By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
23 April 2017
On April 22, 2017 the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) held its Annual Muster at the Fifth Regiment Armory in Baltimore. The Annual Muster is a mandatory all day training activity for all Maryland Defense Force personnel. Company formation and ceremonies commenced at 9 a.m. The keynote speaker for this year’s muster was retired Lt. Gen. H. Steven Blum, the former deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command.
Lt. Gen. Blum in his remarks illuminated the historical spirit of the MDDF and shared, “the MDDF is today’s version of the men and women going back to the colonies who volunteered to serve their state in a time of need.” He continued, “in 1814 when citizen soldiers left farms, churches and shops to repel the British invasion of Baltimore, it was people like you who beat the same British soldiers who had defeated Napoleon. It is because of people like you that we are not British citizens and subjugated to a foreign king.”
The general also highlighted the current relevance of the MDDF and stated that, “the MDDF completes the Maryland National Guard. You provide them with capabilities that they do not have which makes you very valuable. This system works well because the state does not have unlimited resources.” In conclusion he shared that, “our citizen-soldier system is the envy of the world. It’s the glue that keeps our nation together. I offer my many thanks for what you do, what you’ve done and what you will do for my grandchildren and their grandchildren in the future.”
Brig. Gen. Timothy E. Gowen, the assistant adjutant general - army also spoke and brought greetings on behalf of Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland. He remarked, “The Maryland Military Department appreciates your service and your willingness to change and evolve as an organization in order to continue to support our needs. Let’s continue on this path to better work together and support the State of Maryland. “
In his speech, Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, commanding general of the MDDF, referenced the past but focused on the future. “Although the MDDF has a distinguished history, we are and will continue to go through necessary change. Change brings about chaos, which leads to disruption. However, out of disruption there is opportunity.” He continued, “There is an opportunity for the MDDF to move forward to better align with the Maryland Military Department. There is also an opportunity for MDDF volunteers to seek new positions of responsibility and challenge themselves. Let us all embrace this opportunity and rise up to the challenge.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: http://mddf.maryland.gov.
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Thursday, April 13, 2017
MDDF Realigns to Better Support MILDEP
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
13 April 2017
Under the leadership of Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, Commanding General, Maryland Defense Force (MDDF), the state defense force component has gone through a comprehensive realignment process to ensure that it provides improved support to the Maryland Military Department (MILDEP). This process has included changes and improvements with respect to MDDF culture, training, personnel and operations policies. This transformative process has assisted the MDDF improve its service delivery to the Maryland Military Department while also positioning the MDDF for success in the future.
On the cultural, training and personnel policy front, the MDDF has made a host of changes. The primary focus is continuously recruiting competent people through an organized recruiting effort aligned with the table of organization, job description and MDDF requirements. The MDDF is no longer accepting new recruits where their skills and the needs of MDDF do not align. Additionally, the MDDF has improved training standards, military discipline and its mission centric focus. There has also been a renewed focus on ensuring that MDDF members follow proper military customs, courtesies and professional bearing.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper commented, “We want all of our new recruits and current personnel to have emergency management training at the basic level. It’s a requirement for all new recruits to get the Basic Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) Badge. Eventually, all personnel should achieve this certification. Furthermore, our focus on MEMS training strategically aligns with the development of a support element for Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and MILDEP.”
Additional MDDF changes include a reaffirmation of existing standards and a rededication to regular drill participation as the cornerstone of an effective command. The MDDF re-affirmed its retirement age, which allows the MDDF to seamlessly integrate into missions with the National Guard. The MDDF retirement age is 65 and limited waivers will be offered for critical skills requirements. “It’s important to adhere to age, height and weight standards for health reasons as well as because it adds to our overall military effectiveness,” Brig. Gen. Cooper added. The reduction in the headquarters staff and migration of personnel to field units will allow engagement with MILDEP personnel on a more regular basis. “This requires us to meet the highest standards of professionalism”, according to Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper.
“If personnel aren’t coming to drill regularly they are not getting the proper level of training, which means we can’t effectively use them when called to state active duty,” stated Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. This naturally has led to a right sizing of the MDDF component.
MDDF operations have gone through some changes as well. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper is planning to add units that can bring more value to MILDEP. One of these units is the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Support Unit. This unit will consist of 20-30 personnel who can provide direct operational support to MEMA. “If there is an incident, our MEMA support team members can fill in for MEMA staff when necessary on a rotational basis as a force multiplier for MEMA staff.” The MDDF MEMA Support Unit will mirror the MEMA staffing pattern and comprise of trained MEMS qualified personnel that possess the required certifications necessary to fulfill operational roles.
The MDDF is also continuing to develop its Cyber Unit in concert with MILDEP. Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland recently launched a Cyber Center of Excellence (COE). This initiative has incorporated Maryland National Guard cyber units (Army & Air), the MDDF Cyber unit and Maryland’s Department of IT (DoIT) in its planning and programming. The MDDF Cyber Unit is now actively engaged in supporting MILDEP in its efforts in establishing the Cyber COE.
The blueprint for the revised operational environment for the MDDF is their new table of organization (TO). “With the approval of the adjutant general, the MDDF has either written or rewritten many duty descriptions and improved rank alignment with their respective duties. We’ve also outlined the requirements necessary to maintain certain billets,” commented Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. He continued, “Eventually we want to invert our existing organization to bring about a representative number of enlisted personnel with an appropriate number of officers at all ranks. Currently the MDDF is too top heavy. While we understand the professional value, our team needs to consist of a variety of skills in both enlisted and officers; not just doctors, lawyers or professionals. We need both!”
The MDDF has also re-affirmed mission and training procedures within the MDDF. Outside of the state missions and training activities will not be conducted without approval from the Adjutant General, and only then if an official Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request is approved by the Governor.
Right sizing the organization has optimized the units to leverage better alignment between the MDDF and MILDEP. As an example, the MDDF Judge Advocate Corps (JAC) had ballooned to over 40 officers in recent years when their tempo was high due to the pace of deployments. The Judge Advocate Corps support to MILDEP supporting mission requests from the Joint Staff or MILDEP has diminished significantly. “The MDDF may have needed a large JAC in the past, however the needs are different today and deployment tempo has changed. Therefore, the JAC has been streamlined significantly,” added Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper.
The MDDF realignment has not gone unnoticed. “During my recent tenure, we have really tried to rededicate the MDDF to its core mission which is providing technical competent support to MILDEP,” stated Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. He continued, “Our transformative changes have increased cooperation at the MILDEP senior leadership level. The result of all these changes is that we have gained a lot of support from the adjutant general.” In 2016, the MDDF volunteered over 50,000 man hours to the State of Maryland valued at $3.1 million dollars. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper concluded by saying, “Continuous improvement is very important and the overall goal is to make us even better going forward.” The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 200 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland.
13 April 2017
Under the leadership of Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, Commanding General, Maryland Defense Force (MDDF), the state defense force component has gone through a comprehensive realignment process to ensure that it provides improved support to the Maryland Military Department (MILDEP). This process has included changes and improvements with respect to MDDF culture, training, personnel and operations policies. This transformative process has assisted the MDDF improve its service delivery to the Maryland Military Department while also positioning the MDDF for success in the future.
On the cultural, training and personnel policy front, the MDDF has made a host of changes. The primary focus is continuously recruiting competent people through an organized recruiting effort aligned with the table of organization, job description and MDDF requirements. The MDDF is no longer accepting new recruits where their skills and the needs of MDDF do not align. Additionally, the MDDF has improved training standards, military discipline and its mission centric focus. There has also been a renewed focus on ensuring that MDDF members follow proper military customs, courtesies and professional bearing.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper commented, “We want all of our new recruits and current personnel to have emergency management training at the basic level. It’s a requirement for all new recruits to get the Basic Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) Badge. Eventually, all personnel should achieve this certification. Furthermore, our focus on MEMS training strategically aligns with the development of a support element for Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and MILDEP.”
Additional MDDF changes include a reaffirmation of existing standards and a rededication to regular drill participation as the cornerstone of an effective command. The MDDF re-affirmed its retirement age, which allows the MDDF to seamlessly integrate into missions with the National Guard. The MDDF retirement age is 65 and limited waivers will be offered for critical skills requirements. “It’s important to adhere to age, height and weight standards for health reasons as well as because it adds to our overall military effectiveness,” Brig. Gen. Cooper added. The reduction in the headquarters staff and migration of personnel to field units will allow engagement with MILDEP personnel on a more regular basis. “This requires us to meet the highest standards of professionalism”, according to Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper.
“If personnel aren’t coming to drill regularly they are not getting the proper level of training, which means we can’t effectively use them when called to state active duty,” stated Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. This naturally has led to a right sizing of the MDDF component.
MDDF operations have gone through some changes as well. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper is planning to add units that can bring more value to MILDEP. One of these units is the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Support Unit. This unit will consist of 20-30 personnel who can provide direct operational support to MEMA. “If there is an incident, our MEMA support team members can fill in for MEMA staff when necessary on a rotational basis as a force multiplier for MEMA staff.” The MDDF MEMA Support Unit will mirror the MEMA staffing pattern and comprise of trained MEMS qualified personnel that possess the required certifications necessary to fulfill operational roles.
The MDDF is also continuing to develop its Cyber Unit in concert with MILDEP. Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland recently launched a Cyber Center of Excellence (COE). This initiative has incorporated Maryland National Guard cyber units (Army & Air), the MDDF Cyber unit and Maryland’s Department of IT (DoIT) in its planning and programming. The MDDF Cyber Unit is now actively engaged in supporting MILDEP in its efforts in establishing the Cyber COE.
The blueprint for the revised operational environment for the MDDF is their new table of organization (TO). “With the approval of the adjutant general, the MDDF has either written or rewritten many duty descriptions and improved rank alignment with their respective duties. We’ve also outlined the requirements necessary to maintain certain billets,” commented Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. He continued, “Eventually we want to invert our existing organization to bring about a representative number of enlisted personnel with an appropriate number of officers at all ranks. Currently the MDDF is too top heavy. While we understand the professional value, our team needs to consist of a variety of skills in both enlisted and officers; not just doctors, lawyers or professionals. We need both!”
The MDDF has also re-affirmed mission and training procedures within the MDDF. Outside of the state missions and training activities will not be conducted without approval from the Adjutant General, and only then if an official Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request is approved by the Governor.
Right sizing the organization has optimized the units to leverage better alignment between the MDDF and MILDEP. As an example, the MDDF Judge Advocate Corps (JAC) had ballooned to over 40 officers in recent years when their tempo was high due to the pace of deployments. The Judge Advocate Corps support to MILDEP supporting mission requests from the Joint Staff or MILDEP has diminished significantly. “The MDDF may have needed a large JAC in the past, however the needs are different today and deployment tempo has changed. Therefore, the JAC has been streamlined significantly,” added Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper.
The MDDF realignment has not gone unnoticed. “During my recent tenure, we have really tried to rededicate the MDDF to its core mission which is providing technical competent support to MILDEP,” stated Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper. He continued, “Our transformative changes have increased cooperation at the MILDEP senior leadership level. The result of all these changes is that we have gained a lot of support from the adjutant general.” In 2016, the MDDF volunteered over 50,000 man hours to the State of Maryland valued at $3.1 million dollars. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Cooper concluded by saying, “Continuous improvement is very important and the overall goal is to make us even better going forward.” The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 200 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland.
Sunday, April 9, 2017
Thursday, March 23, 2017
MDDF Officer and NCO of the Year Honored by Governor
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
23 March 2017
On March 23, 2017 the Maryland Defense Force’s (MDDF) Officer and non-commissioned officer (NCO) of the year were honored at the State House in Annapolis. Maj. (MDDF) Fred Sanford, the MDDF officer of the year and Sgt. (MDDF) Dustin Dixon, the MDDF NCO of the year were initially recognized at a reception hosted by Lawrence J. Hogan, governor of Maryland. Also in attendance at the reception were Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas B. Beyard, the senior enlisted leader of the Maryland National Guard. At the reception, Governor Hogan congratulated each of the recipients on their distinguished achievement and special recognition.
Afterwards, the award recipients were recognized on the floor of the Maryland General Assembly’s House of Delegates and on the floor of the Maryland Senate along with their counterparts from the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG) and the Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG). Each of the honorees received their own “House Resolution” thanking them for their dedicated service and signed by Michael E. Busch, Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates. Each honoree also received a “Senate Resolution” signed by Thomas V. ‘Mike” Miller, President of the Maryland Senate.
“The award, the ceremony and the reception exceeded my expectations. It was very humbling to be recognized in such a way,” added Maj. (MDDF) Sanford. A career educator, Maj. (MDDF) Sanford currently serves as an adjunct professor of mathematics at Prince George’s Community College while also serving as the Job Placement Coordinator at North Point High School in Waldorf, MD. As the operations officer in the MDDF’s Professional Service Corps unit, he provides pre-deployment and post-deployment financial advisory services for Maryland National Guard unit members. “His commitment and professionalism has been exceptional which is why he is so deserving of this award,” commented Col. (MDDF) John Forberger, commander of the Professional Service Corps.
“This is a wonderful honor. I appreciate the recognition from the governor and the members of the General Assembly,” shared Sgt. (MDDF) Dixon. Currently serving as the staff NCO for the MDDF Plans, Policy and Training unit, he has served in the MDDF since 2012. Previously he served with the MDDF’s Mike Company and with its predecessor, the Provost Marshal Office, both as the personnel NCO. “Sgt. (MDDF) Dixon is the backbone of the unit and habitually goes above and beyond in service to the State of Maryland. This award lets him know that his hard work has not gone unnoticed,” said Lt. Col. (MDDF) Linda Chatterton, the commander of the MDDF Operations unit.
Both Maj. (MDDF) Sanford and Sgt. (Dixon) were formally selected for their honors by the Maryland State Guard Association. Each recipient will now compete for nationwide honors from the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) amongst similar recipients from other state defense forces. “These men represent the best of the MDDF. They are an important part of our great team,” added Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, commanding general of the MDDF.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
23 March 2017
On March 23, 2017 the Maryland Defense Force’s (MDDF) Officer and non-commissioned officer (NCO) of the year were honored at the State House in Annapolis. Maj. (MDDF) Fred Sanford, the MDDF officer of the year and Sgt. (MDDF) Dustin Dixon, the MDDF NCO of the year were initially recognized at a reception hosted by Lawrence J. Hogan, governor of Maryland. Also in attendance at the reception were Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas B. Beyard, the senior enlisted leader of the Maryland National Guard. At the reception, Governor Hogan congratulated each of the recipients on their distinguished achievement and special recognition.
Afterwards, the award recipients were recognized on the floor of the Maryland General Assembly’s House of Delegates and on the floor of the Maryland Senate along with their counterparts from the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG) and the Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG). Each of the honorees received their own “House Resolution” thanking them for their dedicated service and signed by Michael E. Busch, Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates. Each honoree also received a “Senate Resolution” signed by Thomas V. ‘Mike” Miller, President of the Maryland Senate.
“The award, the ceremony and the reception exceeded my expectations. It was very humbling to be recognized in such a way,” added Maj. (MDDF) Sanford. A career educator, Maj. (MDDF) Sanford currently serves as an adjunct professor of mathematics at Prince George’s Community College while also serving as the Job Placement Coordinator at North Point High School in Waldorf, MD. As the operations officer in the MDDF’s Professional Service Corps unit, he provides pre-deployment and post-deployment financial advisory services for Maryland National Guard unit members. “His commitment and professionalism has been exceptional which is why he is so deserving of this award,” commented Col. (MDDF) John Forberger, commander of the Professional Service Corps.
“This is a wonderful honor. I appreciate the recognition from the governor and the members of the General Assembly,” shared Sgt. (MDDF) Dixon. Currently serving as the staff NCO for the MDDF Plans, Policy and Training unit, he has served in the MDDF since 2012. Previously he served with the MDDF’s Mike Company and with its predecessor, the Provost Marshal Office, both as the personnel NCO. “Sgt. (MDDF) Dixon is the backbone of the unit and habitually goes above and beyond in service to the State of Maryland. This award lets him know that his hard work has not gone unnoticed,” said Lt. Col. (MDDF) Linda Chatterton, the commander of the MDDF Operations unit.
Both Maj. (MDDF) Sanford and Sgt. (Dixon) were formally selected for their honors by the Maryland State Guard Association. Each recipient will now compete for nationwide honors from the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) amongst similar recipients from other state defense forces. “These men represent the best of the MDDF. They are an important part of our great team,” added Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, commanding general of the MDDF.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
MDDF 10th Medical Regiment Supports MDANG
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
4 March 2017
For more than four years, the Maryland Defense Force’s (MDDF) 10th Medical Regiment has provided ongoing medical support to the 175th Wing of the Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG). Working with the 175th Medical Group at their Warfield Air National Guard headquarters, members of the 10th Medical Regiment provide medical support for the 175th Wing’s operations, cyberspace, maintenance, mission support, comptroller and civil engineering units. The MDDF personnel supporting the 175th Wing include a physician assistant, nurses and physical therapists.
“I was reluctant at first but the MDDF has provided really qualified personnel that over the years have been a tremendous asset to the 175th Medical Group,” said Col. Marvin Nielsen who serves as the Maryland State Air Surgeon. He continued, “I was initially worried about the rotation effect where the MDDF might send different people each drill weekend who would then have to be oriented. However, the MDDF personnel detailed to the MDANG have been regular participants at our drills and we’ve really enjoyed having them around.”
Col. Timothy D. Stevens, commander of the 175th Medical Group added, “I came to Maryland from Kansas and I had no concept of the MDDF. On my first day, we had a field training exercise with elements of the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG), the Maryland Air National Guard and the Maryland Defense Force. The MDDF medical personnel were actually educating the army and air staff. The MDDF professionals were more seasoned and their practical training of the 175th Medical Group staff continues to be extremely valuable.”
Col. (MDDF) Nikki Austin, commander of the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment commented, “The dedication of the MDDF team to the 175th is a model for the integration of health professionals in support of the MDNG. The team frequently drills with the MDNG and also attends the 10th Medical Regiment drills as well. This takes an extraordinary commitment to service.” Current MDDF staff supporting the 175th Medical Group include registered nurses Maj. (MDDF) Rosemary Critzer and Capt. (MDDF) Evelyn Kloos, and physical therapist 1st Lt. (MDDF) JoAnn Shapiro.
Col. Stevens continued, “The MDDF medical personnel are an integral part of our team and they are definitely missed whenever they are not at Warfield (MDANG Air Base).” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, the commanding general of the MDDF added, “Our MDDF mission is to provide professional and technical support to the entire Maryland Military Department. I’m very proud of what the 10th Medical Regiment is doing in support of the Maryland Air National Guard. Their hard work helps us to successfully execute our overall mission.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
4 March 2017
For more than four years, the Maryland Defense Force’s (MDDF) 10th Medical Regiment has provided ongoing medical support to the 175th Wing of the Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG). Working with the 175th Medical Group at their Warfield Air National Guard headquarters, members of the 10th Medical Regiment provide medical support for the 175th Wing’s operations, cyberspace, maintenance, mission support, comptroller and civil engineering units. The MDDF personnel supporting the 175th Wing include a physician assistant, nurses and physical therapists.
“I was reluctant at first but the MDDF has provided really qualified personnel that over the years have been a tremendous asset to the 175th Medical Group,” said Col. Marvin Nielsen who serves as the Maryland State Air Surgeon. He continued, “I was initially worried about the rotation effect where the MDDF might send different people each drill weekend who would then have to be oriented. However, the MDDF personnel detailed to the MDANG have been regular participants at our drills and we’ve really enjoyed having them around.”
Col. Timothy D. Stevens, commander of the 175th Medical Group added, “I came to Maryland from Kansas and I had no concept of the MDDF. On my first day, we had a field training exercise with elements of the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG), the Maryland Air National Guard and the Maryland Defense Force. The MDDF medical personnel were actually educating the army and air staff. The MDDF professionals were more seasoned and their practical training of the 175th Medical Group staff continues to be extremely valuable.”
Col. (MDDF) Nikki Austin, commander of the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment commented, “The dedication of the MDDF team to the 175th is a model for the integration of health professionals in support of the MDNG. The team frequently drills with the MDNG and also attends the 10th Medical Regiment drills as well. This takes an extraordinary commitment to service.” Current MDDF staff supporting the 175th Medical Group include registered nurses Maj. (MDDF) Rosemary Critzer and Capt. (MDDF) Evelyn Kloos, and physical therapist 1st Lt. (MDDF) JoAnn Shapiro.
Col. Stevens continued, “The MDDF medical personnel are an integral part of our team and they are definitely missed whenever they are not at Warfield (MDANG Air Base).” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, the commanding general of the MDDF added, “Our MDDF mission is to provide professional and technical support to the entire Maryland Military Department. I’m very proud of what the 10th Medical Regiment is doing in support of the Maryland Air National Guard. Their hard work helps us to successfully execute our overall mission.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Sunday, December 18, 2016
UMD & MDDF Team Up on Infrastructure Education
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
18 December 2016
The University of Maryland and the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) teamed up for the third straight year this Fall semester to teach a course called Infrastructure and Society at the College Park campus. This three credit service learning course is designed to emphasize the importance of identifying the root causes of the “Infrastructure Crisis.” The course also focuses on the need to maintain infrastructure’s viability for a functioning society. The chief instructor for the course is Dr. David Tomblin. The MDDF course instructors are led by Lt. Col. (MDDF) Ed Hubner and Maj. (MDDF) Isadore Beattie and are sourced from the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment.
The course has several learning outcomes which include ensuring that the students understand the importance of infrastructure systems and explore the social and political barriers to the proper maintenance of infrastructure. The course also enables students to gain hands on technical knowledge of building science and infrastructure assessment while working with professional engineers. As a service learning course, the curriculum provided the students with the opportunity to give back to their community through the implementation of a service project.
The service project for the class commenced after the students received building science and installation status report training. This empowered the students under supervision of the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment to participate in the MDDF’s Installation Status Report assessment program. On an annual basis, all Maryland National Guard armories are evaluated by the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment and a report is submitted to the Maryland Military Department. This report provides information on what kind of maintenance, repair and capital expenditures are needed to ensure that the armories are able to operate as effectively as possible.
Under the direction of the 121st Engineer Regiment, the students participated in armory assessments in different parts of the state and helped to provide information critical to the drafting of the report. Lt. Col. (MDDF) Ed Hubner shared, “This is such an effective class experience because the students get hands on experience with infrastructure evaluation. This augments the theoretical components of the class and drives home the importance of infrastructure to the operations of an effective society.” Samantha Corbel, a student in the class said, “I thoroughly enjoyed our weekly lessons on infrastructure where I learned so much that had never been very apparent to me.” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, commanding general of the MDDF commented, “The 121st Engineer Regiment’s participation and support of this community service activity aligns with both the Maryland Military Department and the University of Maryland’s strategic objectives.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
18 December 2016
The University of Maryland and the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) teamed up for the third straight year this Fall semester to teach a course called Infrastructure and Society at the College Park campus. This three credit service learning course is designed to emphasize the importance of identifying the root causes of the “Infrastructure Crisis.” The course also focuses on the need to maintain infrastructure’s viability for a functioning society. The chief instructor for the course is Dr. David Tomblin. The MDDF course instructors are led by Lt. Col. (MDDF) Ed Hubner and Maj. (MDDF) Isadore Beattie and are sourced from the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment.
The course has several learning outcomes which include ensuring that the students understand the importance of infrastructure systems and explore the social and political barriers to the proper maintenance of infrastructure. The course also enables students to gain hands on technical knowledge of building science and infrastructure assessment while working with professional engineers. As a service learning course, the curriculum provided the students with the opportunity to give back to their community through the implementation of a service project.
The service project for the class commenced after the students received building science and installation status report training. This empowered the students under supervision of the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment to participate in the MDDF’s Installation Status Report assessment program. On an annual basis, all Maryland National Guard armories are evaluated by the MDDF 121st Engineer Regiment and a report is submitted to the Maryland Military Department. This report provides information on what kind of maintenance, repair and capital expenditures are needed to ensure that the armories are able to operate as effectively as possible.
Under the direction of the 121st Engineer Regiment, the students participated in armory assessments in different parts of the state and helped to provide information critical to the drafting of the report. Lt. Col. (MDDF) Ed Hubner shared, “This is such an effective class experience because the students get hands on experience with infrastructure evaluation. This augments the theoretical components of the class and drives home the importance of infrastructure to the operations of an effective society.” Samantha Corbel, a student in the class said, “I thoroughly enjoyed our weekly lessons on infrastructure where I learned so much that had never been very apparent to me.” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Lorenza Cooper, commanding general of the MDDF commented, “The 121st Engineer Regiment’s participation and support of this community service activity aligns with both the Maryland Military Department and the University of Maryland’s strategic objectives.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
MDDF Supports 138th National Guard Conference
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
13 September 2016
The Baltimore City Convention Center was home to the National Guard Association of the United States’ (NGAUS) 138th General Conference and Exhibition from September 9 thru September 12, 2016. The goal of the NGAUS at its founding in 1878 and still today is to obtain better equipment and training for the National Guard. The NGAUS General Conference serves as the association’s annual business meeting with more than 2,000 Army and Air Guard officers from all 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia. At the conference the association set its legislative agenda and heard from America’s civilian and military leaders.
In support of the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) which played host to the NGAUS conference, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Band, widely known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors,” performed three concerts of patriotic music. On September 9, the MDDF Ceremonial Band performed at the Columbus Center in Baltimore for a reception, hosted by Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland. On September 12, the MDDF Band performed two concerts. The first performance consisted of a Jazz Combo at Government House in Annapolis, Maryland which serves as the Maryland Governor’s residence. This luncheon reception for the spouses of the adjutants general in Maryland for the NGAUS conference was attended by Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan. The second performance consisted of a Woodwind Quintet at the Baltimore Convention Center that played for a VIP reception.
Also, during the NGAUS conference, the State of Maryland commemorated the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with a ceremony on September 11, 2016 at Baltimore’s World Trade Center. This ceremony honored Maryland residents that perished during the 9/11 attacks and featured a speech by Maryland Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford. The MDDF Band performed during the solemn ceremony under the command of Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva.
Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva stated, "It was an honor to support NGAUS and represent the MDDF through our music. Former adjutant general for Ohio and Chairwoman of NGAUS, retired Maj. Gen. Deborah Ashenhurst, commented favorably on the music from the band. She started her military career in the U.S. Army Band program as a clarinetist and was surprised and pleased to have a band from the state militia participate in the conference." The Maryland Defense Force Band is a ceremonial unit of the MDDF that provides musical support to the Maryland Military Department and provides ceremonial support to the State of Maryland.
In order to provide logistical support for the MDNG and the conference, the MDDF launched a ten volunteer task force under the leadership of 1st Lt. Christopher Girard. He commented, “Our responsibilities were wide ranging and included staffing the information booth, assisting with registration, transportation of materials and supporting the military police units.” He continued, “We also helped with event set-up and the escort of dignitaries.” “We were kept pretty busy and we’re happy to have played such an integral part in the conference’s success.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
13 September 2016
The Baltimore City Convention Center was home to the National Guard Association of the United States’ (NGAUS) 138th General Conference and Exhibition from September 9 thru September 12, 2016. The goal of the NGAUS at its founding in 1878 and still today is to obtain better equipment and training for the National Guard. The NGAUS General Conference serves as the association’s annual business meeting with more than 2,000 Army and Air Guard officers from all 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia. At the conference the association set its legislative agenda and heard from America’s civilian and military leaders.
In support of the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) which played host to the NGAUS conference, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Band, widely known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors,” performed three concerts of patriotic music. On September 9, the MDDF Ceremonial Band performed at the Columbus Center in Baltimore for a reception, hosted by Maj. Gen. Linda Singh, the adjutant general of Maryland. On September 12, the MDDF Band performed two concerts. The first performance consisted of a Jazz Combo at Government House in Annapolis, Maryland which serves as the Maryland Governor’s residence. This luncheon reception for the spouses of the adjutants general in Maryland for the NGAUS conference was attended by Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan. The second performance consisted of a Woodwind Quintet at the Baltimore Convention Center that played for a VIP reception.
Also, during the NGAUS conference, the State of Maryland commemorated the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with a ceremony on September 11, 2016 at Baltimore’s World Trade Center. This ceremony honored Maryland residents that perished during the 9/11 attacks and featured a speech by Maryland Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford. The MDDF Band performed during the solemn ceremony under the command of Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva.
Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva stated, "It was an honor to support NGAUS and represent the MDDF through our music. Former adjutant general for Ohio and Chairwoman of NGAUS, retired Maj. Gen. Deborah Ashenhurst, commented favorably on the music from the band. She started her military career in the U.S. Army Band program as a clarinetist and was surprised and pleased to have a band from the state militia participate in the conference." The Maryland Defense Force Band is a ceremonial unit of the MDDF that provides musical support to the Maryland Military Department and provides ceremonial support to the State of Maryland.
In order to provide logistical support for the MDNG and the conference, the MDDF launched a ten volunteer task force under the leadership of 1st Lt. Christopher Girard. He commented, “Our responsibilities were wide ranging and included staffing the information booth, assisting with registration, transportation of materials and supporting the military police units.” He continued, “We also helped with event set-up and the escort of dignitaries.” “We were kept pretty busy and we’re happy to have played such an integral part in the conference’s success.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
MDDF Supports Critical Mission of MDNG 70th Regiment
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
1 September 2016
The Maryland Army National Guard’s (MDARNG) 70th Regiment is a regional training institute for the military. Their stated mission is to “provide a professional learning environment, quality instruction and training support for all military members.” Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground Edgewood area, the 70th Regiment manages the MDARNG’s Officer Candidate School, Warrant Officer Candidate School and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) schools. The 70th Regiment provides essential leadership training for the Maryland Military Department.
For the past six years, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) has provided essential support to help the 70th Regiment succeed in its important mission. The MDDF 70th Detachment (and later the MDDF Task Force 70th) has provided volunteer personnel officers, operations officers, supply officers and communications officers to augment the 70th Regiment’s activities. The MDDF has also provided the 70th Regiment with chaplains, safety officers and public affairs officers to supplement their ranks.
While providing general administrative support, MDDF personnel officers have processed important paperwork for each of the 70th Regiment’s training academies. MDDF operations officers assisted in drafting operational orders and mission planning activities. Meanwhile, MDDF supply officers have handled logistics for various 70th Regiment training phases, written standard operating procedures and assisted in unit accreditation.
MDDF communications officers have ensured the timely flow of information and MDDF chaplains have provided counseling and support for the 70th Regiment. Public affairs officers from the MDDF have assisted in documenting the training missions and providing appropriate media coverage. Currently, Staff Sgt. (MDDF) Matthew Markle is providing continued MDDF staff support to the 70th Regiment as the assistant training non-commissioned officer.
Command Chief Warrant Officer (MDDF) Thomas Insley has the distinction of having served the longest with the MDDF 70th Detachment. He commented, “Our integration into the 70th Regiment has helped them to fill billets and complete their mission, while also giving the MDDF insight into MDNG operations.” “This will make it even more seamless when we need to fill in and support their efforts during an emergency.” He continued, “This is a win-win for the Maryland Military Department and we are happy to do our part.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
1 September 2016
The Maryland Army National Guard’s (MDARNG) 70th Regiment is a regional training institute for the military. Their stated mission is to “provide a professional learning environment, quality instruction and training support for all military members.” Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground Edgewood area, the 70th Regiment manages the MDARNG’s Officer Candidate School, Warrant Officer Candidate School and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) schools. The 70th Regiment provides essential leadership training for the Maryland Military Department.
For the past six years, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) has provided essential support to help the 70th Regiment succeed in its important mission. The MDDF 70th Detachment (and later the MDDF Task Force 70th) has provided volunteer personnel officers, operations officers, supply officers and communications officers to augment the 70th Regiment’s activities. The MDDF has also provided the 70th Regiment with chaplains, safety officers and public affairs officers to supplement their ranks.
While providing general administrative support, MDDF personnel officers have processed important paperwork for each of the 70th Regiment’s training academies. MDDF operations officers assisted in drafting operational orders and mission planning activities. Meanwhile, MDDF supply officers have handled logistics for various 70th Regiment training phases, written standard operating procedures and assisted in unit accreditation.
MDDF communications officers have ensured the timely flow of information and MDDF chaplains have provided counseling and support for the 70th Regiment. Public affairs officers from the MDDF have assisted in documenting the training missions and providing appropriate media coverage. Currently, Staff Sgt. (MDDF) Matthew Markle is providing continued MDDF staff support to the 70th Regiment as the assistant training non-commissioned officer.
Command Chief Warrant Officer (MDDF) Thomas Insley has the distinction of having served the longest with the MDDF 70th Detachment. He commented, “Our integration into the 70th Regiment has helped them to fill billets and complete their mission, while also giving the MDDF insight into MDNG operations.” “This will make it even more seamless when we need to fill in and support their efforts during an emergency.” He continued, “This is a win-win for the Maryland Military Department and we are happy to do our part.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 250 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
MDDF Commanding General Reflects on Tenure
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
13 May 2015
After a distinguished 26 year career in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps, then Capt. Brian R. Kelm retired in 2003. Three years later he put on a different uniform as a colonel in the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) and commander of the newly formed Engineer Corps. After five years as commander of a unit that eventually became the 121st Engineer Regiment, Col. (MDDF) Kelm was promoted to brigadier general and commanding general of the MDDF in 2011.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm will step down as commanding general of the MDDF on Saturday, May 16 during the MDDF Annual Muster at the Fifth Regiment Armory in Baltimore, Maryland. After four years of leadership he will turn over the reins of a very different state military reserve component than the one he inherited. At the change of command ceremony, Brig. Gen. (MDDF) James F. Coleman, chief of staff and deputy commanding general of the MDDF will take on the responsibilities of commanding general of the MDDF.
“I am extremely proud of the work that the MDDF has done during my tenure as their commander and I’m even more excited about what the future holds,” said Kelm. “Over the last four years the MDDF state soldiers have volunteered over 200,000 man hours and saved the State of Maryland nearly $24 million dollars. It’s been a very busy four years, “he continued.
“We deployed in support of the state during hurricanes Irene and Sandy.” “The MDDF played a major role in the state’s support of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 during Sailabration in 2012 and Star Spangled Spectacular in 2014.” “A new unit, the MDDF Pioneer Company was launched at Anne Arundel Community College last year and last semester, the 121st Engineer Regiment taught an infrastructure course at the University of Maryland,” Kelm also shared.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm also expressed immense pride that the “10th Medical Regiment has operated mobile hospitals for international ironman competitions and triathlons for the past two years while the 121st Engineers last year renovated the War of 1812 exhibit at the Maryland Military Museum at no charge to the state.” “I’m so proud of the men and women who wear the MDDF uniform,” Kelm concluded.
In addition, under Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm’s leadership the MDDF has won some very prestigious awards. In April 2012 Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins who was serving as the adjutant general of Maryland at the time awarded the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment the Outstanding Unit Award. In 2013, the MDDF received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) Freestate ChalleNGe Academy for exceptional support of the youth development program. Finally, in 2014 Salute Magazine named the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment the Unit of the Year. The 10th Medical Regiment beat out active duty, National Guard and reserve military units from across the country to achieve this special honor.
“I am most proud of the fact that the MDDF has become further integrated into the support of the MDNG during my service in the command billet.” “Our units have become more operational and more professional over the last four years and it was a joy to be a part of that progressive change.” “The MDDF will be in excellent hands under the leadership of Brig. Gen. (MDDF) James F. Coleman and I will be ready to support him and the MDDF in whatever capacity that is needed,” Kelm noted.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
13 May 2015
After a distinguished 26 year career in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps, then Capt. Brian R. Kelm retired in 2003. Three years later he put on a different uniform as a colonel in the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) and commander of the newly formed Engineer Corps. After five years as commander of a unit that eventually became the 121st Engineer Regiment, Col. (MDDF) Kelm was promoted to brigadier general and commanding general of the MDDF in 2011.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm will step down as commanding general of the MDDF on Saturday, May 16 during the MDDF Annual Muster at the Fifth Regiment Armory in Baltimore, Maryland. After four years of leadership he will turn over the reins of a very different state military reserve component than the one he inherited. At the change of command ceremony, Brig. Gen. (MDDF) James F. Coleman, chief of staff and deputy commanding general of the MDDF will take on the responsibilities of commanding general of the MDDF.
“I am extremely proud of the work that the MDDF has done during my tenure as their commander and I’m even more excited about what the future holds,” said Kelm. “Over the last four years the MDDF state soldiers have volunteered over 200,000 man hours and saved the State of Maryland nearly $24 million dollars. It’s been a very busy four years, “he continued.
“We deployed in support of the state during hurricanes Irene and Sandy.” “The MDDF played a major role in the state’s support of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 during Sailabration in 2012 and Star Spangled Spectacular in 2014.” “A new unit, the MDDF Pioneer Company was launched at Anne Arundel Community College last year and last semester, the 121st Engineer Regiment taught an infrastructure course at the University of Maryland,” Kelm also shared.
Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm also expressed immense pride that the “10th Medical Regiment has operated mobile hospitals for international ironman competitions and triathlons for the past two years while the 121st Engineers last year renovated the War of 1812 exhibit at the Maryland Military Museum at no charge to the state.” “I’m so proud of the men and women who wear the MDDF uniform,” Kelm concluded.
In addition, under Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm’s leadership the MDDF has won some very prestigious awards. In April 2012 Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins who was serving as the adjutant general of Maryland at the time awarded the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment the Outstanding Unit Award. In 2013, the MDDF received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) Freestate ChalleNGe Academy for exceptional support of the youth development program. Finally, in 2014 Salute Magazine named the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment the Unit of the Year. The 10th Medical Regiment beat out active duty, National Guard and reserve military units from across the country to achieve this special honor.
“I am most proud of the fact that the MDDF has become further integrated into the support of the MDNG during my service in the command billet.” “Our units have become more operational and more professional over the last four years and it was a joy to be a part of that progressive change.” “The MDDF will be in excellent hands under the leadership of Brig. Gen. (MDDF) James F. Coleman and I will be ready to support him and the MDDF in whatever capacity that is needed,” Kelm noted.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Friday, May 8, 2015
Maryland Defense Force Rallies for Baltimore
By MAJ (MDDF) Bryan Fischer
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
8 May 2015
As dawn broke over Baltimore City, a few miles away Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel were loading up their gear preparing to deploy alongside their Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG) counterparts to stand up a field hospital at Oriole Park at what would become known as Forward Operating Base (FOB) Raven. During the recent State of Emergency in Baltimore, the Maryland Defense Force, Maryland’s uniformed volunteer state military force mobilized forty-three key personnel to complement and augment Maryland National Guard forces deployed to Baltimore.
With doctors, nurses and other medical support personnel at FOB Raven to logistics support personnel pitching in at the Pikesville Military Reservation (PMR) to help de-mobilize the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) as it returned from the city, the MDDF played a key role in the recent mission. MDDF personnel were also embedded into Joint Forces Headquarters (JFHQ) at the Camp Fretterd Military Reservation.
At FOB Raven, the Maryland Defense Force 10th Medical Regiment personnel provided medical services over the course of five days of sustained operation. The MDDF also provided medical personnel at the Fifth Regiment Armory as well as Chaplain support at the Fifth and two other troop staging areas. MDDF forces have not seen a longer deployment since the deployment to Jefferson Parish, Louisiana during Hurricane Katrina relief in 2005. Meanwhile, MDDF operations officers were embedded into the planning and operations staff at Camp Fretterd providing real time updates to command and control and ensuring that personnel were deployed to maximum effectiveness.
As calm had returned to the streets of Baltimore, the next major mission would be to ensure that all Maryland National Guard personnel returned home efficiently and quickly. The Reverse JRSOI (Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration) Operation commenced on Friday morning and the call came out for additional MDDF support. The MDDF personnel mobilized to support the JRSOI effort allowed MDNG personnel with specialized logistics training to be used more effectively as MDDF personnel backfilled for them as force multipliers.
The MDDF supplied personnel to the Joint operations ranged from private first class to colonel. With less than 6 hours notification, the MDDF was able to provide critical professional and technical support to the emergency operations proving once again that nearly 100 years on, the Maryland Defense Force is “Ready When Called. “
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
8 May 2015
As dawn broke over Baltimore City, a few miles away Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel were loading up their gear preparing to deploy alongside their Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG) counterparts to stand up a field hospital at Oriole Park at what would become known as Forward Operating Base (FOB) Raven. During the recent State of Emergency in Baltimore, the Maryland Defense Force, Maryland’s uniformed volunteer state military force mobilized forty-three key personnel to complement and augment Maryland National Guard forces deployed to Baltimore.
With doctors, nurses and other medical support personnel at FOB Raven to logistics support personnel pitching in at the Pikesville Military Reservation (PMR) to help de-mobilize the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) as it returned from the city, the MDDF played a key role in the recent mission. MDDF personnel were also embedded into Joint Forces Headquarters (JFHQ) at the Camp Fretterd Military Reservation.
At FOB Raven, the Maryland Defense Force 10th Medical Regiment personnel provided medical services over the course of five days of sustained operation. The MDDF also provided medical personnel at the Fifth Regiment Armory as well as Chaplain support at the Fifth and two other troop staging areas. MDDF forces have not seen a longer deployment since the deployment to Jefferson Parish, Louisiana during Hurricane Katrina relief in 2005. Meanwhile, MDDF operations officers were embedded into the planning and operations staff at Camp Fretterd providing real time updates to command and control and ensuring that personnel were deployed to maximum effectiveness.
As calm had returned to the streets of Baltimore, the next major mission would be to ensure that all Maryland National Guard personnel returned home efficiently and quickly. The Reverse JRSOI (Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration) Operation commenced on Friday morning and the call came out for additional MDDF support. The MDDF personnel mobilized to support the JRSOI effort allowed MDNG personnel with specialized logistics training to be used more effectively as MDDF personnel backfilled for them as force multipliers.
The MDDF supplied personnel to the Joint operations ranged from private first class to colonel. With less than 6 hours notification, the MDDF was able to provide critical professional and technical support to the emergency operations proving once again that nearly 100 years on, the Maryland Defense Force is “Ready When Called. “
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
MDDF Finance Corps Brings Talent and Financial Expertise to the MDDF and the MDNG
By 2LT (MDDF) Anthony Granado
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
30 April 2015
The Finance Corps of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is essential to the men and women of the MDDF and the Maryland National Guard (MDNG). This unit, also referred to as D8 is now a full section of the MDDF headquarters staff and it is commanded by Col. (MDDF) John J. Forberger. Col. (MDDF) Forberger is a licensed investment management professional who is assisted by a cadre of multi-talented financial industry experts with a wide range of experience. Unit members have experience in banking, insurance, accounting, energy, corporate finance, government contract auditing and information management security.
“The Finance Corps offers excellence and experience in service to the MDDF and the men and women of the MDNG. The services we offer are essential for maintaining effective troop readiness,” says Col. (MDDF) Forberger. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, commanding general of the MDDF recognizes just how essential the D8 section is in maintaining the effective readiness of Maryland Defense Force and the Maryland National Guard. “I don’t know what we would do without this fine group of talented men and women. Their contribution and talent ensures we are able to carry out our mission,” says Gen. (MDDF) Kelm.
The operations and training component has been the “workhorse” of D8 for many years according to Col. (MDDF) Forberger. Operations include support of the MDNG Yellow Ribbon Program which services members and their families who are briefed before, during, and after deployment by D8 personnel relating to family financial matters. Some of the topics covered in the briefing include banking, insurance, wills, powers of attorney, and some practical advice with regard to home and auto matters.
Operations also include participation in the soldier readiness programs, recruit sustainment programs, and retirement briefs – all in support of the Maryland National Guard. The MDDF Finance Corps may support these programs four or five times in a single month and sometimes even more often. D8 personnel also work in the finance and accounting section of MDDF and MDNG operation centers when they are set up for active state missions. For example, D8 has participated in missions in support of triathlons, hurricanes, and even an urban heat emergency to deliver water, food and ice to residents affected by widespread power outages.
The accounting, audit, and budget component of the D8 offers support to the MDDF and its other units for any financial management needs that they may have. For example, D8 routinely assists senior command with annual budgets, and recently designed and built an electronic point of sale and inventory system to improve the accountability of monetary transactions and inventory control. The Finance Corps provides essential mission support that allows the Maryland Defense Force and the men and women of the Maryland National Guard, to carry out their service to the people of the state of Maryland effectively and consistently.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
30 April 2015
The Finance Corps of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is essential to the men and women of the MDDF and the Maryland National Guard (MDNG). This unit, also referred to as D8 is now a full section of the MDDF headquarters staff and it is commanded by Col. (MDDF) John J. Forberger. Col. (MDDF) Forberger is a licensed investment management professional who is assisted by a cadre of multi-talented financial industry experts with a wide range of experience. Unit members have experience in banking, insurance, accounting, energy, corporate finance, government contract auditing and information management security.
“The Finance Corps offers excellence and experience in service to the MDDF and the men and women of the MDNG. The services we offer are essential for maintaining effective troop readiness,” says Col. (MDDF) Forberger. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, commanding general of the MDDF recognizes just how essential the D8 section is in maintaining the effective readiness of Maryland Defense Force and the Maryland National Guard. “I don’t know what we would do without this fine group of talented men and women. Their contribution and talent ensures we are able to carry out our mission,” says Gen. (MDDF) Kelm.
The operations and training component has been the “workhorse” of D8 for many years according to Col. (MDDF) Forberger. Operations include support of the MDNG Yellow Ribbon Program which services members and their families who are briefed before, during, and after deployment by D8 personnel relating to family financial matters. Some of the topics covered in the briefing include banking, insurance, wills, powers of attorney, and some practical advice with regard to home and auto matters.
Operations also include participation in the soldier readiness programs, recruit sustainment programs, and retirement briefs – all in support of the Maryland National Guard. The MDDF Finance Corps may support these programs four or five times in a single month and sometimes even more often. D8 personnel also work in the finance and accounting section of MDDF and MDNG operation centers when they are set up for active state missions. For example, D8 has participated in missions in support of triathlons, hurricanes, and even an urban heat emergency to deliver water, food and ice to residents affected by widespread power outages.
The accounting, audit, and budget component of the D8 offers support to the MDDF and its other units for any financial management needs that they may have. For example, D8 routinely assists senior command with annual budgets, and recently designed and built an electronic point of sale and inventory system to improve the accountability of monetary transactions and inventory control. The Finance Corps provides essential mission support that allows the Maryland Defense Force and the men and women of the Maryland National Guard, to carry out their service to the people of the state of Maryland effectively and consistently.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Nineteen MDDF State Soldiers Receive MEMS Certifications
By COL (MDDF) Michael Barrett
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
29 March 2015
Chief Warrant Officer (MDDF) Eric Drummer, Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) Academy Director, for the State of Maryland, announced today that nineteen Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel were presented with their Basic, Senior and Master badges, at the graduation ceremony on March 21, 2015, held at Pikesville Military Reservation in Pikesville, Maryland. Thirteen new MEMS qualified personnel earned their Basic Badge, four earned their Senior Badge and two received their Master Badge, the highest award issued by the MEMS Academy.
The MEMS badge is awarded only after completion of a rigorous course of on-line and classroom study combined with several years of practical experience and hands-on participation with local emergency management agencies. The MEMS Academy was created and is administered by the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) to further the educational advancement of state guard personnel from all fifty states and Puerto Rico.
Col. (MDDF) Michael E. Barrett, president of the Maryland State Guard Association, the local SGAUS affiliate, said that “the MDDF commanding general, Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm has placed great emphasis over the past four years on having all MDDF personnel take part in this important and vital training program because emergency management is a core mission of the MDDF.” Currently, almost 30% of the entire MDDF force strength is MEMS qualified.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
29 March 2015
Chief Warrant Officer (MDDF) Eric Drummer, Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) Academy Director, for the State of Maryland, announced today that nineteen Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) personnel were presented with their Basic, Senior and Master badges, at the graduation ceremony on March 21, 2015, held at Pikesville Military Reservation in Pikesville, Maryland. Thirteen new MEMS qualified personnel earned their Basic Badge, four earned their Senior Badge and two received their Master Badge, the highest award issued by the MEMS Academy.
The MEMS badge is awarded only after completion of a rigorous course of on-line and classroom study combined with several years of practical experience and hands-on participation with local emergency management agencies. The MEMS Academy was created and is administered by the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) to further the educational advancement of state guard personnel from all fifty states and Puerto Rico.
Col. (MDDF) Michael E. Barrett, president of the Maryland State Guard Association, the local SGAUS affiliate, said that “the MDDF commanding general, Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm has placed great emphasis over the past four years on having all MDDF personnel take part in this important and vital training program because emergency management is a core mission of the MDDF.” Currently, almost 30% of the entire MDDF force strength is MEMS qualified.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Maryland Defense Force Supports Historic Maryland Adjutant General Change of Command
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
1 March 2015
On February 28, 2015 at the Fifth Regiment Armory in Baltimore, Maryland, Maj. Gen. (MD) Linda L. Singh was sworn in as Maryland’s new adjutant general replacing Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins. Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh also made history becoming the nation’s first female African-American adjutant general. Previously Gen. Singh had served as Maryland’s assistant adjutant general – Army.
In this new role, Gen. Singh will lead the Maryland Military Department which includes the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG), Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG), Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF). Several dignitaries were in attendance for the ceremony including Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and senior leaders from the National Guard Bureau. In support of the ceremony, nearly 250 troops stood in formation. Companies from the MDARNG, MDANG, MDDF and Civil Air Patrol were represented.
Leading the MDDF volunteers in formation was Col. (MDDF) James Coleman, deputy commanding general of the MDDF. He commented that, “We had fifty state soldiers on the drill floor for the ceremony and they looked great.” “It was a wonderful experience and we were honored to be a part of this historical occasion.” He also shared that, “The MDDF is excited for the future and we look forward to working with Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh in service to the citizens of Maryland.”
The MDDF was also ably represented at the ceremony by the MDDF Band which is officially known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors.” Under the direction of Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva the MDDF Band performed a marching “sound off” musical salute to Gen. Singh. As part of the tribute, Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva led the band in a pass in review in front of the adjutant general. Following the ceremony and during the adjutant general’s reception, Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva directed elements of the MDDF Band in a jazz performance that entertained appreciative guests. “It was a busy day for us but we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to do our part in support of Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh.” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, commanding general of the MDDF commented, “I couldn’t be more proud of how we executed our mission today.”
Members of the band include retired and former members of our nation’s military service bands, music educators and students from all over the state. The band provides musical and ceremonial support to the Maryland Military Department and the State of Maryland. There are 22 states (plus the commonwealth of Puerto Rico) that have State Defense Forces to provide additional uniformed volunteer support to the National Guard. Maryland is only one of four states to have a State Defense Force band.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
1 March 2015
On February 28, 2015 at the Fifth Regiment Armory in Baltimore, Maryland, Maj. Gen. (MD) Linda L. Singh was sworn in as Maryland’s new adjutant general replacing Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins. Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh also made history becoming the nation’s first female African-American adjutant general. Previously Gen. Singh had served as Maryland’s assistant adjutant general – Army.
In this new role, Gen. Singh will lead the Maryland Military Department which includes the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG), Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG), Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF). Several dignitaries were in attendance for the ceremony including Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and senior leaders from the National Guard Bureau. In support of the ceremony, nearly 250 troops stood in formation. Companies from the MDARNG, MDANG, MDDF and Civil Air Patrol were represented.
Leading the MDDF volunteers in formation was Col. (MDDF) James Coleman, deputy commanding general of the MDDF. He commented that, “We had fifty state soldiers on the drill floor for the ceremony and they looked great.” “It was a wonderful experience and we were honored to be a part of this historical occasion.” He also shared that, “The MDDF is excited for the future and we look forward to working with Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh in service to the citizens of Maryland.”
The MDDF was also ably represented at the ceremony by the MDDF Band which is officially known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors.” Under the direction of Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva the MDDF Band performed a marching “sound off” musical salute to Gen. Singh. As part of the tribute, Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva led the band in a pass in review in front of the adjutant general. Following the ceremony and during the adjutant general’s reception, Lt. Col. (MDDF) Villanueva directed elements of the MDDF Band in a jazz performance that entertained appreciative guests. “It was a busy day for us but we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to do our part in support of Maj. Gen. (MD) Singh.” Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, commanding general of the MDDF commented, “I couldn’t be more proud of how we executed our mission today.”
Members of the band include retired and former members of our nation’s military service bands, music educators and students from all over the state. The band provides musical and ceremonial support to the Maryland Military Department and the State of Maryland. There are 22 states (plus the commonwealth of Puerto Rico) that have State Defense Forces to provide additional uniformed volunteer support to the National Guard. Maryland is only one of four states to have a State Defense Force band.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
MDSGA & MDDF Select the 2014 NCO and Soldier of the Year Winners
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
10 December 2014
At the recent Maryland State Guard Association (MDSGA) holiday ball, Sgt. (MDDF) Kevin Carrera was named the 2014 Non-commissioned Officer (NCO) of the year. At the same event, 2nd Lt. (MDDF) Jeremy O’Mard was named the 2014 Soldier of the year. These awards are given by the MDSGA upon the recommendation of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) NCO Council and the approval of the Commanding General of the MDDF.
Sgt. (MDDF) Kevin Carrera enlisted in the MDDF in 2011 and quickly made an impact. His career began as a human resources specialist with the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment. His hard work and dedication earned him a promotion to administrative NCO where he continued to perform at an exceptional level. Currently, Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera serves as the supply sergeant for the 10th Medical Regiment.
In addition to his assigned unit duties, Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera also serves with the MDDF Honor Guard that was formed in 2012. Col. (MDDF) Michael Barrett, president of the MDSGA shared that, “His leadership by example, has been a positive motivation to other MDDF state soldiers throughout his three and a half years of service.” “His dedication to duty, spirit of volunteerism and leadership, have made him very deserving of this honor.”
2nd Lt. (MDDF) Jeremy O’Mard enlisted in the MDDF in 2010. Since that time he has “been one of the most active and the most visible NCOs in the MDDF,” according to Col. (MDDF) Michael Barrett. 2nd Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard joined the Information Technology unit (D-6) initially as a technical troubleshooter and was quickly promoted. Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard developed a reputation for being able “to get the job done and get it done right,” according to Col. (MDDF) Barrett.
After being promoted to sergeant, earlier in 2014 Lt. O’Mard was asked to take a commission in order to become Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm’s Aide de Camp. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm stated that, “He caught the eye of the senior command staff because of his professionalism and devotion to duty.” “He continues to do a great job in this new role.”
At the holiday ball, both Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera and Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard were somewhat surprised by the recognition. Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera stated that, “I didn’t expect this but I am happy and very proud to receive this award.” Lt. O’Mard added that, “I didn’t know that this was going to happen but I am humbled and appreciative of this special honor.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
10 December 2014
At the recent Maryland State Guard Association (MDSGA) holiday ball, Sgt. (MDDF) Kevin Carrera was named the 2014 Non-commissioned Officer (NCO) of the year. At the same event, 2nd Lt. (MDDF) Jeremy O’Mard was named the 2014 Soldier of the year. These awards are given by the MDSGA upon the recommendation of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) NCO Council and the approval of the Commanding General of the MDDF.
Sgt. (MDDF) Kevin Carrera enlisted in the MDDF in 2011 and quickly made an impact. His career began as a human resources specialist with the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment. His hard work and dedication earned him a promotion to administrative NCO where he continued to perform at an exceptional level. Currently, Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera serves as the supply sergeant for the 10th Medical Regiment.
In addition to his assigned unit duties, Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera also serves with the MDDF Honor Guard that was formed in 2012. Col. (MDDF) Michael Barrett, president of the MDSGA shared that, “His leadership by example, has been a positive motivation to other MDDF state soldiers throughout his three and a half years of service.” “His dedication to duty, spirit of volunteerism and leadership, have made him very deserving of this honor.”
2nd Lt. (MDDF) Jeremy O’Mard enlisted in the MDDF in 2010. Since that time he has “been one of the most active and the most visible NCOs in the MDDF,” according to Col. (MDDF) Michael Barrett. 2nd Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard joined the Information Technology unit (D-6) initially as a technical troubleshooter and was quickly promoted. Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard developed a reputation for being able “to get the job done and get it done right,” according to Col. (MDDF) Barrett.
After being promoted to sergeant, earlier in 2014 Lt. O’Mard was asked to take a commission in order to become Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm’s Aide de Camp. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Kelm stated that, “He caught the eye of the senior command staff because of his professionalism and devotion to duty.” “He continues to do a great job in this new role.”
At the holiday ball, both Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera and Lt. (MDDF) O’Mard were somewhat surprised by the recognition. Sgt. (MDDF) Carrera stated that, “I didn’t expect this but I am happy and very proud to receive this award.” Lt. O’Mard added that, “I didn’t know that this was going to happen but I am humbled and appreciative of this special honor.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Monday, December 1, 2014
MDDF Personnel Participate in HAZMAT Training
By 2LT (MDDF) Anthony Granado
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
01 December 2014
The potential emergency may arise from a natural disaster or an international terrorism incident but the men and women of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) are preparing to meet the challenge. MDDF personnel recently completed an important three-day hazardous material (HAZMAT) training at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation. The training was designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to obtain certification through the National Professional Qualifications System (NPQS/Pro Board) as an operations-level responder. The course was designed by the Texas A&M University Engineering department.
This three-day course focused on the specific challenges that first responders face during a Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)/terrorist or a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) incident. The training was designed to help personnel recognize hazardous materials and prevent the unnecessary contamination of people, property, and the environment. “It is important for MDDF to get this type of training as these threats sadly aren’t going to go anyway time soon. But MDDF will be ready,” said Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, who also participated in the training.
Some of the topics addressed in the training included:
• Assessing WMD hazards
• Predicting the likely behavior of HAZMAT/WMD materials
• Identifying defensive strategies for a WMD incident
• Effectively operating and communicating in a unified command structure of the Incident Command System (ICS)
• Determining Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) needs, and;
• Performing emergency decontamination
Twenty-five MDDF personnel participated in this training activity. For Lt. Col. (MDDF) Edward Hubner the experience was not only educational but enjoyable. “I had a great time and learned a lot. I hope to never have to use these skills but we always need to be ready if necessary.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
01 December 2014
The potential emergency may arise from a natural disaster or an international terrorism incident but the men and women of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) are preparing to meet the challenge. MDDF personnel recently completed an important three-day hazardous material (HAZMAT) training at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation. The training was designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to obtain certification through the National Professional Qualifications System (NPQS/Pro Board) as an operations-level responder. The course was designed by the Texas A&M University Engineering department.
This three-day course focused on the specific challenges that first responders face during a Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)/terrorist or a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) incident. The training was designed to help personnel recognize hazardous materials and prevent the unnecessary contamination of people, property, and the environment. “It is important for MDDF to get this type of training as these threats sadly aren’t going to go anyway time soon. But MDDF will be ready,” said Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, who also participated in the training.
Some of the topics addressed in the training included:
• Assessing WMD hazards
• Predicting the likely behavior of HAZMAT/WMD materials
• Identifying defensive strategies for a WMD incident
• Effectively operating and communicating in a unified command structure of the Incident Command System (ICS)
• Determining Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) needs, and;
• Performing emergency decontamination
Twenty-five MDDF personnel participated in this training activity. For Lt. Col. (MDDF) Edward Hubner the experience was not only educational but enjoyable. “I had a great time and learned a lot. I hope to never have to use these skills but we always need to be ready if necessary.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Saturday, November 29, 2014
MDDF Officer Receives Prestigious Volunteer Service Award
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
29 November 2014
Earlier this year, Maj. (MDDF) Jacob Gerstein of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF)’s 10th Medical Regiment was awarded the Excellence in Federal Career Gold Award in the Volunteer Service (Individual) category from the Baltimore Federal Executive Board. This award honors federal employees that have demonstrated “outstanding volunteer service” over a twelve-month period. Maj. Gerstein was recognized for his noteworthy volunteer service with the Maryland Defense Force and with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).
Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein also currently serves with the rank of major in the Civil Air Patrol and is assigned to their National Headquarters as part of CAP’s National History Staff. The Civil Air Patrol is the United States Air Force Auxiliary whose missions are to promote aerospace education, train CAP cadets and provide emergency services when necessary. During the award period, Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein served as a public affairs officer within CAP’s Maryland Wing and worked diligently to raise the organization’s profile. He drafted articles, took pictures and helped to maintain websites to educate the public about CAP’s activities and accomplishments.
As an officer with the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment, Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein often provides staff operational support during medical missions. He has participated in missions as varied as the 10th Medical Regiment’s support of nationally-recognized triathlons in Cambridge to the regiment’s support of the 100th anniversary Boy Scout Camporee in Cockeysville. “He is a superb state military officer and he adds value to each mission,” noted Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF. He continued, “Maj. Gerstein is an asset to the MDDF, the Civil Air Patrol and the federal workforce. Wherever he is, he works hard to add value and he is very deserving of this prestigious honor.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
29 November 2014
Earlier this year, Maj. (MDDF) Jacob Gerstein of the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF)’s 10th Medical Regiment was awarded the Excellence in Federal Career Gold Award in the Volunteer Service (Individual) category from the Baltimore Federal Executive Board. This award honors federal employees that have demonstrated “outstanding volunteer service” over a twelve-month period. Maj. Gerstein was recognized for his noteworthy volunteer service with the Maryland Defense Force and with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).
Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein also currently serves with the rank of major in the Civil Air Patrol and is assigned to their National Headquarters as part of CAP’s National History Staff. The Civil Air Patrol is the United States Air Force Auxiliary whose missions are to promote aerospace education, train CAP cadets and provide emergency services when necessary. During the award period, Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein served as a public affairs officer within CAP’s Maryland Wing and worked diligently to raise the organization’s profile. He drafted articles, took pictures and helped to maintain websites to educate the public about CAP’s activities and accomplishments.
As an officer with the MDDF’s 10th Medical Regiment, Maj. (MDDF) Gerstein often provides staff operational support during medical missions. He has participated in missions as varied as the 10th Medical Regiment’s support of nationally-recognized triathlons in Cambridge to the regiment’s support of the 100th anniversary Boy Scout Camporee in Cockeysville. “He is a superb state military officer and he adds value to each mission,” noted Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF. He continued, “Maj. Gerstein is an asset to the MDDF, the Civil Air Patrol and the federal workforce. Wherever he is, he works hard to add value and he is very deserving of this prestigious honor.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
MDDF Cyber Security Unit Helps Defend Maryland from Attack
By LTC (MDDF) Jane Ohlmacher
Maryland Defense Force Cyber Unit
30 September 2014
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Cyber Security Unit was created in 2010 at the request of the Adjutant General of Maryland, Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins. He realized that the threat of a cyber emergency in the State of Maryland was growing and wanted to tap as much private sector talent as possible to supplement the Maryland Air and Army National Guard cyber teams.
The MDDF Cyber Security Unit’s mission statement includes providing support to the Maryland Military Department, improving the security stance of the State of Maryland agencies and being prepared to respond with the Maryland Military Department in case of a cyber emergency. In order to complete this mission, the MDDF Cyber Security Unit trains on a monthly basis with the Maryland Army National Guard. In addition, they participate in quarterly joint training exercises with members of the Maryland Air National Guard and with various state agencies.
In addition to external training and support, the MDDF Cyber Security Unit provides training to members of the unit and is an excellent venue for getting hands on experience to enter or advance in this field. In fact recently some MDDF Pioneers, a group of college level state soldiers, trained along with seasoned professionals who are top level experts in cyber security.
The MDDF Cyber Security Unit has many aspiring plans for the near future. The unit is negotiating with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development to train a group of wounded warriors to be able to start new professions in Cyber Security. Additionally, training requests for different units of the Maryland Military Department have been coming in already and are now being processed. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF stated that he is, “thrilled that our cyber unit is recognized as an essential augmentation component in the defense of Maryland’s networks.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Maryland Defense Force Cyber Unit
30 September 2014
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Cyber Security Unit was created in 2010 at the request of the Adjutant General of Maryland, Maj. Gen. James A. Adkins. He realized that the threat of a cyber emergency in the State of Maryland was growing and wanted to tap as much private sector talent as possible to supplement the Maryland Air and Army National Guard cyber teams.
The MDDF Cyber Security Unit’s mission statement includes providing support to the Maryland Military Department, improving the security stance of the State of Maryland agencies and being prepared to respond with the Maryland Military Department in case of a cyber emergency. In order to complete this mission, the MDDF Cyber Security Unit trains on a monthly basis with the Maryland Army National Guard. In addition, they participate in quarterly joint training exercises with members of the Maryland Air National Guard and with various state agencies.
In addition to external training and support, the MDDF Cyber Security Unit provides training to members of the unit and is an excellent venue for getting hands on experience to enter or advance in this field. In fact recently some MDDF Pioneers, a group of college level state soldiers, trained along with seasoned professionals who are top level experts in cyber security.
The MDDF Cyber Security Unit has many aspiring plans for the near future. The unit is negotiating with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development to train a group of wounded warriors to be able to start new professions in Cyber Security. Additionally, training requests for different units of the Maryland Military Department have been coming in already and are now being processed. Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Brian R. Kelm, the commanding general of the MDDF stated that he is, “thrilled that our cyber unit is recognized as an essential augmentation component in the defense of Maryland’s networks.”
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
MDDF Support Helps Make Star Spangled Spectacular a Success
By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice and 2LT (MDDF) Anthony Granado
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
17 September 2014
Over the course of several days, various elements of Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) provided volunteer support for the Star Spangled Spectacular’s festivities. These units, including the MDDF Band, the 10th Medical Regiment and the D9 Recruiting Unit served under the direction of Col. (MDDF) George Rich, the task force commander of Operation Early Light. Their support helped to ensure that the festivities honoring the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the National Anthem were an unparalleled success.
On September 11, 2014, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Band performed twice for the 200th anniversary ceremony of the Battle of North Point. The first performance at Patterson Park in Baltimore City preceded the ceremonial march of five hundred members of the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) 175th Infantry Regiment (Fifth Maryland) from Patterson Park to Battle Acre Park in Dundalk, Maryland. This march replicated the six mile route that the Maryland Militia took two hundred years ago to engage the British in battle and protect the City of Baltimore from attack. At the end of the march in Dundalk, the MDDF Band played again for a special wreath laying ceremony conducted by Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley and representatives from the British Embassy.
On September 13, 2014 the MDDF Band performed on the public stage at the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine for the National Anthem Celebration. Some of their musical selections included the National Anthem, America the Beautiful, Gold Bless America, The Stars and Stripes Forever and My Maryland. This historic event included speeches by Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley and U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The evening concluded with a demonstration of the largest fireworks display in Baltimore City’s history.
On September 14, 2014 the MDDF Band performed for the historic Dawns Early Light celebration held inside the walls of Fort McHenry. This special ceremony honored the exact moment that the National Anthem was born 200 years ago. Various U.S. military units including the Third U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard,” and a U.S. Navy detachment from the U.S.S. Constitution stood in formation on the parade ground. Other military units from the United Kingdom and Canada were also in attendance. The keynote speaker was former U.S. Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin L. Powell, United States Army (Ret.). This memorable event was shown live and rebroadcast to millions of American households by the C-SPAN television network.
The highlight of the MDDF Band’s performance was their playing of the “The Star-Spangled Banner,” while the public audience sang all four verses of under the direction of Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva who directs the MDDF Band, officially known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors,” commented that “This was a magnificent event that honored our shared American heritage. I am also thrilled that citizens across this great country were able to hear the wonderful music of the MDDF Band.”
While the MDDF Band was entertaining large crowds, the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment was providing onsite medical support for the thousands of visitors to Fort McHenry. The 10th Medical Regiment operated a mobile hospital that treated patients with various medical issues throughout the Star Spangled Spectacular’s celebrations. The medical professionals of the 10th Medical Regiment provided excellent care and a safe environment for all in attendance.
Under the direction of Maj. (MDDF) Bryan Fischer, the MDDF D9 Recruiting Unit established a recruiting and information booth for the MDDF during Star Spangled Spectacular. This booth was staffed with junior officers and non-commissioned officers that educated the public about the mission of the MDDF. “We staffed our recruiting and information booth throughout the festivities so that we could spread the word about the good work that’s being done on behalf of the State of Maryland by the MDDF,” commented Maj. (MDDF) Fischer. He continued, “We met a host of patriotic Americans and proud Marylanders who were delighted to know that there is a corps of volunteers who donate their time in service to the state.” “This was a great event for us.”
Col. (MDDF) George Rich, the task force commander noted that, “Supporting these festivities was truly an honor for the MDDF. Our volunteers performed extremely well and I am very proud that we had this historic opportunity. Operation Early Light was a smashing success.” Pictures from the event can be found at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/58685478@N08/sets/.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
17 September 2014
Over the course of several days, various elements of Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) provided volunteer support for the Star Spangled Spectacular’s festivities. These units, including the MDDF Band, the 10th Medical Regiment and the D9 Recruiting Unit served under the direction of Col. (MDDF) George Rich, the task force commander of Operation Early Light. Their support helped to ensure that the festivities honoring the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the National Anthem were an unparalleled success.
On September 11, 2014, the Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) Band performed twice for the 200th anniversary ceremony of the Battle of North Point. The first performance at Patterson Park in Baltimore City preceded the ceremonial march of five hundred members of the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) 175th Infantry Regiment (Fifth Maryland) from Patterson Park to Battle Acre Park in Dundalk, Maryland. This march replicated the six mile route that the Maryland Militia took two hundred years ago to engage the British in battle and protect the City of Baltimore from attack. At the end of the march in Dundalk, the MDDF Band played again for a special wreath laying ceremony conducted by Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley and representatives from the British Embassy.
On September 13, 2014 the MDDF Band performed on the public stage at the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine for the National Anthem Celebration. Some of their musical selections included the National Anthem, America the Beautiful, Gold Bless America, The Stars and Stripes Forever and My Maryland. This historic event included speeches by Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley and U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The evening concluded with a demonstration of the largest fireworks display in Baltimore City’s history.
On September 14, 2014 the MDDF Band performed for the historic Dawns Early Light celebration held inside the walls of Fort McHenry. This special ceremony honored the exact moment that the National Anthem was born 200 years ago. Various U.S. military units including the Third U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard,” and a U.S. Navy detachment from the U.S.S. Constitution stood in formation on the parade ground. Other military units from the United Kingdom and Canada were also in attendance. The keynote speaker was former U.S. Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin L. Powell, United States Army (Ret.). This memorable event was shown live and rebroadcast to millions of American households by the C-SPAN television network.
The highlight of the MDDF Band’s performance was their playing of the “The Star-Spangled Banner,” while the public audience sang all four verses of under the direction of Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. Lt. Col. (MDDF) Jari Villanueva who directs the MDDF Band, officially known as “Maryland’s Musical Ambassadors,” commented that “This was a magnificent event that honored our shared American heritage. I am also thrilled that citizens across this great country were able to hear the wonderful music of the MDDF Band.”
While the MDDF Band was entertaining large crowds, the MDDF 10th Medical Regiment was providing onsite medical support for the thousands of visitors to Fort McHenry. The 10th Medical Regiment operated a mobile hospital that treated patients with various medical issues throughout the Star Spangled Spectacular’s celebrations. The medical professionals of the 10th Medical Regiment provided excellent care and a safe environment for all in attendance.
Under the direction of Maj. (MDDF) Bryan Fischer, the MDDF D9 Recruiting Unit established a recruiting and information booth for the MDDF during Star Spangled Spectacular. This booth was staffed with junior officers and non-commissioned officers that educated the public about the mission of the MDDF. “We staffed our recruiting and information booth throughout the festivities so that we could spread the word about the good work that’s being done on behalf of the State of Maryland by the MDDF,” commented Maj. (MDDF) Fischer. He continued, “We met a host of patriotic Americans and proud Marylanders who were delighted to know that there is a corps of volunteers who donate their time in service to the state.” “This was a great event for us.”
Col. (MDDF) George Rich, the task force commander noted that, “Supporting these festivities was truly an honor for the MDDF. Our volunteers performed extremely well and I am very proud that we had this historic opportunity. Operation Early Light was a smashing success.” Pictures from the event can be found at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/58685478@N08/sets/.
The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov
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