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Michigan Air Guard Bulletin and News Gazette,
April 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TAPS/Erratum
110th Attack Wing Happenings
Honor Roll/Oral History Project
WW I SPADS at Selfridge
Aviationisms
Tidbits
Remembering Selfridge ANG Base’s Namesake
KC-136 Snowy Takeoff
127th Wing Happenings
History of the One-Dollar Bill
Bad Day at Hallmark
100 Years of Navy Reserve Service
127th Wing Shield & Mission
Reader Information Survey
Memorial Wall, Selfridge Air Museum
MAGHA Membership Application
127th A-10 in the Azores
Annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast
New VA Regions/Letters Home
Email SPAM Problem
US Military Rules
My Job Search
MI ANG History Books
Reunions
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TAPS
MSgt Gerald Boettner (54-86)………13 Feb 15
MSgt Charles Cressell (??-??)………..????
MSgt Ross Hunter (73-93)…………….24 Feb 15
SMSgt Russ King (72-91)……………….13 Feb 15
LTC Les Leavoy (46-57)………………….29 Jan 15
MSgt Richard Lindauer (48-86)……..25 Jan 15
Capt Jay Lodge (75-85)…………………..2 Feb 15
SMSgt Dale Pier (??-85)……………………..20 Feb 15
Erratum
(A mistake in a printed or written document. The plural of erratum is errata)
Reference the Michigan Air National Guard Korean War Overview article on pages 8 and 9 of the January 2015 issue of the
MANGBANG: According to Lt Col Kingsley Purton (‘59-‘66), the photo of the F-84 at the top of the article appears to be a
swept-wing F-84 and the Guard was flying straight-wing F-84s in 1952 and didn’t get swept wing F-84s until 1958.
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110th Attack Wing Happenings
Senator Stabenow meets the troops at the 110th
Attack Wing on Presidents Day
by Maj. Kelly Black
110th Attack Wing
2/20/2015 - February 16, 2015 -- BATTLE CREEK AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, MICHIGAN - Senator Debbie Stabenow met the troops
during the Presidents Day weekend, at the 110th Attack Wing, Battle Creek Air National Guard Base. She received briefings from the
Adjutant General of Michigan - Major General Gregory Vadnais, the 110th Attack Wing Commander - Colonel Ronald Wilson and the Fort
Custer Training Center Post Commander - Lieutenant Colonel Mark Gorzynski.
Colonel Kier Knapp outlined the excellent opportunities for Remote Piloted Aircraft to support Michigan's interests in addition to U.S.
missions. "This aircraft is a little larger than an A-10, with a 66ft wingspan making it very stable; its ability to stay in the air for extended
periods and excellent cameras are well suited to wildfire spotting, search & rescue for lost people and in support of natural disaster victims".
He noted that such support is currently challenging due to FAA regulations since the base does not have authorization for a "launch and
recovery element" for personnel or any aircraft assigned to Battle Creek.
217th Air Operations Group Commander, Colonel Sean Southworth explained that his command has the only forces within the Air Force
assigned to U.S. Air Forces-Africa. He indicated how his Air Operations Center and Contingency planners have steadily provided troops to
support Europe and Africa; most recently in response to the Ebola threat. His command includes experts in over 90 different jobs, including
logistics, infrastructure, communications, fire-protection, security, medical and air-traffic managers in addition to senior-pilot positions. His
expansive command & control centers have been noted for their potential to support FEMA, in addition to their other missions. He noted that
the pending cut of 50 personnel, eliminating the mobility squadron that is basic to controlling movement of people and equipment in such a
vast area as Africa, is a significant challenge.
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Major General Vadnais adroitly responded to Senator Stabenow's questions regarding manpower cuts and the lack of a full-time flight
surgeon (a doctor specific to pilots). He showed that 37% of all Air Force cuts within the Air National Guard since fiscal year 2012 were from
Michigan. "That's 631 job cuts from Michigan, compared to 1069 for all other states combined". The Adjutant General also elaborated on the
challenges associated with being in 50th place for DoD Employees, DoD Payrolls and DoD Dollars, with having lost all four of its Active Duty
Air Force bases and currently being in 47th place for Army & Air Force bases. Senator Stabenow showed clear interest and resolve in
correcting this situation. She simultaneously directed her staff to obtain related details before turning to the Cyber-defense mission
discussion. Major General Vadnais provided an overview of work between the Merit Group, Battle Creek's 110th Attack Wing and Governor
Snyder that established a pilot-program defending Michigan Business, Utilities and infrastructure from malicious Cyber-attacks. Further, the
program matches with Governor Snyder's education incentives that resulted in the 110th partnering with WMU, CMU, KCC and Siena
Heights. The Cyber-Defense mission, which started over a year ago, has already successfully defended Michigan interests.
Lieutenant Colonel Gorzynski provided Senator Stabenow with an update regarding the Ballistic Missile Defense System and answered her
associated questions. The system provides a way to intercept Missiles launched at the continental U.S. while they are still in space over the
north-pole and without using an explosive war-head. Battle Creek offers several noted advantages over the remaining contending sites, such
as least overall cost (due to existing infrastructure) and thus least time to operational capability. Senator Stabenow showed marked interest in
this Defense system and how Michigan is in position to best meet this Defense needs and return DoD jobs to Michigan. While addressing the
requirement to be financially responsible in our National Defense, Senator Stabenow simultaneously indicated that "...we can't afford to be in
a situation where we are foolish in terms of our national threats."
"The 110th Attack Wing was honored to have Senator Stabenow visit our wing" said Colonel Wilson. "We have highlighted our challenges as
a wing and in general as a Michigan National Guard as part of our Michigan community. Senator Stabenow is very supportive for us gaining
an RPA launch and recovery element, a cyber-defense squadron and the regions Ballistic missile defense system."
HONOR ROLL
Due to the large number of Honor Roll members, only those who have either become Life Members or who have
achieved a higher membership status since the last issue are listed below. A complete Honor Roll membership
roster is published annually in the July issue.
New Life Members
CPO Edward Tinkham (EOC/Ret)
ORAL HISTORY PROJECT
In order to more fully document the history of the Michigan ANG and Selfridge ANG Base, the Michigan Air Guard Historical
Association (MAGHA) and the Selfridge Military Air Museum are inaugurating an oral history project to collect, preserve, and
share the unique lived experiences of Michigan ANG and Selfridge veterans. The results of the project will be made available
as audio recordings and transcripts on line in order to instruct, inform, and inspire our community. The project is being
spearheaded by a Museum volunteer who has a BA in History from the University of Michigan and is expected to have an MA
in History from Wayne State University in 2015. If you are interested in participating in this unique project, please contact Lou
Nigro (586-239-6768 or email louis.nigro@selfridgeairmuseum.org) to insure the necessary coordination is accomplished.
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World War l SPADs are lined up at Selfridge Field in June 1922.
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AVIATIONISMS
When one engine fails on a twin engine airplane you always have enough power
left to get you to the scene of the crash.
Blue water Navy truism: there are more planes in the ocean than there are
submarines in the sky.
Never trade luck for skill.
The three most common expressions (or famous last words) in aviation are: "Why
is it doing that?", "Where are we?" and "Ooh Shit!"
Progress in airline flying: now a flight attendant can get a pilot pregnant.
Airspeed, altitude or brains. Two are always needed to successfully complete
the flight.
A smooth landing is mostly luck: two in a row is all luck: three in a row is
prevarication.
I remember when sex was safe and flying was dangerous.
Mankind has a perfect record in aviation: we never left one up there!
If the wings are traveling faster than the fuselage, it's probably a helicopter
and therefore, unsafe.
Flashlights are tubular metal containers kept in a flight bag for the purpose
of storing dead batteries.
Flying the airplane is more important than radioing your plight to a person on
the ground incapable of understanding it or doing anything about it.
When a flight is proceeding incredibly well, something was forgotten.
Just remember, if you crash because of weather, your funeral will be held on a
sunny day.
Advice given to RAF pilots during W.W.II: When a prang (crash) seems
inevitable, endeavor to strike the softest, cheapest object in the vicinity as
slowly and gently as possible.
The Piper Cub is the safest airplane in the world: it can just barely kill you.
(Attributed to Max Stanley, Northrop test pilot)
A pilot who doesn't have any fear probably isn't flying his plane to its
maximum. (Jon McBride, astronaut)
If you're faced with a forced landing, fly the thing as far into the crash as
possible. (Bob Hoover - renowned aerobatic and test pilot)
If an airplane is still in one piece, don't cheat on it: ride the bastard down.
(Ernest K. Gann, author & aviator)
Never fly in the same cockpit with someone braver than you.
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There is no reason to fly through a thunderstorm in peacetime (sign over
squadron ops desk at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ, 1970).
The three best things in life are a good landing, a good orgasm, and a good
bowel movement. The night carrier landing is one of the few opportunities in
life where you get to experience all three at the same time.
(Author unknown,
but someone who's been there).
What is the similarity between air traffic controllers and pilots? If a pilot
screws up, the pilot dies: If ATC screws up, the pilot dies.
Without ammunition the USAF would be just another expensive flying club.
If something hasn't broken on your helicopter, it's about to.
Basic Flying Rules
1. Try to stay in the middle of the air.
2. Do not go near the edges of it.
3. The edges of the air can be recognized by the appearance of ground,
buildings, sea, trees and interstellar space.
TIDBITS
NEW BROCHURES AVAILABLE: One of the newest members of our Board of Directors, DAN HEATON, has
developed two brochures that we can print and mail to you if you wish. One is entitled “First in Flight –A Log Book
of Firsts, Lasts, and Other Aviation Milestones at Selfridge ANG Base”. The second is entitled “The Michigan Air
National Guard at War – A Combat History 1917-1953”. Ask and you shall receive: 586-239-5035,
magha@selfridgeairmuseum.org or 27333 C Street, Bldg 1011, Selfridge ANG Base MI 48045.
SELFRIDGE POST OFFICE HAS MOVED AND CHANGED HOURS: For those of you who use the US Post
Office on Selfridge ANG Base
(1) They’ve moved to near the BX in Bldg 715 which they share with the Credit Union and the Official Mail
Center
(2) They’ve changed their hours to 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesdays thru Fridays. They are closed on
Mondays!
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Remembering Our Namesake
Lt. Thomas Selfridge
by Staff Sgt. Dan Heaton
127th Public Affairs
Despite the fact that he apparently never set foot in southeastern Michigan, one man's name has long been at the forefront of military aviation
in the state: Thomas Selfridge.
U.S. Army 1st Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge, the first military person ever to die in an aircraft accident during a flight, was killed after a crash
landing Sept. 17, 1908, while flying with Orville Wright. Ironically, the men were flying just a few hundred yards away from Arlington National
Cemetery in Virginia, where Selfridge would later be buried with full military honors.
In 1917, the Army leased (and would eventually purchase) Joy Aviation Field in Harrison Township and renamed it in Selfridge's honor.
Initially, the base was used to train pilots in the run-up to American involvement to World War I. Over the years, the base's name has
changed to reflect its changing mission from Selfridge Field to Selfridge Air Force Base in 1947 to Selfridge Air National Guard Base in 1971.
Selfridge, who graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1903 as part of the same class that produced future Gen. Douglas
MacArthur, came from a family steeped in American military tradition. Selfridge's grandfather and an uncle, Thomas O. Selfridge Sr. and Jr.,
both served more than 40 years in the U.S. Navy, both saw combat action with the Union Navy during the Civil War and both men retired as
admirals. The Navy named two different destroyers after the men, the second of which saw extensive action in World War II.
Selfridge's older brother, Edward Selfridge, served as a captain in the infantry and fought in the Battle of San Juan Hill in the SpanishAmerican War and is also buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Selfridge, who was 26 when he died, was initially assigned to the infantry, but grew fascinated with aviation after reading about some work
that Dr. Alexander Graham Bell, the same man who invented the telephone, was doing with kites in Nova Scotia in Canada. Eventually
assigned by President Theodore Roosevelt as an observer to the Bell experiments, in 1907, Selfridge would take his first flight. Strapped into
the center of a giant kite created by Bell, Selfridge made his first flight on Dec. 6 of that year, rising to 168 feet as the kite was pulled by a
tugboat on Lake Bras d'Or.
The following summer, Selfridge was one of three Army officers to be trained to fly Army Dirigible Number One and his enthusiasm and
advocacy for military air power was continuing to grow. Arguing that the Army needed to purchase its own airplanes, Selfridge was assigned
to a small team to test out the Wright Flyers being made by Orville and Wilbur Wright, the famed brothers from Dayton, Ohio, who had made
the world's first controlled, powered and sustained airplane flight on Dec. 17, 1903.
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In a demonstration for the Army (the separate Air Force would not be created until 1947), Orville Wright brought a Wright Flyer to Fort Meyer,
Va., for a series of flights. After several days of observing Wright fly his aircraft, for up to an hour at a time, Lt. Selfridge convinced Wright to
take him aloft as a passenger on one of the flights. Selfridge had to leave the next morning on other Army business.
The flight with Wright was to be Selfridge's last.
"The accident was witnessed by a throng of upwards of 2,500 persons, who were instantly changed from cheering enthusiasts to saddened
and depressed sympathizers," the Washington Post reported the next day.
"The accident was caused by the breaking of one of the propeller blades. It occurred as the machine was making the second turn, at the
lower end of the field, on the fourth lap.
"An end of the blade flew off, and Mr. Wright apparently completely lost control of the machine, which tacked about choppily for a hundred
feet or more, soared ten feet higher, and then dropped to the ground with a frightful force, from a height of about 75 feet.
"The machine crumpled up into a tangled mass of wreckage, burying the two men. The horrified spectators dashed down the field, and those
in the van lifted the machine and extricated the victims. Mr. Wright was conscious. Lieutenant Selfridge was unconscious, and his face was
covered with blood, which gushed from a great gash on his forehead."
Selfridge died at the scene. Wright was hospitalized for several weeks but made a full recovery and eventually sold his airplane to the Army.
The Washington Post goes on to report that Selfridge was "one of the most enthusiastic and experience aviators" in the military at the time of
his death.
To mark the centennial of Selfridge's death, Lou Nigro, Executive Director of the Selfridge Air Museum, has created a presentation on the
early aviator's life that is suitable for service clubs, libraries or other interested groups.
"Selfridge's legacy lives on here at the base that bears his name," Nigro said. "This base has a more than 90-year history of aviation
excellence and service to the nation through the use of air power. I think Thomas Selfridge would be proud of how his name endures to this
day."
KC-135 Snowy Take-Off!
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127th Wing Happenings
Michigan Airmen complete Snowbird Training
by Tech. Sgt. Dan Heaton
127th Wing Public Affairs
About 200 Michigan Airmen engaged in a series of exercises - primarily focusing on combat search and rescue utilizing the A-10
Thunderbolt II - centered at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz., and the nearby Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range
over the two weeks ending Feb. 7, 2015.
The Snowbird exercise allowed the Airmen of the 107th Fighter Squadron, 127th Maintenance Group and other supporting
elements of the Michigan Air National Guard's 127th Wing to practice the major movement of their aircraft and personnel from
home station at Selfridge Air National Guard Base and then to be able to engage in a simulated combat environment.
"When you make a big movement like that, there's always issues that have to be worked through," said Chief Master Sgt. Wayne
Fetty, aircraft maintenance superintendent on the trip. "But our Airmen worked together in a professional manner - acting like the
true Airmen they are - and had a successful trip."
During the exercise, the A-10s from Selfridge fired nearly 15,000 rounds from the 30mm GAU-8 gun that is the aircraft's primary
weapon. In addition, almost 500 bombs, rockets and missiles were fired by the aircraft's pilots during training missions in the
Goldwater range. In many of the missions, Selfridge pilots worked closely with local Air Force rescue helicopters and other assets
in a complex and realistic series of scenarios. Originally designed for close air support, the A-10 provides an ideal platform to
provide support to rescue operations in potential close proximity to opposition ground forces. The A-10 can also provide airborne
command and control support to rescue operations, as well as serve in air interdiction and intelligence, surveillance and
reconnaissance capacities.
"This exercise gave everyone a chance to see that when we come together - Wing Commander Brig. Gen. (John D.) Slocum calls it
'One Team, One Fight' - that we can pack a serious punch," said Lt. Col. Shawn Holtz, 107th Fighter Squadron commander.
Holtz and Fetty said that as a result of the training during Snowbird, numerous pilots, maintenance personnel and others were able
to be "signed off" in a variety of upgrade training, further widening the skill set of 127th Wing personnel.
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Take out a one-dollar bill and look at it.
The one-dollar bill you're looking at first came off the presses in 1957 in its present
design. This so-called paper money is in fact a cotton and linen blend, with red and blue
minute silk fibers running through it. It is actually material. We've all washed it without
it falling apart. A special blend of ink is used, the contents we will never know. It is
resistant and pressed to give it that nice crisp look.
If you look on the front of the bill, you will see the United States Treasury Seal. On the
top you will see the scales for a balanced budget. In the center you have a carpenter's
square, a tool used for an even cut.
Underneath is the Key to the United States.
That's all pretty easy to figure out, but what is on the back of that dollar bill is
something we should all know.
If you turn the bill over, you will see two circles. Both circles, together, comprise the
Great Seal of the United States. The First Continental Congress requested that Benjamin
Franklin and a group of men come up with a Seal. It took them four years to accomplish this
task and another two years to get it approved.
If you look at the left hand circle, you will see a Pyramid. Notice the face is lighted and
the western side is dark. This country was just beginning. We had not begun to explore the
West or decided what we could do for Western civilization. The Pyramid is uncapped, again
signifying that we were not even close to being finished.
Inside the capstone you have the all-seeing eye, an ancient symbol for divinity. It was
Franklin's belief that one man couldn't do it alone, but a group of men, with the help of God
could do anything.
"IN GOD WE TRUST" is on this currency.
"God has favored our undertaking."
The Latin above the pyramid, ANNUIT COEPTIS, means,
The Latin below the pyramid, NOVUS ORDO SECLORUM, means, "a new order has begun." At the base
of the pyramid is the Roman numeral for 1776.
If you look at the right-hand circle, and check it carefully, you will learn that it is on
every National Cemetery in the United States. It is also on the Parade of Flags Walkway at
the Bushnell, Florida National Cemetery and is the centerpiece of most heroes' monuments.
Slightly modified, it is the seal of the President of the United States and it is always
visible whenever he speaks; yet no one knows what the symbols mean.
The Bald Eagle was selected as a symbol for victory for two reasons: First, he is not afraid
of a storm; he is strong and he is smart enough to soar above it. Secondly, he wears no
material crown. We had just broken from the King of England. Also, notice the shield is
unsupported. This country can now stand on its own.
At the top of that shield you have a white bar signifying congress, a unifying factor.
were coming together as one nation.
We
In the Eagle's beak you will read, "E PLURIBUS UNUM", meaning "one nation from many people."
Above the Eagle you have thirteen stars representing the thirteen original colonies, and any
clouds of misunderstanding rolling away. Again, we were coming together as one.
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Notice what the Eagle holds in his talons. He holds an olive Branch and arrows.
country wants peace, but we will never be afraid to fight to preserve peace.
This
The Eagle always wants to face the olive branch, but in time of war, his gaze turns toward
the arrows.
They say that the number 13 is an unlucky number. This is almost a worldwide belief. You
will usually never see a room numbered 13,or any hotels or motels with a 13th floor. But,
think about this: 13 original colonies, 13 signers of the Declaration of Independence, 13
stripes on our flag, 13 steps on the Pyramid, 13 letters in the Latin above, 13 letters in "E
PLURIBUS UNUM", 13 stars above the eagle, 13 plumes of feathers on each span of the Eagle's
wing, 13 bars on that shield, 13 leaves on the olive branch, 13 fruits, and if you look
closely, 13 arrows.
Bad day at Hallmark
Ever wonder what happens when Hallmark writers are having a bad day?
My tire was thumping, I thought it was flat.
When I looked at the tire, I noticed your cat. Sorry!
Heard your wife left you, how upset you must be.
But don't fret about it, she moved in with me.
Congratulations on your wedding day!
Too bad no one likes your husband.
I've always wanted to have someone to hold, someone to love.
After having met you, I've changed my mind.
As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am...
That you're not here to ruin it for me.
Congratulations on your promotion.
Before you go would you like to take this knife out of my back?
You'll probably need it again.
Happy birthday!
You look great for your age…almost lifelike!
When we were together, you always said you'd die for me.
Now that we've broken up, I think it's time you kept your promise...
We have been friends for a very long time.
Let's say we stop?
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NOSC Detroit celebrates 100 years of Navy Reserve service
by MC1(SW) David Wyscaver
NOSC Detroit Public Affairs
SELFRIDGE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mich. -- Navy Operational Support Center Detroit celebrated 100 years of Navy Reserve
th
service during a centennial ceremony on March 7 . .
The centennial celebration featured U.S. Senator and Navy veteran Gary Peters, who emphasized the rich tradition and heritage of the Navy
Reserves.
"The ceremony was intended to highlight and recognize the sacrifices made by Sailors, families, and the community to defend our nation and
our values. The ready willingness to serve and sacrifice by our citizen Sailors, ensures that our national foundation remains intact and helps
keep our nation great," said Cmdr. Chan Shin, commanding officer, NOSC Detroit. "We must continue to honor their commitment and
sacrifice in ceremonies such as this, so that our citizens are reminded that our freedom is truly not free."
"I feel it's important to highlight significant milestones of Michigan Naval history such as the Centennial because the reservists play such an
integral part of the success in Michigan and have the only Navy presence within the state, "said Yeoman Senior Chief Petty Officer (AW) Amy
Kelly, command senior chief, NOSC Detroit.
The mission of NOSC Detroit is to generate mobilization readiness by providing administrative services, training support, and world class
customer service to Reserve personnel in support of surge and operational requirements for the Navy and Marine Corps team, and Joint
Forces.
It's important to highlight and celebrate all of the accomplishments of reserve Sailors, both past and present. Michigan reserve Sailors have
played a vital role in the overall mission accomplishment of the Navy while deploying all over the globe.
Throughout each year, NOSC Detroit prides itself on superior mission accomplishment by averaging 60 mobilizations of Sailors, performing
joint operations through open house events, conducting community outreach and ensuring to maintain an active involvement with the veteran
presence of the Navy League, said Kelly.
"Navy Reserve Sailors make an exceptional commitment and sacrifice when they agree to serve our nation," said Shin. "As a Reserve Sailor,
they are committing to learn and maintain new skill sets, travel away from home to where the missions are, and are willing to make the
ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation, all while still meeting the demands of their civilian career and taking care of their family. I have
found that our Sailors demonstrate extraordinary perseverance and dedication in honoring their commitment to serve. They truly represent
the Navy's core values of honor, courage, and commitment."
For 100 years, Navy Reserve Sailors have answered the nation's call in times of war and peace. From communities throughout Michigan,
men and women left their homes trading out civilian clothes for Navy uniforms.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and be part of this great milestone," said Shin. "I was born in South Korea and immigrated as a
child with my family. Having experienced and seen what other nations offer, I truly appreciate the opportunity and the freedom this nation
provides to its citizens, and I am continuously grateful that I can be a part of a Navy who contributes to the defense of that freedom and
opportunity."
"I'm honored to be part of the great history of Navy reservists," said Kelly. "I'm in love with being a command senior chief and I take pride and
ownership knowing I have the opportunity to help others while impacting their career in a positive manner. It's an experience that will last a
lifetime."
The command includes 23 staff members, both officers and civilians, 18 full-time support and active-duty Sailors as well as approximately
550 selected reserve Sailors.
NOSC Detroit is comprised of 20 units including Voluntrain 1325, NSF Sigonella, 4 MAW MWSG46, NCHB 10 Fuel, Sigonella EOC, AP
1301, NMORA 0192, USW OPS DET 0, MTOC SELF, EUCOM JAC 0592, SIG 0192, CNE-C6F MPP 413, NIOC GA-Detroit, PHIB CB 2 112,
NMCB 25 DET 2625, 4DB 14DC Det 4, Surgemain Detroit, OSU 1301, 4MD 1124 and EMF GL ONE 2.
NOSC Detroit is one of 123 Navy Operational Support Centers fleet-wide that will be celebrating 100 years of Navy Reserve service this year.
"It's an exciting time," said Kelly. "I'm very fortunate to be serving during the Centennial and celebrating 100 years of the Navy Reserves. It is
a once in a lifetime experience."
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127th Wing Shield
Approved in July 1954, the 127th Wing’s insignia represents the unit’s rich history. With a red
background bordered in gold, the wing’s motto, “We Stand Ready” anchors the badge.
The three gold fleur-de-lis on the upper right corner stand for the three squadrons which have
constituted the wing -- the 107th, the 171st and the 172nd – and their service in the European
Theater of Operations during World War II.
Today, the 107th Fighter Squadron and the 171st Air Refueling Squadron remain a part of the
127th Wing at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. The 172nd is a component of the 110th
Attack irlift Wing stationed in Battle Creek, Mich.
The green saguaro cactus denotes the efforts of the 107th and 171st, both of which were fighter
squadrons at the time – and their deployment to Luke Air Force Base in Arizona to conduct pilot
training during the Korean Conflict. The pink apple blossom signifies the 172nd Squadron’s active
duty service at Selfridge during the same period.
The bendlet, made of 5 equal lines of gold, red and blue (two gold stripes on the outside with two
inner red stripes and a single blue stripe in the center) represent the three original squadrons of
the wing.
An earlier version of the shield featured the wing motto, “We Stand Ready,” in Latin, “Parati
Stamus.”
127th Wing Mission
To provide trained, equipped and motivated airlift, fighter, combat weather and support resources
serving the community, state and nation.
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READER INFORMATION SURVEY
One of the well-received features of the MANGBANG is information on our individual members
that is shared with the at-large membership. Please help us continue this feature by completing
the survey below and mailing it to MAGHA,, 27333 C Street, Bldg 1011, Selfridge ANG Base
MI 48045. or e-mail the information to magha@selfridgeairmuseum.org.
FULL NAME AND RANK
DATE I JOINED THE GUARD
DATE I LEFT THE GUARD
LAST UNIT WHEN I LEFT THE GUARD
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO SINCE YOU LEFT THE GUARD
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY READING IN THE MANGBANG AND WHAT WOULD YOU
LIKE TO SEE INCLUDED IN FUTURE ISSUES?
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MEMORIAL WALL
SELFRIDGE MILITARY AIR MUSEUM
The Michigan Air Guard Historical Association (MAGHA) has completed construction of a Memorial Area in the center of the Air Park at
the Selfridge Military Air Museum. The memorial is a place to honor all members of the military who gave their lives in the line of
duty and in the service of this great nation, to recognize all those who have in the past or who are currently serving their
country, and to acknowledge the contributions made by families and companies to the preservation of freedom. Pictures of the
Memorial Area and the Memorial Wall are above. The centerpiece is an elevated F-86 Sabre aircraft, an aircraft flown, maintained, and
supported by three Michigan Air Guard units in the mid-1950s. Flanking the F-86 is the Memorial Wall topped by engraved Memorial
Bricks such as those shown below.
We invite you to become part of this memorial and to recognize a unit, an individual, or a family by purchasing an engraved b rick that
will become a permanent part of the Memorial Wall. Cash donations for the Memorial project are also welcome. All memorial brick
purchases and donations for this effort are tax-deductible per Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Service Code. Engraved memorial
bricks cost $100.00 per brick for non-members (cost includes a one-year membership in MAGHA), $75.00 per brick for
members, and $50.00 per brick when multiple brick orders are made. For example, a one-brick order from a MAGHA member
would cost $75.00, a two-brick order would cost $125.00, and a three-brick order $175.00. Information about MAGHA can be
obtained by calling 586-239-6768, by visiting our web site at www.selfridgeairmuseum.org, or by writing to us at the address below.
If you would like to participate in this worthwhile project, please complete the order form and indicate your payment method below and
mail this form to MAGHA, 27333 C Street, Bldg 1011, Selfridge ANG Base MI 48045. An asterisk (*) will be added after the honoree’s
name for veterans.
MEMORIAL BRICK ORDER FORM
Name: __________________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
Day Time Phone Number: __________________________________________________
Please install an engraved memorial brick in the Memorial Wall at the Selfridge Military Air Museum in honor of the following.
This individual is a veteran. Please add an asterisk (*) after their name.
This individual is not a veteran.
Please send me information on joining the Michigan Air Guard Historical Association.
Three lines are possible with a maximum of 12 characters per line and a maximum of 36 characters per brick. Periods,
commas, asterisks, and spaces between words counts as characters. You will be sent a receipt with a proposed layout.
O Check #__________ dated _______________ enclosed. Checks should be made payable to “MAGHA”.
Please charge my: O VISA CARD
O MASTER CARD
O AMERICAN EXPRESS CARD
O DISCOVER CARD
Account # _________________________________________________
Expiration Date: ____________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
MAGHA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
I believe that my support for the goals of the Michigan Air Guard Historical Association and the Selfridge
Military Air Museum will attest to my commitment to the Michigan Air National Guard and the thousands
of dedicated men and women who have served our great nation and the State of Michigan. I wish to
demonstrate this commitment by becoming a member of MAGHA as follows:
NEW MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
RENEWAL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
PATRON MEMBERSHIP ($1,000.00)
SUSTAINING MEMBERSHIP ($500.00)
LIFE MEMBERSHIP ($250.00)
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP ($25.00)
DONATION ONLY
RANK & NAME ________________________________________________________________
UNIT OF AFFILIATION (ONLY ONE PLEASE) _______________________________________
MEMBER OF THE MI ANG (YEARS ONLY) FROM _______________ TO _______________
ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________________
CITY
STATE
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________
ZIP CODE ___________________________
E-MAIL ADDRESS ______________________________________________________________
HOW WOULD YOU PREFER TO RECEIVE YOUR NEWSLETTER (check one)
BY EMAIL
BY US MAIL
FROM OUR WEBSITE (www.selfridgeairmuseum.org)
Make checks payable to “MAGHA” and mail to MAGHA, 27333 C St, Bldg 1011, Selfridge ANGB MI 48045.
Your support of MAGHA is gratefully appreciated. Your membership donation is 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
MICHIGAN SOLICITATION LICENSE NUMBER: MICS 26603
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
A rainbow appears over an A-10 Thunderbolt II of the 107th Fighter Squadron, Selfridge Air National Guard Base Mich., during the Combined
Resolve exercise, at Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal, Nov. 12, 2014. Combined Resolve is a Joint Multinational NATO training mission preparing U.S.
and European militaries for combat rotations in Iraq and Afghanistan, focused predominantly on large conventional force operations. (U.S. Air
National Guard photo by MSgt. David Kujawa/Released)
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APRIL 2015
As you may recall, those us that attended our Annual Veterans Day Breakfast in 2012, 2013 & 2014, CW4 (R)
Mabarak proposed that we pay tribute to our fallen comrades each year at the Great Lakes National Cemetery .
Plans are underway as follows:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Date: Saturday, 23 May 2015
Location: Great Lakes National Cemetery
Meeting: Granite City Restaurant at 10:00 am (699 West Big Beaver Rd, Troy MI 48084, on the SW Corner of 16 Mile
Rd & I-75) for coffee & carpooling to the cemetery.
Appropriate ceremony at, the cemetery, we have identified ten (10) Michigan Guardsmen, of which four (4) were killed
in Afghanistan
Carpooling back to Granite City Restaurant for a Group luncheon at about 2:00 pm.
We need to know the names of our fallen comrades to complete our list ….. Forward these names to Col (R) Frank
Chaffee @ Fchaffee@aol.com
Additional e-mails to follow with additional details.
Originated by: CW4 (R) Ray Mabarak and LTC (R) Joe Gabelsberger
Co-hosted by: Dan Oaks, Pete &Carol Gernand, Tom McLaughlin and Frank Chaffee
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APRIL 2015
VA Announces New Regions
The Department of Veterans Affairs has announced that it is taking the first steps under the MyVA initiative to use state
boundaries to divide the country into five regions. The new regions will allow VA to begin the process of producing a single
regional framework to enhance internal coordination. Each organization within VA will begin work to ensure their structures are
aligned within this framework by the end of June, 2015.
LETTERS HOME
From MSgt Dave Nowicki (1979-2008): Since Dave left the ANG he’s been busy remodeling/renting homes and travelling. He
enjoys reading the jokes, info on what’s going on at Selfridge, future reunion information, the “War Stories”, and information
on changes in benefits for retirees that we publish in the MANGBANG. Thanks for writing Dave…we’re glad there’s stuff in the
MANGBANG that you find interesting.
From TSgt Claude Fields (1965-1978): “Gentlemen, I was just telling some guys the story of the duck. At the time we had RF101's and one of our birds come home with some damage on the leading edge of the wing. The night crew had brought the
A/C into the hangar the night before. The pilot was there in the morning with Charlie God and a few of us looking over the
damage. Now I don't remember who the pilot was. Charlie asked him what had happened and the pilot responded he hit a
duck. Charlie reached into his pocket, nonchalantly walked up to the wing, picked a piece of wood out of the dent in the wing,
looked at the pilot and said, ‘Well if you hit a duck it was a decoy because this is wood.’ He then slowly walked out of the
hangar and the pilot had egg all over his face.” Thanks Claude…the only “Charlie God” I can think of is Charlie Bahn. Did I guess
right?
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
SPAM E-Mails
Wondering why you are getting this issue of the MANGBANG thru the mail rather than being emailed to you?
We’ve had a recent rash of emails we send out that are being “blocked due to spam content” in the message.
Our IT expert says that folks that filter or have filtered their email accounts for spam may not receive our mailings
unless they turn off or relax the spam filter software on their personal computer, ask their Internet Service
Provider (ISP) to allow all messages from @selfridgeairmuseum.org to go through, or add the following to their
email address book:
info@selfridgeairmuseum.org
magha@selfridgeairmuseum.org
louis.nigro@selfridgeairmuseum.org
E-mails that are blocked as spam will be deleted from our email address books and have a hard copy of the email,
any attachment(s) thereto, and a copy of the reject message mailed to them through the US Postal Service until we
are advised that the issue has been resolved.
Until we’ve been advised that the issue has been resolved, newsletters will be mailed to you thru the US Postal
Service and death notices cannot be emailed to you.
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
U.S. Military Rules
Marine Corps Rules:
1. Be courteous to everyone, friendly to no one.
2. Decide to be aggressive enough, quickly enough.
3. Have a plan.
4. Have a back-up plan, because the first one probably won't work.
5. Be polite. Be professional. But have a plan to kill everyone you meet.
6. Do not attend a gunfight with a handgun whose caliber does not start with a '4'
7. Anything worth shooting is worth shooting twice. Ammo is cheap. Life is expensive.
8. Move away from your attacker. Distance is your friend. (Lateral and diagonal preferred.)
9. Use cover or concealment as much as possible.
10. Flank your adversary. When possible, protect yours.
11. Always cheat; always win. The only unfair fight is the one you lose.
12. In 10 years, nobody will remember the details of caliber, stance, or tactics. They will remember only those who lived.
13. If you are not shooting, you should be communicating your intention to shoot..
Navy SEAL Rules:
1. Look very cool in sunglasses.
2. Kill every living thing in sight.
3. Adjust Speedo.
4. Check hair in mirror.
US Army Rangers' Rules:
1. Walk in 50 miles wearing 75 pound rucksack while starving.
2. Locate individuals requiring killing.
3. Request permission via radio from 'Higher' to perform killing.
4. Curse bitterly when mission is aborted.
5. Walk out 50 miles wearing a 75 pound rucksack while starving.
US Army Rules:
1. Curse bitterly when receiving operational order.
2. Make sure there is extra ammo and extra coffee.
3. Curse bitterly.
4. Curse bitterly.
5. Do not listen to 2nd LTs; it can get you killed.
6. Curse bitterly.
US Air Force Rules:
1. Have a cocktail.
2. Adjust temperature on air-conditioner.
3. See what's on HBO.
4. Ask 'What is a gunfight?'
5. Request more funding from Congress with a 'killer' Power Point presentation.
6. Wine and dine 'key' Congressmen, invite DOD and defense industry executives.
7. Receive funding, set up new command and assemble assets.
8. Declare the assets 'strategic' and never deploy them operationally.
9. Hurry to make 13:45 tee-time.
10. Make sure the base is as far as possible from the conflict, but close enough to have a tax exemption.
US Navy Rules:
1. Go to Sea.
2. Drink Coffee.
3. Deploy Marines
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
MY JOB SEARCH
1. My first job was working in an Orange Juice factory but I got canned. Couldn’t concentrate.
2. Then I worked in the woods as a Lumberjack, but just couldn't hack it, so they gave me the axe.
3. After that, I tried being a Tailor, but wasn't suited for it mainly because it was a sew-sew job.
4. Next, I tried working in a Muffler Factory but that was too exhausting.
5. Then, tried being a Chef. Figured it would add a little spice to my life, but just didn't have the thyme.
6. Next, I attempted being a Deli Worker but any way I sliced it... couldn't cut the mustard.
7. My best job was a Musician but eventually found I wasn't noteworthy.
8. I studied a long time to become a Doctor but didn't have any patience.
9. Next, was a job in a Shoe Factory. I tried hard but just didn't fit in.
10. I became a Professional Fisherman but discovered I couldn't live on my net income.
11. I managed to get a good job working for a Swimming Pool Maintenance Company but the work was just too
draining.
12. So then I got a job in a Workout Centre but they said I wasn't fit for the job.
13. After many years of trying to find steady work I finally got a job as a Historian until I realized there was no
future in it.
14. My last job was working in Starbucks but I had to quit because it was the same old grind.
15. SO, I TRIED RETIREMENT AND I FOUND I'M PERFECT FOR THE JOB!
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015
MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD
HISTORY BOOK
Michigan Air Guard
Historical Association
The Michigan Air Guard Historical Association created a four volume set of history books covering the periods 1926-2010.
Volume 1 covers the period from 1926 to 1976
Volume 2 covers the period from 1976 to 1986
Volume 3 covers the period from 1986 to 1996
Volume 4 covers the period from 1996 to 2010
If you wish to purchase one or more of these volumes, please complete the order form and indicate your payment method below
then mail this form to MAGHA, 27333 C St, Bldg 1011, Selfridge ANGB MI 48045.
Please send the volumes I have circled below to:
NAME:
ADDRESS
Volume 1 (1926-1976)
$1.00
Number Requested
Volume 2 (1976-1986)
$4.00
Number Requested
Volume 3 (1986-1996)
$1.00
Number Requested
B&W inside
$6.00
Number Requested
Full Color
$35.00 Number Requested
Volume 4 (1996-2010)
Shipping/Handling
$4.00 (APPLICABLE TO ALL MAIL ORDERS)
TOTAL REMITTED
$
O Check #
dated
Please charge my:
O
O
O
O
enclosed. Checks should be made payable to “MAGHA”.
VISA CARD
MASTER CARD
AMERICAN EXPRESS CARD
DISCOVER CARD
Account #
Expiration Date:
Signature:
MAGHA
27333 C Street, Bldg 1011
Selfridge ANG Base MI 48045
MANGBANG
Michigan Air Guard Historical Association
Phone: 586-239-6768
Fax: 586-239-6646
23
APRIL 2015
MICHIGAN ANG REUNIONS
Pete Molter’s Florida reunion was held on Friday, 20 February 2015 at O’Charleys in Orlando. In
attendance were Jay Hansford, Dave Cizmas, Joe Melik, Shorty Becker, Nate Henkel, Tim Conlen,
Pete Molter, Gary Klemanski, Ron Sandoval, Dave Chastain, Bruce Collins, Dave Griffith, Lenny
Kaledas, and Norm “The Bear” Girouard. Most of the attendees were Florida residents with the
rest either Snowbirds or on vacation. Stay tuned for information on the the next Pete Molter
Florida Reunion next year.
A Michigan “Six Pack” Reunion is in the works for Saturday, 10 October 2015 at the VFW Bruce
Post in St Clair Shores MI. More information can be found on Facebook under Michigan Six Pack
Reunion
MANGBANG
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APRIL 2015