www.hood.army.mil/1stcavdiv/ “Telling the First Team’s Story” Wednesday Jan. 4, 2006 First Team Aviators Return from Pakistan By Spc. Nathan Hoskins 1st ACB Public Affairs

It was a cool, clear early central Texas morning, with the stars in full view as Soldiers from Task Force Quake stepped off the plane at Robert Gray Army Airfield Dec. 4. Not only were there stars in the sky, but two stars were wait- ing for the troops on the flight line as they were greeted by the warm hand of Maj. Gen. Joseph Fil, Jr., the commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, an energized band and senior lead- ers from their brigade and battal- ions. “Seeing the Soldiers smil- ing and coming off the plane with no complaints speaks large- ly of their attitudes,” said Col. Daniel Shanahan, commander of 1st Air Cavalry Brigade. The first members of Task (Photo by Spc. Nathan Hoskins, 1ACB, Public Affairs) Force Quake touched down at 2 Spc. John Esquivel, an aviation operations specialist with Headquarters Company, a.m. Sunday, following a six- 2nd Battalion, 227th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division week deployment to Pakistan serves up a juice to his daughter, Jasmine, age 2, with his wife, Christina at his unit’s providing humanitarian assis- hanger bay at Robert Gray Army Airfield Dec. 4. Esquivel returned with the first group of Soldiers from Task Force Quake, which completed a six-week deployment to tance to earthquake victims. The Pakistan in support of earthquake relief efforts. task force included Soldiers from Headquarters Company, Bravo Company of the 615th the 2-227th’s hangar, located on some families, this was not the Bravo Company, and Delta Aviation Support Battalion. the other side of the airfield, as Company of the 2nd Battalion, The families and friends of the returning “Lobos” finished 227th Aviation Regiment, and the Soldiers waited anxiously at up some in-processing. For See Return Page 3 Cav’s Aviation, Support Brigades to Deploy By Master Sgt. Dave Larsen Hall” broadcast Thursday (Dec. 15) on residents to air their concerns to senior 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs KNCT-TV, the Killeen area Public leaders from the installation. Broadcasting System affiliate. Though the rest of the division has yet Major General Joseph Fil, Jr., com- Two brigades, the 1st Air Cavalry to receive deployment orders, Fil told the manding general of the 1st Cavalry Brigade and the 15th Support Brigade, are caller that the entire division continues to Division, announced that two brigades slated to deploy in 2006. Both units are prepare for a return to next year. from the division have received deploy- expected to begin deploying in late sum- “We have a timeline for the air caval- ment orders. mer next year. The announcement came in Fil made the announcement during the response to a viewer’s question during the III Corps-sponsored quarterly “TV Town call-in show, which allows area See Deploy Page 4 Page 2 Commentary Jan. 4, 2006 New Year Brings New Missions into Focus The end of 2005 saw the must strive for excellence in of our oper- first two brigades from the 1st each area. ational Cavalry Division receive We are well into our trans- capability. deployment orders for Iraq. As formation and the creation of From indi- this new year dawns, the focus brigade combat teams that can - vidual for those two brigades and our and will - deploy. Our leader- weapon entire division is crystal clear; ship is actively equipping and qualifica- transform, prepare, and take training our formations under tions, to care. the new design which will small unit These three key tasks will assure us of continued success tactics and ensure the success of our divi- on future battlefields in the brigade- sion in whatever we’re called Global War on Terrorism. level field to do in 2006. All three tasks Our preparations for training are equally important, and we deployment cover every facet exercises, we must approach that we do and served as a each training event with profes- reminder to every trooper in sionalism and deadly earnest. this division that their nation, We must train as we will fight. their unit and their families As we focus on equipment depend on their well-being. and training, we must also con- I intend to reinitiate this tinue to recognize the criticality program because I feel it is of caring for our troopers and absolutely critical that every- the family members who sup- one understands the 1st port their efforts. We do it Cavalry Division depends on because they all deserve noth- each and every one of us. The ing less than our best efforts. First Team Power Thought "I I expect our leaders to can save my own life" is indeed take the reigns and spearhead powerful. I expect each of you these efforts, but it is, likewise, to do the same. imperative that each Soldier This year we will finish understand their individual role our transformation, prepare to in the division's effort. respond to our nation's call as Several years ago, this needed, and take care of each division's senior leadership other. With a sharp focus on established a campaign aimed the mission at hand, and an eye at safety and personal responsi- on the well-being of our troops bility. The program stressed and their loved ones, there is individual responsibility to act nothing we cannot achieve in (Courtesy Photo) responsibly and safely in all the coming year - together. Write On! Catch our television newscast Spc. Sheena Reyes, a public affairs specialist and printjournalist with Headquarters Company, 1st Cav Country Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, was during Fort Hood on Track Jan. presented by her award for second place in the commentary catagory of the Department of the 5 and 19 on cable channel 4 or Army Keith L. Ware journalism competition Dec. 15. KNCT-TV (PBS Killeen) at 7 p.m.

Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Joseph Fil, Jr. Contact Crossed Sabers at 287-6162, 287-9400 or e-mail Public Affairs Officer: Lt. Col. Scott Bleichwehl [email protected]. Command Information Officer: Master Sgt. Dave Larsen Crossed Sabers is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of Editor: Spc. Colby Hauser Crossed Sabers are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Co-Editors: Spc. Joshua McPhie, Spc Nicole Kojetin Department of Defense, Department of the Army or the First Cavalry Division. All editorial Contributing Writers: Pfc. Ryan Stroud, Spc. Robert Yde, content of Crossed Sabers is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the 1st Cavalry Spc. Nathan Hoskins Division Public Affairs Office. Page 3 News Jan. 4, 2006 Tax Statements Being Released ARLINGTON, Va. – Military service members, military retirees and annuitants, and federal civilian employees paid by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) can expect to receive their 2005 tax statements beginning this month. DFAS customers with myPay access will be able to retrieve their tax statements electronically up to three weeks sooner than those rely- (Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) ing on regular mail delivery. myPay Members of the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry Detachment greet soggy is DFAS’ secure Web-based pay spectators on South Orange Grove Boulevard during their performance at information system. the 117th Tournament of Roses Parade Jan. 2 in Pasadena, Calif. Tax statements for Active Duty Soldiers should be available on myPay Jan. 21. If the statement is Rain Can’t Spoil Cav’s Parade not available on the myPay the form will be mailed Jan. 24 to Jan. By Spc. Colby Hauser fighting sheets of rain every inch of the way. 27. Civilian employee W-2 forms 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs “Our biggest concern wasn’t the horses, will be posted Jan. 9 or mailed Jan. but the floats,” said Gerald Freeny, the 10-21. Forms for Retirees all LOS ANGELES – Rain-drenched spec- chairman of the equestrian committee for should be online or are already tators roared with applause at the Home and the parade. “By 2:30 this morning we were mailed out. One of the many bene- Garden Television’s grandstand Jan. 2, as drilling holes in the bottom of the floats to fits of myPay is the ability to the Army’s last mounted cavalry unit pre- help them drain water, but the real concern receive tax statements electronical- sented arms during one of the nation’s was the winds.” ly, saving time and avoiding risks largest parades. Weather forecasts predicted four to associated with identity theft. The 1st Cavalry Division Horse eight inches of rain with winds in excess of myPay has a series of security Cavalry Detachment braved Mother 40 miles per hour for the parade. Still,he measures with layers of defense Nature’s wrath and basked in the adoration show went on. Soaked to the bone, the against identity theft. The secure of more than 200,000 fanatics as they Soldiers played to the crowd, as “Buddy,” technology provided to myPay cus- moseyed down Colorado Avenue during the the detachment’s dog, howled to the delight tomers meets or exceeds security 117th Tournament of Roses Parade. of thousands of children. requirements in private industry “This is what this trip has been all Past the grandstands and through the worldwide. about,” said Staff Sgt. Donnie Davis, a streets, Longhorn and Trojan fans were According to DFAS officials, demonstration rider with the detachment. engaged in a torrid war of words, but as the myPay is becoming the standard An odyssey, seven days in the making First Team troops rode past those words method of pay and tax statement for the detachment, this year’s parade per- turned to cheers for the Soldiers and what delivery for those individuals paid formance was not without its challenges. It they represent. by DFAS. hadn’t rained on this parade since 1955. Riding tall in the saddle and shivering “Not only do our customers get This year, it poured. from the cold, the members of the detach- their statements quicker, but more “It’s only rained once in my lifetime,” ment were all smiles from beginning to end. securely,” said Jim Pitt, Electronic said Patsy Grant, a passenger on the Wells A lot has happened since their last appear- Commerce director with DFAS’ Fargo stage. ance at the Tournament of Roses Parade, but Military and Civilian Pay Services. Grant said that after 25 years of coming for the troopers it had been worth the wait. “Our customers are discovering that to the parade, this was her first time partici- “Coming to the parade and representing myPay’s encryption technology is pating in the event. both the Cav and the Army is an honor, but providing the security they demand The line-up consisted of 48 floats, 25 talking to the people about who we are and to protect their sensitive pay and marching bands, 23 equestrian units and what we really do is what makes things like personal information. three official vehicles which made their way this worthwhile,” said Sgt. 1st Class Rip down the five-and-one-half-mile route, Bussell, the detachment platoon sergeant. Page 4 Feature Jan. 4, 2006 Horse Det Troops Rope Calves in L.A. By Spc. Colby Hauser 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

LOS ANGELES – It was a damp an dreary day at the Saddle and Sirloin Club, one of Los Angeles’ oldest and most exclusive equestrian establish- ments. The last remnants of the Army’s mounted cavalry, weary from the trail, were given the ‘red carpet treatment’ Dec. 31, after a week of 18- hour days in preparation for their performance at the 117th Tournament of Roses Parade. Nestled in the rolling green hills of Glendale, Calif., the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry Detachment took the (Photos by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) morning off, sort of, to spend Sgt. Randy Melton (left), a “mule skinner” or wagon driver for the 1st Cavalry Division time with their hosts chowing Horse Cavalry Division, attempts to heel a calf with demonstration rider Sgt. J.D. down, swapping stories and Nose, at the Saddle and Sirloin Club in Glendale, Calif., Dec. 31. shooting the bull, literally. er, for the Horse Detachment. arena. Club. “Still, this is what we “If you would’ve told me Roping, a trade skill of the Here’s how it works. A love to do.” three years ago that I’d be working cowboy and an event team of two riders back into Established in 1929, the going on a trail ride and roping in professional rodeo was one their box, an area in the arena, Saddle and Sirloin Club is caves in downtown L.A., I of the main attractions as sever- and wait for a horned calf to be made up of only 50 members. would’ve said you were crazy,” al First Team Soldiers teamed released. Stockbrokers, movie industry said Sgt. Randy Melton, a with Saddle and Sirloin mem- The header attempts to professionals and even a “mule skinner” or wagon driv- bers to test their skills in the lasso the calf’s head while the California superior court judge heeler ropes the back legs. In round out the membership of professional rodeo, this is a this diverse group, but are unit- timed event and whoever has ed by their one true love: hors- the lowest time wins. es. The looming clouds, “When I was growing up I which brought flooding to remember going to see John northern California, opened up Wayne movies and saying, ‘I’d on the horsemen forcing the like to be a cowboy someday,’” festivities indoors. A crimson Konopisos said. and cream bunkhouse wel- The fire side chat conclud- comed the soggy riders in from ed as riders returned from a the elements. long, wet trail ride through the The warmth of a wood Hollywood Hills. One by one, burning fire helped dry out the the members of the Sirloin and troopers as they bellied up to a Saddle said goodbye to their long wood bar and for coffee guests and departed. and conversation. For the detachment troop- “This is by far the absolute ers, it was back to the stables Chief Justice Bill MacLaughlin of the California State worse place to be a cowboy,” and preparations for their next Superior Court demonstrates his calf roping skills for said Ted Konopisos, the presi- performance, the Tournament members of the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry dent of the Saddle and Sirloin of Roses Parade. Detachment Dec. 31. Page 5 Feature Jan. 4, 2006 Rose Bowl Or Bust Horse Detachment’s Trail to Pasadena By Spc. Colby Hauser 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

PASADENA, Calif. – The wafting odor of manure and fresh cut hay permeated the air as troops made final preparations under a moonlit sky Dec. 27 for their return to California and another New Year’s on the road. Like many times before, the members of the 1st Cavalry Division’s Horse Cavalry Detachment loaded the tools of their trade for the three-day trek across the western , culminating at their performance at the “Tournament of Roses Parade” Jan. 2. By 6:30 a.m., the convoy was well on its way, westbound and ready for the challenges of the road. The ground crew’s spirits were high and all was well until the radio squelched. (Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) “First horse, you’ve got some smoke coming off of the right side of your trailer,” Sgt. 1st Class Rip Bussell, platoon sergeant for the 1st Cavalry Division’s said Sgt. J.D. Nose, a demonstration rider Horse Cavalry Detachment and Larry Borth, the detachment trainer and sta- with the detachment. ble master, repair the middle axle hub on a horse trailer outside Eldorado, Texas, Dec. 27. The detachment conducted a three-day trip to Pasadena, “Roger, that,” replied Bussell. “We’ll Calif., to perform in the “2006 Tournament of Roses Parade.” pull off up here at the four way.” A few miles shy of Eldorado, Texas, the Quickly, the detachment members unloaded following morning. lead tractor-trailer was sidelined by a burned the horses and after 900 miles of cramped Black coffee, boiled eggs and bagels out axel on the trailer, laden with 25,000 quarters and rocky roads the horses finally got were served as the troops moved back to the pounds of horses, saddles and assorted caval- to stretch their legs. fairgrounds to load up and move out for the ry gear. Undaunted, the First Team Soldiers “This is really special for them,” said last, and worst, leg of the journey. simply adapted. The functioning vehicles Larry Borth, the detachment trainer and stable Bussell flicks a switch on the radio, end- continued on while repairs were made on the master. “They can get out there and blow off ing Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time,” bringing up disabled trailer. some steam.” the local traffic report. Traffic delays, injury, Eventually, the first half of the ground An equestrian ballet ensued as 12 horses, accidents and holiday traffic await the First crew pulled into Fort Bliss and headed for the four mules and one dog ran, jumped and Team convoy on the outskirts of L.A. stables where they would keep their most rolled in dusty pens like little kids cut loose Just 40 miles away from their southern prized possessions for the night. for summer vacation. The spectacle did not California stable area, the L.A. Police Chores don’t end on the road, explained go unnoticed as a small crowd of campground Department horse stables, traffic was at a Cpl. Dominick Anderson, the assistant mule dwellers ventured out to take in the show. stand still. team driver. At the end of every day of travel Prior to departing for some well An hour and a half later, the convoy the horses and mules must be exercised, fed, deserved sleep, a quick inspection of the hors- reaches the police stables and their three-day watered, and put up for the night. es yielded a bum shoe on Phantom. odyssey is at an end.... almost. “In the morning, we make sure we clean “A bad shoe, if left unattended, could Happily, 12 horses and four mules exit the stalls and leave them in better shape than prove to be disastrous for both the horse the trailers as if being paroled from a long we found them,” Anderson said. and rider,” Sjule said. stint in the joint. Without fail, the “routine” is performed A farrier by trade, Sjule carefully “Get those horses cleaned up,” Borth on every trip. The next night they stopped at replaced the shoe and returned the grateful barked. “They’re filthy.” Casa Grande Fair Grounds, and the long horse back to the pin where a post-shoeing After a substantial bath, it’s off to the awaited surprise for the animals. dust bath ensued. stalls for the horses. Left behind are the road Unlike the stables at El Paso, Casa With two days down and one to go, the weary warriors, who for all their effort, are Grande was a large circular rodeo pin. ground crew consumed a quick breakfast the rewarded by more work. Page 6 Feature Jan. 4, 2006 CAB Vivid Reminder of Iraq Tour By Pfc. Ryan Stroud a leader,” said Franklin, the top Franklin from the vehicle and 3rd BCT, Public Affairs noncommissioned officer with began to administer first aid Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th until medical help arrived. He No longer looking at scars Cavalry Regiment. “It’s a was placed on bed rest while his as his daily reminder of his duty reminder [to me] of the guys injuries began healing. in Iraq, 1st Sgt. Wendell who passed away, who would A few days later, Franklin’s Franklin said he now looks at have rather had a CAB than los- Soldiers were tasked to help his new Combat Action Badge ing life.” secure a convoy that was that he and more than 700 other The badge is also a attacked. Following his philoso- Soldiers from the 1st Cavalry reminder of personal experi- phy of leading from the front, Division’s 3rd “Grey Wolf” ences, Franklin said. While Franklin said he did not want his Brigade Combat Team received Franklin faced several battles in Soldiers to go into danger with- during a ceremony Dec. 14. Iraq, he is regularly reminded of out him by their side. Franklin The Combat Action Badge two incidents. volunteered to help the compa- was designed and awarded to April 4, 2004, while in Abu ny effort. He gathered a tank recognize the active role of Ghraib, Franklin was riding in a crew and proceeded to complete Soldiers who are engaged in humvee when his convoy was the mission. (Photo by Pfc. Ryan Stroud, 3BCT Public Affairs) combat situation, regardless of hit by an improvised explosive Receiving small-arms fire 1st Sgt. Wendell Franklin military occupational specialty. device. The blast knocked upon arrival, Franklin helped receives his Combat “It’s a true reminder of the Franklin unconscious, wound- synchronize the company’s Action Badge during a cer- importance of training, motiva- ing his back and legs. security effort and maneuvered emony Dec. 14. Franklin, tion and the importance of being Two privates pulled his tank into position to engage the first sergeant for the enemy. Through the course Company C, 1st Battalion, of battle, he was engaged by 12th Cavalry Regiment, rocket propelled grenades and also earned the Purple machine gun fire, standing fast Heart and the Bronze Star to destroy the enemy threat and with “V” device for valor. spearhead the recovery effort. face dangers,” he said. “It’s like seeing a bear Now that his unit has attack your child,” he said. returned to a garrison environ- “You don’t think about fighting ment, Franklin said his experi- the bear, you think about rescu- ences have changed his focus as ing your child. Everyone’s a a leader. Instead of focusing on Soldier, everybody’s American. the disciplinary aspects of You would never leave a buddy shined boots and trimmed hair- behind, whether you know him cuts, Franklin said he now con- or not.” centrates on “the more impor- Later that day, a Marine tant things ... things we take for convoy was hit in the same area. granted while in garrison.” Franklin and the Soldiers went Franklin said he stresses the to provide them with support, common military tasks such as too. Their efforts saved lives. first aid and land navigation, but (Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) It was those efforts that he has learned the importance of earned Franklin the Purple knowing each Soldier’s job. Land Ho! Heart, a Bronze Star with “V” Because rank does not device for Valor, and eventually, always matter in war, Franklin Staff Sgt. Donnie Davis, a demonstration rider for the Combat Action Badge. said he trains his Soldiers two the 1st Cavalry Division’s Horse Cavalry “When I look at the CAB, I levels above and two levels Detachment, leads the detachment back to the Los remember how important taking below their skill requirements. Angeles Police Department stables in Glendale, care of your guys is … how “All Soldiers in Iraq hold Calif., following their performance at the “Pasadena important it is to motivate their own weight. I think it’s Tournament of Roses Equestfest” at the Los Soldiers to want to get up every- about time that they are recog- Angeles Equestrian Center Dec. 30. day, knowing that they have to nized,” he said. Page 7 Task Force Quake Jan. 4, 2006 Landings Challenge Chinooks By Spc Joshua McPhie 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

QASIM, Pakistan – With mountains and canyons sloping drastically around them, delivering supplies to the earthquake victims in Pakistan proved to be an obstacle for deployed 1st Cavalry Division pilots. Facing challenges they have never encountered before, they still accomplished their mission. “In 17 years of flying helicopters this is probably the most beautiful and challenging flying I’ve done,” said Maj. Thomas Jesse, a Cav Chinook pilot. He said the high altitude the helicopters fly navigating through the mountains, with steep climbs and descends, make flying relief supplies different from how Chinook pilots flew in Iraq. (Photos by Spc. Joshua McPhie, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) “This is very good training for our Spc. Blake Thompson tries to hold back Pakistanis at a supply drop off. younger pilots,” said Jesse, 2nd Battalion, Growing crowds forced the crew to leave before they had finished unloading. 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry landing zones close to buildings make some village to drop off supplies, the area is Brigade. “If you can fly in this terrain you landings a tight fit. guarded by Pakistan military and Pakistan can fly anywhere.” “About half of the landing zones are soldiers help unload the helicopters. The steep terrain also makes landings a not ideal for Chinooks,” Jesse said. “But While most landing zones are secured little difficult for the pilots. Canyons and we’ve always been able to land.” by the Pakistan military, occasionally the “We’ve done quite a few landings on helicopters end up at an unsecured loca- the mountains where all we could do was tion. put two wheels on the ground and unload “All the grid coordinates are supposed what we could,” said Chief Warrant Officer to be secure [landing zones],” Jesse. “If it 4 Jeffrey White, who is also a Chinook pilot. isn’t, it could be the wrong coordinates or Another challenge pilots frequently the Pakistan military already left.” face is low visibility in some of the moun- Jesse said it is not common and he has tain passes, White said. This is also an issue only encountered two landing zones that when landing, since most landing zones are were unsecured. in fields. “What we did was assess the situation, First Cavalry Division crew mem- “With the dust and debris you have to and there were no large crowds,” Jesse said. bers pass supplies out to crowds of be careful when landing and make sure waiting Pakistanis at an unsecured you’re not hurting people,” White said. landing zone. When First Team Chinooks land in a See Landings Page 9

times, but it never gets old. It’s been gone due to the hurricane troops’ faces. A quick salute and Return like getting married all over relief efforts in and a few words from the Lobos’ From Page 1 again.” southeastern Texas. commander preceded the real For some of the Soldiers, When the moment finally homecoming. this will be their first Christmas came for the Soldiers to arrive, Hugs were held at length first reunion they have had to go home in two years, said Lt. Col. the hangar door slowly slid and kisses traded under the through. Chris Joslin, commander of the open, revealing the Soldiers. The bright lights of the hangar. Tears “The kids are really excited Lobos. Most were deployed in families cheered when they of joy and relief were obvious to see their Dad,” said Guin Iraq last Christmas, and some marched into the hangar. among families and Soldiers Hilmes, wife of Sgt. J.D. away from home the year before Although at attention, more than alike. The giggles and laughter Hilmes. “I’ve done this many that. More recently, many have a few smiles shined on the of children filled the air. Page 8 Task Force Quake Jan. 4, 2006 Task Force Living Conditions Improve Daily By Spc. Joshua McPhie facilities. The showers were 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs cold and the water tanks had to be refilled every couple of QASIM, Pakistan - When hours. 1st Cavalry Division troops They solved the shower first arrived in the hanger on problem by bringing in trailers Qasim Army Airfield that was with a hot water heater, sinks, their home for the duration of toilets and several showers in their humanitarian aid deploy- each. Contractors from Kellogg ment to Pakistan, living condi- Brown and Root then tapped tions were fairly primitive. into an existing well to provide The Soldiers who had a continuous flow of water to arrived before them were living refill the showers’ water con- on mosquito net covered cots, tainers. received two hot meals a day, While the trailers water had little water to run the cold heaters weren’t able to keep up showers and only had a handful with the demands of the of port-a-potties. Soldiers, they did take the chill (Photo by Spc. Joshua McPhie, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) When the division’s 1st Air out of the water. Cavalry Brigade advance team Spc. Schultz, 615th Aviation Support Battalion, 1st Air When they first arrived, landed, they took charge of the Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, assembles the most Soldiers where happy to living areas and set to work frame of a tent inside a hanger at Qasim Army Airfield, have two hot meals a day, hav- making improvements. Pakistan. The tents offer the Soldiers of Task Force ing to only eat an MRE lunch. “Our first priority was put- Quake more privacy than the open bay of the hanger The task force ate their and will be climate controlled. ting everyone on cots, making meals at tables inside the hang- sure everyone had a place to First Team troopers arrived a living space we had was cots er, but there wasn’t enough stay,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jesse few days later, large tents had and mosquito nets,” said 1st seating for everyone. Vielma, the noncommissioned begun to arrive. Soldiers who Sgt. Terrance O’Neal, 2nd Construction of a dining facili- officer in charge of the Task weren’t busy were put to work Battalion, 227th Aviation ty brought more hot meals and Force Quake’s life support building tents, which can house Regiment. “Living in tents more seating for the Soldiers. areas. 20 Soldiers in bunk beds, inside we’re out of the elements.” “Living conditions have A local company was con- the hanger. Besides the tents housing dramatically increased,” said tracted to make bunk beds. “Now everyone is in tents the task force, there is a tent for O’Neal, who is the first ser- By the time the first wave and we’re getting them in the chapel and another for the geant for the Cav troops of 1st ACB Soldiers arrived in bunks,” Vielma said. “Were not aid station. assigned to the task force. Pakistan, the first load had been there yet but we’re getting Another problem tackled “What we have set up can sup- delivered. there.” by the team early on was the port the expected 600 When the final group of “When we arrived the only shortage of water and shower Soldiers.”

PBS program, since the program is aimed brigades, although we do believe they, Deploy at Fort Hood troops and their families. indeed, will come,” Fil explained. From Page 1 “We wanted to use the town hall Fil reminded one caller that prepara- forum because it allowed Maj. Gen. Fil to tion for deployment is the division’s focus ry brigade and the support brigade, and I speak directly to our families,” said Lt. for the coming year. have every reason to expect that there will Col. Scott Bleichwehl, division public “We are preparing as if we are (all) be other deployment orders coming as affairs officer, following the broadcast. going to deploy, in anticipation of an well,” he said. During the 90-minute broadcast, a order,” he said. Fil also said he anticipates a return to Soldier from the 2nd “Black Jack” Brigade “We now have deployment orders for for the First Team. Combat Team called in to ask when two of our units. I have every reason to “I think it would be fair to expect that Soldiers and family members in the rest of expect that there will be other deployment we will probably fall in and replace the the division can expect to go back to Iraq. orders coming, as well,” he added. mighty 4th Infantry Division as they finish Fil said providing timely notification to his “So, we’re going to continue to get their year in theater,” he added. troops and their families is a top priority. ready as if the whole division were going Fil made the announcement during the “We don’t have orders for the other to deploy.” Page 9 Task Force Quake Jan. 4, 2006 Air Cav Troops Take on Extra Duty By Spc. Joshua McPhie helped by volunteering their basis. each supply point to load the 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs free time to fly on extra mis- “I’m there mainly to help aircraft and are also at most of sions to help load and pass out the guys load and unload,” said the landing zones to unload. QASIM, Pakistan – supplies. Spc. Nathan Schultz, a Chinook “It’s a lot of heavy stuff,” Bringing relief supplies to the Some are maintenance, maintainer with 2nd Battalion, said Capt. Sarah Pearson, a Pakistanis affected by the dev- others are pilots. Some of them 227th Aviation Regiment. “It Chinook pilot with 2-227th astating earthquake became a fly after finishing their regular seems like it would be hard AVN. “I went along for the first priority for deployed 1st work day, others on a day off. work but we’re not doing that experience. When I’m there not Cavalry Division Troops. In They all had one thing in much work, the Pakistan mili- acting as a crew member I can fact, many of the 1st Air common; they didn’t get to tary is doing a lot.” help. The more people, the eas- Cavalry Brigade troopers hand out supplies on a regular Pakistani soldiers were at ier it is to get out.” Pearson was just one of several pilots who pitched in. “When you’re flying you sometimes feel like you’re missing something,” said Capt. Michael Stone, 2-227th AVN. “You never get the full pic- ture.” Stone said the pilots often heard the crew talking about what happened at a landing zone, but usually didn’t get to see what happened. “I was a little bit jealous of some of the experiences they have,” he said. Regardless of the reason they wanted to help out, all the Soldiers agreed it felt good to help. “It was awesome,” Stone said. “Seeing the people we’re (Photo by Spc. Joshua McPhie, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) helping was great.” Capt. Michael Stone, a Chinook pilot with the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade’s 2nd Battalion, “It’s pretty nice because it 227th Aviation Regiment, helps Pakistanis unload supplies from a 1st Cavalry shows we care and we’re here Division Chinook. to help,” Schultz said. which helped a little bit,” White said. to the tight landings and landing zone con- Landings Despite the crew’s efforts people still ditions, new challenges approach with the From Page 7 kept pushing their way onto the aircraft. colder weather. “We finally had to lift off and go to a secure Though the aircraft perform better in “Had we flown by and there were several LZ,” White said. “Crew member safety is the colder weather because of the denser air, hundred people, we would not have land- the priority.” the crews are affected by the cold, which ed.” Once they land in an unsecured area, can make their job harder, especially when White has encountered several landing the crew has a few things they can do to unloading a helicopter or when sticking areas with little or no military presence. keep the helicopter safe while unloading. their heads out the windows during land- At one, the crowd around the aircraft, They close the side door and raise the ramp ings. became more than the few Pakistani soldiers and if the crowd looks like it could become When it starts to snow, the crews could could handle. unstable they can hover a few feet off the face visibility problems at some of the land- Shortly after landing people started ground while unloading the suppies. ing areas, Jesse said. coming onto the helicopter to try to get the “You’re last option is to take off,” Jesse “Some of the LZs will become much supplies. “Safety was becoming a concern said. more challenging if they have snow on so we raised the front wheels off the ground Even as the crews become acclimated them,” he said. Page 10 Task Force Quake Jan. 4, 2006 Trooper Translates for Task Force Quake By Spc. Joshua McPhie to understand and speak with guy, 30 seconds and we’re to be done. 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs the local workers and Soldiers. done.” “We have an advantage “Sometimes it’s kind of Pradhan and Capalar often over a lot of people because of QASIM, Pakistan – hard, but I can still make out worked together making many this communication,” said Sgt. Instead of tossing supply boxes what they’re trying to say,” trips to the base’s gates each 1st Class Jesse Vielma, non- out of a 1st Cavalry Division Pradhan said. day to escort local workers commissioned officer in charge Chinook to waiting hands of He spent most of his day onto the base. of maintaining the living area. hurricane victims in Pakistan, working with the locals who “Most of my time is spent “That was one of the best Spc. Sim Pradhan spent most of helped build the life support going to the gate and picking moves we made, bringing his time at Qasim Army area for the task force, and up people,” Pradhan said. “All him.” Airfield chatting. helped them communicate with the guards recognize me so it’s Pradhan proved so useful Pradhan, with the 1st Air the task force’s Soldiers. easier to get the people in.” the task force’s leadership pro- Cavalry Brigade’s 615th “The local nationals are Once Pradhan escorted the vided him with a cell phone so Aviation Support Battalion, happy because someone can workers on post he helped the they can always reach him if wasn’t slacking off though, he speak their language,” Pradhan task force leadership let the they need a translator, even in was the translator for Task said. locals know what work needed the middle of the night. Force Quake, a job he volun- He said they were often teered to do. surprised when he first talked When he first heard his to them. Having that communi- unit would be sending Soldiers cation saved a lot of time that to aid in relief efforts following would have otherwise been the massive earthquake last spent trying to figure out what month, he told his first sergeant everyone was saying. he could understand the lan- “If an English speaker guage and would like to go. doesn’t speak the local lan- Pradhan grew up in Nepal, guage it might take 30 minutes moving to the U.S. when he to figure out,” said Spc. Jeffrey was 23. He speaks four lan- Capalar, 615th ASB. guages. One of them, Hindi, is “Sometimes you can tell by similar to the language spoken their body language what in Pakistan. This allowed him they’re talking about. With this

(Photos by Spc. Joshua McPhie, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) Spc. Sim Pradhan, 615th Aviation Support Battalion, 1st Spc. Sim Pradhan chats with the operator of a crane Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, coordinates during a break from moving cargo containers. Pradhan, with truck drivers and a local crane operator to have the Task Force Quake translator in Pakistan, works with cargo containers unloaded from trucks at the Task the local contract employees to make sure they under- Force Quake living area at Qasim Army Airfield. stand what work needs to be done around the living Pradhan, the translator for the task force, volunteered to area at Qasim Army Airfield. come to Pakistan to be a translator. Page 11 Task Force Quake Jan. 4, 2006 Cav Delivery Helps Clear Roads By Spc. Joshua McPhie 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs PATTIKA, Pakistan - Most of the missions the Soldiers of Task Force Quake go on are similar, dropping off food, tents, blankets and clothing to towns affected by the earth- quake. Occasionally though, they get a mission that’s unique. The crew of one 1st Cavalry Division Chinook got a break from their usual deliv- eries when they were assigned to deliver a bulldozer instead of the usual load of supplies. They, and another Chinook crew, would be delivering a pair of bulldozers to an area just outside of Pattika. “They told us they were going to be used to help clear out the roads,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Eugene (Photos by Spc. Joshua McPhie, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) Santos, 2nd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Spc. Jerimiah Peryam, 2nd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Cavalry Brigade, one of the Brigade, guides the operator of a bulldozer as he drives out of a 1st Cavalry Division Chinook near Pattika, Pakistan. The two bulldozer were a change from the usual sup- pilots on the mission. plies of food, tents and clothing delivered by the Cav and were used to clear roads The bulldozers weren’t at closed because of debri from the earthquake. the usual supply pick-up point at the Chaklala airport, but the loaded on the two Chinooks, Chinooks had to fuel there so the flight headed out for Pattika the crew loaded up with tents were they would drop off the before flying to Muzaffarabad bulldozers at two different to pick up the bulldozers. The locations. landing site had been a stadium The plan was to have the before the earthquake, now it is bulldozers start clearing the a major hub for delivering sup- road from opposite sides and plies to the damaged city. eventually meet in the middle, “We set down in the stadi- Santos said. um in Muzaffarabad while they Pattika wasn’t hit as hard prepared the load, a generator by the earthquake as and a small bulldozer,” said the Muzaffarabad, but the damage mission’s other pilot Chief was still extensive so the bull- Warrant Officer 2 M.A. Kemp dozers would help. Jr., 2-227th AVN. “Things are not as bad now In Muzaffarabad, Pakistani but you can tell they were bad,” soldiers unloaded the tents Kemp said. “It feels pretty Pakistani soldiers unload a generator from a 1st Cav. from the Chinook and helped good to help.” Chinook. The crew delivered the generator and a small load the bulldozer and genera- “We don’t want to be away bulldozer so they could be used to clear the road. tor aboard the aircraft. from our families, of course, stuff to the people who need see who to help, there are so Once the bulldozers were but it’s good to be bringing this it,” Santos said. “It’s hard to many people out there.” Page 12 Safety Jan. 4, 2006 Dose of Reality Safety Showcased for Grey Wolf Troops By Pfc. Ryan Stroud road. BCT were not expecting what gram thought this was a fitting 3rd BCT Public Affairs The 3rd BCT Soldiers would happen next. A scene title for the Soldiers to relate to. gathered around a parking lot was constructed showing three “James Dean was someone Soldiers showed off their to look upon the cars and trucks cars in an accident. What the who people idolized and prized possessions Friday dur- that were brought in to be Soldiers didn’t know was that thought was invincible, and he ing a unit-sponsored car show, showcased. The cars and they were about to receive a died from a car accident. We but were reminded, graphically, trucks ranged from Chevrolets lesson on drunk driving. felt this would help people real- how they could be taken away, to Fords, muscle cars, motorcy- Jonte Scott, 3rd BCT’s ize what we are trying to talk along with their lives, as cles and blaring loud trucks, all BOSS president, said she about. We’re not invincible, it images of wrecked cars and eccentric in their own ways. remembered witnessing a car could happen to us too,” said broken dreams also went on Some cars had been lifted fur- accident while sitting outside Scott. display. ther off the ground while some her barracks. As Michael Perez, a troop- The 3rd Brigade Combat cars had new paint jobs with The idea to have a car er with the Texas Department Team’s Better Opportunities pictures on the hoods. The show and inform the Soldiers of Public Safety, talked to the for Single Soldiers program vehicles were being judged in about driving safety seemed crowd of onlookers, he sponsored the first “Operation groups for best rims, best like an affective approach, said explained about the dangers of James Dean” car show, but ‘hooptie,’ and best over all in Scott. driving drunk and getting into emergency rescue workers and show. The name for the event an accident. He spoke about law enforcement officials But the show also offered came from the famous, young what it felt like to go to a per- added a counterpoint to the day other events to catch the eyes actor James Dean who died son’s house to tell them about as they demonstrated the of the 3rd BCT Soldiers. The before his prime in a car acci- the son or daughter they just effects of drunk drivers on the Soldiers of the “Grey Wolf” dent, she said. The BOSS pro- lost to an alcohol related acci- dent. Perez spoke about the consequences that a drunk driv- er would have to face if caught driving under the influence of alcohol. Safety is important, Perez said. At least once a year a trooper from this area has to inform a family member of a loved one who has died from an alcohol-related accident. It's real tragic, he said. And when he finished, the Soldiers got a taste of reality. A loud blasting sound came from the distance as two fire trucks arrived at the scene of the staged accident. A squad car and an ambulance followed. The fire fighters inside the truck quickly rushed out to the pedestrians inside the wrecked vehicles. They offered on the spot aid as they tried to pull the passengers out of the first car. It was a married couple in the first car who was hit head (Photo by Pfc. Ryan Stroud, 3rd BCT Public Affairs) on by a drunk driver. The fire After using the “jaws of life,” fire fighters pull off the roof of the car to free the pas- senger trapped inside during a demonstration on Fort Hood Dec. 9 to 1st Cavalry Division troops from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team. See Safety Page 8 Page 13 Safety Jan. 4, 2006 program offered. The car wash Safety raised money for Soldiers who From Page 7 have too much to drink so they can call the BOSS program for fighters had to pull out a tool a ride home if no designated known as “the jaws of life” to driver is available. The money cut away pieces of the will be spent toward taxi cab destroyed car to free the injured fairs. passengers. The passenger was “We will call the taxi serv- quickly pulled out and the fire ice for the Soldier and the fighters worked hard to free the money will be picked up at the driver of the car. Once freed, staff duty desk, no questions the Soldiers witnessed to sad asked. We just want to make expressions over the fire fight- sure the Soldier gets home ers faces as they had to cover safe,” said Scott. the driver with a white sheet. The BOSS program is He was dead. offering the Soldiers of 3rd The driver of the last car BCT an alternate route to get- was successfully pulled out of ting home safely since Soldiers his vehicle and placed with the might have a problem calling passenger of the first car into their chain of command to ask the ambulance. As the ambu- for a ride home, said Scott. lanced sped off, the drunk driv- The BOSS program is er from the car who caused the paving the way for the Soldiers accident was being checked by here in the “Grey Wolf” a police officer. He was not Brigade, said Command Sgt. physically injured. The officer Maj. Donald Felt, 3rd BCT proceeded to perform a sobri- command sergeant major. ety test on the drunk driver and (Photo by Pfc. Ryan Stroud, 3rd BCT Public Affairs) They are stepping up to the watched as the driver miserably A “drunk” driver attempts to walk in a straight line tak- challenge and forcefully trying failed every part of the test. At ing a field sobriety test demonstration during to put a stop to alcohol related this point, the driver had no “Operation James Dean” Dec. 9 . accidents. idea of the damage that he has their Class A uniforms carried a self or someone else when driv- These Soldiers want to caused and the life’s that he has casket covered with the ing under the influence, she help others, they want to changed. American flag through the isle, said. change lives. BOSS is showing The Soldiers looked on, to the front of the room. A Along with the car show leadership by taking a stand most of them with the look of chaplain spoke and the Soldiers and accident scene, there was against drunk driving and shock on their face. Their focus watched movies about families also a motorcycle safety show showing loyalty and selfless was then turned to a grave yard who are now coping with the and car wash that the BOSS service to the Soldiers. that has been set up to display loss of a loved one from a crosses as grave stones. Each drunken driving accident. stone represented three There was nothing to be heard Soldiers from the Army who in the chapel but silence and lost their lives to drunken driv- nothing to be seen but the look ing accidents last fiscal year. of disbelief on their faces. The reality of the scene The message conveyed to was hitting the Soldiers. the Soldiers was one life taken “This was amazing,” said by a drunk driver is one life to Pfc. James Porto, Headquarters many. With the holiday season Company, 3rd BCT. “I could- approaching, the BOSS pro- n’t imagine what it would be gram wanted to show the harsh like to be in that car.” realities that most people don’t Next, the Soldiers filed think about when they climb into the Red Team Chapel to into their car drunk, Scott said. witness the funeral of the You’re getting into a Soldier who died in the acci- weapon, said Spc. Lee Clark, dent. Six Soldiers dressed in 3rd BCT. You could hurt your- Page 14 Holiday Jan. 4, 2006 Cav Kinders Kindle Christmas Cheer By Spc. Nicole Kojetin 1CD Public Affairs

White Christmas’s do not usually occur on Fort Hood, but even without the snow, holiday cheer is not on short supply in the 1st Cavalry Division. Visions of Santa Clause and twinkle lights danced in the eyes of the youngest members of the First Team during the division’s tree lighting ceremo- ny Dec. 13 on Cooper Field. The children were instru- mental in the evening, helping Maj. Gen Joseph Fil, Jr., the First Team commanding gener- al, flip the switch for the festive light to appear in the increasing darkness. They were clearly ready for Christmas and expressed how their holiday would go. “Santa is bringing me ‘Kitchen Dora,’” said Evaleena who will be three years old Jan. (Photos by Spc. Nicole Kojetin, 1CD Public Affairs) 2. Her dad, Staff Sgt. David Lindsey Hall waits for Santa Claus to give her popcorn after getting her photo taken at the 1st Cavalry Division tree lighting Dec. 13. She is the daughter of Spc. Charles Gracia, who works in the com- Hall of the headquarters honor guard. mandant office, said she always says it backwards as she wig- gled around with excitement. Evaleena said she knows exactly what Santa is bringing her this year. She said it will be easy for him to bring it, since he is skinny enough to fit down her chimney She wasn’t the only one who was excited. Jason Hall, 9, is planning on Santa bringing him a scoot- er. He is the son of Spc. Charles Hall, of the division’s honor Evaleena Gracia, daughter guard. Jason reminded every- Children and their parents crowd around Maj. Gen. of Staff Sgt. David Gracia, one of the present that all chil- Joseph Fil, commanding general of the 1st Cavalry of the division’s comman- dren dread. Division, to help him flip the switch lighting up Cooper dant office, points in the “The worst present is Field during a ceremony Dec. 14. direction of the perform- clothes,” he said. “I don’t want are really fast,” Jason said. “I around the field. ing horn assemble at the any of those.” don’t know how it works, but it Eventually Santa was spot- 1st Cavalry Division’s tree lighting Dec. 13. He knows that Santa has just does.” ted. Instead of arriving on a lots of stops, but he was confi- Anticipation was in the air. sleigh with his nine reindeer, yelled traditional greetings to dent that he would make it to When the announcer men- Santa showed up cavalry style, the fat man and followed him his house. tioned the sighting of Old Saint on a horse. inside the division headquarters “His sleigh and reindeers Nick, little eyes darted all Everyone cheered and for goodies and pictures. Page 15 Holiday Jan. 4, 2006

(Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) (Above) Santa rides in cavalry style with an escort from the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment, at the division Christmas Tree lighting ceremony Dec. 13. Children of First Team Troopers had an opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa Claus following the tree lighting. (Left) Maj. Gen. Joseph Fil, Jr., 1st Cavalry Division commanding general takes his turn letting Santa know what he wants for Christmas. Santa visited the First Team Dec. 13 for the division tree lighting ceremony. (Bottom left) A brass quintet from the 1st Cavalry Division Band performed at the division tree lighting at Cooper Field. (Bottom right) Lt. Col. Steven North, the division intelligence offi- cer, 1st Cavalry Division, reads “The Night Before Christmas” to (Photo by Spc. Nicole Kojetin, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) children of First Team Soldiers at a Christmas party Dec. 14.

(Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs) (Photo by Spc. Colby Hauser, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs)