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Wearing chemical protective gear, Private 1st Class Brandon Hoffman of the Georgia National Guard's 178th Military Police Company prepares to enter a simulated contaminated area with the 78th Homeland Response Force (HRF) during the Vigilant Guard 2013 exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla., May 18, 2013. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

// Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa // May 23, 2013

Florida’s Vigilant Guard tests capabilities as hurricane season nears

By Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa Florida National Guard Public Affairs STARKE, Fla. (May 23, 2013) – With the 2013 hurricane season just around the corner, the Vigilant Guard disaster response [...Read More...]

146th ESB Soldiers set up a Satellite Transportable Terminal (STT) at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Fla. Courtesy photo

// Contributor // May 21, 2013

146th Signal Soldiers train across state in Operation Noble Alliance

Story courtesy 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion STARKE, Fla. (May 21, 2013) – The 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB) created history this year by deploying 13 teams and 22 signal [...Read More...]

Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau Lt. Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel (center) receives a briefing on intense Vigilant Guard training scenarios during a visit to Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla., May 19, 2013. The general toured the Vigilant Guard training sites at the post in North Central Florida, learning how collaborative efforts during the week-long exercise were progressing. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

// Staff // May 20, 2013

Vice Chief of National Guard Bureau Visits Vigilant Guard in Florida

By Sgt. Christopher Vann 107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment CAMP BLANDING JOINT TRAINING CENTER, (May 20, 2013) – Lt. Gen. Joseph Lengyel, Vice Chief of the National [...Read More...]

Master Sgt. Raleigh Rogers (left) of the Florida Air National Guard's 125th Fighter Wing talks with a soldier from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) near Camp Stephenson Guyana, April 24, 2013. Rogers and other Guardsmen were in the South American nation as part of the State Partnership Program (SPP), conducting "Ammo Handler and Unit Armorer Assessments". Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

// Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa // May 6, 2013

Florida’s EOD experts bring ordnance know-how to Guyana

By Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa Florida National Guard Public Affairs GEORGETOWN, Guyana (May 6, 2013) – Three National Guardsmen brought their expertise of ordnance and demolitions to Guyana [...Read More...]

Staff Sgt. Richard Hunter operates a Hydraulic Excavator while working on the ground leveling project at the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. Photo by Sgt. Valeria M. Pete

// Contributor // April 19, 2013

Engineers dig up dirt at the 164th

By Sgt. Valeria M. Pete 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade ORLANDO (April 19, 2013) – A haze of dust surrounded the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade as Soldiers from [...Read More...]

146th ESB Soldiers set up a Satellite Transportable Terminal (STT) at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Fla. Courtesy photo

146th Signal Soldiers train across state in Operation Noble Alliance

May 21, 2013

News, guidance and resources on budget uncertainty, sequester and furloughs

May 20, 2013

Florida National Guard service members along with Flagler County Fire Rescue are working together in search and rescue operations at Harbor Island, Fla., Sunday, May 19. Dennis Moore, operations leader with Flagler County Fire Department is grateful for the joint-force effort, specifically noting the presence of the 48th CST with their hazardous materials gear. These operations are in support of the KC-10 tanker aircraft accident that occurred Friday, May 17. Spc. Kenneth Tucceri

National Guard, Flagler County Fire Rescue, collaborate in training

May 19, 2013

Civilian and government forces joined together in a training mission on Saturday, May 18, when Miami-Dade urban search and rescue teams and members of the Florida National Guard assisted each other on a search and rescue exercise. This exercise is a part of Vigilant Guard, an annual exercise operation designed to train civilian and military responders on efficient and effective disaster response efforts. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jasmine Jacobs 124th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

Vigilant Guard 2013 – first responders train for emergencies

May 19, 2013

Florida Highway Patrol officers discuss the benefits of working for FHP with a former service member at the Paychecks for Patriots hiring event in Orlando. Photo by Staff Sgt. Derol Fulghum

Florida hiring events bring together veterans and employers throughout state

May 16, 2013

Members of the Florida National Guard's Family Programs pose with a mascot from Taco Bell during the opening of the recently renovated Family Assistance Center at Camp Blanding, May 14. The Armed Forces Families Foundation provided renovation funding, and Taco Bell provided lunch and refreshments at the opening of the 2,500-square-foot building. Photo by Debra Cox

Renovated Family Assistance Center opens at Camp Blanding

May 14, 2013

Cadets clean up debris and damaged items out of each room and vacuum any leftover water during the recent flood. Courtesy photo

Youth ChalleNGe cadets help out Clay County residents during flooding

May 14, 2013

Paychecks for Patriots Hiring Fairs Partner Veterans with Major Florida Employers

May 9, 2013

Statewide hiring event for veterans and military on May 10

May 7, 2013

Command Sgt. Maj Jeffery L. Young (left) assumes responsibility of the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat team as the senior enlisted advisor to the commander, Col. Mike A. Canzoneri, May 4, 2013, in Pinellas Park, Fla. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Milbrodt

CSM Young assumes responsibility of the 53rd IBCT

May 6, 2013

Soldiers of the 164th ADA stand in formation as they listen to remarks during their deployment ceremony. They will be deploying to the National Capital Region. Courtesy photo

99th deployment for Florida Guard: 164th deploys again to National Capital Region

April 30, 2013

FLNG Counterdrug Soldiers assisted in a recent Ground Reconnaissance Phase II course conducted at Camp Murray, Washington State. Indiana, Colorado, Nevada and Washington State National Guardsmen were enrolled in the course. This course is designed to better equip Counterdrug Service Members for the Domestic War Against Drugs. Photo provided by GRT Staff

FLNG Counterdrug Program Conducts Ground Reconnaissance Training

April 22, 2013

A member of the Florida National Guard's 48th Civil Support Team (left) trains with a civilian first responder during an emergency management exercise in Central Florida, March 2013. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida’s WMD disaster response unit saved from elimination

April 18, 2013

Sexual Assault Awareness Month 13

DoD revamps rules on preventing sexual assaults

April 12, 2013

Cadets from 11 Florida colleges participated in a training exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Force Training Center to prepare them for the Leadership Development Assessment Course April 6, 2013. The Cadets took part in an army physical fitness test, land navigation exercises, garrison operations and squad training drills over the four-day event. Photo by Spc. Kenneth Tucceri

Florida’s Army ROTC cadets are put to the test at the Audie Murphy Exercise

April 8, 2013

Members of the Florida Army National Guard’s 856th Quartermaster Support Company, based in Immokalee, Fla., are currently deployed to Afghanistan. Courtesy photo

Fuel Escort Mission in Afghanistan

March 25, 2013

715th Military Police Company deployment ceremony in Melbourne, Fla., March 23, 2013. Photo by David Sterphone

Florida National Guard to deploy 17,000th Guardsman

March 22, 2013

Florida National Guard Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment took part in the initial invasion of Iraq by clearing two large berms on the border between Iraq and Jordan, allowing Special Forces Soldiers to cross into Iraq. This heritage painting depicts a scene where Spc. Jeffrey Wershow, who was later killed in action in Baghdad, planted the U.S. and Florida flags at the site.

Florida Guardsmen and Iraq: ten years later

March 19, 2013

Members of the 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment, bow their heads during a prayer at the end of a deployment ceremony in Brooksville, Fla., March 17, 2013. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Brooksville Guardsmen to deploy to Kosovo

March 18, 2013

Spc. Johnnie Walker of the Florida Army National Guard's 779th Engineer Battalion take notes during a Department of Labor workshop in Panama City, Fla., March 1, 2013. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

‘A better chance’ at employment

March 5, 2013

PV2 Lee Bailes (left) and Sgt. Anthony Calvi (right) were named Soldier and NCO of the Year for the Florida National Guard. Both Soldiers represented the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Vann

Florida Guardsmen Compete for NCO and Soldier of the Year

March 3, 2013

File photo of Florida National Guard's 48th CST. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Clearwater-based Civil Support Team scores high on recent inspection

February 27, 2013

Master Sgt. Timothy Maczuga (right), 290 JCSS Flight NCOIC, briefs Lt. Gen. Stanley Clarke (center) and Brig. Gen. James Eifert on the capabilities of the Initial Entry Package (IEP) at the 290 JCSS, MacDill AFB, Fla. Photo by Senior Master Sgt. Richard Dautzenberg

Newly appointed Director of the Air National Guard visits Florida’s 290th JCSS

February 26, 2013

Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. (left) meets with Civil War re-enactors at the Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park in North-Central Florida, Feb. 8, 2013. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida’s militia heritage remembered during Civil War battlefield visit

February 25, 2013

Army Gen. Frank Grass, the chief of the National Guard Bureau, right, testifies to the Senate Armed Services Committee on the impact on the Defense Department of sequestration and a yearlong continuing resolution at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 12, 2013. (Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill)

Grass: Sequestration devastating to National Guard, Defense Department

February 13, 2013

Lt. Col. John Pelleritti, commander of the 3rd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group, leads his Soldiers on the parade field during a ceremony, February 9, 2013, honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Battalion at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. Photo by Sgt. Karen Kozub

Florida’s Special Forces celebrate 50 years

February 10, 2013

Col. James Eifert (center) is promoted to the rank of brigadier general and officially "pinned" by his wife Beth and the Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. during a ceremony in St. Augustine, Fla., Feb. 8, 2013. Concurrently Eifert assumed the position of Assistant Adjutant General for Air and Deputy Commander of the Florida Air National Guard. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Air Guard’s Eifert promoted to brigadier general

February 8, 2013

The Florida National Guard's Capt. Jennifer Hunt was chosen as one of the 2013 Department of Defense's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARC), representing all National Guard SARCs in the nation. Hunt, a resident of St. Augustine, became the Florida National Guard's SARC in January 2010, and has trained more than 100 Florida National Guard victim advocates in sexual assault and harassment response issues. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida Soldier chosen as National Guard’s top Sexual Assault Response Coordinator

January 29, 2013

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Florida Guardsmen relay for charity

January 25, 2013

Sgt. 1st Class Vikki Bautista with the 927th Combat Sustainment Suppot Battalion checks the records of a Florida National Guard Soldier at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center prior to departing for Washington D.C. to support the 57th Presidential Inauguration.

Florida Guardsmen prepare to support the Presidential Inauguration

January 18, 2013

Spc. Joshua Branham bench pressing 165lbs which got him to win his age group for both Armed Forces Championships. Courtesy photo

Camp Blanding Soldiers ready for powerlifting competition

January 17, 2013

Florida National Guardsman dies after military vehicle accident in Bradford County

January 16, 2013

Mark Huston (left) a personal financial consultant from the Military and Family Life Consultant Program speaks to attendees during the Florida National Guard's Yellow Ribbon event in Orlando, Jan. 12, 2013. Since 2008 the Florida National Guard has held more than 65 pre-deployment, mid-deployment and reintegration events across the state for deployed Army and Air units. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Yellow Ribbon support still relevant for deploying Guardsmen

January 13, 2013

Lt. Col. Randal Efferson, who serves as the deputy commander at Eglin Air Force Baseâs 33rd Operations Group, has been selected as Advisor to the USAF Warfare Center located at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Efferson is one of two Florida Air National Guard pilots engaged in the F-35 fighter jet program at Eglin. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Air Guard’s F-35 trainer takes advisor position at Warfare Center

January 10, 2013

LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Col. Brian M. Simpler selected as Commander of 125th Fighter Wing

January 9, 2013

Media Advisory: National Guardsmen return to Quincy from Afghanistan mission on Tuesday

January 6, 2013

Multinational service members stand on a podium for the opening ceremony of exercise Yama Sakura (YS) 63 in Sendai, Miyagi prefecture, Japan on Dec. 6, 2012. YS is an annual, bilateral exercise between the U.S. military and the Japan Self-Defense Force. YS is the largest command post exercise that focuses predominately on the bilateral and joint planning, coordination and interoperability of ground based elements of the U.S./Japan security alliance. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jess Williams/Released)

Air defense Soldiers partner with Japanese for Yama Sakura

December 21, 2012

Sgt. 1st Class David Harrison, course manager, speaks to National Guardsmen from Florida and Mississippi who graduated from the three week 14GY20 air defense transition course at the Florida Regional Training Insitute, Dec. 19, 2012. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida offers transition course for air defenders

December 20, 2012

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A ‘strategic’ command: Maj. Gen. Balskus reflects on successes and future of the Florida Air National Guard

December 17, 2012

Col. (ret.) Grover âWoodyâ Barnes (left) and Sgt. 1st Class (ret.) Hollie Jernigan, stand in front of the B. Company, 146th Signal Battalion headquarters in Pensacola, Fla., on Dec. 15, 2012. The two veterans were inducted into the unit Hall of Fame during the recent ceremony. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Two Florida veterans inducted into Signal battalion’s hall of fame

December 17, 2012

Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team conduct a change of command ceremony in Pinellas Park, Fla., Dec. 1, 2012. Photo by Debra Cox

Florida National Guard serves the Nation at home and abroad

December 13, 2012

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Inspection time for America’s AOC

December 11, 2012

An LUH-72 helicopter from the Florida Army National Guard's B Company, 2nd Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment (Security and Support), returns to Cecil Commerce Center in Jacksonville, Dec. 7, 2012, following a 10-month deployment to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. The unit conducted aerial reconnaissance and security operations as part of Task Force Libertyâs Southwest Border Security mission. The unit was supporting U.S. Customs and Border Protection along the U.S.-Mexico border in southern Texas. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida National Guardsmen return from SW border mission

December 7, 2012

LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Sergeant Major (Retired) James Ransom selected as Director, Florida Youth Challenge Academy

December 7, 2012

REFLECTIONS OF VIETNAM

Reflections of Vietnam: Florida Guardsmen share stories of life during war

December 4, 2012

Florida Youth Challenge honors former cadets with memorial garden

December 4, 2012

Members of the 930th Digital Liaison Detachment stand in formation during their departure ceremony in Homestead, Fla., Nov. 26, 2012. The Soldiers are deploying to Afghanistan to work with U.S. and coalition forces. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

930th detachment departs for Afghanistan deployment

November 26, 2012

Marylina and Jacquin Gilchrist and their son Jacques-Pierre, family friend Pedro Pavon, Esq., Lt. Col. Kip Lassner of the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade and Richard Cole, Esq. (managing partner of Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A.) celebrate with Capt. Jacquin “Quin” Gilchrist after he is sworn into the Florida National Guard as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer. Photo courtesy of Lt. Col. Kip Lassner.

JAG officer sworn into Florida National Guard by employer and fellow Guardsman

November 21, 2012

MEDIA ADVISORY: Homestead National Guardsmen to deploy to Afghanistan

November 21, 2012

Sgt. Lisa Adamski of the 690th Military Police Company perfects the marinara sauce that she and the rest of her team served the Philip A. Connelly Food Service Competition evaluators at Camp Blanding on Nov. 17. Photo by Capt. Theresa DiPinto

690th Military Police Company competes for national title during the Philip A. Connelly Food Service Competition

November 21, 2012

Senior Master Sgt. Ted Karst of the 125th Fighter Wing (right) shows off an F-15 Eagle engine to representatives from the Japanese Air Defense Force and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, during a tour of the 125th's maintenance facilities, Nov. 16, 2012. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Japanese visit to Jacksonville airbase shows off F-15 support

November 16, 2012

LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Eifert selected as Assistant Adjutant General-Air, Florida National Guard

November 15, 2012

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw, the Adjutant General of Florida (far right) stands with members of the Florida National Guard Foundation board and representatives from Kangaroo Express after accepting a donation of $180,000 from Kangaroo Express on behalf of the Florida National Guard Foundation, Nov. 8, 2012.

Florida National Guard Foundation receives large donation from Kangaroo Express

November 8, 2012

A Soldier from Company F, 53rd Brigade Support Battalion, pays his respects during a memorial ceremony for Capt. Ana M. Peck at the Haines City armory Nov. 4. Capt. Peck served as the first female commander of Company F, the forward support company of 2nd Battalion 124th Infantry Regiment. During the ceremony anecdotes were shared, encouraging words exchanged, and raw emotion flowed freely. The ceremony afforded the Soldiers of the Warrior Company a chance to pay their respects, mourn their loss, display their love, and heal the wound of an untimely passing in the fellowship of service members. Sgt. Hampton is just one of the many Soldiers who knelt beside the memorial of Capt. Peck where he said his final good byes and left a memento for her family to add to the cherished memories. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Milbrodt

‘Warrior’ company commander Capt. Anna Peck remembered during memorial service

November 6, 2012

Florida Army National Guard C-23 Sherpa aircraft. Photo coutesy of Detachment 1, Company H, 171st Aviation

Florida’s C-23 Sherpa Soldiers assist with Sandy relief

November 6, 2012

LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Canzoneri selected as Commander, 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team

November 6, 2012

Commander of the 125th Fighter Wing Col. James Eiffert (left) gives a briefing on the F-15 Eagle fighter jet to Florida Gov. Rick Scott at the Jacksonville International Airport, Nov. 2, 2012. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Gov. Scott visits 125th Fighter Wing for F-15 flight

November 5, 2012

The family of Army Sgt. Matthew Carter poses with a photo of Carter in his Army uniform, in Tampa, Oct. 27, 2012. Carter, who died in 1996, served with B Company, 1/22nd Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, during the Vietnam War, and earned the Silver Star for heroic action near the Laotian border in June of 1968. According to former members of Carter's unit, the original paperwork for the citation was misplaced, and recently found. The award was presented at the annual reunion for B Company. Pictured are: son Quinton Carter, wife Lorine Carter, and son Matthew Carter. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Silver Star awarded after 44 years

November 1, 2012

Gov. Scott highlights improved job climate for FL national guardsmen

October 24, 2012

Space Launch unit welcomes new commander

October 16, 2012

Congressman C.W. Bill Young and his wife were awarded the Order of Saint Maurice Civis during a ceremony hosted by the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Oct. 13, 2012, in Pinellas Park, Fla. Pictured are: 53rd IBCT Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Corrow (left); 53rd Deputy Commander Col. Sean Ward; Beverly Angello; Congressman C.W. Bill Young; Gretchen Titshaw; Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Milbrodt

Infantry Brigade honors congressman and wife with military order award

October 16, 2012

Command of the 125th Fighter Wing Col. James Eifert (left) greets 202nd RED HORSE Airmen as they return home from deployment, Oct. 7, 2012. Photo by Debra Cox

202nd Airmen arrive home from overseas engineering mission

October 9, 2012

A member of the Florida Army National Guard's Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group, exits a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during an airborne training exercise in Key West, Fla., Sept. 27, 2012. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida Soldiers hit the waves for Key West exercise

October 5, 2012

Brig. Gen. Branyon selected as Commander, Florida Air National Guard

September 14, 2012

Adjutant General of Florida message on 9-11 anniversary

September 11, 2012

Participants conduct a role-playing exercise during a recent Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) workshop in St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 23, 2012. For the first time, the Florida National Guard invited civilian first responders to participate in the training to build relationships and share experiences and lessons learned.

Florida National Guard extends suicide intervention training into the community

September 4, 2012

Soldiers from the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team prepare for civil disturbance missions in early August at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. More than 1,700 Guard Soldiers were supporting and on standby for possible mission during the recent Republic National Convention in Tampa. Photo by Florida National Guard Public Affairs

Florida National Guard’s 53rd Infantry Brigade supports RNC in Tampa

August 31, 2012

Garcia and spend their own time creating training and nutrition plans to provide guidance and assistance to members of the 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard to meet their fitness goals. (Air National Guard photo by MSgt. Shelley Gill)

Fighter Wing officer committed to fitness training for Airmen

August 30, 2012

Sgt. 1st Class Edward Stokes, Staff Sgt. Jesse Lockhart, and Sgt. 1st Class Rebecca Deen during the recent training course at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. Courtesy photo

Camp Blanding Guardsmen complete course to improve training methods

August 27, 2012

Florida Emergency Information Line activated in response to Tropical Storm Isaac

August 25, 2012

Special Forces Soldiers from Company A, 3rd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group stand ready in formation behind their company guidon during a deployment ceremony at the National Guard Armory in Ocala, Fla., Aug. 24, 2012. Special Forces Soldiers are experts trained in unconventional warfare, direct action, special reconnaissance and other special activities. Company A, 3-20th SFG is deploying to the Central America region with the mission of deterring transnational organized crime by training and advising partner nation security forces. Photo by Spc. N. Bobby Ballard, 107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Special Forces Soldiers honored in Ocala

August 24, 2012

Master Sgt. James Kersey (left) and Sgt. 1st Class Chris Brunner of the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team monitor the track of Tropical Storm Isaac from the Florida National Guard's Joint Emergency Operations Center in St. Augustine, Fla., Aug. 22, 2012. The Florida National Guard was monitoring official forecasts for the storm in anticipation of the storm reaching Florida, and as of Wednesday afternoon the National Hurricane Center predicted Isaac could strike Florida by Aug. 27 as a hurricane. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida National Guard preparing for Tropical Storm Isaac

August 23, 2012

Members of the Antigua Barbuda Defence Force and the Antigua Police Force pose for a class photo during a leadership seminar, August 14, 2012, at St. John's, Antigua. The Florida National Guard sent Soldiers from the 211th Regional Training Institute to share their knowledge and experience as part of the National Guard State Partnership Program. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Vann

Leading the way across the waves

August 23, 2012

Graduates of the Florida Army National Guard Officer Candidate School Class 51 at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla., Aug. 18, 2012. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Fifteen Florida Army National Guard’s officers graduate from leadership program

August 19, 2012

Major Jay Spohn flies over the training ranges at Eglin's 33rd Fighter Wing July 16 during his first of six flights to become the Guard's first F-35 Lightning II instructor pilot. Spohn will be in the aviation history books as among the first to fly the Air Force's fifth-generation fighter jet. Spohn's wingman made the photos from a chase F-16. Photo by Lt. Col. Eric Smith

Florida’s Spohn becomes Guard’s first F-35 instructor pilot

August 8, 2012

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 856th Quartermaster Support Company stand in formation during a deployment ceremony at the Seminole Casino Event Pavilion in Immokalee, Fla., July 30, 2012. Forty Soldiers from the unit were preparing for a year-long deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Immokalee Quartermaster unit deploys to Afghanistan

August 1, 2012

Lt. Col. Daren Van Aulen (right) takes his new unit's guidon from Commander of the Florida Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus, July 22, 2012, at MacDill Air Force Base. Van Aulen assumed command of the 290th Joint Communications Support Squadron from Lt. Col. Loretta Lombard. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Van Aulen takes command of 290th JCSS at MacDill

July 27, 2012

13th Army Band assists South American partnership mission

July 17, 2012

Staff Sgt. Keith Griffin of the 690th Military Police Company proudly displays the finished chicken parmesan during the Philip A. Connelly Food Service Competition at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. Courtesy photo

690th Military Police Company Food Service Team heats up Connelly Competition

July 16, 2012

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 3rd Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, bow their heads during a benediction at the unit's deployment ceremony in Sarasota, Fla., July 14, 2012. More than 200 Soldiers from the unit were deploying for a year to provide air defense support in the National Capital Region. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Sarasota unit departs for year-long Air Defense mission

July 15, 2012

Aviators from the Florida National Guard's Detachment 1, Company H, 171st Aviation prepare to take specialists from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on a daily observation flight over the Gulf of Mexico on a C-23 Sherpa airplane during Deepwater Horizon response operations, June 22, 2010. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Brooksville aviators earn ‘unit of the year’ award

July 13, 2012

National Guard to host virtual Diversity update

July 11, 2012

Lt. Col. Dan Mahnke, deputy state surgeon for the Florida National Guard, speaks to health care professionals from the Regional Security System countries of Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados and Antigua during a subject matter exchange on electronic medical records management in St. Augustine, Fla., July 11, 2012. The National Guard's State Partnership Program facilitated the exchange to promote improved continuity of care for Caribbean security forces. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida National Guard shares knowledge on electronic medical records

July 11, 2012

Florida celebrates 40 years of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

June 26, 2012

Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. meets with a delegation from Indonesia, June 19, at the historic Florida National Guard headquarters in St. Augustine, Fla., to receive a packet of soil collected on Morotai Island where Florida Guardsmen fought during World War II. The soil was presented in front of the Florida National Guard Heritage Art Collection painting entitled "Assault at Red Beach: Morotai Island." Photo by Debra Cox

Indonesian delegation brings World War II soil to Florida National Guard

June 19, 2012

Florida National Guard Family Day at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, June 16, 2012. Photo by Debra Cox

Florida National Guard Family Day draws Soldiers and Airmen to Camp Blanding

June 18, 2012

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 870th Engineer Company form up during a deployment ceremony in Crestview, Fla., June 16, 2012. More than 90 Soldiers from the unit will be deploying to Afghanistan for a year-long mission. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Experience levels high for 870th Engineer Company deploying to Afghanistan

June 16, 2012

Spc. Cesar Rivas scans the road before pulling off for his road test during driver's training with the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. The road test checks the Soldier's ability to control the vehicle during different situations, while also getting the Soldier comfortable driving. Photo by Sgt. Valeria De Jesus

‘Motors’ keeps Soldiers moving forward during annual training

June 14, 2012

Air National Guard Director urges military medical professionals to continue focus on mission during budget proposals

June 10, 2012

Pictured: Lt. Col. Kevin Creech (left), Steve Hassinger, Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Kraft, Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Lagasse, Douglas Corbett and Al Starling. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Guard presents Patriot award to business for supporting deployed employee

June 7, 2012

Outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. John Hafford during the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Change of Responsibility Ceremony in Orlando on Sunday. Courtesy photo

164th ADA’s top enlisted Soldier retires after 41 years

June 6, 2012

Florida National Guard Senior Army Advisor Col. David Rodgers holds a package of soil from the Le Mans region of France, where Florida National Guard Soldiers fought during World War II. Rodgers has initiated a project to consecrate the parade field in front of the historic St. Francis Barracks in St Augustine with soil from battlefields around the world where the Florida National Guard has fought. Also pictured are soil samples from Kuwait, Japan, Philippines and Mexico. Through the project he hopes to collect soil samples from nine wars and 15 locations across the globe. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Project underway to bring battlefield soil to St. Augustine parade field

June 5, 2012

Florida Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Hosford (second from right) and Florida National Guard leaders present a Florida State Flag to members of the 2153rd Financial Management Detachment (FMD), on June 3, 2012. Hosford presented the flag so it could be flown with pride over the unit's headquarters during the 2153rd FMDâs deployment to Southwest Asia as a representation of the people of the state of Florida. Pictured are: Sgt. 1st Class Gerald Shugart, 2153rd Financial Management Detachment (FMD) NCO-IC, (left); Maj. Gen. James Tyre, Assistant Adjutant General for the Florida Army National Guard; Capt. Enrique Martinez, Commander of the 2153rd FMD, Command Sgt. Maj. Robert M. Hosford, Florida Army National Guard Command Sergeant Major; and Col. Valeria Gonzalez-Kerr, 50th Regional Support Group Commander. Photo by Spc. N. Bobby Ballard

National Guard finance Soldiers get farewell sendoff

June 5, 2012

Florida Governor Rick Scott (center), Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Director Bryan W. Koon (right) and Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw Jr. meet with Home Depot employees in Miami on June 1, as part of an effort to focus on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew and preparedness for 2012 hurricane season. Courtesy photo

Governor, Adjutant General, focus on start of 2012 Hurricane Season

June 4, 2012

Sgt. Courtney Webb completed the 2012 Lincoln Marathon in three hours, 52 minutes and ten seconds, earning a spot on the 2012-2013 All Guard Marathon Team.

Florida Guardsman earns spot on National Guard marathon team

May 30, 2012

Soldiers from Company C, 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, train on the Satellite Terminal Trailer (STT) during annual training at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center.

Sending out signals

May 29, 2012

The Florida Air National Guard's new Mobile Emergency Operations Center (MEOC) can be used by the military or other civilian agencies to provide communications during disasters.

New mobile operations center helps Air Guard communicate during disasters

May 25, 2012

Florida National Guard leaders honored Soldiers from the 221st Ordnance Detachment and their families during a deployment ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, May 18, 2012.

Family, friends gather to send off Camp Blanding Soldiers

May 18, 2012

Leadership from the Florida Air National Guard's Det. 1, 25th Fighter Wing, based at Homestead Air Reserve Base in South Florida pose outside of their unit headquarters after their team helped score a "Mission Ready" rating on a recent NORAD inspection. Pictured are Maj. Adam Langton (left), Commander Lt. Col. James Spooner, and Chief Enlisted Manager Senior Master Sgt. Eddie Diaz. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

125th’s alert detachment proves its mettle during recent inspection

May 17, 2012

Capt. Bill Elliott (center) met with Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho (left), the 43rd Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and Brig. Gen. Dennis Doyle (right), the 17th Chief of the Medical Service Corps March 29, 2012, during the Medical Service Corps Junior Officer Week in Washington, D.C. Courtesy photo

Florida officer receives Award of Excellence from Medical Service Corps

May 16, 2012

A Soldier from the Florida National Guard Counterdrug Civil Operations Program speaks to students at a middle school in Monroe County about leadership and life skills.

Educating Florida’s youth about values, leadership and drug and alcohol abuse

May 15, 2012

Maj. John Wilson (left) receives the Order of the Dragon certificate and award from 44th Civil Support Team Commander Lt. Col. Michael Ladd. Photo by Capt. Tecarie Czarnecki

Florida Guardsman becomes ‘Dragon Soldier’

May 9, 2012

Florida Senator Marco Rubio (left) greets Brig. Gen. Christopher Coates, Continental US NORAD Region Deputy Commander, and Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus, Commander Florida Air National, during a recent visit to Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. Courtesy photo

Florida senator pays visit to America’s AOC

May 3, 2012

Free summer military youth camp to be held July 29-Aug. 4

April 20, 2012

Col. Alan Rutherford is honored during command retreat ceremony at the Florida National Guard headquarters, April 13, 2012. Rutherford, who most recently served as the Florida Air National Guard Director of Staff, retired on April 19 after nearly 40 years of military service. His career â which included piloting six different types of military aircraft â stretched more than half of the total history of the U.S. Air Force. Photo by Debra Cox.

Air Guard’s Director of Staff retires after nearly 40 years of service

April 19, 2012

SFC Chris Barton (right) discusses details of the last entry mission with three members of the FBI on board NASA's ship Liberty Star during Operation Muddy Water. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Vann

Knee deep in muddy water

April 18, 2012

Florida Air National Guard State Command Chief Master Sgt. Robert Lee (left) and Senior Master Sgt. Cory Brown (right) unveil the new official colors for the 131st Training Flight at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, April 12, 2012. Commander of the Florida Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus (second from left) and 131st Commander Maj. John Waltbillig also participated in the afternoon ceremony, during which the Florida Air National Guard's Weather Readiness Training Center (WRTC) was deactivated, and replaced, as the 131st Training Flight was activated. Photo by Debra Cox

New designation means new future for Guard training unit

April 15, 2012

Florida Air National Guard members Staff Sgt. Brittany Kiselich poses with her fiance Jason Threatt (left), her grandfather Frank Klum Sr. (right) and her uncle Frank Klum Jr. during a welcome home ceremony for Kiselich's unit at the Jacksonville International Airport, April 10, 2012. Kiselich is part of the third-generation in her family to serve in military in a combat zone. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida Air Guard homecoming brings together three generations of combat veterans

April 12, 2012

Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown welcomes home members of the 125th Fighter Wing Security Forces Squadron at the Jacksonville International Airport, April 10, 2012. Photo courtesy of Mayor Brown's office

Jacksonville Mayor Brown welcomes Airmen back home from Afghanistan deployment

April 12, 2012

Land Component Commander Brig. Gen. Richard Gallant (right) meets with members of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, April 9, 2012. The thousand-mile, 100-day expedition stopped at the National Guardâs training post in North Florida to emphasize the importance of the military site as a wildlife habitat. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida Wildlife expedition makes stop at National Guard training post

April 10, 2012

FLNG's NCO and Soldier of the Year! Spc. Brian Crawley of the 53rd Brigade Combat Team (center) and Staff Sgt. Daniel Taylor from Joint Force Headquarters (second from left) are honored Saturday evening as the Soldier and the NCO of the Year by Florida National Guard leaders. Pictured with the Soldiers are: Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. (left), Assistant Adjutant General for Army Maj. Gen. James Tyre (second from right) and State Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Hosford. Photo by Debra Cox

Florida Army National Guard selects Soldier, NCO of the Year

April 4, 2012

FGO-120401-Z-RH998-001

National Guard tag teams with WWE for WrestleMania in Miami

April 4, 2012

Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Newman demonstrates proper camoflage techniques during the battalion's Scout tryouts on March 24, 2012. Photo by Pfc. Erick Vargas

Hurricane Battalion Soldiers test to become Scouts

March 29, 2012

Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. (right) accepts the âGreat Floridianâ award for Lt. Gen. Albert Hazen Blanding (pictured on screen) from Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner on behalf of the Florida National Guard, in Tallahassee, Fla., March 21, 2012. Photo by Elliott McCaskill, Executive Office of the Governor of Florida

Former Chief of National Guard Bureau named as ‘Great Floridian’

March 23, 2012

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Riban, Operations Non-Commissioned Officer for Company A, Sgt. 1st Class Steven Munch, Operations NCO for Company B, Sgt. 1st Class Anthony Tambling, a Recruiter from Coral Springs and Sgt. 1st Class Jason Keen, a Recruiter from Sarasota beat out four teams from across Florida to represent the Florida National Guard at the upcoming Marksmanship Area Command III Area Combat Regional Marksmanship competition at Camp Buckner, N.C., March 23-25 and the Winston P. Wilson Championship Matches at Camp Robinson, Ark., April 23-27. Contributed photo

Recruiters set to represent Florida at regional, national rifle competitions

March 20, 2012

Maj. David Brown from the Florida Air National Guard's 125th Fighter Wing (left) discusses the equipment on his unit's RC-26 airplane with Earl Bowen from the Regional Security System (RSS) during a state partnership exchange in Jacksonville, March 14, 2012. The three-day informational exchange was part of Floridaâs ongoing State Partnership with the RSS, and centered around repairs, upgrades and training on the RC-26 fixed wing aircraft. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Sitting across from friends

March 20, 2012

Students participate in a small group exercise during a resilience training assistant (RTA) class at the Regional Training Institute at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, March 14, 2012. The Florida National Guard is implementing resilience training throughout the force to train Soldiers to deal with stress and bounce back from adversity. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Making every Soldier a problem solver

March 16, 2012

Master Sgt. Al Dirosa (center right) and his wife Becky Dirosa of Norfolk escort Camille Shelby around the 203rd RED HORSE memorial March 3, 2012. Shelby's son, Tech Sgt. Dean Shelby of Virginia Beach, was one of 18 members of the 203rd RED HORSE Squadron killed when their plane crashed March 3, 2001 in a cotton field near Unadilla, Ga. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class A.J. Coyne, Virginia Guard Public Affairs

National Guard remembers Airmen, Soldiers killed in fatal plane crash 11 years ago

March 4, 2012

Members of the 202nd RED HORSE Squadron listen to an address by Florida Gov. Rick Scott during the unit's deployment ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, March 2, 2012. Photo by Debra Cox

RED HORSE ‘family’ deploys to Southwest Asia

March 4, 2012

Yellow Ribbon program helps returning, deploying Guardsmen

February 25, 2012

Two Florida National Guard UH-72A Lakota helicopters prepare to take off from Cecil Field, Feb. 23, 2012, to provide security to the Nation's border as part of Operation Guardian. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida aviators depart for border security mission

February 23, 2012

Soldiers from the 869th Engineer Company and 669th Engineer Detachment gather outside the James A. Shanks Middle School in Quincy, Fla., Feb. 15, 2012, as dignitaries and community members wish them well on a year-long deployment. While deployed, the Soldiers will provide military engineering support for Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida Guard engineer units honored during deployment ceremony in Quincy

February 15, 2012

This portion of the historic seawall along the bayfront in dowtown St. Augustine, Fla., will be restored over the next 12 months as part of a $6.3 million project to restore the 175-year-old barrier stretching from the city's center to the Florida National Guard headquarters. Photo by Debra Cox

Florida National Guard participates in groundbreaking for historic seawall project

February 13, 2012

Florida Air National Guard State Command Chief Master Sgt. Robert Lee (left) and Florida Air National Guard Commander Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus prepare to award the Florida Distinguished Service Medal to 2012 Airmen of the Year Senior Airman Michael Summers Jr., Master Sgt. Chad Guillet, Master Sgt. Natalie Cooper, Master Sgt. Gerald Pangelinan, Tech. Sgt. Richard Mongold, and Tech. Sgt. Douglas Henry, Feb. 10, 2012 at the World Golf Village. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida honors Airmen of the Year for 2012

February 11, 2012

Florida Guardsmen join active duty to mark 50th anniversary of Joint Communications Support Element with 50-mile relay run

February 7, 2012

Soldiers from the 153rd Financial Management Company welcomed Capt. Ryan Leonard as their new commander, Feb. 5, 2012.

153rd Financial Management Company welcomes new commander

February 5, 2012

Manatee High School in Bradenton. Courtesy photo

Army National Guard honors three Florida high school football programs

February 3, 2012

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw, the Adjutant General of Florida, speaks to employers and military members during the Northeast Florida Annual Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Luncheon in Jacksonville, Jan. 20, 2012.

Northeast Florida employers recognized for support of National Guard, Reserve employees

January 20, 2012

Members of the Florida Air National Guard's 125th Fighter Wing pose with visitors from the Eastern Caribbean during a State Partnership Program (SPP) exchange concerning the RC-26 aircraft, in December 2011 in Jacksonville, Fla. Floridaâs SPP will continue to engage Caribbean nations throughout 2012, giving National Guard members an opportunity to share valuable experiences and learn from other countries, while strengthening U.S. partnerships abroad. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Jaclyn Carver, 125th Fighter Wing

Florida expects productive year for State Partnership mission in 2012

January 18, 2012

Florida Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Carlton Cooley accepts the Silver Star medal of Staff Sgt. Robert Evans from Evans' neices Deborah Lynne Evans Watts (center) and Beverly Evans Srock, at the National Guard Armory in Sanford, Fla., Jan. 10, 2012.In this photo, Srock is a holding a black-and-white photo of Evans' brother Earl receiving the Silver Star for his late brother. Photo courtesy 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment.

Family of World War II Silver Star recipient bring memorabilia to Florida armory

January 12, 2012

Florida Guardsmen gathered from all over the state to attend Operation Kickstart, which is a program that assists Florida Guardsmen in securing employment through a real-time internet search that matches the Soldiers skills with career opportunities open in their area.

Soldiers ‘kickstart’ their job search

January 9, 2012

Soldiers from the 927th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion present salute the National Colors during a change of command ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Jan. 8, 2012.

927th CSSB welcomes new commander

January 9, 2012

Florida Air National Guard Command Chief Master Sgt. Charles Wisniewski salutes during his retirement ceremony at the Florida National Guard Headquarters in St. Augustine, Fla., Jan. 6, 2012. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Last Vietnam veteran in Florida Air National Guard retires

January 8, 2012

Florida Gov. Rick Scott (third from left) and Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw Jr. (left) receieve a briefing from the 601st AOC during a visit to Tyndall Air Force Base, Jan. 5, 2012. Courtesy photo

Florida governor, adjutant general visit 101st AOG

January 7, 2012

53rd Infantry Soldier drowns in Brooksville Monday

January 3, 2012

Chief of National Guard Bureau joins Joint Chiefs of Staff

January 3, 2012

Brig. Gen. Michael Calhoun presents the Florida Commendation Medal to Vivian Starling for her more than 40 years of service to the 868th Combat Engineer Company's family readiness group.

Mother, daughter honored for 40 years of service to Live Oak unit

December 22, 2011

Demobilizing RC Soldiers to get holiday passes

December 16, 2011

Connecting Guardsmen with meaningful careers

December 14, 2011

Florida Youth ChalleNGe cadets. Photo by Debra Cox

Florida Youth ChalleNGe program to graduate 173 teens Saturday

December 8, 2011

Governor releases Fiscal Year 2012-2013 budget proposal for the Department of Military Affairs

December 7, 2011

Maj/. Gen. James D. Tyre, Assistant Adjutant General for the Florida Army National Guard (standing, right), was on hand at the Daytona Beach Armed Forces Reserve Center recently to observe and assess the rollout of Operation KickStart, a Forward March program, and engage with program career coaches such as Frederic Triplett (standing, left), and Guardsmen to ensure the program's success. Photo by Ken Zeszutko

Nearly 600 Guardsmen sign up for new, innovative job-seeker program

November 30, 2011

Pfc. Tyrone Price and Sgt. Derrick Powe, food service specialists with the 144th Transportation Company, serve dinner to Soldiers during the Department of the Army-level Philip A. Connelly Award Field Kitchen category competition Nov. 19, 2011, at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Daisy Bueno, 50th Regional Support Group)

144th Transportation Company competes in Connelly competition

November 22, 2011

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, gather during a welcome home ceremony in Daytona Beach, Fla., Nov. 21, 2011. Nearly 200 members of the unit returned home Nov. 20 from a year-long deployment to the National Capital Region in support of Operation Noble Eagle. The Soldiers were deployed to the Washington, D.C. area to provide ground-based air defense for the region. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida’s air defenders return home in time for Thanksgiving

November 21, 2011

Lt. Col. Michael Ladd, commander of the Florida National Guard's 44th Weapons of Mass Destruction - Civil Support Team, briefs visitors from the Israeli Home Front Command and Israeli National Emergency Management Authority during a visit to Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Nov. 15, as part of Shared Focus 2011.

Israel, National Guard partner to gain knowledge, share experiences

November 18, 2011

The Honorable Thomas R. Lamont, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs), who is responsible for the supervision of the manpower, personnel and reserve component affairs for the Department of the Army received a command briefing at the organizationâs headquarters in the historic St. Francis Barracks in St. Augustine, Fla. Photo by Debra Cox

Reserve affairs leaders visit Florida National Guard headquarters

November 10, 2011

Families of Fallen Soldiers receive Gold Star Service Flags

November 10, 2011

Florida’s second Civil Support Team receives certification

November 9, 2011

Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's 3rd Battalion, 116th Field Artillery Regiment salute during a change of command ceremony, Nov. 6, 2011, in Avon Park, Fla. Maj. David Pellet took responsibility for the battalion from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Stephen Dowdie. Photo by Capt. Theresa DiPinto

3rd Battalion, 116th Field Artillery Regiment changes command

November 8, 2011

1st Lt. Roye Lockllear of the Florida National Guard's Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) team chats with schoolchildren during a Red Ribbon Week event in Florida in October. This year representatives from Counterdrug’s DDR conducted Red Ribbon Week presentations to more than a 126,000 schoolchildren throughout the state. Courtesy photo

Florida’s Counterdrug team sets record with Red Ribbon Week numbers

November 5, 2011

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 1153rd Financial Management Detachment greet family members after returning home from a year-long deployment to Iraq, during a ceremony at the Mark Lance Armory in St. Augustine, Nov. 3, 2011. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

National Guard finance detachment receives praise upon return from Iraq

November 3, 2011

2012 Secretary of Defense Employers Support Freedom Award

ESGR launches nomination season for Employers Support Freedom Award

November 1, 2011

Staff Sgt. Larry McDonald of 1-265th Air Defense Artillery RAID Detachment is greeted by his “daddy doll”-carrying daughters after returning home from a year in Afghanistan. Photo by Capt. Theresa DiPinto

Small group of 1-265th Soldiers return to Daytona after year-long deployment in Afghanistan

October 26, 2011

Florida National Guard monitoring late season hurricane in Caribbean

October 25, 2011

Citizen-soldiers lead force protection at Kabul compound

October 21, 2011

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw, the Adjutant General of Florida (far right) stands with members of the Florida National Guard Foundation board and representatives from Kangaroo Express after accepting a donation of $159,000 from Kangaroo Express on behalf of the Florida National Guard Foundation, Oct. 14, 2011.

Florida National Guard Foundation receives large donation from Kangaroo Express

October 14, 2011

More free financial relief for injured Soldiers

October 6, 2011

Friends and Brothers in Arms, 1st Sgt. Geoffrey Miotke (right) and Capt. Michael Waldrop shake hands after Miotke presented Waldrop with a Bronze Star for Valor. Also pictured: Lt. Col. John Rooney of the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. Photo courtesy 164th ADA

Orlando resident receives second Bronze Star for Valor for service in Afghanistan

October 4, 2011

A Soldier with the Florida National Guard's 1st Squadron, 153rd Cavalry Regiment participates in a team stress event during a recent Spur Ride event at Fort Rucker, Ala. Soldiers from the Squadron completed rigorous physical and mental testing to earn their cavalry spurs. Photo by Staff Sgt. Derrol Fulghum

Cavalry Soldiers test to earn their spurs

September 27, 2011

Newly promoted Brig. Gen. Michael Calhoun (center) receives congratulations from his wife Sophia and the Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw (right) during a military promotion ceremony at the Calaway Armory in West Palm Beach, Fla., this afternoon. Brig. Gen. Calhoun is the commander of the 83rd Troop Command and has served in the Florida National Guard for more than 30 years. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

83rd Troop Command’s Calhoun promoted to brigadier general

September 26, 2011

1st Lt. Christopher Barton with Troop C, 1st Squadron, 153rd Cavalry Regiment is pinned with the Pathfinder Torch after graduating from the U.S. Army Pathfinder course taught at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center by instructors from the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center, Sept. 23, 2011. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida Guard hosts Pathfinder course at Camp Blanding

September 23, 2011

Mental health counseling, treatment available to Soldiers, veterans

September 21, 2011

A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) measures the paw of a Florida black bear during a study at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center near Starke, Fla., this summer. Photo courtesy Camp Blanding Enviornmental Office.

Wildlife study at National Guard training facility may yield insight into black bear behavior

September 20, 2011

Col. John Grote, the Army National Guard Chief Surgeon, receives his influenza vaccine while visiting Soldiers from the Florida National Guard, Sept. 16, 2011. Soldiers from the Florida National Guard began receiving flu shots to mark the beginning of the 2011 flu season.

Florida Guardsmen protect themselves against the flu

September 17, 2011

Historical re-enactors from Florida Living Historyfire black powder weapons during a Command Retreat ceremony on the parade field at St. Francis Barracks in St. Augustine, Sept. 16, 2011. The Florida National Guard celebrated the 446th anniversary of the First Muster. Photo by Debra Cox

‘From 50 we’ve become 12,000’

September 16, 2011

Army Reserve and National Guard hold joint Yellow Ribbon event

September 15, 2011

Lt. Col. John Rooney and Col. Matthew Hearon, both of the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, applaud the receipt of a piece of the Pentagon that serves as a reminder and thank you for the unit’s service in support of the National Capital Region during the years following the September 11th attacks. Photo by Capt. Theresa R. DiPinto

9-11 ceremony makes Pentagon rock a permanent fixture in the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade armory

September 14, 2011

South Florida job fair helps ‘jump start’ careers for Soldiers and vets

September 13, 2011

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw, the Adjutant General of Florida, observes Soldiers demonstrating the Dismounted Soldier Training System at the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation in Orlando, Sept. 9, 2011. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

FLNG looks at virtual training options for Camp Blanding Joint Training Center

September 12, 2011

Air Force Gen. Craig McKinley (center-front), chief of the National Guard Bureau, stands with leaders and distinguished guests of the Muslim and National Guard communities for a photo before hosting the second-annual National Guard Iftar Dinner Aug. 8, 2011, in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Darron Salzer)(Released)

National Guard values Muslim tradition, builds relationships year-round with SPP

September 8, 2011

Florida National Guard to hold 9-11 remembrance ceremony at Camp Blanding

September 8, 2011

Cadet Ashley George (left) and Capt. Amy Green, pass by the First Republic of Korea Army Museum on their way to the Wonju Command and Control Center. The Florida National Guard's 930th Army Liaison Team participated in the 2011 Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercise as part of their annual training.

930th ALT takes part in 2011 Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercise

September 7, 2011

Lt. Paul O'Leary, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, presents a briefing on youth violence and gang awareness during a subject matter exchange seminar in Bridgetown, Barbados, Aug. 30, 2011. Soldiers from the Florida National Guard and the Virgin Islands National Guard participated in the exchange to address youth and gang violence in the Caribbean. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Guardsmen exchange ideas on gangs and youth violence in the Caribbean

September 1, 2011

The silhouettes of Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment, stand out against the open hangar door of the Aviation Support Facility in Jacksonville, Fla., Aug. 29, 2011. More then 240 Soldiers from the unit deployed in support of Operation New Dawn in Iraq. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Jacksonville aviators depart for Iraq missions

August 29, 2011

Busting the myth: Seeking help won’t end your career

August 26, 2011

Entrance to Third Tunnel of Aggression. Courtesy photo

Guard’s 930th Army Liaison Team takes part in South Korea exercise

August 25, 2011

Twenty-six Florida Army National Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduates prepare to take the Oath of Officer and swear-in as second lieutenants during a graduation ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Aug. 20, 2011. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

‘Ready for responsibility’

August 20, 2011

How can you tell if someone is serious about suicide?

August 18, 2011

Col. Benjamin Lacy, Florida National Guard State Aviation Officer, speaks to Soldiers from Detachment 8, Operational Support Airlift Agency during a deployment ceremony, August 12, 2011 in St. Augustine, Fla. The Soldiers are deploying to Afghanistan to conduct surveillance operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Debra Cox

Small team of St. Augustine aviators deploys in support of Operation Enduring Freedom

August 15, 2011

Members of the Antiguan Defense Force practice dressing wounds during a combat lifesaver course given by members of the Florida National Guard's 256th Medical Company. The Florida Guardsmen recently traveled to the Eastern Caribbean nation of Antigua to train members of their defense forces. Photo by 2nd Lt. Gavin Rollins

Florida Guardsmen teach lifesaving skills to Antiguan Forces

August 15, 2011

Adjutant General of Florida Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw Jr. (left) presents unit colors to incoming commander of the 50th Area Support Group Col. Valeria Gonzalez-Kerr during a change of command ceremony in Homestead, Aug. 14, 2011. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

50th Area Support Group welcomes new commander during South Florida ceremony

August 14, 2011

164th ADA Soldiers return to Florida from deployment, Aug. 5, 2011. Photo by Capt. Theresa DiPinto

164th’s Task Force Knight reunites with family, new babies after year-long mobilization

August 11, 2011

Conference focuses on future of the National Guard as an operational force

August 9, 2011

FGO-110802-Z-RH998-002

Guard supports summer camp for Florida’s military youth

August 4, 2011

Mr. Steve Toomey, Manager of Military and Diversity Recruiting for Jacksonville based CSX Tranportation, accepted the Pro Patria award, which is the highest award a state can grant. Nominees of the Pro Patria demonstrate the pinnacle of employer excellence and commitment to ideals of national pride and military service. In addition to this award, CSX, is one of five large companies scheduled to receive this year's Secretary of Defense Freedom Award at the Regan Cetner in September.

Florida employers recognized for their support to Guardsmen

July 28, 2011

Seventeen Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team received the Expert Infantryman Badge during a ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, July 22, 2011. The 53rd IBCT is conducting EIB testing for the first time in more than 20 years. Photo by Debra Cox

EIB testing brings Florida infantrymen ‘back to the basics’

July 22, 2011

Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's 806th Military Police Company practice searching detainees during a training exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, July 14, 2011. The 806th MP Company is setting up a mock internment facility to conduct 24 hour operations during annual training. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

A year’s worth of training comes together at annual training for Florida MPs

July 18, 2011

Suicide intervention – getting past the immediate crisis

July 15, 2011

Joseph Kirk Martin is promoted to the rank of Major General in Florida Air National Guard by his wife, Vicki, and Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw.

Jacksonville surgeon promoted to Major General in Florida Air National Guard

July 12, 2011

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw (left), the Adjutant General of Florida, Col. Michael Calhoun (middle) and Col. Perry Hagaman observe the formation of Troops during the change of command ceremony for the Florida National Guard's 83rd Troop Command, July 9, 2011. Calhoun assumed command from Hagaman, who currently serves as the Chief of Staff for the Florida National Guard. Photo by 2nd Lt. Gavin Rollins

83rd Troop Command welcomes new commander

July 10, 2011

13th Army Band perform in Guyana. Courtesy photo

13th Army Band performs during Subject Matter Expert Exchange in Guyana

July 6, 2011

Soldiers and Airmen from the Florida National Guard work with first responders from the region during Operation Communicate Freedom, an interoperable communications exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, June 29-30. The exercise is one of a series of exercises throughout the state to test the ability of response agencies to communicate with each other during disasters. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida National Guard participates in regional communications exercise

July 5, 2011

Florida Guardsman representing all services in judo at international military games

Florida Guardsman representing all services in judo at international military games

July 5, 2011

Dr. Fred P. Lewis, Director of Weather for the U.S. Air Force, speaks to senior Air Force weather leadership during a meeting at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, June 21, 2011, to discuss present operations and the future of the weather career field. Camp Blanding is home to the National Guard’s Weather Readiness Training Center (WRTC) and the 159th Weather Flight. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Air Force weather leaders gather at Camp Blanding

July 1, 2011

A Polynesian hula dancer performs during the Florida National Guard's 2011 Diversity Day in St. Augustine, Fla., June 29, 2011. Photo by Debra Cox

Guard’s annual Diversity Day held to eliminate ‘biases and stereotypes’

June 30, 2011

Maj. Gen. Titshaw reflects on first year as Florida’s Adjutant General

June 30, 2011

Jessika Blersch, the sustainability coordinator for the Florida National Guard's Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, pumps methanol into a biodiesel processor while processing vegetable oil from the installation's Consolidated Dining Facility into biodiesel. The cleaner-burning biodiesel is used to fuel state maintenance vehicles and saves the Guard money while also reducing the amount of waste that comes out of the installation. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Making a cleaner, greener Camp Blanding

June 23, 2011

Staff Sgt. Jessica Ray, left, assists her team chief during qualifications on the .50 caliber machine gun range at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, June 7, 2011. Ray, a member of the 3rd Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery, recently became the first female to graduate from the Avenger Master Gunners Course. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Blair Heusdens

Florida Guardsman becomes Army’s first female Master Gunner

June 8, 2011

Hillary J. Walker poses in front of a classic movie mural at the preview of her feature film "ACTION!!!" in Altamonte Springs, Fla., April 12, 2010. The former Florida National Guard Soldier took the broadcast and professional skills she learned in the military and decided to make her mark as an independent film maker. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

‘Action’ star

May 5, 2010

U.S. Army Capt. Dewitt Revels, from Jacksonville, Fla., meets with a Qatari soldier at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, April 19. The 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the largest Army National Guard unit in Florida, reported for duty at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, in early March. Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 153rd Cavalry Regiment, 53rd IBCT soldiers quickly departed the following week to take over force protection from contracting firms at Camp As Sayliyah. "Everyone is going to be enriched by this experience," said Dewitt, Bravo Troop commander. Photo by Dustin Senger, Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs

153rd Cavalry Soldiers shift to Qatar mission

April 26, 2010

Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's CERF-P (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package) practice breaking up and removing rubble during the multi-agency Operation Integration exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla., March 25, 2010. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

‘Trading business cards’ before a disaster

March 25, 2010

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (March 15, 2010) -- A recent training exercise in Northeast Florida involving the Florida National Guard and the U.S. Coast Guard could be the beginning of a lifesaving partnership along Florida’s coastline.

Maritime training forges partnership between National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard in Florida

March 15, 2010

Soldiers from 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team stand in formation during a departure ceremony at Ft. Hood, Texas, Feb. 25, 2010. The Florida Army National Guard Soldiers departed by plane from Ft. Hood in late-February and early-March for missions in Kuwait and Iraq. Photo by Spc. Spenser Rhodes

Florida’s 53rd lauded for ‘record breaking’ training at Ft. Hood

March 1, 2010

n F-15 assigned to the 125th Fighter Wing, Detachment 1, flies over the skies of southern Florida. U.S. Air Force Photo by Master Sgt. Shaun Withers

Florida jets fly 55,000th Noble Eagle sortie

January 15, 2010

Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, depart Jan. 5, 2010. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

South Florida Soldiers leave for year-long deployment to Iraq, Kuwait

January 5, 2010

Roleplayer and interpreter Nawal Al-Saedi (center) patrols with members of the Florida National Guard's B Company, 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, during a training exercise at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Fla., Oct. 26. Al-Saedi, a former Iraqi interpreter for the U.S. military, is part of a group at Camp Blanding helping the Soldiers prepare for a 2010 deployment to Southwest Asia. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Arabic-speaking role-players help Florida Soldiers ready for upcoming deployment

November 6, 2009

ESGR visit to 53rd IBCT. Photo by Jon Myatt

Civilian employers visit mobilizing 53rd Infantry Brigade

October 29, 2009

Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, speak with an actor portraying an Iraqi civilian during training at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Oct. 22, 2009. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida’s 53rd Infantry prepares for historic deployment

October 21, 2009

Chief of the National Guad Bureau Gen. Craig McKinley addresses a crowd of past and current members of the Florida Air National Guard during the dedication ceremony for the F-16 static display at the entrance of the 125th Fighter Wing in Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 4, 2009. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Guard Bureau Chief returns to roots for Florida F-16 dedication

October 6, 2009

Florida Army National Guard leaders greet Soldiers from the 146th Signal Battalion as they arrive at Ft. Bliss, Texas, Sept. 24, 2009. More the 400 Soldiers from the unit returned from a year-long deployment in Iraq to Ft. Bliss, where they will complete a week of demobilization activities before returning to Florida. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Jacksonville, Pensacola-based signal units return from Iraq

September 24, 2009

fc. Terry Barefoot (right) of 631st Maintenance Company provides security for a convoy of Humvees at a fuel point during training in Ft. McCoy, Wis., Aug. 24, 2009. Spc. Jose Ramos of the 631st is seated in the turret of the Humvee. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida’s 631st Maintenance Company prepares for Iraq deployment

August 27, 2009

The 2009 Airmen of the Year for the Florida Air National Guard (second from left) Master Sgt. Christopher Hogarth, Tech. Sgt. Mark Farmer, Staff Sgt. Michael Fillinger, Master Sgt. Melissa Merideth, Master Sgt. Michael Ramsey, and Tech. Sgt. Paul Still pose for a photo with Command Chief Master Sgt. Charles Wisniewski (far left) and the Commander of the Florida Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus (far right) Aug. 22, 2009.Photo by Staff Sgt. Jaclyn Carver

Florida honors Airmen of the Year for 2009

August 27, 2009

lorida Air National Guard Commander Brig. Gen. Joseph Balskus (left) and 290th JCSS Commander Lt. Col. Loretta Lombard (right) present a State of Florida flag to Maj. Rick Basting (center) and the deploying members of the 290th JCSS during a ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Aug. 16, 2009. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Air Guard’s 290th communicators prepare for missions in ‘harm’s way’

August 18, 2009

Pfcs. Samantha and Joseph James of the 1218th Transportation Company pose for a photo outside of the unit's armory in West Palm Beach, Fla., July 1, 2009. The James' are one of the three married couples - all truck drivers - who are deploying with the unit in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida spouses deploy together for Iraq mission

July 9, 2009

Family members greet the Soldiers of the 715th Military Police Company upon the unit's return to Melbourne, Fla., July 2, 2009. The unit had been deployed to Afghanistan for a year in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Military Police unit returns from Southwest Asia

July 8, 2009

NASCAR superstar Dale Earnhardt Jr. poses with members of the Florida Army National Guard during an unveiling of the car he will race in the Coke Zero 400, during an event in Daytona Beach, Fla., July 1, 2009. Pictured with Earnhardt are Spc. Bower (left) 1st Lt. Anna Peck, and Staff Sgt. Glenn Wade. The custom designed car is black and features an Army Combat Uniform design. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Earnhardt Jr. and Florida Guardsmen unveil car design for July 4 race

July 3, 2009

Sgt. 1st Class Todd Keith (left) helps Staff Sgt. Keith Mess (both of the 44th Civil Support Team) remove a protective chemical suit and cool down during a weapons of mass destruction exercise in St. Augustine, Fla., June 11, 2009. With temperatures at the exercise site topping 100 degrees, the Soldiers in the airtight chemical suits combatted overheating and dehydration throughout the day. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

A real ‘hot zone’

June 12, 2009

Standing on the steps of Florida's Historic Capitol building, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (right) addresses Soldiers from the Florida National Guard's 779th Engineer Battalion during a departure ceremony in the courtyard of the Capitol in Tallahassee, May 26, 2009. The Soldiers were preparing for a deployment to Iraq. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Florida governor lauds deploying National Guard Soldiers on step of Historic Capitol

May 26, 2009

Staff Sgt. Justin Carr of the 290th JCSS checks the sites on an M-4 rifle during training for his unit at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., May 16, 2009. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Air Guard communicators get technical during exercise at MacDill

May 23, 2009

Sgt. Samuel Carey of the 779th Engineer Battalion is reunited with his family at Fort Stewart, Ga., May 19, 2010, following a year-long deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Photo by Debra Cox

Tallahassee-based engineer unit returns from Iraq

May 19, 2009

Staff Sgt. Theresa Skene of the Florida Army National Guard's 779th Engineer Battalion (right) receives congratulations from her battalion commander Lt. Col. Dwayne Jarriel, after she successfully completed the Air Assault course at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in early March. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

NCO and mother of three has what it takes to excel

May 13, 2009

Chief Warrant Officer David P. Smith. Photo by Staff Sgt. Blair Heusdens

Florida Army National Guard selects new command chief warrant officer

April 30, 2009

Members of the CERF-P decontamination team prepare to wash roleplayer for simulated chemical exposure during the training scenario and evaluation at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Feb. 28. 2009. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa

Guard team tests its ability to save lives after disaster in Florida

March 1, 2009