September 25, 2015

33 Pages·2015·25.52 MB·English

Vol. 73, No. 38 Sept. 25, 2015
2-12 Soldiers
Joint air mobility
return from
Iraq mission
By Staff Sgt. Diandra Harrell
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Offi ce
Families rushed to reunite with their loved ones Sept.
18 at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center (SEC).
Filled with joy, some laughed or jumped into the open arms
of their dads; seeing them for the fi rst time in months.
Twenty Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th
Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat
Team, 4th Infantry Division, completed a nine-month
deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Inherent
Resolve. The operation supports the military intervention
against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
While deployed, the regiment’s Target Acquisition
Platoon provided radar coverage for the Special Purpose
Marine and Ground Task Force at Al Asad Air Base,
Iraq, detecting incoming indirect fire and alerting
personnel on base. The regiment has the first U.S. Army
sensors with the capability to provide counterfire. The
Soldiers provided more than a thousand hours of radar
operations, ultimately protecting more than 900 U.S. and
coalition Service members.
“It was defi nitely a learning experience for a lot of the
younger guys; it was rough,” said Chief Warrant Offi cer
2 Martavius Westbrook, radar platoon offi cer in charge,
2nd Bn., 12th FA Reg.
Although the load was heavy, the Soldiers completed
their mission with enthusiasm and a high level of profes-
sionalism, said Lt. Col. Allan Selburg, commander, 2nd
Bn., 12th FA Reg.
“This radar platoon was chosen on short notice
because (it was) ready,” said Selburg. “The Soldiers took
on an extremely challenging mission in a very austere
environment. It’s good to have a chief and the platoon
back home, where they belong. I wish I was there to
greet them but the rest of us are out here at (the National
Training Center, Fort Irwin, California) proving we’re
Photo by Sgt. William Howard ready if the call comes.”
Airmen from the 21st Airlift Squadron out of Travis Air Force Base, Calif., ground guide a Stryker
With their mission completed, the Soldiers marched
vehicle from the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during air mobility operations
into the SEC where Family and friends had been anxiously
at Victorville, Calif., Sept. 10. Soldiers from 1st SBCT partnered with the Airmen to deploy four Stryker
waiting to see them again.
vehicles and more than 40 personnel during training at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif.
“I’m so happy to see him, but I’m so nervous,”
See story on pages 18-19.
See Return on Page 4
INSIDE
Message board
The Fort Carson Army Substance
Abuse Program will collect unused,
unwanted prescription medications
from the military community
Saturday. Medications can be
dropped off from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
at the Iron Horse Sports and Fitness
Center and the Exchange, and
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the William “Bill”
Page 12
Reed Special Events Center during
Retiree Appreciation Day.
Page 5
Page 11
2
MOUNTAINEER — Sept. 25, 2015
Program provides civilian
MOUNTAINEER
Commanding General:
Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves
cross-training opportunities
Garrison Commander:
Col. Joel D. Hamilton
Fort Carson Public Affairs Offi cer:
Dee McNutt
Chief, Print and Web Communications: Commentary by Carleton Lane to guide me and, eventually, I felt I had hit my stride.
Rick Emert Special to the Mountaineer PAO, I learned, is multifaceted, focusing on community
Editor: Devin Fisher issues, media relations and internal communications. Facebook
The Developmental Assignment Program (DAP) was and Twitter: PAO. The Mountaineer newspaper: also PAO.
Staff writers: Scott Prater
created by U.S. Army Installation Management Command Veterans groups wanting a tour of post: You guessed it, PAO.
Happenings: Nel Lampe (IMCOM) to provide cross-training opportunities for I can absolutely say that I learned a lot as a result of
Department of the Army civilians. this opportunity. PAO plays a part in most events on post,
Sports writer: Walt Johnson
The program place individuals in a different job for 30, 60 so I traveled outside of my usual DFMWR circles to meet
Layout/graphics: Jeanne Mazerall or 90 days, and then returns them to their previous position. people and visit places I’ve never been in my fi ve years
According to IMCOM, “The program provides here. For the Mountaineer, I visited schools, chapels, Army
This commercial enterprise newspaper multifunctional training and assignments to strengthen the Community Service facilities and the veterinary clinic;
is an authorized publication for members of experience of employees and prepare them for broader places that as a Department of the Army civilian I never
the Department of Defense. Contents of the
responsibilities and improve organizational communication. had a reason to visit.
Mountaineer are not necessarily the offi cial
The DAP program provides expanded opportunities for I now look at DFMWR events and activities in a new
view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or
the Department of the Army. Printed circulation learning and development to its participants and achieves light. I’ll now consider how best to use resources beyond
is 8,000 copies. fully-trained, multifunctional and responsive employees.” my workplace to market, network and run events.
The editorial content of the Mountaineer I elected to temporarily move from my position with At Outdoor Recreation we teach classes on photography
is the respon sibility of the Public Affairs Offi ce,
Outdoor Recreation, Directorate of Family and Morale, and action camera usage. I was able to give back to PAO
Fort Carson, Colo., Tel.: [phone]. The e-mail
Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR), to across post and by developing a curriculum centered around mobile and
address is [email protected].
The Mountaineer is posted online at join the team at the Garrison Public Affairs Offi ce (PAO) action camera techniques they can use to tell the Army
http://www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com. for eight weeks. While here, I learned as much as I could story across all media: print, social and online.
The Mountaineer is an unoffi cial about public affairs, working day-to-day with the Garrison Overall, my time with the Developmental Assignment
publication authorized by AR 360-1. The
PAO staff as well as the 4th Infantry Division Public Program gave me a new outlook on my existing job,
Mountaineer is printed by Colorado Springs
Affairs Soldiers. and a better understanding of the many facets of
Military Newspaper Group, a private fi rm in
no way connected with the Department of the It was easy to feel a little lost at fi rst as I learned the installation management.
Army, under exclusive written contract with pace of a new workplace and felt out my role. I found Department of the Army civilians interested in the
Fort Carson. It is published 49 times per year. myself tying up loose ends I had left with DFMWR, program can contact Siah Olatunji with the IMCOM
The appearance of advertising in this
sneaking back to my desk occasionally to conduct Outdoor Workforce Development Team at 210-466-0348 or siah.
publication, including inserts or supplements,
does not constitute endorsement by the Rec business. The friendly staff at PAO, however, helped [email protected] for more information.
Department of the Army or Colorado Springs
Military Newspaper Group, of the products or
services advertised. The publisher reserves the
right to reject advertisements.
Everything advertised in this publication
Joint Forces Retiree
shall be made available for purchase, use or
patronage without regard to race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, age, marital status,
physical handicap, political affi liation or any Appreciation Day Saturday
other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or
patron. If a violation or rejection of this
equal opportunity policy by an advertiser
is confi rmed, the printer shall refuse to print
advertising from that source until the violation is Fort Carson hosts a Joint Forces Retiree Appreciation will shuttle participants between the SEC and Legal Assistance,
corrected. For display advertising call 634-5905.
Day (RAD) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the William “Bill” identifi cation card section, Soldier for Life Transition Assistance
All correspondence or queries regarding
Reed Special Events Center (SEC). Program, commissary and the Exchange.
advertising and subscriptions should be directed
to Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group, Fifty-four vendors and organizations will be on hand with A free continental breakfast will be served. Army and Air
235 S. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO information of interest to retirees, including veterans and retiree Force Exchange Service and the commissary will have special
80903, phone [phone]. associations. There will be guest speakers and door prizes. offers and discounts for retirees Saturday.
The Mountaineer’s editorial content is
Retirees and their families may get new identifi cation Flu shots will not be available at the RAD. However, Evans
edited, prepared and provided by the Public
cards, powers of attorney and wills. Dental screenings will be Army Community Hospital will provide infl uenza vaccinations
Affairs Offi ce, building 1218, room 320, Fort
Carson, CO 80913-5119, phone [phone]. available as well as blood pressure and cholesterol checks. A to benefi ciaries at the SEC Oct. 13-16 and Oct. 20-23, 8 a.m.
Releases from outside sources are so representative will be on site to accept old medications. Vans to 3:30 p.m. and Oct. 17, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
indicated. The deadline for submissions to the
Mountaineer is close of business Friday the
week before the next issue is published. The
Mountaineer staff reserves the right to edit
submissions for newspaper style, clarity and
typographical errors.
Policies and statements refl ected in the
news and editorial columns represent views
Doing something fun on post?
of the individual writers and under no
circumstances are to be considered those of
the Department of the Army.
Reproduction of editorial material is
authorized. Please credit accordingly.
Submit a photo for the
Mountaineer online.
Display / Classifi ed
Send your
advertising
634-5905
submissions to
Mountaineer editor
526-4144 [email protected].
Post information Include a caption describing the
526-5811
photo and who took the picture.
Post weather hotline
526-0096
3
Sept. 25, 2015 — MOUNTAINEER
‘Move to Health’ invades Carson
Story and photo by Scott Prater
Col. Diane Heinz,
Mountaineer staff
center, deputy com-
mander for inpatient
Fort Carson physicians, nurses, clinicians and
services, and Col. Steve
administrative health care professionals participated in
Birchfield, Department of
a three-day professional development seminar at the
Medicine chief, both with
Army Wellness Center Sept. 15-17.
Evans Army Community
The program, known as “Move to Health,” was
Hospital, discuss ideas on
facilitated by U.S. Army Medical Command (USAMC)
how to provide better care
and was designed to provide holistic approaches to health
to beneficiaries during the
care that professionals can share with their patients.
“Move to Health” course
“It was inspiring to say the least,” said Lt. Col. Robert
held Sept. 15-17 at the
Price, 4th Infantry Division surgeon. “It reminded me of
Army Wellness Center.
the reason I went into family medicine. We treat not only
Each clinic team was
the whole patient but the whole family and the culture in
empowered to develop
which the family lives. That’s what this program is about.”
a plan to improve
The instructional team included Lt. Col. Robert Oh,
patient outcomes.
physician lead for the Army’s System for Health program,
and Lt. Col. Tamara Funari, nurse lead for System for
Health. They took participants through a countless number nutrition) along with the five strength elements of the Price said. “We need to provide lifestyle changes and
of lessons and activities, which included yoga, tai chi, Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness program resources like the Army Wellness Center so that patients
relaxation exercises and mindful meditation. (social, emotional, family, spiritual and physical). can be motivated to make that change and help them-
“Nationally, our health care system is kind of broken,” “The Army surgeon general, Lt. Gen. Patricia selves with whatever their health care issue may be.”
Oh said. “We focus too much on disease. We ask, ‘What Horoho, has been talking about this campaign as The USAMC team knows that such grand ideas are
disease do you have?’ and then give the patient a pill. So, reaching the patients in their life space,” Funari said. often greeted by skepticism, especially in a seminar-
the whole idea behind this program is to help transform our “It’s about empowering and engaging patients to take type environment. That’s one reason they try to keep
system from a health care system to a system for health, accountability and responsibility for their wellness with the course as active and engaging as possible.
where we promote health and wellness.” the support of their health care team.” “Attendees often come into this program not
Oh and Funari are traveling the country, spreading Discovering new ways to engage patients was knowing what it’s going to be about,” Funari said. “It’s
the message. They’ve visited 10 military installations Price’s biggest takeaway. He said the course emphasized great to see the transformation from day one when
in the past six months and have focused their activities how multidisciplinary health care teams can customize they’re thinking, ‘I don’t know if we’re going to have
around balancing the eight elements of self care, which health plans for individuals and Families. time for this,’ to the last day when they’re saying, ‘I
include the Performance Triad (sleep, activity and “The idea is to provide resources, not just pills,” can’t wait to implement this.’”
$35,988 $26,988 $16,988 $26,988

Subaru Certifi ed Pre-Owned Program.
PLENTY OF ROAD AHEAD.
7 Year/100K Mile Powertrain Warranty
’13 SUBARU STI HATCHBACK ’14 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED ’12 SUBARU IMPREZA LIMITED ’14 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED Factory Backed Coverage
152 Point Safety Inspection
Only 11,000 miles! BBS Wheels, Auto, leather, moonroof, cold weather Low miles, auto, leather, alloy wheels, Auto, leather, moonroof, cold weather
CARFAX Vehicle History Report
6-speed, loaded! package, loaded! cold weather package package, fully loaded!
24/7 Roadside Assistance
Vin#DL819776 – 160542A Vin#E3251985 – 160294A Vin#CH004756 – 160197A Vin#E3271123 – 160196A
Rates as Low as 2.99% APR WAC
$18,988 $19,988 $15,988 $24,988 $17,988
’11 SUBARU FORESTER LIMITED ’13 SUBARU OUTBACK ’13 SUBARU IMPREZA ’13 SUBARU OUTBACK LIMITED ’12 SUBARU FORESTER PREMIUM
Low miles, auto, leather, moonroof, alloy 6-speed, fully loaded, premium sound Auto, low miles, fully loaded! Low, low miles, auto, leather, moonroof, Auto, moonroof,
wheels, cold weather package, loaded! Vin#D1247011 – 160498A Vin#DH024934 – 156740A cold weather package, loaded! cold weather package, loaded!
Vin#BH779562 – 160518A Vin#D3228659 – 160655A Vin#CH428260 – 156323A
$16,988 $18,988 $17,988 $19,988
’10 SUBARU LEGACY PREMIUM ’13 SUBARU LEGACY SPORT ’12 SUBARU FORESTER PREMIUM ‘14 SUBARU IMPREZA
Low miles, auto, cold weather package, Auto, moonroof, cold weather package, 5-speed, alloy wheels, cold weather Super low miles, premium package, auto-
alloy wheels, fully loaded! 18” alloy wheels, loaded! package, moonroof, fully loaded! matic, alloy wheels, cold weather package
Vin#A3227186 – 160417A Vin#D3040518 – 160214B Vin#CG430636 – 156680A Vin#EH019216 – 156513A
[phone] · 1080 Motor City Drive · Colorado Springs
Family Owned and Operated for Over 45 years.
Committed to the Community we serve. Bestbuysubaru.com /heubergermotors
4
MOUNTAINEER — Sept. 25, 2015
Former staff sergeant
receives Soldier’s Medal
Story and photo by the lock on an armored
Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell personnel carrier, which
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office was on fire, and drove
it to safety.
DENVER — Family, friends, police officers and “By the time I’d
Service members gathered Tuesday in the Veterans of gotten down into the
Foreign Wars Post 1 to watch former Staff Sgt. Joseph vehicle, the fire was
Gilmore Jr. formally receive the Soldier’s Medal, coming down the hatch,
the highest honor a Soldier can receive for an act of which took my breath
valor in a noncombat event. away,” he said.
Congresswoman Diana DeGette, 1st Congressional He was not able to
District of Colorado, and Retired Col. Aaron Tucker recall much from that
presented the former 4th Infantry Division military point, except stalling
policeman with the medal for his actions during a out in a deuce-and-a-half
fire on Fort Carson 42 years ago. which “jolted him back
Gilmore, an Aurora native, now retired attorney, to the present,” he said.
repeatedly entered a burning building Feb. 20, 1973, Gilmore returned
to save its contents. to the blazing building Congresswoman Diana DeGette, 1st Congressional District of Colorado, presents
“I knew what was in the building, which were and drove three other former Staff Sgt. Joseph Gilmore Jr. the Soldier’s Medal at the Denver Veterans of
artillery weapons,” Gilmore explained. “I did not vehicles — a M35 2.5- Foreign Wars Post 1 Tuesday.
know if they were loaded with ammunition, but I ton cargo truck, an
did know that they were loaded with fuel. If that M163 Vulcan and an XM47 Chaparral to safety. finally getting the recognition he deserves, said DeGette.
fire would have torched off one of those weapons He suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation “It’s a wonderful feeling with everything going
systems, it would have been catastrophic.” but his heroic actions saved the Army more than $1 on in this country to find a courageous veteran and
Realizing the eminent danger, Gilmore, without million, according to the award citation. recognize him for his contributions and sacrifices
regard for his own safety, located an axe and broke Now 42 years later, the former staff sergeant is for his country … it’s extraordinary,” said DeGette.
Post to update
automated
entry system
Fort Carson Public Affairs Office
Fort Carson’s automated installation entry (AIE)
system will be upgraded to AIE 2+ by spring 2016. All
lanes of all installation gates, except gates 6 and 19, will
eventually be converted to the AIE 2+ system.
The upgrade will enhance installation security through
Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra Harrell automated personnel verification and authentication. With
Return
Soldiers with 2nd Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, the upgrade, all personnel will scan identification cards at
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, the gates to undergo a National Crime Information Center
From Page 1
render honors to the colors during a welcome home (NCIC) check. The scan also checks against the roster of
said Katrina Martinez, wife of Sgt. Alejandro ceremony at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events individuals who are banned from the installation. The scan
Martinez, field artillery firefinder radar operator. Center Sept. 18. The Soldiers returned to the Mountain is expected to take only a few seconds for personnel who
After being welcomed home and thanked for Post after a nine-month mission in Iraq in support of are already registered in the AIE 2+ system.
their successful mission by Col. D.A. Simms, Operation Inherent Resolve. All DOD identification card holders and contractors
chief of staff, 4th Inf. Div., the Soldiers were with passes will have to register for the new system via
released to their Family members who scrambled firefinder radar operator, 2nd Bn., 12th FA Reg. the Visitor Control Center or through in-lane registra-
from the bleachers to embrace their loved ones The deployed Soldiers were awarded tion at gates to be announced later. Retirees and Family
with overdue hugs and kisses. Combat Action Badges for their action in members with older identification cards (Social Security
“I’m happy to be back — it’s almost response to attacks on the air base Feb. 13 number present on the front of the ID) will have to
surreal,” said Spc. Tyrell Wright, field artillery and March 8. get new ID cards to register in the system. In-lane
registration can take up to two minutes and personnel
entering the installation should expect delays once the
Mayor salutes troops registration process begins.
Updates to the timeline for the upgrade will appear in the
Mountaineer newspaper, on U.S. Army Fort Carson Facebook
page and in community emails in the coming weeks.
By John W. Suthers
Mayor, city of Colorado Springs
Welcome home Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
On behalf of the citizens of Colorado Springs, allow me to welcome you home from your nine-
month deployment to Iraq. We appreciate your exceptional efforts in support of Operation Inherent
Resolve and are aware that the radar coverage you provided for Al Asad Air Base
was instrumental in protecting more than 900 U.S. and coalition forces against (Islamic State of
Iraq and the Levant) attacks. Your Combat Action Badges are well-deserved.
We are thankful for your safe return and congratulate you on a job well-done. Now that
you are home, take some time to enjoy the beautiful amenities of Colorado Springs, knowing
that you have the admiration of a grateful community.
5
Sept. 25, 2015 — MOUNTAINEER
Carson hosts
Pearl Harbor
survivor
Story and photo by
Capt. Lorenzo Stephenson
Plans and operations officer, Directorate of
Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security
A survivor of the Pearl Harbor attacks
discussed the fateful events that transpired Dec. 7,
1941, during a visit to the Mountain Post Sept. 16.
Navy Retired Lt. Jim Downing, now 102 years
old, spoke to in-processing Soldiers, Family mem-
bers and cadre at Headquarters and Headquarters
Company, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson, about
his experience that day as a 28 year-old gunner’s
mate first class, leadership qualities and the
common thread shared by exceptional leaders.
During his visit to Fort Carson, the 24-year
Navy veteran had lunch at the Wolf Dining Facility,
received a windshield tour of Fort Carson and
visited with Soldiers of Battery C, 2nd Battalion,
77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
While visiting with Soldiers of 2nd Bn., Navy Retired Lt. Jim Downing poses for a photo with Soldiers of Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd
77th FA Reg., the Korean War veteran received Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a Sept. 16 visit to Fort Carson.
an overview and capabilities brief for the M777
howitzer, a 155 mm artillery piece. The Soldiers of ongoing construction at Butts Army Airfield, observing The tour culminated with a visit to the garrison
Battery C displayed their skills and knowledge of their rail operations at the Fort Carson railhead, an overview headquarters where he visited with the Garrison
primary weapon system by demonstrating crew drills. of Fort Carson ranges, 2nd IBCT footprint and the Command team, Col. Joel D. Hamilton and Command
Downing’s windshield tour entailed visiting 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) facilities. Sgt. Maj. Clinton Reiss.
6
MOUNTAINEER — Sept. 25, 2015
Soldiers to
Knightly honors
hang up
uniforms Retired Maj. Gen.
Terry L. Tucker,
president, United
States Cavalry and
Armor Association,
Mountaineer staff
knights Maj. Gen.
Ryan F. Gonsalves,
Nine Soldiers are scheduled to be honored for
commanding
their service to the nation during a 10 a.m. retirement
general, 4th Infantry
ceremony Wednesday on Founders Field.
Division and Fort
They are:
Carson, into the
☐ 1st Sgt. Thomas A. Spies, 4th Attack Reconnaissance Silver Order of St.
Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Joint Base Lewis-
George at a special
McChord, Washington
Armor Leaders
☐ Master Sgt. Travis S. Fisher, Headquarters and Breakfast during
Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division
the Maneuver
☐ Sgt. 1st Class Simon A. Bradshaw, 4th Combat Warfighters
Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.
Conference Sept.
☐ Sgt. 1st Class Shannon L. Carter, U.S. Army Garrison 16 at Fort Benning,
Fort Carson
Ga. In 1986, the
☐ Sgt. 1st Class Raphael M. Castro, 59th Military United States
Police Company, 759th MP Battalion
Armor Association
☐ Sgt. 1st Class Dwain R. Lacey, Special Operations established the
recruiting
Honorable Order
☐ Sgt. 1st Class Andrew F. Niles, 3rd Armored Brigade of St. George to
Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.
recognize the
☐ Staff Sgt. Thomas F. Archer best tankers and
Jr., 2nd Infantry
cavalrymen among
Brigade Combat
its members.
Team, 4th Inf. Div.
☐ Staff Sgt. Robert
S. Kmet, 3rd
ABCT, 4th Inf.
Photo by Markeith Horace
Div.
TTaattttoooo RReemmoovvaall
Safe & Pain-Free
In Only 3-6 Treatments
98% Pigment Gone
Call Genesis Medspa for your
FREE Consultation
719-579-6890
www.genesismedspa.com
7
Sept. 25, 2015 — MOUNTAINEER
Thank you for
40
fabulous years.
Assorted Pillows $6
Starting at:
PL-
Harper Farm
Entertainment Center
$2187
Features Felt Lined Drawers with Ball-Bearing
Guides, TV Console, Adjustable Center Wood
Shelves, Drawers, Sliding Doors, Wire Storage,
Levelers and LED Lights.
116w x 91h x 21d
$229
Storage Ottoman
3269-WALL 1B-230-SO
Lowest Prices... ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!
2-Piece Chair with Ottoman Accent Chairs $88 Bonded Leather YOUR CHOICE! Linen Accent
YOUR CHOICE! YOUR CHOICE! Accent Chairs $158 Chairs
$86
1D1-7005
1D-201 1E-201
1B1-511
Stocked in Brown or Black Stocked in Linen or Script Stocked in White, Black or Red SSttoocckkeedd iinn BBeeiiggee,, TTeeaall,, CChhaarrccooaall
LIFESTYLE
While Supplies Last
092415 FURNITURE
ENGLEWOOD [phone] COLORADO SPRINGS [phone] AURORA [phone] FIRESTONE [phone] WESTMINSTER [phone]
FORT COLLINS [phone] THORNTON [phone] PUEBLO [phone] S. UNIVERSITY [phone] GRAND JUNCTION [phone]
S.W. LAKEWOOD [phone] GLENWOOD SPRINGS [phone] GILBERT, AZ [phone] GLENDALE, AZ [phone]
FINANCING AVAILABLE | AFWonline.com
8 9
MOUNTAINEER — Sept. 25, 2015 Sept. 25, 2015 — MOUNTAINEER
Infantrymen vie to be proven experts leaders helped me a lot with endless days
of training to prepare me and remained
there to cheer me on.”
The EIB dates back to 1944 with
By Staff Sgt. Grady Jones knowledge among all NCOs,” said Holt. “Any time minimum of 80 percent on each event during the Army then Army Chief of Staff Gen. George C.
3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public you get the chance to build cohesion between two Physical Fitness Test, day and night land navigation, Marshall’s initiation of the development
Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division units, it’s a great opportunity. I’m glad to be a part 33 individual tasks testing stations and a 12-mile foot of an award to honor Army infantrymen.
of this training.” march followed by a tactical objective. “The current U.S. Army Infantry
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — Functions checks The test process for the EIB measures the mastery “The EIB demonstrates that you are a subject Center Pamphlet 350-6 has been revised
on weapons systems, treating head wounds and tactical of individual skills through evaluations taking matter expert as an infantryman (which) is rightfully to standardize EIB testing throughout
movement under direct fire were just a few of the tasks place over a five-day period. Evaluations consist of difficult to earn,” said Staff Sgt. Robert Taylor, the years,” said Master Sgt. Rex Fortner,
performed during Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) qualifying expert on individual weapons, scoring a squad leader, Company A, 1st Battalion, 68th Armor career counselor, 3rd ABCT, and narrator
qualifications Aug. 30 to Sept. 12. Regiment, 3rd ABCT. for the awards ceremony. “The new test
About 350 Soldiers from 3rd Armored These evaluations place candidates under consists of 33 testing stations with a total
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division; varying degrees of stress, testing their physical of 37 possible individual tasks. The stan-
82nd Airborne Division and 10th Mountain and mental abilities as they execute the tasks to dards of these tasks are cross-walked with
Division took part in the two-week event held established standards. The attrition rate is high among current infantry series Soldier’s manual and
by 3rd ABCT on Camp Buehring that tested the candidatestrying for their EIB. the Soldier’s Manual of Common Tasks.”
their skills in various tasks to be considered “It took me two attempts to earn my This EIB qualification was unique
experts in their field of work. The first week EIB,” said Taylor, who was a trainer and because it was conducted mostly during
Photo by Spc. Gregory Summers
was for training and the second for testing. grader for the event. the night hours in a desert environment. Above: Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Sims, 3rd
“Expert Infantryman Badge qualifica- Thirteen infantrymen were awarded the EIB “I was definitely challenged during the event, but after Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry
tion is one of the most prestigious things that in a ceremony a few hours following the conclu- earning the EIB I am extremely proud,” said Sgt. Ramon Division, presents the Expert Infantryman
infantrymen can do,” said Staff Sgt. Robert sion of the last event. Gonzalez, infantryman, Headquarters and Headquarters Badge to 1st Lt. Jimmy Greene, scout platoon
Winstead, Company B, 1st Battalion, 66th “It’s just the greatest feeling right now,” Company, 1st Bn., 68th Armor Reg., 3rd ABCT. leader, Company A, 1st Battalion, 68th Armor
Armor Regiment, 3rd ABCT. “It reinforces our said Pfc. Tylor Capadagli, infantryman, 1st Lts. Jimmy Greene and Christian Botero, Regiment, 3rd ABCT, 4th Inf. Div., Sept. 12 at
professionalism as a combat arms profession. Company A, 1st Bn., 68th Armor Reg., one of platoon leaders, 1st Bn., 68th Armor Reg., earned their Camp Buehring, Kuwait.
(Earning the badge is) the infantry version of the 13 who passed. “I didn’t do it by myself; my EIBs with all “first time goes” on every task. Candidates
winning the Super Bowl.” who are able to achieve this standard are known as
Conducting this event alongside fellow Spc. Harry Gutierrez, left, infantryman, Company A, 1st “true blue” recipients. Right: Sgt. Ramon Gonzalez, infantryman,
Army units proved to be beneficial in building Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade “It’s very humbling,” Green said. “I owe it to my Headquarters and Headquarters Company,
camaraderie in the infantry profession, said Sgt. Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, instructs Sgt. Keston training buddies who got me ready to test well in 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd
1st Class Jared Holt, platoon sergeant, Company Kuhn, team leader, Company A, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry those events.” Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry
A, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Regiment, 3rd ABCT, on the standards of testing for the Regardless if they earned their Expert Infantryman Division, grimaces as he nears the end of the
BCT, 10th Mountain Division, who served as M136 AT4 Rocket Launcher during the train up for Expert Badge or not, this training event proved to be an effective 12-mile foot march for the Expert Infantryman
a grader during the EIB qualification. Infantryman Badge qualifications at Camp Buehring, tool for expanding warfighting skills and capabilities Badge qualifications, Sept. 12 at Camp
“There’s such a broad spectrum of Kuwait, Sept. 2. for all of the Infantrymen who participated. Buehring, Kuwait.
Photo by Spc. Gregory Summers Photo by Staff Sgt. Grady Jones
There’s nothing like coming home.
Receive a discount
of .25% off the
LEARN. GROW. LEA D. mortgage loan
As a supporter of our armed amount in
closing costs,
RANKED BY US NEWS AND WORLD REPORT: forces, U.S. Bank is proud to offer
Top Regional University for Veterans in the West up to $1,0001,
VA mortgages to our active duty
with a U.S. Bank
• Online and Campus Degree Options members and retired veterans. With Personal Checking
• Flexible Format for Busy Adults Package!
competitive fixed rate options and a
• Fully Staffed Veteran & Military Resource Center
• Yellow Ribbon Participant*
low down payment2, we can add to
• Veterans Benefi ts and Preferred Military Tuition Assistance*
the joy of coming home.
visit a branch
usbank.com/mortgage
855.434.HOME (4663)
Undergraduate, Graduate and Certifi cate Programs in:
Computer Information Sciences | Business | Education | & More
1. The mortgage origination discount is calculated as 0.25% of the loan amount. The maximum mortgage discount is
$1,000. For existing U.S. Bank home mortgages, the maximum refinance discount is $300. Certain mortgages may not be
eligible for stated discounts. Interest rates, program terms and information are subject to change without notice. 2. Down
REGIS.EDU | 303.458.4900
payment options depend on the product type. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines.
Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loans amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject
to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage and
Home Equity products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank
National Association. Member FDIC. ©2015 151845 8/15
*For select programs and qualifi ed individuals
The person pictured is not an actual servicemember.
10
MOUNTAINEER — Sept. 25, 2015
44444444CCCCCCCCAAAAAAAABBBBBBBB
showcases equipment
Above: Attendees
Story and photos by Sgt. Jonathan C. Thibault tour aircraft from
4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs 4th Combat Aviation
Offi ce, 4th Infantry Division Brigade, 4th Infantry
Division, during the
PENROSE — Even though the Fremont County Airport Fremont County
Airshow had classic sports cars and fl ying acrobatic aircraft, 4th Airport Airshow in
Combat Aviation Brigade’s static displays stole the attention of Penrose Saturday.
attendees in Penrose Saturday.
Multiple aircrews from 4th CAB, 4th Infantry Division, gave
tours of a UH-60 Black Hawk (MedEvac), AH-64 Apache, CH-47
Chinook and unmanned aerial system (UAS) static displays.
“The airport management requested our support for the air
show as part of community outreach, and we gladly jumped in
to show our support with an airport that we use routinely for
Left: Spc. Samuel
certain training missions,” said Chief Warrant Offi cer 5 William
Amore, unmanned
Ham, brigade standardization offi cer and AH-64 Apache pilot.
aerial system operator,
“It was a fantastic opportunity and, more importantly, a chance
Company A, 1st Attack
to put a face to the Fort Carson aviation community rather than
Reconnaissance
just aircraft that people see fl ying overhead on occasions.”
Battalion, 4th Aviation
Sgt. Andrew Findlay, UH-60 Black Hawk (MedEvac) fl ight
Regiment, 4th Combat
medic, Company C, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th
Aviation Brigade, 4th
Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB, said the event served as a reminder
Infantry Division, talks
to the community that Soldiers are here to support them.
to attendees about
“It was nice to hear things about how we’ve supported the
the Army unmanned
communities over the past two years,” said Findlay. “When
aerial system during
we support these types of events it shows the communities
the Fremont County
that we don’t just train to fi ght for wars overseas, but we are
Airport Airshow in
also here to support them whether it’s for emergencies or just
Penrose Saturday.
great community outreach.”
Sgt. Rawald Jarsagaray, CH-47 Chinook crew chief, Company
B, 2nd GSAB, 4th Avn. Reg., said he enjoyed the support of the
community and was reminded of the help the CAB gave during
the 2013 Black Forest wildfi res and Colorado fl oods.
“We kept getting thanked for our service,” said Jarsagaray.
“We had canvas photos of the fi res and fl oods operations (on
display). People told me of their fi rsthand experiences seeing
our aircraft dump water on the fi res and rescuing people during
the fl oods. It’s a great feeling to be a part of a very reputable
Left: Pfc. Michael
aviation unit that receives a tremendous amount (of) support
Angelica, unmanned
from the surrounding communities.”
aerial system
Spc. Samuel Amore, unmanned aerial system operator,
maintainer, Company
Company A, 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation
A, 1st Attack
Regiment, 4th CAB, said that this was the fi rst time he and his
Reconnaissance
fellow UAS operators have been able to show off their aircraft
Battalion, 4th
at a community event.
Aviation Regiment,
“We are training in Fort Carson’s ranges a lot, so it is real
4th Combat Aviation
hard for us to attend community events,” said Amore. “It was
Brigade, 4th Infantry
great to fi nally show what we do and give information on our
Division, talks about
UAS systems.”
the Army unmanned
aerial system with
an attendee at the
“ It was a fantastic opportunity Fremont County
Airport Airshow in
… a chance to put a Penrose Saturday.
face to the Fort Carson
aviation community …”
— Chief Warrant Offi cer 5 William Ham
11
Sept. 25, 2015 — MOUNTAINEER
Armor Soldiers reach for excellence
Story and photo by Spc. Gregory Summers “The brigade and battalion have other important and loading ammunition, all within time restraints.
3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public commitments that had to be completed at the same “Our tankers and scouts endured a grueling test
Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division time,” Sexton explained. of their physical toughness and mental aptitude in
During the week, Soldiers were tested on a regards to the skills necessary to operate in a tactical
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — Soldiers of 1st variety of warrior tasks and drills which included environment,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Anton Hillig,
Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, and 1st Battalion, 68th a 4-mile run in less than 36 minutes, a 12-mile 1st Bn., 68th Armor Reg.
Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, foot march with a 35-pound rucksack in less After the EIA qualification concluded, 13 “Iron
4th Infantry Division, competed for the coveted Excellence than three hours, day and night land navigation Brigade” Soldiers met the standards set forth by the
in Armor Award Sept. 13-17 at Camp Buehring. courses, weapons systems tasks and armored Office of the Chief of Armor at Fort Benning, Georgia.
On the left side of a Soldier’s uniform, a number vehicle related tasks. “The 13 Soldiers who met all qualifications
of skill badges may be seen and worn with pride, each Additionally, Soldiers performed tasks focused will be formally inducted into the EIA Program by
representing branch excellence or specialty skills. For specifically on the M1 Abrams Tank and Bradley the Armor Branch,” Hillig said. “They will be
example, infantrymen compete to earn their Expert Fighting Vehicle. Those tasks included bore sighting, identified for accelerated promotion and maintain
Infantryman Badges while medics challenge themselves preventive maintenance checks and services procedures, key positions within the unit so we can benefit from
to earn Expert Field Medical Badges. their potential as leaders.”
For the Armor and Cavalry Force After successfully completing the
however, tankers and scouts do not have qualification course, the EIA will be
badges to indicate excellence in their mili- added to their military records so their
tary occupational specialty excellence, accomplishment will follow them for
but they can earn something that other the rest of their military careers.
Soldiers cannot — Excellence in Armor “Earning an EIA marks them as leaders
(EIA) Awards from the EIA Program. amongst their peers,” Sexton said. “Having
The program identifies, recognizes this award in your records validates that
and honors tankers and scout Soldiers you have obtained excellence in your career
in the ranks of private through sergeant field; it’s not easy to obtain.”
who have demonstrated outstanding While adding 13 more distinguished
performance and possess leadership Soldiers to the EIA Program, the testing
potential, while also achieving excellence also proved beneficial by increasing overall
in their respective occupational specialties. readiness throughout the unit.
This particular EIA qualification “This experience has increased our
was unique in the fact Soldiers tested at operational readiness as a formation and
night while conducting their day-to-day has helped set the conditions for our future
deployment operations. success,” said Hillig.
Staff Sgt. Elijah Sexton, master gunner, The Soldiers of these battalions
1st Bn., 68th Armor Reg., said conducting Spc. Jeb Waite, armored crewmember, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, continue their theater reserve and
the EIA testing while being forward 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry partnership mission and will have another
deployed was challenging, but teamwork Division, disassembles the main gun of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle during Excellence chance to earn their Excellence in Armor
made it successful. in Armor qualifications Sept. 14 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Award next year.