July – September 2013

MSSG joint training with 113th MP company of the Mississippi Army

National Guard

Quarterly Newsletter for the Mississippi State Guard

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*** IN THIS ISSUE ***

Cover Story Page 19: - MSSG

joint training with the Mississippi Army

National Guard.

Message from the Commander: 4 BG David McElreath

Message from the CSM: 5

CSM Isaac Moore

Article: MSSG Martial Arts Program 6

CPT Billy Rials

News from the Brigades:

1st BDE 9

2nd BDE 10

3rd BDE 11

Featured Brigade 13 3rd Security Brigade

Article: G-2 Intelligence 15 1LT Louis Simoneaux

Veteran’s News: 15 VA Reaches Out to Veterans about the Health

Care Law

Article: Good News or Bad News 16 COL Jimmy Shows

State Guard of Mississippi Association News: 20 Cost of Freedom DVD

Article: Message from the new State Guard of

Mississippi Association President: 22 Bill Lee, MG (MS, Ret)

Article: Path to the ACUs 23 COL Jimmie Lindsey

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From the Editor

I want to first thank everyone involved in the production of this newsletter. Over the past 12 months it has really become a great

tool to tell the story of the Mississippi State Guard. Each edition builds on the last, and the number of people that are being exposed

to the good news and stories, in our newsletter, has grown to over 4000, for the 2nd quarter edition. This is a truly astonishing

accomplishment, for an all volunteer organization, such as ours. We now just need to continue our hard work, and focus on making

each edition interesting, informative, and relevant, for our many readers. The ranks of the MSSG are full of very talented and

highly educated people that have stories to tell. We invite each of you to actively participate in the production of this newsletter, by

submitting articles and information. Our continued success will depend on our efforts and teamwork. I know we can do it, and I’m

proud to be serving with the great patriots of the Mississippi State Guard.

To submit a story, or an idea for a story, just email me at: closetheloop@msstateguard.org. If you are a business owner, or you

know a business owner that would like to advertise in Close the Loop, and take advantage of the audience that we are building,

please send me an email, and I can get you a rate sheet, with all the advertising options we have available. Again, thank you for all

that you do for the MSSG and thank you for your service to our country and to the state of Mississippi.

- Jeff Kennedy, CPT (MS), MSSG

MISSISSIPPI STATE GUARD

COMMANDER – David H. McElreath, Brigadier General (MS), MSSG

Command Sergeant Major – Isaac Moore, Command Sergeant Major, MSSG

Chief of Staff – Fredrick Davis, Colonel (MS), MSSG

Public Affairs Officer/ Editor – Jeff Kennedy, Captain (MS), MSSG

Contributors:

Jimmie Lindsey, COL (MS), MSSG Jimmy Shows, COL (MS), MSSG Chris Clements, COL (MS), MSSG

Jerry Singleton, COL (MS), MSSG Doug Hayhurst, COL (MS), MSSG Billy Rials, CPT (MS), MSSG

Louis Simoneaux, 1LT (MS), MSSG Carolyn Parker, 1LT (MS), MSSG Harold Dawley, CPT (MS), MSSG

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From the Commander

I am very happy to have this opportunity in Close the Loop to provide

an update on many of the good things happening in our Mississippi State

Guard.

Recruitment and retention have been excellent over the last several

months. Our ranks are quickly approaching 250 members, with

increases in each of our units. I have been very pleased with the training

planned and conducted, by our units. Commanders and staff

noncommissioned officers have stepped up their efforts in the

identification, development and presentation of fun and challenging

training opportunities. Morale across the command appears to be very

strong.

From an operational standpoint, we have been very fortunate that the

hurricane season has, up to this point, been rather

mild. With so many of our missions revolving around disaster response, it is very good for all of us when we have a year

in which our services are not required in responding to an emergency situation.

As many of you know, we have moved our headquarters from the Joint Forces Headquarters to the National Guard

Armory on Raymond Road in Jackson, Mississippi. This new location provides our headquarters element with

additional space and will prove to be a very good change from the facilities we had previously occupied.

We continue to have great support from MG Collins and BG Robinson. They have embraced the Mississippi State

Guard as an operational component of the Mississippi Military Department.

I would like to specifically commend Capt. Kennedy for the outstanding work he continually does for us in finding

opportunities to share the story of the Mississippi State Guard. Over the last several months, he has coordinated several

newspaper, television and radio opportunities, each of which have positively shared our story with other Mississippians.

I would also like to welcome back MG Bill Lee, who has agreed to serve as President of our Mississippi State Guard

Association. We are very fortunate to have MG Lee serving in such an important role. His love and commitment to the

Mississippi State Guard is well known to each of us and I am sure we will all benefit from his continued service.

In closing, I would like to personally thank each of you that serve within our ranks. Our communities and our State are

fortunate to have you, who are willing to put on the uniform and respond to the call when you are needed so

desperately in the shadow of a disaster.

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From the Command Sergeant Major

Greetings MSSG personnel,

We are doing an excellent job in regards to the

mandate from BG McElreath concerning recruiting.

As far as I can tell, we are getting high quality and

extremely motivated individuals to fill our ranks.

You are all to be commended for the excellent job

you are doing so far. However, let’s not forget the

flip side of recruiting-retention. I’ve said many times

that we are going backward if we recruit 50 new

members while at the same time losing 10 quality

veterans. The skill set along with the time and effort

put forth in training these veterans cannot easily be

replaced. Command has said that we are all recruiters; well let me add another caveat to that statement:

“we are all retention recruiters also.” Senior NCO’s have a responsibility to train the force and I challenge

you to also help us hang on to the troops we have. We must strive to make training both challenging and

realistic. I realize that sometimes external factors that are beyond our control can many times slow down or

distract training; we must attempt to keep those factors to a minimum. Retention starts and ends with each

of us. We must engage and identify those current members who may be thinking of leaving the ranks and do

whatever necessary within our power to encourage them to stay. Although there may be some within our

ranks you may think needs to leave; I can assure you that at some point in time, someone probably said the

same thing about you (I know many who said it about me). It is my belief that we all have something to

contribute to the team if given the means and the opportunity. Let’s all work together to make the MSSG

the type of high quality and dependable organization that the citizens of this great state deserves. So let’s

push a little harder; crawl a little faster; run a little farther, and soar a little higher.

Stay strong.

Isaac Moore, Command Sergeant Major (MS), MSSG

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Exciting new program for MSSG members

MSSG Martial Arts Program

Under the direction of our commander, BG David McElreath, the Mississippi State Guard (MSSG) will soon implement a martial arts and physical training program, as a benefit to all MSSG members. Not only will this be a great personal benefit to all MSSG

members, it will also improve the overall posture of the MSSG. At this time, an official program of instruction (POI) has not been approved, but we are in the beginning stages of implementing the early phases of this program. In this article, I will give an overview of the MSSG Martial Arts Physical Training (MAPT) program and some of its related benefits.

For those who do not know me, I am Billy Rials, CPT (MS), MSSG, and I am a part of the General’s staff at headquarters. I am a certified black belt instructor who has taught martial arts for over 20 years. I have been an active competitor, in the martial arts realm, for most of my life. I have been named a Mississippi State Champion many times, and was a member of the United States Junior Olympic Team. I am a past Taekwondo national champion and have finished in the top ten in world standings for several years. In my competitive years, I have fought in hundreds of sports-related karate, full-contact matches and Brazilian Ju-Jitsu tournaments. I have trained in several styles of martial arts, including: Kickboxing, Hapkido, Brazilian Ju-Jitsu and Taekwondo. Currently, the highest rank that I hold is a fifth degree black belt in Taekwondo.

I love competing; however, my true pride comes from teaching martial arts to others. I have had the honor of teaching, literally thousands of students, and I truly enjoy helping them achieve their goals. I have taught every demographic, from men to women, and children to adults. I have also led special training classes for law enforcement agencies. Along with martial arts instruction, I am also a certified personal trainer, with a specialty in general physical fitness.

The intent of this program is to not only provide a benefit to MSSG members, but to also improve the overall physical fitness of the troops of the MSSG. It will also provide applicable training to support the MSSG mission. This will not be a 100% traditional martial arts program, but rather, a curriculum molded for the mission of the MSSG and its soldiers.

First, I want everyone to understand that THE MSSG MARTIAL ARTS PHYSICAL TRAINING PROGRAM IS COMPLETELY VOLUNTARY. No MSSG member will be required to take part in this training. However; members who do participate in this training will enjoy the full benefits and personal rewards that come with accomplishing difficult goals, and increasing their personal physical strength and endurance that are associated with this type of physical training. The MAPT will be a tiered program, similar to traditional martial arts, with different colored belts that correspond to the level of training goals that an individual has accomplished. Instead of traditional martial arts belt colors, the MAPT will assign a degree of “levels” to each soldier.

There will be a total of six levels (level-0 to level-5). All MSSG members will be initially assigned at level-0 which is simply an awareness level. If a soldier is interested in the MAPT program, the first step

Billy Rials, CPT (MS), MSSG

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is to attend a level-0 awareness class (held at the BDG) level. This awareness class will cover the details of

the program and what will be expected. It will also go over some of the basic techniques. After this class is complete and on record, if they choose, the member can graduate to level-1 and begin the MAPT program. To graduate through the levels (1-5), a soldier will have to achieve all the requirements for that level. The requirements will increase at each level, and Physical Training (PT) will be evaluated at each level. The PT requirements will be very basic and should be easy to obtain during the early levels, but requirements will increase at each level. The level-5 PT requirements will closely match the U.S. ARMY and National Guard physical fitness standards. Level-5 will be considered an expert level similar to a traditional martial arts black belt. It will take a soldier an average of three to five years of training and dedication to achieve level-5. Soldiers may stay at any level for as long as needed. Each level will have a minimum time but not a maximum time. The graduation requirements for each level will include the following: Any prerequisites for that level Hand-to-hand combat techniques Minimum time requirement Minimum scores on the physical training (PT) test

The curriculum for each level will cover five different areas of training with various knowledge and skills required for each level. The five areas in each level will include the following:

PT – physical fitness training Kicks and strikes Chokes and joint locks Hands on self-defense and take downs Ground defense

I want to highlight just a few benefits of martial arts training, in general.

More Energy and Greater Productivity

Can you find time to exercise and train? Of course you can. And what is the greatest exercise around? You guessed it: martial arts. Martial arts helps burn fat and calories, builds strength, strips away stress and gives you a little “competition” in your athletic life. The one thing that separates martial arts from most other forms of exercise is that it keeps exercise interesting.

Martial arts is a group activity: you have “positive peer pressure” to stick with it and a group to help give you that little push to stick to your exercise goals. One of the best ways to boost your daily productivity, overall energy level, and fitness is a good martial arts program.

Discipline and Focus

In our ever-connected world of iPhones, iPads, Blackberries and other smart devices, we’re multitasking more than ever before. On top of that, people demand our time and compete for our attention, and we’re forced to shift focus constantly. As a result, we have a harder and harder time following through on tasks and staying on track. Yes, our digital, button-clicking culture is changing us rapidly. As a result, one of the rarest and most valued character traits these days is focus. This is where

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martial arts training can help. It gives you a short break from digital demands, improves your powers of concentration and helps you really focus. This can even alleviate many of the negatives associated with our digital world.

A martial arts program teaches focus and concentration through rhythmic breathing and relaxation, step-by-step repetitive movements, personal attention, positive reinforcement, adherence to etiquette and rules (structure),

group reinforcement and a sense of belonging. For these reasons, we help build focus and concentration better than exercise alone.

Goal Achievement

While many of us in our professional lives set and strive towards various goals, many times these are career related, not mental and physical. A martial arts program provides a comprehensive training program that clearly outlines your goals and development. Your mind and your body are part of the formula every step along the way.

Self-Confidence

Think confidence is just for kids? Think again. Studies find a strong correlation between

adults with self-confidence and career advancement, success in relationships and productivity. As you make progress through the levels, you become more confident in your ability to defend yourself, and this confidence boost shows through in the office as well as outside of the office.

Martial Arts training can also help you build confidence by encouraging you to succeed. This is one of the great benefits of martial arts, at any age. When you’re self-assured, you approach more challenges with a can-do attitude, and as we all know, confidence goes a long way in breeding success.

Above all, I can’t begin to tell you how much confidence it gives you to know that you can handle yourself in any situation, which brings me to my next big benefit…

Self-Defense

The Department of Justice reported almost 5,000,000 violent crimes in the United States last year. It can be a dangerous world out there, and this is especially true when the economy is struggling. How do you defend yourself? One answer is simple: martial arts.

All martial arts styles are certainly fun to do for exercise and to keep your mind off the physical exertion you’re experiencing; but don’t ever forget that you’re also building self-defense skills. We will help you improve your agility, balance, endurance, flexibility and even your strength. It teaches you how to defend yourself physically as well as how to avoid physical confrontations in the first place.

I also want to highlight additional benefits exclusive to the MSSG MAPT program. First, the training that you will receive will directly improve your ability to carry out your duties if deployed. Also, there may be the possibility for a future MSSG physical fitness medal for any soldier who excels at the PT evaluation tests. An important benefit will be that for any MSSG member who makes it to level-3 and above, I will offer them the ability to test for an official and certified martial arts rank (belt color), which will be internationally recognized. Some additional requirements may be required, such as learning the traditional aspects of the martial art. This is an amazing benefit! If a MSSG member puts forth the effort

*** Special Announcement ***

2013 MSSG Christmas Party The annual Mississippi State Guard Christmas party will be held Sunday, December 8, 2013 at the Cherokee Restaurant in Jackson [maps will be provided later], from 1200- 1600. Members are encouraged to bring their family members. Finger food and non-alcoholic beverages will be served free to all, however, any one can order from the menu at their own expense. A cash bar will be available for those wishing adult beverages. The Cherokee also has video games and pool tables that will be available for use. Door prizes will be given, so I am asking all to check with your local Wal-Mart, parts stores, any other business they know of and ask for a donation of a gift item to be used as a door prize. For those that attended last year’s party, they remember what a good time we all had. The party will again be informal, and you can come in at any time during the above stated time period. Your family will have the opportunity to meet our Commander, meet others you may not know and just have an enjoyable time together. The Chief of Staff, Colonel Davis will be forming a committee to ensure this is a great party and fun for all, so, please give him the help when he ask for it. Any volunteers please contact Col Davis. I am asking all to make plans accordingly and to notify all members of your command so they will have plenty of time to plan to attend.

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and training and makes it all the way to level-5, they would have the ability to test for an internationally recognized, official Black Belt in martial arts.

Key personnel are currently being evaluated as instructors in each brigade. Stay tuned as more information about this exciting new program develops.

CPT Billy Rials

News from the 1st Brigade

The 1st Brigade of the MSSG welcomed three

new members on 7 September 2013; Edwin

Blue, Ethan Lay, and Phillip Tanner. They join

the other fine men and women who have chosen

to serve Mississippi through the 1st Brigade of the

Mississippi State Guard. We continue to grow

with quality volunteers joining each month, so

let’s continue to make enlistment a priority and

continue to grow!

For the September drill, the 1st Brigade had the

privilege of being invited to train with 113th MP

company, of the Mississippi Army National Guard

located in Brandon, MS. We had a special 2 day drill where we trained side-by-side with the soldiers of the

113th. The training consisted of some class room and some ‘hands-on’ training in handling any type of civil

disturbance, and shelter control operations. MSSG members had the opportunity to train as the MP and

took the roll of “civilian trouble-maker”.

It was a great opportunity for the MSSG, and the joint

training drill was beneficial for both the MSSG and the

113th MP company.

Members of the 1st Brigade at the joint training day with the ARNG

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News from the 2nd Brigade

“Second to None”

Colonel (MS) Doug Hayhurst came home to the 2nd Brigade when he assumed command on July 13, 2013

during the change of command ceremony held at Camp McCain, MS when BG McElreath passed the flag

from LTC Don Alderson. Colonel Hayhurst began his career with the Mississippi State Guard joining the 2nd

Brigade in February 2010 after returning from a tour in Iraq and then retiring from the United Stated Army

with 41 total years of service. Colonel Hayhurst joined the Headquarters Staff assuming the position of

Plans, Operations and Training Officer (G3) in 2011.

It is a pleasure to come back to

the 2nd Brigade and indeed an

honor to assume command. I

look forward to serving with

great individuals that I got to

know when I initially joined the

MSSG and the great new

members that are joining our

ranks. I recently had the pleasure

of swearing in seven new

members to the 210th MP

Battalion. I applaud the efforts of

my soldiers in recruiting quality

Mississippians with the desire to

serve our state. We are building

a diverse and quality force that

will be ready to meet any need

we are called on to accomplish. I want to thank LTC Don Alderson for his leadership and command during

his tenure at the 2nd Brigade. His outstanding efforts have provided me with an excellent organization. We

at the 2nd Brigade wish LTC Alderson success with his new position as the Command Provost Marshall. We

know we are in good hands.

Training continues to be the focus in the 2nd Brigade so we will be able to meet any mission assigned. The

2nd Brigade area is made up of 34 counties in the northern part of the state. We have begun the process of

meeting with each Emergency Manager of each county to facilitate a relationship explaining the MSSG’s

capabilities and identifying mutual areas of support.

Again it is my pleasure to be serving with the men and women of the second brigade and I look forward to

the great things we can and will accomplish in the future.

2nd Brigade Change of Ceremony, 13 July 2013

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News from the 3rd

Brigade

The 3rd Brigade of the Mississippi State

Guard has been going through a major

reorganization on how they operate.

Instead of operating as one centralized

force, two Battalions have been activated.

The 310th BN is operating out of Camp

Shelby Joint Forces Training Center and

the 320th BN is operating out of Gulfport

Combat Readiness Training Center. Both

units have started to gain traction towards

being ready to meet any needs that they

may be called on.

310th Military Police Battalion

The 310th MP Battalion Commanded by

LTC Robbie Breeland and his senior

enlisted advisor is CSM Kenneth Williams.

At this time the BN is seeing a rapid growth

in new soldiers. Several of the “new”

personnel are former members of the

MSSG. These men are excited to get back

into the mix and have been actively

spreading the word to other former

members that the MSSG is making positive

changes.

The NCOs in the 310th have been doing a remarkable job in taking care of the troops and training them.

They are really building an Esprit De Corp. The troops came up with a Battalion motto Ready When

Called. They have been doing a great job during this rapid transition.

New Members of the 310th MP BN:

Rance Bedwell Elmer Blanchard

*** Special Announcement ***

The Mississippi State Guard is excited to announce the beginning

of the formation of the Mississippi State Guard brass band.

Two military bands are being formed in Diamondhead and consist of

the Mississippi State Guard Band and the Diamondhead Regimental

Brass Band. The Mississippi State Guard Band is a newly formed band

and the Diamondhead Regimental Brass Band is a community band that

is being reformed after being disbanded two years ago.

Both bands will perform together as a composite band. Interested

musicians have the option of entering in the Diamondhead Regimental

Brass Band and then transferring to the State Guard Band, if they decide

to enlist in the MSSG. The composite band will practice in

Diamondhead and perform within the State of Mississippi. Band

members will be responsible for covering the cost of the uniform and

travel expenses. The bandmaster of the composite band is retired

Marine Corps Master Sergeant Chris Kreuger, former bandmaster of

the 4th Marine Division band in New Orleans. Other current band

members include retired Army command sergeant major Paul Larsen as

lead vocalist. The composite band is seeking professional and amateur

musicians who have a desire to provide community service, by

performing martial and patriotic music at events honoring our military

and its veterans. Brass, percussion, and clarinet instrument players are

sought. Active duty military can join the Diamondhead Regimental

Brass Band and even though they are not eligible to join the State

Guard, they can perform in the State Guard Band.

Anyone interested in receiving information on joining the

Diamondhead Regimental Brass Band (former members are

encouraged to rejoin) and/or the Mississippi State Guard

Band are asked to contact Harold Dawley, CPT (MS),

Mississippi State Guard Band Officer at 228-437-4210 or

Hdawley@bellsouth.net.

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Jason Bordelon Jennifer Boshart C. Sean Dixon Shawn Elkins Ariel Hall Raven W. Hughes Marty Mabry Joe Parkman F. Burk West, Jr.

NCO of the Quarter

The 3rd Brigade NCO of the Quarter is SFC

Dimler-Smith. She is a member of the 320th MP

BN. SFC Dimler-Smith joined 3RD Brigade in March 2012. Sergeant “Claire” as she is called retired from the

US Army with the rank of staff sergeant. She eventually joined the Alabama State Defense Force. She spent

10 years in the ASDF in various positions of increasing responsibility.

Since joining the 320th MB BN, Sergeant Claire has always made a positive contribution to each drill. She

always brings a “can do” attitude and a willingness to do anything required of her. She presents herself in an

exemplary manner. Because of her demonstrated leadership skills, she was selected to attend the 2013 First

Sergeants Academy. Upon completion of the Academy, she will be prepared and, expected, to assume a

greater leadership role in the 320TH MP BN where she is attached. She actively seeks to reach out to new

recruits to inform them about the opportunities to serve in the MSSG.

Her Commanding Officer, LTC Mark Eckman of the 320TH BN comments that Sergeant Dimler-Smith is

not only a model soldier, but she is a model citizen. Sergeant Claire and her husband Carl reside at the

Armed Forces Retirement Home in Gulfport

New Members from the 320th MP BN: Chris Bosarge Ronald Hentges Jonathan Price William Carlington Pete Manley Solider Spotlight from the 3 Brigade

PVT Raven Wing Hughes – 310th MP BN, 3rd Bde. She was born and raised in Oregon. Widowed many years ago, she raised four children and has four grandchildren.

SFC Dimler-Smith with BG LEE

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PVT Hughes majored in art in college and has painted all her life and is predominantly a portrait painter. Having won many awards, her work is displayed in collections in the Pacific Northwest, New Mexico, and here in the South. She is a member of the Pearl River Arts League and the Greater Picayune Arts Council. Visitors to the 3rd Bde Face Book page have seen PVT Hughes’ latest painting, “Our Sacred Flag.” This painting will be entered into the Annual Art Show facilitated by the Picayune Chapter of the Knights of Columbus to be held 21-23 Sep 2013 with this year’s theme being “Life in America.” Patriotism runs deep with PVT Hughes with her father serving in the Army in the Korean War, her daughter serving in the Navy for several years, and many uncles, cousins, and nephews serving in the military. In her own words about “Our Sacred Flag,” PVT Hughes said:

“I was inspired by the courage and valor of our military and their families who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. During World Wars I and II, everyone knew we were at war. Everyone knew someone who was serving, and so many of those left at home worked in some capacity to support the troops. Today however, I see a great disconnect from the American society. Unless a family has someone serving in the military, most Americans are consumed by their own lives and are oblivious to the reality that many of our troops are giving the ultimate sacrifice. Those brave men and women deserve to be remembered. When I see images of the our beloved flag stomped on by protesters, or outlawed by homeowner associations, or students wearing a flag T-shirt forced to turn their shirts inside out because it offends someone . . . or the enemy burning our flag, our symbol of American Freedom . . . it makes my heart break. For those who have lost their loved one to war . . . especially the children . . . our flag becomes an irreplaceable treasure to them. They'll never forget what the flag represents . . . and neither should we. For this reason I chose to honor our troops and their families . . . Life in America. As an Artist, a Mother, a Grandmother, I want to do my part to support our troops. That's why I joined the Mississippi State Guard . . . to help where ever I'm needed! Welcome, PVT Hughes! Thank you, SGT Jason Bordelon (new member) for sharing information about the MS State Guard to Raven Wing Hughes . . . now a valued member of the 310th MP BN, 3rd Security Brigade. "And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldiers’ tomb, and beauty weeps the brave.” --- Joseph Drake

Featured Brigade 1st Security Brigade

The 1st BDE is pleased to be featured in this publication of Close the Loop When Hurricane Gustav hit several years ago, Major Hamby (then LT) was expecting activation and had his go-bag in his vehicle. When the call came, LT Hamby and several others from the 1st BDE were at the Convention Center in Hattiesburg within two hours. They were sent further down range to EOC

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Headquarters in Gulfport where the group was assigned nine separate shelters. They only had enough soldiers to assign two or three to each shelter at that time. LT Hamby worked the shelter at Harrison County School for several days. The only communication available was by cell phone and that was very limited after the storm. This is what we train to do, and we hope, with continued training, we will improve more and do an even better job.

When COL Singleton took command of the 1ST BDE, about a year and half ago, the full BDE met at Key Field in Meridian. The first order of business was to move the 120th BN to Jackson in an effort to build two battalions with staff to function independently and to stand alone when activated. With help from COL Davis, we made arrangements to use a building at the 172nd Air Wing of the Air National Guard. When the 120th moved we admittedly discovered some weaknesses but that also helped us concentrate on training needed. When the 120th first moved to Jackson, there were eight soldiers total. With the help of several members and LTC Barnes, the 120th BN doubled its strength to sixteen the first year. Since Annual Training there has been an explosion of recruiting and

more opportunities to meet the public. The 120th now stands at thirty-nine. The current mission of the 120th BN is to secure Joint Force Headquarters in Jackson and free the National Guard of the responsibility. The 1th is also training to secure EOC Headquarters in Brandon as required. The 110th BN in Meridian is training to secure the National Guard Building and Key Field in Meridian and the main body will report to Joint Force Headquarters to be assigned as needed. The 110th BN recently set up a recruiting table at car show in Meridian and had some good success. Workers that day included LTC Doss, LTC Matthews, Sgt. Ludgood, MAJ Shambura and LT Matthews. LTC Matthews has also done two radio spots in the Meridian area. Sgt Spring and CPT Patrick have on several occasions arranged donations to feed our soldiers on drill day. LT Ayers also provides drinks and snacks every drill. SFC Norton is also working on a cash donation that will be very helpful. We had a two day drill 7-8 Sept with the 113th MP Company that was arranged by the 120th BN Commander LTC Matthews. The 110th BN from Meridian traveled to Jackson to take part in this training that was outstanding. Although it was very hot, our soldiers seemed to enjoy this training. We are very excited about the growth and building strong line units that can stand alone when needed to complete any mission assigned.

1st BDE MP training with the 114th National Guard MP Company

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The G-2 Section By: 1st Lt Louis Simoneaux

ACoS G-2 MSSG

The specific responsibility of the G2 (S2).Military intelligence (MI), involves, the disseminating of intelligence to commanders and other users, in a timely manner. Collecting, processing, producing, and disseminating intelligence information, and then conducting and coordinating intelligence preparation for Disaster Response (IPDR), as well as recommending unit area of interest, and assisting the staff in defining unit Mission. What all this means that we collect information, look at it and decide what need to go out to the units. During hurricane season it is my job on a daily basis to look at and collect any and all information concerning weather system that might develop into a tropical system. There are several weather sites to compare all the factors that can determine the development of the system. Looking at the weather that is in the possible path of the weather system helps in deterring the path that might take, water currents, weather front, winds can all have an effect on the direction of the system. Once I have looked at all of the available information that I report my finding to the command staff in a weekly report.

During a mission the G-2 Section will provide the needed and necessary that will be required for the mission.

Veteran’s News

VA Reaches Out to Veterans about the Health Care Law

August 6, 2013

WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched an awareness campaign and a new website,

www.va.gov/aca, to let Veterans know what the Affordable Care Act means for them and their families. Veterans

receiving health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs will see no change in their benefits or out-of-pocket

costs when portions of the Affordable Care Act take effect next year.

“VA wants all Veterans to receive health care that improves their health and well-being,” said Secretary of Veterans

Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “If you are enrolled in VA health care, you do not need to take any additional steps to meet

the health care law coverage standards. If you are not enrolled in VA health care, you can apply at any time.”

“VA encourages eligible Veterans who are not enrolled in VA’s health care system to take advantage of the world-

class care we provide to the men and women who have served this Nation in uniform,” Shinseki added.

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Veterans can apply for VA health care at any time by visiting www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll, calling 1-877-222-

VETS (8387), or visiting their local VA health care facility. Full details on eligibility are available at

www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book

VA’s health care system for Veterans has no enrollment fee, no monthly premiums and no deductibles. Most

Veterans also have no out-of-pocket costs, though some may have small copayments for some health care or

prescription drugs.

“VA will continue to provide Veterans with high quality, comprehensive health care and other benefits they have

earned through their service,” said Dr. Robert Petzel, VA’s chief physician and under secretary for health.

The Affordable Care Act was created to expand access to coverage, reduce rising health care costs, and improve

health care quality and care coordination. The Affordable Care Act creates new opportunities for coverage for

uninsured Veterans and their families.

There are more than 1.3 million Veterans and more than 950,000 spouses and children of Veterans without health

insurance. Most uninsured Veterans are eligible for VA health care. For those who are not eligible for VA care –

such as Veterans’ family members – the law created a new Health Insurance Marketplace.

In 2014, the Marketplace will be a new way to shop for and purchase private health insurance. People who

purchase insurance through the Marketplace may be able to lower the costs of health insurance coverage by paying

lower monthly premiums. For more information, visit www.healthcare.gov.

For information about VA health care and the Affordable Care Act, VA encourages Veterans and family members to

visit the new website at www.va.gov/aca, or call 1-877-222-VETS (8387), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to

10 p.m. or Saturdays from 11a.m. to 3 p.m., Eastern time. The new website includes a Health Benefits Explorer,

where Veterans can learn about the benefits they can receive if they enroll in VA care.

Good News or Bad News

The title of this article could be “Good News,

or bad news, which news do you want first, you

decide”. I will only present the facts-of-the-

matter, and you can make up your own mind.

First, the MS State Guard has moved from Joint

Force HQ to the Raymond Road Amory,

located at 1420 Raymond Rd, Jackson. We will

continue to use our P.O. Box for all mailing, so,

do not sent mail to the Raymond Rd address.

The move was hard, exhausting, and hot and I

Jimmy Shows, COL (MS), MSSG

P a g e | 17

wish to say a heartfelt “Thanks” to the following personnel, who worked so hard in moving furniture, files

and all the other materials the state guard had. Without their efforts, this move could have not been

possible.

1. Colonel Jimmie Lindsey, MSSG

2. LTC Dean Thompson, MSSG

3. Captain Charles Evans, MSSG

4. Captain Jesse Brown, MSSG

5. Staff Sergeant Rickey White, MSSG.

As we left the trailer for the last time,

Colonel Lindsey and I shared some bitter-

sweet moments about the old place. After

all, it had been home to the state guard for

many years. We had grown attached

somewhat, as it was easily accessible to

everyone, most of the National Guard

personnel knew us, and we knew them and

had a good working relationship with our

counter parts. Now, we will have to start

over to prove ourselves and adjust to a new

way of going about our daily activities.

This requires new procedures for getting

into the Raymond Rd. Amory and into our

offices. There are no gate guards at this new

facility, and only five individuals were

authorized a gate access. They are:

1. Colonel Jimmy Shows, Deputy

Commander, MSSG

2. Colonel Jimmie Lindsey, ACoS G-1

MSSG

3. LTC Richard Pearson, ACoS,

Training Officer, G-3, MSSG

4. Captain Jessie Brown, ACoS,

Personnel Officer, MSSG

5. Captain Billy Rials, ACoS, G-6,

MSSG

Should you have to visit MSSG HQ other than a weekend drill; the following procedures will be

followed.

1. Any visits must be made by appointment only with one of the five aforementioned MSSG Officers.

Cost of Freedom

This cost, of America’s freedom, has been paid with American blood. In almost every country in the world, white-washed tombstones stand as silent testimony of how valued freedom is to every American. Listen carefully to the words spoken, in this special presentation, regarding every period of war, from World War One, called the war to end all wars, to the present conflict. Every Airman, Seaman, Soldier and Marine proves this fact every day; that our freedom is precious, even more so than our own lives. This special tribute, covering the past one-hundred years of our great nation, is given to the men and women of the American military. Those who have answered the call to serve their country in time of war, along with so many others who have spent their own blood, so that you and I might remain a free people.

To view a special preview of this moving video, please visit: http://www.msstateguard.org/Cost_of_Freedom_DVD.html

P a g e | 18

a. After your visit is confirmed, report to Raymond Rd and call who you will be meeting by

telephone.

b. The person you are visiting will have to leave their office, and drive up to the gate in order to

trip the gate and open it for you.

c. After you park, you will be escorted to the office to complete your business.

Upon leaving you can pull your car up to the gate and it will open automatically for you and you

can exit the property. Stop before entering the road way (Wilson Drive and observe the gate to

insure it closes and no unauthorized person enters.

There is a motor pool along side of the Drill Hall; this is off limits to the MSSG.

The armory has a large open Drill Hall and A large class room on the second floor above our offices. Also,

there is an operations center with media equipment we may use. We will have to coordinate the usage of

these spaces with the National Guard as a large number of units meet here.

Remember, we will have to work together on this new way of doing things. We [all MSSG] are a part of a

team, and that brings up the question: what is a team?

Simply put; it is a group of individuals working together to accomplish a common goal. It has been said that

individuals play the game, but teams win championships.

I recently saw an acronym for a TEAM.

T-Together. Coming together is a beginning, staying together is success. To be a team we have to work as

one, not as many.

E.-Energetic effort. Ronnie Lott of the 49ers said” if one has not given everything, one has given nothing”

again, a team puts forth much energetic effort.

A. - Accountable. This is described as responsible-able to answer for one’s conduct and obligations, they

are dependable.

M.-Mission. A man by the name of David Star Gordon said “the world turns aside to let any man pass who

knows where he is going.” We know where we are going. We have the 10-4, SOP’s and a commander to

give us guidance, all of which must be followed.

Together, if we put forth energetic effort and are accountable to each other, we will accomplish our

mission. Our mission is to serve the Governor of Mississippi, our commanders under the orders of the

Adjutant General and to provide help to our fellow citizens in their time of need. While we are an Army

unit and must do things the Army way, working together, and following the rules will insure we will be the

best State Guard we can be. The citizens of Mississippi deserve nothing less.

P a g e | 19

MSSG joint training with the Mississippi Army National Guard Steve Kaminski, Major (MS), MSSG

On Saturday afternoon there was a head on collision between the forces of order and disorder as dissidents stormed a truck providing water and food to the local citizens after last weeks major hurricane. Two local citizens angry at the place of the distribution start o fight amongst themselves. Encouraged by the rest of the crowd, the situation becomes violent. The event started to escalate to a point where chaos and mayhem soon took over. At that point, the Mississippi State Guard was called in to restore order. Elements of the first Security Brigade 120th MP BN arrived on scene, a tight and highly disciplined wall of soldiers in riot gear marched into the swarm of angry protesters. Citing commands, the troops begin to push the crowd back, gaining ground with each step. The Guardsmen stay in control as the crowd starts to disperse, the conflict is over, the objective has been met, the mission has been accomplished.

This was not a real life civil disturbance but an exhaustive Joint Riot Control training event conducted between the Mississippi Army National Guard and the Mississippi State Guard, at the National Guard facilities on September 7 and 8th.

Crowd Control is a crucial job skill for any Guard Soldier. Anyone, from any unit, might be called upon to restore order to the local area in the event of a crisis. Within both Guard units, most had very little or no experience with

Crowd Control Techniques. Fortunately, they were taught by instructors from the 120th MP Battalion, and 125th MP company, volunteer soldiers with relevant law enforcement experience. Soldiers like Master Sgt. Russell, Sgt. First Class Nordan, Sgt. Parker and Corporal Terry. The training was split into several sections; Riot Simulations, Shield Instruction, and Baton Usage. The soldiers learned how to properly hold a shield and how to march in formation, for proper protection, as well as learning how to legally block and strike using batons.

P a g e | 20

For the final part of training the soldiers put on full riot gear-- helmet, face mask, batons and shields. While half the teams acted out the part of rioters, throwing bottles and attacking the shields the other teams would use the skills and techniques they had just learned to clear the area. According to First LT. Skelton who acted as an observer, “The purpose of the training was to introduce the soldiers to the equipment and skills so that if they ever do get called to assist with riot control, they will have a solid foundation to work with.” Talking to both teams, from the Mississippi National Guard and the Mississippi State Guard, it was unanimous that the “Joint Training “was great. The training allowed soldiers who normally aren't working together the opportunity to act as a combined force. Both teams agreed it would be beneficial to continue Joint Operations in the future. “ Know the Standard, Train to Standard, and Enforce the Standard” seemed to be the slogan of the day.

Association News

The special honor guard of the Mississippi State Guard, in conjunction with the State Guard Association of

Mississippi, has produced a video honoring the great sacrifices of the men and women of our Armed Forces who

have made the ultimate sacrifice, in the

defense of freedom. We invite you view this

preview of the video, at

http://www.msstateguard.org/Cost_of_Fre

edom_DVD.html. You may purchase your

own copy by completing the order form or

visiting mssgstore.org. All proceeds from the

sale of this DVD benefit the State Guard

Associate of Mississippi, a 501c3 non-profit

organization, dedicated to providing

equipment, training tools, and other supplies

needed by the Mississippi State Guard. A

portion of the proceeds also benefit the

Wounded Warrior Program.

***Special Announcement ***

MG Bill Lee returns as

President of the Mississippi

State Guard Association

MG Bill Lee has graciously agreed to accept

the position of President of the Mississippi

State Guard Association. MG Lee is well-

known within the Mississippi State Guard

having served with in our command for

over 20 years with his most recent

assignment being the Commanding General

of the Mississippi State guard. MG Lee is a

resident of Jackson and serves as the Senior

Vice President for the Mississippi Territory

for Gulf Guaranty Life Insurance Company.

P a g e | 21

SPECIAL THANKS

On behalf of the members of The Mississippi State Guard and the State Guard Association I want to thank Edward St Pe', owner of Weathervision Studios in Jackson, MS. Edward was generous enough to allow us to use his studio for the recording of our DVD "The Cost of Freedom". We really appreciate his actions in supporting the Association and The Mississippi State Guard. Also, thanks goes to Nayt Maines, the IT Chief engineer at Weathervision studios. Col Shows and myself thought we had everything figured out for the DVD, but Nayt had some good ideas and we were smart enough to go with them. We ended up with an outstanding tribute that we all can be proud of. He is truly a professional and is very creative. Jimmie Lindsey, COL (MS), MSSG

Edward Saint Pe`

www.msstateguard.org

Mississippi State Guard

Serving with the Mississippi National Guard

The Mississippi State Guard (MSSG) is the

constitutionally authorized State Defense Force of the

State of Mississippi. It operates under the authority of

the Mississippi Military Department, and is on an equal

constitutional basis as the Mississippi Army National

Guard, and the Mississippi Air National Guard The

MSSG is an all-volunteer, organization that allows

citizens to serve their state, in a military unit that trains

to provide support and assistance to the Mississippi

Army National Guard, during state emergencies.

The MSSG is currently seeking new volunteers of

people that want to give back to their state and offer

their service as a member of a well trained and

dedicated state military unit.

People in the MSSG come from all walks of life and

have a great diversity of education and experience. If

you feel the call of service, we have place for you.

Please visit our website for more information, about

the MSSG.

www.msstateguard.org

P a g e | 22

I was invited by Brigadier General David McElreath, on behalf of the State Guard Association, to serve as president of the association and I have accepted the responsibility with great honor. Upon retirement, all commanders should remove themselves from active involvement with their former command. I pledged my unending support for the Mississippi State Guard; however my efforts will be “outside the wire”. Presidency of the SGAMS will give me the vehicle to serve in such a manner.

It is my firm belief that anyone who is involved with, and totally committed to, any worthwhile endeavor, should have the pride to be a member of the association of that supports the cause. I am a life member of the State Guard Association of Mississippi. as well as the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS). Membership, and the subsequent participation in the association not only enhances cohesiveness, it also provides unmeasured benefits for the corps.

Brigadier General McElreath reported to me that Major General Leon Collins has commissioned the creation of a Mississippi State Guard flag that will fly on equal standing with the other major commands of the Mississippi National Guard. I am overwhelmed with the significance of this undertaking. This is nothing less than the culmination of all the dedication and sacrifice provided by all members of Mississippi State Guard, and removes any doubt as to the confidence and faith that Joint Force Headquarters has placed in our corps.

The Mississippi State Guard is on course to be one of the great State Defense Forces in the United States of America. The foundation for this was built by past and present members of the Mississippi State Guard. Membership in The State Guard Association will provide an unbroken chain of active and retired patriots who have blazed the trail which we now travel.

I will contact each of you to maintain and to join in the membership of the State Guard Association of Mississippi and it will be my great honor and privilege to serve as your association president.

Major General (MS) Bill Lee, Ret.

President

State Guard Association of Mississippi

P a g e | 23

THE PATH TO ACU'S

Ladies and gentlemen, most of you know by now

that MG Collins, The Adjutant General, has

advised the Mississippi State Guard that we will be

going to ACU uniforms sometimes in 2014. He

has laid out a path for us to follow.

Each member of the State Guard is to start

gathering up at least one ACU uniform. The

brigades and headquarters will have a one day inspection, of everyone's uniform in December 2013, or

January 2014, so we can be sure everyone has their uniform outfitted correctly. The TAG wants us all to

be able to go to the ACU at one time, when he gives the okay. NO ONE CAN WEAR THE ACU

UNIFORM BEFORE THE INSPECTION DATES, BECAUSE IT IS NOT AUTHORIZED. Brigade

commanders can have a blouse on a hanger to display how the uniform is to be worn.

We have ordered the new patches, nametapes, ranks, etc, for the new ACU's and will have them in stock in

a few weeks.

The patches, ranks, and nametapes are to be worn as follows:

The nametape "MS STATE GUARD", "YOUR NAME NAMETAPE", AND THE RANK will be sewed on.

The MSSG subdued round patch and the Mississippi flag patch will be hook and loop (velcro).

The rank on the caps will remain the same, bright for officers and black for enlisted.

We have asked for approval to wear the National Guard MP patch, but have not gotten approval yet. The

current MP patch we wear on the front pocket will not be allowed on the ACU's. We will continue to

wear the current brown T-Shirt with the MSSG patch silk screened on it.

You may order all of your patches, etc from the State Guard Association. Every one that wants to order

from the association can send in your order by Oct 15, 2013 along with a check or MO made out to SGA,

along with your mailing address. I will then order everyone's nametape and send your order out by the end

of October.

Jimmie Lindsey, COL (MS), MSSG

P a g e | 24

ORDER FORM

State Guard Association

P. O. Box 4395

Jackson, MS 39296

NAME_____________________________________RANK________PHONE________________

ADDRESS____________________________________________

CITY__________________________________________STATE______ ZIP _______________

Quantity__________ MS STATE GUARD nametape (Sew ON) $3.00 ea

Total______________

Quantity, MIN 3___ NAMETAPE "YOURNAME" (Sew On) ____________$3.00 ea

Total_______________

Print Name

Quantity__________ RANK (SEW ON) _________________ $2.50 ea

Total______________

Print Rank

Quantity__________ MSSG Subdued Round Patch (Hook & Loop) $3.00 ea

Total______________

Quantity__________ MS STATE FLAG Patch (Hook & Loop) $3.00 ea

Total______________

Quantity__________ Brown T-Shirts With MSSG Silkscreen __________$12.00 ea

Total______________

State Size M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL

TOTAL ODER______________

Remember, mail in you order by Oct 15th with check or MO. Be sure to print the rank you want and print

your name plainly for your nametape.