Gillian Anderson is the devoted wife and best friend to COL Charles Anderson. Gillian is a proud mother, an active and engaged community member and leader, a friend and supporter of the Infantry, and a true patriot. She has demonstrated her support for military and the Infantry community through her participation in family readiness groups, unit events, and by virtue of her unwavering support of her husband and family. It is only fitting, that on the event of her husband’s retirement after thirty years of service that we equally recognize Gillian’s love for country, devotion to family, and support to the Infantry and the greater military community. Her sacrifices are no less and her contributions measure on equal footing with that of her husband whose career and service are a model of exemplary leadership, duty, and dedication to the Infantry ideals and the Army Values.

Gillian has served in a variety of leadership roles within the Family Readiness Group program over the course of more than twenty years and during three separate periods of deployment. During this period of time, she cared for and raised two children, managing household and parental responsibilities for a combined thirty-seven months of active duty service. She currently serves as President of the 169th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) Family Readiness Group (FRG) and has been instrumental in organizing a family benefit briefing, multiple social and community events, and planning for an upcoming military family day program. Previously, Gillian served in FRGs with the 102nd Infantry Battalion and the 192nd Chemical Battalion providing programming and support to military families managing while their Soldiers were deployed overseas.

In addition to her devotion to family and dedicated service to the military, Gillian is an activist and leader in the community. After the tragic loss of her daughter Abby in 2014, Gillian joined the staff of the Jordan Porco Foundation, a Hartford-based 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to mental health, suicide prevention and building hope among high school and college-aged youths. As Development Director, Gillian organized and implemented fund-raising efforts in partnership with community businesses, schools, and other institutions. She has raised over $60,000 through programs such as Out of the Darkness Walks for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

In January 2019, Gillian began her own 501(c)(3) foundation named My Friend Abby Inc. The foundation’s vision is to engage young people in helping each other. Its mission is to empower young adults active creation of peer-to-peer connections through grants that improve mental and emotional health. My Friend Abby provides grants to young adults who are willing to take action and make a difference in the arena of mental health, mental illness and suicide prevention. Gillian’s leadership and vision for this foundation is both poignant and motivating and her work embodies the foundation’s motto of “Inspiring a Mental Health Revolution…One Friend at a Time.”

Gillian Anderson is friend to the Infantry and a great support to the military community. Her regular presence at training and regimental events is a support to her husband and thereby the Command and by extension, the organization as a whole. Her activism and leadership in the community is laudable and a genuine example of selfless service and true reflection of the ideals of the Infantry. Her service to her community, the state and our military brings great credit upon the Infantry, the 169th Regiment, its members and its family, and the great state of Connecticut.

Mark Arminio joined the military in 1975 attending Basic Training at Ft Dix, NJ and Advanced Individual Training at Ft Polk, LA, graduating as an Indirect Fire Infantryman (11C10). SFC Arminio’s initial assignment was with CSC 1-8th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Ft Hood, TX. SFC Arminio served in the mortar platoon before being transferred to C 5-7 Cavalry, where he served in Weapons Platoon. During his tenure, C 5-7 was deactivated and reactivated as C 3-41 MECH, 2nd Armored Division. In OCT 1977, SFC Armino deployed from Ft Hood, TX to Wildflecken, GE, falling in as 2nd Armored Division (FORWARD), part of BDE 75. SFC Armino supported the defense of the Bremerhaven Port area after railheading the battalion to Osterholz-Scharmbeck. In April, 1978, SFC Arminio was transferred to A 2-58 (RIFLES), 2nd Armored Division headquartered in Ft Hood, TX. He was discharged into the Inactive Ready Reserve in August, 1979, returning to his home in New Haven, CT.

After a short break in service, Armino joined the Army Reserves as part of the 340th General Hospital in March, 1981. He earned a secondary MOS as a 36K10, Tactical Field Wireman. Two years later, he transferred to A CO, 1-102nd Infantry Regiment assigned to the Weapons Platoon. He served seven months and was honorably discharged in October, 1983. Four months later, he rejoined the military assigned to A CO 1-102nd Infantry as a rifleman. After completing Primary NonCommissioned Officer’s Course (PNOC), SFC Arminio was trained and assigned as a Dragon Gunner. He subsequently attended Basic NonCommissioned Officer’s Course (BNOC) and earned his green tabs as a squad leader. In the late 1980s, SFC Arminio traveled with the unit to England to train with the 6/7 Queen’s Regiment and the Gurkha, natives to the Indian subcontinent recruited for service in the British Army. SFC Armino continued to serve in the 102nd Infantry gaining experience as Section SGT of the Mortar Platoon, training on the 81mm and 107mm mortar systems. In 1991, SFC Arminio attended and graduated Advanced NonCommissioned Officer’s Course (ANOC) and transferred to HHC, 1-102nd Infantry. SFC Arminio continued his service, progressing with the battalion as it transitioned from heavy to light infantry. He was promoted to platoon sergeant in 1995, soon after earning a staff position within the Headquarters where he continued to serve until his retirement in March of 2002.

SFC Arminio continued to serve and support the 102nd Infantry through his service in the 102nd Infantry Regiment Association and the New Haven Grays; fraternal organizations dedicated to supporting current and past members of the 102nd Infantry. Arminio has served in a variety of executive positions within these organizations for over two decades, preserving the unit’s history, supporting the local community and the organization. Through his efforts, the New Haven Grays are registered as part of The Centennial Legion of Historic Military Commands. He has coordinated for the storage and display of 102nd artifacts dating back over 100 years. In addition, he commissioned the reconstruction of a period uniform from the 1800s. With his support and based on the benefit of his direct involvement, the New Haven Grays has established a long tradition of supporting members of the 102nd Infantry through a memorial bed-fund connected to Yale Hospital, showcased the history of the 102nd at local events and festivals such as Powder House Day, and regional and national events connected with the Centennial Legion. Through his leadership and participation in the 102nd Regiment Association, SFC Arminio has supported community members with scholarships, unit historical events including the centennial anniversary of the formation of the regiment, and the establishment of a memorial bench to name only some of many events and projects.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, SFC Armino has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include: Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army National Guard Achievement Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Army Overseas Ribbon, and the NCO Professional Development Ribbon with ‘3’ numeral device.

SFC Armion remains an active supporter of the Infantry through his membership and participation in the New Haven Grays and the 102^nd Infantry Regiment Association. He has served his community through leadership in Scouting and other community organizations. His service to his community, the state and our nation brings great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our country.

SGM Sean Butler began his military career in 1986. Having completed initial entry training, Airborne School and Ranger School at Fort Benning, GA, he was assigned to C Co, 1/75 INF (RGR). He was promoted to Assistant Squad Leader, C Co 2-7 IN, 24th ID (M) where he served for one year before becoming a becoming Team Leader, B Co, 1-169 INF within the CTARNG. He progressed through the ranks eventually moving to B Co, 1-102 IN (L) in 1991 as a Squad Leader. In 1994, he was hired on in an AGR status as the Unit Administrator for B Co, 1-102 INF and he continued to progress becoming a PSG and Readiness NCO in 1998. In 2006, he deployed with B Co as a PSG on his first overseas combat tour. In 2008, he was promoted to 1SG of HHC, 1-102 INF. He would serve five years and see his second overseas combat tour (2010) to Afghanistan while in the role of First Sergeant. SGM Butler was promoted to E9 in 2013 and served 3 years as the BN Operations Sergeant Major for 1-102 INF from 2013-15, one year as the BDE Operations Sergeant Major for 85th Troop Command, before returning a BN Operations Sergeant Major for 1-102 INF from 2016-2018. His current assignment is Operations Sergeant Major for Joint Force HQs. It is while serving as the BN Operations Sergeant Major for 1-102 INF that he has made the most significant and lasting contribution to the Infantry as an organization.

SGM Butler oversaw operations and planning at a critical period in the 102nd Infantry Battalion’s history. During the period from 2013-2015, the battalion participated in multiple collective training exercises culminating with a JRTC rotation in 2015. The battalion’s movement to FT Polk included the largest rail movement since WWI and training evaluation with oversight and visibility all the way up to National Guard Bureau. SGM Butler’s expert planning, coordination, and leadership directly contributed to the success of the battalion and its recognition as the premier battalion within the 86th IBCT. Given the drawdown of forces from Iraq and Afghanistan at the time, the successful rotation of the 86th IBCT was proof of concept of the lethality and vitality of the National Guard and supported the preservation of force structure for the Guard on a national scale.

SGM Butler has demonstrated truly extraordinary initiative and innovation in service to greatly enhancing the esprit de corps of the Infantrymen of Connecticut. Under his leadership and inspired by his vision, the 1-102 INF developed the Trumbull Cup, a battalion-level competition designed to practice individual, team, and squad skills, build camaraderie, and highlight the storied history of the unit while engaging in friendly competition across companies. The event has quickly become a unit tradition and significantly enhances the climate and retention rate for the organization. In addition, SGM Butler also helped support the establishment of the Mountain Ball, an NCO-drive semi-formal dinner that engaged Soldiers of all ranks and their spouses or significant others in a celebration of service and comradeship. In the years since its inception, the ball has grown from attendance of approximately 200 to over 500. This level of leadership, initiative, and commitment to the Soldiers and the organizational climate set SGM Butler apart from his peers across other units within the state and most senior leaders.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry SGM Butler has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include: the Bronze Star Medal (second award), Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (sixth award), Army Achievement Medal (seventh award), Combat Infantryman Badge, Afghan Campaign Medal (with two stars), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon and NATO medal.

SGM Butler is a graduate of the Infantry One Station Unit Training, Airborne School, Ranger School, Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course (11B), Pathfinder School, Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course (11B), United States Sergeants Major Academy. He holds an Associates Degree and is working toward his Bachelors of Science.

SGM Butler has performed in an exemplary manner in service to the US Army Infantry through his leadership within the 1-102 INF and all other assignments. His service is a credit to the 102nd Infantry Regiment, the 86th IBCT, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

Frank Carrano joined the military in 1951 at the age of 17. He had somewhat successfully joined two years earlier at age 15 until it was quickly discovered that he was underage. Within a few weeks of raising his right hand, he was on a train to Ft Devons, MA and then quickly on to Ft Jackson, SC. Initially assigned to “Mississippi Rifles,” 155^th IN REGT, 31^st ID, after extensive weapons and basic Army training, he was assigned to Company M, Heavy Weapons, 3^rd BN, 14^th IN RCT and deployed to Korea. MSG Carrano served as a machine gunner and saw action at Heart Break Ridge, Sand Bag Castle, Kuhmwa, Chorwon, and the Iron Triangle.

After his combat rotation, MSG (then SSG) Carrano was assigned to Ft Lee, VA where he trained Infantry officers. This remained his post until he was discharged in May of 1954.

Carrano joined the 102^nd Infantry within the CTARNG in August of 1976. He would later become an AGR (active guard and reserve) as the Training NCO of CO A, 102D INF in October of 1982. During his tenure as both Training NCO and Platoon Sergeant, his unit had a reputation for outstanding training and easily earned the highest strength and retention rates. Carrano was eventually promoted to MSG in 1992 within the Operations cell of HHC, 102D Infantry. He retired in February of 1994 at the age of 60.

During his off-time, Carrano created a museum which was originally located within the Geoffe Street Armory, New Haven, CT. The museum rivaled any number of private museums both in terms of the quality of the collection and its presentation. Carrano’s stewardship of the history of the unit has served as a retention tool and a source of pride for decades.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, MSG Carrano has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include: Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (second award), Korean Service Medal, UN Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Carrano has remained an active supporter of the Infantry through his membership and participation in the New Haven Grays and the 102^nd Infantry Regiment Association. He attends and supports major historical military celebrations such as Powder House Day, dedications and other memorials. He has worked closely with the CT Historical Society and the cities of New Haven and West Haven to document the history of the 102^nd Infantry and its contributions to our state history. His service to his community, the state and our nation brings great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our country.

LTC Marc Castellucci was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in May of 2007 after completion of Reserve Officers Training Corps program at Fordham University and subsequently assigned as a Platoon Leader in the 102 nd Military Intelligence Battalion. LTC Castellucci served as a Surveillance Platoon Leader for the 2 nd Infantry Division out of Korea; Military Intelligence Company Executive Officer and collection manager for the 75 th Ranger Regiment as well as multiple other roles in 3rd Battalion, 75 th Ranger Regiment after graduating Ranger School in 2003. He became a Platoon Trainer and Senior Instructor with the Officer Candidate School at Camp Nett in 2005.

LTC Castellucci transferred to the 1-102 nd Infantry Battalion in 2007 as the S2 and having re-branched from MI to IN, assumed command of B Company, 1-102 nd Infantry in 2009. LTC Castellucci was specifically chosen for command to bolster the warrior culture, prepare and lead Bravo Company in kinetic operations while deployed to Combat Outpost Najil, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following a successful deployment, LTC Castellucci served as the S2 for 85 th Troop Command and Senior Intelligence Officer for Joint Forces Headquarters, Hartford. LTC Castellucci entered the CTARNG Technician Program at the Connecticut Training Center (CTC) in October 2011 and has been assigned to numerous positions in support of the organization. In addition to his deployment to Afghanistan with the 102 nd Infantry, LTC Castellucci has deployed numerous times to both Iraq and Afghanistan with 75 th Ranger Regiment. It is perhaps in his most recent assignment as the Battalion Commander of the 1/169 Officer Candidate School that he has made the most significant and lasting contribution to the Infantry as an organization.

LTC Castellucci took command of 1/169 th Regiment (OCS) on 28 July 2017 and served with exceptional dedication and diligence through 26 July 2019. During his tenure as Commander, the 1/169 graduated 314 students into leadership positions across the entire New England Region, from Pennsylvania up to Maine. Under his leadership, the 1 st Battalion, 169 th Regiment (OCS) is poised for full accreditation continuing its reputation as an Institute of Excellence by setting best practices for the region and the country. LTC Castellucci’s vision for OCS has earned the 1/169 th a reputation of excellence that is nationally recognized.

LTC Castellucci has demonstrated truly extraordinary initiative and innovation in service to greatly enhancing New England’s regional OCS program as a whole and supporting the US Army’s Officer Candidates School’s mission to train, educate, branch, and commission competent and committed leaders of character to win in a complex world. The proponent for OCS is the Maneuver Center of Excellence at Ft Benning, GA. LTC Castellucci saw and seized the opportunity to improve the organization by enhancing the tactical focus of training to be comprehensive, mission-focused, and OPORD driven. His vision was well aligned with Ft Benning’s intent as proponent to have greater emphasis on the operational environment and lends itself to the new accreditation standards. Since enacting this change in emphasis, Officer Candidates from 1/169 have set themselves apart at the regional level in terms of their competence, confidence, presence, and leadership. LTC Castellucci has built upon and expanded the OCS programs relationship with Ft Benning through his support of the peer exchange program whereby a Title 10 Platoon Trainer supports a full cycle of Phase I Officer Candidate Training within CT and a CT ARNG Platoon Trainer spends one full course rotation working for the Federal OCS Program. As part of this partnership, LTC Castellucci has had frequent dialogue and visits with the Federal OCS Commander, strengthening our relationship, sharing and learning best practices in order to enhance both the Federal and Guard/Reserve programs. His leadership practice, visioning, and comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of operations set LTC Castellucci apart from his peers and all past Commanders.

LTC Castellucci leaves command in order to continue his military education at War College and prepare himself to enhance the organization within his next assignment.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, LTC Castellucci has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include:the Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Combat Infantryman Badge, the Air Assault Badge, Parachutist Badge, the German, Canadian, and Thai Parachutist Badges, and multiple awards of the Afghanistan and Iraq Campaign Medals.

LTC Castellucci is a graduate of the Military Intelligence Officers Basic Course, Maneuver Captain Career Course, Resident Command and General Staff Course, and Modern Army Combatives Program levels I through III. LTC Castellucci holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Fordham University and a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University.

LTC Castellucci has performed in an exemplary manner in service to the US Army Infantry through his leadership with OCS and while in command of an Infantry Rifle Company overseas. His service is a credit to the 169 th Regiment, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

COL Lukowski has been a leader and friend to the Infantry over the course of his military career. Trained and educated within combat arms as a Combat Engineer, COL Lukowski has progressed in his career to senior level command positions that have enabled his influence to impact and benefit the Infantry community. Leadership at all levels of the Connecticut Infantry community have had the privilege of serving alongside and under COL Lukowski. On the occasion of his retirement as the CTARNG Chief of Staff, we seek to recognize and celebrate the leadership, support, and command influence COL Lukowski has had on the 102nd Infantry Battalion, his service to this state and the nation and his unyielding devotion and patriotism.

COL Lukowski has had a long and distinguished career in the Connecticut Army National Guard. He enlisted in 1985 as a member of the 242nd Combat Engineer Battalion. He commissioned in June of 1989 through the University of Connecticut ROTC Program at the University of New Haven. COL Lukowski served in a variety of staff and command positions within the 242 EN BN. From 2013-14, he served as Commander of the 169th Regiment (Regional Training Institute). As RTI Commander, COL Lukowski had oversight of the 1/169th BN Officer Candidate School and worked to support the US Army’s Officer Candidates School’s mission to train, educate, branch, and commission competent and committed leaders of character to win in a complex world. The proponent for OCS is the Maneuver Center of Excellence at Ft Benning, GA and the Connecticut OCS program is an important leadership pathway for Infantry officers into the 102nd IN (MTN) as well a means of career progression for many aspiring leaders within the Infantry ranks.

Colonel Gerald J. Lukowski Jr. distinguished himself as the Chief of Staff for the Connecticut National Guard. COL Lukowski provided experience and outstanding leadership while serving in this critical role and throughout his career with the United States Army National Guard. He was the driving force behind ensuring the Connecticut Army National Guard remains a ready force to accomplish their State and Federal missions. He significantly improved and enhanced the operations of the Connecticut Army National Guard. During his time, he oversaw and implemented total force improvements and staff processes that will have a lasting impact on the Connecticut Army National Guard. As the Chief of Staff, COL Lukowski was key in pushing the staff to work with the units on their pre-deployment and redeployment requirements in order to take lessons learned from the previous years and ensure the CTARNG did not repeat them. His work in this area resulted in ready units deploying and redeploying back to Connecticut. He contributed to the effectiveness, readiness, and outstanding quality of our military force in both peacetime and war. He has been a key leader in ensuring Connecticut is able to provide a ready force to the Combatant Commanders.

COL Lukowski graduated from Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC), Engineer Officer Basic Course, Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Command and General Staff College, Hartford, CT, Engineer Officer Advanced Course, Fort Leonard Wood, MO (Distinguished Honor Graduate), Combined Armed Services and Staff School (CAS3), Ft Dix, NJ, Command and General Staff Officer Course (CGSOC), Ft Dix, NJ. He earned a Master Degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of New Haven and holds numerous licenses to include Road Master, Fire Marshal, Building Operator and Military Land Surveyor.

As a testament to his exceptional service, COL Lukowski has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include: the Meritorious Service Medal with 3 OLC, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (8th award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Connecticut Wartime Service Medal, Connecticut Emergency Service Ribbon (4th award), Connecticut Long Service Medal (30 years), and the California Counter Drug Ribbon – Border Patrol.

Throughout his career, COL Lukowski distinguished himself as a smart, articulate, adaptive and uniquely inspiring leader. He served to improve the officer corps within the state, mentoring and coaching officers in their military and personal careers to make themselves more competitive and well rounded. He pushed Infantry officers and others alike to obtain advanced degrees and assisted them in finding careers within and out of the organization. His mentorship and guidance will be missed, but he has set a new standard for future leaders to emulate. His service to our Infantry community, the state and our nation brings great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our country.

SFC Pitcher, as an assigned additional duty, has served as the BN Recruiting and Retention NCO and worked closely with the R&R command to achieve its mission. He helped to create and implement the recruiting plan for the 1-102^nd Infantry, having set up a JROTC class/school for each of six companies to engage with and develop recruiting plans. He established a yearly recruiting calendar with named events for each company. This plan not only generated multiple leads, but also established strong partnerships between the battalion, Recruiting and Retention, and the community.

SFC Pitcher has supported Service Members with their education, employment, and financial planning. He has held classes on resume building and drafted personalized letters of recommendation resulting in the hiring of four unemployed Soldiers. He worked with several Service Members to create and manage budgets and provided education on financial planning, scholarships, college planning for children, IRAs, TSP, and investing. His comprehensive support of Soldiers is a model for other leaders to emulate and made a personal difference in the lives of his Soldiers.

SFC Pitcher engages with the community to provide a positive example of the Infantry and the military as a whole. Over the past ten years, he has participated and engaged other Service Members in the Run to Home Base program, raising funds and awareness for PTSD and TBI. He has five years of experience supporting and organizing CT Children’s Hospital visits which raised over $4500. He has worked with Warrior Dash for three years raising funds for St Jude’s Hospital. Additionally, he has organized and launched MWR programs for two separate companies within the battalion, participated and supported Family Readiness Groups for his assigned company, and has served on the board of the National Guard Association of CT for the last four years.

SFC Pitcher deployed to Afghanistan from April 2006 through April 2007. His military education includes Maneuver Senior Leader Course, Basic Military Mountaineer School, Infantryman Advanced Leader Course, Warrior Leader Course, Resilience Training Assistant, and Combat Lifesaver Course.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, SFC Pitcher has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include: Army Commendation Medal (third award), Army Achievement Medal (third award), Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (second award), Overseas Service Ribbon, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Medal, NATO Medal, and a Meritorious Unit Citation.

SFC Pitcher has remained an active supporter of the Infantry through his membership and participation in the 102^nd Infantry Regiment Association. He attends and supports major organizational events and his efforts have served to promote not only esprit-de-corps but the image and ideals of the Infantry. His service to his community, the state and our nation brings great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our country.

Christine is a historian and researcher who is in the employ of the Connecticut State Library. The mission of the Connecticut State Library is to preserve and make accessible Connecticut’s history and heritage and to advance the development of library services statewide. In pursuit of that mission, Christine has taken special interest in the history and contributions of the 102nd Infantry. In the course of her work, she has led a number of engaging and important projects to include a web blog series on Connecticut’s (the 102nd Infantry’s) role in World War I, research and documentation on the formation of the 102nd Infantry Regiment, research and documentation of historic battles fought by the 102nd Infantry, speaking events and ceremonies related to the centennial anniversary of the Regiment, historical battles, and armistice ending WWI.

Among the many projects Christine has led, the most recent project, Digging Into History , demonstrates how she is working to not only preserve but promote understanding of the contributions of Connecticut’s Infantry with the current generation. The project intends to bring fifteen Connecticut high school students to Seicheprey, France to take part in a community service project to clear and restore a section of the trenches Connecticut soldiers occupied during WWI, with the goal of creating a historic attraction to help spur tourism in the region. Students will work with fifteen French students to clear vegetation from the trenches, re-dig sections and restore the trenches to how they appeared 100 years ago.

Pittsley has traveled to France to visit not only the village of Seicheprey and the trench lines, but also to recently discovered historic caves in the Chemin des Dames region where 102nd Infantry soldiers were stationed in February and March of 1918. Pittsley visited these abandoned quarries, photographed the century old carving of names, and researched and published the photos and historical biographical sketches of these Infantrymen to honor their service and contributions.

Pittsley has hosted any number of public engagements to highlight and celebrate the contributions Connecticut Infantrymen within WWI. Pittsley seeks out creative ways to bring the history of Connecticut’s Infantry to the widest possible audience. For example, she has spoken at the New Britain Museum of American Art using the illustrations of Harry Everett Townsend, a combat artist commissioned by the American Expeditionary Force as a backdrop to the history of the 102nd. This is just one among a number of examples of different venues used to publicize the sacrifices and contributions of Connecticut Infantrymen.

Pittsley is also engaged in a project to digitize and preserve historical records related to the Connecticut soldiers. She has documented collections of photos, letters, and other artifacts on the CT State Library website. In addition, she has taken first and second hand accounts of veterans and their descendants through personal interviews that she has invited and commissioned in her outreach efforts.

Christine Pittsley is an outstanding example of selfless civilian service to the Infantry in order to document a critical period in this nation’s history. Her community outreach, personal research, and partnership with our military channels bring great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

George has served for the last fifteen years as the chairman of the Connecticut Militia Heritage Committee. As the Chairman Mr. Ripley has progressed the history of the Infantry in Connecticut and more specifically the history of the 1-102D INF. He has ensured that Local, State and Federal entities participate and celebrate the nearly 400 years of service of the 1-102nd Infantry Battalion. Under his leadership, the Heritage Committee developed and executed a series of talks documenting the history and contributions of Connecticut military service. These talks were attended by historians, politicians, military representatives, and the general public. They were filmed and posted so as to memorialize and make available for generations to come, historical summaries and analysis of Connecticut military units and personnel and specifically, the 1-102nd Infantry. Recent efforts have included a series on Connecticut’s (the 102nd Infantry’s) role in World War I, research and documentation on the formation of the 102nd Infantry Regiment, research and documentation of historic battles fought by the 102nd Infantry, speaking events and ceremonies related to the centennial anniversary of the Regiment, historical battles, and armistice ending WWI.

Over this past year Mr. Ripley has made the anniversary of WW1 a priority in the state and that is celebrated. Mr. Ripley was instrumental in having April 18 be known forever in Connecticut as Seicheprey Day. This is to forever honor the soldiers of the 1-102D INF Regiment for service in France during WW1. As part of his efforts, George planned and organized a ceremony and presentation at the State Capitol to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the battle of Seicheprey. The event was attended by senior leadership of the active unit, historians, politicians, and the general public. It included a reading of the names of the fallen Connecticut Infantry Soldiers and his comments provided insight as to the impact of that battle and the weight of that sacrifice on the war.

Mr. Ripley has hosted any number of public engagements to highlight and celebrate the contributions Connecticut Infantrymen from the earliest days of the militia to the current. George seeks out creative ways to celebrate the history of Connecticut’s Infantry and make it available the widest possible audience. He has commissioned papers, hosted and filmed talks making them available to the public on the internet, and supports the military through oversight of projects such as the memorial bench project at Camp Nett, Niantic, CT. Mr. Ripley has been a champion of a local cause to celebrate and preserve the history of Connecticut’s Infantry and celebrate the accomplishments of our military.

George Ripley is an outstanding example of selfless civilian service to the Infantry in order to document a critical period in this nation’s history. His community outreach, personal research, and partnership with our military channels bring great credit upon the Infantry, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

LTC Frank Tantillo was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in May of 2000 after completion of Reserve Officers Training Corps program at Valley Forge Military Academy and subsequently assigned as an Assault and Obstacle Platoon Leader in the 103rd Engineer Battalion. LTC Tantillo attended the US Army Engineer Officer’s Basic Course in 2003 and following that, US Army Sapper School. He served in multiple roles in both the 103rd and 242nd Engineer Battalions before transferring to the 102nd Infantry in July 2005 following his graduation of Maneuver Captain’s Career Course.

LTC Tantillo re-branched from EN to IN, earning his next two assignments in the 1-102nd Infantry in 2005, Executive Officer, D Company and Civil Military Operations Officer, HHC. In 2007, LTC Tantillo was specifically chosen for command to bolster the warrior culture, prepare and lead Charlie Company on a combat deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Initially assigned to security operations at Torkham Gate, LTC Tantillo was selected to lead kinetic operations with Alpha Company at Combat Outpost Xio Haq. LTC Tantillo earned his Combat Infantryman’s Badge while leading a rescue operation at Masmoot Bala, AFG. One month later, LTC Tantillo returned to Masmoot Bala, leading Alpha Company during Operation Iron Locust, part of a brigade operation having the distinction of being the largest air assault mission in theater to that date. In 2011, following a successful deployment, LTC Tantillo held multiple staff roles within the 102nd, serving as the S1, S3, and Executive Officer. LTC Tantillo continued to excel earning a coveted position as the Executive Officer and Aide de Camp to the Adjutant General, Joint Force Headquarters.

In September of 2017, LTC Tantillo was selected ahead of all peers to take command of 1-102nd Infantry Battalion. Under his command, the 102nd Infantry excelled during its 2019 rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Polk, LA. LTC Tantillo’s leadership ensured the outstanding performance of the battalion, once again earning distinction as the best performing battalion within the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. LTC Tantillo has led the 102nd Infantry during a historic period of time for the Battalion. Having taken command during the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Regiment, LTC Tantillo has led the battalion during the infancy of its participation in the Associated Unit Program, bolstering the battalion’s relationship with the 10th Mountain Division and demonstrating the capabilities and lethality of the CTARNG to our active duty counterparts.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, LTC Tantillo has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include:the Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal with oak leaf cluster, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge, the Sapper Tab, and the Army Mountain Warfare Rams Head.

LTC Tantillo is a graduate of the Command and General Staff College, Intermediate Level Education (ILE) and Advanced Operations Course (AOC). He has also attended the Royal Danish Defense College (2013), the Army Mountain Warfare School (2011), the Army Airborne School (2007), and Army Sapper School (2003). LTC Tantillo holds an Associates Degree from Valley Forge Military Academy, a Bachelor of Arts in United States and Middle Eastern Studies from Georgetown University (2002) and a Juris Doctorate from Quinnipiac University School of Law (2009).

LTC Tantillo has performed in an exemplary manner in service to the US Army Infantry through his leadership within the 102nd Infantry at both the company and battalion level, during peacetime and during overseas combat operations. His service is a credit to the 1-102nd Infantry Battalion, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

SFC Christopher Vincent enlisted as an infantryman in December of 1998 assigned to HQs 1-102nd Infantry. SFC Vincent deployed to Afghanistan in January 2006 through May 2007. In 2009 he became a squad leader in A Co, 1-102nd. SFC Vincent made his second combat deployment to Afghanistan from November 2009 through December of 2010. In 2011, he was promoted to platoon sergeant and gained experience across different line companies within the battalion. In September of 2015, he became Assistant Operations NCO within the S3 cell for Headquarters and Headquarters Company. Throughout his career, SFC Vincent has made significant and lasting contributions to the Infantry as an organization that distinguish him from his peers.

SFC Vincent was recognized as the honor graduate from the Basic Army Mountain Warfare School and the Winter Advanced Army Mountain Warfare School in 2012. He is a graduate of the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Level I and II and Avalanche Rescue School. He is a SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) graduate, an American Mountain Guides Association Climbing Wall Instructor (AMGA CWI), and a graduate of Rappel Master and Sling Load Inspector courses. SFC Vincent has leveraged his skills, motivation, and relationships within the climbing community to advance the Mountain culture within the 1-102D Infantry (Mountain). SFC Vincent is directly responsible for sending 4 personnel to AIARE Level 1 training, 2 personnel to AIARE Level 2, 5 personnel to AMGA CWI, 7 personnel to SOLO WFR, 8 personnel to become Assistant Instructors at the Army Mountain Warfare School and hundreds to the school as participants. He has coordinated to send 3 personnel to participate in Operation Arctic Eagle, a joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational training environment intended to assess ability to conduct sustained operations in arctic conditions and integrate new and emerging capabilities. He has also coordinated to send 2 personnel to Guerrier Nordique, a training exercise with the Arctic Response Company Group (ARCG). He has also enabled 1 service member to be certified by the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT) and International Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA). In addition, in his role as Assistant Operations NCO, SFC Vincent has supported the organization by securing hundreds of thousands of dollars in mountaineering equipment such as toboggans, a tread wall climber, skedcos, boots and other equipment and coordinated relevant training. SFC Vincent has provided unparalleled leadership in developing the Mountain culture and growing the skills of scores of mountain warriors.

SFC Vincent distinguishes himself within the Infantry community based on his leadership promoting a positive culture and climate and advancing teamwork and camaraderie among our ranks. SFC Vincent is an officer within the 102nd Infantry Regiment Association, a fraternal organization with goals to continue, and increase where possible service to our country, our local communities, and comrades of the 102d Infantry Regiment. He has established a museum within the New Haven Armed Forces Reserve Center to commemorate and celebrate the four centuries of history of the 1-102nd Infantry. He has also designed a stirring memorial to fallen soldiers from within the Battalion. He has established a strong organizational culture and new traditions to include mountain displays within three separate armories, and mountain themed PCS and Retirement awards. SFC Vincent is active with team-building activities outside the duty day, coordinating and participating in a Reach the Beach relay team, helicopter rappelling, and ice climbing events as part of Vet Fest. This level of leadership, selfless service, and character set SFC Vincent apart from his peers and most NCOs senior in grade.

As a testament to his exceptional support of the Infantry, SFC Vincent has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career to include:the Bronze Star Medal (2nd award), Armoy Commendation Medal with V-device, Army Commendation Medal (7th award), Army Achievement Medal (4th award), Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd award), and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

SFC Vincent is a graduate of Maneuver Senior Leaders Course, Battle Staff NCO Course, SERE 100 Level Training Course, Senior Enlisted Joint PME course, and Master Leader Course. SFC Vincent has completed two years of coursework towards a Bachelor's Degree.

SFC Vincent has performed in an exemplary manner in service to the US Army Infantry contributing above his rank and duty position. His service will have a lasting impact on the culture and history of the 1-102nd Infantry and is a credit to the 102nd Regiment, the great state of Connecticut, and our Nation.

CSM Wright embarked on his exceptional military career in 1981 serving in Ft Lewis in the 9th Division as an 11C until June of 1982. He then transferred to the Berlin Brigade and served as company clerk and 11C until ETS in Oct of 84. CSM Wright then joined the CT National Guard as 11C in Aug of 1990 and was assigned to B co 1/169 In in Danielson CT. He remained in B Co during the 1-102 and 1/169 consolidation as an 11C. CSM Wright worked his way up through CPL and SGT to become the 60mm Mortar section SGT. He then became an instructor at the 43rd Brigade Mortar Safety School, which trained all 11Cs in the BDE.

CSM Wright was promoted to SFC and moved to HHC to take over as PSG for the 81mm Mortar Platoon. On his first weekend he flew to Ft. Bragg for coordinated live fire exercises. He was then promoted to MSG and operations sergeant for the 1-102 Infantry and supported two annual training periods, one of which, the SPP of Trinidad was with the Battalion at Ft. Drum.

CSM Wright was promoted to 1SG of B co where he was alerted to assist in guarding Millstone Nuclear Power Plant after the attacks of 9/11. He remained as 1SG and took B co to MOB station at Ft. Bragg and onto Afghanistan where he was part of the maneuver element for the 1-102 and had Soldiers from B co 2/87, 3rd Bde, 10th Mountain Div. He conducted numerous counterinsurgency operations until he incurred an injury to his foot and was returned CONUS. While recovering there he took over the tasking of helping all injured Soldiers from the BN who came back through Ft Bragg with any logistical or personal issues. Worked there through April of 2007.

In 2007 he was promoted to Operations Sergeant Major for the 1-102 Infantry where he successfully planned and executed Annual Training in 2008 to Jericho VT. In 2009 he was promoted to CSM of the 1-102Infantry where he worked to get the BN ready for deployment to Methar Lam Afghanistan. He conducted a successful three-week Annual Training to Fort Dix and weapons qualification. Led BN to Camp Atterbury, Indiana in preparation for rotation to JRTC in Jan of 2009. He then executed a successful deployment and redeployment to Afghanistan in eastern province of Methar Lam and one unit at Tarkum Gate on the Pakistan border.

CSM Wright was transferred to JFHQ in 2011 as Joint Operations Center (JOC) NCOIC. He participated in state recovery operations for storms to include but not limited to Irene, Sandy, Alfred, numerous winter storms and tornadoes that have affected the State. He worked to develop new operational procedures for the state and JOC and worked to develop numerous exercises for the staff as well as the adaptive battle staff.

CSM Wright has performed in an exemplary manner in service to the US Army Infantry and our Nation. I have served as his Command Sergeant Major at Battalion and Brigade level and can give no greater endorsement for the Centurion Award than CSM Wright. Countless Soldiers can attest to the abilities of CSM Wright both in peacetime and at war.