PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Welcome to the start of the New Year and our Wing Association President's Message. December is known for its Association with Christmas and New Year. It is a time to look back at the year and see what these holidays with friends and family mean to you. I hope you all had a great holiday season and have set 2024 as a year to remember.
Since our last letter, many events have taken place at the Wing and around our local communities. The Association gets great feedback from our members and the Wing personnel. We would like to thank all who have taken the time to provide us with information and suggestions for the Association events.
The Wing has been busy with challenges in many areas. Colonel Dougherty will explain in his Around the Wing, Commander's Message. Once again, I ask that you continue to provide us with your questions and suggestions so we can keep you informed of the Wing and Wing Association's activities.
December 3rd brought in another outstanding Wing Christmas Party in the main hangar. Col. Dougherty has extended the invitation to all past and present members and families of the 146th. This was a great time for past members to come out, see the base, and remember their special times at the 146th. Once again, it was met with the joy of the seasons. All who worked in preparation for this event did an outstanding job.
Families were in full force, taking advantage of all the events and games offered. Santa was inside the cargo compartment with all the children while the Grinch traveled the hangar, causing trouble and chasing people around. Santa and the Grinch stayed late to accommodate all the families for a photo op. The Wing Association was set up in Grinchville to advise people about what our Association does for the Wing.
The Wing hosted the annual Outstanding Airman of the Year banquet in January. The event once again was held at the Crowne Plaza in Ventura. This event recognized the top individuals of the Wing, where they competed for the Wing title. These winners then move on to the next level of competition against other California Air Guard units.
With approximately 350 people in attendance, the excitement grew throughout the evening. The Association was proud to be there and recognize each winner with their award. As always, the 146th does an outstanding job of making these events exciting and successful.
How about a fun afternoon out with retired and active unit personnel of the 146th. That's what occurred on January 31st at The Alamo Restaurant in Newbury Park. The Board of Directors decided to have another luncheon for members. The last two were met with so much enthusiasm we will be looking at another in the near future.
We thank Col. Dougherty for coming again and providing the future outlook of the 146th and the state of the Wing. Thanks to all who joined us, making it a fun and successful event for the 45-plus attendees.
In an unfortunate turn of events, the 562nd band is being deactivated. Members were given different options on how to proceed at the Wing. A few options are cross-training to a different career field, transferring, or retiring. The deactivation ceremony was on Sunday UTA but was postponed until March due to weather conditions.
We want to express our appreciation for the band's continued support over its many years. They have always done a fantastic job of representing the Military. They will be missed.
This year will mark the 100th anniversary of the 115 Airlift Squadron. Plans are being prepared for this special occasion and planned for August. As more information is received, we will notify members of the Association.
We want to congratulate the recently promoted Col. Lutz on his promotion that was held this past weekend. Col. Lutz has been the Ops Group commander and continues to support the Wing to the highest standards. We wish him all the best in his position and future advancement within the Wing.
We ask that all Association members please check the website for the current status of your dues. If you need to catch up in dues, please make your membership current. We last had a fund-raising event several years ago so we count on your dues for the Association's success.
We also need your help by encouraging others, retired or active, who have not participated in the Association to come and join us. Without your support, this Association cannot continue functioning with this extremely high caliber of care and assistance.
Your dues of $20.00 annually will allow us to continue to provide strong support to the Wing and cover our administrative overhead. We are doing our best to keep our dues at $20.00 annually. However, that can only be done by your support and donations. The Scholarship program that the Association has provided over the years has helped members achieve their dreams.
Our Association has an easy way to pay online with just a few clicks and entering the required information at: www.146thwingassociation.org.
We look forward to your involvement and participation in the functions planned this year. As a service organization and a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, we will always keep our members first, and our mission to support the Wing and its members is a top priority.
Please drop us a quick note with your suggestions to: Rronsgard@verizon.net. And/or bobk@scta.usta.com.
Your Association looks forward to seeing you at one of our functions this year.
Richard Onsgard
President
146th Wing Association http://www.146thwingassociation.org
Around the Wing - Letter from the 146th Airlift Wing Commander
The first quarter of FY24 was marked with 2 distinct challenges –the fiscally constrained environment that comes with operating under a continuing resolution and the challenges that arose when activating emerging AMC requirements (Israel).
The rest of the quarter saw successes such as the annual large-scale Individual Medical Requirements (IMR) event, the Wing holiday party (including a visit from the CNGB – Gen. Hokanson), and the potential addition of our base fire detection & suppression system to the list of NGB's funded items for the fiscal year.
The continuing resolution (especially one with multiple end dates) has disrupted our ability to fund essential events normally contracted across the fiscal year. For instance, we have had to scale down much of our contracted lodging and re-negotiate many of our normally funded morale-sustaining contracts, such as cable and internet. While these don't necessarily affect our ability to complete our mission sets, they do affect our airmen's day-to-day lives.
We look forward to a stable budget that will carry us through the rest of FY24. The activation in support of Israel operations was one of the biggest challenges our Wing has faced in recent memory, not only in terms of preparation for a "combat deployment" with such short notice but also the effects on our Airmen's entitlements - after the "mobilization" was changed to a simple TDY. I believe there's still an education piece missing at the RegAF levels when it comes to mobilizing the ARC.
We are in the process of compiling after-action reports to facilitate future successes, and I am confident our concerns will reach the appropriate levels of senior leadership engagement. Despite these challenges, our Airmen remained professional throughout, led by our two weapons officers, Majors Brogan O'Toole and Nate Southwick.
Our 146th Medical Group held their annual "Medical Rodeo" over November UTA, which resulted in garnering significant gains in medical readiness. This is the third year for this event, and every iteration has been smoother than the previous due to the application of lessons learned from prior years.
Speaking of readiness, I also just recently returned from the MAFFS post-season event. Despite celebrating our 50th year of performing the mission, the overall theme was focused on seeking additional repetitions on live fires for our aircrews, as the past 2 years have resulted in very few, which has led to a serious drought (no pun intended) in progression and proficiency.
As a result, we are looking to increase our footprint in early Spring training events, such as the National Aerial Supervisor Training course, to provide additional aerial firefighting experience in preparation for the 2024 fire season. Our annual MAFFS re-certification event is scheduled to be held in late April/early May and will again be hosted at the 146th, involving all four wings across two week-long periods.
Construction updates: our simulator facility is still scheduled to be completed in April 2024. However, we were informed by AMC that the actual simulator delivery date has been pushed right approximately 2 years, which will have an additional negative effect on the year-round readiness of not only our normal aircrews, but our MAFFS crews specifically - because that particular simulator is designed with specific MAFFS flight profiles in the software.
We are currently developing COAs to source a simulator sooner, but this will most likely require long-term advocacy from CODELs and state leadership. In better news, we were recently informed by NGB that our base-wide fire detection and suppression contract has been added to the potential FY24 funding list, which is fantastic news, considering the risk we assume every day until it is repaired.
Our base Civil Engineer, Major Tim Chow, has been pushing his hardest to achieve this, and I am grateful for his efforts, because it is my #1 priority in terms of infrastructure repair.
The maintenance hangar is undergoing construction package review while awaiting FY24 solicitation and reprogramming at NGB (new due outs are required for the temporary facilities and the economic analysis).
Our wing auditorium modernization is now complete – ahead of schedule – and in time to facilitate MAFFS training. Over December UTA, we held our Wing holiday party and family day, complete with a visit from the Chief of the National Guard Bureau – Gen Hokanson. Both the party and the visit were regarded as huge successes, and CNGB really enjoyed the time spent with the Airmen of the Hollywood Guard.
Huge accolades are due to our FSS NCOIC, Chief Kerri Lane, who was our POC for the Wing holiday event and succeeded despite many challenges of location, timeline, and DV attendee changes. I would be remiss if I did not also recognize my executive officer, Captain Terri DeGuzman, for her incredible professionalism, maturity, and foresight throughout 2023 to plan, execute, and lead every single one of our DV visits to the 146th AW. She is a future leader in the CA ANG, and the 146th would not be successful without her.
Finally, we are especially proud to share the national achievements of our Hollywood Guard members. Our Director of Psychological Health, Mrs. Chrystal Crawford, was recently announced as the ANG representative to compete for the Arthur S. Flemming award - named for the most outstanding federal employee in the social sciences category. Additionally, our base contractor, newly commissioned 2nd Lt Bill Tucker, was just announced as the winner of the Secretary of the Air Force's Contracting Officer of the Year for 2023 - National Guard officer category.
Both of their efforts this past year have had immense impact on the lives of the Airmen and the mission of the Hollywood Guard, and we are incredibly honored that they are part of the 146th!
As we move away from the holiday season and into a new calendar year, we are thankful for the Airmen, civilians, and their families who make our Wing successful, and we are looking forward to another engaged and productive year for the Hollywood Guard. - Col. Dougherty
The rest of the quarter saw successes such as the annual large-scale Individual Medical Requirements (IMR) event, the Wing holiday party (including a visit from the CNGB – Gen. Hokanson), and the potential addition of our base fire detection & suppression system to the list of NGB's funded items for the fiscal year.
The continuing resolution (especially one with multiple end dates) has disrupted our ability to fund essential events normally contracted across the fiscal year. For instance, we have had to scale down much of our contracted lodging and re-negotiate many of our normally funded morale-sustaining contracts, such as cable and internet. While these don't necessarily affect our ability to complete our mission sets, they do affect our airmen's day-to-day lives.
We look forward to a stable budget that will carry us through the rest of FY24. The activation in support of Israel operations was one of the biggest challenges our Wing has faced in recent memory, not only in terms of preparation for a "combat deployment" with such short notice but also the effects on our Airmen's entitlements - after the "mobilization" was changed to a simple TDY. I believe there's still an education piece missing at the RegAF levels when it comes to mobilizing the ARC.
We are in the process of compiling after-action reports to facilitate future successes, and I am confident our concerns will reach the appropriate levels of senior leadership engagement. Despite these challenges, our Airmen remained professional throughout, led by our two weapons officers, Majors Brogan O'Toole and Nate Southwick.
Our 146th Medical Group held their annual "Medical Rodeo" over November UTA, which resulted in garnering significant gains in medical readiness. This is the third year for this event, and every iteration has been smoother than the previous due to the application of lessons learned from prior years.
Speaking of readiness, I also just recently returned from the MAFFS post-season event. Despite celebrating our 50th year of performing the mission, the overall theme was focused on seeking additional repetitions on live fires for our aircrews, as the past 2 years have resulted in very few, which has led to a serious drought (no pun intended) in progression and proficiency.
As a result, we are looking to increase our footprint in early Spring training events, such as the National Aerial Supervisor Training course, to provide additional aerial firefighting experience in preparation for the 2024 fire season. Our annual MAFFS re-certification event is scheduled to be held in late April/early May and will again be hosted at the 146th, involving all four wings across two week-long periods.
Construction updates: our simulator facility is still scheduled to be completed in April 2024. However, we were informed by AMC that the actual simulator delivery date has been pushed right approximately 2 years, which will have an additional negative effect on the year-round readiness of not only our normal aircrews, but our MAFFS crews specifically - because that particular simulator is designed with specific MAFFS flight profiles in the software.
We are currently developing COAs to source a simulator sooner, but this will most likely require long-term advocacy from CODELs and state leadership. In better news, we were recently informed by NGB that our base-wide fire detection and suppression contract has been added to the potential FY24 funding list, which is fantastic news, considering the risk we assume every day until it is repaired.
Our base Civil Engineer, Major Tim Chow, has been pushing his hardest to achieve this, and I am grateful for his efforts, because it is my #1 priority in terms of infrastructure repair.
The maintenance hangar is undergoing construction package review while awaiting FY24 solicitation and reprogramming at NGB (new due outs are required for the temporary facilities and the economic analysis).
Our wing auditorium modernization is now complete – ahead of schedule – and in time to facilitate MAFFS training. Over December UTA, we held our Wing holiday party and family day, complete with a visit from the Chief of the National Guard Bureau – Gen Hokanson. Both the party and the visit were regarded as huge successes, and CNGB really enjoyed the time spent with the Airmen of the Hollywood Guard.
Huge accolades are due to our FSS NCOIC, Chief Kerri Lane, who was our POC for the Wing holiday event and succeeded despite many challenges of location, timeline, and DV attendee changes. I would be remiss if I did not also recognize my executive officer, Captain Terri DeGuzman, for her incredible professionalism, maturity, and foresight throughout 2023 to plan, execute, and lead every single one of our DV visits to the 146th AW. She is a future leader in the CA ANG, and the 146th would not be successful without her.
Finally, we are especially proud to share the national achievements of our Hollywood Guard members. Our Director of Psychological Health, Mrs. Chrystal Crawford, was recently announced as the ANG representative to compete for the Arthur S. Flemming award - named for the most outstanding federal employee in the social sciences category. Additionally, our base contractor, newly commissioned 2nd Lt Bill Tucker, was just announced as the winner of the Secretary of the Air Force's Contracting Officer of the Year for 2023 - National Guard officer category.
Both of their efforts this past year have had immense impact on the lives of the Airmen and the mission of the Hollywood Guard, and we are incredibly honored that they are part of the 146th!
As we move away from the holiday season and into a new calendar year, we are thankful for the Airmen, civilians, and their families who make our Wing successful, and we are looking forward to another engaged and productive year for the Hollywood Guard. - Col. Dougherty
Hollywood Guard celebrates operations group commander promotion
CHANNEL ISLANDS AIR NATIONAL GUARD STATION, Calif. -- “Ladies and gentlemen, today I stand before you with an immense sense of honor and gratitude, as I accept the promotion to the rank of colonel within the esteemed Hollywood guard,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Lutz,146th Operations Group Commander. “This moment marks a significant milestone in my military career, and I am humbled by the opportunity to serve at this higher rank.”
Lutz, who leads 3 squadrons, 2 flights, and over 286 Airmen in his role as group commander, was joined by friends, family, and many members of the 146th Airlift Wing (146AW) to commemorate his promotion in a ceremony at Channel Islands Air National Guard Station, Port Hueneme, California, Feb. 3, 2024. U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Dougherty, Commander of the 146AW, served as the officiating officer for the event.
“Only the top 2% of officers achieve the rank of colonel,” said Dougherty. “In this case, it was the right decision. For Chris, this achievement represents the recognition of his outstanding leadership, technical expertise, and exceptional service. It's a testament to his ability to inspire and lead others to make difficult decisions under pressure and to continually strive for excellence in all that he does.”
Dougherty went on to say that this promotion was not simply a triumph for the operations group commander himself but for the nation, by reflecting “the guard's commitment to developing and promoting exceptional leaders who are capable of meeting the diverse and complex challenges of today's world.”
After Lutz raised his right hand and reaffirmed the oath of office, his new rank was pinned on by his wife Kaci, daughter Kadence, and son Kole. In his speech, Lutz thanked his family for their sacrifice and support, which he said has been the driving force behind his success.
“I am honored to have you by my side,” Lutz told his family in the front row, “and I am forever grateful for the unwavering love and dedication you have shown me throughout this incredible journey.”
During the ceremony, Dougherty remarked, “Behind every successful leader in the Air Force, stands a dedicated and supportive network. There's love, encouragement, and understanding that make this achievement possible. The Guard family extends far beyond the individuals who wear the uniform, and it's important to acknowledge and honor the contributions of those who stand unwaveringly behind our Airmen.”
Lutz achieved this milestone after 26 years of military service, 22 of those years at the 146AW. When asked what drew him to the operations group, Lutz answered that he liked the vast diversity of mission sets; flying with some of the worlds best tactical aircrew members while serving his country. Lutz values his current role as group commander, as it allows him to make a positive difference for all his Airmen.
“As I embark on this new chapter as a colonel within the Hollywood Guard,” Lutz stated, “I pledge to lead with integrity, honor, and determination. I will strive to inspire and empower those under my command, to foster a culture of excellence, and to ensure the well-being and success of each individual within our ranks. Together we will continue to make a positive impact on our community and uphold the values that make the Hollywood Guard a force to be recognized.”
Lutz, who leads 3 squadrons, 2 flights, and over 286 Airmen in his role as group commander, was joined by friends, family, and many members of the 146th Airlift Wing (146AW) to commemorate his promotion in a ceremony at Channel Islands Air National Guard Station, Port Hueneme, California, Feb. 3, 2024. U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Dougherty, Commander of the 146AW, served as the officiating officer for the event.
“Only the top 2% of officers achieve the rank of colonel,” said Dougherty. “In this case, it was the right decision. For Chris, this achievement represents the recognition of his outstanding leadership, technical expertise, and exceptional service. It's a testament to his ability to inspire and lead others to make difficult decisions under pressure and to continually strive for excellence in all that he does.”
Dougherty went on to say that this promotion was not simply a triumph for the operations group commander himself but for the nation, by reflecting “the guard's commitment to developing and promoting exceptional leaders who are capable of meeting the diverse and complex challenges of today's world.”
After Lutz raised his right hand and reaffirmed the oath of office, his new rank was pinned on by his wife Kaci, daughter Kadence, and son Kole. In his speech, Lutz thanked his family for their sacrifice and support, which he said has been the driving force behind his success.
“I am honored to have you by my side,” Lutz told his family in the front row, “and I am forever grateful for the unwavering love and dedication you have shown me throughout this incredible journey.”
During the ceremony, Dougherty remarked, “Behind every successful leader in the Air Force, stands a dedicated and supportive network. There's love, encouragement, and understanding that make this achievement possible. The Guard family extends far beyond the individuals who wear the uniform, and it's important to acknowledge and honor the contributions of those who stand unwaveringly behind our Airmen.”
Lutz achieved this milestone after 26 years of military service, 22 of those years at the 146AW. When asked what drew him to the operations group, Lutz answered that he liked the vast diversity of mission sets; flying with some of the worlds best tactical aircrew members while serving his country. Lutz values his current role as group commander, as it allows him to make a positive difference for all his Airmen.
“As I embark on this new chapter as a colonel within the Hollywood Guard,” Lutz stated, “I pledge to lead with integrity, honor, and determination. I will strive to inspire and empower those under my command, to foster a culture of excellence, and to ensure the well-being and success of each individual within our ranks. Together we will continue to make a positive impact on our community and uphold the values that make the Hollywood Guard a force to be recognized.”
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