Military Police Supporting DC Safe and Beautiful
U.S. Soldiers with the North Dakota National Guard, assigned to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful Mission, pose for a photo on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington April 20. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Shretha Broderick)
U.S. Army Sgt. Bryce Ressler with the 191st Military Police Company, 131 Military Police Battalion, assigned to Joint Task Force-District of Columbia in support of the DC Safe and Beautiful Mission, speaks with law enforcement partners during a patrol in Washington April 20. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Spc. Shretha Broderick)
PeaceMaker Ride
131 Military Police Battalion Completes Peacemaker Ride
The 131st Military Police Battalion successfully completed its Peacemaker Ride on April 10, conducting a daylong situational training exercise that paired community outreach with a test of the unit’s command-and-control readiness. Across all elements, Soldiers logged 5,776 miles, visited 22 communities, conducted 23 community engagements, and interacted with 1,437 people. Five units participated in the event: Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 3662nd Surface Maintenance Company, the 191st MP Company, and 816th MP Company. The exercise sent squads into North Dakota municipalities to meet with local officials, schools, and citizens while simultaneously validating communications systems, movement planning, and logistics procedures. Leaders reported that all elements met the commander’s intent and achieved the event’s desired end state, reinforcing community ties and enhancing operational readiness.
The battalion staff noted continued strength in enforcing approved concepts of operations, maintaining consistent reporting standards, and ensuring operational clarity during the event. Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment highlighted the success of early coordination with schools and the value of bringing unit equipment and demonstration items that enhanced engagement. The unit also cited strong communication practices, including the incorporation of multiple tactical systems to improve convoy operations. The 3662nd SMC reported strong interactions with community members, noting that hands‑on equipment displays and age‑tailored engagements created an effective learning environment. The 191st MP Company also saw value in conducting the mission at the platoon and squad level, which strengthened junior leader development. The 816th MP Company reported strong community participation. Soldiers highlighted the positive impact of interactive equipment displays, school-based activities, and time spent engaging residents at a local nursing home.
119th Wing lands in Bismarck
The 119th Wing North Dakota Air National Guard touched down in Bismarck April 15 with a MQ-9 Reaper at the Army Aviation Support Facility as part of their training! This is the first time they have landed an MQ-9 at the facility.
U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Vanessa Lennick, Visual Information Manager
Best Warrior Refresher
U.S Army National Guard photos and information by Nathan Rivard, Public Affairs Officer and Maj. Vanessa Lennick, Visual Information Manager
Our Best Warrior competitors received refresher training April 16-17 at Camp Grafton Training Center, sharpening their skills on radio and Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) operations, call for fire, and medical warrior tasks to name a few. The Regional Best Warrior Competition is scheduled to be held in North Dakota starting in May. 2026 Competitors: Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Winner: Sgt. Richard Tangen, 957th Engineer Company, 164th Engineer Battalion Soldier Winner: Spc. John Shrock, Delta Detachment, 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment Runners-up: Sgt. Joseph Eberle, 142nd Engineer Battalion Spc. Alex Wangen, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Battalion
District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful
Photos and information provided by U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Benjamin Peterson
(Photos Top Row - Left to right) Team Bison was able to promote seven junior enlisted and one noncommissioned officer at the Fargo armory and two more junior enlisted days later at the District of Columbia armory. Team Bison conducted an orientation of the Area of Operations prior to integration with Task Force Wolf led by a Calvary Squadron from Nebraska. 2nd Lt. Caleb Hill said, “Task Force Wolf has been extremely supportive and very accommodating during the integration process. They care about how the North Dakota Soldiers are treated within the Platoons and ensure they are included in all activities”. Task Force Wolf has a mission first mind set with supporting Soldiers’ ability to experience the rich culture and history of the National Capital Region. The Task Force Wolf communications section provided commo classes on the Land Mobile Radio and ATAK (Android Tactical Assault Kit) device to squad leaders and above. Team Bison completed integration training with Nebraska and conducted patrols within the Nebraska platoons beginning April 13. Task Force Wolf Chaplain U.S. Army Lt. Col. Darren Schwarts ensured an invite was extended to North Dakota Soldiers. Several North Dakota Soldiers enjoyed a beautiful morning at Arlington Cemetery for the Easter service.
5th Security Forces Squadron exchanges job knowledge with the Army’s 816th Military Police Company during joint training
U.S. Air Force photos and story by Senior Airman Kendra A. Ransum, 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Airmen and Army National Guard Soldiers honed their ability to respond to law enforcement and security threats during a joint training exercise here April 10-11, focusing first on mission readiness and interoperability across services. The exercise paired the 5th Security Forces Squadron with the Army’s 816th Military Police Company to build practical skills in installation law enforcement, a mission set that differs from this Army unit’s typical combat support roles. Training scenarios included installation breach response, high-risk traffic stops, traffic investigations, theft and assault response, as well as routine patrol and gate operations. “[The 816] reached out to us and we put together two days of training to get them as much law enforcement training as we could,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher Booker, noncommissioned officer in charge of operations for the 5th SFS. “They don’t really have too much law enforcement experience; they have more combat support.” The training aimed to prepare Army personnel for missions in garrison environments and future deployments where base security and law enforcement duties may be required. “We’re learning more about functioning in law enforcement on a military installation,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Memorie Andrade, 816 MP standardized field sobriety test instructor. “That’s outside of what we would normally do in the field. We’re learning more garrison tactics like basic patrol duties and responses.” The exercise marked the first time the 5th and 816th conducted joint training at this scale. “Our goal is to build relationships,” Booker said. “We don’t want this to be a one-time thing. We want to build on this training and make sure that we’re both equipped in the future.” For Andrade, the experience showed both professional growth and hospitality between the Army and Air Force. “We’ve never been to Minot as a unit,” she said. “The training here has been exquisite. We appreciate everything they’ve done for us.”
Integrating capabilities improves effectiveness during real-world operations. Joint training with other units, especially other military branches, improves that cohesiveness. “It’s good that we put our brains together to make a more cohesive force,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Shamari Carter, a 5th SFS defender assigned to the base defense operations center during the exercise. “It’s really important with law enforcement because I want to trust whoever I’m going in with. We can just go in and execute the mission.” In addition to instruction from Air Force personnel, Army members contributed expertise from civilian law enforcement experience, offering insight into real-world policing techniques. Andrade also led sessions on standardized field sobriety testing, covering principles and procedures for identifying impaired drivers. The reciprocal training highlighted the benefits of cross-service collaboration, officials said. “In exchange for [the Air Force’s law enforcement] training, I instructed the standardized field sobriety testing with members of the Minot Air Force Base,” Andrade said. “We have gone over the basic principles and the different phases of DUI and standardized field sobriety testing.” While readiness remained the primary focus, participants said the event also strengthened relationships between units. Many of the 816th MP’s Soldiers have ties to the local community, building bonds with Minot Airmen. Continued joint training will enhance readiness across both services, ensuring forces remain prepared to respond to evolving security challenges. “We appreciate everything that the Minot Air Force Base has done for us,” said Andrade. “The training here has been exquisite. They've done everything for us from start to finish, and that's something we value.”
Vehicle extraction training
Information by U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Zachary Miller, 188 Engineer Company
During their April Inactive Duty Training, the 188th Engineer Company in Wahpeton, conducted vehicle extraction training. The unit utilized their Hydraulic, Electric, Pneumatic, Petroleum Operated Equipment kits. This training was facilitated with the assistance of the Dwight Fire Department. The exercise provided Soldiers with a practical understanding of their equipment's capabilities. It also allowed local firefighters to see how the unit can assist in a crisis, which helps to strengthen community relations and involvement. The training scenarios involved stabilizing vehicles and patients, as well as extracting simulated victims from both a car and a fuselage.
Two North Dakota Soldier-Athletes Compete for Spots on All-Guard Biathlon Team
Information provided by U. S Army Master Sgt. Nicholas Millbrath, State Competitive Events Coordinator. Two North Dakota Army National Guard Soldier-athletes traveled to Fort Kent, Maine, March 25–30, to compete for positions on the elite All‑Guard Biathlon Team. The national event brought together 66 National Guard racers from across the country, along with about 20 civilian competitors. Athletes competed in two races: the sprint and the short individual.
U.S. Army Sgt. Dakota Johnston, of the 816th Military Police Company, raced in the Master Men Intermediate (ages 30–49) sprint. He finished 25th out of 29 competitors and did not compete in the short individual race. The event served as an opportunity for North Dakota Guard athletes to test their skills against top biathletes from around the nation as the All‑Guard team evaluates prospects for future seasons.
North Dakota Guard Athletes Earn Spots on All‑Guard Endurance Team at National DEKA FIT Trials
Information provided by Master Sgt. Nicholas Millbrath, State Competitive Events Coordinator. More than 170 National Guard athletes from 46 states and territories gathered in Grand Island, Nebraska on April 11 for the DEKA FIT/Endurance Trials, a competition offering a path onto the elite All‑Guard Endurance Team. Eleven Soldiers represented the North Dakota National Guard at the trials. Of them, three qualified for the All‑Guard Endurance Team. Spc. Titus Gruanue of the 188th Engineer Company finished 33rd out of 110 men and placed 35th overall among 168 Guard competitors, clocking a time of 40:33. Sgt. Alysha Moser of the 231st Quartermaster Platoon placed fourth among 56 women and 50th overall with a time of 41:03. Capt. Crystal Halgrimson of the 957th Engineer Company finished 12th among women and 79th overall, completing the course in 44:33. North Dakota also fielded two teams in the co‑ed team event, which pairs one male and one female competitor. Moser teamed with Cpt. Ricky Kuhn to finish 18th of 62 teams in a time of 33:57. Staff Sgt. Ashley Brawley and Staff Sgt. Timothy Sybrant placed 41st with a time of 39:26.
NORTH DAKOTA’S INSTALLATIONS PROGRAM Outstanding Performance
North Dakota takes home the top awards at the Army National Guard G-9's award ceremony.
Fred Aron Award for Excellence in Installations Management – The North Dakota Army National Guard earned the program’s highest honor for top performance across Military Construction execution, real property management, energy programs, CFMO certification, and other installation‑level criteria. Region 6 Installations Management Award – North Dakota was recognized as the leading state in region 6 for accuracy and timeliness of submissions, effective program execution, and responsible management of federal resources. Bill Troumbley Award – Presented to the state showing the greatest year‑to‑year improvement. North Dakota increased its overall score by 32.09 points, reflecting major gains in areas including NEPA/ECP compliance and real estate management.
Chaplain Chad Gion promoted to Lieutenant Colonel
U.S. Army Maj. Chad Gion, chaplain, Headquarters and Headquarter Company, 68th Troop Command, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel, April 19, at the Raymond J. Bohn Armory, Bismarck.
ESGR recognized Bismarck Business
Story and photos by Rob Keller, ESGR Public Affairs Director A meaningful day for North Dakota ESGR as we recognized Patriot Nutrition owners Trevor and Amber Hendrickson and Zack Boyko for their unwavering commitment to our military community. Trevor’s business is more than just a storefront, it is a place of remembrance. He goes above and beyond to honor our North Dakota service members who were killed in action, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire us all. This presentation held a deep personal significance. Trevor’s father, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Kenneth Hendrickson of the NDNG 957th Multi-Role Bridge Company, was a dedicated educator and technician here in Bismarck before he was killed in action in Iraq in 2004. Seeing Ken’s spirit of service live on through Trevor is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. It was an honor to have Trevor’s stepmother, Reane Hendrickson, and grandmother, Adeline Reis, join us for the signing of the Statement of Support. Special thanks to Lisa Liken-Monroe from Gate City Bank for assisting with the presentation and for bringing along those fabulous GCB cookies.
MAKE A PLAN DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE
Story by Jonathan Fankhanel, 119th Wing
When faced with the decision of how to get home after a night of drinking, the cost of each option varies dramatically. While a designated driver is the most cost-effective choice, and a rideshare service provides a convenient and affordable alternative, the financial devastation of a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) conviction is in a category of its own. The Financial Devastation of a DUI A DUI is not just a traffic violation; it's a costly criminal offense with far-reaching financial consequences. The total cost of a first-time DUI can range from $8,000 to an astonishing $25,000, and in some cases, even higher. This staggering figure is a combination of various fines, fees, and long-term costs. Immediately following a DUI arrest, you can expect to face a number of expenses. Bail can range from $2,500 to $10,000 for a first-time offense, and your vehicle will likely be towed and impounded, incurring fees of several hundred dollars. Once in court, fines for a first offense can range from $390 to $1,000, but with additional penalties and assessments, this can easily climb to $2,000 or more. Attorney fees are another significant expense, typically ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 for a DUI case. The financial pain of a DUI conviction extends far beyond the courtroom. You'll be required to attend and pay for DUI education programs, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,800. One of the most significant long-term costs is the dramatic increase in your auto insurance premiums. A DUI conviction can cause your insurance rates to rise by 50% to 100%, leading to an additional annual expense of $1,000 to $3,000. Over several years, this can amounts to tens of thousands of dollars. Some states also require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle, which can cost between $70 and $150 for installation, plus monthly rental fees. The Cost of Convenience: Ridesharing Service In stark contrast to the financial nightmare of a DUI, using a ridesharing service is a remarkably affordable and convenient option. While prices vary depending on distance, time, and demand, a typical ride is a fraction of the cost of a DUI. For example, a 6-mile ride in ND during peak hours is on average less than $75. While surge pricing can increase the cost during peak hours, it pales in comparison to the thousands of dollars you would spend on a DUI. The Ultimate Savings: The Designated Driver The most financially prudent choice, of course, is to have a designated driver. This option is often free, relying on the generosity of a friend or family member who agrees to abstain from alcohol. While there may be a social "cost" of repaying the favor, it is a small price to pay for a safe and free ride home. For those who don't have a willing friend, designated driver services are available in some areas, offering to drive you home in your own car for a fee. In conclusion, the cost comparison between a DUI, a rideshare company, and a designated driver is not a close contest. The financial consequences of a DUI are severe and long-lasting, potentially reaching tens of thousands of dollars. A rideshare service offers a safe and affordable alternative, while a designated driver remains the most cost-effective and responsible choice. The decision to avoid driving under the influence is not just a matter of safety; it is a decision that can save you from financial ruin.
ESGR Patriot Award
Story and photos by Kristy Wangler, North Dakota ESGR Public Affairs Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) presented Robert Everson, Lieutenant at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, a Patriot Award on April 21 in Grand Forks. This prestigious award, presented by ESGR volunteer John Oncken, recognizes Robert’s dedication to employees who are serving in the Guard and Reserve. U.S. Army Sgt. Keenan Prigelmeier, Company C, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, nominated Robert in recognition of his exceptional support during Keenan's military service. In his narrative, Sgt. Prigelmeier shared, “Robert consistently provides flexible scheduling to align with my drill and training dates and proactively manages the necessary administrative tasks to ensure my military leave is processed and approved on time. He also accommodated short-notice leave for a State active duty mission to assist the Wadena area." Robert further demonstrated his commitment by signing a Statement of Support on behalf of the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, publicly pledging continued support for Guard and Reserve members. ESGR supports our nation’s Guard and Reserve by advocating for supportive employment policies, connecting employers with resources, and educating the public about the importance of their service. This ensures service members have the flexibility and support to serve our country while maintaining successful civilian careers.
This information includes elements of AI-generated content, which were reviewed and edited by relevant DoD personnel to verify appropriateness and compliance with DoD policies and guidance.