dog shows are a big success - governor's foot...

1st Co. Governor’s Foot Guard March 2016

860-522-1337 www.governorsfootguard.com

Copyright 2016, Trustees of the First Company Governor’s Foot Guard, Inc.

Dog Shows Are A Big Success We really did go to the dogs…twice

MAJ Mark Boudreau

On Saturday, 20 February and Sunday, 21 February we held our dog shows for the second year in the Young Building on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition and they were, again, a resounding success. Between the two shows, we had over 2300 dogs entered in our All Breed, Junior Showmanship and Obedience Trials. We also continued puppy judging and AKC National Owner-Handled competition that started last year. The Owner-Handled classes are for dogs that are exhibited by their owners who are not professional handlers.

As always, the show began with the Band and Color Guard resplendent in their Grenadier uniforms for the presentation of the colors and the playing of the National Anthem. We always receive many compliments on our opening ceremonies and this year was no exception.

While the last couple of years have given us very cold temperatures and snow, this year the weather was very cooperative to the point where we had to have the staff of the Big ‘E’ turn on the fans to ventilate the building because it was getting too warm.

Quarters were a bit tight again this year because of the number of dogs but we managed to provide space for everyone to crate and groom their dogs to show.

Also happening that weekend was the Sportsman’s Show and we were pleasantly surprised to have many people attending the Sportsman’s Show stop in to visit the dog show for a while. I’m sure the vendors appreciated the extra foot traffic and sales.

Because of the number of classes on Saturday, the show ran long but we had many Foot Guard members stay on until the end, which was shortly after 1800 hours. Sunday’s show was shorter, finishing up around 1700 hours. Continued on next page

Continued from previous page

I wish to express my thanks to everyone who helped at the show in whatever way they could and for however long they could. You contributions are all greatly appreciated and contribute to the

success of these shows.

The winners on Saturday were: In the Junior Showmanship competition, the Best Junior Handler in Open Senior went to Lauren

Hull showing Thornhill’s White Tie Affair a Great Pyrenees owned by Lauren Hull & Patricia

Ramapuram of LeRoy, NY.

The 4 – 6 Month Puppy Best in Show dog was Belcroft Majestyk Nautical Mile a Shetland

Sheepdog owned by Vicki Rolls & Terri Little & Donna Colletti & Gregory Colletti of Belmont, ME.

The Best Owner Handled in Show winner was Be-Fits N Arikara Too Hot To Touch, a Cocker Spaniel (A.S.C.O.B.), call name Charlize, shown by Patti Nazarko and owned by Patti Nazarko &

Carol Thompson & Diana Christian, Cohoes, NY.

Best In Group Dogs Sporting: Birdhaven Mood Indigo, call name Chase, an English Setter shown by Jaine Donelson

and owned by Jim Harmon & M Ptacek of Huntington Station, NY.

Hounds: Windstar’s Magnum Opus, call name Magnum, a Beagle shown by Kim Calvacca and

owned by Kelly Lockwood & Heather Lindberg & Robert Lindberg of Babylon, NY.

Working: Rio’s Luca Brasi Monster, call name Luca, a Doberman Pinscher shown by Gwen

DeMilta and owned by Dr. Megan L Rheingans Michael of Minnetonka, MN.

Terriers: Roadhouse Life of the Party an American Staffordshire Terrier, call name Louie, shown

by Kim Runzil and owned by William Roadhouse and Dave Berrey of Westfield, MA.

Toy: Yarrow Hi-Tech Drills N Skills call name Fiona, an Affenpinscher shown by Ernesto Lara

and owned by Milan Lint & Dr. William Truesdale of Seekonk, MA.

Non Sporting: Bayshore Stonehaven Manny Machado, call name Manny, a Xoloitzcuintli shown

by Gwen DeMilta and owned by Dr. Megan L Rheingans Michael & F Frank Bayliss & Lynda Hylton of

Minnetonka, MN.

Herding: Bagatelle Rolling Moon Stone, call name Jagar, an Old English Sheep Dog, shown by

Clifford Steele and owned by Roberta Corbett &

Bernard & Joanne Charest of Chatham, NJ.

Best in Show, chosen by judge Mrs. Barbara

Dempsey Alderman, was won by the Toy group winner, Affenpinscher Yarrow Hi-Tech Drills N Skills, call name Fiona, shown by Ernesto Lara and owned by

Milan Lint & Dr. William Truesdale of Seekonk, MA. Continued on next page

Battalion Review March 2016 page 2

MAJ Boudreau and members of the Foot Guard with the Best in Show dog, an

Affenpinscher, call name Fiona. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Laurie McCrewell



The winners on Sunday were:

In the Junior Showmanship competition, the Best Junior Handler in Open Senior went to Danielle Meyers showing Van Sam’s Cinco De Mayo V Isengard a Rottweiler owned by Sarah

Janner & Heidi Vondermock & Ryan Dillman & Danielle Meyers of Bethlehem, CT.

Obedience Trials

The High Combined (Open B and Utility) went to Holther’s Racin’ Bye Ewe a Border Collie owned

by Lara Avery of Somers, CT.

Best In Group Dogs Sporting: Birdhaven Mood Indigo call name Chase, an English Setter shown by Jaine Donelson

and owned by Jim Harmon & M Ptacek of Huntington Station, NY.

Hounds: Monocacy Bend’s Wayward Fox call name Dido, an English Foxhound shown by Katie

Shepard and owned by Toni Koerber of Dickeson, MD.

Working: Pouch Cove Goes The Distance call name Ryder, a Newfoundland shown by Kim P.

(sorry, no last name) and owned by Marjorie Grispin of South Salem, NY.

Terriers: Roadhouse Life of the Party an American Staffordshire Terrier, call name Louie, shown

by Kim Runzil and owned by William Roadhouse and Dave Berrey of Westfield, MA.

Toy: Yarrow Hi-Tech Drills N Skills, call name Fiona, an Affenpinscher shown by Ernesto Lara

and owned by Milan Lint & Dr. William Truesdale of Seekonk, MA.

Non Sporting: Gala Brighton Lakeridge Reflections of Me, call name Roxy, a Standard Poodle

shown by Kaz Hosaka and owned by Ron & Debbie Scott of Dillsberg, PA.

Herding: Dunhill Steeler Nation, call name Zac, a Bearded Collie shown by Katie Shepard and

owned by Dr. Kathy & Ray Harrington & Scott & Valerie Shafer of Scotch Plains, NJ.

Best in Show, chosen by judge

Mr. Dana P. Cline, was won by the

Non-Sporting group winner, Standard

Poodle Gala Brighton Lakeridge

Reflections of Me, call name Roxy,

shown by Kaz Hosaka and owned by

Ron & Debbie Scott of Dillsberg, PA.

MAJ Boudreau and members of the Foot Guard with Best in Show dog, a Standard Poodle, call name Roxy.

Photo courtesy Mrs. Laurie McCrewell


Super Bowl Sunday—Foot Guard Style MAJ Bob Nearine

It’s all about the food! And the comradery! And maybe even the ball game. From all reports, the Foot Guard Super Bowl Sunday was a resounding success, which was due to the efforts of a number of

individuals.

First, the armory had to be set up for the party, and this was accomplished under the direction of our COS (Chief of Staff), Roger Conley. The drill shed had to be vacuumed, tables and chairs set up, and the three flat screen TV receivers set up and attached. Members participating in these activities included Marty

Klukas, Bob Butler, John Flanagan, and Sar Prouthasack.

Adjutant Kevin C McCrewell chaired the entire operation. His report on the party says it all:

“As far as committee members there were many that helped, cooking, running the raffle, bartending and

setting up the audio & visual equipment. You could have a long list.

Chris Cain was the usual A.V. Guru.

Dennis Conroy was the T.V. Star (and we all knew it too!).

Bob Butler and Marty Klukas kept everyone hydrated.

Barry Levy was selling pieces of London Bridge and running the raffle.

Ted Samolik was Count de Money again, working the door and selling raffle tickets.

Dickie Welch worked the purse strings and tied on an apron.

Linda Welch supported all and helped me greatly.

Ginny Bednarz sold so many tickets!!!!

A Super Bowl Party travels on it's stomach and many drove the food wagon. These included: Max Covell, Dickie Welch, George Peterson, Bob Lehman Dennis (the chowdah went way too fast!), Mike

Infantino (Mama Mia! The man can cook!), and Commandant Mark S. Boudreau (Jefe).

So many Officer's Association members and Foot Guard friends stepped up to set-up, gather prizes or

just lend a hand. I hope I didn't leave anyone out. Most of you know the usual suspects. THANK YOU!

And to John Ferreira, many thanks to you for getting us here and helping me make this year a success.

And to my wife Laurie and the other Foot Guard wives for putting up with us taking on another one.”

Getting back to the food. For appetizers, there were veggie dips, pepperoni, Mike Infantino’s home-made

pizza, chicken wings, clam chowder, and chicken soup (you could catch cold, you know).

The half time buffet included ham, baked chicken, shrimp, sausage and peppers, roasted potatoes, and

both fruit and potato salad. All of this

was prepared and served by Dicky Welch’s kitchen crew made up of Dick, Mike Infantino, Dennis Conroy, Max Covill, George Peterson, John Bergeron, John Flanagon, his son-in-law Mike, and two grandsons. This was probably the best Super Bowl

deal on the planet! Drawing winners by quarter included: 1st: Frank Erff 2nd: Lou Smith 3rd: William Wallace 4th: John Ferreira and Barry Levy.

And Someone did win the ball game.

At the 2016 Foot Guard Dog Show, the Best in Show Terriers was Roadhouse Life of the Party an American Staffordshire Terrier call name Louie, shown by Kim

Runzil and owned by William Roadhouse and Dave Berrey of Westfield,

MA.

Photo courtesy of

MAJ Roger Conley

Foot Guard Helps Celebrate Benjamin Tallmadge’s

Birthday MAJ Mark Boudreau

Members of the Foot Guard traveled to Litchfield on Saturday, 27 February to help Tino West, the current owner of Benjamin Tallmadge’s home, celebrate Mr. Tallmadge’s birthday. After purchasing the home, which was built in 1775, Mr. West undertook returning it as closely as possible to original condition. The renovations were recently completed and I can personally

attest to what a great job was done.

The Tallmadge birthday celebration was a chance to unveil all of the restoration work that was done and the Foot Guard was asked to participate to add to the colonial period feel of the event. Our members walked picket and greeted the guests as they arrived. As always, there were numerous requests

for photos with Foot Guard members.

We also took the time, while retreating to the house to warm up because it was cold out that Saturday evening, to talk with the guests about who the Foot Guard is and what our

role has been in Connecticut history.

Regarding Benjamin Tallmadge, who was an important figure during the Revolutionary War, the

following excerpt is from an article at www.aphdigital.org:

Benjamin Tallmadge was born in 1754, and he grew up in or near Setauket, New York. His father was the pastor of a local church, and he was closely related to the families of all the members of the Culper Spy Ring. Like most upper middle class New England men of his time, he was well-educated, and attended Yale, where he became close friends with Nathan Hale. Both Hale and Tallmadge

became school teachers upon graduation in 1773. In 1775, Tallmadge joined the local militia.

Tallmadge joined the Continental Army in July of 1776, serving with the cavalry. Cavalry was in charge of intelligence gathering, and Tallmadge was active in the Battles around New York in 1776. Tallmadge advanced rapidly, becoming a captain in the mounted light dragoons under Elisha Sheldon, working mainly in New York, to the North of Manhattan. Tallmadge's duties with Sheldon's

troop mainly consisted of reconnaissance, although he did see action at Brandywine.

By 1778, Tallmadge was "engaged" in correspondence "with some persons in New York" as he wrote in his memoirs. This was probably the Culper Ring, although Alexander Rose recorded some of Tallmadge's earliest attempts at playing spymaster. Tallmadge's superior, General Charles Scott, served as Washington's Chief of Intelligence, and Tallmadge was permitted some experimental

leeway to try a new method involving a chain of agents with the creation of the Culper Spy Ring.

Tallmadge, managed to become one of Washington's favorite young officers during this period, and Scott soon found himself resigning to make way for Tallmadge and the future of American Intelligence. From 1778 until the end of the war, Tallmadge worked with the Culper Spy Ring, serving

as their main handler. Continued on next page

MAJ Mark Boudreau and members of the Foot Guard helped to

celebrate Benjamin Tallmadge's birthday at his newly restored

ancestral home in Litchfield on 27 February 2016.

Photo courtesy of Ms. Meg Goodrich


http://www.aphdigital.org


The 1GFG Color Guard,

under the command of SFG

Ray Hite, prepares to present

the colors at the opening

ceremonies of the Winter

Special Olympics at the

Eversource facility in

Bloomfield on 27 February

2016.

Photo courtesy of

MAJ Mark Boudreau

The Foot Guard band, under the command of CPT David Carlson, performs at the Connecticut National Guard Hall of Fame Induction ceremony at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford on 30 November 2015.

Photo courtesy of MAJ Mark Boudreau


Tallmadge seems to have had some advance warning of Benedict

Arnold's treason, since he wrote to warn Governor Trumbull to expect

an attack, and he was immediately suspicious enough of both Arnold

and General Andre to challenge the decisions of his commanding

officer.

While the Culpers were a very successful effort from 1779 to 1780,

after 1780 their intelligence was lacking at best.

Immediately following the war, Tallmadge married Mary, the

daughter of Congressman and Declaration Signer William Floyd of

Mastic, Long Island. Tallmadge moved to Connecticut, settling in

Litchfield in 1783. He served as a leader in the Society of the Cincinnati, and as Litchfield's postmaster

in 1792. In 1801, he was elected to Congress, where he remained until 1817, always aligned with the

minority Federalist Party.

The winner in the Hound category at the Governor’s Foot Guard Dow Dhow in February 2016 was Windstar’s Magnum Opus, call name Magnum, a Beagle shown by Kim Calvacca and owned by Kelly Lockwood & Heather Lindberg & Robert Lindberg of Babylon, NY.

Photo courtesy of

MAJ Roger Conley

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwio0IeFu77LAhVBNz4KHQRuAekQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmarratapa.weebly.com%2Fthe-missouri-compromise.html&psig=AFQjCNHRV2b9IhBbf_pxa5R_WoBAKw6bsg&ust=1457985778072540


“1925

“Planning the Trip to Europe”

Taken from

An Honor to the State

By

Lloyd C. Fowles

MAJ Loren Schave

The combined trip to Europe of the Richmond Blues, First and Second Companies of the Governor’s Foot Guard and the Putnam Phalanx had been two years in the planning with a multitude of arrangements carefully made. The desire of the four companies for the trip was strong, for there were many factors which lent support to an odyssey at this time. Such a trip to Europe reflected the spirit of the expansive and effusive era. The idea and the times were completely in accord. Furthermore, Marshall Foch had expressed a desire to see all the companies in France and to submit the good will which already existed between the two nations. This idea became the stated aim for the excursion: ‘to promote good will and a closer understanding between the countries to be visited and our own and to pay respect to the memory of those of our allies, who made the supreme sacrifice in the Great War and to visit the battlefields of France where their soldiers and ours fought side by side.” Besides the unity of the four Companies certain peripheral benefits were also evident: comradeship, foreign travel, and release from the formidable grip of

prohibition.

The general plan had been to charter the French Line steamer Chicago for the group of nearly 500 and visit England, Belgium, and France. Congress had assured the proper European reception by passing a bill under the guidance of Congressman John Tilson of Connecticut and Claude Swanson of Virginia designating the Companies in a provisional regiment as official representation of the United States. Special passports for each member signed by the respective governor’s of Connecticut and Virginia were used in lieu of the traditional form, all the diplomatic technicalities had been arranged most expediently. The Companies were ready for embarkation on April 30 for a tour that was to last 31 days with 24 of them to be

passed on board ship.

New Years Day Reception Held MAJ Bob Nearine

New Years day. Happy New Year to one and all. In the afternoon, we went to the Major’s Reception in

our historic armory. Fortunately, it was decorated and well equipped to welcome our members and guests.

But how does this occur? Not by the armory spirits and ghosts, but by a dedicated group of Foot Guarders

who spend the preceding Monday night cleaning and decorating, led by COS Roger Conley and ACOS

John Ferreira,

Decorators included; MAJ George Sloan, MAJ Bob Lehmann, MAJ Bob Desjardins, CPT John Flanagan,

CPT Barry Levy, CPT Bob Butler, CPT Rich Gatewood and CPT/GEN Sar Phouthasack.

And then there was the reception with seventy-four members and guests in attendance. Catering was

provided by the Officers and Enlisted Members Club under the supervision of Jim Throwe (BG, USA, Ret),

Sue Joanis and Gloria Lisella, and consisted of very heavy hors d’oeuvres and deserts. The bar was

handled by TJ Howe (who volunteered his services, yet again).

Among the luminaries in attendance were Connecticut Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Sean Connelly

((LTC, USAR), USAR Ambassador Carl Venditto (Col, USMCR, Ret), Capitol Region Medical Reserve

Corps Commander Katherine McCormack (CPT Hon 1GFG), Past Commandants Rocco Laraia, Jr, Dennis

Conroy, and John O’Connell, and of course General Jim Throwe.

Wie geht es ihnen? At the East Side Restaurant in New Britain it was good food, good conversation, and

gute bier. Plenty of everything. Twenty five members were in attendance, including past commandants John O’Connell, Dennis Conroy, and Rocco Laraia. Also present was CPT (Hon) I J Zembrzuski (BG, USA, Ret). Hosting the gathering was LTC O’Connell and MAJ George Sloan (who enjoyed a belated USMC

birthday greeting).

Also present were trustee chair CPT Tom Satalino, CPT (Hon) Sebby Donahue, and a steady attender,

but absent in recent weeks, SFC Rich Gatewood. Welcome back good friends!

While the A & A doesn’t usually meet on holidays, this Veterans Day was an exception to the usual rule. This being the case, Rocco Laraia, pinch-hitting for MG Throwe, provided an appropriate invocation, while Dennis Conroy led a toast to all veterans, past and present. Since no inspectors were present, the

luncheon adjourned without a benediction, but with much gemutlichkeit.

1 November saw a football matchup between the Houston Cougars and the UConn Huskies at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, with the Huskies winning by 21 to 17. Four tickets to the game and a parking pass were donated by Dennis Conroy and raffled off at five dollars a ticket by Dennis. The lucky winner was

Bernie Krukoski (who was vacationing in the Bahamas in this sunniest of February).

The $125 raised was donated to the Officers Association to help support their spring dance.

At its November bimonthly meeting, Adjutant Max Covill announced that Larry Botting had visited the World War Two museum in New Orleans and had participated in the Road to Victory fund raising effort by

purchasing a brick labeled Governors Footguard Connecticut. Thanks, Larry.

A very wise physician once said that he had heard that youth was wasted on the young. Think about it!

CPT Rich Gatewood reported that the Lao American Cultural Heritage (LARC) program which was held at the Foot Guard Armory on Sunday, 15 November, was an outstanding success. Laotian-American students put on a program of Laotian instrumental and vocal music, and dance, and this was followed by a social

period featuring Laotian and American food.

Certificates of appreciation were presented to CPT Rich Gatewood, MSG Max Covill, Commandant MAJ Mark Boudreau, and Past Commandant LTC Chris Cain. Receiving the certificates for the two

commandants was 2LT Kevin McCrewell, Sr.

Foot Guarders in attendance included LTC Rocco V Laraia, MAJ Loren Schave, CPT John Flanagan, and honorary captains Bob Butler, John Jepson, Ron Organek, Sar Phouthasack, and Carl Venditto. In addition to wives and friends of the Foot Guard, some fifty family members and friends of the students were also in

attendance.

The event was directed by Mrs. Somchine Sounanthanam, the program manager.

Continued on next page

Foot Guarders In The News MAJ Bob Nearine



On 16 November, the closest drill to the Marines actual birthday (10 November) the Company’s Marine

and Naval personnel hosted a traditional cake cutting ceremony.

The evening commenced with a battalion parade conducted under the direction of adjutant CPT Samolik, and led by MAJ Mark Boudreau. The national colors of both France and the United States were displayed,

and saluted. Both national anthems were rendered by the band.

SGM Dwelley pressed for more dog show ad participation, while PFC Carolyn Lang provided information

about the upcoming Christmas party to be held 19 December at the Mount Carmel hall.

Following the playing of Taps, and a pass in review, the cake cutting ceremony was conducted. First, an honor guard made up of Marine and Navy veterans escorted the cake to the center of the drill floor under the direction of MAJ Roger Conley (Sgt, USMC). In keeping with tradition, SSG Victor Lovich (USMC), the oldest Marine present and a veteran of both World War II and the Korean Conflict, cut the cake with a Marine dress sword. He tasted the cake, found it good, and passed it on to the youngest Marine present, PVT Shane Michael Therrien. The ceremony was accompanied by a rendition of the Marines Hymn. Honor guard members included CPT George Peterson (Cpl, USMC), SGT Mike Infantino (Cpl, USMC), SGT Brian

Perchal (Y1, USNR), and PVT Wayne Lanham (USMC).

Following the initial cake ceremony, CPT John Ferreira read the Commandant’s Birthday Message, after

which the cake and Marine colors were posted by the honor guard and all hands fell too, to enjoy at least one piece of this delicious confectionary. There was at least some speculation that the lefty over cake ( or

what little there was of it), was enjoyed by the Ferreira family for Tuesday night dinner. It was that good!

And speaking of the Marine Corps birthday, CPT (Hon) Carl Vendittto (Col, USMCR, Ret) spoke before a group of Marine Corps League members in Stratford about “…the ‘human side’ of my first Marine Corps Ball as a member of the 2d Infantry Battalion of the USMCR (which I trained in the old Fargo Building close to Atlantic Avenue.in Boston). I had just passed the test for Sergeant and took my stripes to a Greek tailor to be sewed on. I was one happy guy. The tailor was a WW 2 vet and in the Greek Army. Apparently they reverse the stripes and he did so on my uniform. My threats were such that in spite of his closing his shop for a wedding I stood over him as he put the stripes on correctly. An old Marine saying: ’What is not

supervised will be neglected.’ My first lesson as a Sergeant.

The second part of my speech concerned attendance at the Naval War College Marine Corps Ball in Newport, RI.in 1984. I was now a Colonel. The Commandant of the Marine Corps spoke that evening after returning from talking to families of those killed in what has been called the Beirut Massacre. The Marines, sailors, and soldiers who died were peace keepers. There were 234 of them and scores were also severely injured. PX Kelley spoke but a few words that night. He said, ’Our ranks are thinner tonight, but we will continue to march.’ It was the most touching presentation I have ever heard and there was not a dry eye

when he finished.”

The 22 November edition of the Hartford Courant contained a section entitled Hometown Heroes, Veterans Helping Those Who Helped Their Country. Featured on the first page of this section was an article and photo of CPT (Hon) Carl Venditto (Col, USMCR, Ret). Carl is a former elementary school principal who currently serves as one of two Army Reserve Ambassadors for Connecticut. He was appointed Ambassador (with a protocol rank of MG) in 2000, and is the senior ambassador in the national program. Among his many activities in support of veterans, Carl is a former State Chair of the DOD Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR-also a two-star protocol rank), he serves on the

board of the Iwo Jima Memorial foundation, and is a member of the committee working to establish a





national memorial for the Laotian volunteers who supported our forces in Vietnam, but were then left with nothing to show for it. Despite all these actions, Carl is at heart, a Marine. Even in his Army

Ambassador photo, he continues to wear a USMC cover!

We all know about the wide array of talent found in the First Company. This is especially true of the Foot Guard Band. As one example, three talented musicians play regularly with the Hart School of Music’s Capital Symphonic Winds, at the University of Hartford. This years seasonal concert took place at the

Lincoln Theater on Wednesday, 2 December, and included SFC Chuck Lignelli playing baritone sax, SGT

Gary Kleczewski on tuba, and SFC Eileen Chiaro who played both flute and piccolo.

During its 244 years of continuous service, The First Company has created several legends. Here is one

of them:

Several years ago - a short time in our history—there was a hot, sunny summer day. Two Foot Guarders were planting their tomatoes. Because of the heat, one planter picked up the telephone, called his buddy, and said these memorable words: “Christ its hot! Lets go get us a beer!” And so the Ale and Agricultural Society was formed, and so it still exists, dedicated to good food, good conversation, and of course, good

beer.

The last drill of each month features a battalion review, and other ceremonial activities. The November

drill honored four individuals. A memorial bridge in South Windsor was dedicated to long time Foot Guarder

and armory maintenance manager CSM Tommy Howe. Tommy was at least a fifty year veteran of State

service, an Airborne-Ranger, and had been a Foot Guarder, at least in spirit for almost all of that time. The

honor was well deserved. Tommy, of course, is always missed; he has become one of the friendly spirits in

our armory.

Also honored was two-term commandant LTC George Tule with the dedication of a bridge in West

Hartford. His summer camp activities were legendary. Ask any of the older members (Loren Schave or

George Sloan, for example) about them.

Commissioned into the Command’s honorary ranks were recently appointed State Veterans Affairs Commissioner CPT (Hon) Sean Connolly (LTC, JAG, USAR) and State Representative Antonio Guerrera (D), representing Rocky Hill’s 29th District. We welcome both to this historic Command, and hope they will

join with us frequently in the future.

The Capitol Region, Medical Reserve Corps held its December meeting and Christmas party at the Glastonbury Community Center on 2 December under the leadership of Commander CPT (Hon) Katherine McCormack. After an excellent meal and an introduction to and photographs with Hartford Yard Goats mascot, Chew Chew, attendees were led though a planning exercise which focused on a terrorist incident conducted at the newly-opened Duncan Doughnuts Stadium. The evening concluded with a

raffle drawing, and everyone (except the commander) went home a

winner.

First Company participants included George Peterson, Rich Gatewood, Kevin McCrewell, John Ferreira, Lew Vasquez, Rob and Natasha Handshumacher, John Jepson, Bob Nearine, and medical director Ron

Buckman. During the evening, each was photographed with Chew Chew.


MAJ Bob with Chew Chew Photo courtesy of

CPT (Hon) Katherine McCormack


Story of the week:

According to a recent e-mail, a car in a Phoenix, Arizona parking lot was seen with a bumper sticker

which read, I Miss Chicago!

When the owner returned from shopping, he found that someone had broken his window, stolen the car radio, shot out all four tires, attached an Obama sticker to the bumper, and left a note saying I hope this

helps.

Hosted by Walt Schlechtweg and Bernie Krukoski, the December A &A luncheon was held on 9 December at Farells Restaurant, in picturesque rural Portland. Twenty-eight members and friends were in attendance, including past commandants John O’Connell, Dennis Conroy, and Rocco Laraia, along with honorary captains Jim Throwe (my spell check keeps misspelling his name), and shoreline resident I J Zembrzuski. Also in attendance were Sebby Donahue, and the only Foot Guarder who goes north for the

winter, Pat Reidy.

General Throwe provided an inspirational invocation and reminded members of the sacrifices made by members of our armed forces. He also payed tribute to the holiday seasons both of Hanukkah and Christmas, and reminded our members that two days ago marked the seventy-fourth anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and the beginning of World War II. He also spoke about the Wreaths Across America program, honoring deceased veterans, and his own efforts on the program’s behalf at the

LOB.

As an interesting aside, the group was served by a waitress who had forgotten to wear her glasses and was having difficulty reading the selection tickets. This difficulty was manifested in her removal of John

Green’s dinner, and transferring it to Rocco Laraia. Eventually, John was fed.

Finally, they came! And as usual, they were worth waiting for. What you might ask? These were the musical Chairo’s annual foray into Christmas card design and production. First came the Major Commandant’s festive busby, soon followed by Mike and Eileen’s Foot Guard nutcracker, tree, and drums which was made from “recycled sheet music.” But for thirty years? Who got them before the GFG? Broad

Street?

Have you ever listened to someone and wondered…”Who ties your shoelaces for you?”

So far the winter has been great; cold, but no snow. If you want to ski, go north or west! On 13 January, twenty-four A&A members tiptoed through the tulips (almost!) to partake of lunch at the Officers and Enlisted Members Club (The OClub) at the Broad Street Armory, officially named in honor of our former Captain General, honorary captain, and good friend, Governor Bill O’Neill. Featuring the Club’s specialty, prime rib, and following Jim Throwe’s innovation, members hunkered down to enjoy the meal and spirited

conversation.

About the A&A: You don’t have to be a retiree or for that matter, a member of the militia to join. There are no dues and no obligations, except the requirement to pay if you commit to a meal. There is a club pin (if the inspector gets around to making them) and you could be fined a buck for not wearing it, but otherwise

just good food and conversation. Hope to see more of you at the next one.

Just two quick notes. Inspector Flanagan arrived late and apparently forgot the birthday list, and Sam Doctor announced that he, like GE, is leaving the state for a more productive climate, in his case the

Carolinas. We wish him well. and hope that he can join with the Connecticut snowbirds at their late February Florida reunion. Continued on next page




February’s luncheon of the A &A Society took place on 10 February at Angelo’s Restaurant in bucolic Glastonbury ( the site of fast cars and beautiful women). Hosted by Lew Vasquez and Bob Nearine, twenty-two members were in attendance. Members feasted on veal parmigiana, chicken Francaise, and broiled scrod. Luminaries in attendance included past commandants Rocco Laraia and Dennis Conroy, honorary captains Jim Throwe (BG, USA, Ret), Bob Moeller (CSM, USA, Ret),

and State Selective Service Director Nate Agostinelli (BG, CT, Ret).

Jim Throwe provided both an invocation and a benediction while Inspector Flanagan announced

the birthdays for the month.

Memories Of Vietnam Major Roger Conley Remembers With Photos And Artifacts

MAJ Bob Nearine

Major Roger Conley, First Company chief of staff and sergeant, USMC, regaled a group of over seventy-five Foot Guarders and guests with a slide show which described his two thirteen-month tours in-country, and the

artifacts which he had collected at that time.

A Hartford native, Roger graduated from Hartford Public High School in 1965. He and four friends joined the Marine Corps and went through initial boot camp at Parris Island as part of a Marine “buddy” program. Following graduation, he received additional training at Del Mar, and Camp Pendleton, CA., and then at Okinawa before being shipped to Vietnam for assignment to the 1st battalion, 12th Marines. Subsequent assignments included: 12 Marines, 3rd Marines, 26th Marines, and Force Logistics Command as part of the 3rd Marine division. Between in-country tours, Roger also attended and graduated from the Embassy School Headquarters, USMC,

Arlington, VA.

During his 105 mm howitzer battalion assignments, Roger traveled to various parts of Vietnam. Assignments included Da Nang, Phu Bai, Hue, Dong Ha,12 miles south of the demilitarized zone (DMZ), and Gio lihn, 1 mile south of the DMZ where he was

wounded.

Artifacts collected during Roger’s two tours included a series of propaganda leaflets intended to coax North Vietnamese to surrender, or at least go home, Military Payment Certificates which replaced American money in the combat zone, captured uniform components, a propaganda painting, and felicitates which were used

for jungle penetration by the artillery.

Roger making his Vietnam presentation to over 75 people at GFG Armory on March 15 2016.

Photo courtesy of LTC Dennis Conroy


This is our

dog Eddie,

who came

from Arizona

to live with us

after my Mom

passed away

last Spring. He

seems to be saying,

“For the love

of God, let me in! Can’t you see that it is

raining out?”

He’s a little clown, and we love having my

Mom’s best buddy with us now.

SGT Barbara Berg

Riley’s Corner

Christmas Celebrated at the Armory MAJ Bob Nearine

Christmas season at our armory; is always a festive time. This past year we started the season with a dinner dance at Mt Carmel Hall in East Hartford, followed up the next day with the kid’s party. The armory

was decorated, Santa arrived in a sleigh, and even the Rat Pack’s rat made it’s appearance.

On Monday, 21 December, the Major’s eggnog party was held, with Dennis Conroy, Bob Butler, and Marty Klukas attending to former Officers Lounge steward Dick Templeton’s famous receipt (with a few modifications). There was also coffee, and Mike Infantino kept the audience and band well supplied with

home made pizza.

Prior to the concert of seasonal and patriotic music, directed by CPT Dave Carlson, several formal activities were accomplished. First, The Silver Brick was presented to the outstanding participant in summer camp by last year’s recipient Marty Klukas. Adjutant CPT Ted Samolik first announced that it was being present to Miss Columbia, as in the Miss Universe fiasco (she is better looking than the actual

recipient), and then the actual recipient, CPT (Hon) Sar Phouthasack(BG, SGU, Ret).

Next, Major Commandant Mark Boudreau commissioned our long time friend and supporter, Ginny

Bednarz as an honorary captain thus keeping the Bednarz name alive and well in this historic command.

Paul Poirier, a member of the 82nd Airborne Association which meets monthly in our armory, presented curator MAJ Loren Schave with a series of civil-war vintage newspaper clippings for inclusion in the

museum. These were accepted with thanks.

And so the evening ended; with bonhomie, best wishes all around, and many forward looks to the

upcoming New Year.

We need a convertible for upcoming parades so

that our senior members along with the limp, lame,

and lazy will be able to ride. The VW Eos is gone,

never to be seen again, and its owner has

transitioned to a safer vehicle; it all goes with old

age.

HOWEVER, if we get a convertible, we will also

need a list of riders, 48 hours in advance. If you

want a ride contact Bob Nearine,

860 659-2590,

or at [email protected].

mailto:[email protected]


In The Spotlight

Spotlight On

Captain (HON) Robert F. Butler MAJ Bob Nearine

Unlike many honorary members of this Command, Bob F. Butler spent over four years as an enlisted member of the First Company Governor's Foot Guard. He was a member of “B” Company and assigned as a riflemen. He was honorably discharged as a PFC in June of 1999. The discharge was occasioned by his civilian work requirements relative to working the hours of rotating work shifts These rotating shift hours caused Bob to frequently miss drills and other Command activities and in consequence he requested discharge. Once onto a stable work shift and nearing retirement Bob returned to the Command to seek reenlistment in order to continue as a member of the Foot Guard. Unfortunately he had reached the ripe old age of sixty five and was over age. Bob petitioned then Major Commandant Dennis Conroy for an

Honorary appointment and this was quickly granted.

Bob has been an active member of this Command since his return. Together with Captain Jim Wagner, he initiated the formation of the “DeNino – Shelto American Legion Post #1771” were he has served as

the Post Service Officer, Post Adjutant and in his present position as Post Commander.

Bob was instrumental in organizing the present Military Honor Guards working in conjunction with the Connecticut Army National Guard to perform Final Military Honors for veterans as well as coordinating

Final Honors for deceased veterans of the Governor's Foot Guard.

During the past 10 years he has coordinated and/or participated in hundreds of Military Honor Funerals for deceased veterans and for members of the militia as well. Bob has conducted and taught classes and trained members of the Foot Guard in conjunction with the Army National Guard in the procedures and details of Military Honors which has resulted in members being Certified by the National Guard and being

awarded the Department of Defense (DOD) qualification badge for Military Honors.

Bob is also the recipient of the Officers Silver Brick award having received it in 2007 during Annual

Training.

Bob was born in Fall River, Massachusetts (as was Lizzy Borden, of ax fame). At the age of five the family composed of his parents and two sisters moved to Cranston, Rhode Island. Bob enrolled in the public school system and graduated from Cranston Senior High School in 1953. At that time it was possible, with parents permission, to enroll in an armed services program and to go into active duty upon

graduation from high school.

And so it was for Bob. The day after he graduated from Cranston Senior High School, seventeen year

old Bob Butler found himself in another school at Fort Dix, New Jersey.

Upon completing Army Basic Training and Advanced Infantry Training, Bob was sent to Camp Kilmer, located at the Brooklyn Navy Yard which was the embarkation center for the European Theater. Here he

boarded a troop transport ship (no airplane transfers at that time) and was shipped to Germany.



He was under the impression that he would be assigned to a unit in the 7 th Army, and Bob’s first stop in Germany was the training center at Grafenwehr. It was here that fate intervened and Bob’s orders were changed and he was sent to Bamberg, Germany, and assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, the famous “Big Red One.” The “Big Red One” placed him into the 26th Infantry Regiment often referred to as the “Army's Marine Corps,” because of its battle history, efficiency, dedication and a regiment of mostly

professional soldiers. The 26th was in every sense of the word an elite infantry regiment.

At that time, each infantry regiment had one tank company. These tanks were parceled out to the infantry battalions as needed to support tactical requirements. Although trained as an infantry “ground pounder” Bob was asked to volunteer for assignment to the tank company and with some trepidation did so. As it turned out Bob came to enjoy the assignment and the challenges of being on a tank, and as he

stated, “riding on a tank beats walking in the infantry.”

Bob served the first part of his tour in Europe on the DMZ along the boarder between Germany and Communist Czechoslovakia. His company would move up to the DMZ and move into the positions of the unit that they were replacing. This rotation of units was the mission of his unit for about half of his deployment time in Germany. Back in Bamberg, Bob was sent to the 1st Infantry Division NCO Academy

from which he graduated.

From Bamberg, Bob and members of the 26th Infantry Regiment were sent to Bergen-Belson, Germany which was in the British sector and here he was assigned to a NATO Command that was led by the British. In this NATO unit were American, British, French and Turkish soldiers. Bob was assigned to a

British unit which had Centurion Tanks which he believed were superior to American Tanks by way of their superior gyro-scope firing system. American M47 and M48 tanks did not have that technology at that

time.

The crews were made up of both British and American Soldiers and although there was a language “problem” most everything went smoothly and everyone did get along very well. Bergen-Belson was the location of a Nazi Concentration Camp during World War 2 and Bob saw the remnants of this camp and can say it is something he will never ever forget. This Concentration Camp was were the young Jewish

girl, Anne Frank, and her family were murdered by the German SS that ran this infamous site.

The 1st infantry Division was replaced by the 10th Mountain Division and under “Operation Roper” the “Big Red One” rotated back to the United States and found a home at Fort Riley, KS. Bob was TDY'ed

(Temporary Duty) to Fort Leavenworth and was attached to a Military Police Unit as a prison guard at the

Disciplinary Barracks. He did not care for this assignment as it involved guarding American prisoners.

Upon completion of this assignment, he returned to Fort Riley, and shortly thereafter was sent to the

Mojave Desert where they trained for desert warfare.

After being released from the Regular Army, Bob returned home. He joined the Army National Guard and was assigned to the 43rd Infantry Division. Because of his Regular Army armored unit background he was transferred to Combat Support Company and assigned as a tank Commander. Bob was recommended for and accepted a First Sargent position with Bravo Company 2nd Battalion 169th Infantry. He completed 18 years of service with the Army and the Army National Guard and was Honorably

Discharged.

BR: How did you get involved with the Foot Guard?

Bob: That is an interesting story. My wife Bea, is a seamstress and operates her business out of our

home. I came into her workshop and I saw this bright red uniform she was working on and I noted that it

had what looked to be military medals. Then I noted the Purple Heart Medal and I asked her about it and

who brought this uniform to her. It so happened that the owner of the uniform was none other than Roger

Conley. When he came for his uniform we talked and he told me about the Foot Guard and invited me to

come to the armory and see it and meet the people. I came to the armory and I remember meeting Rick

Marshal (he is a full time National Guard Soldier) and also Joe Frank. The night I was there it was

Battalion Review and as I watched the band and the platoons marching this brought back fond memories.

I liked what I saw and I was hooked. I enlisted shorty after. Continued on next page



Thanks to all who contributed to the March 2016 Battalion

Review.

Special thanks to MAJ Bob Nearine, without

whom the Battalion Review would never come to fruition.

A special thanks, also, to MAJ Mark Boudreau, and, of course, MAJ Loren Schave, SSG Terri Camilleri and SFC

Ray Hite for their ongoing contributions.

Thanks also to all the contributing photographers.

Gwynn Kane


BR: Why did you put in for discharge?

Bob: I was a 1-1 for about four years however I was working a rotating shift and it was very

difficult for me to make the drills and I was missing many of the Foot Guard activities. Once my work shift

stabilized and I was nearing retirement Marty Klukas convinced me to re-enlist.

BR: What do you like the most about the Foot Guard?

Bob: The uniqueness of the organization and its long history of service to the state, nation and to the

community. The tradition alone makes me proud to say I am a member of this organization. I really enjoy sitting down with other veterans and members and telling, what civilians would call, “war stories”. Just reminiscing as it were. Of course, there is the camaraderie, sort of just like it was in the Army and the

National Guard.

BR: What do you like the least?

Bob: That's hard to answer...nothing that I can really think of. It is all good to me.

BR: Where do you see the Command in say 10 years?

Bob: I would like to see growth like it was years ago when we had two full rifle platoons. We also had a

“Charlie” Company for the new recruits that were in training. We should be focused on recruiting more younger veterans and more minorities. We need to focus more on our training. It seems that all the training is limited to just drill and ceremony. We should have classes on disassembly and assembly of our weapons, training on military honors such as how to fold an American flag. Training in first aid and more. Training on how to react to terrorism threats or actual events. We have lawyers, teachers, police and many other professionals in our Command. We should start using the talent that is readily available to us. This

should be in our future.

BR: If you could do it all over again would you have done it differently?

Bob: No, I don't think I would change anything ...the military, my family, there is nothing to change. If I

could do it all over again I would.

Bob presently lives in Ellington with his wife, Bea and they are surrounded by family and friends. They

have five children and seven grand children.

Bob is semi-retired. He has taught elementary and junior high school and then moved onto teaching at Asnuntuck Community College. He is a working member of the Connecticut Army National Guard Military

Honor Unit.

At the 2016 Foot Guard

Dog Show, the best In Group

Dog in the sporting class was

Birdhaven Mood Indigo call

name Chase, an English

Setter shown by Jaine

Donelson and owned by Jim

Harmon & M. Ptacek of

Huntington Station, NY

Photo courtesy of

MAJ Roger Conley


Presentation of

Colors SFC Ray Hite

The color guard participated in the following

events from 10 November 2015 to 17 February

2016:

Founder’s Day

11 October 2015

Announcer: OIC MAJ Roger Conley

American flag: SFC Michael Infantino

State flag: CPL Larry Botting

Sword: MAJ Roger Conley

Sword: LT Kevin McCrewell

Centennial Legion

Changing of the Command Ceremony

17 October 15

American Flag: NCOIC SFC Raymond Hite

State flag: PFC George Lange Centennial Legion flag: PFC Natasha Hand

Schumacher

Sword: SFC Michael Infantino

Sword: SFC Russell Skull

Centennial Legion Banquet

17 October 2015

American flag: NCOIC SFC Raymond Hite

State flag: PFC George Lange

Battalion flag: PFC Natasha Handschumacher

Sword: SGM David Dwelly

Sword: SSG Robert Handschumacher

Re-dedication Rochambeau Monument

25 October 2015

Announcer: MAJ Mark Boudreau


State flag: PFC Natasha Handschumacher



Hartford Veteran’s Day Parade

8 November 2015


State flag: SSG Thomas Bozek

Sword: SFC Michael Infantino


88th Dog Show

20 February 2016


State flag: PVT Joseph Lanham

Battalion flag: PFC Carolyn Lange

Centennial Legion flag: PFC Natasha

Handschumacher



89th Dog Show

21 February 2016


State flag: SFC Russell Skull




Special Olympics

27 February 2016


State flag: PVT Joseph Lanham


Sword: SFG Russell Skull



From 1 November 2015 through 29 February 2016 the band participated in the

following events:

♫♫

Senior Care of East Hartford East Hartford, CT 7 November 2015 OIC CPT Carlson

♫♫

Veteran’s Day Parade Hartford, CT

8 November 2015 OIC MAJ Boudreau

♫♫

Wounded Warriors Concert

Hartford, CT 8 September 2015 OIC CPT Carlson

♫♫

Veteran’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Hartford, CT 30 November 2015 OIC CPT Carlson

♫♫

Old Lyme High School Concert

Old Lyme, CT 14 December 2015 OIC CPT Carlson

♫♫

Riverside Health and Rehabilitation Care

Concert East Hartford, CT 11 January 2016

OIC CPT Carlson

♫♫

First Company Governor’s Foot Guard Athletic

Association Dog Show

West Springfield, MA 20-21 February 2016 OIC MAJ Boudreau

The Band will participate in the following events

during the next 4 months:

♫

Marlborough Elementary School Concert

Marlborough, CT 23 March 2016

♫

History Day

New Britain, CT 30 April 2016

Band Notes Band Manager SSG Terri Camilleri

Memories

of the 2016

GFG Dog

Show

Photos courtesy of

MAJ Roger Conley


Malcolm Bulkeley Pearce, Jr., 86, a long time resident of Durham, husband of Helen (Korn) Pearce for sixty-four years, passed away in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his loved ones on 21 January

2016. He succumbed to a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Born in West Haven, he was the son of the late Malcolm and Louise (Bowyer) Pearce. Mal graduated from Durham High School in 1947 and continued his education at Indiana Institute of Technology graduating with a degree in Mechanical engineering. He spent forty-three years working in the field of aeronautical engineering, holding several patents

and retiring in 1994 from UTC Sikorsky Engineering

He and his wife loved to travel, and visited many countries around the world. Mal also took his family on several cruises. Besides his full time positions, over the years he repaired and rebuilt dozens of automobiles, tested cars for Consumer Reports, worked at Cooper Thermometer and taught at Eli Whitney Technical College. During his retirement, he

enjoyed being a substitute teacher for Regional 13 and Florida schools

Mal served the Durham community for most of his life. He was a life-long member of the United Churches of Durham where he was a trustee and sang in the choir for over seventy years. He was Civil Defense Director, chairman of the First Building Code Committee, a life member of the Durham Fair Association and a constable. Mal also wrote "Memories", a book of his Durham recollections. Mal was also a National Guard veteran, a captain in the First Company Governor's Foot Guard for the State of

Connecticut, a Mason and a Shriner.

Along with his wife, Mal is survived by his son and two daughters

Donations in Malcolm's memory may be made to The United Churches of Durham, 228 Main Street,

Durham, CT 06422 or the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook Street, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.

In Memoriam

OFFICERS AND ENLISTED CLUB OF CONNECTICUT SUNDAY CRUISE BRUNCH

on the LADY KATHARINE

from Charter Oak Landing, Hartford

Sunday 31 July 2016 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Tickets: $50 per person (Cash Bar)

Go cruising down the Connecticut River Bring a group

Enjoy the scenery A really delicious brunch buffet included in the price

with fresh fruit and pastries, a breakfast station, hot entrees (including stuffed breast of chicken, salmon,

tenderloin tips, and meatless lasagna) coffee, tea and dessert

Inside or deck seating

Parking is free and convenient

Ginny has fifty seats reserved and can get more

Reservations a must Ginny Scheller (860) 282-0778

Sar Phothiraj, 77, of New Britain, beloved husband of Sengdevane (Detoudom) Phothiraj, passed away on

22 March 2015 in New Britain. He was

born 2 October 1938 in Laos to the late Soun and Keo Phothiraj.

Sar served our country honorably during the Vietnam War as a member of

the US Secret Army SGU in Laos. Sar was an Hon CPT in the First Company

Governor’s Foot Guard and a member

of American Legion Post 1771.

In addition to his wife he is survived

by his sons, Kesone, Nonthasinh, Anoloth, Anolack, Anongsack, Anoly,

Anola and Anoloy Phothiraj. He also leaves his daughters, Nouphine

Sayanath and Manivone Keoveunexay.

1st Co. Governor’s Foot Guard

P.O. Box 1771

Hartford, CT 06144-1771

MARCH 2016

dog shows are a big success - governor's foot...

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