Site of the 2013 Combined Event for the NC National Guard Association,

Enlisted and Officer Ball — One Weekend Culminating

Into One Big Event!

WINSTON-SALEM26-28 APRIL 2013

Embassy Suites

Marriott Hotel

See pages 6-7 for event registration form

and lodging information.

Page 2 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

Maj. Gen. Gregory A. LuskAdjutant General of NC óó

TAG’s CORNER

NC Adjutant General – MG Greg Lusk — http://www.facebook.com/NCAdjutantGeneral http://twitter.com/NCTAG

NC Assistant Adjutant General Air – Brig. Gen. Todd Kelly – http://facebook.com/NCAirAAG http://twitter.com/NCAirAAG

NC Chief of Staff – COL Cliff Wilkins - http://www.facebook.com/NCCOJS

NC Senior Enlisted Leader – Command Sgt. Maj. John Swart – http://www.facebook.com/NCCSMhttp://twitter.com/NCSCSM

NC Command Chief Warrant Officer Rick Comer – http://www.facebook.com/NCCWO http://www.twitter.com/NCCWO

NC Command Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Pickett – http://www.facebook.com/NCCmdChiefhttp://www.twitter.com/NCCmdChief

TAG email contact: pao@ng.army.mi

CONTACT INFO

As we here in North Carolina observe the end of summer, go back to school and witness the ramp up of the 2012 Political Campaign, I wanted to remind my fellow citizens of what their

North Carolina National Guard is doing today as I write these words. Over 1,300 of your neighbors, co-workers and fellow citizens are deployed in Afghanistan, Kuwait and California performing missions as diverse as our force. Engineers, Military Police and a few pilots are continuing the fight in Afghanistan while our Air Guard C-130 MAFFs Teams are fighting wild fires in the Western United States. We have Citizen Airmen in Botswana, Africa working through our State Partnership Program to promote stability and peace through a lasting partnership. We still have another 10,000 citizen soldiers and airmen ready to respond if needed upon the call of the Governor. Your North Carolina National Guard is serving around the nation and world to en-sure the security of their fellow citizens at home and abroad. These citizen soldiers and airmen are part of a long line of those Americans and North Carolinians who have been willing to lay aside their civilian careers and leave their families when called by their state and nation. These citizen soldiers and airmen are the heirs to the Min-utemen who stood on the greens at Lexington and Concord in 1775 and will always be ready and reliable to answer any call in the future to secure the lives and property of the citizens of this great state and our nation.

Raleigh, NC — William Coats was re-cently promoted to Brigadier General at the North Carolina State Capitol in downtown Raleigh. Family and friends joined to honor the Aviator and 30-year NCNG veteran. Prior to his promotion, General Coats served as Chief of Joint Staff

The NC National Guard’s Newest General

at the NCNG Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh. He last held the position of NC’s As-sistant Adjutant General of Maneuver before his appointment to his current post as Special Assistant to the Director of the Army National Guard. General Coats and his wife, Toni, have four children, Aaron, Lindsey, Jackie and Reid.

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 3

OCT/NOV 2012 Volume 46 Number 5

NCNGA:President’s Report 4Legacy Bridge Program 5Combined Event Information 6,7In Memoriam 15

NC National Guard:113th SUS BDE News 8Double Change of Command for Aviation 9OCS Graduation 10Retiree Homecoming Registration Info 13

Address changes or questions?

Call us toll free 1-800-821-6159 or 919-851-3390.

Our email address is ncnga@bellsouth.net

and our web site is www.ncnga.org

TARHEEL GUARDSMANOfficial publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association

Contents:

Deadline for submitting articles to the Tarheel Guardsman:

DEC ‘12/JAN ‘13 issue: 1 NOV 2012

Send articles/photos to Teri Foster, Editor at:

(teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com)

Officers Executive Council

President Ronnie Honeycutt

Vice PresidentBernie Williford

Past PresidentFisk Outwater

Secretary-TreasurerAdene Tyler

Judge AdvocateRick Fay

ChaplainK. Carl Singley

30th HBCTScott Schnack

Bobby Lumsden130th MEB

Diana StumpfRussell Thorington

60th Troop CommandTom HolcombDale Baker, Jr.

449th TABThomas Underwood

Stephen Davis113th Sustainment BDE

Billy HillStephen McCormick

JFHQ-NCCharlene Johnson

Wes Morrison139th Regiment (CA)

Ronald HillK. Todd Helms

Air GuardWendy LarsenScott Harrell

Associate ClassJohn Sweat, Jr.

Al RoseJunior CouncilLonnie Brooks

Leverne Jackman, Jr.Teri Foster, Editor

The Tarheel Guardsman, (ISSN 10618392) is published six times a year for the Army and Air National Guard of North Carolina, by the North Carolina National Guard Association, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047. Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676-9651. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Tarheel Guardsman, 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607-5047. The Tarheel Guardsman is the official publication of the North Carolina National Guard Association, a non-profit organization. The publica-tion’s mission is to promote the general welfare of the NCNGA, assist in increasing the readiness of the NC Army and Air National Guard of North Carolina and serve as a vehicle of expression for members of the National Guard. Members receive the publication free with their membership. The annual subscription rate for non-members of the Association is $15.00. Please include your old address and unit when requesting change of address. Deadline for submitted material to the Tarheel Guardsman is the 5th of the month, two months preceding the calendar date of issue. Manuscripts and photographs on subjects of general interest are invited. Unless oth-erwise indicated, material may be reprinted provided credit is given to the Tarheel Guardsman and the author where listed. Articles and photos will not be returned, unless requested. (USPS 533-640) Advertising is accepted. For details contact the Association headquar-ters. Advertising, including political ads, published in this publication does not represent the endorsement or approval of the North Carolina National Guard Association.

STAFFExecutive Director

Adene TylerInsurance Administrator

Teri FosterAssistant Insurance

AdministratorRhonda Arndt

Executive AssistantKathy Ford

NCNGA Educational Foundation Administrator

Peggy Robinson

Remember to vote on Tuesday,

6 November 2012!

Page 4 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

The President’s Report by Ronnie Honeycutt

As the leaves begin to change color, we too are about to experience change in our upcoming NCNGA Convention. There is an old saying, “If you continue to do things the same way, do not be surprised if you continue to get the same results.” So, in an effort to educate and attract more of our North Carolina National Guards-men, we have accepted an invitation to combine our Enlisted Ball, Officer Ball and NCNGA Convention. We are very excited about this joint effort and hope this will allow more of our members to attend. There is no doubt that the cost of at-tending these events can be a burden on our members. This is why we have combined the tthree events to alleviate the pressure of choos-ing one event over the other. The Combined Convention/Ball Committee came together with

the goal of making this the best event ever and have worked to this end for approxi-mately one year. It was truly a joint effort to make sure that our Enlisted/Officer Mil-itary Balls and NCNGA Convention did not lose their identity or tradition. I believe we have accomplished this and more. The registration cost for our combined event will be less expensive for the Junior Enlisted and Junior Officers. If you come out and enjoy the entire event, then the savings and benefits will be even greater. So, mark your calendars, 25-27 April 2013, and plan on attending this very exciting three-day event. This is YOUR Association, and its only priority is YOU! It’s COMMITTED only to YOU! Thank you all for your service and your sacrifice. Always remember to keep our deployed men and women in your prayers.

The Soldiers & Airmen Assistance Fund (SAAF) hosted the “Fairway to Honor” golf

tournament on 23 August to raise funds for the families of the North Carolina National Guard & to recognize those organizations that have sup-ported them and the community. It was a perfect day for a tournament; blue skies, immaculate golf course (Crooked Creek in Fuquay-Varina) and plenty of golfers. “It was just a perfect first tournament for the SAAF” said Dennis Roach, Director. “We had twenty-eight teams, plenty of support personnel and great sponsors. Our goal was to honor not only our members of the military, but to also show our business partners how much we appre-ciate their support of our Guard families.” Several special guests came out to play and show their support. They included MG Greg Lusk, Chief of Staff Cliff Wilkins, SCSM John Swart, Silver Star recipients James Herring, Ronnie Randolph, Tommy Rieman and Dale Beatty, co-founder of Purple Heart Homes. Tommy Rieman is the military representative for the Kangaroo Express “Salute Our Troops” campaign that has raised several million dollars for the USO, Wounded Warrior Project and National Guard organizations in several states. “Everyone came out to have fun playing golf and to support our families. We had a variety of different events on several holes to do just that

and it was a great day for everyone involved,” Chairman of the Board Iwan Clontz said, “We met the goals we wanted to accomplish with the players and our sponsors.”1st Place - James Herring, Michael Ecker, Mike Harris, Lance Jordan2nd Place - Danny Sullivan, Nick Stewart, Bill Johnson, Tim Reeser3rd Place- James Ma-ples, Kevin Whitaker, Larry Shaffer, Eddie HayesLongest Drive - Diana StatonPutting Contest - Charles JacksonClosest to the Pin - Dean Debardelaben

A special thanks to all the members and fam-ilies that helped us make the tournament a huge success. To our great sponsors, gift donors and friends of the Guard, we sincerely appreciate your support and concern for our Guard families: Kangaroo Express ~ North Carolina Petroleum & Convenience Store Marketers ~Coca Cola ~ Bojangles of Fuquay-Varina ~ Krispy Kreme Doughnuts of Fuquay-Varina ~ Enterprise Rent-A-Car ~ Hooters on Wake Forest Road ~ Target ~ The Durham Bulls ~ Handee Hugo ~ Carolina Hurricanes ~ Holt Oil Company ~ Cline & Associates ~ Largemouth Bass PR ~ NC National Guard Association ~ Snyder’s Lance ~ Southco Distributing Company ~ Arnold Palmer ~ Purple Heart Homes ~ NCNG ~ Heritage Golf Club ~ Crooked Creek Golf Club ~ “The Club Guy” ~ ARMAC

“Fairway to Honor” Charity Golf Tournament

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 5

Legacy Bridge Program

Last year, Active Associate Representa-tive Al Rose introduced a program that is designed to financially carry the As-

sociation through our present fiscal transition period. As we move from a system where we depended on our investments and insurance premiums to pay our Association’s expenses to one that will rely on new revenue sources to cover our budget, the Legacy Bridge Program will provide the interim funds to meet bud-get costs until the transition is complete. Our projection is that this should occur within 2-3 years, and as such it is a closed end program. The short-term plan is to use the income from the Legacy Bridge Program until our new revenue sources come on-line allowing us to insulate our investments so that they are al-lowed to grow over the long-term. At the end of 2-3 years, the new revenue sources, along with insurance premiums, will be our main in-come sources and the Legacy Bridge Program will close. Long-term, we hope to reach an invest-ment fund goal of $3 million. At that point,

NCNGA LEGACY BRIDGE PROGRAM DONATION

Name:

Mailing Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone: ( ) NCNGA Life Member: Yes No

Unit: Rank:

E-Mail Address:

$100 Donation (Donations are not tax deductible)$25 Quarterly Installments _____ $100 Full Payment __________ Check _____ Money Order _____ Master Card/Visa (Add $2 credit card fee)Credit Card Information:Acct #__________________________________________ Exp Date: ___________ 3-digit Sec Code:__________ Signature: ____________________________________

Return Application & Payment To:

NCNGA ATTN: Legacy Bridge Program7410 Chapel Hill RoadRaleigh, NC 27607-5047

( ) I would like to make this donation in honor of ( ) in memory of ( )

even at a modest 4%, the Association could survive indefinitely should our insurance and new revenue sources take a hit during lean times. Please consider joining us in the Legacy Bridge Program. And, if you would like to remember or honor someone, please consider making a donation in their name. Take a few minutes to fill out the application and to write a check. Al and his team have started us in the right direc-tion. It is up to us now to make it happen. Questions? Please call us at 919-851-3390.

*As of press time

*Our Newest Members of the Legacy Bridge Program:

230. Vernon E. Potter231. Margaret Potter232. Cleve C. Wilkins233. In Honor of CSM (Ret) William Booth234. David M. Adams235 - 251 - Not assigned 252. 2-252 Ar OLD DAWGS

Page 6 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

Saturday Dinner Choices

Attendee: Spouse/Guest: Beef Beef

Chicken Chicken

Vegetarian Vegetarian

COMBINED EVENT REGISTRATION FEES

Retirees & Spouse/Guest (based on rank at retirement)

By 31 MarchPer person

*After 1 AprilPer person Total

E1-E4 & Spouse/Guest $20 $30 $

E5-E7/WO1-WO2/O1-O2 & Spouse/Guest $35 $45

All other ranks & Spouse/Guest $40 $50

Non-Military $35 $45

Child(ren) (meal only) $20 $30

Credit Card Fee $3

TOTAL $

Registrant’s Name _____________________________________ __________ Yes No Yes No

Spouse/Guest Name ___________________________________ __________ Yes No Yes No

Address ________________________________________________________ Unit: City_______________________________ State________ Zip____________ ______________________ Telephone ____________________________E-mail_____________________________________________

NC National Guard Association & NCNG Combined Event Registration Twin City Quarter, Winston-Salem, NC

26-28 April 2013

Method of Payment: ____Check enclosed (payable to NCNGA) ____Charge my: ____MasterCard ____Visa

Account #________________________________ Expiration date ____________3 digit security code ______

Authorized Signature ____________________________________________________________________ There will be a $23 Fee for Returned Checks.

Complete & Return To:NCNGA, 7410 Chapel Hill Rd. Raleigh, NC 27607 (Or Fax to: 919-859-4990 Or Call: 919-851-3390)

_____Joint Force Headquarters

_____145th Airlift Wing

_____60th Troop Command

_____130th MEB

_____30th Armored Bde Combat Team

_____449th Theater Aviation Brigade

_____113th Sustainment Brigade

_____139th Regiment (Combat Arms)

_____Open Seating

Attending Business Session: Member: Friday Yes No Saturday Yes No

Seating Preference (if any)

Attending Friday Dance: Member: Yes No Spouse/Guest: Yes No

*We are unable to accept registration AFTER 15 April 2013

AssociationMember

FirstConventionRank

Links to on-line registration and hotel registration are available on our website at: http://www.ncnga.org/CombinedEvent

www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 7

NCNGA & NCNG COMBINED EVENT26-28 APRIL 2013

WINSTON-SALEM, NC COME EARLY AND JOIN US!

The North Carolina National Guard Association’s annual convention, and the Enlisted and Officer Military Balls are joining forces in 2013 for a special weekend of fun, fellowship and camaraderie. This event will be held 26-28 April 2013 at the Twin City Quarter in Winston-Salem, NC. What is the Twin City Quarter? It is comprised of the Marriott Hotel, Embassy Suites Hotel and Benton Convention Center — all connected with a covered walkway and in beautiful, downtown Winston-Salem.

Why combine all these events? Well, we hope to save you some money and eliminate another Guard related weekend. We really hope you will plan to come early and enjoy the activities of the NC National Guard As-sociation annual convention. For one registration price, you can attend the Business Sessions and learn about YOUR Association, attend the Friday night hospitality rooms and dance — and then attend the grand finale: the Combined Event Ball.

If you are able to come on Thursday, you can participate in the NCNGA Educational Foundation’s golf tourna-ment and later that evening, try your luck at winning $4,000 at the Foundation’s annual Reverse Drawing (ticket required). Then you will have most of Friday to enjoy a visit to Old Salem, the downtown arts district, the Win-ston Cup Museum for race fans, the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, shopping, or golf before joining the Association for their activities on Friday afternoon/evening.

Hotel rooms are blocked for Thursday, Friday and Saturday — so reserve your room today!

Are you a regular attendee to the NC National Guard Association Annual Convention? If so, don’t worry — this is going to be a unique event and a lot of fun. There will be a lot of attendees for the dinner and dance on Sat-urday evening, and the dress will remind those of you that have been attending for quite a few years of the “old times” when we used to dress up for the Saturday evening event. You will also have the opportunity to meet the leadership of the NC National Guard and visit with your current and former unit members. It is going to be fun and different — don’t miss this event! We look forward to seeing you there!

Links to on-line registration and hotel registration are available on our website at: http://www.ncnga.org/CombinedEvent

Events:

Thursday, 25 April 2013 – NCNGA Educational Foundation Golf Tournament and Reverse Drawing (separate ticket required)

Friday, 26 April 2013 – NCNGA Annual Business Meeting, Hospitality Rooms, and Dance (casual attire)

Saturday, 27 April 2013 – NCNGA Annual Business Meeting/Election of Officers, Hospitality Rooms, Dinner and Dance (semi-formal attire and/or dress uniforms)

Lodging Info –

Marriott Hotel – Room rate of $97.00 plus tax

Embassy Suites – Room rate of $107.00 plus tax, includes full breakfast and manager’s reception each evening

Information on this event:

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org

Page 8 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

Camp Arifjan, Kuwait — US Army Medical Command selected Capt. Jacqueline Brinson, a member of North Carolina National Guard’s 113th Sustainment Brigade, as this year’s Army National Guard recipient of the Capt. John R. Teal Leadership Award. The award is named in honor of Teal; the first medical officer killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Teal, a Medical Service Corps (MSC) Of-ficer for the 4th Infantry Division, died from injuries he sustained on October 23, 2003 near Baqubah, Iraq after a roadside bomb detonated near his convoy. Upon his death, the Army Medical Command established the John R. Teal Award, which annually recognizes MSC officers and NCOs who have made significant contribu-tions to the medical community and displayed exceptional soldiering skills. Speaking about her award, Brinson said, “I was very excited and a bit emotional when I found out that I received the Capt. John R. Teal Leadership Award. I’ve worked long and hard supporting North Carolina National Guard units during their home-station mobilization and re-deployment events and it’s a wonderful feeling knowing your efforts have been acknowledged by leaders in your career field as having made a difference in an organization.” Brinson, from Fayetteville, NC, has worked in medical operations at the state and brigade

level and simultane-ously managed roles as NC Army National Guard Assistant Deputy Surgeon and the State Medical Detachment commander. “Brinson’s receipt of this award is an acknowledgment by the surgeon general and the medical operations con-sultant to the surgeon general, of her many years of outstanding duty and performance,” stated Col. John Grote, senior medical opera-tions officer attached to the 113th Sustainment Brigade. Brinson will receive a plaque, a surgeon general congratulatory note and an Army com-mendation medal to be presented by her home station commander. Brinson’s unit is currently on a year-long deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and will redeploy home to NC this winter.

Capt. Jacqueline Brinson, a medical service opera-tions officer, is deployed with NC National Guard’s 113th Sustainment Brigade in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Brinson is this year’s Army National Guard recipient of the Capt. John R. Teal Leadership Award which annually recognizes MSC officers and non-commissioned officers who have made significant contributions to the medical community and displayed exceptional soldiering skills. (Courtesy Photo)

113th Sustainment Brigade Medical Officer Earns Top Leadership Award By Maj. Matt DeVivo, 113th Sustainment Brigade, Public Affairs

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - With 18 warrant officers assigned to the 113th Sustainment Brigade, the Greensboro, NC, based unit has over 400 combined years of expertise in various fields. “This is unusual for a brigade,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Roberta Toshumba, one of the 113th SB’s warrant officers. “Usually, you only find a handful of warrant officers in a brigade.” The 113th SB warrant officers, respectfully nicknamed the “warrant officer mafia,” offer experience and their subject matter expertise in: maintenance, munitions, general supply, supply and services, food service, personnel and human resources, mobility, contracting, electronics, information technology and communications and force management. (US Army photo by Sgt. Miko M. Booth, 113th Sustainment Brigade, Public Affairs)

400+ years of service — Steel Warrant Officers of the 113th Sustainment Submitted by MAJ Matt Devivo, 113th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Officer

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 9

MORRISVILLE, NC – August 4 marked a day of change for the North Carolina National Guard’s 449th Theater Aviation Brigade, as both a new brigade commander, as well as a new battalion commander within the aviation brigade, were ceremoniously appointed inside an aviation hanger at the units’ armory in Mor-risville, NC. Battalion Commander LTC (P) Brian Pierce transferred command of the 1st Bat-talion, 130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 449th TAB, to incoming commander LTC Denny Winningham, and Brigade Commander COL Todd Hunt transferred command of the 449th TAB to LTC (P) Pierce. In the beginning of the morning ceremony, the wives of both battalion commanders were presented bouquets of fresh roses. Jennifer Pierce, wife of outgoing commander LTC (P) Pierce, received fully bloomed red roses, to symbolize the fully blossomed relationship she has developed with the battalion, known as the Panthers. Becca Winningham, wife of incom-ing commander LTC Winningham, received yellow rose buds, symbolizing the new be-ginning and arrival of the Panthers’ new first lady. Similarly, in the afternoon brigade change of command ceremony, Kim Hunt, wife of outgoing brigade commander COL Hunt, re-

ceived red roses and Jennifer Pierce received a second bouquet, one of yellow roses. Both change of command ceremo-nies were officially marked with a tradition known as the passing of the colors. Every mili-tary unit has a unit flag, known as the colors. The spirit of a military unit is embodied in the colors under which it fights and serves. The tra-dition represents the transfer of responsibility for the accomplishment of the mission and the welfare of the battalion’s Soldiers. During the 1-130th ARB ceremony, the battalion’s command ser-geant major, CSM Derwood Norris, first passed the colors to LTC (P) Pierce, who then passed the colors to the 449th TAB commander, COL Todd Hunt. COL Hunt then passed the colors to LTC Winningham, ceremoniously charging the new battalion commander with the respon-sibility for the battalion. In the same fashion, the brigade colors were passed from the bri-gade’s command sergeant major, CSM Gary Hamm, to COL Hunt, who passed them to Assistant Adjutant General-Maneuver COL (P) Ronnie Coats, then to LTC Pierce, during the 449th TAB ceremony.

One Day Marks Double Changes for the 449th TABBy Sgt. Kelly LeCompte, 449th TAB PAO

In a rare staging event, three helicopters, (from left) a UH-60 Blackhawk, a LUH72 Lakota, and an AH64 Apache, line the rear of an aviation hanger at the 449th Theater Aviation Brigade’s headquarters in Morrisville, NC. The rotary winged aircraft adorned the double change of command ceremonies for 1st Battalion, 130th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, and the 449th Theater Aviation Brigade. (US Army Photo by Sgt. Kelly LeCompte, 449th TAB PAO)

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Staff Sgt. James Scott of the 430th EOD Company out of Washington, NC, provides support during the detonation of unexploded ordnance at the Shoshong Range in Botswana, during Southern Accord 2012.

430th EOD Participates in Southern AccordExplosive ordnance disposal technician Staff Sgt. Tracy Dice of the 430th EOD Company examines a piece of ordnance for a BDF soldier at the Shoshong Range in Botswana, Africa, during Southern Accord 2012. Dice participated in a mission to clear unexploded ordnance from the range, enabling US and BDF forces to train together during a multi-day field training exercise.

(US Army photos by Sgt. Adam Fischman, 139th MPAD)

Page 10 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

value, investors get only the principal back and the interest rate may vary significantly from that of a regular fixed rate CD.

6. Gold is a “safe” investment: Gold is a commodity, and, like other commodities, its price can fluctuate dramatically.

7. Don’t catch “Gold Fever”: crowds of promoters stand ready to take investors’ money. Beware of “exploration” companies with official-looking geological surveys or financial statements, when in reality there is little or no current production.

8. Precious metal IRAs: make it possible for investors to buy gold with funds they already have. Gold must be insured and physically shipped before going into storage in an approved depository, meaning investors cannot keep coins in a closet.

Also, beware of these Gold Investment Scams: Scenario #1: Seller offers to sell investors actual gold bullion, and then retain the gold in a “secure” vault, with promises to sell the gold for them as it gains value. In many instances, the gold does not exist. Scenario #2: A company encourages investors to cash out of their poor-performing investments to purchase gold. The investor ends up with a large bag of worthless gold colored coins. Before investing in gold, ask yourself some questions. Do I understand this investment? Is this investment right for me? Have I verified the promoter is legitimate? As with any investment opportunity, you should contact the N.C. Department of the Secretary of State’s Securities Division to determine if the person recommending the investment and the investment itself are properly registered in North Carolina. Call us at (800) 688-4507. Find much more useful information to protect yourself and your financial future by visiting us at www.sosnc.com.

Gold-related investments are on the rise. Historically speaking,

the value of gold-related investments fluctuates even more than the stock market. Gold often moves in reverse of stocks and bonds, so when stocks are down, gold seems like a very tempting investment. There are multiple ways to invest in gold: actual gold, gold mining companies, etc. Know what you are getting into. Before jumping onto the gold bandwagon, there are a few things you might want to consider.

1. Mutual funds: even with gold in their names, only about 10% of mutual funds have assets invested in the metal itself.

2. Gold mining stock: more volatile than purchasing physical gold due to risks in discovering and mining the metal.

3. Exchange-traded product: investor purchases a share in a trust, which represents ownership in physical bars of gold. These trusts may have hidden costs and higher taxation rates.

4. Buying gold online: be sure to perform due diligence to find a reputable dealer because no dealers are authorized or affiliated with the U.S. Mint.

5. Gold CDs: can be as misleading as “fool’s gold.” If the commodity decreases in

Protect Nest Egg from a Phony Golden GooseBy Barbara Bennett, Investor Education Specialist/Military Liaison

FORT BRAGG, NC — The North Carolina Army National Guard welcomed 23 new second lieutenants into its ranks dur-ing a commissioning ceremony for the North Carolina Military Academy Officer Candidate School graduates held at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. Hundreds of family, friends and fellow Soldiers turned out for the event in which Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, the adjutant general of North Carolina, administered the oath of office. (US Army photos by Staff Sgt. Latoria Mckoy, NCNG Public Affairs )

OCS Graduation — 2012

(Left to right) MG Greg Lusk, NC Ad-jutant General; Distinguished Graduate 2LT Steffen G. Schollaer; and COL John Byrd, 139th Regiment (CA) Commander.

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 11

EDEN - Each year, former members of the 731st Maintenance Company out of Wentworth; the 5-113th Battalion Charlie Battery, formerly of Eden; and the 113th Brigade Headquarters out of Greensboro gather in Eden for a reunion. This year’s invitation read “Your orders are as follows: You are to be at the Whistle Jacket Restaurant at 1800 hours on 21 July 2012.” Although many were from Rockingham County or other North Carolina locations, at least one former Guardsman drove seven hours from Macon, GA. They all agreed the trip they had to make to the dinner were well worth it. All 38 retirees attending had at least 20 years each of service with the Guard, some with as many as 38 years. Several served in Vietnam. Some were among the more than 200 members of the 731st Maintenance Company called up in August of 1991 to serve in the first Gulf War. Six full colonels attended the dinner. CSM (RET) Winfred “Wink” Hoover of Eden began hosting the dinners in 1984 with 24 veterans attending. At that time, only men were invited to attend. Now the wives also are invited as are former female members of the Guard. “Many of those who attended the first event are no longer living,” he said. They were World War II veterans. “The National Guard and the Reserve have been an integral part of this country since its in-ception,” Hoover said. “The Minutemen in 1776 were the same as today’s National Guard and Reserves.”

In 1940, the total strength of the United States Army, Navy, Army-Air Force and Marines was 175,000, ranking 17th as a world military power, he said. On Sept. 14, 1940 a total of 300,800 National Guardsmen were mobilized throughout the nation to serve in World War II. About a month later, the draft began. “Thank God, we had about 14 months to get ready for Pearl Harbor,” Hoover said. Pearl Harbor was bombed Dec. 7, 194l. After the war, the National Guard was reor-ganized in the state in 1947, and the Leaksville (now Eden) unit came into being as A Cannon Company 120th Infantry Battalion, 30th Division. During the dinner, Col. Earl Taylor of Charlotte recognized the wives of the men attending, telling them the men couldn’t have served as they did without the support of their loved ones at home. Families had to “put up with” the absences of their National Guard hus-bands/fathers over a long period of time, he said. Although most absences were short-term – at least a weekend every month – occasionally such as in 1991, the Guard was activated for longer periods. In the last eight or nine years, some Guardsmen have served two and three tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Hoover said. After the dinner, Col. Brian Kilgariff of Greensboro, in a private con-versation, praised Hoover, saying his rank of Command Sergeant Major is one “achieved by very few enlisted people in the United States Army.

“He is one of the few men who command the respect of both the enlisted (personnel) and of-ficers he served with.” Hoover “left an indelible mark on people he led,” said Kilgariff, who re-tired out of the Army Special Forces. “He led by example,” the Colonel said. “He is a true soldier and warrior.” After the dinner, the former Guardsmen en-joyed regaling stories about their “adventures” during their service years.

(Left to right) COL (Ret) John Sabat and CSM (Ret) Wink Hoover.

Retirees Gather in Eden for ReunionBy Ann Somers Fish

Former members of the 731st Maint Co, Btry C 5-113th, HHC 113th Bde pose for a group photo at their reunion.

Page 12 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

The North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs offers a program of assistance to veterans and their dependents with claims for Federal, State, and local benefits. There is no charge for the services of this Division. A statewide network of offices is maintained, staffed by persons who are

trained and experienced in advising and actively assisting citizens con-cerning various veterans’ benefits. The Division is a 100% State agency, yet it is accredited by the Federal Government to represent persons be-fore the US Department of Veterans Affairs respecting benefits to which they may be entitled. About 85% of all assistance rendered North Caro-lina veterans and their dependents are handled by the State and counties. Because it receives no Federal funds, with their accompanying controls and restraints, it is free to vigorously represent the interests of North Carolina citizens in seeking veteran’s benefits to which they are entitled. Persons needing information or assistance respecting veteran’s benefits should contact their nearest veteran’s service office. County Veterans Service Offices are located in nearly all of the counties in North Carolina and are usually situated in the county seat. For more in-formation you can look on-line at http://www.doa.nc.gov/vets/ and there is a listing by county of the offices or call (919) 807-4250.

North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs

At the Raleigh Vet Center we know about honeymoons, readjustment from deployed life to home life and

we know about the impact that tours of com-bat, recent or not, can have on a marriage or significant relationship. It’s because so many relationships struggle “after the honeymoon” that we developed the Relationship Series; a psycho educational group for couple’s who want to protect, improve, repair and just gener-ally care for their relationship. The series is made up of three 5 session segments, each with its own unique focus. We begin by helping couples understand some of the common struggles shared by many who have lived through combat tours, or the after math, and have struggled with many of the same challenges. We move on to the work of establishing healthy foundations and end with intensive conflict resolution training. While most combat veterans will have some readjustment issues, it is just as likely that they will naturally recover and return to normal. Others will “get stuck” and find it par-ticularly difficult to live and to love as they did previously and some will even exhibit symp-toms of post traumatic stress, making it doubly difficult to “get back to being themselves.” In the first segment of our series, we iden-tify these common reactions, from the vet’s perspective and from the partner’s. We help motivate couples to hang in there and to start seeing each other in new ways. The Five Love Languages, by Gary Chapman, is a concept used to spark interest in the other person’s per-ceptions of love and to get folks talking about how they show love and interpret love. As a gift, we give each couple a copy of Mr. Chap-man’s book. We follow this up in segment two by exploring Stephen Covey’s “8 Habits of Suc-cessful Marriages.” It’s here that individuals discover their own potential to harness more power in the relationship, to establish a com-mon vision for the relationship and build a more intimate and exciting connection. We provide each couple with a copy of Mr. Cov-ey’s successful book on the subject as well as valuable workbook and calendar to keep. Conflict is alive and well in all relation-ships. For this reason we wrap up our series

Being a Couple Again after Deployment: Help for when the honeymoon seems over

with an intense tutorial intended to get you on the path to peaceful con-flict resolution. Couples learn to intensify their bond and enhance their day-to-day operations by resolving common issues once and for all. They add this structured skill set to their toolbox for relationship main-tenance and for emergency repairs! You’ll end this series as a better listener, a more loving partner and hopefully, in the relationship you’ve always hoped for. Are you ready to participate? It’s easy. We will briefly pre-screen you on the phone and set up an appointment to orient you to the center. If you and your partner are appropriate participants for this series, you will be added to the list for our next group. Don’t worry about timing or making a 15 week commitment! We have new couples entering and graduating from this series every five weeks! Just pick up the phone and give us a call. By D. Jocelyn Cahall, L.C.S.W., Raleigh Vet Center Counselor.

Vet Centers, a branch of the Department of Veteran Affairs, offers readjustment counseling to combat veterans, MST veterans, and their families. The Raleigh Vet Center is located at 1649 Old Louisburg Rd, Raleigh, N.C. 27603, their phone number is (919) 856-4616. Other locations are in Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Greenville, and Jacksonville; as well as across the US. Not all programs are available at each location. All our services are free of charge; thank you for your service to our country

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 13

FOR: Army and Air National Guard RetireesDATE: Thursday, December 13, 2012 TIME: 1000 HRS LOCATION: New Joint Force Headquarters, 1636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607 EVENT REGISTRATION: 0900-1000 HRS INCLUDES: Mission update; benefits seminar; various information stations; luncheon; social time; and celebrating the National Guard’s 376th Birthday.REGISTRATION: Send the form below and a check for $15.00 per person payable to “NCNG Retiree Luncheon” on or before 1 December 2012 to: JFHQ-NC-PAO-CR ATTN: Tarheel Homecoming 1636 Gold Star Drive Raleigh, NC 27607Registration Form also available on the NCNG Public Website at: http://www.nc.ngb.army.mil/index.php/retirees/ NOTE: Seating is limited to 450; please make your reservation as soon as possible.QUESTIONS: Contact the following personnel with questions: MSG Jimmy Bright Office: (919) 664 - 6000 x46843 Cell: (919) 612-5421 CPT Matthew Boyle Office: 919) 664 - 6000 x46829 Cell: (919) 741 - 7599SGT Kalithia Adams Office: (919) 664 - 6000 x46902

2012 NCNG TARHEEL HOMECOMING and the National Guard’s 376th Birthday Celebration

Registration Form

Attendee Name and Rank (RET): Guest Name (s):

Please provide the followingMailing address:E-mail Address:Home or Cell Phone:

Tarheel Retiree Homecoming and the National Guard’s 376th Birthday Celebration 2012

Page 14 — OCT/NOV 2012 www.ncnga.org Tarheel Guardsman

Come to the Retiree Network Workshop on Thursday, 8 November 2012 at 10:30 a.m. The workshop will be held at the NC National Guard Association office, located at 7410 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh NC. What is the Retiree Network? This program is comprised of separated/retired NC Guard members that visit NC National Guard units during drill weekends to tell Soldiers and Airmen about the benefits of being in the NC National Guard and a member of the NCNGA. The workshop will last approximately two hours and will provide the information and tools you will need to assist the NCNGA in its membership drive. If you are interested in attending the workshop, please call Teri Foster at 1-800-821-6159, ext 1 or email her at teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com. We hope to see you on 8 November!

Separated or Retired from the NC National Guard? Want to earn extra money?

We have experienced several claims in the past two years where beneficiaries had not been updated and ex-spouses (or ex-friends) received the death benefits of the member’s NC National Guard Association’s Group Life insurance. Have you had a change in your marital status? Do you know who you have designated as your beneficiary? Contact us at 1-800-821-6159 and either Teri Foster at ext 1, or Rhonda Arndt at ext 0, will be glad to assist you.

NCNGA Insured Members — Have YOU Checked Your Beneficiary Lately?

“For God and Country - Still Serving Proudly.”

The North Carolina Department of the American Legion

Thanks You for Your Service to Our State and Nation!

We invite you to visit any of our 334 Posts, statewide, visit our website

www.nclegion.org, email us at nclegion@nc.rr.com,

or call 919-832-7506.

Tarheel Guardsman www.ncnga.org OCT/NOV 2012 — Page 15

Listed below are those members (and non-members), spouses and dependent children that have recently passed away. If we have missed someone, please contact the Editor, Teri Foster at teri.gregory.foster@gmail.com or 800-821-6159 ext 1.

In Memoriam

Dorothy E. LaneSpouse of Roy LaneElizabeth City, NC

6 July 2012

Richard G. Cocklereece, Jr.Greensboro, NC

11 July 2012

Isaac HammondsSon of

James P. HammondsFayetteville, NC

11 July 2012

Robert E. FishGastonia, NC16 July 2012

McKinley MangumDurham, NC17 July 2012

David W. DanielWilson, NC20 July 2012

Alice Garris GibsonEmporia, VA21 July 2012

Frederick FabeanDurham, NC22 July 2012

Nancy T. PooleSpouse of

Harvey L. PooleCharlotte, NC22 July 2012

Leokoshia L. BaldwinDaughter of

Kendell BaldwinCo E 230th BSB

Kinston, NC26 July 2012

Randall AlbertsonMount Olive, NC

30 July 2012

Jerry W. HamiltonRockingham, NC

2 August 2012

Aaron D. LittleHamlet, NC

6 August 2012

Individuals not listed in the

June/July issue:

Billie Jean JenningsSpouse of

Joseph L. JenningsDurham, NC25 May 2012

Timothy C. HicksRamseur, NC4 June 2012

Mary Helen EarnhardtSpouse of

Harold EarnhardtRockwell, NC10 June 2012

Tommy M. Jones, Jr.Salisbury, NC16 June 2012

Millie MorrowSpouse of

William T. MorrowMurrells Inlet, SC

29 June 2012

James C. FreemanSt. Pauls, NC9 August 2012

Demarcus S. Locklear2nd Bn 130th AVN

Rgmt (Rear)Fort Bragg, NC 9 August 2012

Clayton H. WilsonZionville, NC

25 August 2012

Jerry L. BakerNashville, NC

3 September 2012

North Carolina Army Veteran to Ride Wild Horse 300 Miles for Wounded Warrior ProjectSubmitted by Emily ThomasWhat is more patriotic than an Army Veteran riding across the Southeast on two American Mustangs to raise money for the Wounded War-rior Project? Not much, that is, unless wounded veterans hop on a mustang and ride along. Jim Thomas, a retired Sergeant Major with the North Carolina Army National Guard, had a vision. Thomas is a regular competitor in the Extreme Mustang Makeover, a competition that pairs horse trainers from across the country with untouched wild horses to go head-to-head with other trainers, and wanted to use his involvement in this year’s competition to make a difference in the lives of his brothers and sisters in uniform. (http://www.extrememustangmakeover.com/) “My first thought was, ‘wouldn’t it be cool if I could use my mustangs to raise money for the WWP?’,” said Thomas. “Then I remembered an-other EMM trainer from 2008 who rode his horse from his home in Las Vegas to the competition in Fort Worth. If he could do that, I could surely ride from Silk Hope, NC to Clemson, SC for the competition, raising money for the WWP along the way.” The trek will be around 330 miles, which Thomas hopes to tackle with two mustangs, who

will only have been in captivity for about three months, in ten days. Thomas will switch between mounts along the way, and invites any wounded warrior who would like the opportunity to hop on his spare horse and ride along. He also has extended the invitation to his fellow competi-tors to ride along on their own mustangs on the last leg of the journey into Clemson, which will be Oct. 18, to support the WWP. To donate to “Mustangs for the Warrior,” please visit https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/individual-fundraising/mustangsforthewarrior/. To track Thomas’ progress along his route, or to send him words of encouragement, please visit our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bar-T-Horsemanship/124070031041024) or our website (www.Bar-THorsemanship.com). If you’d like more information, or would like to speak with Thomas, please contact Emily Thomas at 919-619-0045, or at ethomas04@gmail.com.

PeriodicalsU. S. Postage

PAIDRaleigh, NC

Tarheel GuardsmanNC National Guard Assoc.7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607-5047

How to reach us:919-851-3390 800-821-6159 (in NC only)ncnga@bellsouth.net - emailwww.ncnga.org - website

Plan now to join us 26-28 April 2013 for the NC National Guard Combined Event in Winston-Salem, NC. There are many activities, historic areas and museums in the area, as well as shopping and golf. We hope to see you there!

Old Salem Museums & Gardens, located less than 1-1/2 miles from the Marriott Hotel and Embassy Suites, is comprised of historically restored museum buildings and homes of the Moravian settlement, craftsmen practicing their trade, collections of rare antiques, and one-of-a-kind gift shopping, and a wonderful bakery that offers world-renowned Moravian cookies. Visit the Tavern at Old Salem or Mayberry’s Restaurant, above Winkler Bakery for a refreshing beverage and meal.

Bethabara Park, settled in 1753, was a German-speaking, Protestant settlement. It features a restored 1788 church, archaeological ruins, a reconstructed village, a French and Indian War fort. There are 20 miles of nature trails, for those wanting to take a hike through the woods and enjoy nature. This park is located approximately 5 1/2 miles from downtown Winston-Salem.

A view within Old Salem Museums & Gardens, as it faces downtown Winston-Salem. Photo provided by Visit Winston-Salem.

Winston-Salem Points of Interest — Historic Areas

Site of the first settlement in Forsyth County. Guided tour includes 1788 German Church and reconstructed fort. Medicine Garden and nature preserve on site. Photo by Gail Jones.