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U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Luke Ahmann, Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and 1st Air Force commander (U.S. Air Forces Northern and U.S. Air Forces Space) (left) talks with 140th Wing Commander U.S. Air Force Col. Jeremiah Tucker following a visit with the 140th Wing alert team at Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Oct. 31, 2024. Ahmann met with key leaders, toured critical facilities, and met mission-essential personnel on duty. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson)
1st Air Force commander visits 140th Wing alert program
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson | Nov. 22, 2024
The new commander of the Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and 1st Air Force paid a visit to the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, Oct. 31, 2024, citing its importance to the homeland defense apparatus.
Airmen from the 140th Security Forces Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, engage in close-quarters battle, a type of combat that typically occurs in confined spaces, such as buildings, vehicles, or other structures, during annual training at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Sept. 14-27, 2024. The annual event is a culmination of required training for the security forces career field. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Elvia Ramos)
140th Wing Security Forces Squadron travels to Italy for annual training
By U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson | Nov. 2, 2024
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Security Forces Squadron traveled to Aviano Air Base, Italy, for required annual training Sept. 14-27, 2024. The type of training conducted was dictated by a shift in priorities reflecting the changing security environment and the increasing importance of protecting air bases from ground threats. It focused on key areas of integrated defense, including close-quarters battle scenarios, domestic violence response, and active shooter threat management.
Soldiers of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 117th Space Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard at the top of Shrine Mountain after conducting familiarization training with night-vision goggles, Sept. 7, 2024. This hike was part of a three-day training conducted in the White River National Forest, Colorado. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Ambrose Solis)
Colorado Army National Guard space battalion takes training to the mountains
By Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori | Oct. 30, 2024
Training requirements for National Guard Soldiers vary greatly with respect to their and their unit’s overall mission. In a unit like Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 117th Space Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard conducting training outside the readiness center only happens rarely, if maybe, once a year.
U.S. Army Col. Isaac Martinez, chief of joint staff, passes the Basic Leader Course guidon to U.S. Army Master Sgt. Sarah Miller as a sign of trust in her ability to fulfill the commandant position, Fort Carson, Colorado, Sept. 8, 2024. Miller returns to the 168th Regiment after her most recent assignment as the 117th Space Battalion operations non-commissioned officer and the 1158th Space Support Company first sergeant. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori)
Colorado Army National Guard Soldier returns to Regional Training Institute as Commandant
By Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori | Oct. 29, 2024
In a rare occurrence, U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Erik Miller passed command of the 168th Regiment, Regional Training Institute, Basic Leader Course, Fort Carson, Colorado, to his wife, U.S. Army Master Sgt. Sarah Miller, Sept. 8, 2024.
Tim Trail, primary prevention specialist, 89th Troop Command, Colorado Army National Guard speaks about metal health at the Colorado National Guard Suicide Intervention Officer Symposium, Sept. 20, 2024, at Fort Carson, Colorado. CONG leaders from across the state gathered at the event, presented by the CONG Suicide Prevention, Substance Abuse, and Resiliency team, to discuss the issues impacting suicide within the force and the resources and prevention methods available. (Photo by Grayson Vevon)
Unsung heroes gather for suicide prevention conference in Colorado
By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K VonNida | Oct. 22, 2024
Colorado National Guard leaders from across the state gathered to ask this question at the first Suicide Intervention Officer Symposium, presented by the CONG Suicide Prevention, Substance Abuse, and Resiliency team, Sept. 20, 2024, at Fort Carson, Colorado. Soldiers and Airmen discussed the issues impacting suicide within the force and the resources and prevention methods available.
Airmen from the 140th Medical Group, Colorado Air National Guard simulate performing emergency medical care alongside members of the Colorado Army National Guard and Slovenian Armed Forces in San Diego, Sept. 2-6, 2024. The training included “Hollywood” style special effects and practices integrated into live tactical training – explosions, weapons, realistic props, foreign language speaking actors, and casualty actors. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Fischer)
140th Medical Group Airmen receive hyper-realistic tactical training
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Oct. 8, 2024
Airmen from the 140th Medical Group, Colorado Air National Guard, participated in a first-time course in San Diego, Sept. 2-6, 2024.
British Army Reserve Soldier Kieran Power promotes to the rank of sergeant while training at Fort Carson, Colorado, June 14, 2024. Power was one of 20 British Army Reserve Soldiers from the 101st Royal Artillery who traveled to Colorado as part of the Military Reserve Exchange Program while training with the Colorado Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery Regiment to develop cultural understanding, regional expertise, and interoperability (U.S. Army National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Manish Shankar).
Colorado, British Field Artillery units build strong bonds through international exchange program
By Capt. Remington Henderson, Colorado Army National Guard | Sept. 26, 2024
Since 2018, Colorado Army National Guard Field Artillery and the British Army have been building a strong, lasting partnership. Together, they’ve collaborated on a variety of exercises across the world using existing defense resources including the Military Reserve Exchange Program.
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Sean Gainey, commanding general, Space and Missile Defense Command passes the brigade colors to U.S. Army Col. Dani Williams, commander, 100th Missile Defense Brigade, Colorado Army National Guard as a sign of trust in her ability to lead the troops during the change of command ceremony July 11, 2024, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado. As the newest commander of the 100th MDB, Williams is also the first female brigade commander in the 20-year history of the brigade. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori)
Colorado’s 100th Missile Defense Brigade gets first female commander
By Army Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori | Aug. 14, 2024
Over time, military policy evolved, empowering future generations of female leaders like U.S. Army Col. Dani Williams, commander, 100th Missile Defense Brigade, Colorado Army National Guard.
U.S. Army Pfc. Manuel Talamantes (left) and Spc. Shane Valadez, Colorado National Guard Funeral Honors Team are credited with saving a life when they responded to a traffic accident in Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 14, 2024. Talamentes, a combat medic assigned to the 928th Area Medical Support Company, is also a civilian emergency medical technician. (Photo courtesy Colorado National Guard Funeral Honors Team)
Colorado Army National Guard Soldiers become lifesaving duo
By Spc. Kyra Prahl | Aug. 7, 2024
Colorado Army National Guard Soldiers U.S. Army Pfc. Manuel Talamantes and Spc. Shane Valadez, currently serving on the Colorado Military Funeral Honors Team, were on the way back to their duty station at the Chestnut Armory, Colorado Springs, Colorado, after rendering honors at a funeral service in full dress uniform, June 14, 2024.
High-Altitude Army National Guard Aviation Training Site instructors and staff brief Charlie Duke, NASA astronaut, prior to a training flight, July 8, 2024, in Gypsum, Colorado. Duke was one of 12 men to walk on the moon during NASA’s Apollo missions. NASA is partnering with HAATS to apply rotary wing skills to lunar landing operations in support of the Artemis mission set. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Remington Henderson)
NASA’s Apollo, Artemis missions cross paths at Colorado National Guard aviation training site
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson | July 25, 2024
The Colorado National Guard’s High-Altitude Army National Guard Aviation Training Site hosted Charlie Duke, one of only 12 NASA astronauts to have walked on the moon, July 8, 2024.
U.S. Army Col. Laura Thomas, Colorado Army National Guard deployed with the 455th Expeditionary Medical Group at Craig Joint Theater Hospital at Bagram Airfield, 2010. Thomas served as the Flight Commander for the busiest outpatient clinic in the theater as well as being the sole OB-GYN provider and serving with the 101st Airborne Division on the Combined Joint Task Force Sexual Assault Review Board as the Sexual Assault Forensic Medical Examiner subject matter expert. Thomas was selected to be the first ARNG nurse consultant to the surgeon general in June 2024. (Courtesy photo)
Colorado National Guard member is first Army National Guard nurse consultant to surgeon general
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson | July 18, 2024
The Colorado Army National Guard made history when U.S. Army Col. Laura A. Thomas was selected to be the first ARNG nurse consultant to the surgeon general in June 2024, a top position in the Army medical profession.
U.S. Army Maj. Michael Frank, executive officer and full-time administrative officer, 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, prepares to jump from a C-47 over Normandy, France, during the 80th anniversary celebration of the D-Day invasion, June 5, 2024. (Courtesy photo)
Colorado Guard Soldiers commemorate D-Day with historic Normandy jump
By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida | July 18, 2024
U.S. Army Maj. Michael Frank and Col. Todd Stansbury, both serving in the Colorado Army National Guard, participated in a historic para-jump over Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Members of the Colorado National Guard Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Enhanced Response Force Package, joined by State Partnership Program partner the Republic of Slovenia, move a patient onto a stretcher for simulations during medical exercises Vigorous Warrior and Clean Care 2024 at Bakonykúti Training Area, Hungary, May 7, 2024. The CERFP, a domestic operations capability in the U.S., deployed to showcase the capability of doing mass decontamination in a battlefield setting while integrating emergent medical treatment. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet)
Colorado National Guard joint response team first to exercise capability with NATO partners
By Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet, 140th Wing Public Affairs | July 2, 2024
The Colorado National Guard, in support of United States European Command, showcased military medical readiness at the NATO Vigorous Warrior 2024 and Clean Care 2024 exercises at the Bakonykút training area in Hungary, May 4-8, 2024.
Members of the Colorado National Guard and their State Partnership Program partner, the Republic of Slovenia, treat a patient in their medical tent, part of Colorado’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Enhanced Response Force Package, during the Vigorous Warrior and Clean Care medical exercises, May 7, 2024, at Bakonykúti Training Area, Hungary. The CERFP is a domestic operations capability in the U.S., deployed to showcase the capability of doing mass decontamination in a battlefield setting while integrating emergent medical treatment. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet)
Multinational medical exercises bring partners together for first of its kind training
By Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet | July 2, 2024
The NATO Centre of Excellence for Military Medicine, in collaboration with the host nation of Hungary, held the Vigorous Warrior and Clean Care medical exercises at the Bakonykút training area in Hungary May 4-8, 2024.
Colorado National Guard’s 100th Missile Defense Brigade and U.S. Northern Command Mobilization Element will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new homeland defense and civil support readiness center March 22, 2024, at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado. (Courtesy Colorado Army National Guard)
Colorado National Guard breaks ground on homeland defense and civil support readiness center
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | March 20, 2024
The Colorado National Guard’s 100th Missile Defense Brigade and U.S. Northern Command Mobilization Element will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction a new homeland defense and civil support readiness center at 10:00 a.m., March 22, 2024, at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Danielle M. Morgan, 140th Maintenance Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard implements new and creative maintenance techniques on an F-16 Viper at Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, May 10, 2023. Despite how long these aircraft have been in service, new innovations through maintenance have made it possible for the fighter jets to be mission capable to defend the nation 24/7. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Luccario Lovato)
Colorado Air National Guard Maintenance Group creates innovative solution to aging F-16
By Staff Sgt. Luccario Lovato, 140th Wing Public Affairs | March 15, 2024
Colorado Air National Guard maintainers of the 140th Maintenance Group have cared for the 140th Wing’s fleet of F-16 Falcons and now Vipers for the last 30 years.
U.S. Army Maj. Rich Piltingsrud (center-left), strategic planner, Colorado Army National Guard, receives a $500 check as part of the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program from U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Laura L. Clellan (center-right), the adjutant general of Colorado, at the University of Denver, Feb. 8, 2024. The JEEP program incentivizes current Colorado National Guard members to become more involved in referring and enlisting new members into the CONG with up to a $500 check for each enlistment. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet)
Colorado National Guard launches Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program
By Airman 1st Class Eliana Raspet, 140th Wing Public Affairs | March 1, 2024
Colorado Air and Army National Guard are working together to build their forces through the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program, or JEEP, a new program introduced during 2023.
U.S. Army 1st Lt. Joel Belles, operations officer, Bravo Crew, 100th Missile Defense Brigade, Colorado Army National Guard, briefs U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan, the adjutant general of Colorado, about his operational duties at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Dec. 7, 2023. Each crew consists of five members and crews who defend the homeland with ground-based midcourse defense systems 24/7/365. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori)
The Adjutant General of Colorado visits 100th Missile Defense Brigade
By U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori, 100th MDB Public Affairs Office | Jan. 19, 2024
The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan visited Soldiers of the Colorado Army National Guard’s 100th Missile Defense Brigade, Colorado Springs, Dec. 7, 2023.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven S. Nordhaus, commander, Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region-1st Air Force (Air Forces Northern and Air Forces Space) (left), visited the 140th Wing, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado Nov. 30, 2023. Nordhaus engaged in meetings with unit leadership about wing operations, assessed readiness, toured critical facilities, and met the mission-essential Citizen-Airmen on duty in the 140th Wing’s North American Aerospace Defense Command Aerospace Control Alert section, Operations Group, and Command Post.
1st Air Force Commander Visits Colorado National Guard’s 140th Wing
By U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Canada, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Jan. 4, 2024
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven S. Nordhaus, Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region – 1st Air Force (Air Forces Northern and Air Forces Space) commander, visited the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Nov. 30, 2023.
Surgeons, U.S. Air Force Col. Jamie Rand, left, and Slovenian Armed Forces officer Aleš Fischinger, right, demonstrate a medical procedure during the International Advanced Surgical Training course at Rush University, Chicago, Sept. 27, 2023. This 5-day event brought together surgeons, emergency medicine physicians, and operating room nurses from the Colorado National Guard, Ohio National Guard, Slovenian Armed Forces, Jordanian Armed Forces, and the United Kingdom Royal Air Force. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Melissa Escobar-Pereira)
Universal language of medicine unites National Guard and partner forces at Rush University
By Senior Airman Melissa Escobar-Pereira, Joint Force Headquarters-Public Affairs, Colorado National Guard | Dec. 27, 2023
Given the opportunity to speak the language of medicine, members of the Colorado National Guard, Ohio National Guard, Slovenian Armed Forces, Jordanian Armed Forces, United Kingdom Royal Air Force, and other U.S. military personnel came together for an International Advanced Surgical Training Course at Rush University, Chicago, in September 2023.
The Adjutant General of Colorado, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan, reads to children of deployed Colorado National Guard members, Dec. 16, 2023, at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver. The CONG Family Programs Office and Colorado Governors Office sponsor the annual gathering with loved ones away during the holiday season. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SrA Melissa Escobar-Pereria)
Lieutenant Governor, Adjutant General host Gold Star and Colorado National Guard deployed families
By By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Dec. 16, 2023
Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera and The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan will host Gold Star families and families of deployed Colorado National Guard members in separate events Dec. 16, 2023, at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver.
Adjutant General of Colorado promotes to major general during upcoming ceremony
By By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Dec. 16, 2023
The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan will promote to the rank of major general during a formal ceremony at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver, Colorado, Jan. 5, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joseph Lynch (right), crew chief, 140th Maintenance Group, Colorado Air National Guard greets U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel “Tracer” Way, pilot, 120th Fighter Squadron, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard after Way lands at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, for Checkered Flag Oct. 25, 2023. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise held at Tyndall which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson)
Colorado’s 140th Wing F-16s integrate with fifth-generation fighters at Checkered Flag
By U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Dec. 14, 2023
More than 190 Citizen Airmen from the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard participated in the Checkered Flag Exercise at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 25-Nov. 8, 2023.
Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall receives a tour of the mobile ground station from U.S. Air Force Col. Stephanie Figueroa, commander, 233rd Space Group at Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado Nov. 3, 2023. The 140th Wing is comprised of over 1,600 personnel who support multiple operational missions including 24/7 aerospace alert and two space missions: a one-of-a-kind early-warning Mobile Ground System and a space control squadron. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Capt. Benjamin Kimball)
Secretary of Air Force makes historic visit to Colorado Air National Guard Airmen
By U.S. Air Force Capt. Benjamin Kimball, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Dec. 13, 2023
Secretary of Air Force makes historic visit to Colorado Air National Guard AThe 26th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Frank Kendall made an historic visit to the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard at Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Nov. 3, 2023. Kendall met with Buckley Airmen and Guardians, Governor Jared Polis, and toured 140th Wing facilities and the flight line. Kendall also met with COANG space professionals.
U.S. Army Spc. Jose Romero, advanced field artillery tactical data system operator, 169th Field Artillery Brigade, Colorado Army National Guard, plots target data for fire missions to monitor trends on a simulated battlefield during the brigade’s communication exercise at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, Sept. 14, 2023. Exercise injects, such as the one Romero is plotting, are part of the train-up to the brigade’s mobilization validation.
Colorado Army National Guard field artillery unit trains for deployment
By | Oct. 30, 2023
“I was very excited to see the brigade command post and staff in action,” 169th FAB Commander U.S. Army Col. William DiProfio said. “This annual training was designed to get after our core field artillery tasks and prepare for our mobilization validation exercise in January, and we are doing just that.”
U.S. Army Spc. Joslynn Carochi, 947th Engineer Company, Colorado Army National Guard checks equipment during the Rangers Stake event at the 2023 Colorado National Guard Best Warrior Competition held at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, Oct. 19, 2023. BWC competitors represent their units and brigades in an intense challenge to determine who will advance to the regional Best Warrior Competition. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Roberto Diaz)
Physical fitness is key to Warrior success
By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida | Oct. 27, 2023
The Colorado National Guard’s 2023 BWC tested competitor’s physical stamina, starting with the Army Combat Fitness Test.
Official U.S. Army photo
Colorado Army National Guard Soldier serves for family, community, citizenship
By U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida | Sept. 26, 2023
U.S. Army Sgt. Chau Do was born in Vietnam and came to the U.S. with his family in 1998 when he was 9 years old. He could not speak English, but the public school system would help overcome that barrier. “Life in America was all new to me,” Do said. “Not knowing how to speak the language made it difficult to interact with other people.”
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Knauer, 140th Civil Engineering Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, inspects an air conditioning unit during the 140th Civil Engineering Squadron, 140th Wing, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, participation in a Deployment for Training exercise at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14-31, 2023. Eleven other units, on two-week rotations, worked together in tandem to accomplish a large-scale tasking at Yokota. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Davis)
Colorado’s 140th Civil Engineering Squadron performs Deployment for Training in Japan
By U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Luca Lovato, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Sept. 8, 2023
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Civil Engineering Squadron, 140th Wing, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, participated in a Deployment for Training exercise at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14 - 31, 2023.
Members of 31st Force Support Squadron, Aviano Air Base, 140th Wing Force Support Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, and 185th Force Support Squadron, Iowa Air National Guard conduct joint training on Search and Recovery Operations at Aviano Air Base, Italy, July 6, 2023. The Airmen accomplished Home Station Readiness Training, which is required every 24 months for FSS members, preparing Airmen to perform their mission for future deployments. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Chief Master Sgt. Alan Radke)
140th Wing Force Support Squadron deploys to Italy for Home Station Readiness Training
By 140th Wing Public Affairs | July 18, 2023
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Force Support Squadron, 140th Wing, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, participated in Home Station Readiness Training at Aviano Air Base, Italy, June 28-July 11, 2023.
U.S. Air Force Col. Carrie Worrell shows off a t-shirt promoting the Colorado National Guard’s first ever Joint Resiliency Directorate (J9) to a room full of CONG members May 6, 2023. CONG J9 was established Dec. 1, 2022, under the direction of the National Defense Authorization Act 2022 and the Independent Review Commission appointed by U.S. President Joe Biden. (Photo courtesy CONG J9)
New Colorado National Guard directorate prioritizes serving its members
By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | June 29, 2023
U.S. Air Force Col. Carrie Worrell was appointed director of the Colorado National Guard’s first Joint Resiliency Directorate (J9) officially established Dec. 1, 2022. Together, Worrell and her deputy stood up a Resiliency Program for the CONG in less than three months.
New entrance to Fort Barfoot
Colorado Army National Guard Leaders attend Fort Barfoot redesignation ceremony, keep Colorado Infantry regiment legacy alive
By Colorado National Guard Historian | April 13, 2023
The official ceremony redesignating Fort Pickett as Fort Barfoot took place at Blackstone Army Airfield, Virginia, March 24, 2023.
Team Colorado at the 2023 Chief, National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships award ceremony. Front row (left to right): U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Lindsey Lopez, Headquarters Detachment, Joint Force Headquarters-Colorado, Staff Sgt. Lisl Lefevre, 3650th Maintenance Company, Sgt. Jacob Coogan, 3650th Maintenance Company, Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, U.S. Northern Command Mobilization Command. Back Row (left to right): U.S. Army Sgt. William Felts, Company B, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Sgt. Sage Hamilton, Company D, 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, Sgt. Joshua Drews, Company C, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Lt. Col. Jason Little Owl, Headquarters - Headquarters Detachment, Joint Force Headquarters - Colorado. (Photo courtesy National Guard Bureau)
Biathlon team finishes season at 2023 National Guard Championships
By U.S. Army Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, Colorado National Guard | March 27, 2023
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team placed sixth in the men’s and women’s team competitions and brought home two sets of individual bronze medals at the 2023 Chief, National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships, Feb. 17-22, 2023, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota.
Colorado National Guard Command Senior Enlisted Leader U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Perry presents a coin of excellence to U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Diego Sigala for appreciation of the life-saving measures that he performed while supporting operation Arctic Blast, Dec. 21, 2022. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis authorized the activation of up to 100 CONG members to assist the state emergency operations center with extreme cold weather support in response to a winter storm with temperatures expected to hit -10 degrees Fahrenheit. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Absher)
Colorado Air National Guard members save lives during arctic blast
By John Rohrer, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Feb. 14, 2023
In late December 2022, an extreme cold weather system threatened the lives of the unhoused population in Denver, Colorado, and surrounding communities. This prompted Gov. Jared Polis to activate the Colorado National Guard to assist local authorities with staffing warming shelters as ambient temperatures were expected to hover around -10 degrees Fahrenheit for several nights, just before the Christmas holiday.
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team at the Casper Mountain Biathlon Range, Casper, Wyoming, Jan. 13-15, 2023. The team has experienced and novice CONG members (from left) U.S. Army Sgt. Sage Hamilton, Company D, 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, Staff Sgt. Lisl Lefevre, 3650th Maintenance Company, Capt. Bailey Bullock, 217th Space Support Company, Sgt. William Felts Company B, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Sgt. Joshua Drews, Company C, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Spc. Zachary Schmid, C/1-157IN, 2nd Lt. Alexis Tousignant, D/572BEB, and Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, U.S. Northern Command, Mobilization Command.
Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team competes in National Guard race
By U.S. Army Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, Colorado National Guard | Feb. 2, 2023
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team competed at the National Guard Western Region races held Jan. 13-15, 2023, in Casper, Wyoming. The three-day competition consisted of one training day and two individual races: a sprint race and a pursuit race. The event included 34 Guard members from six states, including Colorado, California, Montana, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming.
Chief of Staff-Air U.S. Air Force Col. Michael J. Bruno is promoting to the rank of brigadier general. The ceremony will be held at Buckley Space Force Base, Jan. 7, 2023. Bruno previously served as chief of joint staff in the Colorado National Guard and held many notable positions in the 140th Wing and 233rd Space Group. Bruno also serves as the full-time deputy executive director for the Colorado Department of Military and Veteran Affairs in his civilan capacity. (Photo Courtesy of Colorado Air National Guard)
Colorado Air National Guard colonel to promote to brigadier general
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Jan. 6, 2023
Chief of Staff-Air U.S. Air Force Col. Michael J. Bruno will be promoted to the rank of brigadier general during a ceremony to be held at Hangar 909, Buckley Space Force Base, Jan. 7, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
Taylor Duffy, Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs chief diversity officer (left), and Alphonso Sanders, state equal employment manager for the Colorado National Guard, are key advisors and managers of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the CONG and DMVA. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph K VonNida)
Colorado National Guard belonging initiative drives employee awareness
By By Sgt. 1st Class. Joseph K. VonNida, Colorado National Guard | Jan. 5, 2023
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion can be an uncomfortable topic for military leaders, service members, and the civilian workforce. But the meaning behind them, belonging, is the driving force that builds the readiness and lethality of the people tasked to deploy, fight and win the nation’s wars and maintain global vigilance, reach and power.
Members of the Colorado Air National Guard direct people seeking shelter at a warming center at the Denver Coliseum, Denver, Dec. 21, 2022. Gov. Jared Polis authorized the activation of up to 100 Colorado National Guard troops to assist the state emergency operations center with extreme cold weather support in response to a winter storm with temperatures expected to hit -50 degrees. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida)
Colorado National Guard activated for arctic blast, assist civil authorities at warming centers
By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph K. VonNida, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Jan. 4, 2023
With an extreme cold front bearing down on Colorado, Governor Jared Polis signed an executive order authorizing the support of up to 100 Colorado National Guard members to assist civil authorities at warming centers across the Denver metropolitan area and Boulder, Colorado, Dec. 20, 2022.
Members of the 138th Space Control Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard gather for a group photo at a forward operating base on Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Oct. 21, 2022. The Airmen of the 138th SPCS participated in the Neptune Falcon Exercise to test their capabilities in a contested multi-domain operation designed in preparation for real world space control missions. (U.S. Space Force Photo by Mr. Dennis Rogers)
Colorado’s 138th Space Control Squadron pioneers new training
By Mr. John Rohrer, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Dec. 1, 2022
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 138th Space Control Squadron, in conjunction with the National Space Test and Training Complex, conducted a training event named “Neptune Falcon,” which took place at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado, to test new capabilities for meeting wartime objectives in the space domain.
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 23 May 1944, near Carano, Italy. With his platoon heavily engaged during an assault against forces well-entrenched on commanding ground, 2d Lt. Barfoot (then TSgt.) moved off alone upon the enemy left flank. He crawled to the proximity of one machine-gun nest and made a direct hit on it with a hand grenade, killing two and wounding three Germans. He continued along the German defense line to another machine-gun emplacement, and with his tommy gun killed two and captured three soldiers. Members of another enemy machine-gun crew then abandoned their position and gave themselves up to Sgt. Barfoot. Leaving the prisoners for his support squad to pick up, he proceeded to mop up positions in the immediate area, capturing more prisoners, and bringing his total count to 17. Later that day, after he had reorganized his men and consolidated the newly captured ground, the enemy launched a fierce armored counterattack directly at his platoon positions. Securing a bazooka, Sgt. Barfoot took up an exposed position directly in front of three advancing Mark VI tanks. From a distance of 75 yards his first shot destroyed the track of the leading tank, effectively disabling it, while the other two changed direction toward the flank. As the crew of the disabled tank dismounted, Sgt. Barfoot killed three of them with his tommy gun. He continued onward into enemy terrain and destroyed a recently abandoned German fieldpiece with a demolition charge placed in the breech. While returning to his platoon position, Sgt. Barfoot, though greatly fatigued by his herculean efforts, assisted two of his seriously wounded men 1,700 yards to a position of safety. Sgt. Barfoot's extraordinary heroism, demonstration of magnificent valor, and aggressive determination in the face of point-blank fire are a perpetual inspiration to his fellow soldiers. (U.S. Army file photo)
Fort Pickett to be renamed Fort Barfoot, has Colorado National Guard connection
By By David Schmidt, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Information Technology Specialist & Interim CONG Historian | Nov. 23, 2022
A congressional commission tasked with renaming U.S. Army bases previously named after Confederate officers is rebranding Fort Pickett to Fort Barfoot, in honor of World War II Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Tech. Sgt. Van T. Barfoot.
U.S. Army Sgt. Liam Seagle, 147th Brigade Support Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard helps set up a tent during an external evaluation in Camp Rilea, Oregon, July 11, 2022. Seagle is part of the Colorado National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and high-yield explosive Enhanced Response Force Package. ExEval is a 24-36-month certification process that validates CERFP’s mission readiness and capability. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Elizabeth Clark)
Soldier’s desire to learn proves value in Colorado National Guard
By U.S. Army Sgt. Elizabeth Clark | Nov. 9, 2022
The CERFP responds to CBRNE incidents and assists local, state, and federal agencies with consequence management by providing capabilities to conduct patient and mass casualty decontamination, emergency medical services, and casualty search and extraction. The unit is comprised of Army and Air National Guard personnel to create a flexible force to combat fallout from large-scale incidents.
Members of the Colorado Army National Guard Chaplain Corps teach Soldiers and their families how to become an effective family at a Strong Bonds event Aug. 20, 2022, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Strong Bonds events provide a safe and secure environment for Soldiers and their families to address the impact of deployments, military-life stressors, and common relationship challenges. (Photo courtesy of Colorado Army National Guard Chaplain Corps)
Strong bonds build resilient families
By Chaplain (Capt.) Katie Declet | Nov. 1, 2022
In order to build and strengthen families, the Army developed the Strong Bonds program. These training events provide a safe and secure environment for Soldiers and their families to address the impact of deployments, military-life stressors, and common relationship challenges.
U.S. Army Sgt. Joseph Flores, intelligence specialist, 3rd Battalion,157th Infantry Regiment, Colorado National Guard, assigned to Task Force FireGuard, analyzes environmental factors in an area of an ongoing wildfire. FireGuard utilizes National Weather Service, National Interagency Fire Center, and Spot Forecast Monitoring sites to support emergency wildfire services. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by John Rohrer)
FireGuard’s cutting-edge mission saves lives and mitigates property damage from wildfires
By John Rohrer, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Oct. 5, 2022
Utilizing military-operated satellites and incorporating civilian resources from the National Interagency Fire Center, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and the U.S. Forest Service, service members can detect wildfires, notify authorities, and create products that can be disseminated to firefighting networks nationwide.
U.S. Army Sgt. Zachary Lutz and Sgt. Rainee Malle, 8th Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Teams, Colorado National Guard conduct initial sight recon of a potential biohazard contamination site during Joint Exercise Western Sugar Response, Aug. 30, 2022, Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The exercise provided a realistic threat situation, integrating resources as necessary to demonstrate capabilities in responding to an incident requiring chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threat response, assessment, characterization, analysis, identification and mitigation. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Katie Lee)
8th Civil Support Team conducts annual evaluation exercise
By U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Katie Lee, Joint Force Headquarters Colorado National Guard | Sept. 27, 2022
Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Teams from Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska joined civilian first responders to participate in joint exercise Western Sugar Response, a simulated hazardous disaster at an old sugar factory, hosted by U.S. Army North, Aug. 30, 2022, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
Jose Meza (left) is shown shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the Joint Force Headquarters- Colorado maintenance team, Daphny Lorena, Llanet Ortiz, and Jose Antonio Rios- Orozco, in Centennial, Colorado, Aug. 24, 2022. Jose and his team are charged with providing a clean and function facility for the fulltime staff at the Centennial complex. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph K. VonNida)
Jose Meza: Serving Those Who Serve
By Parker White, DMVA Public Information Officer & Legislative Liaison | Sept. 14, 2022
Jose Meza works as a structural tradesman at Joint Force Headquarters- Colorado and, alongside his team, provides a variety of services to the DMVA from changing lightbulbs and moving office equipment, to landscaping and plumbing.
U.S. Army Spc. Jessica Lee (left), 928th Area Support Medical Company, Colorado Army National Guard and U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Julie Lee, 140th Medical Group, Colorado Air National Guard participate in an external evaluation at Camp Rilea, Oregon, July 12, 2022. These sisters serve together in the Colorado National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and high-yield explosive Enhanced Response Force Package. ExEval is a certification process that every CERFP unit must go through every 24-36 months to prove that they are mission capable.
Two Colorado National Guard members doubly serving as sisters in arms
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson | Aug. 7, 2022
Two sisters have come together in a unique unit where they are not only sisters but sisters in arms.
In 1999 the Colorado Legislature authorized the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado to honor Colorado veterans and their families. Construction began in June 2001. The cemetery is located on 22.5 acres at 2830 Riverside Parkway (formerly D Road, just east of the Grand Junction Regional Center and south of the Grand Junction Readiness Center. (Stock photo)
Western Slope cemetery expansion assures Colorado veterans, families dignified final resting place
By Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs | Aug. 5, 2022
In 1999 the Colorado Legislature authorized the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado to honor Colorado veterans and their families. The United States Veterans Administration provided a grant to build the cemetery. Construction began in June 2001.
Colorado National Guard members of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Enhanced Response Force Package rappel down a structure to practice search and rescue techniques. The team performed their external evaluation at Camp Rilea, Astoria, Oregon, July 9-17, 2022. (U.S. Air National Guard stock photo)
Colorado chemical response team receives top marks during Oregon exercise evaluation
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Aug. 4, 2022
The Colorado National Guard 8th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package traveled to Camp Rilea, Oregon, in July 9-17, 2022, to perform a full-scale external evaluation.
U.S. Army Capt. Max Woodfin, commander, Company D, 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Military Intelligence) speaks at a return ceremony for his unit March 10, 2022, in Denver, Colorado. While deployed, the unit joined with NATO's peace support operation Kosovo Force. KFOR has been operating in the Southeast European country since 1999, with intent to support broader international efforts to build peace and stability in the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Remington Henderson).
Military Intelligence Soldiers, Kosovo Police Force develop female leadership to further Kosovo Force success
By Spc. Paul Blythe, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Aug. 2, 2022
Colorado Army National Soldiers from Company D, 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Military Intelligence) returned stateside March 10, 2022.
U.S. Army Capt. Zachary Thompson (right) commander, Headquarters-Headquarters Company, 193rd Military Police Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard, and Lt. Col. Christian Goessiger, military police officer, German Army Reserves, shake hands as part of a U.S. and German Reserve Officer Exchange Program, June 4, 2022, at the Denver Armory, Denver, Colorado. The officer exchange program, which was created to exchange officers between nations in order to collaborate on leadership and to create and strengthen alliances with our allied nations for further support in future conflicts, mirrors the National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Clayton Eggan)
US, German Reserve Officer Exchange Program begins in Colorado National Guard
By Spc. Clayton Eggan, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | July 12, 2022
The National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program, which connects individual states within the U.S. to allied nations, was established in 1993. Examples of these partnerships include Colorado’s partnership with Slovenia, Utah’s partnership with Nepal, and Kansas’ partnership with Armenia. Germany is not currently a state partner.
U.S. Army Food Specialists of the 193rd Military Police Battalion, Colorado National Guard prepare food during an exercise for the Phillip Connelly Program at the Denver Armory, Denver, June 4, 2022. The Phillip Connelly Program is an exercise where Soldiers, in food services, showcase their skills and abilities. (U.S. Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Ray Rivera)
Phillip Connelly Program comes to Military Police food service team
By Staff Sgt. Ray Rivera | June 22, 2022
U.S. Army Food Specialists of Headquarters-Headquarters Company, 193rd Military Police Battalion, Colorado National Guard held a food service exercise at the Denver Armory, Denver, June 4, 2022.
(from left) U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Edgar Alder, Airman 1st Class David Nguyen, Lt. Col. Stephanie Figueroa, Senior Airman Samuel Mundt, and Airman 1st Class Rakin Talukder celebrate the first official Signal Management System Mission Qualification Course to graduate from the 233rd Space Group - DET 1 / Combat Training System, March 25, 2022 at the 233rd Space Group, Greeley Air National Guard Station, Greeley, Colorado. The course makes up a portion of the Integrated AN/ TLQ-34 Communications Satellite Countermeasure Set. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Chastity Lollis)
233rd Space Group celebrates first graduating class for new qualification course
By Master Sgt. Amanda Geiger, 140th Wing Public Affairs and Staff Sgt. Chastity Lollis, 233rd Communications Squadron | June 22, 2022
The first official Signal Management System Mission Qualification Course, conducted Jan. 18 - March 25, 2022, for 36 training days, celebrated its first graduation ceremony from the 233rd Space Group, Detachment 1, Combat Training System.
Brey Hopkins is appointed by The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mike Loh to serve as Colorado’s Deputy Executive Director of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs effective Jan. 6, 2020. Hopkins is formerly an active duty infantry officer that joined the Colorado National Guard in 2018 and continues to serve as a traditional National Guard member in the rank of Colonel. (Official Department of Defense photo)
86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team commander from Colorado promotes to brigadier general
By | June 14, 2022
U.S. Army Col. Joseph Aubrey "Brey" Hopkins, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) commander and former deputy executive director, Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, will promote to the rank of brigadier general June 15, 2022, at 3:30 p.m. at Joint Force Headquarters, Centennial, Colorado, in a ceremony which will include a howitzer salute in his honor.
Two M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems are transported to the Danish island of Bornholm in a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, May 24, 2022. Soldiers with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 14th Field Artillery Regiment, 75th Artillery Brigade participated in an air-land raid on Bornholm using the HIMARS, displaying American and Danish capability to rapidly deploy weapons systems as part of DEFENDER-Europe 22. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Remington Henderson, 169th Field Artillery Brigade)
U.S. Army makes Historic Landing
By Sgt. Elizabeth Clark | June 14, 2022
Colorado Army National Guard members teamed with Active Duty counterparts, U.S. Air Force service members and international partners to conduct a simulated air-land raid during an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems rapid infiltration exercise in Bornholm, Denmark May 24, 2022.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Dane Wetterer (left) and Tech. Sgt. Guy Winn, Colorado Air National Guard, 233rd Space Group, Greeley Air National Guard Station, Greeley, Colorado, operate a command center which includes a video teleconference and presentation systems at the 37th Space Symposium Colorado Springs, Colorado, during April 4, 2022. Wetterer and Winn developed a virtual venue that was key in promoting senior leader awareness and providing fluid coordination during the event for several senior leaders representing multiple Air National Guard states and some Army National Guard guests. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Chasity Lollis)
233rd Space Group supports National Guard director of space operations at 37th Space Symposium
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, 140th Wing Public Affairs | May 25, 2022
On April 4, 2022, members of the Colorado Air National Guard’s 233rd Space Group, Greeley Air National Guard Station, Greeley, completed Operation IT4YT or information technology support for the Director of Space Operations, National Guard Bureau, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Gregory T. White, at the 37th Space Symposium held in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Quinton German, deputy chief of staff for intelligence, Colorado Army National Guard, presents Command Sgt. Maj. Geoffrey Essman, senior military intelligence Noncommissioned officer for Colorado, with the Knowlton Award at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, Feb. 6, 2022. The Knowlton Award is one of the most prestigious honors that can be provided to any civilian or military member that works in military intelligence. (Courtesy photo)
First Colorado Army National Guardsman receives prestigious Knowlton Award
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson, Colorado Army National Guard Public Affairs | April 7, 2022
Centennial, Colo. – U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Geoffrey Essman was presented the Knowlton Award in a ceremony at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, Feb. 6, 2022.
U.S. Air Force Col. Shawn Ryan, Colorado National Guard, promotes to the rank of brigadier general April 9, 2022, at 3 p.m. at Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado. Ryan is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and the Assistant Adjutant General, Air, for the Colorado National Guard. (Courtesy photo)
Colorado National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Air, promotes to brigadier general
By 140th Wing Public Affairs | April 6, 2022
BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. – U.S. Air Force Col. Shawn Ryan, Colorado National Guard, will be promoted to the rank of brigadier general April 9, 2022, at 3 p.m. at Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Doug Paul speaks to a crowd of his colleagues, peers, friends and family where he relinquishes command as the commanding general of the Colorado Army National Guard at a ceremony Feb. 5, 2022, in Loveland, Colorado. Since he commissioned in 1992, Paul has held many notable positions including commander for the Colorado National Guard’s 5th Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Low)
Colorado Army National Guard commanding general passes responsibility to new leader following unprecedented command
By Staff Sgt. Raymond Rivera, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | March 2, 2022
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Douglas Paul handed off command of the Colorado Army National Guard to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Bren Dee Rogers during a ceremony Feb. 5, 2022, in Loveland, Colorado.
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team (from left) consists of U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Lindsey Lopez, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Joint Force Headquarters-Colorado, Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, U.S. Northern Command, Mobilization Element, Spc. Bryce Peterson , Company C, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Staff Sgt. Lisl Lefevre, Headquarters Support Company, 147th Brigade Support Battalion, Sgt. Jacob Coogan, 3650th Maintenance Company, and Capt. Bailey Bullock, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 193rd Military Police Battalion. Colorado’s team attended the 2022 Chief, National Guard Bureau, Biathlon Championships, Feb. 12-17, 2022, at Camp Ripley Biathlon Range, Minnesota. The team had their best success at the championships in the team categories with top three finishes in both the relay and pursuit races. (Courtesy photo)
Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team places third at National Guard Championships
By Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, Colorado National Guard | Feb. 26, 2022
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team took third place in the men’s team competition and brought home an individual bronze medal at the 2022 Chief, National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships, Feb. 12-17, 2022, at Camp Ripley.
(Photo courtesy Colorado Wing of the Civil Air Patrol)
Civil Air Patrol cadet becomes U.S. Air Force trailblazer, returns to roots
By By Michael Daniels, Colorado Wing of the Civil Air Patrol | Feb. 21, 2022
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. (Ret.) Rochelle Kimbrell started her career as a Civil Air Patrol cadet with the Colorado Wing’s Parker Composite Squadron. She received an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy and, upon graduation, proceeded to become the first female Black fighter pilot in the Air Force, serving as a trailblazer for generations to come.
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team attends pre-season training camp and team try out at Snow Mountain Ranch, Granby, Colorado, Dec. 18, 2021. The three-day snow camp included instruction on skate skiing techniques, rifle safety, and marksmanship training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Chip Hahn)
Colorado National Guard’s Biathlon Team kicks off pre-season training
By By Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, Colorado National Guard | Jan. 25, 2022
The Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team executed its pre-season training camp and team try out at Snow Mountain Ranch, Granby, Colorado, Dec. 17-19, 2021.
Colorado Army National Guard Soldiers with the 220th Military Police Company monitor an entrance to a neighborhood left in rubble by the Marshall Fire, Jan. 8, 2022, in Louisville, Colorado. Approximately 60 members of the Colorado National Guard helped law enforcement respond to the devastating Marshall Fire in Boulder County. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Low)
Guardmembers respond to winter wildfire
By By U.S. Army Sgt. Taylor L. Lakey-Tamacori | Jan. 20, 2022
The Marshall Fire ignited near Boulder, Colorado, and quickly engulfed entire neighborhoods in flames. Within 24 hours, Gov. Jared Polis declared a state of emergency. 56 Colorado Army National Guard Soldiers were activated and would spend the next week including New Year’s assisting state and local authorities.
Soldiers of Warrant Officer Candidate School Class 21-001 graduate from the WOC course at 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, Sept. 26, 2021. The class consisted of WOC graduates from the Colorado Army National Guard, Wyoming Army National Guard as well as the U.S. Army Reserve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 168th Regional Training Institute, Colorado Army National Guard)
Quiet professionals: Soldiers graduate, become Army Warrant Officers
By U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon | Nov. 10, 2021
Seven Soldiers, who previously served as Non-commissioned Officers, are now defined as officers appointed by warrant by the Secretary of the U.S. Army, based on a sound level of technical and tactical competence.
U.S. Army Sgt. Dane Kastl, a member of the urban search and rescue team with the CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosives) Enhanced Response Force Package, dons a HAZMAT suit to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 while working on Task Force Test Support. More than 250 Colorado National Guard members were mobilized to help the State Emergency Operations Center and the City and County of Denver with COVID-19 response. Kastl joined the CERFP rescue team in 2014 (Courtesy photo provided by Kastl).
COVID responder walks Civil War battlefields
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson, Colorado Army National Guard Public Affairs | Sept. 17, 2021
In July, eleven Soldiers from the Colorado Army National Guard walked the Antietam and Gettysburg battlefields. The National Guard Bureau’s Combat Field Studies Program organized this rare opportunity for the COARNG.
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Catlin, team member, Colorado Army National Guard small arms team, competes in the 2021 U.S. Army
Building greatness: Colorado Army National Guard marksmanship program among best in world
By U.S. Army Capt. Remington Henderson | July 27, 2021
In less than five years, the Colorado Army National Guard’s marksmanship program has gone from practically non-existent to one of the best in the world.
U.S. Army Spc. Adam Barlow, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 65th Field Artillery Brigade, participates in the dips event of the fitness event at the Army National Guard's Region VII Best Warrior Competition at Fort Carson, Colorado Springs, Colorado, May 17-20, 2021. The fitness test consisted of eight events, primarily upper body, followed by a three mile run. Sixteen elite Noncommissioned officers and Soldiers from eight states and territories compete in this competition. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Taylor Lakey-Tamacori)
The Best of the Best in Region VII
By SPC Taylor Lakey-Tamacori | May 21, 2021
The Colorado Army National Guard hosted the 2021 Region VII Best Warrior Competition at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, May 17-20, 2021. This regional event included the best NCO and Soldier from Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.
U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with Attack Company, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, spend more than a week in Gurnsey, Wyoming, in preparation for a deployment, Oct. 15-25. Throughout the week the Soldiers ran lanes multiple times, qualified on individual weapon systems and completed Situational Training Exercise lanes that consisted of ambushes. Fort Carson’s 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade provided assistance and helped the National Guard improve their tactics. The SFAB is a specialized unit with the core mission to conduct training, advising, assisting, enabling and accompanying operations with allied and partner nations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, Colorado Army National Guard)
Colorado National Guard deploys three units to Europe to support NATO, U.S. Army Europe
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs CONG | April 30, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera and Colorado National Guard senior leaders will bid farewell to about 70 Colorado Army National Guard Soldiers from three deploying units, May 1, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., at Southeast Christian Church, 9650 Jordan Road, Parker CO 80134.
Director of the Air National Guard U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, a Colorado Guardsman, will promote Colorado Air National Guard Commander U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. (select) Floyd W. Dunstan in a formal ceremony at Hangar 909, Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, May 1, 2021. (Photo courtesy Colorado Air National Guard)
Director of the Air National Guard promotes Colorado Air National Guard commander to major general
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs CONG | April 30, 2021
Director of the Air National Guard U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, a Colorado Guardsman, will promote Colorado Air National Guard Maj. Gen. (select) Floyd W. Dunstan in a formal ceremony at Hangar 909, Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, May 1, at 3 p.m.
Soldiers with Company A “Attack” 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment (MTN), Colorado Army National Guard, train for an upcoming deployment, Gurnsey, Wyoming, Oct. 20, 2020. The Soldiers ran through multiple scenarios, qualified on individual weapon systems and completed Situational Training Exercise lanes that consisted of ambushes. Fort Carson’s 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade provided assistance and helped the National Guard improve their tactics. The SFAB is a specialized unit with the core mission to conduct training, advising, assisting, enabling and accompanying operations with allied and partner nations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, Colorado Army National Guard)
First Colorado National Guard’s Infantry Company since World War II deploys to Middle East
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Jan. 28, 2021
The Colorado National Guard will host a private departure ceremony for approximately 70 Colorado Army National Guard warriors from Company A “Attack” 1st Battalion 157th Infantry Regiment (MTN) at the North Colorado Springs Readiness Center, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Friday, Jan. 29, 2020.
U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Jacob Geroux, contracting officer, 140th Mission Support Group, delivers the oath of enlistment to Skye Silva, during a virtual enlistment coordinated by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Alan Cabonilas, production recruiter, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, June 15, 2020. COANG recruiters continue to find ways to ensure interested community members can safely pursue a military career, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Alan Cabonilas)
Colorado Air National Guard recruiting team sets national record for accessions for second year
By | Nov. 25, 2020
In 2020, the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard recruiting team celebrated the highest number of accessions out of all Air National Guard wings in the nation, for the second year in a row.
Navy Rear Adm. William W.
A first: Army unit wins Omaha Trophy for strategic deterrence
By | Nov. 24, 2020
In 2020 style, a small formation of socially distanced and masked Soldiers gathered to celebrate the halcyon days of 2019 as the 100th Missile Defense Brigade was presented with the U.S. Strategic Command Omaha Trophy for Global Operations at Peterson Air Force Base Nov. 19.
A Soldier from Company A, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard provides security over watch during a training scenario in Guernsey, Wyoming, in preparation for a deployment, Oct. 20, 2020. The U.S. Army’s 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade, Fort Carson, Colorado, provided assistance and helped the National Guard improve their combat tactics during the exercise. The SFAB is a specialized unit with the core mission to conduct training, advise, assist, enable and accompany operations with allied and partner nations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph K. VonNida)
Colorado National Guard Infantry training builds partnerships for success
By | Nov. 12, 2020
Soldiers with Company A, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard spent more than a week in Guernsey, Wyoming, Oct. 15-25, 2020, in preparation for a deployment.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Teneyck Latourrette, pilot, and Senior Master Sgt. Michael Horner, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, Buckley Air Force Base, look over aircraft forms prior to take off during Operation Noble Defender, Sep. 21, 2020, 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador. North American Aerospace Defense Command conducted a dynamic force employment operation in the Arctic Sept. 20-23 to demonstrate NORAD’s air capability, readiness and will to defend the United States and Canada from competitors who continue to test our defenses. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Colorado Air National Guard fighter wing builds readiness with Canadian partners in NORAD exercise
By Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer, Colorado Air National Guard | Nov. 12, 2020
U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons from the Colorado Air National Guard's 140th Wing, based at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, participated in North American Aerospace Defense Command's Arctic dynamic force employment operations at 5 Wing, Goose Bay, Royal Canadian Air Force, Sept. 20-23, 2020.
Army Col. Mike Hatfield, the commander of the 100th Missile Defense Brigade, right, and Lt. Col. Michael Lane, the commander of the 117th Space Battalion, unfurl the colors of the 117th Space Battalion during a ceremony at Fort Carson, Colorado, to signify a command relationship change as the 117th is now assigned to the 100th for administrative and operational command and control. This change is part of a larger Colorado Army National Guard realignment to optimize the mission. (Photo by U.S. Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely, 100th Missile Defense Brigade Public Affairs Office)
117th Space Battalion shifts to 100th Missile Defense Brigade
By Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely | Oct. 21, 2020
Two of the more unique Army National Guard units aligned Oct. 1. The 100th Missile Defense Brigade was assigned administrative and operational command and control of the 117th Space Battalion from the 89th Troop Command as part of a larger change in the structure of the Colorado Army National Guard.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Matt Wessels and Senior Airman Mai Carson, phase dock crew chiefs assigned to the 140th Maintenance Group, Colorado Air National Guard, remove bolts on a 446 bulkhead during a 300 hour phase inspection at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., Sep. 13, 2020. F-16 phase inspections are not only vital to the mainenance of the jet but also for the developent of the various maintainers that are invloved, whether that be anyone from phase crew, weapons to fuels. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Michelle Alvarez)
Colorado Air National Guard maximizes maintenance of aging F-16 fighter jets
By Maj. Kinder Blacke | Oct. 21, 2020
The 140th Wing’s fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft is over 30-years-old, and the Airmen of the 140th Maintenance Group, Colorado Air National Guard are responsible for ensuring the fighter jets remain mission-capable to defend the nation 24/7.
Sgt. 1st Class Denise Ronneburg stands for a photo in front of La Immaculada Primary School in Orange Walk, Belize, circa 1996. (Photo provided)
Belizean upbringing shaped 100th Missile Defense Brigade Soldier’s life
By Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely | Oct. 20, 2020
Army Sgt. 1st Class Denise Ronneburg, the supply sergeant for the 100th Missile Defense Brigade, hails from Orange Walk and said her upbringing there provided the springboard to experiences that shaped her Army career and life.
The 100th Missile Defense Brigade (Ground-based Midcourse Defense) hosted a mobile training team from the Defense Nuclear Weapons School to teach Soldiers the basics of nuclear weapons to Soldiers from the 100th Missile Defense Brigade and Colorado Army National Guard at the brigade’s headquarters Sept. 14-17. Four instructors traveled to Colorado Springs to lead the Nuclear Weapons Orientation Course – an overview of the history and development of nuclear weapons, management of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, and the issues and challenges facing the program. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely)
100th Missile Defense Brigade hosts Nuclear Weapons Orientation Course Mobile Training Team
By Story by Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely | Sept. 29, 2020
The 100th Missile Defense Brigade (Ground-based Midcourse Defense) hosted a mobile training team from the Defense Nuclear Weapons School to teach Soldiers the basics of nuclear weapons at the brigade’s headquarters Sep. 14-17.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ronald Ebert, first sergeant, 140th Medical Group, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, and his wife Alison, show that they’re ‘fit to fight’ at the gym where they routinely exercise and lead workouts. They were instrumental in saving a fellow gym member’s life when he suffered a heart attack during a workout June 1, 2020. (Courtesy photo)
Airman’s military training helps save a life
By U.S. Air Force Maj. Kinder Blacke, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Aug. 28, 2020
It is every Airman’s responsibility to perform regular exercise routines in order to stay ‘fit to fight.’ Few have experienced a workout like U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ronald Ebert, first sergeant, 140th Mission Support Group, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, did June 1, 2020.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan will be the first woman to lead the Colorado National Guard as the 44th Adjutant General of Colorado. (stock photo)
Governor welcomes 44th adjutant general of Colorado at media availability
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Aug. 20, 2020
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis will welcome the 44th adjutant general of Colorado U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan at a media availability following the assumption of command ceremony at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Aug. 22, 2020.
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Colorado National Guard members take aim at annual state marksmanship match
By Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely, 100th Missile Defense Brigade Public Affairs Office | Aug. 14, 2020
Weapons proficiency is a core tenet of military service. Approximately 82 Colorado National Guard Soldiers and Airmen gathered to prove their skills in the seventh annual Adjutant General’s Marksmanship Match held throughout a sun-splashed summer weekend at Fort Carson, Colorado, July 31- Aug. 2, 2020.
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mike Holcomb (left), crew chief, 140th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard supervises the aircraft turn process during an Agile Combat Employment exercise at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, July 28, 2020. This ACE wartime scenario is designed to train maintenance, fuels, and security forces personnel to deploy with equipment to a simulated remote airstrip in order to rearm F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and then quickly depart. The ACE exercise aims to increase the operational wartime readiness in order to create a more flexible and adaptable air force while increasing lethality in combat. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Wing leads the way with agile combat employment
By Maj. Kinder Blacke, 140th Wing Public Affairs | Aug. 6, 2020
Airmen from the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard became the first ANG unit to successfully execute an agile combat employment exercise, July 28, 2020, at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.
An M1917 155mm Howitzer sits at Camp George West, Golden, Colorado, before it moves to the 168th Regional Training Institute of Excellence, Colorado Army National Guard, at Fort Carson, Colorado, in August 2020. The howitzer belonged to the 168th Field Artillery Regiment before it went through a reorganization to become a training center. (Colorado Army National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Kerry Davis, 89th Troop Command)
Pre-World War II piece of Colorado National Guard history comes to Fort Carson
By Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Aug. 4, 2020
Howitzers are not new to Fort Carson, Colorado, however a retired French-designed pre-World War II howitzer is. The 168th Regional Training Institute of Excellence, Colorado Army National Guard, at Fort Carson, is set to receive an M1917 155mm Howitzer in August.
Soldiers from the 947th Engineer Company, Colorado Army National Guard, work on a new shed for the Montrose readiness center, Montrose, Colorado, July 20, 2020. The engineer company built a structure that will be used for future training purposes and completed construction tasks for the readiness center as part of their two week annual training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Joe Labutka)
Colorado National Guard conducts troop movement in Colorado and Wyoming for annual training
By Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | July 31, 2020
The Colorado National Guard will conduct a troop movement in Colorado and Wyoming for annual training during the month of August.
Four members of the 140th Maintenance Group, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, develop a process to create Montana Masks to support the demand for personal protective equipment for fellow members who are supporting the community during the COVID-19 pandemic response. These members used their own 3-D printers and worked from home to create medical-grade masks and face shields to protect their fellow Airmen. (Photo courtesy Colorado Air National Guard)
Colorado Air National Guard fabrication specialists create masks during COVID-19 pandemic
By U.S. Air Force Maj. Kinder Blacke, 140th Wing Public Affairs | June 4, 2020
Members of the 140th Maintenance Group, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, used their military knowledge and skills to fabricate a solution.
Members of the Colorado Air National Guard 140th Wing 140th Force Support Squadron cook four meals per day to support mission essential Airmen at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado. COANG members renamed the 140th Wing dining facility “The COVID Café.” The team has been cooking and delivering hot meals to more than 90 Airmen since the end of March 2020, minimizing their risk of contracting COVID-19.
Colorado Air National Guard’s COVID Café sustains mission essential Airmen
By | May 14, 2020
Colorado Air National Guard Airmen at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, home to multiple no-fail missions, are making every effort to minimize mission critical members’ exposure to COVID-19.
Students wait to check into the emergency Basic Leader Course at the 168th Regional Training Institute Fort Carson, Colorado, April 30, 2020. The 168th is holding the BLC entirely online for the first time, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely)
Basic Leader Course goes virtual: 168th Regional Training Institute holds first online BLC
By U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | May 12, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted much change in military operations. The military is conducting many day-to-day functions electronically, including fundamental U.S. Army training, since force health protection is the Army’s top priority.
U.S. Army Pfc. Harold Taylor, signal support systems specialist, (left) and Spc. Jo England, communication specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, serve food to people experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 outbreak at the Denver Rescue Mission, Denver, Colorado, April 20, 2020. Members of the Colorado National Guard are serving in a multitude of roles at the direction of Gov. Jared Polis to help state and local authorities combat the coronavirus pandemic. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Soldiers save a life, serve their community in alternate role during coronavirus response
By Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | April 25, 2020
The Coronavirus pandemic of 2020 changed the way of life for most people worldwide. For members of the Colorado National Guard, activated by Gov. Jared Polis to assist with incident response efforts, their skills have been tested beyond their military assignments and training.
U.S. Air Force Maj. Jordan Wilkie, pilot,120th Fighter Squadron, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, prepares to launch an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft for a practice alert scramble at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora Colorado, March 31, 2020. Practice scrambles help pilots and crews develop essential skills and build proficiency throughout their training. While many members of the 140th Wing are currently under a stay-at-home order and teleworking due to the COVID-19 virus, there are still a number of essential employees who are keeping the mission going during this unprecedented time in our nation's history.
Wing alert mission exhibits strength amidst the war on COVID-19
By U.S. Air Force Maj. Kinder Blacke | April 22, 2020
Since Sept. 11, 2001, members of the Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Wing have been on alert, defending the homeland against airborne threats with their fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft staged at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.
.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Bryson Saunders, Colorado Air National Guard, 140th Wing, Operational Support Squadron technician, makes cloth masks to help protect Airmen in the war against COVID-19, April 14, 2020, at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado. Saunders is routinely in charge of ensuring aircrew flight equipment is serviceable and ready for F-16 Falcon pilots when needed. Now, he and others from his section, are creating approximately 500 protective masks for unit members until shipments of personal protective equipment are delivered to the squadron. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Colorado Air National Guard members sew masks in lieu of parachutes
By Maj. Kinder Blacke, 140th Wing Public Affairs | April 18, 2020
Airmen of the Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Wing Aircrew Flight Equipment shop at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, volunteered to sew over 500 masks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class John Boyle, 233rd Space Group security forces specialist, Colorado Air National Guard , Greeley, Colorado, gathers meals for people experiencing homelessness as a result of COVID-19 at a hotel in Denver, April 16, 2020. Colorado National Guard members have answered the call to serve in one of a multitude of task forces that have been deployed around the state in various capacities to support state and local officials to combat the coronavirus pandemic. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Colorado Air National Guard space warriors fight COVID-19
By Maj. Kinder Blacke, 140th Wing Public Affairs | April 17, 2020
Since Colorado Gov. Jared Polis activated the Colorado National Guard to join the fight against COVID-19 March 10, 2020, space warriors of the 233rd Space Group have been on the front lines, assisting civil authorities and augmenting critical space missions.
Members of the Colorado National Guard Biathlon Team hold a Colorado state flag at the completion of the 2020 National Guard Western Regional Biathlon Competition at Soldier Hollow, Utah, Jan. 6, 2020. The team expects to field a full roster of eight Soldiers to complete in the 2020 Chief National Guard Bureau Biathlon Championships March 1-5, 2020, at Soldier Hollow. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Everett Darrow, Alaska National Guard)
Colorado National Guard biathletes prepared for 2020 championship
By U.S. Army Lt. Col. Chip Hahn, Colorado National Guard | Feb. 20, 2020
The sport of biathlon demands physical fitness, shooting ability, mental toughness, and resilience. It combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting into a mentally demanding endurance sport over varying distances on a closed course. The object is to ski the course in the shortest time while hitting the most number of targets. If an athlete misses a target, a penalty lap of 150 meters is added to the athlete’s skiing distance which must be completed before the athlete can return to the race course.
U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Deborah Manzanares receives the colors of the 3rd Battalion, 157th Field Artillery Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard from 3rd Battalion Commander U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jason Stuchlik, during a change-of-responsibility ceremony at the Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado, Jan. 4, 2020. Manzanares assumed the role of battalion command sergeant major from U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Assaad, who will move on to serve as the command sergeant major of the 169th Fires Brigade. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely)
Colorado field artillery unit welcomes first female senior enlisted leader
By Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely, Colorado National Guard | Jan. 31, 2020
One of the Colorado Army National Guard’s most distinguished units made history again during a Jan. 4 change-of-responsibility ceremony as it welcomed a new senior enlisted leader.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Rebecca Toland, a non-destructive inspection technician from the 140th Maintenance Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, located at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, performs an inspection of the 446 bulkhead on a block-30 F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft Sept. 12, 2019. The 446 bulkhead is the aft fuselage structure of the F-16 that supports the tail structure and recent tests have indicated an increased amount of stress cracks in this area. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer)
Colorado National Guard F-16 fighter maintenance discovery changes U.S. Air Force training standard
By Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Jan. 10, 2020
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Wing Aircraft Structural Maintenance and Non-Destructive Inspection section made a significant finding on the F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft, which has led to a fleet-wide investigation into the matter.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura Clellan retires, after nearly 30 years of service, at the Chief Warrant Officer 5 David R. Carter Army Aviation Support Facility, Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, Nov. 3, 2019. Clellan experienced a lot of change throughout her career, which started in 1989 when very few women were in her military police company. She stated the military is now much more inclusive of women, sexual orientation, religion and race. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Ashley Low)
End of an era: saying goodbye to an accomplished Colorado Army National Guard general
By By Spc. Michael Hunnisett, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Dec. 27, 2019
Family, friends and fellow guard members gathered to recognize Clellan, one of their top leaders, at her retirement ceremony held at the Chief Warrant Officer 5 David R. Carter Army Aviation Support Facility, BAFB, Nov. 3, 2019.
U.S. Army Maj. Jeremiah VanDorsten stands with his family (from left, Andrea, Mae, Loyal and Isaac) atop the Great Wall of China near Beijing May 11, 2019. Vandorsten adopted his daughter, Lily, the following day. (Photo provided)
Raising arrows: Colorado National Guard Soldier and spouse blend family from near, far
By Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely, 100th Missile Defense Brigade Public Affairs Office | Nov. 27, 2019
When the VanDorsten family traveled to China in May 2019, they did all of the things that American tourists might do. They explored Beijing and visited cultural sites including the Great Wall and Buddhist temples.
Warrant Officer Candidate School Class 19-001 graduates during a ceremony Sept. 22, 2019, at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado. The Colorado National Guard partnered with the Wyoming National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserves to ensure the new warrant officers had the chance to complete the school. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado schoolhouse bridges warrant officer candidates into new leadership roles
By Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Nov. 22, 2019
The Colorado Army National Guard’s Warrant Officer Candidate School at the 168th Regional Training Institute at Fort Carson, Colorado, transforms Soldiers into warrant officer leaders at a training center at the base of the Rocky Mountains.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura L. Clellan, assistant adjutant general, Army, commander of the Colorado Army National Guard, right, hands over command to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Douglas A. Paul, left, Oct. 19, 2019, at Founders Field, Fort Carson, Colorado. Clellan has served as AAG-Army, since October 2017, and has been serving in the military since July 1989. Paul has been serving since January 1989, in various positions, such as the deputy commander for Special Operations Detachment Korea for the COARNG, operations officer for Special Operations Command - North, commander for the 5th Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), and many more. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, 89th Troop Command)
Colorado Assistant Adjutant General passes command to successor
By Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Oct. 25, 2019
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura L. Clellan, assistant adjutant general, Army, commander of the Colorado Army National Guard, passed the colors to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Douglas A. Paul Oct. 19, 2019, during a change of command ceremony at Founders Field, Fort Carson, Colorado.
The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mike Loh and retired Department of Military and Veteran Affairs Deputy Executive Director Mickey Hunt test the DMVA's new all-electric Chevy Bolts July 31, 2019, at the Joint Force Headquarters - Colorado complex in Centennial, Colorado. The transition from gas to electric vehicles is part of the State of Colorado’s effort to achieve sustainability and greener government. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson)
Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs transitions to zero emission vehicles
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Oct. 24, 2019
As part of Gov. Jared Polis’ initiatives related to Greening Government and resource conservation, the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is gradually replacing its traditional fleet of gas vehicles with zero emission vehicles.
The Colorado Army National Guard’s North American Aerospace Defense Command, more commonly known as NORAD, and U.S. Northern Command, hold a change of command ceremony between Lt. Col. Andrew Diederich, incoming commander, and Col. Scot J. Hartman, outgoing commander, at the Regional Training Institute at Fort Carson, Colorado, Sept. 7, 2019. (U.S. Army Colorado National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado National Guard NORAD-U.S. Northern Command Mobilization Element changes leadership
By | Oct. 4, 2019
The Colorado Army National Guard’s North American Aerospace Defense Command/U.S. Northern Command Mobilization Element held a change of command ceremony between U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew Diederich, incoming commander, and U.S. Army Col. Scot J. Hartman, outgoing commander, at the Regional Training Institute at Fort Carson Sept. 7, 2019.
The Soldiers with the 169th Field Artillery Brigade welcome Col. Scot J. Hartman, incoming commander, and say farewell to Col. Scott M. Sherman, outgoing commander, during a ceremony Sept. 7, 2019, at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center on Fort Carson, Colorado. Col. Robert B. Davis, commander, land component command, presided over the ceremony, and while it was a somber goodbye to Sherman, Davis said he was happy to welcome Hartman, who enlisted in 1989 . (U.S. Army Colorado National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado National Guard Soldiers welcome new brigade commander
By . Army Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, Colorado Army National Guard | Oct. 4, 2019
Soldiers with the Colorado Army National Guard’s 169th Field Artillery Brigade welcomed U.S. Army Col. Scot J. Hartman, incoming commander, and bid farewell to U.S. Army Col. Scott M. Sherman, outgoing commander, during a ceremony Sept. 7, 2019, at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center at Fort Carson. U.S. Army Col. Robert B. Davis, the commander, Land Component Command of the COARNG, and presiding officer over the ceremony, said Sherman transformed the 169th in preparation for future wars.
The Colorado Army National Guard’s Medical Command hosts a change of command Sept. 8, 2019, at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, for Lt. Col. Monty Torres, incoming commander, and Col. Kevin R. Scott, outgoing commander. The Soldiers of the Medical Command wished Scott well with a parting gift and welcomed Torres during the ceremony. Col. Robert B. Davis, commander, land component command, shared remarks and wished both leaders well in their new roles. Scott will continue to serve in the Medical Detachment at the chief of aviation medicine at Buckley Air Force Base. (U.S. Army Colorado National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado National Guard medical command welcomes new leader
By By U.S. Army Spc. John H. Peterson IV, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, Colorado Army National Guard | Oct. 4, 2019
The Medical Detachment, Medical Command of the Colorado Army National Guard, welcomed its new commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Monty Torres, at a change of command ceremony Sept. 8, 2019, in which Col. Kevin R. Scott relinquished command at Buckley AFB in Aurora.
Delegates from Colorado's state partners, Jordan and Slovenia, stand for a photo with Maj. Gen. Mike Loh, the adjutant general of Colorado, center, and other Colorado National Guard leaders at Joint Force Headquarters, Centennial, Colorado, Aug. 29, 2019. The delegations attended both Alpine Guard and the National Guard Association of the United States conference in Denver Aug. 28-Sept. 1, to introduce them to strategic planning and coordination that takes place at the organizational and national levels of the Department of Defense, in addition to showcasing the operational capabilities of the CONG. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely)
National Guard conference in Denver provides backdrop for Colorado’s partners Jordan and Slovenia
By By Staff Sgt. Zachary Sheely, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Oct. 4, 2019
Thousands of people attended the 141st General Conference and Exhibition of the National Guard Association of the United States, held at the Colorado Convention Center, in Denver, Colorado, Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 31 - Sept. 2, 2019. Among them, two delegations represented the Colorado National Guard’s partners from the Republic of Slovenia and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
The Warrant Officer Candidate School Class 19-001 participates in a hat removal ceremony Aug. 18, 2019, at the Regional Training Institute (RTI), Fort Carson, Colo. The Colorado National Guard WOCS practiced traditions dating back more than a decade for the CONG, where they hung a hat to signify the next step in their progress of the school. When the classes completed phase two, they removed the hat, which signified their preparedness to move to phase three at Camp Atterbury, In. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Warrant Officer Candidates remove hat, enter final phase
By Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Sept. 9, 2019
Warrant Officer Candidates of class 19-001 practiced rich traditions dating back more than a decade for the Colorado National Guard while proudly walking across a stage for a hat removal ceremony Aug. 18, 2019, at the 168th Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado.
Bulgarian Special Operations Forces and U.S. Army Green Berets assigned to 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) ride together aboard an MH-60M Blackhawk from the U.S. Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, June 14, 2019, as part of Trojan Footprint 19. Trojan Footprint is an annual U.S. Special Operations Command Europe-led exercise that incorporates Allied and partner special operations forces. This year's exercise brought together 1400 SOF from ten nations for training over land, sea and air across Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and the Black Sea. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Pena)
Trojan Footprint brings Green Beret Citizen Soldiers to Black Sea region
By Story by Sgt. 1st Class Whitney Hughes | Aug. 14, 2019
When most people imagine the U.S. Army National Guard, they might think of Soldiers responding to domestic disasters, Guardsmen cradling a child through waist-deep flood waters, or blazing through blizzards in HUMVEE’s. What isn’t typically seen are the pivotal roles Green Berets and Soldiers of the Army’s 19th and 20th Special Forces Groups (Airborne) play in special operations around the world. 
The 233d Space Group situates its vehicle for a field exercise.
What should a U.S. Space Force look like? (commentary)
By Lt. Col. Andrew Diederich | Aug. 13, 2019
Indeed, so much of what the global public relies upon for work and life depends on space
National Guard Arctic Interest Council members, left to right, U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Charles Zanoff, Colorado Army National Guard, U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Shawn Cloutheir, New York Air National Guard, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Gregory Day, Oregon Army National Guard, and, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. David E. Wood, Pennsylvania Army National Guard watch as a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientist in Boulder, Colorado, demonstrates equipment associated with surface sensors that monitor the rapidly changing Arctic climate. The NG AIC met in Golden, Colorado, June 25-27, 2019, to consult with local experts on environmental changes occurring in the Arctic and to chart a way forward for military operations in the region.
Colorado hosts Golden opportunity for the National Guard in the Arctic
By Elena O’Bryan, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Aug. 7, 2019
The National Guard Arctic Interest Council met in Golden, Colorado, June 25-27, 2019. The NG AIC consulted with local experts on environmental changes occurring at the North Pole and charted a way forward to “identify capability gaps and pursue potential sourcing solutions.”
Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Esteban, a crew chief with the 140th Maintenance Squadron, enjoys a hug from his children prior to deploying at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., April 21, 2019. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Eric Amidon)
140th Wing returns from a deployment in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, NATO in Afghanistan
By U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. John Rohrer | Aug. 2, 2019
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, Commander-in-Chief of the Colorado National Guard, will welcome home Aug. 4 2019, more than 300 Airmen from the 140th Wing who deployed for four months to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and the NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Cooper McCollum is a Colorado Air National Guardsman currently deployed to Afghanistan as part of the 140th Wing’s support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and the NATO’s Resolute Support mission. McCollum is a member of the 233d Space Group in Greeley, Colorado.
Colorado Air National Guard member observes Pride Month in Afghanistan
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Aug. 2, 2019
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Cooper McCollum is currently deployed to Afghanistan with the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and the NATO’s Resolute Support mission. He observed this years Pride Month while deployed in Afghanistan.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dillon Leighton, client systems technician, Colorado Air National Guard, Staff Sgt. Shawn Dixon, radio frequency transmission technician assigned to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia Air National Guard and Staff Sgt. Dayton Applebery, cyber transport technician assigned to the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard train on communication equipment at Amari Air Base, Estonia, during Saber Strike 18, June 14, 2018. Saber Strike 18 is the eighth iteration of the long-standing U.S. Army Europe-led cooperative training exercise designed to enhance interoperability among allies and regional partners.
Guardsmen, Reservists, active Airmen at Buckley AFB pioneer IT advancement
By Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Bobbie Reynolds, 140th Wing Public Affairs | July 26, 2019
In October, 2018, Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora, Colorado, kicked off EITaaS, a pilot program that transfers responsibility of basic networking and day-to-day IT services to commercial vendors.
U.S. Army Capt. Jennifer Staton, a space operations officer, Sgt. Cassandra Quinones and Pfc. Miranda Yost, geospatial engineers, use mapping software during Vigilant Guard 2014, a multi-state large-scale, natural disaster emergency response exercise, hosted by the Kansas National Guard in Salina, Kansas, Aug. 4-7, 2014. The Soldiers are part of Army Space Support Team-30, 117th Space Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard.
Colorado National Guard space team deploys to support warfighters in Southwest Asia
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson | July 25, 2019
The Colorado National Guard will host a departure ceremony for Army Space Support Team-26, comprised of Soldiers from the 1158th Space Support Company, 117th Space Battalion, at the Northern Colorado Springs Readiness Center, July 26, 2019, beginning at 2 p.m.
The Colorado National Guard’s 117th Space Battalion Armory will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the 117th Space Battalion Readiness Center on July 19 at 10 a.m. at Fort Carson.
Colorado National Guard breaks ground on 117th Space Battalion Readiness Center at Fort Carson
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson | July 16, 2019
The Colorado National Guard’s 117th Space Battalion Armory will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the 117th Space Battalion Readiness Center on July 19 at 10 a.m. at Fort Carson.
The Colorado National Guard’s Weapons of Mass Destruction-8th Civil Support Team will host elected officials and community partners at a groundbreaking ceremony for a Vehicle Ready Bay Building, July 12, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.
Colorado National Guard breaks ground on 8th Civil Support Team building at Buckley Air Force Base
By Elena O'Bryan | July 11, 2019
The Colorado National Guard’s Weapons of Mass Destruction-8th Civil Support Team will host elected officials and community partners at a groundbreaking ceremony for a Vehicle Ready Bay Building, July 12, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Hannah Fell, 140th Wing Medical Group, is shown the inside of a Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army tank by an instructor with the Royal Jordanian Air Force. Members of the Colorado Air National Guard spent the day touring King Abdullah II Air Base and its ground defense equipment in Az Zarga, Jordan, April 16, 2019. The meeting between Jordanians and senior enlisted leaders aimed to foster strong relationships between forces as well as enhance Jordanian enlisted policy and practices. Jordan and Colorado have been partners through the National Guard State Partnership Program since 2004. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson)
Colorado and Jordan look to each other for examples of leadership development
By Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson | July 2, 2019
The Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army hosted eight members of the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard April 11-19, 2019, as part of Colorado’s state partnership with Jordan, which dates to 2004.
U.S. Soldiers of Special Operations Detachment-Korea, a Colorado Army National Guard unit, are welcomed home after serving nine months in Afghanistan, at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum in Denver, Colo., Dec. 21, 2014. During their deployment, SOD-K personnel assisted in the International Security Assistance Force campaign to transition U.S./NATO efforts to a functionally based Security Force Assistance mission. SOD-K is the last Colorado National Guard unit deployed in support of operations Afghanistan. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. Cheresa D. Clark/Released)
Colorado National Guard Soldiers return from deployment to the Middle East
By Elena O'Bryan | June 27, 2019
The Colorado National Guard will welcome home about 40 Soldiers from Special Operations Detachment-Korea during a ceremony June 28, 2019, at 2 p.m., at the Colorado Army National Guard’s Regional Training Institute, Fort Carson, Colorado.
Spc. Roberto Terrazas, of the 220th Military Police Company, out of Colorado, maintains a checkpoint during Arctic Eagle 2018 at the Donnelly Training Area outside of Fort Greely, Alaska Feb. 28, 2018. The National Guard, in partnership with active duty forces, local, state and federal agencies, can provide capabilities for homeland security and emergency response in the extreme cold-weather conditions of the Arctic region.
Colorado National Guard hosts National Guard Arctic Interest Council
By Elena O’Bryan | June 21, 2019
The Colorado National Guard will host the National Guard Arctic Interest Council June 25-27, 2019, in Golden, Colorado.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. James Reeman is the commander of the 138th Space Control Squadron, part of the 233rd Space Group, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard. The newly minted squadron, which received federal recognition May 8, 2019, will be formally activated in a ceremony June 1, 2019, at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
New National Guard space control squadron stands up
By Capt. Cheresa Clark | May 30, 2019
The Colorado National Guard will conduct a stand up ceremony at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 1 at 1 p.m. to recognize the 138th Space Control Squadron as the first new unit to expand U.S. military presence into the space domain since the reestablishment of U.S. Space Command was announced.
Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Esteban, a crew chief with the 140th Maintenance Squadron, enjoys a hug from his children prior to deploying at Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., April 21, 2019. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Eric Amidon)
140th Wing deploys to Afghanistan in support of NATO and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel
By Capt. Cheresa Clark | May 23, 2019
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Wing based at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, deployed more than 300 Airmen to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and the NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan.
U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Jose Alfaro, 140th Wing Security Forces, Colorado Air National Guard, escorts members of the Royal Jordanian Air Force on a tour of the Chief Warrant Officer 5 Dave Carter Army Aviation Support Facility at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Feb. 5, 2019. The meeting between Jordanians and senior enlisted leaders aimed to foster strong relationships between forces as well as enhance Jordanian enlisted policy and practices. Jordan and Colorado have been partners since 2004. (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Austin Harvill)
Partnership builds trusted frontline leaders in Colorado, Jordan
By Staff Sgt. Austin Harvill | May 16, 2019
Royal Jordanian Air Force senior enlisted leaders arrived at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, Feb. 4, 2019, for a Non-commissoned Officer National Guard State Partnership Program event.
Command Sgt. Maj. Russell A. Hamilton retires after more than 33 years of service April 6, 2019, during a ceremony at the Peterson Air and Space Museum, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Hamilton entered active duty July 25, 1986, and served in various positions including an armored crewman, tank commander, platoon sergeant and many more on active duty before he transferred to the Colorado Army National Guard Active Guard and Reserve program. During his time with the COARNG, he served in the 100th Missile Defense Brigade (Ground-based Midcourse Defense) as an element crewmember, brigade master evaluator and other positions before assuming responsibility as the state command sergeant major of the COARNG. Hamilton looks forward to retirement with his wife, Deatra and his son, daughter and grandson. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado Army National Guard senior enlisted leader retires with more than 33 years of service
By Sgt. 1st Class Aleah Castrejon, 104th Public Affairs Detachment, Colorado Army National Guard | May 8, 2019
After more than 33 years of service, U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Russell A. Hamilton retired April 6, 2019, at a ceremony at the Peterson Air and Space Museum, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado. He entered active duty July 25, 1986, and served in various positions including an armored crewman, tank commander, platoon sergeant, and many more before he transferred to the COARNG Active Guard and Reserve program.
U.S. Army Spc. Jake Beehler, Company D, 3rd Battalion, 140th Aviation Regiment (center) finishes the 2019 Colorado National Guard Best Warrior Competition with U.S. Air Force Airmen 1st Class Corbin Andersen (left) and Hanna Felice, 140th Wing Security Forces Squadron, April 14, 2019, Fort Carson, Colorado Springs. The competitors endured four days of mental and physical challenges for the chance at being named the best.
Colorado Army and Air National Guard split state Best Warrior Competition
By Sgt. Christopher Churilla | May 3, 2019
Six Airmen and eight Soldiers of the Colorado National Guard competed in the 2019 Best Warrior Competition at Fort Carson, Colorado, April 11-14, 2019.
After 26 years of military service, Master Sgt. Gregory Elrod retires from the Colorado Air National Guard, Feb. 1, 2019, for a follow-on career as a management officer in the U.S. Foreign Service. While in the military, Elrod served in the U.S. Navy, Navy Reserves, and the Air National Guard. He retired from the Security Forces career field, most recently serving as a personnel noncommissioned officer in the force management section of the Colorado National Guard's Joint Staff. (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Maj. Darin Overstreet)
A life of service: From state and national to foreign service
By Maj. Darin Overstreet, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | April 30, 2019
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Gregory Elrod was the manager for the Colorado National Guard’s Air Active Guard and Reserve program, where he managed administration and procedures for a full-time force of more than 1,600 personnel. He was responsible for policy development, program oversight and the daily human resources operations for the AGR force.
A Colorado National Guard Small Unit Support Vehicle used by Snow Response Teams to support domestic operations during blizzard, flood, etc., responses. The SUSVs are also used by Infantry troops, Special Forces teams, etc., for traversing challenging terrain during overseas contingency operations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Michael Hunnisett)
Colorado National Guard rescues motorists from a bomb cyclone
By Staff Sgt. Joseph K. VonNida, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | April 16, 2019
A bomb cyclone is a phenomenon in which barometric pressure drops rapidly, typically creating hurricane force winds and heavy precipitation.
Royal Jordanian Air Force 1st Sgt. Shhab Almadadha, weapons technician, and Warrant Officer Mahmoud Alsaleh, aircraft structural technician, at left and right, both assigned to the Royal Jordanian Air Force at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, Azraq, Jordan, discuss structural maintenance procedures with U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Steve Frederick, structural aircraft maintenance supervisor, Colorado Air National Guard, while looking at structural components in the engine bay of an F-16 Fighting Falcon at Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora, Colorado, March 6, 2019. The RJAF visit focused on troubleshooting methods, equipment used in each unit, and work protocols within the safety and maintenance units of both forces. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Bobbie Reynolds)
Caffeine, wrenches strengthen Jordan-Colorado partnership
By Staff Sgt. Bobbie Reynolds, 140th Wing Public Affairs, Colorado Air National Guard | March 29, 2019
Building relationships by sharing different cultural experiences is what makes the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program so special. Since 2004, the Colorado National Guard and the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army have been traveling back and forth, learning about each other’s culture, while strengthening interoperability within each of the military forces through the exchange of information and best practices.
U.S. Veterans Affairs Western Colorado Health Care System Director Michael T. Kilmer, left, and the Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael Loh review the layout of the new Western Region One Source Dec. 20, 2019, in Grand Junction, Colorado. The former Colorado National Guard armory is the new home of the Western Region One Source. The facility will help connect Western Slope service members, veterans, and their families with service providers. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Elena O’Bryan)
Colorado helps Western Slope veterans, families live grand
By Elena O'Bryan, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Feb. 28, 2019
A vacant armory, where several Colorado National Guard units trained for warfight and homeland defense missions between 1959 and 2015, stands in the heart of the Grand Valley on Colorado’s Western Slope.
U.S. Army Spc. Tristan Ivkov, Infantryman, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry (Mountain), Colorado Army National Guard identifies a target during the International Sniper Competition at Fort Benning, Georgia, in October 2018. (Photo courtesy Josaphat Orozco photography)
Calm, cool, collected, Colorado National Guard snipers draw from heritage to create legacy
By By Staff Sgt. Joseph K VonNida, Colorado National Guard | Jan. 25, 2019
Throughout history, snipers have had two basic roles: deliver long range precision direct fire and collect battlefield information. Their heritage can be traced to the Revolutionary War.
A U.S. Air Force Airman, assigned to the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, exchanges information with members of the Royal Jordanian Air Force about non-commissioned officer roles and leadership at Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, March 12-16, 2018. The purpose of this visit was to exchange NCO development ideas and concepts, share how we develop our NCOs, and understand how Jordan develops their enlisted leaders.” (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Staff. Sgt. Bobbie Reynolds)
Colorado-Jordan future leaders focus on human capital development
By Capt. Cheresa D. Clark, Colorado National Guard Public Affairs | Nov. 8, 2018
In an effort to understand these practical differences and grow as partners, company-grade officers from the Colorado National Guard and JAF partnered for the first time in January 2018, in Colorado, and in August 2018, in Jordan. Together, they discussed the similarities and differences in leadership style, and learned practices and strategies from each other, to improve as leaders.
The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mike Loh and Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Joseph A. Bauldry prepare to pin the Green Beret’s with awards during a valor awards ceremony at McMahon Auditorium at Fort Carson, Colo., Sept. 16, 2018, for Company B, 5th Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne). (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Aleah M. Castrejon)
Colorado National Guard Green Berets receive awards for valor
By Sgt. Christopher Churilla, 104th Public Affairs Detachment | Nov. 4, 2018
Colorado National Guard leaders presented awards to Company B, 5th Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) members for valor Sept. 16, 2018.
Scramble at Phan Rang
Colorado Air National Guard celebrates 95 years of service to state and nation
By Maj. Kinder Blacke | Oct. 17, 2018
Photo By Staff Sgt. Joseph Vonnida | “Scramble at Phan Rang” depicts the 120th Fighter Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, in South Vietnam during the second Viet Cong offensive in 1968. (National Guard Heritage painting by William S. Phillips)
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bill Woods, senior enlisted leader of the Colorado National Guard, and a team of Colorado Army National Guard noncommissioned officers, meet with a group of Jordanian Army NCOs at the 20th Royal Artillery Battalion headquarters near Amman, Jordan, July 22, 2018. The COARNG NCO team visited Jordan July 20-27 as part of the National Guard's State Partnership Program to contribute to the development of the JAF NCO guide.
Fortifying the Backbone
By Staff Sgt. Zach Sheely | Aug. 29, 2018
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bill Woods, senior enlisted leader of the Colorado National Guard, and a team of Colorado Army National Guard noncommissioned officers, meet with a group of Jordanian Army NCOs at the 20th Royal Artillery Battalion headquarters near Amman, Jordan, July 22, 2018. The COARNG NCO team visited Jordan July 20-27 as part of the National Guard's State Partnership Program to contribute to the development of the JAF NCO guide.
A CH-47 Chinook helicopter from 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, airlifts an M777 105mm Howitzer from Camp Grayling, Michigan, to an area in the vicinity of the Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Michigan, Aug. 10, 2018. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Warren W. Wright Jr., 104th Public Affairs Detachment)
National Guard aviators converge at Northern Strike 18 for multinational experience
By Staff Sgt. Warren W. Wright Jr. | Aug. 27, 2018
​A CH-47 Chinook helicopter from 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, airlifts an M777 105mm Howitzer from Camp Grayling, Michigan, to an area in the vicinity of the Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Michigan, Aug. 10, 2018.
The Colorado National Guard’s Brigade Equal Opportunity Advisors and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators gathered at Joint Force Headquarters in Centennial on July 21 to discuss numerous sexual assault and equal opportunity policy changes within the Depa
Strengthening the force through inclusion and respect
By Staff Sgt. Joseph K. VonNida | Aug. 17, 2018
​The Colorado National Guard's Equal Opportunity Advisers and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators gathered at Joint Force Headquarters in Centennial, Colorado, July 21, 2018, to discuss numerous sexual assault and equal opportunity policy changes within the Department of Defense. Some of the biggest changes included cyber misconduct and the inclusion of the Reserve component in new DOD policies.
Soldiers with 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, work alongside members of the Royal Jordanian Air Force to for air-ground integration best practices and to strengthen their relationship.
Royal Jordanian Air Force receives Black Hawk training in the US
By Lt. Col. Nicole David | Aug. 17, 2018
​A Colorado Army National Guard UH-60 Black hawk helicopter takes off from the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Alpena, Mich., August 8, 2018. Soldiers from the 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Colorado Army National Guard, worked alongside members of the Royal Jordanian Air Force to share air-ground integration best practices and to strengthen their relationship during Exercise Northern Strike 18
​U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Heflin, left, Colorado Army National Guard telecommunications manager, and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students and managers from Denver North High School display their certificates of appreciation from the U.S. Air Force Association 2017 CyberPatriot, National Youth Cyber Defense competition.
Colo. National Guard mentors future cyber warriors
By Capt. Ronald Bailey | April 25, 2017
​U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Heflin, left, Colorado Army National Guard telecommunications manager, and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students and managers from Denver North High School display their certificates of appreciation from the U.S. Air Force Association 2017 CyberPatriot, National Youth Cyber Defense competition.
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