19th CERFP-Indiana

19th CERFP-Indiana Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from 19th CERFP-Indiana, Government Organization, Indianapolis, IN.

When called upon, the 19th CERFP can deploy Command and Control, Search and Extraction, Mass Casualty Decontamination, and Medical Stabilization in order to save lives and mitigate human suffering within 6 hours.

In February, we conducted the Retirement of the Colors Ceremony for the 438th Chemical Company at Stout Field. It was a ...
03/25/2026

In February, we conducted the Retirement of the Colors Ceremony for the 438th Chemical Company at Stout Field. It was a solemn yet deeply meaningful moment as the Company formed for the final time and the colors were cased, marking the end of an era in the unit’s history.

In attendance were current Company, Battalion, and Brigade leadership, former command teams, families, and most importantly the Soldiers who were the heart and spirit of the unit. Their dedication and service are what truly defined the legacy of the 438th.

We sincerely appreciate everyone who attended the ceremony in person and those who joined us via the live stream. Your presence, whether near or far, helped honor the legacy of the 438th Chemical Company and the Soldiers who made it what it was.

Please read below for the unit history.

The 438th Chemical Company was established in 1980 in Terre Haute, Indiana, and quickly built a reputation for excellence through disciplined training and mission readiness, earning national recognition as one of the top Army National Guard chemical units. Over the years, the company adapted to evolving mission requirements through multiple reorganizations while maintaining its core identity and operational effectiveness.

It later relocated to Stout Field in Indianapolis, where it aligned with broader operational commands and continued to expand its capabilities. The unit played a key role in supporting mobilization efforts during Operation Iraqi Freedom and, since 2011, has served as part of a CBRN Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP), maintaining readiness to respond to domestic emergencies involving hazardous materials.

The company has also participated in international training exercises and partnerships, strengthening interoperability with allied forces. Most recently, it supported state missions during the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing its enduring legacy of readiness, professionalism, and service to both the nation and the state of Indiana.

From its activation in Terre Haute in 1980, through national recognition, organizational transformation, and continued service at Stout Field, the 438th Chemical Company’s history reflects a consistent legacy of readiness, professionalism, and service carried forward by today’s Soldiers.

02/07/2026

We hope everyone is doing well.

Friendly reminder, tomorrow at 11am EST we will be Facebook live streaming The Colors Roll-up Ceremony of 438th Chemical Company, the former DECON Element of the 19th CERFP. The unit is being divested from the Indiana Army National Guard.

Please join us when the stream goes live on this page, approximately 15 minutes prior to 11am EST.

Thank you.

This week, we held the commissioning ceremony for SSG Matthew Giddens, who took the Oath of Office to transition to Seco...
10/04/2025

This week, we held the commissioning ceremony for SSG Matthew Giddens, who took the Oath of Office to transition to Second Lieutenant and join the 19th CERFP as the new S1 Officer in Charge (OIC)

2LT Giddens joins the team from the G3 Shop at 81st Troop Command, where he served as the full-time Assistant Operations NCO. In pursuit of his commission, he successfully completed the year-long Indiana State Officer Candidate School, graduating as the Distinguished Honor Graduate of his class, a testament to his leadership, professionalism, and dedication.

We are excited to welcome 2LT Giddens to the team and look forward to the impact he will make in his new role. A special thank you to all who attended the ceremony, especially his wife Mady and son Max, who had the honor of pinning his new rank. Additional thank you to 1SG Detro who travelled in from Florida to give 2LT Matthew Giddens his first salute.

This past weekend, we successfully concluded our 2025 Annual Training a dedicated two-week effort where our soldiers sha...
08/22/2025

This past weekend, we successfully concluded our 2025 Annual Training a dedicated two-week effort where our soldiers sharpened both individual and collective skills before culminating in the Sustainment Year Cumulative Training Exercise (SYCTE).

We were proud to host external evaluators from the Army Interagency Training and Education Center (AITEC), based in West Virginia, whose expertise ensured a rigorous and meaningful assessment. The Indiana Guard Reserve also played a vital role by providing role players, giving our Search and Extraction and Decontamination teams invaluable hands-on experience.

Equally vital to the success of this exercise was the participation of the Medical Element, the Fatality Search and Rescue Team, and the Joint Incident Site Communications Capability (JISCC) from the 181st Intelligence Wing. Their contributions enhanced realism and strengthened the interagency coordination essential to mission success.

We were also honored to have our 81st Troop Command, Commanding General, Brigadier General Michael Grundman, visit on the final day of training. His presence provided soldiers the opportunity to share their experiences firsthand as he toured the exercise, greeted troops, and checked on their welfare.

This exercise not only sharpened our operational readiness but also reinforced the strong partnerships we share with the Indiana Guard Reserve and the 181st Intelligence Wing. We look forward to building on this collaboration in the future.

A sincere thank you to everyone involved for your hard work, dedication, and flexibility in making this year’s Annual Training a success!

Please enjoy this collection of photos taken by SFC Aimee Harris, from the 120th PAD.

Yesterday, we had the honor of hosting an informal farewell ceremony for our former Deputy Commander, MAJ Tommy Vorm, at...
01/13/2025

Yesterday, we had the honor of hosting an informal farewell ceremony for our former Deputy Commander, MAJ Tommy Vorm, at the Camp Atterbury Welcome Center and Museum.

During the ceremony, MAJ Vorm was presented with the prestigious Officer Saber by our Battalion Commander, LTC Ben Wegner, as a token of appreciation for his outstanding leadership and service. He also received several heartfelt personal gifts from SGM Craig Davis and LTC Nicole Stilianos.

We were delighted to have MAJ Vorm’s wife, Kimberly, join us for this special occasion.

We would also like to thank everyone who attended this informal celebration, making it a memorable event for MAJ Vorm and his family.

We extend our deepest gratitude to MAJ Vorm for his exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication over the years. We look forward to celebrating his official retirement ceremony on 24 January at 1300, at the Minuteman Auditorium, Stout Field.

Thank you, MAJ Vorm, for everything. You will always be part of our family!

During the November drill, we had the honor of holding a promotion ceremony for SSG Joshua Sunderman.SSG Sunderman, who ...
11/18/2024

During the November drill, we had the honor of holding a promotion ceremony for SSG Joshua Sunderman.

SSG Sunderman, who serves as the Assistant Logistics NCO, was promoted to the rank of Sergeant First Class(SFC). During the last 36 months working full time with the CERFP, SFC Sunderman has been a cornerstone of the S-4 shop, demonstrating exceptional dedication to the CERFP mission and overseeing the meticulous maintenance of millions of dollar’s of equipment.

This promotion reflects the responsibilities and leadership that SFC Sunderman has consistently displayed in his daily work. Prior to this well-deserved recognition, he was awarded both an Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) and an Indiana Commendation Medal (ICOM) for his outstanding service to the CERFP Battalion over the during the previous 18 months.

SFC Caleb Martin, our S-3 Operations NCOIC had the honor of pinning SFC Sunderman’s new rank. Please join us in congratulating SFC Sunderman on his promotion and the accolades he has rightfully earned!

Earlier this month, we had the honor of celebrating the promotion and farewell of SGT Kiahna Rainbolt, who advanced to t...
11/13/2024

Earlier this month, we had the honor of celebrating the promotion and farewell of SGT Kiahna Rainbolt, who advanced to the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG). SSG Rainbolt, originally from the 438th Chemical Company, joined the 19th CERFP Headquarters staff in December 2022 as the full-time Admin and Retention NCO. In her role, she quickly demonstrated her dedication and capability, earning the title of Retention NCO of the Year through her exceptional performance and commitment.

Throughout her tenure, SSG Rainbolt consistently exceeded expectations, taking on every challenge with unwavering determination. Her positive energy and leadership extended far beyond the Admin section, leaving a lasting impact across the organization.

During the ceremony, SSG Rainbolt was pinned by Senior HR NCO, SFC Brandt Cox and presented with the CERFP plaque by our Battalion Commander, LTC Ben Wegner. We were grateful to have her family in attendance, including her husband Austin, their newborn baby August, and her parents.

SSG Rainbolt’s potential is boundless, and we look forward to witnessing the heights she will achieve in her career. She will be greatly missed by her CERFP family.

At the conclusion of this year’s Annual Training, we bid farewell to our S4 Logistics NCOIC, SFC Brett Ballman.SFC Ballm...
10/02/2024

At the conclusion of this year’s Annual Training, we bid farewell to our S4 Logistics NCOIC, SFC Brett Ballman.

SFC Ballman joined the 19th CERFP in 2021 and has been instrumental in the success of our battalion's mission. His expertise in supply and logistics was key to our successful SEAT Evaluation in 2024. Under his leadership, the S4 team successfully mitigated labor shortages across the three companies over an extended 12 month period.

In the Army, logistics encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including clothing, lodging, food, transportation, and the overall accountability and readiness of all equipment and personnel. For the past three years, SFC Ballman and his dedicated team have ensured the flawless ex*****on of these duties, allowing the 19th CERFP to excel in multiple internal and external evaluations, including joint exercises with our Israeli counterparts.

We extend our deepest gratitude to SFC Ballman for his outstanding service to the Battalion. During the ceremony, he was presented with a custom plaque featuring the Battalion Challenge Coin by our Battalion Commander, LTC Ben Wegner and Deputy Commander, MAJ Tommy Vorm.

SFC Ballman’s next assignment will be with the 776th Engineer Brigade in Lawrence, IN. His successor, SFC Michael Leverington, a seasoned Logistics NCO, joins us from the 113th Brigade Support Battalion in Richmond, IN. We would like to use this post to wish SFC Ballman the absolute best while also officially welcoming SFC Leverington to the Team!

Last week, the 19th CERFP Command and Control (C2) staff went on a highly impactful staff ride to Washington, D.C.The pr...
09/29/2024

Last week, the 19th CERFP Command and Control (C2) staff went on a highly impactful staff ride to Washington, D.C.

The primary objective of this official trip was to visit the National Guard Bureau (NGB) Headquarters, where we had the opportunity to brief senior leaders on the Concept of Operations for FY25 Homeland Defender. This briefing allowed us to not only present our strategic vision but also engage with the high level players at NGB HQ, a critical organization that plays a pivotal role in the CBRN Response Enterprise across our country. The visit deepened our understanding of the broader mission and helped solidify key relationships with the dedicated professionals who work behind the scenes to support our mission.

In addition to our time at NGB Headquarters, we had the privilege of touring the Pentagon, a symbol of our nation’s defense and an inspiring reminder of the immense responsibility we carry in protecting our homeland. Walking the halls of such an iconic institution offered us valuable historical and organizational context that ties directly into the work we do within the 19th CERFP Mission.

One of the highlights of our trip was a Battlefield Tour in Fredericksburg, VA, led by the knowledgeable and passionate Park Ranger, Mr. Jeff O’Riley. His deep understanding of military history allowed us to revisit the strategic decisions made during this significant battle of the Civil War. Our team, drawing on our diverse operational experiences, engaged in collective war-gaming exercises throughout the tour, applying lessons from the battlefield to modern-day scenarios. This hands on approach provided us with a powerful learning experience, reinforcing the principles of leadership, decision-making, and coordination that are central to our daily operations at the battalion level.

Overall, this staff ride was an invaluable opportunity for reflection, learning, and growth. It reinforced the importance of history in shaping military strategy and also highlighted the relevance of these lessons in guiding our future missions within the Homeland Defense and CBRN Response Enterprise.

Today marks the conclusion of the 19th CERFP’s 2024 Annual Training at Camp Atterbury. Over the past two challenging wee...
08/05/2024

Today marks the conclusion of the 19th CERFP’s 2024 Annual Training at Camp Atterbury. Over the past two challenging weeks, our Battalion, along with other 81st Troop Command’s Direct Reporting Units (DRUs), came together to engage in Mission Essential Task List (METL)-focused training, which has been both intense and rewarding.

Our three companies—the 381st MP Company, 384th MP Company, and 438th Chemical Company—played a pivotal role in facilitating various ranges and training events for other units within the 81st Troop Command. These activities not only tested our capabilities but also strengthened our teamwork and coordination, essential for our readiness and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

During the second week, we collaborated with the Medical Element section of CERFP from the 181st Intelligence Wing. Their presence allowed us to focus intensively on the CERFP Mission, dedicating two full days to setting up our disaster response footprint. Through rigorous drills, we honed our white mission skills, ensuring our preparedness for any emergency response.

A special thank you goes out to Task Force 1 and SFC Steven Pritchard, who were instrumental in facilitating the scenario and the Incident Command Team. Their expertise and leadership were invaluable in creating realistic training environments that challenged us and improved our operational capabilities.

Furthermore, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to every member of the 19th CERFP Battalion for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. The successful ex*****on of our Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Training is a testament to the unwavering spirit and professionalism of our personnel. We are proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to applying these skills in future missions to serve and protect our communities.

Thank you all for your efforts and contributions to making this training a success.

Photo Credits: SGT Mitch Lunsford, 438th Chemical Company.

Today, we conducted the promotion ceremony for SPC Ashlee Linn, who has advanced to the rank of Sergeant (SGT).SGT Linn,...
07/21/2024

Today, we conducted the promotion ceremony for SPC Ashlee Linn, who has advanced to the rank of Sergeant (SGT).

SGT Linn, an exemplary 31B (Military Police), has been a key member of the CERFP Headquarters since 2023. Prior to this, she served with distinction in the 384th MP Company. Diligent and compassionate are two attributes that frequently describe SGT Linn, and these qualities will undoubtedly benefit her in her new leadership role.

The entire Headquarters staff was in attendance for this event. Battalion Sergeant Major Craig Davis had the honor of pinning SGT Linn's newly earned rank. We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to SGT Linn and eagerly anticipate her continued outstanding performance.

Photo Credit: SSG Jacob Foulke

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