1. Vol. 70 No. 13 March 30, 2012
Word of the month: Dignity
‘Iron’
Brigade
cases
colors Story and photo by
Staff Sgt. Christopher Jelle
3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs
Office, 4th Infantry Division
About 300 Soldiers with the 3rd Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, cased the
“Iron” Brigade colors Tuesday at the Special
Events Center in preparation to deploy as part
of the Security Force Assistance Team mission
in Afghanistan.
Several of the brigade’s officers and senior
noncommissioned officers will deploy for nine
months in eight- to 12-person teams, advising
elements of the Afghan Security Forces on
security tactics and training methods, as U.S.
forces begin to turnover security responsibilities
to Afghan forces.
“We are being asked to conduct this mission
during a time of transition — a time where the
security and responsibility of the Afghan people
shifts to the Afghan government and its security
forces,” said Col. Michael Kasales, 3rd BCT
commander. “It’s these men in front of you that
have been asked to undertake this mission.”
“It’s a great opportunity for the 3rd BCT to
excel and make a difference for the Afghan
population and Afghan security forces,” said
Maj. Troy Parrish, infantry officer, Headquarters
See SFAT on Page 4
Col. Michael Kasales, left, commander,
3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division,
and Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Maddi case
the “Iron” Brigade colors during a ceremony
Tuesday at the Special Events Center. More
than 300 of 3rd BCT’s leaders and senior
noncommissioned officers will deploy to southern
Afghanistan for nine months in support of the
Security Force Assistance Team mission.
Message board INSIDE
Eggsperience is
Saturday, 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m. at the
Special Events
Center. Cost is
$1 per person or
$5 for Families
of five or more.
Call 526-1867 for
more information. Page 11 Page 5
Pages 20-21
2. 2 MOUNTAINEER — March 30, 2012
MOUNTAINEER Month of the Military Child
Commanding General:
Garrison Commander:
Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson
Time to thank our
heroes’ heroes
Col. Robert F. McLaughlin
Fort Carson Public Affairs Officer:
Dee McNutt
Chief, Print and Web Communications:
Commentary by William Bradner inner strength to face each day. They swallow their
Rick Emert Installation Management Command fears and disappointment because they know that their
Editor: Devin Fisher Soldier-parent is doing something important. They
Staff writer: Andrea Sutherland
It’s the preschool child who — without being asked — inspire us with their resiliency.
passes his dessert to his little sister, simply because she looks It’s hard for the average American to fathom how
Happenings: Nel Lampe
sad. It’s the second-grader who bravely puts a picture of well our children cope. How those who are old enough to
Sports writer: Walt Johnson her father at the head of the table for her birthday party, and understand dread an unexpected knock on the door. How
Layout/graphics: Jeanne Mazerall the fifth-grade siblings who donate all their earnings from their much joy they feel when their uniformed parent steps off
lemonade stand to the USO that both their the airplane in a sea of red, white and blue.
parents passed through on the way to Iraq. Like the Soldier on the battlefield who
This commercial enterprise newspaper is
an authorized publication for members of the It’s the junior high band member who asks Approximately pushes forward because he has to, they
Department of Defense. Contents of the
Mountaineer are not necessarily the official
if the spring concert can be dedicated to our
deployed servicemembers, and it’s the high
2 million children push forward, counting the days and hours
until the end of the deployment.
view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or school cheerleader who organizes a “care have experienced the Our military children are heroes.
the Department of the Army. Printed circulation
is 12,000 copies.
package” drive. It’s the college graduate who deployment of one or Let’s not let them be unsung heroes.
clings just a little longer to her father, wishing Military installations around the world
The editorial content of the
Mountaineer is the responsibility of the Public that her mother was at the commencement both of their parents have celebrated the Month of the Military
Affairs Office, Fort Carson, CO 80913-5119,
Tel.: 526-4144. The e-mail address is
ceremony instead of in Afghanistan.
These are our military children; our
in the last 10 years. Child each April since 1986. Communities
will host fairs, youth centers will sponsor
fcmountaineer@hotmail.com.
The Mountaineer is posted on the
nation’s heroes. special events and garrisons around the
Internet at http://csmng.com. With so much media attention focused on the Soldiers world will take a little time this month to honor military
The Mountaineer is an unofficial returning from war and the sacrifices they’ve made for kids and thank them for their service.
publication authorized by AR 360-1. The our freedom, we don’t want to overlook the youths who It’s a relatively common sight today to see a stranger
Mountaineer is printed by Colorado Springs quietly support them in the background. Approximately say “thanks for your service” to a servicemember in
Military Newspaper Group, a private firm in
no way connected with the Department of the
2 million children have experienced the deployment of one uniform. This month, take it a step further … take a
Army, under exclusive written contract with or both of their parents in the last 10 years. moment to thank the child holding his or her hand.
Fort Carson. It is published 49 times per year. They brave their own battlefields. They rely on an Their heroism deserves our gratitude.
The appearance of advertising in this
publication, including inserts or supplements,
does not constitute endorsement by the
Department of the Army or Colorado Springs
Military Newspaper Group, of the products or
services advertised. The printer reserves the
Plethora of events scheduled
right to reject advertisements. Family fitness, recreation 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open to all ages;
Everything advertised in this publication Mondays–Thursdays Purple Up! for Military Kids children must be accompanied
shall be made available for purchase, use or
Fit Mommas: Stroller Fitness — Wear purple April 13 as a visible way by a parent.
patronage without regard to race, color, religion,
A 60-minute body workout for post to show support and thank military
sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical
and prenatal women at Garcia Little Big Kids
handicap, political affiliation or any other children for their strength and sacrifices.
nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Physical Fitness Center from 3–4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays
If a violation or rejection of this equal Monday and Wednesday for free, New Parent Support — Home visitor
opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, and from 9–10 a.m. Tuesday and support for new or expecting parents.
the printer shall refuse to print advertising Thursday for $2. Bring towel, Call Army Community Service at
from that source until the violation is corrected. mat and snack for baby. 526-4590 to schedule an appointment.
For display advertising call 634-5905. April 3, 10 and 11 Fridays
All correspondence or queries regarding “Baby and Me Yoga Gym” — couples Playgroup — Informative social time
advertising and subscriptions should be directed
and baby relieve stress and bond for parents and toddlers at Beacon,
to Colorado Springs Military Newspaper
from 3-4:15 p.m. at Waller PFC. building 5510, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Group, 31 E. Platte Avenue, Suite 300,
Colorado Springs, CO 80903, phone 634-5905.
April 5 Call 526-4590 for more information.
The Mountaineer’s editorial content is Easter Egg Wall Crawl — Find hidden school students can speak with April 2-6
edited, prepared and provided by the Public eggs on the Outdoor Recreation Center representatives from colleges and Military Child Cutouts — Family
Affairs Office, building 1430, room 265, Fort outdoor climbing wall from 4-6 p.m. companies from noon to 4 p.m. at project displayed at all Fort
Carson, CO 80913-5119, phone 526-4144. Space is limited; call 526-5366. the Youth Services Center. Carson CDCs.
Releases from outside sources are so April 7 April 21 Patriotic Days — Wear red, white and
indicated. The deadline for submissions to the Family Boot Camp Obstacle Course — “Get Yo’ Dance On! Dance-a-thon” — blue to CDC every Friday in April.
Mountaineer is close of business the week Families race through obstacles for Ages 3+, dance til you drop! Snacks, April 6
before the next issue is published. The
prizes at McKibben PFC at 10 a.m. prizes and music at Youth Services Bouncy houses — Members of Patriot
Mountaineer staff reserves the right to edit
Open to those 3 and older. Center from 3-6 p.m. for ages 3 and Cheyenne CDC Kinders can
submissions for newspaper style, clarity and
typographical errors.
Clubs for Kids — Children ages 5-17 and older; $1 to participate. bounce the afternoon away from
Policies and statements reflected in the receive a golf club and 10-minute Registration begins at 2:30 p.m.; 3:30-6 p.m. at Patriot CDC.
news and editorial columns represent views golf lesson at Cheyenne Shadows $1 for participants and spectators April 9-13
of the individual writers and under no Golf Club from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. admitted at no charge. “What Being a Military Child Means
circumstances are to be considered those of April 14 April 27 to Me” — Responses of children 3
the Department of the Army. Free cosmic bowling — Three games School Age Lock-In — Movies, and older will be displayed at all
Reproduction of editorial material is of free glow-in-the-dark bowling for volleyball, “Rock Band,” Xbox Fort Carson CDCs.
authorized. Please credit accordingly. children ages 5-17 at Thunder Alley games and snacks for third-fifth April 20
Bowling Center from 1-3 p.m. grade Patriot and Aspen Child School’s Out Festival — Carnival event
April 20 Development Center members for Patriot CDC members from 2-6 p.m.
Teens vs. adult basketball game — A from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. at Patriot at Patriot CDC. Registration required.
full-court game with teens against CDC. Registration required.
staff and parents from 6-8 p.m. School Age Late Night — Movies, Moms and Dads
at the Youth Services Center. volleyball, “Rock Band,” Xbox games April 10
Classified advertising Registration required. and snacks for first- and second-grade Educational Summit — 8 a.m. to
329-5236 members of Patriot and Aspen 3 p.m. at Elkhorn Conference Center.
Teens and preteens CDCs from 7:30–11:30 p.m. at April 12
Display advertising April 6 Aspen CDC. Registration required. ParenTeen Seminar with Dr.
634-5905 Midnight Basketball — An evening Disco Skate Night — Skating, music Chap Clark — Insight on needs
of basketball competitions and and food for members and their of teens in new society from
Mountaineer editor challenges at the Youth Services Families at the Youth Services Center 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Elkhorn
526-4144 Center for middle school youths from from 7–9:30 p.m. Registration required. Conference Center.
6-8 p.m. and high school youths April 28 April 13
Post information from 9-11:30 p.m. Registration required. Harry Potter movie marathon — Parent’s Day — Parents can join their
526-5811 April 14 Four Harry Potter movies in the children for activities at Patriot CDC
Teen college and career fair — High Grant Library conference room from from 3:30–6 p.m. Registration required.
Post weather hotline
526-0096
3. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 3
McHugh talks retention, BRAC, Afghanistan
By Reginald Rogers
Fort Bragg Public Affairs Office
“As tragic as (recent events in
FORT BRAGG, N.C. — “Just being good
enough is no longer going to be good enough,” Afghanistan) are, they don’t
Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh said Tuesday
of the Army’s new standard for retention. reflect either the mental
McHugh, who was accompanied by Lt. Gen.
Frank G. Helmick, XVIII Airborne Corps commanding health or the incredible
general, and Lt. Gen. John F. Mulholland Jr.,
commanding general, U.S. Army Special Operations sacrifices or achievements
Command, spoke with local reporters at Pope Air
Force Base, N.C. of our troops.”
McHugh explained that the Army plans to use its — Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh
retention and selection tools to ensure that it is keeping
the best Soldiers.
“It behooves every man and woman in the United rounds, including that of 2005.”
States Army who wants to be retained to know that McHugh said he does not know if Congress will
they’re going to have to strive to work harder to support the recommendations, but added that from an
achieve greater and higher levels and if they can do Army perspective, the goal of a more streamlined
that, we’ll be proud to keep them on and keep them as force is to be able to manage its property resources
part of what is our objective of remaining the greatest and facilities in a way that makes sense economically, mindful of the fact that those were very isolated
land force the world has ever seen,” he said. which will ensure that the force has more money to incidents and the fact of the matter is, in terms of all
McHugh also acknowledged that the Army might spend on the service’s most important asset — people. of the U.S. forces there and our allied coalition
see more rounds of the Base Closure and Realignment McHugh also spoke about recent events in partners, the mission continues and we’re going to
Committee recommendations in 2013 and 2015. Afghanistan, including the accidental burning of the continue to stay focused on the larger picture.”
“The Department of Defense and, ultimately, the Koran by NATO forces and the alleged mass killing of McHugh said the Afghan people also recognize
president’s budget has asked for two more rounds of 17 citizens in Afghanistan by a U.S. Soldier. He pointed the U.S. commitment to their country, despite the
base closures, in (2013 and in 2015),” he said. “We out that while these events have made the mission incidents. He added that he did not make a
have no authorities to unilaterally conduct those. somewhat more difficult, the American public should connection between the Afghanistan incidents and
They have to receive congressional approval and keep in mind that they are isolated incidents. post-traumatic stress disorder.
presumably, if it were approved at (Department of the “They’ve obviously served to set the mission
See Retention on Page 4
Army) level, we’re on the same models as previous back to some degree, but I think we all have to be
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4. 4 MOUNTAINEER — March 30, 2012
SFAT
from Page 1
rotation,” said Kasales. “We had four weeks.”
While these officers and noncommissioned
officers deploy with the brigade commander, more
Demolition begins
and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 8th
Infantry Regiment, 3rd BCT.
than 3,000 brigade Soldiers will remain at Fort
Carson under the leadership of Maddi. The remaining
on WWII facilities
The majority of the personnel that make up the element of the brigade will continue to focus on By Susan C. Galentine
SFAT will come from 3rd BCT, Kasales said. Those Soldier training as its junior noncommissioned Directorate of Public Works
Soldiers will be joined by elements from the 214th officers and lower enlisted step up to fill the key public relations
Fires Brigade out of Fort Sill, Okla., and various leadership positions those deploying leave behind.
leaders from across 1st Army. “This deployment provides a huge opportunity The demolition process begins April 12 for
“I look forward to the opportunity that we’ve for our junior leaders to cut their teeth on the nine World War II-era buildings near Iroquois
been given to make a difference over there,” said Sgt. responsibility of leadership,” said Kasales. Village to make way for approximately 120 new
1st Class Wesley Sturdivant, cannon crewmember, The brigade will also maintain its commitment to junior enlisted housing units.
Company B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery support the deployed Soldiers and their Families, said Initial work crews will prepare the Old
Reg., 3rd BCT. Maddi. The 3rd BCT created a care team, comprised Hospital Complex buildings by abating any
The Iron Brigade was given less time than of spouses to assist the Families of deployed Soldiers asbestos and lead, common products used in
normal to prepare for this kind of mission, said 3rd in the case of emergencies. old building construction. Abatement efforts
BCT Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Maddi. He said the “I have the strong support of my spouse,” said begin April 12 and will be under way seven
deploying Soldiers went through focused training Parrish, who is leaving behind a 6-week-old son. days a week until completion about May 15.
during the last 14 weeks, including a unique “The installation and the unit are great supporters as All public safety precautions will be taken to
month-long rotation at the Joint Readiness Training well, so I’m not overly concerned with leaving them ensure lead and asbestos is contained during
Center in Fort Polk, La. for nine months.” the abatement phase, according to Directorate
“Units are usually given anywhere from six-12 The Iron Brigade Soldiers are slated to begin of Public Works officials.
months to prepare for a combat training center departing for Afghanistan next month. Actual demolition work begins thereafter
and will take place six days a week, 10 hours a
day, until completion in late June to early July.
Call the DPW Housing Division at 526-4388
for more information.
Retention
from Page 3
McHugh said that jointly, the U.S. military has
more than 50,000 servicemembers who are on
their fourth combat deployment. The incidents that
occurred several weeks ago in Afghanistan are
abhorrent, but rare, he added.
“As tragic as they are, they don’t reflect either
the mental health or the incredible sacrifices or
achievements of our troops,” McHugh said. “We
continue to stay focused on making sure that we have
the right behavioral health programs, and we’re
looking very carefully at obviously the causes, but
also the treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder,
Col. Michael Kasales, second from left, commander, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and “Iron” or PTSD, and other related incidences, but we’re not
Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Maddi render honors to the U.S. flag, along with the rest of the “Iron” Brigade and making a connection between those challenges and
its guests, during a farewell ceremony at the Special Events Center Tuesday. the acts that have received so much attention.”
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/4THID
WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/USER/THE4ID
WWW.FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/THE4ID
WWW.TWITTER.COM/@4THINFDIV
WWW.SLIDESHARE.NET/THE4ID
5. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 5
Task force prepares for ‘Warhorse’ return
Story and photo by
Staff Sgt. Craig Cantrell
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
The smell of coolant, transmission fluid and
grease permeated the 2nd Brigade Combat Team
Maintenance Task Force’s motor pool bays as
“Warhorse” Soldiers conducted maintenance on
M992A2 Carrier-Ammunition Tracked Vehicles
and M1A2 System
Enhancement Package
“We had 30 Abrams tanks.
days to The mechanics prepare
for the return of the 2nd
complete a BCT, 4th Infantry Division,
full inventory from Afghanistan, and are
one of eight pilot programs
to figure in the testing phase for
out what the the Army.
“We are not reinventing
shortages were the wheel by any means,”
and order all said Capt. John Riley, 2nd
the parts to BCT Maintenance Task
Force commander. “We are
bring the 2nd going back to doctrinal
BCT up to maintenance that we have
gotten away from in the
100 percent past 10 years.”
upon return.” The 2nd BCT
— Staff Sgt. Maintenance Task Force
Cynthia Drerup Pfc. William Weir, 2nd Brigade Combat Team Maintenance Task Force, 4th Infantry Division, refills the radiator of an
See Return on Page 10
M992A2 Carrier-Ammunition Tracked Vehicle in a maintenance bay at the unit motor pool March 19.
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7. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 7
Miscellaneous Fort Carson dining facilities hours of operation
Advance directives/living wills — ensure people Dining facility Friday Saturday-Sunday Monday-Thursday
have a voice in their medical decisions, even if Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
they are unconscious or too ill to communicate. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Evans Army Community Hospital and the Judge Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
Advocate General’s Office are teaming up to Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
help Soldiers create an advance directive. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Representatives will be at the hospital in front Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
of Healer Chapel Wednesday from 9-11:30 a.m.
A staff member will be available to make copies Warfighter Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
of documents and place them in medical record. (Wilderness Road Complex) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Finance travel processing — All inbound and Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
outbound Temporary Lodging Expense, “Do it LaRochelle Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
Yourself ” Moves, servicemember and Family 10th SFG(A) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
member travel, travel advance pay and travel pay Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
inquiries will be handled in building 1218, room 231.
Call 526-4454 or 524-2594 for more information. Carson Support Services service order desk can be borrerorivera@dla.mil for receiving/ turn in; Mike
ROTC Green to Gold — Deadline to apply for Army reached at 526-5345. Use this number for emergencies Welsh at mike.welsh@dla.mil for reutilization/web
ROTC Green to Gold scholarships is Sunday. or routine tasks and for reporting wind damage, tools; or Rufus Guillory at rufus.guillory@dla.mil.
Scholarships are awarded for two, three or four years damaged traffic signs or other facility damage. Retirement briefings — are held from 8 a.m. to noon
— Soldiers with two years of college remaining to • Refuse/trash and recycling — Call Eric the second and third Wednesday of each month at the
complete their degree are considered for two-year Bailey at 719-491-0218 or email eric.e.bailey4. Joel Hefley Community Center conference room,
scholarships; Soldiers with three years of college civ@mail.mil when needing trash containers, trash 6800 Prussman Ave. The Retirement Services Office
remaining to complete their degree are considered for is overflowing or emergency service is required. recommends spouses accompany Soldiers to the
three-year scholarships; and Soldiers without college • Facility custodial services — Call Bryan briefing. Call 526-2840 for more information.
credit who require four years to complete their degree Dorcey at 526-6670 or email bryan.s.dorcey.civ@ Reassignment briefings — are held Tuesdays
are considered for four-year scholarships. More mail.mil for service needs or to report complaints. for Soldiers heading overseas and Thursdays for
information is available at http://www.GoArmy.com. • Elevator maintenance — Call Bryan personnel being reassigned stateside. The briefings
First Sergeants’ Barracks Program — is located in Dorcey at 526-6670 or email bryan.s.dorcey.civ are held in building 1129, Freedom Performing Arts
building 1454 on Nelson Boulevard. The hours of @mail.mil. Center; sign-in is at 7 a.m. and briefings start at 7:30
operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. The • Motor pool sludge removal/disposal — a.m. Soldiers are required to bring Department
office assists Soldiers with room assignments and Call Dennis Frost at 526-6997 or email of the Army Form 5118, signed by their unit
terminations. For more information call 526-9735. dennis.j.frost.civ@mail.mil. personnel section, and a pen to complete forms.
Work Management Branch — The DPW Work • Repair and utility/self-help — Call Gary Call 526-4730/4583 for more information.
Management Branch, responsible for processing Grant at 526-5844 or email gerald.l.grant2.civ Army ROTC Green to Gold briefings — are held
work orders — Facilities Engineering Work @mail.mil. Use this number to obtain self-help the first and third Tuesday of each month at noon
Requests, DA Form 4283 — recently changed its tools and equipment or a motorized sweeper. at the education center, building 1117, room 120.
hours of operation. The Work Management Branch, • Base operations contracting officer Call University of Colorado-Colorado Springs
located in building 1219, will be open for processing representative — Call Terry Hagen at 526-9262 Army ROTC at 262-3475 for more information.
work orders and other in-person support from or email terry.j.hagen.civ@mail.mil for questions ETS briefings — for enlisted personnel are held the
7-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday. Afternoon customer on snow removal, grounds maintenance and first and third Wednesday of each month. Briefing
support is by appointment only, call 526-2900. contractor response to service orders. sign in begins at 7 a.m. at the Soldier Readiness
Veterans Affairs claims and benefits — Veterans • Portable latrines — Call Jerald Just at Building, building 1042, room 244, on a first-come,
can get assistance through the Veterans Services 524-0786 or email jerald.j.just.civ@mail.mil to first-served basis. Soldiers must be within 120 days
Group, Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. for walk-ins request latrines, for service or to report damaged of their expiration term of service, but must attend
and 3:30-4:30 p.m. for appointments. The VSG is or overturned latrines. the briefing no later than 30 days prior to their
located at The Retired Enlisted Association The Fort Carson Trial Defense Service office — is ETS or start of transition leave. Call 526-2240/
Chapter 1 at 834 Emory Circle in Colorado able to help Soldiers 24/7 and is located at building 8458 for details.
Springs. For more information call 719-337-0086. 1430, room 240. During duty hours, Soldiers Special Forces briefings — are held Wednesdays in
Sergeant Audie Murphy Club — The Fort Carson should call 526-4563. The 24-hour phone number building 1430, room 123, from noon to 1 p.m.
Sergeant Audie Murphy Club meets the third for after hours, holidays and weekends is 719-358- Soldiers must be specialist to staff sergeant from any
Tuesday of each month at the Family Connection 3275. Questions can also be submitted by email to military occupational specialty, have a general
Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The SAMC FtCarsonTDS@gmail.com. Know your rights. technical score of at least 107, be a U.S. citizen, score
is open to all active members and those interested Legal services — provided at the Soldier Readiness 240 or higher on the Army Physical Fitness Test, and
in becoming future SAMC members. The club was Processing site are for Soldiers undergoing the SRP pass a Special Forces physical. Call 524-1461 or
originally a U.S. Forces Command organization of process. The SRP Legal Office will only provide visit the website at http://www.bragg.army.mil/sorb.
elite noncommissioned officers but is now an powers of attorney or notary services to Soldiers
Armywide program for individuals who have met processing through the SRP. Retirees, Family Hours of Operation
the criteria and have proven themselves to be members and Soldiers not in the SRP process can
outstanding NCOs through a board/leadership receive legal assistance and powers of attorney at the • In-processing — Monday-Thursday from 7:30-
process. Contact the SAMC president, Staff Sgt. main legal office located at 1633 Mekong St., 10:30 a.m.
Thomas Witt, at 526-5661 for more information. building 6222, next to the Family Readiness Center. • Initial and partial issues — Monday-
Recycle incentive program — The Directorate of Legal assistance prepares powers of attorney and Friday from 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Public Works has an incentive program to prevent performs notary services on a walk-in basis from • Cash sales/report of survey — Monday-
recyclable waste from going to the landfill. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Participating battalions can earn monetary rewards Fridays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays. • Direct exchange and partial turn ins —
for turning recyclable materials in to the Fort Carson Monday-Friday from 7:30-11:30 a.m.
Recycle Center, building 155. Points are assigned for Briefings • Full turn ins — by appointment only; call
the pounds of recyclable goods turned in and every 526-3321.
participating battalion receives money quarterly. Call Casualty Notification/Assistance Officer training — • Unit issues and turn ins — Call 526-
526-5898 for more information about the program. is held April 17-19 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the 5512/6477 for approval.
Directorate of Public Works services — DPW is Family Readiness Center, building 6237, room 104. Education Center hours of operation — The
responsible for a wide variety of services on Fort This training is required for all Soldiers asked to Mountain Post Training and Education Center,
Carson. Services range from repair and maintenance perform this solemn duty. Per Army Regulation building 1117, 526-2124, hours are as follows:
of facilities to equipping units with a sweeper and 600-8-1, this duty is limited to those in the ranks of • Counselor Support Center — Monday-
cleaning motor pools. Listed below are phone sergeant first class to command sergeant major, chief Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fridays 11
numbers and points of contact for services: warrant officer 2-5 and captain and above. No a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Facility repair/service orders — Fort reservations are required to attend training. Classes • Army Learning Center — Monday-
offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Call Jean Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Graves at 526-5613/ 5614 for more information. • Defense Activity for Nontraditional
Disposition Services — Defense Logistics Agency Education Support and Army Personnel
BOSS meetings
Disposition Services Colorado Springs, located in Testing — Monday-Friday 7:30-11:30 a.m. and
are held at 10 a.m. building 381, conducts orientations Fridays from 12:30-4:30 p.m.
the first and third 12:30-3:30 p.m. The orientations discuss DLA Medical Activity Correspondence Department office
Wednesday of each processes to include turning in excess property, hours — The Correspondence (Release of Infor-
month at the Foxhole. reutilizing government property, web-based tools mation) Office in the Patient Administration Division
For information, call available, special handling of property and hours are Monday-Wednesday and Friday 7:30 a.m.
524-BOSS. environmental needs. To schedule an orientation, to 4:30 p.m. and closed Thursday and federal
contact Arnaldo Borrerorivera at arnaldo. holidays. Call 526-7322 or 526-7284 for details.
8. 8 MOUNTAINEER — March 30, 2012
‘Iron’ Soldiers
Story and photos by Sgt. Justin Hall and Spc. Adam
Sgt. Khori Johnson Bardwell, cavalry scouts, Troop A, 4th
3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment,
Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division earned the titles of NCO and Soldier of
the quarter, respectively, as nine Soldiers
Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat competed in a multitude of Soldier skills
Team, 4th Infantry Division, showed including rifle marksmanship, combat
off their skills, engaging in a friendly lifesaving and land navigation.
competition March 14-15 to see who “We are looking for the absolute best
deserved the titles of Noncommissioned Soldier and NCO in the brigade,” said
Officer and Soldier of the Quarter. Master Sgt. Gregory Brobst, 3rd BCT
Left: Sgt. Justin Hall, Troop A, 4th
Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment,
3rd Brigade Combat Team,
4th Infantry Division, answers
questions presented by a board
comprised of 3rd BCT senior
noncommissioned officers
during the “Iron” Brigade’s
NCO and Soldier of the Quarter
competition held March 14-15.
Hall earned recognition as the
brigade’s NCO of the Quarter.
Right: Sgt. Daniel Hernandez,
Company A, 1st Battalion, 68th
Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Infantry
Division, assembles an AN/PRC-119
man pack radio during the “Iron”
Brigade’s Noncommissioned
Officer and Soldier of the Quarter
competition held March 14-15.
Colorado Publishing Company
9. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 9
compete for top honors
operations senior NCO.
Soldiers take part in the quarterly
competition to set themselves apart from
their peers, Brobst said. He explained
that the competitive atmosphere is
designed to push Soldiers to excel to the
best of their ability.
For two days, 3rd BCT Soldiers
were expected to perform at a superior
level. Every task, from the physical
fitness test to a detailed uniform
inspection, pitted Soldiers against each
other in a way that left little room for
error in order to come out on top.
“I’m pretty motivated to make
myself better whenever I can,” Hall
said. “Competition is one of the main
ways, in any workplace, to make a
person better. And in the Army, when
a Soldier becomes better, it makes the
organization better.”
Hall and Bardwell will represent
the “Iron” Brigade at the 4th Inf.
Div. competition.
Right: Spc. Adam Bardwell, left, Troop
A, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division,
provides aid to Spc. Mike Tipps, Troop C, 4th
Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg., who is role-playing as
an injured Soldier during the brigade’s
Noncommissioned Officer and Soldier of
the Quarter competition. Bardwell earned
Soldier of the Quarter honors.
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10. 10 MOUNTAINEER — March 30, 2012
Return “We trained as a heavy
from Page 5
leadership built the program from
scratch when the brigade
brigade, then parked our tanks
and Bradleys and went back to
war as a light unit,” said Riley.
Units traditionally leave the
Soldiers hang up uniforms
deployed, creating a task force of vehicles behind to be repaired by Mountaineer staff • Maj. James Earls, 2nd Battalion,
27 Soldiers capable of repairing a fleet of civilian contractors, but 395th Field Artillery Regiment,
vehicles and filling equipment now with the pilot program, the Thirteen Fort Carson Soldiers Fort Hood, Texas
shortages on vehicles left behind maintenance is left to Army were honored for their service to the • Sgt. Maj. Shirley A. Moore, Mission
by the “Warhorse” Brigade. trained mechanics to get the job nation during a retirement ceremony Support Element
“We had 30 days to complete done, said Riley. April 28 on Manhart Field. • 1st Sgt. Cory Wilson, HHBN,
a full inventory to figure out what “The objective of the mainte- Soldiers, Family and friends 4th Inf. Div.
the shortages were and order all nance task force is to take back gathered to celebrate the closing • Master Sgt. Roosevelt Pierre Noel,
the parts to bring the 2nd BCT up ownership of military vehicles moments of the Soldiers’ Army careers 43rd Sustainment Brigade
to 100 percent upon return,” said and to improve skill sets of as they were presented their final
Staff Sgt. Cynthia Drerup, unit Soldiers,” said Riley. • Master Sgt. Cedrick L. Kirkwood,
military decorations and U.S. flags U.S. Army Recruiting Station,
supply specialist, 2nd BCT “The task force prioritizes
Maintenance Task Force. maintenance on vehicles, allowing that had been flown over the Mountain Hendersonville, N.C.
The task force services and an hour for lunch, a 15-minute Post headquarters. The Soldiers’ • Master Sgt. Joe Winsor, U.S.
maintains approximately 430 break in the afternoon, and end the spouses received certificates of Northern Command, Peterson
pieces of equipment, including workday at 5:30 p.m. to attain appreciation and a rose and their Air Force Base
Bradley Fighting Vehicles; maximum productivity,” said 2nd children Army “Brat” certificates in • Sgt. 1st Class Craig L. Colvin,
M1A2 System Enhancement BCT Maintenance Task Force 1st recognition of their service. 1st Bn., 8th Inf. Reg., 3rd BCT,
Package Abrams tank; M109A6 Sgt. Kevin Coderre. “A typical 4th Inf. Div.
Paladins; and M992A2 Carrier- Army unit gets 50 percent produc- Those retiring were: • Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Tutton,
Ammunition Tracked Vehicles. tion out of a normal Soldier, here • Lt. Col. James Kearse, Headquarters
“We’re doing services, we get 90-percent production time.” 1st Bn., 2nd Aviation Reg.
and Headquarters Battalion, • Staff Sgt. Noel Morales, 1st Bn.,
pulling out the engines and The deployed 2nd BCT
transmissions, looking the Soldiers are scheduled to return 4th Infantry Division 68th Armor Reg., 3rd BCT,
equipment over, finding any from Afghanistan in the coming • Maj. Ramon W. Almodovar, 1st 4th Inf. Div.
damage, swapping out fluids and months. Following their reinte- Brigade Combat Team, • Staff Sgt Bennie L. Britton Jr.,
filters,” said Pfc. William Weir, gration, they will be issued their 4th Inf. Div. HHBN, 4th Inf. Div.
wheeled vehicle mechanic. armored vehicles and begin to • Sgt. Phillip Hicks, 64th Brigade
The 2nd BCT, traditionally a train again as a heavy brigade. Support Battalion, 3rd BCT,
heavy brigade combat team “I would like to see a 4th Inf. Div.
equipped with armored vehicles, successful first gunnery where The next Fort Carson monthly post
re-designated as an infantry maintenance is not a factor in
brigade combat team prior to planning,” said Riley. “After that retirement ceremony takes place April 25
deployment; leaving all armored I would like to see units picking at 3:30 p.m. at the Special Events Center.
vehicles behind. up where we left off.”
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11. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 11
Members of the Winter Youth Camp trek up to “The
Whale” for a day of climbing, Monday. Eleven teens
and preteens from Fort Carson went snowshoeing
Tuesday and skiing and snowboarding Wednesday.
Youths tackle ‘Blow Tube Envy,’ ‘Red Venus’
Story and photos by
Andrea Sutherland
Mountaineer staff
Alex Rodriguez pulled himself
over the lip of “Blow Tube Envy.” He
looked up the sandstone face — still 30
feet to go. Grasping onto the thin holds,
Alex braced himself against the 35-mph
winds that blew through the canyon.
Pulling himself up the remaining
few feet of the climb, he looked
around the valley, calling for tension
to let his belayer know he was ready
to be lowered.
“This is awesome,” said Alex,
15. “You can’t ask for a better view
than this.”
Alex joined 10 children ranging in
age from 11-15 from Fort Carson for the
Winter Youth Camp, held during their
spring break Monday-Wednesday.
“It was my parents’ idea,” said
Alex. “When I heard there was ice
climbing, I agreed. But we’re not
doing that now because it’s too hot.”
With temperatures in the 70s,
Outdoor Recreation employees Trevor
McConnell and Meg Louk opted to
take the youths rock climbing rather
than risk the warming temperatures
on the ice. Alex said he was still Devin Jean, 13, works his way up “Blow
excited to rock climb. Tube Envy” at Red Rock Canyon, Monday.
The group traveled Monday to
Red Rock Canyon near Colorado
Springs, climbing at “The Whale,” setting,” said McConnell, Adventure For many, sacrificing a few days McConnell said the camps
a large formation that boasts close to Programs and Education program of their spring break was worth the APE is able to put on reach the
30 climbs. With skills ranging from director. “It allows them to be experience. preteen and teenage age group,
beginner to intermediate, the youths themselves while enjoying the “I wouldn’t be doing anything,” providing them with unique
climbed “Red Venus,” a 100-foot-tall outdoors. It gets them outside and said Devin Jean, 13. experiences outdoors.
beginner route and “Blow Tube Envy,” not playing video games.” “I’m excited to go snowboarding,” “It’s a really unique group to
an intermediate 105-foot route. Despite the warm weather, the said Ona Chapman, 15. “I’ve work with and it’s a lot of fun,” he
“It gives them the opportunity to children still enjoyed winter sports, never been.” said. “It’s an excellent time to get them
comingle with other individuals in snowshoeing Tuesday and skiing Most of the other children said outside and give them experiences
the military outside a military and snowboarding Wednesday. they were also excited for the ski day. that they want to have.”
12. 12 MOUNTAINEER — March 30, 2012
Employers pledge to hire spouses
Story and photo by
Andrea Sutherland
Mountaineer staff
Laura Bailey didn’t expect to
represent the thousands of spouses
affiliated with Fort Carson March 21
at the Military Spouse Employment
Program Pikes Peak Regional
Induction and Signing Ceremony held
at the Elkhorn Conference Center.
“It’s not exactly what I thought,”
she said. “They needed an Army
spouse and asked me, so I accepted.”
Bailey joined commanders from
local installations, including Maj.
Gen. Joseph Anderson, commanding
general, 4th Infantry Division and
Fort Carson, and Deputy Assistant Robert L. Gordon III, deputy assistant secretary of Defense, signs the Statement of Support during the March 21 Military Spouse
Secretary of Defense Robert L. Employment Program signing ceremony at the Elkhorn Conference Center. Gordon was joined by area military and community
Gordon III, signing the “Statement leaders including Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, second from right.
of Support” between the armed
forces and corporate partners. has a degree in paralegal. signed the statement of support, I get it,” he said.
The signing marked an important Bailey said she searched for work pledging to increase employment Gordon said that since the
step in expanding the MSEP, which for four years, working in restaurants opportunities for military spouses, start of the employment program,
began June 29 as an effort to increase in the meantime, until she was hired provide career promotion opportunities more than 346,000 jobs have been
employment opportunities for military by Lowe’s Home Improvement. and ensure pay equity. listed on the program’s website:
spouses who often have trouble “I’m finally making more than $2 “It’s a giant step in recognizing https://msepjobs.militaryonesource.mil.
finding jobs because of their spouses’ an hour,” she said, adding that she finds military spouses,” Anderson said. More companies have pledged
military commitments. time to do freelance paralegal work. “It takes a partnership to to hire military spouses and another
Military spouses face a dispropor- “Military spouses possess bring skill and talent together,” signing ceremony will take place
tionate unemployment rate of 26 awesome attributes,” Anderson said said Gordon, a Colorado Springs in May.
percent and a 25-percent wage gap during the ceremony. “They’re native who added that he was Spouses interested in employment
compared to their civilian counterparts, dependable, reliable and resilient.” delighted with the partnership may contact the Employment Readiness
according to the MSEP website. Anderson said that signing occurring between the military Program, part of Army Community
“I spent a lot of time trying to find the statement of support would and Pikes Peak community. Service, by calling 526-0452 or visit
a job with my degree, but every time increase employment opportunities “I spent 26 years in the Army. http://community.carson.army.mil/ACS/
it came up that my husband was in the for spouses. I was the son of a military spouse. programs(underscore)employmentReadi.
Army, that was it,” said Bailey, who Representatives from 37 companies I’m married to a military spouse. html for more information.
13. March 30, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 13
DPW protects cultural sites
By Andrea Sutherland on active training ground for initially marking an additional
Mountaineer staff Soldiers, has proved challenging. 120 sites in the main mechanized
“There are a variety of issues maneuver area at PCMS, with
Remnants of cultures long ago needing consideration when more to follow. A similar site
lay in the canyons, hilltops and trying to protect these sites,” marking effort will start at
grasslands across Fort Carson’s Thomas said. “We have to protect Fort Carson soon.”
373,000 acres. The preservation the location of these sites so Thomas said the sites slated
of these prehistoric and historic people don’t go looting. … But for marking are only those
sites remains a top priority for in the past there was too much eligible for listing in the National
garrison staff members of the emphasis placed on not letting Register of Historic Places and
Cultural Resources Management people know where the sites are also at most risk of being
Team at Fort Carson. and then they get damaged.” impacted by training. Cultural
“Federal agencies must protect Efforts to mark historical survey inventories have located
cultural sites,” said Wayne sites, which include parts of more than 750 eligible sites
Thomas, National Environmental shelters built by early Americans in Fort Carson’s care.
Policy Act and Cultural as well as the foundations and To provide units the ability
Management Branch chief, part of walls of cultures living in the to conduct realistic training while
the Directorate of Public Works. area after 1600, are improving. protecting cultural resources,
Established in 1966, the Previously, sites at Piñon Canyon staff members are developing
National Historic Preservation Maneuver Site were protected an overlay of cultural sites to
Act requires “each federal agency by fencing, alerting troops to the be uploaded into the digital
to establish a preservation site locations. New, more visible Battle Command Systems and
program to protect and preserve markers, called Seibert stakes, used by units when planning
historic properties.” are now being put in place. and executing training.
Protecting these historic “We mark the sites more at Although staff members are
sites, the majority of which exist risk,” Thomas said. “We’re doing their best to establish
protection measures for these
historically significant sites,
“Remember these sites represent Thomas asks that Soldiers and
their leaders be aware that Photo by Roy Miller
a part of our nation’s heritage every effort is being made to
not impact training.
Seibert stakes help mark historical sites on Fort Carson,
many of which exist on active training ground for
and they deserve to be protected.” “Remember these sites
represent a part of our nation’s
Soldiers. Garrison staff members from the Cultural
Resources Management Team have improved efforts to
— Wayne Thomas heritage and they deserve to mark the more than 750 sites eligible for listing in the
be protected,” he said. National Register of Historic Places.
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