One insurgent was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Shahid-e-Hasas district of Uruzgan province. The combined force also destroyed two caches that contained materials used in the construction of IEDs.
Face of Defense: Motivated Marine Drives On
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By Marine Corps Cpl. Mark Garcia
Regional Command Southwest
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2012 – The drive to become a Marine and gain acceptance into the tight-knit family is what inspired Staff Sgt. Monica Paz to enlist in July 2000.
A veteran of two previous combat deployments to Iraq, Paz is currently serving as the accounting division chief and squadron support division chief for Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province.
“I originally wanted to go to college, but I really wasn’t set on what I wanted to study and didn’t want to waste my parents’ money,” said Paz, from Miami. “The Marine Corps was the hardest. It seemed like it was the most challenging branch of the military. I didn’t want to regret something that I didn’t do, and my mother always encouraged me to go ahead and accomplish something no matter how hard it was.”
When Paz left for recruit training, she had no idea what her job would be in the Marine Corps.
“My main focus was, ‘I’m going to be a Marine.’ I didn’t care what job they gave me,” Paz said.
Although Paz came in with an open contract, she has worked to become a proficient leader.
“As a Marine, she’s top notch,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert Mena, aviation supply chief with MALS-16, 3rd MAW (Fwd). “She’s well rounded and embodies the whole Marine concept. She definitely has a very positive staff noncommissioned officer future ahead of her. She’s a mentor to a lot of Marines. She’s fantastic at her job, and I couldn’t ask for anything better. She’s motivated and is constantly seeking improvement and trying to make processes better.”
During her 12 years in the Marine Corps, Paz’s most difficult tour was her time as a drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Paz reported to the drill field in July 2007. Paz noted both the mental and physical challenges associated with the job.
“It was the toughest thing I have ever done,” Paz said. “In my mind, it’s harder than deploying. Physically it hurt. It was one of the biggest sacrifices I’ve ever had to make both to my time and my body, and mentally, it was hard.”
Paz credits former drill instructors for her interest in that job.
“My drill instructors are what motivated me to follow in their footsteps,” she said. “I saw them, and they were extremely tough. They didn’t allow us to be mediocre, and they pushed us to the limit. I know that they changed my life.”
Since leaving the drill field, Paz has run into several of her former recruits both in garrison and while deployed to Afghanistan.
“It’s really good when you get to see former recruits be successful,” Paz said. “Even if they don’t re-enlist and decide to get out, they’re on the right path to having successful futures. They’ve gained a lot of knowledge being in the Marine Corps.”
Sgt. Brenna Aspera, a radio chief with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, 3rd MAW (Fwd), is a former recruit of Paz’s and was able to see her former drill instructor while deployed to Afghanistan.
“It’s pretty cool because the Marine Corps is pretty small, so being able to run into someone you knew from so long ago out here in Afghanistan is crazy,” Aspera said.
Aspera has plans of becoming a drill instructor herself and said she will try to mirror Paz’s dedication.
“I was actually thinking about becoming a drill instructor because I need to do a [secondary billet] soon,” Aspera said. “I will definitely try to emulate Staff Sgt. Paz and what she was as a drill instructor. She was a good drill instructor. She was definitely somebody to look up to.”
After completing her tour on the drill field, Paz found out she had a health issue.
“For a moment I thought I was done with the Marine Corps,” Paz said. “I thought that I wouldn’t be able to stay in. I had spinal cord surgery after completing my time in the drill field and finding out I had a serious spinal cord problem. They had to go in there and take out bits of my spine and everything. So it’s been very hard to get back physically to where I am now.”
Despite her injury, Paz will continue to push forward in the Marine Corps and hopes to serve 20 years before pursuing a job as a pharmacist.
“It crosses every Marine’s mind whether they want to stay in for the full 20 years or get out,” Paz said. “It crossed my mind once or twice. But just the thought of waking up in the morning and not putting on my uniform or never being able to go to a Marine Corps Ball again just didn’t feel right.”
During this deployment, Paz was working near the flight line during an attack on Camp Bastion in September.
“It was very real. Being in the air wing, it’s not very common for us to go through something like that. It was definitely an eye opener, but once everything was said and done and you saw how the Marines reacted, you witnessed that they did good things and what you taught them in boot camp still sticks with them to this day. They weren’t afraid and they just did what they had to do.”
While deployed to Afghanistan, Paz will continue to look after the unit’s funding and ensure the service members in MALS-16 have enough equipment to accomplish their missions.
Regional Command Southwest
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2012 – The drive to become a Marine and gain acceptance into the tight-knit family is what inspired Staff Sgt. Monica Paz to enlist in July 2000.
|
“I originally wanted to go to college, but I really wasn’t set on what I wanted to study and didn’t want to waste my parents’ money,” said Paz, from Miami. “The Marine Corps was the hardest. It seemed like it was the most challenging branch of the military. I didn’t want to regret something that I didn’t do, and my mother always encouraged me to go ahead and accomplish something no matter how hard it was.”
When Paz left for recruit training, she had no idea what her job would be in the Marine Corps.
“My main focus was, ‘I’m going to be a Marine.’ I didn’t care what job they gave me,” Paz said.
Although Paz came in with an open contract, she has worked to become a proficient leader.
“As a Marine, she’s top notch,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert Mena, aviation supply chief with MALS-16, 3rd MAW (Fwd). “She’s well rounded and embodies the whole Marine concept. She definitely has a very positive staff noncommissioned officer future ahead of her. She’s a mentor to a lot of Marines. She’s fantastic at her job, and I couldn’t ask for anything better. She’s motivated and is constantly seeking improvement and trying to make processes better.”
During her 12 years in the Marine Corps, Paz’s most difficult tour was her time as a drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Paz reported to the drill field in July 2007. Paz noted both the mental and physical challenges associated with the job.
“It was the toughest thing I have ever done,” Paz said. “In my mind, it’s harder than deploying. Physically it hurt. It was one of the biggest sacrifices I’ve ever had to make both to my time and my body, and mentally, it was hard.”
Paz credits former drill instructors for her interest in that job.
“My drill instructors are what motivated me to follow in their footsteps,” she said. “I saw them, and they were extremely tough. They didn’t allow us to be mediocre, and they pushed us to the limit. I know that they changed my life.”
Since leaving the drill field, Paz has run into several of her former recruits both in garrison and while deployed to Afghanistan.
“It’s really good when you get to see former recruits be successful,” Paz said. “Even if they don’t re-enlist and decide to get out, they’re on the right path to having successful futures. They’ve gained a lot of knowledge being in the Marine Corps.”
Sgt. Brenna Aspera, a radio chief with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, 3rd MAW (Fwd), is a former recruit of Paz’s and was able to see her former drill instructor while deployed to Afghanistan.
“It’s pretty cool because the Marine Corps is pretty small, so being able to run into someone you knew from so long ago out here in Afghanistan is crazy,” Aspera said.
Aspera has plans of becoming a drill instructor herself and said she will try to mirror Paz’s dedication.
“I was actually thinking about becoming a drill instructor because I need to do a [secondary billet] soon,” Aspera said. “I will definitely try to emulate Staff Sgt. Paz and what she was as a drill instructor. She was a good drill instructor. She was definitely somebody to look up to.”
After completing her tour on the drill field, Paz found out she had a health issue.
“For a moment I thought I was done with the Marine Corps,” Paz said. “I thought that I wouldn’t be able to stay in. I had spinal cord surgery after completing my time in the drill field and finding out I had a serious spinal cord problem. They had to go in there and take out bits of my spine and everything. So it’s been very hard to get back physically to where I am now.”
Despite her injury, Paz will continue to push forward in the Marine Corps and hopes to serve 20 years before pursuing a job as a pharmacist.
“It crosses every Marine’s mind whether they want to stay in for the full 20 years or get out,” Paz said. “It crossed my mind once or twice. But just the thought of waking up in the morning and not putting on my uniform or never being able to go to a Marine Corps Ball again just didn’t feel right.”
During this deployment, Paz was working near the flight line during an attack on Camp Bastion in September.
“It was very real. Being in the air wing, it’s not very common for us to go through something like that. It was definitely an eye opener, but once everything was said and done and you saw how the Marines reacted, you witnessed that they did good things and what you taught them in boot camp still sticks with them to this day. They weren’t afraid and they just did what they had to do.”
While deployed to Afghanistan, Paz will continue to look after the unit’s funding and ensure the service members in MALS-16 have enough equipment to accomplish their missions.
Afghan, Coalition Forces Arrest Haqqani Leader
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From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2012 – A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a local Haqqani leader in the Sabari district of Afghanistan’s Khost province today, military officials reported.
The detained Haqqani leader was in charge of the acquisition and distribution of weapons and ammunition to insurgents operating throughout Khost province, officials said.
The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized a number of weapons and grenades.
In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed two insurgents and detained one suspect during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Sar-e Pul district of Sar-e Pul province. The sought-after Taliban leader controls Taliban insurgents operating in Jowzjan and Sar-e Pul provinces, and is thought to be responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in both provinces.
In operations Nov. 25:
-- In Wardak province’s Jaghatu district, a combined force killed the insurgent leader Zubayr, who’d supplied weapons to fighters operating throughout the district. One other insurgent was killed during the operation.
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2012 – A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a local Haqqani leader in the Sabari district of Afghanistan’s Khost province today, military officials reported.
The detained Haqqani leader was in charge of the acquisition and distribution of weapons and ammunition to insurgents operating throughout Khost province, officials said.
The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized a number of weapons and grenades.
In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed two insurgents and detained one suspect during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Sar-e Pul district of Sar-e Pul province. The sought-after Taliban leader controls Taliban insurgents operating in Jowzjan and Sar-e Pul provinces, and is thought to be responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in both provinces.
In operations Nov. 25:
-- In Wardak province’s Jaghatu district, a combined force killed the insurgent leader Zubayr, who’d supplied weapons to fighters operating throughout the district. One other insurgent was killed during the operation.
Afghanistan Supply Network Provides Economic Opportunity
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By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill., Nov. 28, 2012 – The Northern Distribution Network that U.S. Transportation Command helped establish three years ago to supply U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan laid the foundations for strong U.S. partnerships in Central Asia and Russia and for the region’s long-term economic security, the Transcom commander said.
Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser III traveled through the region last month, thanking the governments for their support for the network’s multiple truck, water, rail and air routes used to transport about 40 percent of all military cargo destined for Afghanistan.
The routes have been particularly critical during the past year, Fraser noted, because the Pakistani government closed logistical routes known as the Pakistan ground lines of communication in November 2011 after 24 Pakistani soldiers were killed during a border incident with U.S. troops. Pakistan announced in July that it would reopen the route, but Transcom is still working to break the logjam created by thousands of shipping containers that had been stranded for months.
Relying heavily on the Northern Distribution Network since the closure, Transcom ensured that warfighters in Afghanistan never went without the logistical support they needed, Fraser said during an interview with American Forces Press Service.
“They had the sustainment they needed because we had developed these relationships and had multiple lanes [of supply] to use,” he said.
Now, as the United States lays plans to draw down in Afghanistan, Fraser said he’s found support for strengthening those relationships and improving the processes behind the transportation network -- not just for the duration of the Afghanistan mission and redeployment, but beyond.
Recognizing that U.S. shipments will diminish over time, leaders in nations supporting the NDN see the routes established to support the war effort in Afghanistan as a path to economic progress, Fraser noted. “I think the NDN is opening up opportunities for the future that these countries can capitalize on,” he said.
Nations are working together in unprecedented ways as a result of NDN agreements and exploring ways to streamline their import and export procedures to encourage cross-border commerce.
“We are already seeing some of that,” Fraser said. “As they look forward to the future, these countries know that the military is not going to be doing things at the same level that we have been for a long time. So they are looking for ways to capitalize on what has happened as a result of the Northern Distribution Network.”
Ambassador Dennise Mathieu, Fraser’s foreign policy advisor who accompanied him on the trip, said these efforts fit into the State Department’s vision of a “New Silk Road” that offers new potential in one of the least economically integrated areas of the world.
The goal is to reconnect economies that had been torn apart by decades of war and rivalry, helping restore commercial bonds among some of the world’s fastest-growing economies that sit at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
“The idea is that you can build on the links that have already been established in an economic way,” Mathieu said.
Those efforts are bearing fruit in infrastructure improvements to support this vision, she reported. Azerbaijan is building a new port with hopes of becoming a transportation hub. Rail connections are being built between Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, and a recently completed rail line runs from the Uzbek border to Mazar-e-Sharif in Afghanistan.
“Eventually, with continued cooperation, they will be able to go all the way from China into Europe,” Mathieu said. “You will have a whole new economic network, built upon the foundation of this military logistics supply network.”
By integrating economically, regional nations will have a lasting impact that supports U.S. national interests in the region, she said.
“We believe that when you have economic prosperity, then that helps bring about stability and security,” Mathieu said. “So therefore, the region is going to be more secure. You will have less conflict. It provides opportunities for people to prosper and for their children to go to school and provides the conditions to start to build a democratic base and institutions.”
“All of that is good for the United States,” she said, opening new economic markets and strengthening partnerships across the region.
“This is something that has brought people together,” Mathieu said. “It’s something that enables them to put any differences or difficulties aside so they can work together toward something that benefits everyone.”
American Forces Press Service
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill., Nov. 28, 2012 – The Northern Distribution Network that U.S. Transportation Command helped establish three years ago to supply U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan laid the foundations for strong U.S. partnerships in Central Asia and Russia and for the region’s long-term economic security, the Transcom commander said.
Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser III traveled through the region last month, thanking the governments for their support for the network’s multiple truck, water, rail and air routes used to transport about 40 percent of all military cargo destined for Afghanistan.
The routes have been particularly critical during the past year, Fraser noted, because the Pakistani government closed logistical routes known as the Pakistan ground lines of communication in November 2011 after 24 Pakistani soldiers were killed during a border incident with U.S. troops. Pakistan announced in July that it would reopen the route, but Transcom is still working to break the logjam created by thousands of shipping containers that had been stranded for months.
Relying heavily on the Northern Distribution Network since the closure, Transcom ensured that warfighters in Afghanistan never went without the logistical support they needed, Fraser said during an interview with American Forces Press Service.
“They had the sustainment they needed because we had developed these relationships and had multiple lanes [of supply] to use,” he said.
Now, as the United States lays plans to draw down in Afghanistan, Fraser said he’s found support for strengthening those relationships and improving the processes behind the transportation network -- not just for the duration of the Afghanistan mission and redeployment, but beyond.
Recognizing that U.S. shipments will diminish over time, leaders in nations supporting the NDN see the routes established to support the war effort in Afghanistan as a path to economic progress, Fraser noted. “I think the NDN is opening up opportunities for the future that these countries can capitalize on,” he said.
Nations are working together in unprecedented ways as a result of NDN agreements and exploring ways to streamline their import and export procedures to encourage cross-border commerce.
“We are already seeing some of that,” Fraser said. “As they look forward to the future, these countries know that the military is not going to be doing things at the same level that we have been for a long time. So they are looking for ways to capitalize on what has happened as a result of the Northern Distribution Network.”
Ambassador Dennise Mathieu, Fraser’s foreign policy advisor who accompanied him on the trip, said these efforts fit into the State Department’s vision of a “New Silk Road” that offers new potential in one of the least economically integrated areas of the world.
The goal is to reconnect economies that had been torn apart by decades of war and rivalry, helping restore commercial bonds among some of the world’s fastest-growing economies that sit at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
“The idea is that you can build on the links that have already been established in an economic way,” Mathieu said.
Those efforts are bearing fruit in infrastructure improvements to support this vision, she reported. Azerbaijan is building a new port with hopes of becoming a transportation hub. Rail connections are being built between Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, and a recently completed rail line runs from the Uzbek border to Mazar-e-Sharif in Afghanistan.
“Eventually, with continued cooperation, they will be able to go all the way from China into Europe,” Mathieu said. “You will have a whole new economic network, built upon the foundation of this military logistics supply network.”
By integrating economically, regional nations will have a lasting impact that supports U.S. national interests in the region, she said.
“We believe that when you have economic prosperity, then that helps bring about stability and security,” Mathieu said. “So therefore, the region is going to be more secure. You will have less conflict. It provides opportunities for people to prosper and for their children to go to school and provides the conditions to start to build a democratic base and institutions.”
“All of that is good for the United States,” she said, opening new economic markets and strengthening partnerships across the region.
“This is something that has brought people together,” Mathieu said. “It’s something that enables them to put any differences or difficulties aside so they can work together toward something that benefits everyone.”
Wisconsin Guard unit driven to complete Afghanistan mission
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November 26, 2012
Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep." - Robert Frost, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
It's not too likely that the Wisconsin Army National Guard's 1157th Transportation Company made many intentional scenic stops while conducting convoy escort missions for the past several months in Afghanistan, but the men and women of the Oshkosh-based unit has kept their commander's promise to meet or exceed expectations, and it has logged tens of thousands of miles in doing so.
While the mission allows 1157th Soldiers to see parts of Afghanistan that others do not, those missions are not without challenges. The missions range from one or two days to a few weeks in length. Common obstacles include poorly maintained roads requiring improvised detours and slower convoy speeds, dense civilian traffic and frequent vehicle breakdowns with the National Afghan Truckers (NATs). There is also the very real danger of encountering armed insurgents along the way.
"It is not uncommon for Afghani motorists to weave in and out of traffic at high rates of speed, often traveling for long periods of time in the wrong lane or off-road," said Sgt. 1st Class Dominic Renteria, a platoon sergeant with the 1157th. "Traffic lights are virtually non-existent, and many heavily trafficked areas rely on traffic police."
Renteria said that in gridlock-plagued Kabul, pedestrians rule the streets. However, NAT vehicle breakdowns top the list of convoy complications to avoid. Heavy payloads, extensive mileage and insufficient maintenance take their toll on the civilian semi-tractors, and frequent mechanical breakdowns result. "Soldiers cringe as the radio relays the message, 'Convoy commander, please halt the convoy - we have a NAT broken down and pulling off to the side of the road,'" Renteria said. Such delays can last from 10 minutes to hours, increasing the risk of fatigue as well as enemy attack.
"I hate when the NATs have a long breakdown - it makes me feel like a sitting duck at times," said Staff Sgt. Melissa Jeske of Newton, Wis., a convoy commander. "I do take comfort in knowing that my Soldiers are ready and prepared to deal with anyone who wants to mess with a sitting duck."
This statement was validated in June, when one 1157th convoy endured a small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenade attack. In an instant, 1157th gunners returned fire and suppressed the insurgent advance. Within moments, the attack was over. Thanks to the convoy's tactical preparation, the vehicles suffered only minor damage - and while one Afghani truck driver sustained minor shrapnel wounds to his feet, no other injuries were reported.
"That was a rough day, but I think we proved to ourselves that we were prepared to handle whatever was thrown our way," said Staff Sgt. Nathan Roth of Appleton, Wis., who has led 40 missions across Afghanistan and commanded that particular convoy. Many of his Soldiers have earned the Army Combat Action Badge on this deployment.
In spite of the dangers, Soldiers welcome the opportunity to go on mission as doing so seems to make the deployment go by faster. Each Forward Operating Base contains its own bazaar of local vendors - a popular destination for road warriors seeking mementos of their journey.
"I am doing all my Christmas shopping at the bazaar this year," said 1st Lt. Nathan Wilhelms of Neenah, Wis. "I hope everyone back home likes decorative scarves and Afghani pottery."
With Thanksgiving over and Christmas approaching, many in the 1157th are reminded of home. "Being here for Thanksgiving really put into perspective what I am thankful for back home," said Sgt. Susan Delaney.
Trying to recreate a sense of home, Delaney and her platoon prepared a Thanksgiving dinner at the barracks, using only a crockpot and microwave oven. The food was delivered courtesy of the U.S. Postal Service, and included turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, pumpkin pie, apple pie and sparkling grape juice.
"This was such a morale booster for the platoon when it was obvious we were all missing home," said Sgt. Tiffany Gorges of Oshkosh, Wis. "This year, I am thankful for being part of a platoon that makes the best out of every situation."
November 26, 2012Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep." - Robert Frost, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
It's not too likely that the Wisconsin Army National Guard's 1157th Transportation Company made many intentional scenic stops while conducting convoy escort missions for the past several months in Afghanistan, but the men and women of the Oshkosh-based unit has kept their commander's promise to meet or exceed expectations, and it has logged tens of thousands of miles in doing so.
While the mission allows 1157th Soldiers to see parts of Afghanistan that others do not, those missions are not without challenges. The missions range from one or two days to a few weeks in length. Common obstacles include poorly maintained roads requiring improvised detours and slower convoy speeds, dense civilian traffic and frequent vehicle breakdowns with the National Afghan Truckers (NATs). There is also the very real danger of encountering armed insurgents along the way.
"It is not uncommon for Afghani motorists to weave in and out of traffic at high rates of speed, often traveling for long periods of time in the wrong lane or off-road," said Sgt. 1st Class Dominic Renteria, a platoon sergeant with the 1157th. "Traffic lights are virtually non-existent, and many heavily trafficked areas rely on traffic police."
Renteria said that in gridlock-plagued Kabul, pedestrians rule the streets. However, NAT vehicle breakdowns top the list of convoy complications to avoid. Heavy payloads, extensive mileage and insufficient maintenance take their toll on the civilian semi-tractors, and frequent mechanical breakdowns result. "Soldiers cringe as the radio relays the message, 'Convoy commander, please halt the convoy - we have a NAT broken down and pulling off to the side of the road,'" Renteria said. Such delays can last from 10 minutes to hours, increasing the risk of fatigue as well as enemy attack.
"I hate when the NATs have a long breakdown - it makes me feel like a sitting duck at times," said Staff Sgt. Melissa Jeske of Newton, Wis., a convoy commander. "I do take comfort in knowing that my Soldiers are ready and prepared to deal with anyone who wants to mess with a sitting duck."
This statement was validated in June, when one 1157th convoy endured a small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenade attack. In an instant, 1157th gunners returned fire and suppressed the insurgent advance. Within moments, the attack was over. Thanks to the convoy's tactical preparation, the vehicles suffered only minor damage - and while one Afghani truck driver sustained minor shrapnel wounds to his feet, no other injuries were reported.
"That was a rough day, but I think we proved to ourselves that we were prepared to handle whatever was thrown our way," said Staff Sgt. Nathan Roth of Appleton, Wis., who has led 40 missions across Afghanistan and commanded that particular convoy. Many of his Soldiers have earned the Army Combat Action Badge on this deployment.
In spite of the dangers, Soldiers welcome the opportunity to go on mission as doing so seems to make the deployment go by faster. Each Forward Operating Base contains its own bazaar of local vendors - a popular destination for road warriors seeking mementos of their journey.
"I am doing all my Christmas shopping at the bazaar this year," said 1st Lt. Nathan Wilhelms of Neenah, Wis. "I hope everyone back home likes decorative scarves and Afghani pottery."
With Thanksgiving over and Christmas approaching, many in the 1157th are reminded of home. "Being here for Thanksgiving really put into perspective what I am thankful for back home," said Sgt. Susan Delaney.
Trying to recreate a sense of home, Delaney and her platoon prepared a Thanksgiving dinner at the barracks, using only a crockpot and microwave oven. The food was delivered courtesy of the U.S. Postal Service, and included turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, pumpkin pie, apple pie and sparkling grape juice.
"This was such a morale booster for the platoon when it was obvious we were all missing home," said Sgt. Tiffany Gorges of Oshkosh, Wis. "This year, I am thankful for being part of a platoon that makes the best out of every situation."
28 Kasım 2012 Çarşamba
Oregon's Assistant Adjutant General joins local leaders for Veterans Day ceremony at Vancouver Barracks
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121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
Oregon Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Bruce W. Prunk, Assistant Adjutant Gen. Air; U.S. Army Col. Peter Norseth; Ann Rivers, State Senator for the 18th district; Vancouver Mayor Timothy D. Levitt; and Dan Tarbell, event Co-Chairman, render honors during a wreath laying ceremony at the Veterans Day event held at the Fort Vancouver Barracks post cemetery in Vancouver, Wash., Nov. 11. (Oregon Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)
Survey Finds Parents Choose Holiday Toy Destination Based on Low Prices
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BENTONVILLE, Ark., Kids are willing to do almost anything to get the toys they want for Christmas according to Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey, which found that 68 percent of kids said they would clean their rooms daily for a year, while 84 percent would work hard and give up playtime. But every child has limits; only 23 percent of kids would eat spinach for a year to get their holiday toys. The Walmart-commissioned survey also found that mom and dad favor educational toys and are focused on price. “The survey reflects what we are seeing in our stores. Parents are intent on fulfilling their kids’ holiday toy wish lists and at the same time, are looking for the most affordable options,” said Laura Phillips, senior vice president of toys, seasonal and celebrations, Walmart U.S. “As the largest seller of toys in the U.S. we have a unique ability to leverage our size and scale in a way that meets those needs and helps parents deliver a Christmas to remember.” Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey, which polled 1,009 children between the ages of 3 – 11 and their parents, also discovered: 
“We have seen that educational toys – including kids’ tablets – are one of the most popular categories this year,” shared Phillips. “To meet this demand, we have significantly increased the quantity of educational tablets in our stores and are adding new products throughout the season. This is just one example of how we’ve worked closely with our suppliers to help ensure we have the toys both kids and parents want.”In addition, as part of Walmart’s Toyland Tuesday toy rollback program, where Walmart has been rolling back prices on toys every Tuesday beginning in October, the retailer is offering parents the opportunity to vote on their toy savings. On Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 parents can choose between two toys to go on rollback the following Tuesday. For more on Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey, please visit news.walmart.com/holidaytoys. Survey MethodologyThe “Walmart Talking Holiday Toys Survey” was conducted by GfK Public Affairs & Corporate Communications utilizing GfK’s KnowledgePanel. The survey polled 1,009 children between the ages of 3 –11 and each child’s parent in September 2012.About Walmart Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, more than 200 million customers and members visit our 10,400 stores under 69 banners in 27 countries and e-commerce websites in 10 countries. With fiscal year 2012 sales of approximately $444 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.2 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting http://corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at http://facebook.com/walmart and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/walmartnewsroom. Online merchandise sales are available at http://www.walmart.com and http://www.samsclub.com.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., Kids are willing to do almost anything to get the toys they want for Christmas according to Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey, which found that 68 percent of kids said they would clean their rooms daily for a year, while 84 percent would work hard and give up playtime. But every child has limits; only 23 percent of kids would eat spinach for a year to get their holiday toys. The Walmart-commissioned survey also found that mom and dad favor educational toys and are focused on price. Walmart & The Salvation Army Partner For 122nd Annual Red Kettle Campaign
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Red Kettle Donations and “Fill the Truck” Toy Drives to Help Provide a Cheerful Christmas to Children Nationwide Alexandria, VA – Walmart and The Salvation Army announced today that they are partnering this holiday season for the 122nd Annual Red Kettle Campaign. Walmart and Sam’s Club stores across the country will host The Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles and bell ringers again this holiday season between Friday, November 23rd and Monday, December 24th. Last year, Walmart and Sam’s Club helped The Salvation Army raise more than $46 million—nearly one-third of all money raised. All donations made to the red kettles will remain in the local communities in which they were collected, and help The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, shelter, financial assistance and other services to 30 million people a year. In addition, on Saturday, December 8, more than 2,500 Walmart stores will participate in “Fill the Truck” toy drives to help provide new toys and coats to children in need on Christmas.“As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the holidays this year, it’s important for us to remember our neighbors in need,” said Sylvia Mathews Burwell, president of the Walmart Foundation. “By working with The Salvation Army and our generous shoppers, we hope to be able to provide families nationwide with basic need items like food, clothing and shelter, as well as bring more smiles to thousands of children on Christmas day.” 
“Fill the Truck” events will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until 5:00 p.m. local time on Saturday, December 8 at select Walmart stores. The events are open to the general public who would like to donate new toys and coats to children who take part in Salvation Army programs year round. Upon arrival, shoppers will receive a list of suggested gifts to add to the truck or collection bin at the stores. Once the donation receptacles are full, The Salvation Army will bring the donations to their local units and distribute the gifts throughout the Christmas season as part of their support to local families in need. Collections are expected to provide gifts to more than 10,000 children nationwide. This year, the Walmart Foundation also made a $1 million donation to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign. The donation will be split among the four Salvation Army Territories and support feeding programs, including meal programs for youths. Last year, The Salvation Army served nearly 58 million meals to children and adults in need.Notably, 81 percent of Salvation Army programs saw an increase in need among families with children due to the recession in 2011, according to “Growing Up in a Downturn,” a Salvation Army report from earlier this year. The report also found that 56 percent of Salvation Army youth programs were operating at or beyond capacity, which includes feeding, education, athletic, artistic and religious programs. As a result of the recession’s lingering impact, The Salvation Army expects the need to continue this Christmas season.“For the past several years, there has been a growing need in America, and social service organizations like The Salvation Army have seen this demand first hand,” said Major George Hood, National Community Relations and Development Secretary for The Salvation Army. “The ‘Fill the Truck’ event with Walmart will help The Salvation Army meet that need this Christmas, and provide something special to children in need.”From its humble origin as a fundraiser started by a Salvation Army captain in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown into one of the most recognizable and important charitable campaigns in the United States. As part of the campaign, more than 25,000 Salvation Army workers and volunteers spread throughout the country to ring bells daily and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles from holiday shoppers. In 2011, the campaign raised more than $147.6 million nationwide, a new record supported by the public’s nickels, dimes, quarters, dollars, credit cards (and the occasional diamond ring or gold tooth) all collected and used to help people in the communities where they were raised. Last year, the funds helped The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, toys and other assistance to 30 million Americans in need.For more information on The Salvation Army and the Red Kettle Kickoff, please visit http://blog.salvationarmyusa.org,www.facebook.com/salvationarmyusa or www.twitter.com/salvationarmyus. About Philanthropy at Walmart Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support initiatives that are helping people live better around the globe. In May 2010, Walmart and its Foundation made a historic pledge of $2 billion through 2015 to fight hunger in the U.S. The Walmart Foundation also supports education, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness initiatives. To learn more, visit www.walmartfoundation.org.About The Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for more than 130 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar spent is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org.
Red Kettle Donations and “Fill the Truck” Toy Drives to Help Provide a Cheerful Christmas to Children Nationwide Alexandria, VA – Walmart and The Salvation Army announced today that they are partnering this holiday season for the 122nd Annual Red Kettle Campaign. Walmart and Sam’s Club stores across the country will host The Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles and bell ringers again this holiday season between Friday, November 23rd and Monday, December 24th. Last year, Walmart and Sam’s Club helped The Salvation Army raise more than $46 million—nearly one-third of all money raised. All donations made to the red kettles will remain in the local communities in which they were collected, and help The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, shelter, financial assistance and other services to 30 million people a year. In addition, on Saturday, December 8, more than 2,500 Walmart stores will participate in “Fill the Truck” toy drives to help provide new toys and coats to children in need on Christmas.“As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the holidays this year, it’s important for us to remember our neighbors in need,” said Sylvia Mathews Burwell, president of the Walmart Foundation. “By working with The Salvation Army and our generous shoppers, we hope to be able to provide families nationwide with basic need items like food, clothing and shelter, as well as bring more smiles to thousands of children on Christmas day.”The Partition Plan - 65 years later
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29 Nov 2012
On November 29, 1947 the UN General Assembly voted on the partition plan, and UNGA Resolution 181 was adopted by a vote of 33 to 13.
Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, November 29, 1947 (GPO archive photo)
History of the Resolution
In February 1947, Great Britain, which had controlled the mandatory territory since 1917, decided to turn the issue of the Palestinian Mandate over to the United Nations. The UN established a Special Commission on Palestine (UNSCOP), which recommended the establishment of two states - Arab and Jewish - in the area and Jerusalem as an international enclave.
The Jewish population - while dissatisfied with the small size of the territory allotted to their state in contradiction to the promises made by the League of Nations in 1922, as well as the plan to sever Jerusalem from the state by internationalizing it - accepted the compromise. In sharp contrast, the Arab states and the Arab residents of the Mandatory territory rejected UNSCOP’s recommendations out of hand.
The UN General Assembly held a vote on the partition plan and on 29 November 1947 UNGA Resolution 181 was adopted by 33 to 13, with 10 abstentions.
The Post-Resolution 181 Era
The Arab rejection of the partition plan was not confined to a political act. The Arabs of the Mandate territory launched a large-scale terrorist campaign against their Jewish neighbors.
This was followed by the invasion of Israel by five Arab armies who wanted to destroy Israel when it proclaimed its independence on 14 May 1948. The Jewish population defended itself against the Arabs' declared plans to "throw the Jews into the sea" but at a heavy cost of 1% of their total population and great damage to the new state.
The Arab population of the Mandate territory also suffered as a result of their refusal to accept the partition plan. Many heeded their leaders' calls to flee, others left after being caught up in the fighting. The large numbers who stayed in Israel became full citizens, with equal rights. Nevertheless, the Palestinian refugee problem had been created. It was to be kept alive artificially by the Arab and Palestinian leadership till the present day, while the comparable Jewish refugee problem was resolved by the nascent state of Israel.
At war's end, Egypt had control of the Gaza Strip and Jordan annexed the West Bank. Neither saw fit to establish a Palestinian state in the territory they were to control for 19 years.
While UNGA Resolution 181 expressed the will of the international community for the establishment of a Jewish state, Israel still had to meet all the requirements of UN membership to be accepted into the organization. After Security Council approval, Israel took its seat as the 59th member of the United Nations on 11 May 1949.
The Relevance of Resolution 181
The General Assembly resolution had three primary elements that retain their relevance till today:
• Resolution 181 constituted recognition by the international community that the Jewish people deserve their own state, a Jewish state, in their historical homeland.
• The resolution called for the establishment of two states for two peoples - Jewish and Arab - between the Mediterranean and the Jordan River, each fulfilling the national aspirations of its respective populations. That formula remains Israel's position with regards to peace negotiations. However, the Arabs of the British mandate territory refused to accept a state because it meant compromising. Today the Palestinians continue to refuse to compromise to achieve a state. Then as now, a Palestinian state will not be established without the willingness to compromise and negotiate.
• The refusal by the Arab population of the mandate territory to accept resolution 181 demonstrated that they were not interested in establishing their own state if it meant allowing the existence of a Jewish state. This opposition to acknowledging the right of a Jewish state to exist in the Middle East lies at the core of the conflict. Even today, the Palestinian leadership rejects calls to recognize Israel as the Jewish state, a refusal that will prevent any resolution to the conflict.
If the Palestinians had chosen the path of compromise in 1947, the suffering on both sides could have been prevented. It is not too late to return to direct negotiations, which can bring about a better future for the two peoples.
Modern reenactment of the event
On November 29, 2011, for the first time in Israel's history, the day on which the UN General Assembly passed the resolution in favor of the establishment of the Jewish state was reenacted. Initiated by the World Zionist Organization, the reenaction took place in the plaza of the National Institutions Building - which was then the Knesset. Thousands took part in the mass celebrations, dancing and rejoicing to the sound of the recording of the UN resolution exactly as it happened 64 years ago.
Celebrations in Tel Aviv, Nov 29, 1947 (GPO archive photo)
Historical figures, including former prime ministers David Ben Gurion and Golda Meir, who were part of the original celebrations, were played by actors who greeted those gathered from the historic balcony, with actors portraying the then chief rabbis of Israel at their sides.
Israelis wave flags during reenactment of the celebrations on Nov 29, 1947
after the passing of the UN resolution leading to the establishment of Israel
(Photo: Reuters)
Two Citroen limousines, which carried the celebrities, as well as a British army jeep from this period were found and were installed at the plaza. A news boy distributed newspapers, printed especially for this occasion, in the spirit of those times. In addition, street musicians and dance troupes led hora dancing circles and folk dancing.
29 Nov 2012On November 29, 1947 the UN General Assembly voted on the partition plan, and UNGA Resolution 181 was adopted by a vote of 33 to 13.
Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, November 29, 1947 (GPO archive photo)
History of the Resolution
In February 1947, Great Britain, which had controlled the mandatory territory since 1917, decided to turn the issue of the Palestinian Mandate over to the United Nations. The UN established a Special Commission on Palestine (UNSCOP), which recommended the establishment of two states - Arab and Jewish - in the area and Jerusalem as an international enclave.The Jewish population - while dissatisfied with the small size of the territory allotted to their state in contradiction to the promises made by the League of Nations in 1922, as well as the plan to sever Jerusalem from the state by internationalizing it - accepted the compromise. In sharp contrast, the Arab states and the Arab residents of the Mandatory territory rejected UNSCOP’s recommendations out of hand.
The UN General Assembly held a vote on the partition plan and on 29 November 1947 UNGA Resolution 181 was adopted by 33 to 13, with 10 abstentions.
The Post-Resolution 181 Era
The Arab rejection of the partition plan was not confined to a political act. The Arabs of the Mandate territory launched a large-scale terrorist campaign against their Jewish neighbors.
This was followed by the invasion of Israel by five Arab armies who wanted to destroy Israel when it proclaimed its independence on 14 May 1948. The Jewish population defended itself against the Arabs' declared plans to "throw the Jews into the sea" but at a heavy cost of 1% of their total population and great damage to the new state.
The Arab population of the Mandate territory also suffered as a result of their refusal to accept the partition plan. Many heeded their leaders' calls to flee, others left after being caught up in the fighting. The large numbers who stayed in Israel became full citizens, with equal rights. Nevertheless, the Palestinian refugee problem had been created. It was to be kept alive artificially by the Arab and Palestinian leadership till the present day, while the comparable Jewish refugee problem was resolved by the nascent state of Israel.
At war's end, Egypt had control of the Gaza Strip and Jordan annexed the West Bank. Neither saw fit to establish a Palestinian state in the territory they were to control for 19 years.
While UNGA Resolution 181 expressed the will of the international community for the establishment of a Jewish state, Israel still had to meet all the requirements of UN membership to be accepted into the organization. After Security Council approval, Israel took its seat as the 59th member of the United Nations on 11 May 1949.
The Relevance of Resolution 181
The General Assembly resolution had three primary elements that retain their relevance till today:
• Resolution 181 constituted recognition by the international community that the Jewish people deserve their own state, a Jewish state, in their historical homeland.
• The resolution called for the establishment of two states for two peoples - Jewish and Arab - between the Mediterranean and the Jordan River, each fulfilling the national aspirations of its respective populations. That formula remains Israel's position with regards to peace negotiations. However, the Arabs of the British mandate territory refused to accept a state because it meant compromising. Today the Palestinians continue to refuse to compromise to achieve a state. Then as now, a Palestinian state will not be established without the willingness to compromise and negotiate.
• The refusal by the Arab population of the mandate territory to accept resolution 181 demonstrated that they were not interested in establishing their own state if it meant allowing the existence of a Jewish state. This opposition to acknowledging the right of a Jewish state to exist in the Middle East lies at the core of the conflict. Even today, the Palestinian leadership rejects calls to recognize Israel as the Jewish state, a refusal that will prevent any resolution to the conflict.
If the Palestinians had chosen the path of compromise in 1947, the suffering on both sides could have been prevented. It is not too late to return to direct negotiations, which can bring about a better future for the two peoples.
Modern reenactment of the event
On November 29, 2011, for the first time in Israel's history, the day on which the UN General Assembly passed the resolution in favor of the establishment of the Jewish state was reenacted. Initiated by the World Zionist Organization, the reenaction took place in the plaza of the National Institutions Building - which was then the Knesset. Thousands took part in the mass celebrations, dancing and rejoicing to the sound of the recording of the UN resolution exactly as it happened 64 years ago.
Celebrations in Tel Aviv, Nov 29, 1947 (GPO archive photo)
Historical figures, including former prime ministers David Ben Gurion and Golda Meir, who were part of the original celebrations, were played by actors who greeted those gathered from the historic balcony, with actors portraying the then chief rabbis of Israel at their sides.
Israelis wave flags during reenactment of the celebrations on Nov 29, 1947
after the passing of the UN resolution leading to the establishment of Israel
(Photo: Reuters)
Two Citroen limousines, which carried the celebrities, as well as a British army jeep from this period were found and were installed at the plaza. A news boy distributed newspapers, printed especially for this occasion, in the spirit of those times. In addition, street musicians and dance troupes led hora dancing circles and folk dancing.
RING IN THE RHYTHM! A JAZZ & TAP HOLIDAY
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Kittery, Maine - RING IN THE RHYTHM! A JAZZ & TAP HOLIDAY will be presented for two shows only on Saturday, December 15 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 16 at 2:00pm at The Dance Hall in Kittery, Maine. The joyful dance and music celebration features legendary tap dancer Brenda Bufalino; notable locals Drika Overton and Gay Nardone; and young lions Ryan
Casey and Ayan Imai-Hall, both dancers in NY based touring tap dance companies. The distinguished musicians include Mark Shilansky-piano, Nate Therrien-bass, Charlie Tokarz-reeds and Jonny Peiffer-percussion. Surprise guests will be making cameo performances!
Drika Overton's dream has been to fill the Dance Hall with the joy and spirit of dance. Overton believes in the power of music and dance to ring in the joyful spirit of the holidays, with tap dance and jazz artists who have been staples of the Seacoast performing scene since 1990. Unique voices blend the ages with their own choreographies and stories, inviting powerful next generation dancers to share their vitality and unique vision. Comedy, rhythm, heartfelt holiday longings, and the gifted melodic and harmonic arrangements of the world class musicians--including selections from the Clara's Dream A Jazz Nutcracker-- make for two unforgettable shows!
More info and tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/286097!
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| photo credit: Nancy Grace Horton |
Casey and Ayan Imai-Hall, both dancers in NY based touring tap dance companies. The distinguished musicians include Mark Shilansky-piano, Nate Therrien-bass, Charlie Tokarz-reeds and Jonny Peiffer-percussion. Surprise guests will be making cameo performances!
Drika Overton's dream has been to fill the Dance Hall with the joy and spirit of dance. Overton believes in the power of music and dance to ring in the joyful spirit of the holidays, with tap dance and jazz artists who have been staples of the Seacoast performing scene since 1990. Unique voices blend the ages with their own choreographies and stories, inviting powerful next generation dancers to share their vitality and unique vision. Comedy, rhythm, heartfelt holiday longings, and the gifted melodic and harmonic arrangements of the world class musicians--including selections from the Clara's Dream A Jazz Nutcracker-- make for two unforgettable shows!
More info and tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/286097!
27 Kasım 2012 Salı
Miss Oregon volunteers at Operation Homefront's Back to School Brigade event
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120810-F-TK422-010, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.Nichole Mead, Miss Oregon 2012, speaks to children of Oregon National Guard members during Operation Homefront’s Back to School Brigade event at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Ore., Aug. 10.
The event, organized by the Oregon Chapter of Operation Homefront, gave school supplies and backpacks to children of Oregon National Guard members at no cost. Mead helped participants pick out school supplies and backpacks donated by Dollar Tree.
Oregon National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
To see the rest of the photos from this event, visit our official Flickr page, where you can also download the high resolution images.
120810-F-TK422-010, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.Nichole Mead, Miss Oregon 2012, speaks to children of Oregon National Guard members during Operation Homefront’s Back to School Brigade event at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Ore., Aug. 10.
The event, organized by the Oregon Chapter of Operation Homefront, gave school supplies and backpacks to children of Oregon National Guard members at no cost. Mead helped participants pick out school supplies and backpacks donated by Dollar Tree.
Oregon National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
To see the rest of the photos from this event, visit our official Flickr page, where you can also download the high resolution images.
Veterans Day for Oregon's Airmen, 1944
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Story by TerrenceG. Popravak, Jr., Lt Col, USAF (Retired),142nd Fighter Wing Historian
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let usremember the original members of the Oregon National Guard’s first aviationunit, the 123rd Observation Squadron, who remained in the unit all through itsWorld War II existence, including the wartime overseas deployment toChina.
Redesignated as the 35th PhotographicReconnaissance Squadron (35PRS) before going overseas (and as the 123rd FighterSquadron after the war), these Oregonians and many other American Airmen of thewartime 35PRS operated the F-5E Photo Lightning in the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theaterof operations.
On Nov. 11, 1944, the squadron’s GeorgeFlight, a small detachment of four aircraft and required personnel, wasoperational at the forward airfield of Yunnanyi, 130 miles west of Kunming nearthe Burma border.
On this day, known then as ArmisticeDay, 1st Lts. William W. Dean III (later MIA) and Estal W. Behrens (later KIA)flew combat aerial reconnaissance missions.
Dean flew F-5E #806 on a two-hour30-minute photo recon mission along a strip in between Bhamo, in the northernpart of Burma, eastward across the border back into China at Manhsien.
Behrens flew F-5E #810 on a two-hour and45 minute “Tri-Met” mission along a portion of the famed Burma Road fromWanling south to Lashio. The Trimetrogonconfiguration of two oblique right and left cameras and one vertical camera wasused for aerial photo-mapping, a welcome capability in the poorly chartedexpanses of the CBI.
Both missions were flown over enemyoccupied areas of Burma surrounding the northern part of the Burma Road, towardwhich Allied forces from India and China were approaching in the hard-foughtBurma campaign of 1944.
Just a few days before, on Nov. 5, 1944,the squadron lost its first member in the war, when 1Lt Franklin H. McKinney wasdeclared missing in action. Recently areport by the government of Thailand reported that his F-5E aircraft, #811 hasbeen found in Ban Mae Gua, SobprabSub-District, Lampang Province in Thailand. This report has yet to be verified.
As Armistice Day, 1944 progressed westwardacross the planet to the Europe Theater of Operations (ETO), the 371st FighterGroup (371FG, today’s 142nd Fighter Wing) was involved in split operations. Group personnel were at Dole Airfield ineastern France not far from the Swiss border, and the group’s P-47 Thunderboltfighter-bombers were at Dijon Airfield, some 30 miles to the northwest ofDole. The aircraft were flown to Dijon asa result of flooding at Dole the day before due to the Doubs river overflowingits banks. Back in the Dole tents, messhalls and line equipment were hastily moved to higher ground as the floodwatersspread.
The group was informed that it wouldcontinue these split operations between Dole and Dijon until the Doubs recededand the aircraft were able to return to Dole, which turned out to be 11 dayslater. However, on Nov. 11, the weatherwas terrible and there was no flying at all. Rain, mud, snow and flood would hamper the group’s plans.
In this period the 371FG was flyingmissions in and out of nasty weather in support of the Franco-American 6th ArmyGroup, which included the U.S. Seventh Army. In the last week of October, the group’s 405th Fighter Squadron had justflown a remarkable series of aerial resupply missions in support of the “LostBattalion” in Vosges Mountains, many in miserable weather, losing 1Lt Robert A.Booth and two P-47 aircraft in the process.
The service and sacrifice of thepersonnel in these flying units on Armistice Day, 1944, in China, Burma and inFrance, gives an inspiring example of service and sacrifice for us today. On many subsequent Armistice Days since WWII,and continuously since the early 1960s, men and women of the ORANG’s 142ndFighter Wing have maintained Aerospace Control Alert, serving and sacrificingon what for many citizens is perhaps just another holiday.
But it’s not just any holiday. We should pause on Veterans Day to rememberand honor our veterans and all their years of dedicated duty for our community,state and nation, whether overseas or stateside now, at war in 1944 or in peacetoday, ready to defend, 24/7.
Story by TerrenceG. Popravak, Jr., Lt Col, USAF (Retired),142nd Fighter Wing Historian
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let usremember the original members of the Oregon National Guard’s first aviationunit, the 123rd Observation Squadron, who remained in the unit all through itsWorld War II existence, including the wartime overseas deployment toChina.
Redesignated as the 35th PhotographicReconnaissance Squadron (35PRS) before going overseas (and as the 123rd FighterSquadron after the war), these Oregonians and many other American Airmen of thewartime 35PRS operated the F-5E Photo Lightning in the China-Burma-India (CBI) Theaterof operations.
On Nov. 11, 1944, the squadron’s GeorgeFlight, a small detachment of four aircraft and required personnel, wasoperational at the forward airfield of Yunnanyi, 130 miles west of Kunming nearthe Burma border.
On this day, known then as ArmisticeDay, 1st Lts. William W. Dean III (later MIA) and Estal W. Behrens (later KIA)flew combat aerial reconnaissance missions.
Dean flew F-5E #806 on a two-hour30-minute photo recon mission along a strip in between Bhamo, in the northernpart of Burma, eastward across the border back into China at Manhsien.
Behrens flew F-5E #810 on a two-hour and45 minute “Tri-Met” mission along a portion of the famed Burma Road fromWanling south to Lashio. The Trimetrogonconfiguration of two oblique right and left cameras and one vertical camera wasused for aerial photo-mapping, a welcome capability in the poorly chartedexpanses of the CBI.
Both missions were flown over enemyoccupied areas of Burma surrounding the northern part of the Burma Road, towardwhich Allied forces from India and China were approaching in the hard-foughtBurma campaign of 1944.
Just a few days before, on Nov. 5, 1944,the squadron lost its first member in the war, when 1Lt Franklin H. McKinney wasdeclared missing in action. Recently areport by the government of Thailand reported that his F-5E aircraft, #811 hasbeen found in Ban Mae Gua, SobprabSub-District, Lampang Province in Thailand. This report has yet to be verified.
As Armistice Day, 1944 progressed westwardacross the planet to the Europe Theater of Operations (ETO), the 371st FighterGroup (371FG, today’s 142nd Fighter Wing) was involved in split operations. Group personnel were at Dole Airfield ineastern France not far from the Swiss border, and the group’s P-47 Thunderboltfighter-bombers were at Dijon Airfield, some 30 miles to the northwest ofDole. The aircraft were flown to Dijon asa result of flooding at Dole the day before due to the Doubs river overflowingits banks. Back in the Dole tents, messhalls and line equipment were hastily moved to higher ground as the floodwatersspread.
The group was informed that it wouldcontinue these split operations between Dole and Dijon until the Doubs recededand the aircraft were able to return to Dole, which turned out to be 11 dayslater. However, on Nov. 11, the weatherwas terrible and there was no flying at all. Rain, mud, snow and flood would hamper the group’s plans.
In this period the 371FG was flyingmissions in and out of nasty weather in support of the Franco-American 6th ArmyGroup, which included the U.S. Seventh Army. In the last week of October, the group’s 405th Fighter Squadron had justflown a remarkable series of aerial resupply missions in support of the “LostBattalion” in Vosges Mountains, many in miserable weather, losing 1Lt Robert A.Booth and two P-47 aircraft in the process.
The service and sacrifice of thepersonnel in these flying units on Armistice Day, 1944, in China, Burma and inFrance, gives an inspiring example of service and sacrifice for us today. On many subsequent Armistice Days since WWII,and continuously since the early 1960s, men and women of the ORANG’s 142ndFighter Wing have maintained Aerospace Control Alert, serving and sacrificingon what for many citizens is perhaps just another holiday.
But it’s not just any holiday. We should pause on Veterans Day to rememberand honor our veterans and all their years of dedicated duty for our community,state and nation, whether overseas or stateside now, at war in 1944 or in peacetoday, ready to defend, 24/7.
Stolen WWII medals reinstated to Soldier's sister
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121109-Z-TK422-788, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.David Funk (right), Chairman of the 41st Infantry Division Association, presents Rosetta LaBonte, of Portland, Ore., with the Purple Heart medal at the Oregon National Guard's Open House at Camp Withycombe, in Clackamas, Ore., Nov. 9, as former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski looks on.
The medals, which were stolen during a home burglary, were bestowed to LaBonte's family following numerous inquiries by Funk as he worked through various government agencies to have the medals reinstated.
LaBonte's brother, Sgt. Eli A. DuMonte, who was a member of the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Division during WWII, was killed during the battle of Biak in 1944. He was posthumously awarded the medals.
"This was the right thing to do, and I wasn't going to take no for an answer," Funk said, speaking about the government bureaucracy he faced trying to get the medals reinstated.
Funk also faced the challenge presented by archived military records in St. Louis, Mo., which had been destroyed in a fire in 1973. Undaunted, Funk queried several government agencies, and tracked down a fellow Soldier of DuMonte in order to obtain sworn statements supporting the original awarding of the medals.
"This is for my brother, but it's really for my mother and my family," LaBonte said following the ceremony in the second floor auditorium.
The 41st Infantry Division's deployment during WWII was the longest on record, and involved the largest number of Oregon Soldiers. Personnel were primarily assigned to the Pacific Theater of Operations, fighting in several key battles, including Biak and New Guinea.
The ceremony was attended by about 100 local business leaders, Oregon National Guard leadership, and well-wishers.
The Camp Withycombe open house also brought together several groups, including Native American Tribal members, Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, veterans groups, and area residents.
A portion of the ceremony included a presentation of donations by local businesses for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, located at Camp Withycombe. Three companies each donated $50,000 at the event.
For more information on the 41st Inf. Div. Association, go here. For more information on the Oregon Historical Outreach Foundation, and the capital campaign to raise funds for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, visit their website here.
Photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
121109-Z-TK422-788, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.David Funk (right), Chairman of the 41st Infantry Division Association, presents Rosetta LaBonte, of Portland, Ore., with the Purple Heart medal at the Oregon National Guard's Open House at Camp Withycombe, in Clackamas, Ore., Nov. 9, as former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski looks on.
The medals, which were stolen during a home burglary, were bestowed to LaBonte's family following numerous inquiries by Funk as he worked through various government agencies to have the medals reinstated.
LaBonte's brother, Sgt. Eli A. DuMonte, who was a member of the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Division during WWII, was killed during the battle of Biak in 1944. He was posthumously awarded the medals.
"This was the right thing to do, and I wasn't going to take no for an answer," Funk said, speaking about the government bureaucracy he faced trying to get the medals reinstated.
Funk also faced the challenge presented by archived military records in St. Louis, Mo., which had been destroyed in a fire in 1973. Undaunted, Funk queried several government agencies, and tracked down a fellow Soldier of DuMonte in order to obtain sworn statements supporting the original awarding of the medals.
"This is for my brother, but it's really for my mother and my family," LaBonte said following the ceremony in the second floor auditorium.
The 41st Infantry Division's deployment during WWII was the longest on record, and involved the largest number of Oregon Soldiers. Personnel were primarily assigned to the Pacific Theater of Operations, fighting in several key battles, including Biak and New Guinea.
The ceremony was attended by about 100 local business leaders, Oregon National Guard leadership, and well-wishers.
The Camp Withycombe open house also brought together several groups, including Native American Tribal members, Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen, veterans groups, and area residents.
A portion of the ceremony included a presentation of donations by local businesses for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, located at Camp Withycombe. Three companies each donated $50,000 at the event.
For more information on the 41st Inf. Div. Association, go here. For more information on the Oregon Historical Outreach Foundation, and the capital campaign to raise funds for the renovation of the Oregon Military Museum, visit their website here.
Photo by Master Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.
Oregon's Assistant Adjutant General joins local leaders for Veterans Day ceremony at Vancouver Barracks
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121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
121111-Z-CH590-003, a photo by oregonmildep on Flickr.
Oregon Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Bruce W. Prunk, Assistant Adjutant Gen. Air; U.S. Army Col. Peter Norseth; Ann Rivers, State Senator for the 18th district; Vancouver Mayor Timothy D. Levitt; and Dan Tarbell, event Co-Chairman, render honors during a wreath laying ceremony at the Veterans Day event held at the Fort Vancouver Barracks post cemetery in Vancouver, Wash., Nov. 11. (Oregon Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)
26 Kasım 2012 Pazartesi
Satellite shipped to South American launch site
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MEXSAT to provide communications services for Mexico
DULLES, Va., Nov. 26, 2012 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and partner Orbital Sciences Corporation [NYSE: ORB] are a step closer to helping the government of Mexico provide advanced communications services throughout the country and surrounding maritime area with the completion of the MEXSAT Bicentenario communications satellite. Orbital designed, manufactured and tested MEXSAT Bicentenario before shipping the completed spacecraft to Kourou, French Guiana, where it is scheduled to be launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket on Dec. 19.Under a contract with Boeing, Orbital completed the work on MEXSAT Bicentenario as part of a three-satellite order for the Federal Government of Mexico. As prime contractor for MEXSAT, Boeing is providing two larger satellites in the series that are scheduled for launch in 2013 and 2014. The Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes of Mexico will take over day-to-day operations of the satellites as they are launched and undergo on-orbit testing, verification and positioning."MEXSAT Bicentenario is based on Orbital’s flight-proven GEOStar-2 platform, which enabled us to deliver the spacecraft on a short delivery schedule," said Christopher Richmond, Orbital senior vice president of Communications Satellite Programs. "We are looking forward to a successful launch and a smooth on-orbit checkout sequence."Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems is the overall integrator of the MEXSAT communications network, which will comprise three satellites, two ground telemetry and control sites, associated network operations systems, and reference user terminals. The second and third MEXSAT satellites will be Boeing 702HP geomobile satellites that will each supply 14 kilowatts of power and carry a 22-meter L-band reflector for mobile satellite services.Orbital develops and manufactures small- and medium-class rockets and space systems for commercial, military and civil government customers. The company's primary products are satellites and launch vehicles, including low Earth orbit, geosynchronous Earth orbit and planetary exploration spacecraft for communications, remote sensing, scientific and defense missions; human-rated space systems for Earth orbit, lunar and other missions; ground- and air-launched rockets that deliver satellites into orbit; and missile defense systems that are used as interceptor and target vehicles. Orbital also provides satellite subsystems and space-related technical services to U.S. government agencies and laboratories. More information about Orbital can be found at www.orbital.com.A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 61,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.The Holidays have arrived Downtown Bangor!
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The City Tree is going up and Holiday Events this weekend. Bangor, Maine – Downtown Bangor is getting dressed up for the holiday season. Business owners are decorating their storefronts for the Downtown decoration contest, banners will be hung, decorations will be posted on the light poles and holiday lights are being placed in West Market Square. One of the most anticipated decorations of all is the Holiday Tree, generously grown and donated by Sprague’s Nursery. The Holiday Tree will be delivered to West Market Square on Tuesday November 27th at 9:00 am.
Saturday December 1st will be bustling Downtown as the Downtown Bangor Partnership hosts Santa’s Workshop; Santa Claus returns to Downtown for the 5th year to kick off the holiday season.
Santa's Workshop 12 PM- 4:30 PM, 33 Central Street, Bagel Central. Grownups are invited to bring their camera to capture their child’s visit with Santa at no cost. Professional photographer Anne Schmidt (anneschmidtphotography.com) will be taking photos of the kids with Santa and making them available on her website. Cookie decorating throughout the event (while supplies last).
ART FACTORY 11am - 4 pm. Free and open to the public. Bring the whole family to UMMA’s 5th annual holiday art-making event; drop by anytime between 11 am and 4 pm. Hands-on art stations will provide parents and children the opportunity to engage in various creative projects. Create your own card, ornament or gift. Supplies are FREE and instruction will be given throughout the day. UMMA Art Factory is generously sponsored by WBRC Architects and Engineers.
Festival of Light's Parade, an annual event put on by the Rotary Club of Bangor will begin at 4:30 PM on Main Street. Featuring as many as 70 glittering units: marching bands, small and large floats, dancers and other performing groups representing traditional scenes celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Ramadan, New Years, Solstice, Kwanzaa or any winter happening. This dazzling event brightens the season for the thousands of spectators who will line the streets of Bangor. The parade route starts at Railroad Street; turns right onto Main Street; crosses Union Street and continues through downtown Bangor; turns right onto State Street; right onto Exchange Street and ends at Camden National Bank. For details on the parade visit www.bangorrotary.org.
City Tree Lighting in West Market directly following the parade.Downtown Bangor Partnership promotes and markets activities that enhance the distinctive identity of downtown Bangor which encourages retention and growth of commercial, residential, and cultural life within the downtown district. For more information on the Downtown Bangor Partnership visit www.downtownbangor.com.
Saturday December 1st will be bustling Downtown as the Downtown Bangor Partnership hosts Santa’s Workshop; Santa Claus returns to Downtown for the 5th year to kick off the holiday season.
Santa's Workshop 12 PM- 4:30 PM, 33 Central Street, Bagel Central. Grownups are invited to bring their camera to capture their child’s visit with Santa at no cost. Professional photographer Anne Schmidt (anneschmidtphotography.com) will be taking photos of the kids with Santa and making them available on her website. Cookie decorating throughout the event (while supplies last).
ART FACTORY 11am - 4 pm. Free and open to the public. Bring the whole family to UMMA’s 5th annual holiday art-making event; drop by anytime between 11 am and 4 pm. Hands-on art stations will provide parents and children the opportunity to engage in various creative projects. Create your own card, ornament or gift. Supplies are FREE and instruction will be given throughout the day. UMMA Art Factory is generously sponsored by WBRC Architects and Engineers.
Festival of Light's Parade, an annual event put on by the Rotary Club of Bangor will begin at 4:30 PM on Main Street. Featuring as many as 70 glittering units: marching bands, small and large floats, dancers and other performing groups representing traditional scenes celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Ramadan, New Years, Solstice, Kwanzaa or any winter happening. This dazzling event brightens the season for the thousands of spectators who will line the streets of Bangor. The parade route starts at Railroad Street; turns right onto Main Street; crosses Union Street and continues through downtown Bangor; turns right onto State Street; right onto Exchange Street and ends at Camden National Bank. For details on the parade visit www.bangorrotary.org.
City Tree Lighting in West Market directly following the parade.Downtown Bangor Partnership promotes and markets activities that enhance the distinctive identity of downtown Bangor which encourages retention and growth of commercial, residential, and cultural life within the downtown district. For more information on the Downtown Bangor Partnership visit www.downtownbangor.com.
Portland Development Corporation Honors Local Businesses
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The State Theatre, EnviroLogix and the Rosemont Market & Bakery receive top awards
What: This Wednesday, three local Portland businesses will be recognized by the Portland Development Corporation (PDC) at its annual awards ceremony for their role in expanding the city’s economic vitality. The award recipients are credited with making significant contributions to Portland’s economic growth as well as increasing the city’s reputation as a hub for cutting edge music, innovative technology and great food.
Receiving the 2012 Economic Development Achievement Award is The State Theatre, one of Portland's great historic theatres and top music venues. On October 15, 2010, the lights, once again, shined bright at the theater, which for the past years remained dark. The re-opening of the State Theatre was welcome news to the city, the downtown Arts District, and music lovers far and wide. In its first year of its operation, the State presented more than eighty performances and injected tremendous energy into the High and Congress Street area. The Theatre’s renaissance was brought to life by the commitment and hard work of its owner, Stone Coast Properties and its President Ron Goglia, Crobo - a partnership of Alex Crothers of Crothers Entertainment and Jim Glancy of The Bowery Presents, and Lauren Wayne at the helm as the Theatre's General Manager and Talent Buyer. Operating for two years now the Theatre has come back stronger than ever and is having a huge impact on the city’s music scene. As a testament to its reputation, concert promoters for the Gentlemen of the Road featuring Mumford & Sons contacted The State Theatre to see if the show could include a stop in Portland. The Eastern Prom concert was considered a tremendous success that put Portland on the map as a destination for top acts.
Receiving the 2012 Business of the Year Award, EnviroLogix has for more than fourteen years built on its strong scientific foundation to become an industry leader in the development and manufacture of immunoassay test kits for every link in the worldwide food production chain, from seed to plant to grain handling and processing.
Acquired in 2010 by Ensign-Bickford Industries, the parent company was committed to keeping EnviroLogix in Portland and supported the purchase of its formerly leased space, as well as a second building to accommodate its expansion. Now, under the leadership of John Markin, President and CEO, EnviroLogix occupies 67,000 square feet in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Portland, and employs well over one hundred people. Maine’s ability to build its reputation as an ideal location for the bioscience industry is thanks in part to the success of EnviroLogix and its commitment to Portland.
The 2012 Small Business of the Year, Rosemont Market and Bakery first opened its doors in 2005 on Brighton Avenue. Since then, owners John Naylor and Scott Anderson have expanded into three more retail locations, two in Portland (at 88 Congress St., and 5 Commercial St., as well as 580 Brighton Ave.) and one in Yarmouth. The business focuses on purveying the best in produce, dairy, meats, fish, baked goods, prepared foods, wine and beer. Built on relationships, Rosemont has established a vast network of local growers, farmers and producers to supply its shops. While the business started small, it now employs more than fifty people in Portland, and offers the quintessential local grocery store experience to three Portland neighborhoods.
All three award recipients will be recognized at the PDC’s annual event. The PDC was created by the Portland City Council in 1990 to create and foster economic development within the city.
Who: Members of the Portland Development Corporation Board including City of Portland Mayor will be joined by representatives of the city’s business community in honoring the businesses. “Each of these businesses has made in indelible impact on the city and its economy and it’s exciting to see them get this much deserved recognition,” stated Mayor Brennan. “Whether it’s supporting local food, the creative arts or helping the city build its reputation as a place to locate high tech businesses, it’s clear Portland has a lot to be proud of.”
When: Wednesday, November 28, 2012
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: State Theater
Congress Street, Portland
The State Theatre, EnviroLogix and the Rosemont Market & Bakery receive top awards
What: This Wednesday, three local Portland businesses will be recognized by the Portland Development Corporation (PDC) at its annual awards ceremony for their role in expanding the city’s economic vitality. The award recipients are credited with making significant contributions to Portland’s economic growth as well as increasing the city’s reputation as a hub for cutting edge music, innovative technology and great food.
Receiving the 2012 Economic Development Achievement Award is The State Theatre, one of Portland's great historic theatres and top music venues. On October 15, 2010, the lights, once again, shined bright at the theater, which for the past years remained dark. The re-opening of the State Theatre was welcome news to the city, the downtown Arts District, and music lovers far and wide. In its first year of its operation, the State presented more than eighty performances and injected tremendous energy into the High and Congress Street area. The Theatre’s renaissance was brought to life by the commitment and hard work of its owner, Stone Coast Properties and its President Ron Goglia, Crobo - a partnership of Alex Crothers of Crothers Entertainment and Jim Glancy of The Bowery Presents, and Lauren Wayne at the helm as the Theatre's General Manager and Talent Buyer. Operating for two years now the Theatre has come back stronger than ever and is having a huge impact on the city’s music scene. As a testament to its reputation, concert promoters for the Gentlemen of the Road featuring Mumford & Sons contacted The State Theatre to see if the show could include a stop in Portland. The Eastern Prom concert was considered a tremendous success that put Portland on the map as a destination for top acts.
Receiving the 2012 Business of the Year Award, EnviroLogix has for more than fourteen years built on its strong scientific foundation to become an industry leader in the development and manufacture of immunoassay test kits for every link in the worldwide food production chain, from seed to plant to grain handling and processing.
Acquired in 2010 by Ensign-Bickford Industries, the parent company was committed to keeping EnviroLogix in Portland and supported the purchase of its formerly leased space, as well as a second building to accommodate its expansion. Now, under the leadership of John Markin, President and CEO, EnviroLogix occupies 67,000 square feet in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Portland, and employs well over one hundred people. Maine’s ability to build its reputation as an ideal location for the bioscience industry is thanks in part to the success of EnviroLogix and its commitment to Portland.
The 2012 Small Business of the Year, Rosemont Market and Bakery first opened its doors in 2005 on Brighton Avenue. Since then, owners John Naylor and Scott Anderson have expanded into three more retail locations, two in Portland (at 88 Congress St., and 5 Commercial St., as well as 580 Brighton Ave.) and one in Yarmouth. The business focuses on purveying the best in produce, dairy, meats, fish, baked goods, prepared foods, wine and beer. Built on relationships, Rosemont has established a vast network of local growers, farmers and producers to supply its shops. While the business started small, it now employs more than fifty people in Portland, and offers the quintessential local grocery store experience to three Portland neighborhoods.
All three award recipients will be recognized at the PDC’s annual event. The PDC was created by the Portland City Council in 1990 to create and foster economic development within the city.
Who: Members of the Portland Development Corporation Board including City of Portland Mayor will be joined by representatives of the city’s business community in honoring the businesses. “Each of these businesses has made in indelible impact on the city and its economy and it’s exciting to see them get this much deserved recognition,” stated Mayor Brennan. “Whether it’s supporting local food, the creative arts or helping the city build its reputation as a place to locate high tech businesses, it’s clear Portland has a lot to be proud of.”
When: Wednesday, November 28, 2012
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: State Theater
Congress Street, Portland
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