WASHINGTON, D.C. (09/12/2014)(readMedia)-- Senior Illinois National Guard leaders were awarded the Gold Polish Army Award and celebrated Polish Armed Forces Day at the Polish Embassy in Washington, D.C., Sept. 9.

Maj. Gen. Daniel Krumrei of Springfield, Illinois, the Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard along with Maj. Gen. William Cobetto of Hillsboro, Illinois, the Illinois National Guard Assistant Adjutant General-Air, and retired Maj. Gen. Dennis Celletti of Springfield, Illinois, received the Gold Polish Army Award for their support of Polish-American military cooperation.

"I accept this award on behalf of the 13,000 Soldier and Airmen of the Illinois National Guard who have been cooperating with the Polish Armed Forces for over 21 years and who have deployed with the Polish Armed Forces on every rotation to Iraq and Afghanistan since 2003," said Krumrei.

The Polish Army Medal was established in September 1999 to recognize service to the Polish Army by foreign civilians and military personnel. The medal is presented in three grades Gold, Silver and Bronze by the Polish Minister of National Defence.

This year the Illinois National Guard conducted more than 30 separate engagements with the Polish military, strengthening collective defenses. In June, Soldiers participated in a biological response exercise in Poland. In October, 75 Soldiers and Airmen will participate in an exercise in Poland known as Anaconda Saber. Also in October, C130s from the 182nd Airlift Wing will deploy to Poland where they will fly side by side with the Polish C130s in support of NATO operations in Poland.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (09/09/2014)(readMedia)-- The Illinois State Military Museum is one of several historic sites in Springfield, Illinois, that will host "The Fiery trial: Civil Rights Stories by Candlelight." Historians will tell stories, by candlelight, about Illinois residents and civil rights events as part of the nation's "Civil War to Civil Rights" 150th commemoration.

WHO:

• The Illinois State Military Museum

WHAT:

• "The Fiery Trial: Civil Rights Stories by Candlelight"

• A stop on a candlelight tour of historic sites in Springfield, Illinois

• The men who mustered into the 29th U.S. Colored Troops Regiment in Quincy in 1863 faced numerous hurdles just to enlist. Learn of the success of these Illinois Soldiers in combat in Virginia at the Battle of the Crater, at the battle of Appomattox and finally in service in Texas. In addition, the museum will be open for self-guided tours.

WHEN:

• 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Sept. 13

WHERE:

• The Illinois State Military Museum, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd. in Springfield, Ill.

ADDITIONAL INFO:

• Admission and parking are free

• The Illinois Militia dates back to colonial times, making significant contributions to the Revolutionary War period and the largest contribution of personnel to the Union during the Civil War.

ADDITIONAL TOUR LOCATIONS:

• Lincoln Home National Historic Site

• Elijah Iles House

• Lincoln Tomb and War Memorial State Historic Site

• Old State Capitol State Historic Site

• Dana-Thomas House Historic Site

• Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site

For additional information, please contact the Illinois State Military Museum at 217-761-3910.

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SPRINGFIELD, IL (09/04/2014)(readMedia)-- The Illinois Army National Guard conducted a town hall-style meeting at Camp Lincoln, in Springfield, Illinois on Sept. 4 to address issues related to the postponement of September drill training and other fiscal constraints.

The town hall was also broadcast via the internet to reach Soldiers and families who could not attend in person.

"As a traditional Guardsman for 35 years, I am well aware of how changes in drill dates and uncertainty affects many of us who depend on our drill checks, and who must balance our family life and jobs with our military commitments" said Daniel Krumrei, the Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard.

A panel of other leaders from the Illinois Army National Guard including the director of training and the chief fiscal officer joined Krumrei to answer questions about pay and retirement issues related to the postponement of September's weekend drill training.

Last week the Illinois Army National Guard cancelled most travel, military professional development courses and non-critical training events planned for the month of September in response to a national-level projected budget shortfall for the remainder of the federal fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30.

The budget shortfall is affecting the Army National Guard of all 54 states and territories. The National Guard Bureau intends to ask Congress to reprogram appropriated funds from other areas in order to address the shortage to support September's drill training. The Illinois Army National Guard moved the September drill to the end of the month, allowing time for congressional action.

The budget shortfall is largely due to fewer mobilizations, higher than expected training attendance and historically high graduation rates at schools. The National Guard is committed to resolving the issue with the least impact on its citizen-Soldiers while ensuring the force is ready for missions at home and overseas.

"Our number one priority is our Soldiers and families," Krumrei said. "We will strive for as much stability as possible as we adjust to these fiscal constraints and ensure we continue to be ready to help our neighbors, protect our state and defend our nation."

For more information, contact the Public Affairs Office at 217-761-3569 or ng.il.ilarng.list.staff-pao@mail.mil

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/29/2014)(readMedia)-- On Sept. 6, Military Museum Living Historians will display equipment, uniforms and weapons used by the Illinois National Guard in the Border Campaign and discuss the military operation.

WHO:

• Illinois State Military Museum Living History Detachment

• Illinois National Guard and Militia Historical Society

• Illinois State Military Museum

WHAT:

On March 15, 1916, Maj. Gen. John Pershing launched the yearlong Border Campaign into Mexico to pursue Pancho Villa. A week earlier the Mexican revolutionary had raided Columbus, N.M., killing eight Soldiers and 10 civilians and wounding six Soldiers and two civilians. Illinois National Guardsmen were mobilized and deployed to the Texas border to support Pershing's operation. The 1916 expedition was the first time the Army used airplanes, motorcycles and trucks and served as a dress rehearsal for the mobilization of U.S. forces for World War I. On Saturday, Military Museum Living Historians will display equipment, uniforms and weapons used by the Illinois National Guard in the Border Campaign and discuss the military operation.

WHEN: Saturday September 06, 2014 at 10:00AM Central Time (US & Canada)

WHERE:1301 N. MacArthur Blvd,
Springfield, Illinois 62702

NOTES:

• Admission and parking are free.

• Illinois State Military Museum, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd, Springfield, Ill., 62702, two blocks north of the intersection of MacArthur Blvd. and North Grand Ave.

National Guard Association of the United States meets in Chicago

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/27/2014)(readMedia)-- Story by Sgt. 1st Class Rob Fafoglia, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

CHICAGO - More than 3,500 people attended this year's National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) conference in Chicago, Aug. 22 through 25. The conference is a yearly event aimed at focusing the nation's attention on the needs and accomplishments of the Army and Air National Guard.

"(NGAUS) mission is to tell the story of the Guardsmen and to represent us around the nation, to let folks understand how important the Guard is to their communities, to our nation and to our respective states," said Daniel Krumrei, the Illinois National Guard Adjutant General.

The association was created in 1878, making it the oldest military organization of its type. Its primary purpose is to educate Congress about the training and funding requirements of the National Guard.

"Militia officers from the North and South came together . . . in order to create a unified voice before Congress," said John Goheen, the director of communications for NGAUS and retired National Guardsman. "They decided going alone as individual states, requesting money for better equipment and training, wasn't working, that they needed to unite and work together. That's why they created NGAUS and our mission remains unchanged to this day."

Goheen acknowledged some may look at NGAUS and other associations like it in a negative light, because they deal so heavily with politics.

"We are absolutely a lobbying organization," said Goheen. "What people need to understand is that we give the Guard a voice in Washington. Most military organizations (such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association) are about taking care of veterans. We are about readiness. We're working to get Soldiers and their commanders the equipment they need, the training they need, to be ready to go and support a mission, whether it's for their governor or an overseas combat deployment."

Goheen said NGAUS is responsible for many of the structures and services some guard members may take for granted.

"It was this association that worked with Congress to create drill pay," said Goheen. "It was this association that worked with Congress to create the retirement program. It was this association that worked with Congress to provide the states with military construction dollars and equipment. Just about anything that is in an armory or a base, it's not a stretch to say NGAUS has its fingerprints on it."

The annual conference serves as a business meeting for members from every state. It includes guest speakers, award presentations, social events and mixers for participants, events for spouses and other family members and a tradeshow for sponsors and vendors.

Every year, the conference rotates among the states. This year belonged to Illinois, and Krumrei said the state has been planning and working on this event for years. He said one of the benefits of attending the conference, besides the wealth of information, is a chance to experience what each state has to offer.

"This is a great opportunity for Illinois," said Krumrei. "The governor had the opportunity to address the convention. For the city of Chicago, besides the convention business it brings, this really is the diamond of the heartland. Every response I have received is that people are grateful for the opportunity to be in Chicago. The architectural tours, the food, the sights, the experiences; everybody I have talked to has had a wonderful time here."

In addition to reviewing numbers, talking about unit issues and sightseeing, the conference offers participants a chance for professional development, something Krumrei said is invaluable. Some of the topics discussed include : fiscal responsibility and the upcoming challenges the military faces, sexual assault and harassment prevention and training, suicide awareness and prevention, and the changing military environment, as it shifts from warfighting to issues on the home front.

"We have the opportunity to meet with the other states and to share best practices," said Krumrei. "We get together on a variety of levels, company grade officers, warrant officers, general officers and adjutants general, for professional training to develop those relationships. It also gives us an opportunity to spend time with many of the vendors that help provide for the safety and the security of our Soldiers and our Airmen."

Krumrei said it is important for servicemembers to take advantage of the opportunities and services provided by organizations such as NGAUS, even if they are unable to attend a conference or event. He focused specifically on education.

"It is important to take every opportunity to engage in every educational aspect of their professional development as Soldiers or Airmen," said Krumrei. "Those opportunities will continue to exist. It will be a difficult fiscal time and situation to do that in, but for those who choose to continue their education, they need to take advantage of every opportunity that's available to them."

Krumrei also emphasized the importance of Soldiers and Airmen getting involved and making their voice heard.

"This is one of the largest NGAUS conventions in several years," he said. "It's my hope that every Air Guardsman and Army Guardsman will reach out and be a part of their professional association, because that's what professionals do; they associate with one another, they learn from one another, and they share best practices. I encourage all of our servicemembers to be a part of their state associations, the national association for the enlisted, for professionals and for officers."

Illinois National Guard Adjutant General kicks off 136th National Guard Association Conference

CHICAGO (08/24/2014)(readMedia)-- The 136th National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) General Conference and Exhibition at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago runs Aug. 22 to 25.

The annual event allows members to gather and vote on the top legislative priorities for NGAUS, share information and celebrate the camaraderie of being National Guard and NGAUS members.

Approximately 3,500 National Guard members and their guests use the gathering to plan and help shape the future of the National Guard. Delegates from 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia are setting the legislative agenda and electing new members to the NGAUS board of directors.

The conference also features nearly 1,100 exhibitors that market products and services to the Guard.

Illinois Air National Guard Airman of the Year recognized during National Guard Association Conference

By Master Sgt. Ken Stephens, 126th Air Refueling Wing

CHICAGO (08/24/2014)(readMedia)-- One of the top rated Airmen for the Illinois Air National Guard was recognized by the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force during the 136th National Guard Association of the United States General Conference in Chicago on Aug. 23.

Tech. Sgt. Steven Greenleaf, of Glen Carbon, Illinois, received a commander's challenge coin from Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, the Air Force's highest ranking officer, in a personal, one-on-one meeting at the conference.

While commenting on Greenleaf's civilian occupation and how it compliments his National Guard duties, Welsh said, "That's one of the strengths of the Guard. They come in with other skills, see problems we don't, and then they fix them."

Greenleaf, an engineering assistant craftsman with the 183rd Civil Engineer Squadron, part of the 183rd Fighter Wing in Springfield, Illinois, was chosen as the 2014 Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer of the Year by the Illinois Air National Guard. The selection was based on job performance, personal development and community service.

"It's great for individuals to be recognized for their work," said Greenleaf, "and it's also a reflection on the excellence of their team."

Greenleaf has volunteered for five deployments since enlisting in the National Guard in 2002. His most recent tour was to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan in 2013 where he was chosen as the Warrior of the Week for his engineering work supporting Air Force facility and maintenance programs.

He continues to be involved in the local community, volunteering his time with homeless shelters and the Humane Society. He also assists forensic and Geobase class students at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville where he graduated in 2013.

Senator Lindsey Graham speaks to Guardsmen at Chicago conference

By Spc. Ian Withrow, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

CHICAGO (08/24/2014)(readMedia)-- Senator Lindsey Graham, the senior senator from South Carolina, spoke during the first business day of the 136th annual National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) conference in Chicago, Aug. 23, 2014.

Graham addressed an audience of National Guard members and association members, vendors and exhibitors at the conference. Graham's speech covered a variety of topics, from national defense to the tradition and honor the National Guard represents.

"The culture of the National Guard is irreplaceable," said Graham. "The Guard is indispensable to our national defense."

Maj. Jason Zeliph of New York, with Joint Forces Headquarters of the New York National Guard, said events like the NGAUS conference give members of Congress an opportunity to show their commitment to National Guard interests.

"I think it's important for members of Congress to speak at events like these," said Zeliph.

Maj. General Don Dunbar, of New Berlin, Wisconsin, the Adjutant General of the Wisconsin National Guard said it is important for elected officials to see and understand National Guard concerns.

"Events like NGAUS, give us a voice on Capitol Hill in the right way," said Dunbar. "It's not appropriate for Soldiers and Airmen to go protest, or lobby their interests, but organizations like NGAUS can express our interests in the correct setting," said Dunbar.

Approximately 3,500 National Guard members and their guests use the annual NGAUS gathering to plan and help shape the future of the National Guard. Delegates from 50 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia are setting the legislative agenda and electing new members to the NGAUS board of directors.

The conference concludes on Aug. 25.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/18/2014)(readMedia)-- The Illinois Army National Guard's 129th Regional Training Institute Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, commissioned 18 Soldiers as second lieutenants during the OCS graduation ceremony at Springfield High School, Aug. 17. To meet the commissioning requirements, an officer candidate must complete more than 658 hours of classroom and field instruction. Candidates are evaluated on leadership abilities along with academics. They must also complete many physical and mental tasks, such as road marches and tactical exercises. One traditional class is held one weekend a month for 16 months with two weeks of continuous annual training. The accelerated class is completed in 57 consecutive days out of state. The 129th has commissioned 2,310 officers from the program.

The five newly commissioned accelerated program officers are:

• 2nd Lt. Sonji Davis of Waukegan, Illinois, with the 1244th Transportation Company in North Riverside, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Reasudeen Katideen of Rockford, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Michael McPeek of Springfield, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Mullins of Normal, Illinois, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 33rd Military Police Battalion in Bloomington, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Jeremy Wenthe of Carterville, Illinois, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment in Marion, Illinois

The 13 newly commissioned traditional program officers are:

• 2nd Lt. William Adkins of Nokomis, Illinois, with Detachment 1, Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Sullivan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Martin Anderson of East Peoria, Illinois, with the 5th Civil Support Team in Bartonville, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Joseph Hahn of Deerfield, Illinois, with Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Maddox of Troy, Illinois, with the 445th Chemical Company in Shiloh, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Carlos Ortiz of Princeville, Illinois, with the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Forward Support Company in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Brian Ramirez of Chicago, with Company B, 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment in Elgin, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Sarah Roth of Chester, Illinois, with the 445th Chemical Company in Shiloh, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. David Smejkal of Wheaton, Illinois, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment in Kankakee, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Kevin Spears of Edwards, Illinois, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment in Litchfield, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Andrew Trine of Sherman, Illinois, with the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Support Company in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Brandi Tyne of Urbana, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Alfred Vidrio of Aurora, Illinois, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 33rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion in Machesney Park, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Juan Villa of Peoria, Illinois, with the 5th Civil Support Team in Bartonville, Illinois

Outstanding OCS graduates were awarded the following:

• 2nd Lt. Juan Villa received the Erickson Trophy after being named the class distinguished honor graduate for top overall cumulative performance in leadership, physical fitness and academics.

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Maddox received the Leadership Award for the highest overall leadership evaluation score over the entire OCS program.

• 2nd Lt. William Adkins received the Physical Fitness Award for the highest average score on the OCS Army Physical Fitness Test.

• 2nd Lt. Carlos Ortiz received the Academic Award for holding the highest academic average in the class.

Individual high-resolution photos of each Soldier are available, please contact the Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Office

Maj. Nathan A. Westby Retires After 24 Years of Service

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/12/2014)(readMedia)-- Story by Sgt. 1st Class Rob Fafoglia, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

As his military career draws to a close, Maj. Nathan A. Westby, commander of the 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment in Springfield, Ill., said his main career inspiration has been the Soldiers he worked with and for.

"I have a profound respect and love for the great Soldiers and leaders I've had the opportunity to work for over the years," said Westby. "The kind of leaders who sacrifice an immense portion of their personal and professional time to make sure that, at the end of the day, their Soldiers, their teammates, are taken care of."

Westby, originally from Edgerton, Wisconsin, finished his career as commander of the 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, based in Springfield, Illinois. He reflected on what has made him successful over the years, as well as any other officer hoping to take command.

"Overall, officers in the National Guard today need to demonstrate the ability to be adaptable to an ever-evolving mission-set and creative in a resource constrained training environment," said Westby, "as our defense force adapts to the changing environment."

According to many of the Soldiers Westby served with over the years, he practiced what he preached.

"He was able to stand back and take a holistic view," said Sgt. 1st Class Peter Feudo, platoon sergeant with C Troop, 2/106th Cavalry (RSTA), in Aurora, Illinois, and a Plainfield, Illinois, resident who deployed with Westby to Afghanistan in 2008. "He understood the mission in its entirety. He also took into account our personal safety. Because he knew his men and we trusted each other, we did what needed to be done to accomplish the mission."

Another secret of Westby's success is his willingness to listen to other's opinions and ideas, especially those of his NCO's, he said.

"As the commander of the MPAD, I think anyone that listens to and involves the officers and NCO's in the unit in planning and executing training will be successful," said Westby. "This unit has a lot of great leaders who have a lot of experience, and not just experience in public affairs or journalism. Many of the Soldiers in this unit have come from other career fields in the military and bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise."

His former Soldiers agreed this was a practice at which Westby excelled.

"He has a lot of maturity as an officer, said Master Sgt. Pedro Gaston, operations sergeant for the 766th Engineer Battalion in Decatur, Illinois, and resident of Schaumberg, Illinois. "He was an NCO first, and he takes NCO opinions very seriously.

Feudo echoed this sentiment.

"He was a Soldier's commander," he said. "He is smart and methodical. He would listen to opinions then make decisions.

Westby's care and concern for the Soldiers serving under him seems to be universal, regardless of the unit.

"(His Soldiers) had nothing but respect and admiration for the man," said Gaston. "He's a good person and treats everyone with respect, regardless of rank. That in itself is admirable."

Westby said this universal respect for those with whom he served, subordinate, peer or superior, was a huge driving force in his career.

"The only reason I've stayed in the (military) this long is because of my admiration for the Soldiers I've worked with and for," he said. "They are simply the best fabric of America. They are the selfless people who will knowingly put their lives on the line for others, whether it's their fellow soldier in the trenches with them, or a faceless nation an ocean away, safely going about their day."

Staff Sgt. Brian Allen, also with 2/106th Cavalry, said Maj. Westby's command philosophy was very simple.

"He lives the Army Values," said Allen, a resident of Downer's Grove, "but it's more than that. He genuinely cares about what he doing and his drive pushes him to be the best at whatever he is doing. Also, his loyalty to his Soldiers was key. He would do anything for his Soldiers. In combat, I've seen him do things you would not believe to protect his men."

This loyalty and respect for his Soldiers is something many of them will always remember.

"He was incredibly personal," said Feudo. "He knew his men and still does to this day. He took an individual approach to each Soldier. He knew their families and their histories. Those that were with him during the toughest times will always remember him as both a commander and a friend."

Westby is not sure what he will do with his retirement, but said the military has definitely benefitted his life and civilian career possibilities.

"It's given me an opportunity to develop leadership skills and made me a much better communicator, he said. "I've developed and honed skills that I've transferred into improving my civilian career and job position over the years. It's given me a tremendous education opportunity. I come from a family where I was the first person to attend college. I now have a master's degree from the University of Illinois."

Westby also said he is looking forward to spending more time with his family in Sussex, Wisconsin, where they now reside.

"I just look forward to being able to spend all of my weekends and summers raising my children, coaching them in sports, taking family vacations and so on," he said.

Whatever Westby does, he will be remembered long after leaving the National Guard.

"Every Soldier I know who served under Maj. Westby loved him," said Allen, "simple as that. We still have Soldiers talking about him to this day. He will be missed."

Illinois Special Forces Soldiers conduct Airborne training

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Kassidy L. Snyder, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs

FORT MCCOY, WISC. (08/12/2014)(readMedia)-- With great weather for Airborne training, approximately 30 Special Forces (SF) Soldiers with the Illinois National Guard's Company A, 2nd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in Chicago, conducted day and night static line and military free fall operations at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 8.

Three CH-47D Chinook helicopters from Company B, 2nd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment in Peoria, Illinois, provided transportation to and from the sky for the SF Soldiers. Static line jumps were performed from roughly 1,500 feet, while free fall jumps were from 14,000 feet.

"We rarely get the occasion for night jumps and it's a great opportunity to stay proficient and keep our jumpmasters current," said Company A, 2-20th's commander.

During the night, Soldiers performed a high altitude high opening jump where they opened the parachute immediately and traveled a lateral distance of 9 kilometers to the drop zone.

SF Soldiers must conduct four jumps a year to maintain jump proficiency. Jumpmasters are senior Soldiers who manage airborne jump operations. They inspect all equipment prior to loading the aircraft, confirm in-flight navigation and act as a safety for proper exiting procedures.

"It's always an interesting mission for us and good real-world training for the Special Forces," said Capt. A.J. Hager of Galesburg, Illinois, a Chinook pilot with Company B, 2-238th. "It keeps us proficient transporting troops and allows us to assist Soldiers within the Illinois Guard."

Company B, 2-238th returned from Afghanistan in December and was back to fully mission capable in April. The company typically does two to three paradrop operations a year in addition to passenger and cargo movement and external loads, said Hager.

Special Forces Soldiers complete a multitude of missions from maritime operations to surveillance and reconnaissance.

"Airborne operations, both static line and military free fall provide a means of infiltration; it is our way of getting to work." said Company A, 2-20th's operations officer.

A majority of the Soldiers with Company A, 2-20th are traditional Soldiers, who also hold a full-time civilian career ranging from attorney to rocket scientist and physician assistant. Their ages range from the early 20s to late 40s.

"Within the span of those ages, the knowledge and experience we have allows us to adapt a lot easier and think out of the box to meet mission requirements," said Company A, 2-20th's commander. "Most SF Guardsmen serve because they like the flexibility to have a civilian job, but do it because they want to be here too."

Editor's note: Due to the nature of Special Forces missions, names of Special Forces Soldiers are not made public.

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Freedom Salute Ceremony for Springfield-based Team that Deployed to Afghanistan; Aug. 16 ceremony recognizes Bilateral Embedded Staff Team A12

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/12/2014)(readMedia)-- Approximately 20 Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers will be recognized Aug. 16 by the National Guard Bureau Freedom Salute Campaign for their sacrifice and service in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The ceremony for the Bilateral Embedded Staff Team (BEST) A12 will be at 1 p.m. Camp Lincoln, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd. in Springfield, Illinois.

The BEST A12 Soldiers were mobilized in September 2013 and deployed to Afghanistan, returning home in May 2014.

The team trained with the Polish Land Forces before deploying. The unique mission allowed Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers to train and deploy side-by-side with their Polish counterparts. The Soldiers are from various parts of Illinois and were selected for the mission based on their training and skills.

While embedded with Task Force White Eagle in Ghazni Province, the team enhanced the brigade's operational and logistical capabilities. The Soldiers developed and implemented the transition and retrograde plans for the base, transferring about 25 percent of the base to Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). They also prepared the remaining portions for transfer to the ANSF as the U.S. continues to withdraw troops from the region. BEST A12 also recouped more than $80 million dollars of U.S. military equipment.

The team coordinated and executed the closing ceremonies for the Ghazni Islamic Cultural Celebration and the national elections, which saw a higher voter turnout and fewer incidents than expected.

The Freedom Salute Campaign program is a small way to show these patriotic citizen-Soldiers, their families and employers how much their sacrifice is appreciated. On behalf of the National Guard Bureau, the Illinois Army National Guard will present each eligible Soldier with an encased American flag, as well as a sequentially-numbered

commemorative coin, certificate of appreciation and lapel pin. Families will also receive items recognizing their support and sacrifice.

The Freedom Salute Campaign is one of the largest Army National Guard recognition endeavors in history. It is designed to publicly acknowledge Army National Guard Soldiers and those who supported them while deployed.

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Illinois National Guard's 404th Maneuvers Enhancement Brigade BEST Warrior Competition

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Marie Schult-Slosser 404th MEB PAO

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/11/2014)(readMedia)-- MARSEILLES, Ill. - The 44th Chemical Battalion in Galesburg, Illinois, swept the brigade level Soldier and noncommissioned officer (NCO) of the year competition at Marseilles Training Center, July 27. Sgt. Chris Morris of Robinson, Illinois, and Spc. Paul Born of Washington, Illinois, both chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialists, won against six other competitors. Both Soldiers will compete against other brigade winners at the state competition in September.

"I was actually surprised that I won," said Born, after being named the 404th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) Soldier of the Year. "I just wanted to prove to myself that I could compete with the best Soldiers in the state."

Eight Soldiers competed in 11 events during the Best Warrior Competition at Marseilles, events included weapons qualifications, physical fitness test, a five-mile ruck march, land navigation, a confidence course, a call for fire exercise; they also completed Army Soldier tasks and an Army knowledge board.

"My hats off to these guys to want to put themselves through this to represent their units and themselves and eventually the state," said Master Sgt. Jose Guerrero of Grayslake, Illinois, an infantryman and operations noncommissioned officer with the 404th MEB.

Guerrero is in charge of coordinating and setting up the competition and the events, a task he has been doing at the 404th MEB and other units for years.

For Morris, the NCO of the year, this is his third year competing and his second year to move up to the state level in this competition. In 2012, he not only made it to the state level but he went on to compete at regionals, where he was knocked out of the competition.

"Of all the years I've competed, this group of competitors is the best," said Morris. "There is always one serious guy, but this year everyone was working together, motivating each other and rooting for each other. The camaraderie was great."

The eight competitors, four in the lower enlisted category (private to specialist) and four in the NCO category (corporal and above), spent three grueling days getting to know one another as they competed in the events throughout the Marseilles Training Center.

"This encourages Soldiers and to strive to be among the best and encourage them to exceed the standards," said Sgt. Maj. Shane Lammers. "This also gives brigades and battalions the opportunity to highlight the wonderful Soldiers we have in our ranks."

Soldiers spent three days testing themselves with the grueling tasks and very little time in between for rest or reflection. The afternoon of the first day, after taking tests and doing a call for fire exercise they went all in for a physical fitness test followed by a semi-formal banquet, only to rise at 4:30 a.m. the next morning to hit the ground running in the ruck march event.

"I enjoy the competition. We get to do out of the ordinary stuff like ruck marching and obstacle courses," said Morris. He also said he would advise anyone who wants to participate in this competition to, "train hard, study hard and try in every event regardless of how you did on the previous event."

For his part, Born said it is important to get a good sponsor.

"My sponsor was with me at every event, motivating me and encouraging me."

In September, both Born and Morris will return to Marseilles to test themselves against the other Soldiers who made it to the state competition.

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The 2014 Adjutant General's rifle and pistol match

MARSEILLES, IL (08/12/2014)(readMedia)-- Soldiers from around the state met at the Illinois National Guard Marseilles Training Center in Marseilles, Illinois, to compete in The Adjutant General's (TAG) Rifle and Pistol Match, 8 through 10 August.

Every unit in the Illinois National Guard has the opportunity enter a team into the TAG Match, and more than 100 Soldiers participated in the 2014 marksmanship event.

Shooters are rated both as teams and individuals using the pistol and rifle. The shooters are also evaluated on a combined arms, 3-gun match in which the Soldiers fired the pistol, rifle and shotgun.

The top 20 individual shooters received the Governor's Twenty Tab, which they can wear on their uniforms. The top three teams and individuals of each event received a plaque to display their accomplishments.

Winners of the TAG Match may be selected to join the Illinois National Guard's Marksman Team. The teams must select two new shooters to compete in regional and national events annually.

Results of the 2014 ILARNG TAG Rifle and Pistol Match:

Overall Top Three Individuals:

1. SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF

2. CW4 Keith Koca of Custer Park, Illinois; HHC, 106 AVN

3. SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; 1544th Trans Co.

Overall Individual Rifle

1. CW4 Keith Koca of Custer Park, Illinois; HHC, 106 AVN

2. SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF

3. SPC Joseph Miller of Petersburg, Illinois; HHC, 232nd CSSB

Overall Individual Pistol

1. SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF

2. SPC Justin Titzer of Fairfield, Illinois; HHC 2/120 INF

3. SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; 1544th Trans Co.

Combined Arms (3-Gun)

1. SFC William Gibbs of Litchfield, Illinois; B Btry 2/123 FA

2. SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; 1544th Trans Co.

3. SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF

Overall Top Three Teams

1. HHC 2/130 INF; SSG Travis Wisely of West Frankfort, Illinois; SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; SGT Seth Johnson of Collinsville, Illinois; SPC Justin Titzer of Fairfield, Illinois.

2. 106 AVN.; CW4 Keith Koca of Custer Park, Illinois; CW2 Joseph Nicholas of Bolingbrook, Illinois, SSG Jason Jenkins of Montgomery, Illinois, SGT Mark Rosenak of Bartonville, Illinois.

3. 1544th Trans Co; SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; SSG Brent Tripp of Warsaw, Illinois; SSG Eric Daggett of Jerome, Illinois, SGT Matthew Blount of Charleston, Illinois.

Top Pistol Team

1. HHC 2/130 INF; SSG Travis Wisely of West Frankfort, Illinois; SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; SGT Seth Johnson of Collinsville, Illinois; SPC Justin Titzer of Fairfield, Illinois.

2. 1544th Trans Co; SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; SSG Brent Tripp of Warsaw, Illinois; SSG Eric Daggett of Jerome, Illinois; SGT Matthew Blount of Charleston, Illinois.

3. 106 AVN; CW4 Keith Koca of Custer, Park, Illinois; CW2 Joseph Nicholas of Bolingbrook, Illinois; SSG Jason Jenkins of Montgomery, Illinois, SGT Mark Rosenak of Bartonville, Illinois.

Top Rifle Team

1. 232nd CSSB; SSG Drew Geer, SGT Kraig Kennedy of New Berlin, Illinois, SPC Joseph Miller of Petersburg, Illinois, SPC Thomas Winlund of Mason City, Illinois.

2. B Btry 2/123 FA; SFC William Gibbs of Litchfield, Illinois; SGT Brandon Hornung of Utica, Illinois; SGT Eric Fowler of Lansing, Illinois; SPC Josh Webb of Lewiston, Illinois.

3. C Trp 106 CAV; SGT Scott Lange of Aurora, Illinois; SPC Ryan White of Macon, Illinois; SPC Aendri Decker of Montgomery, Illinois; PFC Steven McMahon of Streamwood, Illinois.

The Governor's Twenty

1. SGT Raleigh Walker of Goreville, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF.

2. CW4 Keith Koca of Custer Park, Illinois; HHC, 106 AVN

3. SSG Jacob Blount of Charleston, Illinois; 1544th Trans Co

4. SFC William Gibbs of Litchfield, Illinois; B Btry 2/123 FA

5. SGT Scott Lange of Aurora, Illinois, C Trp 106 CAV

6. CW2 Joseph Nicholas of Bolingbrook, Illinois; 106 ANV.

7. SGT Brandon Hornung of Utica, Illinois, C Btry 2/123 FA

8. SGT Kevin Riggle of North Aurora, Illinois; 233rd MP's

9. SPC Aendri Decker of Montgomery, Illinois, C Trp 106 CAV

10. SGT Mark Rosenak of Bartonville, Illinois, 106 AVN.

11. SPC Joseph Miller of Petersburg, Illinois; 232nd CSSB

12. SGT Seth Johnson of Collinsville, Illinois, HHC 2/130 INF.

13. 1LT Arthur Morris of Peoria, Illinois; A Co 33rd BSTB

14. SGT Matthew Blount of Charleston, Illinois; 1544th Trans Co

15. SPC Josh Burns of St. Francisville, Illinois; 631st ENG

16. SPC Justin Titzer of Fairfield, Illinois, HHC 2/130 INF

17. SPC Josh Webb of Lewiston, Illinois, B Btry 2/123 FA

18. SGT Levi Worden, Illinois; HHC 2/130 INF

19. SSG Eric Daggett of Jerome, Illinois, 1544th Trans Co

20. SSG Gino Maldonado of Aurora, Illinois, 233rd MP's

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/01/2014)(readMedia)-- PEORIA, Ill. - Eighteen Illinois Air National Guard Security Forces Airmen with the 182nd Airlift Wing are scheduled to return August 4, after a seven-month deployment to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

The Illinois Air National Guardsmen were assigned to the 405th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron (ESFS) overseas, where they were responsible for law enforcement and security missions.

"The men and women of the 182nd Airlift Wing continue to step up and provide a high level of mission accomplishment for our call to duty around the world," said Col. William P. Robertson, 182nd Airlift Wing commander. "I want to thank the families and the community for their support of our Airmen. Our Security Forces unit is top notch and we can't do the mission without the support of the home front. They have performed in an outstanding manner and completed the mission. They went to do a job and excelled in all aspects of the mission."

The deployed personnel are members of 182nd Security Forces Squadron, a component of the 182nd Mission Support Group.

"This deployment demonstrated the value of the Air National Guard capability to our country and the fact that our members deploy globally serving our nation's call," said Col. Cory K. Reid, the 182nd Mission Support Group commander. "They performed flawlessly. Now we are able to welcome them safely back home and congratulate them on a job well done."

The Airmen's home station commander was also pleased with their achievement.

"I cannot be more proud of the accomplishments these men and women of the 182nd Security Forces Squadron achieved while deployed," said Lt. Col. Todd M. Leach, commander of the 182nd Security Forces Squadron. "They represented Peoria well on the global stage."

The 405th ESFS leadership overseas praised the unit for making improvements to the air base during its tour. Accomplishments included boosting the security infrastructure, building strong relationships with the host-nation military forces and advancing the air base's physical and electronic force protection capabilities.

"I am confident that we have left behind a better squadron than how it was handed to us," said Air Force Maj. William Englebert, the 405th ESFS commander. "Our goal was to leave behind a legacy and I am confident we have obtained our goal."

The Airmen will arrive at Gen. Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport at 10 p.m., August 6th.

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