Seabees train Afghan Engineers Logis cs important as Na onal on bridging skills … PAGE 3 Eng. Brigade grows… PAGE 6 Sapper Sentinel “SAPPERS IN!” JOINT TASK FORCE SAPPER NEWSLETTER OF THE THEATER ENGINEER BRIGADE IN AFGHANISTAN Facebook.com/TheaterEngineerBrigade Issue 5 — February 2014 Message from the Commander The month of February was largely spent se ling in to our new environment at NKC. We then closed the month with visits to our At A Glance… units. We saw great work com‐ JTF SAPPER SERVING AS THEATER pleted by the ENGINEER BRIGADE, THE ENGINEER HQ AND EXPERTISE IN AFGHSNISTAN 284th Ver cal Construc on and Photo by US Army Pfc. Dixie Rae Liwanag, Combat Camera ENGINEER FORCES SPREAD ACROSS 333rd Horizontal Construc on AFGHANISTAN IN SUPPORT OF companies at Shindand Air Base in NATO-LED INTERNATIONAL SECURITY western Afghanistan. Then we 203rd Engineer Kandak ASSISTANCE FORCE (ISAF) par cipated in the 333rd’s end‐of‐ JOINT TEAM LED BY 130TH ENG. tour awards ceremony and fare‐ Celebrates One Year BRIGADE HQS FROM SCHOFIELD well at FOB Shank. BARRACKS, HAWAII… INCLUDES By U.S. Army Sgt. Javier Amador Mohammad Ya ali, the Engineer- Meanwhile, our training ACTIVE, RESERVE, AND GUARD UNITS mission with the Afghan engineers 3rd BCT, 10th Mtn., Public Affairs ing Kandak’s Commander, Afghan FROM ARMY, NAVY AND AIR FORCE con nues. The Seabees have truly Army Lt. Col. Sado Gul, as well as embraced their role in advising FORWARD OPERATING BASE U.S. Army Brig. Gen. David the Afghan Na onal Engineer THUNDER, Afghanistan – The Haight, and U.S. Army Maj. An- Brigade—it was very sa sfying to 203rd Corps Engineering Kandak drew Olson, the former officer- in see two of the three Afghan units celebrated their first full year of - charge of the Spartan brigade’s graduate from ini al training and opera ons in the early a ernoon engineering Security Force Advise Inside move to their final sta on in Ka‐ of Feb. 17, with a ceremony held Assist Team, both with the 10th bul. We also had the opportunity on Forward Oper- Mountain Division. this issue… a ng Base Thunder Haight and Olson to visit a team from the 365th “Some of our smartest COMMAND SGT. MAJ.’S CORNER. 2 and celebra ng presented a brand SEABEE WATER WELL TEAM Engineer Ba alion located in and most skillful soldiers northern Afghanistan where they with them was the new flag to be used are our engineers” ANA SOLDIERS LEARN ESSENTIAL 4 are training the Construc on Engi‐ Spartan brigade’s as the unit’s official IED SKILLS neer Ba alion of the Afghan Engineering Securi- colors, a er which JTF SAPPER REACHES HALFWAY 5 209th Corps. ty Force Advise and Assist Team Haight reminded everyone pre- MARK IN DEPLOYMENT Finally, we hosted the 2nd who helped make the unit the sent about the great importance Eng. Brigade from Alaska when success story it is today. engineering units hold in any ENGINEERS ASSIST IN KANDAHAR 7 “RE-LOCATABLE” HOTEL they conducted their Pre‐ The ceremony, which con- army. Deployment Site Survey. It was a sisted of a forma on and inspec- “In the U.S. Army, historical- SOLDIERS CONTINUE TO LEARN LIFE- 8 SAVING SKILLS WHILE DEPLOYED reminder of how much our team on tour by the Commander of ly, some of our smartest and has accomplished in five months the Afghan Na onal Army’s 203rd most skillful soldiers are our engi- BROTHERS IN ARMS 10 and how quickly me is passing. Corps, Afghan Army Maj. Gen. (Continued on page 9) The next several weeks will HEADQUARTERS & HEADQUARTERS 11 COMPANY (HHC) UPDATE be busy for all of us. We look for‐ ward to con nuing to make a JTF SAPPER CROSSWORD! 12 difference in support of the mis‐ GALLERY: AROUND THE BRIGADE. 13 sion in Afghanistan. As always, we CHAPLAIN’S CLOSING are thankful for our Families and friends for their unceasing sup‐ REMEMBERING FALLEN HEROS 14 port. SAPPERS IN!! — COL Diana Holland
Page 1 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Command Sergeant Major’s Corner Command Sgt. Maj. John Etter, “Sapper 7”
Aloha to our Ohana from proud of how our recent experi‐ Kabul, Afghanistan! ences have helped improve the “Five Dimensions of Strength” As each month passes, the that make up the program and me in between wri ng my mes‐ keep us focused both at work sage to our Fami‐ and at home. lies and friends Throughout the deployment back in Hawaii I have witnessed our Soldiers seems to go by balancing all the demands re‐ faster. quired of them and I challenge Photo by Chief Utilitiesman David Asbury I hope that the each of you to iden fy and dis‐ Seabees with NMCB 28 Water Well Team set up the mudpuppy at beau ful island cuss with your loved ones ways their project site to aid in recycling the drill rig mud being used. weather is help‐ you can con nue to get stronger ing the me go by just as fast for together. you as we complete the sixth For example, take the me month of the deployment. to share your accomplishments Seabees Provide Water I am con nually impressed in the gym and encourage each with the resiliency of the Soldiers, other during a long distance NCOs, Officers and Families of phone call or video chat to Through Drilling Team our unit each day as mission achieve the goals you set. Or, By U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Michael Dwyer Afghanistan (CJOA-A). requirements change in prepara‐ highlight the posi ve skills you Joint Task Force Sapper Lead by Chief U li esman on for the reduc on of forces in have prac ced while being apart: Afghanistan by the end of this learning to be more independent David Asbury, this team mobiliz- year. or having increased confidence Central Afghanistan – Sea- es across to various loca ons JTF Sapper and the 130th when you are alone. bees from Naval Mobile Con- throughout the country in sup- Eng. Bde. have excelled in the Thank you for suppor ng struc on Ba alions (NMCB) 28 port of bases’ needs. The Sea- Comprehensive Soldier and Fami‐ your Soldier! Happy New Year form the Task Force Coda water bees rotate shi s to be able to ly Fitness program, a key compo‐ and Mahalo! (“Thank you!”) well team. This is a highly spe- work 24 hour days through the nent of the Army’s Ready and cialized team of Seabees that dura on of their projects. Resilient Campaign. Sappers In, provide well repair, remedia on, Recently, the team conduct- My interac on with the CSM John E er and development service within ed on-site training at New Kabul personnel in our forma ons across the country makes me Combined Joint Opera ons Area- Compound for senior leaders of the 130th Engineer Brigade Headquarters. Training consist- ed of several sta ons that ar cu- lated the full capability of a wa- This newsle er belongs to the ter well team and their current mission members of Joint Task Force Sapper… [The team] provides objec- well repair, ves. “This remediation, and area development service would create The Sapper Sen nel is an authorized newsle er for members of the 130th Send us photos, stories, and ideas for a unique mission since our team Engineer Brigade and Joint Task Force future coverage, and see your unit’s has never dug a well on this base Sapper. Contents are not necessarily before,” said Asbury. “Other endorsed by the Dept. of the Army, Dept. accomplishments highlighted on our na ons and contractors have of Defense, or United States Government. dug wells on NKC, but not Ameri- Content is reviewed, edited, and approved Facebook page and in future edi ons can forces.” by the Brigade Public Affairs Officer. of the Sapper Sen nel! Due to this element, they For ques ons, comments, or submissions, were able to explain to the sen- please contact the Brigade PAO. ior leaders at the training all that Public Affairs Officer: 1LT Laura Beth Beebe is required. The significant data [email protected] collec on that ensures the safety Facebook.com/TheaterEngineerBrigade of the Soldiers involved in the Email: [email protected] (Continued on page 6)
Page 2 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 “Bridging the Gap” Seabees Work with Afghan Army Specialty Engineers
By Steelworker 2nd Class Amanda Lewis diers on the construc on of a Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28 Mabey Johnson bridge, a pre- engineered, steel panel bridge. CAMP PHOENIX, Afghani- Within the past couple of stan – As members of the Task weeks, these Seabees have fa- Force Engineering Brigade Advise miliarized their Afghan counter- and Assist Team (EBAAT), Sea- parts with parts recogni on, bees of Naval Mobile Construc- roller layout, and have construct- on Ba alion (NMCB) 28, based ed the launching nose sec on. out of Barksdale Air Force Base, Although it has been chal- Shreveport, La., mentor and lenging overcoming the language advise soldiers of barrier, bridge the Afghan Na- “When [the ANA] push us master U li es- onal Army man 1st Class (ANA) Na onal out of the way and take David Knapp Engineer Brigade charge, they are grasping describes the (NEB) Specialty the concept of pin and training as a Engineering Kan- panel bridging and are “rewarding expe- U.S. Navy photo by Chief Steelworker Barry Wood dak (SEK) on rience.” eager to participate” U li esman 2nd Class Alexander Dunbar supervises the placement of complex engi- Knapp says he a bridge sec on by Afghan Army Engineers Feb. 23 at the CFC. neering tasks, takes pride including ver cal construc on, “when they [the ANA] push us from the Specialty Kandak up clined,” Triolo con nued. “They bridging, and water well drilling. out of the way and take charge and down the chain; from the currently need 100% guidance to Beginning in January 2014, of the bridge opera ons. They Commanding and Execu ve ensure nobody gets hurt.” nine Seabees with the support of are grasping the concept of pin Officers to the Bridge Students is Triolo has proac vely estab- six linguists were provided the and panel bridging, and are ea- very exci ng,” explained Lt. Cdr. lished an Afghan safety counter- opportunity to instruct 60 Af- ger to par cipate.” Deniz Piskin, EBAAT Officer-in- part to help emphasize proper ghan Na onal Army (ANA) sol- "The level of engagement Charge. “They understand the hand placement, li ing technique importance of learning cri cal and teamwork, effec vely mini- engineering skills like bridging mizing the risk of any safety mis- and the posi ve impact that haps occurring on the job site. these skills can create for their So far the idea has been posi- community and country. So they vely reinforced, Triolo explained, are eager to par cipate." “if he sees something, he takes Bridge master and safety the ini a ve to fix it so no one representa ve gets hurt”. Builder Second “They understand the Triolo hopes to Class Ma Triolo promote a safety importance of learning talked about the plan that remains rough start, “The critical engineering skills effec ve long a er majority of these like bridging and the the Seabees finish soldiers are kids, positive impact that these their training with aging 19 to 21, the ANA. skills create for their just like us when Future training of we came out of community and country.” the Specialty Kan- boot camp. They dak Bridge Compa- don’t necessarily want to be ny will include finishing the build- doing it, but they are doing it.” out, launching and landing the U.S. Navy photo by Chief Steelworker Barry Wood “We are working with ex- bridge, as well as con nued prac- Equipment Operator 2nd Class Cody Doyle instructs Afghan Army tremely heavy parts, and many cal exercises to ensure the ANA Engineers on the construc on of a Mabey‐Johnson Bridge during a of them are not used to manual bridge unit is fully mission capa- training exercise at the Consolidated Fielding Center (CFC). labor, nor mechanically in- ble.
Page 3 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 ANA Soldiers Hone IED Neutralizing Expertise
Afghan Na onal Army soldiers examine parts of an improvised ex‐ plosive device during a explosive hazardous reduc on and contain‐ ment course being taught at Camp Eagle, Afghanistan, Feb. 10. The class was one of two counter‐improvised explosive device courses being taught to soldiers of the ANA’s 2nd Brigade, 205th Corps. Photo by U.S. Army Cpl. Clay Beyersdorfer, RC‐S Public Affairs By U.S. Army Cpl. Clay Beyersdorfer by Forward Opera ng Base the IED has changed the face of are prevalent and used by the RC-South Public Affairs Apache, talked about the train- combat, and how the ANA can enemy, destroying them not only ing, and the ANA’s responsive- become effec ve in defea ng saves a local Afghan popula on of KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Af- ness to it. those devices by using the hand harmful devices, but it also sends ghanistan — With Interna onal “The training going on right held mine detector. a message. Security Assistance Force assis- now is the hand held mine de- “They biggest threat (ANA) A message ANA Sgt. Abdul tance, soldiers from the Afghan tector training, which is a ‘train- have is the IED,” Soriano said. Wahid, a platoon sergeant with Na onal Army’s 205th Corps, the-trainer’ course,” Soriano “This training gives them the 4th Kandak, is ready to deliver. con nue to train and defeat said. “The ANA really gravitate to capability to go out there, find “We are ready to show them improvised explosive devices. the training because of the tech- those IEDs and neutralize them.” we are not afraid of you (Taliban) ANA instructors recently nology brought to the table.” In the next classroom over, and we will defeat you and you held two classes that covered He also spoke about the nearly 20 soldiers from the six cannot hide from us,” he said. counter-IED training at Camp goal of teaching the ANA so that Kandaks of 2nd Bde., received That message will be on Eagle, Afghanistan. they can return to their perspec- training from ISAF personnel on display even more towards the The training ve units and teach proper explosive ordnance dis- end of both the hand held mine featured a sec on “We know this their own soldiers posal and destruc on. detector training and EHRC cours- on hand-held mine material...but we are without ISAF assis- Lessons ranged from iden - es- where a final exercise will be detectors, as well as tance. fying components of an IED, held with the students. an explosive hazard learning new ways to “They know that they ground and warning signs of A mock scenario will be pre- reduc on and con- defeat the IED” are going to be the explosives, as well sented to both tainment course. future trainers,” he as proper distance “We will protect our groups, who will 18 hand-selected engineer said. “So they are taking a per- and measures need- country and do have to effec vely soldiers from six kandaks, or sonal interest on learning this ed to effec vely clear, iden fy and ba alions, of the 205th Corps, equipment and doing the teach- defeat explosives. anything for the people destroy dummy IEDs started the nearly three-week backs. They will be able to return ANA Sgt. Ab- to show we are ready” located at a nearby training course with 10 days of to their Kandaks and train their dullah Sharem, an training site. MD training, where soldiers re- own soldiers by themselves.” engineer with 4th Kandak The exercise is just another ceived classroom instruc on on Along with proper mainte- (Ba alion), 2nd Bde., 205th posi ve step forward, as the ANA properly maintaining and using nance and how to use the device Corps, spoke about the benefits will be able to defeat the Tali- the device. effec vely, soldiers were given of the classes being taught. ban’s most notorious weapon, Capt. Robert Soriano, 2nd an overview of IEDs – where they “We know this material a lot and help provide security for the Ba alion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, are typically located, why they of it, but we are learning new Afghan popula on. 1st Infantry Division, who has are located where they are, and ways to defeat the IED,” Sharem “We will protect our country overseen engineering training how to properly handle them in said. “Our forces are greater and do anything for the people to with the ANA as part of a securi- any given situa on. because of these teachings.” show we are ready and can do ty force assistance team at near- Soriano talked about how In a landscape where IED’s this,” Wahid said.
Page 4 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 JTF Sapper Reaches Halfway Point Strong By 1st Lt. Laura Beth Beebe As the Theater Engineer Brigade, taken this requirement and ex- that stop them from grabbing a Joint Task Force Sapper JTF Sapper’s overall mission has ceeded expecta ons to this hold of their own training and con nued to change as the over- point. running with it. KABUL, Afghanistan – The all ISAF mission con nues to Development of the ANA “A er receiving the training 130th Engineer Brigade Head- evolve, se ng the stage for a engineers con nues to be a high themselves, the 207th CEK NCOs quarters, from Schofield Bar- post-2014 Afghanistan. priority for the brigade head- are increasing the effec veness racks, Hawaii, had a boos ng Star ng out, the brigade, quarters, because as coali on of the training by breaking down milestone as they recently which had approximately 4,000 forces step back and draw down, the language barrier and directly crossed the half-way point of engineer Soldiers, Sailors, and the Afghan Na onal Security training their Soldiers,” said their deployment in support of Airmen, was responsible for Af- Forces are taking the lead in all Capt. Jason Oliver, 207th CEK Opera on Enduring Freedom- ghan Na onal Army (ANA) engi- opera ons. Security Force Advise and Assist Afghanistan where they have neer development, coali on base The Corps Engineer Kandaks Team officer in charge. been serving as Joint Task Force construc on and route clearance (ba alion size element of engi- “This allows for lessons to be Sapper, the Theater assets across the neers consis ng of construc on more effec ve for both the CEK Engineer Brigade As coalition forces country. The brigade and mobility engineers) have NCOs who are con nually think- Headquarters. step back and draw is now responsible for been performing above expecta- ing about the instruc on by ver- This milestone down, the Afghan the ANA Na onal ons and con nue to produce bally explaining it to their sol- also coincides with great products. diers and for the ANA soldiers National Security Engineer Brigade the headquarters (NEB) development, “Both ANA and Coali on who are receiving direct instruc- move to the New Forces are taking coali on base con- Force engineers have become on from their own leaders.” Kabul Compound the lead in all struc on and decon- ‘Solu oneers’ on all fronts in The brigade is also working (NKC), from Bagram operations struc on, and base de solving problems in each of the with the NEB headquarters, cur- Airfield. As the bri- -scoping, while s ll regional commands,” explained rently at the Combined Fielding gade se les down, they will being referred to as the subject Capt. Michael Williams, JTF Sap- Center (CFC), to ensure the spend the second half of their ma er experts in mobility assets. per ANA Development Officer. headquarters is properly trained deployment in the country’s De-scoping of coali on bases “They have adapted and over- to handle the mission command capital, co-located with U.S. across the country is a top priori- come to con nue progress in and capabili es that the ANA Forces-Afghanistan (USFOR-A) ty for the Sapper team as the training despite engineers bring to headquarters. amount of equipment and bases whatever issues “They have adapted and the table. Since September, the brigade a er a decade of war have be- may arise.” overcome to continue Although the bri- has been responsible for a mul - come substan al. The ability to The 203rd CEK progress in training gade has trans- tude of engineer opera ons assign the proper assets to cer- has exceeded ferred responsibil- throughout Afghanistan in sup- tain projects in order to ensure training melines despite whatever issues ity of route clear- port of the NATO-led Interna- both the meline and intent are and is conduc ng may arise.” ance to the Region- onal Security Assistance Force. met is cri cal and JTF Sapper has opera ons on al Commands, the their own now. This past month brigade s ll advises ISAF Joint the 203rd CEK conducted mis- Command (IJC) on mobility as- sion analysis on future training sets within the country. events and projects for their As JTF Sapper looks forward Spring Campaign which involved to the second half of the deploy- thinking through different cours- ment, it will con nue to stay es of ac on and ensuring their flexible in its mul dimensional troops were assigned to the mission, as well as planning proper tasks for maximum re- ahead in order to set up JTF Sap- sults. per’s eventual replacement, the The ability for them to con- 2nd Engineer Brigade from Ft. duct this process without assis- Richardson, Ala., for success. tance or advice from coali on This long-term planning pro- forces is another indica on that cess is important as the uncer- shows that they are now fully tainty of coali on presence in capable to conduct opera ons Afghanistan lingers. Therefore, even a er coali on forces pull the work put in by the Theater out of the country. Engineer Brigade now will set Photo courtesy of 203rd CEK SFAAT The 207th CEK is one of the both the U.S. and ANA engineers 203rd CEK leaders plot out future training for the upcoming spring. The newest and youngest kandaks to up for success in the post-2014 ANA engineers completed this planning without coali on assistance. be fielded. They are not le ng Afghanistan.
Page 5 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Drilling to assist in Afghanistan’s water need
(Continued from page 2) ment of the Islamic Republic of project and ensures no exis ng Afghanistan (GIRoA). u li es would be damaged in the Afghan specialty engineers process. will work side by side with their Asbury con nued, “This is Seabee partners to develop the proving to be a great opportunity necessary skills and experience to teach everyone needed to take over on the water well “This is proving to be the mission without team a li le some- advisory help later thing new.” a great opportunity to this year. Task Force teach everyone on the The Seabees, in Coda is planned to team a little keeping with their partner with the “Can Do” spirit, are something new.” Afghan Na onal eager and ready to Army (ANA) Na onal show the NEB how Photo by Chief Utilitiesman David Asbury Engineer Brigade’s (NEB) water to provide their brothers and The NMCB 28 Water Well Team Photo by Lt. Col. David Hurley, JTF Sapper well team. The NEB will eventu- sisters in arms with clean and digs a trench to aid in recycling Seabees with the water well team ally be the only ANA unit trained safe water from the rugged the drill rig mud. This is a neces‐ demonstrate their equipment for and able to provide this vital skill mountains of Badakhshan to the sary step in ensuring the fluid HHC, 130th Eng. Bde. leaders. to bases throughout the Govern- deserts of Nimroz. used by the drilling rig is clean. National Eng. Brigade Continues to Form Under TEB
By U.S. Army 1st Lt. James Beebe sourcing, and partnership opera- transi oned to their replace- as they con nue to establish Joint Task Force Sapper ons are proving to be an essen- ments, NMCB 25, in the coming themselves at their new loca on. al part in establishing this na- months. The logis cs effort is two- KABUL, Afghanistan – The onal asset that will be able to The flexibility, versa lity, fold: ensuring the proper en es Afghan Na onal Army (ANA) is project specialty skills across the and independence such as NTM-A and closer than ever to fully fielding Combined Joint Opera ons Area- these specialty skills “The level of effort CSTC-A are inte- Afghanistan’s first and only Na- Afghanistan (CJOA-A). provide will far applied to this mission grated into all the onal Engineer Brigade (NEB) “The unique capability the outlast any United stretches from the TEB’s planning thanks to the hard work of the NEB has the poten al to provide States Forces- efforts and that the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and is cri cal for the future of the Afghanistan (USFOR tactical level to the TEB’s planning Marines of Joint Task Force Sap- ANA to conduct bridging and -A) presence. strategic level” efforts involve per. well-drilling opera ons across At present, the strengthening and Through con nued mentor- Afghanistan,” Capt Michael Wil- forefront of this effort is provid- u lizing the Afghan logis cs sys- ship and synchroniza on be- liams, ANA Development Officer ing logis cs support to the NEB tems. tween Task Force Coda, Joint for the Theater Engineer Brigade Task Force Sapper Headquarters, (TEB) explains. “The level of Combined Security Transi on effort applied to this mission Command-Afghanistan (CSTC-A), stretches from the tac cal level and NATO Training to the strategic level.” Mission-Afghanistan The NEB is closer Some of these special- (NTM-A), the NEB is than ever to ty skills include ver - closer than ever to cal and horizontal moving into their moving into their new construc on, water home sta on at Camp new home station well drilling, and Ghazi in Central Af- at Camp Ghazi bridging. ghanistan. Soldiers of the Naval Progress has been made Mobile Construc on Ba alion and is con nuing to be made in (NMCB) 28 have been working several areas of the NEB devel- relentlessly to ensure the best opment as it graduates from the quality training is provided to the Photo by U.S. Navy Construction Mechanic 2nd Class John Zaragoza Combined Fielding Center (CFC). ANA to ensure high quality out- Unparalleled training, re- put once their mission set is ANA solders with the SEK are mentored by NMCB 28’s Bridge Team.
Page 6 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Engineers assist with Re-locatable “Hotel”
By U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Cupp “When the idea first came ships with all en es involved in and are proud to be part of it,” 82nd Sustainment Brigade about, we went to the Afghan our opera ons and the combined said Brick, N.J. na ve, Pfc. Joseph Ministry of Transporta on with it effort is a sign of growing stability Bove, a combat engineer for the KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Af- and they weren’t sure if they had [in Afghanistan],” said Highland Marion, Va.-based 760th Eng. Co., ghanistan – Engineers with the anyone who could provide de- Heights, Ky. na ve, Sgt. Maj. a ached to 489th Eng. Bn. Fort Bragg, N.C.-based 82nd Sus- signs for the project or come up Charles Ko myer, engineering “We’re taking down these struc- tainment Brigade – U.S. Central with a concept,” said Lyman, S.C. opera ons sergeant major for the tures in a responsible way which Command Materiel Recovery na ve, Air Force Staff Sgt. William 82nd SB-CMRE. you know will benefit someone in Element have teamed with the King, an engineering cra sman King’s design for the hotel the long run.” Government of the Islamic Re- for the 82nd SB-CMRE. “So, I vol- includes regular hotel rooms with “You can see the im- public of Afghan- unteered to do individual bathrooms, suites for portance of this and the fact that istan’s Civil Avia- “The project shows that we the design.” special visitors, areas for VIP vis- there’s a purpose to what we’re on Authority “I love the idea, for the Ministry are continuing to grow it’s what I was of Transporta- relationships with all entities trained to do and on and the involved in our operations it was really great Regional Com- and the combined effort is a to get more expe- mand-South rience doing Department of sign of growing stability [in this,” added King. Public Works to Afghanistan]” “It’s good for our assist with a engineers, be- project to build a hotel for the cause with this project they really Kandahar Interna onal Airport. do see the tangible results of For the 82nd SB-CMRE por- their work. Eventually the Af- on of the project, engineers ghans will get the funding to build from the a ached, Li le Rock, it, and all we really did was assist Ark.-based 489th Engineer Ba al- them in ge ng started.” ion are providing re-locatable With the eventual transi on buildings that can be refurbished of security to Afghan Security for use in the hotel’s construc on Forces in the near future, 82nd SB Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Cupp, 82nd SB‐CMRE Public Affairs and will be given to Afghans -CMRE engineers said the project Pfc. Joseph Bove, a combat engineer for the Marion, Va.‐based 760th through the Foreign Excess Per- was an opportunity to assist the Engineer Company, prepares a power cable for use with electrical tools sonal Property program. In addi- Afghans with sustaining their that will assist with the par al disassembly of re‐locatable buildings. on to this, the 82nd SB-CMRE stability. played a major role in the plans “The project shows that we its, a pool and laundry facili es doing,” added Bove. “It’s not like and design of the structure. are con nuing to grow rela on- along with other ameni es. we’re just demolishing some- Besides the re-locatable thing, but we’re doing something structures themselves, 82nd SB- that will have a nice result for the CMRE engineers are also provid- Afghans to help them out. We’re ing other recovered materials for giving them something that will the building project consis ng improve their quality of life and mainly of electri- give them some cal components, “You can see the creature com- wood, metal importance of this and the forts.” trusses and sheet To date, 82nd SB metal. fact that there’s a purpose -CMRE engineers Engineers to what we’re doing” have assisted working on the with moving project said it has been a worth- more than 120 re-locatable build- while experience and they were ings to the hotel project site and glad to know that the recovered once the engineers are done with Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Cupp, 82nd SB‐CMRE Public Affairs materials from their work sites their por on of the project, they will go to good use. expect to have handed over near- Spc. Corey Celik (le ), and Staff Sgt. John Scheetz, both engineers “We’re enjoying the mission ly 600 structures to the Afghans. with the 760th Engineer Company, prepare re‐locatable buildings
Page 7 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Sappers Continue to Enhance Lifesaving and Warrior Skills
By 1st Lt. Laura Beth Beebe Kabul limits, home. JTF Sapper Public Affairs The PSD will give the Thea- ter Engineer Brigade Command- KABUL, Afghanistan – Sol- er the ability to now move diers with Joint Task Force Sap- around the Kabul limits to con- per Headquarters recently com- duct these cri cal interac ons. pleted a refresher course on “When we arrived to NKC combat lifesaving skills. and were told that vehicles were The course was one of the going to become part of the PSD, ways that the soldiers with the guardian angel du es that Headquarters and Headquarters used to only involve myself and Company, 130th Engineer Bri- Sgt. 1st Class Jeremiah Galyon, gade, have con nued to improve was expanded to add drive capa- their proficiency in basic tasks. bili es to the command team,” The JTF Sap- Master Sgt. Agus n per headquarters Cruz, one of the recently estab- [It] will give the Theater PSD NCOICs ex- lished a personnel Engineer Brigade plained. security detail Commander the ability Cruz has been Photo by U.S. Army 1st Lt. Bryan Pruitt, JTF Sapper (PSD), a er mov- to now move around the working with the ing their head- command team Sgt. 1st Class Eric Perry (le ), JTF Sapper Opera ons NCO, places a quarters to Kabul, Kabul limits to conduct since arrival into pressure dressing on Spc. Jus n Clayton, a Signal Support Specialist, the country’s capi- critical interactions country, as he and during a medical training refresher course tal. This is cri cal Galyon accompa- because as the Afghan Na onal nied the commander and com- ployed, these soldiers were given conducted went over one of Army’s Na onal Engineer Bri- mand sergeant major on certain the training to refresh the basic these new devices, a cloth called gade gains momentum, the face- ba le field circula on or key skills of “shoot, move, and com- water gel. The convec on prop- to-face interac on with key per- leader engagements. municate.” er es it contains draws the heat sonnel is needed to further ad- With the implementa on “Basic skills are always out of a burn to evaporate it into vise the ANA Engineer leaders, of this movement and security important to train on regardless the surrounding atmosphere. and the NEB headquarters will detail, JTF Sapper leadership of where you are or what unit Col. Diana Holland, Theater call Ghazi, also located within the ensured that even while de- you are in,” said Cruz. “Never let Engineer Brigade Commander, the basic tasks go because they described the importance of make the big tasks happen.” staying on top of their toes, and This training keeping their skills also included lifesav- fresh and muscle ing training given by “Basic skills are memory on point, by the JTF Sapper Med- always important to simply saying, ical NCOIC, Master train on regardless of “Complacency is not Sgt. Ana Alvarenga. where you are or an op on.” Training on how to “All soldiers should react quickly in an what unit you are in” be proficient and emergency situa on con nue to ensure and respond with not only proficiency, especially in hemor- “buddy aid,” where a soldier rhage control,” said Alvarenga. performs first aid on another “You never know when you will soldier, but also on self-aid, need to use these skills.” where a Soldier can perform The 130th headquarters has basic first aid on themselves if been deployed in support of they are able to. Opera on Enduring Freedom- Through training while Afghanistan since September deployed, soldiers can also learn 2013 and is currently halfway Photo by U.S. Army 1st Lt. Bryan Pruitt, JTF Sapper about new devices or techniques through their nine month de- Master Sgt. Agus n Cruz (le ), Intelligence and JTF Sapper PSD that have been fielded. The med- ployment, scheduled to end in NCOIC, places a tourniquet on Sgt. 1st Class Jeremiah Galyon, JTF ical training JTF Sapper recently June 2014. Sapper Future Plans NCO, during a medical training refresher course.
Page 8 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 ANA Engineers After a Year (Continued from page 1) The Spartan engineering neers,” said Haight, “You have SFAAT brings with them a combi- special skills which many of your na on of both engineering and other soldiers don’t have and we organiza onal knowhow. This need you to maintain those skills enables them to do more than to help your army.” just mentor their Afghan coun- The kandak, which in the terparts in technical areas. This Pashtu language means ba al- enables them to develop the ion, has accomplished much kandak into an empowered, during their brief existence. They learning organiza on capable of Photo by US Army Pfc. Dixie Rae Liwanag, Combat Camera have constructed over 62 kilo- ensuring their own growth. Lt. Col. Sado Gul, 203rd ANA Corp Eng. Kandak Commander (second meters of road, built observa on “A big part of our job in our from le ) and US Army Capt. Joshua Snyder, Security Force Advise and combat outposts, completed Army, as officers, is planning and and Assist Team OIC, discuss vehicle maintenance issues. numerous shelter and force pro- while an officer is planning, his tec on projects on Forward Op- Non-Commissioned Officers and stand the changes their Afghan set a ainable short term goals era ng Base Lightning as well as his platoons are execu ng the counterparts must make as they with substan al, long term re- assisted a local community when mission,” said Olson., “You don’t develop their capabili es. They turns. They are working on a a its deep well col- see much of that also understand there are some, variety of programs from a train- lapsed. They used “Whatever we can with the Afghans.” just as there would be in any er cer fica on process and de- their equipment to teach them, they An example of how other popula on, who are re- veloping their vehicle and heavy empowered soldiers recover the casual- absorb like a sponge. sistant to change. equipment maintenance pro- es, a mission that are in the U.S. Army “We’ve actually empowered gram. There is another program lasted 26 hours. Anything you give is clearly demon- a lot of the junior NCO’s, and which could poten ally have the These are notable them, they want strated by how they are star ng to step up and greatest reach. milestones that more.” quickly an event can fill those roles like we would,” Olson explained the pro- demonstrate what go from the planning said Cargill., “They’re seeing how gram, “There’s a hospital being is possible when soldiers who are stage to its actual execu on. we run things, and they’re pick- built by Afghan civilian contrac- driven to learn and build their “Execu ng a training event ing up on it.” tors right outside their base. So country work side by side with for us is really simple,” said Sgt. Empowering the younger we facilitated a mee ng be- soldiers who bring hard-earned 1st Class Jesse Cody, “You have Afghan enlisted leaders has en- tween the kandak commander experience and knowledge. your company commander who couraged them to take on roles and the contractors building the “Anyone they have sent to can approve a risk assessment that allow them to exercise their hospital. They worked out an work with us has been eager to and from there you can go out growing leadership abili es. informal agreement to allow learn,” said Marcus Cargill, engi- execute the training. For them, it “The Mobile certain engineering neering SFAAT construc on tech- takes the Corps Commander to Training Team is “We’ve actually soldiers to work side nician. “Whatever we can teach approve a training event such as teaching them ver - empowered a lot of by side with the con- them, they absorb like a sponge. cer fying their soldiers to drive tractors,” said Olson. cal construc on skills the junior NCO’s, Anything you give them, they down the road.” such as masonry, There were fears the want more. They want to under- The Spartan engineering carpentry and electri- and they are rela onship would be stand why we do things.” SFAAT team members under- cal wiring and each of starting to step up” difficult to maintain, the sec ons trains on especially with the their own. These guys got the differences between the military junior NCOs and some mes, culture and the civilian culture. even senior NCOs to take charge The fears eventually proved to of the smaller classes,” said U.S. be unfounded. Army Capt. Joshua Snyder, the “We ini ally saw it as being officer-in-charge of the engineer- a fragile rela onship, but it has ing SFAAT. “They make correc- really blossomed. It’s Afghans ons and make sure people are helping Afghans, forming rela- there when they’re supposed to onships outside of the army. be there.” They are making engineer con- The Spartan engineering nec ons, and it’s a win-win situa- SFAAT has been working with on. The contractors get more their Afghan counterparts since work done for free, the ANA get Photo by US Army Pfc. Dixie Rae Liwanag, Combat Camera Oct. 2013, and know the me training which would be very ANA Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ya ali, commanding general of 203rd they have to make a difference is difficult for us to provide,” said Thunder Corps briefs ANA engineers during their first year anniversary short. Knowing this, they have Olson.
Page 9 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Brothers in Arms: Serving the U.S. a Family Matter
‘real’ opponent,” Billy said. please pray for their safe re- Joe was humbled to be in- turn,” Judy said. “We raised our volved in the conflict together sons to be independent and and said, “It has increased the spread their wings; the Army has camaraderie we created first as given them the opportunity, so brothers, as best friends and for that I am grateful and now as two engineer officers proud.” connected by an event few The two youngest Thomson Americans can relate to.” brothers will be mission com- Many Soldiers will say that it plete later this spring, when Billy is not uncommon for a deploy- returns to his wife, Jessica, ment environment to allow for daughter, Halle (3 years), and family, friends and classmates son, Tate (1 year), at Schofield serving in the military together Barracks, Hawaii, and Joe to his Photo courtesy of 1st Lt. William Thomson to reunite. wife, Hanna, at Ft. Carson, Colo. 2nd Lt. Joseph Thomson (le ) and 1st Lt. William Thomson (right), However, as the United Charlie will finish his one year stand together outside the dining facility at Shindand Air Base. States prepares to deployment this fall, withdrawal from Af- “I have been before being reunited By U.S. Army 1st Lt. William Thomson lery Ba alion at Camp Ari an, ghanistan, it has been mentoring Joe my with his wife, Denise, Joint Task Force Sapper Kuwait. Billy works in the Com- a unique experience whole life, the only at Ft. Hood, Texas. that the Thomson mand Group for the 130th Engi- difference now is As the first of the Southwest Asia – When old- neer Brigade which is currently brothers, their par- Thomson brothers to est brother, Capt. Charles serving as the Theater Engineer ents, spouses and my advice will help make the decision to “Charlie” Thomson, went to the Brigade at New Kabul Com- hometown communi- keep him and his defend the na on United States Military Academy pound, Afghanistan. And Joe is a ty have shared and a team safe” during a me of war, at West Point, NY. in the summer Route Clearance Platoon Leader story that will be Charlie calmly re- of 2003, no one would have im- in the 576th Eng. Clearance Com- passed on through genera ons minds his younger siblings, “The agined that the closest distance pany at Shindand Air Base, Af- of the family. sacrifices we are making now, between all three Thomson ghanistan. Mother, Judy, remembers will lead to a life me of sa sfac- brothers, to also include 1st Lt. For the ini al months of the thinking of her sons at war when on in the end.” William “Billy” Thomson and 2nd 130th Eng. Bde.’s deployment, the youngest was commissioned Ul mately, their father looks Lt. Joseph “Joe” Thomson, for an the 576th Eng. Co. fell under in Dec. 2012, “but I never forward to the next me the extended period in the next ten their task force, un l task organi- dreamed having them all in men are in the same room talk- years would be from Kuwait to za on realignment transferred harm’s way at once would be ing about the Wisconsin sports Afghanistan. opera onal control to Regional reality.” teams they love. The brothers, all graduates of Command-West on Jan. 1, 2014. “Despite the synonymous “But un l then,” Jeff said, “it Waukesha West High School, are However, for the weeks be- remorseful reac on from the is in the back of my mind all the the three children of Jeff and tween Veteran’s Day and Christ- public, my response is always the me. I pray a lot and have faith.” Judy Thomson from Waukesha, mas of 2013, both as members of same: ‘Don’t apologize, and Wis. Although the family is geo- the Theater Engineer Brigade, graphically separated, both par- Billy and Joe were deployed with- ents are honored by their sons’ in the same force structure in selfless service. support of Opera on Enduring Judy, a middle school teach- Freedom. er, and her husband, Jeff, par ci- Coincidentally, while Billy pate in numerous military events traveled with the Bde. Com- throughout the year to express mander and Command Sergeant their appreciate for the men and Major on ba le field circula on women in uniform. during that me, the two broth- Fast-forward to early 2014 ers were able to meet for break- and the ac ve duty junior offic- fast and discuss lessons learned ers are all currently deployed in from Billy’s platoon me. Southwest Asia suppor ng the “I have been mentoring Joe War on Terror. my whole life, the only difference Photo courtesy of 1st Lt. William Thomson Charlie is the Intelligence now is my advice will help keep Thomson officers, William (le ), Joseph (center), and Charles (right), Officer for 1-44 Air Defense Ar l- him and his team safe against a stand together in uniform a er Joseph commissioned in Dec. 2012.
Page 10 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014 Brigade Headquarters & Headquarters Company (HHC)
Greetings To Our Sapper Family in our surrounding areas. non-commissioned officer in J6. Soldiers home. and Friends, SPC Rivera recently re- MAJ Palicia recently won the At this time, we are still plan- Things are moving right along enlisted for a tour to Europe and I NKC pull-up competition with 32 ning to return to Hawaii as sched- for the company here at the New know the J7 cell is very proud of pull-ups and CW3 Gadsden came uled. Until we know for sure, we Kabul Compound. his decision to continue service to in a close 2nd with 28. will continue to work hard and Time is flying by our country. 1LT J.C. Wright con- To say I am extremely proud execute our mission here. quickly as it has ducted the re-enlistment ceremo- of our team is an understatement. Thank all of you for your con- already been one ny for SPC Rivera. In the last month, several tinued support. Combat Ready! month since CPT CPT Matt Burgoon was re- Sappers have returned home and I Gronenthal and I cently recognized for his hard work want to thank the FRG, volunteers, ‐Capt. Matt Jordan changed command. in supporting the theater decon- and 130th EN BN (Prov.) for all of Commander The company has been extremely struction efforts. their hard work in welcoming our HHC, 130th Eng. Bde. supportive of 1SG Brummel and I. MAJ Garrett Kaye was award- Our mission continues to take ed the Knowlton Award for his slightly different molds as we contributions to the military intelli- remain flexible and ready. gence community. I would like to highlight some MAJ Glen MacDonald was recent accomplishments by the recognized for his planning efforts company. that have shaped the MSG Augustin Our mission continues Theater Engineer Cruz and SFC Jeremiah to take slightly different Brigade’s future. Galyon spearheaded molds as we remain 1LT Lisa Miller was the recent stand up of flexible and ready recognized by Lieu- our new Personal tenant General Bos- Security Detachment (PSD) for the tick for her hard work in personnel Brigade Command Team. The PSD management. will serve as a task force multiplier SSG Guiao was promoted last allowing COL Holland and CSM month from SGT and he has done A group of HHC, 130th Eng. Bde. Soldiers prepare to travel from Etter to make important meetings an outstanding job as a promising Bagram Airfield to the New Kabul Compound Feb. 4th. Sexual Harassment and Assault Response Program (SHARP) What is Personal Courage? When you see the warning signs of sexual violence, you either: Facing your fear, danger or adversity Support -or- Deter (physical or moral). Personal courage has long been associated with our Army. With Encourage -or- Discourage physical courage, it is a matter of enduring Enable -or- Condemn physical duress and at times risking personal safety. Facing moral fear or adversity may Speak Up -or- Stay Silent
be a long, slow process of continuing for- Intervene -or- Ignore ward on the right path, especially if taking those actions that is not popular with others. You are either:
You can build your personal courage by a Leader -or- a Follower daily standing up against sexual harassment and sexual assault in your formation. Which one are you? Whether you’re a Soldier or a civilian, it takes COURAGE Why is it important for us to stop sexual harassment and sexual assault? Stand Up, Be A Leader who Answer: We all have a responsibility to Intervenes, Acts, and Motivates! take action to change our culture to elimi- nate an “enemy that lies within our ranks.” (CSA General Casey, SHARP Sum- mit 2010) We are all leaders, and as leaders there is no such thing as a passive bystander. Each of us is either enabling sexual There is No “innocent bystander” harassment and sexual assault or standing up to stop it.
Page 11 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014
ACROSS DOWN 6. Brigade scheduled to replace 130th as TEB HQ 1. FOB the 203rd CEK operates out of 8. Afghan Ministry the 489th went to for hotel project 2. CFC stands for Combined __ Center 9. Future home of the NEB 3. U.S. State three brothers in arms are from 10. 203rd CEK Commander JTFJTF SapperSapper 4. __ Eng. Kandak has Afghan Bridge unit 5. Machine used to recycle well drill rig mud CrosswordCrossword 7. Camp where ANA IED courses were held Challenge!Challenge!
HINT: EACH ANSWER CAN BE FOUND INSIDE THIS NEWSLETTER
About this Photo: CE3 Surra (Surrante) teaches ANA soldiers from the CNEK on how to cut and file down conduit before running electrical wire through it. (U.S. Navy photo by Construc on Mechanic 2nd Class John Zaragoza).
There’s help when you need it…
Crisis Intervention Hotline Warriors: Need someone to talk to, or have a buddy here who needs help?
The Crisis Interven on Hotline is staffed 24/7. If you need to talk to a counselor, you can reach them from any NIPR phone by dialing 1‐1‐1. You can also reach Crisis Counselors by Afghan Local Na onal Phone by dialing 070‐113‐2000, (wait for tone) then 1‐1‐1. Also reach Crisis Counselors by NIPR email at [email protected].
Remember, you aren't alone! Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Kimberly Hackbarth, 4th SBCT., 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Page 12 Sapper Sentinel Issue 5 — February 2014
Around the Sapper AO
Photo courtesy of TF Bayonet This past month By U.S. Army 1st Lt. Laura Beth Beebe Southwestern Afghanistan – 82nd Engi‐ Bagram Airfield – Soldiers with HHC, 130th neer Support Company conducts breach Eng. Bde. take a break and play a small training at Camp Leatherneck Feb. 15. game of basketball one a ernoon.
Photo by U.S. Army Pfc. Dixie Rae Liwanag, Combat Camera Eastern Afghanistan—U.S. Army Capt. Photo by U.S. Army Spc. Eric Provost, TF Patriot Public Affairs Joshua Snyder, Engineer Security Force Photo by U.S. Army 1st Lt. William Thomson Eastern Afghanistan—201st Afghan Na‐ Advise and Assist Team officer in charge Eastern Afghanistan – Spc. David Flow‐ onal Army Corps engineers, working and ANA Lt. Col. Sadu Gul, commander of ers, 333rd Eng. Co., is presented the with the 663rd Engineer Company, begin the 203rd Corps Engineer Kandak, observe Army Commenda on Medal for his work on a maintenance pad Feb. 16, at vehicles during their weekly maintenance service in Opera on Enduring Freedom. Forward Opera ng Base Gamberi. at FOB Tunder, Paktya province.
Chaplain’s Closing, Maj. John Sedwick a er falling. ing ourselves up a er crashing Our personal rela onships— and burning. “Olympic Dreams and Relationship Realities” especially during deployments— There’s nothing wrong with This month’s “amen corner” bly mel ng snow and lack of involve brief moments of perfec- striving for perfec on in our involves Olympic dreams and quality hotel rooms, awarded the on (saying just the right thing or rela onships; however, a gold rela onship reali- Winter Olympics in the first picking the perfect gi to send medal performance for Task es. place? home) along with lots of occa- Force Sapper Soldiers entails During these past I think military members are sions where we pick ourselves up returning home with honor. And two weeks the naturally drawn to the Olympic a er crashing and burning— here’s the gold medal standard members of Task Games because we can relate to when we’ve expressed our frus- for honor: I have remained faith- Force Sapper have young people (like most of our tra on about our mission ful to my spouse, I have con n- joined millions around the world Soldiers) who have trained their change, our cramped living con- ued to give Task Force Sapper who have been watching the whole lives for a single moment di ons, or our lack of office/ and the units entrusted to our Winter Olympics from Russia. in me to excel, to a ain perfec- personal space. care my very best, and I will re- Many of us have pondered in on—just as Nadia Comaneci, As we approach the sixth turn home with the goal of being our hearts and have searched our the Romanian gymnast, did a month of our deployment I the best servant leader that I can memory bank of life experiences long me ago in the Summer would compare it to a 10K cross be to my Family. in an effort to answer difficult Olympics. country ski race in the Olympics. I encourage all of you to philosophical ques ons: What The challenging weather We have struggled up many hills; complete the race that has been exactly is curling, and how can it condi ons at Sochi have prevent- we have coasted down several set before you. As we enter the possibly be an Olympic sport? Are ed most athletes from a aining slopes. final stage of this deployment, the American speed skaters really anything close to perfec on, as Our personal rela onships con nue to focus on the gold losing in spectacular fashion be- we have become accustomed to are not about perfec on; they medal that awaits you: a loving cause of their high tech uniforms? watching world class athletes are all about endurance; they are Family that stands at the finish Why was Russia, with its incredi- rou nely picking themselves up all about resilience, about pick- line.
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Our Mission: Deploy in support of the International Security Assistance Force and, at the invitation of the Government of Afghanistan, provide theater engineer support to include development of the Afghan National Army engineer force, ISAF troop construction, and route clearance, to help build a pathway to peace and prosperity for the people of Afghanistan.
Questions or comments? Email 1st Lt. Laura Beth Beebe Public Affairs Officer [email protected] Facebook.com/TheaterEngineerBrigade