Milwaukee Air Guard unit soars during Armed Forces Week

Date: May 18, 2010
By Senior Airman Ryan Kuntze
128th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

The Milwaukee-based 128th Air Refueling Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard was prominent in last week's Armed Forces Week activities, being inducted into the Kiwanis Club of Milwaukee's Hall of Fame and hosting the 30th annual Milwaukee Civic Dinner Dance.

The Kiwanis recognized the 128th ARW for its continuing national defense role as well as contributions to the greater Milwaukee community by providing firefighting support at Gen. Mitchell International Airport as well as a strong, viable economic boost to Southeastern Wisconsin during a luncheon ceremony May 12 at the Milwaukee War Memorial.

Brig. Gen. John McCoy, commander of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, spoke of the refueling wing's history and support from local communities during remarks as the guest speaker. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and County Executive Scott Walker each proclaimed May 12 as an official day of honor for the 128th ARW.

Approximately 400 people attended the 30th anniversary of the Milwaukee Civic Dinner Dance, held May 13 at the 128th Air Refueling Wing's inspection hangar at Gen. Mitchell International Airport. Attendees included military members from throughout Wisconsin, elected state and local officials, and area citizens. The event was hosted by the 128th ARW and the wing's commander, Col. Ted Metzgar.

Army Capt. Brian Barth, commander of the 951st "Sapper" Engineer Company, 724th Engineer Battalion, was the guest speaker. He said he was privileged to share his experiences with fellow Guardsmen due to the ongoing teamwork his company experiences with the Wisconsin Air National Guard.

"I am honored to share the National Guard story and teamwork," Barth said. "It's good to see support from the community."

Dr. Tom Buck, the Civic Dinner Dance co-chairman, said, "This is one of the civilian and military events that help people express their appreciation for the military and to understand it. The 128th [ARW] is a vital asset to Milwaukee and the world."

The evening's emcee, Raymond Glowacki, reminded everyone in attendance that today's military is a volunteer service. McCoy said he feels "immense pride about being a part of this organization we call the United States military."

Otis "Bill" Weinhold, a prominent figure in the St. Francis community, was recognized for his accomplishments as a local business leader, a commissioner in the St. Francis Police and Fire departments, and as a founding member of the St. Francis Lions Club.

The event also included music from the Wisconsin National Guard's 132nd Army Band as well as various military displays, such as an assortment of weapons used by the 128th ARW security forces squadron, the various gear components used by the 128th ARW aircrew flight equipment squadron, and a mine-detection vehicle, or Buffalo, used by the 951st Engineer Company.