4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

1 7 3 D B R I G A D E S U P P O R T B AT TA L I O N

Home Front The Place to Get Home Station Information

The BSB is having a drawing contest that will be judged by our Steering Committee and then sent down range to have some of them sent to be displayed in the Senate building Submission deadline is 11 June You must sendsubmit the original drawing to your FRSA Heather Clark For our Rigger families they need to be turned into Rebecca your FRG Leader Her and SSG Rodriguez will make sure to send the hard copies down range and send us a digital copy for judging Age groups are as follows 6 years and under 7-

9 years and 10-12 years Each age category will have a prize and the winners will be announced and rewarded on 19 June at our Half-Way day with STB The winners will also be announced in our August edition newsletter as well as

Facebook All drawings will be posted on Facebook The theme for the drawing is My Deployed Parent The picture must be drawn by the child with no pa-rental help They need to use 8 12 by 11 inch paper with the choice of the following markers paint color pencils or crayons On the back of the drawing please put childs name and age and what company the parent is in

We are looking forward to seeing your

childrsquos drawings

Drawing Contest Pictures below were not drawn by BSB children

Page 2

When I was in high school every student had to take a foreign language Most took Spanish I took French Has that knowledge helped me living in Germany Not a bit When I go into town (or out on the economy as the military calls it) I get very frustrated not being able to communicate with the shopkeepers bus drivers waiters and waitresses and a host of others Why Because they speak German and I donrsquot Now I could expect them all to know English but that would be unrealistic The bottom line is that unless I learn German I will never be able to fully communicate with Ger-man speaking citizens It is the same way with love

Love is spoken in many different languages and I am not talking about French German Italian and Spanish The lan-guage of love is expressed through a gentle touch a kind word a thoughtful gift an unexpected act of service or time set

aside just to be together

For the past couple of weeks I have been leading a lunch time study on the book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman It has been fascinat-ing to learn how confusing and misunderstood love is We all want to be in love and we all want to experience the feelings of love but most peo-ple who are married live together in unsatisfying relationships Why is that It is because their ldquolove tankrdquo is empty

Okay so what is a ldquolove tankrdquo A love tank is our inner capacity to feel loved When a person or a couple say ldquoWe donrsquot love each other any-morerdquo what they are really saying is ldquoOur love tank is emptyrdquo And the only way to fill that love tank is through a specific kind of love language that makes them feel special and adored

Each person has a primary love language and it is usually different than their spouse Herein lies the problem for most couples The husbandrsquos love language may be physical touch His wifersquos love language might be words of affirmation He expresses his love to her by rubbing her back touching her hair brushing into her as he walks by The wife in turn expresses her love to him by telling him how proud she is of him how hand-some and strong he is what a great husband he is You would think this couple has a great marriagehellipand you would be wrong They are on the brink of divorce Why

The husband is not communicating love in a language his wife understands He is speaking French she understands German Since her primary love language is words of affirmation her husband needs to build her up by how he speaks to her He needs to tell her she is beautiful that she is a great cook that she is smart that he believes in her She doesnrsquot want to be touched by a man who doesnrsquot respect her She cannot be inti-mate with a man who criticizes her and makes her feel bad about herself

In the same way if the husband is not held by his wife if she does not hold his hand touch his face or meet his physical needs he is going to feel unloved and his heart will grow cold and distant He becomes bitter and uncaring What we end up having is two strangers living under the same roof

In summary the key to a happy marriage is keeping the love tank full The best way to do that is by learning to speak the love language of your spouse In other words for a great marriage FOREIGN LANGUAGE IS REQUIRED

As always if you have any questions or if there is anything I can do to support you please call or write

For God and country

CH Peter Strong

Rear Detachment Chaplain

469-15708140

peterstrongeurarmymil

Chaplainrsquos Corner ndash Foreign Language is Required

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

In December 2009 the government of Puerto Rico in collaboration with the US Department of State and the US Depart-

ment of Homeland Security enacted a new law aimed at strengthening the issuance and usage of birth certificates to com-

bat fraud and protect the identity of all people born in Puerto Rico On July 1 this law will invalidate all birth certificates is-

sued before July 1 2010 by the Puerto Rico Health Department through its Vital Statistics Record Office Affected Soldiers

civilian employees and family members will need to request issuance of a new birth certificate It is recommended that all

citizens born in Puerto Rico but residing overseas obtain a copy of the new birth certificate by filling out a Birth Certificate

Application form from the Puerto Rico Vital Statistics Record office on or after July 1 Application forms can be obtained at

httpwwwsaludgovprProgramasregistroDemograficoPagesRequisitosparasolicituddeNacimientoaspx

or httpwwwbambergarmymildirectoratesdhrpassportsasp

Puerto Rican Birth Certificates

Page 2

When I was in high school every student had to take a foreign language Most took Spanish I took French Has that knowledge helped me living in Germany Not a bit When I go into town (or out on the economy as the military calls it) I get very frustrated not being able to communicate with the shopkeepers bus drivers waiters and waitresses and a host of others Why Because they speak German and I donrsquot Now I could expect them all to know English but that would be unrealistic The bottom line is that unless I learn German I will never be able to fully communicate with Ger-man speaking citizens It is the same way with love

Love is spoken in many different languages and I am not talking about French German Italian and Spanish The lan-guage of love is expressed through a gentle touch a kind word a thoughtful gift an unexpected act of service or time set

aside just to be together

For the past couple of weeks I have been leading a lunch time study on the book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman It has been fascinat-ing to learn how confusing and misunderstood love is We all want to be in love and we all want to experience the feelings of love but most peo-ple who are married live together in unsatisfying relationships Why is that It is because their ldquolove tankrdquo is empty

Okay so what is a ldquolove tankrdquo A love tank is our inner capacity to feel loved When a person or a couple say ldquoWe donrsquot love each other any-morerdquo what they are really saying is ldquoOur love tank is emptyrdquo And the only way to fill that love tank is through a specific kind of love language that makes them feel special and adored

Each person has a primary love language and it is usually different than their spouse Herein lies the problem for most couples The husbandrsquos love language may be physical touch His wifersquos love language might be words of affirmation He expresses his love to her by rubbing her back touching her hair brushing into her as he walks by The wife in turn expresses her love to him by telling him how proud she is of him how hand-some and strong he is what a great husband he is You would think this couple has a great marriagehellipand you would be wrong They are on the brink of divorce Why

The husband is not communicating love in a language his wife understands He is speaking French she understands German Since her primary love language is words of affirmation her husband needs to build her up by how he speaks to her He needs to tell her she is beautiful that she is a great cook that she is smart that he believes in her She doesnrsquot want to be touched by a man who doesnrsquot respect her She cannot be inti-mate with a man who criticizes her and makes her feel bad about herself

In the same way if the husband is not held by his wife if she does not hold his hand touch his face or meet his physical needs he is going to feel unloved and his heart will grow cold and distant He becomes bitter and uncaring What we end up having is two strangers living under the same roof

In summary the key to a happy marriage is keeping the love tank full The best way to do that is by learning to speak the love language of your spouse In other words for a great marriage FOREIGN LANGUAGE IS REQUIRED

As always if you have any questions or if there is anything I can do to support you please call or write

For God and country

CH Peter Strong

Rear Detachment Chaplain

469-15708140

peterstrongeurarmymil

Chaplainrsquos Corner ndash Foreign Language is Required

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

In December 2009 the government of Puerto Rico in collaboration with the US Department of State and the US Depart-

ment of Homeland Security enacted a new law aimed at strengthening the issuance and usage of birth certificates to com-

bat fraud and protect the identity of all people born in Puerto Rico On July 1 this law will invalidate all birth certificates is-

sued before July 1 2010 by the Puerto Rico Health Department through its Vital Statistics Record Office Affected Soldiers

civilian employees and family members will need to request issuance of a new birth certificate It is recommended that all

citizens born in Puerto Rico but residing overseas obtain a copy of the new birth certificate by filling out a Birth Certificate

Application form from the Puerto Rico Vital Statistics Record office on or after July 1 Application forms can be obtained at

httpwwwsaludgovprProgramasregistroDemograficoPagesRequisitosparasolicituddeNacimientoaspx

or httpwwwbambergarmymildirectoratesdhrpassportsasp

Puerto Rican Birth Certificates

Happenings in the FRG

Greetings from Your FRSA Heather Clark

FRG Meetings

The last Thursday of every month is the Battalion FRG meeting This is the best place to get information and to meet people from other companies Junersquos meeting is on the 24th at 530 at the FRG Building

Page 3

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Hello BSB Family

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce or reintroduce myself I am the Family Readiness

Support Assistant (FRSA) for the 173rd BSB Irsquom not a volunteer but a civilian employee working

for the 173rd BSB I assist the Command Rear-D Command along with the logistical and adminis-

trative work for the FRGs If you have questions or concerns I am here to help you identify the resources in our commu-

nity that can best address your needs Also if you need paperwork from your spousersquos Commander such as a Space A

letter I would be more than happy to assist you in obtaining that

My office is located in the FRG building adjacent to the Battalion building My office hours

are Monday-Friday 0800-1630 with lunch from 1130-1300 You can reach me at 0951-300-

8537 or 0162-272-8797 If I am not in the office my personal cell number is written on the

white board attached to the door of the building

It is my great pleasure to work for such an awesome battalion that is full of awesome people

Your FRSA

Heather Clark

Retreats If you havenrsquot heard yet the Bamberg Chapel is putting on two more retreats for the 173rd Spouses The next retreat is 11-13 June and then 24-26 September Both are at Edel-weiss in Garmisch All cost but lunches are provided If you would like to attend either retreat please contact your FRSA Heather at 0951-300-7704 or heathericlarkeurarmymil

Walk to Afghanistan

As a Battalion we have made it to Afghanistan Great job everybody As a group we have walked 3712 miles It is only 3079 miles from Bamberg to Afghanistan Here are the top three walkers for the month of April

Stacy Stump walked 469 miles

Giullianna Soares walked 330 miles

Misty Binsfeld walked 240 miles

Great job ladies Keep up the hard work and we might just make it back to Bamberg

Email Scams

We have had two spouses receive emails from people in their

email contacts asking them to send them money This is not

true and I have contacted resources on post to see if they could

help us with this They cant since it is personal email accounts

this is happening to If you receive an email like this please de-

lete it right away do not reply and if you have a antivirus or

spyware system on your computer run it right away Either the

persons email account has been compromised or your com-

puter has been Never send money to anyone and if you are

concerned about this person please give them a call

The Veste Coburg (Coburg Fortress)

in Bavaria is one of the largest sur-

viving medieval fortresses in Ger-

many It is a fascinating castle in it-

self but is perhaps especially known

for sheltering Martin Luther

The Coburg fortress which is also

called the Franconian Crown be-

cause of its beauty and dominating

location rises high above the city

with its mighty walls and towers

Covering approximately 135 x 260

meters it is one of the largest and

among the best preserved castle

complexes in Germany

Extraordinary collections of armor and

weapons of war partly originating

from the former armory of the for-

tress hunting weapons and hunting

equipment precious handicrafts the

oldest preserved carriages in the

world the great Hofstube with the

largest completely preserved cast iron

stove pictures from Duumlrer Cranach

the Elder and Gruumlnewald make a visit

to Coburg Fortress into a one-of-a-

kind experience

Getting therehellip Coburg can be reached by car via B

303 Schweinfurt-Coburg-Schirnding B

4 Hamburg-Coburg-Nuumlrnberg or high-

way A 73 Suhl-Coburg-Nuumlrnberg

Seven-times Formula 1 world cham-

pion Michael Schumacher has been a

recently noted driver in Coburg GPS

address Veste Coburg 96450 Coburg

Hours April - October daily

from 9am - 5pm November -

March Tue - Sun 1pm - 4pm

Closed Shrove Tuesday Decem-

ber 24th 25th and 31st

Admission 5 euro Adults 25 euro

Concessions 10 euro Family Card

Other great Coburg attractions

Ehrenburg Castle (Coburger Landess-

tiftung) Rosenau Castle (Schloss

Rosenau) Callenberg Castle (Schloss

Callenberg) Bad Rodach Hot Springs

Toy Museum

Travel Destinations Courtesy of HHC

Want a great place to go Exploring

Page 4

Home Front

4 June 2010 Vanguards Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

Veste Coburg (Coburg Fortress) Coburg

Coburg pattern English (London) silver spoons c1830

Page 5

Home Front

4 June 2010 Vanguards Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

Out Door Rec Trips for Vicenza Italy

Trips through Outdoor Rec is the best way to travel and sightsee The following trips are occurring in

June

5 ST Moritz and Bernina Express $90 9 Wine Down Wednesday Lake Garda

12 Rome Express 18 Medieval Times $30

21 Wakeboard amp Beach trip $30 22nNordic Hike $10

From the 7th-13th and 21st-27th there is the SCUBA Basic Open Water Course $280

For more information please call the Out Door Recreation 634-7453 or visit their website at

httpwwwvicenzamwrcomcommunitycalendarhtmli=10

Recipes Courtesy of HHC Riggers

SESAME BRAIDS

3 PKGS YEAST(14 OZ EACH)

2 14 CUPS WARM WATER

13 CUP SUGAR

1 TBSP OIL

2 EGGS

1 TBSP WATER

1 TBSP SALT

6-7 CUPS FLOUR

2 TSP SESAME SEEDS

IN LARGE MIXING BOWL DISSOLVE YEAST IN WATER ADD SUGAR AND OIL MIX WELL IN SMALL

BOWL BEAT EGGS AND WATER REMOVE 2 TBSP TO A CUP ADD REMAINING EGG MIXTURE AND SALT TO

BATTER MIX UNTIL SMOOTH ADD FLOUR AND BEAT UNTIL SMOOTH ADD ENOUGH FLOUR TO MAKE A SOFT

DOUGH TURN ONTO A FLOURED SURFACE AND KNEAD UNTIL SMOOTH AND ELASTICABOUT 6-8 MIN

PLACE IN A GREASED BOWLTURNING ONCE TO GREASE TOP COVER AND LET RISE IN A WARM PLACE

UNTIL DOUBLED ABOUT 20 MIN PUNCH DOUGH DOWN AND DIVIDE IN HALF DIVIDE EACH HALF INTO

THIRDS SHAPE EACH INTO 3 ROPES AND BRAID PINCH ENDS TOGETHER FIRMLY AND TUCK UNDER BRUSH

WITH REMAINING EGG MIXUTRE SPRINKLE WITH SESAME SEEDS LET RISE UNTIL DOUBLED BAKE AT 350

FOR 20-25 MIN 2 LOAVES

Page 6

Home Front

4 June 2010 Wildcardrsquos Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

F U N F A C T S A B O U T A F G H A N I S TA N

Jingle Truck

A jingle truck is a colorfully decorated truck typically in central Asia Jingle

truck is shorthand for the customized trucks and buses common throughout

the region The term comes from United States military slang serving in Af-

ghanistan (thanks guys) The term came to be because of the Jingle sound

that the trucks make due to the chains hanging from the bumpers of the vehi-

cles They are colorfully painted in intricate patterns and bright colors reflect-

ing the personality of the owner Chains and pendants often dangle off the

front bumper (thus the name) and often colorful tassels

Cash money

The Afghani (PashtoPersian ( )افغانۍ sign ؋ code AFN) is the

currency of Afghanistan It is subdivided into 100 pul ( ( پول

The first Afghani (ISO 4217 code AFA) was introduced in 1925 replacing the Afghan ru-pee In addition to being subdi-vided into 100 pul 20 Afghani were equal to the amani The rate of conversion from the rupee is sometimes quoted as 1 Afghani = 11 rupee[1] based on the silver contents of the last rupee coins and the first Af-ghani coins The Afghani ini-tially contained 9 grams of sil-ver

Living Large Whatrsquos cooking Families usually live in a kala This is a group of

buildings where big families live together in-cluding cousins uncles and aunts The women work together to raise all of the kids Grandpas are in charge of everyonersquos money and grandmas are in charge of all of the housekeep-ing chores

Although Afghan food may vary between regions similarities exist Fresh yogurt coriander garlic onions spring on-ion tomatoes potatoes and fruit are widely available in all parts of Afghanistan and are used in preparing foods Fruits and vegetables fresh and dried form an important part of the Afghan diet especially in the rural areas Afghani-stan produces exceptionally high quality fruits notably grapes pomegranates apricots berries and plums These fruits have traditionally been Afghanistans main food exports Dried nuts and seeds such as walnuts pistachios al-monds and pine nuts are both very popular and plentiful in Afghanistan Exceptional varieties of oranges known lo-cally as Malta are grown in the warm climate of Nangarhar province Olive oil is also produced in Nangarhar province but for local and national consumption onlyWardak province is well known for its delicious apples and apricots and the same goes with Kandahar for having the best pomegranates Herbs and spices used in Afghan cuisine include mint saffron coriander cilantro cardamom and black pepper Lamb and chicken are the preferred meats When available meat is widely consumed Afghan cuisine emphasizes well-balanced tastes Food should be seasoned but neither too spicy nor too bland Contrasts are emphasized

Page 6

Home Front

4 June 2010 Wildcardrsquos Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

F U N F A C T S A B O U T A F G H A N I S TA N

Jingle Truck

A jingle truck is a colorfully decorated truck typically in central Asia Jingle

truck is shorthand for the customized trucks and buses common throughout

the region The term comes from United States military slang serving in Af-

ghanistan (thanks guys) The term came to be because of the Jingle sound

that the trucks make due to the chains hanging from the bumpers of the vehi-

cles They are colorfully painted in intricate patterns and bright colors reflect-

ing the personality of the owner Chains and pendants often dangle off the

front bumper (thus the name) and often colorful tassels

Cash money

The Afghani (PashtoPersian ( )افغانۍ sign ؋ code AFN) is the

currency of Afghanistan It is subdivided into 100 pul ( ( پول

The first Afghani (ISO 4217 code AFA) was introduced in 1925 replacing the Afghan ru-pee In addition to being subdi-vided into 100 pul 20 Afghani were equal to the amani The rate of conversion from the rupee is sometimes quoted as 1 Afghani = 11 rupee[1] based on the silver contents of the last rupee coins and the first Af-ghani coins The Afghani ini-tially contained 9 grams of sil-ver

Living Large Whatrsquos cooking Families usually live in a kala This is a group of

buildings where big families live together in-cluding cousins uncles and aunts The women work together to raise all of the kids Grandpas are in charge of everyonersquos money and grandmas are in charge of all of the housekeep-ing chores

Although Afghan food may vary between regions similarities exist Fresh yogurt coriander garlic onions spring on-ion tomatoes potatoes and fruit are widely available in all parts of Afghanistan and are used in preparing foods Fruits and vegetables fresh and dried form an important part of the Afghan diet especially in the rural areas Afghani-stan produces exceptionally high quality fruits notably grapes pomegranates apricots berries and plums These fruits have traditionally been Afghanistans main food exports Dried nuts and seeds such as walnuts pistachios al-monds and pine nuts are both very popular and plentiful in Afghanistan Exceptional varieties of oranges known lo-cally as Malta are grown in the warm climate of Nangarhar province Olive oil is also produced in Nangarhar province but for local and national consumption onlyWardak province is well known for its delicious apples and apricots and the same goes with Kandahar for having the best pomegranates Herbs and spices used in Afghan cuisine include mint saffron coriander cilantro cardamom and black pepper Lamb and chicken are the preferred meats When available meat is widely consumed Afghan cuisine emphasizes well-balanced tastes Food should be seasoned but neither too spicy nor too bland Contrasts are emphasized

Open since 2000 the Spanish-style eatery prides

itself on its excellent food and laid-back Medi-

terranean atmosphere

Serving more than 30 different tapas (a Spanish

word for certain appetizers) at 295 euros per

tapa Bolero lets diners pick and choose tailor-

made meals Many traditional tapas such as

gambas (sauteed prawns) and calamares (battered squid) are featured as well as Bolero specialties

For those wishing to eat one or two tapas followed by a full meal a nice selection of pasta dishes (590 to 720 euros)

or seafood and meat entrees (890 to 1680 Euros) are available Especially good is the Spanish rumpsteak a thin lean

cut of beef over mixed vegetables

Due to the great food and communal atmosphere tapas-style eating provides Bolero is fre-

quently busy Reservations especially on weekend evenings and for the great Sunday brunch

(1180 euros) are strongly encouraged Early diners can take advantage of the daily Happy Hour

from 5 to 730 pm

Parking may also prove tricky as there isnrsquot any in front of the restaurant But the Geyersworth

Parking Garage (under the Rose Garden) is just a block away and can be seen from Bolerorsquos

front door Bolero has nice outdoor space and also has plenty of room inside English menus

and a very friendly and helpful wait staff make dining both easy and enjoyable Plus the tapas

are really really good

Operating Hours Opens weekdays at 5 pm Saturdays at 11 am and Sundays and holidays at 10 am

Drinks Beer wine spirits and a full espresso menu Daily Happy Hour from 5 to 730 pm

Prices All tapas are 295 euros Entrees from about 6 to 17 euros

English menus Yes and many of the staff speak great English

Specialties Spanish cuisine featuring tapas A great Sunday brunch is 1180 euros

Directions Address is Judenstr 7 96049 Bamberg From the main gate on Warner

Barracks (gate 3) go straight out on Zollnerstrasse and follow it until it ends Go

left toward the Bahnhof and right at the light on to Luitpoldstrasse Follow the

priority road through several lights until it bears right twice When the road bears

left Bolerorsquos bright yellow sign is straight ahead There isnrsquot any parking at the

establishment but the Geyersworth Parking Garage is a block away

Telephone 0951-5090290

Page 7

Home Front

4 June 2010 Banditrsquos Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

Your inside scoop to local food entertainment and fun activities for the whole family

Courtesy of Bravo Co FRG

Tired of the typical German cuisine or Charleys on-post Try one of the more popular destinations in Bam-

bergrsquos old town is the tapas restaurant Bolero

Page 8

4 June 2010 Lifelines Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

Home Front

Courtesy of Charlie Company

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) has become the ldquosignature injuryrdquo of the Global War on Terrorism This resulted from the nature of the majority of injuries being from blast injuries from Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) TBI from blast injuries can be much more complex than from other causes The Defense and Veteran Brain Injury Center has been evaluating head injuries for many years and has been at the forefront of research and development for pre-vention and treatment of head injuries This endeavor is leading toward better designed equipment to help prevent head injuries new methods of evaluation and guidelines for treatment

One of the newest tools being used for evaluation of traumatic brain injury is called the Military Acute Con-cussion Evaluation or MACE test The MACE test was originally developed in 2006 and continues to be up-dated and improved since its original fielding It is a tool used from the very point of injury by the line medic all the way through higher echelons of care of soldiers with possible concussions or mild traumatic brain in-jury (mTBI) It helps in obtaining a history of injury and signs and symptoms that may indicate a concussionmTBI The MACE test features neurological testing that includes orientation immediate memory concentra-tion and delayed recall evaluations The score from each test is totaled to achieve the overall score which helps determine the presence of a concussionmTBI The scores also help determine when a soldier can safely be returned to duty

Evaluation of TBI is now at an all time high level Baseline testing is performed on all soldiers prior to deploy-ment Soldiers with significant injuries or non-battle medical conditions that require evacuation from theater undergo screening for concussionmTBI at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) All soldiers are screened as part of the Post Deployment Health Assessments (PDHA) at the completion of their tour before re-deploying to their home stations This testing is also available to veterans at Veteran Administration facili-ties

For more information concerning TBI go to wwwdvbicorg

The Frankfurt Shuttle Bus departs from the Bamberg Army Community Service building Monday-Friday at 635 am and arrives at the airport at 945 am The first return shuttle departs from the airport at 11 am and arrives in Bamberg at 315 pm The second shuttle departs from the airport at 250 pm and arrives in Bamberg at 630 pm The drop-off point is the Bamberg Service Credit Union The shuttle is not available on American and training holidays You can then take a shuttle from the airport to Ramstein to catch a Space A flight If you go to the USO they will check your id and let you know the location of where the bus departs Be at the USO by 1000 to put your name down for the morning bus and at 1400 for the one that leaves in the afternoon

Airport Shuttle to Frankfurt airportthen catch shuttle to Ramstein

Page 8

4 June 2010 Lifelines Corner Volume 1 Issue 3

Home Front

Courtesy of Charlie Company

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) has become the ldquosignature injuryrdquo of the Global War on Terrorism This resulted from the nature of the majority of injuries being from blast injuries from Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) TBI from blast injuries can be much more complex than from other causes The Defense and Veteran Brain Injury Center has been evaluating head injuries for many years and has been at the forefront of research and development for pre-vention and treatment of head injuries This endeavor is leading toward better designed equipment to help prevent head injuries new methods of evaluation and guidelines for treatment

One of the newest tools being used for evaluation of traumatic brain injury is called the Military Acute Con-cussion Evaluation or MACE test The MACE test was originally developed in 2006 and continues to be up-dated and improved since its original fielding It is a tool used from the very point of injury by the line medic all the way through higher echelons of care of soldiers with possible concussions or mild traumatic brain in-jury (mTBI) It helps in obtaining a history of injury and signs and symptoms that may indicate a concussionmTBI The MACE test features neurological testing that includes orientation immediate memory concentra-tion and delayed recall evaluations The score from each test is totaled to achieve the overall score which helps determine the presence of a concussionmTBI The scores also help determine when a soldier can safely be returned to duty

Evaluation of TBI is now at an all time high level Baseline testing is performed on all soldiers prior to deploy-ment Soldiers with significant injuries or non-battle medical conditions that require evacuation from theater undergo screening for concussionmTBI at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) All soldiers are screened as part of the Post Deployment Health Assessments (PDHA) at the completion of their tour before re-deploying to their home stations This testing is also available to veterans at Veteran Administration facili-ties

For more information concerning TBI go to wwwdvbicorg

The Frankfurt Shuttle Bus departs from the Bamberg Army Community Service building Monday-Friday at 635 am and arrives at the airport at 945 am The first return shuttle departs from the airport at 11 am and arrives in Bamberg at 315 pm The second shuttle departs from the airport at 250 pm and arrives in Bamberg at 630 pm The drop-off point is the Bamberg Service Credit Union The shuttle is not available on American and training holidays You can then take a shuttle from the airport to Ramstein to catch a Space A flight If you go to the USO they will check your id and let you know the location of where the bus departs Be at the USO by 1000 to put your name down for the morning bus and at 1400 for the one that leaves in the afternoon

Airport Shuttle to Frankfurt airportthen catch shuttle to Ramstein

Home Front

4 June 2010 Field Trip Fridays Volume 1 Issue 3

In the Army there are many benefits for Soldiers and their Families Some of those benefits are being able to see the world experience new cultures and to see things most Americans only read about However some military Families leave their host country without taking full advantage of their host countries opportunities My mother realized this a few weeks ago and quickly put together a plan of action we call Fieldtrip Fridays Every Friday we are to visit a different historical cultural or just a relaxing place where we can learn a little more about Germany Three of the places we have been thus far are the Ega Park in Erfurt Maria Frieden Abbey and a Spa in Bad Kissingin

The Ega Park in Erfurt will fascinate both garden and ani-mal lovers alike When you first enter the garden you are greeted by flower sculptures and fountains Turning left there are beds and beds of Tulips Pansies and Hyacinths If someone asked me to tell them what ldquobeautifulrdquo

smelled like I would tell them the Ega garden in Erfurt As you continue to stroll through the park another smell invades the sweet smell of thousands of flowers It is the smell of manure coming from the small animal farm In it are miniature ponies donkeys geese pigs and six little baby bunnies which resemble little fur balls One little bunny is brave enough to scamper towards you his little eyes filled with curiosity Are there more things at Ega Park Yes a Japanese Garden a Rose Iris and Rock Garden a butterfly pavilion and much more

The Maria Frieden Abbey is inhabited by eighteen nuns and two monks They make their own candles grow their own food and slaughter their own steaks They are a self sustaining organic Benedictine Order While you are there you may run into Brother Joseph He will show you the sheep and the cows and the Chapel that American Soldiers helped build after WWII Just like Ega Park there are many surprises that await you at Maria Frieden Abbey

The Spa in Bad Kissingin may not be the best educational experience but it will definitely be a relaxing one( perfect for busy mothers) Each pool has its own specific mineral and temperature There is a mud bath that will interest most older people and a cafeacute that will interest the younger hungry visitor All and all it is a very relaxing way to spend a day going from pool to sauna to pool again reading and relaxing

For parents ldquoField Trip Fridaysrdquo can be more than going to a new place and having lunch You can give

each child a job such as keeping a travel log or being the official photographer or preparing a scrapbook to

send to your deployed parent The three places mentioned here are thirty minutes to two hours away You

can find much more Germany is waiting

By Mary Anna Turpin

Mary Anna Turpin (in black jacket) Age 12

Ega Park

Spa in Bad Kissingin

Page 9

There are still several vehicle registrations that need to be picked up at the S1 office You can stop by S1 from 0930-1700 every day to pick up their registration (they are closed for lunch from 1130-1300 and closed on training holidays) You will need to sign a log as proof of it having been issued out The S1 Office is located in the Battalion Building located to the right of the FRG Building Head in the set of doors on the right and it is the door at the top of the stairs on the right If you have any questions about this matter please contact your FRSA Heather Clark 0951-300-8537

Vehicle registrations

Page 10

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Home Front

Personal Opinion Disclaimer

This document was prepared as a service to the US Army Forces Command community Neither the United States Government nor any of its employees makes any warranty expressed or implied or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy completeness or usefulness of any information products process or services by trade name trademark manufacturer or other-wise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement recommendation or favoring by the United States Government The opinions of the authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 173rd Brigade Support Battalion

As summer approaches many families spend time beautifying their lawns While lawnmowers are a much-needed tool they can pose a serious threat to the health and safety if precautions arent taken

The mower is a cutting machine designed to trim grass but has the potential to cut anything that is placed in its path The cutting edge of the mower blade can travel at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour This can turn an ordinary item into a deadly missile Even a dull blade at that speed can slice fingers and toes that get in its way The US Consumer Product Safety Commission esti-mates that 57000 operators and bystanders require medical treatment each year for mower-related injuries

10 Safe Mowing Practices

1 Prepare lawn for mowing Every time before you mow check your lawn for items such as sticks rocks toys sports equip-ment dog bones wire and equipment parts

2 Handle fuel with care Always use care when filling the tank with gasoline wipe up spills after filling and never fill the tank on a mower that has been operating and is hot A hot muffler can ignite the gasoline vapors When storing gasoline for your lawn-mower store only what is needed and use an approved flammable-liquids storage container

3 Wear appropriate clothes Close-fitting clothes are less likely to get caught on controls or moving parts Long pants and sturdy leather shoes protect you from flying sticks stones or other items not caught by the rear guard

4 Use hearing protection and faceeye shield if using edgerrsquos or weed whackers

5 Make sure other people especially children are out of the area

6 Never point the discharge chute at anyone Objects flying from the chute cause most injuries to people

7 Do not mow wet grass Wet grass is slippery and the operator can lose footing slip under the mower or allow the mower to roll backwards

8 Use care on inclines Some slopes are too steep to mow safely so use good judgment Push walk-behind mowers across slopes and drive riding mowers up and down slopes

9 Never leave a running mower unattended When you leave the operatorrsquos position the mower should be turned off

10 Disconnect spark plug to service Disconnect the spark plug when you work on the mower prevents the engine from acciden-tally being started

General Community Information Lawn Mower Safety

1 Service member must have 12 months left on their current assignment in order to command sponsor a new dependent

2 New born babies are automatically command sponsored if the service member already has command sponsored family mem-

ber but they still need to file necessary paperwork

3 Enrolling your child in DEERS does not make them command sponsored You must file specific command sponsorship paper-

work in order for your dependent child to be included on your PCS orders (this is one of the most common issues with com-

mand sponsorship)

4 The S1 will have the checklist and paperwork needed to submit to the MPD but common documents required are Current

DD93 with dependants current location ERBORB military Orders Marriage Certificate Birth Certificate Copies of Passport

VISASOFA if applicable DA 5888-R Endorsement from Battalion Commander

5 If a service member is going to be TDY en-route then they need to file ILS (Individual Logistical Support) Less than 90 days ins

locally approved but over 90 days goes up to IMCOM-E so it will take longer time to process

6 If a service member wants to re-command sponsor their family member and bring them back to Germany then they are re-

quired to serve 24 months from the time they family member return to Germany

7 If you have current EROD for your family member and plan to go to another OCONUS location then they will be on your orders

to travel from their stateside address

8 Please make sure that all family members passports are current up-to-date and will have plenty of time left on them in order

for the family member to travel back to the US or their next duty station

9 If a SM needs a VISA for their wife or children then they need to start ASAP

Restrictions 1 Infant family members less than 6 weeks old will not be authorized to travel on AMC aircraft unless considered

medically sound and so certified by a responsible medical officer or civilian Physician

2 Pregnant women who are under 240 days gestation will be permitted to travel by military aircraft unless this mode of travel is

medically inadvisable

Command Sponsorship

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Parents DayNight Out

Want a couple hours child free on a Friday night or Saturday afternoon for free Head on over the they CYSS Parent Ventral and sign up for the following dates Located in building 7340 Phone number is 0951-300-77168660 Deployed spouses get priority but make sure to make your reservation as soon as possible

For parents night out from 1830-2130 For parents day out from 1130-1530

2 July 3 Sep 7 Aug 2 Oct

5 Nov 4 Dec

Outdoor Recreation Trips

Trips through Outdoor Rec is the best way to travel and sightsee The following trips are occurring in JUNE 5th Medieval Market $20 9th Bike Ride FREE 10th Tour Under Bamberg $20 12th Europa Park $80 18-20th Conquer the Zugspitze $150 21st Solstice Hike $20 26th Prague City Tour $60 26th White Water Kayak $25 mdashFor more information on the trips please visit the usagbambergcom home page or call 0951-300-86597450

Page 11

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

19 JUNE HALF WAY DAY WITH STB Come join us as we celebrate the 6-month mark of the deployment We need

you on the BSB team for flag football or volleyball and Tug of War WHO BSB+STB families and friends WHAT have a fun-filled day WHERE On football field by BSB Headquarters BLDG 7050 WHEN 19 June from 1000-1400 WHY to get out of the house meet some new people and have fun

PARTICIPATE IN

OUR EXCITING

FUNDRAISING

WHICH WILL IN-

CLUDE A VIP

DUNKTANK AND

BIDDING FOR lsquoPIE

IN THE FACErsquo

ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE Flag Football or volleyball

between STB and BSB

Tug of War between STB

and BSB

Scavenger hunt for teenag-

ers

Water balloon toss and

sack races for smaller chil-

dren

Technical display of some

military vehicles

Bouncy Whopper House

The Engagement Skills

Trainer will be open for the

kids to try their marksman-

ship skills on the digital en-

emy

Pugil stick fight

We miss you bsb

FREE

FOOD

AND

DRINKS

There are still several vehicle registrations that need to be picked up at the S1 office You can stop by S1 from 0930-1700 every day to pick up their registration (they are closed for lunch from 1130-1300 and closed on training holidays) You will need to sign a log as proof of it having been issued out The S1 Office is located in the Battalion Building located to the right of the FRG Building Head in the set of doors on the right and it is the door at the top of the stairs on the right If you have any questions about this matter please contact your FRSA Heather Clark 0951-300-8537

Vehicle registrations

Page 10

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Home Front

Personal Opinion Disclaimer

This document was prepared as a service to the US Army Forces Command community Neither the United States Government nor any of its employees makes any warranty expressed or implied or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy completeness or usefulness of any information products process or services by trade name trademark manufacturer or other-wise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement recommendation or favoring by the United States Government The opinions of the authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 173rd Brigade Support Battalion

As summer approaches many families spend time beautifying their lawns While lawnmowers are a much-needed tool they can pose a serious threat to the health and safety if precautions arent taken

The mower is a cutting machine designed to trim grass but has the potential to cut anything that is placed in its path The cutting edge of the mower blade can travel at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour This can turn an ordinary item into a deadly missile Even a dull blade at that speed can slice fingers and toes that get in its way The US Consumer Product Safety Commission esti-mates that 57000 operators and bystanders require medical treatment each year for mower-related injuries

10 Safe Mowing Practices

1 Prepare lawn for mowing Every time before you mow check your lawn for items such as sticks rocks toys sports equip-ment dog bones wire and equipment parts

2 Handle fuel with care Always use care when filling the tank with gasoline wipe up spills after filling and never fill the tank on a mower that has been operating and is hot A hot muffler can ignite the gasoline vapors When storing gasoline for your lawn-mower store only what is needed and use an approved flammable-liquids storage container

3 Wear appropriate clothes Close-fitting clothes are less likely to get caught on controls or moving parts Long pants and sturdy leather shoes protect you from flying sticks stones or other items not caught by the rear guard

4 Use hearing protection and faceeye shield if using edgerrsquos or weed whackers

5 Make sure other people especially children are out of the area

6 Never point the discharge chute at anyone Objects flying from the chute cause most injuries to people

7 Do not mow wet grass Wet grass is slippery and the operator can lose footing slip under the mower or allow the mower to roll backwards

8 Use care on inclines Some slopes are too steep to mow safely so use good judgment Push walk-behind mowers across slopes and drive riding mowers up and down slopes

9 Never leave a running mower unattended When you leave the operatorrsquos position the mower should be turned off

10 Disconnect spark plug to service Disconnect the spark plug when you work on the mower prevents the engine from acciden-tally being started

General Community Information Lawn Mower Safety

1 Service member must have 12 months left on their current assignment in order to command sponsor a new dependent

2 New born babies are automatically command sponsored if the service member already has command sponsored family mem-

ber but they still need to file necessary paperwork

3 Enrolling your child in DEERS does not make them command sponsored You must file specific command sponsorship paper-

work in order for your dependent child to be included on your PCS orders (this is one of the most common issues with com-

mand sponsorship)

4 The S1 will have the checklist and paperwork needed to submit to the MPD but common documents required are Current

DD93 with dependants current location ERBORB military Orders Marriage Certificate Birth Certificate Copies of Passport

VISASOFA if applicable DA 5888-R Endorsement from Battalion Commander

5 If a service member is going to be TDY en-route then they need to file ILS (Individual Logistical Support) Less than 90 days ins

locally approved but over 90 days goes up to IMCOM-E so it will take longer time to process

6 If a service member wants to re-command sponsor their family member and bring them back to Germany then they are re-

quired to serve 24 months from the time they family member return to Germany

7 If you have current EROD for your family member and plan to go to another OCONUS location then they will be on your orders

to travel from their stateside address

8 Please make sure that all family members passports are current up-to-date and will have plenty of time left on them in order

for the family member to travel back to the US or their next duty station

9 If a SM needs a VISA for their wife or children then they need to start ASAP

Restrictions 1 Infant family members less than 6 weeks old will not be authorized to travel on AMC aircraft unless considered

medically sound and so certified by a responsible medical officer or civilian Physician

2 Pregnant women who are under 240 days gestation will be permitted to travel by military aircraft unless this mode of travel is

medically inadvisable

Command Sponsorship

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Parents DayNight Out

Want a couple hours child free on a Friday night or Saturday afternoon for free Head on over the they CYSS Parent Ventral and sign up for the following dates Located in building 7340 Phone number is 0951-300-77168660 Deployed spouses get priority but make sure to make your reservation as soon as possible

For parents night out from 1830-2130 For parents day out from 1130-1530

2 July 3 Sep 7 Aug 2 Oct

5 Nov 4 Dec

Outdoor Recreation Trips

Trips through Outdoor Rec is the best way to travel and sightsee The following trips are occurring in JUNE 5th Medieval Market $20 9th Bike Ride FREE 10th Tour Under Bamberg $20 12th Europa Park $80 18-20th Conquer the Zugspitze $150 21st Solstice Hike $20 26th Prague City Tour $60 26th White Water Kayak $25 mdashFor more information on the trips please visit the usagbambergcom home page or call 0951-300-86597450

Page 11

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

19 JUNE HALF WAY DAY WITH STB Come join us as we celebrate the 6-month mark of the deployment We need

you on the BSB team for flag football or volleyball and Tug of War WHO BSB+STB families and friends WHAT have a fun-filled day WHERE On football field by BSB Headquarters BLDG 7050 WHEN 19 June from 1000-1400 WHY to get out of the house meet some new people and have fun

PARTICIPATE IN

OUR EXCITING

FUNDRAISING

WHICH WILL IN-

CLUDE A VIP

DUNKTANK AND

BIDDING FOR lsquoPIE

IN THE FACErsquo

ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE Flag Football or volleyball

between STB and BSB

Tug of War between STB

and BSB

Scavenger hunt for teenag-

ers

Water balloon toss and

sack races for smaller chil-

dren

Technical display of some

military vehicles

Bouncy Whopper House

The Engagement Skills

Trainer will be open for the

kids to try their marksman-

ship skills on the digital en-

emy

Pugil stick fight

We miss you bsb

FREE

FOOD

AND

DRINKS

1 Service member must have 12 months left on their current assignment in order to command sponsor a new dependent

2 New born babies are automatically command sponsored if the service member already has command sponsored family mem-

ber but they still need to file necessary paperwork

3 Enrolling your child in DEERS does not make them command sponsored You must file specific command sponsorship paper-

work in order for your dependent child to be included on your PCS orders (this is one of the most common issues with com-

mand sponsorship)

4 The S1 will have the checklist and paperwork needed to submit to the MPD but common documents required are Current

DD93 with dependants current location ERBORB military Orders Marriage Certificate Birth Certificate Copies of Passport

VISASOFA if applicable DA 5888-R Endorsement from Battalion Commander

5 If a service member is going to be TDY en-route then they need to file ILS (Individual Logistical Support) Less than 90 days ins

locally approved but over 90 days goes up to IMCOM-E so it will take longer time to process

6 If a service member wants to re-command sponsor their family member and bring them back to Germany then they are re-

quired to serve 24 months from the time they family member return to Germany

7 If you have current EROD for your family member and plan to go to another OCONUS location then they will be on your orders

to travel from their stateside address

8 Please make sure that all family members passports are current up-to-date and will have plenty of time left on them in order

for the family member to travel back to the US or their next duty station

9 If a SM needs a VISA for their wife or children then they need to start ASAP

Restrictions 1 Infant family members less than 6 weeks old will not be authorized to travel on AMC aircraft unless considered

medically sound and so certified by a responsible medical officer or civilian Physician

2 Pregnant women who are under 240 days gestation will be permitted to travel by military aircraft unless this mode of travel is

medically inadvisable

Command Sponsorship

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

Parents DayNight Out

Want a couple hours child free on a Friday night or Saturday afternoon for free Head on over the they CYSS Parent Ventral and sign up for the following dates Located in building 7340 Phone number is 0951-300-77168660 Deployed spouses get priority but make sure to make your reservation as soon as possible

For parents night out from 1830-2130 For parents day out from 1130-1530

2 July 3 Sep 7 Aug 2 Oct

5 Nov 4 Dec

Outdoor Recreation Trips

Trips through Outdoor Rec is the best way to travel and sightsee The following trips are occurring in JUNE 5th Medieval Market $20 9th Bike Ride FREE 10th Tour Under Bamberg $20 12th Europa Park $80 18-20th Conquer the Zugspitze $150 21st Solstice Hike $20 26th Prague City Tour $60 26th White Water Kayak $25 mdashFor more information on the trips please visit the usagbambergcom home page or call 0951-300-86597450

Page 11

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

19 JUNE HALF WAY DAY WITH STB Come join us as we celebrate the 6-month mark of the deployment We need

you on the BSB team for flag football or volleyball and Tug of War WHO BSB+STB families and friends WHAT have a fun-filled day WHERE On football field by BSB Headquarters BLDG 7050 WHEN 19 June from 1000-1400 WHY to get out of the house meet some new people and have fun

PARTICIPATE IN

OUR EXCITING

FUNDRAISING

WHICH WILL IN-

CLUDE A VIP

DUNKTANK AND

BIDDING FOR lsquoPIE

IN THE FACErsquo

ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE Flag Football or volleyball

between STB and BSB

Tug of War between STB

and BSB

Scavenger hunt for teenag-

ers

Water balloon toss and

sack races for smaller chil-

dren

Technical display of some

military vehicles

Bouncy Whopper House

The Engagement Skills

Trainer will be open for the

kids to try their marksman-

ship skills on the digital en-

emy

Pugil stick fight

We miss you bsb

FREE

FOOD

AND

DRINKS

General Community Information

Home Front

4 June 2010 Volume 1 Issue 3

19 JUNE HALF WAY DAY WITH STB Come join us as we celebrate the 6-month mark of the deployment We need

you on the BSB team for flag football or volleyball and Tug of War WHO BSB+STB families and friends WHAT have a fun-filled day WHERE On football field by BSB Headquarters BLDG 7050 WHEN 19 June from 1000-1400 WHY to get out of the house meet some new people and have fun

PARTICIPATE IN

OUR EXCITING

FUNDRAISING

WHICH WILL IN-

CLUDE A VIP

DUNKTANK AND

BIDDING FOR lsquoPIE

IN THE FACErsquo

ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE Flag Football or volleyball

between STB and BSB

Tug of War between STB

and BSB

Scavenger hunt for teenag-

ers

Water balloon toss and

sack races for smaller chil-

dren

Technical display of some

military vehicles

Bouncy Whopper House

The Engagement Skills

Trainer will be open for the

kids to try their marksman-

ship skills on the digital en-

emy

Pugil stick fight

We miss you bsb

FREE

FOOD

AND

DRINKS