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FRONTLINEServing the Fort Stewa rt and Hunter Army Airfield comm unities (w ww.stewart.army.mil) May 17, 2007

PRSRT STD U.S. Postag e Pa idPermit no. 43,

Hinesville, Ga . 31314

Vol. 41, Issue 18

Kicking around inIraq, Soldiers learnself-defense, Seepage 1C

THE

Spc. Ricardo Branch1st BCT Public Affairs

RAMADI,Iraq – The work is underway to establish a safe perimeter aroundthe city, as part of the 1st BrigadeCombat Team’s plan to stop insurgentsfrom easily returning to the city.

The latest security effort is being headed by Soldiers from C Company

C, 9th Engineer Battalion, who con-structed a new checkpoint on RouteMichigan, April 10 in western Ramadi.

“We’re standing up an entry controlpoint on one of the main roads forRamadi,” said Sgt. Bryan Burgin. “ThisECP will allow the Iraqi army and Iraqipolice to set up a checkpoint, so they can control what comes in and out of the city ”

1BCT Engineers secure perimeter

Pat YoungFrontline Staff

Transition is part of the job for the3220th Garrison Support Unit as they help Soldiers prepare for deployment,redeployment or separation. Althoughthey perform their duties with prideand professionalism, some transitionscome with mixed emotions.

Some of those emotions were sharedat the 3220th GSU Medical RetentionBattalion Change of CommandCeremony, May 10 at Fort Stewart inthe Marne Gardens. The ceremony witnessed the outgoing commander,Lt. Col. Shawn Rasmussen, as heturned over the unit’s colors and mis-sion to the incoming commander, Lt.Col. Leonard C. Porter.

3220th changescommand, not

Soldier service

See CHANGE PAGE 3A



2A Frontline May 17, 2007 3rd Infantry Division

Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch

3rd Inf. Div. commanding general

If you have ever lived in a city with“gangs,” you know it’s a problem. Thesigns are prominent. There is graffiti,crime, distinctive gang dress or “colors,”and ritualistic behaviors. Gangs arenothing new and they manifest them-selves in every dark corner of our world.

Iraq has its share of gangs. So too doesAfghanistan. The extremist behaviorsexhibited by our enemies here are very

similar to the behaviors of violent gangsat home in the U.S.Thankfully, this is not the condition

we have in our home in the Coastal

Empire of southeast Georgia.

I can say for certain that our home isnot a home to gangs. They are not wel-comed and their culture is contrary tothe lifestyle of our Army.

In places where gangs thrive, you seebreak-ins, vandalism and car theft. Youmight also see rampant drug use, prosti-tution, physical assault, and murder.Our Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield have largely been spared fromthis sort of crime.

At Fort Stewart and Hunter Army

Airfield we are a home to Families whohave placed the good of our nationabove their own. We are members of anoble profession with honorable tradi-

tions and values. We are in every way

contrary to the culture of gangs. We are neighbors to two great commu-

nities in Hinesville and Savannah. And we do share concerns with these greatcities especially when it comes to thequality of life of our citizens. We sharethe goals of both cities’ leaders to makeour shared streets safe for children.

If you observe crime, report it to themilitary police. If you suspect that yourchild is a member of a gang, confront theissue or seek help from advocacy groups

or a chaplain on and off the installation.Let’s keep our home free of thescourge of gang behavior. Take a stand.ROCK OF THE MARNE!

Marne 6 Sends

The

Stay aware, help stop gang behavior

Museum introduces monthly changing exhibitsSasha McBrayerSpecial History Projects Officer

With the month of May springs an exciting change forthe Fort Stewart Museum. The brainchild of museumintern, Jasmine High, the museum staff is proud to unveila series of new exhibits, which will change every month.

High comes to Fort Stewart from George WashingtonUniversity in Washington, D.C.; one of the foremost col-leges offering museum studies courses. Though she is setto return to D.C. and finish up her masters degree as soonas May 20, her three month duration on Stewart has beenhighly productive. After completing an extensive collec-tions overhaul it became a goal of Miss High's to help themuseum attract new visitors.

Throughout my studies at George WashingtonUniversity, I have found that the concept of changing tem-porary exhibits is vital to any museum. Although a perma-nent exhibit can remain static for years, it is important tochange out exhibits regularly to allow the museum to dis-play a variety of their artifacts. A museum needs to regu-

ment more underway. The museum's Warrior's Walk dis-play got a new look. The museum collects a sampling from

the items left at the walk by well-wishers. These becomepermanent in the Army's collection and serve as a recordof grieving Americans preserved for generations to come.The collection spans over 300 objects.

Now, the Fort Stewart Museum plans to spotlight onefallen Soldier's tree every month. A photo of the Soldier isshown along with an artifact discovered at his or her treeand a brief bio. Soldiers are chosen randomly, however themonthly change will allow a variety of objects from Warrior's Walk to be displayed turn by turn. The collectionis simply too large to show all at once in the gallery's limit-ed space. It also gives the staff the opportunity to give duereverence to one hero at a time.

For the month of May, Spc. David H. Ford, IV is the sub- ject of the Warrior's Walk spotlight. Displayed are, a largetoy tank, signed by those who miss him, as well as a Family photo.

The second exhibit is also found at the tail end of theThird Division story near the new Warrior's Walk Exhibit. It

R k f h M



Col. Todd Buchs, the Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander recognized the achieve-ments of the 3220th, which activated in April 2003 and

partnered with Stewart and the 3rd Infantry Divisionduring Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The Medical Retention Battalion was called upon tohelp injured Soldiers to ensure they received optimalcare in order to either rejoin their units, or transition tocivilian life.

“The fine Soldiers of both the Medical RetentionBattalion and Mobilization and Operation Center havebenefited greatly by the superb leadership of Lt. Col.Shawn Rasmussen over the last two years,” Buchs said.“(He) has skillfully transformed the medical retentionprocessing unit into one that is respectful and commit-ted to the warriors in transitions, and their needs.”

Buchs said it is a testament to Rasmusen’s leadershipand the professionalism of the unit that helped trans-form the unit to an Army standard bearer of excellencefor the MPUs in the United States.

Buchs said farewell to Rasmussen and his Family. He wished them well as Rasmussen demobilized after two years of service at Fort Stewart.

Rasmussen will return to his employment with MerrillLynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Corporation as a certi-fied financial planner in Jupiter, Fla.

But Buchs recognized that the unit would continue inexcellence due to both the units professionalism, and theinsightful leadership of the incoming commander Lt. ColPorter. He welcomed Porter and his Family as they joined the team coming from the 3220th GSU in WestPalm Beach Fla.

Porter, a native of Kansas City, Mo, started his military career when he enlisted in July 1966 to serve in Vietnam.He received a direct commission as a second lieutenantin Oct. 1979 and served as the civil affairs officer with the450th Civil Affairs Company in Riverdale, Md.

Porter received experience with medical service in the927th Medical Company at Camp Blanding Fla and the

Rock of the Marne Frontline 3A May 17, 2007 The

‘3220th continues

partnership with Stewart, 3rd Inf Div’ CHANGE From Page 1A

Photos by Pat Young

Left: Color guard from the 3220th Garrison Support Unit, Medical Retention Battalion and Mobilization Operation Center represented the unit at the change of command ceremony held at Fort Stewart’s Marne Gardens May 10.

Below: Col. Todd Buchs, Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander, passes the 3220th’s unit colors to Lt. Col. Leonard Porter,incoming MPU commander as outgoing commander Lt. Col Shawn Rasmusen and Soldiers from the unit look on.



Many of you are familiar with theD.A.R.E. program that is taught in ourarea schools. One of the programrequirements is that each student writes an essay in order to graduate.Essays are judged by teachers, D.A.R.E.officers and Fort Stewart PoliceDepartment personnel. One overall winner is selected from each school andthey are awarded a prize. Prizes this year include a $50.00 AAFES gift certifi-cate,gift bags from MWR and a stuffedDaren the D.A.R.E. Lion. Runners-upfrom each class will also receive a prize.The overall winners are Savannah Williams from Fort Stewart Elementary School, Devin Pless from BrittinElementary School and KainoaNomura from Diamond Elementary

tobacco, smoking cigarettes, marijua-na, and alcohol are good because they see their parents, friends or otheradults doing this.

However, chewing tobacco causesdehydration. It can be hard to play sports if you use tobacco because it’sslows you down, and makes you weak-er. You are going to feel like a big sleepy elephant. Chewing tobacco is a lead-ing cause of lung cancer in the mouth,throat, bladder and kidney. Smokelesstobacco can also cause mouth cancer,tooth loss, and other health problems.

The poisons in cigarettes can affect your appearance. Smoking can dry

addictive. Marijuana users also havean increased risk of cancer. Marijuanasmoke contains 50% to 70% more of some cancer causing chemicals thantobacco smoke.

Alcohol slows down the brain andbody. Examples of this are: loss of coordination, slowed reflexes, loss of self control, poor judgment memory lapses, and slurred speech. Alcoholgoes directly into your bloodstreamand can increase your risk for a variety of diseases. If you are with others whoare drinking, there is an increase risk of injury, car crashes, and violence. Teenbodies are still growing; therefore alco-hol affects them more severely thanadults especially in school and whileplaying sports For example teens

3rd Infantry Division4A Frontline May 17, 2007 The

Motorcycle/POVSafety Day at Stewart

Community membersare invited to visit FortStewart and Hunter Army Airfield’s POV/MotorcycleSafety Day, 10 a.m. to 2p.m., Friday in the MainPX parking lot at Stewart.

Attractions will be pro-vided by local law enforcement and safety representatives from the

surrounding area.Features include:

• Motorcycle Safety Display advanced riding tips – Safety Office

• Seatbelt safety and

police• Railroad crossing

safety -CSX SavannahRailroad

• Army substancabuse display – FortStewart Office

• Fire department dis-play – Barbecue safety,vehicle displays

• Highway safety tips -

Highway PatrolHinesville

• Boating and watersafety - Game WardensFort Stewart

• DUI and driving

D.A.R.E. Winning Essays

Speed service provided at post hospitalWinn Public Affairs

Winn Army Community Hospital islaunching new systems that are designed tospeed service when Soldiers, retirees andFamily members call to make an appoint-ment or retrieve test results. The new sys-tems are based on the latest in communica-tions and speech technology from Avaya Inc.and Interactive Northwest Inc.

"This is cutting edge stuff that I'm con-vinced will provide faster, easier navigationthrough our telephone systems,” said Col.Scott Goodrich, Winn Army Community Hospital Commander.

The new technology addresses five criticalareas: connecting calls to the right depart-ment, reducing hold t imes, providing quick-er access to test results, handling calls moreefficiently, and using technology to improveservice.

The hospital now will use the latest “say anything” speech recognition technology to

connect calls to the right department. Thatmeans callers won’t have to wait for an oper-ator.

The system itself asks simple questionsand routes calls based on the answers pro-vided, without the need for human interven-tion. If the system doesn’t understand aresponse, it simply asks questions in order toclarify.

This high-tech capability is based on an Avaya speech technology platform.

"This is a change in the way we do busi-ness,” said Alice Sheplar, chief informationofficer at Winn Army Community Hospital.“It's great for patients who may have hadtrouble using the telephone keypad. It’s a work in progress and will continue toimprove with time."

Patients calling to make an appointmentno longer have to hang online to keep theirplace in queue if the department they needto reach is busy. Instead, they can schedulea callback – either as soon as someone is

available or at a specific time of day. Thanksto a software application from INI, they won’t lose their place in line. Instead, theircall is handled in the same order it wouldhave been if they had remained on the line.

"We are committed to improving ourpatients’ access to care, and the installationof the newly automated appointments sys-tem is one of the ways we will achieve thatgoal," said Harvey Harris, telecommunica-tions manager at Winn.

The hospital is expanding the use of anautomated system to deliver lab test results –allowing patients to access informationmore quickly and to do so on their ownschedule.

Patients can call in at a time that is mostconvenient for them, enter a personal lab IDnumber, and have the test results read tothem by the system. Software converts the written results to speech so that the systemcan “talk.”

Callers who contact the hospital now will

be prompted to enter their ID number, which in turn will trigger a computer systemto retrieve their records and display them onthe operator’s screen. That means calls canbe handled more promptly and patients won’t have to repeat information that isalready in the system.

For quality control and staff training pur-poses, the hospital now is able to record callsand examine how well they are handled.That means improvements can be madeover time in the service the hospital delivers.

“I'm a big believer in using new technolo-gy to enhance health care,” Goodrich said.“If we can decrease the time and frustrationour patients experience waiting on ourphone lines, then this system will be worthevery penny we spent on it."

The appointment line phone numbershave remained the same: 435-6633 or 1-800-652-9221. The new system also works forTuttle Army Health Clinic and the Lloyd C.Hawks Troop Medical Clinic.

Rock of the Marne F tli 5AMay 17 2007 The




Special to the Frontline

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAM-MER, Iraq – Soldiers assigned to the 3rdHeavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rdInfantry Division thwarted a small armsand mortar attack on an Iraqi nationalpolice station near the town of SalmanPak May 9. The attack began when sever-al gunmen engaged the station withsmall arms and mortars. Two 1stBattalion, 227th Aviation Regiment AH-64 attack helicopters responded to thecall for help from Soldiers of 1stBattalion, 15th Infantry Regiment and E

Company, 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment. E Co. Soldiers, currently serv-ing as an Iraqi police training team. The AH-64’s engaged and destroyed one vehi-cle with 30mm cannon fire after identify-ing the occupants as hostile. The heli-copters fired on three more gunmen asthey fled through a palm groove, killintwo. The 1/15 Inf. is assigned to the 3rdHeavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rdInfantry Division, from Fort Benning,Ga., and the 1/227th Avn. is part of the 1stCavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas.E Co. , 1/125th Inf. is a Michigan NationalGuard unit.

Assault on Iraqi police defeated

“I talk to them with a webcam plus I call “I pray for my kids every single day and “I call my son and badger him about his “I send pictures constantly and we write

3/1 Cav detains suspected insurgentSpecial to the Frontline

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq– Soldiers of the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment detained a suspected insurgent want-ed in connection with a recent rocket attack ona Coalition Forces’ base near Baghdad May 14.

Soldiers of A Troop, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry

Regiment, moved to the suspect’s house afterreceiving small-arms fire and quickly securedthe area. The suspect had an AK-47, two maga-zines of ammunition and a cell phone at thetime of his apprehension.

The 3/1 Cavalry Regiment is assigned to the3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry

Division, out of Fort Benning, Ga.

View news from the frontlineat the Dog Face Daily, online at

www.stewart.army.mil

Dog Face Voices: What do you do to keep yourself in your children’s thoughts?

6A Frontline M 17 2007The 3rd Infantry Division



6A Frontline May 17, 2007 The 3rd Infantry Division

Work as a youth volunteerThe American Red Cross Summer Youth Program begins

June 11 and concludes July 20. Applications are availableat the American Red Cross Office, building 253, Suite 207 4.

Students must complete youth volunteer applicationpackets and attend orientation by May 31. Work permitsmust be obtained for all youth under the age of 18. Formore information call ARC office at 767-2197.

Healthier Feds initiative targets employeesHealthier Feds provides information and education to

federal employees and retirees about healthy living,greater individual responsibility for personal health, andbest-treatment strategies. For more information visit www.healthierfeds.opm.gov.

Installation offers Vacation Bible SchoolFort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will sponsor

Vacation Bible School. The Stewart camp will be 9 a.m. tonoon, June 4 – 8 and will provide lunch for attendees. TheHunter event is 9 a.m. to noon, June 11 – 15 at the HunterChapel Annex. Both events are available to military dependents, K-6th grade. For more information, contactMike Iliff at 767-9789.

Bicycle recycling drive offeredThe Directorate of Public Works will host a bicycle recy-

cling drive now through May 23. If you would like todonate a bike that has suffered from neglect, gently used,or no longer desired – now is the time to make a differenceand keep bikes out of the landfills.

The collection times are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday at the Fort Stewart recycling center, bldg. 957 onMcFarland Avenue, and the Hunter recycling center, bldg.726 on Westley Ave. For more information call 767-8880.

Prepare for bad weatherLearn about hurricane and severe weather planning.

Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will hold threesevere weather briefs. Stewart will hold two at Moon

Theater from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on May 24. Hunter will haveone May 29 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Hunter Club.

Federal Employee Health Benefits offeredFort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will host a FEHB

Joint Service Day 1:30 - 3:30 p m May 23 at Building 253

Outdoor pools.

Stewart“May Day” Aerobic-Thon offered

Newman Fitness Center will host an Aerobic-Thon 9a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday. The event will feature four hoursof intense aerobic training including steps, jazz, pilates,hip-hop, salsa and more. Blood pressure screening, nutri-tional consultations, body fat analysis, and flexibility test-ing will be available. Free-shirts go to the first 200 partici-pants. For more information, call 767-3033.

Commander holds Golf ScrambleTaylor’s Creek Golf Course will host the Garrison

Commander’s Golf Scramble, tomorrow.The tournament begins at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start.

The cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members.The first 25 teams will be accepted. For more information,call 767-2370.

Corkan Family Recreation ‘Play Day’ slatedOnce a month Corkan Family Recreation opens one of

it’s facilities early for ‘Play Day.’ This month it is 10 a.m. to1 p.m., May 21. Enjoy Cypress Mini Golf and “The Springs” with your toddler. For more information, call 767-4273.

Lean to anticipate unhealthy behaviorLearn how to anticipate all phases of deployment, aban-

don unhealthy behaviors, practical skills for dealing withfinancial issues, build family traditions, unity, and a “nur-turing family culture” presented by Franklin Covey, 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. May 22 at the Family Readiness Center onStewart.

The class is limited to 25 participants. Free child care isavailable through Child and Youth Services hourly care with advance registration. For more information, call 767-1257.

‘Changing your flat’ class offered at LibbyFort Stewart Libby Auto Crafts Center will hold a class at

6 p.m., May 25 on learning basic car care principles andhow to change a flat tire in an emergency situation. Formore information, call 767-3521.

Youth summer basketball league offeredChild Youth Services is hosting a free summer basketball

l f iddl h l d hi h h l h M 29

will teach the basics of boater safety, basic strokes andhandling. For more information, call 435-8205.

Locating lost and found items

The Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield has a lost andfound program. If you want to report an item lost or check on the status of one, check with the military police. Visitbuilding 280, 354 East Bultman Avenue on Fort Stewartand check with William Hooks, 767-9596. The Hunterpoint of contact is James Westfall, at Building 1240, 197South Lightning Road, 315-5374.

Boss Talent Show II slatedCome show off your singing, dancing, poetic, and

instrumental skills June 15 at Rocky’s.Rehearsals are at 4 p.m., May 24 and June 7. There will be

cash prizes for winners, as well as door prizes for atten-dees. Winners may have a chance to compete at the Army Show. For more information, call Staff Sgt. Erica Gordon at572-4486.

Register to ‘Walk to Iraq and Back’The Walk to Iraq and Back continues as an on-going pro-

gram where teams will submit walked miles monthly towards the goal of 13,000 miles. Registration is alsoongoing and forms are now available at the Family Readiness Center. For more information, contact Amy Lambert at 320-5400.

Bicycle Rodeo slatedThe Directorate of Emergency Services and community

leaders will host a safety bicycle rodeo 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,Saturday at Brittin Elementary. The event will have safety workshops and training, bicycle registration, and muchmore.

A raffle ticket will be given for each bicycle registered onpost. Two bicycles will be given away at t he end of the day. A parent or guardian must be present during the registra-tion process.

HunterHunter free racquetball clinic postponed

The free racquetball clinic and tournament for ages 18and up at the Hunter Fitness Center is postponed until 10a.m., June 16. Brenda Kyzer, a professional racquetballplayer, will be the hostess of the clinic. For more informa-

Fort Stewart /Hunter Army Airfield Briefs

Rock of the Marne Frontline 7AMay 17, 2007 The



Pvt. Kenneth J. Thomas,

26th BSB was convicted at a

special court-martial of

AWOL and wrongful us of

marijuana. He was sen-tenced to four months con-

finement and to be dis-

charged from the service

with a bad-conduct dis-

charge.

Pvt. Arthur E. Hercules,26th BSB was convicted at aspecial

court-martial of AWOL,

wrongful use of marijuanaand methamphetamineand wrongful possession of marijuana. He was sen-tenced to five months con-finement and to be dis-charged from the service with a bad-conduct dis-charge.

Spc. Erik L. Adams, 703rd

BSB was convicted at a spe-cial court-martial of driving under the influence, resist-ing apprehension, assault-ing a police officer andcommunicating a threat.He was sentenced to be

two months.

Co mm an d S gt . Ma j.Joseph K. Rasmussen, 3-7CAV was convicted at a spe-

cial court-martial of adul-tery and bigamy. He wassentenced to be reduced toE-7 and to forfeit $2,000pay per month for fivemonths.

Spc. Darrick D. Butler,260th QM Bn was convictedat a special court-martial of conspiracy, failure to follow an order and wrongful use

of marijuana and cocaine.He was sentenced to reduc-tion to E-1, six months con-finement and to be dis-charged with a bad conductdischarge.

Spc. Margaret Williams,87th CSB was convicted at aspecial court-martial of desertion terminated by apprehension. She wassentenced to

be reduced to E-1, to for-feit $864 pay per month for12 months, 12 months con-finement and to be dis-charged with a bad conductdischarge.

feitures for one month.Specialist from 3/69

Armor was convicted at asummary court-martial of wrongful use and distribu-

tion of Percocet, AWOL andfailing to register a firearm.

He was sentenced toreduction to E-2, 20 daysconfinement and $971 for-feitures for one month.

Male was fined $200 andplaced on 12 months pro-bation for the crime of criminal trespassing andordered to pay special

assessments totaling $10.

Male was fined a total of $400 and placed on 12months probation for thecrimes of theft of publicproperty and criminal tres-pass and ordered to pay special assessments total-ing $35.

Male was fined a total of $450 and placed on twelve

months probation for thecrimes of driving undersuspended registration andno insurance and orderedto pay special assessmentstotaling $50.

Rock of the Marne Frontline 7A May 17, 2007

Legal Notices Anyone having claims against, or who

is indebted to the estate of Pvt. DominicJ.Perry , CAB Home Detachment, 3rd Inf.Div., Hunter Army Airfield, Ga, 31409contact Capt. Craig Blow, 4/3 Aviation,Hunter Army Airfield, GA 31409, phone:334-477-6098.

Anyone having claims against, or whois indebted to the estate of Spc. Judon K.Kenya, CAB Home Detachment, 3rd Inf.Div., Hunter Army Airfield, GA 31409,contact Capt. Craig Blow, 4/3 Aviation,

Daniel Tamez, D Co. 3rd BSB, FortStewart, GA 31314, contact 2nd Lt.Charlene Smalls at 1st BCT, 3rd BSB, FortStewart, GA 31314, phone: 767-1921.

Anyone having claims against or whois indebted to the estate of Pfc. David Austin Kirkpatrick , D Troop, 5/7 Cav.,Fort Stewart, GA 31314, contact 1st Lt.Levi Lenon, Rear Detachment D, 5/7Cav., Fort Stewart, GA 31314.

Anyone having claims against or who

Pat YoungFrontline Staff

During times of deploy-

ment and times of great

conflict, Soldiers arise to

answer their nations call,and as they move forward,

chaplains go with them.They have addressed

their solemn role in the mil-itary since 1775 to nurturethe living, administer to the wounded and sick, andhonor the dead.

“The chaplaincy has asplit mission,” said Col.Ronald Hill, installationChaplain. “A number of the

chaplains will deploy withtheir units, while othersremain behind to help pro-vide for the Soldiers andFamily members thatremain.”

Whether in the hot sandsof Iraq, or the humid wet-lands of southeast Georgia,chaplains must continue tohelp Soldiers no matter

their location or religiouspreference.

The role of the chaplain is

to provide for the free exer-

cise of all faith groups, and

they do that with tolerance

and understanding.“One of the neat thingsabout being an Army chap-lain is you are able to rubshoulders, and associate with, ministers of all faithgroups and backgrounds,”said Hill. “What you quick-ly learn, once you’ve beenin a while, is that your par-ticular faith group doesn’thave a monopoly on thelove of God. There are otherfaith groups out there thatlove God as much as you do. You quickly learn that if you’re going to be success-ful in the military chaplain-cy you are going to have tolower your blinders, youhave to respect and providefor all faith groups, sincere-ly.”

Whether they are one of

the many chaplains deploy-ing or one of the sevenchaplains remaining, set-ting faith groups aside, thechaplains have a greatmany missions to attend toincluding, marriages, coun-seling, baptism, funerals,education and church ser-vices.

But various faith groupshave specific needs, so thechaplaincy has reached outand linked arms with com-munity ministries in a“ministry alliance” to helpprovide for their communi-ties needs. Together, thechaplaincy offers a great

variety of programs thathelp provide worship ser-vice, minister to Family members, pastoral counsel-ing, youth programs, andmore.

Taking center stage toprovide those services, anew 36,000 square footchapel will help facilitatethose programs.

Chaplains support Soldiers, families

See CHAPLAINS Page 9A

Rock of the Marne Frontline 9AMay 17, 2007 The



Rock of the Marne Frontline 9A y ,

Georgia HOPE Grant offeredThe HOPE Grant is money given by the state of Georgia

to students with financial need to attend vocational/trade

schools. The Grant covers certificate and diploma pro-

grams. Any Soldier or Family member of a Soldier who is

stationed in Georgia may be eligible. If you are interested in

attending a Georgia vocational or trade school, inquire with

your school's financial advisor or visit the Army Education

Center to speak with a counselor.

MGIB benefits can go to spouses 18 months

The Secretary of the Army has approved the transfer of up to 18 months of MGIB benefits to spouses as a pilot pro-gram. This program became effective July 21, 2006. Theprogram is bound by law to the retention of critical skills.Eligible Soldiers must have enrolled in MGIB on DD Form2366 upon entry to active duty. If you cannot locate yourDepartment of Defense Form 2366, check your officialMilitary Personnel File or go online to Army KnowledgeOnline for details. Your education counselor can assist you with information about your MGIB benefits. Please contact your unit retention career counselor for details.

Free SAT and ACT test prep software offeredThe Victory Sports Group of NFL football players is spon-

soring test prep software for military Families. There will bea small shipping charge for delivery. The sponsorship codeis 2ad9c5ccfd for http:sat.eknowledge.com/purchase

_coupon.asp.

Get $4500 in tuition assistance All active duty members have $4500 per fiscal year for

education. This entitlement is separate from theMontgomery GI Bill benefits available from the Veteran’s

Administration. Details are available at 1:30 p.m. Monday –Friday during a one hour brief at the education center,room 223. The www.goarmyed.com Web site provides 24hours, 7 days a week virtual access for Soldiers. Our educa-tion counselors are available to assist in educational goalsetting and advising.

5252 at Hunter.Savannah Tech, July 9-Sept. 19, 408-2430 at Stewart. Webster University, May 28-July 30, 767-5357 at Stewart,

354-0033 at Hunter.

Savannah Technical College offers childcareChildcare is available at the Airport Road Hinesville cam-

pus. Please contact Natasha Brown at 408-3024 ext 6026 formore details.

Free college tutoring offeredSavannah Technical College is offering tutoring in math,English, computers, reading, etc. The service is available atthe Hinesville Liberty Campus. Math and tutoring in theother subjects is offered Monday-Friday and is availablesome evenings.

Service at the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith EducationCenter that includes math tutoring is offered at 3:10-5:30p.m., Monday and Wednesday of each week. You don’t haveto be enrolled in Savannah Tech to participate. Call 408-3024 for more information.

GED prep and enrichment courses availableGED preparation courses, offered in partnership with the

Liberty County Adult Education Program are held at the Army Education Center on Fort Stewart. These courses willprepare you to take the GED or refresh your skills in basiceducation subjects. Courses are free of charge on a spaceavailable basis. Fort Stewart Education Center hours are:Monday – Thursday 8 a..m.-noon and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.,Tuesday and Wednesday evenings 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. in rooms225 - 228. Please call 368-7322 or 368-7329 for more infor-mation.

GED registration available

GED registration is 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., May 21-22. For moreinformation call 368-7322 or 767-7329.

Check out Green-to-Gold opportunities A Green to Gold representative is available at the Hunter

Education Center at 2 p.m., May 24. For more information,

cian, paramedic, IBM exams, etc. are now being adminis-tered on computer in room 165, at the education center.Because the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Education Centerhas become an official Pearson Virtual User Environmentcenter, many Soldiers and Family members have access toa broader variety of tests. For more information, call thetest administrator, at 767-9569, or, visit www.pearson VUE.com.

Central Texas College offers scholarships

The Central Texas College Foundation office has morethan 100 scholarships available to students. These scholar-ships are not just for students at the Central Campus butmany of these scholarships are available for studentsattending one of Central Texas College's World WideCampus'. Filling out a single application will give studentsthe opportunity to be considered for all of their availablescholarships. The application process is simple, visitwww.ctcd.scholarships.nelnet.net , and set up an account.

Hunter education center open dailyCounseling support is available 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five

days a week in room 13 at the Hunter Army AirfieldEducation Center. An Army Education Counselor is avail-able 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays.

The Learning Center hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.,Monday – Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.Take advantage of a variety of study resources and Internetcapability. For more information call 315-6130.

Testing Hours: The testing office, room 21, is open twodays a week. The open testing hours are 9 a.m. to noon and1-5 p.m. on Tuesday. Controlled testing (CLEP/DSST) isgiven on 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday. You must call315-3790 or fax 315-6790 for an appointment, or email [email protected] .

Colleges: The next college term for Webster University,Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Columbia College,and Central Texas College begins at the end of May.

It is time to get all financial applications completed.Remember that these schools are located at the HunterArmy Airfield Education Center Bldg 1290




y , y

He said the establishment of the

entry control point, and secureperimeter around the city will dis-rupt terrorists from attempting toreenter Ramadi.

“This will allow the IraqiSecurity Forces to prevent vehicle-

station. “We protect the people in

this area, so we’re here to helpout.”

Burgin and the Soldiers valuedthe added help, which they see as areflection of the commitment Iraqipolice have to their people.

PARAMETER F r o m

Spc. Ben Hutto3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER –

Young infantrymen face the fear of step-ping on the streets of Baghdad. But, they are not alone as combat veteran noncom-missioned officers take them under their wings.

Soldiers from 3rd platoon, A Company,1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regimentpatrolled the streets of Salman Pak in con- junction with the military police and theIraqi national police.

“This is just another chance for the peo-ple to see our faces and know that we are

here to help out,” explained Pfc. PaulJernigan, an infantryman with 3rd platoon.Led by Sgt. 1st Class Peter Black, the

unit’s platoon sergeant, the group spenttwo hours walking up and down the streets,venturing into the town square and greet-ing anyone who would approach them.

Their mission, while relatively simple toexplain, is not simple to e xecute.

“We just got here yesterday, but we’regoing to spend six days here working withthe military police and the Iraqi police,”said Sgt. Robert Butler.

As the Soldiers from 3rd Platoon kepttheir intervals, Black explained how thistown is actually much better than the townin the platoon’s previous area of operationduring Operation Iraqi Freedom III.

“The situation here is a lot better than where we were last time, based on the rep-utation of the Iraqi national police working

here,” explained Black. “I think it helps thatthey work here, but don’t live here. We areseeing their operations getting goodresults. They are taking the lead in a lot

more things. Really, all we do is shadow them, in case they need back up. I think they and most of the population here know that we are just here to help.”

Pvt. Clint Biddle, a medic who was also with Black during OIF III in 3rd Platoon,agrees that the situation is different.

“The town is a lot bigger and we are working a lot closer with the Iraqi forcesthis time,” explained Biddle.

“I think they are doing a lot better jobpolicing their towns.”

The combat experience in Black’s pla-toon will be a huge asset in situations likethis foot patrol, according to many veteranplatoon members.

“I’ve got 12 vets that have been with thisplatoon since OIF III,” said Black. “I took over during the middle of the last rotation,but didn’t try to come in and change any-thing. They had their routine down and Ididn’t want to mess with that. I have faith inmy Soldiers. I let my guys be thinkers onthe ground. I don’t dictate how things willbe. I have a lot of faith in their abilities and judgment.”

The confidence Black places in his veter-ans trickles down to the new Soldiers in thesquad.

For most, this is their first deploymentand they are taking all the advice they canfrom the experienced non-commissionedofficers in t he company.

“I use every little bit of advice they (NCOs) give us,” said Pvt. Brandon Bailey.

“They all do what they can to help usbecause they want us to (return home)

alive.”Black agrees.“We have a lot of combat experience

spread out throughout 1/15,” explainedBlack. “I let the NCOs teach their men whatthey need to know and I tell my Soldiers totrust their leaders.”

Not that it is easy to blend into a platoonas tight knit as 3rd Platoon. It is a closegroup where everyone seems to have anickname.

Many of them have been through hard

times together and that has built bondsthat run deeper than casual working rela-tionships.

“Last time I was here, me and my guys went through some really bad stuff,”explained Butler. “We had gotten really tight. They were probably the bravest guysI’d ever met. You go into situations together where you think you’re going to die andnobody runs. They stand right by your sidefighting and they’re just as scared as youare. After that, that’s your brother.”

Entering such a fraternity can be daunt-ing for Soldiers still in their first year, butthe newcomers to 3rd Platoon have found ways to impress the veteran members of the platoon with their zeal and willingnessto do the hard work it takes to become agood infantryman and teammate.

“At first it is hard fitting in, but once youget here and get settled it’s not too bad,”

explained Bailey.“Our new guys are eager,” said Biddle

with a smile. “They want to go out onpatrol.”

Butler tries to keep his new Soldiers asready as possible. In his mind, their eager-ness is an asset, but he has tried to temperit with his experience.

“When the new guys showed up I toldthem, ‘I’m not here to be your friend. I’m your sergeant and my job is to get you outof this alive,’” he said with a straight face.“If they don’t like me, I don’t care as long asthey are back home with their Families when this is over.” A smile broke over hisface before he continued. “I’ve tried not to

get too close to them, but it’s hard.”The platoon marched for another hourbefore it doubled back through SalmanPak’s town square.

The town’s people filled the downtownarea getting haircuts, buying food, drinking chai and going about their daily lives.

As the Soldiers walked by, many adultsgreeted them, many children came out toshake their hands or give the squad athumbs up, but everyone was watching.

As the tired squad trudged up the stairsto their room, several members fromanother squad in the platoon were gearing up to provide cover for two tanks outsidethe compound in Salman Pak.

Jokes were exchanged as the first squadquickly caught the other one up on whathappened on the previous patrol. For amoment, it didn’t even se em like they werein the middle of a war.

‘Hard Rock’ platoon keeps streets safe




Family readiness support assistant(s) wanted.

Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGSTEW Opening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation),GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 AnnualPlace of Work : U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314Position Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-

porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate on your resume your availability for any of these appointments.

Number of Vacancy : 25

Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGHUNTOpening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008

First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation), GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 AnnualPlace of Work: U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314Duty Location: Hunter Army Airfield, GA Position Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-

porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate on your resume your availability for any of these appointments.Number of Vacancy : 6

Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGBENNOpening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation), GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 AnnualPlace of Work: U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314

Duty Location: Fort Benning, GA Position Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-

porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate on your resume your availability for any of these appointments.Number of Vacancy: 7

CPAC recruits youthfor summer hire

Note: The Civilian Personnel Advisory Center received a significantly larger num-ber of applications for the Summer Hiresthat had an April 30 cut-off. The closing date for all four-vacancy announcements was May 11. There are only 208 SummerHire positions.

Subsequently, the CPAC conducted a lot-tery to determine applicants selected foremployment under the Summer Hire pro-gram. A separate lottery was established foreach vacancy announcement. The lottery took place the week of May 7. Selectees will

be notified of their selection for employ-ment.

For more information,call Angela Francisat 767-5051.

Time6:30 a.m. National Anthem/ DogFace Soldier6:35 a.m. Daily Devotional6:40 a.m. Audience6:55 a.m. Daily Devotional7 a.m. Marne Report8 a.m. Marne Chat w/Dina McKain8:30 a.m. AUDIENCE9 a.m. Pentagon Channel Iraq briefings/Audience10 a.m. Audience

10:30 a.m. Education Matters w/Kaytrina Sharp11 a.m. 3rd ID in Iraq- DVIDS/Audience11:55 a.m. Daily DevotionalNoon Marne Chat w/Dina McKain12:30 a.m. Marne Report1 p.m. CG Stand Up

Marne TelevisionSchedule

Channel 7 at Hunter Army AirfieldChannel 16 at Fort Stewart

Courtesy Photo

Capt. David Dobson, officer in charge at the Behavioral Medicine Clinic at Tuttle Army Health Clinic; Sgt.Timothy Noel, B Company, 224 Military Intelligence Battalion and Col. Scott Goodrich, commander at Winn Army Community Hospital mark the opening of the new addi-

tion to the Behavioral Medicine Clinic at Tuttle, May 10.

Officers’ Spouses Club 2006-2007 Donations

YMCA of Coastal Georiga $ 1,000 Army Distaff Foundation $ 250D.A.R.E $ 200National Military Family Assocation $ 200

Liberty Regional Medical Center $ 300Firsts Steps $ 300Chatham-Savannah Citizen $ 100 Advocacy IncFirst Presbyterian $ 100OSC Scholarship $ 3,000 WINN ICU $ 100Fort Stewart Boy Scout Troop 566 $ 100Fort Stewart Girl Scouts $ 100Fort Stewart Home School Group $ 100 American Cancer Society $ 200Savannah State Unversity $ 100

First United Methodist Preschool $ 200Richmond Hill High Schhool Mat $ 100Cats Booster ClubSavannah Christian Church $ 50(Naomi Havens) Youth Challenge $ 200




y

Staff Sgt. Samantha M. Stryker5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

BAGHDAD – The title conjures images of afearless yet savvy warrior charging into afight with nothing but victory on his mind -Battle Noncommissioned officer.

But the days when commanders stood on

hours,” said Braner as he simultaneously updated the information flowing into the

DOC on the Command Post of the Futurecomputer system, trained the newest mem-ber to the staff and provided the battle offi-cers with updates on events from earlier inthe day.

“I receive the reports and determine how

“Assign a ‘high-speed’ noncommissionedofficer as the battle captain, or at least as an

assistant. NCOs are among the great under-used assets in TOC operations,” said Capt.Marcus F. de Oliverira, deputy chief,Leaders’ Training Program, Joint ReadinessTraining Center, Fort Polk, La.

Another NCO whose field experience

than one would think and they know whatthey are doing,” he added.

The infantryman said he watches andlearns about the challenges faced by theleaders when division assets are redistrib-uted.

“I get to see the multiple factors that thecommander must consider that ground

Battle NCOs continue mission on virtual battlefield

Pvt. Jerome F. Arp4th BCT Public Affairs

During 4th Brigade Combat Team’srecent deployment to the NationalTraining Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., thebrigade’s training mainly consisted of asimulated deployment to the Al Ghaziprovince. This portrays a similar one inIraq that the 4th Brigade Soldiers mightexpect to inhabit while deployed to theregion soon.

One of the central themes of the train-ing is working together with the localprovincial government, the Iraqi policeand the Iraqi army forces to form a com-

bined effort to defeat insurgents andimprove infrastructure.

In order to establish a good working relationship with his Iraqi counterpartsearly on, Col. Thomas James, the com-mander of the 4th Brigade Combat Team,invited Col. Nazar Annukshabandi, thecommander of the 2nd Brigade, 11thDivision, Iraqi army and members of theAl Ghazi Province government (all por-trayed by roll-players at the training cen-ter) to a traditional Arabic dinner at

Combined Operating Base King April 27.The purpose of the dinner was to create

a relationship between Iraqi andAmerican forces and cooperate togetherto forge a plan of reconstruction for the Al

Ghazi Province.The Ghazi Provincial Governor, Bursuq

Dahrr Al-Ardawy, who attended the din-ner, had previously met James during ameeting at Medina Wasl, where the gover-nor and his family reside. During themeeting, James offered support to Ardawy to ensure economic growth and prosperi-ty.

Members of the 4th BCT did everything they could to make sure their guests werecomfortable, to include choosing musicthat would make them feel at home.

"We played Nazim AlGhazim, who is anauthentic and popular Iraqi musician,"said Maj. Adil Elnour, the linguistic officer

with 4th BCT. "Nazim is the Americanequivalent to Justin Timberlake."

The 4th BCT Soldiers also provided anauthentic Arabic dinner.

"Tea, flat bread, and Halaal meat, whichcontains no pork, was served, in additionto American food," said Elnour.

One of the main issues addressed at thedinner was the development of a plan forimproving training and fulfilling the needsof the Iraqi army and Iraqi security forces.

After the dinner and throughout the

remainder of the exercise, Annukshabandi and the Iraqi army met with James and 4th BCT regularly, whichhelped them to maintain a relationship of trust while achieving their goals together.

4th BCT learns Iraqi customs at NTC

Pvt.Jerome F. Arp

Col.Thomas James, (center, seated) commander of 4th Brigade Combat Team, talks to local Iraqi leaders from the provincial government, Iraqi police and Iraqi army about security and reconstruction issues at the Partnership Dinner, which was held in the Al Ghazi Province, a simulated Iraqi province at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif.



Sgt. Natalie Rostek3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Leadersfrom the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team met with a local

contractor Wednesday, at the Phas Elementary School in AlZatia, Iraq, to discuss plans to repair and repave a sectionof a road called Butler Range Road.

“A project like this brings together the local people andCoalition Forces in a project to help employ the local pop-ulace,” Capt. Jimmy Hathaway, commander of

Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 1st Calvary Regiment,3rd HBCT, said.

After the area of construction had been established andthe date construction was to begin was agreed upon, lead-ers from 3/1 Cav., along with civil affairs and pyschologicaloperations Soldiers, visited the local shopping district of Four Corners. There, they purchased a generator battery topower the Al Halendia’s clinic lights, refrigeration system,and air conditioning.

The Soldiers patrolled Mada’in Qada and used it as anopportunity to talk to locals about their town and their

thoughts on the current situation.“We engage the locals to get their attitudes on the CF,

Iraqi security forces, and the local government,” Hathaway said.

During their mission, the team interacted with the localchildren, and gave them soccer balls, stationary, and candy.

Capt. Damond Davis, the 3/1 Cav.’s fire support officerexplained that interacting with the local children today canpotentially further strengthen relations between CoalitionForces and the local population of the Mada’in Qada in thefuture.

Iraqi contractor assists with 3/1 Cav’s mission

Spc. Ben Hutto

3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER —

The 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regimentconducted a cordon and search and an eco-nomic assessment of the Four Corners mar-ket area southwest of Narhwan May 10. Itwas the regiment’s first squadron-sized mis-sion since their arrival to Iraq in late March.

“We came here and were looking at wayswe could help stimulate the local economy and create job opportunities for the peopleof this area,” said Lt. Col. John Kolasheski,3/1 Cav. commander. “I think it was very successful and we were able to make a state-ment, ‘We are here to help.’”

Squadron members cordoned off themarket place at 10:30 a.m. and spent the day

talking with local business owners andsearching cars for anything suspicious.

“The people had a lot to talk with usabout, but their main concern was security,”

said Capt. Tavares Tukes, 3/1 Cav. adjutant.“We have a massive amount of projects we want to assist the Iraqi government with,and we used today to get a gauge of what was most important to the people.”

Cavalry Soldiers and the Iraqi nationalpolice conducted random vehicle searchesbut found nothing suspicious.

“The fact that we didn’t find any weaponsor explosives was a good sign that the localpolice force is doing a good job,” said Tukes.Kolasheski was equally happy with the INPperformance.

“A huge part of this operation involved theIraqi police and the National Iraqi police,”

said Kolasheski. “I think it was reflective of their ability. They can reach out and helptheir own people a heck of a lot faster than we are able to.”

The cavalry unit secured the Four Cornersmarket district of Narhwan and Salaman Pak region’s economic hubs and locked it downin a matter of minutes.

“I think that this shows the insurgent ele-ment what we are capable of,” Tukes said,“By shutting down such a big area thatquickly, we demonstrated to them that wecan stop their entire operation in a shortamount of time.”

While the display showed 3/1 Cav.’s ability to perform, they were conscious not to dis-rupt the average citizens’ daily lives any-more than needed.

“The challenge was to ensure the popu-

lace understood that we were doing it fortheir safety and security,” said Tukes. “It canbe a very fine line, but I think we accom-plished that with the police. People were

very accommodating. They allowed us tosearch with no problems. We were invitedinto several homes and shops. So that is agood sign.”

“Our guys were very professional and dida good job of executing their duties,” saidTukes.

According to Tukes, the squadron will work hard to keep a good rapport with thecitizens that frequent the Four Corners andplan on monitoring the area frequently withtheir Iraqi partners.

“I think the operation was a good way tostart operations in the Four Corners area.”he said.

Cav searches Four Corners district

Sgt. Natalie Rostek3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER,Iraq – Soldiersof the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, honored two fallen heroes in a memorial ser-

was serving as vehicle commander for the unit’sCommand Security Detachment.“(Stephens) was a disciplined, hard, physically fit,

good-looking Soldier who took his job seriously,” saidCol. Wayne W. Grigsby, Jr., commander of 3rd HBCT.

Stephens is survived by his wife Erin.

3rd HBCT honors fallen heroes




Pfc. Monica K. Smith

CAB Public Affairs

CAMP BEURING, KUWAIT – 3rd Infantry Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade took part ina three-day convoy training course in Kuwait

May 5. The training incorporated classroominstructions on improvised explosive devices,tactical procedures and also included training in reflexive firing. The weekend culminated in a6.5 mile convoy training course.

During day one Soldiers had classroominstructions on IEDs, military operations inurban terrain, casualty evacuation, and properconvoy procedures such as battle drills, react-ing to an IED, and convoy formations.

Day two focused on reflexive fire whichtrains Soldiers to instinctively aim their

weapons and fire. The Soldiers spent time

rehearsing their battle drills and prepared fortheir convoy by doing a dry-run through a por-tion of the convoy lane. It was during this timestrengths and weaknesses were discussed.

“They gave us every scenario we might haveand right after every scenario we would do anafter action review,” said Spc. Shaneka

Simmons, E Company 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment.

Day three comprised of executing the 6.5-mile convoy lane. Soldiers faced five check points and at each point was a new obstacle toovercome.

“Cars would try to infiltrate your convoy so you had to position your trucks to keep themout,” said Staff Sgt. Chris Carrier, B Company,603rd Aviation Support Battalion. “IEDs wereon the side of the road to see if the lead vehiclecould see them. They want to see how you react

when all hell breaks loose. It was really realisticand it was hard.”

In addition to cars infiltrating and IEDs, theconvoys faced large vehicles blocking the roadand practiced how to react to local nationals.The convoy drove through a simulated village

where Solders had to maneuver and contend

with the village residents.“The last time I was here we didn’t know how

to react to Iraqi people,” Spc. Karli Hernandez,E Co. 4/3 Avn. “That part was new to me.”

While the Soldiers executed the convoy lane,instructors and company commanders

watched from nearby humvees. The instructors

watched the convoys and listened to the con-voy commander communicate through theradio, taking notes on what they did and how they responded to each incident. Instructorsnever stopped the training or corrected any actions but instead waited until the end to per-

form an After Action Review.“We did really well considering this was ourfirst time,” said Simmons. “We had retirees whotaught us things and brought up things maybeour NCOs may have missed. This was challeng-ing for everyone and we had to dig deep.During the AAR not only the NCOs got askedquestions, so did the privates. They gave us all achallenge.”

For members of 4/3 Avn this particular train-ing proved to be especially difficult. They arrived in Kuwait only a few days before pack-ing up their belongings again and heading out

for the three days of training. Many were still jetlagged and found the limited amounts of sleep, in addition to not yet being acclimatizedto the sand and heat, to be the biggest chal-lenge, said Hernandez.

However, Capt. Christine Takats, comman-der, E Co., 4/3 Avn, said she was proud to see

how motivated the Soldiers were.“I thought the Soldiers performed above and

beyond what was asked,” said Takats.“After being in country for only two days, no

one got to sleep till 10 or 11 at night, and then we woke up at three, worked all day, training all

day, running the whole night. We didn’t have alot of ice, they slept on the floor, not much air, worn out, dehydrated – their performance wasamazing. They were doing their jobs. It makesleaders proud to see Soldiers that are motivat-ed.”

“Every time you do something you learnsomething,” said Simmons. “I knew a lotalready but I still learned something. I learnedhow to drive a 5-ton, how to get acclimatized tothe heat - sometimes you have to drink hot

water to survive. I think everyone learnedsomething.”

A piece of advice repeated to many of theSoldiers was to hydrate during the training.

“Be prepared for long strenuous days, bring training aids for down time to practice andrehearse, be motivated and pay attention - thisis one training lane that has been known tosave lives,” said Parson.

Sgt. 1st Class Thomas MillsCAB Public Affairs

Aviation Soldiers with the 3rd Infantry Division are inKuwait readying themselves for the flight north to Iraq. TheCombat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division Soldiersarrived last week and have been training. The brigade is setto move into Iraq this summer.

“For a lot of Soldiers it’s their first deployment. It’s the lastopportunity for realistic training before they go to combat,”said Sgt. 1st Class Aki Paylor, Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 3rd CAB.

Part of the training consisted of training in combat logis-tics patrols, and environmental training for the pilots.

“Environmental training is training the crews to conduct

flight operations in the current environmental conditions,”said Chief Warrant Officer Randy Kirgiss. HHC CAB.In the desert of the Middle-East that means thick sand and

dust causing “brown out” conditions, and other situations of extremely limited visibility, he said.

“The pilots have to take those conditions into account andlearn procedures on how to land in the sand and dust,” saidKirgiss.

While the Soldiers arrived from Hunter Army Airfield fully qualified on their weapons the also went to the ranges to firetheir individual weapons, said Maj. Clyde Cochrane, HHCCAB.

“It’s not to qualify, they’ve already done that,” said

Cochrane.“(It’s) going out to verify the functionality of your

weapon.”

For many of the Soldiers in Aviation Brigade this is not thefirst time they’ve been to Kuwait about to move north to Iraq.To those it’s the little things that count, like the availability

of ice, something scarce in 2005 when the brigade lastdeployed to Iraq through Kuwait.

Having ice enhances the training, said Paylor, especially inMay in Kuwait, where temperatures routinely go as high as110 degrees.

“The heat is another adversity leaders have to account for. We have to plan ahead so we can sustain our combat power,”he said.

Mostly, Paylor said, Kuwait is an opportunity for theSoldiers to prepare mentally for the move to Iraq.

“I’ve seen a lot of Soldiers with their eyes wide open thelast couple of days as reality sets in as they get closer andcloser to combat.”

Aviation arrives in Kuwait

Aviators learn the rules on the road to Iraq

US Army: frontlineonline05-17-07news

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