NEW JERSEY ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

50TH BRIGADE

      The 50th Brigade goals for 1997 were to meet and sustain training and readiness levels required to support federal and state missions. Individual and collective training occupied the main effort by the soldiers of the 50th Brigade. Effective and successful units begin with qualified and professional soldiers. During 1997, 245 Brigade soldiers attended Military Occupational Specialty Courses (MOSQ), 918 soldiers received Front Line Leadership Training and 250 soldiers attended NCO Professional Development courses. The emphasis in the 50th Brigade was on preparing the individual soldier for mobilization.

      50th Brigade elements conducted annual training at Fort Dix, New Jersey; Fort Drum, New York and Fort Knox, Kentucky. Scouts and armor crewmen from the 2nd Battalion 102nd Armor had the unique opportunity to train on the latest simulation devices at Fort Knox, Ky. Gunnery skills were enhanced as a result of this training. All eyes were on the 1st Battalion 114th Infantry as they conducted the National Guard’s first ever Battle Focused Training Experiment (BFTE) at Fort Dix, New Jersey. BFTE combines live, virtual and constructive training in the same training event ensuring that troops at every level receive realistic, challenging and exciting training. The 2nd Battalion 113th Infantry provided Opposing Force (OPFOR) support to the 27th Infantry (Enhanced) Brigade over a six-week period at Fort Drum, New York. It was New Jersey’s 2nd Battalion who showed the New York enhanced brigade how to plan, fight and win on today’s battlefield! The 3rd Battalion 112th Field Artillery conducted gunnery exercises at Fort Drum, New York and the 5-117th Cavalry Squadron conducted its first ever consolidated training with its air troops from Rhode Island at Fort Drum, New York.

      50th Brigade commanders and battle staffs participated in a Battle Command Battle Staff Training Exercise in March of 1997. This intensive Command and Staff exercise was a tremendous success, with 50th Brigade rated most successful in comparison to other Brigades throughout the 42nd Infantry Division (ID) who participated in exercises during 1997. Once again, the 50th Brigade demonstrated to the 42nd ID staff and to Fort Leavenworth’s Leadership Development Center Operations Group, that the 50th Brigade is a critical member of the Army National Guard’s Combined Arms Team.

      The 50th Brigade continues to serve the citizens of New Jersey and the communities which surround our Interactive Community Resource Centers. 50th Brigade elements participated in 29 local parades and delivered much needed manpower and equipment in support of 85 domestic emergency (DOMAC) missions. Many 50th Brigade units and soldiers donated time, manpower and equipment to benefit youth programs such as adopting parks, building recreational centers and playgrounds for area youth and supporting the Adjutant General’s Youth Camp at Sea Girt, New Jersey. The 50th Brigade was again in the forefront in serving our communities and demonstrating that the citizen soldier is alive and well in New Jersey.

      50th Brigade remains a viable and relevant member of America’s Army and a good and respected neighbor within their communities. 50th Brigade soldiers can look to the past with pride but, more importantly, know they are moving forward and are prepared to meet the challenges of the next millennium.

50th Brigade......First in Training.....First in Caring.....First in Mission...Accomplishment!

FOLLOW ME!

42ND DIVISION SUPPORT COMMAND

      The 42nd Division Support Command (DISCOM) is committed to meeting the challenges of today and those that lie ahead in the 21st century. As the role of the Army National Guard increasingly changes with regard to the Total Force Structure, the 42nd DISCOM stands ready to fulfill its primary missions of combat support (CS) and combat service support (CSS).

      In 1997, the 42nd DISCOM reaffirmed this commitment as a relevant force by providing outstanding logistical and operational support for both federal and state missions. DISCOM units conducted or participated in approximately 112 community and/or domestic actions in 1997. Some of these activities included: Operation Guard Care, a humanitarian operation to provide support and services to homeless veterans; New Jersey National Guard youth camp at Sea Girt; Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and Boss Lift, a program that enables employers to visit military installations and observe first hand their “citizen soldier” employees in training; Operation REEFEX, a New Jersey National Guard project that uses excess, obsolete military equipment to build artificial reefs off the Atlantic coast to prevent coastal erosion and to provide a home for marine life; the Garden State Games, an athletic event for physically challenged youngsters and community exhibitions, athletic events, parades, dedications, retirements and military funerals. From equipment to soldiers, DISCOM units around the state gave back to their communities the support their communities have given them.

      42nd DISCOM soldiers consistently demonstrated their ability to respond quickly and effectively whenever or wherever they were needed. While working along with federal, state and local civil authorities, they responded with the same enthusiasm and professionalism inherent in their units.

      Elements of the 42nd DISCOM supported seven major annual training periods at Fort Drum, N.Y.; Fort Dix, N.J.; Fort A.P. Hill, Va.; and Camp Irwin, Calif. (the National Training Center); successfully providing logistical support in maintenance, medical and logistical operations. These multiple support missions assisted units from the 50th, 3rd and 186th Brigades of the 42nd Infantry Division. Specialized teams provided maintenance and logistical support to maneuver units conducting tactical field exercises and tank gunnery and participated in the Battle Field Training Experiment conducted by the Training and Training Technology Battle Lab.

      Company D, 50th Main Support Battalion participated in National Training Center (NTC) exercises successfully completing a record breaking 507 work orders in a two-week time frame, setting a NTC record. Company E, 50th Main Support Battalion assisted the Army Missile Maintenance Command in Letterkenny, Pa., providing maintenance on their missile systems in various levels of direct support and depot level maintenance.

      The 250th Forward Support Battalion (FSB) conducted the annual Adjutant General’s 5K Run, an event that encourages community participation and promotes physical fitness. The 250th FSB was the primary provider of both personnel and logistical support for the New Jersey Junior ROTC drill team competition held at Sea Girt. This annual event involves over 20 different high school drill teams. Company B, 250th Forward Support Battalion specifically distinguished itself by being nominated for the Outstanding Company Maintenance Award.

      The 250th Signal Battalion initiated and is running a specialized military school to train soldiers in systems communications and operations. This highly technical and comprehensive course taught by instructors from the 250th Signal Battalion, has saved thousands of dollars in training time and resources because soldiers do not have to travel and train at military schools outside New Jersey. The Signal Battalion is also actively engaged in a joint effort with the U.S. Army Communications Command (CECOM) in testing and fielding new model/series radios to help determine future acquisition of new generation communications equipment for the U.S. military.

      Medical Operations (Company C, 250th Forward Support Battalion & Company F, 50th Main Support Battalion) supported run Mobilization Exercises (MOBEX). During each exercise, medical soldiers processed approximately 100-700 soldiers through various stations which included: vaccinations for hepatitis B, dental examinations, vision checks (prescription and color blindness), as well as physical exams. As a result, soldiers records were updated in accordance with current divisional standards to ensure maximum deployability of unit personnel.

      While the DISCOM achieved outstanding results in support operations, tremendous gains were realized on the personnel side. Commanders at all levels continued to work with the employers of our soldiers educating them on the Guard’s real world mission. By gaining a better appreciation of what our soldiers do, employers will be more understanding of the reason for their employee’s absence due to military training requirements. This has resulted in increased soldier attendance at annual and weekend training, improved performance and military skill qualification, and an overall increase in the strength of the DISCOM, from 97% to 107%.

      With strength maintenance as the DISCOM’s number one priority, several recruiting and retention initiatives were implemented. First, unit level retention seminars were conducted with an emphasis on the front line leaders and the unit sponsorship programs. This had an excellent effect on retention statistics enabling DISCOM to not only exceed its strength maintenance goals but also lead the state in the lowest percentage of soldier losses or attrition (9.06%).

      Second, retention and strength maintenance activities were integrated within the yearly training program ensuring some type of retention activity was conducted during each training quarter. The wide spread support given to such events as our annual Hail & Farewell and the DISCOM Golf Tournament are clear indicators of community involvement and motivated soldiers.

      DISCOM has secured its place in the Total Army Force working in the best interest of state and national objectives. The overwhelming success achieved in 1997 is a testament to the soldiers and senior leadership of DISCOM and proves that they are indeed “First In Support.”

57TH TROOP COMMAND

      The 57th Troop Command, headquartered in Atlantic City, includes the 119th Support Battalion (CORPS), 50th Personnel Service Battalion, 50th Finance Battalion and the 1st Battalion 150th Aviation.

      The 57th Troop Command supported a variety of community activities in 1997 which included a Stand Down at the Atlantic City Interactive Community Resource Center that provided food, medical support and Veterans Administration registration for hundreds of veterans in the Atlantic City area and Fun Day, which supported the children of Atlantic City with a full day of fun and games. The command supported over 38 major community and domestic emergency support activities in 1997.

      The 119th Support Battalion (CORPS) provided command and control for operation REEFEX which is an environmental initiative that uses obsolete military vehicles to build artificial reefs off the coast of New Jersey. The 119th also participated with units in support of operations “Patriot Medstar” at Fort Devens, Massachusetts; “Roving Sands” at Fort Bliss, Texas and the National Boy Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia. The 119th also supported the deactivation of both the 194th Dental Detachment and the 328th Transportation Detachment.

      The 253rd Transportation Company won the Newman Award for Excellence in Food Service and was the 1st Army nominee for competition for the Connelly Award in Food Service. They also were the winners of the New Jersey Army National Guard Supply Excellence Award for 1997.

      Detachment 1, 1159th Aeromedical Evacuation provided medivac support to the Boy Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia. They provided medical life support and flew 11 emergency medical evacuation missions with 12 patients and 11 patient air transports of 16 patients.

      The 1st Battalion 150th Aviation flies the AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter and trains intensely at Fort Dix, N.J. and Fort A.P. Hill, Va. They participated in annual training with the 29th Division in the first consolidated aviation brigade exercise since the battalion’s alignment with the 29th Infantry Division (light). Two companies conducted annual training at WAATS, Ariz. They trained in TOW gunnery, aerial attacks and aircrew coordination. The battalion also participated in a live fire air assault exercise that meshed attack, reconnaissance and lift aviation, infantry artillery and USAF close-air support. All aviation units in the command passed the 1997 Aviation Resource Management (ARMS) inspection.

      The 50th Finance Battalion participated in operation “Call Forward” during their annual training at Fort Drum, N.Y. The battalion worked for the 33rd Finance Battalion and supported the 1215th Garrison Support (USAR). During operation “Call Forward,” the 50th Finance Battalion processed 2,600 soldier records.

      The 50th Personnel Services Battalion provided support in the review of approximately 400 soldiers’ records during three mobilization exercises for units within the New Jersey Army National Guard. During annual training at Fort Drum, N.Y., members of the battalion stepped into the position of their active duty counterparts in the 10th Mountain Division and processed personnel actions daily and performed 450 record validations from active duty soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division.

254TH REGIMENT

      The 254th Regiment (CA) provides a train- ing environment to conduct Combat Arms training. The 254th Regiment is accredited by the Army Training and Doctorine Command (TRADOC) and instructs TRADOC-approved programs of instruction under the direction of the proponent school.

      The mission of the 254th Regiment is to provide Combat Arms training in the following skill areas: 19K, 19D, 11H, 13E, 13F. The 254th also provides Non-Commissioned Officer Basic and Advanced courses, Officer Candidate School, Commanders Development Course, and the Executive Officer Development Course which enables New Jersey units to mobilize and deploy soldiers capable of meeting wartime mission requirements on current and future equipment systems.

      The 254th Regiment is the coordinating Headquarters for Region A, which consists of units located in the following states: Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island. The Regional Training Institute (RTI) consists of: the Headquarters 254th Regiment (Combat Arms), 1st Battalion (Armor), 2nd Battalion (General Support): Company A (Combat Arms), Company B (Ordnance and Regonial Training Site Maintenance located at Ft. Dix), Company C (Officer Candidate School), Company D (Leadership). The 254th Regiment is located in the beautiful seaside resort of Sea Girt, New Jersey, and is a demand-supported organization designed to support the user. The courses scheduled for 1998 are based on the results of the Training Resources Allocation Program (TRAP) and requests from supported units. Requirements in excess of those listed should be brought to the attention of the Commander 254th Regiment.

Training Objectives:
a. Provide realistic, hands-on training to all personnel who train at the 254th Regiment.
b. Provide state-of-the-art training on the latest equipment available.
c. Provide training under the Total Army School System to Active Army, Army National Guard, Army Reserve, and DA civilian personnel.
d. Provide Army approved training by use of course material provided by proponent schools.
e. Provide logistical support (billeting, transportation) for individuals or units.

COURSES OF INSTRUCTION

   To apply for a course, contact your training office. Our ATRRS school code is 1004.

19K 10/20 Phase I 13F
19K 10/20 Phase II 11H
19D 10/20 Phase I 19D40 ANCOC Phase II
19D 10/20 Phase II 19D40 ANCOC Phase III
Instructor Training Course Combat Lifesavers
Small Group Instructor Training RC3 ANCOC Common Core
Commanders Development Course RC3 BNCOC Common Core
LOXO Course 13E

TRAINING & TRAINING TECHNOLOGY BATTLE LAB

      The Army National Guard’s Training and Training Technology Battle Lab (T3BL) continues to be the forward thrust in training as we approach the 21st century.

      The T3BL is aggressively pursuing training into the 21st century with an addition to the current facility that will provide and integrate the most current training strategies and devices in the Army. Within the Phase I construction will be the Synthetic Theater of War (STOW) hub. A STOW hub delivers the virtual and constructive capabilities to link multiple locations throughout the United States or any country that has the capabilities to connect unique and varied simulators and simulations. For example, a Battle Staff in New Jersey could fight another Battle Staff in Texas, coordinating the Fire Support assets in Oklahoma, Aviation assets in Alabama, Forward Observers in Montana, Armor assets in New York, while being resupplied by assets in Maryland. On the ground, the units could fight opposing units, similar in nature, unrestricted by location. Phase II construction will encompass six Night Fight Lanes, a Close Combat Tactical Trainer bay to accommodate an Abrams and Bradley Company Suite and a Fire Support Combined Arms Tactical Trainer Bay, as well as eight multi-media classrooms.

      T3BL conducted a Battle Focused Training Experiment (BFTE) at Fort Dix, New Jersey, from August 2-15, 1997. The BFTE is an approach to train less resourced units at battalion level by pulling together all available resources in a scenario based training environment. The BFTE provided a task force from the 1-114th Infantry with a Combat Training Center-like experience with the use of aggressive opposing forces and observer controllers. The entire operation was scenario-based with maximum attention to multi-echelon and individualized training. The BFTE concept was conceived, coordinated and validated by the T3BL. The experiment was successful, proving that units can conduct multi-echelon training through the battalion level by integrating the live, virtual and constructive environments simultaneously. As a result, units can achieve higher levels of training while reducing the amount of time necessary for pre-deployment training.

      Distance Learning initiatives at T3BL have had a significant impact on reducing the costs of training for the military as well as academia and industry. Distance Learning sessions were successfully completed during March and April with a Light Wheeled Vehicle course.

      The T3BL Training Branch conducted research and development on numerous Training Aids, Devices, Simulators and Simulations (TADSS) during 1997. Our goal continues to be the integration of the live, virtual and constructive training domains, in order to maximize training opportunities for Reserve Component units.

      The Field Artillery Team provided Subject Matter Expert (SME) support to Hughes Training Inc. in Orlando, Fla., assisting in the development of the Fire Support Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (FSCATT), which is scheduled to be fielded to both Active and National Guard Field Artillery units this year. Also, they have worked closely with Fidelity Technologies enhancing the Unit Armory Device Full Interactive Simulation Trainer (GUARDFIST) II and IIA, which trains forward observers how to call for fire.

      The Infantry Team continued research and development on the Engagement Skills Trainer (EST), a laser operated small arms and crew served weapons firing simulator. They also worked with BEAMHIT America on their laser operated small arms simulators, the BeamHit 2000, Beam Hit Blazer and the BeamHit 25 meter Alternate Course C qualification course.

      The Armor Team continued work with IDL Corp. on the Abrams Full Crew Interactive Simulator Trainer (AFIST), an M1 tank full crew simulator. Their goal is to network the AFIST device in order to conduct platoon level training. They also trained 15 foreign military students from Brazil on operations and maintenance of the M60A3 Tank.

      The Regional Training Site-Maintenance (RTS-M) at Fort Dix has a key role in the overall Total Army School System. Its role is to provide wheel and track vehicle maintenance training primarily to the Army forces located in the Northeast region of the United States providing training on systems such as the HUMMV, Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and the Abrams M1 Main Battle Tank. Successes of the RTS-M during 1997 include: training over 375 soldiers in maintenance and leadership skills; becoming the first RTS-M to provide distributive learning (Distance Learning) to several sites at once; assisting the Combined Arms Support Command at Fort Lee to develop, test and validate emerging Total Army School System Courses being fielded in 1998; providing training at Fort Dix to foreign military students from Brazil, Portugal and Greece and training students in Jordan with a Mobile Training Team in support of the U.S. State Department.

      Operation SmartForce, a dual-use technology partnership with industry and academia, is proving to be a worthwhile effort. The effort is to combine a multi-media training method and a performance support system environment into a single device called SmartDART. This device and its content have the potential to revolutionize the way we train to perform maintenance tasks and processes to achieve a “first round fix” every time we troubleshoot and diagnose a fault. The consortium partners include New Jersey Institute of Technology, General Motors Corporation, Raytheon Incorporated, Interactive Solutions Incorporated and the Army National Guard Training and Training Technology Battle Lab.

      Virtual, Live and Constructive (VLC) Training Environments for Maintenance, a concept for training future maintenance technicians, was evaluated at the T3BL. This evaluation was conducted under an Army Concept Evaluation Program (CEP) sponsored by the Army Training and Doctrine Command in Washington, D.C. The Army National Guard received funding to conduct a CEP evaluation. The study proved that virtual, live and constructive environments combined can provide quality training at a reduced cost. The future of Army National Guard training is today at the Training and Training Technology Battle Lab.

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

      New Partnership Agreement signed! On December 18, 1997, the Adjutant General, activity managers and representatives of AFGE Local 371 signed a new Partnership Agreement. The Agreement between management and employees of the New Jersey Army National Guard reiterates the commitment of cooperation and counsel in the conduct of the agency’s business. It is a result of the recommendations found in the National Performance Review and complies with President Clinton’s Executive Order 12871 of 1993.

      Lieutenant Colonel Steven H. Katz, State Equal Employment Manager and member of Headquarters New Jersey Air National Guard (HQ NJANG), was the proud recipient of the Air Force Commendation Medal presented to him for his untiring dedication and supportive involvement in making the Air National Guard’s Diversity Project “People Potential 2000 and Beyond:” a tremendously huge success.

      Major Jorge J. Martinez, Supervisor Aircraft Pilot, a member of Headquarters State Area Command and the Installation Commander of the Army Aviation Support Facility at Picatinny Arsenal, was chosen as the winner of the prestigious National Image Meritorious Service Award. This award is presented to military personnel who have distinguished themselves by contributing to military equal opportunity policies and programs. The award was presented at the National Image Training Conference “Salute to Hispanics in the Military.”

      Chief Master Sergeant Patricia A. Burton, Human Resource Force Management Non-Commissioned Officer for HQ NJANG, McGuire AFB, was chosen as the winner of the prestigious Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award. This award is presented to American military personnel who have distinguished themselves by contributing to military equal opportunity policies and programs. The award was presented at the 88th Annual NAACP Conference.

      The Human Resource Office conducted three one-week in service training sessions for all full-time Army personnel. The training was designed to provide new and innovative approaches to improve customer service in this era of downsizing and decreasing resources.

      In addition to providing in-house training, the Human Resource Office spent over $175,000 for the external training of more than 530 technicians. This training was designed to increase the proficiency of the full-time force and to ensure the department will continue to have the best trained and most knowledgeable employees within the Army and Air National Guard.

      The advent of decentralization within the Federal Office of Personnel Management provided the impetus for New Jersey to develop a new Technician Appraisal System for the department. A joint service team comprised of federal technician representatives from management, the work force and the unions forged a new and innovative appraisal system to evaluate the effectiveness of the technician work force in carrying out the missions of the department. This system is designed to ensure a quality full-time force is on hand to move the department into the 21st century.

UNITED STATES PROPERTY & FISCAL OFFICE

      During 1997, the United States Property and Fiscal Office secured the following construction contracts:

Construction at the New Jersey National Guard Headquarters at Fort Dix is being completed and should be ready for occupancy in May 1998.
In September 1997, a contract was awarded to construct the Satellite Training Facility at the Training and Training Technology Battle Laboratory (T3BL) at Fort Dix, New Jersey. The contract was awarded to Diversified Contracting, Inc. of Ocean, New Jersey for $2 million. The project is scheduled to be completed in September 1998. The building will be added to the current T3BL and will enhance the T3BL’s ability to conduct training exercises.
In September 1997, a contract was awarded to construct an aircraft parking apron, fuel cell maintenance hangar and squadron operations facility at the 108th Air Refueling Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, McGuire AFB, New Jersey. This contract was awarded to Boro Developers, Inc. of King of Prussia, Pa., for $23 million.

The total dollar amount for Federal/State Agreements for 1997 was $3,003,790.00.

STATE COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR

      In 1997, 375 non-prior service enlistees gradu ated from the Pre-Initial Entry Active Duty Training Program, which prepares soldiers for their first tour of Active Duty (Basic Training). This program was conducted 16 times during the year. There is a 98% success rate for first term soldiers completing Basic Training because of this program.

      Also, 841 soldiers graduated from military education programs during this past year. This education program develops higher qualified and professional leaders. In state alone, the 254th Regiment in Sea Girt graduated 73 soldiers from Basic Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Course and 50 soldiers from Advance Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Course. Eighty-seven soldiers graduated from the Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC). These achievements have culminated this year in the graduation of two senior NCOs from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy and the selection of three other senior NCOs to attend future classes in April of 1998.

      Additionally, the Adjutant General selected and promoted six senior NCO’s to Command Sergeant Major.

SELECTIVE SERVICE

      A unique mission for the Adjutant General is to provide support for the Selective Service System, which is an independent agency within the executive branch of the federal government. It’s missions are to provide manpower to the Armed Forces in time of emergency and to administer the alternate service program for conscientious objectors.

      The Military Selective Service Act and Selective Service regulations provide for local boards, allocated according to county or corresponding political subdivision. There is also a provision for appeal boards to be established by federal judicial districts, plus a National Appeal Board. The appeal boards act in case of persons who do not agree with the classification given to them by the local boards. The civilian review boards will act on claims relating to job assignments from alternative service workers. Board members are appointed by the Director of Selective Service in the name of the president upon the recommendation of the governor. Within New Jersey there are eight offices with local boards, one civilian review board and one district appeal board.

      The New Jersey State Director of Selective Service, Mr. John E. Coley, Jr., of Warren Township, a civilian appointed by the governor, oversees the activities of the New Jersey Selective Service Detachment. It is comprised of members of the New Jersey Army National Guard and other military reservists.

      The detachment is responsible for identifying and recruiting individuals to serve as board members. To the maximum extent practiceable, the membership of each board is to be proportionately representative of the race and national origin of the registrants in the area it serves. Members must also reside within the area served by the board to which they are appointed.

      There is no present requirement to begin inducting people into military service. The integrity and credibility of the entire Selective Service System will depend on a fair and effective classification process maintained by highly able, trusted and objective leaders in local communities. Accordingly, the detachment provides each local board member with formal training in the interpretation of Selective Service regulations for processing claims submitted by regulatrants. There is a required 12-hour initial training program and thereafter, a 4-hour block of continuation training provided on an annual basis for as long as the board member participates.

      In support of the citizens of New Jersey, the detachment contracted with all high schools throughout the state to advise them of the laws requiring registration in order to ensure a federal or state post-secondary education loan. At their request, 50 high schools were visited by members of the detachment and 1,100 students were registered.

      To maintain their own qualifications, members conducted internal training sessions on a monthly basis and attended a three-day training course at Regional Headquarters in Great Lakes, Ill. Detachment members also attended a National Conference conducted by the National Headquarters in New Orleans, La.

DIRECTORATE OF PERSONNEL & COMMUNITY SERVICES

 Detachment 4, HQ STARC, Recruiting & Retention
      Army Medical Department (ARMEDD) The New Jersey Army Medical Department (AMEDD) was mentioned at the National Strength Maintenance Conference as being “in the green” and administratively is in the top one-third of the nation.

       Headquarters Section, Det 4 HQ STARC Headquarters continued the Brigadier General Rieth Commanders Cup. This provides healthy competition among the New Jersey Army National Guard (NJARNG) battalions and is based upon overall strength and attrition managment. This competition has been directly related to the Recruiting and Retention success story this year.

      In 1997, the NJARNG stayed green in overall strength as per National Guard Bureau (NGB) criteria. Our state also showed a net gain of 200 soldiers; the first net gain in 9 years.

      Detachment 4 increased it’s overall production from 964 in 1995 to 1,263 in 1996 for a 23.7 percent increase in enlistments. In 1997, we charged forward with 1,435 enlistments, another 19 percent increase. The recruiting team exceeded 100 enlistments per month for the entire calendar year of 1996 and continued right through 1997, 21 straight months.

      The NJARNG reduced its losses in 1996 leading to our award winning 17.8 percent attrition (from 1,564 losses in 1995 to 1,269 in 1996). In 1997, our losses were 1,235 for a 17.3 percent attrition rate, once again exceeding mission by remaining below 18 percent.

      Detachment 4 opened up three new Recruiting Stations to enhance enlistments at Fort Monmouth (Monmouth County), Flemington Interactive Community Resource Center (Hunterdon County) and the Northfield Station (Atlantic County).

      Retention Operations Detachment 4 has trained over 2,600 NJARNG soldiers in First Line Leadership Training, fourth best in the nation. The Detachment wrote the NJARNG’s “You Can” Retention Handbook. This handbook has been distributed and is in full use by the entire command. It has received rave reviews. Detachment 4 developed a Features and Benefits binder designed to contain information and procedures regarding most of what the NJARNG has to offer our soldiers.

      Recruiting Operations Assisted the Junior ROTC (JROTC) Camp Adventure Training 1997 by running the Leadership Reaction Course (LRC) for them.

      Marketing Area The Marketing Area accomplished the following: Launched a new national advertising campaign in New Jersey in June of 1997 called “You Can,” with a “Helping During Disaster” theme. Participated in the Non-Commercial Sustaining Announcement Program with New Jersey radio and television stations. This yielded New Jersey many free commercial spots.

Personnel

Health Services
      During 1997, a new medical unit, Detachment 5, Headquarters State Area Command (STARC), was formed with the mission of providing increased medical support for the New Jersey Army National Guard. Following is synopsis of tasks accomplished by the STARC Medical Detachment during 1997:

Physical Examinations 1,096
Cardiovascular Screening Phase One 102
Cardiovascular Screenings Phase Two & Three 79
Medical Boards 22
Profiles 93
Drug Testing 94
Body Fat Measurements & Weight Control Counseling 272
Panographic X-Rays 351
DNA Testing 1,824
Annual Dental Examinations 1,096
Annual Medical Certification 1,116
HIV Testing 1,096


Community Services
      The New Jersey National Guard Summer Youth Camp was held from July 28, 1997, to August 2, 1997, at Sea Girt, New Jersey. one hundred and twenty-five children and grandchildren of active and retired New Jersey National Guard members attended the one-week residential camp. Two retirement seminars were held in March and August for service members who reached 18 years of creditable service toward retirement and their spouses. Approximately 325 soldiers were briefed on survivor benefit plan options as well as benefits and entitlements available to them.

      The New Jersey Regional Interservice Family Assistance Committee (NJR-ISFAC) met quarterly to discuss how to improve the quality of life issues for service members and their families. A network of contacts has been established at several locations to assist family members at each location, regardless of their branch of service. These locations include: Fort Dix, New Jersey; McGuire AFB, New Jersey; Fort Monmouth, New Jersey; Fort Hamilton, New York; Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey; Willow Grove NAS, Pennsylvania; Fort Totten, New York and Cape May, New Jersey.

      The first issue of the Family Program Newsletter was published in September and mailed to the homes of every Army National Guard member.

Military Education
      The military education program develops qualified and professional leaders in the New Jersey Army National Guard. Soldiers prepare for their first level of military education, Basic Training, by attending pre-initial entry training. This program is conducted in state before the soldier leaves for Basic Training. It prepares new soldiers for the rigors of physical training, weapons qualification and the understanding of basic military skills. The success of this program eliminates Basic Training drop-outs.

      All soldiers progress in rank by attending leadership and occupational training courses. New Jersey has two Army National Guard school houses. Each year, these facilities train soldiers to be technically and tactically proficient and to be promoted or laterally appointed in rank or position. Soldiers also attend professional development courses throughout the country. Military education gives our soldiers the chance to grow in capability and knowledge.

Civilian Education Services
      The National Guard offers the best civilian education programs and financial aid packages in the nation. No other part-time career offers such benefits. The Montgomery GI Bill - Selective Reserves is the most versatile program. It provides money for undergraduate, graduate, technical or vocational schools, apprenticeship, job training or independent study. A National Guard soldier makes no monetary contribution and receives $7,521 toward their education. This year, 359 soldiers became eligible for the GI Bill.

      New Jersey offers a state National Guard Tuition Program (NGTP). This program is replicated in other states due to its success. The NGTP provides undergraduate tuition-free education at any of the 30 state colleges or universities. This program can be used with the Montgomery GI Bill. This year, 600 soldiers and airmen took advantage of this program.

      Soldiers and their spouses are eligible to take college credit examinations free. These exams are widely accepted by colleges and universities because they are recommended for credit by the American Council on Education. There are more than 150 subject areas and are similar to end-of-course examinations offered by colleges and universities. This year, the New Jersey Army National Guard Education Center administered 220 college-level exams.

PLANS OPERATIONS & TRAINING OFFICE

Military Support
      The Military Support section oversees and coordinates New Jersey Army and Air National Guard military support, both emergency and non-emergency, with civil authorities in New Jersey.       

      During 1997, the New Jersey National Guard (NJNG) supported responses to a number of emergency situations in the state, including a water main break, two snow storms, and a number of incidents of coastal flooding. In addition, the NJNG provided assistance to the state of Nevada, loading sandbags for emergency airlift to that state during spring flooding. In total over 1,000 emergency missions were executed, involving a total of 2,000 mandays.

      Also during the year, over 3,200 personnel supported over 420 domestic non-emergency civil support missions. The National Boy Scouts of America Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill was supported by the NJARNG’s 1159th Aero Medical Detachment for two weeks and Junior ROTC Summer Camps were hosted at Fort Dix, N.J. Two Operation Stand Downs were run by elements of the Army and Air National Guard at Fort Dix and Atlantic City.

      Operation Stand Down provides the best example of military support to the civil community of all the missions executed by the National Guard. As a civil/military innovative readiness training exercise, National Guard personnel performing training in their military occupational skills provide assistance and solace to under served population in the state in need. Over the course of the two operations in 1997 over 600 homeless veterans and their families were assisted.

Counterdrug & Drug Demand Reduction Programs
      The counterdrug program assisted in the sei zure of approximately $165 million in drugs, cash and property throughout the state in 1997. The National Guard’s support to the “war on drugs” will continue through assistance to law enforcement agencies by providing intelligence analysts, case supporters, Cargo/Mail Inspectors and aerial support when needed.

      The New Jersey Counterdrug Program continued assisting the City of Camden in boarding up abandoned homes which had become sites used by drug peddlers and users. From January through December 1997, over 186 homes were sealed.

      The Drug Demand Reduction program was in great demand at schools and community centers throughout the state in 1997. The program provided quality Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs (ATOD) training to over 79 schools reaching over 25,000 students. Drug Demand Reduction collaborated with Camden Safe & Drug Free Schools and the Drug Enforcement Agency in an effort to decrease substance abuse in that city. Programs supported in Camden included Red Ribbon Week, Network 3, inter-school education, workshops and seminars.

      Through increased emphasis on a Drug-Free Workplace, the National Guard has produced a 47 percent substance abuse decrease over the past two years within the ranks of the New Jersey National Guard.


STATE ARMY AVIATION OFFICE

      Army Aviation in New Jersey accomplished the National Guard Flying Hour Program by completing 4,885 hours in the following aircraft:

AIRCRAFT TOTAL HOURS FLOWN
AH-1F 2144
UH-1H 1034
UH-1V 478
OH-58A 736
C-12 593

      Aviation
      Aircraft were flown and crewed by 98 aviators and 16 crewchiefs without a major accident or injury. Aviation Both Army Aviation Support Facilities (AASF) successfully passed the Aviation Resource Management Survey (ARMS) inspection. AASF#1 was selected for and implemented AASF 2000 test model. Both AASFs provided aviation support for the congressional staffers visit. AASF#2 supported the Summer Thunder Movement from Fort Dix to Warren Grove with three UH-1Hs. Provided assistance visits to elements of the New Jersey Army National Guard (NJARNG) on annual training at Western Army Aviation Training Site (WAATS), Ariz., Fort Drum, N.Y. and Fort A.P. Hill, Va. Provided assistance to Detachment 1, 1159th Medical in support of the National Boy Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. AASF#1 provided mission support for Princeton University’s ROTC orientation flight. 16th Annual Ground and Air Safety Day was held at the National Guard Training Center (NGTC) at Sea Girt. Three new aviators graduated from Fort Rucker, Ala., one Lieutenant and two Warrant Officers (WO1).

Safety & Occupational Health
      Safety & Occupational Health Attended Risk Management Training at St. Augustine, Fla. Completed 287 technician physicals. Planned, organized and conducted 16th Annual Air and Ground Safety seminar. Provided ground and air safety support for NJARNG annual training periods. Conducted safety inspections of NJARNG maintenance facilities. Attended 26th Annual Aviation, Safety & Occupational Health conference at the National Guard Bureau (NGB) Professional Education Center, North Little Rock, Arkansas from 1-4 December 1997. Held OSHA First Line Supervisors Course at West Trenton Interactive Community Resource Center in April 1997 with 22 personnel in attendance. Participated in quarterly shop foreman meeting hosted by Surface Maintenance Office in June 1997. Evaluated range operations for compliance at the National Guard Training Center. Conducted risk management training for the State Area Command (STARC) Aviation Directorate and Recruiting and Retention. Conducted Privately Owned Vehicle safety brief for Counterdrug personnel in Newark.

Reconnaissance Air Interdiction Detachment (RAID)

Reconnaissance Air Interdiction Detachment (RAID) Counterdrug flight hours flown in 1997:
                                                                       OH 58 - 736 hours

Law Enforcement Agencies Supported:
Seven federal agencies including: ATF, FBI, U.S. Customs Newark/Phila., Coast Guard, U.S. Marshals State Police New Jersey/State Narcotics Task Force All 21 Counties of New Jersey

Seizures for 1997:
Marijuana Plants 775 · Cocaine 355 lbs. · Heroin 0.5 oz. · Arrests 783 · Currency 284,824

Detachment 19, Operational Support Airlift Command

      Detachment 19 is the New Jersey State Flight Detachment located at Trenton-Mercer Airport. It is a part of the Operational Support Airlift Agency/Operational Support Airlift Command (OSAA/OSACOM), Fort Belvoir, Va. Its mission is to provide operational airlift in support of all components of the Army and the Department of Defense (DoD).
      The unit consists of eight personnel, six pilots and two flight operation NCOs and is manned at 100%. Detachment 19 is the coordinating link through which fixed wing aviation missions are processed to OSAA/OSACOM for verification and then to the United States Transportation Command, Joint Operational Support Airlift Command for scheduling. OSAA/OSACOM performs quality assurance through verification on all U.S. Army originating flight requests.
      It is through these missions that the units training objective, “to train in peacetime to maintain readiness for war” is met. In 1997, Detachment 19 flew nearly 600 hours in support of OSA and training.

CONSTRUCTION FACILITY MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The following projects were completed and/or ongoing during 1997:

LOGISTICS DIRECTORATE

      During 1997, the Logistics Directorate accom- plished the following significant goals and objectives:


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