Company B, 777th Aviation Support Company Chronological History

HARNG Reorganization ’86

By Capt. Bud Bowles, HARNG

The Hawaii Army National Guard (HARNG) will start a major reorganization on September 30, 1986. The reorganization will affect the 29th Infantry Brigade (29th Inf Bde), changing it from a divisional Brigade to a Separate Infantry Brigade (SIB). The Headquarters Installation Command (HIC) will become a troop command.

The reorganization means an eventual gain of 250 positions which will increase the Guard’s strength from about 4,000 to 4,250 members, according to Maj. Claude Ishida, Readiness Officer, HARNG.

The strength of the 29th Bde will jump from its current membership of 2123 to 3206 members. The HIC membership will drop from 1512 to 689 members.

The 29th Inf Bde will reorganize into 29th SIB on September 30, 1986, retaining the Headquarters, Headquarters Company (HHC), two infantry battalions (plus one Army Reserve battalion), and the field artillery battalion. The brigade will gain a support battalion, an engineer company, a ground calvary troop and a signal detachment. All brigade units with the exception of the signal detachment will come from existing HARNG units.

The balance of HIC units will reorganize into the Troop Command on October 2, 1986. The major revision will be the activation of the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter), comprised of aviation elements of the 1293rd Aviation Company and Troop E.

The HIC Troop Command will then consist of the 297th Supply and Service Battalion, the 193rd Aviation Battalion, and the 298th Engineer Detachment.

Headquarters State Area Command (HQ STARC) will also be affected by the reorganization. Positions in Detachment I, HQ STARC, and several augmentation will be reallocated to sectioins in HQ STARC.

The reorganization will be coordinated by the HARNG. 29th Inf Bde, reorganizational transition committee, which will be responsible for preparing, updating, and executing the HARNG action plan.

The following are wire diagrams of the reorganization.

– 1986 April – June Pūpūkahi pp. 6

New colors for support and aviation battalions

A ceremony was held November 1, 1986, at 29th Brigade Headquarters to commemorate the end of a major reorganization of the Hawaii Army National Guard (HARNG).

The reorganization affected the two major elements. The 29th Infantry Brigade will change from a divisional brigade to a Separate Infantry Brigade (SIB). The Headquarters Installation Command (HIC) will become a Troop Command.

The ceremony highlighted the activation of two new units: the 29th Support Battalion and the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter). A platoon of soldiers from the Hawaii Army National Guard’s 29th Brigade and a platoon from the Troop Command participated in the ceremony.

The colors for the 159th Maintenance Battalion were retired by Lum and Silva. That unit had been reorganized to become the 29th Support Battalion. The new colors for the 29th Support Battalion were uncased.

Also uncased by State Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Alexis T. Lum and Col. Gerald Silva, Chief of Staff and commander of troops during the ceremony, were the colors for the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter), a new unit formed through the reorganization of existing aviation elements.

The reorganization means that the HARNG will gain 250 positions, increasing the Guard’s authorized strength from about 4,000 to 4,250 members. The strength of the HARNG is now at 86.5 percent.

The strength of the 29th Brigade will jump from 2,123 to 3,206 members, and the brigade will gain a support battalion, an engineer company, a ground cavalry troop and a signal detachment. Troop Command membership will drop from 1,512 to 689 members, with the major revision being the activation of the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter). The Headquarters Company Aviation Detachment for the 29th Brigade will be stationed at Hilo.

– 1986 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Troop E’s “Blues” Take Their Last Rides Together as an Aviation Unit

More than 30 members of the Hawaii Army National Guard’s (HARNG) prestigious “Blues,” of Troop E, 19th Cavalry, and more than 300 other members of the Troop E took their last rides together Sept. 20 as an aviation unit.

Family members were offered a rare opportunity to take a ride in the flight simulator at Wheeler.

The “Blues” then packed their equipment for the move to their new armory at Diamond Head.

Due to a reorganization, the “Blues,” an air reconnaissance unit, became a ground reconnaissance unit under the 29th Separate Infantry Brigade, HARNG.

The aviators, crew mechanics and support personnel from Troop E and the 1293rd Aviation Detachment will join to become the 1st Aviation Battalion in the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter).

The Headquarters, Headquarters Company Aviation Detachment for the 29th Brigade will be stationed at Hilo.

“Pound for pound, they are probably the best soldiers in the Army Guard today,” said Lt. Col. Orlan L. Peterson, battalion commander, of the “Blues.” Peterson commanded the aviation unit and the combat engineers under the previous structure.

“The Brigade is fortunate to get them as an element intact. I’d fight with them anywhere, anytime.”

With the reorganization, the “Blues” became a company-sized unit instead of a troop. As ground cavalry, they would perform reconnaissance and serve as a covering force for the brigade in wheeled vehicles instead of aircraft. The combat engineers would also be attached to the 29th Brigade.

The reorganization would strengthen HARNG’s aviation capability, according to the aviators.

“Our scope of training is a lot larger than before,” said Capt. Clifford Flores, aviator. “With an aviation unit as a corps, we have new tactics, new doctrines, new theaters and scenarios.”

“This strengthens the aviation program and gives us opportunities for new experiences,” said Lt. Col. Peterson. “It’s a different mission. We’ve been an air cavalry troop for years.” Peterson said, however, that the change would force the aviation unit to give up its troop-carrying capability. “Though we are giving up 23 UH-1 Hueys, we are getting an added attack capability for the Pacific Area.”

Under the new plan, the unit would have six Hueys and be authorized 21 Cobra gunships (15 actual) and 21 OH-58 observation helicopters.

“I’m looking forward to it,” said Maj. Gary M. Hara, training officer. “By going to an attack battalion, the training will be more difficult for the aviators. All Huey drivers will have to be qualified in the OH-58s and Cobras. The training involved a lot more flying hours, additional special mission tasks, and the requirement to learn aerial gunnery and armament systems.”

Hara also expressed high praise for the “Blues,” but regretted that there were not enough resources in the inventory to sustain both an attack battalion and an armored cavalry unit.

“It takes a special breed of person to jump out of a helicopter on a piece of rope,” said Hara. “They’re a proud bunch and will become a very important element of the 29th Infantry Brigade.”

Story and photo by Capt. Bud Bowles, HQ, STARC, HARNG.

– 1986 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 5

The HIC was also reorganized into a headquarters organization called the Troop Command. It now commands the 297th Supply and Service Battalion and the 193rd Aviation Battalion

– 1987 Annual Report pp. 7

On October 2, 1987, the Hawaii Army National Guard reorganized into the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack), formed from assets of the lift company and air cavalry troop. The attack helicopter battalion is equipped primarily with heavily armed AH-1S Cobra gunships. The 29th Infantry Brigade aviation section was also reorganized.

– 1987 Annual Report pp. 8

Spec. 4 Marthy A.L. LaBenz now calls HQ & Service Company, 193rd Aviation Bn. (Atk. Hel.) home. She serves as the unit’s administrative specialist. Her diverse interests include motorcross and dirtbike riding, playing volleyball, football, and reading, especially psychology material.

– 1987 January – March Pūpūkahi pp. 10

Bacon sisters to benefit from Guard enlistment

The Hawaii Army National Guard can be a place to strengthen family ties.

Capt. James D.H. Bacon of the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter), Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) recently gave the oath of enlistment to his two younger sisters, 19-year-old Anna Mahealani and 17-year-old Mara Leihulumamo.

Pfc. Anna Bacon graduated from Kamehameha Schools in May 1985. She is presently a sophomore at the U niversity of Hawaii (UH) at Manoa. Anna’s goal is to graduate with a business administration degree.

Private I Mara Bacon is a June 1987 graduate from the Kamehameha Schools. She also is enrolled at the UH, with future plans as an elementary school teacher. She is the recipient of the following scholarships: Allen E Bailey Memorial, Japanese Chamber of Commerce, and Lunalilo Trust.

Anna and Mara will join Company A, 29th Support Battalion, 29th Infantry Brigade (Separate), as clerk-typists upon returning from basic and advance training at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina, in Spring 1988.

It was through the encouragement of big brother, Capt. James Bacon (older than Mara by 17 years), that Anna and Mara enlisted. He advised them to take advantage of the education benefits (military and civilian /tuition waiver) of Jommg the Hawaii Army National Guard.

Capt. Bacon noted that today, “Between the better training, higher pay, increased privileges, and educational benefits, the younger soldier is receiving more that I did as a lieutenant.”

– 1987 July-September Pūpūkahi pp. 3

Spec. 4 Kenneth Kawaauhau is a clerk typist. speciali1ing in computer~. He still maintains an evening job with City Bank. He still finds time to learn and dance Hawa11an hula for Hula Halau O Kae hukai. One weekend a month he serves as a unit clerk for the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack Helicopter).

– 1987 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 10

The 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation performed its annual training at Wheeler AFB on Oahu in August.

– 1988 Annual Report pp. 8

Mabe and McCall win WESTCOM award

Amid stiff competition from the Guam Army National Guard and Hawaii Army Reserve, Staff Sgt. Kurtis T. Mabe and Spec. 4 Anthony R. McCall, the Hawaii Army National Guard Noncommissioned Officer (HIARNG, NCO) and Soldier of the Year 1988, have won the U.S. Army Western Command (WESTCOM) Reserve Component NCO and Soldier of the Year Awards.

The soldiers faced a stern HIARNG sergeant majors board in January and were selected to represent the Hawaii Army National Guard in the WESTCOM competition. In February, Staff Sgt. Kurtis Mabe and Spec. 4 Anthony McCall stood before a second board, with active and reserve component sergeant majors, to win the WESTCOM award

This is the second year of the WESTCOM competition, which was established to give special recognition to the Reserve Component enlisted personnel who have demonstrated outstanding military excellence and achievements in performing their duties. Last year Hawaii beat out Guam’s respresentatives.

The nominees were judged on:

• Personnel appearance and self confidence
• Military bearing
• Oral expression and conversational skill
• Military achievements
• Self improvements
• Knowledge of world affairs
• General military knowledge

NCO of the Year Staff Sgt. Kurtis Mabe is Headquarters and Service Company, 193rd Aviation Battalion’s (HSC, 193rd Avn. Bn.) full-time training NCO and assistant operations sergeant. He said, “I always wanted to join the Guard and make it a career.” His flight plan was put into action when he enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard IO years ago as a senior at Kaimu_ki High School, March 1968.

His aviation dreams were nurtured at the high school’s Civil Air Patrol program, where he started flying and he now has a private pilot’s license.

Sgt. Mabe spent the first two years of his career as a member of Troop E’s elite scout team, “the blues.” The opportunity for a full-time position in the Guard led Mabe to join the Active Guard/ Reserve (AGR) program.

His accomplishments include a Flight Operations Coordinator Course distinguished graduate award and honor graduate of the U.S. Army Standard ized COMSEC Custodian Course. He has received the Army Achievement Award, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (2nd Device), Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Hawaii National Guard State Active Duty Ribbon, Expert Rifle (M 16) Badge, and Expert Grenade Launcher (M203) Badge.

In addition to his military prowess, he enjoys fishing, hiking, rifle marksmenship, and skiing, as well as flying.

Sgt. Mabe and his wife of two years, Susan, reside in the west Honolulu area.

Soldier of the Year Spec. 4 Anthony McCall, also a member of the HSC. 193rd Avn. Bn., is the unit’s NuclearBiological-Chemical Specialist (NBC). He’s been in the Guard since his senior year at Castle High School. in June 1984

Specialist McCall provides invaluable NBC training of soldiers and maintenance of their equipment. The training includes soldiers outside of the battalion. He has received much praise for his instructional techniques and outstanding presentations. His NBC proficiency has enabled the unit to achieve higher readiness levels.

He said. “I joined the Guard for its educational benefits and to serve my state and country. The Guard has given me a direction in life and helped me mature.” When he joined the unit he, “Was a private filling an NCO’s shoes.”

McCall’s awards include the Army Service Ribbon. Hawaii National Guard State Active Duty Ribbon, Expert Hand Grenade Badge, and Expert Rifle (M 16) Badge.

He is employed full-time at the Department of Social Services and Housing as a counselor for abused children at the Children’s Emergency Center.

Additionally, he is part owner and vice president of Theater Design and Productions, Inc. McCall’s interest in theatrical staging was developed during his tenure at Kaneohe’s Castle High School with Sgt. 1st Class Ronald E. Bright (111th Army Band. HIARNGpercussion leader and school drama teacher). He provided sound and staging assistance during the Department of Defense’s Christmas concert senes.

Staff Sgt. Kurtis Mabe and Spec. 4 Anthony McCall were presented the Hawaii National Guard Commendation Medal and the NCO/ Soldierofthe Year trophies by State Command Sgt. Maj. William S. Duncan, Jr., at ceremonies held at the , 193rd Avn. Bn. headquarters. Wh~eler Air Force Base. The runner-ups Platoon Sgt. Michael T. Sato, Company C. 29th Support Battalion and Pfc. Robert K. Ng, 487th Field Artillery Battalion. each received the Army Achievement Medal.

Mabe and McCall will also receive a $500 U.S. Savings Bond and the Army Commendation Medal from WESTCOM.

The department salutes all the participants and encourages their continued professionalism and pride in the Hawaii Army National Guard.

By Stephen M. Lum

– 1988 January – March Pūpūkahi pp. 3

The Hawaii Army National Guard’s aviation units included the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section, the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack), and the 29th Infantry Brigade aviation section.

– 1989 Annual Report pp. 8

The 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, performed its annual training at Keaukaha Military Reservation and at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii. from July 15-29, 1989. The unit conducted aerial gunnery training, combat support operations. and aviator and air crew training

– 1989 Annual Report pp. 10

Craig is a senior clerk typist with the Troop. She transferred from the Alabama Army Guard with her husband, Sgt. Donald Craig, Company C. 193rd Aviation BattaIion. They have a daughter, Erica, age 3

– 1989 January – March Pūpūkahi pp. 6

Nitta is an aircraft mechanic at the Army Aviation Support Facility No. I. and drill-status crewchief for Company A, I st Battalion, 193rd Aviation. He is active in the community and participates in sports. His associations include the Hawaii Toastmasters, Young Buddhist Association, and Hawaii Travel Bureau. Tennis, golf, deep sea fishing and shorecasting keep his sports calendar filled.

– 1989 July – September Pūpūkahi pp. 6

Ishii is a military personnel clerk Monday through Friday. On drill weekends, he is a personnel administration specialist at Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation. He is an avid sports participant who enjoys surfing, biking, running marathons, and scuba diving.

– 1989 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 6

The Hawaii Army National Guard’s aviation units included the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section, the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack), and the recently activated 451st Aviation Detachment. Hawaii Army National Guard’s aircraft inventory included 15 AH-1S Cobra attack helicopters, 6 UH-1H Huey utility helicopters, 21 OH-58A Kiowa Scout helicopters, and a U-21D Ute, twin-engine, fixedwinged aircraft.

– 1990 Annual Report pp. 8

The 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, performed its annual training at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii, from July 21 to Aug. 4, 1990. The unit conducted aerial gunnery training, combat support operations, and aviator and aircrew training.

– 1990 Annual Report pp. 10

Spec. Eugenia (Tina) S. Gansit recently joined the full-time staff of Headquarters Service Company, 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation as unit armorer. Her interests include reading, boogie boarding and a variety of sports.

– 1990 July – September Pūpūkahi pp. 9

The aviation division is comprised of the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section, 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack), and 451st Aviation Detachment, Combat Enhancing Capability Aviation Team (CECAT).

– 1991 Annual Report pp. 8

The 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, conducted its annual training at Wheeler Air Force Base and Pohakuloa Training Area, July 20-Aug. 3. The unit conducted aerial gunnery training, combat support operations and aviator and aircrew training.

– 1991 Annual Report pp. 10

Hawaii Guard soldiers compete for Pacific reserve component honors

By Michelle Al-Chang

McKinley High School graduates have captured the Hawaii Army National Guard’s highest enlisted honors this year. Sgt. Shawn H. Tsuha of Troop E (Ground), 19th Cavalry, was selected as the HIARNG Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Hawaii Guard’s Soldier of the Year is Spec. Steven P.K. Higa of Headquarters Service Company, 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation.

Both soldiers will compete with Guard and U.S. Army Reserve soldiers from Hawaii, Alaska and Guam for the U.S. Army Pacific Command Reserve Component NCO and Soldier of the Year in April

. . .

Higa, also born in Honolulu, was a high school senior when he enlisted in the Guard in 1986. He attended basic training at Fort Knox, Ky., and completed aviation operations training at Fort Rucker, Ala.

He is a full-time aviation operations specialist at the Guard’s Army Aviation :support Facility #1, Wheeler Air Force Base. Higa is responsible for all aviator flight records and other duties associated with flight operations. His future goals include applying for flight school to become a warrant officer and pilot.

A dedicated and motivated soldier, Higa is also an active member in the civilian community. In addition to being a youth leader for intermediate and high school students, Higa also supervises the church choir and drama group and entertains in hospitals and convalescent homes.

Tsuha and Higa will receive the Hawaii National Guard Medal for Tsuha serves as a tow gunner for Merit and a special trophy.

Winners of the USARPAC competition receive the Meritorious Service Medal and a $100 U.S. Savings Bond

– 1991 January – March Pūpūkahi pp. 3

DOD helps fight Molokai Fire

Also a total solar eclipse

By Michelle Al-Chang

A brush fire which burned out of control and a total solar eclipse has kept Department of Defense employees busy since late June.

The Hawaii National Guard (HING) assisted Maui County firefighters in extinguishing the fire which destroyed 12,500 acres on Molokai, June 21-26. Activated on Monday afternoon, the Hawaii Army National Guard’s (HIARNG) UH-1H Huey helicopter crews rushed to airlift firefighters and water buckets to the stricken area. The Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) C-130 Hercules cargo plane transported aircraft fuel and water buckets from Oahu, June 24. Two Hueys flew 200 sorties, dousing 40,000 gallons of water on the raging blaze. More than 1,800 gallons of JP-4 aircraft fuel were used by the Hueys, and 2,200 by civilian contractors hired by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Six sorties were flown by the C-130, and a total of 4,880 gallons of JP-4 aircraft fuel were drawn from the cargo plane. The fuel was loaded onto the plane in 500-gallon tanks at Hickam and Wheeler Air Force Bases.

Twenty-three Guard members were activated to help with the massive firefighting effort. Several soldiers of Kaunakakai’s Scout Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1^st Battalion, 299^th Infantry, volunteered to fight the blaze Sunday evening and were placed on state active duty with other Guard members Monday. Ten aircrew and support personnel from the 1^st Battalion, 193^rd Aviation, were activated to operate and service the Hueys and C-130. Two members of the Headquarters, State Area Command, acted as liaisons and worked closely with local Civil Defense officials.

Two photographers from the 117^th Public Affairs Detachment recorded the Guard’s involvement in the operation, as well as the demise of the Mid-Nite Inn, which burnt down m an unrelated fire.

In addition to personnel, aircraft and fuel tanks, the Hawaii Guard also committed vehicles, radios, telephones and camouflage nets to assist with the County’s overall firefighting effort.

Two weeks later, State Civil Defense officials and Hawaii National Guard members assisted Big Island and Maui officials in ensuring the safety of the thousands of residents and visitors viewing the total solar eclipse, July 11.

On Hawaii, three vehicular patrols and a command cell were located with police and fire departments at the Waikoloa Post Office; six vehicular patrols were stationed at the South Kohala fire station. Medical support consisted of a standby medivac helicopter at Kona Natural Energy Laboratory and medic assistance at Kona Airport. HIARNG helicopters were used to survey potential disaster areas; the HIANG C-130 to airlift boats and crews for the State Department of Public Safety.

Although media attention focused on the Big Island, the total eclipse extended to Maui and preparations were made on the Valley Isle as well. A communication station was set up at Nuu Landing for communication with Wailuku. Medical evacuation centers were erected at Nuu Landing and Kipahulu; a third medical center, consisting of three air-mobile tents, was set up on the rim of Haleakala Crater. Two vehicles patrolled between the landing and Ulupalakua Ranch.

The eclipse and Molokai fire provided the Hawaii Army and Air National Guard with excellent opportunities to carry out coordinated relief efforts in times of state emergency.

– 1991 April – June Pūpūkahi pp. 1 & 4

Aviation and artillery battalions get new commanders

Lt. Col. Eugene H.B. Young replaced Lt. Col. Dennis A. Kamimura as commander of the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, April 28. Young is employed full-time by the Hawaii Army National Guard as the state army aviation officer. Initially an enlisted soldier, he received his commission in 1969 and was assigned to the Nike Hercules missile program from 1960 to 1970. He and his wife, Elaine, live in Honolulu. They have two sons and four daughters

Lt. Col. Dennis Kamimura assumed the duties of commander of the I st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery. While on active duty, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division, 25th Infantry Division and with the I st Aviation Brigade in Vietnam. He presently heads the motor vehicle and licensing division for the City and County of Honolulu. A Kaimuki resident, Kamimura and his wife, Diane, have a son and two daughters.

– 1991 April – June Pūpūkahi pp. 9

The following proposals are presently in the talking stages: the conversion of the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, to a medium lift helicopter unit with CH-47 Chinook helicopters; activation of an honor guard detachment; and major equipment changes, including replacement of our eight-passenger U-21 fixed-wing aircraft with a 19-passenger Fairchild C-26 in June 1992.

– 1991 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 2

People

Spec. Kevin K. Asato, Army Aviation Support Facility#l, motor vehicle operator. Asato enlisted in the Guard two years ago and is an aircraft refueler with the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation

. . .

Melchor K. Bontog, U.S. Property and Fiscal Office, materials handler. Bontog graduated from Campbell High School and is a drill-status member of the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation

– 1991 October – December Pūpūkahi pp. 5

The Hawaii Army National Guard’s aviation units include the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section, the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation (Attack), and the 451 st and 452nd Aviation Detachments.

– 1992 Annual Report pp. 8

The 297th Supply and Service Battalion and the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, trained at Pohakuloa Training Area, July 11-25. The aviation battalion conducted battalion field training exercises which included aerial gunnery training.

– 1992 Annual Report pp. 9

Despite the recent cancellations, we have a full schedule of training activities. In late January, airmen from the 199th Weather Flight joined soldiers from the 29th Infantry Brigade (Separate) and 193rd Aviation Battalion for exercise Yama Sakura in Japan

– 1992 January – February Pūpūkahi pp. 2

On the Army side, our priorities are to improve individuaVunit training; convert the 193rd Aviation Battalion to aCH-47medium-liftunit and aviation maintenance company and improve Army Guard facilities throughout the state

– 1992 July – August Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Annual Training ’92

Squad-level training is focus

By Staff Sgt. Dennis Y. Fujii
117th Public Affain Desachment

. . .

Soldiers from the 297th Supply and Service Battalion and the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation supported operations at PTA as well as conducted weapons qualification and night firing. The lstBattalion, 193rd Aviation conducted attack helicopter training at PTA’s Cobra firing range.

– 1992 July – August Pūpūkahi pp. 6

The soldiers of Troop Command, too, performed in an outstanding manner. The 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, conducted a battalion level External Evaluation (EXEVAL), and passed it with “flying” colors

– 1992 July – August Pūpūkahi pp. 6

The HIARNG’s aviation units include the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section; 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation (Attack); 451st and 452nd Aviation Detachments; and a Reconnaissance and Interdiction Detachment (RAID)

– 1993 Annual Report pp. 11

Army Guard salutes distinguished grads

Pvt 1 Alika Mayer and Pvt. 2 Christopher L. Elmore retwned to their units recently as distinguished graduates.

. . .

Elmore, of Company A, 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, scored a 94 percent academic average on the AH-I attack helicopter repairer course, Oct. 15 to Nov. 11 atFortEustis, Virginia, and a 252 on the three-part Anny physical fitness test. These accomplishments placed him in the top two percent of his batallion honor roll.

Elmore is a 1992 graduate of Pearl City High School, and a full-time student at the University of Hawaii. Hefollowedhisfather’s footsteps into the Army Guard and hopes to become an officer. His parents are Col. Clarence M. Agena and Chong Yee Agena. In his spare time, Elmore enjoys martial arts and studying Japanese culture.

– 1993 January – February Pūpūkahi pp. 8

Small ‘Unit training emphasized durining Hawaii Army Guard’s 15-day exercise

. . .

Also training at PTA was the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, assisted by the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 199th Weather Flight. The aviation unit practiced AH-lS Cobra helicopter firing, while the Weather Flight provided current flying condition reports.

– 1993 July – August Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Headquarters, Troop Command, conducted training and transition. The 193rdconducted maintenance and transition training a tits home station and also added realism to the aerial assaults of the 29th by escorting troop carriers. Company C flew to PTA for aerial gunnery

– 1993 July – August Pūpūkahi pp. 6

CH-47D Chinooks join Hawaii Army National Guard arsenal

By Gaye S. Sakamoto

The Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) opened a new chapter in its aviation history as it welcomed its first three CH4 7D Chinook helicopters, Nov. 17. The Chinooks arrived at Hickam Air Force Base aboard an Air Force C5 Galaxy aircraft, to become part of the Guard’s new

Company C, 193rd Aviation, at Wheeler Army Air Field. Company C will have 16 Boeing International Chinook helicopters and 201 personnel by the end of Fiscal Year 1996. It will replace the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation (Attack) and its AH-1S Cobra gunships, OH-58 Kiowa observation helicopters and UH-lH Iroquois (Huey) utility helicopters.

The Kiowas are going to a New York Guard unit.

The addition of the Chinooks will enable the Guard to increase field training at present sites on the neighbor islands, according to Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson, state acljutant general.

“The transition from attack aircraft to cargo transport aircraft is part of an effort to reshape and expand the role of the Hawaii National Guard,” he said.

The Chinook is an allweather medium lift helicopter that can touch down on land or water, day or night. It seats up to 33 combat-equipped troops and lifts an internal or external load o f26,000 pounds. Itcan also carry 24 litters to help transport mass casualties in medevac operations.

The helicopters provide air transportation of personnel and cargo for combat, combat support and combat service support operations.

“The Chinooks also allow us to become a greater asset in times ofhurricanes, floods or other natural or human caused disasters,” Richardson added. “It enables us to play a more versatile role, serving the community during peace time and supporting troops during war.”

Company C will have the capability to support the fire department’s fire-fighting efforts by transporting 2,000-gallon buckets of water.

Two more Chinooks arrived on Dec. 16 and another three are expected in mid-January.

Company C, 193rd Aviation, will host an official dedication ceremony in March.

– 1993 November – December Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Last month, the arrival of the first three of 16 CH-4 7 Chinook helicopters marks a new chapter in the history of the HIARNG. The conversion of the 193rd Aviation Battalion (Attack) to a medium lift company will increase our ability to carry our state and federal missions

– 1993 November – December Pūpūkahi pp. 6

The HIARNG’s aviation units include the Headquarters State Area Command aviation section, with its 18-passenger C-26 aircraft; 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation (Attack), whose units are transitioning to a medium lift helicopter company; an aviation intermediate maintenance unit; the 451st and 452nd Aviation Detachments; and a Reconnaissance and Interdiction Detachment (RAID) that supports counterdrug operations.

– 1994 Annual Report pp. 8

Major mission shifts occurred because of the conversion of the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, from an attack helicopter unit to a medium lift company with 16 CH-4 7D ( Chinook) helicopters and 210 soldiers. At the close of the reporting period, the unit had received seven of its authorized 16 helicopters. The remaining aircraft were scheduled to arrive during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 1995 and in fiscal year 1996. The unit, designated as Company C, 193rd (Medium Lift), will be stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield. The CH-47D improved the HIARNG’s ability to support relief efforts during state emergencies. Each Chinook can carry a 2,000-gallon water bucket for use in fire suppression. This is the largest capacity of any helicopter based in Hawaii. Also, the CH-47s can move large amounts of supplies and equipment. These loads can be carried internally or by external slingload. This capability makes the Chinooks invaluable assets in natural disaster relief efforts throughout the island chain.

– 1994 Annual Report pp. 10-11

Runners participate in National Guard Bureau marathon

Hawaii National Guard’s best three runners competed in the National Guard Bureau (NGB) marathon trials in Lincoln, Neb., May 1.

The runners wore extra clothing to keep them comfortable in the 26 degree weather.

Capt. Shirley Alvaro of the Army Guard’s Headquarters State Area Command placed first in her age division for the Lincoln Marathon Track Chili awards as well as the NGB awards, with a time of three hours, 37 minutes and 55 seconds. Alvaro also made the NGB marathon team and will represent Hawaii in the Marine Corps marathon next fall in Washington D.C.

Senior Airman Douglas Ogino of the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 297th Air Traffic Control Flight finished the marathon in three hours and 49 minutes.

Chief Warrant Officer Charles Cantu of the Hawaii Army National Guard’s Headquarters & Service Company, 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation, finished in three hours, 37 minutes and 44 seconds.

– 1994 April – May Pūpūkahi pp. 3

Chinooks and C-26 dedicated

A dedication ceremony for the Hawaii Army National Guard’s CH-47D Chinook helicopters and C-26 Metroliner fixed-wing aircraft was held at Wheeler Army Airfield, June 4.

The Chinooks are part of the Guard’s Company C, 193rd Aviation.

U.S. Sen. Daniel K Akaka, Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson and Maj. Gen. John F. Cowings joined the Hawaii National Guard family to welcome the new aircraft.

Lt. Col. Eugene H.B. Young, Hawaii Guard state aviation officer and program master of ceremonies, was assisted by the 111th Army Band and 193rd Aviation color guard.

In a letter to the Guard, Gov. John Waihee extended his greetings and aloha to everyone gathered at the dedication and blessing ceremony. The governor noted that the aircraft will be a welcome addition to the Hawaii Guard’s capabilities. He also congratulated the Guard on its world
speedrecordawardfortwin turboprop aircraft. (The record was set as the C-26 was flown to Hawaii from the mainland.)

Richardson, state adjutant general, read a message from U.S. Senator Daniel K Inouye, who was instrumental in helping the Guard obtain the Chinook helicopters.

“I was pleased to support your effort in obtaining these valuable resources. The dedication of these additional aircraft represents the beginning of a new era in which the Hawaii National Guard services to the local communities of this state will be vastly expanded,” stated Inouye.

In his speech, Richardson stressed, “The next decade will be one of great change and great opportunity for the National Guard in Hawaii. Aviation will be a major factor in this change. Many people here today have been instrumental in making these changes happen. I want to thank each of you for your efforts, not only for those of us who are in the Guard today, but also on behalf of those who will serve during the next two decades. Those soldiers and airman will benefit, our state will benefit, and our nation will benefit”

U.S. Senator Daniel K Akaka marked the event saying, “The addition ofCH-47s significantly strengthens the Guard’s capacity as a multi-faceted resource in Hawaii, providing a wide range of impressive capabilitiesfrom transportingtroops and materiel to Pohakuloa Training Area, to crisis response during emergencies, to fire suppression. The CH-4 7 will be an invaluable asset on which we can depend.”

Company C will have 16 Chinook helicopters and 201 personnel by the end of fiscal year 1996. It replaces the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation (Attack)and ts AH-1S Cobra gunships, OH58 Kiowa observation helicopters and UH-lH Iroquois (Huey) utility helicopters.

The Boeing International Chinook will enable the HIARNG to play a more versatile role, serving the community during peace and supporting troops during war. The Chinook is an all-weather me dium lift helicopter that can touch down on land or water, day or night. It seats up to 33 combat-equipped troops, and lifts an internal or external load of 26,000 pounds. The helicopters can transport personnel and cargo for combat, combat support and combat service supportoperations. It can also carry 24 litters to help transport mass casualties in medevacoperations.

Company C will have the capability to support the fire department in fire fighting by transporting 2,000 gallon buckets of water.

Company C receives maintenance support for its helicopters from Company B, 193rd Aviation Intermediate Maintenance (A VIM). Company B will also provide: backup aviation maintenance support to division and corps assigned aircraft; aviation repair parts; supply support to corps aviation units, including aircraft armament and avionics; and direct exchange support for selected repair parts for divisional A VIM parts.

Company B is the first Army Guard unit in the country to have a support role to units in the Pacific.

– 1994 June – July Pūpūkahi pp. 1 & 5

The Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Company is now the only National Guard unit in the nation which supports the active duty Army with aviation maintenance.

– 1995 Annual Report pp. 1

The Wheeler based medium lift helicopter unit, Company C, 193rd Aviation Regiment, is authorized 16 CH-47D Chinook helicopters with nine currently on hand. The unit can be configured to provide troop air assault and artillery transport, cargo and vehicle conveyance by internal and external loads, and also fire fighting support utilizing a 2,000 gallon water bucket.

Company B, 193rd Aviation Regiment, also stationed at Wheeler, is a newly formed aviation intermediate maintenance (AVIM) unit. The 297 personnel unit is assigned two Huey helicopters. The unit is capable of maintenance, component and supply support to divisional and non-divisional aviation units within the Corps area.

– 1995 Annual Report pp. 9

Command notes

Also of great significance, the Hawaii Army Guard’s 29th Infantry Brigade (Separate) was restructured into its Enhanced Readiness Brigade configuration in September and B Company, 193rd Aviation, began providing aviation maintenance and repair to active duty’s USARPAC aviation aircraft. The Hawaii’s aviation maintenance company is now the only National Guard unit in the nation directly supporting active-duty Army aircraft.

– 1995 December Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Command notes

The 193rd Aviation units completed their transition from an attack helicopter battalion to a medium lift unit (Company B) with CH-47O Chinook helicopters and an intermediate aviation maintenance unit (Company C). The Big Island’s 451st and 452nd Aviation Detachments were replaced by the Medical Combat Enhanced Capability Aviation Team (CECAT) with four UH-60A Blackhawk helicopters.

– 1995 December Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler, is an aviation intermediate maintenance (AVIM) unit. The 266 personnel unit is capable of aircraft maintenance, component and supply support to divisional and nondivisional aviation units within the Corps area.

– 1996 Annual Report pp. 11

Elements of Company B, 193rd Aviation, the Aviation Intermediate Maintenance (AVIM) company along with the Hawaii Air National Guard ‘ supported the Cobra Gold Exercise in Thailand during April and May.

– 1996 Annual Report pp. 14

Elements of Company B, 193rd Aviation Battalion, the Aviation Intermediate Maintenance (AVIM) company, supported the Cobra Gold exercise in Thailand during the months of April and May.

– 1996 April – May Pūpūkahi pp. 6

HING completes ”Cobra Gold ’96” exercises

Members of the Hawaii National Guard (HING) deployed to Thailand for “Cobra Gold” ’96” exercises. A total of 54 personnel from the 201st Combat Communications Group: five from the 204th Airlift Squadron, and five soldiers from Company B, 193rd Aviation, Hawaii Army National Guard, were involved in the exercise.

Cobra Gold ’96, (April 29 to May 24), was one of the largest training exercises involving U.S. forces in the Pacific this year. The joint/combined exercise· included land and air operations, combined naval operations, amphibious operations and special operations.

201st Combat Communications Group personnel from Hilo, Kahului, and Hickam Air Force Base provided local area and satellite communications in support of U. S. Marines. The 201st Combat Communications Group has primary responsibility for combat communications within the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF).

The Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers from Company B, 193rd Aviation, provided helicopter maintenance support to the active-duty Army’s 68th Aeromedical Detachment.

The 204th Airlift Squadron, which flies C-130 “Hercules” transport aircraft, provided tactical airlift support.

Hawaii National Guard personnel deployed to Thailand beginning April 20.

– 1996 April – May Pūpūkahi pp. 8

HIARNG’ s AVIM facility provides valuable service to military community

Story and photos by 1 st Lt. Steve C. Lai

In an innovative move to secure the future of Army aviation for the Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG), aviation officials have capitalized on a unique combination of timing and events leading to the formation of HIARNG’s Company B, 193rd Intermediate Aviation Maintenance (A VIM) facility. It has the distinction of being the only Army National Guard AVIM in America with a nondivision support mission to active component helicopters . In this case, the 25th Infantry Division and 45th Support Group helicopters.

“In fact, the A VIM supports all Army helicopters in Hawaii,” said Captain Benedict Fuata, commander, B Company, 193rd Aviation, located at Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF#l), Wheeler Army Airfield. The concept bridges the gap between the active component and HIARNG and solidifies the “Total Force” concept.

“We are here to service the active component.” he said.

The benefits from this active component HIARNG arrangement works both ways. The active Army receives continuity because National Guard personnel do not rotate to other duty stations and can therefore provide a consistently high-level of maintenance because of low personnel turnover. The HIARNG benefits from jobs created. The AVIM and its staff positions are fully-funded by the active component. The unit is currently staffed by 27 full-time technicians and staff support.

Missions with the active Army provide experience in actual mission requirements and more hands-on experience, training that carries over to the unit’s inactive duty training mission. During drill the A VIM’s mission is to provide support for the Combat Enhanced Capability Aviation Team (CECAT), Reconnaissance and Interdiction Detachment (RAID), and C Company (Medium Lift) 193rd Aviation. The A VIM provides maintenance support above Aviation Unit Maintenance (AVIM) and below depot level repairs.

Lt. Col. Orian Peterson, director of AASF #1, credits Maj . Gen. Edward V. Richardson,state adjutant general, for supporting plans to bolster the future of Army aviation in the Hawaii National Guard. In September 1995, Peterson realized a combination of events were occurring that would adversely impact the manning strength and perhaps the future of the 193rd.

Wheels started turning when word got to Peterson that the U.S. Army’s E Company, 214thA VIM (corp), at Wheeler was soon to be downsized. Realizing the HIARNG would not be acquiring Apache helicopters for an Attack Aviation Battalion, and that 500 mobilization day (inactive duty training (IDT)) soldier positions could be lost, he formulated a plan to invigorate Army Guard aviation mission requirements that would allow HIARNG aviation at Wheeler to pick up where the active component was reducing its forces.

The AVIM takes on what C Company, 25th AVIM, the 25th Division’s own maintenance facility, considers as overload. The HIARNG AVIM also fills-in where there is a lack of expertise, equipment, or personnel in the active component. It is estimated that the conversion from active component to National Guard cuts tax payer costs by $21 million per year.

Mission requirements on the A VIM enables the flexibility of training dates which enhances retention. “The unit can accommodate soldiers on any given weekend with split training and year around annual training who may have conflicting personal or job commitments,” Fuata said.

“This ability to accommodate results from the fact that the A VIM has a consistent work load from the active component.”

On April 15 through June 5, 1996, five members of Company B, 193rd Aviation deployed to Thailand to participate in Operation Cobra Gold supporting the 68th Medical Detachment.

“This was a chance to participate in realis tic aero-medical support mission (training) scenarios,” said Staff Sgt. Larry Schuster, of Maili Kai, head inspector and full-timetechnician. Schuster credits “a sense of urgency” and the ability of his soldiers to adjust to a foreign environment. The exercise was a valuable opportunity to integrate with the active Army. It proved that “HIARNG personnel are ready and willing.” Company B, 193rd is planning to participate in a number of missions in FY97. Deploying overseas with the active component gave the AVIM soldiers a chance to show their counterparts what they could do.

‘We work harder to dispel the myth that National Guard personnel are less trained, and less motivated than our active component counterparts,” explained Staff Sgt. Jay Higa, electronics mechanic

“I was skeptical at first, but they came through very well,” said Capt. Bob Bolton, commander for the deployment and executive officer for the 68th Medical Detachment (RG).

“They (A VIM personnel) were pushing all things aside to get the job done.”

Another soldier offered this explanation; “We have no training distractions,” said Schuster. Unlike the active component personnel who must perform soldier training, i.e. common task training,junior leadership training, and non-aviation maintenance details; “all AVIM personnel use the time in a given work day to concentrate strictly on the job.

If, overtime, the AVIM concept takes root as current indications show, it may someday become adopted by other states.

– 1996 December Pūpūkahi pp. 5

Company B, 193rd Aviation, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive support to the HIARNG, the Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light) and for overseas deployments. Through the efforts of its personnel, the unit has established a reputation for excellence that has been recognized all over the country.

– 1997 Annual Report pp. 8

Ninety-five members of the Hawaii National Guard attended the 41st Annual Federal Week Awards Luncheon in May 1997.Staff Sgt. Russell Ige of Company B, 193rd Aviation, became the first Hawaii Guardsmember to win in the Federal Employee of the Year (trades and crafts) Award.

– 1997 Annual Report pp. 39

An element from B Company, 193rd Aviation, provided aviation maintenance support for Exercise COBRA GOLD in the Republic of Thailand, during May 1997.

– 1997 Annual Report pp. 11

Federal Week Awards

Sgt. Ige, an aviation mechanic from Company B (Intermediate Aviation Maintenance), 193rdAviation, is this year’s winner of the federal employee of the year in the trades and crafts division. He led a list of nine Hawaii National Guard nominees recognized at the annual federal week awards luncheon in May.

Other honorees were: Company B (AVIM), 193rd Aviation (full-time support for organizational excellence award), Master Sgt. Dan T. Kiyohiro, logistics management specialist, 154th Logistics Squadron (employee of the year/administrative, professional, technical field); Mrs. Sandra T. Kuioka, clerk, Human Resources Office, (employee of the year/clerical, administrative assistant field), Lt.Col. Norbert K.K. Luke, 169th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron (manager/ supervisor of the year), Staff Sgt. Richard P. Burgos, recruiter, HIARNG Recruiting and Retention Office, (exceptional community service), Tech. Sgt. Bridget K. Komine, recruiter, 154th Support Group (enlisted service member of the year), Lt. Col. Stanley R. Keolanui Jr., HIARNG Recruiting and Retention Officer, (military officer of the year) and Mrs. Jo Anne Yamamoto, head volunteer, Hawaii National Guard Family Program (citizen of the year).

“Sgt. Ige, an aircraft mechanic who joined the Guard in 1980, is a selfmotivated technician with an outstanding performance record. He devotes personal time to the aviation unit to ensure all assigned work is completed in an efficient and timely manner,” said Capt. Benedict L. Fuata, commander of the aviation maintenance company. “His technical expertise and uncompromising professionalism distinguish him as the most dedicated technician in his field.”

He adapts to change and his accomplishments include improving the UH-60Blackhawkmaintenance productivity over 40 percent, streamlining phase maintenance procedures by organizing and implementing unique control measures that resulted in increased productivity by 30 percent, revamping the supply stock for the UH-60 section, and reduce the excess in parts and recover turn-in credits for a cost avoidance of over $40,000 throughout federal year 1996.

– 1997 Summer Pūpūkahi pp. 3

Company B, 193rd Aviation, is an intermediate maintenance (AVIM) unit that provides responsive support to the HIARNG, the Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light), the 45th Corps Support Group (Forward) and for overseas deployments. This is a unique organization that performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active component Army on a full-time basis. Through the efforts of its personnel, the unit has established a reputation for excellence that has been recognized all over the country and serves as a model of active Army and Anny National Guard cooperation and interdependence.

– 1998 Annual Report pp. 7

Newly acquired equipment improves aviation inspections

By Spc. Wendy M. Hirasa

Hawaii’s Army National Guard aviation intermediate maintenance (AVIM) received $1.4 million in equipment in September that will enhance its ability to better service it’s own and active duty aircraft.

The technology is called nondestructive inspection (NDI). Some ofits features are the use of the radiographic x-ray to look for seepage of water into the parts of the aircraft, bond mass tester to find imperfections in welded areas and ultrasound to test for subsurface cracks.

“This technology has a high degree of accuracy,” said Sgt. Michael C. Pray, powertrain technician and supervisor at Company B, 193rd Aviation at Wheeler Army Airfield. “That enables personnel to inspect aircraft faster than before.”

“These techniques of inspection were modified for Army aircraft and is not only more accurate but is also a faster process that allows them to work more efficiently.

“The Army is moving towards becoming a more professional aviation community through technology used in the civilian aviation field and the other Armed Force services,” said Pray.

The new NDI equipment is housed in one of the 193rd’s nine new Shop Portable Air Mobile (SPAM) units. SPAMs are airconditioned work stations that look like trailer containers and can comfortably seat four technicians. The units can expand to double their normal size and be broken down in an hour to be ready for airlift or transport by a tractor trailer

A team of four powertrain technicians are scheduled to be qualified in all aspects of NDI. This sets them apart from other units because they will be both power train and NDI job qualified. They are also the only Army National Guard AVIM to fix active duty and National Guard aircraft in the U.S.

Spc. Mike N. Stribling paved the way by becoming the first NDI qualified personnel in June 1997. He said that the new equipment and added job qualification allows them to do more of the work themselves and also receive job orders from others. And this saves money.

Pray, Sgt. Michael G. Rodriguez and Sgt. Manny J. Ramirez are scheduled to attend the NDI school in Spring 1999.

– 1998 Winter Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Company B, 193rd Aviation, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the HIARNG, the Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light), and the 45th Corps Support Group (Forward). This is a unique organization that performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active component on a full-time basis. It is the only AVIM in the nation that has that distinction. This relationship combined with the outstanding maintenace service performed by the assigned technicians has establised a reputation for excellence that has been recognized nationwide.

– 1999 Annual Report pp. 8

Company B, 193rd Aviation: first among all ARNG units in the small, direct-support unit category

– 1999 Annual Report pp. 15

Army Secretary visits Guard aviation facility

By 2nd Lt. Jonathan M. Shiroma

You know you are special when the Secretary of the Army pays a visit to your unit. During a recent trip to the islands, Secretary of the Army Louis Caldera visited a lot of Oahu’s active Army installations but due to his tight schedule, time allowed him to visit just one Army National Guard unit.

That unit was the Guard’s aviation intermediate maintenance (AVIM) facility at Wheeler Army Airfield in Wahiawa. What sets this unit apart from other states is that it is the only Guard AVIM in the nation that maintains and services active duty and Guard aircraft full-time

“This is a unique setup and l am pleased to see it working out for the Army here in Hawaii,” said Caldera during a tour of the facility. “It shows that the professionalism is high in both the active and reserve forces.”

Caldera was given a concept brief and guided tour through the facility which just received close to one-anda-half million dollars of new equipment to better service aircraft. Col. Orlan L. Peterson Jr., the state Army aviation officer and architect of the AVIM concept explained the unit’s mission to Caldera

“Fifty-four percent of our armed strength comes from the National Guard,” said Caldera, “That’s why it is great to see such fine Guard soldiers, training hard to support this joint mission.”

During a briefing, A VIM leaders explained to Caldera that their partnership with the active army has been working well. With the new equipment and technology, the unit is able to accommodate more requests from the Guard and from the Army.

“I will take this information with me back to Washington,” said Caldera. “This could serve as a valuable model on how the Army Guard and the Active Army can work together on a common mission.”

“Believe me, when Secretary Caldera says he will take the information back to the nation’s capitol, he will,” said his press secretary Maj . David B. Stockwell. “Mr. Caldera spends a lot of time away from Washington D.C., like this trip to Hawaii visiting troops. This is his way of getting to know the men and women that his decision affect as Secretary of the Army ultimately effect.”

– 1999 Spring Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Three supply units win Department of the Army awards

The Supply Support Activity, Company B, 193rd Aviation; and Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battery, 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery; won two of Chief of Staff, Army Supply Excellence’s nine National Guard awards. Hawaii was among the 44 active Army, National Guard and Reserve presented awards at the ceremony held in Alexandria. Va., in September

Company A (Supply and Transportation), 29th Support Battalion, received an honorable mention.

Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, lauded the winners and said they were the ones taking care of business in the units, but challenged them to think about making the commander and first sergeant more knowledgable about supply … train them better so they can make your corner of the Army a little better.

The awards were based upon an inspection of files, computers, vaults, services, maintenance, physical security, clothing, records, and hand receipts. Documents were checked for accuracy and proper authorization. Actual organization equipment inventories were checked for identical matches in recorded inventories.

The aviation unit’s supply section won the regional U.S. Army Pacific and national Department of the Army, Supply Support Activity (Small) award. Their 30-member section is led full-time by Staff Sgt. Rolando D. Domingo and Sgt. David P. Perez.

Company Bis Hawaii Army National Guard’s aviation intermediate maintenance (AVIM) unit. It is the only Guard unit in the nation that maintains and services active duty and Guard aircraft full-time. The supply section maintains an inventory of more than 180 items, value over $400,000.

The headquarters supply section of the field artillery unit lead by Sgt. 1st Class Ivan S. Felix and Staff Sgt. Manuel E. Viduya won the Modified Table of Organization Equipment (MTOE) Company without Property Book award.

Company A (Supply and Transportation: Staff Sgt. Amy A. Aguil received an honorable mention.

– 1999 Summer – Fall Pūpūkahi pp. 11 & 12

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Hilo, Hawaii and Salt Lake City, Utah. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light), and the 45th Corps Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned technicians established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2000 Annual Report pp. 8

Top Hawaii Army Guard enlisted soldiers from aviation unit

The 193rd Aviation has once again landed the Hawaii Army National Guard’s noncommissioned officer and soldier of the year awards. Staff Sgt. Ronald S. Oshiba, avionics communications equipment repairer supervisor, Company B (Aviation Intermediate Maintenance), is the NCO of the year, and Spc. Felimon P. Marcos, unit supply specialist technician, Company C (Medium Lift), is the soldier of the year.

Family traditions prepared Oshiba for military life

Oshiba was born and raised on the island of Hawaii in a second-generation Japanese family that stressed traditional cultural values. These values formed the essential backbone that guided and helped to prepare him for his life in the military, said Oshiba. He entered the active Army in 1988 after graduating from Waiakea High School to help him with his future goals. “I didn’t come from a family with a lot of money, so the military afforded me the opportunity to learn something that I was passionate about,” he said. As a young boy, he liked to work with his hands and loved electronics so he naturally chose avionics communications equipment repairer as his military occupational specialty.

After completing a six-year tour in the active Army, he enlisted in the Hawaii Army Guard in 1994. He was hired as a full-time technician in the avionics shop at Wheeler Army Airfield.

In his 12-year military career, Oshiba was able to apply his training in real world missions in his deploy-ments to include Exercise COBRA GOLD in Thailand and Operation DESERT SHIELD and Operation DESERT STORM in Saudi Arabia.

To prepare for his recent award of NCO of the year, he gives this advice to anyone striving to follow in his footsteps, “study hard and find good mentors to guide you.” The time and effort you commit to this will only serve to make you a better person, he said.

If he didn’t receive the award, he said he would still have walked away a winner. “Just going through this, and especially being a noncommissioned officer, I relearned all the different skills material like leadership, first aid, and all the other subjects you memorize for the boards. I learned the material so well that I am now more competent and able to help and teach others,” he said.

According to Master Sgt. David C. Wallace, who has known Oshiba since 1995, they chose a great soldier for this honor. “Oshiba has a strong work ethic and is fully dedicated and committed to tbe guard. What sets him above and beyond is his leadership skills .. Not only does he have superior knowledge of his field, he is blessed with the ability to teach other soldiers,” said Wallace. Oshiba is blessed with the love and support of his wife, Robin, and 11-year-old daughter, Ryann. His hobbies include breeding American pit bull terriers and big game fishing.

– 2000 March – June Pūpūkahi pp. 3

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Hilo, Hawaii, and Salt Lake City, Utah. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light), and the 45th Corps Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned technicians established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide

– 2001 Annual Report pp. 8

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also Hawaii Army National Guard stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Hilo, Hawaii, and Salt Lake City, Utah. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Infantry Division (Light) and the 45th Corps Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned technicians, has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2002 Annual Report pp. 7

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Idaho and Wyoming. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Light) and Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned full-time technicians and traditional drill-status (part time) soldiers has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2003 Annual Report pp. 7

In June 2003, personnel of Company B, 193rd Aviation, was mobilized for up to 18 months to provide aviation maintenance support to elements of the 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan.

– 2003 Annual Report pp. 9

Hawaii Guard’s direct support in war on terrorism

Army Guard unit to-deploy as Air Guard personnel return

By Spc. Benjamin T. Donde and Maj. Charles J. Anthony

Both Hawaii Army and Air National Guard personnel are on the move, as the Guard continues to make positive contributions to the war on terrorism. In early July, more than 50 soldiers from Company B, 193rd Aviation began gearing up for deployment to an undisclosed location in Afghanistan, for Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. The Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers will provide, helicopter maintenance for U.S. Army forces fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda holdouts in the mountainous country.

Aviation maintenance to deploy

The deployment is expected to last for an extended period, meaning the soldiers will probably be away from home for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Sgt. Gregory Lum Ho Jr., a structural repair technician, has deployed to several different locations during his eleven years with the Hawai Army Guard. The Big Island resident and his wife are spearheading the family support group for the neighbor island soldiers deploying. “The families are the ones with the hardest job, worrying about what’s going on with us,” said Lum Ho. . . .

– 2003 April – June Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Deployments

As we go to print, another Hawaii National Guard unit is getting ready to deploy B Company, 193rd Aviation (see related story on page one). I know that these Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers will do their jobs well and will do us proud while in Afghanistan. All of our thoughts and prayers go with them and we look forward to their safe return.

– 2003 April – June Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Aviation maintenance Afghanistan mission on track

By Spc. Geoffrey Glbayan

The sky explodes in rich hues of pink and orange as dawn breaks over an empty expanse of sand. A dust devil races across the flightline, a testament to the desert’s harsh environment. In the distance, the spire of a mosque looms over a city of tents like many soldiers, I never thought I would wake in Afghanistan.

Even though we conduct aircraft maintenance, there are daily reminder of the fact that we are in a very active combat zone. No matter what direction you look, there are bunkers dug into the dusty earth. The hanger in which we work, in is scarred with gaping bullet holes. Our rifles are never far from us, and the rounds always ready. The constant beating of rotors in the night sky makes sleep difficult. We never know when the rocket will slam into our camp.

Why we are here

There is not a single day that passes in which our mission is not clear. Helicopters provide fire power and support to sustain operations in the theater. Most importantly, helicopters bring our troops home. Army Aviation is a lifeline to service members beyond the security of the fence that encompasses our camp. Due to the limited resources in the area, every helicopter must be maintained to the highest standard. This is why aircraft maintenance plays such an integral role to the success of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Security dictates not putting all eggs in one basket

Maintenance can be difficult at times. We do not have the luxury of being close to our support facilities (the close proximity would be a security issue). We continually find ourselves waiting for parts. Though we may not have work in a particular shop, the pace does not slow. lt is not uncommon to find an engine mechanic assisting in the powertrain shop. Without this teamwork, some shops would be inundated with a mountain of work orders.

Frontline deployment missions don’t stop for weekends, holidays

As is with any deployment, daily stress is compounded by the separation from friends and family. We will miss birthdays, anniversaries and many holidays days. Though it is hard being so far away, we have found a way to cope. All of the soldiers are learning to depend on each other for more that just the mission at hand. We help each other maintain our sanity. When it comes to morale, no one is overlooked or ever left behind. A simple gesture, like a quick chat, does wonders for some. The bond that is being formed between soldiers: will last long after our camp bas been covered by the shifting sands of time.

Most places are within walking distance

The post size is scaled to the space required to perform the mission in a secured area. Most of the commuting is done on foot. A mile may not seem far Except when the midday sun-beats down on you. To make matters even worse, there is continually dust in the air that chokes, every breath. Conducting physical training is equally difficult under these conditions. Thankfully, there is a gym open 24 hours.

Keeping your sanity

The Army has done an extraordinary job of providing amenities to ease the yearning of home. There is a tent solely dedicated for communication to those we have left behind. The Internet connection may be slow, but soldiers can read their emails nightly if they want to. The Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tent has a pool table, ping pong tables, foosball table, some video game systems television for current events and a big screen television that soldiers can watch movies on. Though it may seem minuscule, any opportunity to escape the reality of the situation is wholeheartedly embraced.

Local products available to purchase

Weekly, there is an opportunity to go to the local bazaar. It is a breath of fresh air to go beyond the wire in a controlled setting, To see the expressions of those peddling their wares is quite fulfilling. A few dollars may not mean much to the soldiers, but to the locals,” it can feed their families for days. You can find a plethora of goods ranging from antique bayonets to the latest in digital entertainment. Many of the items are attached to stories of a war-torn country, There are foreign monies for sale that attest to the generations of instability of the area. Many goods are off limits and cannot be taken home.

We’re proud to be serving our country

Though we must endure hardships by being so far from-our homes, we all realize that our presence in Afghanistan is necessary. By providing support to Army aviation, we are helping to ensure the success of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. One consolation of being in this desert is seeing America’s flag flying proudly over the country that hasn’t seen freedom for awhile. United, we will not fail.

– 2003 July – September Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Chinook unit in Iraq

By 1st Lt. Jeffrey D. Hickman and Master Sgt. Stephen M. Lum

. . .

Bravo Forward 1 returns from Afghanistan

Fifty-eight soldiers from Co. B, 193rd Aviation (Forward 1), returned from Afghanistan after a year in “the sandbox” to a ceremony at the Wheeler facility in May. (More about their deployment in the next issue).

– 2003 October – 2004 March Pūpūkahi pp. 1 & 4

Command Notes

. . . Here in Hawaii, we sent off another 60 soldiers from Company B, 193rd Aviation, to Afghanistan and nearly 200 soldiers from Company C, 193rd Aviation, are in Iraq for a year of duty. . .

I had the privilege to visit our first group of aviation soldiers in Kandahar, Afghanistan, around Christmas time to see their living and working conditions. I can tell you that the living conditions are spartan, but livable, and the Army is taking good care of our soldiers. They did a magnificent job keeping the 10th Mountain Division helicopters flying so that our forces can continue anti-terrorism efforts in Afghanistan and I’m sure the Bravo Forward 2 will do the same. . .

– 2003 October – 2004 March Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Sixty soldiers from Company B, 193rd Aviation deployed to Afghanistan in April 2004 to replace an earlier rotation of soldiers who deployed in 2003. The Bravo Company soldiers have been providing helicopter maintenance to the 10th Mountain and 25th Infantry Divisions in Afghanistan. An “Operation Ohana” welcome home ceremony was held for retmning soldiers at Wheeler Army AirfieldinMay,just one of the ways in which the State of Hawaii recognized the contributions of its citizensoldiers.

– 2004 Annual Report pp. 6

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Idaho and Wyoming. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Amry ‘s 25th Aviation Bligade, 25th Infantiy Division (Light) and Support Group (Forward) on a fill-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service preformed by the assigned full-time technicians and traditional drill-status (part-time) soldiers has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2004 Annual Report pp. 8

Brigade prepares to deploy as aviation unit returns

Brigade begins it’s activation

. . .

Aviation maintenance unit swaps out teams deployed

Soldiers from Company B (Forward 1), 193^rd Aviation returned home in late May, after passing the torch to Bravo Forward 2.

Maj. Margaret Rains and 1^st Sgt. Ballie brought the team home without incident. The soldiers were greeted at Hickam Air Force Base by Lt. Gen. James L. Campbell, outgoing commanding general, U.S. Army Pacific Command, and Brig. Gen. Vern T. Miyagi, the Hawaii Army National Guard commander.

From Hickam, the soldiers were whisked to their home base at Wheeler Army Air Field, where they quickly secured their sensitive items, received a debrief, and were released to their families for a weekend of bonding.

The unit outprocessed over the next few weeks and returned to their pre-activation lives.

Soldiers’ service honored

The 193^rd, along with other Hawaii National Guard soldiers and their families were honored at events like the Freedom Salute Campaign and the Hawaii Foodbank salute to the Hawai National Guard.

Freedom Salute Campaign is one of the largest Army National Guard recognition endeavors in history, designed to publicly acknowledge Army Guard soldiers and those who supported them during the President’s call to duty for Operations NOBLE EAGLE, ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM.

Each eligible soldier received an encased American flag , a sequentially numbered commemorative coin, a “Defender of Freedom” certificate signed by Lt. Gen. Roger C. Schultz, director of the Army National Guard, and CSM A. Frank Lever, III, 7^th Command Sergeant Major, Army National Guard, and a lapel insignia. The soldier’s spouse received a lapel insignia.

– 2004 April – September Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Deployments, mobilizations

Presently, there are 60 Co. B, 193rd (Forward 2) soldiers in Afghanistan, led by Maj. Roger Pukahi and 1st Sgt. David Wallace and 200 Co. C (Heavy Lift), 193rd Aviation soldiers in Iraq, led by Capt. Joe Laurel and 1st Sgt. John Gollero Jr. Both units are doing outstanding jobs.

– 2004 April – September Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Yee tops federal government employees’ nominations

. . .

Company B (A VIM), 193rd Aviation, Hawaii Army National Guard, Federal Organizational Excellence, 1st Lt. Douglas M. Westbrook accepting the certificate: The unit demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and aircraft expertise. The company significantly improved operational ready rates for active component Army aviation units, managed over $1.2 million-in repair parts and processed several million dollar worth of requisitions 2003.

– 2004 April – September Pūpūkahi pp. 8

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Idaho and Wyoming. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Light) and Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned full-time technicians and traditional drill-status (part- time) soldiers has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide

– 2005 Annual Report pp. 8

Command Notes

We’ve had the opportunity to welcome back our hometown heroes who’ve completed their, one-year rotations as part of the Global War on Terrorism. C Company, 193rd Aviation spent a year in Balad, Iraq flying vital missions in their CH-47 Chinook helicopters while B Company, 193rd Aviation soldiers completed their stint in Kandahar, Afghanistan keeping helicopters fit for flying. Both units have made us exceptionally proud and the U.S. Army knows what the Hawaii Army National Guard is capable of doing. In April, after the units marched in the Merrie Monarch Parade through downtown Hilo, we held a Freedom Salute ceremony at the Hawaii Army National Guard’s Aviation Support Facility #2 for our neighbor isle soldiers. Mayor Harry Kim gave a stirring speech and several hundred family members and well wishers were on hand to show their support for the returning heroes. Each soldier being honored was presented with an American flag, a coin and other keepsake items as tokens of appreciation for their service.

– 2005 June Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Bronze Stars awarded to aviation soldiers

Accomplishing the “mission” and returning back safely was always first and foremost in the minds of Hawaii Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officers Daniel Chang and Russell Bishop. The Company B, 193rd Aviation (Forward 1), soldiers received Bronze Stars for their service in Afghanistan from 2003 to 2004.

Under the guidance of CW3 Chang, the aircraft production control officer in charge (OIC) and company executive officer (XO), and CW2 Bishop, the aircraft maintenance and service shops platoon leader, the Hawaii based intermediate aviation maintenance (AVIM) unit was operational within 48 hours of arriving at Kandahar Air Base.

As production control OIC, CW3 Chang assigned the AVIM and pass back Aviation Unit Maintenance (AVUM) work to the appropriate shop and phase team areas. His keen ability to prioritize and delegate the maintenance tasks resulted in less time spent on management and more time spent on maintenance. Chang also developed a maintenance task flow plan that resulted in a nine month projected aircraft phase completion for nine AH-64 Apache, six UH-60 Blackhawks, and ten CH-47 Chinook helicopters. He served as liaison for a smooth transition to support the twenty-five-man contractor team. He also made an exclusive contractor work hours plan used to project a management work cycle by the commander and to forecast the company training schedule events such as, annual weapons qualification, common training task (CTT), driver training, and provides for R&R trips to Qatar for soldiers.

CW3 Chang served as the Supply Support Activity (SSA) accountable officer for three months until the supply system technician arrived. He served as chief trainer to two SSA civilian contractors to ensure they continued the program of a consolidated PLL (phases-locked loop) effort as directed by Task Force Eagle. Chang was the driving force to ensure a DODAAC (Department of Defense Activity Address Code) was initiated to provide a common denominator for future units to use, to prevent interruptions of parts requisition and receipt. He continuously tracked aircraft status and critical parts needed to return aircraft to flight.

Chang orchestrated and developed a tactical standard operating procedure (SOP) for deployment. This SOP ensured smooth uninterrupted AVIM operations during the unit’s transfer of authority to the second half of Bravo soldiers continuing the mission. Uninterrupted AVIM support is critical to keep the momentum moving to fight the war against terrorism.

Working in concert with CW3 Chang, CW2 Bishop utilized his outstanding skills as a supervisor, and his knowledge of logistics and maintenance to maintain a high OPTEMPO Aircraft Maintenance program in support of Task Force Eagle. CW2 Bishop’s three maintenance teams provided maintenance support for CH47D, AH-64, and UH-60 aircraft. CW2 Bishop orchestrated the Operational Readiness Float of two AH-64 aircraft from the Idaho Army National Guard into the AVIM at Kandahar and established a direct liaison with the Attack Helicopter unit to enhance aircraft availability to support combat operations.

Bishop provided the workflow, attitude, and momentum needed to sustain the demanding maintenance support required by Task Force Eagle. The logistics tracking program he established and maintained for the unit and his streamlined version of the Army Oil Analysis Program (AOAP) at Kandahar, which provided quicker response time for helicopter component oil analysis results, are examples of the initiatives he took to ensure mission support.

In addition to his streamlining initiatives, Bishop expedited a cost effective purchase of Stanley Vidmar Cabinets for the Supply-Support Activity (SSA). The initial cost of cabinets was $140,000. His extra effort and in-depth research in maximizing available space and minimizing quantity needed, lowered the total cost of cabinets to approximately $84,000. He then secured Task Force Warrior board approval for the purchase of the Vidmar Cabinets for the technical supply enhancement operation project.

Bishop’s superior performance on working critical parts issues for ALQ-144s, ALQ156s, and High Frequency Radios ensured the assets were available to maintain a high Fully Mission Capable (FMC) rate. He improved the overall maintenance by researching and ordering special tools and equipment to support the AVIM operations.

Bishop’s knowledge of the ULLS-G and ULLS-A computer systems enhanced the overall logistical operations of this unit. He was instrumental in establishing the ULLSA system and a SOP to improve the unit’s bench stock operations.

The initiative shown by Chief Warrant Officers Daniel Chang and Russell Bishop enabled Bravo Company to maintain the maintenance support requirements in support of Task Force Eagle during all combat operations. Their extraordinary performance in increasing efficiency during their tenure and making the transition easier for those that followed during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM IV clearly demonstrated the duty, professionalism, and mission focus of these exemplary soldiers.

– 2005 June Pūpūkahi pp. 8

Company B (AVIM), 193rd Aviation (Forward 2) Freedom Salute

By James Young and 1st Lt. Reginca Berry

Soldiers and family members of Bravo Company, 193rd Aviation Regiment were publicly honored Jul. 9 at the Pearl City High School auditorium during a freedom Salute Ceremony recognizing their participation in Operation Enduring freedom

The Freedom salute Ceremony is one of the largest Army national Guard recognition endeavors in history. It is designed to publicly acknowledge Army guard soldiers, who have supported Operation Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. lt also recognizes family members and employer who have supported the soldiers during ONE, OEF, and OlF

At the ceremony the soldiers were presented with an American Flag in a wooden display case a special commemorative coin. a “Defender of freedom” certificate and a set of lapel pins for the soldier and spouse The lapel pins, which represent the soldier’s selfless service and the spouse tremendous support are presented during a special pinning ceremony, where the soldier and spouse are able to pin the lapel pins on one another.

May 2004, the Bravo Company 193rd Aviation Regiment was joined by Army Guardsmen from Arizona, California and our own Charlie Company, 25th Aviation forming the Forward 2 The Forward 2 deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan under the command of the 25th Infantry Division (Light) providing invaluable aviation maintenance for the UH-60 Blackhawk, CH-4 7 Chinook, AH-64 Apache. and OH-58 Kiowa helicopters as part of Task Force Diamond Head.

While deployed, they processed over 4,700 work orders which resulted in an additional 27,000 flying hours. This is the highest amount of work orders and additional flying hours by any unit that has been deployed. They also participated in five Downed Aircraft Recovery Team (DART) missions.

All soldier of Forward 2 returned home safely in Apr. 2005.

– 2005 July – September Pūpūkahi pp. 6

Company B, 193rd Aviation, also stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, is an intermediate maintenance unit that provides responsive aircraft maintenance support to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Idaho and Wyoming. Company B performs intermediate and unit level aircraft maintenance support to the active Army’s 25th Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Light) and Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned full-time technicians and traditional drill-status (part- time) Soldiers has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2006 Annual Report pp. 10

Company B, 193rd Aviation, was also redesignated and became Co. B, 1st Bn., 777th Aviation Support Bn. The general support unit, also at Wheeler, provides responsive aircraft intermediate maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia. The 777th performs aircraft logistic support to the active Army’s 25th Aviation Bde., 25th Inf. Div. (Light), and the 45th Support Group (Forward) on a full-time basis. This unique relationship with the active Army, combined with the outstanding maintenance service performed by the assigned full-time technicians and traditional drill-status (part-time) Soldiers, has established a reputation for excellence that is recognized nationwide.

– 2007 Annual Report pp. 10

Company B, 1st Bn., 777th Aviation Support Bn., a general support unit also stationed at Wheeler, provides responsive aircraft intermediate maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia. The 777th performs aircraft logistic support to assigned units in theater.

– 2008 Annual Report pp. 9

Company B, 1st Bn., 777th Aviation Support Bn., a general support unit also stationed at Wheeler, provides responsive aircraft intermediate maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia. The 777th performs aircraft logistic support to assigned units in theater

– 2009 Annual Report pp. 9

Soldiers saluted in “Year of the NCO”

By Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald S. Oshiba
103rd Troop Command CSM

The 2009 Hawaii Army National Guard Soldier and NonCommissioned Officer of the year competition were held in February. The tough competition consisted of the Army Physical Fitness Test, Weapons Qualification, Army Warrior Task hands-on test, an 8-mile forced road march with a 30-pound ruck sack, an Appearance board covering numerous Army subjects and the Soldiers Packet which reviewed Military Occupational Specialty, special skills and other Army records. As winners, these Soldiers received several plaques, awards and numerous gifts in appreciation for their dedication, leadership, combat skills and settihg an example of the professionalism of a citizen Soldier.

Pfc. Kaanoipono Cabrinha was named 2009 HIARNG Soldier of the Year. Cabrinha, has since been promoted to specialist and serves as a helicopter repairer with Bravo Co., 777th Aviation Support Bn., 103rd Troop Command. Cabrinha although only being in the Army for one and a half years excelled in all events of this competition. He is a native of Hauula, Hawaii, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in International business management. Cabrinha was a distinguished honor Graduate from Advanced Individual Training school and was offered to attend and graduated from the airborne qualification course. His most recent accomplishments as the HIARNG Soldier of the Year are graduating from the Air Assault qualification course and Warrior Leader course. Cabrinha is already leading the charge to become a successful NCO.

. . .

Both of our these Soldiers represented the state of Hawaii in Las Vegas, Nev. for the 2009 Region VII Soldier and NCO of the year competition.

– 2009 April – September Pūpūkahi pp. 1

Aviators train in Texas

Story and photos by Pfc. James M. Wilton, 117th MPAD

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Hawaii Army National Guard’s Bravo Company, 777th Aviation Support Battalion, traveled to Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD), in May, for the most advanced level of hands on training available in their field.

The 777th’s mission is to provide corps and intermediate level aviation maintenance support for the HIARNG’s helicopters. “CCAD is the next level up of that maintenance support chain. CCAD provides complete breakdown, repair, assembly and maintenance of the Army’s entire helicopter force,” said Chief Warrant Officer Russell Bishop, Bravo’s production control officer.

“Can you answer this question,” Bishop asked his Soldiers. “Right now, today, am I capable of doing my job to the fullest extent, giving the unit I am supporting a fully mission capable aircraft? I hope the answer is yes, if it isn’t then this will be the beginning of your journey to become technically proficient.”

The two weeks the 777th spent in Texas included hands-on instruction conducted of the factory floor. Each Soldier was teamed with a CCAD employee and placed in the shop area that corresponded to their military occupation specialty (MOS). Once there, the Soldier began work as a regular employee involved in every part of the process being performed at that station. The training program was designed to provide the Soldier with a self-driven learning environment, one that allowed each participant to discover every facet of the apparatus he is working on. “You get out, what you put into the program, if you are willing to learn then the instructors are here to teach and will help you to accomplish your goals,” said Mitchell R. Holmes, CCAD’s Reserve Training Components training coordinator.

“I was able to come in on the front end of tearing a UH-60 Black Hawk down completely and I have been able to touch everything in the aircraft, even things that when we were in school, had already been torn down by the instructors and or were just training aids or model representations,” said Pfc. Thomas P Spellman II, a Co. B Black Hawk helicopter repair technician.

On average, about 50 Soldiers attend each CCAD training mission which allows the coordinator to place them in an area that matches their particular area of expertise without over whelming the factory floor with uniformed personnel. Some of the Soldier’s training is split into one week of hands-on training and one week of classroom instruction. “We try to provide the Soldiers with every opportunity available to improve their skills and know ledge including our onsite schoolhouse,” said Holmes.

“Attending this training gave us a certain confidence level. So when we go back to our unit and work on the aircraft, we know what to be looking for and how the machine looks both inside and out. We can take that confidence and transfer it into our job and then it is transferred to those we are working around and the entire mission becomes better because of it,” said Spellman.

Annual Training is an opportunity for drillstatus Soldiers to spend an extended amount of time with their fellow service members, both on the job and off. “We are able to share this experience with each other and get to know people that I only see for two days a month. Now I am here with them for two weeks, and I am learning who they truly are, learning about their families and really seeing them as person,” said Spellman.

A Soldier proficient in his field, with the ability to adapt and learn, taking the initiative and not waiting for someone else to tell him/her what to do next, this is the Army’s new objective for training its Soldiers. Taking the chance on advanced training options like the 777th did at CCAD, is one way for a unit to achieve this goal.

– 2009 April – September Pūpūkahi pp. 9 & 17

Company B, 1st Bn., 777th Aviation Support Bn., a general support unit also stationed at Wheeler, provides responsive aircraft intermediate maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia. The 777th performs aircraft logistic support to assigned units in theater

– 2010 Annual Report pp. 9

Company B, 1st Bn., 777th Aviation Support Bn., a general support unit also stationed at Wheeler, provides responsive aircraft intermediate maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are also located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia. The 777th performs aircraft logistic support to assigned units in theater

– 2011 Annual Report pp. 8

In July 2012, helicopter maintenance Wheeler Army Airfield-based Soldiders from Co. B, 777th Aviation Support Bn., also made a return Afghanistan

– 2012 Annual Report pp. 10

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Bn. performs aircraft logistic support to assigned units in theatre. It is a general support unit stationed at Wheeler Army Airfield, Oahu. The intermediate level maintenance unit, has the capability to inspect, troubleshoot and perform diagnostic tests on rotary wing aircraft as well as the ability to make repairs, adjustments, calibrations and alignments of aircraft system modules and components. It provides responsive aircraft recovery and air evacuation, and technical assistance through the use of mobile maintenance to the Hawaii Guard and to the active Army. Detachments are located in Puerto Rico, Wyoming and Virginia.

– 2012 Annual Report pp. 18

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion

The aviation support unit is headquartered in Wheeler Army Airfield. Its mission is to provide aviation field maintenance support to corps and theater aviation assets.

• Deployed in support of Kosovo Force -16 (KFOR), July 2012 through May 2013.

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 10

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion

The aviation support unit is headquartered in Wheeler Army Airfield, with detachments in Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wyoming. Its mission is to provide aviation field maintenance and limited backup aviation field maintenance support to corps and theater aviation assets

– 2014 Annual Report pp. 11

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion

The aviation support company is headquartered in Wheeler Army Airfield, with detachments in Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wyoming. Its mission is to provide aviation field maintenance and limited backup aviation field maintenance support to corps and theater aviation assets.

– 2015 Annual Report pp. 11

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion Conducts Downed Aircraft Recovery Team Exercise

117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Hawaii)
Story by Pfc. Paul Berzinas

WAHAIWA, Hawaii – Soldiers from Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion (including Detachments 1, 2 and 3), conducted Downed Aircraft Recovery Team training June 12, 2015 at Schofield Barracks.

The exercise was intended to prepare the various components of the 777th ASB to work together to recover a disabled aircraft when deployed, said Spc. Tobias Vidaurri, a CH-47 Chinook mechanic from Company B.

Company B has received a notification of sourcing for a deployment in the near future. The last time the unit deployed was in 2012, when it was sent to Kosovo. The last three times the 777th ASB has deployed, it hasn’t done so with its detachments. The scheduled deployment will be the company’s first deployment with Detachments 1, 2 and 3.

Consequently, this annual training is the first one the unit has conducted with the detachments.

Company B consists of Army National Guard units from Wyoming, Virginia, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, all of whom were present for the training, said Vidaurri.

“It’s very important for us to know what we are doing when we go in country,” said Vidaurri. “So for us to have a chance to get hands-on [training] aside from our regular drill days, I feel like this is an invaluable experience.”

The DART exercise was an important step in improving the mission-readiness of the company, said Sgt. Kalen Komoda, an aircraft structural repairer from Company B.

As a whole, the DART training will enable the unit to react effectively to an actual downed aircraft situation, if ever one arises, said Vidaurri.

“In our training environment we don’t have to worry about any hostile forces coming and attempting to take the helicopter from us,” said Vidaurri. “That may not be the case in country though.”

The DART training was designed to teach the company to move quickly to recover a downed aircraft, which is critical to reducing the amount of time spent in harm’s way, said Vidaurri.

“Right now what we’re working on is trying to hone our skills to the point where we can get in and get out with a minimal amount of time spent being exposed,” said Vidaurri.

The training was important because it brought soldiers from different areas together.

“I’m from Maui, so I only see these soldiers once a month,” said Komoda. “So this training is really good for giving me a sense of how things are run.”

Involving soldiers from multiple geographic locations is an important aspect of preparing the company, said Vidaurri.

“We do get to meet new people during this time and we get to make new friends, which is important for when we go on deployments,” said Vidaurri. “It’s good to know someone that can have your back while you’re out there.”

Training as a company gives soldiers from different places valuable experience working together to accomplish the mission, said Vidaurri.

“In country it’s very important that everyone work together,” said Vidaurri. “It’s like a well-oiled machine, like a Chinook, if one part is out of place, then we won’t be able to run.”

– 2015 July Pūpūkahi pp. 3 & 6

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion deployment ceremony

– 2016 June Pupukahi pp. 4

Hilo Soldier receives national coaching award

By Retired Master Sgt. Stephen M. Lum

Staff Sgt. Gregory A.Y. Lum Ho Jr. from the Hawaii Army National Guard’s Co. B, 777th Aviation Support Bn., has won the national 2017 Positive Coaching Alliance Double-Goal Coaches award. The sheet metal mechanic, who has been coaching youth sports for more than 20 years, started to coach when his children were still in school. His three children, Kahakuokahale (19), Maka’ala (deceased) and Ashley (25), are now adults. He coached the boys when they were in little league baseball.

Volunteer coaching

“After my son passed away, coaching was a way to keep close to him,” said Greg Lum Ho. “I see my son, Maka’ala in all of these kids. Everyone has a piece of him and it just keeps me going. It’s a plus when these kids get the “a-ha” moment when they realize what coach is trying to explain to them and they get it. You see that lightbulb go off in their head and you’re like ‘yup, I’m making a difference.’ Plus this is my opportunity to give back and say ‘thank you’ to a coach who once told me, ‘When I get the opportunity to help someone, then do it. Then that will be your thanks to me. Words are easy to say. But if I can make someone’s life better than his legacy lives on.’ Hopefully these kids will do the same so my legacy can live on too!”

The PCA (whose national spokesman is former NBA coach Phil Jackson) seeks to “create a positive, character-building youth sports culture for youth through highschool.” Lum Ho, who is one of 50 coaches recognized nationally (not one per state), was nominated in November 2016 by Kea’au High School student-athlete, Ruby Galapon. He started at Kea’au in 2008, where he has coached, basketball (girls), cross country (head coach since 2016) and softball (coach for a year). He was recognized at the PCA awards ceremony held April 22 in Palo Alto, Calif. Accompanied by his dad Greg Lum Ho Sr., he received his award along with 21 other coach awardees in attendance. “When Ruby first approached me and said she was nominating me for this award, I didn’t know how

– 2017 Spring Pupukahi pp. 4

Hawaii National Guard Welcomes Home Soldiers From Deployment

117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment – Story by Pfc. Chavaughn Washington

The purpose of this event was to help readjust Soldiers in postdeployment, to a lifestyle outside of a deployed atmosphere.

“Reintegration is not something that you do on your own,” said Maj. Deanna Manriquez, Operations Officer of the 103rd Troop Command. “It’s something you use each other for to use the support system that is available to you.”

The program included briefs from several different speakers who provided information regarding things such as resilience training, education benefits and stress management among several other subjects that are essential to the everyday lives of Guardsmen.

Various speakers attended the program in order to support the Guardsmen in ways that would make reintegration into society more seamless and ensure that they utilize all the benefits available to them.

– 2017 Fall Pupukahi pp. 6

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion

The aviation support company is headquartered in Kalaeloa and is commanded by Maj. Deanna Manriquez, with detachments in Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wyoming. Its mission is to provide aviation field-level maintenance, quality assurance, production control and supply management for the supported Aviation unit and Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade (ECAB) as part of the Global Force Pool of operational forces. On order, it provides National Guard Domestic Operations (NGDO) support throughout Hawai‘i. In FY19:

• Company B, 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment deployed ISO Operation Freedom Sentinel from Apr. 2018 – Feb. 2019.
• Company B, 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment conducted their Post Deployment Yellow Ribbon event on Jun. 1, 2019.

– 2019 Annual Report pp. 12

Hawaii Army National Guard Soldier Awarded the State Medal of Valor

117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Hawaii) |Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher Martens |Sunday, February 10, 2019

WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii – “A series of very difficult decisions . . . that would save the lives of a family of six, and one family pet.” These are the words used by Hawaii Governor David Ige just prior to presenting Staff Sergeant Gregory A.Y. Lum Ho, Bravo Company, 777th Aviation Support Battalion, with the State Medal of Valor during a ceremony held at Wheeler Army Airfield, Hawaii on February 9, 2019.

The Medal of Valor is awarded by the Governor to individuals who distinguish themselves through performance of an uncommon act of personal heroism involving the voluntary risk of his/her own life. Governor Ige presented this medal to Lum Ho in recognition of his life saving actions while serving as part of the Hawaii National Guard’s emergency response to Hurricane Lane.

On August 23, 2018, Lum Ho was assigned to the Lava Support Mission as a member of Task Force Hawaii, which was established in response to the Kilauea volcano eruption on the island of Hawaii. However, with Hurricane Lane closing in, Task Force Hawaii’s mission quickly changed from lava support, to hurricane support. That evening Lum Ho, along with Pvt. Justin Dejesus, was assigned as a roving security patrol, but when Task Force Hawaii received a request for assistance from the Hawaii County Fire Department, Lum Ho was redirected to assist.

When Lum Ho arrived, he learned that a family of six was stranded in an area where all ingress and egress routes were cut off by high flooding waters and their house was in danger of potential collapse. The road to their home was flooded, eroded on one side with large pieces of debris floating, limiting the type of vehicle that could traverse through. This included first responders, who had already exhausted their capabilities. Equipped with a firm understanding of the capabilities of his assigned Humvee, as well as his knowledge of the local terrain, Lum Ho quickly worked with first responders to formulate an innovative plan of action. Once the plan was in place, he placed himself in grave danger as he maneuvered the Humvee under extremely dangerous conditions, ferrying Hawaii County firefighter a cross the flood waters to allow safe rescue of the stranded family

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Ige impressed upon those in attendance, the gravity of the situation faced by Hawaii Island-based Lum Ho.

“The hip high water, the pouring rain, the rushed element of time, the number of first responders, your own security team, your own family, all were taken into consideration when you decided to use your Humvee to ferry the firefighters across swiftly moving water,” the governor said, highlighting the weight of the decisions made by Lum Ho. “You displayed self-sacrifice and indisputably contributed to the alleviation of public tragedy.”

Finally, before presenting the Medal of Valor to Lum Ho, Governor Ige concluded, “You epitomize the Citizen Soldier and are a shining example of what Valor is.”

Although overwhelmed and greatly appreciative of this honor, Lum Ho believes the credit is best placed elsewhere.

“I think the leadership training we get in the National Guard prepares us for the situation where we need to make on the spot decisions,” Lum Ho said. More importantly, he attributes the successful rescue to those by his side that night, and the other members of Task Force Hawaii.

“Like the general and the Governor said, this is a team effort,” said Lum Ho during his speech. “From my co-driver who helped me navigate through the debris, to the mechanics that actually got my Humvee ready every night and kept it safe for me, without those guys, none of this would be possible.”

Ultimately, Staff Sgt. Lum Ho graciously accepted the Medal of Valor, but was sure to emphasize that he was doing so on behalf of the Soldiers and Airmen of Task Force Hawaii, as well as his comrades in Bravo Company.

– 2019 Spring Pupukahi pp. 6

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Battalion

The aviation support company is headquartered in Kalaeloa, Hawai‘i with detachments in Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Wyoming. Its mission is to provide aviation field-level maintenance, quality assurance, production control and supply management for the supported Aviation unit and Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade (ECAB) as part of the Global Force Pool of operational forces. On order, provides National Guard Domestic Operations support throughout Hawai‘i. In FY20:

• Assembled three different maintenance teams with direct support to HIARNG aviation in order to increase operational readiness.
• Provided personnel support to Task Force Aviation and Task Force Maui.

– 2020 Annual Report pp. 14

Company B, 777th Aviation Support (Co. B, 777th ASC)

Commanded by Capt. John Worthington Jr. and 1st Sgt. Soloman Makaneole, Co. B, 777th ASC will provide aviation intermediate maintenance in multiple locations simultaneously to support the expeditionary combat aviation Brigade as part of a joint force in a multi-domain operational environment to fight and win in large scale combat operations in and provide NGCS.

• Sling Load Training: Co. B, 777th ASC and Company B, 2nd Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment Command personnel conducted sling load training with Chinook (CH-47) flight crews at Wheeler Army Airfield, Schofield Barracks on Jan. 6 and 7. This provided Downed Aircraft Recovery Team (DART) training in sling load operations in support of unit’s mission essential task 2: perform Downed Aircraft Recovery Missions (DARM). This included using an aerial recovery kit to safely rig a selfpropelled crane aircraft maintenance and positioning for aerial movement.
• Aircraft Maintenance: Co B, 777 ASC conducted aircraft maintenance on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i from June 2023 through July 2024, supporting Army Aviation Support Facility #1 Wheeler, AASF #1 Kalaeloa, and AASF #2 Hilo. Unit personnel average over 200 maintenance man-hours during Inactive Duty Training weekends. This supported Blackhawk (UH-60), Pave hawk (HH-60), and Chinook (CH-47) aircraft with scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
• Mission essential task 2: Downed Aircraft Recovery Internal Evaluation: Co B, 777 ASC conducted an internal evaluation to improve proficiency in performing DARM at Wheeler Army Airfield from June 1 to 15, 2024. This included convoy operations, DART operations, and aerial recovery operations on rigging a static Seahawk training aircraft.

– 2024 Annual Report pp. 25-26

Company B, 777th Aviation Support (Co. B, 777th ASC)

The Co. B, 777th ASC is headquartered in Kalaeloa with detachments in Puerto Rico, Arkansas, and Alaska. Its mission is to provide aviation field-level maintenance, quality assurance, production control and supply management for the supported aviation unit and Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade as part of the global force pool of operational forces. On order, provides National Guard civil support throughout Hawai‘i.

• Co. B, 777th ASC, executed YearRound Annual Training (YRAT) by assembling staggered maintenance teams to support HIARNG Aviation resulting in an increase to HIARNG Aviation operational readiness. YRAT generated 3,652 maintenance man hours to support AASF#1 at Wheeler Army Airfield and AASF Kalaeloa in Kapolei.
• Throughout the year, Co. B, 777th ASC conducted individual and collective training facilitated by the AASF to compound maintenance productivity with subject matter experts that progressed individuals through the aviation maintenance training program

– 2025 Annual Report pp. 26

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Company

The Co B 777th ASC’s mission is to provide aviation field-level maintenance, quality assurance, production control and supply management for the supported aviation unit and Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade as part of the global force pool of operational forces.  

• Executed year-round annual training by assembling staggered maintenance teams to support HIARNG aviation resulting in an increase to HIARNG aviation operational readiness. This generated 3,652 maintenance man hours to support AASF#1 at Wheeler Army Airfield and AASF Kalaeloa in Kapolei. 
• Conducted individual and collective training facilitated by the AASF to compound maintenance productivity with subject matter experts that progressed individuals through the aviation maintenance training program.

– 2026 pūpūkahi Volume 56 No. 4 pp. 21

Company B, 777th Aviation Support Company Leadership

193rd Aviation Lineage and Honors

Constituted 2 October 1986 in the Hawaii Army National Guard as the 193d Aviation Battalion

Organized and Federally recognized 18 October 1986 at Wheeler Air Force Base, Hawaii

Reorganized and redesignated 1 October 198 7 as the 19 3d Aviation, a parent regiment under the United States Army Regimental System, to consist of the 1st Battalion

Reorganized 1 September 1994 to consistof Company C

Reorganized 2 September 1 99 5 to consist of Companies B and C

Last updated March 1997