Pa State Command Chief's Perspective
 Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Answering the Call
February 2012
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
What does The Airman's Creed mean to you? Hopefully you've seen it, heard it recited, maybe you've memorized it, and can recite it yourself. This is the first of a four part piece on what The Airman's Creed means to me. The first part of The Airman's Creed reads:
I am an American Airman.
I am a Warrior.
I have answered my Nation's call.
I am an American Airman. That's pretty self explanatory. I'm an American serving as an Airman in the United States Air Force and what that means is explained throughout the creed.
I am a Warrior. Warrior: one at war. That certainly is true today, but hopefully that won't always be the case. I prefer to think of a warrior as one who possesses great courage, vigor, and tenacity as well as honor, faith, and loyalty. One who's not afraid to stand for what's right and to stand for those not able to stand for themselves. Being a warrior doesn't mean you have to be the one holding a gun or weapon, but someone willing to fight for the ideals we hold true.
I have answered my Nation's call...answered our nation's call to serve, both in time of peace and in war. This reflects a commitment to support, defend and serve our Nation. There are few causes as noble. It's volunteering to serve our Nation and its people. Each of us answers the call to duty for various reasons. Maybe it's for the opportunity to be part of something greater than ourselves. Maybe because we hold true the expression "freedom isn't free' and believe that the freedoms that some take for granted are worth fighting for. To not only preserve our own freedoms, but to help others have a chance at freedom too. To make a difference, whether here at home or overseas in some small corner of the world. We answer the call from small towns and big cities, farms and corporations, close by and far away.
And none of us could answer our Nation's call without the help and support of our family and friends. We couldn't do what we do without them taking care of things at home, whether it's drill weekend, or while we're deployed to the desert. We need to continue thanking our family and friends for their help and support, as they play a huge part in our ability to answer the call.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - One is One Too Many
January 2012
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
As I write my article this month, we just received word that we lost another one of our Pennsylvania Air National Guardsman, an Airman. With the end of the mission in Iraq, the focus in Southwest Asia is now in Afghanistan. You often don't hear of an Airman being shot, especially one from the maintenance career field. This Airman wasn't "outside the wire," in Afghanistan, or deployed. He was right here at home. He wasn't killed by hostile fire; he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Airman was 41 years young, married with two children and a traditional Guardsman. He had just left Active Duty and joined the Pennsylvania Guard this past March. The Airman was at his parent's home at the time. His father heard the gunshot, rushed to his son's room, and saw that his son had committed suicide. I'm sure there's much more to the story as to how the Airman got to that point, there always is.
Suicide prevention is an area we all need to continue to focus on. There are times when we all have felt helpless, hopeless, overwhelmed, or even worthless. Some high risk situations include relationship difficulties, financial problems, and legal disputes. Alcohol or substance abuse can make a bad situation even worse.
It's important to understand a few warning signs of high risk suicidal behavior: talking about wanting to kill oneself, making statements like "You'd be better off without me" or "It'd be okay if I didn't wake up some day," withdrawal from everyday life activities, or being disconnected from family, friends and peers.
If you suspect someone might be contemplating suicide, remember ACE. ACE stands for Ask, Care, and Escort.
|
Ask
|
Talk with the individual. It's okay to ask them specifically, "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" It may be difficult or feel uncomfortable to do, but it's critical to ask. |
| Care |
Intervene, calmly control the situation, actively listen and remove any means to do self injury. |
| Escort |
get them to a chaplain, primary care provider or other healthcare professional. If the person refuses, call 9-1-1. |
A few resources that can be used in preventing suicide include the following:
Another guard specific resource is the Air National Guard Family Guide which can be found online at: www.ang.af.mil/shared/media/document/afd-111128-048.pdf. Much of the information I used in this article came from the guide.
In a situation such as this, it's best to err on the side of caution. The worst that could happen is you face a bit of embarrassment. The best is that you save a life. Losing one life is one life too many.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Looking Out For Our Future
December 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
The holidays are often a time of reflection, and I can think of no better time than now to reflect on the future of the National Guard and how we might be able to affect that future.
With Congress wrestling with the budget and the economy, budget cuts in military spending are inevitable. We all have a voice, through our legislators, as to how we feel these cuts should be accomplished. Our individual voices can be made louder and more powerful through professional military organizations (PMOs).
What are PMOs? PMOs are formed to recognize and represent groups of individuals, their ideals, interests, and goals. They often spur camaraderie and esprit de corps, and frequently provide lobbyists for military legislation. Some of the National Guard and Air Force related PMOs are the Pennsylvania National Guard AssociationS or PNGAS (www.pngas.net) which is made up of the Pennsylvania National Guard Enlisted Association (PNGEA) and the National Guard Association of Pennsylvania (NGAPA) for officers, the national parent organizations of PNGEA and NGAPA, the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States or EANGUS (www.eangus.org) and the National Guard Association of the United States or NGAUS (www.ngaus.org); the Air Force Sergeants Association or AFSA (www.hqafsa.org), and the Air Force Association or AFA (www.afa.org). There are others PMOs related to all branches of the military such as American Veterans or AMVETS (www.amvets.org) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars or VFW (www.vfw.org). This is by no means a complete list of PMOS. There are numerous organizations out there and these are just a few that come to mind.
The general goals of many of these organizations is to:
- Maintain a strong national defense
- Maintain compensation and benefits at sufficient levels
- Represent the interests of military personnel, their families and survivors
- Respond to assaults upon the compensation and benefits earned by military members
- Inform the general public on the demands and sacrifices associated with serving in our military
- Educate the general public on the need to maintain a system of compensation and benefits to attract and retain personnel to meet the Nation's defense requirements, both today and in the future
- More specific goals of various PMOs differ depending on the membership the organization represents. PNGAS has the specific interests and goals of Pennsylvania (Army and Air) National Guardsmen at heart, as do EANGUS and NGAUS only at a national level. You can see how other PMOs would represent their members' specific goals and interests.
If you're not already a member of one of these organizations, I highly encourage you to join one or more PMOs that echoes and/or embodies your personal ideals, interests, and goals. These organizations battle for us in the halls of Congress where decisions are made that affect our future and the future of our families. We need to be looking out for our future and our family's future. Their power and influence comes from the number of members they represent.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Heritage
November 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
As we approach Veterans Day, I think it would be appropriate to reflect and pay tribute to those men and women who have served in the past, and those who continue to serve in our military. Especially those who have made it possible for us to be doing what we're doing today: accomplishing our missions, supporting the war on terrorism, and serving our country.
Veterans Day was originally known as Armistice Day and celebrated to honor the heroism of those who died in service during World War I. The date was chosen to commemorate the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany which took effect at 11 o'clock in the morning, the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month in 1918. In 1954, "Armistice" was replaced with "Veterans" in the United States to celebrate all veterans, not just those who died during World War I. It's still known as Armistice Day in various countries around the world, and known as Remembrance Day in many others.
We should be grateful to those who have come and gone before us for their service, their time, their efforts, their sacrifices, and for the sacrifices their families have made too. And to those who continue to serve, keeping our nation safe, allowing many to enjoy the freedoms to which our country has become accustomed to. And to our families, friends, and employers who continue to make sacrifices every day so we may continue to serve. We must not forget or take for granted the importance of their efforts or sacrifices. Please take the time to thank them and ensure they know just how much they are appreciated.
We have a lot to be proud of and I would just like to pause, remember, and say thanks to those who made it, and continue to make it, all possible. To the past and present members of all branches of our military who have made it possible for us to be where we are today---Thank you and may God bless you, wherever you may be.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Be Prepared
October 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
No, I'm not talking about the Boy Scout Motto. However, I am talking about what that motto stands for. You should prepare yourself for life's struggles and challenges and prepare to be a productive citizen and Airman. This includes being prepared in your Air National Guard career tool. All of this can be accomplished through professional development.
The other day, I was asked by an Airman about a senior master sergeant position that had recently been announced and what ranks could apply for the position. I told the Airman that the position was open to current senior master sergeants and immediately promotable master sergeants. The Airman was a master sergeant, but unfortunately had never completed the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (SNCOA) course, so he was not immediately promotable. He missed an opportunity because he was not prepared.
Your professional development and that of the enlisted force is vital to your and our Guard's capability. This development not only includes technical skills training and enhancement courses but also enlisted professional military education (PME), and for many, college and/or vocational education as well. Enlisted PME provides you with the necessary leadership and management skills to assume greater responsibility, and when combined with technical skills training and varied career experiences, ensures you offer a capability second to none. Participation in enlisted PME is instrumental in developing individual and group leadership abilities for challenges facing leaders both at home station and while deployed. There are four levels of enlisted PME: Airman Leadership School (ALS), Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (NCOA), Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (SNCOA) and the Chief Master Sergeant Leadership Course (CLC).
Timely attendance or accomplishment of enlisted PME courses will ensure you are ready to assume rank and the responsibilities that go along with that rank, without delay, once eligible and selected for promotion. Timely is the key here as not all promotion opportunities are foreseen. I know not all of mine were foreseen (at least not by me). You must be ready when a promotion opportunity presents itself. Besides the normal Position Vacancy Promotion (PVP), there are other promotion programs outlined in Air National Guard Instruction (ANGI) 36-2101 Assignments within the Air National Guard, and ANGI 36-2502 Promotion of Airmen. The Deserving Airman Promotion Program (DAPP) and the Exceptional Promotion Program (EPP) are programs which you may become eligible to be promoted under but must be prepared beforehand. There are also possible promotion opportunities within special duty assignments (i.e. First Sergeant and Human Resource Advisor).
As Wilbur Wright once said, "It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill." So be prepared!
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Changing of the Guard
September 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra
During the upcoming Change of Authority ceremony on September 10, 2011, Chief Master Sgt. Ralph Braden will relinquish authority and I will accept the authority (and responsibility) of the position of Command Chief Master Sergeant for the State of Pennsylvania.
It's both an honor and a privilege to have been selected as your eighth State Command Chief. I appreciate the confidence that Maj. Gen. Craig and Maj. Gen. Sischo have shown in selecting me and the support shown to me by my fellow Airmen, both enlisted and officer. I would also like to say thanks to my family, as this wouldn't be possible without their ongoing support. I'm sure most if not all of you can say the same, no matter what position you hold or where you are in your military career. So take the time to thank your family for their support and make sure you make time for them as well.
Chief Master Sgt. Braden is leaving us in good shape with programs and processes he has helped groom over his tenure and I thank him for that, we all should. We will continue to groom those programs and processes as changes come our way and/or circumstances dictate.
I have an open door policy. Please feel free to drop me a note, stop by or stop me in my travels to discuss what might be on your mind or to just to say hi. I would urge you though to try to work any issues you may have through your chain of command. Work with your supervisors, senior NCOs, first sergeants and chiefs. Most likely they've been involved in similar issues before and hopefully can help you resolve yours quickly. I know I have and will continue to rely on my fellow chiefs, first sergeants and other senior NCOs to work through issues. One person can't do it alone.
To my fellow enlisted Airmen, be ready and be prepared. I can tell you that when I started my career, I never dreamt I would make it as far as I have. Some opportunities you can foresee and plan for and some sneak up and surprise you. You can't always predict when opportunity is going to knock, and you need to be prepared to open the door when it does. Have your professional military education (PME) courses completed. Be prepared and get it done.
In closing, I want to thank Chief Braden for his 38 years of service to our nation, and to thank him for his camaraderie, friendship and mentorship. He will be missed. And to the Enlisted Core, I pledge to you to do my best to continue to promote the Enlisted Core, for you are the true core of the Pennsylvania National Guard. Through this "Changing of the Guard," I look forward to the opportunity to further serve such a great organization.
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 Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Hail and Farewell
August 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
After twenty-two plus years in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard and over thirty-eight years serving in our Nation's military it is time for me to hang up my uniform. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve you as State Command Chief over the past 4 years and six months. I will look back on this experience with great pride.
As some of you know, I served in three active duty branches of the military. I served in the Army, Navy and Air Force. I also served in four reserve components of the military including the Army Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Navy Reserve and the Air National Guard. I can honestly say that the service I enjoyed the most is the Air National Guard.
The Air National Guard is truly a family. I am sure that you hear that cliché many times in your career whether you are a new Airman or a seasoned Airman. I can tell you that it is true and I will miss my National Guard family when I retire.
It has been a great experience working in Joint Forces Headquarters of the Pennsylvania National Guard.
During my tenure I became reacquainted with my military roots in the Army. I have served with many outstanding individuals during my tour of duty at Headquarters. I will miss working with the Headquarters team serving the National Guard Soldiers and Airmen of Pennsylvania.
To the Wing leadership of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard I want to say thank you. Thank you for your service to our Airmen and thank you for the support you have provided me over the years. The Pennsylvania Air National Guard has some of the best leadership I have seen anywhere.
I have served with several Wing Command Chiefs over the years. These individuals are a special group and I salute them for their service to you. These individuals are special to me as colleagues and friends. Each one of them put a lot of effort and time into serving you.
I want to send my best wishes to the men and women of the 111th Fighter Wing, the 193rd Special Operations Wing, 171st Air Refueling Wing and their associated Geographically Separated Units. Every time I visited one of your units I was welcomed and made to feel as though I was part of your local Air Guard Family.
To my replacement CMSgt Victor Guerra, the present Wing Command Chief of the 171st Air Refueling Wing, I want to say thank you for stepping up and assuming the role of State Command Chief. It is a very demanding position for which I know Chief Guerra is well prepared. I am confident Chief Guerra will serve you well. Chief Guerra will continue these monthly articles beginning next month.
In closing, I thank Major General Sischo for the opportunity to serve you as your State Command Chief. I am very proud to have served the outstanding Airmen of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Lastly, I want to thank the men and women of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard for your support over the years and your continued service to our Nation and our State.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Performance Feedback System
July 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
Air National Guard Instruction (ANGI) 36-2627, Airman and NCO Performance Feedback System (PFS), has been revised and was published as of 23 March 2011. This revision deleted the use of obsolete performance feedback forms and incorporates new forms that are currently used throughout the Air Force.
The PFS is an important communications tool that provides formal feedback and is a valuable two-way communications tool for Supervisors and the Airmen that report to them. Use of the PFS throughout the Air National Guard community had declined over the last few year due to the obsolete PFS forms. The purpose of this revision is to reinvigorate the Performance Feedback System throughout our Air National Guard.
As defined by ANGI 36-2627:
Feedback is a form of communication that should explain duty performance requirements and responsibilities, establish expectations, and tell the Ratee if they are performing as expected. Feedback is essential in the growth of our subordinates, no matter what their rank. Formal feedback does not take the place of informal daily conversations concerning how an individual is performing. In addition to the evaluation provided on the Performance Feedback Form, the following items should be discussed during the face to face meeting of the Rater and Ratee:
Performance
1. Evaluation of training provided.
Expectations
1. Short and long term Professional Military Education goals.
2. Short and long term military goals.
Career development
1. AFSC progression plan.
2. Promotion opportunities.
The importance this type of communication cannot be overstated.
Through communications we help our Airmen grow and develop. Airmen at all level need to know how they are performing, what is expected of them and the path that they need to follow in their career development.
Through communications Airmen share with their Supervisors information concerning skill sets and goals the Supervisor may not be aware that you have. Your Supervisor can use this information to help you in your career development.
One of my favorite sayings is "chance favors the prepared mind". Prepare for your annual performance feedback session. Keep track of your accomplishments throughout the year. Be prepared to provide input concerning your personal accomplishments, goals and skill sets. Discuss the items above with your Supervisor during your annual feedback sessions.
The Airman and NCO Performance Feedback System is a valuable tool for our Air National Guard. I expect all Supervisors and the Airmen that report to them to review ANGI 36-2627 and diligently prepare for the feedback sessions.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Held to a Higher Standard - Integrity First
May 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
As members of the United States Military we are held to a higher standard. Each branch of service has a set of core values that binds our entire United States Military together. These core values guide military members' decision making. Living by our values enables us to meet the higher standards our Nation expects and demands of us.
If you have not had the opportunity to do so, I would recommend that you Google the core values of each of our sister services. I have listed below the core values of each branch of the United Stated Military. However, as you are aware from your knowledge of the Air Force Core Values, there is a deeper definition for each of these values.
Air Force Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence in All We Do
Army Core Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless-Service, Honor, Integrity, Personal Courage
Coast Guard Core Values: Honor, Respect, Devotion to Duty
Marine Corp/Navy Core Values: Honor, Courage, Commitment
If you read the definition of each of these sets of core values you will find that integrity is one of the strongest common threads. Integrity is an extremely important value. If a military member does not live by the core value of integrity they will not and cannot be trusted.
The Air Force Core Value of Integrity First demands of us courage, honesty, responsibility, accountability, justice, openness, self-respect, and humility. It is necessary that we act with integrity both in our professional lives as well as our personal lives because our word is our bond.
The Army Core Value of Integrity is defined as "Doing what is right both legally and morally". This is not a new concept. Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, considered to have been the first (as defined by Plato) philosopher king of the Roman Empire, offered this guidance concerning integrity "if it is not right do not do it, if it is not true do not say it."
I believe that The Army and Air National Guard are the face of our Nation's military in our communities. Our communities and our Nation hold us to a higher standard. We are also held in high esteem by our Nation's people. However, this high esteem is fragile and we must maintain our high standards to ensure it endures.
Military members who lack integrity make the headlines of the local and national news. Their actions do not meet the higher standard we are held to by our Nation or our military profession. It is our responsibility as leaders to ensure that we and the Airmen that work for us meet and exceed the high standards expected of us.
In closing, the Air Force Core Values guide us in all of our decisions. These enduring values anchor and bind all Airmen together each and every day. It is important to remember that any compromise diminishes the character of our service.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Professional Military Associations (PMA)
April 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
The "Little Brown Book", AFI 36-2618, officially titled The Enlisted Force Structure was distributed to all Pennsylvania Air National Guard members at the beginning of the year. Hopefully, you have had some time to review the "Little Brown Book" by now. It provides a wealth of information which will help you develop and grow as Enlisted Airmen.
I would like to concentrate on one of the responsibilities of all Enlisted Airmen that is expressed in the "Little Brown Book". As you will note reading the "Little Brown Book" it explains that it is the responsibility of all Airmen to join and support professional organizations. Professional organizations include the Professional Military Associations like those listed below:
- The Air Force Association (AFA)
- Air Force Sergeant Association (AFSA)
- The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS)
- The National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS)
- Pennsylvania National Guard Associations - This includes:
- The National Guard Association of Pennsylvania (NGAPA)
- The Pennsylvania National Guard Enlisted Association (PNGEA)
Active participation in the PMAs helps you continue your professional development. Additionally, each of these great PMAs work to support our military in many ways. I will express my opinion on one of the PMAs that I believe benefits Pennsylvania Air National Guard Airmen the most. I am referring to the Pennsylvania National Guard Enlisted Association (PNGEA). PNGEA is part of the Pennsylvania National Guard Associations (PNGAS).
Becoming a PNGEA member gives you two PMA memberships for the price of one. Your membership in PNGEA includes a membership in The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS).
PNGEA represents the Enlisted Airmen of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard and Pennsylvania Army National Guard from a Pennsylvanian's perspective. EANGUS represents the Air National Guard and Army National Guard from a National perspective. Both truly work diligently for the National Guard and have accomplished much for us over the years.
One of the benefits of membership in PNGEA is the two for one PMA membership in PNGEA and EANGUS. These two PMAs are focused primarily on the issues that concern you the Enlisted National Guard Member. These PMAs are truly all about us in the National Guard. In my opinion, many of the other PMAs are focused on active duty issues and thus do not represent our National Guard concerns as effectively as PNGEA and EANGUS.
I encourage each of you to consider the benefits of PMA membership. All of these PMAs listed above work hard to support the military member and the entire military family. They provide lobbyists for military legislation and provide a voice for military members that may otherwise go unheard. Our membership in PMAs provides the strength they need to serve us effectively. Membership and participation in PMAs is more important than ever due to the budgetary constraints our State and Nation face in the immediate future.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Air National Guard (ANG) Enlisted Grades Program
March 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
What is the ANG Enlisted Grades Program? ANGI 38-202 is the ANG instruction that defines the ANG Enlisted Grades Program which is often referred to as the Enlisted Grades Review (EGR).
This instruction establishes an enlisted grades program for ANG Traditional Guardsmen positions and establishes policies at the unit level. The instruction is applicable to all enlisted grades included in military end-strength numbers. The ANG Enlisted Grades Program is designed to ensure that enlisted grades are equitably allocated for each Air Force Specialty (AFS).
The most recent Enlisted Grades Review has a major impact on the whole of the Air National Guard. The EGR was completed for the first time in many years in October 2010 and has an implementation date of January 2012. Rank structure of our ANG was reevaluated and realigned as a result of the EGR. The results of the process have been distributed to all units of the ANG for implementation by January 2012.
ANG enlisted ranks have been over the allocations noted in ANGI 38-202 for many years. This is especially true in the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer ranks. The most recent EGR realigns ANG rank percentages to more closely align the rank structure with ANGI 38-202.
The EGR is a painful experience for the entire ANG. Unfortunately, ANGI 38-202 Enlisted Grades Review was not performed for a number of years. Now in order to bring the ANG enlisted rank levels back into alignment with ANGI38-202 is going to be painful. The reality is that that we are taking cuts in rank to meet the requirements of ANGI 38-202.
As we all know, our Nation is facing very serious financial issues. Government employees are experiencing pay freezes; budgets for government programs are being cut or are being reviewed to be eliminated. The Department of Defense budget is under heavy fire and I have no doubt more cuts and cost savings measures will be proposed and implemented.
I have seen estimates that the cost of not implementing the EGR is approximately 80 million dollars per year. Under the fiscal constraints our Nation is facing these cost savings efforts are necessary. Additionally, implementation of the EGR in 2012 will bring our Air National Guard closer to the rank limits established in ANGI 38-202.
It will be painful as we transition to the new normal rank structure in our Air National Guard. Please know that the leadership of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard is doing everything possible to implement the Enlisted Grades Review requirements equitably and fairly.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - A message worth repeating
February 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
Some of you may have seen the message below from our Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force concerning suicide in the Air Force. If you have read the article below please read it again. The importance of Chief Roy's message is literally a matter of life and death.
We are all Wingmen, as good Wingmen we must be ready to help our fellow Airmen that are experiencing difficulties and may be at risk. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out to someone and know that your Air National Guard family is here for you.
Even one suicide is too many
An alarming trend is happening in our Air Force, and we need your help. We've had a drastic increase this year in the number of suicides among our total force Airmen - active duty, guard, reserve and civilians. Last year we lost 84 Airmen by suicides; this year, we've nearly reached that number, and it is only October. Even one suicide is too many!
We all take Suicide Awareness training, but that's just the first step - we must take immediate action and get involved. We need to look out for each other and understand that we're not alone. Be ready and willing to assist your Wingman and ask for help when you need it. We must all take the time to care about those around us. That's what good Wingmen do, and that's what our Air Force needs.
Supervisors at every level must act now. Get to know your Airmen better and understand their personal and professional challenges. This is not a time to sit idle and think this won't happen in your unit. No one is immune. Suicides range the spectrum of ages, locations, MAJCOMs and career fields. The two most common factors we've seen are problems with relationships and finances.
We need to be good Wingmen for others and also need to develop and maintain trusted relationships and friendships where we can talk openly and honestly about things happening in our own lives. We need to feel comfortable exchanging ideas, views and experiences with those who are closest to us. There is always someone available for you.
So many people care about you - more than you may think; family, friends, co-workers, supervisors, first sergeants, commanders, chaplains, medical professionals and senior leaders are ready and willing to listen and help. Just give them a chance. Don't ever think you are alone or that no one will understand. We will understand, and we will help you. It doesn't matter whether you write, call or e-mail, please reach out. We are an Air Force family and you mean a lot to all of us. If you feel you are at the end of your road, you are not - talk with someone. We care about you and will ensure you receive the help you need.
You should never be afraid of seeking help for fear of reprisal. Our lives should be the priority. The Air Force also has many resources to help. Military and family life consultants, chaplains and medical professionals are all available. Also, Military One Source counselors are always available by calling (800) 342-9647 or visiting www.militaryonesource.com.
With everyone's help, we can and must step up and reverse this devastating trend.
JAMES A. ROY
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force"
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - The "Little Brown Book"
January 2011
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
What is the "Little Brown Book?" The "Little Brown Book" is a small pocket-sized copy of Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-2618. AFI 36-2618 is the Enlisted Force Structure.
This instruction defines the enlisted force structure. It establishes leadership and development levels, responsibilities and official terms of address for enlisted Airmen. It describes special senior noncommissioned officer positions and standardizes duty titles.
Additionally, this instruction includes the Air Force institutional competencies which serve as the common language for force development. AFI 36-2618 applies to all enlisted members of the US Air Force, Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC).
Command Chief Chris Muncy, our Air National Guard Command Chief, quotes the "Little Brown Book" in almost every article that is written about him. He references the "Little Brown Book" in every speech I have heard him give.
In a recent speech that Command Chief Muncy delivered at the ANG Senior Leadership Conference (SLC), he emphasized the importance of AFI 36-2618 to every Airman both Officer and Enlisted. Below is an excerpt from that speech:
"Part of sustaining that sense of purpose can be accomplished simply by understanding and following the "Enlisted Force Structure" handbook, known affectionately as the "Little Brown Book."
"[It's] the foundation to your enlisted force," said Muncy. "It is foundational not just to those of you with stripes, but to the officers appointed over [you]. Know this book. It's pretty thin, pretty easy to read. It will fit in an ABU pocket. It will fit in a flight suit pocket and it will fit in a blues pocket. Highlight it. Learn about your Airmen's responsibilities and work with them [using this book]."
Our Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF) James Roy and ANG Command Chief Chris Muncy are highlighting the importance of AFI 36-2618 by distributing the "Little Brown Book" to every member of the Air National Guard.
Enlisted Airmen - The "Little Brown Book" is a quick reference of the responsibilities required of your current rank and the increased responsibilities as you progress through the enlisted ranks. The three enlisted force structure tiers are covered in AFI 36-2618. These tiers are Junior Enlisted Airman, Noncommissioned Officer (NCO), and Senior Noncommissioned Officer (SNCO). The three tiers correlate to increased leadership and managerial responsibilities, and each rank's responsibilities are defined in AFI 36-2618.
Commissioned Airmen - Use the "Little Brown Book" to better understand your enlisted Airmen and what you can expect from them. AFI 36-2618 defines the level of performance for each rank. The performance level includes the areas of technical expertise, leadership skills and managerial skills.
The "Little Brown Book" will be distributed to you through your Wing Command Chief. I expect that they will be distributed to you by February 2011. As Command Chief Muncy noted above, the "Little Brown Book" fits easily in your ABU, blues or flight suit pocket. Please keep it with you as a quick reference.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Change is in the Air
December 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
Change is in the air. As some of you know, my favorite saying is "The only constant is change." The rate of change in our society and military seems to increase exponentially with every passing year. I have learned that we need to accept change as part of life and do our best to adapt to it as quickly as possible.
Several changes have occurred recently in our society and in our Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG). I will address a couple of these changes in this article and how they affect you as Pennsylvania National Guard Airmen.
Political power shifts from election to election. The elections held on November 2, 2010 shifted the landscape of political power in our Nation and in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. How does this power shift affect us in the PNG?
Pennsylvania Government - Leadership Change
Our Pennsylvania Governor Elect is Tom Corbett. He has intimate knowledge of our Pennsylvania National Guard. He served in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard's 28th Infantry Division from 1971 to 1984. He served in both the enlisted and officer ranks as a PNG Soldier. Our current Commander in Chief remains Governor Edward G. Rendell. Governor Elect Corbett will become our new Commander in Chief after his Inauguration Ceremony in January 2011.
Pennsylvania National Guard - Leadership Change
Major General Jessica L. Wright, The Adjutant General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, retired as of November 6, 2010. Major General Stephen M. Sischo has been named Acting Adjutant General by Governor Rendell during the transition of power from Governor Rendell to Governor Elect Corbett.
Major General Sischo will remain the Acting Adjutant General of the Pennsylvania National Guard until an Adjutant General is selected by Governor Elect Corbett and is confirmed by the Pennsylvania State Senate. Major General Sischo will continue as the Commander of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard during his tenure as Acting Adjutant General.
Another change that has occurred over the last few months concerns the "Don't ask, don't tell" (DADT) policy in the military. The DADT law has been the topic of much discussion, opinion polls, litigation, and change. As I write this article the DADT is law and we need to adhere to the legal stipulations of DADT. I expect that there will be continuing litigation concerning DADT and we will adjust as required if changes to the law occur.
The changes listed above are a few examples of change and how it affects us in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. Remember: "The only constant is change" and we need to accept and adapt to change quickly to do our jobs effectively.
As 2010 comes to an end, I want to thank you for another year of service and sacrifice! Please extend my thanks to your family and to your employer for their support of your service and their sacrifices when you are serving.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
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Pennsylvania Air National Guard Senior Enlisted Leadership - Different Perspectives
November 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
In August, the 193rd Special Operation Wing (SOW) held a Change of Authority Ceremony for their Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant position. Command Chief Steven Hile became the new Wing Command Chief replacing Command Chief Scott Keener.
I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Command Chief Keener for his leadership and friendship during his tenure. The leadership and energy he brought to the 193rd SOW Command Chief position has resulted in many enhancements to enlisted programs and he has left a legacy that will last for many years.
I also want to take this opportunity to welcome Command Chief Steven Hile and thank him for accepting the demanding role of Wing Command Chief. I am positive that Command Chief Hile will build on and further enhance the programs Command Chief Keener set in place. Command Chief Hile has a passion for his work and I look forward to serving with him.
So why is this article titled "Pennsylvania Air National Guard Senior Enlisted Leadership - Different Perspectives?" To answer this question I would like to give you a little background on each of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard Command Chiefs including myself.
Chief Master Sergeant Ralph C. Braden - I am the State Command Chief Master Sergeant and have held the position since March 2007. I am a traditional Air National Guard member and have a full-time position in the airline industry working as a maintenance manager.
Chief Master Sergeant Richard W. Mertz, Jr. - 111th Fighter Wing, Wing Command Chief. He has been in the position since May 2008. In addition to his position as Wing Command Chief, CMSgt Mertz is a full-time technician at the 111th FW working as the Logistics Readiness Squadron Operations and Compliance NCO.
Chief Master Sergeant Steven P. Hile - 193rd Special Operations Wing, Wing Command Chief. He has been in the Wing Command Chief position since August 2010. In addition to his position as Wing Command Chief, CMSgt Hile is an Air Guard/Reserve (AGR) and serves the 193D SOW as the Personnel Support Superintendant.
Chief Master Sergeant Victor H. Guerra - 171st Air Refueling Wing, Wing Command Chief. He has been Wing Command Chief since January 2007 and is a traditional Air National Guard member. He is employed full-time working in the airline industry as a manager working safety and regulatory compliance issues.
For the first time in my knowledge, we now have Pennsylvania Air National Guard Senior Enlisted Leadership that represents the three employee groups that make up our Air National Guard. We have two Traditional Guardsmen, a Full-Time Technician, and an Air Guard/Reserve (AGR) representative as members of our team.
It is our job in the Air National Guard to work together as a team. As with any team, there are varied perspectives that each team member brings to the table. Your Senior Enlisted Leadership's varied backgrounds and status as Air National Guard members have formed our different perspectives. These different perspectives will enhance our ability to perform in our role as your servant leaders.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Homeland Response Force (HRF)
October 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
The Defense Department and National Guard Bureau recently announced that eight additional Homeland Response Force (HRF) units will be established in fiscal year 2012.
So what is a HRF?
HRFs are regional forces that will cross state lines when needed. They are part of a restructuring of the nation's chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosive (CBRNE) consequence management enterprise. The first two HRFs (Ohio and Washington) are expected to be in place and validated no later than the end of FY11.
One unit will be based in each of the 10 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regions. The units are scheduled to have 570 Guardsmen, and each will have a medical team, a search and extraction team, a decontamination team and very robust command and control capabilities.
| Homeland Response Force Unit Composition |
| Medical Team |
45 |
| Search & Extraction Team |
50 |
| Decontamination Team |
75 |
| Command & Control |
200 |
| Security Team |
200 |
| Total Personnel |
570 |
Pennsylvania has been chosen to host one of the HRF units to be established in FY12. Press releases have made it sound like standing up a HRF unit will add headcount to the National Guard. Unfortunately, headcount will not increase as a result of the HRF unit being based in Pennsylvania. The unit will be manned by existing Airmen and Soldiers with expertise in the required fields as an additional duty.
Currently Pennsylvania is the home of a CBRNE Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP). CERFPs will evolve into HRF units over the next few years. CERFP units are trained to respond to weapons of mass destruction incidents.
HRF units will train and respond similar to the current CERFP units. The HRF will be manned similarly to the current CERFP that has a small core of full-time National Guard team members. The majority of the personnel assigned to the HRF will be traditional guardsmen that have a primary federal mission. HRF mission training, participation in exercises, and response to real world events will be in addition to their primary UTC tasking and training.
HRFs are arranged in such a way that they will be able to respond to the site of an event within 6-12 hours. This response time is a dramatic improvement in response time and life-saving capability over the present structure/location of the forces.
The units will be key elements of the new Defense Department chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosive consequence management enterprise. The enterprise also will include a defense CBRNE Response Force, two consequence-management command and control elements, 57 weapons of mass destruction civil support teams and 17 CBRNE-enhanced response force packages (CERFPs).
This reorganization will ensure the DoD will have a robust ability to respond rapidly to domestic CBRNE incidents while recognizing the primary role that the governors play in controlling the response to incidents that occur in their states.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Professional Military Education: Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (SNCOA)
September 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
One of the programs I manage as State Command Chief is the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy package submittal process. In the three and a half years I have been administering this program, I have received a very small number of SNCOA packages for the number of Airmen that the Pennsylvania Air National Guard has eligible.
I have been managing the program since 2007 and submittals have been consistent during my tenure. Pennsylvania submitted no packages in 2007, and four packages were submitted in 2008, 2009, and 2010 respectively. We have had two to three Pennsylvania Airmen selected from 2008 -2010 board cycle to attend the SNCOA. During the same time frame, states of similar size to Pennsylvania have had ten or more Airmen selected to attend the SNCOA.
Obviously, the reason Pennsylvania is not seeing more of our Airmen selected to attend the SNCOA is because very few Airmen are submitting SNCOA packages to attend.
I am encouraging all Airmen eligible to attend this very important Senior NCO Professional Military Education (PME) to submit a package this year. I challenge each Wing and GSU to encourage their outstanding eligible Airmen to submit a package for the FY 2011 SNCOA Board.
Although the official request from National Guard Bureau for SNCOA packages will not come out for some time, it is never too early to start putting together your package. The package requirements have not changed significantly over the last three years. FY 2011 SNCOA board packages are due to my office for processing by Feb. 4, 2011.
Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education (SEJPME)
So what is SEJPME? The SEJPME course prepares Senior Enlisted Leaders for operations in the joint environment. Upon completion of the course, the student will be more confident, competent and better prepared to quickly assimilate and effectively contribute in joint assignments. The student will also be able to share the joint knowledge learned with and provide joint operations mentoring for junior enlisted personnel.
The SEJPME course is a stand-alone web-based course that uses multi-media instruction. The course contains a pre-test, section knowledge checks (quizzes), and a final examination. In order to receive a completion certificate, all learning modules and tests must be completed, and a minimum final examination grade of 80% must be achieved. The course takes about 40 hours of time to complete.
I found the SEJPME course very interesting and challenging. The SEJPME course is open to the ranks of technical sergeant through chief master sergeant. I highly recommend all eligible enlisted personnel enroll in the course. If you need any further encouragement, upon completion of the course you are eligible to receive 13 retirement points.
It is my opinion that in-residence attendance at all levels of Enlisted PME is extremely beneficial to our Airmen and must be encouraged whenever possible. The experience and total force exposure that our Airmen receive while attending in-residence PME courses should not be underestimated.
If you have any questions concerning the SNCOA package submittal process, please see your First Sergeant or Wing Command Chief. Please visit: www.jfsc.ndu.edu/schools_programs/se_jpme/welcome_new.asp to learn more about the SEJPME or to enroll in the course.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program
August 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
The Pennsylvania Air National Guard recently implemented the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP) to enable reintegration of our Airmen returning from deployments. Attendance at a Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Event (YRRE) is mandatory for all Airmen who perform 90 or more cumulative days of Title 10 or Title 32 duty in a Fiscal Year. I had the pleasure of attending the first YRRE for the 201st RED HORSE Squadron the weekend of June 5-6, 2010. This YRRE was held at the Antique Auto Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
So what is the YRRP? The YRRP is designed to benefit National Guard and Reserve members and their families by helping to give them access to necessary support and guide them to the appropriate information, services, benefits, proactive outreach opportunities, and referrals to help them "reintegrate" following an operational deployment.
National Guard and Reserve members have a unique challenge relative to their active duty counterparts, since many will return to full-time civilian employment following their military duties. Additionally, without the support of an active duty installation, many encounter difficulty finding or getting access to the care that they need for any injuries, illnesses, or conditions incurred as a result of their deployment.
Some Airmen find it challenging to simply find information or services to assist in their transition back to a peacetime environment, despite the numerous organizations whose stated purpose is to provide this service. The YRRP is designed to fulfill this need by serving as the "integrator" to link the Service members and their families with the appropriate service based on their individual need.
The DoD YRRP is the overarching program to enable reintegration for National Guard and Reserve members and their families.
The first Pennsylvania Air National Guard Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Event was held for the returning 201st RED HORSE Squadron members and their families. Those attending the event held in Hershey, PA included 123 Airmen, 2 Soldiers, and 64 family members. The program included many topics that help our National Guard Airmen, Soldiers and their families understand and cope with the challenges and stresses that families deal with after a deployment.
Some of the topics covered included: TRICARE, VA Benefits, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, Personal Finance, GI Bill, Military One Source, Pennsylvania Law changes, and Suicide Prevention. Representatives from many organizations had booths set up and were present to answer questions.
I attended the first full day of the 201st Red Horse Squadron YRRE and I was very impressed with the program agenda and the presentations. Joy McKinney is the Pennsylvania Air National Guard YRRP Coordinator. I would like to thank Joy and her team for doing a great job organizing our first ANG YRRE.
If you would like more information concerning the YRRP, please contact Joy McKinney, Pennsylvania Air National Guard YRRP Coordinator, at: (717) 861-2801 or via email: joy.mckinney@us.army.mil or online: www.jointservicessupport.org.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Bystander Intervention
July 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
Last month my article addressed the Air Force Eagle Eyes Program. The Eagle Eyes Program tasks all Airmen to be the eyes and ears in our communities to help prevent terrorist attacks. This month I will continue the theme of attack prevention with the topic of bystander intervention.
Did you know that roughly 60 percent of violent crimes in the United States are witnessed by a bystander? What percentage of the time do you think a bystander does something to assist the victim of the crime? Sadly, only about 15 percent of the time does a bystander intervene.
The Bystander Intervention Program has been created by the Air Force Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Office. The goal of the program is to empower our Airmen to prevent the violent crime of sexual assault through intervention. Training will be provided to all Airmen which will enable them to develop the skills to protect themselves and others from sexual assault.
In aircraft accident investigations, the investigation focuses on the chain of events that lead up to an accident. There is always a chain of events that precedes an accident or incident. Usually there are at least three links in the chain of events that lead to the accident. If any link in the chain of events is broken the accident is prevented.
I suggest that there is a chain of events that leads up to the violent crime of sexual assault. I contend that a sexual assault incident can be prevented by breaking a link in the chain of events that leads to the sexual assault. Bystander Intervention Training will empower you to break the link in the chain.
The key to that empowerment is bystander intervention. "If Airmen witness a situation that could lead to an assault, they have an obligation to intervene and prevent the crime", said Carl Buchanan, the Bystander Intervention Program Manager.
To do this, the staff members at SAPR office have developed three different bystander intervention education modules specifically designed for women, men and leaders. "The goal of the bystander training is to empower our Airmen to effectively prevent sexual assault against fellow Wingmen by providing a learning environment in which they can practice and become confident using intervention skills.", Mr. Buchanan said.
I challenge each of you to do your part in preventing sexual assault. Remember that sexual assault is not just an active duty Air Force problem. Sexual assault is committed against both women and men. Sexual assault is a problem in the National Guard. Sexual assaults have been committed in the Air National Guard and sexual assaults have been committed in our Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
No one would knowingly want anyone they know to be sexually assaulted. It is our responsibility as Airmen and as Wingmen to intervene and prevent sexual assaults. Share what you learn in Bystander Intervention Training with your family and your civilian coworkers. Sharing this information can help prevent sexual assaults in the other important areas of our lives.
Visit the following website for more information on the Bystander Intervention Program: http://www.sapr.mil.
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Eagle Eyes
June 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
The attempted car bombing of New York's Times Square has emphasized the important part all Americans play in preventing a terrorist attack. New York Street Vendors, Duane Jackson and Lance Orton Sr., reported a suspicious SUV to police. As we all know the SUV contained explosives. These average American's were instrumental in thwarting a terrorist attack on Times Square.
This is an example of the type of vigilance and actions that the Air Force is asking from all Airmen to help prevent terrorist attacks.
The article below was published in the 171st Air Refueling Wing's "Tanker Times" at the request of Special Agent Mickel Howell of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) and Eagle Eyes Program Representative. I believe that the article is timely and relevant to all Airmen given the incident in Times Square and deserves repeating.
Eagle Eyes
As a result of the 9-11 terrorist attack, the Air Force implemented an antiterrorism program called "Eagle Eyes," which is operated by the AFOSI. Much like a neighborhood watch program, the Eagle Eyes program is an aggressive Air Force-wide neighborhood watch program that educates people on observable activities and what to do if they see something suspicious. The motto for Eagle Eyes is "Watch. Report. Protect."
"Eagle Eyes enlists the help of base personnel whether active duty, reservist, family members, or, civilian contractors and the civilian communities surrounding the base to remain vigilant and keep their eyes and ears open to any suspicious activities," said Special Agent Mickel Howell. "The 2001 attack did not just happen without planning. There were precursor events that occurred and eventually led up to the attack. These terrorists planned their attacks, conducted surveillance, obtained training and rehearsed their operation."
There were numerous lessons learned in the federal law enforcement and intelligence communities which played a key role in the development of Eagle Eyes.
"Of most importance, we learned that every terrorist act is preceded by observable activities. These activities usually include surveillance, elicitation for information, tests of security, acquiring supplies, conducting a dry run -- practicing the terrorist act, and deploying the assets to commit the act," said SA Howell. "Once the assets are deployed to commit the attack, it is most likely too late to prevent the act from occurring."
"When the community is aware of pre-attack indicators, they can play a vital role in deterring a potential attack," SA Howell said. Once a potential indicator is observed, it is reported to OSI through various channels. OSI then investigates the reported activity.
Here are some examples of what has been reported through the Eagle Eyes program. Unidentified men taking pictures of the base; a male attempted to elicit information from an intelligence member concerning security operations; incidents of counterfeit military identification card production; attempts to elicit technical information from a reserve technician by an unidentified male; suspicious phone calls made to various organizations by unknown callers.
By reaching out to Air Force members, their families and the local community through educational briefings and word of mouth, these incidents were reported in a timely manner. By reporting these incidents, potential criminal or terrorist plots were foiled.
Law Enforcement officials, to include AFOSI special agents, cannot be everywhere at all times. "The Eagle Eyes program relies on you to remain vigilant," SA Howell said. "Only you know your neighborhood. Only you know your workplace. Please continue to remain cognizant and continue to Watch, Report and Protect."
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Pennsylvania State CCM Perspective - Post 9/11 GI Bill Veterans Educational Act
May 2010
By Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Braden
Last month I wrote about the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF). This month I will continue the theme of education with a discussion concerning the Post 9/11 GI Bill. If you are eligible, the Post 9/11 GI Bill can help you pay for your continuing educational development. Many Air National Guard members are eligible to take advantage of this financial benefit.
To be eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill you must have served on active duty after 9/11/2001 for a period of at least 90 days or more (excluding service on active duty in entry level or skills training). Ninety days or more of qualifying active duty service after 9/11/2001 entitles you to 40% of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits. Six months of qualifying active duty service after 9/11/2001 entitles you to 50% of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.
The percentage of educational benefit increases up to 100% as the length of time served on active duty increases. In order to qualify for 100% of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits the military member must have served an aggregate active duty military service of over 36 months. What this means is that if you have served 36 months of cumulative service in a qualifying active duty status since 9/11/2001 you are eligible for 100% of the Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.
The maximum benefit includes the following:
- Cost of tuition and fees, not to exceed the most expensive in-state undergraduate tuition at a public institution in the state that you are attending school
- Yearly books and supplies stipend up to $1000.00
- Housing allowance equal to the basic allowance for housing payable to an E-5 with dependents (Housing allowance is not applicable when enrolled in an online only educational program)
All military members that served after 9/11/2001 are eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Unlike the CCAF degree program that I discussed in last month's article which is a program restricted to enlisted personnel, the Post 9/11 GI Bill is available to all eligible Air National Guard officers and enlisted members.
The Post 9/11 GI Bill may be used to help you pay tuition for a graduate or undergraduate degree. Enlisted members that do not currently have a degree may use their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to help finance a Baccalaureate degree. If you already have an undergraduate degree you may utilize the Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to start working on a graduate degree.
You can find more information and Post 9/11 GI Bill application procedures at: http://www.gibill.va.gov. I recommend that all Airmen that believe they are eligible apply for this valuable benefit.
As always, I encourage all Airmen to further their education and become a lifelong learner. If eligible the Post 9/11 GI Bill can help pay for your continued educational growth. Furthering your education enriches your life and helps you contribute even more to the Air National Guard.
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