Posted November 26, 2010

Air Force Airman Nestor A. Delgado graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Delgado graduated in 2010 from Rowlett High School.

Posted November 26, 2010

Air National Guard Airman Sedra A. Bennett graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. 

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Bennett is the daughter of Virginia Moore of Dallas and sister of Kimberly Moore of Rowlett.

Posted November 8, 2010

Air Force Airman 1st Class Justin R. Kinser graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Posted November 3, 2010

Air Force Airman Nicolas L. Goodman graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Goodman is the son of Joanne Greendale of Rowlett and grandson of Marie Welk of Hanover, Pa.

Posted November 3, 2010

Air Force Reserve Airman Cristoval Cristan graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Posted October 31, 2010

Navy Seaman Zarur Deleon Torres, son of Mara I. and Juan M. Deleon of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Deleon Torres completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted October 31, 2010

Air Force Airman Randy W. Williams graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Theresa Williams of Garland and a 2006 graduate of Evolution Academy Charter School in Richardson.

Posted October 31, 2010

Air Force Airman Jericho A. Guerrero graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Lucy and Valente Guerrero of Sachse and a 2010 graduate of Sachse High School.

Garland man’s son excels in
Army marksmanship competition

S. L. Standifird | October 24, 2010

FORT BENNING, GA - They sometimes sit in one place for hours before being called upon to take out a target. They blend in with their surroundings to avoid detection. They’re called snipers, and the son of a Garland man is one that recently competed to determine the world's best.

Sgt. Taylor C. Smith, son of Thomas Smith, was one of 32 of the world's best marksmen who converged on the Army's top infantry post during the 10th Annual International Sniper Competition.

This year, the competition was conducted in 72 continuous hours, the first time this competition has been held in that format. Competitors were pushed to their limits with little sleep and some of the most challenging events a sniper could encounter.

The competition started at 1 a.m. with the Night Cold Bore followed by Night Range Estimation, Night Pistol, Day Movers, and Day Unknown Distance. Day two continued with Night Movers, Night Target Detection, Stress Shoot, Know Your Limits, and the .50 Cal. The third days’ events were Night Unknown Distance, Live Fire Stalk, and One Shot.

Even in this grueling format, Smith and his fellow snipers could find a positive side to the sleep deprivation and exhausting schedule.  "This is a chance for the sniping community to get together and share ideas," said Smith. "Not only is it a competition, but a great training event."

A competition of this caliber is not approached without proper preparation. It requires a serious training regimen that snipers like Smith, with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N. Y., ensured were complete before taking the first shot.

All their preparation, training, and skills were tested in each of the events, and no matter who came out on top, Smith can know he competed among the best in the world.

"At least I was able to get new ideas for training from this competition that I will be able to take back to my section," said Smith.    

Photos by Mike Tolzmann

Army Sgt. Taylor C. Smith, sniper, was one of 32 of the world's best marksmen who converged on the Army's top infantry post during the competition. 

Two snipers drag a simulated casualty during the stress shoot portion of the competition. The stress shoot included movement and shooting from distances of 1,000 yards to 200 yards.

Sniper teams fire the .50 caliber rifles at stationary targets while their spotters observe the trajectory and plot the hits. In addition to the .50 caliber rifles, the snipers also shot pistols and their own sniper rifles for scores throughout the competition. 

Following a night exercise, sniper teams ran a two-mile course to the next event. Once teams completed the run, they put on their full gear for the live fire stalk event. 

Teams prepare to take two shots on target following the live fire stalk event. Teams were in full gear and had to approach a spotter without being detected. 

During competitive shooting, two snipers wearing Ghillie suits combine to form an over-the-shoulder supported firing position. A ghillie suit is a type of camouflage worn by snipers made from cloth or fibers.

LCHS graduate with 65^th Force Support Squadron

By Ryan Mattox

Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal - Since it was created during the early years of America's entry into World War II, the airfield on this island in the northeast Atlantic has been an important crossroads for ships and planes carrying people and cargo to strategic locations throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Today, the daughter of a Garland couple is one of only a little more than 600 U.S. Air Force men and women who operate a sort of "pit stop" for military and commercial aircraft. The small air base is a refueling station where aircrews can get fuel, rest, maintenance, and supplies before heading to their final destination.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Joanna Nolasco, daughter of Julio and Marina Nolasco of Garland and 2001 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School, is a career development technician with the 65th Force Support Squadron.

"My job is to process orders, work with enlisted and officer promotions, command sponsorship and other related administrative paperwork dealing with service members' careers," Nolasco said.

She and her fellow airmen are part of the 65th Air Base Wing tasked with playing an important role in the fight against terrorism by assisting with the movement of war fighters, planes and global communications for commanders.  This small base with its huge runway is located on the small island of Terceira in the Azores chain of islands. With rolling hills and green pastures, it's an idyllic setting for such an important mission.

"We refuel the jets going to and from the fight," Nolasco said. "So yeah, I would say it's a pretty important mission."

Although it is 900 miles from the mainland, the Azores is a part of Portugal and contains many of the customs and traditions of that country. From the running of the bulls in the nearby city of Praia da Vitoria just outside of Lajes to the outdoor markets and European-styled houses and farms, the small island gives Americans stationed here a slice of life that is thoroughly European.

"I love being stationed at Lajes; it's my second time being stationed here," said Nolasco. "It's a beautiful island with wonderful people. I would retire here if I could…The most I'll remember about my tour here was the culture and wonderful people who I enjoyed experiences with," she said.

Nolasco has been in the Air Force for more than eight years.  Just as their predecessors have done for the past 67 years, she and her fellow airmen will continue to be a strategically vital stop between the U.S. and important missions overseas.

Photos by Benjamin Faske

• Air Force Staff Sgt. Joanna Nolasco is a career development technician with the 65th Force Support Squadron at Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. Nolasco is spending more than a year at this remote assignment on the island of Terciera, Azores, located 900 miles off the Southwest coast of Portugal.
• An Air Force airman works on a high-frequency antenna at a remote location on the island of Terciera, Azores, Portugal.
• Air Force airmen prepare to refuel an aircraft at Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. Strategically located on the Southwest coast of Portugal, Airmen here have all the resources needed to service any aircraft before they continue to their destinations.
• A Portuguese farmer and his son move their herd from one field to another near Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. Farmers here use the roads to travel to get around centuries old stone fences.

LCHS graduate enjoys job as Air Force spacecraft engineer

Air Force Staff Sgt. Jessica Switzer | October 13, 2010

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. - Satellites have become a fixed part of life for most Americans. They provide television to homes, help people find their way around, track weather patterns, and offer a view of neighborhoods and cities around the world. The son of a Rowlett woman helps get those satellites into orbit, among other things. 

Air Force 1st Lt. Michael A. Davault, son of Angela Davault, is a spacecraft engineer with the 45th Space Wing. The main part of the wing is located at Patrick Air Force Base, but a few miles down the road, other parts of the wing work at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station where the launches occur.

The 45th Space Wing launches rockets, including the Delta IV and Atlas V, which put those satellites in orbit and also provides support for the Department of Defense, NASA, and commercial manned and unmanned space programs.

"I provide mission assurance for global positioning system and space based infra-red system satellites," said Davault, a 1994 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 2008 from the University of Texas at San Antonio. "I ensure all satellites processed at the cape exceed all mission requirements and provide Air Force assets to our war fighters and our nation."

Hundreds of airmen, including Davault, support launch operations both directly at the launch sites and indirectly as a part of support units that provide security and medical care.

"My favorite part of my job is working with multi-million dollar spacecraft that will advance our nation," said Davault, who is a member of the 45th Launch Support Squadron, located at Cape Canaveral. "It's exciting, working with equipment and technology that gets launched into space."

It's not all work for the members of the 45th Space Wing. The Patrick main gate is just across the street from a beach, and with Orlando and several parks and preserve areas only a short drive away, there is a lot for airmen to do.

"I enjoy living in Florida," said Davault. "In my off-duty time I enjoy going to the beach, deep-sea fishing, playing sports and watching my children play them, and volunteering in my community."

Davault has been in the Air Force for 16 years. He began his career in the enlisted ranks and progressed to the rank of technical sergeant before becoming an officer.

Photos:

1. Air Force 1st Lt. Michael A. Davault is a spacecraft engineer with the 45th Space Wing. The 45th Space Wing launches rockets, including the Delta IV and Atlas V, which put satellites in orbit and also provides support for the Department of Defense, NASA, and commercial manned and unmanned space programs.  (Photo by Senior Airman Christopher Griffin)
2. Airmen from the 45th Space Wing closely monitor weather conditions and traffic around Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as part of a launch exercise.  (Photo by Senior Airman Christopher Griffin)
3. Airmen inspect the launch pad for a Delta IV rocket scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., in October.   (Photo by Senior Airman Christopher Griffin)
4. Technicians mount a satellite to a Delta II booster that launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (U.S. Air Force photo courtesy of 1st Space Launch Squadron)
5. A weather satellite is successfully launched on a Delta IV booster from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Courtesy photo)

Posted September 26, 2010

Air Force Airman Demarcus L. Garrett graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of John and Betty Garrett of Garland and a 2009 graduate of South Garland High School.

Posted September 26, 2010

Navy Seaman Recruit Zena D. Singleterry, daughter of Lora A. Castle of Dallas and Juan R. Singleterry of Garland recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Singleterry completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted September 21, 2010

Navy Seaman Apprentice Andrew J. Meer, son of Anita L. Jackson of Garland and Mark W. Meer of Granbury was recently promoted to his current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

Meer received the early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. Training included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Meer is a 2007 graduate of Azle High School.

Posted September 21, 2010

Navy Seaman Recruit Markeith L. Pleasant, son of Jeannette R. Pleasant of Rowlett and Markeith L. Stokes of Killeen, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Pleasant completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Pleasant is a 2010 graduate of Rowlett High School.

Posted September 16, 2010

Navy Seaman Recruit John A. Medina, son of Phyliss A. Stevens of Allen and Juan F. Medina of Rowlett, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Medina completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. 

Medina is a 2005 graduate of First Baptist Academy of Dallas.

Posted September 13, 2010

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. William W. Foote, son of Lisa G. and Jerry L. Foote of Sachse, recently reported for duty with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, Marine Aircraft Group 36, Okinawa, Japan. 

Posted August 15, 2010

Air Force Airman Kristen F. Boaz graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the daughter of Kim Boaz of Garland, and Nate Boaz of Glencoe, Ill.  Boaz is a 2008 graduate of Berkner High School in Richardson.

Posted August 11, 2010

Air Force Airman 1st Class Christopher A. Myers graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Sherri and Chris Myers of Garland and a 2004 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Posted August 11, 2010 

Air Force Airman Aaron D. Parra graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. 

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Posted August 5, 2010 

Navy Seaman Recruit Andreina Acuna, daughter of Senaida Garcia and Arturo A. Acuna of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.  She is a 2009 graduate of Rowlett High School.

During the eight-week program, Acuna completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted August 5, 2010 

Navy Seaman Recruit Sarah M. Menning, daughter of Ellen A. and John R. Menning of Garland recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.  She is a 2008 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School.    

During the eight-week program, Menning completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted August 2, 2010

Air Force Airman Terry D. Miller graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

He completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Terry Miller of Sachse and Cindi Wuebker of Frisco.  Miller is a 2008 graduate of Wylie High School.

Posted July 27, 2010 

Navy Seaman Recruit Matthew D. Malone, son of Pamela D. and Kenneth D. Malone of Garland recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. Malone is a 2007 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

During the eight-week program, Malone completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted July 21, 2010 

Air National Guard Airman 1st Class Eric A. Osborn graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Craig Osborn Garland.  He is a 2000 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School and a 2008 graduate of Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.

Posted July 21, 2010 

Air Force Airman Joshua Lay graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Dawn Rodriguez of California and brother of Caleb Lay of Sachse.  He attended school in California.

Posted July 21, 2010 

Marine Corps Pfc. Loi Q. Lien, son of Ven Ho of Garland, recently graduated from the Marine Aviation Supply Mechanized Course.   

During the course with Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One, Marine Aviation Support Training Support Group 21, Meridian, Miss., students learn ordering, requisition, inventory and stock procedures to perform as supply clerks in Fleet Marine Force aviation units and air squadrons.

Posted July 1, 2010

Air National Guard Airman Eric P. Tovar graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Gerardo Tovar of Rowlett and a 1996 graduate of South Garland High School.

Posted June 25, 2010

Air Force Airman Wesley S. Morey graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Rusty Morey of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Kris McDaniel of Garland.

Posted June 25, 2010

Air Force Airman Micah W. Ross graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Marjorie Lundquist of Garland and a 2001 graduate of Rockwall Christian Academy in Rowlett.

Son of Rowlett man competes in Warrior Games

Submitted by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jessica Switzer / June 15, 2010

The son of a Rowlett man competed with nearly 200 other injured service members in the inaugural Warrior Games at the U.S. Olympic Training Center, Colorado Springs, Colo.

Army Staff Sgt. Kenny R. Griffith, son of Billy Griffith of Rowlett, is an indirect fire infantryman.

The games were an introduction to official Paralympic sports for the athletes as well as building camaraderie and raising general awareness of Paralympic sports. There were seven main event categories participants could compete in: track and field, swimming, bicycling, archery, shooting, sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball.

"I want to win the Ultimate Champion title for the first time," said Griffith, a 2004 graduate of Crandall High School.

Griffith competed on the Army team for the Ultimate Champion title, a competition totaling the scores from air rifle, 50-meter freestyle swim, 100-meter sprint, 1,500-meter run and shot put to determine the Warrior Games' top athlete.

All of the athletes competing in the games have been wounded or injured in one way or another. Some carry outward physical reminders of their experiences, missing limbs, scars, or paralysis. Some carry their scars on the inside, in the form of traumatic brain injuries, strokes or post-traumatic stress disorder. All of the athletes competed against others who were similarly disabled.

"I wanted to compete so that I could prove no one can stop me after being hit several times by small arms fire in Iraq in 2008," said Griffith.

While participants competed in a number of individual events, they were also a member of a service unique team made up of prior or currently serving athletes and coaches.

"My favorite part of being here has been being able to compete again. I have competed ever since I was a little kid. Once I got hurt I didn't think I could compete because of my injuries, but I'm here now and happy to compete among other wounded soldiers," said Griffith.

Athletes came from across the United States to represent and compete for their services but while they were here, they became family as soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen cheered each other across the finish line. In these games, there may have been some who crossed last, but no one went home a loser.

Posted June 10, 2010

Air Force Airman Hunter B. Kirkwood graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Michelle and David Kirkwood of Rowlett and a 2007 graduate of Rowlett High School.

Posted June 4, 2010

Air Force Cadet Whitney L. Bouchard graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. She received a bachelor of science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant.

Bouchard received her bachelor's degree in political science and foreign area studies with a concentration in Western Europe and a minor in foreign language.  She is the daughter of David and Penny Bouchard of Violette Settlement Road, and granddaughter of Phil and Lucille Bouchard of Blockhouse Road, all of Fort Kent, Maine and the granddaughter of Myrna and James Kiley of Rowlett.

Posted May 31, 2010

Navy Seaman Recruit Blake A. Mayerhoff, son of Patricia A. and Russell A. Mayerhoff of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, IL. 

During the eight-week program, Mayerhoff completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. 

Mayerhoff is a 2003 graduate of Garland High School and a 2007 graduate of Texas A & M University.

Posted May 26, 2010

Navy Seaman Recruit Stephanie A. London-Lund, daughter of Lulie A. London of Garland and Gregory J. Lund of Riverside, Calif., recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, London-Lund completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.  The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations". This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet.

 London-Lund is a 2009 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School of Garland, Texas.

Posted May 13, 2010

Air Force Airman Taylor W. Howell graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Howell is the son of Robin Wyatt of Garland.

Posted April 28, 2010

Air Force Airman 1st Class Quinn R. Cooper graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Cooper earned distinction as an honor graduate.  He is the son of Nancy Cooper of Garland and a 2006 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Posted April 22, 2010

Air Force Airman Chelsea A. Powers graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the daughter of Shannon Powers of Garland and Cliff Powers of Frisco and a 2009 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Garland brothers serving in Afghanistan

Kim Everett / April 19, 2010 

Two Garland brothers, both graduates of North Garland High School and past city of Garland employees, are currently serving in Afghanistan.  Greg Williamson, 26, entered the Marine Corps in December, 2008, and his brother, 24-year-old Jaymie, completed boot camp in June, 2007.

It never occurred to Ruth Ann Williamson, the proud mother of these two Marines, that both of her sons would be fighting in Afghanistan in the war on terror, but she is able to handle it on a day-by-day basis.

Many of Ruth Ann’s family members have served in the military, and her husband, Bill was in the Marines as well.  She said that she worries about her sons, but having experience with family being in the military has helped her.

“Obviously if I could, I’d have them both home with me immediately, but it’s not up to me,” she said.  “ I understand why they are doing what they are doing, and they both went into it with their eyes wide open.”

Ruth Ann recently learned that both Greg and Jaymie are thinking about re-enlisting, which would be difficult for her, but she will respect whatever decision they make.

Greg, who serves as a communications officer, was in the radio, television, and film program at college before joining the military, and Jaymie had been through a couple of years of community college, but was having trouble deciding what to do.  Jaymie serves in the infantry and is on his second deployment, having already served in Iraq.

Ruth Ann feels that because this war is an unpopular choice that the men and women in the military do not receive the recognition they deserve.  “There is a lot of discomfort about it because people aren’t sure whether they support the war or not, so they’d rather not talk about it.  Anti-war protestors are even showing up at military funerals,” she said.

There are even people who do not understand why she is proud of her sons for serving in the military.  “There are more Texans in the Marine Corps than any other state.  Your neighbors’ sons and daughters are out there.”

She wants everyone to understand the difficulty of the job that the military is doing in the Middle East.  “They have a dangerous job to do,” Ruth Ann said.  She would like to see more visible support for the military and for all Americans to understand what is being done by the service men and women on their behalf.

“It’s not a popular choice,” she said.  “It’s political.

There is not a great deal of news coverage, and most Americans do not even realize the conditions under which the military men and women in Afghanistan are living.

“There’s no water, no infrastructure – they [Greg and Jaymie] had no way to wash their underwear and socks and asked me to send more,” Ruth Ann said.  “Baby wipes are how they take a bath, and they seldom get to take showers.” 

Posted April 16, 2010

Navy Seaman Apprentice Cameron V. Jones, son of Carmen and Tony V. Jones of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois.

During the eight-week program, Jones completed a variety of training, including classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.  

Jones is a 2009 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School.

Posted April 9, 2010

Air Force Airman 1st Class Timothy I. Reynolds graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Reynolds earned distinction as an honor graduate.  He is the nephew of Veronica Reynolds of Euless and son of Gordon Norris of Rowlett.

Son of Garland couple competes in culinary competition

By Dona Fair / Posted March 25, 2010 --- Photos by Daren Reehl

The son of a Garland couple recently traded his Kevlar helmet for a chef's hat during one of the largest culinary competitions of its kind in the United States.

Army Spec. David J. Voss, son of Kenneth A. and Dolores Voss, was a competitor in the 35th Culinary Arts Competition, which was held March 4th - 12th in "Kitchen Stadium" at the Fort Lee Field House. 

The competition brought together more than 200 competitors from 26 military installations, who "brought it to the table" for a chance to be named the best of the best military food specialists.

From ice sculptures, seafood, wild game, pastries, and amazing centerpieces made from chocolate, the competition had it all.  There were cold food displays, ice carvings, and daily live cooking demonstrations by the original "Grill Sergeant," Army Sgt. 1st Class Brad Turner Jr., and TV personality, restaurateur, and home décor authority, B. Smith.

"This is my first time to compete here," said Voss, who is assigned to Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas.  "I came here to compete, to gain knowledge and experience, and have fun.  I love to cook and this is an invaluable experience.  It has allowed me to sharpen my culinary skills."

For Voss, getting to the competition was no easy task.  It took weeks of practice, lost sleep, and going back to the basics to refresh skills and techniques that may not have been used recently.

“My team started preparing for this competition in July," said the 1986 graduate of Booker T. Washington Arts Magnet High School.  "We practiced different recipes, attended cooking classes, and experimented a lot.  We put in a lot of hours and were able to progress well in everything that we did."

In addition to recognizing the skills and talents of the competitors, the Culinary Arts Competition also served as a unique opportunity for Voss and the other competitors to interact with world-class culinary professionals and gain valuable knowledge that will further enhance their careers.  Judges and instructors from England, Sweden, and other countries were brought in to provide valuable feedback to the participants.

"I have gained so much from being here.  The competition shows you that you have to think on your feet sometimes, especially when they give you a mystery basket and you have to come up with a full course meal in a short amount of time -- it's exciting," said Voss.

As part of the competition, two teams squared off daily in field kitchens.  They were responsible for preparing and plating 75 five-star meals which were available to ticket holders for $4.25, a fraction of what diners would pay at a regular five-star restaurant.  This gave the general public a chance to experience the high quality meals that were prepared by Voss and his fellow competitors.

Two local men graduate from U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Training

Posted March 25, 2010

Coast Guard Seaman Justin R. Brown, son of Jewel I. and John E. Brown of Garland recently graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Training Center in Cape May, New Jersey.

During the eight-week training program, Brown completed a vigorous training curriculum consisting of academics and practical instruction on water safety and survival, military customs and courtesies, seamanship skills, first aid, fire fighting and marksmanship. A major emphasis is also placed on physical fitness, health and wellness.   

He also received instruction on the Coast Guard's core values -- honor, respect and devotion to duty -- and how to apply them in their military performance and personal conduct. 

Brown is a 2005 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Coast Guard Seaman Apprentice David R. Solis, nephew of Richard Tello of Sachse, recently graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Training Center in Cape May, New Jersey.

During the eight-week training program, he completed a vigorous training curriculum consisting of academics and practical instruction on water safety and survival, military customs and courtesies, seamanship skills, first aid, fire fighting and marksmanship. A major emphasis is also placed on physical fitness, health and wellness.   

Solis also received instruction on the Coast Guard's core values -- honor, respect and devotion to duty -- and how to apply them in their military performance and personal conduct. 

He is a 2009 graduate of Wylie High School.

Posted March 22, 2010

Air Force Airman William B. Hebisen graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. 

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Stephanie and William Hebisen of Garland and a 2009 graduate of Garland High School.

Posted March 19, 2010

Air Force Airman Abraham Olalde graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Juan and Maria Olalde of Garland, Texas and is a 2008 graduate of South Garland High School.

Posted March 12, 2010

Air Force Reserve Airman 1st Class Shawn A. Bailey graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Mark and Melissa Bailey of Garland and a 2009 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School.

Posted February 26, 2010

Specialist Brandon Travi, 2nd Battalion 149th General Support Aviation Battalion medical specialist from Garland, Texas, received an Army Commendation Medal at an award ceremony at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, on May 5.  

Awards were presented by Captain Carisa Kimbro, 2-149th GSAB Headquarters Company Commander. The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to soldiers who distinguish themselves by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service, which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States.

Posted February 24, 2010

Air Force Airman Brandon S. Garza graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Tammy Mondy of Garland and a 2008 graduate of First Baptist Academy, Dallas, Texas.

Posted February 23, 2010

Air Force Airman Rhe L. Young graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Young is the daughter of Lynn Young of Rowlett, Texas and Raney Young of Lafayette, La. and a 2008 graduate of Rowlett High School.

Posted February 23, 2010

Air Force Airman 1st Class Julia N. Fitzgerald graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the daughter of Geraldine Fitzgerald of Rowlett and a 2005 graduate of Rowlett High School.

The Army is looking for a few good athletes 

Submitted by U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion, Dallas, A&PA / February 17, 2010

Soldiers from the United States Army’s World Class Athlete Program based at Fort Carson, Colo. visited Lakeview Centennial high School Feb. 8 and gave several classroom presentations on the opportunities that the Army offers athletes. 

The Army’s WCAP provides outstanding soldier-athletes the support to train, compete, and succeed in national and international competition while maintaining a professional military career.  WCAP solider-athletes have the potential to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Team or the U.S. Parlympic Team.

Staff Sgt. Duaine Martin has more than 17 years of service in the Army.  The last few years, he has been coach of the women’s wrestling team.  “The Army has given the athlete-soldier the direction and discipline to strive for the things he wants most in life,” Martin said.  “The Army has provided me with a chance to follow my dreams of becoming an Olympian and helping others to obtain their goals.  I just got back from a tour of three Russian cities with the women’s team.  The WCAP has given me the opportunity to travel.  I’ve been to Japan, Europe, Russia, and Turkey, all representing the Army.”

Since 1948, 541 soldier-athletes have been selected to either a summer or winter Olympic team, earning 131 medals in a variety of sports from hockey to track and field, rowing and shooting to boxing.

Martin’s presentation gave Sha’Calya Daniels, 18, a senior from Garland, an insight into part of the Army she didn’t know existed.  “I’m thinking about pursuing a career as a nurse,” she said.  “I didn’t know the Army had a program like WCAP.”

Gilson Menyweather, 17, thought the Army was all guns and bullets until Martin’s presentation.  After an exchange of questions and answers between the two, Menyweather’s interest in the Army was heightened.  “I had no idea the Army had so many jobs and opportunities.”

Staff Sgt. Endre Purnsely had been waiting for the question, “Why is the Army better than the Navy, Marines, or the Air Force.  The answer is the Army can guarantee you a job, promote you faster, and have better on duty education opportunities than the other branches do.”

The question came from Antonious Solomon, 17, a college-bound senior from Garland.  “I thought all the services were pretty much the same,” he said.

WCAP has accepted soldiers vying in any Olympic sport.  Qualifications will vary from sport to sport, but generally soldiers must have recently attained a very high national ranking or placed high at major national or international competition.  WCAP athletes must be active duty or reserve soldiers.

For more information, contact the U.S. Army Recruiting Station at 972-926-7045.

Military Honors, Graduations

January, 2010

Air National Guard Airman 1st Class David A. Demster graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.  The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.  He is the son of Kenneth Demster of Garland, Texas.  Demster is a 2003 graduate of J.J. Pearce High School, Richardson, Texas.

Marine Pvt. Dexter V. Criner, son of Barbie M. and Richard A. Calvert of Garland, recently completed the Marine Corps Basic Supply Course.  During the course with Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools Training Command, Camp Lejeune, N.C., students learn to use supply publications and catalogs, general accounting, and the basics of naval correspondence.  Criner is a 2005 graduate of Berkner High School in Richardson and joined the Marine Corps in May 2009.